In January 1987, during the time of the live performance recorded in Germany, James Taylor was experiencing a resurgence in his career, having just released the album "That's Why I'm Here" in 1985. This album was significant as it marked Taylor's return to the music scene after a hiatus in the early '80s, and it included memorable tracks like "That's Why I'm Here" and a cover of "Handy Man." The live recording showcases Taylor’s soothing acoustic style, which resonated with audiences as he performed songs reflective of his introspective songwriting, including classics like "Sweet Baby James" and newer hits from his recent work. It's interesting to note that this performance took place during a period when Taylor was regaining his footing commercially and critically, highlighting his enduring popularity and the deep connection he maintained with his audience.