Along with Laura Nyro, Carole was one of the most influential women on the 60s and 70s music scene and still influences great musicians to this day. 'Natural Woman' came at a time when women were 'revolting' and it was a perfect anthem for those trying to express their passion, sexuality and sensuality after years of repressed Victorian values. She sang and influenced many of my favourites, including James Taylor and, my favourite, Todd Rundgren (Liv Tyler's step Dad) and Todd produced Bat out of Hell for Meatloaf, the New York Dolls, Grand Funk Railroad, as well as writing numberous wonderful albums himself and with Utopia.
Carole's work can be heard across the board both influentially and probably without knowing it at times. This for example.........
YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND
When you're down and troubled
And you need some loving care
And nothing, nothing is going right
Close your eyes and think of me
And soon I will be there
To brighten up even your darkest night
You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am
I'll come running to see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you have to do is call
And I'll be there
You've got a friend
If the sky above you
Grows dark and full of clouds
And that old north wind begins to blow
Keep your head together
And call my name out loud
Soon you'll hear me knocking at your door
You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am
I'll come running to see you
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you have to do is call
And I'll be there
Ain't it good to know that you've got a friend
When people can be so cold
They'll hurt you, and desert you
And take your soul if you let them
Oh, but don't you let them
You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am
I'll come running to see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you have to do is call
And I'll be there
You've got a friend
;D ;D ;D