What are your favorite songwriters and why?

[johnnymcmurphy]

What are some of you guys favorite songwriters, and what do you like about them? Post a link or quote lyrics to give others an example of their work.
Mine are:
1. Elliott Smith-I think he is my favorite because he wrote and recorded every bit of his songs, which are some of the most well written songs I know of, from the drums to bass, guitar, vocals, and back up vocals. He even did 3 part harmonies with only his voice, not an easy thing to do even with 3 separate voices. His lyrics are also great, very poetic and yet still simple.
http://youtu.be/LcnHjjLdNXQ
2. Issac Brock(of Modest Mouse and Ugly Casanova)- I like his completely unique guitar style and odd song structures. His lyrics are also incredible. They remind me of the poetry of Charles Bukowski, obviously an influence due to the song titled Bukowski.
http://youtu.be/37Z9KpPNun8
3. Townes Van Zandt- I can't explain why I like him, just listen to this.
http://youtu.be/rBbH-ffb9DM
Beautiful, vivid, mesmerizing.

[Frost]

I like Adam Young, or at least I liked his earlier albums... his lyrics are so magical and really make you think.

[V]

Tobias Sammet (Avantasia)

One listen to 'The Wicked Symphony' (the song) and he had me hooked; after perhaps a minute of aprehension at the beginning. Three years later, his 'Scarecrow' trilogy, are my most played songs, my most beloved songs. He writes songs that I want to hear, songs that have a lot of meaning to me. Now I'm waiting his 6th Avantasia album, coming out in several days.