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James Taylor - Featured Performer
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James Taylor is one of the most memorable songwriters of all time, with a hugely successful career that spans over 30 years. He has worked with such artists as
Carole King, Linda Ronstadt, Bonnie Raitt, Joni Mitchell, Art Garfunkel, Graham Nash, David Crosby, Michael Brecker and David Sanborn. James is best known for his smooth guitar sounds and distinctive singing style.
Taylor's first album, Sweet Baby James, was immensely popular and secured him a place among the most popular performers of the day. Tracks such as "Sweet Baby James," "Country Road" and, "Fire and Rain" continue to resonate with listeners to this day.
In 1971, James was awarded his first Grammy (Best Pop Vocal Performance) for his recording of Carole King's "You've Got A Friend." James' 1976 release, JT, was more upbeat than his earlier works, and achieved triple platinum status. Taylor claimed his second Best Pop Vocal Performance Grammy in 1977 for his version of Jimmy Jones' "Handy Man." Taylor's contribution to the album In Harmony, produced for Sesame Street, helped the album win a "Best Recording For Children" Grammy at the 1980 ceremony. More recently, his platinum Hourglass album (1998) captured Grammys for both the "Best Pop Vocal Album" and "Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical". Both his classic tracks and new works have made Taylor popular with a broad spectrum of listeners.
In 2000, Taylor's fans saw his induction into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriter's Hall of Fame.
In 2002 James released October Road, teaming up with the rhythm section of Jimmy Johnson and Steve Gadd. It is no surprise that this album has received critical acclaim.
Over the course of his career, James has earned 40 gold, platinum, and multi-platinum awards, RIAA's elite Diamond Award and the 1998 Century Award, Billboard magazine's highest honor.
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