Carole King is my all time favorite female vocalist and song writer. My "Tapestry" album is warped from over play (yes, album). I am on my second CD of the same recording. I know every word to every song. And I was still blown away at being in her presence - even from my section O, seat 8 position. Carole is not known so much as a vocalist, but renowned as a song writer. Her songs have been recorded by everyone from Blood, Sweat and Tears to the Sherill's, and of course, James Taylor. She looked great, rocked with the best of them - jumping up and down on stage and thoroughly entertaining us all. I cried during "So Far Away," remembering how as a 16 year old, I yearned to be anywhere but where I was. There is a part of me that still feels that way. I cried during "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow," recalling lost loves of my life. I laughed to see the photos on the Jumbo Tron of Carole in the 70's and JT as the young strapping buck we all fell in love with. Then I cried again knowing my youth has long passed, too.
James Taylor was superb. I will admit that Carole was the reason I went to the concert and JT was an added bonus. I had no idea how much he would move me with his songs and his still strong smooth as silk voice. What a consummate performer. I have old recordings of JT and I swear his voice is getting batter with age. He may have lost his hair, but that takes nothing away from his good looks.
Watching the original band members from the 70's playing together was like watching a well oiled machine at work. They knew the signs of each other, the overlaps of leads, the changes and nuances of each other. It brought back memories from my days as a "band groupie" with an old lover of mine. I cried at the loss of those wonderful moments and the pleasure of having experienced them.
And like my youth, I wish I could hold on to that moment, stay in that moment a little bit longer. Oh, those were some special times, the 70's. Thanks Carole King and James Taylor for bringing the memories to life once more. Even for just a few hours. I was young and full of life and ideas and energy. I walked out of that concert sure I looked like I did in 1972. I've been avoiding mirrors ever since. I'd like to hold on to this feeling a little longer.
I strongly recommend seeing the concert live, on PBS or buy the CD/DVD combo. It's like a dip in the Fountain of Youth.
Peace!
Susan
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