[6] Music critic Robert Christgau wrote that "if there's a truer song about breaking up than 'It's Too Late,' the world (or at least AM radio) isn't ready for it.

"[7] Marsh described the melody as Tin Pan Alley and the arrangement as a cross between light jazz and "L.A. studio craftsmanship.

[8] According to author James Perone, the feel of the song is enhanced by the instrumental work of Danny Kortchmar on guitar, Curtis Amy on saxophone and King on piano.

"[10] Lyricist Toni Stern told author Sheila Weller that she wrote the lyrics in a single day, after her relationship with James Taylor ended.

[14][15] It was also featured in "Jagged Little Tapestry", a sixth season episode of the television series Glee in 2015, where it was performed by Kurt Hummel (Chris Colfer) and Blaine Anderson (Darren Criss).

AllMusic editor Eddie Huffman described Estefan's version as "[a] moment of genuine pathos" in his review of the Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me album.

"[37] Chuck Campbell from Knoxville News Sentinel viewed it as a "faithful" remake of Carole King's 1971 hit, "though Tim Mitchell's intrusive electric-guitar solo is an unwelcome addition.

[39] Tony Cross from Smash Hits gave Estefan's version two out of five, writing that "Glo's done a fine job tweeking it into shape by funking it up a bit.