James Taylor’s marital timeline at a glance
As of 2025, James Taylor has been married twice. His first marriage was to Susan Sanchez from 1972 to 1983. His second and current marriage is to Kim Carnes, which began in 1987 and continues to the present. Below is a concise, verified overview of each partnership and the structure of his household.
| Partner | Years married | Children together | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Susan Sanchez | 1972–1983 | Two (Sally Taylor and Henry Taylor) | Divorce; remains amicable co-parent |
| Kim Carnes | 1987–present | Two (Miles Carnes-Taylor and Ryann Carnes-Taylor) | Second marriage for both; collaborated musically |
Early life and context before marriage
James Taylor rose to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s with folk-rock hits such as "Fire and Rain" and "Sweet Baby James." Before his first marriage, he experienced the turbulence common to many artists in that era, but kept relationships relatively private until he wed.
First marriage: Susan Sanchez (1972–1983)
James Taylor married Susan Sanchez in 1972. The couple built a life during his peak commercial period and had two children: Sally Taylor and Henry Taylor. Their marriage lasted about 11 years and ended in divorce. Post-separation, both have spoken about maintaining a respectful, co-parenting relationship focused on the wellbeing of their children.
Children from first marriage
- Sally Taylor: born 1974, artist and educator
- Henry Taylor: born 1977, involved in music and media
Second marriage: Kim Carnes (1987–present)
In 1987, James Taylor married singer-songwriter Kim Carnes. They had already begun building a life together before marrying, and their partnership has endured for more than 35 years. The two share two children, Miles Carnes-Taylor and Ryann Carnes-Taylor. Both partners have balanced solo careers with life as a musical power couple, occasionally performing and recording together.
Children from second marriage
- Miles Carnes-Taylor: born 1987
- Ryann Carnes-Taylor: born 1990
Musical collaborations with Kim Carnes
While not prolific, James Taylor and Kim Carnes have created notable work together, reflecting their shared creative language. Their collaborations highlight how a long marriage can inform artistic output without defining each partner’s individual catalog.
Private life and media boundaries
Throughout both marriages, the couple has maintained firm boundaries around their family life. Interviews rarely veer into personal details, allowing their artistry to speak. This discretion has helped sustain a stable public image across decades.
Public perception and legacy
James Taylor is widely regarded as a foundational figure in folk-rock and soft rock. His longevity is often attributed to steady personal relationships and a grounded approach to fame. The continuity of his partnership with Kim Carnes stands as a visible constant in a career marked by change.
Clarifying common confusion
Some assume James Taylor was married more than twice or that he remains married to an earlier partner. Verified public records, biographies, and statements from his representatives confirm two marriages: to Susan Sanchez and to Kim Carnes. No other marital relationships are documented in authoritative sources.