Carole King's Songbook

One of the most successful and enduring songwriters of all time, Carole King has had a guiding hand on the wheel of the pop vehicle for more than half a century. As well as establishing her own impressive reputation as a performer, she has written hundreds of compositions recorded by countless artists, including hits for The Shirelles, The Everly Brothers, Aretha Franklin, The Animals and Bobby Vee. 

Carole King - The Songbook Of Her Life celebrates that history, a 32-song concert event featuring the powerful vocal talents of Michelle Brasier (Children Of Eden, California Dreaming - The Music Of The Mammas & The Pappas, Legally Blonde) Erin Herrmann Young (The Marvellous Wonderettes, Bride Of Frankenstein) and Jessica Papst (Jesus Christ Superstar, Legally Blonde, Hairspray) taking on "the legend that is Carole King" backed by The Wonderland Avenue Band.

"Her talent as a singer-songwriter has stood the test of time and her music speaks to the hearts and souls of every generation," says Young. "King's catalogue is so varied. It's incredible," adds Brasier. "She's the greatest female songwriter of all time," finishes Papst.

The two-hour show features 32 tracks, which may seem like a lot, but whittling down a career that spans such a broad period of time and distinct array of styles - not to mention 118 Billboard Top 100 pop hits - can't have been an easy process. While the three young vocalists can agree on their absolute King favourite ("Tapestry. Hands down," enthuses Papst), it's clear from the trio's wider preferences that there is far more to love in King's deep catalogue than a single standout album.

"I would definitely say Tapestry, as I grew up listening to it, but her work with husband Gerry Goffin spanned over a decade, giving us Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow," says Young. Brasier, however, prefers The First Day In August, calling it "stunning". "It's so melancholy," muses Brasier.   

"I'm a sucker for the music she wrote for Aretha [Franklin]. Tapestry is the obvious answer but I also really love her doo-wopsy girl group songs. Apparently [King] hates them."

"I do love Oh No Not My Baby, Aretha Franklin's version is so funky you can't help but groove out to it," agrees Young.

Papst, on the other hand, has a soft spot for It's Too Late — "Such an honest story for the end of a romance."

All three of their choices are included in the production (plus plenty more from the iconic Tapestry LP), bringing to life "pieces that are relevant across generations," Papst reinforces. "Her stories are timeless."