3 Impeccable Songs Written but Not Originally Performed by James Taylor

The essence of James Taylor’s success comes down to several factors—his lyricism and storytelling, his emotive tone, and his ephemeral touch as an artist. The latter is especially hard to quantify. Taylor is like the breeze, warm at times and cold at others, ever-present but also fleeting. And that quality has helped him become a legend in music.

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But Taylor hasn’t just used his talent for himself. No—in fact, he’s helped others enjoy success from what he brings to the table. Here below, we wanted to explore three songs Taylor wrote for others. A trio of tracks he gave away. Indeed, these are three hit songs written but not originally performed by James Taylor.

[RELATED: What Are the 5 Biggest U.S. Hits by James Taylor?]

“You Can Close Your Eyes” by Kate Taylor from Sister Kate (1971)

While this song has become one of James Taylor’s signature tunes (he released it on his 1971 LP Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon), it was actually first recorded by his sister Kate for her 1971 album Sister Kate. On her rendition, Kate sings boldly and proudly, crooning comfort for a loved one. But there is also a sense the singer is about to leave. Everything is fleeting, even love. And this song captures that reality eloquently. On the tune, Kate sings,

Well the sun is surely sinking down
But the moon is slowly rising
And this old world must still be spinning ’round
And I still love you

So close your eyes
You can close your eyes, it’s all right
I don’t know no love songs
And I can’t sing the blues anymore
But I can sing this song
And you can sing this song
When I’m gone

“Riding on a Railroad” by Tom Rush from Wrong End of the Rainbow (1970)

This song appeared on the 1970 album Wrong End of the Rainbow from folk singer Tom Rush. Opening with elegant organ, the tune transforms into a rock song with electric guitar before finding its level with acoustic guitar and spare percussion. On the track, Rush sings about our lives not exactly being our own. Perhaps we are living the life God set out for us. Maybe it’s those in control of the levers and pulleys of society. Either way, we are all just riding along. On the offering, Rush croons,

We are riding on a railroad, singing some else’s song
Forever standing by the cross road.
Take a side and step along.
We are sailing away on a river to the sea.
Maybe you an me can meet again.
We are riding on a railroad, singing someone else’s song
Sing along.

“Benjamin” by David Sanborn Band from Promise Me the Moon (1977)

A short, minute-and-a-half instrumental number, this song from David Sanborn Band’s 1977 album Promise Me the Moon is soft and lovely, opening with a smooth jazz saxophone and hand drums. It demonstrates the style and feel of a James Taylor tune without the use of lyrics or storytelling. Somehow we know, however, that this is born of Taylor’s influence and touch. Listen to it and then listen to it again. Maybe your own Taylor-inspired lyrics will tumble out to be added.

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