My love for music comes in at a not-too-distant second to my love for storytelling. If you’ve read my posts swooning over Adele, Sara Bareilles, or Ms. Jill Scott, you already know I have a thing for talented singer/songwriters who craft compelling stories that reveal pieces of their lives in a way listeners easily identify.
While female singer/songwriters represent here on Mindful Banter, I think it’s only fair that we acknowledge the wealth of male singer/songwriters whose storytelling abilities rival their melodious vocals. So, today we feature a man who is simply a classic, not to mention a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, James Taylor.
Long before I moved to North Carolina, Taylor’s Carolina in My Mind was a favorite song of mine. I played the tune often during my nine-hour trek from Ohio to Raleigh a little more than three years ago. The song reflects the homesickness Taylor felt during his time in London, early in his career.
The song Fire and Rain relates painful and tragic experiences in the singer’s life ranging from the failure of his first band to the suicide of a childhood friend.
Something in the Way She Moves, Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight… the list goes on of songs penned by Taylor that weave tales ranging from the highs and lows of love to struggles with his own personal demons. His ability to share his experience by pouring his soul out in song is a talent and a gift.
Check out Taylor’s performance of Fire and Rain below. Then tell us what your favorite James Taylor song is in the comments below.
Roxanne Ravenel (263 Posts)Roxanne is a freelance journalist and novelist living in North Carolina. Her alter ego, Reese Ryan, writes smart, spicy fiction populated by deliciously flawed, multicultural characters living in the Midwest and Southeast. Her debut novel, TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, will be published by Carina Press July 22, 2013. She is Managing Editor of the long-running e-zine, All Things Girl.
Roxanne Ravenel (263 Posts)Roxanne is a freelance journalist and novelist living in North Carolina. Her alter ego, Reese Ryan, writes smart, spicy fiction populated by deliciously flawed, multicultural characters living in the Midwest and Southeast. Her debut novel, TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, will be published by Carina Press July 22, 2013. She is Managing Editor of the long-running e-zine, All Things Girl.
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My favorite song by James Taylor is Copperline. I agree, his storytelling abilities add to his appeal. His songs paint very colorful images that make you feel like you’re right there in that place.
Melissa recently posted..Restraints
Melissa, I didn’t remember Copperline, but I just listened to it now. It’s a beautiful song and the gorgeous quality of his voice adds richness to story that unfolds through the song.
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