Phyllis Major, a renowned European model, had a chance encounter with singer Jackson Browne at the iconic Hollywood venue, the Troubadador, shortly after his separation from singer Joni Mitchell. According to legend, Browne engaged in a physical altercation with an unemployed actor who was also vying for Major's attention, resulting in Browne's loss, but ultimately securing his romantic conquest. This anecdote would later be humorously immortalized in the song "Ready or Not."
Phyllis Major and Jackson Browne went on to have a child, Ethan Zane Browne, born on November 2, 1973, and the couple got married in December 1975. However, their union was tragically cut short just four months later, on March 25, 1976, when Phyllis was found deceased in their Hollywood Hills home due to an overdose of pills.
Jackson Browne channeled his grief and depression into the creation of his fourth album, "The Pretender." Phyllis Major is the inspiration behind at least three songs written by Jackson Browne, including "Ready or Not," "Sleep's Dark and Silent Gate," and "In the Shape of a Heart." Her son, Ethan, has established himself as a sought-after club DJ and occasional actor.
