@@ProfessorofRock If you asked me 30 mins ago if I'd ever listen to a piece about Sedaka I would have said you're crazy. But that was a great tale about perserverance that anybody can relate to and I listened to the whole piece. I even dug up Lea Roberts version which was great. Congrats to Neil.
I've been in the same loud violent metal band for 30 years. I always tell everyone Kiss was my first concert in 78 at age 11. But really my first concert was Neil Sedaka and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons in 76. I loved that show. I loved Bad Blood and the Breaking Up is Hard to do remake. Laughter in the Rain. And Frankie Valli had a hit then December 1963. What an awesome song. I love my Metal and I love my hardcore, but music from the 50s and 60s was magic. I love your stories and your channel. Thank you for this one.
.....both Neil & Frankie / The Four Seasons (or should I say, Gaudio & Crewe) are INCREDIBLY underrated - follow-up album Helicon is VERY good as well; would've LOVED to see that double bill MYSELF, Brian (but I was only 13-14 at the time, too.....)
My sweetest memory of Neil Sedaka is my Mom walking on a cloud after my Dad took her to one of his concerts. Thankful for the years of enjoyment and pray for more.
In the Capt & Tenille cover of Love Will Keep Us Together in '75, at the end of that song they sing triumphantly "Sedaka is back!" Thanks for putting that one line of music history in its proper context.
I'm Danish, 71 years of age, and I've loved Sedaka's songs all my life, also "Love Will Keep Us Together". Neil Sedaka has made so many great songs it's almost impossible to know all of them. Not until recently I found out that one of my all time favorites: "One Way Ticket (To The Blues)" by Eruption (everyone thinks it's Boney M) was originally sung by Neil Sedaka, released as the B-side of his 1959 world wide hit single "Oh! Carol" though not written by Sedaka but by Jack Keller ("Beautiful Dreamer", "Venus In Blue Jeans", and 400+ more) and Hank Hunter... 🤘🤠
Is there any one person in the world that doesn't love "Laughter in the Rain"? I think not. Love you Neil and thank you for sharing your life and talent.
In 1970 I paid $5 for tickets to see Led Zeppelin with money from my first summer job. My mother thought that extravagant because she'd recently seen Neil Sedaka at some club for only $2. We both got our money's worth.
My sister gave me a ticket to Led Zeppelin in the early 70's Memorial Collesium P Town Orygun but I couldn't tell you who opened for them..... too stoned
I would love to see both, especially Zeppelin, they are more my taste but I have great respect for Neil, I grew up to both but was born in the early 70s so I missed the boat on seeing them live.
In 1971 I saw Jethro Tull for $5.00. Your concert dollar sure went a lot farther back then! (A record album was between $3 and $5 back then, so a concert was about the same price as an album. Now, a Taylor Swift album might be under $20, but a concert requires a bank loan!)
Neil was an underrated voice. Very smooth. Thank goodness for Elton John, huh? Elton has always helped other artists. Good dude. Thanks Professor. Have an awesome Tuesday and great t-shirt.
OMG! You got to talk to and interview Neil Sedaka! Wow! I'm impressed. His numerous hits are impressive and *instantly* recognizable as the popular rock `n roll it always was and still is! Thanks Professor. One of your best interviews. And Neil is way cooler than I ever realized. And *that* is hard to do/be once you're past the age of 30. Lol!
That interview was incredible! My absolute favorite song as a 14-year-old was "Bad Blood" with its super cool vibe. And actually his immediate followup to "Laughter In The Rain" was the great song "The Immigrant" which he dedicated to John Lennon, proving no ill will toward the Beatles having upended his career all those years earlier. The part in the interview when he welled up with tears touched me so much. I do the same thing sometimes when I think of my wife and how great she is to me. The man has quite a heart and this interview pushed me into considering myself as a true fan of Neil Sedaka. Thank you Professor!!
Great interview. I already knew that Neil is a lovely guy because a friend of mine knew him briefly in London back in the 1970s but it's great to see him looking so contented and full of life. I was hoping though that there would have been some mention of the part that the fellows who would soon become 10CC played in Neil's comeback. That's a great story which is well worth making a future programme about.
I saw Neil perform in Vegas in 1982. I had absolutely no idea of his career history, of course. I remember I heard his songs on the radio and wanted to see him. This video is a real gem because you’ve told a really interesting story about a musician with a career history I would never had imagined. Neil Sedaka was (perhaps still is) a great singer with catchy songs that I sing along with whenever I hear them. Thank you for offering this story.
This episode has moved me more than any other I have watched. I have always loved Neil Sedaka's music. I had no idea about Elton's role in Neil's comeback. It's a wonderful story about generosity and resilience. Neil Sedaka is a true legend, alongside Elton John. Bless them both.
@@ProfessorofRock Good morning Adam. This was an excellent show! I adored Maurice Gibb too. Funny how they were great friends! "Laughter in the Rain" is a classic tune that will always remain in my heart! I don't know why I'm shocked but Neil can still sing so well! God Bless him. From what I can remember about him is the fact that he would always talk about his "Darling Wife Reva ?" I absolutely adore him. Fantastic show Adam! As per usual. #ProfessorOfRock #NeilSadaka #LaughterIntheRain
It makes sense Elton John attended a Neil Sedaka show. Elton John has collected records since he was a kid. He would shop at Tower Records in California buying loads of records. He always appreciates music legends.
Finally a mention of Lenny Welch, one of my favorites of all time........I know this is about Sedaka but he gets a lot of attention. Lenny has one of the best, smoothest voices to ever record!!!! Neil seems like a true gentleman and Breaking Up Is Hard To Do deserves all the accolades it receives. I feel the same about Laughter in the Rain too Prof!!!
Elton John singing backup on “Bad Blood” was a stroke of musical genius because it gave onion-layered buildup to the point where they came together, giving a very satisfying payoff. GREAT song!!
During the pandemic, Neil would post videos of himself playing music and telling stories about his music on his Facebook page. It was one of the things that I truly looked forward to. 😊
I enjoyed watching those videos during the pandemic as well. I feel Neil Sedaka was kind of lost during the barrage of so much incredible music in the’70’s however I am glad that people found him again because it is so obvious that this is a guy who Loves entertaining everyone with his music!! 👍😊🎶 IMO
I love Neil Sedaka's 1970's output. His remake of Breaking Up is just beautiful. This is one of your best interviews. He is such a down to Earth, humble man.
Sedaka is a legend. I remember hearing laughter in the rain when I was growing up. Also, bad blood, which was awesome. This is one of your best episodes. ❤❤❤
Love Neil Sedaka. I have his entire catalog of songs in my record collection. He has always been one of my very favorite music artists ever. "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do" is my favorite song from his pre-Beatles recording career (1958-1963) while "Laughter In The Rain" is my favorite song from his comeback era 1975-1980. He is one of the greatest piano-playing, singer-songwriters of all time. Sadly, he is one of the very few rock pioneers who has yet to be inducted into the rock and roll hall of Fame and very much belongs. Professor, thank you for this interview with one of my musical heroes.
Some may consider Neil Sedaka anything but a Rock-n-roller, but as shown by today's episode, like Elton John, he was a song writing genius. Thanks Professor!
THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH for doing this video and that fabulous interview with Neil Sedaka. I've been a fan of Neil Sedaka ever since I can remember hearing music. Besides the wonderful old lady at our local church singing the hymns so beautifully, Neil Sedaka was my absolute favorite artist that ever song on my little transistor radio. My first transistor radio was given to me by my paternal grandfather. He told me, "Don't listen to garbage. Be picky about what and who you listen to. You'll hear a lot of music, but will only really LISTEN to just a few singers and bands, and just a few songs will capture you because they mean something to you." How do I remember those words in such detail? Because I have been one who actually APPRECIATES the music far beyond the catchy beat with the infectious melody. All my life when I heard a song, ANY song, I listened to it in layers, noticing and somehow singling out every instrument, every vocal, every nuance that most people don't even notice, which caused my ability to enjoy music even more because I could appreciate everything that went into every song - whether it took just ten minutes to write and only a single take to record, or if it took years to write and weeks to record one single song - I didn't just hear the music, I LISTENED to music - even on the stuff recorded in mono for single speaker transistor radios, and I totally appreciated all of the music. The songs that capture my attention the most are the songs that capture my heart, my appreciation for every intricate detail of the song, just as one appreciates every minute detail in an intricately sculptured masterpiece statue from hundreds of years ago. I guess that most folks would consider me to be weird, but I dont mind. I understand me, Jesus understands me, and He created me to appreciate things that others don't even notice. Musicians like Neil Sedaka are few and far between. Elton John saw Neil Sedaka like I see Neil Sedaka, and he had the connections and means to help revitalize Sedaka's career. That is even more proof that our Father in heaven will use whoever He wants WHENEVER He wants in order to bless those who have blessed others exponentially, which is through music in Neil Sedaka's case. His music is uplifting, encouraging, and simply brings joy to folks, even on the worst days. Thanks again, Adam. I enjoy most of your shows and interviews, yet still every so often you outdo yourself with a treasure like THIS episode featuring, even STARRING Neil Sedaka. What a blessing YOU are as well, buddy! Once again you made my day!
Growing up in the 70s and 80s during the disco and hard rock eras, I had to hide the fact that I was a secret BIG fan of Mr. Sedaka. I especially remember replaying "Blad Blood" several times as I was dumbfounded to hear the "B" word on the radio! My friends who used to tease me for my Sedaka passion were then singing the song loudly to be cool. I just smiled and smiled. Thank you for a great interview with one of my favorite artists.
Once again you tell the story of an artist I knew of all my life and then given me a deeper perspective of their personal experiences and musical career. Well done Professor.
Professor of Rock, glad that you're able to interview the many of the aging artists. Amazing interview with Neil Sedaka. His comeback in the mid 1970s was part of the background music for my high school years. At the time this interview was posted, Mister Sedaka was 85 years old!
Laughter in the Rain grabbed the listener's attention with the catchy lyrics and production. Thank you for this episode because hearing this again made my day.
I love the grounded reality of this channel!!! *If you are not in the financial market space right now, you are making a huge mistake. I understand that it could be due to ignorance, but if you want to make your money work for you..prevent inflation..*
I feel sympathy and empathy for our country, low income earners are suffering to survive, and I appreciate Wayne. You've helped my family with your advice. imagine investing $10,000 and receiving $35,460 after 28 days of trading.
Did someone just mention Mr Wayne!? Damn! You just made my day; what a coincidence.. I've worked with him for over 2years and I can tell how good he is
That was one of the best interviews I have ever watched on your show. I always wondered why they sang “Sedaka is back!” in The Captain and Tennille sing Live Will Keep Us Together”. I am so proud of Elton John for throwing him a lifeline. He literally was the greatest rockstar in 1975. What a wonderful thing for him to want to bring back Sedaka.
Saw Neil Sadaka in my hometown. Got right up front next to his piano. He made eye contact with me during a song and then waved at me. Best day ever up to that point!
"Laughter in the Rain" is one of my favorite songs of all time too. And "Bad Blood" is so much fun! I once heard Suzanne Somers sing the ballad version of "Breaking Up is Hard to Do" in a performance for our troops, and I sang her version all around the house for years, pretending to be her. 😁 I always love your interviews with Neil. He's such a nice man with a great sense of humor. YAY, YOU MENTIONED THE PARTRIDGE FAMILY! 😁 Can't wait for your episode about them and David! The Monkees, The Archies, next The Partridge Family. Thanks for this great episode, Adam. Have a fantastic day.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 LILY! I misremembered. It was Breaking Up Is Hard to Do! And it's here!! I can't paste links here, but it came up at the top of my search for Suzanne Somers Breaking up is hard to do. Woo hoo!
Laughter In the Rain is one of the greatest love songs of all time!! I still love listening to it now on my favorite Oldies station!! They way he describes his encounter is amazing!! You can picture the scene in your mind!! Thanks for another great video Professor Of Rock!! Cindy Snow
Great interview. Neil had several hits here in Australia during his "hungry years". In 1968 "Star Crossed Lovers" went to #1 and in 1970 "Wheeling West Virginia" reached #9. These are two of my favourite songs by Neil and the latter one reminds me of riding the bus on the way to high school, which is where I first heard it played on the radio. Neil toured Australia many times during that period (usually performing at local clubs) and even recorded an album here ("Workin' On A Groovy Thing") in 1969/70.
I was a hard rock fan, didn't pay much attention to a lot of pop at the time. I was home sick from school and caught Neil Sedaka on the Mike Douglas show. He performed "Breaking up is hard to do as a ballad. Mike Douglas asked him to play a little bit of it in the original style that it was recorded. As a teen aged musician, I was impressed with how he reworked it for another hit.
I know this show is about Sedaka, but Island Girl is truly a forgotten Elton John song. I remember winning the album in a 3rd Grade pumpkin drawing contest at the local mall... Lol!
.....have NEVER understood why that whole ALBUM - Rock Of the Westies; some of EJ's BEST songs - "I Feel Like A Bullet (In The Gun Of Robert Ford)", to name but ONE - wasn't FAR more esteemed.....
WOW! Adam, you were naming off people who did different versions of this song and WOW no two were the same style of music!! Talk about the power of one song! Glad to see Mr. Sedaka (who has been married for almost 60 yrs to the same Lady) Still looking healthy and having stories at 85!!! Thank you Adam - I love your content because you really appeal to not just Gen X but our parents and I have shown some of these to my family who are in their 70's!!!
When you talked about "Laughter in the Rain" When it came on (yes, I agree it is an amazing song!) nope you can't turn it off! NOT EVEN THIS HARD ROCK GOTH CHICK! When it came out my father played me the 45's be had of his of his original hits (yes, my father was like yours)!! The part about his family I am glad his family had his back then and still does! That makes soo much the difference!! Thank you Elton John!!!
HAHAHA!! I know we in California had what we called "Pirate Radio" Stations - yes off Catalina Island boats that had strong signals and played what they wanted - They had those in England! OH WOW!!!!
"Laughter In the Rain" is the most joyous song about being in love that I can think of - Elton is a gem of a human being for bringing Neil back into our lives. I much prefer the ballad version of "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do." Love all the background information of this episode!
Neil Sedaka has a unique voice. As a kid I could also identify him on the radio just by his voice. I grew up listening to his songs and enjoyed all of them. To me, when he made a come back it really wasn't a come back. I had always heard his music on the radio, and his new songs were just more current version of his song style. in the Captain & Tennille song that Sedaka wrote "Love Will Keep Us Together" and they said Sedaka is bad I knew who they were talking about I was only 8 years old. A Great Artist.
Neil played songs on his YT channel during COVID and kept our spirits up. Thanks Neil!!! Now let's get him in the Rock and Roll HOF; he is in the Songwriters HOF, but should also be in the RRHOF.
The first time I heard Laughter in the Rain on the radio, I looked at the radio, recognized the voice and said, "My God!!! That's Neil Sedaka." One of the greatest songs ever.
YAY!!! Sedaka's been a top fave of mine since "Oh, Carol!" He was still performing when I moved to Vegas about 20 years ago, and I finally got to see his shows. What a versatile, virtuosic talent! I haven't started your vid yet, and I'm already stoked!
Whenever I think of Neil Sedaka, the very first thing that comes into my mind is the Captain and Tenille part in "Love Will Keep Us Together" where they sing "Sedaka's back"
Neil Sedaka is one of the singers I always listen on radio or being played at home or car. 'Laughter in the Rain' is one of the most calming songs of a few I know liking to hear it anytime.
I think Neil Sedaka's "Laughter In The Rain" is my favorite. He co-wrote w/ Howard Greenfield, "Love Will Keep Us Together", the 1975 Song Of The Year!!! (Captain & Tennille cover version).
I still listen to Sedaka from time to time. Sedaka is a national treasure. I recall Laughter in the Rain from the 70s as a high school student. Love the ballad of Breaking up is Hard to do. Elton John often helped bring older artists back to the forefront. Re: Leon Russell towards the end of his life.
Sedaka was my 1st concert ever. My mother was a huge fan and took me with her to see him when I was 6. I would call myself a rock & metal fan today at 58 yrs old, but I still love the oldies.
Bad Blood one of my favorites! Ten years old and a little profanity over looked because the song was just so darn good! Especially Neil with Elton! Two amazing voices! Loved hearing Neil's interview! Thanks Professor! 😊
A very moving interview. Thank you, Professor. I bought, then proceeded to wear out Neil's greatest hits LP from his earlier 60's career, back in 1974. That unmatched, unexplainable, early-60's, "Brill Building" anointing to churn out the catchiest, melodic tunes in history had surely fallen on Neil Sedaka and his co-writing peers. One hit that was supposed to be his that he had already laid down his vocal tracks, arrangement and piano parts on, had to be given to Gene Pitney instead because RCA, who Neil had recently switched over to wouldn't release it because it wasn't recorded in their studios. Everything on Gene's version was the same recording except Neil's voice. "It Hurts To Be In Love" (1964), which to me has the cutest-sounding backing vocals ever provided by the beautiful Toni Wine who was one-half of Dawn, Tony Orlando's back-up singers.
Growing up, it seemed like Neil Sedaka was the composer for so many songs. It seemed like he was one of the top composer at the time. I now know that there were many others, but it doesn't diminish his impact. He's a legend.
Laughter in the Rain was my 2nd song I played as a fledgeling 7th grade DJ. We used Christmas lights to transform St. Thomas More to a dance club in 1974. Wildfire was the first song I played and had my first slow dance with older 8th grader Chris Reinl. She was also on my afternoon bowling team but I never made a move *Sigh lol My second song was Laughter in The Rain. When I hear it I’m dancing with Classmate Toni Bazil. Thanks again Professor❤
Thank you so much Professor, what an incredible interview with Neil Sedaka. I truly believe that everyone should listen to the masters of Sedaka, whether you are a fan or not, there are so many songs out there who universally don't know were written and composed by Neil.. You will be so surprised by his song-writing and songs as over the decades, there are so many hit records. I missed his early years with songs like Oh Carol, Calendar girl and the Original, Breaking Up is Hard to Do and his comeback in the 70s with Laughter in the Rain and other magnificent songs like The Immigrant. I became a fan and grew up with his return in the 90s; and listening to all of his Greatest Hits releases with other amazing albums like Love Will Keep us Together, where he recorded a slow version of Love and other CDs including Tales of Love, with other new breathtaking tracks like Inseparable and When Your Gone, which can recommend to you whatever your age. Whether you saw Sedaka in Concert in the 70s or the 00s, it makes no difference, he is a real showman and if you haven't you have sadly missed out on seeing one of the best live performances you will ever see, he is Timeless. More recently there are new songs such as You and Do You Remember that are outstanding,, also he has written and recorded his own symphony called Manhattan Intermezzo. Please Professor; if you have the opportunity to interview him again, please could you ask him about his 2nd comeback in the 90s and also about the 00s and recent years. Lastly; Neil Sedaka is Rock and Roll and should be introduced to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and be recognised more of what he has achieved as an Artist and contributed to the Music Industry.
Hey Professor! What a great interview!Thank you,Neil had so many great songs.Laughter In The Rain is my favorite,although it reminds me of a long lost love.
Neil Sedaka is a fantastic interview!! I grew up on his music and definitely always one of my favorites. I still listen to his singles. You did a fantastic job covering so many phases of his career. Also couldn't agree more it's criminal to change the station when Laugher in the Rain. One of my favorite interviews, what a great artist!!
The love of my life just said that, outside of us and her and my kids, many people forget about Neil and all the great music he has recorded and preformed.
First song I heard by Sedaka was’Going Nowhere’ which is a song that really hits you and makes you listen. I imagine that one is more of a hidden gem. Fantastic song. Loved this interview and ‘Laughter in the rain’ is an outstanding song
In 1977 Neil Sedaka came to the Nebraska State Fair and Andy Gibb opened for him. I was 7 and it was my very first concert. I remember just being in awe of the whole live experience. The lights, the costumes and especially the music.
You or so lucky to get to meet all of the iconic I think favorite show on your channel is when the artists gets to tell you how they wrote there masterpiece then it makes me smile as and artists of a poet to hear that they do the same as me it's so cool to see tome thank you
Thanks for telling the story of Neil's comeback via Elton John, which is how I was introduced to his talent. Neil was one of the Brill Building kids: Carole King, Neil Diamond, and Neil Sedaka, all churning out hits. Like Elton, Neil utilized a lyricist -- or three -- and intriguingly, his songs were often very vulnerable, a la Joni Mitchell, "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do" but also "The Other Side Of Me" and "Stephen" [an homage to songwriter Stephen Foster] and also "New York City Blues." Sedaka is easily a secret favorite of mine. Again, wonderful to hear from Neil through this interview you did. Kudos.
The Casey Kasem clip you played, I remember vividly hearing that countdown in real time back in the day. I always thought the remake of "BUIH2D" was one of the most clever moments in music history.
Poll: What is your pick for the GREATEST "OLDIES" Song of the Early Rock era (55-67)?
In The Still Of The Night
God Only Knows Beach Boys.
Rock around the Clock
Ella Fitzgerald - Misty
Nico - These Days
Otis Redding - For Your Precious Love
I'll nominate ... "That'll Be the Day" by Buddy Holly.
Neil is sharp as a tack at 85. A true gem.
He's a great guy!
@@ProfessorofRock If you asked me 30 mins ago if I'd ever listen to a piece about Sedaka I would have said you're crazy. But that was a great tale about perserverance that anybody can relate to and I listened to the whole piece. I even dug up Lea Roberts version which was great. Congrats to Neil.
I would want to meet him someday.
As opposed to Frankie Valli
I always liked Neil Sedaka's music. From this interview I can see how happy he was that you and us viewers are still listening to his music
Yes indeed!
I grew up listening to "Calendar Girl" from our parents' 45 collection. 😎👍
Great story, and Elton was compassionate and very astute. Sedaka was talented and still had more to offer.
I had forgotten what a good song Bad Blood is. Thanks, Professor.
You're welcome!
Agreed. Great to be reminded of it.
I've been in the same loud violent metal band for 30 years. I always tell everyone Kiss was my first concert in 78 at age 11. But really my first concert was Neil Sedaka and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons in 76. I loved that show. I loved Bad Blood and the Breaking Up is Hard to do remake. Laughter in the Rain. And Frankie Valli had a hit then December 1963. What an awesome song. I love my Metal and I love my hardcore, but music from the 50s and 60s was magic. I love your stories and your channel. Thank you for this one.
.....both Neil & Frankie / The Four Seasons (or should I say, Gaudio & Crewe) are INCREDIBLY underrated - follow-up album Helicon is VERY good as well; would've LOVED to see that double bill MYSELF, Brian (but I was only 13-14 at the time, too.....)
My sweetest memory of Neil Sedaka is my Mom walking on a cloud after my Dad took her to one of his concerts. Thankful for the years of enjoyment and pray for more.
In the Capt & Tenille cover of Love Will Keep Us Together in '75, at the end of that song they sing triumphantly "Sedaka is back!" Thanks for putting that one line of music history in its proper context.
I loved it when they said that!
Came here to say this. Nicely done.
Yes I forgot about that.
I'm Danish, 71 years of age, and I've loved Sedaka's songs all my life, also "Love Will Keep Us Together". Neil Sedaka has made so many great songs it's almost impossible to know all of them. Not until recently I found out that one of my all time favorites: "One Way Ticket (To The Blues)" by Eruption (everyone thinks it's Boney M) was originally sung by Neil Sedaka, released as the B-side of his 1959 world wide hit single "Oh! Carol" though not written by Sedaka but by Jack Keller ("Beautiful Dreamer", "Venus In Blue Jeans", and 400+ more) and Hank Hunter... 🤘🤠
Yes! Yes they do!❤
Is there any one person in the world that doesn't love "Laughter in the Rain"? I think not. Love you Neil and thank you for sharing your life and talent.
So good!
Yes, there is at least one person in the world who...
In 1970 I paid $5 for tickets to see Led Zeppelin with money from my first summer job. My mother thought that extravagant because she'd recently seen Neil Sedaka at some club for only $2.
We both got our money's worth.
My sister gave me a ticket to Led Zeppelin in the early 70's Memorial Collesium P Town Orygun but I couldn't tell you who opened for them..... too stoned
Your Mom got a much better deal
I would love to see both, especially Zeppelin, they are more my taste but I have great respect for Neil, I grew up to both but was born in the early 70s so I missed the boat on seeing them live.
In 1971 I saw Jethro Tull for $5.00. Your concert dollar sure went a lot farther back then! (A record album was between $3 and $5 back then, so a concert was about the same price as an album. Now, a Taylor Swift album might be under $20, but a concert requires a bank loan!)
Bizarrely Neil had a song called "Stairway to Heaven"
Neil was an underrated voice. Very smooth.
Thank goodness for Elton John, huh? Elton has always helped other artists. Good dude.
Thanks Professor.
Have an awesome Tuesday and great t-shirt.
You'd better have an awesome Tuesday as well Roger!
@Code.Name.V
Thank Ya. 😁
Agree about the shirt and the voice.
@@TerrickTerran
Just so smooth that people overlook him.
Thanks Roger! Have a great day!
OMG! You got to talk to and interview Neil Sedaka! Wow! I'm impressed. His numerous hits are impressive and *instantly* recognizable as the popular rock `n roll it always was and still is! Thanks Professor. One of your best interviews. And Neil is way cooler than I ever realized. And *that* is hard to do/be once you're past the age of 30. Lol!
That interview was incredible! My absolute favorite song as a 14-year-old was "Bad Blood" with its super cool vibe. And actually his immediate followup to "Laughter In The Rain" was the great song "The Immigrant" which he dedicated to John Lennon, proving no ill will toward the Beatles having upended his career all those years earlier.
The part in the interview when he welled up with tears touched me so much. I do the same thing sometimes when I think of my wife and how great she is to me. The man has quite a heart and this interview pushed me into considering myself as a true fan of Neil Sedaka. Thank you Professor!!
Laughter...Among the few 45s my allowance went straight to Gene's Record store.
Laughter in the rain, one of the most beautiful songs ever!
Great interview. I already knew that Neil is a lovely guy because a friend of mine knew him briefly in London back in the 1970s but it's great to see him looking so contented and full of life.
I was hoping though that there would have been some mention of the part that the fellows who would soon become 10CC played in Neil's comeback. That's a great story which is well worth making a future programme about.
Neil Sedaka and Frankie Valli are iconic for their falsetto...so good these icons are still kicking at their age!
I hope POR gets ahold of Valli next.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980: sadly, he's in BAD shape : (
I saw Neil perform in Vegas in 1982. I had absolutely no idea of his career history, of course. I remember I heard his songs on the radio and wanted to see him. This video is a real gem because you’ve told a really interesting story about a musician with a career history I would never had imagined. Neil Sedaka was (perhaps still is) a great singer with catchy songs that I sing along with whenever I hear them. Thank you for offering this story.
Elton John is such a gentleman. He not only helped Neil Sedaka, but also Leon Russell… helping elevate people is awesome.
This episode has moved me more than any other I have watched. I have always loved Neil Sedaka's music. I had no idea about Elton's role in Neil's comeback. It's a wonderful story about generosity and resilience. Neil Sedaka is a true legend, alongside Elton John. Bless them both.
Thank god for the 50's, 60's and 70's. Anyone who didn't experience Neil Sedaka back then missed one of the best times in history.
Thanks!
I adore Neil Sedaka. My mom bought his greatest hits on 8-track and I completely wore that tape out. His music still makes me smile today. :)
Sedaka is a master. I've been a fan for 50 years. Neil is also the only artist I can think of who also had a cerified hit with one of his children.
Frank & Nancy Sinatra. Song Something Stupid.
Oh yes! Zara or Dara was her name. I can’t remember the song though.
Dara: Should’ve Never Let You Go
Breaking Up Is Hard to Do is a classic song and I'm glad Neil managed to make a comeback when many others would have stopped.
So true!
@@ProfessorofRock
Good morning Adam. This was an excellent show! I adored Maurice Gibb too. Funny how they were great friends! "Laughter in the Rain" is a classic tune that will always remain in my heart! I don't know why I'm shocked but Neil can still sing so well! God Bless him. From what I can remember about him is the fact that he would always talk about his "Darling Wife Reva ?" I absolutely adore him. Fantastic show Adam! As per usual.
#ProfessorOfRock
#NeilSadaka
#LaughterIntheRain
It makes sense Elton John attended a Neil Sedaka show. Elton John has collected records since he was a kid. He would shop at Tower Records in California buying loads of records. He always appreciates music legends.
Yep, Elton knows his music history!
ikr i think elton john heard it so many times that he showed it to bernie taupin to inspire the song the ***ch is back
I love how musically inclined Elton John is.
Finally a mention of Lenny Welch, one of my favorites of all time........I know this is about Sedaka but he gets a lot of attention. Lenny has one of the best, smoothest voices to ever record!!!! Neil seems like a true gentleman and Breaking Up Is Hard To Do deserves all the accolades it receives. I feel the same about Laughter in the Rain too Prof!!!
Cool! Thanks for sharing!
Elton John singing backup on “Bad Blood” was a stroke of musical genius because it gave onion-layered buildup to the point where they came together, giving a very satisfying payoff. GREAT song!!
I agree. I don't hear it as much anymore though!
During the pandemic, Neil would post videos of himself playing music and telling stories about his music on his Facebook page. It was one of the things that I truly looked forward to. 😊
He’s a great guy!
I enjoyed watching those videos during the pandemic as well. I feel Neil Sedaka was kind of lost during the barrage of so much incredible music in the’70’s however I am glad that people found him again because it is so obvious that this is a guy who Loves entertaining everyone with his music!! 👍😊🎶 IMO
I remember that!
Great story. I remember liking his music as a kid back in the early 70’s. Neil was a legend. Cheers from Tulua, Colombia 🇨🇴
I love Neil Sedaka's 1970's output. His remake of Breaking Up is just beautiful. This is one of your best interviews. He is such a down to Earth, humble man.
Sedaka is a legend. I remember hearing laughter in the rain when I was growing up. Also, bad blood, which was awesome. This is one of your best episodes. ❤❤❤
Love Neil Sedaka. I have his entire catalog of songs in my record collection. He has always been one of my very favorite music artists ever. "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do" is my favorite song from his pre-Beatles recording career (1958-1963) while "Laughter In The Rain" is my favorite song from his comeback era 1975-1980. He is one of the greatest piano-playing, singer-songwriters of all time. Sadly, he is one of the very few rock pioneers who has yet to be inducted into the rock and roll hall of Fame and very much belongs. Professor, thank you for this interview with one of my musical heroes.
Breaking Up is Hard to Do is so catchy.
Some may consider Neil Sedaka anything but a Rock-n-roller, but as shown by today's episode, like Elton John, he was a song writing genius. Thanks Professor!
THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH for doing this video and that fabulous interview with Neil Sedaka. I've been a fan of Neil Sedaka ever since I can remember hearing music. Besides the wonderful old lady at our local church singing the hymns so beautifully, Neil Sedaka was my absolute favorite artist that ever song on my little transistor radio. My first transistor radio was given to me by my paternal grandfather. He told me, "Don't listen to garbage. Be picky about what and who you listen to. You'll hear a lot of music, but will only really LISTEN to just a few singers and bands, and just a few songs will capture you because they mean something to you." How do I remember those words in such detail? Because I have been one who actually APPRECIATES the music far beyond the catchy beat with the infectious melody. All my life when I heard a song, ANY song, I listened to it in layers, noticing and somehow singling out every instrument, every vocal, every nuance that most people don't even notice, which caused my ability to enjoy music even more because I could appreciate everything that went into every song - whether it took just ten minutes to write and only a single take to record, or if it took years to write and weeks to record one single song - I didn't just hear the music, I LISTENED to music - even on the stuff recorded in mono for single speaker transistor radios, and I totally appreciated all of the music. The songs that capture my attention the most are the songs that capture my heart, my appreciation for every intricate detail of the song, just as one appreciates every minute detail in an intricately sculptured masterpiece statue from hundreds of years ago.
I guess that most folks would consider me to be weird, but I dont mind. I understand me, Jesus understands me, and He created me to appreciate things that others don't even notice. Musicians like Neil Sedaka are few and far between. Elton John saw Neil Sedaka like I see Neil Sedaka, and he had the connections and means to help revitalize Sedaka's career. That is even more proof that our Father in heaven will use whoever He wants WHENEVER He wants in order to bless those who have blessed others exponentially, which is through music in Neil Sedaka's case. His music is uplifting, encouraging, and simply brings joy to folks, even on the worst days.
Thanks again, Adam. I enjoy most of your shows and interviews, yet still every so often you outdo yourself with a treasure like THIS episode featuring, even STARRING Neil Sedaka. What a blessing YOU are as well, buddy! Once again you made my day!
Growing up in the 70s and 80s during the disco and hard rock eras, I had to hide the fact that I was a secret BIG fan of Mr. Sedaka. I especially remember replaying "Blad Blood" several times as I was dumbfounded to hear the "B" word on the radio! My friends who used to tease me for my Sedaka passion were then singing the song loudly to be cool. I just smiled and smiled. Thank you for a great interview with one of my favorite artists.
Once again you tell the story of an artist I knew of all my life and then given me a deeper perspective of their personal experiences and musical career. Well done Professor.
Professor of Rock, glad that you're able to interview the many of the aging artists. Amazing interview with Neil Sedaka. His comeback in the mid 1970s was part of the background music for my high school years. At the time this interview was posted, Mister Sedaka was 85 years old!
Beautiful man, even more beautiful voice. Love his songs.
Laughter in the Rain grabbed the listener's attention with the catchy lyrics and production. Thank you for this episode because hearing this again made my day.
I love the grounded reality of this channel!!!
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That was one of the best interviews I have ever watched on your show. I always wondered why they sang “Sedaka is back!” in The Captain and Tennille sing Live Will Keep Us Together”. I am so proud of Elton John for throwing him a lifeline. He literally was the greatest rockstar in 1975. What a wonderful thing for him to want to bring back Sedaka.
Indisputably by far the best interview you achieved ❤
Saw Neil Sadaka in my hometown. Got right up front next to his piano. He made eye contact with me during a song and then waved at me. Best day ever up to that point!
You SAW, it WAS seen, but you did not seen. 😅 sorry, Im the grammar nazi ..and I will own it
@@PhoenixRising-p2v ???????
"Laughter in the Rain" is one of my favorite songs of all time too. And "Bad Blood" is so much fun! I once heard Suzanne Somers sing the ballad version of "Breaking Up is Hard to Do" in a performance for our troops, and I sang her version all around the house for years, pretending to be her. 😁 I always love your interviews with Neil. He's such a nice man with a great sense of humor. YAY, YOU MENTIONED THE PARTRIDGE FAMILY! 😁 Can't wait for your episode about them and David! The Monkees, The Archies, next The Partridge Family.
Thanks for this great episode, Adam. Have a fantastic day.
Thanks Jill!
Is the Suzanne version on UA-cam?
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 , I've never been able to find it. It was from a longer special entertaining the troops sometime in the '70s.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 LILY! I misremembered. It was Breaking Up Is Hard to Do! And it's here!! I can't paste links here, but it came up at the top of my search for Suzanne Somers Breaking up is hard to do. Woo hoo!
Laughter In the Rain is one of the greatest love songs of all time!! I still love listening to it now on my favorite Oldies station!! They way he describes his encounter is amazing!! You can picture the scene in your mind!! Thanks for another great video Professor Of Rock!! Cindy Snow
Rock on! Cindy!
I think my favorite Neil Sedaka tune is "Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen." The melody is absolutely wonderful.
Yes it is!
Neil Sadaka IS pop music. What an awesome interview!
What a great guy and a great talent!
Great interview. Neil had several hits here in Australia during his "hungry years". In 1968 "Star Crossed Lovers" went to #1 and in 1970 "Wheeling West Virginia" reached #9. These are two of my favourite songs by Neil and the latter one reminds me of riding the bus on the way to high school, which is where I first heard it played on the radio. Neil toured Australia many times during that period (usually performing at local clubs) and even recorded an album here ("Workin' On A Groovy Thing") in 1969/70.
Incredible surprise Prof. Thanks. What a nice man. Even rockers like me appreciate pop talent.
I was a hard rock fan, didn't pay much attention to a lot of pop at the time. I was home sick from school and caught Neil Sedaka on the Mike Douglas show. He performed "Breaking up is hard to do as a ballad. Mike Douglas asked him to play a little bit of it in the original style that it was recorded. As a teen aged musician, I was impressed with how he reworked it for another hit.
Neil still looks great. Great to hear from him again. Much love 💜😎✌️👍💜
I know this show is about Sedaka, but Island Girl is truly a forgotten Elton John song. I remember winning the album in a 3rd Grade pumpkin drawing contest at the local mall... Lol!
Awesome! Thanks for sharing! ❄️☃️🎄✌🏼
Island Girl is one of my favorites!
Love that song and would love to add it to my Island band's playlist, however it's a little problematic in 2024. Maybe as an instrumental.
.....have NEVER understood why that whole ALBUM - Rock Of the Westies; some of EJ's BEST songs - "I Feel Like A Bullet (In The Gun Of Robert Ford)", to name but ONE - wasn't FAR more esteemed.....
WOW! Adam, you were naming off people who did different versions of this song and WOW no two were the same style of music!! Talk about the power of one song! Glad to see Mr. Sedaka (who has been married for almost 60 yrs to the same Lady) Still looking healthy and having stories at 85!!! Thank you Adam - I love your content because you really appeal to not just Gen X but our parents and I have shown some of these to my family who are in their 70's!!!
When you talked about "Laughter in the Rain" When it came on (yes, I agree it is an amazing song!) nope you can't turn it off! NOT EVEN THIS HARD ROCK GOTH CHICK! When it came out my father played me the 45's be had of his of his original hits (yes, my father was like yours)!! The part about his family I am glad his family had his back then and still does! That makes soo much the difference!! Thank you Elton John!!!
HAHAHA!! I know we in California had what we called "Pirate Radio" Stations - yes off Catalina Island boats that had strong signals and played what they wanted - They had those in England! OH WOW!!!!
@@vanessahenry7238 : "Radio Caroline' on that side of the BIG pond.....
Neil Sedaka's voice is still like butter. ❤ Great interview POR!! 🥰
Happy Birthday to the great Paul Rodgers(75)!
GOAT SINGER!
YES! A true rock and roll legend.
"Laughter In the Rain" is the most joyous song about being in love that I can think of - Elton is a gem of a human being for bringing Neil back into our lives. I much prefer the ballad version of "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do." Love all the background information of this episode!
Love Neil’s work. Elton really put him back on track. I wonder how many other hits he could have made in 10 years…Thanks Adam!
Neil Sedaka has a unique voice. As a kid I could also identify him on the radio just by his voice. I grew up listening to his songs and enjoyed all of them. To me, when he made a come back it really wasn't a come back. I had always heard his music on the radio, and his new songs were just more current version of his song style. in the Captain & Tennille song that Sedaka wrote "Love Will Keep Us Together" and they said Sedaka is bad I knew who they were talking about I was only 8 years old. A Great Artist.
Neil played songs on his YT channel during COVID and kept our spirits up. Thanks Neil!!! Now let's get him in the Rock and Roll HOF; he is in the Songwriters HOF, but should also be in the RRHOF.
I loved that!
The first time I heard Laughter in the Rain on the radio, I looked at the radio, recognized the voice and said, "My God!!! That's Neil Sedaka." One of the greatest songs ever.
What a great interview! Thanks fir doing this. I always think of Better Off Dead when I hear Breaking Up Is Hard to Do.
Great interview. You can see the great connection that you have with Neil and how he appreciates your questions and reactions.
I am so glad that you had this interview with Neil. ❤
Great job, Professor! Another excellent show and I think your best interview. Neil Sedaka as an American treasure. He still has his wonderful voice.
YAY!!! Sedaka's been a top fave of mine since "Oh, Carol!" He was still performing when I moved to Vegas about 20 years ago, and I finally got to see his shows. What a versatile, virtuosic talent! I haven't started your vid yet, and I'm already stoked!
Adam, this is without a doubt one of your best interviews. More than that, it was a conversation, some real engagement. Cheers, bro!
God! I love Laughter in the Rain so much. I will never get tired of listening to it.
Whenever I think of Neil Sedaka, the very first thing that comes into my mind is the Captain and Tenille part in "Love Will Keep Us Together" where they sing "Sedaka's back"
I love Neil Sedaka.... Laughter in the Rain is my favorite ever ❤ thank you for this
Neil Sedaka is one of the singers I always listen on radio or being played at home or car. 'Laughter in the Rain' is one of the most calming songs of a few I know liking to hear it anytime.
Your last Sedaka interview was one of my favorite ever done on your channel, really looking forward to see him again!
YOu bet!
I think Neil Sedaka's "Laughter In The Rain" is my favorite. He co-wrote w/ Howard Greenfield, "Love Will Keep Us Together", the 1975 Song Of The Year!!! (Captain & Tennille cover version).
Amen!
And he originally recorded it in 1973!
Laughter in the rain is one of the greatest songs ever recorded. I just love it.
I still listen to Sedaka from time to time. Sedaka is a national treasure. I recall Laughter in the Rain from the 70s as a high school student. Love the ballad of Breaking up is Hard to do. Elton John often helped bring older artists back to the forefront. Re: Leon Russell towards the end of his life.
That's right!
I was wondering when you would cover Neil Sedaka! Bad Blood has such a funky sound! Thank you Professor!
He’s a legend!
A living legend at 85 - keep 'em coming Neil, thank you...?
Thanks!
Sedaka was my 1st concert ever. My mother was a huge fan and took me with her to see him when I was 6. I would call myself a rock & metal fan today at 58 yrs old, but I still love the oldies.
Bad Blood one of my favorites! Ten years old and a little profanity over looked because the song was just so darn good! Especially Neil with Elton! Two amazing voices! Loved hearing Neil's interview! Thanks Professor! 😊
Thanks Cheryl!
A very moving interview. Thank you, Professor. I bought, then proceeded to wear out Neil's greatest hits LP from his earlier 60's career, back in 1974. That unmatched, unexplainable, early-60's, "Brill Building" anointing to churn out the catchiest, melodic tunes in history had surely fallen on Neil Sedaka and his co-writing peers. One hit that was supposed to be his that he had already laid down his vocal tracks, arrangement and piano parts on, had to be given to Gene Pitney instead because RCA, who Neil had recently switched over to wouldn't release it because it wasn't recorded in their studios. Everything on Gene's version was the same recording except Neil's voice. "It Hurts To Be In Love" (1964), which to me has the cutest-sounding backing vocals ever provided by the beautiful Toni Wine who was one-half of Dawn, Tony Orlando's back-up singers.
.....realized MYSELF just now that Gene and Neil, sound SO similar - said minor 7th change, HEAVILY evokes the 'Rockville Rocket' tonally.....
Mr. Sedaka is a true LEDGEND❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
So humble and talented beyond belief.
I love Neil Sedaka❤❤❤❤❤
Agreed!
So great to see Neil Sedaka again. Thank you!
More to come!
I saw Neil Sedaka in Brisbane Australia with my parents. He was awesome..
Neil Sedaka, quite a show man. I took a date to Sedaka show at Ravinia (Chicago area) in the 70s. He could really play piano.
He's a great player!
Two of the most beautiful sad love songs of all time “Solitaire” and “The Hungry Years” both by NeilSedaka.
Growing up, it seemed like Neil Sedaka was the composer for so many songs. It seemed like he was one of the top composer at the time. I now know that there were many others, but it doesn't diminish his impact. He's a legend.
Laughter in the Rain was my 2nd song I played as a fledgeling 7th grade DJ.
We used Christmas lights to transform St. Thomas More to a dance club in 1974.
Wildfire was the first song I played and had my first slow dance with older 8th grader Chris Reinl. She was also on my afternoon bowling team but I never made a move *Sigh lol
My second song was Laughter in The Rain. When I hear it I’m dancing with Classmate Toni Bazil. Thanks again Professor❤
Thank you so much Professor, what an incredible interview with Neil Sedaka. I truly believe that everyone should listen to the masters of Sedaka, whether you are a fan or not, there are so many songs out there who universally don't know were written and composed by Neil.. You will be so surprised by his song-writing and songs as over the decades, there are so many hit records. I missed his early years with songs like Oh Carol, Calendar girl and the Original, Breaking Up is Hard to Do and his comeback in the 70s with Laughter in the Rain and other magnificent songs like The Immigrant. I became a fan and grew up with his return in the 90s; and listening to all of his Greatest Hits releases with other amazing albums like Love Will Keep us Together, where he recorded a slow version of Love and other CDs including Tales of Love, with other new breathtaking tracks like Inseparable and When Your Gone, which can recommend to you whatever your age.
Whether you saw Sedaka in Concert in the 70s or the 00s, it makes no difference, he is a real showman and if you haven't you have sadly missed out on seeing one of the best live performances you will ever see, he is Timeless. More recently there are new songs such as You and Do You Remember that are outstanding,, also he has written and recorded his own symphony called Manhattan Intermezzo. Please Professor; if you have the opportunity to interview him again, please could you ask him about his 2nd comeback in the 90s and also about the 00s and recent years. Lastly; Neil Sedaka is Rock and Roll and should be introduced to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and be recognised more of what he has achieved as an Artist and contributed to the Music Industry.
One of the greatest singer song writers of all time !!! A pioneer in the business !! Another Icon !! Thank you so much ❤!!!!
My favorite Sedaka is The Immigrant written about John Lennon. What a great tribute.
Agreed. Good song!
Seems especially relevant in these times.
Love everything the Professor is enlightening with us
Hey Professor! What a great interview!Thank you,Neil had so many great songs.Laughter In The Rain is my favorite,although it reminds me of a long lost love.
Neil Sedaka is a fantastic interview!! I grew up on his music and definitely always one of my favorites. I still listen to his singles. You did a fantastic job covering so many phases of his career. Also couldn't agree more it's criminal to change the station when Laugher in the Rain. One of my favorite interviews, what a great artist!!
Thanks My Name!
It’s a feel good song especially for the morning.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I agree. Merry Christmas Lilly!!
@ merry Christmas to you too! See you on here tomorrow!
Neil Sedaka also worked on the English translation for ABBA's song- Ring Ring.
The love of my life just said that, outside of us and her and my kids, many people forget about Neil and all the great music he has recorded and preformed.
First song I heard by Sedaka was’Going Nowhere’ which is a song that really hits you and makes you listen. I imagine that one is more of a hidden gem. Fantastic song. Loved this interview and ‘Laughter in the rain’ is an outstanding song
In 1977 Neil Sedaka came to the Nebraska State Fair and Andy Gibb opened for him. I was 7 and it was my very first concert. I remember just being in awe of the whole live experience. The lights, the costumes and especially the music.
Definitely needs to be in the hall of fame while he's living.
You or so lucky to get to meet all of the iconic I think favorite show on your channel is when the artists gets to tell you how they wrote there masterpiece then it makes me smile as and artists of a poet to hear that they do the same as me it's so cool to see tome thank you
I talked to him here in Las Vegas for nearly 2 hours!
Awesome! I'll bet you've met a lot of famous people there. 😄
@LaManteca76 Donot get me started!
Thanks for telling the story of Neil's comeback via Elton John, which is how I was introduced to his talent. Neil was one of the Brill Building kids: Carole King, Neil Diamond, and Neil Sedaka, all churning out hits.
Like Elton, Neil utilized a lyricist -- or three -- and intriguingly, his songs were often very vulnerable, a la Joni Mitchell, "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do" but also "The Other Side Of Me" and "Stephen" [an homage to songwriter Stephen Foster] and also "New York City Blues." Sedaka is easily a secret favorite of mine.
Again, wonderful to hear from Neil through this interview you did. Kudos.
The Casey Kasem clip you played, I remember vividly hearing that countdown in real time back in the day. I always thought the remake of "BUIH2D" was one of the most clever moments in music history.
Great questions all the way through, Professor!
Thanks Dave!