The Friends Of Mr. Cairo
Anderson (Jon) and Vangelis Lyrics
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[movie like speech:]
Frankie: Okay, this is the picture. Johnny's been hurt. He's been hurt bad.
Woman: Look, we can't leave him here, we can't. Look, he's in a pool of blood. He's gonna die, I know it.
Frankie: We've gotta leave him here, honey. We gotta. He won't talk, I promise you that! Will you Johnny?
Woman: Frankie, I don't care whether he talks or not, I just can't leave him like this.
Johnny: Listen. Leave me here I... I... I can ... I can ... handle it.
Woman: Oh, no, Johnny, no...
[interlude]
Frankie: The cops are outside. Luke's in the car. Come on, let's get the hell outta this joint.
Woman: Frankie, when they get here wer're gonna be dead, I know we are! We don't have agun!
Frankie: Listen. We got three million... Listen, [spud]. We got three million in the can, here. We can't look after him, I'll send the bird to his mother. Come on, let's just get out of this place, we can do it!
Woman: Oh, no, Johnny, no...
[interlude]
Frankie: Okay now, just lean up against that door. When I give the word "Go" we just..., we just go through it and blast at the same time.
She came, as in the book, Mickey Spillane
That Saturday night dark masquerade
Had filled his friend with lead, the same, sweetheart
But then, as nothing happens quite the same
Investigation is the game
He had to check her story right away-he dead
Sam Spade his buddy Archer first to go he got it
She spelt it out, how could they know the 'Fatman' got it -he dead
Her sister didn't really live at all-confusion-he dead
His chase led to the Fatman, to face the friends of Mr. Cairo
[movie like speech:]
Woman: Hey, there's a really terrific dress shop. Can we stop this raid while I buy a new gown?
Frankie: I'll buy you the whole factory, sweetheart. Don't worry.
That night, the double crosser got it right
Pretending he was really dim
He slipped to Sam a double gin (Mickey Finn)
He woke, the boys had gone, but not his gun
They'd left a note to lead him on
The chase to find the Maltese Falcon-you bet-
Early thirties gangster movies
Set to spellbind population
From Chicago to Hong Kong
Via Istanbul the Talking Tong
Dirty rats through' prohibition
Money flowed through gangsterism
Acting out this fantasy
In Hollywoods vicinity
The best part for the best rendition
Al Capone he sent to prison
Citizen Kane came fast and quickly
Conquering ol' New York City
Poking fun at superstition
Media became television Give me Cagney anyday
Or Jimmy Stewart for President
Or Edward 'G' and all those guys
Who always shoot between the eyes
Between the eyes
Between the eyes
[movie like speech:]
Kasper: ha, ha, well done Mr. Cairo, and what do you have to say about that, my friend?
Spade: Allright. So you've got me in it. What about her?
Brigid: Don't worry about me, I'm okay
Kasper: Very magnanimous, sir, very magnanimous indeed, ha, ha, ha
Mr. Cairo: You mean..., you won't make us an offer we... we can't refuse...
Father love do you work, do you work for Mother
Chances could call, and accept that, be no other
Science as it might, disappear correspond with colour
Chance is the fruit, will outlive, what is now the brother
Call for total wealth to distribute like a picture
In black and white, give it joy, give it, let it hit you
Spoil our existence by extreme gift to population
Father love do you work, do you work for Mother
Tell me straight be the Godfather be no other
Media Kings give us now give us total movie
Straight right now, give it clear, give us total movie
Now being here, being now, being here believing
[movie like speeches:]
Man: I don't know which words to put in there sweetheart, you know, I can't do it. Pretty kind of useless, though, don't you think so Mary?
Man: Come with me to the far lands of Baghdad.
Woman: Oh, if only I could. That's what I want more than anything in the world, but it could never be...
Man: Of course it can...
Woman: But my father would find us wherever we went. Yes, he has forbidden me to... to even speak to you, if he finds me now. I don't know what he'd do...
Man: But he doesn't know that I'm... I'm a prince. Before, I was the thief of Baghdad now...
Woman: It doesn't matter...
Man: Then follow me, darling, follow me now to the ends of the Earth
One on one to talk to you
Like film stars they get close to you
You've mirrored his appeal
He wants you so, he wants to be beside you
Then you pass by giving him the other side of you
Like the mystics do
So that every time he moves, he moves for you
Soul and light can always see
The meeting of true love and she
This silent night and I,
I guess a lonely mind might see
I've seen love on the screen
I've seen a screen goddesss and me-oh
How often this, how often, this the power of you
And so, I must confess
Whatever I see
I'm meant to be there with you
With you with you
Silent golden movies, talkies, technicolour, long ago
My younger ways stand clearer, clearer than my footprints
Stardom greats I've followed closely Closer than the nearest heartbeat
Longer that expected-ther were great-
Oh love oh love just to see them
Acting on the silver screen, oh my
Clark Gable, Fairbanks, Maureen O'Sullivan
Fantasy would fill my life and I
Love fantasy so much
Did you see in the morning light
I really talked, yes I did, to Gods early dawning light
And I was privileged to be as I am to this day
To be with you. To be with you
[movie actor like speech:]
Mr. Cairo: Listen. I have arranged this display for... for all of you people to... to come here this evening and I... I know you have been searched, but, what you... you don't realize is, is that in the back of the Maltese Falcon, I have it ...
The Friends of Mr. Cairo by Jon Anderson and Vangelis is a song that tells the story of a gangster movie. The song starts with a conversation between a man named Frankie and his companions who are contemplating leaving their friend, Johnny, to die. The scene then shifts to the investigation of Johnny's murder by the detective Sam Spade. This leads him to encounter the "friends of Mr. Cairo," a group of people connected to the murder. The song also contains references to famous gangster films, actors and directors and takes the listeners on a journey through time.
The lyrics of the song contain a lot of movie-like speech, which complements the narrative structure of the song. The introduction of different characters and their motives creates an intriguing plotline that listeners can follow. The song also touches on themes that are typical of gangster movies, such as trust, betrayal, and the struggle for power.
Line by Line Meaning
[shooting]
A scene from a movie where a character named Johnny has been seriously injured and his friends are conflicted about what to do
[movie like speech:] Frankie: Okay, this is the picture. Johnny's been hurt. He's been hurt bad.
Frankie explains the situation to the others, emphasizing Johnny's severe injuries
Woman: Look, we can't leave him here, we can't. Look, he's in a pool of blood. He's gonna die, I know it.
The woman is desperate to help Johnny, fearing that he will die if they leave him
Frankie: We've gotta leave him here, honey. We gotta. He won't talk, I promise you that! Will you Johnny?
Frankie insists that they have to leave Johnny behind, assuring the others that Johnny won't betray them
Woman: Frankie, I don't care whether he talks or not, I just can't leave him like this.
The woman expresses her concern for Johnny's well-being and is unwilling to abandon him in his injured state
Johnny: Listen. Leave me here I... I... I can ... I can ... handle it.
Johnny tries to reassure the others that he can handle the situation on his own
Woman: Oh, no, Johnny, no...
The woman expresses her emotional distress and refusal to leave Johnny behind
[interlude]
Instrumental section
[movie like speech:] Frankie: The cops are outside. Luke's in the car. Come on, let's get the hell outta this joint.
Frankie alerts the others that the police are nearby and urges them to leave immediately
Woman: Frankie, when they get here wer're gonna be dead, I know we are! We don't have agun!
The woman expresses her fear of the consequences they will face when the police arrive, highlighting their lack of a weapon to defend themselves
Frankie: Listen. We got three million... Listen, [spud]. We got three million in the can, here. We can't look after him, I'll send the bird to his mother. Come on, let's just get out of this place, we can do it!
Frankie suggests that they cannot afford to stay and take care of Johnny, offering to send money to his mother instead, and encourages them to escape the situation
Woman: Oh, no, Johnny, no...
The woman repeats her earlier statement, expressing her refusal to abandon Johnny
[interlude]
Instrumental section
Frankie: Okay now, just lean up against that door. When I give the word "Go" we just..., we just go through it and blast at the same time.
Frankie instructs the others on their plan to shoot their way out of the situation, coordinating their actions
She came, as in the book, Mickey Spillane
That Saturday night dark masquerade
Had filled his friend with lead, the same, sweetheart
Referring to a fictional character from a Mickey Spillane book, the lyrics describe how a masquerade party led to the friend's death by gunshot
But then, as nothing happens quite the same
Investigation is the game
He had to check her story right away-he dead
Sam Spade his buddy Archer first to go he got it
Highlighting the unpredictability of events, the lyrics switch to the story of an investigation in which the artist's friend is killed, and Sam Spade's partner Archer is the first casualty
She spelt it out, how could they know the 'Fatman' got it -he dead
Her sister didn't really live at all-confusion-he dead
His chase led to the Fatman, to face the friends of Mr. Cairo
The woman revealed the identity of the person responsible for the murder, leading to more deaths and confusion. The artist's pursuit of the 'Fatman' and Mr. Cairo's associates ensues
[movie like speech:] Woman: Hey, there's a really terrific dress shop. Can we stop this raid while I buy a new gown?
The woman suggests a detour to a dress shop, wanting to buy a new dress amidst the chaos
Frankie: I'll buy you the whole factory, sweetheart. Don't worry.
Frankie offers to buy the woman an entire factory, indicating his willingness to fulfill her desires
That night, the double crosser got it right
Pretending he was really dim
He slipped to Sam a double gin (Mickey Finn)
The lyrics describe a night where a deceitful person successfully executed their plan by pretending to be unintelligent, and slipping a drugged drink to Sam
He woke, the boys had gone, but not his gun
They'd left a note to lead him on
The chase to find the Maltese Falcon-you bet-
When he regained consciousness, he discovered that his comrades had left and took his gun, leaving behind a clue that leads him on a pursuit to find the Maltese Falcon
Early thirties gangster movies
Set to spellbind population
From Chicago to Hong Kong
Via Istanbul the Talking Tong
Dirty rats through' prohibition
Money flowed through gangsterism
Acting out this fantasy
In Hollywoods vicinity
The best part for the best rendition
Al Capone he sent to prison
Citizen Kane came fast and quickly
Conquering ol' New York City
Poking fun at superstition
Media became television
Give me Cagney anyday
Or Jimmy Stewart for President
Or Edward 'G' and all those guys
Who always shoot between the eyes
Between the eyes
Between the eyes
Describing the popularity of gangster movies in the 1930s and their influence on society. References to notable gangsters and movies are made, highlighting their impact and the rise of television as a form of media. Personal preferences for actors like Cagney, Stewart, and Edward 'G' are also mentioned
[movie like speech:] Kasper: ha, ha, well done Mr. Cairo, and what do you have to say about that, my friend?
Kasper congratulates Mr. Cairo and asks for his response to the situation
Spade: Allright. So you've got me in it. What about her?
Spade acknowledges that he is involved in the situation and asks about the woman
Brigid: Don't worry about me, I'm okay
The woman reassures the others that she is fine and doesn't need to be a concern
Kasper: Very magnanimous, sir, very magnanimous indeed, ha, ha, ha
Kasper sarcastically praises Spade for his generosity and laughs
Mr. Cairo: You mean..., you won't make us an offer we... we can't refuse...
Mr. Cairo jokingly references the famous line from The Godfather, implying that Spade won't force them into an offer they cannot reject
Father love do you work, do you work for Mother
Chances could call, and accept that, be no other
Science as it might, disappear correspond with colour
Chance is the fruit, will outlive, what is now the brother
Call for total wealth to distribute like a picture
In black and white, give it joy, give it, let it hit you
The lyrics reference the roles of father and mother, the influence of chance and science, and the power of wealth and its distribution. The importance of embracing joy and experiencing life's impact is also emphasized
Spoil our existence by extreme gift to population
Father love do you work, do you work for Mother
Tell me straight be the Godfather be no other
Media Kings give us now give us total movie
Straight right now, give it clear, give us total movie
Now being here, being now, being here believing
Critiquing the excessive influence of the media and the way it shapes society. The lyrics express a desire for honest representation and a longing for immersive storytelling in movies. Emphasizing the importance of being present and believing in the present moment
[movie like speeches:] Man: I don't know which words to put in there sweetheart, you know, I can't do it. Pretty kind of useless, though, don't you think so Mary?
A man expresses his difficulty in finding the right words, questioning the purpose and usefulness of their conversation
Man: Come with me to the far lands of Baghdad.
The man invites the woman to accompany him to the exotic lands of Baghdad
Woman: Oh, if only I could. That's what I want more than anything in the world, but it could never be...
The woman expresses her longing to go to Baghdad, but also acknowledges that it is an impossible dream
Man: Of course it can...
The man reassures the woman that their dream of going to Baghdad can indeed become a reality
Woman: But my father would find us wherever we went. Yes, he has forbidden me to... to even speak to you, if he finds me now. I don't know what he'd do...
The woman voices her concerns about her father's disapproval and the potential consequences they would face if he discovered their relationship
Man: But he doesn't know that I'm... I'm a prince. Before, I was the thief of Baghdad now...
The man reveals his true identity as a prince, explaining that he used to be a thief but has now transformed
Woman: It doesn't matter...
The woman dismisses the man's status and reassures him that it doesn't affect her feelings for him
Man: Then follow me, darling, follow me now to the ends of the Earth
The man urges the woman to join him on an adventure, promising to take her anywhere she desires
One on one to talk to you
Like film stars they get close to you
You've mirrored his appeal
He wants you so, he wants to be beside you
Then you pass by giving him the other side of you
Like the mystics do
So that every time he moves, he moves for you
The lyrics describe a situation where someone desires a close connection with another person, but the other person only reveals a small part of themselves, keeping a sense of mystery and enchantment. Despite this, they still have a profound impact on the person's actions
Soul and light can always see
The meeting of true love and she
This silent night and I,
I guess a lonely mind might see
The lyrics suggest that a person's soul and true essence can perceive the connection between two individuals in love, even in the midst of solitude
I've seen love on the screen
I've seen a screen goddesss and me-oh
How often this, how often, this the power of you
And so, I must confess
Whatever I see
I'm meant to be there with you
With you with you
The lyrics express the impact of love and the allure of on-screen romances. The artist admits that they are drawn to the person they see on the screen and feels a deep connection, desiring to be with them
Silent golden movies, talkies, technicolour, long ago
My younger ways stand clearer, clearer than my footprints
Stardom greats I've followed closely Closer than the nearest heartbeat
Longer that expected-ther were great-
Oh love oh love just to see them
Acting on the silver screen, oh my
Clark Gable, Fairbanks, Maureen O'Sullivan
Fantasy would fill my life and I
Love fantasy so much
Did you see in the morning light
I really talked, yes I did, to Gods early dawning light
And I was privileged to be as I am to this day
To be with you. To be with you
Reflecting on the golden era of cinema, the lyrics evoke nostalgia and a longing for the past. The artist reminisces about following famous actors like Clark Gable and Maureen O'Sullivan, who brought fantasies to life on the silver screen. The lyrics also allude to a spiritual experience that shaped the artist's identity and expresses gratitude for being with the person they love
[movie actor like speech:] Mr. Cairo: Listen. I have arranged this display for... for all of you people to... to come here this evening and I... I know you have been searched, but, what you... you don't realize is, is that in the back of the Maltese Falcon, I have it ...
Mr. Cairo addresses the others, explaining that he has arranged the gathering and has hidden something valuable in the back of the Maltese Falcon
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: EVANGELOS PAPATHANASSIOU
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@andybullemor-music5928
My Dad had this album on vinyl, still does. I used to bug him to play the full 12 minute version of this song. Really captured my imagination. RIP Vangelis.
@jbg101
I was lucky to have had an older brother. 7 years older than me. He taught me some new type of music that I never would have know. May he be blessed.
Almost 2 years since his passing .
But it is all good
@Steve-oq7pk
I once got on Virgin radio, DJ asked me what song I wanted playing, I asked for this one, DJ never heard of it, couldn’t find it in their music library, shocking, haven’t listened to Virgin since , this song an absolute classic and year’s ahead of it’s time
@francoispasquet1394
Me also...
@lachlanj9901
@@jbg101 like listening to a story..my favorite series boardwalk empire. I agree with you
@lachlanj9901
Amasing how she does that chorus, let alone rest
@bluewaters3100
My husband and I loved Vangelis. One day he brought home this album and we just went insane for it. When my kids were little we had it on our big stereo all the time. Thanks you Vangelis for all your music. You are the Greek God of music forever.
@lecutter9382
RIP Vangelis. Thanks for the great music.
@WaitAMinute1989
40 years later and I'm still listening to this tune.
@eroche12
40 years ago I discovered this song on French TV while on holidays. I didn't wait long to find the LP (yes LP) of the Friends of Mr. Cairo. Epic. Ground braking songs with Jon. And then my discovery of China album and much more. In all your songs you have just that moment where the angels just kindly touch the notes and we listened together with you. RIP Maestro