How “Wichita Lineman” Became a Symbol of the Working Class

Released in 1968, Wichita Lineman by Glen Campbell is a haunting and beautiful ballad that captures the longing and solitude of a lineman working in rural America. Written by Jimmy Webb, one of the most celebrated songwriters of the era, the song tells the story of a man who spends his days maintaining the power lines while grappling with the emptiness and distance of being far from the one he loves. With lyrics that capture both his duty and his heartache, Wichita Lineman transcends time, becoming one of Campbell’s most beloved hits.

The song quickly rose to popularity, reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Glen Campbell as a major figure in both country and pop music. Its evocative lyrics, combined with Campbell’s gentle yet powerful delivery and a unique orchestral arrangement, have helped make Wichita Lineman an enduring classic known for its poetic depth and emotional resonance.

Wichita Lineman

• Jimmy Webb wrote Wichita Lineman with a specific lineman in mind after driving through rural Oklahoma and seeing a lineman working alone.
• The song’s haunting instrumentation includes a tremolo guitar and a melancholic orchestral arrangement, setting it apart from typical country music of the time.
• Rolling Stone magazine named Wichita Lineman one of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, and it has been praised by artists and critics alike for its emotional and musical depth.
• Wichita Lineman has been covered by numerous artists, including Johnny Cash, James Taylor, and R.E.M., each bringing their unique take to this timeless piece.

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