Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Cathy Wurzer

It's been 40 years since Donna Summer's take on "MacArthur Park" topped charts

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Donna Summer's rendition of "MacArthur Park" topped the Billboard pop chart 40 years ago today.

Jimmy Webb wrote the song about the end of a relationship with a former girlfriend. (When they were together, they would meet for lunch at MacArthur Park in Los Angeles.)

The song was first recorded by actor Richard Harris in 1968. A few years later, producer Pete Bellotte had the idea to make a disco version of a hit song from the 60s. When he heard Harris' version of "MacArthur Park," he knew it would be perfect for Donna Summer's big voice.