At the core of Taylor’s talent is songwriting. In 1988 he was a finalist in the famous Kerrville New Folk competition. With the exception of two songs Taylor has written or co-written all the material on his recordings. A slew of other artists have cut his tunes as well, including Jerry Jeff Walker, and the Lost Gonzo Band, Gary P. Nunn (15 cuts on 3 CDs), Michael Hearne & South by Southwest, Joe Pat Hennen, Mike Graham, Doc Wesson, Tommy Alverson, Brian Burns, and several others.
His style is upbeat, down-home and magnetic. His ability to engage spirited audience participation in sing-a-longs, limbo contests and untamed conga lines one moment and in their seats spellbound the next is what makes Taylor stand out among entertainers. For every two or three of his good time, country, rocking tunes, Taylor delivers a poignant ballad about life and the passion and resilience required to get through it.
A new role Taylor has taken on it that of Record Producer. In the last 5 years he has produced 3 compilation CDs, Live From Meridian, 2 albums for up and coming young artist, Mike Graham and Brand New Day for longtime songwriter friend, Joe Pat Hennen and most recently Abby Abernathy’s Short Stories.
Another thick layer to LJT is that of Music Promoter and Festival Producer. Taylor has hosted a Texas Music Festival in April for 15 years in a row with crowds over 15,000 in attendance for this four-day event. Taylor’s 11th Annual festival was featured as one of the top 5 music events in the state in the December 1998 Performing Songwriter magazine. In 1998 he initiated an annual “Island Time Festival” in Port Aransas, TX with the same musical format. Individual artists as well on radio stations seek Taylor’s help when promoting their own events. As long as it’s for the promotion of singer/songwriters, Taylor enthusiastically shares his expertise.