Chip Taylor, the prolific American songwriter and singer behind iconic hits such as "Wild Thing" and "Angel of the Morning," passed away on March 23, 2026, just two days after his 86th birthday. Born James Wesley Voight in Yonkers, New York, Taylor carved out a remarkable career spanning decades, leaving an indelible mark on pop, rock, and country music. His death was announced by colleagues on social media, confirming his passing in hospice care in New York.

Taylor's journey into music began after an early attempt at a professional golf career. He started recording under his birth name, Wes Voight, in the late 1950s, before adopting the stage name Chip Taylor. His early efforts as a performer led to his first chart single, "Here I Am," in 1962, showcasing his burgeoning talent as both a vocalist and a writer.

The mid-1960s saw Taylor's songwriting prowess truly emerge, yielding some of the most enduring songs in rock history. In 1965, he penned "Wild Thing," which became a global sensation for The Troggs in 1966 and was famously performed by Jimi Hendrix. Not long after, his composition "Angel of the Morning" became a major hit for Merrilee Rush in 1968, and later a million-selling single for Juice Newton.

Beyond these two monumental tracks, Taylor's extensive catalog includes "I Can't Let Go," a 1966 hit for The Hollies, and "Try (Just a Little Bit Harder)," famously recorded by Janis Joplin in 1969. His songs were covered by a diverse array of legendary artists, including Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield, and Frank Sinatra, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and respected songwriter.

In the 1970s, Taylor also established himself as a recording artist, releasing critically acclaimed albums such as "Last Chance" in 1973, which remains a cult classic. He took a hiatus from the music industry from 1980 to 1995, during which he pursued a successful career as a professional gambler. His return to music in the mid-1990s marked a new chapter, leading to a prolific output of Americana and folk-influenced albums.

In 2007, Taylor founded his independent label, Train Wreck Records, and continued to release new material, including the 2011 Grammy-nominated album "Yonkers, NY." His significant contributions to music were formally recognized in 2016 when he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring legacy and impact on popular music. Chip Taylor's artistry, marked by his storytelling and distinctive musical style, will be deeply missed by fans and fellow musicians alike.