The Call

Backstreet Boys

About The Call

"The Call" is a song by American band Backstreet Boys. It was released on February 6, 2001 as the second single from their album Black & Blue (2000).


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#2

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"Hello"
"Hi, it's me, what's up, baby?
I'm sorry, listen, I'm gonna be late tonight
So don't stay up and wait for me, okay?"
"Where are you?"
"Say that again?"
"Hello?"
"You're really dropping out
I think my battery must be low
Listen, if you can hear me
We're going to a place nearby, alright?
Gotta go!"

Let me tell you the story 'bout the call that changed my destiny
Me and my boys went out just to end up in misery
Was about to go home when there she was, standing in front of me
And said, "Hi, I got a little place nearby, wanna go?"
I should've said, "No, someone's waiting for me"
But I called my girl up and said

"Listen, baby, I'm sorry
Just wanna tell ya, don't worry
I will be late, don't stay up and wait for me"
"Say again? You're dropping out, my battery is low
Just so you know, we're going to a place nearby
Gotta go!"

Now two years gone, nothing's been won
I can't take it back, what's done is done
One of her friends found out that she wasn't my only one
And it eats me from inside that she's not by my side
Just because I made that call and lied

"Listen, baby, I'm sorry
Just wanna tell ya, don't worry
I will be late, don't stay up and wait for me"
"Say again? You're dropping out, my battery is low
Just so you know, we're going to a place nearby
Gotta go!"

Listen, baby, I'm sorry (hello?)
Listen, baby, I'm sorry (hello?)
Gotta go

Let me tell you the story 'bout the call that changed my destiny
Me and my boys went out just to end up in misery
Was about to go home when there she was, standing in front of me
And said, "Hi, I got a little place nearby"
Gotta go

"Listen, baby, I'm sorry
Just wanna tell ya, don't worry
I will be late, don't stay up and wait for me"
"Say again? You're dropping out, my battery is low
Just so you know, we're going to a place nearby
Gotta go!"

"Listen, baby, I'm sorry
Just wanna tell ya, don't worry
I will be late, don't stay up and wait for me"
"Say again? You're dropping out, my battery is low
Just so you know, we're going to a place nearby
We're going to a place nearby
Gotta go!"

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Backstreet Boys

The Backstreet Boys (sometimes referred to as BSB) are an American vocal harmony group, formed in Orlando, Florida in 1993. The group consists of A. J. McLean, Howie Dorough, Nick Carter, Kevin Richardson, and Brian Littrell. They rose to fame with their debut international album, Backstreet Boys (1996). In the following year, they released their second international album Backstreet's Back (1997) and their debut album in the United States which continued the group's success worldwide. They rose to superstardom with their third studio album Millennium (1999) and its follow-up album, Black & Blue (2000). more »

13 fans

Written by: Martin Max, Rami Yacoub

Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Song Composition
"The Call" is a song from the Backstreet Boys' third studio album, "Black & Blue" (2000). The song, which blends pop and R&B sounds, was composed by Max Martin and Rami Yacoub, renowned Swedish music producers known for their pop hits.
Chart Performance
Upon its release, the single charted in over 15 different countries around the world. It reached the number 2 spot on Canada's (RPM) Top Singles chart, and number 3 on the Norway (VG-lista) chart. In the U.S., it peaked at number 52 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Song Concept
Lyrically, "The Call" revolves around a man cheating on his girlfriend and the subsequent guilt he feels. The phone call, which is a central theme of the song, represents his attempt to lie to his girlfriend about his unfaithfulness.
Music Video
The music video for "The Call" was directed by Francis Lawrence, who later directed films like "I Am Legend" and "The Hunger Games" series. The video is notable for its special effects and cinematic approach.
Remix Version
An "Neptunes Remix" version of "The Call" was also released featuring renowned rap artist Clipse. This version of the song gives it a more definitive hip-hop vibe.
Live Performances
"The Call" has become a staple song during the Backstreet Boys' live performances. The song is often accompanied by elaborate choreography matching the narrative of the song.
Song Controversy
It was once rumored that a prominent sound in the chorus of "The Call" was actually a fart noise that had been digitally manipulated. However, this was debunked by member AJ McLean who confirmed it was actually his voice.
Critical Reception
The song received mixed reviews from music critics. Some praised it for its mature narrative compared to their previous songs, while others criticized it for its departure from the traditional Backstreet Boys sound.
Legacy
Despite the mixed reviews, "The Call" is considered one of the Backstreet Boys' signature songs. Its intricate production and mature theme make it a standout track in their discography.
Song Recognition
At the 2002 BMI Pop Awards, "The Call" was recognized among the most performed songs of 2001.

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    The Call

    17.4M
    108.7K     3,073

    Top Hot 100 Songs 2001

    Billboard #52


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