Donny Hathaway makes it hard to listen to other singers man. Once you hear this tone, purity of tone, modulation only when absolutely appropriate, perfect pitch, grandiose simplicity, all encompassing emotion... nothing else can quite get there.
That's so deep and some what true. I heard of Donny many years ago (I'm 27), just two weeks ago, I took the time to actually sit and listen...and let me tell you, Donny winning!! Good music last forever, just pay that electric bill and hit that play button, then paradise enters the room.
Ciarra Johnson I am still trying to get over him jumping out of that window. But he did make his MARK and left a legacy. Thank you Donny with the voice that moves men!
I love the original masterpiece by Stevie, but Donny made an outstanding cover here. Ladies and gentlemen this is what happens when greatness covers greatness, dig where I'm coming from.
Let me tell you all something: To cover a Stevie Wonder song, you have to do what they said back in the day "come on with the come on!!" which means you better come with it or don't touch it! Donny did just that! Not only did he sing the hell out of this song, he song it so not only you hear it, YOU FEEL IT!! Something we rarely get from the "music" this day in age. Pure awesomeness!! If you feel what I'm saying, back me up!!!
There's not a voice on this planet that has as much divinity, passion, wrenching soulfulness and absolute, unequivocal power and authenticity as did Donny Hathaway's voice. He truly was what singing should be.
Only one voice that had as much divinity, passion, wrenching soulfulness and absolute, unequivocal power and authenticity and may I add in everything he sung and was Donny favorite singer....the Legendary SAM COOKE!
I love how Donny sets up a song, he takes his time, then goes in for the climax"the kill." The absolute king of melancholy. How could you not like this piece?
Monique Smith, I'ma try to be FAIR in my comparison. Stevie Wonder's Superwoman is SONIC BRILLIANCE, with the synths absolutely taking flight in the second part of the song, but Donny Hathaway's Superwoman is SINGING BRILLIANCE, Donny almost FORCING the listener to come to grips with the singer's pain when this superwoman left. Both songs possess absolute BRILLIANCE & true, it's kinda unfair to compare them. But I did, notice everybody that I didn't say who's version is better. That's all.
He was such a sensitive guy , through the years learned to know his background and came to he conclusion that he was so genuine and touched that while singin he could give his inner emotions right in to our brain and feel what he probable felt .Having tears in my eyes by listening to this genius is nrmal for me .
OMG, who are the 5 dislikes? How could anyone dislike this talented man? To this day I can't listen to Donny without getting teary. Just like with JFK, RFK, MLK, Elvis, I still remember exactly where I was when I heard about Donny's passing. What a rare talent.
@@seaneusantos4031 yes, this had me in tears. so so beautiful. and as you said, it is pure hearted and humble enough that he lets you see past himself into the music and that is so beautiful.
Both men are genius vocalists. Donny Hathaway is just so unreal with his tone, vibrato, pitch and clarity of tone - He is my all-time favorite singer and his emotional involvement lyrically is so strong. Love this version.
Mr. Stevie Wonder is one of my favorite ALL TIME performers. I prefer Jazz n Mr. WONDER crosses that genre better than most, besides he n I are close in age😊. Do not want to diss ANYONE: Marvin, Freddie, Chris, Mick, Luther, JT, Ron Isley, Gil, Sammy, Frankie ect. n included. I am sure I forgot/skipped many, especially my Jazz guys! Peace, an avid n eclectic music❤ ❤person
The one thing I’ve noticed is that Mr. Donny Hathaway always given the original singer their props always rather it be thru pictures or saying something about them b4 owning their song, don’t misunderstand me cus the owners of the songs our exceptional,brilliant, etc... love him.. and Stevie!
Anybody out there that can’t sing a lick, this man and his voice will inspire you to sing yo ass off. He didn’t just murder this song, he Texas Chainsaws Massacred it. Rest In Paradise Mr. Donny Hathaway 🙏 🎤🎼🎹
Geesh! I feel so conflicted now that I've heard Donny's rendition. This is one of my favorite Stevie Wonder tunes, but I don't know. Donny put it down with this slower, groovier rendition. I should feel blessed to have grown up listening to the brilliance of two musical geniuses!
Listen...anybody who knows me knows that I am the biggest Stevie fan in the world, but OMG!!!!....Donny killlllled this rendition. Brings you to tears how beautiful it is!!!!
Cori Robinson I am right with you this is one of my most favorite songs ever by Stevie but I’ve listen to Donny’s Version back to back 30 minutes now and counting!
It's so funny how you can't argue with those of who believe we're Stevie's biggest fan in the world. Donny's unmatched vocals mixed with Steve's creative genius, leaves me speechless tho ...I literally melted when I heard this.
Same here Cori! I'm a passionate Stevie fan and have always said that it's very rare that any singer can adequately cover a Stevie Wonder song due to his unique voice and the emotion he puts into his songs. But my goodness, if anyone could do it, it's the incomparable Donnie Hathaway.
He is still missed, omg he was soooo special. His soulful voice, auto tune free, a gift from God himself. I want to cry and pray at the same time when I listen to him sing.
His speaking voice alone lets you know what an amazing singer he is. And shout out for him recognizing the Black Pool of Genius in Stevie Wonder. This gives me all the feels.
This is Donny, following his stint at Howard Univ in Wash DC. An amazing voice silenced much too soon. Those of us who heard & saw him perform will be be forever touched by his greatness.
Howard University was a beautiful place to 'grow' your talent. We Where all beautifully nurtured by incredible professors there. I saw him perform with Roberta at Mr. Henry's in Adam's Morgan, D.C. I was floored...simply floored! Years later, I was blessed to have my own 3 year residence at that same landmark club! Fast forward to 1979...the night that Donny died, I was on stage at Sweetwaters Superclub in Manhattan...the news quickly that Donnie had taken his own life, just jumped from his room on the 15th floor of the Essex House! I had to stop the show...I couldn't sing another note. We all gathered up our things and walked in silence to the Essex and stood vigil there all night. The crowd grew larger as the word had reached further that we truly lost a legend in a horrible tragedy! Lalah was only 10 years old and we knew that we would all have to hold her closer to our hearts. We were all left wondering if we could have done something, perhaps held him tighter when his devil's surfaced or listened harder when he cried out or understood deeper when we found that he suffered from schizophrenia. I don't believe that there was/is a human that could really heal that kind of pain in another human... There is only God!
There wasn't a song that Donny couldn't sing. Its just how he would take the song and put his own sound to it based on what he hears in his head. I tell you his remakes are way better than the originals. He made these songs his own. Donny was blessed with great talent and left a legacy of songs for us to listen to........ Some of the singers and rappers of today would make a mess of these songs......
I'm saying. To pull off THIS MONSTER of a hit off LIVE? It baffles my mind to know he ACTUALLY put MORE EMOTION in a Stevie Wonder song, and he did it LIVE no less. Cold!
I saw Donny sing in person at the Troubador in Hollywood. A moment of song I will never forget. Sounded just like this. He was magic! Ashford and Simpson were the opening act. They were very good too.!
Yes! He got it from his grandma and passed it on to his daughters (2/3 of them). Lalah Hathaway is that monster let out of the basement and given a mic. She also has Donny's knack for turning songs inside out and making you almost forget about the original artist....GOD is good
I saw Donny and Roberta Flack do this Brilliant song Live in San Francisco back in the day.... Another genius gone too soon.Donny was one the finest song stylist that ever graced the planet.... Beautiful.
My dad owned a small bus company, C-Line tours, transporting Roberta Flack to many of her local concerts...he said she ALWAYS spoke VERY highly of this man, artist and person.....
My fav Donny performance ever. Donny really took the inherent emotion and depth in this song and amplified it to a point where you can't help but be moved by this performance. I can't imagine being able to sing this song, the way Donny does here, and not do it with tears in your eyes. Theres no way you can love music and not be shook to your very core when you listen to this. Bravo Mr. Hathaway; music misses you and we all wish you were still here showing musicians what true emotion in music is.
You just have to listen to The Melody which just transform you into another dimension it just makes you want to cry how beautiful his voice was putting that rendition together
This song just gives me chills, very haunting, but so very beautiful and kind of sad. I love hearing his daughter Layla, sing his songs,it's like he is still with us. God bless her.
Nobody covers Stevie Wonder and nails it in his own way?its not possible but then theres one Donny Hathaway just a beautiful soul sublime .....................
Donny Hathaway and Tammi Terrell.....two of the most tragic deaths in R and B history. Neither of them had reached the highlights of their careers yet. Can you imagine if they had lived? With Tammi, there was nothing that could have prevented her brain tumor, unfortunately. Perhaps had she been born in a later time when more effective treatments had been developed, her life may have been able to be saved or at least given her more time in her life. However, with Donny........I don't even know what to say. He should still be with us today. Both of these deaths haunt us. Tammi, because she was such a brief flash of talent and beauty who was gone just as she was beginning to soar. Donny, because his velveteen voice was just on the verge of superstardom, and he either didn't realize it, or he could not see his way through whatever emotional difficulties he had. Sometimes the night is darkest just before the dawn.
Kirstalie2 I too think about their lives and what would have been. It's a shame how talented this man was but was fighting mental illness. Had a whole family and still could not get it together.
Beautiful observation on the lives of Donny Hathaway and Tammi Terrell. Both gone too soon. I also think about Minnie Ripperton and how her musical career would've blossomed had she lived.
My father died last year and he introduced to all of these artists at a very young age. He loved Stevie Wonder and passed down his incredible musical taste down to his children. I am forever grateful to Donny for singing this and reminding me of my father and how important his infuluence was on me. God bless you Donny for doing what you were supposed to do while you were with us. May you rest in peace and say hello to Lou for me!
When it was announced on the news that he was dead my mind went totally numb. I was hoping that it was a mistake. I was in such a state of total shock. He was one of my top three male singers, Marvin, Stevie, and Donny. All three are #1 in my book.
Believe me when I say I am a huge Stevie and Donny fan... How have I never heard this version before? 😳 It sent chills through me! 🤗 Thanks for posting!
The Hathaway sound is simply the epitome of soul, hauntingly beautiful and resonates in a clear and concise manner to people. It all seemed so effortless for him to smash these covers Live.
My dad put me on to Donny. He turned me on to the essence of soul through music. Donny is an exceptional soul and appreciates his craft. The man is amazing.
The voice of Struggle, Pain, Love, Fear, and Strength all in one. To be able to display raw emotions in away that people can feel and tap into the souls of men & women is a Gift...
This is the first time that I have ever heard someone sing my all time favorite musician Stevie Wonders song and made me say, “ hold up”! But that’s Donny. Great=Great!
There are numerous occasions when artist or musicians choose to reinterpret songs that have stood the test of time and are considered masterpieces by the majority. I am a big fan of " Stevie Wonder " and have a great deal of respect for his writing, musicianship and vocal abilities. I am not as familiar with "Donny Hathaway's" body of work however I do know it is significant and his voice is flawless. I am not going to say which or whose version I find more appealing because both are magnificent. What I will say is when I listen to Stevie's version I feel Stevie is singing in a way that I can relate to mentally. Mr Hathaway rendition seems to speak to me on more of an emotional level. I will leave it at that
My all time favourite singer, there isn't any Donny song that doesn't bring tears to my eyes, this is no exception. And I love Stevie's 1972 original too...
WOW. Wherever these soul singers are --they have got to be making a joyful noise. RIP MARVIN, LUTHER, DONNY, GERALD LEVERT. You have a legacy still to be ascended.
As time time goes on, his phenomenal voice stands even further apart. I find myself going back to his versions of this song and "What's Going On" more than the originals.
Donny took this song to a deep place where you feel the pain in each note sung. Lalah brings that same flow back when she sings! This man will forever be special
How many people can say they covered Stevie and actually outdid him in that instance? Possibly no one except this brotha right here...smdh lol After Stevie heard this, he might have called Donny and said, "okay, I'll let you have this one but you will not cover another of my songs ever again after this point." (LOL)
I respect your opinion. The first half, in my opinion, belongs to Stevie (i.e. "Mary wants to be a Superwoman...") but the second half, Donny owned. Funny enough, that was the only part he covered, so who knows what his version would have been had he done the entire thing ;)
I respect your opinion as well..and since i suppose an opinion can never be wrong ..we can agree to disagree. ..and ain't a thing wrong with that, now is it?
I share some of the same sentiments as some of the comments here...i forgot all about Stevie on this....Donny Hathaway took me to another place....and only God himself thru someone like Donny could do that.
The one and only Donny Hathaway, I saw Donny in person at the Troubadour in Los Angeles in 1972. I was 2 rows from him. He was mesmerizing.. You could see in his eyes that the music was encompassing his every being. I've never seen another musician like that. He was a supreme singer. I'll never forgotten his concert. He was a superb performer, even though he was fighting his mental demons. Funny, Ashford and Simpson were his opening act!
This is possibly one of Donny's finest covers and one of my favorite Donny Hathaway song. He not only masterfully sings a Stevie Wonder classic arguably better than Stevie himself he transforms it into his own.
STELLAR vocals..... he sings with such emotion in every song!!!! Just simply pure gorgeous talent! His vibrato is beautiful.... so well controlled and beautifully toned always. AMAZING!
The one and only Donny Hathaway. A supreme genius that is Unsung. He was a musical genius and I'm so glad I got to see him person. It's a concert I've never forgotten and one of the best I've ever seen.
I love me some Stevie, and Stevie's version, of course. This adds a whole new layer of sonic pleasure to the song's repertoire. Makes me want to listen to one after the other, over and over again.
No one writes better songs than Stevie Wonder. No one is a better more powerful interpreter of songs than Donny Hathaway.
Absolutely True
Donny Hathaway makes it hard to listen to other singers man. Once you hear this tone, purity of tone, modulation only when absolutely appropriate, perfect pitch, grandiose simplicity, all encompassing emotion... nothing else can quite get there.
***** I COULDNT HAVE WROTE THAT ANY BETTER SIR...I FEEL THE EXACT SAME WAY
***** You my friend have perfectly captured what makes Donny simply incomparable in one sentence...which I never thought possible...I salut you!
That's so deep and some what true. I heard of Donny many years ago (I'm 27), just two weeks ago, I took the time to actually sit and listen...and let me tell you, Donny winning!! Good music last forever, just pay that electric bill and hit that play button, then paradise enters the room.
+Michael Molina, your thoughts on this was so beautifully right on, it too has me melting. Lol!
+Michael Molina Agreed. I'm just sayin. . . you nailed it! Him and Sam Cooke.
There are moments when Lalah sounds exactly like him...so grateful he left a piece of himself here with us.
Donny lives in Lalah and there is nobody who's better
SuperYeye75 💯
Ciarra Johnson I am still trying to get over him jumping out of that window. But he did make his MARK and left a legacy. Thank you Donny with the voice that moves men!
I just said the same thing. She surely does
She sound like him don't she a twin with the voice
I love the original masterpiece by Stevie, but Donny made an outstanding cover here. Ladies and gentlemen this is what happens when greatness covers greatness, dig where I'm coming from.
Right On!!!!!
Truth
I CAN DIGGIT !!!!!
i'm pickin' up what you puttin' down
I too can Dig It Delfra70 and I know in my heart, what you're saying is TRUE!!
I heard Donny sing this in person. I'll never forget. Exactly like it sounds here. He was unbelievable.
It's those people who've seen and heard him who cry watching and hearing Lalah. She'd do something amazing to this song....Wow
How great is that..wow
She certainly creamed "A Song For You" at the Apollo live.
I'm in awe of experiencing that. It must've been mind blowing.
Woooooooow.....I know the feeling of the room was indescribable
Let me tell you all something: To cover a Stevie Wonder song, you have to do what they said back in the day "come on with the come on!!" which means you better come with it or don't touch it! Donny did just that! Not only did he sing the hell out of this song, he song it so not only you hear it, YOU FEEL IT!! Something we rarely get from the "music" this day in age. Pure awesomeness!! If you feel what I'm saying, back me up!!!
tkdmuko1 I do
I completely agree with you
There's not a voice on this planet that has as much divinity, passion, wrenching
soulfulness and absolute, unequivocal power and authenticity as did
Donny Hathaway's voice. He truly was what singing should be.
Opinions and assholes...
Only one voice that had as much divinity, passion, wrenching soulfulness and absolute, unequivocal power and authenticity and may I add in everything he sung and was Donny favorite singer....the Legendary SAM COOKE!
Marc Foy
Sam Cook was great though he may have been Donny's favorite singer, he and Donny were on different plains.
Anastasia Beaverhausen No shit Sherlock. You want to tell us something we don't know, otherwise STFU!
can you imagine if Donny could cover all wonders songs
I'm certain Stevie loves this version just like the rest of us do.
He Does 💯
One of the greatest voices. So glad we have his daughter here for us
I love how Donny sets up a song, he takes his time, then goes in for the climax"the kill." The absolute king of melancholy. How could you not like this piece?
this is so haunting, but so very beautiful. don't compare, just enjoy...
Monique Burge PREACH Monique
Monique you said it sister, God gave us Donny for a season. thanks.
Well said
Monique Smith, I'ma try to be FAIR in my comparison. Stevie Wonder's Superwoman is SONIC BRILLIANCE, with the synths absolutely taking flight in the second part of the song, but Donny Hathaway's Superwoman is SINGING BRILLIANCE, Donny almost FORCING the listener to come to grips with the singer's pain when this superwoman left. Both songs possess absolute BRILLIANCE & true, it's kinda unfair to compare them. But I did, notice everybody that I didn't say who's version is better. That's all.
This is simply music of the minds.......great minds at that.
There is only one word to describe Donny, and that would be GENIUS!!!! Donny, Marvin, and Stevie - Soul personified!!!
Thank you for including the 3 "GIANTS"!!! I cry for all 3 of their voices. Magnificent is not enough of a word for these 3 geniuses. Peace. ❤🎉❤🎉😅❤❤
Donny had the kind of voice that immediately went straight to your soul,Bless his memory
He was such a sensitive guy , through the years learned to know his background and came to he conclusion that he was so genuine and touched that while singin he could give his inner emotions right in to our brain and feel what he probable felt .Having tears in my eyes by listening to this genius is nrmal for me .
Donny Hathaway's voice has a beauty that is exquisite. Once you hear it, you forget everything else. RIP 🙏 ❤
OMG, who are the 5 dislikes? How could anyone dislike this talented man? To this day I can't listen to Donny without getting teary. Just like with JFK, RFK, MLK, Elvis, I still remember exactly where I was when I heard about Donny's passing. What a rare talent.
Haters
Who? 5 people with no soul.......😓
This man's voice shakes my very soul. All I can do is sit down and listen. 🙌
Yes!
@@ginawhoever9734 YUP.
Ive wept more than once listening to him. Hes my absolute favorite.
The thing I love most about Donny's work is the humilty and humbleness. Zero performative grandstanding, and pure channeling of the beauty of music.
@@seaneusantos4031 yes, this had me in tears. so so beautiful. and as you said, it is pure hearted and humble enough that he lets you see past himself into the music and that is so beautiful.
Both men are genius vocalists. Donny Hathaway is just so unreal with his tone, vibrato, pitch and clarity of tone - He is my all-time favorite singer and his emotional involvement lyrically is so strong. Love this version.
Mr. Stevie Wonder is one of my favorite ALL TIME performers. I prefer Jazz n Mr. WONDER crosses that genre better than most, besides he n I are close in age😊. Do not want to diss ANYONE: Marvin, Freddie, Chris, Mick, Luther, JT, Ron Isley, Gil, Sammy, Frankie ect. n included. I am sure I forgot/skipped many, especially my Jazz guys! Peace, an avid n eclectic music❤ ❤person
Not gonna lie this dude makes my eyes water! so much passion and feeling. this is what the world needs today lord!!
Rico B it kinda makes me feel like I went through it.
Rico B ...he does. Hid daughter to Lalah Hathaway
My God yes
Yes, and the change in tempo at the end is so hopeful too.
all by youself,singing your song without music,what comes from the heart,reaches the heart.That is what real music is about.
That rare unapologetic soulful essence of a voice. You can hear that deep-rooted gospel blues in his inflection.
Wow, this is my first time hearing this from him.. Breathtaking
So glad u found him ❤
The one thing I’ve noticed is that Mr. Donny Hathaway always given the original singer their props always rather it be thru pictures or saying something about them b4 owning their song, don’t misunderstand me cus the owners of the songs our exceptional,brilliant, etc... love him.. and Stevie!
Listen to Stevie Wonder,Donnie is good but Stevie is the master!!!
It sure is
Anybody out there that can’t sing a lick, this man and his voice will inspire you to sing yo ass off. He didn’t just murder this song, he Texas Chainsaws Massacred it. Rest In Paradise Mr. Donny Hathaway 🙏 🎤🎼🎹
Geesh! I feel so conflicted now that I've heard Donny's rendition. This is one of my favorite Stevie Wonder tunes, but I don't know. Donny put it down with this slower, groovier rendition. I should feel blessed to have grown up listening to the brilliance of two musical geniuses!
YEEEEEEESSSSSS
You don't have to choose between the two. We are lucky to be able to enjoy both :)
I'd LOVE to hear Donny's vocals over Stevie's background music.
Listen...anybody who knows me knows that I am the biggest Stevie fan in the world, but OMG!!!!....Donny killlllled this rendition. Brings you to tears how beautiful it is!!!!
Me too Cori
Cori Robinson I am right with you this is one of my most favorite songs ever by Stevie but I’ve listen to Donny’s Version back to back 30 minutes now and counting!
It's so funny how you can't argue with those of who believe we're Stevie's biggest fan in the world. Donny's unmatched vocals mixed with Steve's creative genius, leaves me speechless tho ...I literally melted when I heard this.
Same here Cori! I'm a passionate Stevie fan and have always said that it's very rare that any singer can adequately cover a Stevie Wonder song due to his unique voice and the emotion he puts into his songs. But my goodness, if anyone could do it, it's the incomparable Donnie Hathaway.
What's your favourite track from eivets rednow?
He is still missed, omg he was soooo special. His soulful voice, auto tune free, a gift from God himself. I want to cry and pray at the same time when I listen to him sing.
His speaking voice alone lets you know what an amazing singer he is. And shout out for him recognizing the Black Pool of Genius in Stevie Wonder. This gives me all the feels.
You just can't beat this voice ! The male vocal blue print !
guccikat6 correction = the black male vocal blue print
HIS VOICE IS SO FANTASTIC I COULD LISTEN TO IT ALL DAY. LONG.
Just listen to that voice! and he is singing LIVE!
This is Donny, following his stint at Howard Univ in Wash DC. An amazing voice silenced much too soon. Those of us who heard & saw him perform will be be forever touched by his greatness.
I hope you love Lalah, too! She's perfect just like Donny 🎁🎁♥️♥️
Skip Hedgepath Saw and heard him in Nov. 1973, Boston's Jazz Workshop... great set! Lucky me.
Howard University was a beautiful place to 'grow' your talent. We Where all beautifully nurtured by incredible professors there. I saw him perform with Roberta at Mr. Henry's in Adam's Morgan, D.C. I was floored...simply floored! Years later, I was blessed to have my own 3 year residence at that same landmark club! Fast forward to 1979...the night that Donny died, I was on stage at Sweetwaters Superclub in Manhattan...the news quickly that Donnie had taken his own life, just jumped from his room on the 15th floor of the Essex House! I had to stop the show...I couldn't sing another note. We all gathered up our things and walked in silence to the Essex and stood vigil there all night. The crowd grew larger as the word had reached further that we truly lost a legend in a horrible tragedy! Lalah was only 10 years old and we knew that we would all have to hold her closer to our hearts. We were all left wondering if we could have done something, perhaps held him tighter when his devil's surfaced or listened harder when he cried out or understood deeper when we found that he suffered from schizophrenia. I don't believe that there was/is a human that could really heal that kind of pain in another human... There is only God!
Imagine that Donny Hathaway covering Stevie Wonder..#2Legends
There wasn't a song that Donny couldn't sing. Its just how he would take the song and put his own sound to it based on what he hears in his head. I tell you his remakes are way better than the originals. He made these songs his own. Donny was blessed with great talent and left a legacy of songs for us to listen to........ Some of the singers and rappers of today would make a mess of these songs......
This is amazing.... To sound like this LIVE... OTHERWORLDLY
It was a gas!
REAL SOUL MUSIC.
Alan Austin He knew what he was doing, and wasn't always in so great a mood... but the show never suffered.
I'm saying. To pull off THIS MONSTER of a hit off LIVE? It baffles my mind to know he ACTUALLY put MORE EMOTION in a Stevie Wonder song, and he did it LIVE no less. Cold!
luv me some Stevie but this is amazing
He really can do know wrong omg
Amazing
There no words to describe his passion in his rendition of this song. All I can do is rock back and forth to the groove.
I saw Donny sing in person at the Troubador in Hollywood. A moment of song I will never forget. Sounded just like this. He was magic! Ashford and Simpson were the opening act. They were very good too.!
OMG! Stevie and Donny may be my two favorite singers of all time, and I wouldn't dare compare them! Absolutely awesome rendition!!!
It's almost unbelievable how incredible he was, there's never been anyone like him.
This is one of my favorite Stevie Wonder songs, and Donny Hathaway killed it. Absolutely beautiful.
I HAVE HEARD A GREAT DEAL OF DONNY'S RECORDINGS, BUT THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I'VE HEARD HIM COVER THIS SONG. GREAT COVER. THANKS FOR POSTING.
Every thing he does is magic, every part of his dna is in every note. remarkable
Yes! He got it from his grandma and passed it on to his daughters (2/3 of them). Lalah Hathaway is that monster let out of the basement and given a mic. She also has Donny's knack for turning songs inside out and making you almost forget about the original artist....GOD is good
So true
Donnie stole the show with this one. One of the greatest musicians/singers to ever grace this planet. Sing on Donnie......sing on!
Stevie sang it with pain Donnie sang it with soul Both are ABSOLUTELY AMAZING
One of the greatest voices to have graced this planet!
I saw Donny and Roberta Flack do this Brilliant song Live in San Francisco back in the day.... Another genius gone too soon.Donny was one the finest song stylist that ever graced the planet.... Beautiful.
My dad owned a small bus company, C-Line tours, transporting Roberta Flack to many of her local concerts...he said she ALWAYS spoke VERY highly of this man, artist and person.....
My fav Donny performance ever. Donny really took the inherent emotion and depth in this song and amplified it to a point where you can't help but be moved by this performance. I can't imagine being able to sing this song, the way Donny does here, and not do it with tears in your eyes. Theres no way you can love music and not be shook to your very core when you listen to this. Bravo Mr. Hathaway; music misses you and we all wish you were still here showing musicians what true emotion in music is.
I never thought anyone could do this better than Stevie, ooo Donny Hathaway
You just have to listen to The Melody which just transform you into another dimension it just makes you want to cry how beautiful his voice was putting that rendition together
This song just gives me chills, very haunting, but so very beautiful and kind of sad. I love hearing his daughter Layla, sing his songs,it's like he is still with us. God bless her.
Just discovering new Donny makes it as if I heard this long ago.
I'm 21
Nobody covers Stevie Wonder and nails it in his own way?its not possible but then theres one Donny Hathaway just a beautiful soul sublime .....................
Donny Hathaway and Tammi Terrell.....two of the most tragic deaths in R and B history. Neither of them had reached the highlights of their careers yet. Can you imagine if they had lived? With Tammi, there was nothing that could have prevented her brain tumor, unfortunately. Perhaps had she been born in a later time when more effective treatments had been developed, her life may have been able to be saved or at least given her more time in her life. However, with Donny........I don't even know what to say. He should still be with us today. Both of these deaths haunt us. Tammi, because she was such a brief flash of talent and beauty who was gone just as she was beginning to soar. Donny, because his velveteen voice was just on the verge of superstardom, and he either didn't realize it, or he could not see his way through whatever emotional difficulties he had. Sometimes the night is darkest just before the dawn.
Kirstalie2 I too think about their lives and what would have been. It's a shame how talented this man was but was fighting mental illness. Had a whole family and still could not get it together.
Beautiful observation on the lives of Donny Hathaway and Tammi Terrell. Both gone too soon. I also think about Minnie Ripperton and how her musical career would've blossomed had she lived.
Such an amazing voice… one of a kind
One of the most beautiful voices I've ever heard. Then he sprinkled it on his daughter🙂
My father died last year and he introduced to all of these artists at a very young age. He loved Stevie Wonder and passed down his incredible musical taste down to his children. I am forever grateful to Donny for singing this and reminding me of my father and how important his infuluence was on me. God bless you Donny for doing what you were supposed to do while you were with us. May you rest in peace and say hello to Lou for me!
My grandchildren say the same about me. I learned/am learning from them also, Tupac, Biggie n Eminem, especially.Peace.
Finally people are uploading this gem onto youtube... Every song on this Live album is pure and completely brillant...
When it was announced on the news that he was dead my mind went totally numb. I was hoping that it was a mistake. I was in such a state of total shock. He was one of my top three male singers, Marvin, Stevie, and Donny. All three are #1 in my book.
Believe me when I say I am a huge Stevie and Donny fan... How have I never heard this version before? 😳 It sent chills through me! 🤗 Thanks for posting!
I said the same thing. He turned this song inside out, showed you the depths of what it means to lose love. Genius.
The Hathaway sound is simply the epitome of soul, hauntingly beautiful and resonates in a clear and concise manner to people. It all seemed so effortless for him to smash these covers Live.
I didn't realize how much I missed his voice, the first note resonated straight to my heart. So beautiful!
Donny took the best part of the original song and slow it down... like take time to smell the flowers. Amazing.
My dad put me on to Donny. He turned me on to the essence of soul through music. Donny is an exceptional soul and appreciates his craft. The man is amazing.
The voice of Struggle, Pain, Love, Fear, and Strength all in one. To be able to display raw emotions in away that people can feel and tap into the souls of men & women is a Gift...
THIS MAN IS AN INSPIRATION FOR A GUY TOO POUR HIS HEART OUT TOO A WOMAN AND NOT FEEL LESS THAN A MAN FOR DOING SO..THANK YOU BROTHER DONNY
This is the first time that I have ever heard someone sing my all time favorite musician Stevie Wonders song and made me say, “ hold up”! But that’s Donny. Great=Great!
Donny is simply THE VOICE 💯 Period.
There are numerous occasions when artist or musicians choose to reinterpret songs that have stood the test of time and are considered masterpieces by the majority. I am a big fan of " Stevie Wonder " and have a great deal of respect for his writing, musicianship and vocal abilities. I am not as familiar with "Donny Hathaway's" body of work however I do know it is significant and his voice is flawless. I am not going to say which or whose version I find more appealing because both are magnificent. What I will say is when I listen to Stevie's version I feel Stevie is singing in a way that I can relate to mentally. Mr Hathaway rendition seems to speak to me on more of an emotional level. I will leave it at that
One of the greatest singers of all time
This is music mastery.
Yes, he is one of the Master's. You have the ears to hear.
Donny....the best voice ever
This is God given greatness...he sounds better "live" than on his records.
My all time favourite singer, there isn't any Donny song that doesn't bring tears to my eyes, this is no exception. And I love Stevie's 1972 original too...
WOW. Wherever these soul singers are --they have got to be making a joyful noise. RIP MARVIN, LUTHER, DONNY, GERALD LEVERT. You have a legacy still to be ascended.
Listen to Donny got a Brother teary eyes soulful voices 🎙💯😎
So much pain in his voice. Breathtakingly beautiful song
As time time goes on, his phenomenal voice stands even further apart. I find myself going back to his versions of this song and "What's Going On" more than the originals.
Donny took this song to a deep place where you feel the pain in each note sung. Lalah brings that same flow back when she sings! This man will forever be special
haven't heard this version in a while. I've listened to it nearly 70 times today alone!
I have no words to describe this man's voice....0_0
How many people can say they covered Stevie and actually outdid him in that instance? Possibly no one except this brotha right here...smdh lol After Stevie heard this, he might have called Donny and said, "okay, I'll let you have this one but you will not cover another of my songs ever again after this point."
(LOL)
Listen to "He ain't heavy he's my brother" and "Yesterday"...... November 24, 2014
Oh, trust I've heard just about every song Donny has ever released, including covers ;)
don't get me wrong..donny was an amazing talent..and his cover here is great..but no one does superwoman "better" then stevie....no one.
I respect your opinion. The first half, in my opinion, belongs to Stevie (i.e. "Mary wants to be a Superwoman...") but the second half, Donny owned. Funny enough, that was the only part he covered, so who knows what his version would have been had he done the entire thing ;)
I respect your opinion as well..and since i suppose an opinion can never be wrong ..we can agree to disagree. ..and ain't a thing wrong with that, now is it?
I share some of the same sentiments as some of the comments here...i forgot all about Stevie on this....Donny Hathaway took me to another place....and only God himself thru someone like Donny could do that.
The one and only Donny Hathaway, I saw Donny in person at the Troubadour in Los Angeles in 1972. I was 2 rows from him. He was mesmerizing.. You could see in his eyes that the music was encompassing his every being. I've never seen another musician
like that. He was a supreme singer. I'll never forgotten his concert. He was a superb performer, even though he was fighting his mental demons. Funny, Ashford and Simpson were his opening act!
Wow🤯 I wish I was there
when the winter came, you were not around ,through the thick of wind, you could not be found.
Never heard this version before. WOW!!!! Donny did his thing on this Stevie classic.
This is possibly one of Donny's finest covers and one of my favorite Donny Hathaway song. He not only masterfully sings a Stevie Wonder classic arguably better than Stevie himself he transforms it into his own.
his voice invokes so much emotion, I feel this.....
Another amazing talent that left us too soon. R.I.P. Donny.
This is THE.GREATEST.COVER. Of ALL TIME! I KNOW Stevie Wonder showered brother Donny Hathaway with LOVE for THIS!
💯❤
REmember, Stevie did write "You are my heaven" for Donny and Roberta.
Such a voice that touches one's soul. I think sweet Stevie has to step aside for this one.
STELLAR vocals..... he sings with such emotion in every song!!!! Just simply pure gorgeous talent! His vibrato is beautiful.... so well controlled and beautifully toned always. AMAZING!
All I can do is shake my head at how incredible this is... I will never listen to Stevie's version the same after this.
The one and only Donny Hathaway. A supreme genius that is Unsung. He was a musical genius and I'm so glad I got to see him person. It's a concert I've never forgotten and one of the best I've ever seen.
I love me some Stevie, and Stevie's version, of course. This adds a whole new layer of sonic pleasure to the song's repertoire. Makes me want to listen to one after the other, over and over again.
This is so dam BEAUTIFUL!!!! Lord have mercy this grab you so deep!!! Can't get rid of these goosebumps!!!!
you can feel his every emotion,wow Donny...he really didn't contain himself when singing,gave us everything,tnx 4 that!!!!Love U D.H!!!!!
*Damn I've never heard this version before but it is fantastic. I normally don't like Stevie Wonder covers but this is excellent*
Donny Hathaway. 'Nuff said. RIP, Genius. Blessings
Greatest cover song ever. Only person on Earth who can one up Stevie Wonder with his own song. Truly miraculous.
I LIVE for Stevie, but with that said, Donny got him. This was truly a voice like no other.