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In this episode of Classic Rock Album Olympics music historians Gary Wenstrup and Robert Rodriguez discuss and award their gold, silver and bronze medals for Tapestry by Carole King.
Tapestry released February 1971 is widely regarded as a landmark album of the singer/songwriter era, blending introspective lyrics with rich, melodic piano-driven pop and soft rock. It spent 4 months (!) at #1 and stayed on the album charts for 6 ½ years.
The album marked King’s breakthrough as a solo artist after years of writing hits for others, showcasing her distinctive voice and emotionally resonant songwriting. With understated production by Lou Adler, Tapestry featured Danny Kortchmar on guitar, Russ Kunkel and Joel O’Brien drums and Charlie Larkey on bass. The band provided a warm, intimate foundation for King’s piano and vocals.
“It’s Too Late” backed with “I Feel the Earth Move” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and “So Far Away” reached #14. The album included Carole’s versions of hits she wrote for others including Aretha’s “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” the Shirelles’ “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” and James Taylor’s only #1 song “You’ve Got A Friend.”
The album earned four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, Record of the Year, and Song of the Year.
Tapestry’s combination of personal lyrics, melodic sophistication, and subtle production helped define early 1970s pop. Importantly, it was a breakthrough for female singer/songwriters the world over.
Medal Winners
Beautiful
It’s Too Late
Home Again
So Far Away
Bonus Tracks
Kicks – Paul Revere & Raiders
Porpoise Song – Monkees
Pleasant Valley Sunday – Monkees
(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman – Aretha Franklin
You’ve Got A Friend – James Taylor
Will You Love Me Tomorrow – Shirelles
For No One – Beatles
Breaking Up Is Hard To Do – Neil Sedaka (1970s Version)
