About the song
Jim Croce’s “Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels)” is a heartfelt ballad that captures the raw emotion of a man trying to reconnect with a lost love. This song is featured on Croce’s 1972 album *You Don’t Mess Around with Jim*, which was a breakthrough record for the singer-songwriter. The album itself was a commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and spawning several hit singles, including “Operator.”
“Operator” is one of Croce’s most beloved songs, reaching number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 in December 1972. The song tells the story of a man who is attempting to contact his former lover through a phone operator, only to reveal that he is struggling to move on from the heartbreak. The narrative is both simple and profound, capturing the listener’s attention with its relatable themes and Croce’s emotive delivery.
Jim Croce, known for his warm voice and storytelling prowess, wrote “Operator” with his longtime collaborator and friend, Maury Muehleisen. The song’s acoustic guitar arrangement is both delicate and intricate, providing the perfect backdrop for Croce’s introspective lyrics. Lines such as “Isn’t that the way they say it goes? But let’s forget all that / And give me the number if you can find it / So I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine and to show / I’ve overcome the blow” reflect the universal experience of trying to appear strong in the face of emotional turmoil.
*You Don’t Mess Around with Jim* is an album that showcases Croce’s ability to blend folk, rock, and pop elements into his music seamlessly. Alongside “Operator,” the album features other hits like “Time in a Bottle” and the title track, “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim.” These songs highlight Croce’s knack for crafting memorable melodies and poignant lyrics.
Sadly, Jim Croce’s career was tragically cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1973, just as he was beginning to gain widespread recognition. Despite his brief career, Croce left a lasting legacy with his music, and songs like “Operator” continue to resonate with audiences today.
For an older and educated audience, “Operator” is more than just a song; it is a poignant reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of music to capture the nuances of our emotions. Croce’s ability to tell a compelling story in just a few minutes, combined with his expressive voice and masterful guitar work, makes “Operator” a timeless classic.
In conclusion, Jim Croce’s “Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels)” is a standout track from his album *You Don’t Mess Around with Jim*. Its success on the charts and enduring popularity is a testament to Croce’s talent as a songwriter and performer. The song’s relatable themes, combined with Croce’s heartfelt delivery, make it a timeless piece that continues to touch the hearts of listeners across generations.
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Lyrics
Operator, oh, could you help me place this call?
See the number on the matchbook is old and faded
She’s living in L.A.
With my best old ex-friend, Ray
Guy, she said she knew well, and sometimes hated
But isn’t that the way they say it goes?
Well, let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So, I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine
And to show I’ve overcome the blow
I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real
But that’s not the way it feels
Operator, oh, could you help me place this call?
‘Cause I can’t read the number that you just gave me
There’s something in my eyes
You know it happens every time
I think about a love that I thought would save me
But isn’t that the way they say it goes?
Well, let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine
And to show I’ve overcome the blow
I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real
But that’s not the way it feels, no, no, no, no
That’s not the way it feels
Operator, oh, let’s forget about this call
There’s no one there I really wanted to talk to
Thank you for your time
Ah, you’ve been so much more than kind
You can keep the dime
But isn’t that the way they say it goes?
Well, let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine
And to show I’ve overcome the blow
I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real
But that’s not the way it feels