The Story and Songs of
James Taylor: Bittersweet and Low

On tour

"Performed with passion and precision... a must see."
Whatsmyscene.com
James Taylor: Bittersweet and Low is a biographical show which tells the story and showcases the brilliant songs of folk-rock singer songwriter James Taylor.

It includes many of Taylor's hit songs, interspersed with the stories which illustrate the dramatic life of this driven, sensitive songwriter.

James Taylor caught the mood of the world in songs which blended late 60’s folk into the new rock, however his fragile health and addictive nature almost ended his career and his life. In the mid 70’s he was faced with a choice that would change everything.

A compelling story told through the songs that defined a generation.

In this brand new show John Fleming (Scared Weird Little Guys) displays the crystal voice, exceptional musicianship and clear storytelling that make this a performance not to be missed. “Carolina in my mind”, “Sweet Baby James”, Shower the people” and of course the iconic “Fire and Rain” with some of the loved music of Carole King, Joni Mitchell and Carly Simon.

Materials for promoters and presenters.

- Hi Res promotional images
​- Promotional videos
​- Technical information
- Marketing materials
​Here's a short teaser from the show. Scroll down for more clips.
The Show

Some years ago I had the idea of creating a show as a tribute to James Taylor. He was an obvious choice for me as he had been one of my early inspirations around songwriting and guitar playing. As I began to read about his life, listen to his huge catalogue of songs  and watch video clips of him I formed a new respect for his creative output, especially in the face of great personal troubles. It's been a real pleasure to complete this work and I'm very proud of the way it has come together.
​The Cast

I've been blessed to have a wonderful cast who have really put their stamp on the work.
Amanda Harrison is well known for her roles in Wicked, Miss Saigon, Aspects of Love, The boy from Oz and many more wonderful roles. She is a star of Australian music theatre and I am extremely fortunate to have her as part of the show singing the roles of Carole King, Carly Simon and Joni Mitchell.
Gavin Gray has been playing drums with me for years and when I have a show like this I need someone who can really hold things together. Gavin is the ideal person.
Doug Robertson has played with the Ice-cream Hands, Sherry Rich and many other bands as a great bass player and I happily discovered that he is also a wonderful singer, harmoniser and a huge fan of the music of JT as well.
Bruce Hames needs no introduction. Producer, Keyboardist and incredible all round musician. He's a huge asset to the show
Steve Rando is a fine Guitarist and singer as well and displays the subtlety needed for many of these songs as well as the ability to rock out when he has to.
Here's a couple of clips from the rehearsals, sounding great!
Here is a longer sampler of the show
The Music

In recent years James Taylor's music has been considered quite middle of the road and more easy listening, but in 1969 this music was a ground breaking blend of 60s folk and the evolving 70s rock. James Taylor's music often centres around his somewhat complex but very tasty guitar arrangements. It has taken me some time to get the pieces right and with all that practice under my belt I'm happy to say the songs are sounding really fine.
Thankyous

A show like this would not happen with out the generous support of quite a few people.
Vanessa White Graphic Design - So fast and such high quality result. Highly recommended
Maton Guitars - For my regular Maton Performer. What a great, reliable axe.
Judi Chaplin - Direction
Catherine Abel - for listening to my endless diatribes about the show
Mark Currie - Childcare and the use of a beautiful Taylor Guitar
Reuben and Violet Chaplin-Fleming - For putting up with a very busy Dad for quite a while now.