James Taylor On The Five Songs He Considers His Favorites
James Taylor has written countless songs that we can all agree have touched millions of hearts over the decades.
However, one question pops up, which ones does he treasure most?
During a recent chat on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the legendary singer-songwriter opened up about the five tracks from his own catalog that mean the world to him, revealing stories about praise from Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, and Bob Dylan along the way.
1. Mean Old Man
Paul McCartney calling to say he loved your song? That’s exactly what happened with this gem from Taylor’s 2002 album October Road.
Taylor recalls the moment with obvious pride, sharing how the legendary Beatle reached out personally. McCartney told him he bought the entire album because of this track.
Talk about validation from a fellow music icon!
The song clearly struck a chord with one of rock’s greatest songwriters. If it impressed Sir Paul, you know it’s something special worth listening to.
2. Millworker
Originally penned for the Broadway musical Working, this powerful tune later found its home on Taylor’s 1979 album Flag.
Bruce Springsteen became such a fan that he’s performed it himself at concerts. The Boss knows a working-class anthem when he hears one!
This song captures the struggles and dignity of everyday laborers in a way that resonates deeply. Its journey from stage to studio showcases Taylor’s versatility as a storyteller.
3. Sweet Baby James
This tender lullaby serves as the title track from Taylor’s breakthrough 1970 album. He considers it one of his finest creations, and honestly, millions of fans would agree without hesitation.
The song’s gentle melody and soothing words have helped countless kids drift off to dreamland over the years. It perfectly captures that peaceful moment between wakefulness and sleep.
The personal connection Taylor has to this track shines through every note.
4. The Frozen Man
Bob Dylan praising your songwriting? That’s the ultimate compliment in the folk-rock universe!
From the 1991 album New Moon Shine, this track earned Dylan’s admiration when he told Taylor directly how much he loved it.
Dylan even quoted the full title, saying he really dug God Have Mercy on The Frozen Man.
Coming from a Nobel Prize-winning poet, that feedback carries serious weight. The song’s haunting imagery clearly resonated with one of music’s greatest wordsmiths.
It stood out as a reminder that his catalog isn’t only built on radio standards – some picks come from the weirder, quieter corners.
5. Carolina in My Mind
Homesickness inspired this beautiful ode to North Carolina from Taylor’s 1968 debut album.
Fans absolutely adore this nostalgic track, and it remains a concert staple that audiences request constantly.
The song captures that bittersweet feeling of missing home while you’re far away chasing dreams. Its imagery of Carolina moonlight and gentle breezes transports listeners straight to the South.
Taylor performs it regularly because the crowd’s response never gets old.
