Charity, history, amity and intimacy – that’s what Carole King, who has penned more Top 40 songs than can be listed here, and James Taylor, who defined the term singer-songwriter, brought when they combined friendship and music into a three-night stand at the famed Troubadour, helping celebrate the venue’s 50 year anniversary.

Taylor and King first performed together at the Troubadour in November 1969, and the music from that era was the set list that energized and enticed longtime listeners. In an once-in-a-lifetime event that benefited various non-profit organizations, fans were able to stand only a few feet from the stage, listening to songs that have become the soundtrack of a generation.

The two artists traded anecdotes and songs back and forth, supported by famed sidemen Leland Sklar (bass), Russ Kunkel (drums) and Danny “Kootch” Kortchmar (guitar). Taylor played favorites such as “Fire and Rain,” “Sweet Baby James” and “Country Roads,” and curveballs such as “Blossom” and “Steamroller Blues.” King, a highly underrated performer, had everyone singing to soulful, passionately delivered classics, including “Smackwater Jack,” “It’s Too Late” and “Natural Woman.”

At times, the show felt more like a front room party, a feeling carried out into the chilly November air after the double encore that ended the unforgettable evening.