2 yrs ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and right after that covid. 2 mos before the cancer diagnosis, my gallbladder burst. I thought it was God telling me to get my affairs in order, so I began writing and choosing music for when my day came. I love this song. It makes me cry and always has. It makes me look at every aspect of my life. My life has been hard. I had suffered a lot of loss at a very young age, battled addiction, and was in an abusive family and marriage. However, I've always prevailed because of who I am. I love hard and pray often. I am now a cancer survivor and a survor of many other things. Music has gotten me thru life, and this song just says so much about who I really am. This was the song I chose, as my farewell to life as I knew it. Love life, Ifs truly a precious gift. ❤
Hang in there and lean on the lord! You're facing a brick wall, pray hard and you'll come through it unscathed! My father committed suicide while i was sleeping and the gunshot of that .38 still haunts me giving me mild PTSD! That's been over 15 years ago!
This is the best version of 'Both Sides Now'..Judy Collins has the most mesmerising voice and sings this masterpiece with such emotion..I know many ppl love Joni Mitchell, but Judy's rendition is amazing..☮️💖
Joni Mitchell also dida pretty good version, no doubt partly inspired by having written the song - she sings it like she means it, which JC cannot quite do. JC's version is pretty fantastic too.
My mom once told me that she remembered listening to this song over and over in her college dorm room. She had a very tough life and whenever I hear this song I picture her as a college girl with bright eyes and a world of possibilities in front of her and then I cry.
At my present age of 72, I have "looked at life" from many, many angles. What's really amazing is how fast life has come and gone. Many people persuaded me to do "this and that", and I listened to them, but they didn't know any better, either. Today, I have true peace...because I listen only to myself, even though I consider other's opinion too. Stop living someone else's dreams and start living your own. George Eliot said..."It's never too late to become what you might have been".
My Mom is in frail. condition. She had me 50 years ago. This song reminds me of her when she was young and had her whole life in front of her! I've been with her during cancer and everything else. I don't want to let go of my Momma!💔✝️
I hear you friend , I'm 52 and in the same boat. My mother has had colon cancer, beat that but has other complications. Her days are limited as well, part of life is death of those close to us. I have a calm feeling those we lose can look down from Heaven at their family and smile with all the extensions and more kids.
Going through the same thing but yesterday my actually had a breakthrough moment and as best she can (dealing with strong case of dementia) start trying to convey about her funeral. I asked her if she wanted songs from her lifetime and not solely religous songs and she said yes. So I remember this song back listening to iit while mom was busy around the house nearby. She sat my by the stereo because it kept me occupied. Her major stroke was 16 years ago and I thought I was losing her (medical staff was prepariing for her death) and I asked her to come back and later she said she heard me. It been me and my mom against the world when I first came in, and nothing better than her. I had other family members that help out raising me but nothing like your mom. Sometimes I get tired, but I quickly come to the realization once she gone that it no more good times or bad times. I don't want to let her go either. So I understand.
Someone always has to ruin it by reminding me how old I am. Just because I remember laying in the grass staring up at the puffy clouds floating across an azure sky while Judy's voice came over the radio when I was a young lad must mean that I to am also old.
One of the songs which have haunted me throughout my entire life!!! Whenever i happen to hear it playing, i get terribly emotional and feel like bursting into tears. A big hug to all those who share similar feelings!!! From Athens, Greece!!!
@Mauricio Beltre Yeah. It's a very passionate song, both the melody and the lyrics, it's a beautiful tune, and it's from the era of the late 1960s when letting oneself go and feel free and joyful was a part of the culture then. It's just too sad how incredibly different things are today
Yes, but thinking the music of your youth is better than what followed it, particularly decades later, is practiced by every generation. It's more a statement of your nostalgia than it is the quality of the music.
I know Joni Mitchell wrote this, and I love her music, but I've always preferred Judy Collins version of the song. It seems, to me, more genuine and innocent. You really believe she is singing about the lessons she learned in life. I am probably in a minority but I would pick Judy to sing it over Joni every time.
I heard Judy's version as a child, so for me this has always been the 'real' one. Learned to love Joni's over the years, but this is the best recording of this song, for me.
Oh I’m sorry I can’t agree, Judy sings with nervous trepidation and Joni sings it genuinely from the heart. Listen to the original. It’s absolutely breathtaking!
Music like this has me realize just how lucky I was to be young during this period. I mean just look at what our youth is producing these days. This was during an actual golden age of music and thanks to technology, we can experience it again.
Judy was a year behind me at East High School in Denver. Lovely, lovely woman with a beautiful voice. Great to see she's still cooking. Marilyn VanDerber was a year ahead of me and she was Miss America. Not everybody can say they went to school with people who became famous!
That is so cool! I went to an all boys private military high school on Long Island in the late 60s and early 70s with the sons and grandsons of Carlo Gambino, Joe Profaci, Joe Columbo, Paul Castellano and John Gotti. They were all infamous. Does that count? Lol
I think you're exaggerating. Have you ever heard Judy Garland or Ella Fitzgerald, those 2 women were in a special class all their own. Judy Collins was a nice singer but she could only sing a certain type of song and if she had been as great as you're suggesting she would have been a bigger star.
It was very much of its time in the 1960s. And something profound stays that way through time. Joni wrote it at age 23. How could she know with the life experiences of a 23 year old? She just did.
When I was a kid, one afternoon I fell asleep in front of the record player while this album was playing. Somehow the spiritual quality of Judy's voice and melodies stimulated such a blissful feeling of elation and wellbeing, I felt like I was "seeing from both sides" - I will never forget it.
Lyrics Bows and flows of angel hair And ice cream castles in the air And feathered canyons everywhere I've looked at clouds that way But now they only block the sun They rain and snow on everyone So many things I would have done But clouds got in my way I've looked at clouds from both sides now From up and down and still somehow It's cloud's illusions I recall I really don't know clouds at all Moons and Junes and ferris wheels The dizzy dancing way you feel When every fairytale comes real I've looked at love that way But now it's just another show You leave 'em laughin' when you go And if you care don't let them know Don't give yourself away I've looked at love from both sides now From win and lose and still somehow It's love's illusions I recall I really don't know love at all Tears and fears and feeling proud To say, "I love you" right out loud Dreams and schemes and circus crowds I've looked at life that way But now old friends are acting strange They shake their heads, they say I've changed Well, something's lost but something's gained In living every day I've looked at life from both sides now From win and lose and still somehow It's life's illusions I recall I really don't know life at all
That is definitely hearts pouring with philosophy, anyone living with a heart can hear that. The tin man, now i know i have a heart cause its breaking.
I prefer this version over all others. Very sincere and simple delivery. Judy Collins doesn't take self-importance so seriously as to become a caricature.
This song will forever remind me of my mother. When I was a very small child, she bought the Wildflowers album of Judy Collins, and played it over and over, Both Sides Now was her favorite.. Now at 95, sharp as a pin.. she still love this song ! i am truly blessed
JUDY COLLINS IS ABSOLUTE PROOF OF GOD SHOWING OFF !!! BEST WORDS OF WISDOM EXPRESSED INTELLIGENTLY FROM THE HEART AND SOUL !!! GOD BLESS YOU MY FRIEND !!!
This song came out when I was living at an Army base in South Korea. I was 10 years old and we (all the Army brats on the base) could sing this song and loved this song. We had a radio station there, but no TV. The freedom we had in those days, and the fun, and hopefulness about the future, was unbelievable.
I was a Senior in High School when I first heard this song and really liked the musical arrangement, the addition of strings, violins and organ. But it wasn't until I returned home from Nam that I truly grasped and understood the message there. I'm in my late 70's now, and as I look back to my younger days...I really didn't know life at all.
I'm 65 and can relate to that, this song takes me back to my childhood listening to records with mum and dad on a Saturday night, the one thing i got from my father, the love of music.
It’s hard to believe this came out 52 years ago! And this wonderful song moves me today as much as it did in 1967 when I heard it for the first time as a 7 year old kid......
The Judy Collins version of the song "Both Sides Now" is to me "a priceless musical work of art" in all respects! Every word of the lyrics of the song itself have set up positive, encouraging standards in my own personal life as well. I myself have truly seen and experienced "Both Sides Now" in my life and when I first heard this marvelous rendition of the song by Judy Collins back in 1975 it vividly brought back the very highs & lows of my 1 year U.S. ARMY Tour of Duty in Vietnam back in the 60's. Hearing Ms. Collins sing "Both Sides Now" back then ( and I still listen to her version now from time to time ) impacted my life in positive ways that have carried me through all these Post-Vietnam years now. So, thank you so much Judy Collins for singing this particular song and impacting my life in so many positive ways hearing it. May God Bless!
@garymedrow3857 Wow, your post hit it on the head. Collins's version is straight to the point. Mitchell's version is so deep in her feelings, sorta like blues music, that her feelings supercede the meaning of the song for me. I'm a brother from Boston, and I never really got into deep melancholic music because of my temperamental mentality.
I'm 74 now...soon to be 75 in October. This song just stirs so many wonderful thoughts and feelings in me. Sure...there have been some down moments too, of course. Yet...I keep learning that "this very moment" that I am living, is quite enough, and that I should "continue to live in this moment"...always!
Couldn't agree more Jose 💯 I'm 53 yr old and have a tendency to look back, and while that is ok with teachable moments, I have learned to try and live in the now. Life is precious and not to be taken for granted ❤ Blessings, health and happiness to you 🙏
It is really subjective which version between Judy and Joni is better. Judy's version has more instruments with a bit of a faster tempo to make it popular on the radio, while Joni's version has the one guitar and a bit of a slower pace like an unplugged and personal performance. I like them both!
Like Barbra Streisand, she learned to preserve the very BEST of her voice, long past her prime recording years. Drugs, alcohol and cigarette smoke affect professional singers in different ways, but Judy's remains as fresh and untouched as it was in 1961. If this is what Heaven sounds like, then those of us on Earth have truly seen the best of both sides now. This is magnificent.
This SHOULD be the song we hear at the end of our lives--we're born with wonder, get very certain as we age, then near the end, come full circle and realize that we " really don't know life, at all..." and that's exactly the way it should be!
@ Michael brown, so true I was in elementary school when this song came out, didn't think nothing of it at the time being about 9 or 10 years old but remember the teachers listening to this in the teachers lounge, it was popular to them because they played it over and over in the lounge when the kids were at recess playing in the yard
Not only that Michael...we should play this song every day, and read the words out loud. They will help us stay focused on the things that truly matter in our lives...
‘Near the end’ I’m 16 and I realise this. Life makes no sense at al. Thinking nihilisticly isnt “more realistic” life is just the way it is, it’s your Outlook that matters
I was a teenager when this was released, with all my teenager angst, but over fifty years later the song is still as meaningful now as it was back then.
As a child I heard this song as a cheery pop song when my mother had it on the car radio. Now listening during my 42 year old midlife crisis, I can say I've heard this song from both sides now.
I'm an old man now. This song I remember stopping what I was doing ( if possible ) to listen to this. It makes me very lonely to remember those times when I was young, had many good friends and good times. Felt I had the world in my hands, turned out I didn't.
Tonight I went the Grief Counseling Meeting at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church in Scottsdale because I knew that several of my friends who lost their spouses are feeling empty about the upcoming Holiday Season. We had a mixed group of very sad people and several of us who wanted share our positive thoughts about where our loved ones have gone. One member of our our group had experienced a divorce many years ago. He lost his second wife to a sudden death a few months ago. Just before the end of the session he made a profound statement that he had now seen "both sides" of losing a loved one. I whipped out my iPhone and pulled up this recording by Judy Collins. We ended our session listening to this beautiful folk song. I now believe that God sent me to the meeting to play this song for each and every one of us who have seen both sides of love.
My parents used to listen to this song when I was growing up. My dad just passed away two days ago and my mom a year before that. I’ve been listening to this song today and balling my eyes out. I miss them so much. I wish I could turn back the clock so I could tell them more how much I love and appreciate them. Thank you for posting this beautiful song. It sure brings comfort during this difficult time ❤️
Prayers for you. I lost my parents pretty close together (2020, 2022). It's tough at times. I hope your grief journey is healing, revealing, and not too difficult.
My early childhood in a song. :) Didn't understand the words when I was kid, but loved the melody. Nowadays it reminds me of the early 70s, much more innocent time. Lyrics are bittersweet though, aren't they?
Yes, "Bittersweet" because bitter and sweet are two sides of the same coin, hence "Both Sides Now". I must admit the line "Well, something's lost and something''s gained in living every day", never fails to stop me in my tracks.
At my present age of 76, .....I loved this song from the first time I heard it....and now as time has passed me by every time I listen to this beautiful song it makes me feel that my life has been pretty great.....Even with the all the ups and down.....It makes me grateful that I have lived and experienced life with my family as a very happy person. Thank you Judy! for all the great memories.
I saw her live at Guildford in January 2020, just before the pandemic. At 80 her voice was flawless, including all the complexity and no issue with the high and low notes. And just to top it off she has a wonderful line in stories from her past. The most astonishing 80 year old I ever saw.
Just watched Joni Mitchell perform Both Sides (Clouds). She is truly a musical treasure, so many great songs. Thanks for making life good with your great songs.
This is the version I know and love. I was still at school when this came out and I used to hold the hairbrush and sing along pretending it was me singing to millions! Well, life didn’t work out that way, but I still have a good imagination. And I still love this song, Judy Collins is the best, all the others can’t hold a candle, not even the one who wrote it.
If only I could regain the life I had back then! Oh Lord the music from this era. No new music even comes close to this. Tears stream down my face with the memories of my past life! I would love to go back and stay there for a time!
I don’t care how many times this beautiful Joni Mitchell song is covered and by who, this will always be for me anyway the best version of the song, this is like a time capsule that takes me right back to the late sixties!
one Christmas Mum and I each gave the other a Judy Collins album...now im 65 i still dont know clouds at all! tears of happiness and yes I can say I love You right out loud! LOUD!!! to anyone who will listen! and even if they dont want to I dont care ......I love LJE!
This was the first Judy Collins song I ever heard when it came out back in the sixties. Her voice brought tears to my 20 year old eyes. Well done, Judy.
Ohhh. I just went back to being ten years old, back in 1967. I was living in a northwest suburb of Toronto and my best friend Joe decided we would try to walk to the Claireville Dam and Reservoir about four miles away. We trudged along Albion Rd. heading west on a 90' July afternoon. I had a little transistor radio I was carrying tuned to 1050 CHUM Toronto. This Judy Collins song came on and I was captivated by it ! Now I hear it and I am walking along in the blazing sun carefree as ever. Music is the most wonder thing on Earth ! Oh the memories it gives back...following the feeling....
Misty eyes listening to this, another great song from the 60s that will forever be part of my childhood, inspite of all the turmoil that was happening back then it wasn't bad being a kid, wouldn't trade those times for anything...
Yes, I agree, the 60's was the bomb except for the assassinations, riots and Vietnam War and I'm glad to have grown up then if for nothing else the great music and this is one the greatest of then and for all time!
I love both versions by Joni and Judy. Very uplifting. I was a child in 1969 and these songs take me back. Life was easy and difficult then. Very colorful time for me as a child.
The greatest song ever written, by a truly brilliant songwriter (Joni Mitchell). And song by a glorious singer (Judy Collins). What a great combination. This is why i love music.
Interesting you say that this is the greatest song ever written! Over the years, I have always maintained a Top 25 greatest hits list in my head just like the radio stations had their Top 25 or Top 40 hits list. The Top 25 list was meant for an audience of one- me! Lol! I know that what I may think is great may not even make the list for other people. Such is music that it means different things to each of us As time went along, I changed the list in my head....For years, I had "Hey Jude" by the Beatles as my #1 all-time best hit. Now, I don't think that I would even rank "Hey Jude" in my personal best 25 songs, though it's still a very good song. On the other hand, Judy Collins version of "Both Sides Now" was usually somewhere around #20 on my list back when I was a teen....and now that I am an older guy, it's worked it's way all the way to the #1 spot on my personal list. This song has truly withstood the test of time in my book! Among songs from 1950 to present, this is what I consider the best song! Now, I will say that I also listen to the Big Band and Jazz Music of the 1920s, 30s and 40s and I love a lot of that music too! I came to really discover that music over the last 15 years or so. I have a very different list of Top 25 personal songs when I consider that era, and I think it's unfair to rank them against songs since the 1950s. They are truly their own sounds and lyrics of a different age. I also enjoy Classical Music--I use to play the Viola in the school orchestra in the village where I grew up and Classical is also great music in my book. But among the musical releases since 1950, I consider Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now" as sung by Judy Collins to be the VERY BEST song!
“If you care, don’t let them know, don’t give yourself away.” I’m tearing up. In 3 years I found a love then lost it, and made friends I thought I would be with forever. Now those friends seem like strangers to me. I guess nothing ever stays the same in life. But like Joni said, we only remember the best bits ✨
Nostalgic 💜 This song reminds me of my mom. She used to listen to a reel to reel tape of all her favorite songs. The Sound Of Music played in our house every weekend too. My mom would sing along and I thought she had the most beautiful voice. 💜 In my eyes, my mom was perfect.
I was born in the late fall of 1978. We sang this song my freshman year in Indiana University Pop Singers! I only realized my junior year in college and my third year in Indiana University Pop Singers the somewhat sad and skeptical meaning of the lyrics! Awesome Recording! Awesome Song!
Joanne Mitchell was brilliant but Judy Collins' version is my favorite. In '79 I fell asleep with the radio on and heard this song in my sleep. Been hooked ever since.
![Mario & Luigi: Brothership - Bowser Jr. & Bowser's Minions! [P15]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/u_k7P_rFkdg/mqdefault.jpg)
2 yrs ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and right after that covid. 2 mos before the cancer diagnosis, my gallbladder burst. I thought it was God telling me to get my affairs in order, so I began writing and choosing music for when my day came. I love this song. It makes me cry and always has. It makes me look at every aspect of my life. My life has been hard. I had suffered a lot of loss at a very young age, battled addiction, and was in an abusive family and marriage. However, I've always prevailed because of who I am. I love hard and pray often. I am now a cancer survivor and a survor of many other things. Music has gotten me thru life, and this song just says so much about who I really am. This was the song I chose, as my farewell to life as I knew it. Love life, Ifs truly a precious gift. ❤
💕💕💕
Hang in there and lean on the lord! You're facing a brick wall, pray hard and you'll come through it unscathed! My father committed suicide while i was sleeping and the gunshot of that .38 still haunts me giving me mild PTSD! That's been over 15 years ago!
I had breast cancer at 41. 20 years ago. Still healthy. You can do it.
May you carry on and your health get better. God bless you.
SBL420 - Thank you for being be you, for if you were not you, you wouldn't have spoke those words in the comment.
This song is so beautiful. It makes me cry.
same
Me too
I'm 60 and I remember this song like it was yesterday.
I'm 73 and feel the same.
Me too. This version so beautifully sung by Judy Collins!! 💞
Yeah, the time really goes
Im 71 and know all the words.
@@johns1280 And we still don't know life at all😎
This is the best version of 'Both Sides Now'..Judy Collins has the most mesmerising voice and sings this masterpiece with such emotion..I know many ppl love Joni Mitchell, but Judy's rendition is amazing..☮️💖
I looked at it from both sides and humbly, I prefer Joni Mitchell's version.
There is far more emotions in Judy's version.
Joni Mitchell also dida pretty good version, no doubt partly inspired by having written the song - she sings it like she means it, which JC cannot quite do. JC's version is pretty fantastic too.
@@petesiegel9225 Let me guess - You prefer Bob Dylan’s version of All Along the Watchtower (damn hippies!😃)
I agree 👍
My mom once told me that she remembered listening to this song over and over in her college dorm room. She had a very tough life and whenever I hear this song I picture her as a college girl with bright eyes and a world of possibilities in front of her and then I cry.
Lovely words
@@talos2373 trump always tells both sides at his rallys- trump 2024
That's a lovely memory and one you should be proud of.
@@anothertime1282 it is a good thing trump tells both sides now
That is so sweet. What a lovely memory to have of your sweet mother
At my present age of 72, I have "looked at life" from many, many angles. What's really amazing is how fast life has come and gone. Many people persuaded me to do "this and that", and I listened to them, but they didn't know any better, either. Today, I have true peace...because I listen only to myself, even though I consider other's opinion too. Stop living someone else's dreams and start living your own. George Eliot said..."It's never too late to become what you might have been".
where does she say that? Middlemarch?
Dear Jose Alberto, thanks for your sincere comment, very true indeed!!
I didn't know how much I loved this song until I saw Hereditary
Well played.
Good advice Jose. I will heed it.
My Mom is in frail. condition. She had me 50 years ago. This song reminds me of her when she was young and had her whole life in front of her! I've been with her during cancer and everything else. I don't want to let go of my Momma!💔✝️
best wishes to you and her!
I hear you friend , I'm 52 and in the same boat. My mother has had colon cancer, beat that but has other complications. Her days are limited as well, part of life is death of those close to us. I have a calm feeling those we lose can look down from Heaven at their family and smile with all the extensions and more kids.
Going through the same thing but yesterday my actually had a breakthrough moment and as best she can (dealing with strong case of dementia) start trying to convey about her funeral. I asked her if she wanted songs from her lifetime and not solely religous songs and she said yes. So I remember this song back listening to iit while mom was busy around the house nearby. She sat my by the stereo because it kept me occupied. Her major stroke was 16 years ago and I thought I was losing her (medical staff was prepariing for her death) and I asked her to come back and later she said she heard me. It been me and my mom against the world when I first came in, and nothing better than her. I had other family members that help out raising me but nothing like your mom. Sometimes I get tired, but I quickly come to the realization once she gone that it no more good times or bad times. I don't want to let her go either. So I understand.
You’ll always have your lovely Mother. Keep the faith darling!
I lost my mother at in 2021 at 52 (she was 80). I don't think the hurt will ever go away...... but it's mitigated by time.... and songs.
beautiful orchestration in the way they did in the sixties. Separated violins, organ, bells,.... and the voice in the middle. A jewel of the past.
Such a Beautiful old Song :-) Still so in 2024!
Yes, it certainly is 😊 I can remember when it was in the U.K. chart in early 1970.
This song brings me back to a different time
hail paimon!
October 14, 2024
Someone always has to ruin it by reminding me how old I am. Just because I remember laying in the grass staring up at the puffy clouds floating across an azure sky while Judy's voice came over the radio when I was a young lad must mean that I to am also old.
WE ARE 58 AND STILL ENJOYING THIS BEAUTIFUL SONG
Kids, still......
You’re still enjoying it because now, at our age, we finally understand it.
I am 58 and still enjoying this beautiful song
I'm 64 and I remember when Joni Mitchel sang this song in 1966.
One of the songs which have haunted me throughout my entire life!!! Whenever i happen to hear it playing, i get terribly emotional and feel like bursting into tears. A big hug to all those who share similar feelings!!! From Athens, Greece!!!
Wonder why the same thing happens to me. Must be precious music tied to a time of our lives....long ago.
@Mauricio Beltre Yeah. It's a very passionate song, both the melody and the lyrics, it's a beautiful tune, and it's from the era of the late 1960s when letting oneself go and feel free and joyful was a part of the culture then.
It's just too sad how incredibly different things are today
It's a great song, and era, see my above reply to Mauricio Beltre
Amen to that. A song which moves me to tears every time I hear it. Heard it tonight and thought of my mother. 😢
I'm crying now listening to it. Glad I'm not the only one.😊
In my humble opinion this music is much better than music today. Does anyone agree?
With IP reform we can experience a new golden age of music. We need to remove the incentive for massive companies to rehash the same garbage.
both can be good, boomer.
Jawoll, I miss the 50s 'til the 80s
Jörg (ex Hamburg, now Phils)
👍
@@TheNizoubizou I would have liked to have agreed with you if you had omitted the contemptuous 'boomer'.
Yes, but thinking the music of your youth is better than what followed it, particularly decades later, is practiced by every generation. It's more a statement of your nostalgia than it is the quality of the music.
I'm 65 now and if only I could go back to those days...
Those days are immortal within this song.
People get old but the songs don't. I am 71 but not when I listen to the great songs.
100% agree.@@rooky55
@@rooky55 What a profound comment. I’m nearly 70, and I feel exactly the same way. Well put.
@@srvbhThank you Soul mate. Keep enjoying the great songs.
I know Joni Mitchell wrote this, and I love her music, but I've always preferred Judy Collins version of the song. It seems, to me, more genuine and innocent. You really believe she is singing about the lessons she learned in life. I am probably in a minority but I would pick Judy to sing it over Joni every time.
I heard Judy's version as a child, so for me this has always been the 'real' one. Learned to love Joni's over the years, but this is the best recording of this song, for me.
Love Joni but prefer Judy's version.
Yes you are in the minority
@@Sanctified57 You are right. My thoughts exactly. There is a reason why Joni is a legend and Judy isn't.
Oh I’m sorry I can’t agree, Judy sings with nervous trepidation and Joni sings it genuinely from the heart. Listen to the original. It’s absolutely breathtaking!
Joni Mitchell is a brilliant diamond of a songwriter.
Judy Collins is a brilliant diamond of a singer.
❤Happy 85th, Judy! Love you!! Thanks !❤
I've loved this song since I was a child. Tears me uo.
up/ O hate AI
Music like this has me realize just how lucky I was to be young during this period. I mean just look at what our youth is producing these days. This was during an actual golden age of music and thanks to technology, we can experience it again.
It was a golden age, but there's no need to put down another generation's music (I'm 67).
For Joni to write this at 21, and so poignantly capture the thoughts of someone in middle age, is truly amazing. She is a genius!
Well said! How do they do that at 21? To have such wisdom at such a young age! Pure genius!
@@mehranhooshmand8407 Wasnt it written by someone else
@@imperfect_dan7519
As Charles stated, it was Joni, Joni Mitchell wrote it.
You are absolutely spot on with that observation.
didn't know that fact, wow, it makes it so much more amazing :-)
Judy was a year behind me at East High School in Denver. Lovely, lovely woman with a beautiful voice. Great to see she's still cooking. Marilyn VanDerber was a year ahead of me and she was Miss America. Not everybody can say they went to school with people who became famous!
Wait really you knew her? Crazy
That is so cool! I went to an all boys private military high school on Long Island in the late 60s and early 70s with the sons and grandsons of Carlo Gambino, Joe Profaci, Joe Columbo, Paul Castellano and John Gotti. They were all infamous. Does that count? Lol
@@5lowXclanX Oh, wow, that's pretty impressive, Jerry!! Hahahahahaha!!!
My brother went there, to East High School when we lived on the 3600 block of Locust in east denver back in the late 60s
@@TheOmeomaya she was your friend?
When music was music. Brilliant!
Simply said, but profound.
A timeless classic.
A song that touches the soul.
I miss the sixties .❤
One of the best songs ever written(tx Joni), and best performed( tx Judy)
Judy collins is the best singers of all time
I think you're exaggerating. Have you ever heard Judy Garland or Ella Fitzgerald, those 2 women were in a special class all their own. Judy Collins was a nice singer but she could only sing a certain type of song and if she had been as great as you're suggesting she would have been a bigger star.
I cannot believe Joni Mitchell wrote this song when she was just 21 years old. Incredible.
I woke up with this song in my mind. Have not heard it in YEARS! I am 60 years old. This is powerful , very anointed song
This is one of those songs that feels ahead of it's time. Joni wrote it and sang it in 66 and Judy perfected it in 68. Still fits in 2023.
Yes, joni wrote it in '66, but......
"First recorded by Judy Collins, it appeared on the US singles chart during the fall of 1968."
2024 too
Actually it does not fit in 2023 because 2023 has lost all of it.
2024❤️❤️❤️❤️
It was very much of its time in the 1960s. And something profound stays that way through time. Joni wrote it at age 23. How could she know with the life experiences of a 23 year old? She just did.
When I was a kid, one afternoon I fell asleep in front of the record player while this album was playing. Somehow the spiritual quality of Judy's voice and melodies stimulated such a blissful feeling of elation and wellbeing, I felt like I was "seeing from both sides" - I will never forget it.
Wow...I LOVE that!
Yes. One of lifesbest. I found the answer to Judy's beautiful quest. Jesus my savior
Lyrics
Bows and flows of angel hair
And ice cream castles in the air
And feathered canyons everywhere
I've looked at clouds that way
But now they only block the sun
They rain and snow on everyone
So many things I would have done
But clouds got in my way
I've looked at clouds from both sides now
From up and down and still somehow
It's cloud's illusions I recall
I really don't know clouds at all
Moons and Junes and ferris wheels
The dizzy dancing way you feel
When every fairytale comes real
I've looked at love that way
But now it's just another show
You leave 'em laughin' when you go
And if you care don't let them know
Don't give yourself away
I've looked at love from both sides now
From win and lose and still somehow
It's love's illusions I recall
I really don't know love at all
Tears and fears and feeling proud
To say, "I love you" right out loud
Dreams and schemes and circus crowds
I've looked at life that way
But now old friends are acting strange
They shake their heads, they say I've changed
Well, something's lost but something's gained
In living every day
I've looked at life from both sides now
From win and lose and still somehow
It's life's illusions I recall
I really don't know life at all
It just doesn't get any better than a hit song like this I'm aware who wrote this , but she has such a great voice singing this song here!
just love this voice, an equally dynamic voice, singing with all her heart ? Bravo, Judy !!!
Thank you
That is definitely hearts pouring with philosophy, anyone living with a heart can hear that. The tin man, now i know i have a heart cause its breaking.
Thank you so much for posting the lyrics ❤️
This was the song we played at my mom's memorial service - as was her wishes. I think of her every time I hear it. Thank you.
Great song 👍
God Bless ✝✝
@@garychambers5850 thank you Gary. I really miss her.
@@adamscoll8791❤❤❤
My Mom just passed away. She was 95. This was her favorite song. Makes me cry.
I prefer this version over all others. Very sincere and simple delivery. Judy Collins doesn't take self-importance so seriously as to become a caricature.
Me too, also Neil Diamond does a decent cover. Listen to it.
This song will forever remind me of my mother. When I was a very small child, she bought the Wildflowers album of Judy Collins, and played it over and over, Both Sides Now was her favorite.. Now at 95, sharp as a pin.. she still love this song ! i am truly blessed
JUDY COLLINS IS ABSOLUTE PROOF OF GOD SHOWING OFF !!!
BEST WORDS OF WISDOM EXPRESSED INTELLIGENTLY FROM THE HEART AND SOUL !!!
GOD BLESS YOU MY FRIEND !!!
When the teacher becomes the student. One of the most profound songs ever. Bless you Joni and Judy
20대때 들었으니 지금
제니이가 73세
나이가 드셨으나 당당하고
아름답습니다
사랑해요
쥬디콜린스
Sadly, beautiful songs like this don't seem to exist anymore. I loved this song as a 7th grader in junior high school.😁
This song came out when I was living at an Army base in South Korea. I was 10 years old and we (all the Army brats on the base) could sing this song and loved this song. We had a radio station there, but no TV. The freedom we had in those days, and the fun, and hopefulness about the future, was unbelievable.
the media demoralizes people now the mass media moved onto the internet.
The slight tremor in Judy’s voice is so beautiful.
I noticed that as well....that low note is at the very bottom of her range...but it worked out nicely.
Naturally the character of her voice
Very nice vibrato
I was a Senior in High School when I first heard this song and really liked the musical arrangement, the addition of strings, violins and organ. But it wasn't until I returned home from Nam that I truly grasped and understood the message there. I'm in my late 70's now, and as I look back to my younger days...I really didn't know life at all.
I'm 76. I thought I knew, but it turns out that I didn't, all along. "It's life's illusions I recall."
"I really don't know life at all." How many millions of people have said that? I do.
Amen! Let's hope we can learn even a little bit of truth every day.
Thanks for serving!! Welcome home!!!
I'm 52 and know only love's illusions, so you're not alone.
This song has very deep meaning. Only after having lived most of your life can you grasp this profoundly.
I'm 60 and can dig it.
I'm 65 and can relate to that, this song takes me back to my childhood listening to records with mum and dad on a Saturday night, the one thing i got from my father, the love of music.
I got it at the age of 13.
clouds being the crippling elite
Just think ... a 26 year old penned the song.
Judy Collins had the most beautiful voice I ever heard. The purity of tone in her singing was beyond compare.
I agree!
❤
Check out RECENT concerts on YT - you may be amazed!!! (in her 80s!!).
Judy Collins and Judith Durham, both absolutely fantastic singers.
Check out Hayley Westenra’s version. It’s angelic.
It’s hard to believe this came out 52 years ago! And this wonderful song moves me today as much as it did in 1967 when I heard it for the first time as a 7 year old kid......
Me too! Such a beautiful song! I think Judy sings it so well! One of the best to sing it too! Her voice is so gentle and pretty!
I was 7 in '67 as well. This painful beautifil song with an angel voice still haunts me.
I was 4 yrs old when i heard it but grew up with 4 teenage brothers n listened to all 60's music. Great time.
Seriously it raises hair on the back of my neck, I was four.
I feel the same way about this song Robert, as you do! Some songs just go deep, inside of us...
This song always chokes me up for whatever reason I can't explain...
Its a pretty sad song if you listen to the lyrics
Me too my friend, me too.
Yessum.
Me too
Same here
The most magical and beautiful song I have ever heard. Judy Collins version is utterly sublime.
The Judy Collins version of the song "Both Sides Now" is to me "a priceless musical work of art" in all respects! Every word of the lyrics of the song itself have set up positive, encouraging standards in my own personal life as well. I myself have truly seen and experienced "Both Sides Now" in my life and when I first heard this marvelous rendition of the song by Judy Collins back in 1975 it vividly brought back the very highs & lows of my 1 year U.S. ARMY Tour of Duty in Vietnam back in the 60's. Hearing Ms. Collins sing "Both Sides Now" back then ( and I still listen to her version now from time to time ) impacted my life in positive ways that have carried me through all these Post-Vietnam years now. So, thank you so much Judy Collins for singing this particular song and impacting my life in so many positive ways hearing it. May God Bless!
Absolutely.
@garymedrow3857
Wow, your post hit it on the head. Collins's version is straight to the point. Mitchell's version is so deep in her feelings, sorta like blues music, that her feelings supercede the meaning of the song for me.
I'm a brother from Boston, and I never really got into deep melancholic music because of my temperamental mentality.
@@USMC-cv5sdBoth versions are beautiful! ❤️
@@debbieschmidling8158
Both Sides Both Versions 😆 🤣
Songs like this allow you to pause, reflect and ponder
I'm 74 now...soon to be 75 in October. This song just stirs so many wonderful thoughts and feelings in me. Sure...there have been some down moments too, of course. Yet...I keep learning that "this very moment" that I am living, is quite enough, and that I should "continue to live in this moment"...always!
Couldn't agree more Jose 💯 I'm 53 yr old and have a tendency to look back, and while that is ok with teachable moments, I have learned to try and live in the now.
Life is precious and not to be taken for granted ❤ Blessings, health and happiness to you 🙏
Hey!.....U r so deep...lol....
Love both of your comments on here. I am almost 64 (December, 2021) and I have enjoyed this song almost my entire life!
I❤Judy Collins version best
Easily, agreed!
It is really subjective which version between Judy and Joni is better. Judy's version has more instruments with a bit of a faster tempo to make it popular on the radio, while Joni's version has the one guitar and a bit of a slower pace like an unplugged and personal performance. I like them both!
So many 1967 special songs. My college freshman year ❤
Like Barbra Streisand, she learned to preserve the very BEST of her voice, long past her prime recording years. Drugs, alcohol and cigarette smoke affect professional singers in different ways, but Judy's remains as fresh and untouched as it was in 1961. If this is what Heaven sounds like, then those of us on Earth have truly seen the best of both sides now. This is magnificent.
This SHOULD be the song we hear at the end of our lives--we're born with wonder, get very certain as we age, then near the end, come full circle and realize that we " really don't know life, at all..." and that's exactly the way it should be!
@ Michael brown, so true I was in elementary school when this song came out, didn't think nothing of it at the time being about 9 or 10 years old but remember the teachers listening to this in the teachers lounge, it was popular to them because they played it over and over in the lounge when the kids were at recess playing in the yard
Not only that Michael...we should play this song every day, and read the words out loud. They will help us stay focused on the things that truly matter in our lives...
‘Near the end’ I’m 16 and I realise this. Life makes no sense at al. Thinking nihilisticly isnt “more realistic” life is just the way it is, it’s your Outlook that matters
Not true! Sorry.
Well said my friend!!!
The phase something's lost, but something's gained in living every day might be the most intelligent line ever written into a song.
So true
it's a nice line but the most intelligent? The world must have some thick songwriters
@@craigcotter7476 maybe listen in context of the lines that precede it, and you may become less thick yourself.
"I'm a real cool head, I'm makin real good bread " Brian Wilson simple but oh so awesome !
@@craigcotter7476
There’s always a Debbie Downer at every party 🤮
Judy has done several great live versions of this song through the years.
This song will live forever!!!
I just met Judy Collins at a private event. She’s 85 yo and still has an amazing voice and mind is still sharp.
Age doesn't matter anymore and people's mindsets and programming on this have been changing and I love it!!! 😊😊😊
I was a teenager when this was released, with all my teenager angst, but over fifty years later the song is still as meaningful now as it was back then.
shes singing about clouds.. in ways you never could have imagined
The most philosophical song ever written
As a child I heard this song as a cheery pop song when my mother had it on the car radio. Now listening during my 42 year old midlife crisis, I can say I've heard this song from both sides now.
I'm an old man now. This song I remember stopping what I was doing ( if possible ) to listen to this. It makes me very lonely to remember those times when I was young, had many good friends and good times. Felt I had the world in my hands, turned out I didn't.
Tonight I went the Grief Counseling Meeting at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church in Scottsdale because I knew that several of my friends who lost their spouses are feeling empty about the upcoming Holiday Season. We had a mixed group of very sad people and several of us who wanted share our positive thoughts about where our loved ones have gone.
One member of our our group had experienced a divorce many years ago. He lost his second wife to a sudden death a few months ago. Just before the end of the session he made a profound statement that he had now seen "both sides" of losing a loved one.
I whipped out my iPhone and pulled up this recording by Judy Collins. We ended our session listening to this beautiful folk song. I now believe that God sent me to the meeting to play this song for each and every one of us who have seen both sides of love.
My parents used to listen to this song when I was growing up. My dad just passed away two days ago and my mom a year before that. I’ve been listening to this song today and balling my eyes out. I miss them so much. I wish I could turn back the clock so I could tell them more how much I love and appreciate them. Thank you for posting this beautiful song. It sure brings comfort during this difficult time ❤️
This is one of the prettiest songs Judy Collins ever sang❤😊
Songs can evoke so many nice memories.
I feel the same way about both of my parents.
💚🩵💚🩵I send you prayers for the passing of your wonderful parents. They loved you deeply and they will live on in your heart and spirit forever ♾️🙏🏽
Prayers for you. I lost my parents pretty close together (2020, 2022). It's tough at times. I hope your grief journey is healing, revealing, and not too difficult.
Judy's voice is truly beautiful, amazingly feminine and just so very pretty. What an American treasure.
My early childhood in a song. :) Didn't understand the words when I was kid, but loved the melody. Nowadays it reminds me of the early 70s, much more innocent time. Lyrics are bittersweet though, aren't they?
❤❤
Check out Gifford's circus at the royal variety show 2022. Same song👍
It was more innocent times back then.
Yes, "Bittersweet" because bitter and sweet are two sides of the same coin, hence "Both Sides Now". I must admit the line "Well, something's lost and something''s gained in living every day", never fails to stop me in my tracks.
Fall of 1968 and what a background of instrumentation !
Scares me how fast the years have passed since I first heard this song so many decades ago.
At my present age of 76, .....I loved this song from the first time I heard it....and now as time
has passed me by every time I listen to this beautiful song it makes me feel that my life
has been pretty great.....Even with the all the ups and down.....It makes me grateful that I have lived
and experienced life with my family as a very happy person. Thank you Judy! for all the great memories.
Thank you Joni Mitchell for writing this song and giving it to Judy Collins.
So happy it was included in Toy Story 4
It was only shown in the teaser trailer, not the actual film itself.
@@RyanMcKennaGosling That's good enough. Don't ruin the vibe for me dude. Lol.
I saw her live at Guildford in January 2020, just before the pandemic. At 80 her voice was flawless, including all the complexity and no issue with the high and low notes. And just to top it off she has a wonderful line in stories from her past. The most astonishing 80 year old I ever saw.
I saw her a little before that, at a small American venue. Her voice was more beautiful and rich than when she was young.
A truly beautiful voice, flawless, and those eyes, oh wow !
"to say I love you right out loud" ... for a thirteen year old buck, those words were magic! and now, at 65 i cry at them.
"Don't give yourself away."
Same age here...Life is tough...especially when I am misunderstood
It's great we all lasted this long...keep lasting.
Stay Safe ❤
@@charlesfuentes3695 BLESS YOU...
I dedicate this to my Mom. RIP. She used to say, "Keep living. What you think you know now is not what you know at all."
One of the most beautiful songs of all time. Such a beautiful voice
It's a genuine musical-poetic gem and I mean this objectively.
for sure
Absolutely right. Hard to listen to with dry eyes.
❤❤❤
Just watched Joni Mitchell perform Both Sides (Clouds). She is truly a musical treasure, so many great songs. Thanks for making life good with your great songs.
This is the version I know and love. I was still at school when this came out and I used to hold the hairbrush and sing along pretending it was me singing to millions! Well, life didn’t work out that way, but I still have a good imagination.
And I still love this song, Judy Collins is the best, all the others can’t hold a candle, not even the one who wrote it.
This simple three phase transition, clouds, love, life is probably one of the most perfect songs ever written.
If only I could regain the life I had back then! Oh Lord the music from this era. No new music even comes close to this. Tears stream down my face with the memories of my past life! I would love to go back and stay there for a time!
Ron Bridges me too and yes with tears in my eyes. time goes by so fast doesn't it,.
Ron Bridges -
Tears and streams and memories
Your past life living in your dreams
If you could go back once again
You'd do it right away
@@virvisquevir3320 Was that intentional? The verse you wrote in response...it had the same meter as each stanza in the song...👍👍👍👍
PRO/NRA Trump2020 I couldn't possibly agree more. Miss those times so much with tears in my eyes.
Maximum Ride 👍
Fenomenal ending of "Heridarity" movie.
I don’t care how many times this beautiful Joni Mitchell song is covered and by who, this will always be for me anyway the best version of the song, this is like a time capsule that takes me right back to the late sixties!
I Love Judy Collins version the best and it was out Oct 1st 1967, the year I graduated.
A classic that still gives me goosebumps. Thank You Joni for writing it & Judy for bringing it to life!!
❤❤
Spot on
Song defines a generation, hopes, dreams, peace, love. And universal acceptance. Oh where have you gone the flower children 😢
My 5 year old daughter has found this song on UA-cam and has really latched onto it. She plays it over again.
It breaks my heart to listen to this and think of the beautiful times which have faded into the dim past.
Omg from New Zealand. I was born 1965. This is part of my childhood. I have 2 children and one is a Millennial and one is a Gen Z
one Christmas Mum and I each gave the other a Judy Collins album...now im 65 i still dont know clouds at all! tears of happiness and yes I can say I love You right out loud! LOUD!!! to anyone who will listen! and even if they dont want to I dont care ......I love LJE!
Hello 👋 Dinah. How are you doing? Hope you are fine, I'm Zack Hudson and am from Denver Colorado. You seem like a real country girl
This was the first Judy Collins song I ever heard when it came out back in the sixties. Her voice brought tears to my 20 year old eyes. Well done, Judy.
Ohhh. I just went back to being ten years old, back in 1967. I was living in a northwest suburb of Toronto and my best friend Joe decided we would try to walk to the Claireville Dam and Reservoir about four miles away. We trudged along Albion Rd. heading west on a 90' July afternoon. I had a little transistor radio I was carrying tuned to 1050 CHUM Toronto. This Judy Collins song came on and I was captivated by it ! Now I hear it and I am walking along in the blazing sun carefree as ever. Music is the most wonder thing on Earth ! Oh the memories it gives back...following the feeling....
Had a heart attack last Tuesday (I’ll be ok) and today this song floated into my mind. Thank you.
Misty eyes listening to this, another great song from the 60s that will forever be part of my childhood, inspite of all the turmoil that was happening back then it wasn't bad being a kid, wouldn't trade those times for anything...
Great comment Cathlean. My oh my .......we need these type of singer-songwriters today.
Yes, I agree, the 60's was the bomb except for the assassinations, riots and Vietnam War and I'm glad to have grown up then if for nothing else the great music and this is one the greatest of then and for all time!
I love both versions by Joni and Judy. Very uplifting. I was a child in 1969 and these songs take me back. Life was easy and difficult then. Very colorful time for me as a child.
You listened to Judy Collins and felt Special. Her delivery of a beautiful song made that happen.
This always makes me cry
The greatest song ever written, by a truly brilliant songwriter (Joni Mitchell). And song by a glorious singer (Judy Collins). What a great combination. This is why i love music.
Great song 👍
Interesting you say that this is the greatest song ever written! Over the years, I have always maintained a Top 25 greatest hits list in my head just like the radio stations had their Top 25 or Top 40 hits list. The Top 25 list was meant for an audience of one- me! Lol! I know that what I may think is great may not even make the list for other people. Such is music that it means different things to each of us
As time went along, I changed the list in my head....For years, I had "Hey Jude" by the Beatles as my #1 all-time best hit. Now, I don't think that I would even rank "Hey Jude" in my personal best 25 songs, though it's still a very good song. On the other hand, Judy Collins version of "Both Sides Now" was usually somewhere around #20 on my list back when I was a teen....and now that I am an older guy, it's worked it's way all the way to the #1 spot on my personal list. This song has truly withstood the test of time in my book! Among songs from 1950 to present, this is what I consider the best song!
Now, I will say that I also listen to the Big Band and Jazz Music of the 1920s, 30s and 40s and I love a lot of that music too! I came to really discover that music over the last 15 years or so. I have a very different list of Top 25 personal songs when I consider that era, and I think it's unfair to rank them against songs since the 1950s. They are truly their own sounds and lyrics of a different age. I also enjoy Classical Music--I use to play the Viola in the school orchestra in the village where I grew up and Classical is also great music in my book. But among the musical releases since 1950, I consider Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now" as sung by Judy Collins to be the VERY BEST song!
@@joecarlton6583 Well said Mr. Carlton. Since you have such varied musical tastes, your opinion matters, glad you agree.
@@kellymccain3403Thanks, Kelly! God bless.
I love Judy's voice and she is a beautiful Woman .
“If you care, don’t let them know, don’t give yourself away.”
I’m tearing up. In 3 years I found a love then lost it, and made friends I thought I would be with forever. Now those friends seem like strangers to me. I guess nothing ever stays the same in life. But like Joni said, we only remember the best bits ✨
Your words were touching. You’re far from alone in going through that, if that gives you some comfort.
I Feel the Same, My Friend...
You have to be old enough and experienced enough to truly understand that line. You can't give your heart to someone too quickly.
Life is change. To stay the same forever is death...to grow and change is to live. Try to embrace change, and that is a great Joni quote for sure!
Tears to my eyes, 1960's Norwalk, Ca. memories. 😢 😂
Nostalgic 💜
This song reminds me of my mom. She used to listen to a reel to reel tape of all her favorite songs. The Sound Of Music played in our house every weekend too. My mom would sing along and I thought she had the most beautiful voice. 💜 In my eyes, my mom was perfect.
Your mom should be perfect in your eyes. That means she was a good mother.
@@vcmg1253 she is THE BEST!!! I love her with all of my 💜. I’m grateful for her. She went through so much for my sister & I. 💜
Same here...
I remember being a child in the late sixties and hearing this song. Loved it then and still do now. It still sounds great.
The definitive version of this masterful Joni Mitchell classic.
I was born in the late fall of 1978. We sang this song my freshman year in Indiana University Pop Singers! I only realized my junior year in college and my third year in Indiana University Pop Singers the somewhat sad and skeptical meaning of the lyrics! Awesome Recording! Awesome Song!
Judy Collins love ur version of both sides now
Joanne Mitchell was brilliant but Judy Collins' version is my favorite. In '79 I fell asleep with the radio on and heard this song in my sleep. Been hooked ever since.