The song “Wichita Lineman” by Glen Campbell is one of the most iconic songs of the 20th century. It tells the story of a lineman who works on the telephone lines in Wichita, Kansas, and longs for the woman he loves. But who is the “girl named Tom” that the song refers to? In this article, we’ll explore the history of the song and the woman who inspired it.
The Inspiration Behind the Song
The story behind the song begins with a real-life lineman named Jimmy Webb, who wrote the song. In an interview with NPR, Webb explained that the inspiration for the song came from a conversation he had with a lineman who worked for the electrical company in Oklahoma. The lineman told Webb that he often talked to a woman named Tom who worked in the local county courthouse.
Webb was intrigued by the idea of a woman named Tom and began to imagine what her life might be like. He envisioned her as a strong, independent woman who was respected in her community. He also imagined that she might be the love interest of a lonely lineman who worked on the telephone poles.
The Creation of the Song
Once Webb had the idea for the song, he began to work on the lyrics and the melody. He wanted to capture the loneliness and isolation of the lineman’s life, as well as the hope and longing he felt for the woman he loved. The result was a hauntingly beautiful song that has become a classic of American music.
In 1968, Glen Campbell recorded the song and it quickly became a hit. The song’s melancholy melody and poignant lyrics struck a chord with listeners and it remains one of Campbell’s most beloved songs.
The Legacy of the Song
The legacy of “Wichita Lineman” is undeniable. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years, including Johnny Cash, Ray Charles, and R.E.M. It has also been featured in movies and TV shows, and was even played on the International Space Station in 2012.
But perhaps the most lasting legacy of the song is the way it captures the longing and loneliness that we all feel at times. Whether we’re a lineman working on a telephone pole or a woman named Tom working in a courthouse, we all experience moments of isolation and yearning. And it’s the beauty of songs like “Wichita Lineman” that remind us that we’re not alone.
Conclusion
The story of the “girl named Tom” in “Wichita Lineman” is a testament to the power of imagination and the beauty of music. Although Tom may never have actually existed, her story has touched the hearts of millions of people around the world. And in the end, that’s what great music is all about.
