That's Why I'm Here

by James Taylor

Product Description:

Personnel: James Taylor (vocals, guitar); Randy Brecker (vocals, horns); Airto Moreira (vocals, percussion); Rosemary Butler, Arnold McCuller, David Lasley, Graham Nash, Joni Mitchell, Don Henley, Deneice Williams, Eric Troyer, Rory Dodd, Kenia Gould, Zbeto, Elaine Eliaf, Frank Filipetti, Peter Asher (vocals); Dan Dugmore, Jeff Pevar (guitar); Kenny Kosek (violin); Gregory "Fingers" Taylor (harmonica); David Sanborn (saxophone, horns); Michael Brecker, Barry Rogers (horns); Billy Payne, Dan Grolnick, Clifford Carter (keyboards); Tony Levin, Leland Sklar (bass); Russell Kunkel, Rick Schlosser (drums); Jim Maelen, Starz Vanderlockit.

Recorded at Right Track Recording, New York, New York.

All tracks have been digitally remastered.

Personnel: James Taylor (vocals, guitar); Graham Nash (vocals); Dan Dugmore (pedal steel guitar, banjo); David Sanborn (saxophone); Billy Payne (keyboards); Tony Levin (bass guitar); Russ Kunkel (drums, percussion); Deniece Williams, Joni Mitchell (background vocals).

Recording information: Right Track Studios, New York, New York (1985).

It should be perfectly obvious why James Taylor is here. Creating solid musical statements like THAT'S WHY I'M HERE is reason enough. Clearly, this is one of the better efforts of Taylor's long career. As he got a little older and the hairline started receding, Taylor's skills as a songwriter became a little more seasoned and mature.

The romantic folkie of the '70s gave way to a veteran pop stylist whose sweet songs wash over the listener like a mountain stream. Among the many gems in this set are the generous tidings of the title track and the touching grace of "Song For You Far Away." Taylor's folk/country roots make an appearance on his brother Livingston's "Going Around One More Time." The centerpiece of this disc, however, has got to be Taylor's beautiful performance of the Rodgers & Hart classic "My Romance." Rounding out this must-have collection, there's a cover of the Buddy Holly hit "Everyday," the pleasantly catchy "Only One" and a comedic tale of a deceased pig named "Mona."