Jimmy Webb releases unheard songs as renewed interest sustains touring at 80
Jimmy Webb, the songwriter behind “Wichita Lineman”, “MacArthur Park” and other enduring hits, is releasing an album of previously unheard songs and continuing to tour at 80. Renewed attention to his work, including recent recordings and performances by other artists, has helped persuade him to keep performing.
The album, *Yours for the Taking: The Found Songs of Jimmy Webb*, features songs originally intended for performers including Dolly Parton and Frank Sinatra, but left aside or unfinished. Webb recalls writing rapidly under commercial pressure, his early admiration for Glen Campbell, and memorable studio encounters; he has won three Grammys.
In short
- Jimmy Webb has released an album of previously unheard songs.
- Its songs were once considered for Dolly Parton and Frank Sinatra.
- Recent performances have encouraged the 80-year-old to keep touring.
Explained simply
Jimmy Webb is an American songwriter whose songs became well known through recordings by performers such as Glen Campbell. “Wichita Lineman” and “MacArthur Park” are among his best-known works, and he has won three Grammy Awards.
Songwriters often write with a particular singer in mind, but not every song is recorded or completed. Webb’s catalogue includes songs set aside after being considered for artists including Dolly Parton and Frank Sinatra, reflecting the demands of writing for the music business.
Other artists continue to record and perform Webb’s songs, bringing them to new audiences. That ongoing interest helps explain why his work remains part of live music and why his career continues to draw attention.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “‘People think songwriters go around crying all the time’: Jimmy Webb on his epic hits – and wild drinking days”.