Shattered

words & music by Jimmy Webb

Favorite version: Linda Ronstadt, Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind, 1989

Notes:

Even though I love Ronstadt's version of this, I've always thought it was too short. I guess I just love the song so much I never want it to end. (Ever feel that way about a song?) Anyway, I added a repeat so it wouldn't end quite so soon.

What a simple, beautiful lyric. And the surprise chord that shatters the middle of each verse... Another perfect one. I think it follows "Simile" exceptionally well, not just because it starts in the same key, but because it's really just one extended, intense simile from beginning to end.

Excerpt from Jimmy & Me album notes.