Michael Franks began his career as a literature professor in Los Angeles, but he soon began dabbling in music as well, and by 1973, at the age of 29, he released this (originally self - titled) debut album. Although, like many debuts, the album itself did not make much noise when it was released, Michael Franks' career soon took off, as he became increasingly well-known as singer / songwriter whose subtle, understated music acts as a kind of beautiful backdrop to his superlative word-smithing. In fact, it is precisely in his boundary-pushing lyrics that Franks has managed to impress so many of his fans. Clever and often sexy songs about interesting topics have won Franks a reputation as the crème de la crème of the smooth jazz genre and his songs have gone on to be covered by the likes of The Manhattan Transfer, The Carpenters, Patti LaBelle, and Carmen McRae, to name a few. While Franks explores a range of musical styles on this album, his lyrics remain the same solid calling card throughout.