The New Yorker Radio Hour: From the Archive – "James Taylor Will Teach You Guitar"

Episode Release Date: December 18, 2024
Host: David Remnick
Produced by: WNYC Studios and The New Yorker

Introduction

In this archived episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour, hosted by David Remnick, listener-supported WNYC Studios presents an intimate conversation between renowned musician James Taylor and writer Adam Gopnik. Recorded during the New Yorker Festival, the episode delves deep into Taylor's musical journey, his distinctive guitar style, and the emotional resonance of his songwriting. The episode seamlessly blends storytelling with live musical performances, offering listeners both insightful dialogue and captivating melodies.

Early Musical Influences and Beginnings [01:10 – 05:17]

Adam Gopnik initiates the conversation by highlighting James Taylor's unique guitar playing and harmonic language, contrasting it with the prevalent pop music trends of the time.

"Did you study music? How was it that the language of music came to be the language you speak?"
— [01:25] Adam Gopnik

James Taylor shares his early musical experiences, mentioning his initial foray into cello before embracing the guitar, which ultimately defined his musical identity.

"I noticed that the guitar was going to be it for me... It just immediately started making sounds that I wanted to hear more of."
— [04:11] James Taylor

Taylor reminisces about receiving his first guitar from the Schirmer Music Company in Manhattan at age 12, a pivotal moment that steered him away from the cello and towards his beloved instrument.

Songwriting and Personal Reflection [05:17 – 12:12]

Adam Gopnik probes into Taylor's early songwriting, asking about his first self-composed song that he considered "good."

"What was the first song you ever wrote that you thought was a good song?"
— [05:17] Adam Gopnik

James Taylor candidly discusses his youthful attempts at songwriting, humorously presenting an early, less polished piece titled "Roll River Roll."

"You know, nobody here tonight has ever heard it is probably proof of how lame it was."
— [05:48] James Taylor

The conversation transitions to Taylor's move to London at nineteen, securing a recording contract with Apple Records, and the emotional challenges of transitioning personal experiences into universally relatable music.

"It was a very strange transition to make... from the private thing to engaging the music business and the popular culture."
— [09:05] James Taylor

Musical Evolution and Influences [12:12 – 23:03]

Gopnik explores Taylor's evolving musical style in the mid to late 1970s, noting his venture into Motown covers and the sense of rebirth it brought to his artistry.

"You started doing covers for the first time... Was that a fantasy or did you feel some of that?"
— [12:37] Adam Gopnik

Taylor explains that these covers were spontaneous studio choices rather than a premeditated artistic direction, highlighting the organic nature of his musical exploration.

"All of those cover tunes... were thought of at the spur of the moment in the recording studio."
— [13:25] James Taylor

The discussion shifts to Taylor's exposure to Brazilian music, particularly the influence of Antônio Carlos Jobim, and how it enriched his guitar playing and harmonic approach.

"It had a huge effect on me. I loved the chords... that Brazilian thing is just a rich vein to get into."
— [17:56] James Taylor

Live Performance and Guitar Teaching Segment [23:03 – 35:16]

The episode transitions into a live performance segment where James Taylor and his wife, Kim Taylor, join Adam Gopnik in a musical demonstration. Gopnik, an avid guitarist himself and father to two children, seeks Taylor's guidance in teaching him to play one of Taylor's songs properly.

"I have two children, and for the last 16 years, I've been playing... would you teach me to play that song properly?"
— [31:36] Adam Gopnik

Taylor graciously agrees, leading a hands-on guitar lesson. He introduces Gopnik to an Olson guitar, sharing a personal anecdote about his first Olson guitar and its significance in his musical career.

"These are Olson guitars made by a guy in Minneapolis, St. Paul... I've never looked back."
— [32:12] James Taylor

As they begin the lesson, Taylor emphasizes the importance of the key of D, honoring a memorable encounter where jazz legend Miles Davis declared D to be Taylor's key.

"Miles Davis... said, you know, D is your key."
— [32:43] James Taylor

The segment features a collaborative rendition of "Something in the Way She Moves," with Gopnik attempting to play while Taylor provides guidance, showcasing the practical application of their earlier discussions on musical technique and harmony.

"I'm going to play that first song. Very early song. First presentable song."
— [28:22] James Taylor

Throughout the performance, Kim Taylor contributes vocals, enriching the live experience and highlighting the familial aspect of Taylor's musical journey.

Conclusion and Closing Remarks [35:16 – End]

As the episode draws to a close, David Remnick wraps up the conversation, reflecting on the profound insights shared by James Taylor. The episode ends on a high note, leaving listeners with a deeper appreciation of Taylor's artistry and the intimate bond between musician and mentor.

"That was Adam Gopnik on the guitar, accompanied by James Taylor and his wife Kim. I'm David Remnick."
— [35:16] David Remnick

Key Takeaways

• Musical Evolution: James Taylor's transition from cello to guitar was pivotal, allowing him to develop a unique harmonic language influenced by diverse genres, including Brazilian music.

• Songwriting as Personal Expression: Taylor's ability to transform personal experiences into universally relatable songs underscores the emotional depth and accessibility of his music.

• Live Interaction and Teaching: The episode's live segment offers a rare glimpse into Taylor's role as a mentor, showcasing his willingness to nurture fellow musicians and share his expertise.

• Influence of Diverse Genres: Taylor's exposure to Broadway classics, folk, Motown, and Brazilian music significantly shaped his guitar techniques and songwriting approach, contributing to his distinctive sound.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Adam Gopnik:
  "Did you study music? How was it that the language of music came to be the language you speak?"
  — [01:25]

• James Taylor:
  "It just immediately started making sounds that I wanted to hear more of."
  — [04:11]

• Adam Gopnik:
  "What was the first song you ever wrote that you thought was a good song?"
  — [05:17]

• James Taylor:
  "It was a very strange transition to make... from the private thing to engaging the music business and the popular culture."
  — [09:05]

• James Taylor:
  "It had a huge effect on me. I loved the chords... that Brazilian thing is just a rich vein to get into."
  — [17:56]

• Adam Gopnik:
  "I have two children, and for the last 16 years, I've been playing... would you teach me to play that song properly?"
  — [31:36]

Final Thoughts

This archived episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour serves as a testament to James Taylor's enduring legacy in the music world. Through heartfelt conversation and live performance, listeners gain an intimate understanding of Taylor's creative process, influences, and the profound impact of his music. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, this episode offers a rich, engaging exploration of one of America's beloved singer-songwriters.