Chip Taylor, best known for writing the hit “Wild Thing,” has died at 86. His passing was confirmed on March 24 by his family and musician Billy Vera, who said he died peacefully in hospice.
Born James Wesley Voight, he was the brother of Jon Voight and uncle of Angelina Jolie.
Taylor built a legendary career as a songwriter, also writing “Angel of the Morning” and songs recorded by artists like Willie Nelson and Linda Ronstadt. He also released his own music, including “Early Sunday Morning.”
He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2016. Taylor is survived by his children and grandchildren, and was preceded in death by his wife in 2025.