There are some performers that one might call a national treasure. But every once a while a talent comes along and you just shake your head and think: this one's a gift to all of humanity. God bless you, John Baptiste.
@rxw5520actually it does need correcting. If his name is Jon, his name is not John. It's a sign of respect to spell someone's name correctly. My name is Gavin, others may be called Gaven. I am not them.
When you realize this song was written about black folks struggle from slavery to freedom... Rising from bondage... Continuing to believe in a better world for their children... Learning to fly and take their rightful place as fellow human beings... Then, it becomes one of the most beautiful songs ever written. (Thank you Paul McCartney.)
@@Vejur9000 ... Thank you. Any song that can make a retired Marine tear up is a pretty darn good song for sure. I felt the pain of the past, and I felt the hope and joy for the future. One of my two best friends, growing up in Mississippi was (and still is) black. I am an old white fart now, but, those early days did present a few challenges for both he and I. After all we met in a middle school class in the early 70's. By the time we graduated, surprisingly, most locals had got all their outward racism out and acted pretty cool. Now, my children and grandchildren hardly see skin color at all. And that to me is a beautiful thing. Like MLK Jr. said... "Let us be judged by the content of our character..." It's about damn time.*
@@maxpower2542 And what is the struggle for civil rights, except the struggle against oppression, bondage, inequality, prejudice and hatred? A hope and yearning towards freedom and equality -- it's all tied together.
This man has no filter with his music. He simply trusts and releases what's deep in his heart. It's so beautiful to listen to. It's his very soul released through music.
Like this version much better than original!! (Lennon & McCartney were simply a place in time:. Talented, yes -- but neither as talented as they were full of themselves; never giving credit to how much of "their music" was plainly appropriation of American R&B!!!)
@@TD-np6ze Yeah. Tomorrow Never Knows, I Am The Walrus and A Day In The Life were total rip-offs. JFC. And the Beatles always gave credit to the music that inspired them.
@@TD-np6ze They were showmen, but suggesting they were more show than talent reveals more about you than them. They were completely open about their influences - all heard on vinyl as they never saw any of the acts until Little Richard came to Liverpool. Buddy Holly was a big one, Chuck Berry they played throughout- you can hear it on the Get Back movie, and on recordings from Hamburg, and they obviously covered him on albums. Both are regularly mentioned by McCartney in interviews, They also covered the Miracles, and covered songs in their live set by early US girl groups too. Lennon had little to do with this song, it was composed by McCartney and contrary to your musically illiterate generalization, like most of their later songs, it is stunningly original and oozes talent. If people as diverse as Jon Batiste and Beyonce are still covering it, when it is (nearly) 64, maybe you need to recalibrate?
Now THIS is how you do a Beatles cover. Adapt the song to a different instrument, mess with the chord changes a little, take an impressionistic approach to the lyrics. And inject some pure emotion. Fabulous.
@@tbloopner Nope, the Beatles wrote the original. This is a cover. His *arrangement* is original, but not the song - which is why it's still classified as a cover. Tons of covers have original arrangements.
While I agree with you and that this rendition is stunningly beautiful I also think that each type or piece of music isn’t meant for everyone. How boring the world would be I’d we all - literally - liked exactly the same thing all of the time. Think of all the wonderful genres of music, the different flavors and types of cuisine and all the different types of programming one can watch, listen and participate in. This rendition of the classic Beatles song is indeed beautiful and moving.
@@dethdance4109 It's one thing to pass by something that doesn't move you; it's another to actively dislike a piece of beautiful instrumental music like this, and another thing yet to take the time to actively express said dislike.
This has to be one of the most beautiful & excellent versions ever of a song that is beautiful in its original minimalist simplicity. Jon’s opening was flat out magical.
I wondered why I hadn't seen this before, since I seldom miss an episode of Colbert. Then I saw the date. Four days before my husband passed away. He was in the hospital then ... He would have loved this every bit as much as I do.
Thank you, John for this beautiful rendition of Blackbird. It was played at my brother’s funeral a few weeks ago... it was very appropriate, as I play piano and he loved music, especially The Beatles. We shared the love of listening to The Beatles growing up. But for him, who lived in shadows, in the dead of night, he was only waiting for the moment to arrive when he no longer was frustrated, when he no longer felt abandoned, when he was free to fly. He’s in heaven now, free from human tendencies. Thanking your God-given talent for inspiring me to see him off most appropriately. 🕊 RIP Tim.
So sorry for the loss of your brother. It's heartening for you to share his suffering and release in such a poetic and moving way. Much love for you and your family.
Your loss is our loss. Thank you so much for sharing your pain. I realize it's been quite some time but I just saw this tonight. February 7, 2021. I have a theory that when we share pain with others it cuts our own pain in half. Sounds good sometimes. But I know that your brother was loved. And that's what's more critical and more important than anything else. So I'm glad that this particular rendition also gave you some peace of mind and peace in your heart. Gail in Central Florida.
I wanna cry. I am crying. God bless you for playing this so well. So beautiful. My ancestors, my grandparents, their Great Migration to the north "...waiting for this moment to arise..." It took them sneaking out of Mississippi in the dead of night, to go north. To work hard. To get success from working hard. Something that would've been and had been denied to them in the South. Love this song!! My history
Jon Batiste, you have honored the Beatles in the most wonderful way as you played, "Blackbird". It was brilliant and beautiful as well. Thank you for this moment.
@@bobsmith6544 thank you for your view of music. Have a nice day. Please do me the honor of listening to any, or all music you have had recorded for sale.
Never commented before, but this is a go-to song for me when I want to feel a "haunting" rendition of "Blackbird". I think that Jon is a real "citizen of the world", while being a "favorite son" of Louisiana, and being nothing short of a brilliant musician! Love you, Jon!❤
John’s energy is pure light & love. His musical genius is beyond exceptional. We saw him last night at Bourbon & Beyond. My husband & I will continue to see his shows as we walk away on cloud 9!
UA-cam just automatically put this one on my tablet and it’s playing and I love it and I’ve watched it 10 15 times in the last two years. I miss you John Baptiste on Stephen Colbert show. I hope your beautiful lovely wife is healthy and you also. 😊❤
@Abdimalik Ghost How about "brother?" Not in the clichéd "brotha" sense (though that may apply here too), but in the sense that he is a man of goodwill who bleeds red, and is therefore my brother, and yours, and all men's.
The posture maybe, but Jon Batiste is probably mostly the result of New Orleans' and by that extent Louisiana's musical heritage and history. New Orleans is the birthplace of so many of the US' most important musical genres and innovations. Its black+Caribbean musical traditions are still alive and kicking in spite of hurricanes, poverty, government corruption and a long history of racist oppression. Check out some New Orleans stuff: ua-cam.com/video/AMGewmEa0cA/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/-oAU8MZ1Qk8/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/Q62qTlHfyWI/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/wi0cLdJCgTA/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/oSyTqg0GO14/v-deo.html
There are so many little instances of Jon's brilliance on the show.... the way he introduces a guest... or the tiny samples he'll play during the monologue (seemingly a promptu).... It'll pass you by if you don't pay attention, but he is the best musical support any late-night show host could wish for. I'm sure Stephen is very aware of this.
I remember when the late show first started, everyone hated John’s interjections and piano parts, and I defended the shit out of that guy... Glad I did..
Jon Batiste's performance is a phenomenal mix of classical, jazz, blues and spiritual. His music never fails to pull on my heartstrings. I have always loved this Beatles song, but Jon is a true story teller of human strife and rise to grace, evoking pure emotion.
Oh, what a sublime moment. The stunning and inexplicable beauty of the human soul. This video, I think, shall be my answer to the question of why we still need the arts in school the next time I am asked. My 7yo old has not left the piano since she heard it. She was stirred by this inspiration. Thank you, Jon Batiste.
Beautiful rendition of the classic. I might add this is what growing up and playing in New Orleans then going to Juilliard for a bachelor's and masters will do for you. Talent plus formal education takes it...
His phrasing in the introduction picked up my cold heart on the wings of a bird and soared over the canopies of a rainforest, then set me safely back down again in the sunshine... Where I wept... remembering in my cells for the first time in an age what beauty can really feel like.
@@MrExEssex This post wasn’t meant to offend anyone. I hope for good in this world. I know life is hard, you and I have lived through tough times. Difficult times when it seems like nothing will change. I have a hope and a trust in a God, a loving Father in Heaven. If you have doubts of a loving God just know that He knows you personally. If you seem alone in this crazy world God can help you, will help you, and is helping you now. You can pray to Him anytime He will answer your prayer.
This has got to be one of the greatest moments of his life. You know he practiced and arranged this 1,000s of times starting the second he found out. He reminds me of Prince in the sense that he's more than a great musician, his entire being is music. Just breathtaking.
How those 4 young boys from Liverpool could have brought so much beauty to this world of ours ? Decades later we are still getting emotional with these tunes. Beautiful interpretation by Jon Batiste.
Jon is a true artist who uses his talents to make the world a more beautiful & special place. I’m so glad he shares his exceptional talents with the rest of us.
I, um… I’m actually crying watching this. My mother taught me this song on her guitar which she gave me. I practiced for hours in order to get the fingerpicking just right. But when I was just messing around with it, I would play in a rhythm similar to how Batiste plays it here at times, but nowhere near as well. His is a hauntingly fabulous rendition, and we are blessed to have it. My grandmother, my mom’s mother, just passed away on Monday night. I pray she flew gently into that good night and that she landed in heaven where, by God’s grace, I will join her one day.
A pedal tone is a long low note like on an organ pedal, i. e. in the bass, that is held even when the harmony of the rest of the piece would require another note at some point. This here may be described as an "inverted pedal tone" or "internal pedal tone": not in the bass. A classic example for such a note with similar constant repetitions is Chopin's "Raindrop Prelude"; other famous one's are Ravel’s "Le Gibet" from "Gaspard de la Nuit" and Debussy’s "Voiles" . Another word for it is "drone", but usually this is rather used with a non-changing chord.
@@andreaspraefcke6638 Andreas, thanks. I really appreciate the in depth description. I've always loved repetitive drone music and there's something so powerful about the continuous, repetitive note played over a melody. It brings a whole different dimension to the piece. Your comment has influenced my next playlist The Pedal Tone. If you think of any more, please add them here.
@@iammilorex I hadn't heard of him until reading your comment...that young man has talent running thru his veins! After hearing his audition I was in awe. These two versions are different, yet take you on a journey while you enjoy the beauty of the music.
Met him at Montreux Jazz Festival! Just a regular guy, playing piano... as the greatest artists are! Again with Quincy Jones 2 years later in the same place in a memorable evening with the late Al Jarreau and many more! Jon is one of the finest and more talented musician I ever met.
I only recently learned that Paul McCartney wrote this in honor of black American women (birds, in British slang) going through the Civil Rights era here. I was proud of him for being so foresiteful on that front. Congratulations Jon!!
Get Freemake Video Converter. Trust me. No nags. Will turn this audio into mp3 in about one minute. I've used it for years. FREE. Make sure you opt out of suggested freeware as you install. Also creates other formats.
This is beyond beautiful and so moving. I’ve heard it all my life. My soul heard this for the first time like this. Thank you for sharing your gift with the world.
I know of nothing so close to magical as watching/listening to a master plying their craft. It's an emotional experience. Watching Jon Batiste perform is one of those experiences. What a gift that we are able to see it.
Jon Batiste is a genius. I have such a huge musical crush on this fabulous human being. In my humble grandmother opinion about talent & beauty - Jon ranks right up there with Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, and Chick Corea. I love you, Jon!!!!
Pj Braine And Liberace! Never understand the hype when I was too young to really get it but he was exceptionally talented. Glad I took the chance to listen to his performances right here on UA-cam!!
The only comparisons on this page that aren't totally specious are those to Liberace, who could play the hell out of the piano, but was not a musical genius on the order of a miles or herbie. please. get a clue. this guys style reminds me much more of Liberace than of any of those you mentioned. He is like, SO MAINSTREAM, MAN. Please.
@@MarkTarmannPianoCheck_it_out Herbie Hancock and Miles Davis are not mainstream? And that is contrary to "genius" in what way? Was Mozart "mainstream", or a genius?
The lovely music that comes out of this man’s soul is mesmerizing. Wonderful interpretation of “Blackbird!” I always wanted to hear more of his artistry on “Late Night” but I’m sure the time was tight with monologue and guests. Jon was a special treat for the audience. Congratulations to him on his well-deserved Grammys, especially Album of the Year, and his marriage to such a beautiful, talented writer & artist as she fights for her health with leukemia and a bone marrow transplant. Such wise, loving young people.
There are some performers that one might call a national treasure. But every once a while a talent comes along and you just shake your head and think: this one's a gift to all of humanity. God bless you, John Baptiste.
Beautifully stated. ❤ Peace and blessings. 😊
It’s *Jon Batiste*. Just sayin’.
And not just his musical talent but, any interview, one of the most positive uplifting people I know of.
@rxw5520actually it does need correcting. If his name is Jon, his name is not John. It's a sign of respect to spell someone's name correctly. My name is Gavin, others may be called Gaven. I am not them.
Bravo sir, well said. This man is an extraordinary human being, a gift and blessing to the rest of us.
When you realize this song was written about black folks struggle from slavery to freedom... Rising from bondage... Continuing to believe in a better world for their children... Learning to fly and take their rightful place as fellow human beings... Then, it becomes one of the most beautiful songs ever written. (Thank you Paul McCartney.)
Jon's rendition is so poignant... he is amazing and beautiful.
Beautifully said.
@@elenaderoet4926
Amen.
@@Vejur9000 ... Thank you. Any song that can make a retired Marine tear up is a pretty darn good song for sure. I felt the pain of the past, and I felt the hope and joy for the future.
One of my two best friends, growing up in Mississippi was (and still is) black. I am an old white fart now, but, those early days did present a few challenges for both he and I. After all we met in a middle school class in the early 70's. By the time we graduated, surprisingly, most locals had got all their outward racism out and acted pretty cool.
Now, my children and grandchildren hardly see skin color at all. And that to me is a beautiful thing. Like MLK Jr. said... "Let us be judged by the content of our character..."
It's about damn time.*
@@maxpower2542 And what is the struggle for civil rights, except the struggle against oppression, bondage, inequality, prejudice and hatred? A hope and yearning towards freedom and equality -- it's all tied together.
This man has no filter with his music. He simply trusts and releases what's deep in his heart. It's so beautiful to listen to. It's his very soul released through music.
Like this version much better than original!! (Lennon & McCartney were simply a place in time:. Talented, yes -- but neither as talented as they were full of themselves; never giving credit to how much of "their music" was plainly appropriation of American R&B!!!)
I JUST found this amazing artist! Keith Jarrett channels from an ethereal place also.
@@TD-np6ze Yeah. Tomorrow Never Knows, I Am The Walrus and A Day In The Life were total rip-offs. JFC. And the Beatles always gave credit to the music that inspired them.
@@TD-np6ze They were showmen, but suggesting they were more show than talent reveals more about you than them. They were completely open about their influences - all heard on vinyl as they never saw any of the acts until Little Richard came to Liverpool. Buddy Holly was a big one, Chuck Berry they played throughout- you can hear it on the Get Back movie, and on recordings from Hamburg, and they obviously covered him on albums. Both are regularly mentioned by McCartney in interviews, They also covered the Miracles, and covered songs in their live set by early US girl groups too. Lennon had little to do with this song, it was composed by McCartney and contrary to your musically illiterate generalization, like most of their later songs, it is stunningly original and oozes talent. If people as diverse as Jon Batiste and Beyonce are still covering it, when it is (nearly) 64, maybe you need to recalibrate?
@@TD-np6zethey still were pionners of modern recordings and were always good at finding beautiful melodies.
Now THIS is how you do a Beatles cover. Adapt the song to a different instrument, mess with the chord changes a little, take an impressionistic approach to the lyrics. And inject some pure emotion. Fabulous.
The Beatles' cover was acoustic guitar? I forget so much now days. It sucks. I think I remember... steel strings, huh?
Opinions vary
@@Research0digo
It isn't a cover if you write it yourself.
And he establishes that he actually knows the song by playing the melody on the piano in the beginning.
Definitely interesting.
@@tbloopner Nope, the Beatles wrote the original. This is a cover. His *arrangement* is original, but not the song - which is why it's still classified as a cover.
Tons of covers have original arrangements.
sometimes the musical energy of the universe picks someone special and flows through them like water. Beautiful
Well said
Very poetic words, beautifully put.
Best comment of all
Couldn't put it more nicely
I felt that too.
Jon Batiste is one of the greatest musicians, composers and performers of all time. Thank you for this tribute with your beautiful performance.
He's almost unearthly with his talent
And he takes so much joy from it!
500 folks gave this a thumbs down. Really? I will pray for their souls. This was absolutely beautiful. Juillard's own Jon Batiste... thank you.
It boggles the mind that anyone would give a 'thumbs-down' to this musical genius; a man like this comes to us maybe once in a decade; bravo Jon. xox
For real. I cannot fathom disliking this.
Another great musician out of New Orleans! The city is full of them. Jazzfest showcases them.
While I agree with you and that this rendition is stunningly beautiful I also think that each type or piece of music isn’t meant for everyone. How boring the world would be I’d we all - literally - liked exactly the same thing all of the time. Think of all the wonderful genres of music, the different flavors and types of cuisine and all the different types of programming one can watch, listen and participate in. This rendition of the classic Beatles song is indeed beautiful and moving.
@@dethdance4109 It's one thing to pass by something that doesn't move you; it's another to actively dislike a piece of beautiful instrumental music like this, and another thing yet to take the time to actively express said dislike.
No One has EVER Performed "Blackbird" as Beautifully as Jon Batiste.❤
Check the Crosby Still & Nash version.
Check Hiromi's
I'd like to hear him do an instrumental version of John Lennon's "Jealous Guy".
This has to be one of the most beautiful & excellent versions ever of a song that is beautiful in its original minimalist simplicity. Jon’s opening was flat out magical.
Go ahead and say it. It is the greatest interpretation of this song. Sir Paul would agree
I see this comment on a lot of videos of beautiful songs, and the cool part is that they’re all right.
I wondered why I hadn't seen this before, since I seldom miss an episode of Colbert. Then I saw the date. Four days before my husband passed away. He was in the hospital then ... He would have loved this every bit as much as I do.
I'm so sorry for your loss
Pam? Jon Batiste played this for your husband and you💗💖
Sorry for your loss....
Mine wasb20 yrs ago..
Still cuts thru suddenly..
Live on
The internet sucks. Deal with your shi^.
sending you peaceful thoughts. Hopefully he has flown away to a place of tranqquility. I also love this version of blackbird.
Brought tears to my eyes. Thank you.
How lucky we are to have Jon Batiste.
Thank you, John for this beautiful rendition of Blackbird. It was played at my brother’s funeral a few weeks ago... it was very appropriate, as I play piano and he loved music, especially The Beatles. We shared the love of listening to The Beatles growing up. But for him, who lived in shadows, in the dead of night, he was only waiting for the moment to arrive when he no longer was frustrated, when he no longer felt abandoned, when he was free to fly. He’s in heaven now, free from human tendencies. Thanking your God-given talent for inspiring me to see him off most appropriately. 🕊 RIP Tim.
Thank you for making lockdown a great listening time
❤️🕊❤️
Beautifully said 🙏
So sorry for the loss of your brother. It's heartening for you to share his suffering and release in such a poetic and moving way. Much love for you and your family.
Your loss is our loss. Thank you so much for sharing your pain. I realize it's been quite some time but I just saw this tonight. February 7, 2021. I have a theory that when we share pain with others it cuts our own pain in half. Sounds good sometimes. But I know that your brother was loved. And that's what's more critical and more important than anything else. So I'm glad that this particular rendition also gave you some peace of mind and peace in your heart. Gail in Central Florida.
I wanna cry. I am crying. God bless you for playing this so well. So beautiful. My ancestors, my grandparents, their Great Migration to the north "...waiting for this moment to arise..." It took them sneaking out of Mississippi in the dead of night, to go north. To work hard. To get success from working hard. Something that would've been and had been denied to them in the South. Love this song!! My history
What a lovely story of such great strength and courage! You must be so proud.
💕❤️💕
You should be SO proud of them, as you clearly are. Brings tears to my eyes to think of their struggles.
That was really beautifully put.
AMEN
Beautifully composed. The opening is so much like a bird that doesn’t know a song is being written and performed about them. Man, you are a treasure.
He is one of the geniuses of our times! His musical talent is almost beyond belief in its purity of expression, capture of timeless moments.
So Beautiful..
Don't you mean beautifully arranged?
@@liloldme1210 indeedy
Well, the Beatles are , they composed it
Jon Batiste, you have honored the Beatles in the most wonderful way as you played, "Blackbird". It was brilliant and beautiful as well. Thank you for this moment.
👍👍👍👍👍
Truly yess
Jon Baptiste makes music from his soul. Beautiful and moving.
Yes he dose
Well, it does help me take a dump.
@@bobsmith6544 thank you for your view of music. Have a nice day. Please do me the honor of listening to any, or all music you have had recorded for sale.
@@michelesherman5660 If you need help taking a dump perhaps you should "dose" loser! LMAO
It's not his song.
Batiste really understands those 12 notes inside & out. A musical genius.
Jon really should release more videos like this on UA-cam, we need more of your music Jon!! That was absolutely beautiful!
Almost sounds like you think Jon wrote that song? :D
The new album is incredible
@@baconSlayerX you'd call that derivative? few would agree
Check out the show he hosted non Live From Here
Never commented before, but this is a go-to song for me when I want to feel a "haunting" rendition of "Blackbird". I think that Jon is a real "citizen of the world", while being a "favorite son" of Louisiana, and being nothing short of a brilliant musician! Love you, Jon!❤
Flawless!!
John’s energy is pure light & love. His musical genius is beyond exceptional. We saw him last night at Bourbon & Beyond. My husband & I will continue to see his shows as we walk away on cloud 9!
This song is more relevant now than ever. So beautiful.
Yes!
Sí.
Huh? It's way less relevant now than when it was written. Still a great song.
First time listening to Mr. Batiste. Excellent.
You hear him every night on The Late Show?
Grew up in the jazz clubs of New Orleans, then attended Julliard Conservatory for classical piano training.
He has some fantastic music out. Musical genius
UA-cam just automatically put this one on my tablet and it’s playing and I love it and I’ve watched it 10 15 times in the last two years. I miss you John Baptiste on Stephen Colbert show. I hope your beautiful lovely wife is healthy and you also. 😊❤
dude can play the keys goddamn
How about this gentleman instead of dude?
Abdimalik Ghost way to create controversy over nothing
Abdimalik Ghost this chick can really do it !!!
@Abdimalik Ghost How about "brother?" Not in the clichéd "brotha" sense (though that may apply here too), but in the sense that he is a man of goodwill who bleeds red, and is therefore my brother, and yours, and all men's.
Wondering
Note his closed eyes and posture. That's what happens when you go to Julliard. Love, love, love Jon Batiste.
I must have went to Julliard. I call that the spirit of the music taking you over. This is beautiful.
MyRedPony1 that’s got nothing to do with Juilliard.
The posture maybe, but Jon Batiste is probably mostly the result of New Orleans' and by that extent Louisiana's musical heritage and history. New Orleans is the birthplace of so many of the US' most important musical genres and innovations. Its black+Caribbean musical traditions are still alive and kicking in spite of hurricanes, poverty, government corruption and a long history of racist oppression. Check out some New Orleans stuff:
ua-cam.com/video/AMGewmEa0cA/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/-oAU8MZ1Qk8/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/Q62qTlHfyWI/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/wi0cLdJCgTA/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/oSyTqg0GO14/v-deo.html
Yes noticed the posture
What happens when you come from the Baptiste family of New Orleans more like it. Julliard was lucky to have em
I live how Stephen loves and admires Jon Baptiste.
I think that true musicians are just having a passionate love affair with their gift, we are just accidental observers(and oh so lucky)
Wonderfully put. :)
ua-cam.com/video/_Imhau2AmVo/v-deo.html
So digging your comment
Teeheehee. You are right. We are. Teeheehee.
Touche!
Paul McCartney would bow down. This is an awesome treatment of his song. Mr JB, respect sir
.
Surely God looks down from Heaven when this man performs and smiles what an amazing performer and talent
Stephen Colbert is lucky to have Jon Baptiste.
There are so many little instances of Jon's brilliance on the show.... the way he introduces a guest... or the tiny samples he'll play during the monologue (seemingly a promptu).... It'll pass you by if you don't pay attention, but he is the best musical support any late-night show host could wish for. I'm sure Stephen is very aware of this.
@Ashlyn art I don't think Colbert realized who and what he is at all.
@@gregghanson6095 Colbert spent time with him in NOLA before hiring. I think he knew. Give Colbert some of the credit!
@@candicewilmore didn't know that.On the show, Colbert seems completely out of touch with him.
I remember when the late show first started, everyone hated John’s interjections and piano parts, and I defended the shit out of that guy...
Glad I did..
I'll infinitely be jealous of this guy not just for his technical abilities but also for the genius way he arranges the songs he covers
This one, I think especially comes from the heart. This version is more perfect, for me, than the original.
Less is more, in this regard. All the weight of the years made bearable (sentimental!) with a counter-intuitively minimalist arrangement.
Jon Batiste's performance is a phenomenal mix of classical, jazz, blues and spiritual. His music never fails to pull on my heartstrings. I have always loved this Beatles song, but Jon is a true story teller of human strife and rise to grace, evoking pure emotion.
Oh, what a sublime moment. The stunning and inexplicable beauty of the human soul.
This video, I think, shall be my answer to the question of why we still need the arts in school the next time I am asked. My 7yo old has not left the piano since she heard it. She was stirred by this inspiration. Thank you, Jon Batiste.
Beautiful rendition of the classic. I might add this is what growing up and playing in New Orleans then going to Juilliard for a bachelor's and masters will do for you. Talent plus formal education takes it...
Jon Batiste is music transformed into a human soul. Magnificent.
Simply amazing. Simply amazing.
But then, wouldn't 'amazing' suffice ?
Just asking.
Alfred delatourquipenche quiet in the back row.
It would suffice. It would suffice.
true
alfred delatourquipenche Actually, no. It isn't enough. Jonathan is so gifted he deserves to have it said it twice! Ha!
Jesus Christ he’s a master at his craft. I’m truly blown away
Cowboy Carter brought me here. And boy am I glad it did. 2024.
Anybody ever wonder what emotions ‘sound’ like? Here you go!
This man is talented beyond description, a treasure that cannot be appreciated enough. Thank you Mr. Batiste for making life a little more enjoyable
Again, the mighty Jon Baptiste performs with elegance and heart. Congratulations on all your Grammys JB!
When you just know Jon as the music guy on the Colbert show but then you realize he is ridiculously talented, awesome man
I think this what what happens when your soul guides your hands.
Love that comment ❤
So beautiful
What a coincidence that he provided the piano music for Pixar's Soul!
Amen! Perfectly well stated(:
Errok@@Sweetlyfe
His phrasing in the introduction picked up my cold heart on the wings of a bird and soared over the canopies of a rainforest, then set me safely back down again in the sunshine... Where I wept... remembering in my cells for the first time in an age what beauty can really feel like.
Geez write a book already.
We need sweet music like this more then ever may God bless all of us during these hard times
Your all powerful God has given us these hard times. Why would you want such a callous bastard to bless you?!
@@MrExEssex This post wasn’t meant to offend anyone. I hope for good in this world. I know life is hard, you and I have lived through tough times. Difficult times when it seems like nothing will change. I have a hope and a trust in a God, a loving Father in Heaven. If you have doubts of a loving God just know that He knows you personally. If you seem alone in this crazy world God can help you, will help you, and is helping you now. You can pray to Him anytime He will answer your prayer.
" hard times, hard times, come again no more."xoxoxoJune 26, 2020
Stay safe, A-Aron! ❤ from Jack-wellen.😁
@@MrExEssex You have the freedom to be an atheist, but insulting people who have faith is disrespectful.
I get chills every single time I hear this. Absolute magic.
Brock Whitfield indeed....chills and tears...
@@markschafer1828 Absolutely beautiful.
Goosebumps...🌹
I think that my heart stopped and I simply absorbed music...thank you
One of the most exquisite live performances of a song I've ever heard!
One of the most beautiful covers I've ever heard. From the heart and made it his own. Crying now😥
🥲🖤🕊 🤜🤛👏👏👏👏 🌹🌹🌹🙏🏻
I cried too!!
This has got to be one of the greatest moments of his life. You know he practiced and arranged this 1,000s of times starting the second he found out. He reminds me of Prince in the sense that he's more than a great musician, his entire being is music.
Just breathtaking.
Absolutely Beautiful!
Got here nearly four years late ...but what a sound, what an arrangement. Truly captivating. Beautiful, John.
I love watching his face. You can tell how much he truly feels the music, and how much he loves this song.
I'm not into the metaphysical, but he has such a positive aura, he glows!
@@ryandunne4345 5 Grammys later, you couldn't be more correct. The man is a national treasure.
Absolutely *STUNNING* arrangement. My heart has exploded.
How those 4 young boys from Liverpool could have brought so much beauty to this world of ours ? Decades later we are still getting emotional with these tunes. Beautiful interpretation by Jon Batiste.
By my count the Beatles had 90 songs that will stand the test of time. Amazing!
Jon is a true artist who uses his talents to make the world a more beautiful & special place. I’m so glad he shares his exceptional talents with the rest of us.
@@carolmiller5713 Yes!!
Yes! And this exquisite song is pure Paul McCartney
I just love his face as he plays it shows such focus and love I respect him greatly
it's really cool to see him like this after knowing what a playful silly guy he is while stephen is on stage
I, um… I’m actually crying watching this. My mother taught me this song on her guitar which she gave me. I practiced for hours in order to get the fingerpicking just right. But when I was just messing around with it, I would play in a rhythm similar to how Batiste plays it here at times, but nowhere near as well. His is a hauntingly fabulous rendition, and we are blessed to have it. My grandmother, my mom’s mother, just passed away on Monday night. I pray she flew gently into that good night and that she landed in heaven where, by God’s grace, I will join her one day.
Thank you for sharing the beautiful story of your mum. My condolences ❤
That constant key makes this epic
It’s called a “pedal tone”
@@parism555 Back listening to this again three years later. Do you have any other good examples of songs with the "pedal tone"?
@@maxhalley a lot of classical music uses a pedal note. I'm sure that if you look it up you'll find some examples. There are so many songs out there
A pedal tone is a long low note like on an organ pedal, i. e. in the bass, that is held even when the harmony of the rest of the piece would require another note at some point. This here may be described as an "inverted pedal tone" or "internal pedal tone": not in the bass. A classic example for such a note with similar constant repetitions is Chopin's "Raindrop Prelude"; other famous one's are Ravel’s "Le Gibet" from "Gaspard de la Nuit" and Debussy’s "Voiles" . Another word for it is "drone", but usually this is rather used with a non-changing chord.
@@andreaspraefcke6638 Andreas, thanks. I really appreciate the in depth description. I've always loved repetitive drone music and there's something so powerful about the continuous, repetitive note played over a melody. It brings a whole different dimension to the piece. Your comment has influenced my next playlist The Pedal Tone. If you think of any more, please add them here.
This is my brother's song. Gone eight years now, but he's still always with me.
I’m back November 6, 2023. I absolutely love this song. Thank you Jon 😊❤
The piano was created to express what this performance expresses. Amazing!
The piano sounds so good!
That's the most beautiful rendition of that song I've ever heard!
Always in awe of this man’s talent
He has a flawless connection with the piano.
This. this! Is my new favorite version of Blackbird.
This needs to be soundtrack music, asap.
Quinn Nguyen Yep 👍!!
What did you think of Thunderstorm Artis' version?
@@iammilorex I hadn't heard of him until reading your comment...that young man has talent running thru his veins! After hearing his audition I was in awe. These two versions are different, yet take you on a journey while you enjoy the beauty of the music.
I can't WAIT to see him live!!!! Your Grammies are so well deserved Jon!
Met him at Montreux Jazz Festival! Just a regular guy, playing piano... as the greatest artists are! Again with Quincy Jones 2 years later in the same place in a memorable evening with the late Al Jarreau and many more! Jon is one of the finest and more talented musician I ever met.
Jon has not just a great talent but an incomparable feeling
AND those kissable lips!
One in a million, his fngers are golden. Such a wonderful talent.
The BEST rendition....Beautifully played.
When a beautiful take on a song makes you realize how brilliant the original is... Thank you, Jon Batiste!
💯
This is a civil rights anthem, well done
I only recently learned that Paul McCartney wrote this in honor of black American women (birds, in British slang) going through the Civil Rights era here. I was proud of him for being so foresiteful on that front. Congratulations Jon!!
@@gentillygirl545 The Beatles refused to play at segregated shows in the US too.
True, as ardent Beatles fans are well aware of.
Yes to both.
LIAM LIAMESQUE I didn’t know that! Wow!
This is how you perpetuate a gem from a different time, talent and courage.
This is now the only version of this on UA-cam! Such a great great rendition.
There are several versions of this song.
Smitty Wolf, There are several songs on youtube. What's your point? He was referring to this being the only version of this performance.
Was he?
but this is jon.................................................................
Get Freemake Video Converter. Trust me. No nags. Will turn this audio into mp3 in about one minute. I've used it for years. FREE. Make sure you opt out of suggested freeware as you install. Also creates other formats.
This is beyond beautiful and so moving. I’ve heard it all my life. My soul heard this for the first time like this. Thank you for sharing your gift with the world.
Perfect words.
Jon, what a beautiful soul God gave you. Thank you for this performance.
Every time UA-cam recommends this to me, I have to watch it. It would be disrespectful not to. Magnificent.
His talent and brilliance is not appreciated enough during the TV show - but here it finally shines bright!
I can't decide what I like more. His dancing, singing, style or of course... That be-autiful Smile. Even better... He's a big ❤️🎵🎵🎵
He's considered a top 5 piano player in the world, so there's that.
Wow. Turned blackbird upside down. Genius cover.
Beautiful. Hard to do a Beatles song, let alone make it yours. Bravo. I have tears in my eyes.
I know of nothing so close to magical as watching/listening to a master plying their craft. It's an emotional experience. Watching Jon Batiste perform is one of those experiences. What a gift that we are able to see it.
Looove the intensity without sentimentalism of his performance. So real and so elegant.
Jon Batiste is a genius. I have such a huge musical crush on this fabulous human being. In my humble grandmother opinion about talent & beauty - Jon ranks right up there with Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, and Chick Corea. I love you, Jon!!!!
Pj Braine And Liberace! Never understand the hype when I was too young to really get it but he was exceptionally talented. Glad I took the chance to listen to his performances right here on UA-cam!!
Hey you forgot Joe Zawinul...but great list nonetheless :)
The only comparisons on this page that aren't totally specious are those to Liberace, who could play the hell out of the piano, but was not a musical genius on the order of a miles or herbie. please. get a clue. this guys style reminds me much more of Liberace than of any of those you mentioned. He is like, SO MAINSTREAM, MAN. Please.
@@MarkTarmannPianoCheck_it_out Herbie Hancock and Miles Davis are not mainstream? And that is contrary to "genius" in what way? Was Mozart "mainstream", or a genius?
My god that was beautiful. Another minute and I'd be in tears. I really enjoy Sting's version, but this is another level. Bravo!
When Jon Batiste plays he truly bares his soul. A wonderful musician. Thanks, Jon.
That half step down on "learn to fly" slays me... It ain't easy being green.
Absolutely gorgeous. Thank you, Jon Batiste and thank you, Stephen Colbert for posting this.
I love hearing the piano played so beautifully. Ahhhhhh...
I love how he closes his eyes throughout the performance. Symbolizing that music is truly art of the ears and not the eyes
Admiral Ackbar bhbjmm**
The lovely music that comes out of this man’s soul is mesmerizing. Wonderful interpretation of “Blackbird!” I always wanted to hear more of his artistry on “Late Night” but I’m sure the time was tight with monologue and guests. Jon was a special treat for the audience. Congratulations to him on his well-deserved Grammys, especially Album of the Year, and his marriage to such a beautiful, talented writer & artist as she fights for her health with leukemia and a bone marrow transplant. Such wise, loving young people.
John Batiste is a true artist. He not only has the technique down; he infuses it with soul and sends a message straight to the heart.
Now, you can see differences between piano player and artist on piano.
What is the difference?
@@williamhenning4320 the same difference there is between a cook and a chef
both create suitable and effective end results
but with more experience and discernment, there is more dimension and nuance in the result
@@williamhenning4320 If you don't feel it, I can't explain it to you. Like, what is beauty? What is blue?
Man, that black bird can fly on those keyboards, magnificent.
He got inside that song and did something to it.
Just beautiful.
One of the most beautiful things I experienced in my life so far. I got chills and wet eyes. Greetings from Germany!
💐💐🌲
Marvelous! Congratulations for winning 5 Grammies, Jon! ❤️🙏
Rare talent. I could listen to him playing the piano all day long.
I keep coming back to this. Seriously the most beautiful thing I’ve ever heard.
John Batiste you are simply an amazing pianist/ composer / performer.
Congratulations on all your Grammy wins well deserved my brother.
Jon Batiste and Stay Human Band Team are exquisite and brilliant.