It has now been 45 years since the release of Carole King's 'Tapestry' album. Released in 1971, Tapestry was a huge success, particularly in the USA, where it was number 1 for 15 consecutive weeks. It followed her debut solo album 'Writer', which surprisingly, was a flop. 'Writer' featured James Taylor on guitar and backing vocals as well. In fact, it was James Taylor who convinced her to sing and record her own songs, instead of writing for other artists (which she had been doing successfully with her husband Gerry Goffin right through the 60's).
However, with the strength of the songs on Tapestry, it was destined to be huge. For someone who had co-written so many hits for so many artists, her songwriting was as strong as ever here. She recorded a couple of her songs, which had been hits for Aretha Franklin and The Shirelles - "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" and "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" respectively. But her new material was just as strong. "It's Too Late" was the first single and spent 5 weeks at number 1 on the Billboard charts.
This is an album that seems to resinate with fans of all genres, young and old, and even through every decade since its release.
Definitely one of the all-time great albums..... which I'm sure you all agree.
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