Tribute to Chip Taylor
Chip Taylor, a distinguished inductee of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, passed away on Monday at the age of 86. He is renowned for penning timeless classics like “Angel of the Morning” and “Wild Thing.”
Announcement of His Passing
His friend, singer Billy Vera, announced the news on social media, revealing that Taylor died while receiving hospice care. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
A Musical Legacy and Family Ties
Though many fans were aware of Taylor’s contributions to music, they were often surprised to learn he belonged to a notable family. He was the brother of actor Jon Voight and uncle to Angelina Jolie. Voight attended the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction when Taylor received this honor in 2016.
Early Life and Career
Born James Wesley Voight on March 21, 1940, in New York, Taylor began his music career in the late 1950s, performing as part of the Town Three and under the name Wes Voight before adopting the stage name Taylor. His highest-charting single, “Early Sunday Morning,” reached No. 28 on the country charts in 1975.
Iconic Songs of Taylor
“Wild Thing,” a chart-topping hit for the Troggs in 1966, played a significant role in the garage-rock movement, inspiring many covers, including Jimi Hendrix’s legendary performance at the Monterey Pop Festival. The softer “Angel of the Morning” also saw numerous interpretations, with Juice Newton’s version reaching No. 4 on the Hot 100 in 1981.
Songwriting Insights
Taylor recalled that “Wild Thing” was written in just a few minutes upon request from a producer, and he initially worried about its distinctiveness. He later embraced the idea that it might be the first punk record, noting its raw energy and simplicity as key elements of its appeal.
Later Career and Influence
In the 1990s and beyond, Taylor left a lasting impact on the Americana music scene as a singer-songwriter. In 2012, he reconnected with his roots through his band, Chip Taylor & the New Ukrainians, releasing an album called “F**k All the Perfect People.” His 2019 album, “Whiskey Salesman,” showcased his continual evolution in music.
