Legendary Songwriter Chip Taylor, Uncle to Angelina Jolie, Dies at 86
The music world is mourning the loss of Chip Taylor, a celebrated songwriter and the uncle of Hollywood star Angelina Jolie. Taylor, whose real name was James Wesley Voight, passed away at the age of 86. The sad news was confirmed by his friend, Grammy-winning vocalist Billy Vera, who shared the update on social media.
“RIP: Chip Taylor, my friend and songwriting mentor, last night in hospice,” Vera announced, marking the end of an era for a musician whose pen crafted some of the most enduring songs in popular music.
Taylor was the brother of actor Jon Voight, Angelina Jolie’s father, and also an uncle to her sibling, James Haven. While his connection to the famous acting family brought him a degree of public recognition, his own prolific career in music spoke volumes.
A Legacy of Iconic Hits
Chip Taylor’s songwriting prowess is undeniable, with a catalogue that features some of the most recognisable tunes across multiple genres. He is perhaps best known for penning the 1966 rock anthem “Wild Thing.” This raw, energetic track, originally recorded by The Troggs, became an instant classic and a defining song of its generation, cementing Taylor’s place in music history.
However, his talent extended far beyond this one monumental hit. Taylor was also responsible for:
- “Angel of the Morning” (1968): A beautifully melancholic ballad, this song found widespread success through Merrilee Rush’s rendition and has since been covered by numerous artists.
- “Try (Just A Little Bit Harder)” (1969): A powerful blues-infused track that became a signature song for the legendary Janis Joplin, showcasing Taylor’s ability to write for distinct vocal styles.
- “I Can’t Let Go” (1966): Originally a hit for The Hollies, this song is another testament to Taylor’s knack for crafting infectious melodies and relatable lyrics.
These are just a few highlights from a career that saw his songs embraced by some of the biggest names in music. Legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Frank Sinatra, Waylon Jennings, and Dusty Springfield have all recorded Taylor’s compositions, underscoring the universal appeal and enduring quality of his work.
Beyond the Songwriter: A Performer and Innovator
Taylor’s contributions to the music industry weren’t limited to his songwriting. He also carved out a career as a recording artist, releasing at least 16 albums throughout his life. Notable works include “Chip Taylor’s Last Chance” (1973) and “This Side of the Big River” (1975).
His dedication and impact were formally recognised in 2016 when he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, a prestigious honour celebrating his decades of invaluable contributions to the fabric of popular music. A bio from the Grammys museum details his early exposure to music, beginning with listening to country radio at just eight years old in Yonkers, New York. He honed his musical skills in his high school band, the Town & Country Brothers.
Interestingly, Taylor’s path to music wasn’t entirely direct. He initially pursued professional golf, but a wrist injury redirected his focus entirely to the music business. This pivot proved to be a monumental shift, not just for him but for countless music lovers.
Taylor also recorded under the name Wes Voight and, in 1961, signed with Warner Bros. Records as a recording artist, releasing the single “Here I Am,” which charted in the top 100.
He was also deeply involved in the business aspects of the industry, even founding his own independent label, Train Wreck Records, in 2007. This demonstrated his ongoing passion and commitment to nurturing new talent and continuing to shape the music landscape.
A Life Beyond Music
Beyond his musical endeavours, Taylor harboured a keen interest in gambling, with a particular fondness for blackjack. This multifaceted personality added another layer to the story of a man who left an indelible mark on the world through his art.
Upon the news of his passing, fans and colleagues alike took to social media platforms to express their grief and pay tribute to his immense talent. Tributes highlighted the profound impact of his songs, with many specifically mentioning “Wild Thing” as a generational anthem.
“The man wrote Wild Thing – a song that literally defined a generation of rock and roll. His legacy is immortal,” commented one user on X (formerly Twitter).
Another expressed their condolences to the Jolie-Voight family, stating, “Chip Taylor was a legendary songwriter, Wild Thing touched so many lives, and his legacy will live on through his music.”
The sentiment was echoed by many, recognising that while his familial ties to Hollywood were notable, his true legacy lies in the timeless melodies and poignant lyrics that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, ensuring his influence will be felt for generations to come.
