@19spearking93 This video is more like the song Sylvia's Mother by Dr. Hook And The Medicine Show. It does not match the original story of the army base or a bar for inspiration.
@19spearking93 Operator could you help me place this call Gotta talk to John Mendelssohn who interviewing Mr. David Robert Jones I need to find out how Davy plays the 12 string on Shadow Man song And his girlfriend or wife Hermione Farthingale Operator I need to reach Johnny now to find Farthingale She's the Shadow Woman and He's the Shadow Man But then the operator places the call and Johnny's not home so I cry and ask the operator to guide me to Ansley Dunbar(also from England) the truth Johnny's at Ansley's house so please place the call there and Johnny answers and I said I need to see Farthingale or Davy Johnny and his group pick me and I find The Shadow Man and learn about the 12 string and Farthingale at last Operator thank you so much for connecting me it saved my life you keep the dime thank you for your time and listening and being understanding
Absolutely love the implied "happy ending"! ❤️❤️❤️ I always wondered what happened to the narrator after the song ended. Did he still cry over his lost love? The video's ending was actually a new beginning! And I'm delighted that they showcased Maury in the video!
He actually dropped the dime on the till in this video, But I am glad the video made him find happiness with a waiter while she definitely wasn't having a great time with his ex best friend Ray in LA
@@retro1937IDK about that. The song (at least to me) seems to end on a sad note but also gives the impression that he is starting to heal. This video, while visually terrific, wrapping it all up in a bow just doesn’t match the feel of the song.
Im 32. Born in 1991. I stumbled on Jim Croce's music due to "I Got a Name" in movies like Invincible and Django. Ended up buying his Photographs and Memories best of CD and absolutely fell in love with his music. He was clearly taken too soon, but i truly believe Jim Croce's music will stand the test of time, and eventually become even more mainstream that it is even now. RIP to Jim and Maury. Two legends.
I'm a little older than you and also love Mr. Croce. I remember buying his greatest hits CD for myself one Christmas. I Got a Name is one helluva song that can never get old. His son makes great music too. AJ Croce. RIP Mr Croce and Mr Muehleisen 🌹🌹
Im 19, got into jim with time in a bottle from the movie X-men: Days of future past when i was around 9 or 10, theres no age limit to good music, especially with a good message
It’s a song about sadness, wistfulness and kindness. He tried to call to be kind and really realized that his lost love was gone, so he extended the kindness to the Operator. Beautiful.
What gets me about "Operator" is that it's in a major key. The lyrics and phrasing just intensify the heartbreak. Croce was able to tell a story in a straightforward way where no one was to blame. As I have grown older, I realize that bad things "just happen" even if I do everything just "right." Jim Croce had that sense of world weariness that made him seem like he was talking just to you. I was born in 1972. My mom raised me on John Denver, Gordon Lightfoot, Neil Diamond, Simon and Garfunkel, and Jim Croce.
I was born in 1975 and was raised the same with the same musical influence. I’m so grateful I experienced such extraordinary music during my formative years 💕
I grew up with this man's music, and I can tell you, he was a musical genius. His way of doing a concert, just sitting in front of the crowd with his guitar, no fireworks, no light shows, just him. Jim, you are so very missed.
I was born in '80 and I remember in the late '90s seeing references to people in my abnormal psych textbook of people getting operations to look like Jim and it seemed kind of odd. I pretty much just knew him for Don't mess around with Jim and Bad, Bad Leroy Brown, but as I've heard more of his music, I sort of get it.
I think this is one of the greatest stories ever told in the song. Something about the words just paints you such a vivid picture each time you listen to it. Jim was the man. Only three albums. Sad to think of what could have been. Thank god for those three albums. Rest in Peace Jim and Maury…
I’m not a person who cries often, but I love this song and the heartfelt way Jim Croce sang it and it makes me tear up when I hear it. Thanks so much for posting it.
I went to HS with his younger sister Mary Ann. She was quiet and she looked very much like Jim. Rip Jim, thank you for all the beautiful music and memories ❤
A real Singer-Songwriter Genius. The Songs are beautiful, catchy, jet not simple. He had music and poetry flowing through his veins. Oh, what might have been, had he not died so early!
I’ll never forget, I walked into my literature class in my sophomore year and everyone was crying. I asked what was going on and I was told that Jim Croce had died. It was very sad, it was nice to have friends to cry with. He was a wonderful person and singer!
I don't know if there's ever been a more emotionally relatable song than this one. Is there a person on earth that has not experienced this type of heartache? And the remarkable thing is the poetic elegance that he uses while doing it.
Beautiful tribute, the animation was superb! And it was great how Maury was included, him being as much a part of Jim's story. Two great musicians lost together on the same day...
This made me more emotional than I was expecting. Seeing the butterflies around the two men who died way too young touched me. But I also feel a sense of gratitude that his music is still reaching people's hearts. There seems to be a trend lately of great songs of the past getting the animation treatment, and I'm fully on board with it.
Sorry, I do believe it was a sister or close relative who is friends with jim's wife. I remember seeing an interview but can't remember who it was. Thanks for the clarification
I was a sophomore in high school when he died. His music is still as fresh today as it was when I was young. RIP Jim! 🙏 I still miss you and those days when I was young.
Yep, it just goes to show that with good writing that taps into universal experiences, the music can live on for decades after the artists involved die. It's amazing that it's been over 50 years since he died and the music still feels very fresh.
This is one of the greatest videos I have ever seen!! I Love Jim Croce! One of the most underrated Singer Songwriters of all time! I have been singing his songs for over 30 years and was singing these songs today as I was driving on the freeway with no music, just remembering a great talent and a great man. I wont exaggerate when I say I have played his records and have sung his songs 10s of thousands of times and never ever get tired of any of his records. That is a testament to his writing abilities and his ability to really touch all of our hearts! Long live Jim Croce!!
This is just a song that is in a class of its own,Jim was a real class act,sad that horrible fate dealt him a cruel blow at 30 years old.bless his beautiful soul.
I've listened to this song on acid a few times and balled my eyes out. Not just for the heartbreak, but for something deeper. This is a genius rendition of what I would call the principle of Mercury, the communication between ideas and reality. "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." This whole time he is talking to the "operator," he actually gets through to the number he was looking for, but as he is talking to the operator he explains that "I can't read the number that you just gave me, it's something in my eyes - you know, it happens every time..." He thinks about the love that he thought would save him (idea), meaning his girlfriend, but that security got crushed by his own best friend (reality). He is trying to make magick happen with the operator, a psychedelic symbol of the power of manifestation; but God, cosmos, whatever you want to call it, had other plans. Sometimes you just can't change reality, you can only accept it and move on. But he is having a hard time with that, asking the cosmos to change reality for him, so he doesn't have to experience the pain of realization. During the whole song, the singer is checking in with reality through this operator, who is basically acting like an involuntary therapist (as I'm sure many did in the 1970s), just listening to him cry over the phone. The operator gives him the number but "there's no one there I really wanted to talk to." So he ends with the true intention that he called the operator for - just having someone to listen to him. "Thank you for your time, you've been so much more than kind - and you can keep the dime..." He is compelled back and forth because he wants to call them, he wants to face reality and show that he has "overcome the blow," he essentially wants the grief to go away, but he knows that he can't make it go away. He wishes his words could convince him that it just wasn't real, but he must accept that that is not the way it feels. He has to do what is so hard for all of us. Accept the grief. The only way out of grief is through it, sitting with reality, not trying to wish it was something else. Crying, opening your heart, and pouring the grief over to somebody. Yet of course this poor lonely fellow living somewhere in 1970s America is either too proud or lonely to work it out with a trained therapist or a close friend or family member. So in the desperate pain of his nervous system begging him for a cathartic release of the grief, he does the only thing he knows how to do: He just gets on the phone and has his cathartic emotional release with a complete stranger over the phone. I'm a religious guy mind you. I believe the operator is at some level just a human on the other line as I've just described, and atheistically we could end it there. But I believe there's a hidden intention of being thankful to the cosmos, to christ, to the simple capacity to feel that kind of love in the heart and find help when it is needed. That to me is the operator, the magickal center of all vibration, what a religious person would probably call God. Thank was my psychedelic take on it. Maybe I read into it too deep lol, but maybe not. ;) They just don't make songs like this anymore, RIP Jim and Maury
This song 🎵 was hitting the charts when I was starting High School in the Fall of 1972. All I did in those days was listen 🎧 to the radio 📻 because music 🎵 was what helped me get through my problems.
First whoever put this video together did an excellent job, and the audio is really good too. Make more please!!!! Like "New York's Not My Home. One of the most misunderstood Jim Croce songs ever. Jim Croce is one of my absolute favorite singer song writers of all times. He was just a real regular guy who wanted to provide a better life for his wife and son. In the end, after recording three albums and touring for years, he didn't have anything to show for it. In fact, he only had about the same kind of money as when he drove truck for a living. A few days before his accident, he wrote a letter to his wife. He explained that he was willing to give up his dream of being a musician. He was just going to do other things and give up on music. That letter didn't arrive back home until after his funeral. From a few things I've read about Maury Muehleisen, it sounded like he was a really nice guy. I read somewhere that he used to perform sold-out concerts in the laundry room of his dorm at college. : ) He was a very good guitarist and song writer as well. He recorded an album in 1970 titled "Gingerbreadd". It didn't quite make it to regular play on the airwaves, but it's still worth a listen. th-cam.com/video/C4UK8Ra8TYA/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared Maury was only 24 and Jim was only 30 years old on September 20th of 1973. Hopefully, they kept on making music that we will all be able to enjoy later on. Until then Peace out Jim and Maury.
Song is so good! He keeps calling ... same ole story each time. He's playing himself. Jim and Maury would have blessed us with so much. Back-up, they did bless us, we could have had more of their gift!
Man, I was just a 9 year old kid when this song came out . . . and I knew all the words . . . but I had no idea what the song was even about! 🙅🏽♂ And that's what more parents need to understand; kids just sing songs and really have no idea what they are singing about! 🎼🎶 That is just the joy of youth --- and then when we get older, maybe we'll take the time to understand the song. But we don't really care because, guess what!? Good music is JUST good music! Today, everyday and twice on Sundays! #longlivethemusicofthisman #heavenly
I love this song. Jim Croce is an amazing storyteller. His music and lyrics are poetry turned into a song. He's a songwriting genius. He's a legendary musician and artist. RIP,Jim you will be truly missed 😢 😔 💔
When he is talking about the dime --- you could always get an operator for free! But when she placed the call FOR you (there were RARELY ever any male operators), she would tell you to pay the dime. And as the phone of the person you were calling, was ringing . . . if you changed your mind, and didn't want to talk, you could hang up (or as Jim says, "There's no one there, I really wanted to talk to!") Some would ask if you wanted to call someone else, but if not, YOU LOST YOUR MONEY! He was just being kind, because most operators would just keep the money anyway! But he just wanted her to get paid because of the time she spent with him and his obvious indecision on reaching out to a past love! You got it now! So go forth and do wondrous things with your new knowledge! ↗ #each1teach1 #yourewelcome
First time I heard Mr Croce sing was on a road trip with grandparents. Grew up appreciating his great musical and storytelling talent. Operator is such a beautiful yet sad song. This man sung very effortlessly. Beautiful video. RIP Mr Croce and Mr Muehleisen ❤❤
I’d just started college when Jim Croce came onto the scene. And before anything, he was gone. Love his music. Love the memories. So many of his songs reach down deep and pull out feelings we’ve all had at some point or another. RIP Jim & Maury. Thanks for the music.
I've heard this song a hundred times, but seeing the image of the girl waiting by the phone when he says, "There's no-one there I really wanted to talk to." added a whole new level of tragedy. RIP Jim Croce.
Ah! The memories! Jim Croce ! Everyone knows the words to his music, and they sing along with Jim. My ex-husband played guitar and sung. He did alot of Jim Croce music. We loved him. ❤
Hi 2024.. I miss my dad..😢😢 he died.. we use to listen to this masterpiece song when i was a little kid. Im all grownup now ..this is still no.1 song for me
I pay for a few different apps on my phone Yes, I can animate almost anything. I should probably start making TH-cam videos myself. I have a very impressive vinyl collection and four different turntables. Woofers and tweeters and all the speakers ❤
Wow.... What can I say?.... This animated video breathes new life into this great song... I hope to record myself playing it before the year runs out... Thank you Jim, Thank you Maury, Thank you everyone involved in this video
my dad used to play this song and sing along with it, this song brings back good memories from those days, I have always enjoyed this song, such an emotional tune.
Another 'Alltime favorites'! I was born 1960.Grew up on 60 & 70's music! I will always believe more truly real and ALL the best music came from those 2 decade's,Music of all kinds.I've kept my Vinyl album collection & a diamond tip needle original antigue(by now) record player & am,fm radio! Theres NO better sound,❤
সারা পৃথিবীর সব মানুষের হৃদয় স্পর্শ পেরেছেন জিম, তাঁর মৃত্যুর এত বছর পরেও, তাঁর মর্মস্পর্শী গান আমাদের মুগ্ধ করে যায় 🩵 ভারত 🇮🇳 থেকে বাংলা ভাষায় ওনাকে শ্রদ্ধা আর ভালবাসা জানিয়ে রাখলাম
One of my first memories of the start of this consciousness was my mom playing Jim's albums and me sitting next to the speaker. Once I was old enough to start my own dig. Jim was Gone. Sad we didn't get more beauties like this.
This man died 20 years before I was even born and yet I’m so infatuated with his poetry. Godspeed Jim and Maury.
@19spearking93 This video is more like the song Sylvia's Mother by Dr. Hook And The Medicine Show. It does not match the original story of the army base or a bar for inspiration.
@@johnpolitis7929 both songs have a similar story behind them, whenever I listen to one it always makes me think of the other one.
@@19spearking93 Yeah but God Knows I'm Good, Andy Warhol, and The Shadow Man by David Bowie(aka David Robert Jones) is better than this song.
I feel the same way with Stevie Ray Vaughn and his blues.
@19spearking93
Operator could you help me place this call
Gotta talk to John Mendelssohn who interviewing Mr. David Robert Jones
I need to find out how Davy plays the 12 string on Shadow Man song
And his girlfriend or wife Hermione Farthingale
Operator I need to reach Johnny now to find Farthingale
She's the Shadow Woman and He's the Shadow Man
But then the operator places the call and Johnny's not home so I cry and ask the operator to guide me to Ansley Dunbar(also from England) the truth
Johnny's at Ansley's house so please place the call there and Johnny answers and I said I need to see Farthingale or Davy
Johnny and his group pick me and I find The Shadow Man and learn about the 12 string and Farthingale at last
Operator thank you so much for connecting me it saved my life you keep the dime thank you for your time and listening and being understanding
Thank you guys for not letting the world forget who Jim Croce was, is and will forever be
RIP to Mr. Jim Croce. Gone way too soon, but he will live on
Forever because of his music!
Never ♥
first songs i sung to as a tot
Absolutely 💯😁
Absolutely love the implied "happy ending"! ❤️❤️❤️
I always wondered what happened to the narrator after the song ended. Did he still cry over his lost love?
The video's ending was actually a new beginning!
And I'm delighted that they showcased Maury in the video!
“You can keep the dime”
It usually takes thousands of words to paint such a portrait of sadness. 5 little words and I’m crying again.
He actually dropped the dime on the till in this video,
But I am glad the video made him find happiness with a waiter while she definitely wasn't having a great time with his ex best friend Ray in LA
I heard this song for the first time last month. That line is the one that hit me. 😢
That line, and "with my best ol ex-friend Ray" are just crushing.
@@retro1937IDK about that. The song (at least to me) seems to end on a sad note but also gives the impression that he is starting to heal. This video, while visually terrific, wrapping it all up in a bow just doesn’t match the feel of the song.
Must be getting old but I still remember the 10cent pay phone & Jim rip
I’m now almost 66 yrs old, growing up, we didn’t realize how great the music was. The creativity was off the charts.
I was in jh when Jim and Maury were killed. My English teacher was a big Croce fan. 3:50 I learned to love Jim and Maury Thank you, Milo Barnaby .
We knew how good music was , we just didn't know it would to turn to the shit has been for last 40 years
As a 35 yo I love his music no going back
I'm almost 40 and i grew up with this music. Ill never forget it
I am . I was 16 when this came out. I disagree I believe a lot of new how great the music was at that time. Good on you.
an animated Farewell? this will make us all melancholy, we miss you.
Why a question like that
I hope your feeling less melancholy!
isn't that the way they say it goes?
Yeah. Melancholy is the right word. Ty
It’s a ridiculous send off.😮 😅
I wasn't expecting a Maury Muehleisen tribute as well, but man, I appreciate that a lot. May these two souls find peace.
This was my first time watching this and I came here to post the same thing.
I don't need to add a word.
Jim Croce was the master at taking people’s lives and turning them into music. He truly had a God given talent
Well said!
Im 32. Born in 1991. I stumbled on Jim Croce's music due to "I Got a Name" in movies like Invincible and Django. Ended up buying his Photographs and Memories best of CD and absolutely fell in love with his music. He was clearly taken too soon, but i truly believe Jim Croce's music will stand the test of time, and eventually become even more mainstream that it is even now.
RIP to Jim and Maury. Two legends.
I'm a little older than you and also love Mr. Croce. I remember buying his greatest hits CD for myself one Christmas. I Got a Name is one helluva song that can never get old. His son makes great music too. AJ Croce. RIP Mr Croce and Mr Muehleisen 🌹🌹
I'm 22 years old and I like this song ❤
@@jackboyd9055 You have great taste in music 🤗
@@LillyRose924 yeah I like old song since I was in Grade School
Im 19, got into jim with time in a bottle from the movie X-men: Days of future past when i was around 9 or 10, theres no age limit to good music, especially with a good message
Maury and Jim May be gone but their contribution and spirit in music will never be forgotten. Love this visual reinvention of Operator. More please!!!
Saddest song ever written. It captures hopelessness perfectly.
Yes I was kinda disappointed by the cartoon's happy ending
It seems that even the operator was moved. The dime wasn't kept.
It’s a song about sadness, wistfulness and kindness. He tried to call to be kind and really realized that his lost love was gone, so he extended the kindness to the Operator. Beautiful.
Been there....
@@Djgraveline1 nah u actually didn’t understand anything from this song
What gets me about "Operator" is that it's in a major key. The lyrics and phrasing just intensify the heartbreak.
Croce was able to tell a story in a straightforward way where no one was to blame. As I have grown older, I realize that bad things "just happen" even if I do everything just "right."
Jim Croce had that sense of world weariness that made him seem like he was talking just to you.
I was born in 1972. My mom raised me on John Denver, Gordon Lightfoot, Neil Diamond, Simon and Garfunkel, and Jim Croce.
I was born in ‘81, and raised on the same music. And I’ve learned the same life lesson, too. Sometimes things just happen.
I was born in 1975 and was raised the same with the same musical influence. I’m so grateful I experienced such extraordinary music during my formative years 💕
You were privileged…..your mum had you listening to the very greats
You got raised right! ❤
'You can make no mistakes and still lose. That is not weakness; that is life."
- Capt. Picard
I grew up with this man's music, and I can tell you, he was a musical genius. His way of doing a concert, just sitting in front of the crowd with his guitar, no fireworks, no light shows, just him. Jim, you are so very missed.
Me too, and I agree 👍✨✨✨🐦
Don’t forget Maury.
I was fortunate enough to see Jim and Maury in Balboa Park a few months before they left us. Needless to say it was wonderful. Such a great song.
I was born in '80 and I remember in the late '90s seeing references to people in my abnormal psych textbook of people getting operations to look like Jim and it seemed kind of odd. I pretty much just knew him for Don't mess around with Jim and Bad, Bad Leroy Brown, but as I've heard more of his music, I sort of get it.
That’s special
Whoever did this production- this is one of the best representations I've ever seen! 'There's something in my eye..'
Lllll0
Sitting here crying like a kid. What a beautiful tribute to Jim and the prettiest lonely song I've ever heard.
Have you heard One Less Set of Footsteps? Sad too
The girl sitting by the phone...dang, that got me. Very touching video.
Well, it seems that Ray isn't so fabulous as it seems.
Thank you mom for listening to Jim Croce!.This has to be one of the best songs ever written!
"You've been so much more than kind." An ocean of sadness and longing, expressed in just a few words.
And consider that all the operator was doing (as far as we know) was listening. It says something if he considers that alone as beyond kindness.
One of the greatest songwriters of all time
I think this is one of the greatest stories ever told in the song. Something about the words just paints you such a vivid picture each time you listen to it. Jim was the man. Only three albums. Sad to think of what could have been. Thank god for those three albums. Rest in Peace Jim and Maury…
He's immortal, even if not in the flesh. He left way too soon.❤
& Maury
I’m not a person who cries often, but I love this song and the heartfelt way Jim Croce sang it and it makes me tear up when I hear it. Thanks so much for posting it.
I thank God for giving us Jim Croce.
I went to HS with his younger sister Mary Ann. She was quiet and she looked very much like Jim.
Rip Jim, thank you for all the beautiful music and memories ❤
Upper Darby High?
A real Singer-Songwriter Genius. The Songs are beautiful, catchy, jet not simple. He had music and poetry flowing through his veins. Oh, what might have been, had he not died so early!
We all miss you Jim. Your music was beyond amazing! RIP.
Croce's music will always be with us. Thank God for that!
Sad, beautiful song. Jim Croce was a true poet.
fine guitarist as well.
I’ll never forget, I walked into my literature class in my sophomore year and everyone was crying. I asked what was going on and I was told that Jim Croce had died. It was very sad, it was nice to have friends to cry with. He was a wonderful person and singer!
This was in high school…
Can't believe it's been over 50yrs. This guy was and still is GREAT.
I don't know if there's ever been a more emotionally relatable song than this one. Is there a person on earth that has not experienced this type of heartache? And the remarkable thing is the poetic elegance that he uses while doing it.
Beautiful tribute, the animation was superb! And it was great how Maury was included, him being as much a part of Jim's story. Two great musicians lost together on the same day...
This made me more emotional than I was expecting. Seeing the butterflies around the two men who died way too young touched me. But I also feel a sense of gratitude that his music is still reaching people's hearts. There seems to be a trend lately of great songs of the past getting the animation treatment, and I'm fully on board with it.
Jim Is Greatly Missed 💔😭 & Maury
Can't forget Maury! I heard Jim and Maury's wives are still friends to this day!
@@peteman7354 Maury Will Never Be Forgotten Like Jim
@@peteman7354 Maury was not married at the time of his death he had a girlfriend
Sorry, I do believe it was a sister or close relative who is friends with jim's wife. I remember seeing an interview but can't remember who it was. Thanks for the clarification
I took Croce for granted in the 70s -now his work brings me to tears 💧
There's something in your eye
Maybe the most underrated singer of All time beautiful song and an amazing story teller
A gifted man who had so much more to give!
Love and support to Jims family and all of his fans worldwide from Dublin, Ireland
From Donegal myself. This stuff is just magical
Was not expecting this. I’m gonna cry.
I was a sophomore in high school when he died. His music is still as fresh today as it was when I was young. RIP Jim! 🙏 I still miss you and those days when I was young.
Yep, it just goes to show that with good writing that taps into universal experiences, the music can live on for decades after the artists involved die. It's amazing that it's been over 50 years since he died and the music still feels very fresh.
Masterpiece..... Nothing more I can say. A beautiful melody and a condensed novel in lyrics....
Thank you, Jim & Maury, for such moving music. Rest in peace.
This is one of the greatest videos I have ever seen!! I Love Jim Croce! One of the most underrated Singer Songwriters of all time! I have been singing his songs for over 30 years
and was singing these songs today as I was driving on the freeway with no music, just remembering a great talent and a great man. I wont exaggerate when I say I have played his records and have sung his songs 10s of thousands of times and never ever get tired of
any of his records. That is a testament to his writing abilities and his ability to really touch all of our hearts! Long live Jim Croce!!
If you don't tear up while listening to this song, you aren't human.
I've listened to it a bunch, so its lessened... first time almost got me though
Just listened to the complete song for the first time. The chorus just flows and so do some tears.
This song will be every bit as convincing in 300 years as it has been for 50. Love wont die. Loss wont either.
With love there will always be loss, but the existence of love means loss has already lost
This is just a song that is in a class of its own,Jim was a real class act,sad that horrible fate dealt him a cruel blow at 30 years old.bless his beautiful soul.
I've listened to this song on acid a few times and balled my eyes out. Not just for the heartbreak, but for something deeper. This is a genius rendition of what I would call the principle of Mercury, the communication between ideas and reality.
"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."
This whole time he is talking to the "operator," he actually gets through to the number he was looking for, but as he is talking to the operator he explains that "I can't read the number that you just gave me, it's something in my eyes - you know, it happens every time..."
He thinks about the love that he thought would save him (idea), meaning his girlfriend, but that security got crushed by his own best friend (reality). He is trying to make magick happen with the operator, a psychedelic symbol of the power of manifestation; but God, cosmos, whatever you want to call it, had other plans.
Sometimes you just can't change reality, you can only accept it and move on. But he is having a hard time with that, asking the cosmos to change reality for him, so he doesn't have to experience the pain of realization.
During the whole song, the singer is checking in with reality through this operator, who is basically acting like an involuntary therapist (as I'm sure many did in the 1970s), just listening to him cry over the phone. The operator gives him the number but "there's no one there I really wanted to talk to." So he ends with the true intention that he called the operator for - just having someone to listen to him.
"Thank you for your time, you've been so much more than kind -
and you can keep the dime..."
He is compelled back and forth because he wants to call them, he wants to face reality and show that he has "overcome the blow," he essentially wants the grief to go away, but he knows that he can't make it go away. He wishes his words could convince him that it just wasn't real, but he must accept that that is not the way it feels. He has to do what is so hard for all of us.
Accept the grief. The only way out of grief is through it, sitting with reality, not trying to wish it was something else. Crying, opening your heart, and pouring the grief over to somebody. Yet of course this poor lonely fellow living somewhere in 1970s America is either too proud or lonely to work it out with a trained therapist or a close friend or family member.
So in the desperate pain of his nervous system begging him for a cathartic release of the grief, he does the only thing he knows how to do: He just gets on the phone and has his cathartic emotional release with a complete stranger over the phone.
I'm a religious guy mind you. I believe the operator is at some level just a human on the other line as I've just described, and atheistically we could end it there.
But I believe there's a hidden intention of being thankful to the cosmos, to christ, to the simple capacity to feel that kind of love in the heart and find help when it is needed. That to me is the operator, the magickal center of all vibration, what a religious person would probably call God.
Thank was my psychedelic take on it. Maybe I read into it too deep lol, but maybe not. ;)
They just don't make songs like this anymore, RIP Jim and Maury
This song 🎵 was hitting the charts when I was starting High School in the Fall of 1972. All I did in those days was listen 🎧 to the radio 📻 because music 🎵 was what helped me get through my problems.
What a memory this song is about making phone calls with operator assistance. Even calling the operator for a rescue in the days before 911
First whoever put this video together did an excellent job, and the audio is really good too. Make more please!!!! Like "New York's Not My Home. One of the most misunderstood Jim Croce songs ever.
Jim Croce is one of my absolute favorite singer song writers of all times. He was just a real regular guy who wanted to provide a better life for his wife and son. In the end, after recording three albums and touring for years, he didn't have anything to show for it. In fact, he only had about the same kind of money as when he drove truck for a living. A few days before his accident, he wrote a letter to his wife. He explained that he was willing to give up his dream of being a musician. He was just going to do other things and give up on music. That letter didn't arrive back home until after his funeral. From a few things I've read about Maury Muehleisen, it sounded like he was a really nice guy. I read somewhere that he used to perform sold-out concerts in the laundry room of his dorm at college. : ) He was a very good guitarist and song writer as well. He recorded an album in 1970 titled "Gingerbreadd". It didn't quite make it to regular play on the airwaves, but it's still worth a listen. th-cam.com/video/C4UK8Ra8TYA/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared Maury was only 24 and Jim was only 30 years old on September 20th of 1973. Hopefully, they kept on making music that we will all be able to enjoy later on. Until then Peace out Jim and Maury.
🦋Jim is drawing from up there these days. Hello Jim… 🦋
Song is so good! He keeps calling ... same ole story each time. He's playing himself. Jim and Maury would have blessed us with so much. Back-up, they did bless us, we could have had more of their gift!
Man, I was just a 9 year old kid when this song came out . . . and I knew all the words . . . but I had no idea what the song was even about! 🙅🏽♂
And that's what more parents need to understand; kids just sing songs and really have no idea what they are singing about! 🎼🎶
That is just the joy of youth --- and then when we get older, maybe we'll take the time to understand the song. But we don't really care because, guess what!?
Good music is JUST good music! Today, everyday and twice on Sundays!
#longlivethemusicofthisman
#heavenly
I love this song. Jim Croce is an amazing storyteller. His music and lyrics are poetry turned into a song. He's a songwriting genius. He's a legendary musician and artist. RIP,Jim you will be truly missed 😢 😔 💔
Sad that there is a whole generation that does not know what a pay phone is, an Operator and why she could keep the dime. I miss those days.
So do I
Wait I’m 02 I know. We ain’t that dumb there are a few of us left 😭
@Ritchie-Boi52 Dime refers to 10 cent coint but also I don't know how the Operator can keep the coin.
When he is talking about the dime --- you could always get an operator for free! But when she placed the call FOR you (there were RARELY ever any male operators), she would tell you to pay the dime. And as the phone of the person you were calling, was ringing . . . if you changed your mind, and didn't want to talk, you could hang up (or as Jim says, "There's no one there, I really wanted to talk to!")
Some would ask if you wanted to call someone else, but if not, YOU LOST YOUR MONEY!
He was just being kind, because most operators would just keep the money anyway! But he just wanted her to get paid because of the time she spent with him and his obvious indecision on reaching out to a past love!
You got it now! So go forth and do wondrous things with your new knowledge! ↗
#each1teach1
#yourewelcome
I worked directory assistance lol. Long distance calls were toll.
Beautiful song ! Jim was a great singer
One of the most beautiful/unique songs ever written. Forever in our souls. 😎
First time I heard Mr Croce sing was on a road trip with grandparents. Grew up appreciating his great musical and storytelling talent. Operator is such a beautiful yet sad song. This man sung very effortlessly. Beautiful video. RIP Mr Croce and Mr Muehleisen ❤❤
Jim was a very emotional writer, par excellence. Amazing work with the animation 😊
I’d just started college when Jim Croce came onto the scene. And before anything, he was gone. Love his music. Love the memories. So many of his songs reach down deep and pull out feelings we’ve all had at some point or another. RIP Jim & Maury. Thanks for the music.
I've heard this song a hundred times, but seeing the image of the girl waiting by the phone when he says, "There's no-one there I really wanted to talk to." added a whole new level of tragedy. RIP Jim Croce.
I am at 3:17 this morning, quite unprepared for the rush of memories instantly revived, some hard and some beautifully sweet.
2:54 am for me.
All the songs from the '70s, like this one, are like little stories transmitted by music and lyrics 🎶
Im so glad they included Maury in this awesome animated video!! Had goosebump when played that sweet lick in the chorus.
Ah! The memories!
Jim Croce !
Everyone knows the words to his music, and they sing along with Jim.
My ex-husband played guitar and sung.
He did alot of Jim Croce music.
We loved him. ❤
Jim was a wonderful man and his music was cut short as did his life,this makes me smile and keep the dime lol
Hi 2024..
I miss my dad..😢😢 he died.. we use to listen to this masterpiece song when i was a little kid.
Im all grownup now ..this is still no.1 song for me
Petition to have MORE ANIMATION!!!!!
I'll start, ONE!
Id sign that ✍🏻📝
Perhaps you should learn to animate, yourself?
NO
@@googleisretarded7618 bot
I pay for a few different apps on my phone
Yes, I can animate almost anything. I should probably start making TH-cam videos myself. I have a very impressive vinyl collection and four different turntables.
Woofers and tweeters and all the speakers ❤
Awww so nice if someone to put this together. Love the animation.I loved Jim and his songs..They bring back great memories of my youth.
Wow....
What can I say?....
This animated video breathes new life into this great song...
I hope to record myself playing it before the year runs out...
Thank you Jim,
Thank you Maury,
Thank you everyone involved in this video
Timeless
Whoever made the animation, thank you! Jim is the best singer/song writer ever, and you can feel his soul.
He's always here. Like the butterfly.
❤ THIS 😢 CRY EVERY TIME I LISTEN TO JIM CROCE GREATEST EVER
this hit me way harder than i am comfortable with.
There’s something in my eyes, you know it happens every time I think about the love that I thought would save me ………truly heartbreaking words 💔
We'll never have this kind honesty in a song for a little while
Jim Croce - R.I.P. - You were one of the best - Wish you didn't leave us so early!!
Omggggggg, official video of oparation music!!!
Tf are you acoustic?
Ive loved this beautiful composition since childhood…it hits so different in video form…🔥🔥🔥 RIP JC
Grew up in the late 60's and 70's. How I miss this fantastic music I grew up with. I like this animation. Thanks!
Somehow as a young 7-8 year old boy in the mid 1970's (long before having my heart broken) I still grasped the sadness of these beautiful lyrics..
my dad used to play this song and sing along with it, this song brings back good memories from those days, I have always enjoyed this song, such an emotional tune.
Lost my friend while this song was pop on the radio.... I like to play this once in a while to remind me how lucky I am to be alive and he knows it.
Jim Croce is the bees knees....forever and always
Another 'Alltime favorites'! I was born 1960.Grew up on 60 & 70's music! I will always believe more truly real and ALL the best music came from those 2 decade's,Music of all kinds.I've kept my Vinyl album collection & a diamond tip needle original antigue(by now) record player & am,fm radio! Theres NO better sound,❤
The operator Jim is calling must be a billionaire by now , you know , every time the song plays she's been keeping a dime.😂
This is at once one of the great heartache songs and one of the greatest healing songs. I think it's his best
A beautiful song. A beautiful songwriter. Gone way too early. Miss your music Jim. God Bless
I was just 20 yrs old. In the Navy. Wow what a trip. A young girl. Yet everything ahead of me. Wow. Thank you for this.🤗
সারা পৃথিবীর সব মানুষের হৃদয় স্পর্শ পেরেছেন জিম, তাঁর মৃত্যুর এত বছর পরেও, তাঁর মর্মস্পর্শী গান আমাদের মুগ্ধ করে যায় 🩵
ভারত 🇮🇳 থেকে বাংলা ভাষায় ওনাকে শ্রদ্ধা আর ভালবাসা জানিয়ে রাখলাম
ভালোবাসা জিম
I'm a 21 yo in 2024 who just found Jim Croce a few months ago and I haven't been able to stop listening to him, RIP the legend Jim 🙏🏻🫡
60 and 70 sound is so melancholy that it brings you home. Peace.🙏💕
One of my first memories of the start of this consciousness was my mom playing Jim's albums and me sitting next to the speaker. Once I was old enough to start my own dig. Jim was Gone. Sad we didn't get more beauties like this.
La escuché cuando trabajé en un supermercado en Laguna Niguel,Ca. Y siempre me encantó y la amé siempre.
"You can keep the dime," priceless memory.
This song just makes me cry...always.
This is simply amazing, amazing amazing, Jim Croce is for sure one of the greatest of all time, what a beautiful animation
God dammnit he is one of the greatest artists of all time. I just cry through this video.
What a PHENOMENAL talent Jim Croce was. He left us too soon, or else he would've gone on to become one of the all-time greats.