About the song
Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), known for their innovative fusion of rock and orchestral elements, delivered a poignant and emotive piece with their song “Telephone Line.” Composed by Jeff Lynne, the creative genius behind much of ELO’s music, “Telephone Line” was featured on their 1976 album “A New World Record.”
“Telephone Line” is characterized by its melancholic melody and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of longing and communication breakdowns in relationships. Jeff Lynne’s songwriting brilliance shines through in the song’s evocative storytelling, as the protagonist grapples with feelings of loneliness and disconnect conveyed through the metaphor of a telephone call.
The instrumentation of “Telephone Line” is a testament to ELO’s distinct sound, blending lush orchestration with rock elements seamlessly. The use of strings, synthesizers, and melodic guitar lines creates a rich sonic landscape that complements the song’s emotional depth.
Upon its release, “Telephone Line” resonated strongly with audiences and critics alike, earning praise for its composition and lyrical depth. It reached number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, marking one of ELO’s highest-charting singles in the country. In the United Kingdom, it also achieved significant success, peaking at number 8 on the UK Singles Chart.
The production of “Telephone Line” highlights Jeff Lynne’s meticulous approach to crafting music, with each layer contributing to the song’s atmospheric quality and emotional impact. The clarity of Lynne’s vocals, coupled with the orchestral arrangements, creates a haunting yet beautiful listening experience that has endured over the decades.
Over the years, “Telephone Line” has maintained its status as a beloved classic, captivating listeners with its timeless melody and poignant lyrics. Its inclusion in various media and its enduring popularity in pop culture underscore its lasting influence and appeal.
For listeners who appreciate heartfelt songwriting and intricate musical arrangements, “Telephone Line” remains a standout in ELO’s repertoire, showcasing their ability to blend rock, orchestral, and lyrical elements into a compelling and memorable piece of music.
Video
Lyrics
Hello, how are you?
Have you been alright through all those lonely, lonely, lonely, lonely
Lonely nights? That’s what I’d say
I’d tell you everything if you’d pick up that telephone
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Hey, how ya feelin’?
Are you still the same? Don’t you realise the things we did, we did
Were all for real? Not a dream
I just can’t believe they’ve all faded out of view
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Ooh-woo-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Doo-wop, doo-be-doo-doo-wop, doo-wah, doo-lang
Blue days, black nights, doo-wah, doo-lang
I look into the sky (the love you need ain’t gonna see you through)
And I wonder why (the little things you planned ain’t coming true)
Oh, oh, telephone line, give me some time
I’m living in twilight
Oh, oh, telephone line, give me some time
I’m living in twilight
Okay, so no one’s answering
Well, can’t you just let it ring a little longer, longer, longer? Oh
I’ll just sit tight, in shadows of the night
Let it ring forevermore, oh-whoa
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Doo-wop, doo-be-doo-doo-wop, doo-wah, doo-lang
Blue days, black nights, doo-wah, doo-lang
I look into the sky (the love you need ain’t gonna see you through)
And I wonder why (the little things you planned ain’t coming true)
Oh, oh, telephone line, give me some time
I’m living in twilight
Oh, oh, telephone line, give me some time
I’m living in twilight
Oh, oh, telephone line, give me some time
I’m living in twilight
Oh, oh, telephone line, give me some time
I’m living in twilight