This, That, and the Other

Helen Vahdati chose the word “angel” for this week’s Song Lyric Sunday prompt. There are tons of songs about angels, but I decided to go with the song by the rock group Train titled “Calling All Angels.” The 2003 song was included on the band’s third studio album, My Private Nation.

“Calling All Angels” reached number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and spent three weeks atop the Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary chart. It was nominated for two Grammy Awards at the ceremony held in February 2004: Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group, and Best Rock Song.

Written by group members Charles Colin, James Stafford, Pat Monahan, and Scott Michael Underwood, the song tells the tale of someone who seems to be lost in a confusing world, and he’s “calling all angels” asking for help with the problems of today. It is also the unofficial anthem of the Los Angeles Angels baseball team, and is played at Angel Stadium before every game.

Here are the song’s lyrics.

I need a sign to let me know you’re here
All of these lines are being crossed over the atmosphere
I need to know that things are gonna look up
‘Cause I feel us drowning in a sea spilled from a cup

When there is no place safe and no safe place to put my head
When you feel the world shake from the words that are said

I need a sign to let me know you’re here
‘Cause my TV set just keeps it all from being clear
I want a reason for the way things have to be
I need a hand to help build up some kind of hope inside of me

And I’m calling all angels
I’m calling all you angels

When children have to play inside so they don’t disappear
And private eyes solve marriage lies cause we don’t talk for years
And football teams are kissing Queens
And losing sight of having dreams
In a world that what we want is only what we want until it’s ours

I’m calling all angels
I’m calling all you angels