James Taylor
A featured American artist at the 2001 benefit concert honoring New York City's first responders.
James Taylor appeared alongside Billy Joel as part of the American artist lineup for The Concert for New York City, held at Madison Square Garden in response to the September 11 attacks. Organized by Paul McCartney, the event honored first responders from the NYPD and FDNY, their families, and those lost or working in rescue efforts. Both musicians performed to support the Robin Hood Relief Fund, joining other legends like The Who, David Bowie, and Elton John. Taylor was one of many stars who contributed to a five-hour broadcast that raised over $35 million.
- Role
- American Artist
- Era of Association
- 2001
- Primary Genre Connection
- Singer-Songwriter
- Shared Location
- Madison Square Garden, New York City
- Status
- Performed at The Concert for New York City
- Notable Interaction Type
- Benefit Concert
Lore & Background
James Taylor's participation in The Concert for New York City placed him among a historic gathering of British and American contemporaries assembled by Paul McCartney. While the source does not detail specific songs performed by Taylor, it confirms his presence as part of the roster that included Billy Joel, Bon Jovi, Jay-Z, Destiny's Child, the Backstreet Boys, Melissa Etheridge, Five for Fighting, Goo Goo Dolls, and John Mellencamp with Kid Rock. The concert served as a tribute to firefighters, police officers, and victims of 9/11, with proceeds directed entirely to the Robin Hood Relief Fund. Taylor was one of over 60 stars who signed unique memorabilia backstage, including posters and drumheads, which were later auctioned to further support relief efforts.
In Their Own Story
The night at Madison Square Garden brought together diverse musical acts united by a single cause: supporting New York City in the wake of the September 11 attacks. James Taylor performed alongside Billy Joel and other American artists, contributing to an evening marked by raw emotion and solidarity. The crowd included victims' families holding portraits of the dead, and speakers like FDNY firefighter Mike Moran, who shared personal stories of loss from Ladder 3 in Rockaway Beach. Between acts, celebrities such as Howard Stern and political figures like Rudy Giuliani addressed the audience. Taylor's presence added to a lineup that also featured comedic performances by Adam Sandler as "Operaman" and short films by directors including Woody Allen and Martin Scorsese.
Reader's Guide
James Taylor's role at The Concert for New York City was that of a participating artist in a large-scale benefit event. He performed as part of the American contingent organized by Paul McCartney, sharing the stage with Billy Joel and numerous other iconic figures. The concert featured over 60 performers who signed memorabilia for auction, supporting the Robin Hood Foundation. Taylor's appearance contributed to a broadcast that raised more than $35 million, with an additional $275,000 from a connecting auction. The event was executive produced by Greg Sills and Fred Graver, directed by Louis J. Horvitz, and later released as a double CD in 2001, though it remains unavailable on streaming platforms as of 2024.
Did You Know?
- James Taylor was one of over 60 stars who signed unique memorabilia backstage that was later auctioned to support the Robin Hood Foundation.
- The concert raised over $35 million live, with an additional $275,000 from a connecting auction, all going to the Robin Hood Relief Fund.
- Adam Sandler performed as "Operaman," delivering a comedic song that included lyrics about Osama bin Laden and the 2001 ALCS Yankees.
- The Who's performance featured an American flag alongside a British flag on stage, symbolizing solidarity with first responders.
- A double CD of the event was released by Sony on November 27, 2001, containing 32 tracks, but remains unavailable on streaming as of 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is James Taylor's connection to Billy Joel?
James Taylor is a fellow American artist who performed alongside Billy Joel at a major benefit event. Their relationship is defined by this shared appearance rather than ongoing musical partnership.
Where did Billy Joel and James Taylor perform together?
They both appeared on stage at Madison Square Garden in New York City during the year 2001. This location hosted The Concert for New York City, which honored local first responders.
What was the purpose of their joint performance?
The duo participated to support the Robin Hood Relief Fund and honor those lost or injured in the September 11 attacks. Paul McCartney organized this five-hour broadcast to aid rescue efforts and families.
How much money did the concert they attended raise?
The event featuring both musicians successfully raised over $35 million for relief causes. It was a massive gathering of stars including The Who, David Bowie, and Elton John.
Are James Taylor and Billy Joel considered long-term collaborators?
No, they are linked specifically through their participation in this 2001 benefit concert as part of the American artist lineup. There is no record of them working together outside of this specific tribute occasion.
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