Monday, May 04, 2009

Wichita Lineman Times Two

I don’t have a lot to write about at the moment. I’m walking on two legs, and it’s only a matter of time – hopefully about two weeks – before I get my life the rest of the way back. It’s still a little challenging to walk, but I feel better than I have, and I am starting to get some strength back. I’m going back to physical therapy tomorrow, if only for long enough to get the flexibility to come back. And I’m confident that by mid-May I’ll be back to work.

Last summer I put up a clip of James Taylor performing “Wichita Lineman” live in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. The quality of the video wasn’t great but the performance was. But I couldn’t not put up the video to his studio recording of the song, as well as a photo montage – incredibly well done, I might add – using Glen Campbell’s original recording of the song.

I put them both up for comparison, but also because they are both so good. And I included the lyrics.

When he wrote this song, I don’t think Jimmy Webb had any idea of the impact it would have 40 years after it was originally recorded. It truly is one of my favorite – all-time favorite, in fact – songs.

Take some time to enjoy both of these videos. You will find it to be worth the time spent, because they are both incredibly well-made.

I am a lineman for the county
And I drive the main road
Searchin’ in the sun
for another overload

I hear you singing in the wire
I can hear you thru 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

2 comments:

Karen Brook said...

Such a blessing, these video performances of "Wichita Lineman". Watched the Glen C one first and felt what a metaphor this is for what so many of us do in life, what our lives are largely about. How meditative and beautiful is the James T version. Reverance. Much reverance. Thank you Walt. Hilarious laughter from your Walmart post and now a sense of the sublime. Perfect way to step fully into my day! You are fabulous.

Evil Transport Lady said...

I've been slack in keeping up with my blogging buddies. But it's great to see you are back on two feet! Good luck with everything, and I'm happy you seem to be getting back to life!