Taylor wrote "Fire and Rain" in 1968. The song has three verses. One is about a friend who committed suicide, another is about Taylor's addiction to heroin, the third refers to a mental hospital and a band Taylor started called The Flying Machine. Suzanne refers to Suzanne Schnerr, James Taylor's friend who committed suicide.
"Sweet dreams and flying machines in pieces on the ground" was a reference to his band The Flying Machine that broke up (For many and varied reasons) and the dreams he and the band had for their future. Those dreams crashed and burned Also, the line "there were times when I could not find a friend" is poignant because Carole Kings song "You've Got a Friend was written just for James in response to this line. Then when he recorded it , Carole and Joni Mitchell sang backup for the song and Carole played the piano. They developed a strong friendship.
@@VinchenzoC "Suzanne" is Susan Una Schnurr (often misspelled as Schnerr). James said, her family had her committed to a state institution, not because she needed it, but to control her. He felt the "treatment" there caused problems that contributed to her suicide. On May 14, 1968, in NYC, at age 19, she stepped in front of a subway train.
This song inspired his friend Carole King to write "You've Got A Friend" and include it on her album "Tapestry". JT recorded it and had another hit single with it. You should follow with that one.
Asia & BJ, You’ll love his “You’ve Got A Friend”, “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)”, “Your Smiling Face” and many more!!! He’s one of the great singer/songwriters and guitarists!!
Actually, Carole King wrote “You’ve got a friend “ to James Taylor in response to this song. As well, Susanne was his girlfriend who was also struggling with addiction. Her family took her from UK back to the states and put her in treatment. Because James T. was working on an album in UK, they didn’t tell him that she had committed suicide until the album was completed. That’s why this song opens the way it does…
‘Sweet dreams and flying machines in pieces on the ground’. When this song released, it was one of the saddest, yet most powerful songs on the air. Of course we all loved 🥰 James Taylor because he is one of the best songwriter/storytellers ever.👍🏿🧝🏿💕.
Taylor wrote "Fire and Rain" in 1968, at age 20, at three different times. He started it in London, where he auditioned for The Beatles' Apple Records. He later worked on it in a Manhattan Hospital, and finished it while in drug rehab at The Austin Riggs Center in Massachusetts. In a 1972 Rolling Stone interview, Taylor explained: "The first verse is about my reactions to the death of a friend (that would be Suzanne). The second verse is about my arrival in this country with a monkey on my back, and there Jesus is an expression of my desperation in trying to get through the time when my body was aching and the time was at hand when I had to do it. And the third verse of that song refers to my recuperation in Austin Riggs which lasted about five months. Source: Songfacts
James Taylor sings is mellow and soulful at the same time. He is one a generation of singer-songwriters like Paul Simon, Carole King, and Jim Croce. Try Shower the People, Carolina on My Mind, or Your Smiling Face.
Just a little thing, but "Suzanne" is Susan Una Schnurr (Aug. 28, 1948-May 14, 1968). Somewhere, maybe a book, it was spelled Schnerr & now "'everybody" has that.
Love this iconic song! 😍 Comes from a tragic story tho - James wrote it after one of his friends, a lady named Suzanne, took her own life. Carole King, famous singer/songwriter and close friend of James, wrote the song You Have A Friend as a way to show her support for James. Incredible song about friendship, you should check it out.
James Taylor is "THE" sound of the 70s for sure. He was and still is my favorite singer from that time. I've had his music with me since it cameout. He is very upbeat and laid back and real in his music. A few years back he did a spoof of this song. It is very funny. You should find it and watch it.
James is a legend. He was recruited to be a guest coach on The Voice. He's so wise and really knows how to help young artists in the entertainment world.
The first time I heard this song, was when he did it in a concert on September 12th 2001. I was watching it on TV, crying my eyes out. Watching so many first responders in the audience breaking down, crying. It was really emotional.
I've long loved James Taylor and this song. Somehow it makes me more emotional when I watch people like you experience these songs. I've always thought Taylor's voice was strong and fragile at the same time, if that makes sense.
Wife here...Grew up hearing this amazing song...Lyrically strong yet Beautiful..James Taylor is a Superstar of Soft Rock..He has an amazing catalog,,",Metaphortically speaking everyone has felt these feelings"....So well stated!!!..Always love your insight!
It's hard to know what this song is about by just listening to it, in terms of the specifics. But it is great about conveying a sense of pain, suffering, and desolation. That comes through. Part of the genius of this is in the production, as the percussion they added underlines all of the dramatic parts, pounding the points home.
Taylor has explained the 3 verses are about 3 difficult times in his life. 1st is his friend "Suzanne" (Susan Una Schnurr, often misspelled as Schnerr), whose family unnecessarily committed her to a state asylum, in an effort to control her. He felt the treatment there actually caused problems, that contributed to her May 1968 suicide (at 19, by stepping in front of a subway train). When she died, he was in London, recording with the Beatles, so his friends didn't tell him till the project was over (Oct. 1968). 2nd verse, is about his addiction issues, written while in rehab in MA. 3rd, is the 1967 break-up of his band, The Flying Machine, & "kind of a bleak look of trying to pick up & get started again."
Back in the day we just called him JT! You can go deep into his catalog and never be disappointed. You must react to a duet he did with his wife Carly Simon, another great performer… They make great music together and very successful solo acts. The duet song is Mockingbird ‼️
Always been a big James Taylor fan. In one of the other comments explains the meaning of this song. His book talks about this song. This is the first time I seen one of your RUclips videos and enjoyed listening to you both talking about how you felt about this song. Nice video
I watched James Taylor live. He has a great voice but what doesnt come across on CD is the power of his voice when you listen to him live! Carolina In My Mind is my favorite song by him.
This dudes vocals paint a picture like no other....Beatles found him as their first major artist on the Apple label. Harrison and McCartney heard him in audition for them and saw the talent and signed him...his whole catalog is special...Dig Deep...
Great observation, Lois. Me, too. JT, when interviewed about this track's recording sessions, said that drummer Russ Kunkel came up with the percussion punches as the song progressed, and JT said such 'punches' elevated the track to its greatness. Oh, check out #jessicamitchell ... be well. /M.
James Taylor and his intimate vocals touch many people with their tender delivery. YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND is but one example. He was married two Carly Simon during his most popular years. They share a duet MOCKINGBIRD from a happier time in their relationship. He sings of a love lost and divorce in his duet with J.D. SOUTHER on the hit HER TOWN TOO. Enjoy.
This beautiful song is about a close friend of his who passed from suicide. "Susan the plans they made put an end to you." Meaning a funeral. At the time he was living in California and was heavily into heroin, trying to turn his life around, going through withdrawl etc, asking Jesus to help him through . " won't you look down upon me Jesus, you gotta help meake.a stand, just got to see me through another day, my body's aching and my time is at hand, just won't make it any other way"! Very sad song when you analyze the lyrics.... " but I always thought that I'd see you again" meaning he thought she would always be in his life...still such a beautiful song and he is a wonderful story teller.
Taylor has explained the 3 verses are about 3 different difficult times, & were written at different times. The 1st is about his friend "Suzanne" (Susan Una Schnurr, often misspelled as Schnerr), whose family unnecessarily committed her to a state asylum, in an effort to control her, which he felt caused problems that led to her May 1968 suicide. When she died, he was in London, working with the Beatles, so his friends didn't tell him till the project was done (Oct. 1968). 2nd verse, about his addiction issues, written while in rehab in MA. 3rd, is the 1967 break-up of his band, The Flying Machine & "kind of a bleak look of trying to pick up & get started again."
James Taylor is a deep rabbit hole. Great song after great song he has had a very long career. I met him in Cleveland you will not meet a more genuine person. He never lost sight that his fans put him where he is
I've been a fan of JT since 1970. I've seen him live 5 times. His studio and tour band "The Section" are all incredible musicians who also played with Don Henley, Carole King and others. When I was pregnant and my 3 kids were babies I sang his song "Sweet Baby James" to them every night.
James Taylor is a great singer songwriter and his music will remain popular for many years, this type of Folk Rock is the music I grew up listening to and will listen to this music as long I’m alive
Hard to believe this song is 50 years old. I was in high school when it was on the radio and when I hear this now, I remember friends and family who have passed on.
Several people in the comments have said you should listen to Shower the People. Look for the live version of it- it's on YT but was on his tour album, James Taylor (Live). It is one of the best recordings (sound, production, arrangement, his band, etc) of a live song. In fact, that whole live album is stellar, including a truly haunting version of Fire and Rain.
JT writes songs that are very specific, and yet all feel like they apply directly to your life. I listen to him when I'm sad, happy, stuck in traffic and furious...he's perfect for all times. I would suggest "Shed a Little Light", "Shower the People", and "Walking Man" if you want to check out some deeper cuts.
I’m 48 yrs old, my father from the Bronx my mom from Serbia! I came up in the 80s listening to whoodini LL run dmc bizzyB! AND James Taylor Madonna Duran Duran boy George Phil collins! Cmon man the 80 babies!! Rip to my uncle buzz! When they played this song at his funeral with the slide show I broke all the way down! Salute!!
Someone else mentioned Sweet Baby James. It's my all time favorite by James Tayor and I've never seen anybody react to it. I think you would enjoy it. Also, and maybe because I love a more mellow country rock, Desperado by the Eagles. Wonderful and timeless. Love you guys in all of your different contents.
James Taylor is singer/songwriter royalty for real who had been married to another singer/songwriter royal - Carly Simon. Such great music in the 60s and 70s when we either heard it on the radio or had to buy the singles the day they came out.
I've been a James Taylor fan since the 80's when I first heard the album "sweet baby James". However my favorite song is with the back up of Arnold Mcculler "shower the people". Classic!
Carolina in my Mind, Copper Line, Steamroller Blues, Angel's of Fenway. An epic live performance of Mockingbird with Carly Simon. Anything by James Taylor is memorable, relatable and timeless.
I always thought this was a reference to Vietnam . Fire and rain… flying machines in pieces on the ground . He was struggling with a heroine addiction at the time and had been discovered in London and been signed to the Beatles label Apple . So that dates this to 69-71 . And beautifully presented song 👍🏴
James Taylor's full face appeared on the cover of Time magazine, the leading newsmagazine of it's time (circa 1970). The gist of the article was an examination of the heroin scourge sweeping the US, and artistic responses to the epidemic. James Taylor came from an exemplary upper middle-class family(his father was a doctor who treated me for a broken ankle)., which the article used to press the point that drug addiction was a problem across all classes. Carole King, a good friend of Taylor, wrote a great song in response to this song, YOU'VE GOT A FRIENDHighly recommended!
This is a bittersweet tune James wrote about a girl he knew at a mental health facility who didn't make it. Hoping you take a listen to 'Steamroller', it's a twist on Taylor's sweet and easygoing style with an injection of some soul I'm thinking you two might like. Thanks Asia and BJ
Also...he had been finishing his album..in the studio with the Beatles...when this happened,,he wasn't told until he finished a few days later....and he wrote this right after...
Taylor had just begun working with the Beatles when "Suzanne" (Susan Una Schnurr, often misspelled as Schnerr), committed suicide, May 14, 1968, in NYC, age 19, by stepping in front of a subway train. His friends withheld the info for months, till the project was done (Oct. 1968).
I am almost 77 years old and I nearly wore out this album back in the day when we only had vinyl records. Read the back story of this song and it will have much more meaning for you. My children still remember me playing this album over and over. It is sheer perfection.
Love James Taylor; he has such a soothing voice. He was married to Carly Simon. He wrote this song at age 20. Please also check out his song "Shower the people."
JT is a deep dive - a masterful singer-songwriter. Also, in the 70s/80s/90s if you were looking to have someone sing harmony on your record, it was a huge score to get James. Even well up into the 2010's he was still touring and sounding flawless live...that voice, and that guitar...I think he may be semi-retired these days. _Highly_ recommend you check out the concert of "Live at the Beacon Theater" to get a snapshot of his concerts around 2000 or so. He's a national treasure.
He is still touring. Saw him last summer. Fantastic show as always. In fact, tonight he’s opening the new theater at Fenway Park - gonna play 2 nights. This fall he is touring Europe. I believe he loves touring - thankfully. That why I’ve seen him about 25 times.
Not sure of other movies, but it was featured in "Running on Empty" (1988) with River Phoenix and Judd Hirsch about the eldest son of a fugitive family who comes of age and wants to live a life of his own.
James Taylor has been a beloved music icon forever and a day. The extent to which thats true will be driven home clearly to the world when he's no longer here with us. There will be millions of hearts broken globally. Fortunately, I have enjoyed him in concert a couple of times over the years. They were rich experiences inhaled adoringly by his many fans present at each.
Great reaction guys. So was born in the 70's and grew up in the 80's. My dad would play this song on guitar and sing it to me and my sisters before my parents got divorced. One thing about music from the 70's & 80's is that they told a story. Music was written to convey REAL feelings and not just sell albums. Much love and keep on keepin on J. There is tons of music to discover. I would recommend Kansas "Carry on my wayward son".
I've been listening to JT for many years. Y'All know the song Youve got a friend.? This man puts out more energy live in concert than 3 rock/rap bands. No joke. JT is powerful.
This is one of those legendary and emotional tunes that just about anyone who listened to this for the first time would be listening and feeling it for the rest of their lives.
Fantastic song and a brilliant artist. The first time hearing it and concentrating on the lyrics can definitely bring a tear to your eye. Please do more James Taylor.
at almost 70 yers old i can relate more to this song than when i was younger. lots of friends that i will never see again but they are still in my heart.
Asia, James Taylor is the kind of guy, and sings the type of music that, when you are down in the dumps, he can make you feel better ... mainly because he makes you feel like he understands exactly how you feel, because he's been there before ... like you're NOT all alone !!! He brought me through and out of plenty of bad and low times. He's got some really lovely stuff too. I think both of you would really like to drop down that rabbit hole for a while. If you want some suggestions, let me know. He's got a LOT of great music, not all of which are in this vein, many that are pretty uplifting.
Great reaction. I'm glad you got exposure to James. He's the real deal in my opinion. I agree Asia, his voice isn't very powerful and he doesn't wow you with his range. Just a simple laid back style that is so pleasant to listen to and fits so well with his songwriting. BJ you are so right, we have all seen both fire and rain in our own way. Every person has their own unique story and experiences, but we all have had ups and downs one way or another.
What sets this beautiful recording apart is how heartfelt it is It lost out for the Grammy Song of the year to Simon and Garfunkle's Bridge Over Troubled Water,
This song was number 1 practically as soon as it was out, and stayed there for months, literally. Heard it so much I sort of got tired of it. That's how much air time it got.
Taylor wrote "Fire and Rain" in 1968. The song has three verses. One is about a friend who committed suicide, another is about Taylor's addiction to heroin, the third refers to a mental hospital and a band Taylor started called The Flying Machine.
Suzanne refers to Suzanne Schnerr, James Taylor's friend who committed suicide.
"Sweet dreams and flying machines in pieces on the ground" was a reference to his band The Flying Machine that broke up (For many and varied reasons) and the dreams he and the band had for their future. Those dreams crashed and burned Also, the line "there were times when I could not find a friend" is poignant because Carole Kings song "You've Got a Friend was written just for James in response to this line. Then when he recorded it , Carole and Joni Mitchell sang backup for the song and Carole played the piano. They developed a strong friendship.
Who was he blaming for Suzanne's death? I don't like that line.
Great explanation! Right on !
@@VinchenzoC "Suzanne" is Susan Una Schnurr (often misspelled as Schnerr). James said, her family had her committed to a state institution, not because she needed it, but to control her. He felt the "treatment" there caused problems that contributed to her suicide. On May 14, 1968, in NYC, at age 19, she stepped in front of a subway train.
@@wnsafford1854 Wow.....just wow
James Taylor's voice is literally unlike any other.
His voice is so stirring. Unique and beautiful.
Listen to his brother Livingston and his son Ben and you’ll hear the family resemblance.
Or Kermit the frog, I’ve always heard a little bit of Kermit in there…
@@curtsnellgrove3538 😂😂maybe!!
Effortless. So smooth without seemingly even trying...but he can get up there when he wants...his voice just cuts thru
This song inspired his friend Carole King to write "You've Got A Friend" and include it on her album "Tapestry". JT recorded it and had another hit single with it. You should follow with that one.
I think you would both really enjoy his song "Sweet Baby James" which he wrote for his new born Nephew (also named James).
Asia & BJ, You’ll love his “You’ve Got A Friend”, “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)”, “Your Smiling Face” and many more!!! He’s one of the great singer/songwriters and guitarists!!
When it comes to “You’ve got a friend” you should listen to the original version by Carole King who wrote the song
You forget Goin’ to Carolina…
To be clear, "How Sweet It is" was a previous Motown hit sung by Marvin Gaye from 1965/66...not written by James Taylor.
Actually, Carole King wrote “You’ve got a friend “ to James Taylor in response to this song. As well, Susanne was his girlfriend who was also struggling with addiction. Her family took her from UK back to the states and put her in treatment. Because James T. was working on an album in UK, they didn’t tell him that she had committed suicide until the album was completed. That’s why this song opens the way it does…
‘Sweet dreams and flying machines in pieces on the ground’. When this song released, it was one of the saddest, yet most powerful songs on the air. Of course we all loved 🥰 James Taylor because he is one of the best songwriter/storytellers ever.👍🏿🧝🏿💕.
Taylor wrote "Fire and Rain" in 1968, at age 20, at three different times. He started it in London, where he auditioned for The Beatles' Apple Records. He later worked on it in a Manhattan Hospital, and finished it while in drug rehab at The Austin Riggs Center in Massachusetts. In a 1972 Rolling Stone interview, Taylor explained: "The first verse is about my reactions to the death of a friend (that would be Suzanne). The second verse is about my arrival in this country with a monkey on my back, and there Jesus is an expression of my desperation in trying to get through the time when my body was aching and the time was at hand when I had to do it. And the third verse of that song refers to my recuperation in Austin Riggs which lasted about five months. Source: Songfacts
Yes it was in a movie. Actually my favorite movie, “Running On Empty”which had actor River Phoenix.
James Taylor is an icon. My parents got engaged at one of his concerts. He's not my speed but I respect his whole catalog since it's genuine.
My favorite artist of all time. Been a fan for over 40yrs. Got to meet him and have a guitar signed by him
James Taylor sings is mellow and soulful at the same time. He is one a generation of singer-songwriters like Paul Simon, Carole King, and Jim Croce. Try Shower the People, Carolina on My Mind, or Your Smiling Face.
Taylor wrote this song for his childhood friend Suzanne Schnerr who sadly took her own life.
Just a little thing, but "Suzanne" is Susan Una Schnurr (Aug. 28, 1948-May 14, 1968). Somewhere, maybe a book, it was spelled Schnerr & now "'everybody" has that.
Love this iconic song! 😍 Comes from a tragic story tho - James wrote it after one of his friends, a lady named Suzanne, took her own life. Carole King, famous singer/songwriter and close friend of James, wrote the song You Have A Friend as a way to show her support for James. Incredible song about friendship, you should check it out.
James taylor is amazing. Still one of my most favorite songs.
One of the greatest singer songwriters ever LEGEND!
For me, "Lord know when the cold wind blows it'll turn your head around" is the best line ever written in a song.
James Taylor is "THE" sound of the 70s for sure. He was and still is my favorite singer from that time. I've had his music with me since it cameout. He is very upbeat and laid back and real in his music. A few years back he did a spoof of this song. It is very funny. You should find it and watch it.
He's a prolific songwriter and master guitarist. You guys would love his songs, "Secret of Life" and "Shower the People". 👍☺️💞
James is a legend. He was recruited to be a guest coach on The Voice. He's so wise and really knows how to help young artists in the entertainment world.
James has "Human" written all over him...he sings with such beautiful conviction...thanks guys
The first time I heard this song, was when he did it in a concert on September 12th 2001. I was watching it on TV, crying my eyes out. Watching so many first responders in the audience breaking down, crying. It was really emotional.
I've long loved James Taylor and this song. Somehow it makes me more emotional when I watch people like you experience these songs. I've always thought Taylor's voice was strong and fragile at the same time, if that makes sense.
I’m sure others have said that there is SO much great James Taylor. This one is a cry song for me ❤️
Wife here...Grew up hearing this amazing song...Lyrically strong yet Beautiful..James Taylor is a Superstar of Soft Rock..He has an amazing catalog,,",Metaphortically speaking everyone has felt these feelings"....So well stated!!!..Always love your insight!
It's hard to know what this song is about by just listening to it, in terms of the specifics. But it is great about conveying a sense of pain, suffering, and desolation. That comes through. Part of the genius of this is in the production, as the percussion they added underlines all of the dramatic parts, pounding the points home.
Taylor has explained the 3 verses are about 3 difficult times in his life. 1st is his friend "Suzanne" (Susan Una Schnurr, often misspelled as Schnerr), whose family unnecessarily committed her to a state asylum, in an effort to control her. He felt the treatment there actually caused problems, that contributed to her May 1968 suicide (at 19, by stepping in front of a subway train). When she died, he was in London, recording with the Beatles, so his friends didn't tell him till the project was over (Oct. 1968). 2nd verse, is about his addiction issues, written while in rehab in MA. 3rd, is the 1967 break-up of his band, The Flying Machine, & "kind of a bleak look of trying to pick up & get started again."
Back in the day we just called him JT! You can go deep into his catalog and never be disappointed. You must react to a duet he did with his wife Carly Simon, another great performer… They make great music together and very successful solo acts. The duet song is Mockingbird ‼️
Yes, there is a video of them singing this and they seemed to be having a good time performing this. Upbeat and fun.
Only concert I’ve been to where in a crowd of 15,000 you could hear a pin drop. Everyone hanging on his every note.
GREAT James Taylor song that often gets overlooked: “HER TOWN” featuring J.D. Souther; pure bliss 😊
Baller of a tune
Always been a big James Taylor fan. In one of the other comments explains the meaning of this song. His book talks about this song. This is the first time I seen one of your RUclips videos and enjoyed listening to you both talking about how you felt about this song. Nice video
I watched James Taylor live. He has a great voice but what doesnt come across on CD is the power of his voice when you listen to him live! Carolina In My Mind is my favorite song by him.
This dudes vocals paint a picture like no other....Beatles found him as their first major artist on the Apple label. Harrison and McCartney heard him in audition for them and saw the talent and signed him...his whole catalog is special...Dig Deep...
I saw you appreciating the percussion near the end, Asia. Beautiful, sad, yet relaxing and thoughtful.
Great observation, Lois. Me, too. JT, when interviewed about this track's recording sessions, said that drummer Russ Kunkel came up with the percussion punches as the song progressed, and JT said such 'punches' elevated the track to its greatness. Oh, check out #jessicamitchell ... be well. /M.
This song was included in the movie “Remember the Titans” soundtrack. Love James Taylor’s musical delivery.
I love this soundtrack!
James Taylor's voice is literally a National Treasure!!!❤️❤️
James Taylor and his intimate vocals touch many people with their tender delivery. YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND is but one example. He was married two Carly Simon during his most popular years. They share a duet MOCKINGBIRD from a happier time in their relationship. He sings of a love lost and divorce in his duet with J.D. SOUTHER on the hit HER TOWN TOO. Enjoy.
This beautiful song is about a close friend of his who passed from suicide. "Susan the plans they made put an end to you." Meaning a funeral.
At the time he was living in California and was heavily into heroin, trying to turn his life around, going through withdrawl etc, asking Jesus to help him through . " won't you look down upon me Jesus, you gotta help meake.a stand, just got to see me through another day, my body's aching and my time is at hand, just won't make it any other way"!
Very sad song when you analyze the lyrics....
" but I always thought that I'd see you again" meaning he thought she would always be in his life...still such a beautiful song and he is a wonderful story teller.
I thought she died in a plane crash
Taylor has explained the 3 verses are about 3 different difficult times, & were written at different times. The 1st is about his friend "Suzanne" (Susan Una Schnurr, often misspelled as Schnerr), whose family unnecessarily committed her to a state asylum, in an effort to control her, which he felt caused problems that led to her May 1968 suicide. When she died, he was in London, working with the Beatles, so his friends didn't tell him till the project was done (Oct. 1968). 2nd verse, about his addiction issues, written while in rehab in MA. 3rd, is the 1967 break-up of his band, The Flying Machine & "kind of a bleak look of trying to pick up & get started again."
Rock a bye Sweet Baby James is my favorite Taylor song.So many great songs by so many during the 60s and 70s.
James Taylor is a deep rabbit hole. Great song after great song he has had a very long career. I met him in Cleveland you will not meet a more genuine person. He never lost sight that his fans put him where he is
In this song, James wrote and sings about real life experiences he’s had.
One of the most singular voices in pop music.
I've been a fan of JT since 1970. I've seen him live 5 times. His studio and tour band "The Section" are all incredible musicians who also played with Don Henley, Carole King and others. When I was pregnant and my 3 kids were babies I sang his song "Sweet Baby James" to them every night.
James Taylor is a great singer songwriter and his music will remain popular for many years, this type of Folk Rock is the music I grew up listening to and will listen to this music as long I’m alive
Hard to believe this song is 50 years old. I was in high school when it was on the radio and when I hear this now, I remember friends and family who have passed on.
Several people in the comments have said you should listen to Shower the People. Look for the live version of it- it's on YT but was on his tour album, James Taylor (Live). It is one of the best recordings (sound, production, arrangement, his band, etc) of a live song. In fact, that whole live album is stellar, including a truly haunting version of Fire and Rain.
JT writes songs that are very specific, and yet all feel like they apply directly to your life. I listen to him when I'm sad, happy, stuck in traffic and furious...he's perfect for all times. I would suggest "Shed a Little Light", "Shower the People", and "Walking Man" if you want to check out some deeper cuts.
He sounds the same live as the recordings .
Such a grand voice !
James Taylor is another national treasure. If you don’t do “Shower the People” live at the beacon theater, you will miss something.
The quintissential singer/songwriter.
I’m 48 yrs old, my father from the Bronx my mom from Serbia! I came up in the 80s listening to whoodini LL run dmc bizzyB! AND James Taylor Madonna Duran Duran boy George Phil collins! Cmon man the 80 babies!!
Rip to my uncle buzz! When they played this song at his funeral with the slide show I broke all the way down! Salute!!
Someone else mentioned Sweet Baby James. It's my all time favorite by James Tayor and I've never seen anybody react to it. I think you would enjoy it. Also, and maybe because I love a more mellow country rock, Desperado by the Eagles. Wonderful and timeless. Love you guys in all of your different contents.
James Taylor is singer/songwriter royalty for real who had been married to another singer/songwriter royal - Carly Simon. Such great music in the 60s and 70s when we either heard it on the radio or had to buy the singles the day they came out.
The one movie I know this song is in, is Remember The Titans. James Taylor is one of my all-time favorite musicians!
I've been a James Taylor fan since the 80's when I first heard the album "sweet baby James". However my favorite song is with the back up of Arnold Mcculler "shower the people". Classic!
Carolina in my Mind, Copper Line, Steamroller Blues, Angel's of Fenway. An epic live performance of Mockingbird with Carly Simon. Anything by James Taylor is memorable, relatable and timeless.
I always thought this was a reference to Vietnam . Fire and rain… flying machines in pieces on the ground . He was struggling with a heroine addiction at the time and had been discovered in London and been signed to the Beatles label Apple . So that dates this to 69-71 . And beautifully presented song 👍🏴
Beautiful reaction to a timeless classic
The honey smooth voice of James Taylor. This is a song that I love to play on my guitar.
James Taylor's full face appeared on the cover of Time magazine, the leading newsmagazine of it's time (circa 1970). The gist of the article was an examination of the heroin scourge sweeping the US, and artistic responses to the epidemic. James Taylor came from an exemplary upper middle-class family(his father was a doctor who treated me for a broken ankle).,
which the article used to press the point that drug addiction was a problem across all classes.
Carole King, a good friend of Taylor, wrote a great song in response to this song, YOU'VE GOT A FRIENDHighly recommended!
This is a bittersweet tune James wrote about a girl he knew at a mental health facility who didn't make it. Hoping you take a listen to 'Steamroller', it's a twist on Taylor's sweet and easygoing style with an injection of some soul I'm thinking you two might like. Thanks Asia and BJ
Is that the same Steam roller song that Elvis did? 🤔
A unique voice. Many splendid songs, he's like a fine wine and got better with age.
This classic is SUPER evocative. So emotional and his voice and guitar playing are sublime . 👍🏴
I recently saw JT and Jackson Browne. They both still sound amazing. I was so glad I got to see them while they are still with us!
Also...he had been finishing his album..in the studio with the Beatles...when this happened,,he wasn't told until he finished a few days later....and he wrote this right after...
Taylor had just begun working with the Beatles when "Suzanne" (Susan Una Schnurr, often misspelled as Schnerr), committed suicide, May 14, 1968, in NYC, age 19, by stepping in front of a subway train. His friends withheld the info for months, till the project was done (Oct. 1968).
Was lucky enough to hear him sing this and many of his other hits here in Ottawa a few years ago. Just tremendous.
His voice almost made me cry. It’s beautiful. Just made me reflect on my life.
James Taylor is a Gem! Always on the playlist! His live double CD is fire!!!
I am almost 77 years old and I nearly wore out this album back in the day when we only had vinyl records. Read the back story of this song and it will have much more meaning for you. My children still remember me playing this album over and over. It is sheer perfection.
Love James Taylor; he has such a soothing voice. He was married to Carly Simon. He wrote this song at age 20. Please also check out his song "Shower the people."
I've always loved James Taylor! A couple of my favorites are Sweet Baby James and Steamroller Blues. Love your reactions! 💖😎
Steamroller, Yes! ❤️
JT is a deep dive - a masterful singer-songwriter. Also, in the 70s/80s/90s if you were looking to have someone sing harmony on your record, it was a huge score to get James. Even well up into the 2010's he was still touring and sounding flawless live...that voice, and that guitar...I think he may be semi-retired these days. _Highly_ recommend you check out the concert of "Live at the Beacon Theater" to get a snapshot of his concerts around 2000 or so. He's a national treasure.
He is still touring. Saw him last summer. Fantastic show as always. In fact, tonight he’s opening the new theater at Fenway Park - gonna play 2 nights. This fall he is touring Europe. I believe he loves touring - thankfully. That why I’ve seen him about 25 times.
His voice is the Male equivalent of Karen Carpenter. Clear. Perfect pitch, easy never strained.
First album I ever owned.
"Sweet dreams and flying machines with pieces on the ground" is referring to his first band, James Taylor and the flying machine and their breakup .
Not sure of other movies, but it was featured in "Running on Empty" (1988) with River Phoenix and Judd Hirsch about the eldest son of a fugitive family who comes of age and wants to live a life of his own.
Authenticity, very real, easily one of the most meaningful songs I remember from high school. One of my favorite musicians
James Taylor has been a beloved music icon forever and a day. The extent to which thats true will be driven home clearly to the world when he's no longer here with us. There will be millions of hearts broken globally. Fortunately, I have enjoyed him in concert a couple of times over the years. They were rich experiences inhaled adoringly by his many fans present at each.
I play 3 of James's songs "Fire and Rain" "Sweet Baby James" "BSUR" fun to play. have a good one !!
Love the song. Never paid attention to the drums before. My Lord
Great reaction guys. So was born in the 70's and grew up in the 80's. My dad would play this song on guitar and sing it to me and my sisters before my parents got divorced. One thing about music from the 70's & 80's is that they told a story. Music was written to convey REAL feelings and not just sell albums. Much love and keep on keepin on J. There is tons of music to discover. I would recommend Kansas "Carry on my wayward son".
I've been listening to JT for many years. Y'All know the song Youve got a friend.?
This man puts out more energy live in concert than 3 rock/rap bands. No joke. JT is powerful.
This is one of those legendary and emotional tunes that just about anyone who listened to this for the first time would be listening and feeling it for the rest of their lives.
Fantastic song and a brilliant artist. The first time hearing it and concentrating on the lyrics can definitely bring a tear to your eye. Please do more James Taylor.
I saw him play in Vermont about 30 years ago. He sounds exactly the same as he does on his studio albums, which is great!
This is one of a few songs I can't listen to without crying.
at almost 70 yers old i can relate more to this song than when i was younger. lots of friends that i will never see again but they are still in my heart.
Asia, James Taylor is the kind of guy, and sings the type of music that, when you are down in the dumps, he can make you feel better ... mainly because he makes you feel like he understands exactly how you feel, because he's been there before ... like you're NOT all alone !!! He brought me through and out of plenty of bad and low times. He's got some really lovely stuff too. I think both of you would really like to drop down that rabbit hole for a while. If you want some suggestions, let me know. He's got a LOT of great music, not all of which are in this vein, many that are pretty uplifting.
He has gazillions of songs LOL so many good songs that sounds so good I hope you reach out and listen to others❤️
Up on the roof and You’ve Got A Friend was written by Carole King and he recorded them.
James Taylor is the consummate singer/songwriter.
"In My Mind I'm Going to Carolina" is the ultimate James Taylor song, given his growing up in the Chapel Hill area.
I was lucky enough to grow up listening to his music. He was awesome. Has has so many hit records love love love his music❤❤
Give Sweet Baby James a listen. He wrote it to his newborn nephew. His brother named him James.
My favorite James Taylor album is Mudslide Slim
Arguably the greatest singer/songwriter ever. He’s at least in the conversation.
Great reaction. I'm glad you got exposure to James. He's the real deal in my opinion. I agree Asia, his voice isn't very powerful and he doesn't wow you with his range. Just a simple laid back style that is so pleasant to listen to and fits so well with his songwriting. BJ you are so right, we have all seen both fire and rain in our own way. Every person has their own unique story and experiences, but we all have had ups and downs one way or another.
What sets this beautiful recording apart is how heartfelt it is It lost out for the Grammy Song of the year to Simon and Garfunkle's Bridge Over Troubled Water,
Heard this song for 50+ years still brings a tear to my eyes
Nobody sings so loud in such a quiet voice…metaphorically
This song was number 1 practically as soon as it was out, and stayed there for months, literally. Heard it so much I sort of got tired of it. That's how much air time it got.
This song appeared in the movie REMEMBER THE TITANS