Essential Listening #70: MacArthur Park

My Comments

Jim Webb is such a great writer. Richard Harris did a great job singing this song. It song is so dramatic and well done. People either love or hate it because of it’s abstract lyrics such as Someone left the cake out in the rain… But, I love it. Jim had other big hits with Glen Campbell.

Details

“MacArthur Park” is a notable song by Richard Harris, released in 1968. Written by Jimmy Webb, the song is known for its dramatic orchestral arrangement and poetic lyrics. It became one of Harris’s most famous tracks and is often remembered for its ambitious production and emotional depth. Here’s a comprehensive look at the song:

Song Overview

• Title: MacArthur Park
• Artist: Richard Harris
• Album: A Tramp Shining
• Release Date: April 1968 (single)
• Genre: Pop, Orchestral Pop, Baroque Pop
• Length: 7:20
• Label: Dunhill Records
• Writer: Jimmy Webb
• Producer: Jimmy Webb, with additional production by Bones Howe

Background and History

• Songwriting: “MacArthur Park” was written by Jimmy Webb, an acclaimed songwriter known for his lush, complex compositions. The song was inspired by Webb’s own experiences and emotions, though the exact meaning of the lyrics has been the subject of much speculation.
• Richard Harris: The song was performed by Richard Harris, an actor and singer whose recording of “MacArthur Park” brought the song to mainstream attention. Harris was known for his powerful voice and dramatic delivery, which suited the song’s grandiose style.
• Recording: The track was recorded at Western Recorders in Hollywood in 1967. The orchestration was arranged by Jimmy Webb, with Bones Howe contributing to the production. The recording sessions were notable for their attention to detail and the use of elaborate orchestral arrangements.

Musical Style and Composition

• Orchestration: “MacArthur Park” features a grand orchestral arrangement, including strings, brass, and percussion. The lush orchestration contributes to the song’s dramatic and cinematic quality.
• Structure: The song is notable for its complex structure, including multiple sections with varying tempos and moods. It begins with a slow, introspective introduction and builds to a powerful and climactic chorus.
• Lyrics: The lyrics of “MacArthur Park” are often described as surreal and abstract, with imagery that evokes a sense of longing and nostalgia:
  

  “Someone left the cake out in the rain / I don’t think that I can take it / ‘Cause it took so long to bake it / And I’ll never have that recipe again.”

  The lyrics are open to interpretation, with some listeners viewing them as a metaphor for lost love or personal regret.

• Vocal Performance: Richard Harris’s vocal delivery is emotive and dramatic, capturing the song’s sense of yearning and melancholy. His performance is characterized by its intensity and expressive quality, which enhances the song’s emotional impact.

Themes and Interpretation

• Nostalgia and Loss: The song’s lyrics convey themes of nostalgia and loss, with the recurring imagery of a cake left out in the rain serving as a metaphor for something precious that has been ruined or lost.
• Surrealism: The surreal and abstract nature of the lyrics has led to various interpretations. Some view the song as a reflection of personal experiences or emotions, while others see it as a more general commentary on the fragility of life and relationships.
• Emotional Impact: The combination of lush orchestration and Harris’s powerful vocals creates a strong emotional impact, evoking feelings of sadness, longing, and introspection.

Impact and Legacy

• Chart Performance: “MacArthur Park” was a commercial success, reaching #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US and #6 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s popularity helped establish Richard Harris as a successful recording artist.
• Critical Acclaim: The song has been praised for its ambitious production and the emotional depth of its lyrics. It is often cited as one of the highlights of Jimmy Webb’s songwriting career and a standout track in Richard Harris’s discography.
• Cultural Influence: “MacArthur Park” has been covered by various artists over the years, including notable versions by Donna Summer and Waylon Jennings. The song’s dramatic style and memorable lyrics have ensured its enduring appeal.
• Live Performances: Richard Harris performed “MacArthur Park” in various live settings, showcasing his vocal prowess and the song’s dynamic range. Live performances often highlighted the song’s emotional intensity and orchestral grandeur.

Notable Covers and Versions

• Donna Summer: In 1978, Donna Summer released a disco version of “MacArthur Park,” which became a major hit and is widely regarded as one of her signature songs. Summer’s version won a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
• Waylon Jennings: Country artist Waylon Jennings released a version of “MacArthur Park” on his 1969 album Only the Greatest. Jennings’s rendition brought a country twist to the song while maintaining its original emotional depth.
• Other Covers: The song has been covered by various artists across different genres, including jazz and rock. Each version brings a unique interpretation to the song, reflecting its versatility and enduring popularity.

Conclusion

“MacArthur Park” by Richard Harris is a classic example of orchestral pop and a landmark in the genre. Its complex structure, lush orchestration, and evocative lyrics have made it a memorable and influential song. The track’s emotional depth and dramatic style, combined with Richard Harris’s powerful performance, ensure its place as a timeless piece of music history. The song’s legacy continues to be celebrated through various covers and performances, reflecting its lasting impact and appeal.