Sylvia's Mother
Dr. Hook · Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show Revisited [1976]
"Too busy to come to the phone"
Sylvia's mother says "Sylvia's tryin'"
"To start a new life of her own"
Sylvia's mother says "Sylvia's happy"
"So why don't you leave her alone?"
CHORUS
And the operator says "40 cents more for the next 3 minutes"
Please Mrs. Zabry I just gotta talk to her
I'll only keep her a while
Please Mrs. Zabry I just wanna tell 'er goodbye
Sylvia's mother says "Sylvia's packin'"
"She's gonna be leavin' today"
Sylvia's mother says "Sylvia's marryin' "
"A fella down Galveston way"
Sylvia's mother says "Please don't say nothin'"
"To make her start cryin' and stay"
CHORUS
Sylvia's mother says "Sylvia's hurryin' "
"She's catchin' the nine o'clock train"
Sylvia's mother says "Take your umbrella"
"cause Sylvie, it's startin' to rain"
And Sylvia's mother says "thank you for callin'"
"And, sir, won't you call back again?"
CHORUS
Tell her goodbye
FADE
Please
Tell her goodbye
About Sylvia's Mother
"Sylvia's Mother" by Dr. Hook stands as a defining track from the band's 1976 album *Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show Revisited*. Released during the height of the British Invasion's enduring influence, the song exemplifies the group's signature blend of rock and roll, soul, and pop sensibilities. The recording captures the mid-70s sound where Dr. Hook perfected their melodic hooks and emotive vocals, contributing to their status as one of the era's most popular acts. The track remains a staple of their discography, often cited alongside hits like "Penicillin Penny" and "Freakers Ball" as key examples of their polished studio craft. It reflects the band's ability to craft catchy, radio-friendly material while maintaining a distinct musical identity that bridged the gap between classic rock and contemporary pop. The song's enduring appeal lies in its catchy rhythm and the band's charismatic performance, cementing their legacy in rock history.