James Taylor's return to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center on July 19, 2014 has been big news for music fans in upstate New York. 

It's no secret that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Member has been a big influence on many of today's Country Music stars, including Garth Brooks. Brooks even gave the iconic singer/songwriter several mentions during his Live from Las Vegas television special.

Today, we take a moment to feature more James Taylor Country Music Connections.

In 1978 James Taylor writes a hit for George Jones, 'Bartender's Blues.' The song hits the Top 10, featuring Taylor on back-up.

In 1978, James Taylor and Carly Simon hit No. 33 on the Billboard Country Charts with 'Devoted To You.'

In 1985, James Taylor lands at No. 26 on the Billboard Country Charts with 'Everyday.'

In 1986, James Taylor sings a holiday duet with Ricky Skaggs on the song 'New Star Shining.' At the time, Ricky Skaggs was one of the hottest stars in Country Music winning the 1985 CMA Entertainer Of The Year Award.

In 1989, Taylor Swift is named after James Taylor. Taylor Swift is invited to perform with James Taylor at his Tanglewood concert in 2012.

In 2002, James Taylor appears on CMT Crossroads with the Dixie Chicks.

In 2004, James Taylor wins a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration of the Year with Alison Krauss. The single, titled 'How's The World Treating You?,' is from the tribute album Livin' Lovin' Losin' : Songs Of The Louvin Brothers.

In 2008, James Taylor covers a few Country Classics on an album titled Covers.

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