Posted by Few artists embody the sound and spirit of the 1970s quite like James Taylor. A true musical icon, Taylor helped define the singer-songwriter and soft-rock era with his warm baritone voice, deeply personal songwriting, and influential fingerstyle guitar work. In many ways, he was every bit as significant to his audience as arena-rock giants such as Led Zeppelin and KISS were to theirs.
So, when I had the opportunity to meet James Taylor in person, I was beyond excited. But my excitement came with another purpose: I had a question I had carried with me for years, and I wanted to finally learn the truth.
That opportunity came through guitarist Michael Landau.
When I first met Landau, I had no idea who he was or how extensive his influence had been within the music industry. Over time, I learned that he was one of the most respected session guitarists and producers in Los Angeles, known for his expressive tone, exceptional phrasing, and versatility. His résumé includes work with an extraordinary range of artists, including Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd, Miles Davis, and James Taylor.
At the time we met, Landau was touring in support of Renegade Creation, his collaboration with guitarist Robben Ford. I had supplied him with a photograph that was later used for his album Organic Instrumentals, and we stayed in touch over the years. Through Michael, I was fortunate enough to receive backstage access when he performed with James Taylor at Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo, New York, and later at Madison Square Garden. I also had the opportunity to reconnect with him during performances at The Iridium in the heart of Times Square.
It was backstage at Kleinhans that I finally met James Taylor.
As Taylor approached and extended his hand, I told him about an old friend I had known in Florida. My friend had always told me that his father had served in Vietnam with Taylor and had been present when Taylor wrote “Fire and Rain.” For years, I believed that story created a small but meaningful connection between us.
When I shared the name with Taylor, he paused, gave a respectful chuckle, and kindly explained that my friend’s father had not served with him in Vietnam—because James Taylor himself had never been in Vietnam.
In that moment, I realized I had been carrying around a long-standing story that simply was not true. Still, the experience was memorable. I may not have discovered the connection I thought I had, but I did get to hear the truth directly from one of the most influential singer-songwriters of his generation.
Years later, I learned that James Taylor would be performing at Jones Beach. I reached out to Michael Landau to see whether he would be part of Taylor’s celebrated all-star band. Once he confirmed that he would be on the tour, I submitted a request for a photo and press pass.
Unfortunately, the day before the show, I received an email from Live Nation informing me that my request had not been approved by the tour.
Disappointed but still hopeful, I contacted Michael to let him know what had happened. I also asked him to keep me in mind if he happened to be performing at The Iridium again in the future.
His response was simple: “Hang on a sec.”
A few hours later, Michael emailed me to let me know that two tickets would be waiting for me at will call.
And what a night it turned out to be.
For nearly two and a half hours, James Taylor and his all-star band delivered an unforgettable performance filled with beloved hits, exceptional musicianship, and the warmth that has made Taylor such a lasting presence in American music. The show was a reminder of why he has remained a musical icon for so many decades.
From a backstage handshake in Buffalo to an unexpected invitation at Jones Beach, my experiences surrounding James Taylor have been filled with memorable moments, surprising truths, and the kind of music that continues to connect generations.
Long Island Sounds 