Wichita Lineman

Glen Campbell

About Wichita Lineman

"Wichita Lineman" is a song written by the American songwriter Jimmy Webb in 1968. It was first recorded by the American country music artist Glen Campbell with backing from members of The Wrecking Crew and was widely covered by other artists. Campbell's version, which appeared on his 1968 album of the same name, reached number 3 on the US pop chart, remaining in the Top 100 for 15 weeks. In addition, the song topped the American country music chart for two weeks and the adult contemporary chart for six weeks. It was certified gold by the RIAA in January 1969. The song reached number 7 in the United Kingdom. In Canada, the single topped both the RPM national and country singles charts. As of August 2017 the song has also sold 357,000 downloads in the digital era in the United States. In 2010, Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" ranked "Wichita Lineman" at number 195. It has been referred to as "the first existential country song". British music journalist Stuart Maconie called it "the greatest pop song ever composed"; and the BBC referred to it as "one of those rare songs that seems somehow to exist in a world of its own – not just timeless but ultimately outside of modern music". "Wichita Lineman" was featured in series 12 of BBC Radio 4's Soul Music, a documentary series featuring stories behind pieces of music with a powerful emotional impact. 


Year:
2001
3:04
102 

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I am a lineman for the county
And I drive the main road
Searchin' in the sun for another overload
I hear you singin' in the wire,
I can hear you through the whine
And the Wichita lineman is still on the line

I know I need a small vacation
But it don't look like rain
And if it snows that stretch down south won't ever stand the strain
And I need you more than want you,
And I want you for all time
And the Wichita lineman is still on the line

And I need you more than want you,
And I want you for all time
And the Wichita lineman is still on the line

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Glen Campbell

Glen Travis Campbell (born April 22, 1936) is an American country music singer, guitarist, television host and occasional actor. He is best known for a series of hits in the 1960s and 1970s, as well as for hosting a variety show called The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour on CBS television. more »

6 fans

Written by: Jimmy L. Webb, Mark Martin Duffy

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Song Creation
"Wichita Lineman" was written by Jimmy Webb. He is known for many other popular songs like "By the Time I Get to Phoenix" and "MacArthur Park". Webb composed the song with inspiration from his experience of seeing a lone telephone lineman working atop a pole in the vast emptiness of the Kansas landscape.
Production Team
The recording of "Wichita Lineman" was driven by an elite group of session musicians known as The Wrecking Crew. This team included Hal Blaine on drums, Carol Kaye on bass, Al Casey on guitar, and many others.
Singer
The song was famously performed by Glen Campbell, an American singer, guitarist, and actor. Campbell was a star on both country and pop charts in the late 60s and 70s. He is best known for his hits such as "Rhinestone Cowboy" and "Southern Nights".
Chart Success
"Wichita Lineman" was a smash hit, reaching number 3 on the US pop chart, number 1 on the country and adult contemporary charts, and even managed to break into the top 10 in the UK. It also earned two Grammy Awards for Campbell in 1969.
Unusual Theme
The song stands out for its unique theme, which is a love song from the perspective of a lonely telephone linesman. Webb described it as "the picture of loneliness." The lineman is isolated in his work, left to his thoughts and his longing for a woman, which is conveyed in the lyric, "And I need you more than want you, and I want you for all time".
Album Success
"Wichita Lineman" is the title track of Campbell's 12th album. The album itself was a major success and has been certified gold by the RIAA.
Cultural Impact
Over the years, "Wichita Lineman" has been covered by many other artists, including Sergio Mendes, Tom Jones, Johnny Cash, and R.E.M. Even more than half a century later, this song continues to resonate with audiences and is often described as one of the greatest pop songs ever.
Notable Recognition
In 2010, Rolling Stone magazine ranked "Wichita Lineman" at no. 195 on their list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Musical Composition
The song is notable for its orchestral arrangement, especially the use of strings and brass instruments which give it a distinct sound. A haunting six-note refrain played on a baritone guitar by session musician Al Casey is a standout element in the song's composition.
Critical Acclaim
Music critics praised "Wichita Lineman" for its evocative lyrics, Campbell's heartfelt vocals, and its lush orchestral arrangement. It is often highlighted as a perfect example of the songwriter's and performer's craft.

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    Wichita Lineman

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1969

    Billboard #3


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