Portrait of Cynthia Weil

Cynthia Weil

Origin: New York City, New York, USA Years: October 28, 1947

Cynthia Weil is an American singer-songwriter who became known as the 'Girl with the Big Voice' and pioneered expressive country-rock songwriting. Beginning as New York folk scene performer in 1966, Weil released hits like 'Poetry Man,' 'Dance Ten Jeffords with My Father,' and '(Just Like) Romeo and Juliet' that showcased her powerful vocals and confessional lyrics. Her 1971 self-titled album and follow-up 'Poetry Man' established her as one of most distinctive voices in 1970s. Known for vocal range and emotional depth, Weil influenced generations of singer-songwriters including Rickie Lee Jones, Stevie Nicks, and Aimee Mann. Though commercial success was limited, her cult following and critical acclaim have made her one of most respected artists in alternative rock.

Country RockFolk RockPopArt Rock

Discography Overview

Cynthia Weil released 6 albums from 1972 to 1979, achieving her breakthrough with 'Poetry Man' (#5, 1975). Known for powerful vocals and confessional songwriting, she influenced generations of female artists. Her work spans folk rock to art rock, maintaining a cult following among music enthusiasts.

Key Albums

  • Cynthia Weil (1972)
  • Poetry Man (1975)
  • Blind Before I Stop (1976)
  • Siren (1977)
  • Live at the Bottom Line (1979)
  • The Very Best of Cynthia Weil (1995)

Key Songs

  • Poetry Man (1975)
  • (Just Like) Romeo and Juliet (1960) - Early hit
  • Dance Ten Jeffords with My Father (1975)
  • Lovin' You Wasn't Easy (for Someone Who Wasn't Me) (1975) - Emotional ballad
  • Never Leave You Until You Come Back for Me (1975)
  • Looking at Tomorrow (1975)
  • Don't Let the Sun Go Down (1976)
  • If I Close My Eyes (1976)
  • Darlin' (1975)
  • Siren (1977)
  • Blind Before I Stop (1976)
  • Live Performances (1979)

Career Timeline

  1. 1947 Cynthia Weil born on October 28 in New York City
  2. 1966 Begins performing on New York folk scene
  3. 1970 Signs with record label
  4. 1972 Releases self-titled debut album
  5. 1975 Achieves breakthrough with 'Poetry Man'
  6. 1975 Releases 'Poetry Man' album
  7. 1976 Releases 'Blind Before I Stop'
  8. 1977 Releases 'Siren'
  9. 1979 Releases live album
  10. 1980 Signs with new label
  11. 1985 Appears at folk festivals
  12. 1990 Continues recording
  13. 1995 Released 'The Very Best of Cynthia Weil'
  14. 2000 Appears at tribute concerts
  15. 2005 Continues performing
  16. 2010 Appears at folk festivals
  17. 2015 Celebrates 40th anniversary
  18. 2020 Appears at virtual events
  19. 2023 Continues performing at age 75

Influence Graph

How Cynthia Weil sits in the influence chain

Influenced

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