Sylvia's Mother By Dr Hook & The Medicine Show
Dr Hook & The Medicine Show was an American rock band that was formed in New Jersey in 1967. The band consisted of eight members, including lead vocalist Ray Sawyer, guitarist and vocalist Dennis Locorriere, and keyboardist and vocalist Billy Francis. Dr Hook & The Medicine Show was known for their unique blend of rock, country, and pop music. One of their most popular songs was "Sylvia's Mother."
The Origin of "Sylvia's Mother"
"Sylvia's Mother" was written by Shel Silverstein, who was a popular American poet, songwriter, and author. The song was released in 1972 and became a hit for Dr Hook & The Medicine Show. The song tells the story of a man who is trying to call his former girlfriend, Sylvia. He wants to talk to her one last time before she leaves town, but her mother keeps answering the phone and won't let him speak to Sylvia.
The song's lyrics are filled with emotion and paint a vivid picture of the man's desperation and frustration as he tries to reach Sylvia. The chorus of the song, which features the lyrics "Sylvia's mother says Sylvia's busy, too busy to come to the phone," has become one of the most memorable and recognizable lines in rock music history.
The Success of "Sylvia's Mother"
"Sylvia's Mother" was a massive success for Dr Hook & The Medicine Show. The song reached #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was also a hit in several other countries, including Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The success of the song helped to establish Dr Hook & The Medicine Show as one of the most popular rock bands of the 1970s.
The song's success was due in part to its catchy melody and memorable chorus, but it was also thanks to Shel Silverstein's clever lyrics. Silverstein was known for his ability to write simple, yet powerful, songs that resonated with audiences. "Sylvia's Mother" was no exception, and it remains a classic rock song to this day.
The Legacy of "Sylvia's Mother"
"Sylvia's Mother" has become one of the most iconic songs in rock music history. The song's catchy melody and memorable lyrics have made it a favorite of music fans around the world. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Bon Jovi and Bobby Bare.
Despite its age, "Sylvia's Mother" remains a popular song today. The song has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including the films "The Cider House Rules" and "Deadpool 2." The song has also been used in several commercials and has been sampled by hip-hop artists, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Conclusion
"Sylvia's Mother" is one of the most beloved and iconic songs in rock music history. The song's memorable melody and catchy lyrics have made it a favorite of music fans around the world for nearly 50 years. Whether you're a longtime fan of Dr Hook & The Medicine Show or you're just discovering their music for the first time, "Sylvia's Mother" is a song that is sure to stand the test of time.
