Last Saturday night I was in the mood for some soul music and grabbed out of my records Hot Buttered Soul by Isaac Hayes. I didn’t listen to this record for a long long time and was astonished how fresh and new this record is. You can dive into Mr. Hayes’ baritone voice and his music. According to my opinion By the time I get to Phoenix is one of the first soul songs that turned away from classical songwriting. Isaac Hayes introduces us to this song with eight minutes speaking to built up slowly a climax of horns, organs, strings and vocals. With this album his Scientology activities may be forgiven.
Isaac Hayes – By The Time I Get To Phoenix
A Few Good Times In My Life 
Walter the long 18 minute version is a terrific tour de force of a record. Tremendous.
George
Oh yes it is and they don't make tracks like this any more.
All the best to you George