“Numbers,” released in 1980, is one of Bobby Bare’s cleverest and most charming story-songs, built around a simple idea that turns into a playful commentary on love, attraction, and the funny little calculations we all make. The song uses phone numbers as a metaphor for chance, connection, and the unpredictability of romance, delivered with Bare’s signature laid-back humor and smooth, conversational singing style. Written by Shel Silverstein, Bare’s longtime collaborator, “Numbers” was crafted i