PBS to Premiere Jimmy Webb Concert Special October 30
The 90-minute program features the Oklahoma-born songwriter alongside fellow musicians Vince Gill and Lyle Lovett.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Folk
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PBS will premiere the concert special Great Performances: Jimmy Webb: American Songwriter on October 30, 2026. The 90-minute program showcases the Elk City native with performances by Vince Gill and Lyle Lovett.
Why it matters
The special marks the first time an episode of the long-running Great Performances series has been filmed in Oklahoma. It serves as a homecoming tribute to Webb, who celebrated his 80th birthday in August 2026.
The special is a 90-minute broadcast produced to honor the career of songwriter Jimmy Webb. The concert serves as the debut episode of Great Performances to be filmed within the state of Oklahoma.
The players
Jimmy Webb
He is an acclaimed American songwriter and Oklahoma native who turned 80 years old in 2026.
Vince Gill
He is a renowned country music singer and songwriter who appears as a guest performer in the special.
Lyle Lovett
He is a celebrated singer-songwriter known for his eclectic musical style who performs during the concert.
McKnight Center for the Performing Arts
Located in Stillwater, this venue served as the site for the filmed concert production.
OETA
This is the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority that will broadcast the special following its national premiere.
The details
Filmed in February 2026 at the McKnight Center for the Performing Arts in Stillwater, the concert features musical guests Ashley Campbell, Sheléa, and Ryan Shaw. Producers John Paulson and Karen Sherry Dolan created the concept, which was supported by Oklahoma contributors.
Timeline
February 2026: The concert was filmed in Stillwater.
August 15, 2026: Jimmy Webb celebrated his 80th birthday.
October 30, 2026: The program premieres on PBS.
October 31, 2026: The program airs on OETA.
November 2, 2026: The program airs on OETA.
Industry Dynamics
The concert marks the first episode of the Great Performances series filmed in Oklahoma, extending the program's reach into new regional cultural landscapes. This choice highlights a strategic shift toward highlighting local creative hubs outside of traditional entertainment centers.
The 90-minute special will be available to the national PBS audience on October 30, 2026. Viewers in Oklahoma can access additional regional broadcasts on OETA on October 31 and November 2.
The takeaway
This special underscores the enduring legacy of American songwriters through regional collaborations. It offers viewers a chance to witness an intimate homecoming performance from a highly influential artist.
Further reading
Learn more about the local music scene on the Oklahoma Folk section.
More information
Find further production details and broadcast information on the Great Performances official website.
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