Chip Taylor, Singer of 'Wild Thing,' Dies at 86

James Wesley Voight, better known as Chip Taylor, the songwriter responsible for hits like 'Wild Thing' and 'Angel of the Morning,' has died at the age of 87. Taylor’s career was remarkably diverse, encompassing songwriting for legendary artists, a career as a professional gambler, and ownership of a record label. His death, occurring in a hospice following his birthday, represents the end of a long and influential musical journey.

Taylor’s musical career began with a surprising detour – he initially pursued a professional golfing career before transitioning to songwriting in the 1960s. He quickly found success, co-writing ‘Wild Thing’ for The Troggs, a song that became a massive hit and remains instantly recognizable. Beyond his songwriting, Taylor was also a shrewd businessman, establishing his own record label, which signed and nurtured numerous artists. Notably, Taylor’s estate has recently been the subject of legal disputes involving actress Angelina Jolie, who was named as a beneficiary in his will, adding a complex and somewhat controversial element to his legacy. His passing underscores the lasting impact of his contributions to popular music and the often-unconventional paths taken by successful artists.

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