457. James Taylor / Junkies Lament

[@russell_szabados]

I didn’t realize James Taylor was dealing with that issue as late as 1975, I read somewhere it had ended very early in his recording career. Then again, I went through it and quit in 2009, and it doesn’t just go away, it takes years to find any semblance of stability. More power to him to have remained on the right side of sobriety. Thank you for sharing this song.

[@lelandsklar6363]

He dealt with Methodone for a while and that was what set the journey to cleaning up and getting his life in order.

[@iyot1020]

his addictions and addictive personality is what makes james a great song writer. hell most great artists are fighting some sort demon one way or the other drugs is a double edge sword it can unlock great creativity that leads to great art and it can also destroy

[@MelodyPierson1818]

I think this particular song was about his brother.

[@czgrammy14]

Leland...I have been in love with James and Linda especially, since the late 60’s...and therefore you, Waddy, Kootch, Kenny E, Andrew Gold, Russ Kunkle...have seen you guys in countless live venues..love, love, love. Never stop. You are remarkable! Eternal love and adm! 💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙

[@diederikvanvleuten8341]

They don’t seem to write such great songs anymore. One of JT’s very best. Wonderful harmonies. Great bass and beautiful Art Garfunkel backing vocal. There is a unbelievable live version on JT ‘s live at the Beacon. Thanks Lee you are amazing.

[@guitarstrunged]

That's funny. Backup singers Simon and Garfunkel.

[@Ian-Steele]

Thanks Lee for playing this for us. I love the albums that James put out about that time. From the same album the tracks: Everybody Has The Blues and Captain Jim’s Drunken Dream are great, but little known. 😄

[@jamesbeshears6717]

This song and the two you mentioned are my favorite songs on In the Pocket. Take care be safe ✌❤😷🎶🍏

[@joemessina3343]

Thanks Leland, you brought a tear to my eye. I lived on those songs, sound tracks to my youth, watching you play it made my day. Take Care

[@blueplateradio2]

Listening to you play this song with Frankenstein makes me realize how much of you and that bass were such an integral part of James Taylor's sound. Thanks for making us smile all these years.

[@merc1110]

You rock Leland! Great Bass on Junkies Lament. You are the best.

[@mikeclemens4134]

Thank-you Lee! One of so many songs - album cuts - you guys recorded with JT that was in my mind every day. And still is on long walks to this day. All the best.

[@PeaceMusic53]

Nice to see you playing again. James was also lucky to have so many great musicians supporting him. Thanks.

[@richardmoney3671]

Woman’s Got To Have It your track is remarkable,,Rick L D Wayne…

[@alexr4151]

The lyrics are as brutal as the bass line is sublime. Thank you, Lee.

[@sceiron1]

Indeed they are.

[@rikconverse8726]

The whole ending "La-la-la" part goes off into a different tangent and is almost Symphonic or a Choral feel. Lovely. (Almost like a prayer)

[@richieammons-vo2001]

love this era of JT, thanks for this inside look.

[@victorhawkins3461]

As many times as I DID play this on radio, WATCHING you play this was an absolute joy, sir! Listening, I could still see the Warner Bros. label spinning on the turntable, the audio board in front of me, and the sun shining through the control room window. Love that album! (I probably played WOMAN'S GOTTA HAVE IT more than JUNKIE'S LAMENT, but I sho' 'nuff played 'em both!)

[@johnsworldofvideopoker]

You have the tastiest bass lines in the world, Leland. What a musical voice you have. Thank you, for being the “great melodic artiste” that you are. Love you, brother!🙌🏻🙌🏻🍎

[@RIPolos]

I love this album so much. Such a gorgeous song about a horrific illness. He's such an example of how to turn a life around. I love how he's not afraid to talk about it. Beautiful base sound!

[@rikconverse8726]

The Clubhouse on the 17th is just your way of celebrating St. Patrick's Day with us all! I'm on to your sly ways, Boy-o! Slanche! ;-)

[@kennonmoen4424]

Again you hit those low double stops that many bass players avoid and you and Frankenstein pull it off beautifully. And the rest of the bass line is just so musical. Thanks for taking the time to play again, but don’t feel you have to-you’re a great DJ, too. Stay safe and stay well!

[@dmlevitt]

thank you Leland. I requested this song yesterday in comments. I love this song. painful though it is. thank you. clubhouse tomorrow. beautiful bass line. I have listened to that LP and that song hundreds and hundreds of times. "in the pocket" is a fantastic album.

[@toddlentner1708]

Frankenstein is alive! Enjoy your stories and music. Thanks, Leland!

[@timobriant]

Thanks for doing this one, Lee. One of my deep-cut favorites from JT. It is easy to hear the pain that he was going through at the time. I've always been so impressed by your sensibility and instincts about where to go on the fretboard. Beautiful work by you and the whole group.

[@Elpuma1374]

Afternoon Lee!! Thank you sooo much for playing for us today, and thank you for entertaining us all. Cheers!!

[@sandrasmith7501]

The 70's WERE a most remarkable time for the community of great musicians....and music lovers like me. Enjoy this channel so much. Nice bass line on Frankenstein there, Mr. Sklar. James Taylor's voice takes me back to that time faster than anyone else...except maybe Crosby, Still, Nash and Young. TY, Sir. Happy you'll be back with your bandmates soon!

[@candelise]

This is one of my favourite songs that JT has ever done. Always hear this song with a tear in my eye. Perhaps if radio was of the more free form situation it used to be this song and the many others mentioned might be noticed more. You session guys of this period were the best. Thank you Mr Sklar!

[@Maurice75]

Sir, you are awesome. Thank you for the pills of pure wisdom to make this quarantine more barrable or palatable.

[@terriblemook]

So good, Sir...lovely song and beautiful bass. Thank you. Can’t wait to see you and join everyone else at the livestream. Love to see the hot rod...Stay safe.🖕 ps...I would never trust Frankenstein with the airlines....or anyone else

[@sceiron1]

@terrible mook totally agree with you on Frankenstein, that is one priceless instrument and I'm not talking money, I probably wouldn't even trust myself if I had something like that.🙄

[@w.geoffreyspaulding6588]

@@sceiron1 I wonder where it will eventually end up? Smithsonian? Hopefully, not for MANY more years, I mean.

[@terriblemook]

@@w.geoffreyspaulding6588 Smithsonian, I love that idea

[@sceiron1]

@@w.geoffreyspaulding6588 perfect place for such a treasure. but as yousay not for many many many years.👍

[@844jimthompson]

Love to take a tour of the hot-rod Lee..

[@TFinSF]

...and take it for a spin early in the morning so that we wake the neighbors.

[@robertruth3281]

Glad to see another "Clubhouse" tomorrow!!!! Missed the last one.... was in the middle of a 51 hour power loss down here in Houston during the "new ice age" event!!!!!!! See you tomorrow!

[@lelandsklar6363]

Will be great to have you back!

[@TheClimberbob1]

OMG, THIS is officially the coolest thing I've seen since the web came out (except for maybe that space jump). Lee, thank you so much for inviting us into your living room and being able to see you play a while song instead of an occasional glimpse. The cadences flow like water. I met you in Turner's booth at NAMM in 2017 and you were approachable and kind in answering my question about the creative process. This is best side of what the web was made for. Thanks again

[@keesvanduffelen4363]

Everyday I love to see and listen to your daily update😊. Here in the Netherlands its already 22:34hrs 🥱😴😴

[@DustyMagroovy]

Wow great cut! One of the sleepers for sure! Always loved it.

[@gustavoborchert]

Leland, you and Frankstein sound fabulous together. Thanks for this...

[@mikeclemens4134]

Such an incredible honest song by JT trying to deal with addiction at the time. Lee's bass, for me, makes the song feel like the stuck in late afternoon traffic in a city - a guy getting edgy before he could get his next fix. Lee adds SO much to these songs...

[@garytoro2]

Another great tune. Thanks again and enjoy your day. Finally a ride in the Hot Rod 😀. Will really appreciate that 🖕🖕🖕

[@Pladderkasse]

Love those chords at "baby, don't throw your love away..." and onwards, it's amazing how well that works, when its not overused.

[@rickhill8320]

A beautiful performance of your bass part on this.

[@Linda-wk9ue]

Beautiful song 🎵 Remembering my young cousin with this tune. Following Mr. Taylor's channel. Glad he's adding things ❤ Have a wonderful day Leland and stay safe and play with the pups. Gotta look into the clubhouse thing, I'm intrigued 🙂🖕

[@FreedomRock44]

Got my Book today and saw James giving a nice hello X 2 on the same page(hahaha)!!!!! Lee the book is so well done.......I love the set up... The injured finger page........The Christmas page.....Top right........Yowza!!!!! The bearded fellas Page!!!!!! The Quad Spiderman Hello!!!! Lyle Lovett on a gurney giving you some love!!!!! All of it. Well organized and Well Done.....right down to the packaging! Thanks for signing my book Leland I will cherish it!!!!!!

[@sceiron1]

As Ian Steele said to me if people want to look at it make sure they bring some soft cotton gloves, 😊 I added don't let it cross the threshold now that it's inside. it is ideed something to be cherished. Got mine personalised as well.

[@w.geoffreyspaulding6588]

@@sceiron1 moi aussi!

[@bazgolin1036]

@@w.geoffreyspaulding6588 Ditto!

[@kerrykingcreates]

One of my favorites. it’s hard to rank these, but my gut says top 10 of my favorites I never get tired of it

[@erickorte2552]

In my own world of musicians I didn't do drugs but played with many that had addiction issues. Very difficult to deal with at times.

[@lelandsklar6363]

It could be very hard....

[@knotheadusc]

I can't listen to In The Pocket and not remember my college years. This album was new when I was three years old, but I got obsessed with James Taylor sometime around 1990. Whenever I listen to his albums from the 70s, I remember my young years in the 90s. It's really inspiring to hear and watch you play along with this classic. I love Gorilla, too. Actually, I love them all, but especially the 70s stuff. Flag is probably my favorite, even though it's probably not one of his most critically acclaimed. I love the way James reworked "Up On The Roof".

[@filton12]

Hey Lee. San Jose area PBS is showing Carole King's and James Taylor's 2007 concert from the Troubador tonight (3/1). I've my DVR to record, I'll keep an eye out for you.

[@bobbygriz5648]

James was fortunate to have had you in his life and vice versa❤🙏👍🎸

[@KristopherCraig]

This has always been on of my favourite JT tunes. I’m so glad you choose to do it. In The Pocket is such a great album! That era is such a great time for music in general. Thanks for sharing.

[@alaincroisoeuil2110]

... your bass part on "New Mama" on Stephen Stills LP,, so beautiful (thank you Neil...)

[@theresaguynn4893]

Le , I think of you and Russ, and Danny as the originals of the JT Essence! All his players have been incredible but you guys are the originals . I never get tired of seeing you guys!

[@bazachyleston8915]

El Maestro of folk bass guitar.!!!🎉 😊❤

[@Larkpine]

Thanks, of course I adore JT, admire him. Greatful he is still with us. Some amazing people have overcome their addictions. He is unique caring, humorous man. Always enjoy your amazing history with so many greats. Another treat to hear you play. 💗🎶😊

[@Bothtapes]

2 more off that great album, Golden Moments...which I wanted at my old pals funeral....and Slow Burning Love, just great tracks, thanks for bringing out those hidden jems for people to get turned on to.... another great unique bass part on Junkies Lament... Thank you Leland.

[@FrankDudgeon]

Wonderful song. Hadn't heard it in years. Thank you.

[@maiziemom]

So happy/excited for you and the band to get together again physically! So awesome ...😎

[@michaelhorozko2347]

Such a Great song and my Fav James Album. Thank you for showing me that Bass line, so so smooth and tasty! Your Frankenstein is your nicest sounding Bass to my ear.

[@scottschramm7910]

What a composition! How do you construct something like that? From the opening notes, right through the end... how you do it? Maybe it’s better I can’t play anymore....

[@kimhebert9905]

I'm an album guy.. I love when you bring up da lesser popular tunes 🎶🎶Thx!

[@samsticka]

I first bought "In The Pocket" on CD in 1999. I had no idea that "A Junkie's Lament" was about James and his addiction. It was before I found out he was a drug addict.

[@billburkhead9737]

I enjoy the "back stories" and this tune always touched me even though I wasn't connected to drugs in any way. The transparency and emotion of this song was coupled with some very smooth sounds and backup singing. I especially liked how the ending completely changed the song - sort of a "stop and think" moment. Great choice - love your reflections on the song.

[@geminidreamno2]

Your bass notes were so beautifully executed and melodic. I loved watching your flow up and down the neck.

[@47heritage]

Hi Lee. I just sent you a FB message as I wasn't getting any comments when I first watched this post. But it's looking just fine now. Your bass part was so perfect for this song. Looking forward to tomorrows Live Stream. See ya then!!!

[@sethcashman1011]

Met Russ Titelman a couple of years ago while we were both in the crowd enjoying a set by Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks (Mel Brooks was there, as well). Lovely guy. Got a couple of great photos of Russ and Vince hamming it up.

[@markschramer8247]

I can't wait to see the hot rod! 😆

[@danrae1737]

I played these "mid-career" albums a great deal. Even from a writer of personal songs, this song stood out. Thx. oh, and I reckon you'll quit "and um"', about the time you grease your chair! Much love

[@lelandsklar6363]

I don’t hear it any more and had to laugh when the song ended and I leaned to shut off the computer and heard it squeak

[@martinschwartz2512]

Hi, Lee. I donated a few shekels to Arnold McCuller's GoFundMe for David Lasley. David was such a wonderful background singer to all those JT songs (and for others).

[@lelandsklar6363]

Heartbreaking what he is dealing with at this time of his life.

[@samsticka]

@@lelandsklar6363 What's wrong with David?

[@alaincroisoeuil2110]

I've been listening JT since his Apple record and one of my favourite is "In The Pocket" and "Gorilla" with you Lee on bass and so much more . Thank you again !!!!

[@andycharron4966]

I didn’t know that song, thx for sharing; and I say, that’s one of the loveliest bass lines I’ve heard you play, a musical story in itself

[@scottgoldstein6074]

Top 5 JT song for me! I’ve always loved this one. So honest, raw and beautiful.

[@jasonb2180]

Leland, I really find it cool how much you love that bass. I am a drummer (and also play a little guitar), and I have a few cymbals and a snare that I feel that way about. Your history with that bass is more than mine with my gear, but I really understand that physical, visceral connection to instruments. I hope you keep playing it on your videos, and I always smile when you talk about it!!

[@TheWhollymoly]

"Mama, don't you call him my name..." The most heart-wrenching lyric I've ever heard.

[@susanschubert8213]

Thank you Leland.....i sang along...here in Iowa...never forgetting a song...a word. Schube 💟

[@tobisimmons9889]

Gosh your so charming from start to finish. I’m looking forward to my first attendance in the clubhouse tomorrow.

[@anthonycook4297]

I just love this bass line, Lee🙌🏽BRAVO ❗️❗️BASS ON... BASS BROTHER 😎

[@timothyabrown56]

Always liked Flag. Roll roll roll Brother Trucker.. Fun song!! James did a lot of fun songs. Eg. Damn this traffic jam

[@markschramer8247]

Good morning my friend! 👍

[@John-the-Bass]

An unusual track. Great bass part, thanks. I hope the film goes well. I am looking forward to seeing the hot rod!

[@jerrydesu]

Another fantastic JT song. Great to hear again. Thanks for sharing 😊

[@douglasdegraff8335]

Thank you Leland, the first two songs I ever heard from James Taylor was "Carolina in My Mind" and "Fire and Rain". There's no other voice in the world that sounds like him. Maybe Livingston a little bit, but James was given a voice like no other. Never heard the one you played for us today, so I Thank you so much for another gem. Take care Maureen and Leland and the Boys. Talk to ya soon, Doug

[@imsum1now]

Thank you again for sharing your genius and bringing great light. MAN!!! ty!

[@TheDp1965]

WOW! That was Awesome. HIghly recommend listening with headphones on. Thank you for sharing the great stories and wonderful music. Cheers.

[@tomfitzgerald7592]

A gem of a tune .

[@wayneburba9457]

Your absolutely right, friends should never want to see their friend in trouble. Would you ever reach out to him just to do one song on zoom or something?

[@lornestein7248]

Thanks for the classic JT track. Always been a personal fav. of mine.

[@vhm14u2c]

Nice song, and yep, have not heard before. Thanks for sharing!💕

[@sethcashman1011]

Enjoyed the heck out of this. So glad you and James ever found each other. Nice to hear this wonderful bass line front/center and played, no less, on the Tone Monster his damn self. Welcome back, Frank!

[@markburnham7512]

Thanks so much. Can't think of a better way to start my week than a JT song. Beautiful bass lines on that one.

[@sceiron1]

Wow Gail Levant, she has done some wonderful work with Dan Folelberg very cool lady.😊

[@davidmaraisthecampfireguit2596]

Utterly stunning bass-line, Lee. Sublime.

[@3falconer]

Absolutely magnificent

[@kjhammersteinMusic]

beautiful!! Thank you Lee for all the inspiration.

[@petersuson7958]

I like the song and have listened to that song a few days ago.

[@joshhannibal2267]

I have gone thru all of JTs discography but something about In The Pocket is just amazing, I love Gorilla and JT the album too. Stevie Wonder my first favorite artist of all time, is featured on “Dont Be Sad Cause Your Sun is Down” James Taylor is my second favorite of all time.

[@hans-christiantraute1914]

Wow, this is definitively a great song! Thank you for this video! 🤗

[@dbassman27]

Hi Lee. Also a new month. Great video (as usual).

[@enidsnarb]

Frankenstein Bass ! My favorite , a piano like quality! Thank You as always!

[@roadlizardcu8664]

Really like the bass line in this one and Family Man, kickin' album. Thank you.

[@stephanieoconnor9843]

this is such a gorgeous song

[@bradb2514]

I so enjoyed this. So special. Thanks so much!

[@scottlochhead9072]

Great song and beautiful bass playin Lee! :)

[@JOSEZAMBRANOCASSELLADIRECTOR]

Not related to this amazing video, but I just got one of your albums on vinyl, sealed, with THE SECTION, its called "Fork it over", and it is a-mazing. Thank you sir, for the music.

[@cfreeman5631]

I had forgotten this one, thanks. Great tune.

[@drdanonbass7978]

Awesome! Frankenstein sounds so good.