Songwriter Chip Taylor — widely recognized as the creative force behind the enduring hit “Wild Thing” — has passed away at the age of 86.

The news of his death was shared on March 24 by his close friend and fellow musician Billy Vera, who took to social media to write, “RIP: Chip Taylor, my friend and songwriting mentor, last night in hospice,” alongside a photo capturing the two together.

Shortly afterward, Taylor’s children, Kris and Kelly, confirmed the loss in a heartfelt message to fans. They wrote, “Hi all — we are sad to tell you that Chip passed away last night. His last days were peaceful. Chip loved the amazing blessing it was to connect with people through music and truly appreciated this community. He considered you all friends. We will miss him greatly.”

Born James Wesley Voight in 1940, Taylor came from a family deeply rooted in both science and the arts. He was the younger brother of actor Jon Voight and geologist Barry Voight, and the uncle of actress Angelina Jolie and her brother, James Haven.

His journey into music began in the late 1950s, when he performed with the band Town Three and recorded under the name Wes Voight. Eventually adopting the stage name Chip Taylor, he found his true calling as a songwriter, crafting songs that would go on to define generations.

While “Wild Thing” remains his most iconic composition, his catalog extended far beyond a single hit. He wrote “Angel of the Morning,” a song that gained widespread recognition through Merrilee Rush’s recording, and his work was interpreted by artists such as Willie Nelson, Evie Sands, and Linda Ronstadt. His influence reached even further, with songwriting credits tied to performers including Janis Joplin, Cliff Richard, and The Hollies.

Though he was celebrated for writing songs for others, Taylor also stepped into the spotlight as a performer. His 1975 single “Early Sunday Morning” found success on the country charts, reaching No. 28 and showcasing his own voice and storytelling ability.

Over time, his contributions to the music industry were formally acknowledged. In 2016, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, a recognition that reflected decades of creativity and lasting impact on popular music.

In his later years, Taylor remained connected to his audience, valuing the relationships he built through his work and the community that supported him. According to his family, that connection meant a great deal to him, and he regarded his listeners not just as fans, but as friends.

He is survived by his children and grandchildren. Taylor was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Carole Frey, who passed away in June 2025.