About the song
Aretha Franklin, often referred to as the “Queen of Soul,” blessed the world with numerous timeless classics, but “Call Me” stands out as one of her most tender and emotionally resonant pieces. Released in 1970, this beautiful ballad was a part of her critically acclaimed album “This Girl’s in Love with You”, a collection that showcased Franklin’s incredible ability to fuse soulful storytelling with breathtaking vocal artistry.
“Call Me” is a heartfelt plea for connection and love, embodying the universal longing for intimacy and closeness. The song was inspired by a simple yet poignant moment in Franklin’s life. She reportedly overheard a couple saying goodbye at an airport, with one partner saying, “Call me the moment you get there.” These words struck a chord with Franklin, who transformed this fleeting exchange into a lush and unforgettable ballad. This personal touch gives the song an authentic, raw quality that resonates deeply with listeners.
The track begins with Franklin’s soaring vocals, set against a backdrop of gentle strings and soulful instrumentation. Her delivery is both powerful and vulnerable, capturing the essence of love’s bittersweet nature. Lines like “Call me the moment you get there” evoke a sense of urgency and devotion that is as relatable today as it was over five decades ago. This emotional authenticity is what sets “Call Me” apart and makes it a standout in Franklin’s extensive discography.
Social and cultural impact of the song cannot be overstated. Released during a period of great change in America, “Call Me” resonated not only as a love song but also as a reminder of the importance of staying connected in a rapidly shifting world. In the era of the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War, themes of love, unity, and communication were profoundly relevant. The song’s success on the Billboard R&B charts, where it claimed the number one spot, underscored Franklin’s role as a voice of hope and resilience for her generation.
Moreover, “Call Me” has influenced countless artists and has been covered and sampled by many, testifying to its enduring appeal. Franklin’s ability to infuse her music with personal meaning while maintaining universal relevance ensures that songs like “Call Me” continue to inspire new generations of listeners.
In essence, “Call Me” is more than just a love ballad; it’s a testament to Aretha Franklin’s unmatched talent and her ability to capture the nuances of human emotion. Whether you’re listening for the first time or revisiting a classic, this song offers a powerful reminder of the soul-stirring magic of music.
Video
Lyrics
I love you (I love you)And I love you (I love you)And I love you too (and I love you)Baby, will you call me the moment you get there?Hey baby, um-hmmAnd I love you (I love you)And I love you too (I love you)And I love you (and I love you)Baby, will you (call me) call me (the moment) the moment(You get there) you get there? YeahYeah, baby, yeahMy dearest, my dearest of all darlingI know, I know, I knowI know we’ve got to partBaby, baby, baby, baby, babyIt really doesn’t hurt me that bad, yeahBecause you’re takin’ me with youAnd I’m keepin’ you right here in my heartIt’s all because I love you (I love you)Woo-ooh and I love you (I love you)And I love you too (and I love you)Baby, will ya call me the moment you get there?Baby, will you do that?Will you do that for me now?Oh-oh-oh-oh, call me(Call me) call me the hour (the hour)Call me the minute (the minute)The second that you get there?(Call me, call me, call me, call me, call me, baby) babyCall me the moment ya get there?(Don’t forget, don’t forget about me, baby) don’t about me, babyI love you(Baby) call meThe moment you get there (call me, call me, call me, call me, baby)Call me baby(Call me) call me the hour (the hour)Call me the minute, the moment, the second(Call me, call me, call me, call me, call me, baby)Call me baby(The minute) call me the minute, yeah(Second) second…