Carole King, born Carol Joan Klein on February 9, 1942, in Manhattan, New York, is a distinguished American singer-songwriter and musician whose career has spanned over six decades.Renowned for her profound impact on the music industry, King has crafted an extensive catalog of songs that have resonated with audiences worldwide.
- Age: 82 Years
- Date of Birth: February 9, 1942
- Birth Place: Manhattan, New York
- Weight: 54 kilograms (119 lbs)
- Height: 5 feet 2 inches (157.5 cm).
- Net Worth: $100 million
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Raised in a Jewish family in Brooklyn, New York, Carole King exhibited musical talent from a young age.Her parents, Sidney and Eugenia Klein, recognized her aptitude and supported her early musical education.By the age of four, King had begun learning the piano, and by ten, she was already an accomplished pianist.During her time at James Madison High School, she formed a vocal quartet called the Co-Sines and adopted the stage name “Carole King.”Her early exposure to the vibrant New York music scene played a pivotal role in shaping her future career.
Songwriting Partnership with Gerry Goffing
In the late 1950s, while attending Queens College, King met Gerry Goffin, who would become her first husband and songwriting partner.The duo married in 1959 and began writing songs together, achieving their first major success with “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” performed by The Shirelles.This song became the first No. 1 hit by an African-American girl group and marked the beginning of a prolific period for King and Goffin.Together, they penned numerous hits, including “The Loco-Motion” for Little Eva and “Up on the Roof” for The Drifters, solidifying their status as one of the most successful songwriting teams of the era.
Transition to Performing and Solo Success
Despite her success as a songwriter, King initially faced challenges in establishing herself as a performer.Her debut album, “Writer” (1970), received a lukewarm response.However, her second album, “Tapestry” (1971), became a monumental success, topping the U.S. album chart for 15 weeks and remaining on the charts for more than six years.The album featured classics like “It’s Too Late,” “I Feel the Earth Move,” and “You’ve Got a Friend,” earning King four Grammy Awards and cementing her status as a leading figure in the music industry.
Continued Musical Contributions
Following the success of “Tapestry,” King released several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including “Music” (1971), “Rhymes & Reasons” (1972), and “Wrap Around Joy” (1974).Her ability to blend personal storytelling with universal themes resonated with audiences, and her influence extended beyond her own performances, as many artists covered her songs, further amplifying her impact on popular music.
Personal Life and Family
Carole King’s personal life has been marked by several marriages and a dedication to her family.She has been married four times: to Gerry Goffin, Charles Larkey, Rick Evers, and Rick Sorenson.King is a mother to four children, including musicians Louise Goffin and Sherry Goffin Kondor, and artist Molly Larkey.In her 2012 memoir, King revealed that her marriage to Rick Evers was marred by abuse; Evers died of a cocaine overdose shortly after their separation in 1978.As of November 2018, King resides in Idaho, embracing a life away from the public eye.
Accolades and Legacy
Throughout her career, Carole King has received numerous accolades recognizing her contributions to music. She has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, both as a performer and songwriter.In 2013, she became the first woman to receive the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, and in 2015, she was honored at the Kennedy Center.Her record sales are estimated at over 75 million copies worldwide, reflecting her enduring appeal and the timeless quality of her music.
Net Worth and Financial Success
Carole King’s financial success mirrors her prolific career in the music industry.As of recent estimates, her net worth is approximately $100 million.This wealth is attributed to her extensive catalog of hit songs, successful albums, and royalties from the numerous artists who have covered her work.Additionally, her involvement in various tours and live performances has contributed to her financial standing.
Cultural Impact and Influence
Carole King’s influence extends beyond her commercial success.Her songwriting has been celebrated for its emotional depth, melodic richness, and relatability.She has inspired countless artists across various genres, and her work continues to be studied and revered by musicians and fans alike.The Broadway musical “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,” which opened in 2014, chronicles her life and career, introducing her legacy to new generations and highlighting her significant impact on the music industry.
Philanthropy and Activism
Beyond her musical achievements, Carole King is known for her environmental activism.She has been involved in various initiatives aimed at preserving natural landscapes and has used her platform to advocate for environmental causes.Her commitment to activism reflects her broader concern for societal issues and her desire to effect positive change beyond the realm of music.
Conclusion
Carole King’s remarkable journey from a young songwriter in Brooklyn to an iconic figure in the music industry is a testament to her talent, resilience, and enduring appeal.Her contributions have left an indelible mark on popular music, and her legacy continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.
