Don't Go to Strangers
J.J.ケイル Lyrics

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If I'm standing in a crowd,
Call my name, call it loud
Don't go to strangers, woman, call on me
Wave your arms in the air,
Let me know that you're there
When in doubt, oh woman, call on me
Don't leave me here to rust,
Don't let me turn to dust

Oh, woman, when in doubt, call on me
If I'm standing in a crowd,

Call my name, call it loud
Don't go to strangers, woman, call on me

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of J.J. Cale's song "Don't Go to Strangers" convey a plea from the singer to his woman to always rely on him, no matter the situation. The opening line sets the scene of being in a crowd, suggesting that they might be surrounded by people and noise. By calling his name loudly, the singer is asking for her to reach out to him and seek his presence. He implores her not to go to strangers, highlighting the importance of their connection and emphasizing that he is always there for her.

The next set of lines builds on this theme, as he asks her to wave her arms in the air and let him know that she's there. This gesture serves as a way for her to signify her need for him, prompting him to step in and provide support or assistance. The repetition of "when in doubt, call on me" reinforces the idea that she can rely on him whenever she is uncertain or in need of help.

The chorus brings these elements together once again. The singer asks her not to leave him to rust or turn to dust, expressing his fear of being neglected or forgotten. The line "woman, when in doubt, call on me" is reiterated, further solidifying the message that he is her steadfast support and that she should always turn to him rather than seeking help or solace elsewhere.

Line by Line Meaning

If I'm standing in a crowd,
When I find myself surrounded by people,

Call my name, call it loud
Reach out to me and make your presence known

Don't go to strangers, woman, call on me
Instead of seeking help from unfamiliar individuals, rely on me for support

Wave your arms in the air,
Signal your distress by raising your arms

Let me know that you're there
Inform me of your presence

When in doubt, oh woman, call on me
Whenever you are uncertain or hesitant, rely on me for assistance

Don't leave me here to rust,
Don't forsake me and let me deteriorate

Don't let me turn to dust
Prevent my existence from fading away

Oh, woman, when in doubt, call on me
Dear woman, whenever you find yourself unsure, reach out to me

If I'm standing in a crowd,
If I'm surrounded by people,

Call my name, call it loud
Shout my name with strength and clarity