James Taylor’s Inspirational Side

He is one of the best-known artists of our generation. Did you know many of his most popular singles are chock full of inspirational lyrics?

James Vernon Taylor (born March 12, 1948) is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist. A five-time Grammy Award winner, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. He is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, having sold more than 100 million records worldwide.

You’ve Got a Friend

Carole King wrote You’ve Got a Friend” is a 1971. It was first recorded by King, and included in her album Tapestry. Another well-
known version is by James Taylor from his album Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon. Taylor released his single in 1971. Eventually it reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 4 on the UK Singles Chart.

Taylor and King both won Grammy Awards for “You’ve Got a Friend”. Taylor (Best Male Pop Vocal Performance) and King (Song of the Year).

How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)

The Motown songwriting team of Holland–Dozier–Holland wrote this song in 1964. Marvin Gaye released the first recorded version in 1965.

James Taylor released his version as the lead single from his album Gorilla (1975). Taylor’s 1975 single has been the most successful remake of the song to date. Eventually hitting No. 1 on the Easy Listening chart and No. 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Shower The People

James Taylor selected “Shower the People” as the opening track on his 1976 album In the Pocket. “Shower the People” reached #22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the U.S. that fall. Remaining in the Top 40 for eight weeks. It also topped the Easy Listening chart for one week, Taylor’s third song to do so, following 1971’s “You’ve Got a Friend” and 1975’s “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)”