Introduction to Carole King
Carole King Klein, born February 9, 1942, in Manhattan, New York, is a famed American singer-songwriter and musician. Her lovely voice and expressive songs have won over fans worldwide for decades. King was a major music figure in the 1960s and 1970s, shaping a generation.
Early Life and Career
Carole King started singing young. As a youngster in Brooklyn, she learnt to play the piano and write songs. Her first major hit was “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” penned at 17 with her then-husband Gerry Goffin. The Shirelles’ number-one hit launched King’s songwriter career.
King and Goffin wrote many songs for Aretha Franklin and The Cookies in the 1960s. Their appealing songs and accessible words appealed worldwide. King gained famous as a songwriter with songs like “The Loco-Motion” and “Chains” that became music mainstays.
Rise to Fame: Tapestry and Beyond
In 1971, Carole King released “Tapestry,” which marked her move from songwriter to performer. The album topped the charts for 15 weeks and won four Grammys, including Album of the Year. “Tapestry” showed King’s ability to merge folk, rock, and soul into an insightful musical tapestry. “You’ve Got a Friend,” “It’s Too Late,” and “I Feel the Earth Move” were hits, propelling King to the top of the music industry without a band.
After “Tapestry,” King released critically lauded albums including “Music” (1971), “Wrap Around Joy” (1974), and “Simple Things” (1977). She became a musical phenomenon due to her ability to convey deep emotions via her music and unique vocal style.
Personal Life and Marriages
Carole King’s personal life has been as busy as her career. She married four times: Gerry Goffin, with whom she had two children, Louise and Sherry Goffin; Charles Larkey, with whom she had Levi and Molly Larkey; Rick Evers, and Rick Sorenson, whom she married in 1982 and divorced in 1989.
King’s perseverance and passion to her work have helped her shape music despite her personal struggles. Her career was shaped by collaborations with artists like James Taylor. King and Taylor never dated, despite popular belief. Instead, Taylor helped King gain performance confidence.
Legacy and Impact
Music has been forever changed by Carole King. Her lyrics about love, heartbreak, and resilience have influenced generations of singers and made her a cultural icon. Numerous artists have recorded King’s songs, and her 17 studio albums and several compilations continue to inspire new audiences.
King was recognised into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for her songs. She is remembered for her singing, writing, and environmental activism.
FAQ
How many times has Carole King married?
Carole King married four times. She married Gerry Goffin, Charles Larkey, Rick Evers, and Rick Sorenson.
Did Carole King date James Taylor?
Carole King and James Taylor never dated. Taylor inspired King to perform live and maintained a close friendship and musical partnership.
Which Carole King album is more famous?
In 1971, Carole King released “Tapestry,” her most famous album. It topped the charts for 15 weeks and won Grammys.
Who are Carole King’s children?
The King children are Louise Goffin, Sherry Goffin, Levi Larkey, and Molly Larkey.
What was Carole King’s first hit song?
“Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” written with Gerry Goffin and sung by The Shirelles, was Carole King’s first success. Early 1960s charts showed it at number one.
Who did Carole King often write songs with?
Gerry Goffin and Carole King wrote songs together often. In the 1960s, they wrote many hits for many acts.
