Musician behind iconic 1960s hits dies at 86

Songwriter Chip Taylor — best known for writing the classic hit “Wild Thing” — has died at the age of 86.

News of his passing was shared on March 24 by his friend and fellow musician Billy Vera, who posted on social media, “RIP: Chip Taylor, my friend and songwriting mentor, last night in hospice,” alongside a photo of the two together.

Taylor’s children, Kris and Kelly, later confirmed the news in a message to fans, writing, “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 was the younger brother of actor Jon Voight and geologist Barry Voight. He was also the uncle of actress Angelina Jolie and her brother, James Haven.