As a chubby lady with a big heart, this song has always resonated with me. I wish that I was beautiful, or that you were half way blind...so many great songs! I hold Mr Chapin up with the best of the best story tellers. ❤❤❤❤
This song has the greatest "payoff" in musical history which is why it's my favorite tune from Harry. He was a wonderful human being, a fantastic storyteller, and a great humanitarian. You are dearly missed, Harry. We love you!
I saw him live - as the opener for Seals and Crofts. When he finished and they tried to bring the headliners on stage the crowd went crazy, demanding encores for Harry. It was like "To hell with the pop group, bring the real star back out." He INFECTED an audience with his presence. And for those of you who don't know, Harry donated about a third of the proceeds of his paid concerts to charity, with a focus on ending world hunger. The world lost more than we can ever know when he passed.
My first concert was Harry Chapin in November, 1980. After the show, Harry sat on a stool in the alleyway behind the theatre and signed autographs for God knows how long. I got my copy of his poetry book signed by him and his son, Josh, who was "comic relief" during 'Dancing Boy'. Unfortunately, I don't have it anymore. It was lost in a fire that destroyed half of the block I lived on. That following summer was when he died in the car accident. I was as devastated when he died as I was when John Lennon was murdered. Harry was a beautiful human being and I really wish he were still here today!
I can NOT listen to this song without crying. Harry had such a gentle heart. I’m so sad he left too soon, but I’m thankful for the gifts he left us. 🙏🏻
My dad's favorite artist. After he passed. I started actually listening to him to see why my dad liked him so much. Needless to say, I completely understand why now. Amazing story teller.
I'm 69 years old and have been listening to him and his brothers since the 1960's. Very few artists have his talent to craft stories. His wife is very good at explaining his abilities at crafting songs and stories. Please give him and his brothers a chance to let you know what true can be and is. Enjoy.
It was an honor to consider Mr. Chapin as a good friend, he helped me come back from Vietnam. There are too many dark places in life and great musicians are a light in that place.
Omg. That's an amazing story..My father was a Vietnam marine who loved his music, it calmed and relaxed him.. I grew up listening to him and he is one of my favorite all time artists.. He's a staple in my life, I've never heard a better story teller in my life. It makes me sad that he passed away so young, but his music is still some of the best I've ever heard. God bless
You are very appreciated, I know that flies from people's lips far too easily today, far to obligatory - but never for one second doubt that we all owe you a debt that simply can never be repayed - thank you for you!
I am glad I had the privilege to see him at The Troubadour in Hollywood in 1975. He is truly a legend that left us too soon. I am now 70 and I am still listening to his genius.
I had the opprotunity to see him live. I was born in 1957, and though I am old I am happy-- I have seen the best, the good do die young! I am glad a new generation is discovering that some things will never change. It gives me hope!!!!
A great heart and a cherished friend. We traveled roads together long long ago. I see him now only at night among the stars. Shine bright friend. Shine bright on us.
Harry Chapin's sensitivity and insight to the human condition remains unsurpassed to this day. His ordinary language delivers deep clear articulation to the sublime.
You don't just hear the waitress' plea at the end..You FEEL it..The want, lonliness, desire...Only Harry can make the listener feel that with his words..
I have a really cool hairy Chapin story to tell everybody but it's New Year's Eve and I don't have time to put it on here now but I'll do it tomorrow it's really a neat story
Funny...How in some "sad" way, "WE" have all experienced some of Harry's songs...Maybe it is more of a blessing?...No Matter...It is all part of the learning process...Harry was one of the few who could put it into an "ART FORM!"...God Bless you Harry, you will always be remembered.
When I heard on the news that Harry had died that day . I was driving truck from Eastern Canada to the west coast. I had to pull over and cried like a baby. He was my bible for life. My 6 years old was able to see him a few months before he died and Harry picked her up after the concert and gave her a hug. I was fortunate enough to see him 6 times in concerts..
i was walking down a street in Athens. i fell to the ground and cried. no one stopped, thank goodness. Greek is a tricky language, and i couldn't have expressed my grief.
Harry was on stage for almost 3 hours with no break. The rest of the crew left him out there for about a half hour, and Harry never missed a beat. Sure wish I could see and hear him again, and cry some more.
I bought one of his greatest hits cd about 10 years ago. I found a lot of great songs on it. I felt like giving it a listen this morning. Besides the great melody and songwriting the musicians on this recording are phenomenal. The drummer is playing with SOOO MUCH EMOTION. I can FEEL it.
I disagree. He's great. Yes, but he found his audience in his time. People loved him. He received a lot of recognition and those who didn't find him weren't ready to hear him.
His albums are great but his concerts set the crowds on fire. I saw him the first time at the World Hunger Year concert at Detroit. He shared the stage with Gordon Lightfoot, John Denver, and James Taylor but the crowd went crazy over Harry. What charisma!
This is one of Harry's greatest songs! Of course, he wrote more than 100 masterpieces! He's my all time favorite singer. Also my all time fave songwriter. Saw him 43 times in concert, and still miss him terribly! But he lives on forever in his music, his spirit, all the lives he touched, and the wonderful work he did through World Hunger Year (now Why Hunger), and for so many great causes.
@@gordbaker896 Yep, that's him. That voice is unmistakeable. And I'm pretty sure this is right off the album, so there might have been some mixing-room magic.
I was lucky enough to hear Harry's music as a young child. My former brother in law used to play his 8 tracks when he took my niece and I places during the summer. (My niece is older than I am, and I had a brother in law at the age of 5). I think back fondly of Michael and how fortunate I was to have him introduce me to such wonderful music. It took almost 37 years to realize what an impact that music has had on my life....
I was blessed to see him perform shortly before he left us. I have enjoyed the memories ever since. Thanks for the memories Harry! You will live forever in song.......
I was near San Francisco, a place called The Doggy Diner, in the 1970s and heard this song. The weather, the diner, the mood. Jeez. Hit like a brick. What a wordsmith. Unique, amazing.
I have heard this song so many times that I can picture each scene. A great story teller. Cause I know I 'm goin' nowhere, and anywhere a better place to be. One of the great lines.
One of his best. Also one of the best ballads I've ever heard along with taxi and Mr. tanner. Truly and original singer/songwriter. They don't make those anymore.
So many lessons across his time and beyond. An avatar ( the original definition) he gently let us know his purpose...To matter, to count, to stand for something to have it make some difference that WE ever lived at all. Still listening, still learning. Dance on.
Thank you, Harry, I am in awe of your talent, and the stories you put to song. I have listened, and listened to them over and over, and they are simply timeless. So glad I shook your hand and spoke with you after a concert, in Appleton Wisconsin, and then again in Green Bay the following year. I have cried streams over a few of some songs, and some lines haunt me, becoming ingrained in me.
To be able to connect with the audience has got to be a spiritual occurance that very few artists genuinely participate in. Harry connected and showed a reality, which always is extraordinary. I used to hear in Savannah, Ga and a couple of times got to talk to him on River St. He helped me come back from Vietnam.
I l saw Harry 3 times at the Capital Theatre in Port Chester New York. l have always and will always love him for his warmth and kindness and love of life and mankind l have tears in my eyes every time I see his videos and witness his love for all mankind and the great legacy he left but what greatness he could have given us had his life not been cut short. l live you Harry. Thank you for making my life a better plsce.
+Fred Ziska I had a N.D.E. July 90. I can tell you it doesn't all end here, and I wept like a baby C.C.U. when I came to. I saw the tunnel and the being of light. Read between the line here. -> There were no franchised players there. But the power of Believing makes it all work. I am not keen on dying, but I am not afraid death. Will
I was privileged to attend three of his concerts, twice in the small venue setting of San Diego State's Amphitheater before it was enlarged. Let me end by repeating, it was a PRIVILEGE to attend.
Feeling blessed to have discovered his music when I was just 16 years old. I am 25 now and his stories still accompany me through my life. Good music never dies!
I've been a fan of Harry Chapin since I first heard "Greatest Stories Live" in the early 1980's. Hearing any of those songs still makes me stop and listen to the great stories that tells. He truly was a great American story teller.
I was a fan of Harry's from the beginning. I life cut short way to early, I often wonder what he could have accomplished if had been given the chance. I am talking about socially as well as musically. He was one of those people who cared about others and was willing to use his fame to help others.
Saw him in 1974 at Capital Theater in Passaic ,New Jersey . He was incredible in concert because he involved the audience. God took him from his wife and kids too soon. He would have been a tremendous force for good because he was committed to helping the less fortunate among us , like the homeless.He will never be replaced because his story songs don't fit into any particular niche ; he was that unique. Miss him every day but glad he left us a glorious legacy. God rest his soul... he's in good company with all the musical greats.
I saw him in college way back in the early 70s in Bloomington, Indiana. His band borrowed two of my dining chairs to sit on the theater stage. He was relatively unknown then but I have always loved his songs, especially this one.
Listening with my 4 and 5 year old. Brings me back to my childhood. My own dad loved Harry, and shared his music with me. I still remember singing Circle the whole way to Florida from Cincinnati.
wow only 85 comments...guess people arent all lucky enough to have a mum and dad who always played harry as i slept in the backseat falling asleep on the way home from my nans on a sunday evening.. the lyrics sinking into my subconcious.. a unique guy with a way of telling a story through song that i dont think can ever be matched.
Few songs can create the imagery that Harry did in this song. I love this song and just fall right into it every time I hear it. Thanks for posting it!
jonnie rotten, funny I was just watching Johnny Rotten talking ab how music in the 70s was so bad and that’s why the Sex Pistols has to throw a monkey wrench into everything. I love it all, just funny bc I was thinking as I was watching this John Lydon and others like him may have grouped Chapin in w the rest
I had the honor of watching him in Russellville, Arkansas at ATU. I do not remember the year, but I remember a 'person' behind me making a rude comment. Mr. Chapin asked him how much the person had donated to charity? He went on to say if the 'person' didn't like what he was saying he could get the h!@l up and leave. All the money from that performance was going to charity. and the 'person could get the f out if he didn't like what he heard. I loved his music before that, but fell in love on the spot that night.
I was at the concert in Russellville too. It was on an impulse to see him and I thank my lucky stars I got to see him before his tragic death and untimely death. He will always be a special singer, songwriter and person. I will always remember him.
If you can't feel the emotion, the strength of this..You're clinically dead.. This IS the story, and DOES happen, every night, somewhere.. This, folks, is..REAL...
Many listen to this song and put themselves in the place of the watchman or the waitress. I was the girl that was "long past lonely and well nigh kinds lost" actually in Watertown, NY. This song brings back memories of that time and I rejoice at how far I've come. But, thanks to Harry, will never forget where iIcame from.
I have loved his works from the first time I heard him sing his first note. Saw him once at the Troubadour in 1975. Wish he could play for us today. I write, but never have even approached his level emotional charm and realism. So I sing his songs and pretend they're mine. Philip from Phoenix.
Just those? There is also "Mail order Annie", "WOLD", "Dance Band on the Titanic" (only makes you cry when you think about it) even "Taxi". The best musical storyteller in at least 100 years - Rodgers and Hammerstein - take a seat.
@@pdoylemi Yup, indeed. Far too many to list. I had the privilege of seeing Harry, twice...even got a kiss! He was a special human without a doubt. Miss him terribly.
@@katekane4669 I am sad to say I missed my chance to see him live. He used to play at Michigan State University every year. When I was a freshman there in 1980, I wanted to see him, but money was very tight, and I figured he'd be back the next year and I could see him then. But he died in 1981. I still regret missing that show. Remember his concert T-shirts? "Every Day is World Hunger Day" - and according to our campus paper, about 50% of what he made went to that cause.
I want to take this time to help some people. I was a coroner as well as a medical doctor. Harry was also one of my favorite artists and I like so so many others cried my eyes out when I heard. But I can tell you this, he never felt anything, One second alive , the next second dead, I will not get into the details as they may be to much for some but rest assured Harry was with God 1 second after it happened. I hope this will help some of you.
interesting...that you would share this now... after all this time.. he clearly made an impact on so many... he had the uncanny ability to cut to the quick.. not sure that anyone else has been able to do the same.. I still listen to him... certain songs... no one could express themselves as well as he could.. his music will certainly live on...thanks for the post.
Yes - I still have a concert T-Shirt that says, "Every day is world hunger day" from one of his concerts. 50% of everything they made went to charity - a truly great person.
An artist that could actually tell a story in a song ,so appreiciate an artist that understands that the bueaty is reality and. ! Stop I m gonna cry ,,love you Carly Simon.
This is my #2 favorite by Harry. Sniper being my absolute #1. Harry is my favorite writer/ performer I was born one month and one day after the world lost this great guy. I sure wish he was still here so I could meet him and hear him tell his stories.
Once, driving down the road with a man named Ed, I heard this song for the first time. I had been in a "relationship" with Ed for about 8 years and we had moved into "platonic friends" for various reasons. We were passing time together, going nowhere. This song had me sobbing my heart out.
@@kevinnewman3746 I had totally forgotten writing this comment. Ed and I are still platonic friends but there is love between us. We’ve known each other since 2002. Took us a few years to find our particular groove... which is too old grow old together but apart. Definitely not what I thought I wanted for myself but it has been solid. Sometimes the picture doesn’t take shape the way you thought you were drawing it, right?
I mentioned this in another video - Saw Harry at Curry College (late 60's or early 70"s - cant't remember) - saw him another 4 times last time in Phoenix 1979. I got all of my brothers and friiends to buy tickets to his show at the music tent in ma. He died before the show - will never forget him, and I have passed him along to my kids.
Well, I won't agree that ANYWHERE is a better place to be because I've been in some pretty crappy relationships. But I certainly agree with and appreciate the sentiment. Loneliness is a a hard and hollow place. Love ya Harry. Rest in Peace.
Inspired by a visit to the town I lived in for the second half of my childhood. I saw him in concert at the DPAO when I was 14. My mother and I got front row center seats, I'll never know how she scored them. My first concert, and I was enthralled. I often wondered if it was on that visit that he was inspired to write this song. He captured the mood of the town perfectly. Back then, the economy was awful and the snow was deep.
I saw Harry Chapin in one of his final concerts at the University Of Waterloo here in Ontario many years ago. I shall never forget that experience. His music will live on forever. xo RIP Harry!!
![Taxi/Sequel - Harry Chapin [Complete Extended Remix Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/uS-e3K9h6S4/mqdefault.jpg)
![America Greatest Hits (Full Album) [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/TGw3XHj68gk/mqdefault.jpg)
As a chubby lady with a big heart, this song has always resonated with me. I wish that I was beautiful, or that you were half way blind...so many great songs! I hold Mr Chapin up with the best of the best story tellers. ❤❤❤❤
Same sis. I just hit 42 & this song still resonates with me. Anywhere is a better place to be.
One of the most perfectly crafted, beautifully rendered, heartbreaking songs literally in history. RIP, Harry.
This song has the greatest "payoff" in musical history which is why it's my favorite tune from Harry.
He was a wonderful human being, a fantastic storyteller, and a great humanitarian.
You are dearly missed, Harry.
We love you!
I saw him live - as the opener for Seals and Crofts. When he finished and they tried to bring the headliners on stage the crowd went crazy, demanding encores for Harry. It was like "To hell with the pop group, bring the real star back out." He INFECTED an audience with his presence. And for those of you who don't know, Harry donated about a third of the proceeds of his paid concerts to charity, with a focus on ending world hunger. The world lost more than we can ever know when he passed.
That a beautiful comment and I thank you for posting it.
I missed the chance to see him and have regretted it ever since. An extraordinary human being. RIP.
Awesome statement
Every song he sings makes you cry or makes you laugh. Every one.
My first concert was Harry Chapin in November, 1980.
After the show, Harry sat on a stool in the alleyway behind the theatre and signed autographs for God knows how long.
I got my copy of his poetry book signed by him and his son, Josh, who was "comic relief" during 'Dancing Boy'.
Unfortunately, I don't have it anymore. It was lost in a fire that destroyed half of the block I lived on.
That following summer was when he died in the car accident.
I was as devastated when he died as I was when John Lennon was murdered.
Harry was a beautiful human being and I really wish he were still here today!
Thank you dad for showing a young kid some classy tunes that tell a great story , 24 year old that loves some Harry chapin!!
I can NOT listen to this song without crying. Harry had such a gentle heart. I’m so sad he left too soon, but I’m thankful for the gifts he left us. 🙏🏻
Listened to it again recently,first time for ages and the tears just flowed .
What a legacy that man left us.
who was hlm
He once said that this was his favorite of all his songs. I've been singing and loving this, and so many others, for 35+years now.
I cry too 😁 such a legendary songwriter, heartbreak and he always lifts up by the end with such hope 💜
I feel so much. He expresses our hearts and adds words to what we feel
I don’t think the reality of this song reaches the people that need it.😊
He was into feeding people and sharing his songs. He was a saint.
My dad's favorite artist. After he passed. I started actually listening to him to see why my dad liked him so much. Needless to say, I completely understand why now. Amazing story teller.
He sure was! It took me till my 50's to really listen and so glad I did!
I'm 69 years old and have been listening to him and his brothers since the 1960's. Very few artists have his talent to craft stories. His wife is very good at explaining his abilities at crafting songs and stories. Please give him and his brothers a chance to let you know what true can be and is. Enjoy.
Life's funny that way.
I am 69 abd have 8:32 been listene listening to his music since 1971.
I am a 72-year-old career guitarist, and I first saw Harry on Don kirshner's
It was an honor to consider Mr. Chapin as a good friend, he helped me come back from Vietnam. There are too many dark places in life and great musicians are a light in that place.
Thank you for your service, Sir. May you ever enjoy the sunlight.
Welcome home, brother
Omg. That's an amazing story..My father was a Vietnam marine who loved his music, it calmed and relaxed him.. I grew up listening to him and he is one of my favorite all time artists.. He's a staple in my life, I've never heard a better story teller in my life. It makes me sad that he passed away so young, but his music is still some of the best I've ever heard. God bless
You are very appreciated, I know that flies from people's lips far too easily today, far to obligatory - but never for one second doubt that we all owe you a debt that simply can never be repayed - thank you for you!
Thank you
How can you not be a fan of not only his music but of the MAN im forever a fan
I am glad I had the privilege to see him at The Troubadour in Hollywood in 1975. He is truly a legend that left us too soon. I am now 70 and I am still listening to his genius.
I had the opprotunity to see him live. I was born in 1957, and though I am old I am happy-- I have seen the best, the good do die young! I am glad a new generation is discovering that some things will never change. It gives me hope!!!!
Harry is my next nominee for the Nobel Prize in Literature.
Do they award posthumously?
A great heart and a cherished friend. We traveled roads together long long ago. I see him now only at night among the stars. Shine bright friend. Shine bright on us.
Chapin was to music as Carlin was to humor. I am glad to live in their time.
Harry Chapin's sensitivity and insight to the human condition remains unsurpassed to this day. His ordinary language delivers deep clear articulation to the sublime.
I had the privilege of seeing Harry in concert 3x's. Had a Blast!!!
He's Totally in a Better Place. God Bless...
R.I.P. Harry.🙏⚘
Saw him twice
You don't just hear the waitress' plea at the end..You FEEL it..The want, lonliness, desire...Only Harry can make the listener feel that with his words..
I fell the little man more than the waitress but yeah I know what you mean. Let's hear it for the incomparable Harry Chapin.
I tear up every time at her plea and his response. Every time!
I have a really cool hairy Chapin story to tell everybody but it's New Year's Eve and I don't have time to put it on here now but I'll do it tomorrow it's really a neat story
I was doing voice to text that's why it's
spelled "hairy"....Damn phone.
Tune in tomorrow 👌😉😁
Yes, we feel his songs
Funny...How in some "sad" way, "WE" have all experienced some of Harry's songs...Maybe it is more of a blessing?...No Matter...It is all part of the learning process...Harry was one of the few who could put it into an "ART FORM!"...God Bless you Harry, you will always be remembered.
Still loving you Harry
Harry Chapin’s daughter Jen Chaplin is a damn good singer too
He received the Congressional Gold Medal. The highest civilian award that can be awarded to a civilian.
When I heard on the news that Harry had died that day . I was driving truck from Eastern Canada to the west coast. I had to pull over and cried like a baby. He was my bible for life. My 6 years old was able to see him a few months before he died and Harry picked her up after the concert and gave her a hug. I was fortunate enough to see him 6 times in concerts..
I saw him 4 times in Chicago best concerts I ever attended.
Tow tragic endings to giants in the music industry, Harry and Jim Croce.
Harry Chapin sang my soul. I love him. And always will miss him. I hope to meet him someday...
i was walking down a street in Athens. i fell to the ground and cried. no one stopped, thank goodness. Greek is a tricky language, and i couldn't have expressed my grief.
Thanks for recommending this artist to me over the phone, Harry! Reminds me of Jim Croce. - Your OpenTable customer service rep :)
Harry was on stage for almost 3 hours with no break. The rest of the crew left him out there for about a half hour, and Harry never missed a beat. Sure wish I could see and hear him again, and cry some more.
I bought one of his greatest hits cd about 10 years ago. I found a lot of great songs on it. I felt like giving it a listen this morning. Besides the great melody and songwriting the musicians on this recording are phenomenal. The drummer is playing with SOOO MUCH EMOTION. I can FEEL it.
I don't believe Chapin received the recognition he deserved as a songwriter. This is a classic!
I disagree. He's great. Yes, but he found his audience in his time. People loved him. He received a lot of recognition and those who didn't find him weren't ready to hear him.
One of my top 5 Chapin songs! Thanks! Saw him live 3 times, miss him terribly. What a songwriter, performer and humanitarian.
His albums are great but his concerts set the crowds on fire. I saw him the first time at the World Hunger Year concert at Detroit. He shared the stage with Gordon Lightfoot, John Denver, and James Taylor but the crowd went crazy over Harry. What charisma!
Deep. Very deep and im proud to be part of a generation that actually thought .......🙂
This is one of Harry's greatest songs! Of course, he wrote more than 100 masterpieces! He's my all time favorite singer. Also my all time fave songwriter. Saw him 43 times in concert, and still miss him terribly! But he lives on forever in his music, his spirit, all the lives he touched, and the wonderful work he did through World Hunger Year (now Why Hunger), and for so many great causes.
One of my favourite songs but I don't think that is him singing it here.
43 times? Wow! Seriously jealous... 😉
@@gordbaker896 Yep, that's him. That voice is unmistakeable. And I'm pretty sure this is right off the album, so there might have been some mixing-room magic.
Harry made songs mean something to me.
Me too.
I was lucky enough to hear Harry's music as a young child. My former brother in law used to play his 8 tracks when he took my niece and I places during the summer. (My niece is older than I am, and I had a brother in law at the age of 5). I think back fondly of Michael and how fortunate I was to have him introduce me to such wonderful music. It took almost 37 years to realize what an impact that music has had on my life....
I was blessed to see him perform shortly before he left us. I have enjoyed the memories ever since. Thanks for the memories Harry! You will live forever in song.......
Harry, keep the change.
I'm sobbing 😭
I was near San Francisco, a place called The Doggy Diner, in the 1970s and heard this song. The weather, the diner, the mood. Jeez. Hit like a brick. What a wordsmith. Unique, amazing.
One of my many favorites of his. There will never be another Harry Chapin!
Best pick up ever.
One of his best.The world lost a wonderful man
I have heard this song so many times that I can picture each scene. A great story teller. Cause I know I 'm goin' nowhere, and anywhere a better place to be. One of the great lines.
I love all his songs they move me to tears and energize me all at the same time
Best story teller ever!!
One of his best. Also one of the best ballads I've ever heard along with taxi and Mr. tanner. Truly and original singer/songwriter. They don't make those anymore.
So many lessons across his time and beyond. An avatar ( the original definition) he gently let us know his purpose...To matter, to count, to stand for something to have it make some difference that WE ever lived at all. Still listening, still learning. Dance on.
Thank you, Harry, I am in awe of your talent, and the stories you put to song. I have listened, and listened to them over and over, and they are simply timeless. So glad I shook your hand and spoke with you after a concert, in Appleton Wisconsin, and then again in Green Bay the following year. I have cried streams over a few of some songs, and some lines haunt me, becoming ingrained in me.
This guy sang from the heart and the soul......he knew how people need to reach out to help identify with the human condition.
You have that right. No one sings like he did.
Well said Jim.
Always loved and continue to love his music! What a wonderful person!
There's a lot I read about the human connection.. what is your take?
newmexicocoyote@yahoo.com
'he did not know how well he sang... IT JUST MADE HIM WHOLE'
I couldn't of said it better crustycoyote!
When I saw him I was in my early teens, he has stayed in my heart since then, one of the very best !
To be able to connect with the audience has got to be a spiritual occurance that very few artists genuinely participate in. Harry connected and showed a reality, which always is extraordinary. I used to hear in Savannah, Ga and a couple of times got to talk to him on River St. He helped me come back from Vietnam.
I
l saw Harry 3 times at the Capital Theatre in Port Chester New York. l
have always and will always love him for his warmth and kindness and love of life and mankind
l have tears in my eyes every time I see his videos and witness his love for all mankind and the great legacy he left but what greatness he could have given us had his life not been cut short. l live you Harry. Thank you for making my life a better plsce.
this song reminds of my grandpa that passed long ago harry chapin was one of his favorites and this song always made think about him
I love you, Harry and miss you so much.
Harry you are missed , thank you for all the music dear god bless you rip.this is my favorite chapin song love it , bitter sweet thanks harry
The ultimate story teller!
“I'd rather love a million times and have my heart broken every time, than hold a permanently empty heart forever.” ― H.C. Paye
.
Amen, Will
so true espousaly sinse my time. is so short @ Ihave had a full live
+Fred Ziska I had a N.D.E. July 90. I can tell you it doesn't all end here, and I wept like a baby C.C.U. when I came to. I saw the tunnel and the being of light. Read between the line here. -> There were no franchised players there. But the power of Believing makes it all work. I am not keen on dying, but I am not afraid death. Will
So calm yet so not knowing. What to expect ? Live life to love life , for it will not last forever. Love your people.
So true!
I was privileged to attend three of his concerts, twice in the small venue setting of San Diego State's Amphitheater before it was enlarged.
Let me end by repeating, it was a PRIVILEGE to attend.
Feeling blessed to have discovered his music when I was just 16 years old. I am 25 now and his stories still accompany me through my life. Good music never dies!
I've been a fan of Harry Chapin since I first heard "Greatest Stories Live" in the early 1980's. Hearing any of those songs still makes me stop and listen to the great stories that tells. He truly was a great American story teller.
I was a fan of Harry's from the beginning. I life cut short way to early, I often wonder what he could have accomplished if had been given the chance. I am talking about socially as well as musically. He was one of those people who cared about others and was willing to use his fame to help others.
He was summond up to Heaven by God, that's how great of a musician he was !!
He was trying to convince legislators to fund food for the hungry at the time that he had the auto accident on the Long Island Expressway in 1980.
Saw him in 1974 at Capital Theater in Passaic ,New Jersey . He was incredible in concert because he involved the audience. God took him from his wife and kids too soon. He would have been a tremendous force for good because he was committed to helping the less fortunate among us , like the homeless.He will never be replaced because his story songs don't fit into any particular niche ; he was that unique. Miss him every day but glad he left us a glorious legacy. God rest his soul... he's in good company with all the musical greats.
I saw him many times at The Bitter End in the Village.. I drove a taxi in NY for 3 days just to get stoned .... Its still one of my favorite songs.
I saw Harry and crew twice in concert and they were two of the best shows I've seen. Real, kind and funny. Done too soon.
Wonderful! I wish Harry was still here!
I saw him in college way back in the early 70s in Bloomington, Indiana. His band borrowed two of my dining chairs to sit on the theater stage. He was relatively unknown then but I have always loved his songs, especially this one.
Listening with my 4 and 5 year old. Brings me back to my childhood. My own dad loved Harry, and shared his music with me. I still remember singing Circle the whole way to Florida from Cincinnati.
How can people not like this
Chapin has a permanent place in my heart. Thanks to Songs of Harry for posting. Best wishes.
One of my favs!
This song, Taxi, Circle, 30,000 pounds of banana
Sequel!
wow only 85 comments...guess people arent all lucky enough to have a mum and dad who always played harry as i slept in the backseat falling asleep on the way home from my nans on a sunday evening.. the lyrics sinking into my subconcious.. a unique guy with a way of telling a story through song that i dont think can ever be matched.
My parents did the same thing, I am so glad they did too
I'm a kid and loving this
Few songs can create the imagery that Harry did in this song. I love this song and just fall right into it every time I hear it. Thanks for posting it!
Absolutely one of my favorite songwriters. I made a film based on this song.
+Michael Picard can you do "i wanna learn a love song" too?
Would love to see that film!
I Saw Harry Chapin at the Landmark theatre syraqcuse new york 1977 WILL NEVER FORGET HOW HE MADE US ALL FEEL
@2lost souls looking for comfort in a lonely world. Heart breaking :(
jonnie rotten, funny I was just watching Johnny Rotten talking ab how music in the 70s was so bad and that’s why the Sex Pistols has to throw a monkey wrench into everything. I love it all, just funny bc I was thinking as I was watching this John Lydon and others like him may have grouped Chapin in w the rest
I had the honor of watching him in Russellville, Arkansas at ATU. I do not remember the year, but I remember a 'person' behind me making a rude comment. Mr. Chapin asked him how much the person had donated to charity? He went on to say if the 'person' didn't like what he was saying he could get the h!@l up and leave. All the money from that performance was going to charity. and the 'person could get the f out if he didn't like what he heard. I loved his music before that, but fell in love on the spot that night.
I was at the concert in Russellville too. It was on an impulse to see him and I thank my lucky stars I got to see him before his tragic death and untimely death. He will always be a special singer, songwriter and person. I will always remember him.
I loved him. I love his stories in his songs
If you can't feel the emotion, the strength of this..You're clinically dead.. This IS the story, and DOES happen, every night, somewhere.. This, folks, is..REAL...
He was a writer singer poet and angel. His mark on our world is still felt today. Our generation was so blessed….
Many listen to this song and put themselves in the place of the watchman or the waitress. I was the girl that was "long past lonely and well nigh kinds lost" actually in Watertown, NY. This song brings back memories of that time and I rejoice at how far I've come. But, thanks to Harry, will never forget where iIcame from.
I have loved his works from the first time I heard him sing his first note. Saw him once at the Troubadour in 1975. Wish he could play for us today. I write, but never have even approached his level emotional charm and realism. So I sing his songs and pretend they're mine.
Philip from Phoenix.
This song and Mr. Tanner always make me cry. I miss Harry. Such a great man and a great loss to humanity.
Just those? There is also "Mail order Annie", "WOLD", "Dance Band on the Titanic" (only makes you cry when you think about it) even "Taxi". The best musical storyteller in at least 100 years - Rodgers and Hammerstein - take a seat.
@@pdoylemi Yup, indeed. Far too many to list. I had the privilege of seeing Harry, twice...even got a kiss! He was a special human without a doubt. Miss him terribly.
@@katekane4669
I am sad to say I missed my chance to see him live. He used to play at Michigan State University every year. When I was a freshman there in 1980, I wanted to see him, but money was very tight, and I figured he'd be back the next year and I could see him then. But he died in 1981. I still regret missing that show. Remember his concert T-shirts? "Every Day is World Hunger Day" - and according to our campus paper, about 50% of what he made went to that cause.
@@pdoylemi College is expensive, BUT his music is timeless to enjoy forever.
Probably his best song
I want to take this time to help some people. I was a coroner as well as a medical doctor. Harry was also one of my favorite artists and I like so so many others cried my eyes out when I heard. But I can tell you this, he never felt anything, One second alive , the next second dead, I will not get into the details as they may be to much for some but rest assured Harry was with God 1 second after it happened. I hope this will help some of you.
Thank you for that. Im listening to A better place to be.
Thank you for that. Im listening to A better place to be.
NICE
interesting...that you would share this now... after all this time.. he clearly made an impact on so many... he had the uncanny ability to cut to the quick.. not sure that anyone else has been able to do the same.. I still listen to him... certain songs... no one could express themselves as well as he could.. his music will certainly live on...thanks for the post.
not usually a troll but I thought about It ican tell you care about this guy but Harry deserves better
this is one of my favorite songs :-)
One of the first artist to raise money for worthy causes. I mean on his own, not part of a benefit.
Yes - I still have a concert T-Shirt that says, "Every day is world hunger day" from one of his concerts. 50% of everything they made went to charity - a truly great person.
The only one who did it pro bono before him as far as I know was Sinartra.
Love Harry Chapin and this song!! Thank you!!
Wow, I just discovered him by accident and I must say I am deeply amazed.
Loved him! But for some reason this song just touched me! Especially the live version! I could listen to that album over and over!
An artist that could actually tell a story in a song ,so appreiciate an artist that understands that the bueaty is reality and. ! Stop I m gonna cry ,,love you Carly Simon.
I was lucky enough to see him perform live, a great artist, a greater human being, " You can always count on the cheap seats".
This song is not really sad at first when I started to listen to this song but as time goes by , I realised how sad this song is.
This type of music could have only been made in the seventies
He was a musical genius. His songs were heartfelt and powerful. They could have made excellent videos of these songs,
This is my #2 favorite by Harry. Sniper being my absolute #1. Harry is my favorite writer/ performer I was born one month and one day after the world lost this great guy. I sure wish he was still here so I could meet him and hear him tell his stories.
Once, driving down the road with a man named Ed, I heard this song for the first time. I had been in a "relationship" with Ed for about 8 years and we had moved into "platonic friends" for various reasons. We were passing time together, going nowhere. This song had me sobbing my heart out.
I hear you, Laura. Art
I'm still looking
Hope you are - what a sad story
@@kevinnewman3746 I had totally forgotten writing this comment. Ed and I are still platonic friends but there is love between us. We’ve known each other since 2002. Took us a few years to find our particular groove... which is too old grow old together but apart. Definitely not what I thought I wanted for myself but it has been solid. Sometimes the picture doesn’t take shape the way you thought you were drawing it, right?
Passing time together...I'm betting a lot of relationships are like that. They just don't know what else to do
Yes, I agree. This is a powerful song. I'm man enough to admit that it's 1 of, if not the only song.....that can occasionally bring me to tears.
The best story teller gone to soon!
I mentioned this in another video - Saw Harry at Curry College (late 60's or early 70"s - cant't remember) - saw him another 4 times last time in Phoenix 1979. I got all of my brothers and friiends to buy tickets to his show at the music tent in ma. He died before the show - will never forget him, and I have passed him along to my kids.
I have always loved this song and it always made me think of myself. Harry was a person in himself. We lost a great person when he left us.
i love this man passions in his music rip
Well, I won't agree that ANYWHERE is a better place to be because I've been in some pretty crappy relationships. But I certainly agree with and appreciate the sentiment. Loneliness is a a hard and hollow place. Love ya Harry. Rest in Peace.
Inspired by a visit to the town I lived in for the second half of my childhood. I saw him in concert at the DPAO when I was 14. My mother and I got front row center seats, I'll never know how she scored them. My first concert, and I was enthralled. I often wondered if it was on that visit that he was inspired to write this song. He captured the mood of the town perfectly. Back then, the economy was awful and the snow was deep.
Oh the memories of listening to Harry Chapin when I was a baby.
I saw Harry Chapin in one of his final concerts at the University Of Waterloo here in Ontario many years ago. I shall never forget that experience. His music will live on forever. xo RIP Harry!!
. He gave so much enjoyment . Yet gave so much more.😄