About the song
Carole King’s live rendition of “(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman,” performed in Oakland in 1972, is a powerful showcase of her exceptional artistry and emotional depth. This iconic song, written by King along with Gerry Goffin and legendary songwriter Jerry Wexler, first debuted in 1967 and has since become a staple in the American music canon.
Originally recorded by Aretha Franklin, who brought it to prominence with her soulful interpretation, “(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman” quickly established itself as a classic. Franklin’s version, released in October 1967, reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is often cited as one of her definitive hits, earning a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame and cementing its status as a timeless anthem of empowerment and self-affirmation.
Carole King’s own performance of the song, captured live from Oakland in 1972, occurs during a pivotal time in her career. By 1972, King had released her groundbreaking album *Tapestry*, which not only solidified her as a formidable solo artist but also as a singer-songwriter capable of moving audiences with her intimate and heartfelt music. *Tapestry* became an immediate commercial and critical success, earning four Grammy Awards and establishing King as a leading voice in the singer-songwriter movement.
In her live performance of “(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman,” King brings a raw and poignant energy that resonates deeply with her audience. The 1972 Oakland concert, part of her ongoing promotional tour for *Tapestry*, captures the essence of her live shows during this era—marked by a genuine connection with her audience and a profound delivery of her songs.
This performance exemplifies Carole King’s ability to infuse her music with personal significance and universal appeal. Her rendition of “(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman” not only pays homage to Aretha Franklin’s version but also reaffirms King’s own role as a pivotal figure in the world of popular music. Through her live interpretation, King continues to demonstrate why her contributions to the music world remain influential and celebrated decades after their initial release.
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Lyrics
Looking out on the morning rain
I used to feel uninspired
And when I knew I had to face another day
Lord, it made me feel so tired
… Before the day I met you, life was so unkind
But your love was the key to my peace of mind
… ‘Cause you make me feel, you make me feel
You make me feel like a natural woman
… When my soul was in the lost-and-found
You came along to claim it
I didn’t know just what was wrong with me
‘Til your kiss helped me name it
… Now I’m no longer doubtful of what I’m living for
‘Cause if I make you happy I don’t need to do more
… And you make me feel, you make me feel
You make me feel like a natural woman
… Oh, baby, what you’ve done to me
You make me feel so good inside
And I just wanna be close to you
You make me feel so alive
… And you make me feel, you make me feel
You make me feel like a natural woman
… You know you, you make me feel
You know you make me feel like a natural woman
You know you make me
You make me
You make me feel
You know you make me feel
… I said you make me
You make me, you make me
You know you
You know you make me feel like a natural woman
A natural woman