Funny how the You Tube algorithm works; been a fanboy of Eva’s for over 20yrs, and her acoustic performances always get me verklempt - “Tall Trees in Georgia” from the same Blues Alley session, for example. Today I’ve been inundated by at least half a dozen reaction videos to this particular track, and well, anyone familiar with her story can predict what those would be; “better than Judy Garland?”, “the most beautiful thing I’ve ever heard”, etc.
The reality of Eva is that she put her soul into every single note of all of her music. That is who she was. Congrats, you discovered an angel. She left a treasure trove of great music. And not to worry, I am a 67 year old male and I cry every time I hear this.
This was recorded a few months before she got diagnosed, but with the knowledge of today, it looks as if she was already singing it like the angel she would become some months later. A better performance will never given by anyone. This was heavenly and must give chills to everybody over and over again. Thanks fpr this. I guess you felt the same. ❤
This woman who unfortunately passed away weeks after this live recording, was actually blessed with tremendous talent to sing and play guitar, but beyond that, she had the ability to take you on a personal voyage. God gave her this talent and I fully believe his purpose is to give believers a brand new meaning to this song. He has brought this woman into the forefront to rewrite the song without changing the words, just the interpretation. This is what an ALMIGHTY GOD, who exists outside of space and time can do to further His Plan to bring about Prophecies. The song was written in 1939 for the movie The Wizzard Of Oz, Eva Cassidy adapted it to her interpretation in 1996, it has reimerged to millions of people through reaction videos in 2023 and 2024 because we are entering the Prophetic End Times and are in need of a reawakening of spirit to what God has planned next for us. I believe we are being made aware of Biblical Events that will soon take place. God gave us a Sign in the Sky called a Rainbow to give us a promise to never destroy mankind again.. He will cause the End of the Age and usher in Eternity by Jesus's return to Jerusalem. He will cause a Rapture of His Church by having saved souls to fly Somewhere Over That Very Rainbow to join Him in the sky. The first time I heard this cover, or should I say, uncovering about 3 weeks ago, her performance split my soul in two and then proceeded to heal it in the same manner.
She was in pain during this performance. Her hips were very sore, she thought it was from sitting atop a ladder painting. Sadly she already had metastatic melanoma in her bones. She sings this as if she already knew her fate. It’s so raw.
Sarah you are the only one to let EVA go through her whole heavenly performance without interruption. Your reaction and respect for her lovely talent are more than words can say alone. You let the music say it ALL. Nice to see you react with such emotion. Hard and lovely to hear at the same time isn't it?
Ken K It has been improved on by Lucy Thomas from the UK who sang a TRIBUTE to Eva accompanied by James Franklin on the Guitar. A beautiful version by the best singer anywhere and Lucy was only 17 years old, Stunning singer !!!
It’s only in black and white to create an atmosphere. Recorded in the late 90s I believe just months before she died You would have to be made of stone not to cry during this piece of utter beauty
It's in black and white because that's the film that was in the camera. It was a makeshift film with not the best equipment. It wasn't about "atmosphere".
@@jnagarya519 It was recorded on video tape not black and white film, there is no such thing as "black and white video tape, the black and white was a choice.
This was about 6 months before her diagnosis I think but when I listen to this I can’t help feel that somehow she knew something was up. Sadly she became well known only after her passing, first for her cover of Sting’s “Fields Of Gold” which is superb (and my favourite). Her “Time After Time” (Cindy Lauper) is equally special. Always enjoy your obviously heartfelt reactions, this one especially! ✌🏻🙏🏻
@@SarahDengler Actually, she had a cancerous mole removed from her back in 1993 and it wasn't until July 1996 that she found out the cancer had spread to her bones. (She was suffering from hip pain). She had recorded this live performance at a club called Blues Alley Jan 2-3 of 1996. She died exactly 11 months later on November 2, 1996. This video was never seen until 4 years later in 2000 when it was aired just before Christmas on the TV show, Top of the Pops2 in the UK. It become the MOST requested video on the show ever! Eva never lived to know how famous she would become. She was virtually unknown at the time she did this video back in 1996.
I have no doubt that Eva knows the effects that her singing has on those who are blessed to hear her. Of course, now she is healthy and whole & I am sure her musical abilities have grown even more. I can’t wait to go home and hear her singing with the rest of the heavenly choir! ❤😊
"What?" Sarah, what did we just listen to? Are you kidding me!? This is, perhaps, to me, the greatest piece of music I have ever heard in my life. And, Sarah, thank you so much for letting the video run uninterrupted. It would have been a sin to do otherwise. I'm sure anyone who has heard this will always come back to it time after time. The recreation of the classic song stands alone as magnificent and when we consider the circumstances involved with Eva's life, listening to this is an overwhelming experience. Thank you, dear Sarah.
Totally agree. Before I heard this, I thought "Oh no, not another recording of Over the Rainbow" It's been done by so many other super-talented singers, but I soon learned that Eva's version blows them all away. As she sings, she leaves you hanging on every note!
This performance was filmed in January 1996. In June same year she was diagnosed with melanoma cancer, died in November same year. Which makes me even more sad every time I listen it. And I shed a tear every single time. I hope the angelic voice is in deed with angels now.
We all feel the same emotions you felt Sarah. Side note: ◾Though Israel covered this in 1990, the original song was sang by Judy Garland in the movie, The Wizard Of Oz in 1939.◾ Eva Cassidy performed this at the Blues Alley, Washington DC in Jan 1996.◾ She was diagnosed with melanoma (skin cancer) 6 months later, then died 5 months later (Nov 1996). ◾She sold only about 1,200 copies before she passed. She sold millions after she passed. Eva Cassidy now resides *Somewhere Over The* 🌈. She is now and always will be *A Timeless Gift To Humanity* ...🎶🎵
Let the tears flow. Eva had a cold when she did this performance, and it was this good. Eva took all her covers and made them her own. You just think you know the song until you hear Eva's version. As long as her music is played, Eva will be missed, but never forgotten.
There are so many different things she does that make this special. Her restraint (understated singing, not belting), her taking time to caress each word, and not rushing through the song, her tempo? pacing? how she sometimes holds out a word and almost connects the next word to it... her subtle guitar playing. It all just makes it hers.
Sarah, THIS HIT HOME FOR ME ;( . . . No one can truly understand loosing your voice much less your life after pouring every ounce of passion in a song and guitar. I've done all this since I was 5 years old. Performing was all I ever knew. My songs are not even close to this amazing performance. All my recordings were done in the Mid 80's, I am now 70 years old. When I hear such perfection from the heart and soul of any human being, it makes me humbled to still be alive by the grace of God to be able to listen such talent that truly touches everyone that listens, connects with the deepest part of your soul. God bless you Sarah. I would have lived the rest of my life without this incredible experience. For that . . . I am truly grateful and blessed to you! Johnny Vee I WILL NEVER EVER FORGET EVA CASSIDY AS LONG AS I LIVE!
Eva was, arguably, the greatest interpreter of song in musical history. Over the Rainbow was recently voted(by who, I am not sure) as the greatest song in history. It sat unchanged for 60 years until Israel did his version. Then Eva did hers in 1992. What many do not know is that, what you are seeing above, was done in one take on the second night The first night did not come out usable due to an engineering screw-up. The entire album was done in a single take. She had a cold which accounts for the little crack in her voice at the end. I have described her vocals and guitar work as a "pas de due", a dance between a man and a woman. She was new to guitar and was quite insecure about her skills. Like all things about Eva, she underestimated herself. I am unaware of anyone else in history who(as some below touched on) was able to bring so many to tears listening to this song. No one else made more people stop driving, working, playing or anything else to just listen to her sing. This version has been played in more hospitals, at more funerals, more weddings.... She was a unicorn...a mythical creature come alive, never to be seen again. Her family lives nearby and, 25 years after her death, work tirelessly to keep her memory alive. People like you also keep her voice and her spirit alive as well. Thank you for that.
Eva was unhappy with this and some other songs she did that night and wanted to throw them out. Her band didn't let her do it, and I'm forever grateful to them. I'm from DC and saw her live -- not this night. She had a way of getting to the heart of every song she covered and gave them new energy and meaning. She was magic.
Oh my....Her talents were unbelievable. So sad she left so soon. It's okay to cry once in a while when listening to Eva, if you don't there's something wrong with you.
I took it as a song that meant more to her after she knew of her diagnosis. She passed away within (I believe) 6 or 8 months after this recording was done. Anyway, it is emotional for me because the way she does it with such a personal and obviously very meaning way, I relate to it with my own very personal and heartfelt experiences.
I never get tired of listening to Eva's vocal gift. Remember, this is a live recording at Washington, D.C.'s Blues Alley nightblub. Oh, and Eva had a cold that night. A proud daughter of our DC Metro area here, Eva lives and lives and lives. #RIP Songbird.✝✝✝
That is one of the best versions of that song I have ever heard. I agree with you. So, so much soul in that performance. So personal.... Love your reaction.
Whether dead or alive it is a sobering experience listening to Eva Cassidy. You listen to the words and want to understand the meaning; you know there is one.
Thank you Sarah for playing this without interuptions. Eva actually died from Melanoma. She had been treated, but never went back for follow up examiniations. So, she died about 1 year after this concert at Blues Alley. She is a great singer. a very good guitarist & an incredible arranger of songs (an underappreciateted art form). Even though my favorite song of hers is Fields Of Gold (She took a good pop & turned it into a great Irish Ballad), much like you, I still cry ever time I hear her sing Rainbow. Thanks & best wishes, Ted
She got you too didn’t she? Every time I listen to this I cry like a school girl with a skinned knee. Every song she left us is a work of art….voice and guitar.
I think this song is probably a lot more powerful without knowing the background of “The Wizard of Oz.” Taken out of context it’s even more beautiful, I think.
@@susanmarie3425 Not to take away one particle from Eva, but Kathy Troccoli and Sandi Patty do the full song - ua-cam.com/video/F0FNDQri5As/v-deo.html - and a nice job. That said, Eva sets the bar!
Everyone I've seen who hears this for the first time has the same reaction, they expect to talk about her performance but can't, they all seem to be at a loss for words. Her performance leaves you speechless
Sarah, I'm so happy you've heard this performance by Eva Cassidy. Her voice is like a heavenly jewel you can feel deep down in your soul. I cried with you.
Melanoma [skin cancer] caused Eva's death. My brother, who was a few months older than Eva, was killed by melanoma a couple years after Eva's first CD was released. His cancer spread to his brain and his life was extended by several brain surgeries. It was brutal. So be sensible about sun exposure and don't delay getting skin lesions checked by a doctor.
This song sung and played by Eva gets me every time, its the same with Hurt by Johnny Cash, both covers that have been made their own. Eva's version is played a lot at funerals, so its very poignant I think you surprised yourself with your reaction, I would have been a blubbering mess! You did well to hold some of it in. As you say Sarah, Heart-breaking. RIP Eva
Yea I heard on Irish radio on a very popular afternoon radio channel think it was weekends or Saturday maybe. Clifford T ward (lovely beautiful music too) was artist that would be played often after Eva Cassidy - when radio was king
When this was first played on the radio London stopped. Literally traffic stopped folks stopped working... they all cried. Find The Eva Cassidy Story, ABC News Night Line. Reported by David Merrish.
You should listen to "Fields of gold" sung by the sane wonderful and so sadly too early passed away Eva Cassidy, and just like "Over the rainbow" that song really blows me away. Can't hold the tears back.
I played this for a USMC buddy. I've known him for 50 years. I saw him cry once, when his sister died. That changed when Eva sang. It is ok to get emotional and it is ok to cry. It is cleansing for the soul. Eva sings on a personal level. Her music is an emotional hug for each of her listeners. Thank you for not interrupting the song. Thank you for your pure response.
My heart ❤️ is torn asunder 💔 listening to this most mesmerizing and hauntingly beautiful singing by an Angel in Heaven > 🌈 Eva Cassidy ❤️🩹 Portland Oregon USA 🇺🇸
Hi Sarah...so glad you experienced this. Eva shunned the constraints of recording contracts which always sought to define her within a specific musical genre...preferring instead to perform whatever and wherever she pleased. This particular performance took place in a club called "Blues Alley" and we are exceedingly fortunate that the performance was filmed. This just tears me apart when I hear/watch it, but it's worth it....always. If I am not mistaken, she died later the same year.
Blue Note's A&R division couldn't figure out how to fit Eva Cassidy in their lineup. She had said "I don't do that Pop crap," so they put her together with the Jazz band Method Actor. They tried to make music together in 1988: ua-cam.com/video/F3PQ-e9ZO1M/v-deo.html That didn't work out and a great opportunity was missed. Lesson learned, when Norah Jones showed up, she and Blue Note prospered. (So I've concluded.;)
Your reaction is so pure hearing it for the first time and it's exactly the same reaction I had and still have when I hear it watching you listening listening myself our hearts connected thank you for sharing this.
Cliff Edwards recorded a version similar to Israel's in the early 1940's. Cliff was the biggest selling recording artist in the 1920's. Most people remember Cliff as the voice of Jiminy Cricket... When You Wish Upon a Star.
It's amazing that she didn't think she was any good on the guitar. Her band members browbeat her into playing it just because they thought they needed a guitar in the band. Three years after her death, this song blew up in the UK. There are a couple less-than-an-hour-long documentaries about her story available on UA-cam.
What you need to know is that Eva was diagnosed with terminal melanoma shortly before this concert recorded in Washington DC. When she sang this performance she already knew she had but a year to live. The last line; "why of why can't I" just kills me!!
The original version of this beautiful song was sung by the great singer Judy Garland. Eva Cassidy gives a touching and highly personal rendition. Her vocal mastery and musicality surpasses all other versions in my opinion.
Judy Garland did the original version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow for the movie Wizard of Oz produced in 1939 not the big man Israel IZ (which I also loved both btw). This version is tops of the tops for me...no disrespect to anyone else. Eva was sick with a bad cold when she recorded this and was unhappy with her performance. Can u imagine? She passed away from melanoma cancer that had spread into her bones and lungs months later. Please continue to react to her music and help spread her legacy. Ty and many hugs. Wonderful reaction.
Stunningly beautiful, as always. Please react to 16 year old Judy Garland singing this in the Wizard of Oz in 1939. It is THE version of this song that all subsequent versions are based on.
appropriately moving reaction i cannot listen without crying too she dies only a few short months after this she didn't know for about 3 and died about 4 months later a loss for the world thank god she left videos she didn't want to release this because she had a cold !
This is one of my favorite songs so I've listened to many reactions.....Yours was the best. I think you understood what she was trying to get across. If you get a chance, try Nightbird by Eva.
She was unique, when she got bought to our attention in the UK by Terry Wogan it was sublime, then the tragedy of her demise, a perfect voice, and someone who never sought fame,,😢
Actually, the original of "Over the Rainbow" is by Judy Garland from the movie, "Wizard of Oz." However, I feel that Eva's cover is the very best rendition ever.
The original version goes way back before Izrael. It goes back to 1939 (as far as I know) and the movie "The Wizard of Oz" where Judy Garland sang it. That's by far the most famous version. You should see the movie! 3/19/22, 10:10 p.m.
You can spend an entire afternoon watching grown people listen to Eva sing "Over The Rainbow" and end up sobbing like little children. Stunning, Mystical. God-given.
Thank you Sarah. You, a beautiful person, extending an emotion thru song/music to the rest of the world. Eva made this song her own. There is a profound sound in her voice that wounds me every time. Like we say in South America, " un abrazo."
The soul in Eva's music is such a blessing. Her blues and gospel are also transcendental. So beautiful to see another generation of people discover and be moved by her. She lives on in all our hearts.
This recorded version was the 2nd nights show. The night befores performance was supposedly the better according to bassist Chris Biondo, but in a malfunction, nothing got recorded. Eva was in a full blown cold in this performance, but who can really tell. Her talent was impecable. She was very upset that this was going to be released, and was upset at that last little crack in her voice at the very end of the song.
I think your reaction was very honest. I always feel a bit of a wimp when this song and others sung by Eva make me tear up, but, hey, why cant blokes have feelings too? Eva was a great talent, but there is often a sadness in her songs, but not in all. Some speculate that she may have intuited that she was ill, but the diagnosis was maybe 5 or 6 months later, around July, and she passed in the November 96, aged 33. God blessed her and us with such a talent, so I believe she will be with Him, maybe entertaining the heavenly host.
Pretty moving isn't it? You can listen to it a hundred times over, and it only gets you more internally while tears stream down your cheeks. She was perfection if but a moment.
thank you for the respect that you show to the artists. Eva was a gift from God and he wanted her back way too soon.. I believe this was shortly before she passed. She didn't have the strength to get on the stage and was filled with pain meds just to do this song. RIP
Eva was so incredibly talented and it’s my understanding that many record labels tried to sign her but she wouldn’t commit to a single genre of music and suffered from anxiety. I learned about her from a Nightline (TV news) segment a few years after she died that told the story of how a local fan was playing his tape of her singing “Over the rainbow” as he drove his BBC radio friend to the airport in Washington DC. The BBC guy asked for the tape and it was played on the radio in the UK and became a huge hit. I was in Australia in 2000 and went into a chain record store in a mall and they had a who,e display devoted to Eva. I came home to America, and could only find her music in the folk section of small local record stores. I’m very thankful to her family for compiling all her recordings and putting them into albums. I read that all proceeds go to music education programs in Eva’s honor.
If you have the time,@@SarahDengler, listen to Eva's version of "Who Knows Where The Time Goes"... It's even more powerful, IMO, than "Over the Rainbow"!
When I heard this song first ( years ago on the radio) it hit me with a ton of bricks ! So emotional so pure. Eva Cassidy’s passed away nov 2/ 1996 she was 33. This was a lovely reaction to a most stunning and an emotional song. Thank you. A lot of reaction videos dissect the song almost by each phrase and verse. You didn’t. I can understand why some voice teachers breakdown a song. But I loved your reaction. Thank you 🌈
If I'm not mistaken this is one of the very last performances she ever did, perhaps even her very last. Her cancer had metastasized and she died very shortly after. Such a tender soul, she left so soon, and is so very missed.
❤️I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve listened to this, but I get chills and cry every time.
It's totally heart-wrenching
@@SarahDengler yes it is!
Her version of What A Wonderful World is uplifting and beautiful. You might cry just because it is so beautiful!
I have listened to her singing for over 20 years now. Every single time it shatters me, in a good way.
Funny how the You Tube algorithm works; been a fanboy of Eva’s for over 20yrs, and her acoustic performances always get me verklempt - “Tall Trees in Georgia” from the same Blues Alley session, for example. Today I’ve been inundated by at least half a dozen reaction videos to this particular track, and well, anyone familiar with her story can predict what those would be; “better than Judy Garland?”, “the most beautiful thing I’ve ever heard”, etc.
@@jdw9397 Don’t forget her Danny Boy.
The reality of Eva is that she put her soul into every single note of all of her music. That is who she was. Congrats, you discovered an angel. She left a treasure trove of great music. And not to worry, I am a 67 year old male and I cry every time I hear this.
Me too!!
@@Placeseveryone I just cried a little as well. I thought this was Judy Garland's song. Not anymore.🙏
I'm soon 75. Tears -- she died so very young.
This was recorded a few months before she got diagnosed, but with the knowledge of today, it looks as if she was already singing it like the angel she would become some months later. A better performance will never given by anyone. This was heavenly and must give chills to everybody over and over again. Thanks fpr this. I guess you felt the same. ❤
This woman who unfortunately passed away weeks after this live recording, was actually blessed with tremendous talent to sing and play guitar, but beyond that, she had the ability to take you on a personal voyage. God gave her this talent and I fully believe his purpose is to give believers a brand new meaning to this song. He has brought this woman into the forefront to rewrite the song without changing the words, just the interpretation. This is what an ALMIGHTY GOD, who exists outside of space and time can do to further His Plan to bring about Prophecies.
The song was written in 1939 for the movie The Wizzard Of Oz, Eva Cassidy adapted it to her interpretation in 1996, it has reimerged to millions of people through reaction videos in 2023 and 2024 because we are entering the Prophetic End Times and are in need of a reawakening of spirit to what God has planned next for us. I believe we are being made aware of Biblical Events that will soon take place.
God gave us a Sign in the Sky called a Rainbow to give us a promise to never destroy mankind again.. He will cause the End of the Age and usher in Eternity by Jesus's return to Jerusalem. He will cause a Rapture of His Church by having saved souls to fly Somewhere Over That Very Rainbow to join Him in the sky.
The first time I heard this cover, or should I say, uncovering about 3 weeks ago, her performance split my soul in two and then proceeded to heal it in the same manner.
She was in pain during this performance. Her hips were very sore, she thought it was from sitting atop a ladder painting. Sadly she already had metastatic melanoma in her bones. She sings this as if she already knew her fate. It’s so raw.
Sarah you are the only one to let EVA go through her whole heavenly performance without interruption. Your reaction and respect for her lovely talent are more than words can say alone. You let the music say it ALL. Nice to see you react with such emotion. Hard and lovely to hear at the same time isn't it?
I have only TWO people in my subscriptions list; Both NEVER interrupt a song; Sarah is one.
I enjoy both IZs and Judy Garland's versions, but Eva owns the song now. I don't believe this version could ever be improved upon.
Ken K It has been improved on by Lucy Thomas from the UK who sang a TRIBUTE to Eva accompanied by James Franklin on the Guitar. A beautiful version by the best singer anywhere and Lucy was only 17 years old, Stunning singer !!!
It’s only in black and white to create an atmosphere. Recorded in the late 90s I believe just months before she died
You would have to be made of stone not to cry during this piece of utter beauty
It's in black and white because that's the film that was in the camera. It was a makeshift film with not the best equipment. It wasn't about "atmosphere".
@@jnagarya519 It was recorded on video tape not black and white film, there is no such thing as "black and white video tape, the black and white was a choice.
@@sg-yq8pm The "choice" was dictated by BUDGET -- LACK OF MONEY for better filming equipment and film.
This was about 6 months before her diagnosis I think but when I listen to this I can’t help feel that somehow she knew something was up.
Sadly she became well known only after her passing, first for her cover of Sting’s “Fields Of Gold” which is superb (and my favourite). Her “Time After Time” (Cindy Lauper) is equally special.
Always enjoy your obviously heartfelt reactions, this one especially! ✌🏻🙏🏻
It seemed that way, 😔 I hope she's resting in perfect peace now
@@SarahDengler Actually, she had a cancerous mole removed from her back in 1993 and it wasn't until July 1996 that she found out the cancer had spread to her bones. (She was suffering from hip pain). She had recorded this live performance at a club called Blues Alley Jan 2-3 of 1996. She died exactly 11 months later on November 2, 1996. This video was never seen until 4 years later in 2000 when it was aired just before Christmas on the TV show, Top of the Pops2 in the UK. It become the MOST requested video on the show ever! Eva never lived to know how famous she would become. She was virtually unknown at the time she did this video back in 1996.
I wish she could know what effect her beautiful voice has on people.❤️Bless her soul.
I have no doubt that Eva knows the effects that her singing has on those who are blessed to hear her. Of course, now she is healthy and whole & I am sure her musical abilities have grown even more. I can’t wait to go home and hear her singing with the rest of the heavenly choir! ❤😊
"What?" Sarah, what did we just listen to? Are you kidding me!? This is, perhaps, to me, the greatest piece of music I have ever heard in my life.
And, Sarah, thank you so much for letting the video run uninterrupted. It would have been a sin to do otherwise.
I'm sure anyone who has heard this will always come back to it time after time. The recreation of the classic song stands alone as magnificent and when we consider the circumstances involved with Eva's life, listening to this is an overwhelming experience.
Thank you, dear Sarah.
Totally agree. Before I heard this, I thought "Oh no, not another recording of Over the Rainbow" It's been done by so many other super-talented singers, but I soon learned that Eva's version blows them all away. As she sings, she leaves you hanging on every note!
This performance was filmed in January 1996. In June same year she was diagnosed with melanoma cancer, died in November same year. Which makes me even more sad every time I listen it. And I shed a tear every single time. I hope the angelic voice is in deed with angels now.
We all feel the same emotions you felt Sarah. Side note: ◾Though Israel covered this in 1990, the original song was sang by Judy Garland in the movie, The Wizard Of Oz in 1939.◾ Eva Cassidy performed this at the Blues Alley, Washington DC in Jan 1996.◾ She was diagnosed with melanoma (skin cancer) 6 months later, then died 5 months later (Nov 1996). ◾She sold only about 1,200 copies before she passed. She sold millions after she passed. Eva Cassidy now resides *Somewhere Over The* 🌈. She is now and always will be *A Timeless Gift To Humanity* ...🎶🎵
Such an incredible talent, and we lost her so young. Her performance of "fields of gold" blows me away every time.
This one hit me as well beyond sad. I'm forever grateful to finally get to know of her. RIP SWEET HEAVELY GIRL
Let the tears flow. Eva had a cold when she did this performance, and it was this good. Eva took all her covers and made them her own. You just think you know the song until you hear Eva's version. As long as her music is played, Eva will be missed, but never forgotten.
There are so many different things she does that make this special. Her restraint (understated singing, not belting), her taking time to caress each word, and not rushing through the song, her tempo? pacing? how she sometimes holds out a word and almost connects the next word to it... her subtle guitar playing. It all just makes it hers.
Sarah, THIS HIT HOME FOR ME ;( . . . No one can truly understand loosing your voice much less your life after pouring every ounce of passion in a song and guitar. I've done all this since I was 5 years old. Performing was all I ever knew. My songs are not even close to this amazing performance. All my recordings were done in the Mid 80's, I am now 70 years old. When I hear such perfection from the heart and soul of any human being, it makes me humbled to still be alive by the grace of God to be able to listen such talent that truly touches everyone that listens, connects with the deepest part of your soul. God bless you Sarah. I would have lived the rest of my life without this incredible experience. For that . . . I am truly grateful and blessed to you! Johnny Vee
I WILL NEVER EVER FORGET EVA CASSIDY AS LONG AS I LIVE!
AMEN to that..
I’ve heard Eva’s version many times, and it never fails to be emotional for me. I’ll never listen to another version without thinking of her.
Eva was, arguably, the greatest interpreter of song in musical history. Over the Rainbow was recently voted(by who, I am not sure) as the greatest song in history. It sat unchanged for 60 years until Israel did his version. Then Eva did hers in 1992. What many do not know is that, what you are seeing above, was done in one take on the second night The first night did not come out usable due to an engineering screw-up. The entire album was done in a single take. She had a cold which accounts for the little crack in her voice at the end. I have described her vocals and guitar work as a "pas de due", a dance between a man and a woman. She was new to guitar and was quite insecure about her skills. Like all things about Eva, she underestimated herself. I am unaware of anyone else in history who(as some below touched on) was able to bring so many to tears listening to this song. No one else made more people stop driving, working, playing or anything else to just listen to her sing. This version has been played in more hospitals, at more funerals, more weddings.... She was a unicorn...a mythical creature come alive, never to be seen again. Her family lives nearby and, 25 years after her death, work tirelessly to keep her memory alive. People like you also keep her voice and her spirit alive as well. Thank you for that.
Bravo. I agree with all. The best of the best.
Those of us who remember Eva from her DC days still miss her as if she left us yesterday.
Eva was unhappy with this and some other songs she did that night and wanted to throw them out. Her band didn't let her do it, and I'm forever grateful to them. I'm from DC and saw her live -- not this night. She had a way of getting to the heart of every song she covered and gave them new energy and meaning. She was magic.
Stev, as a huge Eva Cassidy fan, your words are spot on.👍👍
9
Oh my....Her talents were unbelievable. So sad she left so soon. It's okay to cry once in a while when listening to Eva, if you don't there's something wrong with you.
Thank you for the reaction. In cry everytime I hear it. Glad I suggested it... Ok may not have been just me suggesting.
It's a really beautiful one. Thank you
I took it as a song that meant more to her after she knew of her diagnosis. She passed away within (I believe) 6 or 8 months after this recording was done. Anyway, it is emotional for me because the way she does it with such a personal and obviously very meaning way, I relate to it with my own very personal and heartfelt experiences.
Heart wrenching , stunningly beautiful. My her precious soul RIP, she is one of the special angels of heaven sharing her beautiful gift for all❤️
🙏 amen!
I never get tired of listening to Eva's vocal gift. Remember, this is a live recording at Washington, D.C.'s Blues Alley nightblub. Oh, and Eva had a cold that night. A proud daughter of our DC Metro area here, Eva lives and lives and lives. #RIP Songbird.✝✝✝
*~ She had a cold when she performed this...AMAZING ~*
That is one of the best versions of that song I have ever heard. I agree with you. So, so much soul in that performance. So personal.... Love your reaction.
Thank you
Whether dead or alive it is a sobering experience listening to Eva Cassidy. You listen to the words and want to understand the meaning; you know there is one.
I recommend 'Autumn Leaves'. Eva's performance is the most beautiful I've ever heard.
Thank you Sarah for playing this without interuptions. Eva actually died from Melanoma. She had been treated, but never went back for follow up examiniations. So, she died about 1 year after this concert at Blues Alley. She is a great singer. a very good guitarist & an incredible arranger of songs (an underappreciateted art form). Even though my favorite song of hers is Fields Of Gold (She took a good pop & turned it into a great Irish Ballad), much like you, I still cry ever time I hear her sing Rainbow. Thanks & best wishes, Ted
Beautiful reaction. Eva is an amazing performer.
She got you too didn’t she? Every time I listen to this I cry like a school girl with a skinned knee. Every song she left us is a work of art….voice and guitar.
Years ago when I first heard this rendition. I cried and cried. Music has a way of moving us. In ways nothing else can.Eva does it so beautifully.
She also sang What a Wonderful World as one of her last recorded songs. Another one where you can't keep from crying.
So beautiful - the original version is actually by Judy Garland from the film The Wizard of Oz.
Oh my bad then! I have always thought it was Isreal's thank you
I think this song is probably a lot more powerful without knowing the background of “The Wizard of Oz.” Taken out of context it’s even more beautiful, I think.
And the original had an opening verse that you almost never hear, unfortunately, even in the Wizard of Oz.
@@SarahDengler Judy Garland sang it in 1939
@@susanmarie3425 Not to take away one particle from Eva, but Kathy Troccoli and Sandi Patty do the full song - ua-cam.com/video/F0FNDQri5As/v-deo.html - and a nice job. That said, Eva sets the bar!
One of my favorite songs. Can't believe I never heard this artist before now. Thanks for introducing her to me.
Eva TOTALLY owns this song! Her version truly so heavenly, that Lord and Savior had to call her home.
Everyone I've seen who hears this for the first time has the same reaction, they expect to talk about her performance but can't, they all seem to be at a loss for words. Her performance leaves you speechless
So much emotion packed into this. It is scarcely believable that she was able to do this concert as she knew she was soon to die. Bravo and RIP Eva.
Great reaction. Thanks for letting Eva sing without interrupting.
Sarah, I'm so happy you've heard this performance by Eva Cassidy. Her voice is like a heavenly jewel you can feel deep down in your soul. I cried with you.
Melanoma [skin cancer] caused Eva's death. My brother, who was a few months older than Eva, was killed by melanoma a couple years after Eva's first CD was released. His cancer spread to his brain and his life was extended by several brain surgeries. It was brutal.
So be sensible about sun exposure and don't delay getting skin lesions checked by a doctor.
Well, the cancer spread to her bones. Her hip actually. So, although it may have started as Melanoma, it was far more than that in the end.
She had the voice of an angel. Beautiful
Fields of Gold was also a beautiful song as well.
I loved your reaction And you DIDN'T keep stopping her ❤️ really the best reaction ..loved it , and Eva.🇬🇧👍🎸❤️
This song sung and played by Eva gets me every time, its the same with Hurt by Johnny Cash, both covers that have been made their own.
Eva's version is played a lot at funerals, so its very poignant
I think you surprised yourself with your reaction, I would have been a blubbering mess! You did well to hold some of it in.
As you say Sarah, Heart-breaking.
RIP Eva
Totally heart wrenching 💔
Gets me everytime. Voice of an angel. Taken tragically young too. This and her rendition of Danny Boy will leave me a blubbing wreck.
Yea I heard on Irish radio on a very popular afternoon radio channel think it was weekends or Saturday maybe. Clifford T ward (lovely beautiful music too) was artist that would be played often after Eva Cassidy - when radio was king
When this was first played on the radio London stopped. Literally traffic stopped folks stopped working... they all cried. Find The Eva Cassidy Story, ABC News Night Line. Reported by David Merrish.
You should listen to "Fields of gold" sung by the sane wonderful and so sadly too early passed away Eva Cassidy, and just like "Over the rainbow" that song really blows me away. Can't hold the tears back.
There's a whole world of music out there. Best language there is! Enjoy sharing the experience with you!!
Lovely reaction. Thanks for that. Thanks for feeling with us. You didn’t sing but you hit all the right notes.❤️
Thank you 😊
I played this for a USMC buddy. I've known him for 50 years. I saw him cry once, when his sister died. That changed when Eva sang.
It is ok to get emotional and it is ok to cry. It is cleansing for the soul.
Eva sings on a personal level. Her music is an emotional hug for each of her listeners. Thank you for not interrupting the song. Thank you for your pure response.
My heart ❤️ is torn asunder 💔 listening to this most mesmerizing and hauntingly beautiful singing by an Angel in Heaven >
🌈 Eva Cassidy ❤️🩹
Portland Oregon USA 🇺🇸
Hi Sarah...so glad you experienced this. Eva shunned the constraints of recording contracts which always sought to define her within a specific musical genre...preferring instead to perform whatever and wherever she pleased. This particular performance took place in a club called "Blues Alley" and we are exceedingly fortunate that the performance was filmed. This just tears me apart when I hear/watch it, but it's worth it....always. If I am not mistaken, she died later the same year.
Totally worth it
Blue Note's A&R division couldn't figure out how to fit Eva Cassidy in their lineup. She had said "I don't do that Pop crap," so they put her together with the Jazz band Method Actor. They tried to make music together in 1988: ua-cam.com/video/F3PQ-e9ZO1M/v-deo.html That didn't work out and a great opportunity was missed. Lesson learned, when Norah Jones showed up, she and Blue Note prospered. (So I've concluded.;)
This was my absolute favorite performance until I heard her performance of "I CAN ONLY BE ME" recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra
Every breath Eva takes in every single song she does is pure treasure. Dig it! The greatest singer who ever lived. Thank you Eva. Thank you so much. 🎺
Thank you so much for watching
Agreed. She put her soul into every note. She was pure tenderness and beauty.
your reaction is so heartfelt and sincere, just like her music.
Beautiful reaction, Sarah. Your struggle to find the words says it all, because Eva simply leaves you in silent awe.
Your reaction is so pure hearing it for the first time and it's exactly the same reaction I had and still have when I hear it watching you listening listening myself our hearts connected thank you for sharing this.
Thank you for not interrupting.
And the song ends and Eva is off into heavenly eternity...
Thank you for a beautiful heartfelt reaction!
If you want the original, you have to go back to Judy Garland.
Yes... We know...But no thanks. That the real version here... Sorry... I love Judy Garland, but...
Cliff Edwards recorded a version similar to Israel's in the early 1940's. Cliff was the biggest selling recording artist in the 1920's. Most people remember Cliff as the voice of Jiminy Cricket... When You Wish Upon a Star.
It's amazing that she didn't think she was any good on the guitar. Her band members browbeat her into playing it just because they thought they needed a guitar in the band. Three years after her death, this song blew up in the UK. There are a couple less-than-an-hour-long documentaries about her story available on UA-cam.
The magnificent Eva Cassidy RIP ❤️
What you need to know is that Eva was diagnosed with terminal melanoma shortly before this concert recorded in Washington DC. When she sang this performance she already knew she had but a year to live. The last line; "why of why can't I" just kills me!!
The original version of this beautiful song was sung by the great singer Judy Garland. Eva Cassidy gives a touching and highly personal rendition. Her vocal mastery and musicality surpasses all other versions in my opinion.
BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL !!!
Your response was beautiful. Thank you for your humanity.
Eva has brought many a tear with this song--beautiful.
I love this song, and i loved your reaction ❤
Eva is not resting. She is in heaven. If we play our cards right, we will see and hear her again.
All her songs are personal.
Judy Garland did the original version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow for the movie Wizard of Oz produced in 1939 not the big man Israel IZ (which I also loved both btw). This version is tops of the tops for me...no disrespect to anyone else. Eva was sick with a bad cold when she recorded this and was unhappy with her performance. Can u imagine? She passed away from melanoma cancer that had spread into her bones and lungs months later. Please continue to react to her music and help spread her legacy. Ty and many hugs. Wonderful reaction.
Stunningly beautiful, as always. Please react to 16 year old Judy Garland singing this in the Wizard of Oz in 1939. It is THE version of this song that all subsequent versions are based on.
appropriately moving reaction
i cannot listen without crying too
she dies only a few short months after this
she didn't know for about 3 and died about 4 months later
a loss for the world
thank god she left videos
she didn't want to release this because she had a cold !
This is one of my favorite songs so I've listened to many reactions.....Yours was the best. I think you understood what she was trying to get across. If you get a chance, try Nightbird by Eva.
I will thank you
She was unique, when she got bought to our attention in the UK by Terry Wogan it was sublime, then the tragedy of her demise, a perfect voice, and someone who never sought fame,,😢
Rest in sweet peace, Eva!
The reaction to this song reveals how we've all had our hearts broken.
😪I always get goose bumps and tears with this. Try Autumn Leaves.
Actually, the original of "Over the Rainbow" is by Judy Garland from the movie, "Wizard of Oz." However, I feel that Eva's cover is the very best rendition ever.
God bless you for your reaction, you really touched the same emotions I felt
The original version goes way back before Izrael. It goes back to 1939 (as far as I know) and the movie "The Wizard of Oz" where Judy Garland sang it. That's by far the most famous version.
You should see the movie!
3/19/22, 10:10 p.m.
Not many views. You are doing so well 👏 💓. Hope your paths are blessed with all your endeavors.
Thanks for so much
You can spend an entire afternoon watching grown people listen to Eva sing "Over The Rainbow" and end up sobbing like little children. Stunning, Mystical. God-given.
Thank you Sarah. You, a beautiful person, extending an emotion thru song/music to the rest of the world. Eva made this song her own. There is a profound sound in her voice that wounds me every time. Like we say in South America, " un abrazo."
The soul in Eva's music is such a blessing. Her blues and gospel are also transcendental. So beautiful to see another generation of people discover and be moved by her. She lives on in all our hearts.
This recorded version was the 2nd nights show. The night befores performance was supposedly the better according to bassist Chris Biondo, but in a malfunction, nothing got recorded. Eva was in a full blown cold in this performance, but who can really tell. Her talent was impecable. She was very upset that this was going to be released, and was upset at that last little crack in her voice at the very end of the song.
Whatever song she sang, SHE OWNED IT!
I think your reaction was very honest. I always feel a bit of a wimp when this song and others sung by Eva make me tear up, but, hey, why cant blokes have feelings too?
Eva was a great talent, but there is often a sadness in her songs, but not in all. Some speculate that she may have intuited that she was ill, but the diagnosis was maybe 5 or 6 months later, around July, and she passed in the November 96, aged 33. God blessed her and us with such a talent, so I believe she will be with Him, maybe entertaining the heavenly host.
Thanks a lot, we lost a gem
Pretty moving isn't it?
You can listen to it a hundred times over, and it only gets you more internally while tears stream down your cheeks.
She was perfection if but a moment.
What you have to understand is this is live. Not the filtering of a sound studio
thank you for the respect that you show to the artists. Eva was a gift from God and he wanted her back way too soon.. I believe this was shortly before she passed. She didn't have the strength to get on the stage and was filled with pain meds just to do this song. RIP
Welcome to the beauty that is Eva’s music.
Eva was so incredibly talented and it’s my understanding that many record labels tried to sign her but she wouldn’t commit to a single genre of music and suffered from anxiety.
I learned about her from a Nightline (TV news) segment a few years after she died that told the story of how a local fan was playing his tape of her singing “Over the rainbow” as he drove his BBC radio friend to the airport in Washington DC. The BBC guy asked for the tape and it was played on the radio in the UK and became a huge hit.
I was in Australia in 2000 and went into a chain record store in a mall and they had a who,e display devoted to Eva. I came home to America, and could only find her music in the folk section of small local record stores.
I’m very thankful to her family for compiling all her recordings and putting them into albums. I read that all proceeds go to music education programs in Eva’s honor.
What a beautiful song, and reaction... Thanx
Thank you, beautiful song indeed!
If you have the time,@@SarahDengler, listen to Eva's version of "Who Knows Where The Time Goes"... It's even more powerful, IMO, than "Over the Rainbow"!
When I heard this song first ( years ago on the radio) it hit me with a ton of bricks ! So emotional so pure. Eva Cassidy’s passed away nov 2/ 1996 she was 33.
This was a lovely reaction to a most stunning and an emotional song. Thank you. A lot of reaction videos dissect the song almost by each phrase and verse. You didn’t. I can understand why some voice teachers breakdown a song. But I loved your reaction.
Thank you 🌈
If I'm not mistaken this is one of the very last performances she ever did, perhaps even her very last. Her cancer had metastasized and she died very shortly after. Such a tender soul, she left so soon, and is so very missed.
In my book still the best female vocalist. Such a loss.
My hubby introduced me to Eva Cassidy music years back. I could listen to this version over and over again. So beautiful. Rest in peace sweet soul. 💜
Israel’s version was a cover also. The original is in The Wizard of Oz.
Good - a True Angel..