Carole King's Tapestry

Carole King's album "Tapestry" is a seminal work that represents second-wave feminism and the Laurel Canyon singer-songwriter sound and scene. It reflects the freedom and independence that women of King's generation sought, and it challenged the male dominance of the music and entertainment industries, laying the groundwork for female-dominated genres such as women's music and Riot Grrrl punk.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 08 April 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Carole King's iconic album "Tapestry" stands as a powerful testament to second-wave feminism and the essence of the Laurel Canyon singer-songwriter scene. These two facets of the album's historical significance are intricately interconnected, as the professional autonomy of the singer-songwriter represents the freedom and independence that women of King's generation yearned for as the tumultuous sixties drew to a close. By contextualizing "Tapestry" within King's own journey from girl to woman and the broader transition in the music industry from teen-oriented singles by girl groups to albums by adult-oriented singer-songwriters, this volume establishes "Tapestry" as both a fulfillment of King's original vision as the third installment in a trilogy (following "Now That Everything's Been Said" and "Writer") and a pivotal moment in musical and cultural history. It challenges the male dominance prevalent in the music and entertainment industries and lays the groundwork for female-dominated genres like women's music and Riot Grrrl punk.

Carole King's album "Tapestry" is a remarkable achievement that encapsulates both the spirit of second-wave feminism and the essence of the Laurel Canyon singer-songwriter scene. Its significance extends far beyond its musical merits, as it serves as an anthemic embodiment of the freedom and independence that women of King's generation sought during a transformative era.

Within the album's rich tapestry, King's personal journey from girl to woman is intricately woven with the broader shift in the music industry. As the sixties came to a close, the industry underwent a seismic transformation, moving away from the teen-oriented singles of girl groups towards the albums crafted by adult-oriented singer-songwriters. King's "Tapestry" stands as a watershed moment in this transition, aligning her own development with the larger shift in the industry.

By positioning "Tapestry" as the third installment in a trilogy, following her earlier albums "Now That Everything's Been Said" and "Writer," King establishes a clear artistic vision. This trilogy represents a journey of growth and self-discovery, with "Tapestry" serving as a pinnacle of artistic maturity and accomplishment. It not only showcases King's exceptional talent as a songwriter and performer but also demonstrates her commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms.

However, the significance of "Tapestry" extends beyond its artistic merits. It is a testament to the power of music to shape cultural and societal attitudes. Through its poignant lyrics and heartfelt melodies, "Tapestry" conveys a message of empowerment and resilience for women. It celebrates the strength and individuality of women, challenging the male-dominated narratives and stereotypes that had been prevalent in the music industry.

Moreover, "Tapestry" played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for female-dominated genres that emerged in the years following its release. Its fusion of pop, rock, and R&B influenced countless artists, inspiring them to explore their own creative voices and challenge traditional gender roles. The album's success paved the way for the emergence of Riot Grrrl punk, a movement that emerged in the early 1990s and aimed to empower and express the experiences of young women.

In conclusion, "Tapestry" by Carole King is a masterpiece that transcends its musical origins. It is an anthemic embodiment of second-wave feminism, a celebration of the Laurel Canyon singer-songwriter sound and scene, and a watershed moment in musical and cultural history. Through its powerful lyrics, melodies, and artistic vision, "Tapestry" empowered women, challenged male dominance, and paved the way for the emergence of female-dominated genres. It remains a timeless testament to the enduring power of music to shape society and inspire generations to come.

Weight: 124g
Dimension: 164 x 120 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501355622