While the name Chip Taylor may not be instantly recognizable, you've certainly heard two of the songwriter's best-known compositions. He's the man behind the '60s gem, 'Wild Thing' and the pop smash, 'Angel of the Morning' (remade in 1980 by Juice Newton). His songs have also been recorded and performed by -- among countless others -- Anne Murray, Janis Joplin and Ike and Tina Turner. He also happens to be a professional gambler and the brother of Oscar-winning actor Jon Voight (and Angelina Jolie's uncle).


In 2002, after meeting fellow artist (and expert fiddle player) Carrie Rodriguez at Austin's South by Southwest festival, the two teamed up for the first of three critically-acclaimed Americana albums. Now, 13 of their collaborative tunes have been collected for 'The New Bye & Bye - The Best of the Train Wreck Years 2002 - 2007,' named so because they are on the Train Wreck Records label. In addition, four new tracks have been recorded, joining highlights from the albums 'Let's Leave This Town,' 'The Trouble With Humans,' 'Red Dog Tracks' and 'Live From the Ruhr Triennale.'

The album closes with live versions of 'Angel of the Morning' and 'Wild Thing,' performed with an all-star band which includes guitarist Buddy Miller and pedal steel guitarist Greg Leisz (Joni Mitchell, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss).

Chip will take roots music to the Big Apple next week, curating the Americana Music Association's first annual 'Americana Live' showcase, taking place Oct 20 - 22 at the Rodeo Bar and Hill Country, and featuring performances by artists including Jim Campilongo, Bill Kirchen and Cindy Cashdollar. Chip performs with singer-songwriter Kendel Carson on Oct 22, along with the Beauties and Oh Susanna. More information is available at the Americana Music Association website.

Chip and Carrie will play several shows together this fall. Click here for tour dates.

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