Jimmy Webb

Jimmy Webb is often compared to hallowed “classic” songwriters like George Gershwin and Cole Porter, and for good reason: Unlike other venerated singer-songwriters like John Lennon, Bob Dylan, or even Billy Joel (who cites Webb as an influence), Webb has achieved most of his success by penning songs for other people to sing. Tunes like “By The Time I Get To Phoenix,” “Wichita Lineman,” and “MacArthur Park”—all platinum-selling hits—began in Webb’s nimble hands. He found a career penning songs for the likes of Glen Campbell, Art Garfunkel, Linda Ronstadt, and The 5th Dimension. Webb has released his own string of solo albums since 1968 to modest acclaim. His latest, Cottonwood Farm, is a collaboration with his sons Christiaan, Justin, James, and Cornelius. 

Updated 01/11/2012