TAXI- Harry Chapin, "It was raining hard in 'Frisco...", written, sung and played by Harry Chapin, music and partial video clips from Midnight Special.
I remember being in a bar as a 19 year old and this song was probably 10 years old at the time. everyone enjoying themselves listening to this music, talking to each other, but when he gets to the line Harry keep the change everybody yelled it out. What a song.
I was 19, when this song was very new,... I saw him, preform,... at the WARWICK tent, in RHODE ISLAND. He, the guy that sings the high part, ran in the aisle that I was sitting, ducked down , hit my leg,... took me by surprise,.... he motioned to me ,... BE QUIET... I was, When his time came to sing his part he stood up and sang,...a great memory,... I'm now 74,...!Godspeed
I took my wife to see Harry Chapin at Garde Theatre in Connecticut for our first real date. We have been married 40+ years now. He was charming with the audience. We had back balcony seats and were with some friends. We smuggled bottles of booze in. One bottle fell. The whole place heard it. ...So Harry sez... "Hey you guys up in the cheap seats are having all the fun" It was a blast. edit : I'm in tears now after watching it.
I'm in tears too for missing such a wonderful guy. This new Harry Chapin video really tears me up because of his words which reflects his heart. -New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Master Storyteller, Harry Chapin. The world was a better place because of your music, you made a big impact on us all. Thank you and all the 70s music that made it a wonderful time to be alive.
You are 84. Wow. I just turned 60 October 28th. God. Bless you sir. I did ntnthink on would MAKE it to 40. Wild CHILD. A came verybclose to DEATH at 50 martin luther King day i was PURPLE. Cut 28 pound HERNIA out of my BODY I eas on DEATHS DOOR. Christopher boydd. Head of HERNIA SURGEON. Saved my LIFE. Deaconess beth ISREAL. BOSTON. I would not be HERE. If not for him. FRED NOBLE. He SAVED. My LIFE. THANK YOU SIR. 💘 YOU.
We all have that one that got away........first love........a fleeting meeting that didn't last nearly long enough.........a failed relationship......and old flame we meet again and realize nothing is there anymore........we've all been there. Harry told our stories. One of the late, great artists.
Got out of the army in the late 70's, drove taxis for the next 19 years , boy did I learn a lot about life in those years. Harry's "Taxi" was a signature song for me and still love listening to it bringing back all those memories.
In 1978-79 I was producing a local talk show in San Francisco. I was a big fan of Harry and saw him several times in the Bay Area. I got a hold of his management during one of his tours to the area and was lucky to book Mr. Chapin on the show. I even volunteered to pick him up at his hotel and take him to the studio. Soooo cool. Me and Harry Chapin in my VW Scirocco. But first, he wanted to go to a bookstore somewhere downtown. Even though I lived in San Francisco, I was not familiar with this store location. Immediately I got lost in a maze of construction zones and one way streets. After driving around for a half-hour he looked at me, slightly frustrated, and said, "I thought you were from around here". I was so embarrassed. He even rolled down the window and asked a passerby. Useless. Harry made one more comment about the streets of San Francisco, at which point I said, "we should not be lost, I thought you drove taxi here". The tension broke and he gave me that big Chapin smile as if to say, "touche". He did finally get his book...and I got a great memory.
I feel your pain. I too am a native San Franciscan and the construction during those times was unbearable. Were you at KGO? I was still at KUSF at that time.
That was a tough time losing artists like Harry Chapin, Jim Croce, John Lennon, Jim Morrison, Janis, Jimmy Hendrix and others. All brightly shooting stars indeed but their music plays on like they never left us. Simply amazing.
Some artists can touch your heart, some can move your soul. Harry changed my life with this song. Fifty years later his words still bring tears to my eyes.
You are so right - my eyes too. My hope is some day we'll all have a party up in heaven and meet him again plus alot of these great people who are making coments or just listening . Most of us here have the same heart. Harry would dig it!
I saw Harry just a few months before he passed. When he played this, I never saw a packed auditorium go completely silent so fast. I'm lucky to have been there.
yes you are!!! my dad was a huge fan we didnt share much that was positive(alot of drinking,drugs)but we did Harry.my dad is gone and i miss him so much. this time of year is hard for me but i have my 2 boys David(my dads name)& William Chapin.
@@crystalcantwell8105 are you ok after the holidays? I'm a retired guy and always have time to talk if you need it. Sometimes a little talk is better than a doctors pills. Best wishes.
One of the best weekends of my life. Harry had a show in Chicago. He had so many great songs that were way to long to do them all in one night so he did two complete, different shows. One Friday and one Saturday, one ticket for both! We stayed at the hotel across the street and saw both shows. I think I still have the color slides I took. Crap, that was a lifetime ago and I still love his music.
I had seen Harry four times in the Kansas City area. I was really down when I heard about the fatal car accident in N.Y. One of the most prolific story tellers ever. Then of course there was big John Wallace with that beautiful falsetto voice. His music will live on.
He lived next door to my best friend. Graduated high school with his daughter-1975. Picked him up twice on the road when he ran out of gas. He gave a yearly concert at the high school. One year was with Kenny Rogers. He sang a song he had just recorded but wasn't released yet- Lucille. Another with Pete Seeger. Another with Steve Goodman. Always fabulous. I still listen to his songs at least once a month. What a loss to humanity.
I've always had a soft spot for Harry Chapin I grew up with his music I've always loved it God bless you Harry we sure miss you down here I'm sure you're in a better place
When this man achieved success he began to promote solutions to World Hunger and challenge all Entertainers to use their platform to feed the world. Bravo.
Wow, such an amazing video for such an amazing song...great work! and what lyrics by Harry with that somber voice....So powerful about past loves and regrets...
We were so lucky to have The Midnight Special back in the '70s. Absolutely live performances. No autotuned singing, no miming to a pre-recorded backing track. If you couldn't deliver the goods live, you didn't get on the show.
I had the good fortune to see Harry Chapin in concert at one of the greatest outdoor venues in the world, Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison Colorado. About three songs into his set it started to rain. Venue management stopped the show with safety concerns about electric cords/cables etc. and water. Harry told the crowd to sit tight and he'd be back in a minute. True to his word he came back out with a stool and and unplugged acoustic guitar and performed for about an hour and a half. It was truly a sublime evening. Harry cared bout his fans and was not going to let venue management, or mother nature, stop him from performing.
As a kid of the 60s I remember my sister Donna always had music playing in the late 60s and 70s and I grew up listening to this and other great tunes alongside my moms country music .. They're all gone now and I miss those times and the music and them a lot...
I was lucky enough to see Harry in a very intimate venue in Atlanta. After the show, he said he would hang around in the lobby to talk and do autographs and the hunger project he was on. There has never been a more down to earth genuine person that I have ever met. Taxi, Mr. Tanner, A better place to be became my anthems. I remember working at a restaurant cooking that evening shift hearing all these great songs and I was in heaven until the announcer stated that he had been killed. I dropped the dish I was taking to the window and just felt numb the rest of that night. Harry touched my soul in a way that no other has and I miss his music. Sorry for the ramble.
Harry Chapin had the gift of writing & producing songs that told about real life. Real life often isn't pretty, so some of his music is so melancholy. One of my favorite songs of Chapin's was "Cats in the Cradle". It told of a man that was so busy with working to provide for his family that he didn't have the time to spend with his son. I came far too close to that in parts of my life, and I credit Harry's song for being a "wake-up call". Time goes too fast to miss opportunities to spend with your loved ones. RIP, Harry... you were gone long before your story of life was finished.
So true- stories and advice in all of his songs. Cats in the Cradle is a heartbreaker! But good advice to those who are able to hear it at that point on their lives.
Maybe my favorite song of all-time. Nobody tells a story like Harry Chapin. I could listen to this song all day. I still have the LP this song is from and it's gotten some scratches over the years but I don't care.
Started whyhunger - formerly world hunger year - raised millions upon millions of dollars for those in poverty. Harry made a difference with his art and his heart. Flowers are what ever color you want them to be Harry!
This song is one of the most beautiful, and saddest in the history of the world. It also reminds me of the worst decision that I ever made; more than 30 years ago I walked away from the woman I still love.
Guess what? After 38.5years that he “let me go”…. He found me again just as I was getting a divorce and he was separated. We both still loved each other and today have been together again for 17 years. We are both 71. Don’t give up!!!❤️❤️
Harry, you were right Anywheres a better place to be. RIP 🙏 and all these years later im still listening. but the stories are more clearer now then ever before.
HC’s music has been used to bring people to understand God’s love through my ministry since the early 70’s. His insight into human hurt, emotions, and the sub conscience- conscience reality of all humanity, give strength and hope. God knows how much I miss him. Rev. Sharpe
1972? I was born in 2005 but am loving this song. It artistically tells a story and could still be a hit today. Quite a compliment because I also like hardcore rap like Sicko Mode by Travis Scott.
Great to hear! Haha- yes 1972! Years ago when in college I took one intro to music class thinking it was going to be an easy 3 credits. Was I wrong! - it was mostly on classical music and composition. I was dying at first but then started to get into it and love this different style as my mind opened up to hear the beauty and work that went into different styles of music. You seem to have that natural talent- 😊
Pop and rock are like a sugar high that's fast and fun but doesn't stick with you. Every once in a while you need something more substantial to feast on - like this song.
Attended a national fraternity conference in San Diego circa March 1980 at the Del Coronado. He just came in and played for 30 minutes for all of us for free. Not sure if he was staying there and then he passed away 4 months later. Very talented, down to earth, generous, selfless artist.
In the winter quarter of 1973 at the 2500 seat Fine Arts Theatre on the UGA campus in Athens, GA Harry Chapin performed 2 shows at 7 & 9:30. We had Clair Brothers from London,England contracted for the sound. During the sound check everyone could feel that we were about to witness an exceptional performance . When the lights lite up the stage Harry & his band started easing into his first ballade to hear how good the audience and especially the sound in the venue was ! Harry and his band mates smiled at each other while looking into the whole scene. They didn’t hold back and gave every ounce of energy to both shows. Afterwards we had a rooftop reception for the artists and crew. John Wallace told me that night probably was the best they had ever performed and while talking with Harry & John they said they wished that night had been filmed. They all agreed the shows were that good ! That night and the Elton John show in my opinion were the top shows we produced in Athens. We made UGA a destination for top bands to want to have the experience of being part of one of the cutting edge venues in the world!
Bach in 1978 my squadron VAQ-130 was stationed in the Mediterranean Sea aboard the aircraft carrier USS Forestal. Harry took a helicopter out to the ship, landed on the flight deck and gave a great concert in the hanger bay. He came with no back up singers so he picked a bunch of sailors for that job. Mingled with the crew and ate on the mess decks with the riff raff. He was a decent kinda guy. Sleep well Harry.
Later on, Kansas had that and a violin I believe... They also killed music with classical instruments.. But there is only One Harry Chapin, and One Harry Nilsson... No one else can do this as well.. We are all so blessed..
@@frandanco6289 Fran, believe it or not....Lyle Lovett and his big band had a Cello.....even more daring than the occasional rocker....Harry pulled that Cellist chair right up front and featured him on lead......saw Lyle in person.....country (not) check his big band i used to say "typical country guy plus a lots of brass, cello and black shoop shoop singers" excellent
I saw Harry a number of times but the best was at the Theater in the Round in Cleveland. I love his music and seeing him live was life changing. I had tickets to see him three days after he died. It was a very sad day for those of us that loved his music. I still have the tickets.
Be careful- new video New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html -but not to promote the video- you are what's important and I feel the song shows that Harry would have wanted you to be happy and a successful in your own life
I remember listening to this when I was thinking about dropping out of college.... and I kept thinking....WTF...Harry makes the Cab Driver's life seem pretty OK to me!😁
I saw Harry in concett twice. Big John Wallace and the band were not there. Just Harry sing his stories. Ill alway remember those concerts. And Harry yellong out to the audience. You can always count on the chrap seats. Loved this guy
Lol about seats! Concerts sound great- good times. Concerts were more like that back then- and Harry yelling out to audience 😊- really connected with the people
Sadly I discovered Harry just a few weeks before that terrible accident on the Long Island Expressway. He's been in my heart ever since. Listen to his songs to this day.
Just an FYI. Harry Chapin entered the US Air Force Academy with the Class of '64, but left soon after he entered. His biggest hit song, "Taxi," referenced his Academy time, as he sang he "was gonna learn to fly" and "took off to find the sky." During the 1975-1976 academic year, he returned to the Academy and played a very well-received concert.
Thank you for that info! I worked with a lot of veterans and listened to them talk and laugh about past “rough”experiences with senior officers. I’m assuming Harry (at that age) didn’t understand the need for discipline and so resigned - I didn’t know one could do that! But also -still assuming- he got attached to some ways and people there, and so developed respect for the force and their mission. And so - the concert!
Harry came to my college in the late 70's. I was involved to the extent that I was a member of our the college radio station, and I always heard from the event planners that the artist always wanted in addition to their pay, perks. Harry only wanted a warm meal. I think that sums up Harry Chapin, what a talent.
What stories you could tell being part of the college radio! of what kind of people some entertainers really are. And Harry true to form was one of the best
I went to Prospect Park in Brooklyn way back when to sit on the lawn and be blessed by hearing him in a free concert to raise money for a worthy charity. His loss still makes me cry. He WAS the better place to be. Bob
I drove a cab for a few months 40 years ago because of Harry and this song. I used to dream that the magic that happened for Harry would happen for me as well.
During that era I had an older friend who self-taught the classical cello. Upon introducing Harry and Taxi to him, he marveled at the modern application of his beloved instrument.
a good friend of mine told me about this song back in the early 70s he was not kidding this is an AWESOME song hope you are doing well old friend Andrew Lira.
Harry came through the U.P. of Michigan sometime in the late 70's. He sang at the ole Hedgecock Fieldhouse on the Northern Michigan University campus in Marquette, MI. A bunch of us from the USAF Hospital, K.I. Sawyer AFB went up to see his show. Great story-teller....great times....I truly miss those days!
I remember being in a bar as a 19 year old and this song was probably 10 years old at the time. everyone enjoying themselves listening to this music, talking to each other, but when he gets to the line Harry keep the change everybody yelled it out. What a song.
Haha great times!
Those were the best times
I was 19, when this song was very new,... I saw him, preform,... at the WARWICK tent, in RHODE ISLAND. He, the guy that sings the high part, ran in the aisle that I was sitting, ducked down , hit my leg,... took me by surprise,.... he motioned to me ,... BE QUIET... I was, When his time came to sing his part he stood up and sang,...a great memory,... I'm now 74,...!Godspeed
❤ god bless @@ronshook5194
I took my wife to see Harry Chapin at Garde Theatre in Connecticut for our first real date. We have been married 40+ years now. He was charming with the audience. We had back balcony seats and were with some friends. We smuggled bottles of booze in. One bottle fell. The whole place heard it. ...So Harry sez... "Hey you guys up in the cheap seats are having all the fun" It was a blast.
edit : I'm in tears now after watching it.
Haha “hey you guys …”. What a great memory
I'm in tears too for missing such a wonderful guy. This new Harry Chapin video really tears me up because of his words which reflects his heart. -New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Master Storyteller, Harry Chapin. The world was a better place because of your music, you made a big impact on us all. Thank you and all the 70s music that made it a wonderful time to be alive.
Will love this song for eternity
Angelina Jolie should be the lady in the cab. Jeff Goldblum should be driving.
@@gabevachon5555 Sholuld be me as the driver, and a nurese I dated in the 80's. (Harry, what a wonderful song you left us with!)
Harry Chaplin was a fine musical artist and an even better person. He is greatly missed in 2022.
I’m gonna try to do this song next (a better place to be). RIP Harry
We lost some great voices in the 60's 70's to bad..
Harry never got the recognition for the talent..RIP.
The world needs Harry Chapin and his songs. Especially now.
Maniac govt leaders are tone deaf!
Great Video..Reminds me of a lost love in 1971. She, like Harry are both gone, miss them both
That was and still is a masterpiece. RIP Harry.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
NOW 84 I HAVE KNOWN THIS BRILLIANT "STORY/SONG" FOR MANY YEARS...IT IS BITTER SWEET & UNFORGETTABLE!!!
I'm only 76, but I know whereof you speak...
You are 84. Wow. I just turned 60 October 28th. God. Bless you sir. I did ntnthink on would MAKE it to 40. Wild CHILD. A came verybclose to DEATH at 50 martin luther King day i was PURPLE. Cut 28 pound HERNIA out of my BODY I eas on DEATHS DOOR. Christopher boydd. Head of HERNIA SURGEON. Saved my LIFE. Deaconess beth ISREAL. BOSTON. I would not be HERE. If not for him. FRED NOBLE. He SAVED. My LIFE. THANK YOU SIR. 💘 YOU.
@@frednoble1833 FORTUNATE FRED, ALL THE BEST IN 2022!!!
One of the songs of the century What an incredible talent. It will never get old, a hundred years from now it will still be a classic.
Yessssssssss
We all have that one that got away........first love........a fleeting meeting that didn't last nearly long enough.........a failed relationship......and old flame we meet again and realize nothing is there anymore........we've all been there. Harry told our stories. One of the late, great artists.
I loved his music when I was 14 and I still do at 62. Harry, we miss you! You touched so many lives with your music and stories. Thank you.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Got out of the army in the late 70's, drove taxis for the next 19 years , boy did I learn a lot about life in those years. Harry's "Taxi" was a signature song for me and still love listening to it bringing back all those memories.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
This and WOLD are the best songs about lost loves ever.
"It was a sad smile just the same" Damn what a line!!!!
Almost fifty years and this is still an outstanding song. Tastefully done video.
Thank you
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
In 1978-79 I was producing a local talk show in San Francisco. I was a big fan of Harry and saw him several times in the Bay Area. I got a hold of his management during one of his tours to the area and was lucky to book Mr. Chapin on the show. I even volunteered to pick him up at his hotel and take him to the studio. Soooo cool. Me and Harry Chapin in my VW Scirocco. But first, he wanted to go to a bookstore somewhere downtown. Even though I lived in San Francisco, I was not familiar with this store location. Immediately I got lost in a maze of construction zones and one way streets. After driving around for a half-hour he looked at me, slightly frustrated, and said, "I thought you were from around here". I was so embarrassed. He even rolled down the window and asked a passerby. Useless. Harry made one more comment about the streets of San Francisco, at which point I said, "we should not be lost, I thought you drove taxi here". The tension broke and he gave me that big Chapin smile as if to say, "touche". He did finally get his book...and I got a great memory.
Great story. Thanks.
I feel your pain. I too am a native San Franciscan and the construction during those times was unbearable. Were you at KGO? I was still at KUSF at that time.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Funny my father at USF. KGO radio changed format from news to tall.
Many times while driving a Taxi for 35 years I flew along with Harry .
What a loss. Who knows how much more he had to give. Rest In Peace Harry.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Always get chills when he sings that last chorus. One of my favorite songs. We were robbed of so many more great songs by his tragic death.
Was in high school when he died, and we mourned him like a family member.
That was a tough time losing artists like Harry Chapin, Jim Croce, John Lennon, Jim Morrison, Janis, Jimmy Hendrix and others. All brightly shooting stars indeed but their music plays on like they never left us. Simply amazing.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
@@lindahuff8976 New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Amen!!
Still so sad that we lost this wonderful talented man so long ago. RIP Harry Chapin.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Some artists can touch your heart, some can move your soul. Harry changed my life with this song. Fifty years later his words still bring tears to my eyes.
You are so right - my eyes too. My hope is some day we'll all have a party up in heaven and meet him again plus alot of these great people who are making coments or just listening . Most of us here have the same heart. Harry would dig it!
im hip couldnt have said it better write some poems
His song "A better place to be" is a real tear jerker. Its reality x 10. God we were blessed to have this soul singing for us.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
@@trinidadapodaca7027 New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Harry is so raw and earnest. What a great man. A loss to humanity. Harry gave me the courage to cry.
Yes - and the (kind of indirect) advice he gives us-in his stories - is compassionate and understanding. He was a great guy
I saw Harry just a few months before he passed. When he played this, I never saw a packed auditorium go completely silent so fast.
I'm lucky to have been there.
yes you are!!! my dad was a huge fan we didnt share much that was positive(alot of drinking,drugs)but we did Harry.my dad is gone and i miss him so much. this time of year is hard for me but i have my 2 boys David(my dads name)& William Chapin.
@@crystalcantwell8105 merry Christmas to all of you.
@@tombrown8829 Thank you Tom. so much
Got to see him twice. What a great performer and an even better person. Miss you Harry.
@@crystalcantwell8105 are you ok after the holidays? I'm a retired guy and always have time to talk if you need it. Sometimes a little talk is better than a doctors pills. Best wishes.
One of the best weekends of my life. Harry had a show in Chicago. He had so many great songs that were way to long to do them all in one night so he did two complete, different shows. One Friday and one Saturday, one ticket for both! We stayed at the hotel across the street and saw both shows. I think I still have the color slides I took. Crap, that was a lifetime ago and I still love his music.
lol some experience- 2 days! Best memories- and yes hiis music is still so in tune with human nature and loved to this day
Wow!!!
WOW, that is awesome!!
@@flthunderdigginwrob3162 Thank you!
I had seen Harry four times in the Kansas City area. I was really down when I heard about the fatal car accident in N.Y. One of the most prolific story tellers ever. Then of course there was big John Wallace with that beautiful falsetto voice. His music will live on.
He lived next door to my best friend. Graduated high school with his daughter-1975. Picked him up twice on the road when he ran out of gas.
He gave a yearly concert at the high school. One year was with Kenny Rogers. He sang a song he had just recorded but wasn't released yet- Lucille. Another with Pete Seeger. Another with Steve Goodman. Always fabulous. I still listen to his songs at least once a month. What a loss to humanity.
So cool! What great memories- ran out of gas lol. One of us. Would love to hear unreleased song Lucille. Agree with you- gone too soon. RIP Harry
@@mcovelloful you probably have heard Lucille by Kenny Rogers.
"You picked a fine time to leave me Lucille."
That song busted out his career.
@@kurtdietrich5421 - Yes I have. Was working on different song but maybe I'll switch to this first. Lots of good material- thanks
Never, in all the years of intrigue and love of this song, have I supposed ..."and I was gonna learn to fly. .." could be about a real airplane.
I've always had a soft spot for Harry Chapin I grew up with his music I've always loved it God bless you Harry we sure miss you down here I'm sure you're in a better place
This song stays with me all these years.
When this man achieved success he began to promote solutions to World Hunger and challenge all Entertainers to use their platform to feed the world. Bravo.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Wow, such an amazing video for such an amazing song...great work! and what lyrics by Harry with that somber voice....So powerful about past loves and regrets...
Beautiful Absolutely beautiful 😍❤️
More people should know about Harry Chapin. He was a great ENTERTAINER, not just a singer-songwriter.
And the stories he told in his songs were relatable and heart warming
"Taxi" and "Cats In the Cradle" were his 2 big hits I remember growing up in the '70s. Master storyteller in song that's needed today.
We were so lucky to have The Midnight Special back in the '70s. Absolutely live performances. No autotuned singing, no miming to a pre-recorded backing track. If you couldn't deliver the goods live, you didn't get on the show.
And Soul Train until it got too expensive for live singing around 1973.
Absolutely. My husband and I never missed this show when we were teens. Some great performances.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
@@mcovelloful Thanks a bunch!
A master storyteller that turned it into songs. Thank goodness we still have the music.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Very nicely done. Brings back a lot of memories. Saw Harry in concert many times... he was one of a kind.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Takes me back to 1976 . a Friday night watching the Midnight Special while rolling a
big fat joint chilling 😎 with my girlfriend.
I had the good fortune to see Harry Chapin in concert at one of the greatest outdoor venues in the world, Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison Colorado. About three songs into his set it started to rain. Venue management stopped the show with safety concerns about electric cords/cables etc. and water. Harry told the crowd to sit tight and he'd be back in a minute. True to his word he came back out with a stool and and unplugged acoustic guitar and performed for about an hour and a half. It was truly a sublime evening. Harry cared bout his fans and was not going to let venue management, or mother nature, stop him from performing.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
OMG what an awesome story, and I am jealous wow wish I could have been there
As a kid of the 60s I remember my sister Donna always had music playing in the late 60s and 70s and I grew up listening to this and other great tunes alongside my moms country music .. They're all gone now and I miss those times and the music and them a lot...
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
I was lucky enough to see Harry in a very intimate venue in Atlanta. After the show, he said he would hang around in the lobby to talk and do autographs and the hunger project he was on. There has never been a more down to earth genuine person that I have ever met. Taxi, Mr. Tanner, A better place to be became my anthems. I remember working at a restaurant cooking that evening shift hearing all these great songs and I was in heaven until the announcer stated that he had been killed. I dropped the dish I was taking to the window and just felt numb the rest of that night. Harry touched my soul in a way that no other has and I miss his music. Sorry for the ramble.
Thanks for sharing- it’s a beautiful ‘real life’ story
Harry Chapin had the gift of writing & producing songs that told about real life. Real life often isn't pretty, so some of his music is so melancholy. One of my favorite songs of Chapin's was "Cats in the Cradle". It told of a man that was so busy with working to provide for his family that he didn't have the time to spend with his son. I came far too close to that in parts of my life, and I credit Harry's song for being a "wake-up call". Time goes too fast to miss opportunities to spend with your loved ones. RIP, Harry... you were gone long before your story of life was finished.
So true- stories and advice in all of his songs. Cats in the Cradle is a heartbreaker! But good advice to those who are able to hear it at that point on their lives.
I met him after a performance in Boston in 1981. He was down to earth and funny. Several weeks later he was gone...
Saw Harry at the Capital Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey with a beautiful girl. Good times for old man memories.
One of the best stories ever told...by a master. He was absolutely unique. He had no peers. I have always wondered why this song wasn't played more.
why isn't pat benatar and why the moody blues barely make it in cuz it's all run by snobs. who try to keep their inner circle in and real artist out
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Maybe my favorite song of all-time. Nobody tells a story like Harry Chapin. I could listen to this song all day. I still have the LP this song is from and it's gotten some scratches over the years but I don't care.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Thanks for everything, Harry. Going to your show was a highlight in my life. RIP
Started whyhunger - formerly world hunger year - raised millions upon millions of dollars for those in poverty. Harry made a difference with his art and his heart. Flowers are what ever color you want them to be Harry!
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
One of the first songs I learned to play and sing so many years ago. On a 1975 Ovation round back. Harry was one of my favorites. He and Jim Croce.
Not to downplay your talent and abilities, I'd never want to hear anyone try to cover this song.
Both gone way before their time. Their songs contained great stories .
As a former yellow NYC cabbie in the 70's thank you Harry and rest in eternal peace.
Love this blessing- spoken right from the heart. Just like I think Harry would have said it to a friend
Magnificent Masterpiece from Harry Chapin, Legendary Master Musician resting in peace, proud fan for over 50 years
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
One of the only songs I can sing, to myself out of respect to others! What a time to be young ( that era of music)
To all of us who never achieved their dreams or passions.
This song is one of the most beautiful, and saddest in the history of the world. It also reminds me of the worst decision that I ever made; more than 30 years ago I walked away from the woman I still love.
Sounds like real love to me and that never ends it goes on for ever you are a lucky one as is I
Guess what? After 38.5years that he “let me go”…. He found me again just as I was getting a divorce and he was separated. We both still loved each other and today have been together again for 17 years. We are both 71. Don’t give up!!!❤️❤️
@@darrellsomers5427 The pain of the loss strikes me several times each day.
@@patterhune Wowww wow wow, what a great story, and a true testament to the phrase "love conquers all". Thank you!
I did the same thing once.
What a terrible terrible loss...R.I.P. Harry Chapin...Most definitely a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominees...
Takes me back to my youth like no other song, touches my soul.
We've always wondered how it may have been.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Harry, you were right Anywheres a better place to be. RIP 🙏 and all these years later im still listening. but the stories are more clearer now then ever before.
A moment in time, simple life. Thank you God that I got to grow up in that time, so many memories.
ohh I love this! such wonderful, deep memories!
HC’s music has been used to bring people to understand God’s love through my ministry since the early 70’s. His insight into human hurt, emotions, and the sub conscience- conscience reality of all humanity, give strength and hope. God knows how much I miss him. Rev. Sharpe
1972?
I was born in 2005 but am loving this song.
It artistically tells a story and could still be a hit today.
Quite a compliment because I also like hardcore rap like Sicko Mode by Travis Scott.
Great to hear! Haha- yes 1972! Years ago when in college I took one intro to music class thinking it was going to be an easy 3 credits. Was I wrong! - it was mostly on classical music and composition. I was dying at first but then started to get into it and love this different style as my mind opened up to hear the beauty and work that went into different styles of music. You seem to have that natural talent- 😊
What a great artist, he is sadly missed!
RIP HARRY
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Brilliant, real and very moving. True masterpiece.
One of the best songs ever written!
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Pop and rock are like a sugar high that's fast and fun but doesn't stick with you. Every once in a while you need something more substantial to feast on - like this song.
Hard to believe that July 16th, it will be 41 years ago that we lost him. I remember exactly where I was when I heard he had passed.
Oh the memories. Thank you Harry.
Cheers 🍻.
Best line ever, I stashed the bill in my shirt! RIP Harry
Attended a national fraternity conference in San Diego circa March 1980 at the Del Coronado. He just came in and played for 30 minutes for all of us for free. Not sure if he was staying there and then he passed away 4 months later. Very talented, down to earth, generous, selfless artist.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
We all can relate to his music stories because we have lived them his music and words touch our hearts & mind
Love this song, what life really is
Thanks for the video, saw Harry several times, this song and sequel always choke me up when singing.
I know- I'm afraid to do the sequel. Its so sad I don't think I can do it justice.
In the winter quarter of 1973 at the 2500 seat Fine Arts Theatre on the UGA campus in Athens, GA Harry Chapin performed 2 shows at 7 & 9:30. We had Clair Brothers from London,England contracted for the sound. During the sound check everyone could feel that we were about to witness an exceptional performance . When the lights lite up the stage Harry & his band started easing into his first ballade to hear how good the audience and especially the sound in the venue was ! Harry and his band mates smiled at each other while looking into the whole scene. They didn’t hold back and gave every ounce of energy to both shows. Afterwards we had a rooftop reception for the artists and crew. John Wallace told me that night probably was the best they had ever performed and while talking with Harry & John they said they wished that night had been filmed. They all agreed the shows were that good ! That night and the Elton John show in my opinion were the top shows we produced in Athens. We made UGA a destination for top bands to want to have the experience of being part of one of the cutting edge venues in the world!
Wow what an experience! I agree- wish it was filmed by Harry’s band. You were so lucky to be part of this and prob many other shows at UGA!
Bach in 1978 my squadron VAQ-130 was stationed in the Mediterranean Sea aboard the aircraft carrier USS Forestal. Harry took a helicopter out to the ship, landed on the flight deck and gave a great concert in the hanger bay. He came with no back up singers so he picked a bunch of sailors for that job. Mingled with the crew and ate on the mess decks with the riff raff. He was a decent kinda guy. Sleep well Harry.
That is so awesome! What an experience -and speaks highly of Harry's feelings for veterans
i bought this album when it came out when i was in college.....wonderful, unique stuff....no one else had a cello
Later on, Kansas had that and a violin I believe... They also killed music with classical instruments..
But there is only One Harry Chapin, and One Harry Nilsson... No one else can do this as well..
We are all so blessed..
@@frandanco6289 Fran, believe it or not....Lyle Lovett and his big band had a Cello.....even more daring than the occasional rocker....Harry pulled that Cellist chair right up front and featured him on lead......saw Lyle in person.....country (not) check his big band i used to say "typical country guy plus a lots of brass, cello and black shoop shoop singers" excellent
His live shows were more like a family gathering. We all knew the words, we all felt the love, we all miss him.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
I saw Harry a number of times but the best was at the Theater in the Round in Cleveland. I love his music and seeing him live was life changing. I had tickets to see him three days after he died. It was a very sad day for those of us that loved his music. I still have the tickets.
it was the summer of 1972, I was 21,life changing from one minute to the next , this song impressed me alot. still drifting...
cheers ⛵🍾🍾🍾🏳️🌈
Be careful- new video New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html -but not to promote the video- you are what's important and I feel the song shows that Harry would have wanted you to be happy and a successful in your own life
One of my favorite 70s songs!
I remember listening to this when I was thinking about dropping out of college....
and I kept thinking....WTF...Harry makes the Cab Driver's life seem pretty OK to me!😁
lol
I saw Harry in concett twice. Big
John Wallace and the band were not there. Just Harry sing his stories. Ill alway remember those concerts. And Harry yellong out to the audience. You can always count on the chrap seats. Loved this guy
Cheap seats
Lol about seats! Concerts sound great- good times. Concerts were more like that back then- and Harry yelling out to audience 😊- really connected with the people
Sadly I discovered Harry just a few weeks before that terrible accident on the Long Island Expressway. He's been in my heart ever since. Listen to his songs to this day.
Just an FYI. Harry Chapin entered the US Air Force Academy with the Class of '64, but left soon after he entered. His biggest hit song, "Taxi," referenced his Academy time, as he sang he "was gonna learn to fly" and "took off to find the sky." During the 1975-1976 academic year, he returned to the Academy and played a very well-received concert.
Thank you for that info! I worked with a lot of veterans and listened to them talk and laugh about past “rough”experiences with senior officers. I’m assuming Harry (at that age) didn’t understand the need for discipline and so resigned - I didn’t know one could do that! But also -still assuming- he got attached to some ways and people there, and so developed respect for the force and their mission. And so - the concert!
Very nicely done, nice touch!! From a long time "Harry" fan. :~)
One of the most amazing songs ever written and performed.
Harry came to my college in the late 70's. I was involved to the extent that I was a member of our the college radio station, and I always heard from the event planners that the artist always wanted in addition to their pay, perks. Harry only wanted a warm meal. I think that sums up Harry Chapin, what a talent.
What stories you could tell being part of the college radio! of what kind of people some entertainers really are. And Harry true to form was one of the best
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
I went to Prospect Park in Brooklyn way back when to sit on the lawn and be blessed by hearing him in a free concert to raise money for a worthy charity. His loss still makes me cry. He WAS the better place to be. Bob
Really well done video. He’s a legend. This video is a nice tribute.
Thank you- I agree Harry was-is awesome! May we have a chance to meet him one day.
Cats in the cradle made me return 1600 miles home to visit my dad many times.
Caught him twice in person! Classic.
Wow that’s great
Saw him in concert, Spring of '72. Canobie Lake Amusement Park, NH
The bass player knocked me out with the phenomenal range of his singing voice.
She was the Lady and I am the Tramp but babe I don't get stone no more and I fly away in my Tractor Trailer...yours very truly Alfonso Cantu USMC
I drove a cab for a few months 40 years ago because of Harry and this song. I used to dream that the magic that happened for Harry would happen for me as well.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
It was night. Saw Harry back in the 70s at the Valley Forge Music Fair. Great artist as well as a great good hearted man.
Yes from his songs I can tell he was a good hearted man. With good messages about what's important in life.
This is awesome and beautiful
How are you Harry? I said, how are you Sue? Sweet simple brilliance
During that era I had an older friend who self-taught the classical cello. Upon introducing Harry and Taxi to him, he marveled at the modern application of his beloved instrument.
Introduce your friend to 2 Cellos.
@@randallfrank5682 Is that different from the 3 Tenors? ;-)
a good friend of mine told me about this song back in the early 70s he was not kidding this is an AWESOME song hope you are doing well old friend Andrew Lira.
Yes- would be great if you were able to get in touch with your old friend.
I saw Harry at the Masonic Temple in Scranton, Pa. circa 1973. Great, great show. Wonderful song writer and entertainer.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Thanks Harry!!
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Harry came to Belfast through the dark days. One of the few who did. For that and being at his concerts I am truly thankful.
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html
Harry came through the U.P. of Michigan sometime in the late 70's. He sang at the ole Hedgecock Fieldhouse on the Northern Michigan University campus in Marquette, MI. A bunch of us from the USAF Hospital, K.I. Sawyer AFB went up to see his show. Great story-teller....great times....I truly miss those days!
New Harry Chapin video "A Better Place to Be". Master Storyteller for sure: ua-cam.com/video/0F5wXVoITos/v-deo.html