Carole King

Carole King was born on February 9, 1942, in Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States. She was born Carole Joan Klein to parents Eugenia and Sidney N. Klein. Raised in Brooklyn, King's mother was a schoolteacher and her father was a firefighter for the New York City Fire Department. Demonstrating musical talent from a young age, King began learning the piano and pursued music throughout her education.

Carole King wrote her first hit song, "Will You Love Me Tomorrow," with then-husband Gerry Goffin in 1960. The song, performed by The Shirelles, was a commercial success and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This marked the beginning of King's prolific career as a songwriter, establishing her and Goffin as one of the great songwriting duos of the era. This popular ballad is recognized for its groundbreaking theme, exploring a girl's anxiety about the future after a romantic encounter.

Carole King released her iconic second studio album, 'Tapestry', on March 1, 1971. The album was a massive commercial and critical success, featuring hits such as "I Feel the Earth Move", "So Far Away", and "It's Too Late". 'Tapestry' spent 15 consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and won four Grammy Awards in 1972, including Album of the Year. The album's introspective and emotional style influenced singer-songwriters throughout the following decades and remains one of the best-selling albums of all time.

At the 14th Annual Grammy Awards held on March 14, 1972, Carole King's album 'Tapestry' won four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, Record of the Year for "It's Too Late", and Song of the Year for "You've Got a Friend". This achievement solidified King's status as a major force in the music industry. Her success with 'Tapestry' at the Grammys highlighted her talent not just as a songwriter but also as a performer, capable of touching the hearts of millions with her music.

Carole King released her album 'Thoroughbred' on June 18, 1976. This was her final studio album under her contract with Ode Records and marked the end of an era as it was also the last album on which her frequent collaborators James Taylor, J.D. Souther, and David Crosby appeared. The album contained tracks that reflected a more mature and introspective side of King. Although not as commercially successful as her previous works, 'Thoroughbred' is appreciated for its lyrical depth and strong production.

Carole King was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1987, an honor that recognizes her monumental contributions to music as a songwriter. Alongside her former husband and collaborator Gerry Goffin, King wrote numerous enduring hits in the 1960s as part of the famous Brill Building songwriters. This induction celebrated her continued influence in music, acknowledging her unmatched ability to craft songs that resonate with emotional depth and universal themes. Her legacy as a pioneer for women in music was firmly established.

In 1990, Carole King and her former husband and collaborator, Gerry Goffin, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the non-performer category for their outstanding contributions as songwriters during the rock era. Their work during the 1960s produced some of the era's most memorable songs, including "The Loco-Motion" and "Up on the Roof". This accolade celebrated their lasting impact on the genre and solidified their reputation as one of pop music's greatest songwriting duos.

On May 23, 2000, Carole King published her memoir titled 'A Natural Woman', offering a deep dive into her personal and professional life. The memoir provides insights into her early years, her rise to fame, and her experiences navigating the music industry. Through candid storytelling, King details her creative process, notable collaborations, and her enduring legacy in music. The book has been well-received for its honesty and has contributed to her fans' understanding of her remarkable journey and achievements.

Carole King announced her first major North American tour in more than a decade on April 9, 2013. This tour, titled 'The Living Room Tour', featured performances in intimate venues across the continent. King delighted her long-time fans by performing classic hits as well as newer material, accompanied by personal stories and anecdotes. This tour was a celebration of her enduring connection with her audience and highlighted her effortless stage presence and timeless appeal.

On May 15, 2021, Carole King was celebrated at the Kennedy Center Honors, recognizing her lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts. This prestigious award is one of the highest honors in the United States for artists. King's music has had a profound impact on both her peers and the broader musical landscape, inspiring generations of musicians and fans. The ceremony featured performances of her songs by various artists, honoring her remarkable career and influence.

Carole King was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist on October 30, 2021. This marked her second induction into the Hall of Fame, following her initial inclusion with Gerry Goffin in 1990. Her solo career was celebrated for her impactful contributions to music and her role as a trailblazing female artist. The induction ceremony featured performances and tributes, underscoring King's lasting influence and her vital role in shaping popular music over decades.