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Carole King, an iconic figure in American pop music, is one of the most influential female pioneers in music. Born in Manhattan in 1942, her early career saw massive success with songwriting hits like “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” with partner Gerry Goffin. Her solo career breakthrough came with the Tapestry album, which remains a cultural milestone in classic rock music.
King’s talent for creating timeless hits led to numerous chart-topping albums and over 400 songs covered by other artists. Her financial success is largely due to her prolific songwriting royalties, multi-platinum records, and influence on generations, solidifying her status in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Carole Joan Klein |
| Stage Name | Carole King |
| Date of Birth | February 9, 1942 |
| Birthplace | Manhattan, New York City, USA |
| Age | 82 years (as of 2024) |
| Height | 5 ft 4 in (1.63 m) |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Pianist, Actor |
| Net Worth | $70 million |
| Education | James Madison High School, Queens College |
| Parents | Eugenia Klein (Mother), Sidney N. Klein (Father) |
| Children | Louise Goffin, Sherry Goffin Kondor, Molly Larkey, Levi Larkey |
| Number of Marriages | Four |
| Spouses | Gerry Goffin, Charles Larkey, Rick Evers, Rick Sorenson |
| Most Famous Album | Tapestry (1971) |
| Total Albums Sold | Over 75 million worldwide |
| Grammy Awards | 4 Wins |
| Hall of Fame Inductions | Twice: Songwriter (1990), Solo Artist (2021) |
| Residence | Idaho, USA |
| Major Collaborations | James Taylor, Gerry Goffin |
| Breakthrough Year | 1971 with Tapestry Album |
| Top Hit Songs | “It’s Too Late,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” “A Natural Woman” |
| Environmental Activism | Supporter of the Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act |
| Broadway Musical | Beautiful: The Carole King Musical |
| Genres | Pop, Rock, Folk, Soft Rock |
Carole King’s Early Life
Carole King was born on February 9, 1942, in Manhattan, New York City, to Eugenia and Sidney Klein. Her parents recognized her musical talents early on. By the age of three, she was already playing the piano and had an ear for music, showcasing a rare gift for melody and harmony. King’s upbringing in a musical household laid the groundwork for her future career as a songwriting partner and performer.
In her teenage years, Carole attended James Madison High School and later enrolled at Queens College. It was here that she began her professional journey into music, meeting her first songwriting partner Gerry Goffin. Together, they formed a powerful creative duo that would soon dominate the American pop music scene of the 1960s.
Personal Life, and Business Ventures
Carole King has been married four times and has four children: Louise, Sherry, Molly, and Levi. Despite her immense success, she faced personal challenges, including difficult relationships and the ups and downs of fame. These experiences often influenced her songwriting, adding a layer of authenticity to her music.
King is an active environmentalist. She has supported the Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act, showcasing her commitment to environmental activism. Her efforts extend beyond music, demonstrating her passion for making a positive impact on the world.
Collaborative Songwriting and Early Success
King and Goffin became a formidable team, crafting numerous chart-topping hits that defined the era. One of their first major successes was “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” performed by The Shirelles. This song became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing the couple’s knack for creating relatable and catchy tunes. Their partnership produced many more classics, such as “The Loco-Motion” and “One Fine Day”, which remain major hit songs of the 1960s.
The hit songs of the 1960s and 70s solidified King’s status as a leading figure in the music industry. The royalties from these songs became a significant source of income for King, contributing to her growing financial legacy.
Breakthrough with Tapestry
The turning point in Carole King’s career came in 1971 with the release of her landmark album, Tapestry. This album not only marked her transition from a behind-the-scenes songwriter to a solo artist but also became one of the most celebrated music albums of all time. Tapestry album featured several classic hits, including “It’s Too Late,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.”
The album’s success was staggering. It topped the Billboard chart history, staying at No. 1 for 15 consecutive weeks and selling over 30 million copies worldwide. The album’s multi-platinum status added a significant boost to King’s earnings. Her achievement with Tapestry earned her multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, solidifying her status as a Grammy-winning artist.
| Tapestry Album Key Facts | |
| Release Year | 1971 |
| Weeks at No. 1 | 15 |
| Total Sales | 30+ million copies |
| Hit Singles | “It’s Too Late,” “You’ve Got a Friend” |
Financial Success and Songwriting Royalties
The revenue generated from songwriting royalties has been a major component of Carole King’s wealth. Her vast catalog of over 400 songs has been covered by numerous artists, ensuring a steady stream of royalty income. Songs like “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” famously performed by Aretha Franklin, have become timeless classics. Further adding to King’s income through song licensing in TV and film.
King’s involvement in film and TV soundtracks has also contributed to her financial success. Her music features in popular shows and movies, such as Gilmore Girls, which used “Where You Lead” as its theme song. These licensing deals have added substantial value to her overall net worth.
Collaborations and James Taylor Partnership
One of the most significant partnerships in King’s career was with fellow musician James Taylor. Their collaboration produced memorable performances and songs that are still celebrated today. The duo’s Troubadour Reunion Tour in 2010 was a massive success, grossing over $59 million. This tour not only highlighted their incredible chemistry but also reinforced their music industry influence.
The live performances and tours have played a vital role in maintaining King’s financial standing, demonstrating her continued relevance in the world of classic rock music.
Awards, Recognitions, and Legacy in Music
Throughout her career, Carole King has received numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. Her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. These awards reflect her impact on the music industry, as well as her influence on generations of musicians. King is often recognized as one of the female pioneers in music, with a lasting legacy that extends beyond her own performances.
Her influence is also seen in Broadway, where her life and music were celebrated in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. This Broadway musical tribute was a massive hit, bringing her story to a new audience and further cementing her place in popular culture.
What is Carole King Net Worth 2023
As of 2024, Carole King net worth is estimated at $70 million. Her income sources include songwriting royalties, album sales, live performances, and music licensing deals. Her financial success is a testament to her talent, hard work, and smart management of her music catalog.
FAQ’s
How Much Money Did Carole King Make?
Carole King has earned an estimated $70 million throughout her career, primarily from her songwriting royalties, album sales, and music licensing deals. The enduring popularity of her music continues to generate significant income.
Where Does Carole King Currently Live?
Carole King resides in Idaho, where she has lived for several years. She prefers a quiet life away from the spotlight, enjoying the natural beauty and privacy that the region offers.
Who Has Carole King Been Married To?
Carole King has been married four times: first to Gerry Goffin (1960-1968). Then to Charles Larkey (1970-1976), followed by Rick Evers (1977-1978), and lastly to Rick Sorenson (1982-1989).
Did Carole King and James Taylor Date?
No, Carole King and James Taylor did not date. Although they shared a close professional and personal friendship, their relationship was strictly platonic and focused on their musical collaborations.
What Is Carole King’s Most Famous Album?
Carole King’s most famous album is Tapestry, released in 1971. It features timeless classics like “It’s Too Late” and “You’ve Got a Friend,” and has sold over 30 million copies worldwide.
How Many Grammy Awards Has Carole King Won?
Carole King has won four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year for Tapestry. Her work as a songwriter and performer has earned her recognition across several categories.
Is Carole King in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
Yes, Carole King was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. First as a songwriter in 1990 and later as a solo performer in 2021, honoring her extensive contributions to music.
What Are Carole King’s Most Popular Songs?
Some of Carole King’s most popular songs include “You’ve Got a Friend,” “It’s Too Late,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” and “Will You Love Me Tomorrow.” These tracks have been covered by numerous artists and remain classics.
Did Carole King Write Songs for Other Artists?
Yes, Carole King co-wrote many hits for other artists, especially with Gerry Goffin. Notable examples include “The Loco-Motion” for Little Eva and “Pleasant Valley Sunday” for The Monkees.
Has Carole King Acted in Movies or TV Shows?
Yes, Carole King has appeared in a few films and TV shows, including a guest role on Gilmore Girls as Sophie Bloom. Her song “Where You Lead” was also used as the theme song for the series.
Conclusion
Carole King is a legendary American songwriter known for her impact on 1970s music and beyond. Born in Manhattan in 1942, Carole started her career co-writing hits like “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” with partner Gerry Goffin. Her breakthrough came in 1971 with the iconic Tapestry album, a hallmark of classic rock music, earning her multiple Grammy Awards.
The album’s success and songwriting royalties boosted her net worth to an estimated $70 million. King’s influence includes collaborations with artists like James Taylor, chart-topping hits, and contributions to TV and film soundtracks. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, her legacy is marked by musical theater adaptations and ongoing cultural impact.
