Stevie Wonder - tie "Sir Duke" and "For Once In My Life" Honorable mentions: pick your favorite from James Taylor; Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, Van Morrison, Bruce Springsteen.
When I was 5, the cartoon “The Point!” aired on TV, with music written by Nilsson. I was mesmerized. My mom bought me the soundtrack. That was 53 years ago, and I still remember every word to every song.
I too have seen the Point back when I was a kid, but was unaware of the soundtrack being written by Nilsson. I will have to watch and listen to it again.
But for Midnight Cowboy, the song might have staid buried as a little known deep tract, which is why I love going through my old vinyl looking for those deep cut gems that have never had their Midnight moment, but deserve it.
@@jabbermocky4520 I wonder why? That song would have fit perfectly in that movie as irony. Does anyone else remember the TV series, "The Ghost and Mrs. Muir"? Harry guest starred on one episode, and as I recall, Mrs. Muir was completely charmed by his boyish good looks and sweet vocals. The Captain was NOT pleased, of course! That episode is on UA-cam. I already loved his music when I saw that episode as a kid, but that was the first time I ever saw him. I've been smitten ever since!😍
It's a line from the folk song: "Lonesome Road Blues" AKA "Going Down the Road Feeling Bad", first recorded in 1923. Just about every (seems like) folk singer since has recorded it.
"Everybody's Talkin" was a great song by Nilsson. I was living in LA at the time and would often hear it on 93 KHJ AM. The song rose to #10 on the Boss 30 in October 1969 (#6 on the Billboard Hot 100) and was on the Chart for 9 Weeks.
Several years ago, I had a dream in which I drove past an old, abandoned barn alongside a country highway. After passing it, my car suddenly went into reverse on its own and stopped beside the barn. I opened the door and saw a whole crew of old friends from high school and childhood having a reunion party inside the barn. One of the friends had a guitar and was playing and singing "Everybody's Talking" at a microphone in the middle of the barn. To my knowledge, that's the only time a popular song has ever appeared in one of my dreams...just shows you how much the song is embedded in my psyche.
In case anybody doesn't know, that scene with Dustin Hoffman and the car almost hits him and he smacks it and says "I'm walking here" was unscripted (it was live on NY City streets) and the most New York City thing ever at the same time.
The one time I was in NYC, 1977, a yellow cab bumped into a woman in blue spandex crossing the street. She turned around angrily struck the hood. What that movie moment reminds me of ever since.
Always liked this song. The more you listen the more profound it seems. I was fascinated by The Point when it came out. I loved the songs. There was probably a lot there that went over my head because I was a little kid when it came out. My oldest brother had the album and would play it for me. I think I only saw the film once when it came out on television. Harry Nilsson had such a beautiful voice but seemed to be his own worst enemy.
Nilsson wrote 'Cuddly Toy', 'Good Times' and 'Daddy's Song' for The Monkees. Micky Dolenz recorded 'Daybreak' as a single, also written by Nilsson. Micky Dolenz and Davy Jones performed in the London stage play of Nilsson's 'The Point'. And Nilsson worked with John Lennon and Ringo Starr. How cool is Nilsson to be so connected to both the Beatles and the Monkees!
Me and My Arrow in the film, The Point, is perfect. Too bad it got burned out by a Plymouth commercial for an absolute lemon of a car: the Arrow (get it?).
I was hoping you’d talk about Coconut! In the summer of 1972, I was sitting in the back of my parents’ 1970 Dodge Polara station wagon-we were heading to Disney World from Pennsylvania. A long drive! To pass the time, I frequently asked my parents to run on the car radio. That was the first time I heard Coconut, and I absolutely loved it!! That song was playing on the radio that entire trip, and I can’t hear it today without it taking me back to the summer sounds and smells of 1972 Florida!
I have been a huge Nilsson fan ever since I bought the tape Nilsson Schmilsson because I liked Without You. His music was all over the place and often goofy but his songs like Remember, Many Rivers to Cross, and All I Think About Is You, along with many others, move me like almost no other artists can.
@@LoungingMcCoy I just found All I Think About Is You a few months ago and fell VERY hard for it. It may be the saddest song I’ve ever heard. And the melody and arrangement are outstanding.
"Everybody's Talking" is one of the best movie theme songs ever. Harry Nilsson really conveys the melancholy mood of through his raw vocals. And don't get me started on the film's ending...😢
I squealed when I saw that today's class is about my first love, NILSSON! I've loved him literally since I was a wee child and heard "The Point". In my 20s, I had a collection of every Nilsson album I could find, and my older brother made fun of my "immature" taste in music, still listening to a guy who writes "kiddie" songs. Of course, my answer was to put on Side A of Harry's album, "Son of Schmilsson" and drop the needle in the groove to play Harry's classic song, "You're Breaking My Heart".😜😊 I love that Harry knew his profanity-laden song would never be played on the radio, but would become beloved by his fans.
@@LazyIRanch I was introduced to the great Harry Nilsson's work by "The Point" on TV. Thanks for sharing your story, LazyIRanch. I played "You're Breaking My Heart" on college radio during FCC "safe harbour" in the middle of the night...and not next to a station ID.
Love it when you cover artists that are favorites of mine (like Harry Nilsson) and when you introduce me to artists I wasn't aware of (like Fred Neil).
Same with “Without You” Harry didn’t write it (Pete Hamm …. Another tragic story… did) But, Harry made it his own and to this day, his version just sends me into a visceral, transcendental melancholy ❤
As a guy who absolutely LOVES music from 1955-2000, I love this channel. But I’ve always wondered how you decide which songs, or artists to cover? Keep up the GREAT work, brother! Rock on! 🤘
A throwaway song written in a bathroom in 5 minutes wins a Grammy and is better than any song written today. Greatness hides everywhere. Who are we to understand it.
When I was on the air at a radio station people would call in and request Everyboy's Talkin' At ME and say, "by Glen Campbell". I would inform them the song is not sung by Glen Campbell, but Harry Nilsson, and they would argue with me about who sang the song.
I became aware of the greatness of Nilsson when I first heard,"Jump into the Fire," I've listened to this song thousands of times since I first bought,"Nilsson Schmilson," in 1971 and since then I've gotten all of his albums and to this day buy anything that is released. I think Nilsson has one of the best voices ever to be recorded and he is one of the best songwriters ever. Thank you Harry !!!❤❤🎉😅😊😂❤
I always learn a lot things about these classic rock artists and their songs especially with Harry Nilsson Everybody's Talking which i have heard on AM radio back in the 70's but hadn't heard the original from Fred Neil until watching this and i read about his death in biography Thank You for the Classic Rock Memories Professor.🎤🎸🎸🎹🥁
“Everybody’s Talking” always played in high school when teachers would turn out the lights and fire up the movie projectors to show “educational” films usually about marine life and ocean health. Good memories!
Nilson also wrote and sang a somewhat strange movie called "The Point" as well as my favorite Nilson song "Jump into the Fire". Fred Neil wrote "The Other Side of This Life", especially as interpreted by the Jefferson Airplane on their "Bless Its Pointed Little Head" album. Great work.
For whatever reason, I have always thought of Harry Nilsson was the underappreciated genius story teller of the 70s and Warren Zevon the underappreciated story teller genius of the 80s - and somehow, the two are linked in my mind - maybe because of their skills as story tellers.
In my mind, Harry is one the greatest of all time. Period. I discovered him when I was teen in the 70s and heard Without You. I immediately bought the album and was blown away by the rest of the album, especially the brilliance of Jump Into the Fire. Still miss his artistry and what else we could have heard from him. Both his and Lennox’s deaths are true tragedies of the latter 20th Century music scene. (Along with what we never got to hear from Hendrix, Joplin, Hamm and Croce.)
The Beatles brought attention to Harry Nilsson for me and probably the world , then I realized I had heard some of his songs. Radio was really bad at telling us who we were listening to. I don’t know if you mentioned Me and my arrow song and cartoon, when I walked out of the room. Great song and cartoon.
I got introduced to Harry Nilson by my best friend in High School back in 74. Since we lived in Podunk, Nowhere, it took me several years to score a copy of Aerial Ballet for my friend. If I run into him again I'll pass on his Holy Grail.
I love Harry's music, both songs & vocals. There is SO much character across his musical oeuvre. Harry is a singular icon in music history - he was considered an honorary member by BOTH The Beatles AND The Beach Boys. Holy cow!! It's hard to pick a favourite, but I must say that I'm most 'affected' by "Don't Forget Me". (A quick shout out to Neko Case for her beautiful cover).
Harry Nilsson's recording of "Everybody's Talkin"' will stand the test of time, but the renditions (pretty much laid out the same way) recorded by Glen Campbell (with prominent banjo) and Bobby Goldsboro, who had their own albums come out, had heart as well.
Professor, another shining example of why we/I enjoy your show and for it's content; such a wealth of information & knowledge - AWESOME! I never knew this much about "Everbody's Talkin'," of Nilsson himself or of his 'Nilsson Schmilsson' album; also wasn't aware he had done the song "Coconut'. Until you got more indepth, I hadn't paired "Everbody's Talkin' " with the 'Midnight Cowboy' movie. This was really good! Thanks!
Harry was honestly a Genius! But more than that he had a voice that was so great it just leapt out not only at you but straight into your heart! SO AMAZINGLY GREAT! I saw the Movie "THE POINT" when I was a Child of about 10 years old. I immediately fell in love with the song "Me and My Arrow" which was about the boy and his dog! My heart jumps even now just remembering it.
So sad for both Nilsson and Neil...such is the nature of rock and roll. "Everybody's Talking" definitely is a diamond in the rough...and my old man even knew the lyrics to Coconut, which is how I learned it!
British composerJohn Barry composed and arranged the instrumental Theme for Midnight Cowboy the hauntingly beautiful theme became a hit when covered by Ferrante and Teicher. In the space of two years1967-69 John composed the music for the fifth James Bond film “You Only Live Twice”. The Epic film The Lion in Winter,Midnight Cowboy, and the sixth Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”Starring Lazenby George Jazenby and Diana Rigg. That instrumental theme has become a cult classic as has the song John Barry wrote with lyrics by Hal David “We Have All The Time In The World”. Louis Armstrong was to I’ll to play his trumpet but did have enough strength for the vocals and the theme was used 50 years later for Daniel Craig’s last performance as Bond James Bond. John Barry played harmonica on Top Of The Pops 1981 his own Theme from Midnight Cowboy. I knew that obviously John Barry could play the piano but had no idea he could play harmonica as well!!!!
As a child of 1990, I saw Goodfellas, on the TV granted, at way too young of age lol But when I told my mom how much I loved Jump into the Fire during the helicopter scene, she was ecstatic to share Harry's records that she owned. Loved You're Breaking My Heart and always felt grown up listening to it because of it's F you 😂
Harry's vocals on Without Her and All I think about is You are guaranteed to bring a tear to my eye. One of the few singers that both me and my Mother loved.
Harry is so forgotten these days and it's a complete shame. I keep his stuff in my rotation to this day. For me at least he sits in that vein of artists similar to Leon Russell in that they had such an immense impact on the scene, and other artists, yet they often get relegated to footnotes in music history. Another great episode professor, keep up the great work! Edit: Hot Town Summer in The City/Lovin Spoonful is a great candidate for lightning in a bottle! Great song!
Yes, Get Arthur Barrow to do the interview he's such a great artist and his time with Zappa and so many other huge hits... Such as Take my breath away and Leave your Hat on🤯
This song always gives me chills; it's hauntingly beautiful. Harry and John Lennon had a lot in common, both of their dads leaving when they were young, gifted, not interested in the limelight. Excellent show, Prof!
This was a really great episode, professor. I literally grew up listening to this guy. He was a unique artist, for sure. As usual, I learned some new things. I've never watched the Midnight Cowboy movie, but I'm going to look it up.
This song is sheer brilliance! I still listen to it at least once a week. I always assumed Harry wrote it I had no knowledge of Fred Neil. I have got to watch Nelson Shmelson, thank you for the information because I have always loved this artist's work. Fantastic episode professor well done many things I had no knowledge of!!
My friend Spanky McFarlane (from Spanky and Our Gang) says she was at a hurricane party in Florida in the 60s when Fred came in to the bathroom while she was in the bathtub and sang her this song… she always preferred his version over Nilsson’s.
All I could think of was "gross, she was in the tub during a hurricane party?" as a kid I was taught that you fill the tub with water before the hurricane because that might be the only fresh water you'll have for days afterward..but who knows, maybe Spanky soup is delicious ? :-))
@@madmick78 How do you know POR isn't meaning he wanted to interview Fred Neil? Fred's the one whose version is being glorified by Paul's info. I'd personally rather interview Spanky though, and I fear she's getting set up for a letdown.
Thank you for this in depth on Nilsson. I have always loved his voice, his music and even in some ways his way of taking life and living it, albeit, to his demise. Such talent.
Cool backstory on Fred Neil. Nilsson was immensely talented and the variety of excellent songs that Nilsson and Perry put together on Schmilsson is pretty amazing. I also loved his sense of humor. The album title and cover art of "Duit on Mon Dei" (aka "God's Greatest Hits") still cracks me up. Have a great day! - Dave
Hey Professor. Great channel. You are on a hot streak at the moment. Thanks for a video on my fav singer songwriter Harry Nilsson. More people should know his work.
When my son went through his first real adult breakup, I sent him the song “You’re Breakin’ My Heart” from Son of Schmilsson. He laughed his butt off and slowly came out of his funk. Thank you Harry Nilsson, you were the best.
Elizabeth was breathtakingly beautiful! That periwinkle lilac colored dress she's wearing is so elegant, and would have matched her eyes. I loved watching the Oscars back when people dressed to look great instead of "WTF is THAT?"😂 I wonder what that necklace she was wearing would be worth today? She only wore real gems, like a queen!
My fave!!! I actually learned a new tidbit, thank you. I hear his songs go through my head almost every day, I was 16 and had my first job as the ticket seller at our local theater, so I got to hear that wonderful song repeatedly but I wasn't allowed in to see the film. The others you mentioned were magnificent too. But you left out the amazing film "The Point", the intense friendship with Ringo (who quipped he was the best man at all of Harry's weddings) and the reason for my post: "You're Breakin' my Heart". Every one remembers exactly where they were and what they were doing the first time they heard that song! I thought "oh my God did he really say that???!!!" Cheers and thank you for giving Harry his kudos one more time
Outside of this song and Can't Live Without You I think Nillson is best remember for that unfortunate incident at the Trubador where he, and a very drunk John Lennon, Heckled the Smother's Brothers during their standup routine.
I just love Nilsson's Everybody's Talking and Without You. Adam, I think you reached a new level of articulate verbal poetry in this one. You are quite the wordsmith! Great channel!
The 'entanglement' that included rolling onto the TV remote, having the channels changing on each 'cycle' that's memorable about Midnight Cowboy. Of Who is Harry Nilsson (And Why Is Everybody Talkin' About Him?) its a must see, and used to be on Netflix. Seek it out.
I never tired of how excited you become when you are talking about these artist and their music. I love to watch someone with such passion for what they do.❤
20 minutes on Harry Nillson and no mention of Jump Into The Fire? Come on!😅 Seriously, another great chapter in the story of our lives here. Great job, as always.
I "discovered" Harry's fabulous music when I was around 13 and bought his "Aerial Pandemonium Ballet" album. I played it over and over - I just couldn't get over how wonderful his voice was.
There are soooo many great stories you touched on in this episode, many of which I learned from watching you!! I’m especially happy that you gave Pete Ham a shoutout for writing “Without You” and for touching on Harry’s close friendship with John Lennon!!! Loved this one! As always, thanks for the memories… 😊
FLIPPER!!!! If you know who stared in Flipper and his famous sons,,,,, you're going to Dig this channel!!! Nillson!! Awesome vocals!! One of the Greatest!! Thanks Adam!! Peace 🕊️☮️♾️😎 Oops! Mixed Flipper with Sea quest!!
One of the absolute favorite favorites of my entire life.. so many killer memories tied to every note, every nuance. As a child of the late 60s, I’ve literally sung along to this song tons of thousands of times throughout the years… but it never ever sounded better than when it popped up in a mix I’d put together for a Sunday drive in the country (Parke County, Indiana) with a most amazing friend and with windows wide open on the most picture perfect weather day, the two of us yodeled and sang along as loud as our lungs would allow. Incredible memories! One of those songs you can’t just listen to once. I got to meet Nilsson once at a Chicago Beatles fan convention in 1981 or 1982… wishing now I’d taken better advantage of that surreal opportunity.. but I got his autograph and had a minute or two in his presence. Great episode! Killer info and presentation!
Another of my favorites from that same album is the song, "I'd Rather Be Dead". The video is a scream! Harry went to an old folks retirement home and got the geriatric choir to sing back-up, after getting them in the mood with champagne and party hats. It's on UA-cam, and looks like everyone had a great time. Harry was such a cheeky monkey! Here's a link to the video: ua-cam.com/video/mHmH9lQZq6I/v-deo.html
@@ProfessorofRockWhile at a very low point in my freshmen year of college "You're Breakin' My Heart, you're tearing it apart..." played at a party. The "upside down, backwards and on fire" dark humor of the song (and eventually the whole album) definitely helped me cope. I don't think I get through that year without it. It is not the language I use ( I'm known for not using it actually), but it was the message or sentiment in the moment I needed to hear. Years later the live version with the alt verse of Garth Brooks' "Low Places" ( and you can kiss my...) did the same job. God's gift of music works in mysterious ways. Thanks for the gift of the channel!
Great vid, mate. Usually an 'album guy', Nilsson's rendition of without was the first single I ever bought. There was something irresistable about it. Off to find your vid on that song. Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺 👍
@@catherine6653 My parents bought me this small CB receiver to take along on road trips. Couldn't talk but it was fun to listen (and find out where the "bears" were)
I’ve lovedNilsson since I first heard him as a kid. His songs have always made me close my eyes and just seeing the stories of his music. I’ve never heard anyone that could make me see the songs like him. Such a great musician who was never able to exercise his demons. ❤
Nilsson was one of rock's most interesting characters. Thanks for continuing to shine your light, Professor. BTW seeing the Annie album in the background has planted the dreaded "the sun will come out tomorrow" earworm! 😉
When I need a really good or bad cry I put on Can’t Live If Living Is Without You. To me all the pain I feel is conveyed by the sound of his beautiful mournful unforgettable voice. R.I.P. Mr. Nilsson
You forgot to mention his soundtrack to the animated film the point, really a masterpiece. Narrated by Ringo Star. Thank you for this wonderful tale of a great songwriter. Greatest song Echoes, PF
I’ve heard everyone’s talking on the radio but only within the last couple of years finally watched midnight cowboy. I finally got to see how this song was interwoven into the movie. It certainly makes a great backdrop to the movie.
Poll: What is your pick for the GREATEST SONG by a SINGER-SONGWRITER in the Rock Era?
Bruce Springsteen - The Wrestler
Gordon Lightfoot - Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald
Nick Drake - Fly
Vincent
Stevie Wonder - tie "Sir Duke" and "For Once In My Life"
Honorable mentions: pick your favorite from James Taylor; Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, Van Morrison, Bruce Springsteen.
@@ProfessorofRock Old Man - Neil Young
Both Taxi and Cat's In The Cradle, by Harry Chapin, and Sunset Grill, by Don Henley
When I was 5, the cartoon “The Point!” aired on TV, with music written by Nilsson. I was mesmerized. My mom bought me the soundtrack. That was 53 years ago, and I still remember every word to every song.
I was 7 when "The Point" aired. Stuck with me since.
The Point is what introduced me Harry Nilsson. He's still one of favorite artists.
I too have seen the Point back when I was a kid, but was unaware of the soundtrack being written by Nilsson. I will have to watch and listen to it again.
Same. The Point was amazing! I must have been twelve, but it’s stuck with me, too.
"Me and My Arrow".
"Banking off of the northeast wind.. sailin' on a summer breeze..skippin' over the ocean like a stone.."
What gorgeous word pictures.
I agree! Poetry!
But for Midnight Cowboy, the song might have staid buried as a little known deep tract, which is why I love going through my old vinyl looking for those deep cut gems that have never had their Midnight moment, but deserve it.
Harry Nilsson - timeless.
@@networkg "I guess the lord must be in New York City" - that was gonna be the anthem. Changed it up.
@@jabbermocky4520 I wonder why? That song would have fit perfectly in that movie as irony.
Does anyone else remember the TV series, "The Ghost and Mrs. Muir"? Harry guest starred on one episode, and as I recall, Mrs. Muir was completely charmed by his boyish good looks and sweet vocals. The Captain was NOT pleased, of course! That episode is on UA-cam. I already loved his music when I saw that episode as a kid, but that was the first time I ever saw him. I've been smitten ever since!😍
“Goin where the weather suits my clothes” is lyrical genius. How can you not love Everybody’s Talkin?
It's a line from the folk song: "Lonesome Road Blues" AKA "Going Down the Road Feeling Bad", first recorded in 1923. Just about every (seems like) folk singer since has recorded it.
It’s an amazing song and lyric!
Some peeps still say, is he the guy that didcThe Courtship Of Eddie's Father theme?
"Everybody's Talkin" was a great song by Nilsson. I was living in LA at the time and would often hear it on 93 KHJ AM. The song rose to #10 on the Boss 30 in October 1969 (#6 on the Billboard Hot 100) and was on the Chart for 9 Weeks.
True
Several years ago, I had a dream in which I drove past an old, abandoned barn alongside a country highway. After passing it, my car suddenly went into reverse on its own and stopped beside the barn. I opened the door and saw a whole crew of old friends from high school and childhood having a reunion party inside the barn. One of the friends had a guitar and was playing and singing "Everybody's Talking" at a microphone in the middle of the barn.
To my knowledge, that's the only time a popular song has ever appeared in one of my dreams...just shows you how much the song is embedded in my psyche.
That would make a really great video for that song.
And in the echos of your mind…
I cried when Dustin Hoffman announced Harry’s passing while accepting an award on tv.
Harry Nilsson had such a beautiful captivating voice!
That was right before the internet. Some of us didn't learn about his passing for days...
His version of "Without You" (Badfinger) is amazing 👏
Without You… is one of the most beautiful songs ever!
One of THE great voices
In case anybody doesn't know, that scene with Dustin Hoffman and the car almost hits him and he smacks it and says "I'm walking here" was unscripted (it was live on NY City streets) and the most New York City thing ever at the same time.
The one time I was in NYC, 1977, a yellow cab bumped into a woman in blue spandex crossing the street. She turned around angrily struck the hood. What that movie moment reminds me of ever since.
Uh, EVERYONE knows this, deluded one, you're not special.
The cab wasn’t supposed to be there the street was supposed to be blocked off
Everyone knows.
@@manwithumbrellaI must be living under a rock, I didn't know😢 lol
One of my absolute favorite artist, Harry was immensely talented and his own worst enemy. That voice....the spine tingles.
No kidding!
His voice is so underrated.
Always liked this song. The more you listen the more profound it seems. I was fascinated by The Point when it came out. I loved the songs. There was probably a lot there that went over my head because I was a little kid when it came out. My oldest brother had the album and would play it for me. I think I only saw the film once when it came out on television. Harry Nilsson had such a beautiful voice but seemed to be his own worst enemy.
Nilsson wrote 'Cuddly Toy', 'Good Times' and 'Daddy's Song' for The Monkees. Micky Dolenz recorded 'Daybreak' as a single, also written by Nilsson. Micky Dolenz and Davy Jones performed in the London stage play of Nilsson's 'The Point'. And Nilsson worked with John Lennon and Ringo Starr. How cool is Nilsson to be so connected to both the Beatles and the Monkees!
Genius!
I’m sure we can find photos of him with the Monkees!
Me and My Arrow in the film, The Point, is perfect. Too bad it got burned out by a Plymouth commercial for an absolute lemon of a car: the Arrow (get it?).
And he would get another Grammy, in 1973, for Song of the Year, I believe, for "Without You".
Beloved was Harry by Sir's John, George & Ringo, plus thought very highly of as a musical genius by Sir Paul as well.
I grew up listening to Harry Nilsson and my aunt was a friend of his. He is a touchstone to my childhood growing up in the 1970s.
I was hoping you’d talk about Coconut! In the summer of 1972, I was sitting in the back of my parents’ 1970 Dodge Polara station wagon-we were heading to Disney World from Pennsylvania. A long drive! To pass the time, I frequently asked my parents to run on the car radio. That was the first time I heard Coconut, and I absolutely loved it!! That song was playing on the radio that entire trip, and I can’t hear it today without it taking me back to the summer sounds and smells of 1972 Florida!
Thanks for sharing!
I hope he does Coconut next!
I have been a huge Nilsson fan ever since I bought the tape Nilsson Schmilsson because I liked Without You. His music was all over the place and often goofy but his songs like Remember, Many Rivers to Cross, and All I Think About Is You, along with many others, move me like almost no other artists can.
@@LoungingMcCoy I just found All I Think About Is You a few months ago and fell VERY hard for it. It may be the saddest song I’ve ever heard. And the melody and arrangement are outstanding.
"Everybody's Talking" is one of the best movie theme songs ever. Harry Nilsson really conveys the melancholy mood of through his raw vocals. And don't get me started on the film's ending...😢
I totally agree. Classic all the way.
I couldn't agree more!
His performance makes it all the more relatable.
No spoilers
I still have my Nilsson Schmilsson album! I cannot listen to his version of "Without You" without sobbing. It just breaks my heart.
Harry's album and movie the Point with Ringo Starr is definitely worth a follow-up to this video. It's a good story and song.
So glad you're doing a story on Harry!
Love him!
He did one before, mostly about "Without You." Nilsson was great.
I squealed when I saw that today's class is about my first love, NILSSON! I've loved him literally since I was a wee child and heard "The Point".
In my 20s, I had a collection of every Nilsson album I could find, and my older brother made fun of my "immature" taste in music, still listening to a guy who writes "kiddie" songs.
Of course, my answer was to put on Side A of Harry's album, "Son of Schmilsson" and drop the needle in the groove to play Harry's classic song, "You're Breaking My Heart".😜😊
I love that Harry knew his profanity-laden song would never be played on the radio, but would become beloved by his fans.
@@LazyIRanch I was introduced to the great Harry Nilsson's work by "The Point" on TV. Thanks for sharing your story, LazyIRanch. I played "You're Breaking My Heart" on college radio during FCC "safe harbour" in the middle of the night...and not next to a station ID.
@@LazyIRanch so many people hate on Son, even people who like Harry's other stuff, but I think it's great!
Love it when you cover artists that are favorites of mine (like Harry Nilsson) and when you introduce me to artists I wasn't aware of (like Fred Neil).
Very cool!
I did not know much about Fred Neil until today!
Same with “Without You” Harry didn’t write it (Pete Hamm …. Another tragic story… did) But, Harry made it his own and to this day, his version just sends me into a visceral, transcendental melancholy ❤
Have you seen our video on it?
@@ProfessorofRockgreat video, I did see it
BADFINGER!
Without a doubt,one of the greatest love songs, especially with Harry singing. my opinion would reflect that you have impeccable taste in music.
Love that one too.
As a guy who absolutely LOVES music from 1955-2000, I love this channel.
But I’ve always wondered how you decide which songs, or artists to cover?
Keep up the GREAT work, brother!
Rock on! 🤘
That's a long answer! Email me theprofessor@professorofrock.com
@@ProfessorofRock hey professor, perhaps that would make a great video topic sometime!
I remember Fred Neil and Vince Martin. Great songwriters who where so overlooked by the mainstream.
For sure!
A throwaway song written in a bathroom in 5 minutes wins a Grammy and is better than any song written today. Greatness hides everywhere. Who are we to understand it.
was harry the pimp snorting coke or taking a dump ?
It was just another pop song ruined by overplay on pop radio.
"Jump Into the Fire" is one of his most underrated songs.
I have all of Harry's albums. Loved him since I was a kid and he sang on The Courtship of Eddie's Father!
"People, let me tell you about my Best Friend..."
That was a great TV theme song!
@@bjm9071 Such a good show and one of the best theme songs.
When I was on the air at a radio station people would call in and request Everyboy's Talkin' At ME and say, "by Glen Campbell". I would inform them the song is not sung by Glen Campbell, but Harry Nilsson, and they would argue with me about who sang the song.
Schmilsson is one of my go to albums to sing along with...
@@Patrick_Cooper take 54!
I became aware of the greatness of Nilsson when I first heard,"Jump into the Fire," I've listened to this song thousands of times since I first bought,"Nilsson Schmilson," in 1971 and since then I've gotten all of his albums and to this day buy anything that is released. I think Nilsson has one of the best voices ever to be recorded and he is one of the best songwriters ever. Thank you Harry !!!❤❤🎉😅😊😂❤
"Everybody's Talkin'" is a fabulous, genre-spanning song, and Harry Nilsson nailed it as only he could.
I absolutely love this song 😍😍😍😍 And so sad that Harry left this world to soon. But his music will live on and on and on.
Amen!
If you ever got a telescope and looked at things on the ground more than the sky, you will love this show.
HA HA HA! LOVE IT!
Nilsson wrote, performed, the music for an animated movie, The Point. It had an effect on me when I was young. Genius!
The Point is one of my family's favorite movies.
He did the soundtrack for the 'Popeye' movie too.
Me and My Arrow!
@@robdyer6088
Think about your troubles!
I have the DVD version of the movie as well as the LP of the sound track. Don't forget the driving beat of "Jump into the Fire"
I always learn a lot things about these classic rock artists and their songs
especially with Harry Nilsson Everybody's Talking which i have heard on
AM radio back in the 70's but hadn't heard the original from Fred Neil until
watching this and i read about his death in biography Thank You for the
Classic Rock Memories Professor.🎤🎸🎸🎹🥁
Thanks Roger!
Harry's music will stand the test of time, even when compared hits of today. There is a whole lot of soul that comes through.
SO much soul!
I'd argue that his music has already stood the test of time, and that it is superior to nearly all current pop music 😞
He was an amazingly talented singer.
“Everybody’s Talking” always played in high school when teachers would turn out the lights and fire up the movie projectors to show “educational” films usually about marine life and ocean health. Good memories!
Melancholy in its longing, but bright and upbeat in its vision, Nilsson's arrangement turned a great song into a timeless classic.
Nilson also wrote and sang a somewhat strange movie called "The Point" as well as my favorite Nilson song "Jump into the Fire". Fred Neil wrote "The Other Side of This Life", especially as interpreted by the Jefferson Airplane on their "Bless Its Pointed Little Head" album. Great work.
For whatever reason, I have always thought of Harry Nilsson was the underappreciated genius story teller of the 70s and Warren Zevon the underappreciated story teller genius of the 80s - and somehow, the two are linked in my mind - maybe because of their skills as story tellers.
Good comp!
I wholeheartedly agree!
Same!
Warren Zevon, " Keep Me in you Heart for a While"... Keeps him in my Heart Forever
@@rileyjackfansmithandjones8238 those who know, KNOW. 👍
This was the pairing of a truly great movie and a great song sung by one of the great voices of the time.
No question!
A symbiotic connection for the ages.
I need to see this movie!
In my mind, Harry is one the greatest of all time. Period. I discovered him when I was teen in the 70s and heard Without You. I immediately bought the album and was blown away by the rest of the album, especially the brilliance of Jump Into the Fire. Still miss his artistry and what else we could have heard from him. Both his and Lennox’s deaths are true tragedies of the latter 20th Century music scene. (Along with what we never got to hear from Hendrix, Joplin, Hamm and Croce.)
I discovered Badfingers version of their original " without you " first before harry's version
The Beatles brought attention to Harry Nilsson for me and probably the world , then I realized I had heard some of his songs. Radio was really bad at telling us who we were listening to. I don’t know if you mentioned Me and my arrow song and cartoon, when I walked out of the room. Great song and cartoon.
They were his favorite artist.
@@ProfessorofRock check out Me and my arrow cartoon and song by Harry from The Point
I remember going with my older brother when he bought the 8-track of nilsson schmilsson. Great album !
I got introduced to Harry Nilson by my best friend in High School back in 74. Since we lived in Podunk, Nowhere, it took me several years to score a copy of Aerial Ballet for my friend. If I run into him again I'll pass on his Holy Grail.
I love Harry's music, both songs & vocals. There is SO much character across his musical oeuvre. Harry is a singular icon in music history - he was considered an honorary member by BOTH The Beatles AND The Beach Boys. Holy cow!!
It's hard to pick a favourite, but I must say that I'm most 'affected' by "Don't Forget Me". (A quick shout out to Neko Case for her beautiful cover).
Nilsson Schmilsson is a desert island record. Solid from top to bottom. Harry was a certifiably mad genius
Harry Nilsson's recording of "Everybody's Talkin"' will stand the test of time, but the renditions (pretty much laid out the same way) recorded by Glen Campbell (with prominent banjo) and Bobby Goldsboro, who had their own albums come out, had heart as well.
"Everybody's Talkng Talking" breaks my heart every time...
One of my favorite songs ever. So good and interesting. The way HN sings it. I never get tired of it.
Yup😢
It's such a beautiful song!
@@clintlandrum9498 It's a classic.
Jimmy Buffett thought the lyric "going where the weather suits my clothes" was one of the best lyrics ever.
Every Body’s Talkin has the feel of a classic 50s saloon song combined with 60s folk rock. Others may of tried but “Mr. Spaceman” did it perfectly!
Good call DC!
You described it perfectly.
Professor, another shining example of why we/I enjoy your show and for it's content; such a wealth of information & knowledge - AWESOME! I never knew this much about "Everbody's Talkin'," of Nilsson himself or of his 'Nilsson Schmilsson' album; also wasn't aware he had done the song "Coconut'. Until you got more indepth, I hadn't paired "Everbody's Talkin' " with the 'Midnight Cowboy' movie. This was really good! Thanks!
Much appreciated
Harry was honestly a Genius! But more than that he had a voice that was so great it just leapt out not only at you but straight into your heart! SO AMAZINGLY GREAT! I saw the Movie "THE POINT" when I was a Child of about 10 years old. I immediately fell in love with the song "Me and My Arrow" which was about the boy and his dog! My heart jumps even now just remembering it.
So sad for both Nilsson and Neil...such is the nature of rock and roll.
"Everybody's Talking" definitely is a diamond in the rough...and my old man even knew the lyrics to Coconut, which is how I learned it!
"Doctor, ain't there nothin' I can take?"
You put the lime in the coconut.
British composerJohn Barry composed and arranged the instrumental Theme for Midnight Cowboy the hauntingly beautiful theme became a hit when covered by Ferrante and Teicher. In the space of two years1967-69 John composed the music for the fifth James Bond film “You Only Live Twice”. The Epic film The Lion in Winter,Midnight Cowboy, and the sixth Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”Starring Lazenby George Jazenby and Diana Rigg. That instrumental theme has become a cult classic as has the song John Barry wrote with lyrics by Hal David “We Have All The Time In The World”. Louis Armstrong was to I’ll to play his trumpet but did have enough strength for the vocals and the theme was used 50 years later for Daniel Craig’s last performance as Bond James Bond. John Barry played harmonica on Top Of The Pops 1981 his own Theme from Midnight Cowboy. I knew that obviously John Barry could play the piano but had no idea he could play harmonica as well!!!!
@@buddyvilla7393 I don't play harmonica but I love playing Barry's song on my keys.
As a child of 1990, I saw Goodfellas, on the TV granted, at way too young of age lol But when I told my mom how much I loved Jump into the Fire during the helicopter scene, she was ecstatic to share Harry's records that she owned. Loved You're Breaking My Heart and always felt grown up listening to it because of it's F you 😂
Harry's vocals on Without Her and All I think about is You are guaranteed to bring a tear to my eye. One of the few singers that both me and my Mother loved.
Harry is so forgotten these days and it's a complete shame. I keep his stuff in my rotation to this day. For me at least he sits in that vein of artists similar to Leon Russell in that they had such an immense impact on the scene, and other artists, yet they often get relegated to footnotes in music history. Another great episode professor, keep up the great work!
Edit: Hot Town Summer in The City/Lovin Spoonful is a great candidate for lightning in a bottle! Great song!
Geniius!
Summer in the City is awesome!
The genius Harry Nilsson, so glad that you did this video. A Zappa video would be great as well. Thanks, Professor for all that you do.
Yes, Get Arthur Barrow to do the interview he's such a great artist and his time with Zappa and so many other huge hits... Such as Take my breath away and Leave your Hat on🤯
Great suggestion!
YES! PLEASE!!
I used to be a middle school teacher until recently and EVERYONE knew Coconut in seventh grade!! They wrote the lyrics everywhere!!
Ha ha!
Was it because of the Addams Family movie?
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I'm not sure. It was popular for about 10 years
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 The Raul Julia Addams Family? This was around 2010 and early/mid teens.
This song always gives me chills; it's hauntingly beautiful. Harry and John Lennon had a lot in common, both of their dads leaving when they were young, gifted, not interested in the limelight. Excellent show, Prof!
Everybody's Talkin is just a beautiful song. I wish i were much longer. Whenever I play it I "rewind" and play it a few times
Same here. Such a poignant song.
It’s just so pretty!
This was a really great episode, professor. I literally grew up listening to this guy. He was a unique artist, for sure. As usual, I learned some new things. I've never watched the Midnight Cowboy movie, but I'm going to look it up.
Do it!
I always loved Nilsson, but when he came out with "Nilsson Sings Newman", I was over the moon!
And that was one earth shaking album!
This song is sheer brilliance! I still listen to it at least once a week. I always assumed Harry wrote it I had no knowledge of Fred Neil. I have got to watch Nelson Shmelson, thank you for the information because I have always loved this artist's work. Fantastic episode professor well done many things I had no knowledge of!!
My friend Spanky McFarlane (from Spanky and Our Gang) says she was at a hurricane party in Florida in the 60s when Fred came in to the bathroom while she was in the bathtub and sang her this song… she always preferred his version over Nilsson’s.
I want to interview him! Can you connect us? my email is theprofessor@professorofrock.com
@@ProfessorofRock That would be great, I bet she’d love that! I’ll send you her contact info.
All I could think of was "gross, she was in the tub during a hurricane party?" as a kid I was taught that you fill the tub with water before the hurricane because that might be the only fresh water you'll have for days afterward..but who knows, maybe Spanky soup is delicious ? :-))
How old is she now?
@@madmick78 How do you know POR isn't meaning he wanted to interview Fred Neil? Fred's the one whose version is being glorified by Paul's info. I'd personally rather interview Spanky though, and I fear she's getting set up for a letdown.
Thank you for this in depth on Nilsson. I have always loved his voice, his music and even in some ways his way of taking life and living it, albeit, to his demise. Such talent.
Cool backstory on Fred Neil. Nilsson was immensely talented and the variety of excellent songs that Nilsson and Perry put together on Schmilsson is pretty amazing. I also loved his sense of humor. The album title and cover art of "Duit on Mon Dei" (aka "God's Greatest Hits") still cracks me up. Have a great day! - Dave
Good call Dave. Have a great day yourself!
@@ProfessorofRock Thanks Adam!
Hey Professor. Great channel. You are on a hot streak at the moment. Thanks for a video on my fav singer songwriter Harry Nilsson. More people should know his work.
Father John Misty definitely used this when he made “Goodbye, Mr. Blue” definitely a tear-jerker with the same kind of musical layout/string section.
I'll have to listen!
ua-cam.com/video/0DdUQ7kY4Ec/v-deo.htmlsi=NidtU2k_eHJF3pWZ
This is what I meant to send you, the video has cussing lol oops
Dionysus."Those whom the gods seek to destroy, they first make great."
One of your best so far, Professor.❤
The last time that I played "Coconut" at a party, it started a Conga Line.
When my son went through his first real adult breakup, I sent him the song “You’re Breakin’ My Heart” from Son of Schmilsson. He laughed his butt off and slowly came out of his funk. Thank you Harry Nilsson, you were the best.
I still like to listen to The Point from time to time. I have it on DVD, but I prefer the album because no one can top Harry's narration.
Very cool!
Love Harry's "Son of Schmillson" album...the songs in sequence tell a story. Underrated singer / writer.
11:56 Gosh Damn...in the the 1950's...the 1960's...and even shown here beginning the 1970's...Elizabeth Taylor...Gorgeous. 💚
Right?
Elizabeth was breathtakingly beautiful! That periwinkle lilac colored dress she's wearing is so elegant, and would have matched her eyes.
I loved watching the Oscars back when people dressed to look great instead of "WTF is THAT?"😂
I wonder what that necklace she was wearing would be worth today? She only wore real gems, like a queen!
My fave!!! I actually learned a new tidbit, thank you. I hear his songs go through my head almost every day, I was 16 and had my first job as the ticket seller at our local theater, so I got to hear that wonderful song repeatedly but I wasn't allowed in to see the film. The others you mentioned were magnificent too. But you left out the amazing film "The Point", the intense friendship with Ringo (who quipped he was the best man at all of Harry's weddings) and the reason for my post: "You're Breakin' my Heart". Every one remembers exactly where they were and what they were doing the first time they heard that song! I thought "oh my God did he really say that???!!!" Cheers and thank you for giving Harry his kudos one more time
Outside of this song and Can't Live Without You I think Nillson is best remember for that unfortunate incident at the Trubador where he, and a very drunk John Lennon, Heckled the Smother's Brothers during their standup routine.
I mention that in the video.
When Harry was bad, he was very, very obnoxious. But I still miss him everyday...
I just love Nilsson's Everybody's Talking and Without You. Adam, I think you reached a new level of articulate verbal poetry in this one. You are quite the wordsmith! Great channel!
The 'entanglement' that included rolling onto the TV remote, having the channels changing on each 'cycle' that's memorable about Midnight Cowboy.
Of Who is Harry Nilsson (And Why Is Everybody Talkin' About Him?) its a must see, and used to be on Netflix. Seek it out.
For sure!
It's on UA-cam for free also! I agree, it's a must see documentary. I think I'm ready to watch it again.
I never tired of how excited you become when you are talking about these artist and their music. I love to watch someone with such passion for what they do.❤
20 minutes on Harry Nillson and no mention of Jump Into The Fire? Come on!😅
Seriously, another great chapter in the story of our lives here. Great job, as always.
I will cover that as it's own song!
I "discovered" Harry's fabulous music when I was around 13 and bought his "Aerial Pandemonium Ballet" album. I played it over and over - I just couldn't get over how wonderful his voice was.
It didn't become a cartoon but it DID become a great sketch on The Muppet Show.
Ha ha!
Coconut was used brilliantly in the TV Series "Bones" as the character Sweet's jam.
There are soooo many great stories you touched on in this episode, many of which I learned from watching you!! I’m especially happy that you gave Pete Ham a shoutout for writing “Without You” and for touching on Harry’s close friendship with John Lennon!!! Loved this one! As always, thanks for the memories… 😊
THanks!
I was singing this song as your video started. I will have this song stuck in my head for the rest of the day 😅
Such a classic!
@@ProfessorofRock Did you pass your stone yet?
It's one of my favorite songs to karaoke to.
My favorite Harry Nilsson song from Nilsson Schmilsson has always been Jump Into The Fire.
FLIPPER!!!! If you know who stared in Flipper and his famous sons,,,,, you're going to Dig this channel!!! Nillson!! Awesome vocals!! One of the Greatest!! Thanks Adam!! Peace 🕊️☮️♾️😎 Oops! Mixed Flipper with Sea quest!!
THanks Allen!
Lime in the Coconut that album was one of my first. I played that over and over again It was Nilsson Smilson…….
Cool story Professor! Movie is great!See you tomorrow!🤘🔥
See ya soon!
One of the absolute favorite favorites of my entire life.. so many killer memories tied to every note, every nuance. As a child of the late 60s, I’ve literally sung along to this song tons of thousands of times throughout the years… but it never ever sounded better than when it popped up in a mix I’d put together for a Sunday drive in the country (Parke County, Indiana) with a most amazing friend and with windows wide open on the most picture perfect weather day, the two of us yodeled and sang along as loud as our lungs would allow. Incredible memories! One of those songs you can’t just listen to once.
I got to meet Nilsson once at a Chicago Beatles fan convention in 1981 or 1982… wishing now I’d taken better advantage of that surreal opportunity.. but I got his autograph and had a minute or two in his presence. Great episode! Killer info and presentation!
"You're breakin' my heart
You're tearin' it apart
So (expletive deleted) you."
Whoa!
Yeah, I never heard that novelty song on the radio.
Another of my favorites from that same album is the song, "I'd Rather Be Dead".
The video is a scream! Harry went to an old folks retirement home and got the geriatric choir to sing back-up, after getting them in the mood with champagne and party hats. It's on UA-cam, and looks like everyone had a great time. Harry was such a cheeky monkey!
Here's a link to the video:
ua-cam.com/video/mHmH9lQZq6I/v-deo.html
Oof.
@@ProfessorofRockWhile at a very low point in my freshmen year of college "You're Breakin' My Heart, you're tearing it apart..." played at a party. The "upside down, backwards and on fire" dark humor of the song (and eventually the whole album) definitely helped me cope. I don't think I get through that year without it. It is not the language I use ( I'm known for not using it actually), but it was the message or sentiment in the moment I needed to hear. Years later the live version with the alt verse of Garth Brooks' "Low Places" ( and you can kiss my...) did the same job. God's gift of music works in mysterious ways. Thanks for the gift of the channel!
Great vid, mate.
Usually an 'album guy', Nilsson's rendition of without was the first single I ever bought.
There was something irresistable about it.
Off to find your vid on that song.
Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺 👍
Speaking of Walkie-Talkies, as a kid I always wanted a couple that looked like Star Trek communicators lol
My sister and I would play with my Dad's CB. radio in his truck too.
@TubbsFarquhar Nice! :)
@@catherine6653 My parents bought me this small CB receiver to take along on road trips. Couldn't talk but it was fun to listen (and find out where the "bears" were)
Me too!
My uncle had those!
I’ve lovedNilsson since I first heard him as a kid. His songs have always made me close my eyes and just seeing the stories of his music. I’ve never heard anyone that could make me see the songs like him. Such a great musician who was never able to exercise his demons. ❤
Since day 1, I've always thought this was a Glen Campbell song. I compared Glen's and Harry's versions, and Harry definitely does it better.
Thanks!
It does sound like him.
Nilsson was one of rock's most interesting characters. Thanks for continuing to shine your light, Professor.
BTW seeing the Annie album in the background has planted the dreaded "the sun will come out tomorrow" earworm! 😉
Thanks!
Harry Nilsson was of the BEST songwriters of rock n roll.
When I need a really good or bad cry I put on Can’t Live If Living Is Without You. To me all the pain I feel is conveyed by the sound of his beautiful mournful unforgettable voice.
R.I.P. Mr. Nilsson
Hey ProRo 🤓you finally shared my money winning trivia that I shared with you over dinner!
You got it!
You forgot to mention his soundtrack to the animated film the point, really a masterpiece. Narrated by Ringo Star. Thank you for this wonderful tale of a great songwriter. Greatest song Echoes, PF
"Me and My Arrow". From "The Point". Really cool song. I thought it might have been The Beatles when I first heard it on the radio.
Midnight Cowboy is one of the very best movies of its era.
Don't bring it up with Jon Voigt these days. Reminding him of playing a greenhorn gay cowboy so well could upset him now.
Jon Voigt hasn't been relevant in decades.
He's extremely relevant.
@@Dominos-el7qr Is there a new Baby Geniuses sequel I don't know about?
I’ve heard everyone’s talking on the radio but only within the last couple of years finally watched midnight cowboy. I finally got to see how this song was interwoven into the movie. It certainly makes a great backdrop to the movie.
Given the standards of today I don't think that Midnight cowboy would be rated X. It would probably get an R rating.
...well, sellin' Cowboys on street corners wasn't necessarily "Viva Las Vegas" in 1969, y'know! ...ha-HAAA!!!
Since the "R" rating system replaced the previous "X" rating, you are almost 100% guaranteed correct. 😒
UA-cam has ghost cancelled me as a poster......what a tyrannical POS.....please prove me wrong by responding to this one.
True. It was because it was the 60s.
Ha ha