Songwriter Chip Taylor, best known for writing the hit Wild Thing, has died at 86. His friend Billy Vera shared the news on March 24, writing, “RIP: Chip Taylor, my friend and songwriting mentor, last night in hospice.” Soon after, his children confirmed, “Hi all — we are sad to tell you that Chip passed away last night. His last days were peaceful.”

Born James Wesley Voight in 1940, Taylor came from a notable family, including his brother Jon Voight and niece Angelina Jolie. He began performing in the late 1950s before turning to songwriting, where he found lasting success.

Beyond “Wild Thing,” Taylor wrote Angel of the Morning, which became widely popular through Merrilee Rush. His songs were recorded by artists like Willie Nelson and Linda Ronstadt, highlighting his broad influence across music.

He also performed his own material, with “Early Sunday Morning” reaching No. 28 on the country charts. His decades of work were honored in 2016 when he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

In later years, Taylor stayed close to his audience. His family shared that he “loved the amazing blessing it was to connect with people through music” and “considered you all friends.” He is survived by his children and grandchildren, and was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Carole Frey.