Iconic ‘60s songwriter Jimmy Webb said he was surprised he was named as an influence on Bruce Springsteen’s new album Western Stars.

Ahead of the release, the Boss cited Webb and other Southern California writers as having spiritually contributed to an LP he described as “a return to my solo recordings featuring character-driven songs and sweeping, cinematic orchestral arrangements.”

“I had heard these rumors and thought, ‘Is it possible that this is true? This guy needs us like a migraine!’” Webb told Uncut in a new interview. “I think it’s a very bold and admirable step, and it certainly shows that he’s connected with the ground. He’s planted down here with all of us. It shows there’s no snobbery in him.”

Citing Springsteen’s new song “Hello Sunshine” as a particularly impressive composition, Webb noted that he "was amazed at how he locked on to the sensual pleasure that can be derived from loneliness. From what Warren Zevon used to call ‘splendid isolation.'

"And yet, at the same time, he’s recognizing there’s a danger there. There’s a dark side. That lonely road has its appeal, but at the same time he’s cautioning you: Don’t get too far out there, as you might not be able to get back. That’s so intense and personal. The largesse of the artist in revealing that to the listener is amazing.”

"Hello Sunshine" preceded Western Stars' release, as did the songs “There Goes My Miracle,” “Tucson Train” and the title track. While Springsteen isn’t expected to tour in support of the new LP, he recently discussed a return to focus on the E Street Band.

 

 

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