About the song
“By the Time I Get to Phoenix” is a landmark album by American singer-guitarist Glen Campbell, released in November 1967 under Capitol Records. This seventh studio effort by Campbell marked a significant milestone in his illustrious career, blending country music with pop elements to create a timeless sound that resonated with a broad audience.
The album’s title track, “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” was released as a single in October 1967. Written by Jimmy Webb, the song narrates a poignant story of a man’s journey away from a failed relationship, capturing the emotional essence of heartbreak and resignation. The hauntingly beautiful melody, paired with Campbell’s emotive vocal delivery, struck a chord with listeners and critics alike. The song’s impact was profound, earning Campbell the Grammy Awards for Best Vocal Performance, Male, and Best Contemporary Male Solo Vocal Performance in February 1968, reflecting its significance and popularity during that period.
The success of the lead single propelled the album to great heights, culminating in a historic win at the Grammy Awards in March 1969. “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” became the first country album to win the prestigious Album of the Year award for 1968, a testament to its cross-genre appeal and artistic excellence. This accolade not only elevated Campbell’s status as a leading figure in country music but also showcased the genre’s potential to transcend its traditional boundaries and captivate a wider audience.
The album’s legacy endured well beyond its initial release. In 2004, “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” was honored with induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame, further cementing its place in music history. This recognition highlighted the album’s enduring influence and its role in shaping the landscape of contemporary music.
“By the Time I Get to Phoenix” remains a quintessential representation of Glen Campbell’s artistry and the era’s musical innovation. Its blend of heartfelt storytelling, masterful instrumentation, and Campbell’s distinctive voice continues to resonate with new generations of listeners, solidifying its status as a timeless classic in the annals of music history.
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Lyrics
By the time I get to Phoenix she’ll be rising
She’ll find the note I left hangin’ on her door
She’ll laugh when she reads the part that says I’m leavin’
‘Cause I’ve left that girl so many times before
By the time I make Albuquerque she’ll be working
She’ll probably stop at lunch and give me a call
But she’ll just hear that phone keep on ringin’
Off the wall, that’s all.
By the time I make Oklahoma she’ll be sleepin’
She’ll turn softly and call my name out low
And she’ll cry just to think I’d really leave her
Tho’ time and time I’ve tried to tell her so
She just didn’t know I would really go