I was the recording engineer on this song, done at Abbey Road, Studio 2, the same studio used by the Beatles for nearly everything they did. Russ Ballard was the writer of the song and the producer for this session. Russ played every single instrument on the recording, beginning with programming a Linn drum machine, following that with playing two acoustic rhythm guitars, grand piano, electric guitar, percussion, and all the backround vocals except the high voice in "You know darn well when you cast your spell...." which was me. Russ wanted a different vocal texture in that section and I had also much experience as a session singer. When the track was finished, Gerry and Dewey came to the studio to record their vocals parts. Several weeks later, Russ flew to Miami where he and I mixed the final version you hear here at Criteria Recording Studios.
Well, thank you so much for helping to bring us this gem that, along with the rest of the America catalog, has brought us years of beautiful music and a lifetime of memories. How does it feel to see the younger generations exploring it? It must be surreal! 🎶🎵 ❤️
I spent the 80s and 90s in studios and gigging. I witnessed the advent of MIDI and sequencing as the digital age took off. I remember the linn drum, the Simmons drums (bloody awful) and DX7 along with the various Korg and roland drum machines etc. I play 7 different instruments myself and after getting thoroughly pissed off with the politics of bands I started recording everything on my own. Oh how much easier and quicker it is. Great high falsetto dude and a really sweet mix.. I had a mate who could sing really high and clear. We called it his castratto voice 😂 great hearing from a fellow muso ✌️♥️🇬🇧
How amazing! They are an incredible band. Love their sound. Thanks for the back story and for your great work! I heard David Cassidy played a lot with them and were great friends!
Sister Golden Hair is one of my fav songs , I Need You , The Border , Tin Man , Lonely People , Ventura Highway,Today´s the Day, etc , etc ........many great America´s Songs ¡¡¡¡ .......but at the same time the most underrated Band ...... un misterio para mi , no me lo explico
Same. 💗 Although I think listening to it at such an formative age jinxed me for future relationships. I'm the sister with the golden hair... they aren't ever ready for the altar... and some part of me always finds that ambiguity tragically romantic -- even liberated -- thanks to 70's love songs. 😕 Another great song -- "I'd Really Love to See You Tonight" by England Dan and JFC -- is an even bigger culprit in my noncommittal notions of romance. 🤦♀ Whenever a guy I'm dating hits that point where he can't quite take the leap, I never put up a fight, I never manipulate. I just adjust my expectations and either take it or leave it. I don't really know how to do anything else. 🤷♀ Fifty one years old and not a single proposal.
America is one of my favorites. I always reach for that volume button. I love all the sounds they produce. The well crafted harmonies are so rich. I can remember watching these guys on different shows through the 70’s and 80’s and thinking they just seemed nice. Something in their smiles. I’ve always been a big fan. They’re still out there making music and touring. “All My Life” is one of their most beautiful songs. You guys would love it. Super sweet. You can’t go wrong with any of their music though. ♥️
Jordan, you are so right and what I miss most these days is there are not the harmonies like back in the 70s and 80s. There are also fewer groups today. I completely agree how great it is when multiple singers harmonize and bring such a great sound!
When I hear their music it takes me back to a easy time in my life. I'm 70 now and hearing this again,well all I can say is Thank You for the memories!!!
America also did the theme song to the 80s film the last unicorn called "the last unicorn.". It's a 80s animated fantasy film so it's not scared to have scary parts of the film!
You have to really love and appreciate good music to know the value of this kind of music and music from the late 60s into the 70s. The past several years alot of music is just angry. Not all of it, alot though. Music from this period makes you feel it in your soul and just leaves you humming about your day 😀
As much as we loved the 70s songs that would have been considered America's heyday, we reaaalllly loved this comeback in 1982! Was wonderful to see them on the charts again with this airy, fun song. Another strong contender for a "Top Ten Favorite 80s Songs" list.
@@magneto7930 can't argue much with that. I loved their 70s songs, BUT this one still holds a very fond place in my heart due to my outsized love of 80s music.
There's a summer day I'll never forget. My older brother took my sister and me out just to have fun all day. That night just as the sun was going down he took us to our first concert. It was America and we were right at the foot of the stage. I had the time of my life. Every time I hear "You Can Do Magic", "Sister Golden Hair", "A Horse With No Name"... I go back there and I feel it again. Watching you guys takes me back to some really good times. Thanks for the way you appreciate music and sharing it with the rest of us.
Love the early 80s sounds of these groups , America, ToTo, Hall and Oats even Christopher cross etc, harmonies subtle electronic, electric guitars and uplifting nd the groups seemed to get along, share the song and be uplifting!
One of the reasons this band had such a great sound way back then is they had the late George Martin that made the Beatles. They say that he was the fifth Beatle.
You two are such a sweet, lovely couple! And it's very enjoyable to listen to your response and comments, as younger people, on so many musicians and songs of the past. You're music historians keeping these old hits alive presenting it to younger generations (and taking us old goats back to our youth). Thank you!
Such an awesome band! I can't thing of a song I heard by them I didn't like. This is a later song by them but one of my top three faves. You hit another great song to react to. I so appreciate you guys!
I first saw America in September 1971 in Southampton UK. They were supporting Cat Stevens. It was a great concert. Gerry, Dewey and Dan sat of their stools passing the guitars around. They did most of the tracks from their first album. Made me go out and buy it
This and Sister Golden Hair are such Timeless and beautiful sounding songs that really hit the mark for me. America is a fitting name for this band because of the wonder and beauty of what they stand for.
Gerry and Dewy are still touring and until the pandemic, played at least 100 shows a year for the past 50 YEARS!! A good friend has been their lead guitar player since 2019 and I can say after going to multiple shows to see our friend play, that Gerry and Dewy are some of the nicest people and while their vocals aren't as sharp as they used to be, for 70-year old's, they sound pretty darn good and the band is smokin'!!! Definitely check out some of their earlier hits - Ventura Highway (has one of the most iconic guitar parts - Janet Jackson even sampled it), Sandman, Tinman, Horse with no Name, Sister Golden Hair, Don't Cross the River, all great hits!! So glad you've discovered them!
Saw them back in the 70’s at Mississippi River Festival on SIU Campus grounds. So many great artists played there and it was lawn seating. Bring your sleeping bag and a cooler! So blessed to be a teenager back then.
@@lwh7301 I honestly don’t remember. I lived near SIU and went to alot of MRF concerts in my teens, and it was general admission on the lawn. ‘75-‘79 covers my teenage years. Now I’m curious myself & will have to see when they were there.
@@lwh7301 I did a little research. MRF ran from ‘69-‘80 ! Lawn seats $2 initially. Musical artists from classical, contemporary, rock, jazz. Even Bob Hope was there. i have an old MRF cardboard poster and a few of the programs somewhere. You were there prime time and somehow didn’t get to see any shows, and I was just a wild teenager who literally lived down the road from there and got to experience many. Life is strange, and I’m sorry you missed out on MRF while you were there. It definitely shaped my early years and promoted my love of music. Blessings to you.
America has a huge catalog. 50 years worth. You can't go wrong with anything you choose. The band member on lead with this song is Gerry Beckley. He has some wonderful solo work as well.
This was a hit in 1982. The 1983 World Series champion Orioles had "Orioles Magic" as their theme and this song would be blasted out at Memorial Stadium. That was their last championship. Maybe they should start playing the song again. :)
Love America!! Have seen them twice now. And, Horse With No Name, was a favorite for my son when he was very young! He died in 2018. Always think of him when I hear it. A young man who knew great music! ❤️
America was really popular in the 70's as well. Songs like, Tin Man, Sister Golden Hair, A Horse With No Name......awesome songs! Another 80's Group called Mister, Mister. Please please listen to Broken Wings. You will love that one for sure. Very profound song xoxo "Alan Parsons Project." is a group with similar vibes as "American." There's a songs, "Eye In The Sky," and "Games People Play," are a couple to listen to.
Billiant musicians and fabulous songs! Try 'Ventura Highway" and "Sister Golden Hair." Wonderful songs. But there are plenty more. RIP Dan Peek. Very sad that he left us way too soon x
The lead singer on this track is Gerry Beckley, who also sang lead on America’s hits “I Need You” (1972), “Sister Golden Hair” (1975), “Daisy Jane” (1975) and “Right Before Your Eyes” (1982). The guy with the beard and striped shirt playing acoustic guitar next to Gerry is Dewey Bunnell, who sang the lead on “A Horse With No Name” (1971), “Ventura Highway” (1972), “Tin Man” (1974), and “The Border” (1983). Dan Peek, the other original member of the trio, had left the group by the time “You Can Do Magic” came out in 1982. He sang lead on the hits “Don’t Cross The River” (1972), “Lonely People” (1974) and “Today’s The Day” (1976). They’re one of the few bands where three different band members wrote and sang lead vocals on songs that reached the Billboard Top Ten.
Absolutely spot-on analysis again, you both are very good at this. This channel reminds me more and more of the music presentation shows I used to enjoy back in the 70s & 80s. I Love it!
Thanks for your great review guys. Other good songs that they did are 'Ventura Highway' and 'Tin Man'. They went from being a trio to a duo when one member (Dan Peek) left the group.
They are a voices first music second group. They never let the music overwhelm the voices. Also Sister Golden Hair also has an upbeat theme. They are a very overlooked group from that time. One of my all time favorites.
Ah yes! I used to have this going in my car for the longest time! My Fav America Song: Ventura Highway. Saw them in concert at the park years ago. Very cooool.
Some other great songs from America: "Lonely People", "Sister Golden Hair", "Ventura Highway" and "Tin Man". If you're familiar with The Wizard of Oz, you'll appreciate the Tin Man reference.
I was in the US Air Force and stationed in Wiesbaden Germany in 1970 -1973, Horse with No Name came out and it was an instant hit with the GI's. We found out that they were military dependents, their Dad's were military stationed in England. Great group with a fairly large portfolio of music.
I consider America's music a huge part of my 70's life sound track as a kid/teen. Three words: SISTER GOLDEN HAIR; song in my top 15 all-time favorite songs. Thanks for another great reaction guys!
They have lots of hits. Sister Golden Hair, Ventura Highway, Tin Man, and Lonely People and their hits that need to be checked out! Great band, great music
America! My first concert with friends. 8th grade at the Hollywood Bowl. That I will never forget! Thanks for playing them. What I called music growing up has been lost. So very sad.
I absolutely love America! I used to have a few of their albums on 8 track back in the day. A song no one seems to react to by them is "The Last Unicorn" off of the soundtrack of the Last Unicorn. They also do a few others for the soundtrack and they are all really good.
That is what I was about to say.....They did the Bulk of the songs to the soundtrack....I was ALSO Going to suggest to the two to REACT to the main song,Myself: Rob And Amber: Give"The Last Unicorn",The Song,I mean...A TRY..You know,react to it..I love the Song! Concider it,ok?
Jordan, you NAILED it. Music today can not compete with the plain musicality of what my generation had growing up. I so miss being able to turn on the radio (not just Sirius XM) and listening to the various songs one after the other and not having to turn the station due to vulgarity, irritating noise, yelling, etc. I feel sorry for young people today who don't get that growing up.
A friend of mine is president of a tiny volunteer run radio station and they have a few shows I listen to because they play whatever is requested and they have no swearing in their music. They have shows that play the stuff I we grew up on. You can find them on steaming apps for radio like tuned in. The station is Amherst Island Radio 101.3 if you live in the Kingston Ontario area. I listen from Thursday evening, Friday from 5-11pm, Saturday 1-3 7-10 and Sunday 7-9pm.
So glad you covered Ventura Highway… my buddy moved to SoCal from Canada, he now lives just off Ventura Highway. We crank it every time he picks me up at LAX
I saw them live at age 18 with my husband, saw them live again at age 62 with my daughter!! I love American, only the 2 original singers left, but they are the best! I personally love Tin Man, I Need You, Sister Golden Hair Surprise, Only In Your Heart & To Each His Own
You two should see them live. There are not many bands left touring that had hits as far back as 1970. They have performed every year since then on the road and are great live. I am sure you'll have an opportunity in the next 12 months to see them somewhere near Tulsa as they love to tour. See them while you still can. It's a great vibe and always a friendly audience. (America doesn't have bad fans.)
It is so nice to hear America again! Their songs are so good. I heard a complete America's greatest hits cassette with my father traveling to the south of Chile. Beautiful trip hearing America, Supertramp, CCR, ELO, Bee Gees, MJ and ...Madonna (my father loved her) hahaha. Regards from Chile!!
This was one of the first 45's I ever owned. That's a record for you youngsters. :) I still love the song because it reminds me of my childhood when I was discovering music...and magic.
grew up in the 70's and 80's,,,,,one of those groups i would hear on the radio when my mom would play her big ole stereo in the background during the day,,,early 80's on this one,,,,was in junior high at that time,,,arcade video games was it around this time
In 1970 I was 10 yrs old. By the time they came out I was in High school and graduated 1978. We went from the 60's Elvis and the Beatles to the coolest music of getting high and listening to great chill out music to Disco.
YAY!!!!!!!!!!!! I love America!!! You guys have done their first song < HORSE WITH NO NAME> came out around 71, then , I believe this was their last one, around 83. Please do VENTURA HIGHWAY, SISTER GOLDEN HAIR and TIN MAN, with Tin Man it is best understood if you have seen the classic movie " The Wizard of Oz", which is my favorite movie of all times.
I was the recording engineer on this song, done at Abbey Road, Studio 2, the same studio used by the Beatles for nearly everything they did. Russ Ballard was the writer of the song and the producer for this session. Russ played every single instrument on the recording, beginning with programming a Linn drum machine, following that with playing two acoustic rhythm guitars, grand piano, electric guitar, percussion, and all the backround vocals except the high voice in "You know darn well when you cast your spell...." which was me. Russ wanted a different vocal texture in that section and I had also much experience as a session singer. When the track was finished, Gerry and Dewey came to the studio to record their vocals parts. Several weeks later, Russ flew to Miami where he and I mixed the final version you hear here at Criteria Recording Studios.
That is so cool!
Well, thank you so much for helping to bring us this gem that, along with the rest of the America catalog, has brought us years of beautiful music and a lifetime of memories. How does it feel to see the younger generations exploring it? It must be surreal! 🎶🎵 ❤️
I spent the 80s and 90s in studios and gigging. I witnessed the advent of MIDI and sequencing as the digital age took off. I remember the linn drum, the Simmons drums (bloody awful) and DX7 along with the various Korg and roland drum machines etc. I play 7 different instruments myself and after getting thoroughly pissed off with the politics of bands I started recording everything on my own. Oh how much easier and quicker it is. Great high falsetto dude and a really sweet mix.. I had a mate who could sing really high and clear. We called it his castratto voice 😂 great hearing from a fellow muso ✌️♥️🇬🇧
Thankyou for all the joy your artistic creativity has brought us!
How amazing! They are an incredible band. Love their sound. Thanks for the back story and for your great work! I heard David Cassidy played a lot with them and were great friends!
"Sister Golden Hair" and "Lonely people", must hear songs.
This!!!
And Ventura Highway!
"Sister Golden Hair" definitely gets back to the hippie vibe of "Horse"
Their two best imo.
Tin Man for sure!
You are correct. There are no groups anymore as we knew them. Rhythm guitar, bass, drums… no saxes either. And write their own songs and play them.
“Tin Man”, “Horse With No Name”, “Ventura Highway”, “You Can do Magic”; all wonderful
Jody, as well. 😁
America = Feel good music! Love these guys. Great band with exceptional music.
Definitely my favorite America song. ❤️
Same!!
Também
I still like 70s America the best ,
Great song written and produced by Russ Ballard. One of America’s nicest songs.
Sister Golden Hair is one of my fav songs , I Need You , The Border , Tin Man , Lonely People , Ventura Highway,Today´s the Day, etc , etc ........many great America´s Songs ¡¡¡¡ .......but at the same time the most underrated Band ...... un misterio para mi , no me lo explico
America has such a unique harmonious sound and such a wholesome looking band. One of my all time favorites.
Sister Golden Hair by America is one of my favs from this group.
Please!❤
Same. 💗 Although I think listening to it at such an formative age jinxed me for future relationships. I'm the sister with the golden hair... they aren't ever ready for the altar... and some part of me always finds that ambiguity tragically romantic -- even liberated -- thanks to 70's love songs. 😕 Another great song -- "I'd Really Love to See You Tonight" by England Dan and JFC -- is an even bigger culprit in my noncommittal notions of romance. 🤦♀ Whenever a guy I'm dating hits that point where he can't quite take the leap, I never put up a fight, I never manipulate. I just adjust my expectations and either take it or leave it. I don't really know how to do anything else. 🤷♀ Fifty one years old and not a single proposal.
My fave for sure!
America is one of my favorites. I always reach for that volume button. I love all the sounds they produce. The well crafted harmonies are so rich. I can remember watching these guys on different shows through the 70’s and 80’s and thinking they just seemed nice. Something in their smiles. I’ve always been a big fan. They’re still out there making music and touring. “All My Life” is one of their most beautiful songs. You guys would love it. Super sweet. You can’t go wrong with any of their music though. ♥️
Jordan, you are so right and what I miss most these days is there are not the harmonies like back in the 70s and 80s. There are also fewer groups today. I completely agree how great it is when multiple singers harmonize and bring such a great sound!
"Tin Man", "Venture A Highway" and "Sister Golden Hair" should be the next America songs to react to.
This band can do magic. What an amazing song, I can't stop listening to it. It's timeless.
This group is so talented. I have this vinyl record album in my collection. Fell in love with all their songs. ❤❤❤
When I hear their music it takes me back to a easy time in my life. I'm 70 now and hearing this again,well all I can say is Thank You for the memories!!!
Little River Band also has some nice harmonies.
And a lot of great songs
Absolutely ! Good call
The BEE GEES hava a few also .
You seriously will not be disappointed with '70s group Dr. Hook. Their music is quite the rabbit hole.
So wish we could upvote comments 😅 I so agree! And some Eagles! I can't believe they haven't done any at all 😳
AMERICA is all so 70s rabbit hole
America also did the theme song to the 80s film the last unicorn called "the last unicorn.". It's a 80s animated fantasy film so it's not scared to have scary parts of the film!
You have to really love and appreciate good music to know the value of this kind of music and music from the late 60s into the 70s. The past several years alot of music is just angry. Not all of it, alot though. Music from this period makes you feel it in your soul and just leaves you humming about your day 😀
Sublime smooth and so crystal clear in those vocals.
This song is flawless
As much as we loved the 70s songs that would have been considered America's heyday, we reaaalllly loved this comeback in 1982! Was wonderful to see them on the charts again with this airy, fun song. Another strong contender for a "Top Ten Favorite 80s Songs" list.
This is good, but their songs from the seventies were amazing!
@@magneto7930 can't argue much with that. I loved their 70s songs, BUT this one still holds a very fond place in my heart due to my outsized love of 80s music.
@@nancysmith8626 80s music definitely had a very fun and happy vibe to it.
There's a summer day I'll never forget. My older brother took my sister and me out just to have fun all day. That night just as the sun was going down he took us to our first concert. It was America and we were right at the foot of the stage. I had the time of my life. Every time I hear "You Can Do Magic", "Sister Golden Hair", "A Horse With No Name"... I go back there and I feel it again. Watching you guys takes me back to some really good times. Thanks for the way you appreciate music and sharing it with the rest of us.
Love the early 80s sounds of these groups , America, ToTo, Hall and Oats even Christopher cross etc, harmonies subtle electronic, electric guitars and uplifting nd the groups seemed to get along, share the song and be uplifting!
We believed as a nation. We went to the mall. We learned, lived, loved, and enjoyed music together.
Plus the Doobies and Steely Dan!
My favourite America song, Right Before Your Eyes.
💪👍
My favorite "America" song.
Yacht Rock Radio at it’s best
Second after Ventura Hwy for me
Glad u played this from a great talented band😅❤
One of the reasons this band had such a great sound way back then is they had the late George Martin that made the Beatles. They say that he was the fifth Beatle.
You two are such a sweet, lovely couple! And it's very enjoyable to listen to your response and comments, as younger people, on so many musicians and songs of the past. You're music historians keeping these old hits alive presenting it to younger generations (and taking us old goats back to our youth). Thank you!
Such an awesome band! I can't thing of a song I heard by them I didn't like. This is a later song by them but one of my top three faves. You hit another great song to react to. I so appreciate you guys!
Sister Golden Hair is a must hear. You will love it guaranteed
I first saw America in September 1971 in Southampton UK. They were supporting Cat Stevens. It was a great concert. Gerry, Dewey and Dan sat of their stools passing the guitars around. They did most of the tracks from their first album. Made me go out and buy it
Was in college when this group became popular .. lots of great songs!
America really 'did' magic when they concocted this shining jewel....
'' Yacht Rock '' classic, you need to do '' Ventura Highway '' next ❤❤
America is one of my all time favorites. Many childhood memories.
America were class
This and Sister Golden Hair are such Timeless and beautiful sounding songs that really hit the mark for me. America is a fitting name for this band because of the wonder and beauty of what they stand for.
I live in Ventura, must do, “Ventura Highway”, then “Sister Golden Hair”, “Tin Man”, “Lonely People”, “I Need You”.
Gerry and Dewy are still touring and until the pandemic, played at least 100 shows a year for the past 50 YEARS!! A good friend has been their lead guitar player since 2019 and I can say after going to multiple shows to see our friend play, that Gerry and Dewy are some of the nicest people and while their vocals aren't as sharp as they used to be, for 70-year old's, they sound pretty darn good and the band is smokin'!!! Definitely check out some of their earlier hits - Ventura Highway (has one of the most iconic guitar parts - Janet Jackson even sampled it), Sandman, Tinman, Horse with no Name, Sister Golden Hair, Don't Cross the River, all great hits!! So glad you've discovered them!
"Sister Golden Hair" is a masterpiece from "America"
You nailed it! America is all about “easy listening”!
Saw them back in the 70’s at Mississippi River Festival on SIU Campus grounds. So many great artists played there and it was lawn seating. Bring your sleeping bag and a cooler! So blessed to be a teenager back then.
What year was that? I was at SIU from 77 to 81.
@@lwh7301 I honestly don’t remember. I lived near SIU and went to alot of MRF concerts in my teens, and it was general admission on the lawn. ‘75-‘79 covers my teenage years. Now I’m curious myself & will have to see when they were there.
@@nelliejewell2665 It must be before I was there since I don't remember hearing of those free concerts.
@@lwh7301 I did a little research. MRF ran from ‘69-‘80 ! Lawn seats $2 initially. Musical artists from classical, contemporary, rock, jazz. Even Bob Hope was there. i have an old MRF cardboard poster and a few of the programs somewhere. You were there prime time and somehow didn’t get to see any shows, and I was just a wild teenager who literally lived down the road from there and got to experience many. Life is strange, and I’m sorry you missed out on MRF while you were there. It definitely shaped my early years and promoted my love of music. Blessings to you.
@@nelliejewell2665 Weird I don't remember it at all. Only musical events I attended were at the SIU arena and Shylock Auditorium.
America has a huge catalog. 50 years worth. You can't go wrong with anything you choose. The band member on lead with this song is Gerry Beckley. He has some wonderful solo work as well.
Ventura Highway! Their signature song in my opinion. Love your channel!
They are just the definition of laid back and chill music. Lay back and let the stress melt away.
This was a hit in 1982. The 1983 World Series champion Orioles had "Orioles Magic" as their theme and this song would be blasted out at Memorial Stadium. That was their last championship. Maybe they should start playing the song again. :)
I grew up listening to this music thank you for sharing this with a whole new generation
Love America!! Have seen them twice now. And, Horse With No Name, was a favorite for my son when he was very young! He died in 2018. Always think of him when I hear it. A young man who knew great music! ❤️
America was really popular in the 70's as well. Songs like, Tin Man, Sister Golden Hair, A Horse With No Name......awesome songs! Another 80's Group called Mister, Mister. Please please listen to Broken Wings. You will love that one for sure. Very profound song xoxo "Alan Parsons Project." is a group with similar vibes as "American." There's a songs, "Eye In The Sky," and "Games People Play," are a couple to listen to.
Billiant musicians and fabulous songs! Try 'Ventura Highway" and "Sister Golden Hair." Wonderful songs. But there are plenty more. RIP Dan Peek. Very sad that he left us way too soon x
Their last big hit song. Reached # 8 on Billboard in 1972. Amazingly, after 50 years they still are touring.
Love you guys. Check out America's most famous song "Sister Golden Hair" !!
This is one of my favorite songs by them
The lead singer on this track is Gerry Beckley, who also sang lead on America’s hits “I Need You” (1972), “Sister Golden Hair” (1975), “Daisy Jane” (1975) and “Right Before Your Eyes” (1982).
The guy with the beard and striped shirt playing acoustic guitar next to Gerry is Dewey Bunnell, who sang the lead on “A Horse With No Name” (1971), “Ventura Highway” (1972), “Tin Man” (1974), and “The Border” (1983).
Dan Peek, the other original member of the trio, had left the group by the time “You Can Do Magic” came out in 1982. He sang lead on the hits “Don’t Cross The River” (1972), “Lonely People” (1974) and “Today’s The Day” (1976).
They’re one of the few bands where three different band members wrote and sang lead vocals on songs that reached the Billboard Top Ten.
"Sandman" from their 1st Album. It is a MUST!!!!
Absolutely spot-on analysis again, you both are very good at this. This channel reminds me more and more of the music presentation shows I used to enjoy back in the 70s & 80s. I Love it!
These guys had a lot of songs on the radio waves back in the day. This specific music video I recall seeing on MTV.
OKAY, YOU GOT IT J :) SISTER GOLDEN HAIR, VENTURA HIGHWAY, TIN MAN, THERE'S 3 MORE GREAT ONES YOU GUYS :)
We need to start listening to more America. We have to Make America Great Again.
Yes. Good one
Thanks for your great review guys. Other good songs that they did are 'Ventura Highway'
and 'Tin Man'. They went from being a trio to a duo when one member (Dan Peek) left the group.
America has many hits, so glad you came back. Tim Man, Sister Golden Hair, most of us think you'll enjoy. Thanks for this memory.
They are a voices first music second group. They never let the music overwhelm the voices. Also Sister Golden Hair also has an upbeat theme. They are a very overlooked group from that time. One of my all time favorites.
I don't know if anyone mentioned this, but this group did the soundtrack for the animated movie "The Last Unicorn".
And the cool ballad, "Daisy Jane" from 1975. They had one fantastic hit after another. As Rick mentions below, "Ventura Highway" is another standout.
Their harmonies always reminded me of Little River Band and their harmonies.
Need to react to LRB
Ah yes! I used to have this going in my car for the longest time! My Fav America Song: Ventura Highway. Saw them in concert at the park years ago. Very cooool.
Ventura Highway is the best!!!
America is the real deal if you like singing harmonys. Very polished but so great, love it.
Some other great songs from America: "Lonely People", "Sister Golden Hair", "Ventura Highway" and "Tin Man". If you're familiar with The Wizard of Oz, you'll appreciate the Tin Man reference.
I was in the US Air Force and stationed in Wiesbaden Germany in 1970 -1973, Horse with No Name came out and it was an instant hit with the GI's. We found out that they were military dependents, their Dad's were military stationed in England. Great group with a fairly large portfolio of music.
Ventura Highway ! More America 🇺🇸 is a good thing !
Ventura Highway is the best!!👌🏼
One of my favourite America songs, I was just listening to it last night, it's on my 'songs in the shower' playlist lol!
I saw them at a small concert event in San Diego about 6 years ago. They are still fantastic!
At Humphrey??? I saw that there
@@jag6477 yes!!
@@jag6477 Humphreys
@@theycallmemcgyver No, Humphreys 😊
@@jag6477 yes! That’s the place! 😊
I consider America's music a huge part of my 70's life sound track as a kid/teen. Three words: SISTER GOLDEN HAIR; song in my top 15 all-time favorite songs. Thanks for another great reaction guys!
If you like America, you'll love BREAD.
Easy listening but very good songs.
They have lots of hits. Sister Golden Hair, Ventura Highway, Tin Man, and Lonely People and their hits that need to be checked out! Great band, great music
America has so many amazing songs.
Yep I totally agree!
The ultimate summer song by them is ' Ventura Highway '
America! My first concert with friends. 8th grade at the Hollywood Bowl. That I will never forget! Thanks for playing them.
What I called music growing up has been lost. So very sad.
I absolutely love America! I used to have a few of their albums on 8 track back in the day. A song no one seems to react to by them is "The Last Unicorn" off of the soundtrack of the Last Unicorn. They also do a few others for the soundtrack and they are all really good.
I would suggest that entire album, actually.
That is what I was about to say.....They did the Bulk of the songs to the soundtrack....I was ALSO Going to suggest to the two to REACT to the main song,Myself: Rob And Amber: Give"The Last Unicorn",The Song,I mean...A TRY..You know,react to it..I love the Song! Concider it,ok?
RIP Willie Leacox on the drums. 1947-2022
Jordan, you NAILED it. Music today can not compete with the plain musicality of what my generation had growing up. I so miss being able to turn on the radio (not just Sirius XM) and listening to the various songs one after the other and not having to turn the station due to vulgarity, irritating noise, yelling, etc. I feel sorry for young people today who don't get that growing up.
Sirius is a must ⚡️
A friend of mine is president of a tiny volunteer run radio station and they have a few shows I listen to because they play whatever is requested and they have no swearing in their music. They have shows that play the stuff I we grew up on. You can find them on steaming apps for radio like tuned in. The station is Amherst Island Radio 101.3 if you live in the Kingston Ontario area. I listen from Thursday evening, Friday from 5-11pm, Saturday 1-3 7-10 and Sunday 7-9pm.
America has a lot of great songs.
Sister Golden Hair/Lonely People/Tin Man/Ventura Highway...all great songs!
So glad you covered Ventura Highway… my buddy moved to SoCal from Canada, he now lives just off Ventura Highway. We crank it every time he picks me up at LAX
GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGreat group! True artists. Sister golden hair is another must listen to.
You cant find music like this anymore thanks for keeping great music alive
I saw them live at age 18 with my husband, saw them live again at age 62 with my daughter!! I love American, only the 2 original singers left, but they are the best! I personally love Tin Man, I Need You, Sister Golden Hair Surprise, Only In Your Heart & To Each His Own
"Sandman" could possibly be one of their best tunes.. Also "Riverside", and "Don't Cross the River" are very cool..
You two should see them live. There are not many bands left touring that had hits as far back as 1970. They have performed every year since then on the road and are great live. I am sure you'll have an opportunity in the next 12 months to see them somewhere near Tulsa as they love to tour. See them while you still can. It's a great vibe and always a friendly audience. (America doesn't have bad fans.)
I feel blessed to grow up in the 60s and 70s
It is so nice to hear America again! Their songs are so good. I heard a complete America's greatest hits cassette with my father traveling to the south of Chile. Beautiful trip hearing America, Supertramp, CCR, ELO, Bee Gees, MJ and ...Madonna (my father loved her) hahaha.
Regards from Chile!!
great video thanks for sharing the band Ambrosia had awesome harmonies too
This was one of the first 45's I ever owned. That's a record for you youngsters. :) I still love the song because it reminds me of my childhood when I was discovering music...and magic.
grew up in the 70's and 80's,,,,,one of those groups i would hear on the radio when my mom would play her big ole stereo in the background during the day,,,early 80's on this one,,,,was in junior high at that time,,,arcade video games was it around this time
You should also listen to America "I Need You" such a beautiful song and less known than this song or Sister Golden Hair or even Sandman.
In 1970 I was 10 yrs old. By the time they came out I was in High school and graduated 1978. We went from the 60's Elvis and the Beatles to the coolest music of getting high and listening to great chill out music to Disco.
I agree with the others...you have to hear Sister Golden Hair. Great reaction!
YAY!!!!!!!!!!!! I love America!!! You guys have done their first song < HORSE WITH NO NAME> came out around 71, then , I believe this was their last one, around 83. Please do VENTURA HIGHWAY, SISTER GOLDEN HAIR and TIN MAN, with Tin Man it is best understood if you have seen the classic movie " The Wizard of Oz", which is my favorite movie of all times.