Chip Taylor, the iconic songwriter behind the timeless hit “Wild Thing,” has died at 86. The beloved musician passed away in hospice care just days after celebrating his birthday, according to his close friend and Grammy-winning producer Billy Vera.
“RIP: Chip Taylor, my friend and songwriting mentor,” Vera shared in an emotional Instagram tribute.
Born James Wesley Voight in Yonkers, New York, Taylor came from a famous family—he was the brother of actor Jon Voight and the uncle of Angelina Jolie. But while his relatives found fame on screen, Taylor carved out his own powerful legacy in music.
And what a legacy it was.
He wrote “Wild Thing” in 1965, a song that would explode into one of the most recognizable rock anthems of all time after being recorded by The Troggs. It shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1966 and held the top spot for two weeks, cementing Taylor’s place in music history.
But that was just the beginning.
Taylor also penned “Angel of the Morning,” another classic that’s been recorded by multiple artists over the years. His songwriting reached far and wide, with legends like Willie Nelson, Janis Joplin, Cliff Richard, and The Hollies all performing his work.
Beyond writing hits, Taylor built a career as a solo artist, releasing albums that blended Americana and country sounds. He even launched his own label, Train Wreck Records, in 2007. His 2009 album Yonkers NY earned praise for its raw, rootsy style.
Despite his famous connections, Taylor’s impact stood entirely on its own—built on decades of unforgettable music.
He is survived by his children and grandchildren. His wife, Joan Carole Frey, passed away in 2025.