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

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.

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