"Feel Like a Number" is a song written by Bob Seger that was first released on his 1978 album with the Silver Bullet Band, Stranger in Town.
[1] Ultimate Classic Rock critic Jim Allen describes "Feel Like a Number" as a "rough-hewn proletarian anthem.
"[3] The lyrics are sung by an ordinary worker who feels devalued, unrecognized and unappreciated by modern, impersonal society.
"[4] Allen Baswell regarded "Feel Like a Number" as an example of Seger's "rich lyrics" describing "the hopes, dignity and dreams of working people.
[9]According to Allmusic critic Mark Deming, Seger's "pained, angry, and defiant" vocal makes the song special.
[7] He describes the Silver Bullet Band as providing "a tough wall of guitar and keyboard driven rock" to support Seger's vocal.
[16] According to Ultimate Classic Rock contributor Jeff Giles, even though "Feel Like a Number" was not a hit single, it "has its own special place in the hearts of longtime fans who appreciate Seger's distinctive way of giving musical life to the hopes, dreams and struggles of the American middle class.
"[17] AnnArbor.com director Bob Needham described "Feel Like a Number" as a "terrific expression of working-class frustration," noting that although not a hit single it was a radio staple.
[18] Sung in French by Johnny Hallyday in 1980 under the title of "Perdu dans le nombre" from the album À partir de maintenant.