Wooden Planes

(aka “A Song for My Brother”)

words/music by Jimmy Webb • arranged/performed by Doug Howell
© Universal – Polygram International Pub Inc.

Favorite version: B. J. Thomas, Billy Joe Thomas, 1972

Notes

Speaking of flyin’ games, here’s another. Again we’re chasing after something unattainable. Again we think our flight will never end. It was the last track on B.J. Thomas’s album, Billy Joe Thomas, and I played it until all that was left of the song was scratches, clicks and pops. Then I bought another copy and wore that one out, too. Definitely one of Jimmy’s most exquisite creations, and about the most poignant song of innocence lost I’ve ever heard. I think it’s one of his most bewitching piano arrangements, too. That’s why I couldn’t imagine trying to arrange a different one. I had to recreate the original as closely as I could (a couple steps down, of course). Maybe it will haunt your soul like it has mine. (Curt, this one’s for you.)

To “When Can Brown Begin?” →

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