Don McClean was the original artist who sang this way back in 1971 50 years ago. That's why he is featured in this song. This song was a tribute to the artist who were killed in a plane crash. Buddy Holly, Richie Valens the Big Bopper I believe. Sad day for music. And he still sounds amazing. Homefree put their magic all over this. They are phenomenal! This song brings back so many memories. That's why they are in a memory box, I'm guessing. Thanks for your great reaction! Stay safe and healthy and have a blessed day!
Can't believe everyone doesn't know this song. Great driving song. I also love Vincent from Don McLean. Great stuff. How can you not sing along to this? Back when music meant something. This remake brings tears to my eyes.
Actually there were many references to various things that had occurred up to the point of him writing the song. The song was about the loss of innocence and youth.
Yes, recalling memories of Rock and Roll. The Day the Music Died was the plane crash that killed Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and the Big Bopper. Don Mclean was a 13yr old delivering news papers with that news, and later put it into song. And so many other rock references in this song. The Book of Love"= The Montones 1958, The Jester in a coat he borrowed from James Dean and Jester on the sideline in a cast=Bob Dylan who wore a windbreaker identical to James Dean and he broke his leg in a motorcycle accident, Helter Skelter=Manson, who was a musician, then The Byrds song "8 Miles High", The Sergeants played a marching tune =Beatles Sergeant Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Generation lost in Space would have been us at that time, the First Moon Landing in '68, Jack be Nimble=Mick Jagger Jumping Jack Flash, No Angel born in hell=Hells Angels were security at Jagger's concert. Met a girl who sang the blues, but she turned away=Janis Joplin OD'd in 1970. Makes me feel old and sad while loving the song still. I guess most would have had to live through all of this to see the references.
This is some really cool information in regards to all the references to rock and roll via the lyrics. I've always loved the song but never really caught on. I was born in 1980 so it all happened before my time but makes absolute perfect sense to me now. Thank you for the insight my friend!
Don Maclean is 75 years old!! He still sounds great! He wanted this released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the song....and he requested Home Free to accompany him.....quite an honor!
I totally agree Home Free is a drug for the soul. I saw them on The Sing Off, but lost track of them until Covid hit and I started watching videos for entertainment. The first one I listened to was Man of Constant Sorrow. Then I found more songs and more songs. I don't think I've went one day without listening to Home Free at some point in the last couple of years. Thanks so much for your reactions. I have most of their songs saved on HF Playlist but reactions are so much fun. ❤️🎼❤️
Don McLean personally chose Home Free to do this anniversary edition of the song because he felt that Home Free had such an understanding of the intricate harmonies. They all knocked it out of the ballpark. xoxoxx
Yes, he did. Waylon gave up his seat for the Big Bopper who was sick at the time, and when Jennings told Holly that he was going to take the bus instead, Holly jokingly told him he hoped the bus broke down, to which Jennings replied, “I hope your ol’ plane crashes.” and he had to live with that.
The plane crash that killed Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and the Big Bopper was in early 1959, I was born in late 1959! So I don’t remember, of course. But in 7th grade choir class someone brought on Don McLeans album and we played it and sang like crazy! I remembered all the words! ❤
A little more trivia -- Dion DiMucci of Dion and the Belmonts and Waylon Jennings were both slated to be on the ill-fated flight. For different reasons they both elected not to go. For years Waylon thought the crash was caused by him. The last thing Buddy said was I hope your bus freezes to which Waylon replied oh yeah? I hope your plane crashes. Minutes later, it did! The crash was determined to be caused by inexperience from the 21 year old pilot, flying in heavy snow storm. This was released on the 62nd anniversary of the day the music died and the 50th anniversary of Don McLean's release of American Pie.
Brilliant reaction - especially because you were not familiar with the iconic status and historical relevance of the song. Glad you enjoyed it so much and totally agree that it may be HF's best video to date. Every singer was on point, the music was outstanding and the choral aspects respectful yet enhancing. Bravo to Home Free!
It's ok you remember it from the office. But this almost 70 year old wore out my Don McLean Album. Been waiting for you you to react to this as you always bring a smile to my face watching you.
50 years! It really makes me realize how old I am. I was in college at the time. Chance sounds the most like Don when he first did it. There is a behind the scenes they put out a little while ago while they were recording it. The guys were all together but not with Don who is 75 I believe.
I think Tim, Austin and Darren Rust were with Don McLean when they recorded the vocals, and all video was recorded separately in front green screens. This is the impression I got from the “Making of American Pie” video.
@@susanhorn4325 Chance said last night he was the last to add his verse, so the guys were not together for this. Just Austin and Tim, along with Darren and Don were together.
This is one of those contradictory songs(like Pumped up Kicks) because the music makes you want to be happy, but the message is extremely sad. If you ever get a chance to watch the meaning behind American Pie do so. There are so many Easter eggs in this song!!
The whole song is an allegory of the shift in music, and indeed in broader American culture in the decade between 59, when the "the music died", and 1969. It references Marty Robbins, Dylan, Elvis, Janis Joplin, the Byrds, the Beatles, and the Rolling Stones, and a few others.
Home free is Soaring! I was so stoked to hear they were doing this with Don!! One of the coolest productions they’ve made!! So many references to things in the past: plane crash of Holly, Valens & Big zBopper; Bob Dylan; Hlter Skelter(Charles Manson)
I think this is such an awesome choice for a 50th anniversary recording of this song. Home free has a gorgeous vocal bouquet there. I love Rob Lundquist's and Tim Foust's vocals the most. I can't imagine being talented enough to collaborate with a legend on a re-recording of this classic song.
I was too young to remember the plane crash, but by the time Don McLean sang the song I had learned about the crash. The song had so a lot to do with our country at the time as explained below by others, so I won't repeat. Absolutely beautifully done by Home Free and to give much of the song to the man who wrote and sang it. Thanks to Home Free and Don McLean. Thank you for your reaction very well done.
This is EPIC🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥This is Don's 50th anniversary of the song re:the day that 3 1950's rock n roll legends died in a plane crash> the day the music died...His awesome storytelling voice, Home Free's amazing Solo voices, rich harmo- nies, Tim's running super-bass + Adam riding that beat, the sad ly- rics =😢😢😢😢💜💜 Incredible collab.💜
That was perfection. I was about 15 or 16 when I heard this. My parents bought me the LP......I’m so blessed to have grow up in the 70 and 80’s. The greatest music ever....Judy D
There were 2 versions of the original song. This 8-minute version was the album cut. There was a shorter version that was played on the radio. So glad they did the full version. I've watched a couple of reactions & all the reactors are just dancing along. You just can't sit still listening to this! Loved your reaction.
I don't know if anyone mentioned Don McLean wrote America Pie too. Talent to spare. This song always makes me sad.I don't know why, I wasn't around for the Day The Music Died.
It doesn't really matter if we were around for the original crash or not. There have been so many different unexpected accidents that have taken some wonderful talent and marvelous people from this world that I believe everyone can relate in one way or another. I feel the passion of the song and it moves me so much.
I hope you research the meaning behind the lyrics and it was released yesterday on the 62nd anniversary of the plane crash that was the day the music died. This is the 50th anniversay of the release of this song by Don McLean. Those were tough years to grow up in, I was newly married in 1971, my generation. So may memories are coming back ti me. Thank You Dave for a fabulous reaction. I so enjoy that smile and enthusiam.
That's how I feel about watching Home Free. I put them on when I need to both chill out or boost my mood. This song absolutely took my breath away the first time I heard it when I was a kid. I had that same feeling listening to Home Free and Don McLean, only now I understand what's behind the song and it still takes my breath, just in a deeper way. And as far as I'm concerned, Home Free can do no wrong, but you're right, they outdid themselves on this one. I have never heard them with the harmonies so tight, even though they were all giving it their own individual touches. Just amazing. I subscribed after watching you in this reaction video. How could I not? :)
Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, The Big Bopper, the day the music died. I've driven by the crash site in Clear Lake Iowa many times. There used to be three crosses on the hill where they crashed but the last couple of years the crosses are no longer there. If you get the chance to see Home Free in person, you really need to do that. They are funny and amazing vocalists and have great energy in their shows. Don Mclean has never sounded better, amazing!
In the behind the scenes, Don McLean wanted to make it very special after Home Free said that they were putting the song out on the Anniversary of "the day the music died".
@@recoveringsoul755 Actually the song came out on October 24, 1971. It was recorded on May 26. But Don first performed it on March 14 when he opened for Laura Nyro at Temple University.
I enjoyed seeing your reaction, Dave! I feel the same way about Home Free!! They always lift my spirits! This is an epic rendition! So happy Don agreed to record with them! The whole song from start to finish was so good!! I saw a post by them on Facebook that the video is #2 on ITunes music video chart! That is so awesome!! I would love to see it get to the #1 spot! Heck! I wish the song would get there! They deserve greater things, like a music award!!
Welcome to the sixties Dave! This is an anthem to a period of change in the world from the innocence of the forties and fifties to the sixties of Viet Nam, drugs, flower children and protests. ... Guy
Thank you Dave 👍💞. Great reaction. This tribute, Home Free, and Don McLean 👍👍. The visual, the voices and outstanding beat boxing by Adam WOW is all I can say.... Hope you're back gets better soon. Be safe 👍💞👍
Yay I was waiting for your reaction! Love love this. Lately been having hard time with my PTSD, anxiety and depression. My daughter is autistic and distant learning. And this puts a smile on my face and dancing. Everyone was amazing and Adam's beatboxing
Loved your reaction.. I am old enough to remember this song when it originally was released.. Home Free did a superb job.. and Don McLean still has it! Thanks
Ok not to be repeating the same thing but Waylon Jennings gave his seat to the big bopper and Buddy's other guitarist Tommy Alsop gave his seat to Richie Valens. I love music and this has been a favorite song since the 80's. More so after learning the story behind it. I grew up listening to country and some rock. Waylon Jennings was another favorite. I love his cover of Amanda.
Your reactions are my absolute favorite. I have watched this video a ton already and watched every reaction and it wasn't until you were describing the pictures and their story telling the memories of those pictures , before I was like oh damn. That makes a lot of sense haha. You are also right about the medicine part. Everything home free does is so beyond impeccable and their chords are always so deep and outstanding that you can't help but smile big and feel better. Great stuff !
You seem to have such a genuine personality, such a happy go lucky guy, fun spirited with an infectious smile and attitude. Keep it up man! Love the vids! Makes me smile!
Hope your back is feeling better Dave. This is a remarkable cover from the singer and writer of a classic. Written as a tribute to those who lost their lives in a plane crash. Buddy Holly , Big Bopper and Richie Valens.... Home Free's harmonies are brilliant....and Don is still singing from his heart and soul.
Great reaction. You talked about coming home from work, feeling down then putting on some music. Please remember this one? "MUSIC IS A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE ANYONE CAN UNDERSTAND AND RELATE TOO," You go to a foreign country and you may not know their language but you can always relate to the Music. Home free is always great and it is good to see younger artist honoring older artist and their songs. We need more of this. This is the original song, radio stations ony played the short versions and cut a big part out. GOD BLESS YOU.
You may have been tired with feet and back hurting, but your face lit up and your happiness and pure enjoyment are why I click right away on your reactions! Thank you for doing reactions even when your done in. It provides me with enjoyment.
This song is kinda like a story of America's transition to the 60s from the 50s, If you werent around then or have decent knowledge of the era alot of the metaphors in the lyrics are gonna go over most peoples heads, but if you do know, the lyrics are genius. But you're not wrong, a good chunk of the song is from Don's own memories growing up in the 50s
I’ve loved this song since it first came out and Home Free’s collaboration makes it enjoyable all over again. Your reaction is wonderful and you’re right, Home Free music is uplifting, energizing and joyful. Happy to have found your channel! P.S. check out Don McLean’s Starry Starry Night aka Vincent. It’s so beautiful and moving. I think you’ll like it.
I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels the addiction to Home Free. They make me feel so much happier and connected to life when I listen to them. Impossible not to fan boy over Home Free. I certainly fan girl over them.
Wow! You pointed out something I hadn’t realized about the video And I’ve watched it at least 10 times alreadyThank You! It’s makes the meaning so much deeper and increases my appreciation of the thought the Home Free team put into interpretating this Classic
Am I the only one who’s noticed the one prophetic line in this song? “The players tried to take the field The marching band refused to yield.” It comes pretty close to describing what has come to be known as “The Play,” in the rivalry between Cal and Stanford. In 1982, Stanford scored and took the lead. They tried to run down the clock, and their band was gathering in the end zone preparing to celebrate their imminent victory, when Cal got the ball and scored the winning touchdown, plowing right through said band.
The entire song are references to actual events in real life, you should look up the meaning to American Pie. It's a national treasure of its own. LOVE HOMEFREE. Love your reactions to them as well. You bring just as much joy with your reactions as they do with their music. This is a tribute song and actually very sad.
I’m sure that Don and Home Free walked away from this experience feeling a sense of euphoria. This production of this video was outstanding. There is no doubt that there is a deep sense of mutual respect and admiration between Don and Home Free. This is an experience they they will a cherish the rest of their lives.
Loved your reaction! I also love how much you appreciated how beautiful it was, the song and the scenery. Thanks for the respect you showed Don! Great song, fifty years old!
Two lines in this song really get me a bring back memories from high school. I know that you're in love with him cause I saw you dancing in the gym. Breaks my heart, that one. And also something I remember seeing lots of times in HS football games. The players tried to take the field but the marching band refused to yield. really rings true.
Paramount recently released a documentary on this song for its 50th anniversary. It included clips from this song and from an interview with Home Free as well as extensive interviews with Don McLean, who explained the meaning behind some of these lyrics that are often misunderstood. There was a radio version of the song that cut some of the lyrics, although I'm not sure which ones. That may be why you didn't realize how long it was.
I had a love/hate relationship with this song growing up. I’ve loved this song since I was a kid in the 70s, but I only had the 45 record. This song is so long I had to flip the record over to hear the second half and I hated that I couldn’t hear it straight through.
They are, indeed, my drug of choice...and I believe that sh*t eating grin is called "the stanley face", lol, though I could be wrong as I'm certainly no spring chicken.
Love the reaction! This song brings back so many memories! BTW I think this is the best Chance has ever sounded! You go Chance! You should definitely listen to the original. :)
The other reason that they are in the windows is that they shot this video during COVID19 Quarantine and they each shot their own part and their producer put it together! They were thrilled about collaborating with Don McClean.
Best fix for a bad day! Hope you're feeling better (tho I'm late to the party, so yeah). Love how you've embraced Home Free's unique talents, thanks so much for sharing your reactions with us.
I was 12 years old February 3, 1959 "the day the music died". I recall being at my friend Doug's house in his attic bedroom building model cars (hot rod's) after school when the announcement came over WING radio about the plane crash right after hearing 'Chantilly Lace' by The Big Bopper. We sat there, stunned and in shock for at least a half an hour not speaking, not believing. It felt like we had just lost our whole family. /RayK
@@DennisKovacich Guess that means you were an FM kinda guy. My sister (definitely an AM girl) was shocked at this version's length. "It's a long song," she said. "So was the original," I said. :)
@@cindymatthewsarrowdalearts6449, not really. I had an AM-only transistor radio around the time this came out, and didn’t have an FM radio until years later. I did learn to play guitar in the mid ‘70s, and learned “American Pie” in its full form. I may very well have heard the shorter version, but just don’t remember it.
i like your concept of the artistic setting. and yes home free can make you feel good no matter the song. thank you so much for the reaction and you smiles -- love and smiles to you
When he met a girl who sang the blues... Janis Joplin. Every line, every word has meaning from Buddy Holly to the Beatles to Bob Dylan. Lennon read a book of Marx, Kent State, it was all in there.
I don't know if i'm an old soul or what , i knew the backstory behind the song and all . Its so catchy and beautiful that tear roll down my face . Great reaction as always brother .
The tragic deaths of Buddy Holly 22, Ritchie Valens 17, Big Boppa 29 and the young pilot. The plane only held 3 passengers. Just after it took off it crashed. The day the music died, and other events in America Don McLean added on. He was a paper boy and read about the deaths when delivering papers as the words at the beginning. The beginning and end are about the deaths, he was a huge Buddy Holly fan..
at 75, Don can still sing it....this is the SONG of my generation !!! To me Dave, this is Home Free's BEST EVER !!!
His voice is still great and they had him sing in all the right places so you still feel the original is not lost
@@recoveringsoul755 absolutely correct !
Don McClean was the original artist who sang this way back in 1971 50 years ago. That's why he is featured in this song. This song was a tribute to the artist who were killed in a plane crash. Buddy Holly, Richie Valens the Big Bopper I believe. Sad day for music.
And he still sounds amazing. Homefree put their magic all over this. They are phenomenal! This song brings back so many memories. That's why they are in a memory box, I'm guessing. Thanks for your great reaction! Stay safe and healthy and have a blessed day!
Can't believe everyone doesn't know this song. Great driving song. I also love Vincent from Don McLean. Great stuff. How can you not sing along to this? Back when music meant something. This remake brings tears to my eyes.
Holy balls 1971 was 50 years ago...
They released this on the anniversary of the plane crash that took those amazing men.
Actually there were many references to various things that had occurred up to the point of him writing the song. The song was about the loss of innocence and youth.
My mom grew up with this song. They did a fantastic job! And Don at 75, dang!
Yes, recalling memories of Rock and Roll. The Day the Music Died was the plane crash that killed Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and the Big Bopper. Don Mclean was a 13yr old delivering news papers with that news, and later put it into song. And so many other rock references in this song.
The Book of Love"= The Montones 1958, The Jester in a coat he borrowed from James Dean and Jester on the sideline in a cast=Bob Dylan who wore a windbreaker identical to James Dean and he broke his leg in a motorcycle accident, Helter Skelter=Manson, who was a musician, then The Byrds song "8 Miles High", The Sergeants played a marching tune =Beatles Sergeant Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Generation lost in Space would have been us at that time, the First Moon Landing in '68, Jack be Nimble=Mick Jagger Jumping Jack Flash, No Angel born in hell=Hells Angels were security at Jagger's concert. Met a girl who sang the blues, but she turned away=Janis Joplin OD'd in 1970. Makes me feel old and sad while loving the song still. I guess most would have had to live through all of this to see the references.
This is some really cool information in regards to all the references to rock and roll via the lyrics. I've always loved the song but never really caught on. I was born in 1980 so it all happened before my time but makes absolute perfect sense to me now. Thank you for the insight my friend!
Don Maclean is 75 years old!! He still sounds great! He wanted this released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the song....and he requested Home Free to accompany him.....quite an honor!
I totally agree Home Free is a drug for the soul. I saw them on The Sing Off, but lost track of them until Covid hit and I started watching videos for entertainment. The first one I listened to was Man of Constant Sorrow. Then I found more songs and more songs. I don't think I've went one day without listening to Home Free at some point in the last couple of years.
Thanks so much for your reactions. I have most of their songs saved on HF Playlist but reactions are so much fun. ❤️🎼❤️
The jester was Bob Dylan and the king Elvis of course. The girl who sang the blues was Janis Joplin
Thank you. I did not know this information.
It also references the Byrds, the Beatles ("sergeants played a marching tune") and the Rolling Stones (the verse Tim sings), among others.
such a fascinating song with real meaning. Not about sex and drugs I can't even listen to what passes for music anymore
I tried explaining this to my daughter (she is 6) but she kept trying to tell me that it was about Jesus (she goes to a Christian school).
@@stephaniecaskinette4577 well God uses everything for our good. And that's adorable
It's songs like this from Home Free that make me forget there are no instruments ... it sounds like a full band is behind them. Such talent!
Home Free really does bring the spirits up, you can't help but be happy.
Homefree sings with such joy and Don Mclean sounds as good at 77 yrs old as he did as a kid
Don McLean personally chose Home Free to do this anniversary edition of the song because he felt that Home Free had such an understanding of the intricate harmonies. They all knocked it out of the ballpark. xoxoxx
Side note. Waylon Jennings was supposed to be on that flight as well, but gave up his seat. He dealt with survivors guilt for many years.
Yes, he did. Waylon gave up his seat for the Big Bopper who was sick at the time, and when Jennings told Holly that he was going to take the bus instead, Holly jokingly told him he hoped the bus broke down, to which Jennings replied, “I hope your ol’ plane crashes.” and he had to live with that.
@@WolfsbaneHollow, oh goddess, that really hurts. Poor guy.
I saw an interview with him some 25 years ago, and after about 40 years he still felt guilt about it. Sad.
50th Anniversary of this song. This song was an anthem in 1971.
Their music lifts your soul and everything that it is......
The plane crash that killed Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and the Big Bopper was in early 1959, I was born in late 1959! So I don’t remember, of course. But in 7th grade choir class someone brought on Don McLeans album and we played it and sang like crazy! I remembered all the words! ❤
A little more trivia -- Dion DiMucci of Dion and the Belmonts and Waylon Jennings were both slated to be on the ill-fated flight. For different reasons they both elected not to go. For years Waylon thought the crash was caused by him. The last thing Buddy said was I hope your bus freezes to which Waylon replied oh yeah? I hope your plane crashes. Minutes later, it did! The crash was determined to be caused by inexperience from the 21 year old pilot, flying in heavy snow storm. This was released on the 62nd anniversary of the day the music died and the 50th anniversary of Don McLean's release of American Pie.
I absolutely agree!! Home Free is a drug of happiness!!!😍
Brilliant reaction - especially because you were not familiar with the iconic status and historical relevance of the song. Glad you enjoyed it so much and totally agree that it may be HF's best video to date. Every singer was on point, the music was outstanding and the choral aspects respectful yet enhancing. Bravo to Home Free!
I love this collaboration and I love how Home Free makes it their own.
And without making it any less Don’s!
It's ok you remember it from the office. But this almost 70 year old wore out my Don McLean Album.
Been waiting for you you to react to this as you always bring a smile to my face watching you.
Home Free is I think the most talented group to ever be assembled.
50 years! It really makes me realize how old I am. I was in college at the time. Chance sounds the most like Don when he first did it.
There is a behind the scenes they put out a little while ago while they were recording it.
The guys were all together but not with Don who is 75 I believe.
I think Tim, Austin and Darren Rust were with Don McLean when they recorded the vocals, and all video was recorded separately in front green screens. This is the impression I got from the “Making of American Pie” video.
@@susanhorn4325 Chance said last night he was the last to add his verse, so the guys were not together for this. Just Austin and Tim, along with Darren and Don were together.
This is one of those contradictory songs(like Pumped up Kicks) because the music makes you want to be happy, but the message is extremely sad. If you ever get a chance to watch the meaning behind American Pie do so. There are so many Easter eggs in this song!!
Many people find this to be a happy song but it always makes me cry. 'The day the music died' is an incredibly sad lyric.
The whole song is an allegory of the shift in music, and indeed in broader American culture in the decade between 59, when the "the music died", and 1969. It references Marty Robbins, Dylan, Elvis, Janis Joplin, the Byrds, the Beatles, and the Rolling Stones, and a few others.
I've probably heard this song a thousand times and I don't remember a reference to Marty Robbins. One of my favorite songs by the way.
Home free is Soaring! I was so stoked to hear they were doing this with Don!! One of the coolest productions they’ve made!! So many references to things in the past: plane crash of Holly, Valens & Big zBopper; Bob Dylan; Hlter Skelter(Charles Manson)
While in quarantined, Home Free did their best music. They just keep getting better and better.
I think this is such an awesome choice for a 50th anniversary recording of this song. Home free has a gorgeous vocal bouquet there. I love Rob Lundquist's and Tim Foust's vocals the most. I can't imagine being talented enough to collaborate with a legend on a re-recording of this classic song.
I was too young to remember the plane crash, but by the time Don McLean sang the song I had learned about the crash. The song had so a lot to do with our country at the time as explained below by others, so I won't repeat. Absolutely beautifully done by Home Free and to give much of the song to the man who wrote and sang it. Thanks to Home Free and Don McLean. Thank you for your reaction very well done.
This is EPIC🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥This is
Don's 50th anniversary of the song
re:the day that 3 1950's rock n roll
legends died in a plane crash> the
day the music died...His awesome
storytelling voice, Home Free's
amazing Solo voices, rich harmo-
nies, Tim's running super-bass +
Adam riding that beat, the sad ly-
rics =😢😢😢😢💜💜
Incredible collab.💜
That was perfection. I was about 15 or 16 when I heard this. My parents bought me the LP......I’m so blessed to have grow up in the 70 and 80’s. The greatest music ever....Judy D
There were 2 versions of the original song. This 8-minute version was the album cut. There was a shorter version that was played on the radio. So glad they did the full version. I've watched a couple of reactions & all the reactors are just dancing along. You just can't sit still listening to this! Loved your reaction.
I don't know if anyone mentioned Don McLean wrote America Pie too. Talent to spare.
This song always makes me sad.I don't know why, I wasn't around for the Day The Music Died.
Denice, probably because it conveys the angst of a generation. So many references to the time period and rock and roll.
It doesn't really matter if we were around for the original crash or not. There have been so many different unexpected accidents that have taken some wonderful talent and marvelous people from this world that I believe everyone can relate in one way or another. I feel the passion of the song and it moves me so much.
I hope you research the meaning behind the lyrics and it was released yesterday on the 62nd anniversary of the plane crash that was the day the music died. This is the 50th anniversay of the release of this song by Don McLean. Those were tough years to grow up in, I was newly married in 1971, my generation. So may memories are coming back ti me. Thank You Dave for a fabulous reaction. I so enjoy that smile and enthusiam.
That's how I feel about watching Home Free. I put them on when I need to both chill out or boost my mood. This song absolutely took my breath away the first time I heard it when I was a kid. I had that same feeling listening to Home Free and Don McLean, only now I understand what's behind the song and it still takes my breath, just in a deeper way. And as far as I'm concerned, Home Free can do no wrong, but you're right, they outdid themselves on this one. I have never heard them with the harmonies so tight, even though they were all giving it their own individual touches. Just amazing. I subscribed after watching you in this reaction video. How could I not? :)
Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, The Big Bopper, the day the music died. I've driven by the crash site in Clear Lake Iowa many times. There used to be three crosses on the hill where they crashed but the last couple of years the crosses are no longer there. If you get the chance to see Home Free in person, you really need to do that. They are funny and amazing vocalists and have great energy in their shows. Don Mclean has never sounded better, amazing!
In the behind the scenes, Don McLean wanted to make it very special after Home Free said that they were putting the song out on the Anniversary of "the day the music died".
As Don's original version also was released on the anniversary of the Day the Music Died, or the date of the plane crash in '59
@@recoveringsoul755 Actually the song came out on October 24, 1971. It was recorded on May 26. But Don first performed it on March 14 when he opened for Laura Nyro at Temple University.
Once you learn all the references to the lyrics it's even better. Great reaction
I enjoyed seeing your reaction, Dave! I feel the same way about Home Free!! They always lift my spirits! This is an epic rendition! So happy Don agreed to record with them! The whole song from start to finish was so good!! I saw a post by them on Facebook that the video is #2 on ITunes music video chart! That is so awesome!! I would love to see it get to the #1 spot! Heck! I wish the song would get there! They deserve greater things, like a music award!!
Great reaction - you sum up the Home Free experience so well - for Home Fries , their songs and your reactions make the day a little better.....
Oh I love your idea about them each being in their own boxes and how its like a picture box of memories!
Thank you for reacting to this song! It's one of my favorites! It was fun to see you enjoying it so much.
Welcome to the sixties Dave! This is an anthem to a period of change in the world from the innocence of the forties and fifties to the sixties of Viet Nam, drugs, flower children and protests. ... Guy
Thank you Dave 👍💞. Great reaction. This tribute, Home Free, and Don McLean 👍👍. The visual, the voices and outstanding beat boxing by Adam WOW is all I can say.... Hope you're back gets better soon. Be safe 👍💞👍
Good job Dave, your narrations make an excellent and beautiful experience, what it is and what it do.thank you sir.
Oh Dave you look so young, you can't be in that much pain! Yes music is healing and it seems that everything the Home Free boys touch is Fantastic!
Yay I was waiting for your reaction! Love love this. Lately been having hard time with my PTSD, anxiety and depression. My daughter is autistic and distant learning. And this puts a smile on my face and dancing. Everyone was amazing and Adam's beatboxing
Also when Tim said "lost in space" my mind went to the Challenger explosion and the Anniversary was the other day
This song is stuck in my head now. Lol. I find myself smiling and dancing especially during Tim's part.
THANK YOU 🙃‼️🙃...You’re so Right...Their music is a FEEL GOOD DRUG 💖🙃‼️. Don wrote the song ..as well as singing it !!!
The best 8+ minute video ever! These guys just killed it ! Pure perfection!
Loved your reaction.. I am old enough to remember this song when it originally was released.. Home Free did a superb job.. and Don McLean still has it! Thanks
Ok not to be repeating the same thing but Waylon Jennings gave his seat to the big bopper and Buddy's other guitarist Tommy Alsop gave his seat to Richie Valens. I love music and this has been a favorite song since the 80's. More so after learning the story behind it. I grew up listening to country and some rock. Waylon Jennings was another favorite. I love his cover of Amanda.
Your reactions are my absolute favorite. I have watched this video a ton already and watched every reaction and it wasn't until you were describing the pictures and their story telling the memories of those pictures , before I was like oh damn. That makes a lot of sense haha. You are also right about the medicine part. Everything home free does is so beyond impeccable and their chords are always so deep and outstanding that you can't help but smile big and feel better. Great stuff !
You seem to have such a genuine personality, such a happy go lucky guy, fun spirited with an infectious smile and attitude. Keep it up man! Love the vids! Makes me smile!
Hope your back is feeling better Dave. This is a remarkable cover from the singer and writer of a classic. Written as a tribute to those who lost their lives in a plane crash. Buddy Holly , Big Bopper and Richie Valens.... Home Free's harmonies are brilliant....and Don is still singing from his heart and soul.
The fact that you recited the Chair Model episode from The Office and remembered them singing this song just made me appreciate your channel more haha
Great reaction. You talked about coming home from work, feeling down then putting on some music. Please remember this one? "MUSIC IS A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE ANYONE CAN UNDERSTAND AND RELATE TOO," You go to a foreign country and you may not know their language but you can always relate to the Music. Home free is always great and it is good to see younger artist honoring older artist and their songs. We need more of this. This is the original song, radio stations ony played the short versions and cut a big part out. GOD BLESS YOU.
You may have been tired with feet and back hurting, but your face lit up and your happiness and pure enjoyment are why I click right away on your reactions! Thank you for doing reactions even when your done in. It provides me with enjoyment.
This song is kinda like a story of America's transition to the 60s from the 50s, If you werent around then or have decent knowledge of the era alot of the metaphors in the lyrics are gonna go over most peoples heads, but if you do know, the lyrics are genius. But you're not wrong, a good chunk of the song is from Don's own memories growing up in the 50s
This is by far my favorite collaboration they have done. I absolutely love this song. Great reaction again Dave.
I’ve loved this song since it first came out and Home Free’s collaboration makes it enjoyable all over again. Your reaction is wonderful and you’re right, Home Free music is uplifting, energizing and joyful. Happy to have found your channel!
P.S. check out Don McLean’s Starry Starry Night aka Vincent. It’s so beautiful and moving. I think you’ll like it.
I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels the addiction to Home Free. They make me feel so much happier and connected to life when I listen to them. Impossible not to fan boy over Home Free. I certainly fan girl over them.
Adam deserves some major credit too, his beatboxing was outstanding
Wow! You pointed out something I hadn’t realized about the video And I’ve watched it at least 10 times alreadyThank You! It’s makes the meaning so much deeper and increases my appreciation of the thought the Home Free team put into interpretating this Classic
Dave, I have to agree, Home Free always makes me smile.
Home free is my feel good music, always uplifting.
Am I the only one who’s noticed the one prophetic line in this song?
“The players tried to take the field
The marching band refused to yield.”
It comes pretty close to describing what has come to be known as “The Play,” in the rivalry between Cal and Stanford. In 1982, Stanford scored and took the lead. They tried to run down the clock, and their band was gathering in the end zone preparing to celebrate their imminent victory, when Cal got the ball and scored the winning touchdown, plowing right through said band.
Obviously a coincidence, or they likely used it after remembering this song, since Don wrote the song the year prior to its release in 1971.
I was 10 when this song came out....now, at age 58, it is still THE SONG of my generation!
I agree about listening to Home Free and their music/voices seem to brighten my mood and just makes me feel better!
The entire song are references to actual events in real life, you should look up the meaning to American Pie. It's a national treasure of its own. LOVE HOMEFREE. Love your reactions to them as well. You bring just as much joy with your reactions as they do with their music. This is a tribute song and actually very sad.
I’m sure that Don and Home Free walked away from this experience feeling a sense of euphoria. This production of this video was outstanding. There is no doubt that there is a deep sense of mutual respect and admiration between Don and Home Free. This is an experience they they will a cherish the rest of their lives.
I’d already heard this version as a HomeFree Patreon ,but your obvious enjoyment made it even better. You looked so happy.
Loved your reaction! I also love how much you appreciated how beautiful it was, the song and the scenery. Thanks for the respect you showed Don! Great song, fifty years old!
Two lines in this song really get me a bring back memories from high school. I know that you're in love with him cause I saw you dancing in the gym. Breaks my heart, that one. And also something I remember seeing lots of times in HS football games. The players tried to take the field but the marching band refused to yield. really rings true.
Paramount recently released a documentary on this song for its 50th anniversary. It included clips from this song and from an interview with Home Free as well as extensive interviews with Don McLean, who explained the meaning behind some of these lyrics that are often misunderstood.
There was a radio version of the song that cut some of the lyrics, although I'm not sure which ones. That may be why you didn't realize how long it was.
I had a love/hate relationship with this song growing up. I’ve loved this song since I was a kid in the 70s, but I only had the 45 record. This song is so long I had to flip the record over to hear the second half and I hated that I couldn’t hear it straight through.
The reference to "the day the music died" is an ode to Ritchie valens, buddy holly and the big bopper when they died in a plane crash in feb. 1959.
They are, indeed, my drug of choice...and I believe that sh*t eating grin is called "the stanley face", lol, though I could be wrong as I'm certainly no spring chicken.
love your reaction . goes to prove, if a song is put together just right ,no matter how old, you can't help but to get into it.
i smile seeing your reaction, have loved this song since i was 12, 58 now
Love the reaction! This song brings back so many memories! BTW I think this is the best Chance has ever sounded! You go Chance! You should definitely listen to the original. :)
The other reason that they are in the windows is that they shot this video during COVID19 Quarantine and they each shot their own part and their producer put it together! They were thrilled about collaborating with Don McClean.
Great reaction video!
Best fix for a bad day! Hope you're feeling better (tho I'm late to the party, so yeah). Love how you've embraced Home Free's unique talents, thanks so much for sharing your reactions with us.
I love it when people hear this song for the first time and, for a moment, see what I see
I was 12 years old February 3, 1959 "the day the music died". I recall being at my friend Doug's house in his attic bedroom building model cars (hot rod's) after school when the announcement came over WING radio about the plane crash right after hearing 'Chantilly Lace' by The Big Bopper. We sat there, stunned and in shock for at least a half an hour not speaking, not believing. It felt like we had just lost our whole family. /RayK
Nothing added...back in the day the shorter version was played on AM radio, and the long version was on your FM stations
I don’t remember ever hearing a shorter version.
@@DennisKovacich Guess that means you were an FM kinda guy. My sister (definitely an AM girl) was shocked at this version's length. "It's a long song," she said. "So was the original," I said. :)
@@DennisKovacich yep there was the AM version & the FM version....
@@cindymatthewsarrowdalearts6449, not really. I had an AM-only transistor radio around the time this came out, and didn’t have an FM radio until years later. I did learn to play guitar in the mid ‘70s, and learned “American Pie” in its full form. I may very well have heard the shorter version, but just don’t remember it.
i like your concept of the artistic setting. and yes home free can make you feel good no matter the song. thank you so much for the reaction and you smiles -- love and smiles to you
When he met a girl who sang the blues... Janis Joplin. Every line, every word has meaning from Buddy Holly to the Beatles to Bob Dylan. Lennon read a book of Marx, Kent State, it was all in there.
The Home Free Vocals (in order) were Chance, Austin, Rob and Tim (who ususally sings deep Bass).
I don't know if i'm an old soul or what , i knew the backstory behind the song and all . Its so catchy and beautiful that tear roll down my face . Great reaction as always brother .
This was good wasn’t it? Don McLean sounds so good for 75! Home Free did it again. Such good harmonies. Loved your reaction!
Rob’s crescendo/rise on ‘fast’ was also in the original song. Just shows how they tried to keep pretty true to Don’s original version.
The tragic deaths of Buddy Holly 22, Ritchie Valens 17, Big Boppa 29 and the young pilot. The plane only held 3 passengers. Just after it took off it crashed.
The day the music died, and other events in America Don McLean added on.
He was a paper boy and read about the deaths when delivering papers as the words at the beginning.
The beginning and end are about the deaths, he was a huge Buddy Holly fan..
Love the smile on your face
My brother love your reactions to the songs keep up your works
Don said it really was about the Rnd of Innocence in that generation.....Buddy Holly', Elvis, Beatles, Dylan, Stones, Viet Nam.
You are right Carla
Keep in mind that Don is in his 70’s now and he still sounds good.
you are my favorite reaction guy..
Dave, I love watching your face as you react.
I love that he participated in this
Loved it too!