Austin City Limits Season 41 Episode 7
Austin City Limits
Season 41

Ep 7. James Taylor

  • November 14, 2015

James Taylor, one of the most respected and beloved songwriters of all-time, takes the stage in this episode of Austin City Limits. With a career spanning over five decades, Taylor has created a rich and varied catalog of songs that have touched the hearts of millions around the world.

Opening the show with "Today Today Today," from his latest album "Before This World", Taylor sets the tone for a night of exquisite songwriting and masterful guitar playing. His voice, still as smooth and soulful as ever, guides the audience through a setlist that includes classic hits like "Fire and Rain" and "Shower the People," as well as newer tunes like "Montana" and "Angels of Fenway."

Throughout the performance, Taylor's easy-going demeanor and engaging storytelling create an intimate atmosphere within the vast confines of Austin's Moody Theater. He shares personal anecdotes about the inspiration behind his songs, including the backstory of how he wrote "Sweet Baby James" for his nephew, and how his daughter inspired the tender ballad "You and I Again."

But it's not just Taylor's words that capture the audience's attention - it's his unparalleled musicianship. From fingerpicking on "Mexico" to sliding on "Steamroller Blues," every note Taylor plays fills the room with warmth and emotion. He's joined onstage by an exceptional band, who add their own touches to the arrangements while also staying true to the original recordings.

As the show progresses, it becomes clear just how deeply Taylor's music has resonated with people over the years. When he launches into his most iconic song, "Fire and Rain," the entire audience sings along with every word, their voices rising up in a powerful chorus. A similar energy fills the room during "Shower the People," with the crowd clapping and swaying along to the joyful melody.

The show concludes with a rousing rendition of "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)," with Taylor and the band bringing the night to a close on a high note. It's a fitting end to a beautiful performance that showcases Taylor's incredible talent and legacy as a songwriter. Fans old and new will walk away from this episode of Austin City Limits with a new appreciation for James Taylor and his music, and an eagerness to discover even more of his timeless tunes.

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Description
  • First Aired
    November 14, 2015
  • Language
    English