“Carole King’s ‘Tapestry’ is 50 years old this year, and still stands as a landmark for female singer-songwriters taking the reigns. 1971 was an exceptionally good year for female music. Lots of brilliant albums were released; Joni MItchell’s ‘Blue’, Janis Joplin’s ‘Pearl’, the first Linda Ronstadt album, Diana Ross’ ‘Surrender’. Carole King tied all these together, having written (with Gerry Goffin) songs for black soul artists, being influenced by musical theater and loving folk and jazz. This playlist takes Carole King as a torch bearer for many great music released in 1971, including (at the end of this playlist) covers from her album. You’ll find ‘women’s lib’ soul, introspective folk, Brazilian and French songs and more. All female, all good.”

Guuz Hoogaerts