I have to be honest. I didn’t know much about Carole King when I heard that a Broadway musical about her was coming to town. I had heard the name, knew she was a singer, but didn’t know much more than that.

Turns out, yes, she’s a singer but she’s a songwriter first and foremost. And not just any songwriter, either. She’s the hugely successful wordsmith behind some of the most famous songs and singers of the 60s and 70s. (Actually, Buzzfeed did this story about some of the chart-topping songs you never knew were written by Carole King)

So, when I was asked with some local media folks to go to New York City to see the show before it comes to Cincinnati, I jumped at the opportunity, but I had NO idea how much I’d truly enjoy it.

I really loved how it was based on a true story, and it told the real history of what was happening in Carole’s personal life, paralleled with what was going on with her professionally, and how that inspired all these huge hits I’ve heard for years. It was like uncovering a treasure trove inside each song, realizing what they were REALLY about.

What I loved about it is that Carole’s life is so relatable. Even though she ended up being a famous singer in the limelight of fame and fortune, the majority of this show focuses on when she was very much behind the scenes, struggling to balance personal and professional demands… being a loving mom and doting wife while pursuing a career that she felt was her calling. Who can’t relate to some or ALL of that?!

It was also really interesting to learn about the music business in those days. I always envisioned the groups and singers writing those songs themselves, but through this show, I learned the real story. The science, competition, and drama behind how those lyrics truly came to be, and then matched up with the singers who created the songs we know and love.

So, as you can imagine, the music was out of this world. Hearing all these songs you know every word to, but now knowing the story behind them, you FEEL them so much more. When you hear those songs, it changes everything now because you’re so connected to the real happiness, heartbreak, and resilience that Carole King was truly experiencing at that time.

Oh, and the fashion was fabulous too. I loved how just through the wardrobe, you could tell what era you were in, and how much fashion played a role in history, and creating “a look” in the music industry.

So, no matter if you’re a fashion, music, or history lover, or if you’re like me, a mama just trying to balance it all, hungry for some inspiration and a fun night out… GO SEE THIS SHOW!

Click here to learn more about it and get your tickets!