James Taylor leaves them standing in Summerside

They stood and applauded when he walked on stage, they stood when he sang Carolina on my Mind, they stood all through the multiple songs of his encore.

That was the reaction of the near sell-out crowd of more than 4,000 in Summerside Credit Union Place, as legendary singer-songwriter James Taylor made his first visit to P.E.I.

"At long last," Taylor told the crowd. "I've been hearing about this place forever."

The crowd seemed to agree the visit was long overdue.

A three-hour show

The 68-year-old did not lack energy, playing two sets that spanned almost three hours. He spent the break between sets signing records (yes, people brought their vinyl), chatting with fans and posing for pictures.

"He's amazing, he sounds exactly the same as he did 30 years ago," said Marcela Corota.

"I've been a fan forever. This is the greatest night."

Hits, new songs, traditional tunes

Over the course of the show Taylor played a string of hits from his 50-year career: Fire and Rain, How Sweet It Is, Your Smiling Face, Sweet Baby James, Country Road. He sprinkled in some new songs as well as covers from Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly and Floyd.

And there were traditional tunes. The concert closed with Wild Mountain Thyme.

Taylor's distinctive voice was backed by an all-star band, including a horn section, percussionist and three backup singers, one who doubled up on the fiddle.

"He's a legend in his time," said Joan Robichaud.

"It's just a great opportunity to see a great singer."

Organizers said it was another successful show for Credit Union Place, which just keeps bringing in legend after legend, a strategy that clearly won the approval of Monday night's crowd.

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