You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio

Joni Mitchell

About You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio

"You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio" is a song written and originally recorded by Canadian singer songwriter Joni Mitchell. It was released on her fifth studio album entitled For the Roses and was issued as a single as well.


Year:
2014
3:13
329 
#1

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If you're driving into town
With a dark cloud above you
Dial in the number
Who's bound to love you
Oh honey you turn me on
I'm a radio
I'm a country station
I'm a little bit corny
I'm a wildwood flower
Waving for you
Broadcasting tower
Waving for you
And I'm sending you out
This signal here
I hope you can pick it up
Loud and clear
I know you don't like weak women
You get bored so quick
And you don't like strong women
'Cause they're hip to your tricks
It's been dirty for dirty
Down the line
But you know
I come when you whistle
When you're loving and kind
But if you've got too many doubts
If there's no good reception for me
Then tune me out, 'cause honey
Who needs the static
It hurts the head
And you wind up cracking
And the day goes dismal
From "Breakfast Barney"
To the sign-off prayer
What a sorry face you get to wear
I'm going to tell you again now
If you're still listening there
If you're driving into town
With a dark cloud above you
Dial in the number
Who's bound to love you
If you're lying on the beach
With the transistor going
Kick off the sand cause honey
The love's still flowing
If your head says forget it
But your heart's still smoking
Call me at the station
The lines are open

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Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell, CC (born Roberta Joan Anderson; November 7, 1943) is a Canadian musician, singer songwriter, and painter. Mitchell began singing in small nightclubs in Saskatchewan and Western Canada and then busking in the streets and dives of Toronto. In 1965 she moved to the United States and, touring constantly, began to be recognized when her original songs ("Urge for Going," "Chelsea Morning," "Both Sides, Now," "The Circle Game") were covered by notable folk singers, allowing her to sign with Reprise Records and record her own debut album in 1968. Settling in Southern California, Mitchell and her popular songs like "Big Yellow Taxi" and "Woodstock" helped define an era and a generation. Her more starkly personal 1971 recording Blue has been called one o… more »

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Written by: Joni Mitchell

Lyrics © Crazy Crow Music / Siquomb Music Publishing, RESERVOIR MEDIA MANAGEMENT INC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Song Background
"You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio" is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, it was written in 1972.
Album Concept
This song is featured in Mitchell's fifth album "For the Roses" which elaborates on the commercialization of music and personal relationships.
Popularity
It was released as a single and it became Mitchell's first top-40 hit in the United States, peaking at No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Reason for Writing
Joni Mitchell reportedly wrote this song out of frustration, as a response to her record label's desire for a radio-friendly hit.
Reception
The song received positive reviews from critics and fans alike, praising its catchy tune and clever, twist-filled lyrics.
Lyrics
The lyrics contain several radio and music industry metaphors. It stands as an independent love song as well, showcasing Joni's finesse with double entendres.
Live Performance
Mitchell has rarely performed this song live. It was included in her "Shadows and Light" tour in 1979 and was part of her 1983 "Wild Things Run Fast" tour.
Cover Versions
Artists like Glen Campbell and Neil Diamond have covered "You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio".
Instruments
Joni Mitchell played an Appalachian dulcimer in this track, contributing to its distinctive folk sound.
Awards
Despite its commercial success, the song did not win or was nominated for any notable awards during its initial release. However, it is often considered a favorite among Joni Mitchell's discography by fans and critics.
Chart Performance
Besides its success in the US, the song also charted in Canada, reaching number 2, and in the UK, where it reached number 38.
Name Punning
Its title is considered one of the best puns in pop music, underlining Mitchell's knack for wordplay.

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    You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio

    17,070
    194     1

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1973

    Billboard #25


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