James Taylor is almost the perfect Pisces. He's got a tender poetic presence, produces music with a velvety voice, and he lives near the ocean. He fell prey to drug abuse in his youth, a cliché associated with this overly sensitive sign that sometimes seeks escape from the painfully imperfect world of reality. Fortunately, music became the means to soothe his wounded soul while touching the hearts of millions of fans. Born March 12, 1948 at 5:06 p.m. in Boston, James has the chart of a highly unique individual. Uranus, the planet of surprise and independence, was in a tense 90-degree square to his Pisces Sun, adding an element of electricity and originality to his personality. Yet, this produces a sense of being different, perhaps even alienating him from others at times. This sense of separateness is also supported by James' Moon, the planet of emotion, in the singular sign of Aries. The pioneering first sign of the zodiac adds fire (to go with the water of his Pisces rain) that makes him as effective in upbeat songs as he is in his melancholic slow ones. His rhythmic strength is shown by harmonious 120-degrees trines from percussive Mars, timely Saturn and punchy Pluto to his Moon. The support of these three powerful planets in the creative sign of Leo provides an inexhaustible supply of musical ideas. This muscular trio also gives him great recuperative force and the ability to persist and push through obstacles.

Venus is the astrological planet of love, beauty and artistic ability. James was born with Venus in her earthy home sign of Taurus, enriching him with sensuality and a profound connection with nature. Taurus is associated with the throat and is often prominent in the charts of famous singers. James' rich baritone almost always sounds relaxed, even when he chops phrases to punctuate a song. There's a sweetness to Venus in Taurus, but also a taste for luxury. Still, with his active Mars joined with hard-working Saturn, he understands how to put in the effort needed to reach his goals.

This unconventional Pisces certainly doesn't look like a pop star. He hasn't hidden his shiny dome under a toupee, even though he can afford the best. Nope, he's a straightforward man on the outside, in spite of being so complicated on the inside. He's modest, probably the result of his low-key Virgo Ascendant (or Rising Sign) that makes him more aware of his flaws than his gifts. In spite of being an international star for decades, James Taylor's incredible talent is presented with the familiar comfort and simplicity of an old friend. So, when you're down and troubled and need a helping hand, put some Sweet Baby James on your music machine, and you will feel safe and warm again.