In memory of Glen Campbell

The world lost a clear, resonant voice in Glen Campbell yesterday.  These are five of his best recordings, in my opinion:

• By The Time I Get To Phoenix (In Campbell's hands, this is a concise tale of a couple's relationship fracturing irreparably.  For contrast, listen to how Isaac Hayes talk-sings his way through the song, at much greater length.)
• Gentle On My Mind (Some of the more compelling lyrics, and one of the more uptempo songs about a couple's chemistry that I've liked.  It's puzzling that this wasn't a bigger hit.)
• I Will Never Pass This Way Again (This is the most obscure of the five songs I've listed.  Campbell sings convincingly about sharing a kind word and lending a helping hand to those who need it before it's too late.)
• There's No Place Like Home (Given its lyrical appreciation for Christmases past, present, and future, "There's No Place Like Home" is ideal for Christmas Eve.  It seems especially appropriate to listen to it on vinyl.)
• Wichita Lineman (Campbell's wistful vocals nail the confessional intent of Jimmy Webb's lyrics.  Dee Felice Trio also captured the tune's wistfulness effectively in its piano-anchored instrumental version, and Ghost Of An American Airman recorded a solid indie rock cover of it.)