It has now been confirmed that songwriter Chip Taylor, the mind behind the iconic hit “Wild Thing,” has died at the age of 86.
The news of his passing emerged on March 24, shared by close friend and fellow musician Billy Vera, who paid tribute online. Shortly after, Taylor’s children confirmed the heartbreaking update, noting that his final days were peaceful and surrounded by a sense of gratitude for the life he lived through music.
Born James Wesley Voight in 1940, Taylor came from a remarkable family. He was the younger brother of acclaimed actor Jon Voight and the uncle of Hollywood star Angelina Jolie. Despite these ties, he carved out his own legacy — not on screen, but in sound.
Starting his journey in the late 1950s, Taylor initially performed before discovering his true strength in songwriting. Under his now-famous name, he went on to write some of the most memorable tracks of his time. Beyond “Wild Thing,” he gifted the world “Angel of the Morning,” along with songs performed by legends like Willie Nelson and Linda Ronstadt.
Though often working behind the scenes, his influence stretched far and wide. Artists such as Janis Joplin, Cliff Richard, and The Hollies all carried his work into the spotlight, turning his words into timeless hits.
Taylor also stepped into the spotlight himself, with his 1975 single “Early Sunday Morning” reaching the country charts. His contributions were later honored with an induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2016 — a recognition of a career that quietly shaped music history.
He leaves behind children, grandchildren, and a legacy that will continue to play on long after his voice has faded.