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 lyrics. 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 a top voice of the smooth jazz genre.