Carole King is widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of all time, but she is also one of the most underrated. Despite writing numerous hits for herself and other artists, she often does not receive the recognition she deserves for her contributions to the music industry.
Start Of Her Career
King began her career as a songwriter in the 1960s, working with her then-husband Gerry Goffin to write hits for artists such as The Shirelles (“Will You Love Me Tomorrow”) and The Drifters (“Up on the Roof”). Her ability to write catchy melodies and poignant lyrics quickly earned her a reputation as one of the top songwriters of the era.
Carole King’s Solo Career
In the 1970s, King embarked on a successful solo career, releasing albums such as “Tapestry” and “Music” that featured her own compositions. These albums produced a string of hits, including “It’s Too Late,” “I Feel the Earth Move,” and “You’ve Got a Friend.” “Tapestry” remains one of the best-selling albums of all time, and King’s influence on the singer-songwriter genre cannot be overstated.
Despite her impressive track record, King is often overlooked in discussions of great songwriters. This may be due in part to her understated persona and her focus on the craft of songwriting rather than on self-promotion. She has also been overshadowed by her male peers, such as Bob Dylan and Paul Simon, who are more often lauded for their songwriting prowess.
However, King’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. She paved the way for countless female songwriters and proved that women could be successful both as songwriters and as performers. Her songs continue to be beloved by audiences of all ages, and her influence can be heard in the work of artists as diverse as Taylor Swift and Adele.
Final Thoughts
Carole King is one of the most underrated songwriters of all time. Her contributions to the music industry are vast and significant, and she has earned a place among the greats. It’s time for her to receive the recognition she deserves for her incredible talent and enduring legacy.
“Carole King Boston 2012” by Michael Borkson is licensed under CC BY 2.0.