When the world went quiet during lockdown, longtime friends and seasoned musicians Tim Godwin and David Sheils found themselves drawn back to the songs that first inspired them—the timeless catalog of James Taylor. What began as two friends reconnecting through music has blossomed into Never Die Young, a powerhouse ensemble that honors Taylor's legacy with authenticity, soul, and masterful musicianship.
David Sheils has collaborated with an impressive roster of artists including Chicago, Toto, Mary Travers, Tower of Power, Billy Vera, and Pat Benatar. As a songwriter, his work has been recorded by legends Billy Preston and Freda Payne.
Tim Godwin brings decades of professional experience, having shared the stage and studio with Air Supply, Laura Branigan, Shelby Lynne, and Tanya Tucker. His television credits include the Fox TV show "Sunday Comics" house band, along with numerous other TV and film projects.
Together with the captivating vocals of Kylea Sheils and a stellar lineup of San Diego musicians—Jim Reeves (bass), Josh Weinstein (keys), Bob Sale (drums), and Larry Grano (vocals, drums, percussion)—Never Die Young recreates the full spectrum of James Taylor's artistry.
This isn't just a quiet acoustic evening. Never Die Young takes audiences on a journey from the intimate, soul-baring beauty of "Fire and Rain" to the driving groove of rockers like "Brother Trucker," with feel-good anthems like "Your Smiling Face" that get crowds out of their chairs and dancing. It's warmth, energy, and pure joy—a celebration that captures everything that made James Taylor one of America's most beloved songwriters.
