Musician behind iconic 1960s hits dies at 86

The world of rock and roll and country music has lost one of its most prolific and understated architects. Chip Taylor, the Hall of Fame songwriter responsible for the primal, enduring anthem “Wild Thing,” has passed away at the age of 86.

The news of his death was first shared on March 24 by his longtime friend and fellow musician Billy Vera. In a poignant social media tribute accompanied by a photograph of the pair, Vera wrote: “RIP: Chip Taylor, my friend and songwriting mentor, last night in hospice.”

Taylor’s children, Kris and Kelly, later released a formal confirmation to his global community of followers. “Hi all — we are sad to tell you that Chip passed away last night,” the family stated. “His last days were peaceful. Chip loved the amazing blessing it was to connect with people through music and truly appreciated this community. He considered you all friends. We will miss him greatly.”

A Legacy in the Bloodline

Born James Wesley Voight in 1940, Taylor was part of a remarkably accomplished American family. He was the younger brother of Academy Award-winning actor Jon Voight and renowned geologist Barry Voight, making him the paternal uncle to Academy Award-winning actress Angelina Jolie and her brother, James Haven.

While his siblings and niece found fame on the screen and in the earth’s crust, Taylor’s medium was the three-minute pop masterpiece. He began his musical journey in the late 1950s, performing with the ensemble Town Three and recording under his birth name, Wes Voight. It was only after adopting the stage name Chip Taylor that he found his true calling as a “songwriter’s songwriter,” crafting hits that would define the careers of others.

From “Wild Thing” to the Hall of Fame

Though “Wild Thing”—famously immortalized by The Troggs and later Jimi Hendrix—remains his most recognizable contribution to the cultural lexicon, Taylor’s catalogue was vast and versatile. He penned the evocative “Angel of the Morning,” which became a definitive hit for Merrilee Rush and has since been covered by dozens of artists across genres.

His compositions were sought after by the industry’s elite, with his credits appearing on records by Janis Joplin, Willie Nelson, Linda Ronstadt, and The Hollies. His ability to navigate the intersection of pop, rock, and country earned him a place among the greats, culminating in his 2016 induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

A Performer in His Own Right

Despite his success behind the scenes, Taylor never fully abandoned the microphone. He maintained a respected solo career, notably reaching No. 28 on the country charts in 1975 with his single “Early Sunday Morning.” His work was characterized by a raw, honest delivery that mirrored the straightforward brilliance of his writing.

Taylor’s passing comes less than a year after the loss of his wife, Joan Carole Frey, who died in June 2025. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, as well as a musical catalogue that continues to be played in garages, stadiums, and on airwaves around the world.