Top Ten Songs by Glen Campbell

“Wichita Lineman” (1968)-This was a no. 3 smash and was written by one of the hottest songwriters of the time, Jimmy Webb. It’s my favorite Campbell song and one of my all-time favorites. The lyrics are a bit trippy-“I know I need a smallvacation, but it don’t look like rain” (?), but with the great singing, guitar playing, and that fabulous background music, the words still work here.

“Don’t Pull Your Love/Then You Can Tell My Goodbye” (1976), a no. 27 hit-This is one of Campbell’s finest vocal performances; the man sings his heart out here with total “country soul. This is a medley and remake of two prior hits: “Don’t Pull YourLove” was originally by Hamilton, Joe Frank, and Reynolds (1971). “Then You CanTell Me Goodbye” was originally by The Casinos (1967). It all sounds like a brand new number, it’s that good.

“Galveston” (1969)-Jimmy Webb wrote another wonderful song, that combined with Campbell’s great rendition (These two have serious skills, didn’t they?), became a no. 4 smash. And having a hit TV shows at this time didn’t hurt either (The singer had a ’68 summer replacement for “The Smothers Brothers Show” until they returned in the fall, then had his own regular program, “The GlenCampbell Goodtime Hour“, from Jan. 1969 through June 1972).

“Dreams Of The Everyday Housewife” (1968)-This only peaked at no. 32, but should have been much higher. I don’t know if Webb wrote this or not, but whoever did, I tip my hat to you. Once again, Campbell nails this, conveying the pathos and longing, yet appreciation, making this song come alive.

“Southern Nights” (1977)-Did you know that this was written by Allen Toussaint, the legendary songwriter/producer who (along with Fats Domino) pioneered and brought the 1950s-early ’60s New Orleans sound to the forefront? (“Ya Ya” by Lee Dorsey, “Mother-In-Law” by Ernie K-Doe, and “I Know” by Barbara George are just a few of the many hits Toussaint has produced or written) Jimmy Webb told Campbell about the song and the singer’s friend, Jerry Reed, inspired the cool guitar lick introduction. Oh, and by the way, it was a no. 1 smash, the second of Campbell’s career (“Rhinestone Cowboy“-1975, was his first no. 1, but I hated that song!).

“Bonaparte’s Retreat“-I believe this was a B of flip side to one of Campbell’s hit singles, but I don’t recall which one. This is an old country song, but I’ve never heard this until Campbell’s rendition. And I love it!

“Sunflower” (1977), peaked at no. 39-The singer’s follow-up to “Southern Nights”. It’s simply an enjoyable tune.

“I Say A Little Prayer/By The Time I Get To Phoenix” with Anne Murray-This didn’t make the top 40-It should have. I don’t recall the year. What I DO know is that this is one of the best duet records I’ve ever heard. Absolutely stunning!

“Where’s The Playground Susie” (1969), a no. 26 hit-Another great Jimmy Webb song and another great vocal performance by Campbell. His voice perfectly captures the wistfulness and poignancy of the words.

“Gentle On My Mind” (originally charted in 1967, but didn’t crack the top 40 until 1968), peaked at no. 39-Written by John Hartford (an excellent country singer-songwriter),; it should have been a much bigger hit. Campbell’s voice fitted this song like a comfortable glove. And the guitar work was fantastic!