My Life In Song: Carole King
To celebrate Carole King's 80th birthday on Wednesday 9 February 2022, listen to Carole's 2017 interview with Radio 2's Michael Ball, available now on BBC Sounds
In the programme, Carole reflects on her early years as a struggling songwriter and her eventual breakthrough with songwriting partner, Gerry Goffin. Working together in the legendary Brill Building, they would go on to create some of the biggest and most iconic hit songs of the 1960s. The catalyst for this process was the friendly rivalry of fellow songwriting duo, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weill.
Below you can sample some of the conversation that Carole and Michael shared, telling the story of her life in song...
1. Carole King on the enduring legacy of the classic, You've Got a Friend
“I had no idea that it would mean so much, to so many people” – Carole King’s enduring classic You’ve Got a Friend
The song that travelled from Carole King's piano to millions of people's hearts.
2. Carole King describes the emotional and unforgettable moment she performed with herself...
The Carole King of yesterday and today performing together
Carole talks about one of the highlights of her performing career.
3. "What they're loving is what the song has meant to them in their lives"
“It’s not about me, it really is about you” – The humility of Carole King
Carole talks about the songs that mean so much to so many.
4. "She's playing!" Carole King on seeing Aretha Franklin perform Natural Woman live
“It was so exciting and thrilling” – Carole King watching Aretha Franklin perform (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
When "the Queen of Soul" performs your song live, you know you've made it.
