James Taylor had been recording music and playing at clubs for a few years when he hit it big with “Fire and Ice” in 1970. His first album was recorded for The Beatles Apple music label. It sold only fairly well. Then he changed to Warner Music to record the album Sweet Baby James. That album included “Fire and Rain.” As this was recorded in Los Angeles, it has Carole King playing piano on the song. James would return the favor by playing on her Tapestry album.

The song is about the suicide of a childhood friend, and his experiences with drug addiction and fame. It would be just the first of the big hits by James.

“Fire and Rain” got up to #4 on the Cash Box Top 100 chart for 3 weeks (Nov. 1 -21). On the Billboard Hot 100 chart it did a little better, topping #3 for 3 weeks (Oct. 25 – Nov. 15).