Artist Focus: Carole King

Some artists leave a legacy that stretches far beyond a great single or a number 1 album. 

Artist Focus is a new series hosted by the extended Melodic Distraction family that deep dives into the life and times of the musicians that have defined the sound of modern music. From the stone cold classics to the unearthed gems and forgotten B-sides, our community tribute an hour of music by a single artist that has had a notable impact on their life.

This Artist Focus shines a light onto the life and illustrious career of Carole King. Since writing her first number 1 hit at 17, New Yorker Carole King has become one of the most celebrated and influential songwriters of all time.

Carole gained recognition in the 1960s in one of the most prolific songwriting teams in popular music. In partnership with lyricist and husband Gerry Goffin, she was responsible for such classics as Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow, One Fine Day, Up on the Roof and The Locomotion. To date, more than 400 of her songs have been recorded by more than 1,000 artists, resulting in 100 hit singles.

It wasn’t until the 1971 release of her solo album Tapestry that saw Carole unleash her power as a solo performer and songwriter. Carole’s honesty and ability to capture and beautifully paint complex human emotions into song has allowed for her music to transcend through generations.