Album Notes

Beautiful Road is Kate's 4th album. Like her earlier works, she is supported by a line-up of unsurpassable musicians. On this collection she is backed by Tony Garnier, Arlen Roth, Shannon Ford and Mindy Jostyn. In addition, an all star compliment of musicians including Mavis Staples (The Staple Singers), Levon Helm (The Band), and Chuck Leavell (keyboardist for The Rolling Stones) make outstanding guest appearances. The album was produced by Charlie Witham and Tony Garnier.

Timothy White, editor in chief of BILLBOARD Magazine, said of "Auld Lang Syne" (track 10), "Like moonlight across an autumn pond, Kate's reedlike alto shimmers and glides upon the acoustic guitar accompaniment and backing harmony of brother James." White describes "I Will Fly," (track one), as "a simple masterpiece, elegant and direct that has the indelible folk-gospel feel of an American Classic."

For Kate, Beautiful Road breaks new ground in her musical career. Her evolution as a musician has developed a style that is able to reflect experiences that are both personal and universal. Beautiful Road is being released by Taylor's own label, Front Door Records, a record company she and Charlie Witham, her husband and manager, established 3 years ago. Charlie passed away last September, and Beautiful Road is dedicated to his memory.

Kate says, "We chose 'Beautiful Road' (written by Erica Wheeler) as the title track for the album because the metaphor of a beautiful road so poignantly describes the journey one takes through life. The songs on this record represent moments along that journey. Some are uplifting, there are moments that are reflective and sorrowful, and then there are others that are lighthearted and full of joy."