12 Songs is a 1970 (see 1970 in music) album by singer/songwriterRandy Newman. His second album, 12 Songs received much better reviews than his first. On 12 Songs Newman, a veteran songwriter collaborates with Clarence White and Ry Cooder. The album set the stage for Newman's later career, with love songs interspersed with socially aware songs decrying racism, and energetic rock songs.