In dem Alter hat man im Leben bestimmt öfters im Regen gestanden...aber schön ist es immer wieder wenn die Sonne wieder aus den Wolken heraus tritt...❤❤
I was eleven years old in 1976. My class teacher played this song to us every day for a week or so. He then took us on a school trip to London. We went to the Tower and HMS Belfast. He also showed us where some homeless people were sitting on the street. I have never forgotten it. The lyrics still sting.
We had folk singing every Thursday in primary school with Mr Hall.. I am thankful that I learned early on that there is music beyond the pop charts😍😍👍♥️
When I was 16 in 1976 when I left rural Ireland to go to London to work on the buildings, this song means a lot to me! It inspired me not be an idiot and end up on the streets like so many of my country men, got myself an education thanks to the open university and still live in London, I am grateful to my adopted country and for the opportunities I have been given over the years. I am starting to get close to retirement and we are moving out of London to my partners home town when I do retire and I am going to miss it! An old man once told me that you never need to leave London because eventually the whole world comes to London, it went over my head at the time but it makes perfect sense to me now.
Working a market stall in a seaside town I once gave a homeless chap a piece of flapjack he was eagerly eyeing up. The following week I was gifted a hand written poem by the same man....... kindness and simple recognition that we are all human truly makes the world a better place!
As a Scottish guy I noticed Us Scott's And Irish Had to stick together there As Alot do Not like us somehow That's Jst the mantalety of Most, Anyways on words an upWords huuu >< 😊
My teacher played this song to us as a class in 1976 Or so, when I was 8 or 9 years old... About 35 years later, I am homeless and know what it is like, trust me! Some say it is a lifestyle choice, but it is very hard to get out of! Love to all homeless people! Xxx
Listen to SING with Gary Barlow and the commonwealth group. When you listen to it please think about the people who've had and those that still have VIOLENCE imposed on them because of who they were or are and because they are a different colour. Listen to these songs.Sing them LOUDER
Last year, I gave a homeless man two sandwiches I was going to eat. I saw him outside the place I was working. I thought “I have a kitchen full of food at home, he needs this more than I do”……The look of thanks in his eyes was one of the most rewarding feelings I’ve ever received, I’ll never forget it.
Please do not make this sound like 'Ih yeah , he's so great. I promise you, I am not. I am rubbish. I am just about two months from sleeping in the street. However, a few years ago as prepared after a night in pubs in Soho zi saw a guy sleeping t the entry to Leciester Square station. Dog at his side. I was feeling generous. So I went to look for some dog food. Flipping heck you cannot find cans of dog food in Leicester Square at midnight. I had to walk down to Charing Cross. Bought 2 x cans. Took them back. Put them in front of the old fella plus a £5 for himself A girl nearby (down on her luck too, I suppose, said sotto voce " That is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen". That dud not make me feel proud but sad. It cost me a 10 minute and the cost of two cans of dog food. Plus a pint. But why did nobody else not do it before me?
@@christopherhunt9078 well my wife and myself were the same...we had a son who i kicked out..... he was a druggy and a thief..but now he is home and a good son ......after two yrs.he now knows who are the genuine homeless and deserving.
As an Irish person living briefly in London during the 1980's - not an easy time to be Irish in London. It was among the saddest days of my life when an Irishman came into the pub begging - I said to him why don't you go Home - I'll pay for boat (it was long before Ryanair) he said everyone was dead and he had nowhere to go back to ....I cried a lot for him that night
I went to London 1959. I was just gone 12. There was nothing for me where I lived. I got a job saying I was 16. Got married 1963 , came back here in 67 with 4 children. Tonight I'm looking for songs to be played at my funeral. It was tough but there was someone minding us.😢
Ich habe das Lied mit 16 geliebt,Ich hatte ganz andere Ideen von wem es war,Aber aber heute gibt’s ein Sänger, der es am besten singt, dass mein Ehemann seine Stimme ist. Wunderbar, wenn er den Refrain singt viel besser als bei Ralf Mac.
I was 25 when this came out, thought it to be a beautiful song then and as the years have passed, it has become more poignant. I have never experienced such Poverty, but I have many times in many cities witnessed it. Now, nearing 80 years I find myself listening this beautiful song with tears in my eyes. As Ralph has said, nothing has changed. A different time, different faces, but still the same poverty. A very sad, hard world in which we live.
I was a lttle younger than you, an American in living in London (lonely as shit) when the song was popular. For me it's always meant: turn around and count your blessings.
@@johanvanzyl8479 these days the words 'sane' and 'conservative' are a contradiction in terms sadly. Austerity is an active Conservative policy in the UK & this song is a sad, poignant counterpoint and reminder that poverty destroys spirits, souls & societies in equal measure.
As a Scotsman that loves his holidays in London I love this song and it’s sad it’s still accurate today. I was saddened the people that was suffering when I was there. And it was refreshing to come across such a beautiful song. It makes you really think that there is always someone always worse off than you. If only people could be a bit more kinder to others. Thanks for this beautiful song Ralph. ❤
My uncle loved this song and I loved it too...one day he passed away. I was in jail. I got out too late to bury him but when I was picked up at the bus stop by my stepfather and his pal, they randomly sang that song to me as If my uncle had commanded them to do so...from heaven. I miss you so much Pat. ❤️💚❤️💚
When ever I get fed up and feel sorry for myself, I listen to the best rendition ( original ) of this song. I realise how much I have and to be grateful.
I love this song, remember me those years I lived in London, coming up from Birmingham, 1970 1972 when I left England for ever. Specially now that I live in south America, every time I hear it makes me shed some tears.
This song, brought me back to 1991, when I was living homeless in London, december 1990 to fevruary 1991, in the winter time. I felt in my own flesh how tough is being homeless, and how strong I was to pass through such harsh moments.
Always makes me cry this song makes me think of my mum after her mum kick out of the house and she was homeless till she joined the land army. R.I.P Mum I love you always. Xx💟
This makes my cry too, I’ve lived in 4 countries, on 3 continents on both sides of the hemisphere. I’m currently in Canada homesick, my Canadian wife and I just amicably agreed to divorce 2 hours ago. Lovers that can’t be in love away from home. Going home to hug my Mum, Nan and Brother, he’s hurting from 15 years in the army, 4 tours of Afghan, 1 Iraq, 1 Kosovo and 6 years in Germany. Between this and looking my dog ( Lulu) in the eyes knowing she’ll think Ive bonded her I’m in absolute bits.
Also, much respect to you mother, land army ladies were tough, gave me all the freedom to travel, find love, make love and find friends all over the world. Thank you.
Saw Ralf perform @ Glastonbury 2016,at the Acoustic stage..my favourite song so I was singing along, got a push from a big bloke and no one came to my help. This was the time of Brexit and me being a brown person wasn't their cup of tea🎶🎶🎶☮️❤🇮🇳
this song should "go out of style" ...we as a nation NEED this to end ...even now we are a rich nation ...it is a beautiful hurtful song ...but the pain that inspired it needs to end
Been homeless in London during the winter back in the early 70s.....Nothing fun or romantic about it, lots of hatred and violence interspersed by VERY occasional acts of kindness. Oh and God bless the Salvation Army, I am not a religious person but these people really try to help.
This song made me cry on my way to school one day, having heard it on the radio in the morning. I vowed then to help others as a way of life. It served me well. Imagine being out in the cold and the rain and not being able to go home, because you haven't got one. This song was not only one of the early songs I learned to play on the guitar, it inspired me to learn guitar, so I could play it. I now teach others to play and this song is still a favourite.
Nice Dave. One of my goals is to fight poverty even when I am not well off but I like to fight poverty nevertheless. But sometime I do not feel good to give money to homeless because I would think they will go and buy drug. How this song inspired you to help poor/homeless people and how you are helping them? Thanks
It's not just about London, it's about everywhere. And yes I sung in school in the 80's. Definitely had a profound effect on me. The power of song and music is amazing 🎶. Ralph showed us something, that made us change our minds...
I saw a homeless person last week, she was laying on the cold hard ground and people were walking by her, most people glanced as they passed with a look of pity... I think most people want to help... I gave her a nudge and asked if she was ok as her eyes were closed, she never responded but she was breathing... I told the people in the premises to check on her, they said they had and that she was sat up and talking, but that she was 'just homeless' it's heartbreaking. She was too broken to even bother responding... What can you do. My heart and I am sure most peoples hearts, break a little inside when they see a person in such despair.
Your government should take care of those people. It´s a disgrace that folks have to sleep on the streets and beg for food. Try some socialism if just to save them, it wont kill you fortunate ones.
This song always reminds me of sleeping in abandoned cars and behind shops as a youngster with home problems feeling scared , hungry and vulnerable. Life is good now , married with lovely home , good job and nice things . You never forget though , still pinch myself occasionally because could of been a very different story . Thanks Ralph
My dad used to sing me this song when I was young, it always filled me with a strange mix of sadness, but warmth and comfort - I now sing it to my little girl to soothe her, and can barely keep a dry eye when I do myself - such a beautiful song
I just discovered this a few days ago and have watched it many times, soaking it all in. I too live in a large city and there are so many homeless people struggling to make it through another day. One of my late mother's favourite expressions was "there but for the grace of God go I". All of those that find themselves homeless and lost are someone's child, someone's old friend, someone's old neighbour. They didn't knowingly choose this lifestyle but circumstances beyond their control led them to this. We as a society need to look upon those less fortunate with compassion and love. We are all God's children.
I always love this song when l walked into a longe Bar the band immediately play this song.God bless everyone and give them their daily meal and shelter
I used to sing this in primary school aswell. James Barry. Mr shailer and his guitar. Thought it was a strange song to sing back then, but now I get it as an adult. Beautiful song and the meaning is so empathic x
The lyrics - this song, still moves us to the core of our beings. An eternal reminder to, in whatever ways that we can, be compassionate & reach out to those in need. Our positions in life can always reverse - remember this.
I first heard this lovely song on the car radio, driving to work at RAF Chicksands in 1973. I started crying and made my husband drive around the base until it was finished.
Working on the railway ...everyday in London Paddington...during lockdown the one thing I noticed was that in the deserted streets, one part of our community remained ......normally invisible ....the homeless were desperate ....those they normally beg from were not there....desperate times ...nothing could have made me realise how much we depend on each other....I am giving like i have never given before and my heart is tearing up ...when this situation is all over we must do more ....nobody chooses to live on the street ......
God bless you Graham. I never before thought of that particular effect on the homeless. Their meager sources of income no longer come to the central city because of the COVID. Really sad!
And a true champers socialist to boot. hates that some of his servants bought their own homes. Then his kids found social housing too expensive to buy and limited by their daddy's resources. Ralph is a nice guy, However much a socialist he is, he is a capitalist at heart.
@@TonyEnglandUK But he is a fake, the song is fake. It is a good song but Ralph's sentiments are elsewhere, Also, Ralph despises that so many only know him for his one hit wonder and challenges them to name any one of his other songs. Ralph's reality is that he supports a socialist agenda when it suits him publicly , but he is a capitalist with regards to his own ambitions and life style choices.
@@Sailfire1 He's singing ABOUT these people, not pretending he IS one of these people. You seem very critical, by all means show everyone what you've done for the lost in London.
@@Sailfire1 Those who can, do; those who can't, teach. For fifty four years this song has been bringing the plight of the London homeless to the forefront of people's minds, while you've done nothing but look for ways to bring it down.
Yup, I do too and I have a hard time singing that bit because it just chokes me up... I'm old enough to be a grandfather and in my lifetime we didn't do a GOD DAMN THING to fix anything. Something needs to change, I'm tired of watching the man with the cup begging and I want him gone from there and into an apartment with enough money to care for himself. We owe each an every one of us at least that much.
i can not pass a homeless person without stopping talking to them and giving them money or food or praying for them everyone matters weather they are rich or poor gods kingdom has no restrictions on your situation or wealth
Nuno Espirito Santo up until recently was Wolverhampton Wanderers football Head Coach. A few months ago this beautiful man with his wonderful Humanitarian soul gave out of his own pocket, two hundred and fifty thousand pounds to the Homeless Charities in Wolverhampton. He is a tremendous football man, and an outstanding Human Being. Acts like this should be recognized and applauded worldwide. Thank you Nuno and thank you Ralph for this timeless, moving and evocative song. 💜😪💔
Well said mate. A lot of people are doing good things around the world. Even more people are ignoring the problem, including most rightwing govts. They see the homeless as an unsightly, unproductive, drag on the economy. Bloody sad.
I didn't know about this. what a wonderfully kind gesture from this man. I don't follow Wolves but always liked Nuno... wherever he is I hope he is well.
Per day only 3us dollars renting sofa hostels in Hong Kong and learning cooking Chinese food or kung fu. If you interest come to Hong Kong travel Please call (852) 39049170 for registration
@@user-jy4mt2te2t I totally agree and unfortunately, the world is full of people leading privileged lives without even hearing this song. I sometimes think the world is upside down.
I love this song, it's so beautiful and so poiginant. This and Roger Whittakers Last Farewell are two tracks that stick out in my mind from my younger days
Have you seen the old man In the closed down market Kicking up the papers With his worn out shoes? In his eyes, you see no pride Hand held loosely at his side Yesterday's paper Telling yesterday's news So, how can you tell me you're lonely And say for you that the sun don't shine? Let me take you by the hand And lead you through the streets of London Show you something to make you change your mind Have you seen the old girl Who walks the streets of London Dirt in her hair And her clothes in rags? She's no time for talking She just keeps right on walking Carrying her home In two carrier bags So, how can you tell me you're lonely And say for you that the sun don't shine? Let me take you by the hand And lead you through the streets of London Show you something to make you change your mind In the all night cafe At a quarter past eleven Same old man Sitting there on his own Looking at the world Over the rim of his tea cup Each tea lasts an hour And he wanders home alone So, how can you tell me you're lonely? Don't say for you that the sun don't shine Let me take you by the hand And lead you through the streets of London Show you something to make you change your mind Have you seen the old man Outside the seaman's mission Memory fading with The medal ribbons that he wears? In our winter city The rain cries a little pity For one more forgotten hero And a world that doesn't care So, how can you tell me you're lonely And say for you that the sun don't shine? Let me take you by the hand And lead you through the streets of London I'll show you something to make you change your mind ... 💖💋💖
I performed this song with my music teacher at school in the early 80s,I was a bit of a div as a kid and always getting into trouble,and taking drugs at a very young age,music and my guitar was the only lesson in school that I didn't bunk!lol he was my favourite teacher and always trying help me by encouraging me to do better and would tell me that if I kept going on like that I'd end up homeless or in jail,or worse!,and once even said,,if all else fails,go busking with your guitar!,,,his predictions came true,and later on in life,I ended up both in prison a couple of times and was a homeless busker addicted to heroin and crack for several years! I got clean 10 years ago,and have a much better life! But I always think of Mr Brickhouse,when I hear this song,he passed away in the late 90s bless him,he was an amazing human being!❤
I have loved this song for more years than I can remember. Always brings tears to my eyes. So many of us do not realise how lucky we are having a roof over our heads, food in the cupboard, water and a comfortable bed to sleep in. Food for thought always when we listen to this.
I'm from London and believe me, this song is so true. How is it possible that the wealthiest country on the planet allows its citizens to live on the streets?
This song helped my darling Margaret and I introduce the problem to finchley methodist church. In the 10 years which followed we served 60000 meals provided clothing and medical help. Thanks, 'Streets of London'.
Every time I hear this song, it reminds me of when I lived in London in the late 70's to mid 80's . Portabello Road. A pair of young kids 12YO ? boy and his sister(11?) in Portobello road markets at night .The boy offered me his sister for money to have something to eat. I didn't know what to do at the time. I was concerned that I could be arrested if I spoke to them. I walked away. That memory and sadness still burns after all this time. I will write a story about it before I am too old. It is terrible that people have to live in conditions like that. Someare by choice but most by circumstance. If I could go back to that night in time, I would have done what I could have to at least get them fed at least for one night. This song always revives so memories.
I saw this in german television when I was 12. I asked my dad if he knows this song. We went to the next music shop, to buy the CD. Now I'm 44. I still own this CD and I still like it. One of the best singer/songwriter ever❤
Certainly not people who have experienced such things in their lives but maybe people who have not and do not want to face the reality that this does exist. 'nuf sed.
The problem are the 42k upvoters that understand the issue, yet accept the system and are too comfortable to break the chains for their enslaved and impoverished countrymen. You are right thou, the thumbs down are hard to explain, i hope its just school kids that were forced to watch this and naturally rebel against anything regardless of content.
I gave it a thumbs down using 3 different accounts. This idiot really believes homeless people have no pride... Just tells me he's never really been around homeless people in his life. Awful lyrics... Just pandering to the stereotype...
I am a Londoner born and bred, and I could cry for my beautiful city that was once so vibrant and full of life, where everyone in the world wanted to visit at least once in their lives......she is now dying on her feet.........
Sad to see the empty streets in this pandemic, got a mate that works in the city showing photos. As a kid the crypt at St Martins (74 ish) was an eye opener and this song takes me there. I wasn't a resident.
I was unfortunate to wind up on the streets , living rough & living in squats in the late 80s early 90s , i had already been in childrens homes & jailed & passed from my mum to my dads house at a young age kicked out & social services so it was no suprise i would find the streets in that respect . I saw a lot of things that most people wouldnt normally see & it was a bleak era for everyone but i managed to pick myself up & pull myself together & got out of that rut i was in , People who you thought were friends wernt your friends at all & people that i grew up with turn on you ! Its a shame that happens ! Can be a very scary place if your not street savvi but luckily i was & i guess having that mind set to stay strong helped me through it . The saying is that when things start looking up & you start doing well that there is always something or someone that wants to bring you down again . It always boils down to government best part of the time Messing with families & making choices that put good people in bad situations & frustrations break families ! I dont think ive ever seen a good England in my lifetime !
Homelessness is a state of misery you never want to experience.I was homeles for about a year.You feel all alone.You see no future.Your happiest moments can be simply finding a washroom, just getting a drink of water or simply getting a smile from someone.Always one of my favorite tunes.
Yes, I was kicked out of home at 16 (wasn't actually a bad kid) and ended up living rough. In those days my biggest goals were enough food and my own room. I never forget. These days I'm surrounded by privileged yet moany millenial-types at work.
I have been there, now I work with rough sleepers, its such a devastating experience, I would like to place our so-called betters in a cardboard box for a week. .Uncaring pricks. If it wasn't for the help of some compassionate people, I would not be here today...……..
I’ve spent many hours listening to this song. My family too and that’s where it pulls me in, my Aunt, now deceased ( 84 yrs) loved this and we sang it together. More than that, I saw Ralph play at the Port Fairy Folk Festival only 6 yrs ago, amazing! Lisa
every time life kicks me in the balls this song reminds me of all the things i have that others do not ...there is almost always someone in a worse place than you, do what you can for them and be thankful that you can
Loneliness is a beast that will follow you and demonise until you feel less than human. It's a shame that we still have hopelessness today when we have so much.
Jesus said ... Mark 14: 7 The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them whenever you want. But you will not always have Me. 8 She has done what she could to anoint My body in advance of My burial
Per day only 3us dollars renting sofa hostels in Hong Kong and learning cooking Chinese food or kung fu. If you interest come to Hong Kong travel Please call (852) 39049170 for registration
You can be lonely in the company of a thousand people, George. That is not what Ralph McTell is singing about or what the people on this fhstroom are discussing. They are discussing HOMELESSNESS, not LONELINESS.
I was a little kid in the 80s and I went to bed with a tiny portable radio and earphones. I used to listen to it under the blanket as I went to sleep. One night this song came on the radio and I loved it. I was almost crying at the lyrics. The following night the radio station played the song again and it had the same effect. Now I'm 45 years old and it still brings a lump to my throat. I'll probably be saying the same thing at 80.
I’ve lived in London for 32 years & experienced every side of it, including homelessness. This City doesn’t hide the truth, it teaches you about life for better or worse. Ralph sums it up well & it’s a great song. Everybody has their own story, but I love London..💚
We were going through my mum and dad's records at the weekend and came across their pile of Ralph McTell. This song never fails to make me cry. If I'm not crying already I will be by the old man in the cafe, by the time he sings "in a world that doesn't care" I'm sobbing. I grew up listening to it and its shaped me as an adult. Thank you. It's a beautiful song x
Awww...Emmaaa !?! XXX Ya got ME tearfuuul NoOW !?!? Bless you n your family n those precious memories. I used to work at a Disablity Home and, we had Maurice....who ..at most quiet opportunities...he would start singing this song to..mostly...his 'captive' but appreciative audience. Hmmm, we lost him - still miss him. God bless Ralph Mctell - that lovely bro will never understand what a blessing - he penned. ;)
OMG me too! I start sobbing when he starts singing about the old man walking around the closed down market😭 I think of Coventry market where I grew up. Every verse could be written about Coventry, or any city in England. Bawling now just thinking about it!! 😭We sung it in school, yes, it had such a profound effect on all of us. It is an amazing song.
I fell in love with this song when I was 12, listening to the tops of Radio Luxembourg, on my balcony in Portugal. I visited London in 77, and honestly never saw a beggar back then. This song was in my mind, so I knew that, back then, they were just not showing in the touristical places. Poverty and loneliness are the same everywhere. Very talented poem, sad without ever being excessive. Thanks, Ralph, for a song that has been part of the soundtrack of a Portuguese girl's life.
@Sunray Is Down I agree despite having roots same place. But I also loved old London. I don't sometimes like what people from same background done to it. But the problem are not those who came in early days but the many uneducated who followed after. I often ask myself why the government allowed them them to get stay so easy. I know how hard it was for us then with paying tremendous taxes and never even took any benefit at no time. But those who followed were given everything for free without contribution. I now live in Europe and as much as I like to go to London I don't go there anymore, because of this new environment. But I am glad to have seen the old times. I loved that time and the people. People with class and etiquette. In the evening when all people are gone it sometimes feels the same London streets. Let's see when I'll be sailing home again. I still miss this place and the warm feeling at times.
A beautiful song that brings to heart how fortunate we are and that we should look over the other side of the fence for those less fortunate and do something about it....
The hidden hands manipulated the rigged systems to make people poorer, in-debts, ill-health body and mind overfeed by propaganda so suffering from mass psychosis and yet people still believe, admire and follow those manipulators. Sad.
Ich habe bei diesem Song schon geweint, als er veröffentlicht wurde, wegen des Textes und wegen der Melodie. Damals lebte ich in Stuttgart, wo es auch Bettler und Obdachlose gab, aber nicht so viele. Jetzt habe ich elfeinhalb Jahre in Wien gewohnt, und hier springt einen das Elend fast in jeder U-Bahn-Station an und in der Inneren Stadt sowieso.
Auch ich habe eben bei diesem Song geweint. Diese dramatische Entwicklung sieht man überall, nicht nur in London...ich lebe in Essen, auch hier gibt es sehr viele Obdachlose. Ich bin bei FB in einer Strickgruppe, wir stricken hauptsächlich Socken für Obdachlose und Bedürftige. Es ist nur eine kleine Hilfe, aber wenn wir Fotos von Übergaben sehen, macht uns das sehr zufrieden.
I was on the streets for 25 years in the grips or heroin and crack addiction, I'm now 20 years clean and helping others
good on ya mate, keep it going!
Well done. Keep on helping others! ;-)
Respect
Good for you - well done!
Well done!!!!
Love this!!! Still listening in 2024!!! Anyone else listening??
Great
Yep! Just back from London.
Anyone else finding this comment 2024 stupid?
@@Tiberiotertio is that better? 🤣🤣🤣🤣
No @@Tiberiotertio
I lived in London circa 1966 and this still makes me shed a tear. I'm 88 and this will stay with me forever.
you had the best of all times in swinging London.
@@hannesstuber222 We did! I woz a skin head and now? Hahaha... 72 year old from, the 60's!! I LOVED it back then! Good luck!
I know what you mean. I can't sing the last verse without choking up.
In dem Alter hat man im Leben bestimmt öfters im Regen gestanden...aber schön ist es immer wieder wenn die Sonne wieder aus den Wolken heraus tritt...❤❤
I was eleven years old in 1976. My class teacher played this song to us every day for a week or so. He then took us on a school trip to London. We went to the Tower and HMS Belfast. He also showed us where some homeless people were sitting on the street. I have never forgotten it. The lyrics still sting.
Good teacher...😊
Iam inspired!!
I was born in Belfast in 1976 😇
We had folk singing every Thursday in primary school with Mr Hall.. I am thankful that I learned early on that there is music beyond the pop charts😍😍👍♥️
When I was 16 in 1976 when I left rural Ireland to go to London to work on the buildings, this song means a lot to me! It inspired me not be an idiot and end up on the streets like so many of my country men, got myself an education thanks to the open university and still live in London, I am grateful to my adopted country and for the opportunities I have been given over the years. I am starting to get close to retirement and we are moving out of London to my partners home town when I do retire and I am going to miss it! An old man once told me that you never need to leave London because eventually the whole world comes to London, it went over my head at the time but it makes perfect sense to me now.
My daughter volunteers working for the homeless. How proud I am of her to give her time to help these beautiful people
A very 'well done' to your Daughter, she will be blessed ❤
Yes 🥰 pity they don't house our own instead of illegals coming here getting 1st class treatment and accomodation.
@@louisegoodyear2515 God bless her for the good work she's doing.
Working a market stall in a seaside town I once gave a homeless chap a piece of flapjack he was eagerly eyeing up. The following week I was gifted a hand written poem by the same man....... kindness and simple recognition that we are all human truly makes the world a better place!
I love this song. I have severe depression and anxiety but it makes you realise that there are many people worse off than you. Such a very sad song.
do you know another sad song called "the end of the world" Sung by Skeeter Davis?
Me too x
Yes. And, you my dear, find one blessing, count it, then soon count another. Slowly rise. I believe in you.
SoTrue❤
As a Scottish guy I noticed Us Scott's And Irish Had to stick together there As Alot do Not like us somehow That's Jst the mantalety of Most, Anyways on words an upWords huuu >< 😊
As a young child, this song always made me cry. It still does.
My teacher played this song to us as a class in 1976 Or so, when I was 8 or 9 years old... About 35 years later, I am homeless and know what it is like, trust me! Some say it is a lifestyle choice, but it is very hard to get out of! Love to all homeless people! Xxx
Forgot to say, xxx to Mrs Mullholand?
same here
That cause you have a sensitive heart ♥ when you see people in need,sending LOVE your way!
Me too 😢
This song will outlive all of us.
As well it should.
Knutscha
I wish you were wrong about this; but I'm sure you're right
Nothing changes x
Listen to SING with Gary Barlow and the commonwealth group. When you listen to it please think about the people who've had and those that still have VIOLENCE imposed on them because of who they were or are and because they are a different colour. Listen to these songs.Sing them LOUDER
Last year, I gave a homeless man two sandwiches I was going to eat. I saw him outside the place I was working. I thought “I have a kitchen full of food at home, he needs this more than I do”……The look of thanks in his eyes was one of the most rewarding feelings I’ve ever received, I’ll never forget it.
Please do not make this sound like 'Ih yeah , he's so great. I promise you, I am not. I am rubbish. I am just about two months from sleeping in the street. However, a few years ago as prepared after a night in pubs in Soho zi saw a guy sleeping t the entry to Leciester Square station. Dog at his side. I was feeling generous. So I went to look for some dog food. Flipping heck you cannot find cans of dog food in Leicester Square at midnight. I had to walk down to Charing Cross. Bought 2 x cans. Took them back. Put them in front of the old fella plus a £5 for himself
A girl nearby (down on her luck too, I suppose, said sotto voce " That is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen". That dud not make me feel proud but sad. It cost me a 10 minute and the cost of two cans of dog food. Plus a pint. But why did nobody else not do it before me?
@@christopherhunt9078 well my wife and myself were the same...we had a son who i kicked out..... he was a druggy and a thief..but now he is home and a good son ......after two yrs.he now knows who are the genuine homeless and deserving.
Wow. I live in Darwin I will take any lost soul here. Mangoes. Fish crabs and water safety
Wow
Good on You. " With the measure you meet it shall be measured unto You."@@christopherhunt9078
This song really hits today, especially with the Cost Of Living Crisis.
If such a thing as an all-loving god really exists, he's got a lot of explaining to do when he watches this video.
yes definately
A song to stand beside the achievements of Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, and Don McLean. Stunningly beautiful. ❤
Ich kannte den Sänger damals nicht und dachte immer das es von einem der Bekannten ist.
evolution? when they understand❤❤rich interview, rich chor, how you can tell?
As an Irish person living briefly in London during the 1980's - not an easy time to be Irish in London. It was among the saddest days of my life when an Irishman came into the pub begging - I said to him why don't you go Home - I'll pay for boat (it was long before Ryanair) he said everyone was dead and he had nowhere to go back to ....I cried a lot for him that night
Did you get him a pint?
@@Nick-Emery no I tried to but he wouldn't accept - he didn't drink alcohol
I'm sure the poor soul is long dead now - I don't think you could ever imagine such a life or experience
@@Eoin933 😢
🇮🇪☘️🙏🇮🇪☘️🙏🇮🇪☘️🙏 may God bless you and your family for such a lovely gesture of empithy and kindness ...
Don't look down on people,unless you are helping them up. There for the grace of god go us !
My feelings exactly 😢
@@louisemcgrath1138 😘
@@louisemcgrath1138 😘
Amen 🙏
I went to London 1959. I was just gone 12. There was nothing for me where I lived. I got a job saying I was 16. Got married 1963 , came back here in 67 with 4 children. Tonight I'm looking for songs to be played at my funeral. It was tough but there was someone minding us.😢
I never heard of Ralph McTell, and now I will never forget him. Not only is this a wonderfully moving song, but what a voice!
There are songs you will never forget. This one, too.
Had the honour of being this mans postman and seeingvhim on a daily basis. Great singer great song and a truely lovely man. Genourous to a tee.
And the guitar!
Ich habe das Lied mit
16 geliebt,Ich hatte ganz andere Ideen von wem es war,Aber aber heute gibt’s ein Sänger, der es am besten singt, dass mein Ehemann seine Stimme ist. Wunderbar, wenn er den Refrain singt viel besser als bei Ralf Mac.
@@martinaschulze4771huh? What about this ehemann???
53 years on….as true as ever. Nothing is sorted out.. heartbreaking really.
Very true my friend
@@davidbedford6323 was a hit on my first England/London visit
Yep......I agree.@@davidbedford6323
Ralf is sorted, he lives in Cornwall with his millions of pounds
I was 25 when this came out, thought it to be a beautiful song then and as the years have passed, it has become more poignant. I have never experienced such Poverty, but I have many times in many cities witnessed it. Now, nearing 80 years I find myself listening this beautiful song with tears in my eyes. As Ralph has said, nothing has changed. A different time, different faces, but still the same poverty. A very sad, hard world in which we live.
I was a lttle younger than you, an American in living in London (lonely as shit) when the song was popular. For me it's always meant: turn around and count your blessings.
And all of that remains the horrible self-interest seeking political decisions. Hope you support a sane conservative cause.
@@johanvanzyl8479 these days the words 'sane' and 'conservative' are a contradiction in terms sadly. Austerity is an active Conservative policy in the UK & this song is a sad, poignant counterpoint and reminder that poverty destroys spirits, souls & societies in equal measure.
@Old Nightrun - Beautifully put. Diolch x
Thank the politician's and the 1 per. Greed fuck um all
As a Scotsman that loves his holidays in London I love this song and it’s sad it’s still accurate today. I was saddened the people that was suffering when I was there. And it was refreshing to come across such a beautiful song. It makes you really think that there is always someone always worse off than you. If only people could be a bit more kinder to others. Thanks for this beautiful song Ralph. ❤
As a fellow Scot it makes me see the necessity of Socialism.
ciaran hinds was mentioned in the german tv paper
Should use a dinghy
I just know this song just bl4cudh h
@@dapunk5598 Are you twelve?
When I feel down I play this song. No matter how depressed you feel just remember there is always someone In a worst of position than you.
True.
So
True
True
True but makes me more depressed
My uncle loved this song and I loved it too...one day he passed away. I was in jail. I got out too late to bury him but when I was picked up at the bus stop by my stepfather and his pal, they randomly sang that song to me as If my uncle had commanded them to do so...from heaven. I miss you so much Pat. ❤️💚❤️💚
Sorry bud
Sorry!!!!!!🙏
Thanks brothers ☘️💙
I love u god bless x
He is at peace now
When ever I get fed up and feel sorry for myself, I listen to the best rendition ( original ) of this song. I realise how much I have and to be grateful.
Reminds us that no matter how bad things are, people have to live through worse
Not as tough as you think.
@Heysel Blood , that is true. My heart breaks for these " poor " people.
Me too.
Yes I will.. I love you. Warm and fed. 💖💖💖💖💖🦊
I was on the streets but now got myself together and now living a decent life
Good for , it can't be easy
I love this song, remember me those years I lived in London, coming up from Birmingham, 1970 1972 when I left England for ever. Specially now that I live in south America, every time I hear it makes me shed some tears.
This song, brought me back to 1991, when I was living homeless in London, december 1990 to fevruary 1991, in the winter time. I felt in my own flesh how tough is being homeless, and how strong I was to pass through such harsh moments.
How did you get out of it?
Good on you man, and congrats for surviving it.
WoW ! .. You Still Made It !! WOW ! WOW !!
I have nothing but respect 4 u man
Rogerio Rocha s
Always makes me cry this song makes me think of my mum after her mum kick out of the house and she was homeless till she joined the land army. R.I.P Mum I love you always. Xx💟
Es tut mir sehr, sehr leid mit deiner Mama. Ich wünsche mir, sie hat jetzt im Himmel ein besseres Zuhause.
This makes my cry too, I’ve lived in 4 countries, on 3 continents on both sides of the hemisphere. I’m currently in Canada homesick, my Canadian wife and I just amicably agreed to divorce 2 hours ago. Lovers that can’t be in love away from home. Going home to hug my Mum, Nan and Brother, he’s hurting from 15 years in the army, 4 tours of Afghan, 1 Iraq, 1 Kosovo and 6 years in Germany. Between this and looking my dog ( Lulu) in the eyes knowing she’ll think Ive bonded her I’m in absolute bits.
Also, much respect to you mother, land army ladies were tough, gave me all the freedom to travel, find love, make love and find friends all over the world. Thank you.
1 Down 4 Up Lee ,keep strong mate ,London is tough,grew up in Kilburn ,keep believing that tings will get better,they will mate,believe
Nice to see Katie thAt people are still replying to you're words, just goes to show that governments don't give a shot about peaple
Saw Ralf a few years ago on the South Bank. His voice is still amazing. This song always brings a tear.
Saw Ralf perform @ Glastonbury 2016,at the Acoustic stage..my favourite song so I was singing along, got a push from a big bloke and no one came to my help. This was the time of Brexit and me being a brown person wasn't their cup of tea🎶🎶🎶☮️❤🇮🇳
Saw him at Cadogan hall, privilege to sing this in audience with him😊
This song will never go out of style. It's exquisite, and this montage of London's homeless is perfect.
this song should "go out of style" ...we as a nation NEED this to end ...even now we are a rich nation ...it is a beautiful hurtful song ...but the pain that inspired it needs to end
Not just London’s homeless but in 2023 half the country seems to be on the very edge of homelessness.What have we done.😰😰
Been homeless in London during the winter back in the early 70s.....Nothing fun or romantic about it, lots of hatred and violence interspersed by VERY occasional acts of kindness. Oh and God bless the Salvation Army, I am not a religious person but these people really try to help.
I always donate to the Sally Bash
Oh my GOD. Where r u . ?
@@daystatesniper01 Me too!
Chris Spalding they helped me too
fuk mate i sincerely hope life worked out Godbless
This song made me cry on my way to school one day, having heard it on the radio in the morning. I vowed then to help others as a way of life. It served me well. Imagine being out in the cold and the rain and not being able to go home, because you haven't got one.
This song was not only one of the early songs I learned to play on the guitar, it inspired me to learn guitar, so I could play it. I now teach others to play and this song is still a favourite.
humanity
+Dave Derby # good on you mate, wish we have more people like you in this world.
Good Good
Because sharing inspiration can be useful to others? Partypooper, bring out your own talents instead of dragging others down.
Nice Dave. One of my goals is to fight poverty even when I am not well off but I like to fight poverty nevertheless. But sometime I do not feel good to give money to homeless because I would think they will go and buy drug. How this song inspired you to help poor/homeless people and how you are helping them? Thanks
It's not just about London, it's about everywhere. And yes I sung in school in the 80's. Definitely had a profound effect on me. The power of song and music is amazing 🎶.
Ralph showed us something, that made us change our minds...
War eines der ersten fünf Lieder die ich Anfang den Achtzigern im Gitarrenunterricht gelernt habe....❤
Hello Rebecca, how are you doing?
This always gives me goose bumps. I was on the streets of London for a while and these folk are definately forgotten. Very sad.
They are the forgotten people, I lived like that too 😢
I saw a homeless person last week, she was laying on the cold hard ground and people were walking by her, most people glanced as they passed with a look of pity... I think most people want to help... I gave her a nudge and asked if she was ok as her eyes were closed, she never responded but she was breathing... I told the people in the premises to check on her, they said they had and that she was sat up and talking, but that she was 'just homeless' it's heartbreaking. She was too broken to even bother responding... What can you do. My heart and I am sure most peoples hearts, break a little inside when they see a person in such despair.
Should have put a tenner amongst her belongings. Peace be unto you.
Your government should take care of those people. It´s a disgrace that folks have to sleep on the streets and beg for food. Try some socialism if just to save them, it wont kill you fortunate ones.
@@martinwarner1178 Give a hungry man a fish to eat and he isn´t hungry for awhile. Give him a fishing rod and he can provide for him self.
And there are so many now. I see many every day.
Should have got a dinghy and landed on the coast. Would now be in a 4* hotel, full board, with tax payer funded medical care
This song always reminds me of sleeping in abandoned cars and behind shops as a youngster with home problems feeling scared , hungry and vulnerable.
Life is good now , married with lovely home , good job and nice things .
You never forget though , still pinch myself occasionally because could of been a very different story .
Thanks Ralph
My respect for u x
Glad life has worked out well now for you.
Hmmm...soooo very happy for you n yours, Hun. X ;)
Pleased that your life is now so much better.
My dad used to sing me this song when I was young, it always filled me with a strange mix of sadness, but warmth and comfort - I now sing it to my little girl to soothe her, and can barely keep a dry eye when I do myself - such a beautiful song
I just discovered this a few days ago and have watched it many times, soaking it all in. I too live in a large city and there are so many homeless people struggling to make it through another day. One of my late mother's favourite expressions was "there but for the grace of God go I". All of those that find themselves homeless and lost are someone's child, someone's old friend, someone's old neighbour. They didn't knowingly choose this lifestyle but circumstances beyond their control led them to this. We as a society need to look upon those less fortunate with compassion and love. We are all God's children.
100 percent. It can happen to anyone always be kind. God bless.
I always love this song when l walked into a longe Bar the band immediately play this song.God bless everyone and give them their daily meal and shelter
We sang this in primary school! Taught us empathy I guess. As an adult, it's so freakin sad.
Need to teach more empathy we might solve the bully epidemic too.
I used to sing this in primary school
Same here loved it then and still do now
I used to sing this in primary school aswell. James Barry. Mr shailer and his guitar. Thought it was a strange song to sing back then, but now I get it as an adult. Beautiful song and the meaning is so empathic x
We used to sing morning has broken by cat stevens at assemble along with school anthem and hyms.
IF ONE IS NOT MOVED BY THIS THEN ONE IS NOT HUMAN ! ! !
The lyrics - this song, still moves us to the core of our beings. An eternal reminder to, in whatever ways that we can, be compassionate & reach out to those in need. Our positions in life can always reverse - remember this.
Amen
Hello there, how are you doing?
I first heard this lovely song on the car radio, driving to work at RAF Chicksands in 1973. I started crying and made my husband drive around the base until it was finished.
Working on the railway ...everyday in London Paddington...during lockdown the one thing I noticed was that in the deserted streets, one part of our community remained ......normally invisible ....the homeless were desperate ....those they normally beg from were not there....desperate times ...nothing could have made me realise how much we depend on each other....I am giving like i have never given before and my heart is tearing up ...when this situation is all over we must do more ....nobody chooses to live on the street ......
Very sad.. thank you for giving while the travellers are not there.
God bless you Graham. I never before thought of that particular effect on the homeless. Their meager sources of income no longer come to the central city because of the COVID. Really sad!
your a kind man graham and much more needs to be done.it is a disgrace.
June 2020, still relevant - even more so.
Yeh, dreadful city
@@calthedragon5686 It's all over. Up here, Liverpool is bad for people on the streets.
I used to take pictures, but it's like same thing all the time.
Nearly 20 years and nothing changed so much for change
Hubert Hobblecobby ...Great City.
Songs like these will.last forever
This song never gets old ♥️ still relevant as ever
Unfortunately..😢
A beautiful song which never ages, Ralph is a true folk hero,
And a true champers socialist to boot. hates that some of his servants bought their own homes. Then his kids found social housing too expensive to buy and limited by their daddy's resources. Ralph is a nice guy, However much a socialist he is, he is a capitalist at heart.
@@Sailfire1 Who cares what his politics are, his song did more to help the people lost in London than any god ever did.
@@TonyEnglandUK But he is a fake, the song is fake. It is a good song but Ralph's sentiments are elsewhere, Also, Ralph despises that so many only know him for his one hit wonder and challenges them to name any one of his other songs. Ralph's reality is that he supports a socialist agenda when it suits him publicly , but he is a capitalist with regards to his own ambitions and life style choices.
@@Sailfire1 He's singing ABOUT these people, not pretending he IS one of these people. You seem very critical, by all means show everyone what you've done for the lost in London.
@@Sailfire1 Those who can, do; those who can't, teach.
For fifty four years this song has been bringing the plight of the London homeless to the forefront of people's minds, while you've done nothing but look for ways to bring it down.
This is one of the most moving songs I've ever heard.
A song that changed my Life 💕
This song reminds me of when I was an apprentice fixing fork lift truck. Listening too radio 2.
tears flowing with anger that it is allowed to continue in 2019
@@technofishy8533 fd
and a world that doesn't care
I play this and the bit that always chokes me is , one more forgotten hero and a world that doesn’t care. But I do!
I agree too , there are people that DO NOT CARE BUT personally do Always have & Always will.
lots of us care, Humans will beat the politicians eventually.
Me too brother
Yup, I do too and I have a hard time singing that bit because it just chokes me up... I'm old enough to be a grandfather and in my lifetime we didn't do a GOD DAMN THING to fix anything.
Something needs to change, I'm tired of watching the man with the cup begging and I want him gone from there and into an apartment with enough money to care for himself.
We owe each an every one of us at least that much.
i can not pass a homeless person without stopping talking to them and giving them money or food or praying for them everyone matters weather they are rich or poor gods kingdom has no restrictions on your situation or wealth
I have never been able to get through this video without choking up. It's the most moving video on UA-cam, IMO.
Never looked at this as a pop song but a magic true to life folk song.🤔❤️
Nuno Espirito Santo up until recently was Wolverhampton Wanderers football Head Coach. A few months ago this beautiful man with his wonderful Humanitarian soul gave out of his own pocket, two hundred and fifty thousand pounds to the Homeless Charities in Wolverhampton. He is a tremendous football man, and an outstanding Human Being. Acts like this should be recognized and applauded worldwide. Thank you Nuno and thank you Ralph for this timeless, moving and evocative song. 💜😪💔
Well said mate. A lot of people are doing good things around the world. Even more people are ignoring the problem, including most rightwing govts. They see the homeless as an unsightly, unproductive, drag on the economy. Bloody sad.
I didn't know about this. what a wonderfully kind gesture from this man. I don't follow Wolves but always liked Nuno... wherever he is I hope he is well.
Outstanding kindness
ABSOLUTE FANTASTIC MAN coyw
Yes tax ploy
Ralph Mctell gave us one of the most poignant songs ever written. You can’t fail to be moved if you really listen to the lyrics.
Per day only 3us dollars renting sofa hostels in Hong Kong and learning cooking Chinese food or kung fu. If you interest come to Hong Kong travel Please call (852) 39049170 for registration
With we should have always done lucky Dad this song in her heart
Anyone not moved should be very worried about themselves.
@@user-jy4mt2te2t I totally agree and unfortunately, the world is full of people leading privileged lives without even hearing this song. I sometimes think the world is upside down.
I love this song, it's so beautiful and so poiginant. This and Roger Whittakers Last Farewell are two tracks that stick out in my mind from my younger days
I agree.
This song does mean so much to people, wish more of us feeling down and lonely had heard this song!!
This song is timeless emotional & thought provoking ..I hope every single person who is homeless finds comfort & a shelter xxx
Hello Maureen, How are you doing?
A very sad song for me. Seeing all those people makes my heart ache
Hello Kotie, How are you doing?
Hello There, it's nice to meet you here, I'm Andrew Lombardo and you?
Have you seen the old man
In the closed down market
Kicking up the papers
With his worn out shoes?
In his eyes, you see no pride
Hand held loosely at his side
Yesterday's paper
Telling yesterday's news
So, how can you tell me you're lonely
And say for you that the sun don't shine?
Let me take you by the hand
And lead you through the streets of London
Show you something to make you change your mind
Have you seen the old girl
Who walks the streets of London
Dirt in her hair
And her clothes in rags?
She's no time for talking
She just keeps right on walking
Carrying her home
In two carrier bags
So, how can you tell me you're lonely
And say for you that the sun don't shine?
Let me take you by the hand
And lead you through the streets of London
Show you something to make you change your mind
In the all night cafe
At a quarter past eleven
Same old man
Sitting there on his own
Looking at the world
Over the rim of his tea cup
Each tea lasts an hour
And he wanders home alone
So, how can you tell me you're lonely?
Don't say for you that the sun don't shine
Let me take you by the hand
And lead you through the streets of London
Show you something to make you change your mind
Have you seen the old man
Outside the seaman's mission
Memory fading with
The medal ribbons that he wears?
In our winter city
The rain cries a little pity
For one more forgotten hero
And a world that doesn't care
So, how can you tell me you're lonely
And say for you that the sun don't shine?
Let me take you by the hand
And lead you through the streets of London
I'll show you something to make you change your mind ... 💖💋💖
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
❤❤❤❤
"Hand held loosely at his side"
"And held loosely at his side"
I performed this song with my music teacher at school in the early 80s,I was a bit of a div as a kid and always getting into trouble,and taking drugs at a very young age,music and my guitar was the only lesson in school that I didn't bunk!lol he was my favourite teacher and always trying help me by encouraging me to do better and would tell me that if I kept going on like that I'd end up homeless or in jail,or worse!,and once even said,,if all else fails,go busking with your guitar!,,,his predictions came true,and later on in life,I ended up both in prison a couple of times and was a homeless busker addicted to heroin and crack for several years! I got clean 10 years ago,and have a much better life! But I always think of Mr Brickhouse,when I hear this song,he passed away in the late 90s bless him,he was an amazing human being!❤
I have loved this song for more years than I can remember. Always brings tears to my eyes. So many of us do not realise how lucky we are having a roof over our heads, food in the cupboard, water and a comfortable bed to sleep in. Food for thought always when we listen to this.
🌹 I feel the same.
Pity most those who don't savor every simple delight of life. Sleep, bathing, eating, working, setting goals and striving.
I think Katren is right- fresh water any time you turn on a tap. All the rest pales into insignificance.
Hello beautiful lady?
I'm from London and believe me, this song is so true. How is it possible that the wealthiest country on the planet allows its citizens to live on the streets?
lorraine smith wealthiest country in the planet??? Not anymore mate... not anymore
@Susan Gengras Goes to hell- gets born again and has to live another lifetime?
@Susan Gengras Or living a good life and no need for regret?
@Susan Gengras A little heavy for me, but in general I agree. We are all responsible for our own selves, and if we believe, our souls. Peace to you.
@Susan Gengras I don't understand "git 'er dun" ?
This song helped my darling Margaret and I introduce the problem to finchley methodist church. In the 10 years which followed we served 60000 meals provided clothing and medical help. Thanks, 'Streets of London'.
I still cry after so many many years. So sad but all the words are still true today.
If this great Historical song doesn't move you then I feel sad for you, 💔
Thank you Ralph for composing and singing such an iconic song. It will remain for many, many years after we are dead and gone.
This tune hits so many nerves
You are so right Elayne it is a shame I see people every where in the streets just trying to get by another day
Elayne Murray “Hand on Heart” ❤️ “Make people have a think” 🥺💭 Still used today..Yes! Just heard it..strangely enough..2020 🙏💭❤️🕊
Elayne Murray it may be historical but still just as relevant today, if not more relevant
A nation is judged by how it treats it's most vulnerable
That is true Chubster an a lot of them are failing badly. it's all about money money money, fuck the less fortunate, poor, homeless and disabled!
tom o'conner
Spartan Louis-117 What you going on about!!
Spartan Louis-117 what
Beautifully put and true.
Its a song that shows the real world. God bless you ralf.
My Dad always sang this song. Reminds of my Dad. Sleeping peacefully in heaven❤
❤
Hello Maria, how are you doing?
How wonderful to hear this once more. It cut me to the bone back then & still does. Life goes on &, all these years later, nothing has changed.
David Bradstreet yes it is!!
oh my
The situation's been getting steadily worse again these last few years,and the government we have seem callously prepared to keep it that way.
Ralph Jackson spelman på taket
Vv
And it is now 8 years since your post, and things have gotten worse.
anyone who isn't touched by this song and its meaning must have a heart of stone , touches my heart every time I hear it
Every time I hear this song, it reminds me of when I lived in London in the late 70's to mid 80's . Portabello Road. A pair of young kids 12YO ? boy and his sister(11?) in Portobello road markets at night .The boy offered me his sister for money to have something to eat. I didn't know what to do at the time. I was concerned that I could be arrested if I spoke to them. I walked away. That memory and sadness still burns after all this time. I will write a story about it before I am too old. It is terrible that people have to live in conditions like that. Someare by choice but most by circumstance. If I could go back to that night in time, I would have done what I could have to at least get them fed at least for one night. This song always revives so memories.
I saw this in german television when I was 12. I asked my dad if he knows this song. We went to the next music shop, to buy the CD. Now I'm 44. I still own this CD and I still like it. One of the best singer/songwriter ever❤
Who on Earth would have the gall to give this a thumbs down. It just shows us where the problem lies.
Certainly not people who have experienced such things in their lives but maybe people who have not and do not want to face the reality that this does exist.
'nuf sed.
People who watched this for school work
The problem are the 42k upvoters that understand the issue, yet accept the system and are too comfortable to break the chains for their enslaved and impoverished countrymen.
You are right thou, the thumbs down are hard to explain, i hope its just school kids that were forced to watch this and naturally rebel against anything regardless of content.
I gave it a thumbs down using 3 different accounts. This idiot really believes homeless people have no pride... Just tells me he's never really been around homeless people in his life. Awful lyrics... Just pandering to the stereotype...
@@shanelevene4864 I think you missed every point of this song and you maybe an utter moron!
I am a Londoner born and bred, and I could cry for my beautiful city that was once so vibrant and full of life, where everyone in the world wanted to visit at least once in their lives......she is now dying on her feet.........
Sad to see the empty streets in this pandemic, got a mate that works in the city showing photos. As a kid the crypt at St Martins (74 ish) was an eye opener and this song takes me there. I wasn't a resident.
Feel the same. It'll become a place where only the rich can afford. manual workers will be commuting further an further to get to work
I was unfortunate to wind up on the streets , living rough & living in squats in the late 80s early 90s , i had already been in childrens homes & jailed & passed from my mum to my dads house at a young age kicked out & social services so it was no suprise i would find the streets in that respect .
I saw a lot of things that most people wouldnt normally see & it was a bleak era for everyone but i managed to pick myself up & pull myself together & got out of that rut i was in ,
People who you thought were friends wernt your friends at all & people that i grew up with turn on you ! Its a shame that happens !
Can be a very scary place if your not street savvi but luckily i was & i guess having that mind set to stay strong helped me through it .
The saying is that when things start looking up & you start doing well that there is always something or someone that wants to bring you down again .
It always boils down to government best part of the time Messing with families & making choices that put good people in bad situations & frustrations break families !
I dont think ive ever seen a good England in my lifetime !
Pleasure to have met this man personally. Lovely bloke ,generous and an amazing songwriter.
The clear acoustics of this beautiful but sad song deserves special mention. Well done.
Homelessness is a state of misery you never want to experience.I was homeles for about a year.You feel all alone.You see no future.Your happiest moments can be simply finding a washroom, just getting a drink of water or simply getting a smile from someone.Always one of my favorite tunes.
Yes, I was kicked out of home at 16 (wasn't actually a bad kid) and ended up
living rough. In those days my biggest goals were enough food and my own room. I never forget. These days I'm surrounded by privileged yet moany millenial-types at work.
Why all white
I have been there, now I work with rough sleepers, its such a devastating experience, I would like to place our so-called betters in a cardboard box for a week. .Uncaring pricks. If it wasn't for the help of some compassionate people, I would not be here today...……..
Such a beautiful song hits me like a train every time I listen to it
A sad haunting and very moving song it serves as a constant reminder of just how fortunate and lucky I myself am thank you and well sung Ralph
This song will outlive the world.
ua-cam.com/video/Ss4tn9nj0ug/v-deo.html
and aliens will listen to it..
Streets of London by Ralph mctell should be immediately released again for Christmas 2018
For the rough sleepers who just happen to be homeless
I’ve spent many hours listening to this song.
My family too and that’s where it pulls me in, my Aunt, now deceased ( 84 yrs) loved this and we sang it together. More than that, I saw Ralph play at the Port Fairy Folk Festival only 6 yrs ago, amazing!
Lisa
every time life kicks me in the balls this song reminds me of all the things i have that others do not ...there is almost always someone in a worse place than you, do what you can for them and be thankful that you can
I have heard this song in 1975, in a subway in London when we visit England.
Yes was a UK hit in early 1975
Loneliness is a beast that will follow you and demonise until you feel less than human. It's a shame that we still have hopelessness today when we have so much.
Loneliness is a state of mind, not a state of being. I do not agree that hopelessness is the same.
Jesus said ... Mark 14: 7 The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them whenever you want. But you will not always have Me. 8 She has done what she could to anoint My body in advance of My burial
Per day only 3us dollars renting sofa hostels in Hong Kong and learning cooking Chinese food or kung fu. If you interest come to Hong Kong travel Please call (852) 39049170 for registration
You can be lonely in the company of a thousand people, George. That is not what Ralph McTell is singing about or what the people on this fhstroom are discussing. They are discussing HOMELESSNESS, not LONELINESS.
I've not heard this song since it was in the charts but still remember it as a great song, sang with feelings
I was a little kid in the 80s and I went to bed with a tiny portable radio and earphones. I used to listen to it under the blanket as I went to sleep. One night this song came on the radio and I loved it. I was almost crying at the lyrics. The following night the radio station played the song again and it had the same effect. Now I'm 45 years old and it still brings a lump to my throat. I'll probably be saying the same thing at 80.
Music is life. Cheers mate
A classic, timeless, very real and very passionate song. Wonderful!
This song makes me cry, for many years
Chris tian hi by by by
Same
Christian van E This song is beautiful isn’t it
I feel sad with this
Me too...such a sad and beautiful song.
Love this song, the song tells you a real story of live. Listening often in huonvalley tasmania cheers.🌷🌻☘.
This song will be listened to forever😢thank you Ralph for giving it to us to make us think about those people less fortunate than ourselves xx❤❤❤
Massive "Ditto" ❤
I’ve lived in London for 32 years & experienced every side of it, including homelessness. This City doesn’t hide the truth, it teaches you about life for better or worse. Ralph sums it up well & it’s a great song. Everybody has their own story, but I love London..💚
well I was born in London the movies lived in London I've only moved to where I live now 20 years we should go back to London but no
No family left
Thank you.
God Bless You my Friend
@@jonjohnson8617 God bless you 😊 XX
We were going through my mum and dad's records at the weekend and came across their pile of Ralph McTell. This song never fails to make me cry. If I'm not crying already I will be by the old man in the cafe, by the time he sings "in a world that doesn't care" I'm sobbing. I grew up listening to it and its shaped me as an adult. Thank you. It's a beautiful song x
Awww...Emmaaa !?! XXX Ya got ME tearfuuul NoOW !?!? Bless you n your family n those precious memories. I used to work at a Disablity Home and, we had Maurice....who ..at most quiet opportunities...he would start singing this song to..mostly...his 'captive' but appreciative audience. Hmmm, we lost him - still miss him. God bless Ralph Mctell - that lovely bro will never understand what a blessing - he penned. ;)
emma
OMG me too! I start sobbing when he starts singing about the old man walking around the closed down market😭 I think of Coventry market where I grew up. Every verse could be written about Coventry, or any city in England. Bawling now just thinking about it!! 😭We sung it in school, yes, it had such a profound effect on all of us. It is an amazing song.
I fell in love with this song when I was 12, listening to the tops of Radio Luxembourg, on my balcony in Portugal. I visited London in 77, and honestly never saw a beggar back then. This song was in my mind, so I knew that, back then, they were just not showing in the touristical places. Poverty and loneliness are the same everywhere. Very talented poem, sad without ever being excessive. Thanks, Ralph, for a song that has been part of the soundtrack of a Portuguese girl's life.
i played this song on my guitar at school in the 70s - love it - thank you Ralph😍
This song has been around for years,but still has the same effect on me, brilliant Ralph mctell.
I cry for London now , and what it looks like , not old London 😢😢
SEE EYE TO EYE WITH YA' OPINION , UNFORTUNATELY !!
Yep old london with its smog, crime, gangs, ill health - bring it back
I cry for some cities in the U.S. Same thing happening here.
@Sunray Is Down I agree despite having roots same place. But I also loved old London. I don't sometimes like what people from same background done to it. But the problem are not those who came in early days but the many uneducated who followed after. I often ask myself why the government allowed them them to get stay so easy. I know how hard it was for us then with paying tremendous taxes and never even took any benefit at no time. But those who followed were given everything for free without contribution. I now live in Europe and as much as I like to go to London I don't go there anymore, because of this new environment. But I am glad to have seen the old times. I loved that time and the people. People with class and etiquette. In the evening when all people are gone it sometimes feels the same London streets. Let's see when I'll be sailing home again. I still miss this place and the warm feeling at times.
@@johnjohnston7602 Not changed a lot, still crime, gangs and ill health...just no smog these days.
Don't you also feel that this song is fully deserving of the 14 million views it got so far ?
And the video was so well put together. We should all do something for all the poor people who are living this song day by day. 😢
RIP Kelly....homeless and dead at 39. Miss you still.
Ar bless you it should not be this way x
I was lonely in London many years ago and I kept on singing it. I still love it.
A beautiful song that brings to heart how fortunate we are and that we should look over the other side of the fence for those less fortunate and do something about it....
The hidden hands manipulated the rigged systems to make people poorer, in-debts, ill-health body and mind overfeed by propaganda so suffering from mass psychosis and yet people still believe, admire and follow those manipulators. Sad.
If I had to use a food bank I would I.just survive on chilled food I am still alive but have got arthritis very bad at the moment
Such powerful lyrics, this song will never get old
Ich habe bei diesem Song schon geweint, als er veröffentlicht wurde, wegen des Textes und wegen der Melodie. Damals lebte ich in Stuttgart, wo es auch Bettler und Obdachlose gab, aber nicht so viele. Jetzt habe ich elfeinhalb Jahre in Wien gewohnt, und hier springt einen das Elend fast in jeder U-Bahn-Station an und in der Inneren Stadt sowieso.
Auch ich habe eben bei diesem Song geweint. Diese dramatische Entwicklung sieht man überall, nicht nur in London...ich lebe in Essen, auch hier gibt es sehr viele Obdachlose. Ich bin bei FB in einer Strickgruppe, wir stricken hauptsächlich Socken für Obdachlose und Bedürftige. Es ist nur eine kleine Hilfe, aber wenn wir Fotos von Übergaben sehen, macht uns das sehr zufrieden.