James Taylor Returns to Manila After 30 Years: A Retrospective
There are few musicians and artists who warrant a second viewing, not just due to the steep ticket prices, but James Taylor undoubtedly belongs to that elite group. His music and lyrics have endured the test of time, with his wisdom appearing vintage yet still resonant. Nostalgia isn’t the sole driver for his loyal audience, evident from the packed Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena on April 8, coinciding with the eve of Bataan Day and a total solar eclipse in his homeland.
Back in 1994, we were present at the Folk Arts Theater during Taylor’s initial Manila performance, another sold-out affair. Yet, due to the haze of memory, little stands out from that night, with even a young filmmaker among the crowd, whisked away after the show. It took three decades for the sequel to occur, delayed after Taylor’s scheduled 2017 appearance was canceled, purportedly due to concerns over the past administration’s “drug war.”
Patience pays off, not only for Taylor but also for his fans who transformed the MOA Arena into a colossal folk house and speakeasy. No one rushed through the 18 beloved songs that traversed the years, prompting many to realize that, to borrow from his lyrics, the key to aging gracefully lies in taking things in stride.
The performance commenced on the right note with “Something in the Way She Moves,” a song Taylor admitted to being comfortable performing publicly. The setlist featured title tracks from his later albums, like “Never Die Young” and “That’s Why I’m Here.”
The pedal steel guitar of Dean Parks added depth to “Anywhere Like Heaven,” portraying Taylor’s affinity for solitude amidst cityscapes. Gradually, Taylor introduced his All-Star Band, including the renowned drummer Steve Gadd, whose rhythmic finesse was showcased in a captivating drum solo.
Personal highlights included lesser-known gems like “Carolina in My Mind,” “Handyman,” and the timeless classic “Up on the Roof.” Each song evoked profound emotions and memories, reminiscent of bygone eras.
As the evening unfolded, Taylor’s rendition of “Long Ago and Far Away” featuring Joni Mitchell’s backup vocals, enhanced by bassist Jimmy Johnson, created an ethereal experience.
The evening concluded on an acoustic note with “You Can Close Your Eyes,” serving as a parting gift from the iconic singer.
Other band members, including keyboardist Kevin Hayes and backup vocalists Kate Markowitz, Dorian Holley, and Andrea Zonn, contributed to the magical atmosphere with their exceptional talents.
It took three decades, but the boomers embraced Taylor’s return with fervor, reminding us to approach life with calmness, akin to a blend of zen and judo, despite minor inconveniences like a jammed elevator filled with seniors before the show.
Encounters with familiar faces, such as the Guillermo family, post-concert, served as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of music, particularly during challenging times. Indeed, Taylor’s music has provided solace and strength to weather life’s storms, echoing Brecht’s sentiment that singing about dark times is a form of survival itself.
Entertainment News: James Taylor Returns to Manila After 30 Years: A Retrospective
