James Taylor's Advice For Young Songwriters

Though he didn't take his own advice as a young songwriter, legendary musician James Taylor advises those just starting out to pick an existing song they like and, without stealing it, use it as a template upon which to craft a new original tune. Listen to Taylor share stories from the beginning of his career on his new Audible audiobook memoir titled "Break Shot." #Colbert #Comedy #JamesTaylor

Watch The Late Show with Stephen Colbert weeknights at 11:35 PM ET/10:35 PM CT. Only on CBS.

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The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is the premier late night talk show on CBS, airing at 11:35pm EST, streaming online via CBS All Access, and delivered to the International Space Station on a USB drive taped to a weather balloon. Every night, viewers can expect: Comedy, humor, funny moments, witty interviews, celebrities, famous people, movie stars, bits, humorous celebrities doing bits, funny celebs, big group photos of every star from Hollywood, even the reclusive ones, plus also jokes.

[andreacollins]

One of the loves of my life. His music is so sad to me as it was when my parents were together and all they did was drink and fight and be abusive but then james Taylor would come on and I was transported away to a safe warm place. Thank you sir

[ElectroIsMyReligion]

Words can’t even begin to describe how much I absolutely cherish and adore this man and his iconic, timeless music!
JT is a national treasure that we shall protect at all costs.

[LeftIsBest]

James Taylor is a great musician. And legend.

[cheek]

I feel sad through out the interview. Wish you well Mr Taylor. You've given me lots of joy with your music.

[myracurilan]

What a humbling experience to be in the presence of a legend... very few singers and songwriters could ever copy the heart and soul that he puts in every song he has written. Thank you for your music, Mr. James Taylor.

[HARE]

What an artist. James Taylor is an excellent composer & lyricist, and one of the all around great finger-style guitarists.
His music has greatly enriched my life.
Thanks, James.
Thanks, Stephen.

[underthesign]

I've seen James Taylor in concert many times, in venues large and small. He's always been a total professional, giving excellent performances even in difficult cirumstances. At one point circa 1979 he subbed at a club in Boston for Carly Simon, his wife at the time. (She was sick--probably with stage fright.) He played a full set on his own and did a heroic job.

[NewMessage]

So... take a sad song, and make it better?

[longstockings]

James Taylor has the same sweet, sweet soul as Michael Stipe.

[garygraham]

When Armstrong stepped on the moon in 69, I was at a drive-in theater watching 2001 A Space Odyssey, with the full moon just left of the screen, when a guy announced over the car speakers "Armstrong has just stepped on the moon"! The scene of the movie was, finding the monolith on the moon. Cool!

[tylerc]

My man looks good here. Wishing you continued health and success Mr. James, you've helped me through some tough times!

[Combinia]

my uncle taught me how to play guitar, his idol was james taylor, so james taylor is also my idol,
"you got a friend" will always remind me of my favourite uncle r.i.p alex

[PaulaJoW]

I had the immense pleasure of seeing him in concert a number of years ago at Massey Hall in Toronto. No pretension, no over-the-top production - just great, honest music laid out perfectly.

[MyBlueZed]

I’m one of the millions of people who have never met this man ... but I love him. I had the privilege to see him in concert in Sydney in 1981. Mona, Mona, so much of you to love, too much of you to take care of, Mona, Mona.”

[DavidOakesMusic]

It was lucky it was a full moon on that day - it probably made it easier to land on.

[teresathayn]

James Taylor's part of my DNA! Go Bernie! I love y'all!

[ambervisions]

James Taylor was the first concert I saw (that wasnt classical or jazz..my parents were music educators). Such an amazing performance!!!

[deborahchinn]

Best interview I’ve watched in a decade!

[BooJanJing]

He’s just keeping it real. 💯 of these artists do copy each other’s work. If not their work, they copy each other’s persona

[markbrownner]

taylor's role model and musical inspiration was the great tom rush who actually did a cover of 'something in the way she moves' which helped get him on the radar screen...check out the 50 year career of rush...