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Chip Taylor: Songwriter Behind 'Wild Thing' Dies at 86
24 Mar
Summary
- Chip Taylor, known for hits like 'Wild Thing,' died at 86.
- His songwriting spanned six decades, including hits for Joplin and Newton.
- Taylor was also an Oscar winner's uncle and a professional gambler.
Hall of Fame songwriter Chip Taylor, whose influential work includes the rock anthem 'Wild Thing,' died Monday night at 86. Taylor, born James Wesley Voight, penned numerous hits over a six-decade career, leaving a significant mark on music history. His songs, like 'Angel of the Morning' and 'Try (Just a Little Bit Harder),' were recorded by legendary artists including The Troggs, Janis Joplin, and Juice Newton.
Taylor's multifaceted life included a period as a professional gambler, a stark contrast to his prolific songwriting. He was also the uncle of Academy Award-winning actress Angelina Jolie. His early career began in rockabilly and as a writer and producer for CBS's publishing arm, where he signed artists like Billy Vera and James Taylor.
His first major success, 'Wild Thing,' was a global phenomenon, famously performed by Jimi Hendrix at the Monterey Pop Festival. Taylor's approach to songwriting was intuitive, often inspired by fleeting thoughts and feelings. He continued to record and release music throughout his life, including a children's album and intimate Americana tunes.
Taylor's final album, 'Behind the Sky,' was released in February 2024, coinciding with his treatment for throat cancer. He is survived by his wife, Joan, and two children, Kelly and Kristian, and his brothers Barry and Jon Voight.
