Boston, MA — Legendary singer-songwriter Carole King was honored with a bronze statue unveiled at the Berklee College of Music on Monday, celebrating her enduring legacy and contributions to popular music. The statue, located on the college’s Boston campus, commemorates King’s influence as one of the most successful female composers in the history of American music.
The unveiling ceremony drew students, faculty, alumni, and fans, with many reflecting on King’s impact through decades of songwriting brilliance. A Berklee spokesperson remarked, “Carole King’s music has transcended generations and genres. This statue is not just a tribute to her accomplishments but also an inspiration to every aspiring musician walking our campus.”
Though King is best known for her 1971 landmark album Tapestry, which includes hits like “It’s Too Late” and “You’ve Got a Friend,” her career spans more than six decades. She began as a Brill Building songwriter in the 1960s alongside her former husband and writing partner Gerry Goffin, penning classics such as “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and “Will You Love Me Tomorrow.”
King did not attend Berklee as a student, but her longstanding relationship with the institution has been marked by mutual respect. She was awarded an honorary doctorate from the college in 2012, recognizing her indelible mark on contemporary music.
In a pre-recorded message played during the ceremony, King expressed gratitude and humility. “To be honored by Berklee, where so many of tomorrow’s great musicians are being nurtured, is deeply meaningful,” she said. “I hope this statue stands as a symbol of perseverance and passion.”
The statue now stands prominently in the school’s public courtyard and is expected to become a landmark for visitors and music enthusiasts alike. Its unveiling comes at a time when Berklee continues to celebrate artists who have pushed boundaries and shaped the soundtrack of modern life.
With this tribute, Berklee College of Music affirms Carole King’s rightful place in the pantheon of music legends—a timeless artist whose work continues to resonate across generations.
