“By the Time I Get to Phoenix” by Jimmy Webb – Improvised by pianist Charles Manning

“By the Time I Get to Phoenix” was composed by Jimmy Webb. Originally recorded by Johnny Rivers in 1965, the song was released by country music singer Glen Campbell on his 1967 album of the same name. Campbell’s single reached the top at No. 1 on the Canada Country Tracks chart and No. 2 on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart. In 1990, BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) listed “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” as the third most performed song from 1940 to 1990. Numerous performers have recorded cover versions of the song, including Frank Sinatra, who called it ‘the greatest torch song ever written.’” The inspiration for writing “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” is attributed to songwriter Webb’s breakup with Susan Horton. In reality, Webb did not leave Horton as referenced in the lyrics, although Horton eventually married Bobby Ronstadt, cousin of singer Linda Ronstadt. In this rendition, pianist Charles Manning improvises the hit song “By the Time I Get to Phoenix.” Awards: Grammy Award for Best Vocal Performance, Male (1968), Glen Campbell, Recipient Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Male Solo Vocal Performance (1968), Glen Campbell, Recipient