No one writes stories like this today. Killer lyrics. If they do I’m missing them and they do not have the vocal delivery and presentation impact that Chapin did. I’m teaching myself this song on guitar and love playing it. Good backing band too. We lost him too early in his magical life. Good selection Fil!
Chapin was a national treasure. Taxi was always an important song to me. But it was (too many) many years later I found his song Sequel. I felt like a part of my life had come full circle. I am so happy you chose to recognize Harry
Harry described himself as a third rate rock star. My sister saw him in London in 1977. After the show, he came out and met the fans, and signed autographs. My sister even got a kiss from him.
I saw him a few times and what you’re saying is absolutely right. He usually played somewhat small venues and would come and talk with the fans and yes I got a kiss as well
Fil, I love how you research the artist before you post these videos. You should be a professor of music at Oxford. From now on, I shall refer to you as Dr. Fil.
Yes. He did Harry justice because he was so much more than his music and Fil really did himself proud by showing the man Harry was and the impact that he had. Harry died on his way to a charity concert driving his Volkswagen Rabbit, not the car a mega star would usually be driving, but it matched Harry a simple man who would rather spend his money helping those less fortunate that indulge himself. A real example of a great human being,not by what he said or even sang about, but by his actions and deeds!
Wings of Pegasus and Will Hohenstein Seriously! I’ve been enjoying these breakdowns for a short while now and am staggered by Fil’s bank of knowledge. I’m putting you (Fil) at around 40, give or take. It seems you’ve spent your lifetime listening to, learning about, and appreciating so many styles and genres of music, not to mention that you’re a very accomplished musician yourself. And that you give all these breakdowns without a bit of negative feedback is extraordinary. We are all appreciating you very much-as well as leaning a lot about music some of us have grown up on. Looking forward to discovering more of your content.
My Harry Story. I had been to a couple of his concerts and as his way, he stayed after and sold t- shirts ect.. and signed autographs for his "World Hunger Year" non profit project. I'd been given the book of his poetry so I stood in line to have a word and get an autograph. My turn came and he reached out and gave me a hug and to my great delight kissed me right on my lips. I handed over my book and he took it and smiled, thumbing through it he chuckled and asked with laughter " how many children do you have my dear?" I answered three. Well he said " One of them is quite the artist." True enough I replied. You see one of the rascals had marked with great aplomb the book with green and orange markers. I, perhaps should not have brought my book but I knew he'd understand and he did. At his next visit to Duluth, Minnesota I had front row seats ( in the orchestra pit) and at one point he sat on the edge of the stage and sang " Mail Order Annie" and he looked at me during the song and believe it or not smiled and nodded. When we met again after the show he said after his well placed kiss, " Anymore artwork to show me? I was flabbergasted he remembered and we both laughed when I said not today Mr. Chapin but I'm sure the little guy will paint your portrait one day. I love Harry and miss him.
I have just started talking to my first real girlfriend from 43 years ago and this song does nail the feelings. Harry was just so great and such a good man it was so terrible when he died. R.I.P. Harry.
Man, you hit it all in your opening statements about another immense talent that we lost too soon. We call them dinosaurs for a reason, they were powerful and they walked the musical landscape with big big steps.
Harry Chapin was such an exceptional storyteller, singer, and humanitarian. I saw him perform in 1980 and was so shocked and saddened when he died the following year. Thanks for your analysis and for filling us in on the background of this talented man whose legacy continues to live on.
Thank you for all of the background info, Fil. Harry Chapin was one of the best songwriters who ever lived. No one could tell a story like Harry did. He had a beautiful soul. RIP, Harry. You are missed.
Years ago when I was a professional baseball umpire, I met an older gentleman who was Harry’s mailman years ago. He said he was one of the nicest gentlemen one could ever ask to meet. He said he was devastated when he heard Harry had been killed. I was blessed to have listened to Harry’s records as a child because my dad loves him, and I have been hooked ever since!
Knowing about Harry's life, always brings a tear to my eye. That, only a few years after writing "Cat's in the Cradle" about a father missing his son's formative years, he died from head-on collision with a truck, due to suffering a massive heart attack... and he never got to see his son grow up.
Not head on. It seems like he veered in to the lane in front of a semi. He had put his emergency flashers on. Not sure why the truck driver and company were found at fault in that scenario. Semi drivers often get blamed for others inattention or carelessness although they make mistakes as well.
Thank you for recognizing and paying tribute to this exceptional human being. The world would be a much better place if there were more people like Harry Chapin.
I saw Harry a few times in Toronto. He would always end the concert by turning the lights up and sitting on the edge of the stage to talk to fans. He signed autographs before the show outside of the theatre. What a nice, genuine man and great talent.
Just got to add my praise for a job well done, Fil! Harry Chapin, Jim Croce, Dan Fogelberg. All great story tellers, all lost way too soon. 😔 Thank you for bringing this special music to the forefront, Fil!
I bet Fil gets a real kick out of researching this music from our past. It's obvious Fil is much younger than we are. Nice to see a member of the younger generation appreciate what I grew up with.
Fil, you never cease to amaze me with your pursuit of great music and your amazing ear and taste of said music. Thank you so much for your contribution to the world of music!! ❤👌✌👍
I was sure you were too young to appreciate Mark Farner but your analogy was spot on and with their best song and all of your subsequent analogies as well. Kudos to your musical ear. An old soul is harbored within you, my friend. You choose the cream of the crop. Keep them coming Fil. You Rock!!
One of the best storytellers of all time. I was lucky enough to see Harry in concert the year before he died. Still the best concert I have ever seen. I still go to see his brother Tom when he comes through town.
I stashed the bill in my shirt. I love this tune. You don't hear this hardly at all on the radio, it's always cats in the cradle. Yeah, I still listen to the radio sometimes. Good choice Fil. ROCK!
@@raychambers3646 More a continuation than a bandwagon to be fair - Ken Kragen, who instigated USA for Africa, had been Harry's manager and has stated that he felt it was Harry's spirit working through him to make those events happen.
I can’t image how horrified you were. I saw Harry in concert many times in the Boston area. Always a great time and he always put his whole being into every song. His band mates too were excellent- especially Big John Wallace! And the cello! I still get misty every time I listen. ❤😢❤
Fantastic! Harry is another of the great story teller. He died not far from where I live in NY. Devastating. Besides being such a great talent he devoted so much of his life to helping those less fortunate. I loved him. 🤘✌♥️
Another spot on analysis Fil. I was really young when this and Cats in the Cradle came out. As I age, I see how really special Harry and others were in the 70s. He proved you didn't have to be a loud electric band to win fans over.
I always liked Cats in the Cradle. It really sums up how parents can become workaholics, worried about money and neglecting their children. And at the end he says horrified "And as i hung up the phone it occurred to me; my boy was just like me, my boy was just like me".
I was raised on Harry Chapin. I remember exactly where I was when he died. Both of my parents were crying at the loss of such a great humanitarian and Singer Songwriter. My only accomplishment in the Music world, was learning the entire Varities and Balderdash album as a tribute to my Dad after he passed away. Great video, loved it! Will share with friends and family!
Hi Fil Yet another detailed and worthwhile analysis by you. Thankfully his legacy remains, through his music. Today's music has no chance of comparison. They tell complete stories in a few minutes. Wondrous and bring tears...
Fil - I saw Harry live once and the one thing you missed is that his concerts were just great fun. He was an absolutely great entertainer. He got the audience into his songs and EVERYBODY felt so good just being there
Saw Harry here in the Midwest around 1980 at a small theatre. We had a thunderstorm that night; & the lights went out, he finished solo with a flashlight...it was awe inspiring!
Thank you. Harry is one of my all time favorites and a personal hero. Saw him live twice and wish it could have been more. The second time was with his brothers and the regular band. The show was a total fun time including sing a longs. He completed the Taxi saga with a song called Sequel. He performed them back to back from then on. Cats in the Cradle is another epic along with many others. He placed food collection bins for non perishables outside his concerts for donations to local food banks. He even hung around after shows quite often to chat with the fans. His compassion may never be matched because it was completely genuine. Tom hosted a PBS kids show where he sang and told stories called Make a Wish.
Saw him in London a few times got a book of his poems and my wife got a kiss from him ,absolutely fantastic concert ,all his songs have great story lines,still play them today.
I was always a Harry Chapin fan. He really was a complete package with the writing, arrangements, and musicianship. Great memories. I still listen to him from time to time.
I loved that reaction. The appreciation you have for Harry is quite touching. I saw him live twice in London and he was truly amazing. Greatest lyricist ever in my humble opinion, as can be testified in the sublime Sniper.
I get a doubly warm flood of memories as, besides being touched by Harry’s music, my young family & I were all big fans of his brother Tom’s Sunday morning educational tv show in the U.S. 1971-1975. Harry wrote songs for the show as well. Seems music & gentle uplifting kindness are deep traits in the Chapin family.
Harry was "fabulous". What an artist! I am so pleased youngsters like you are connecting with the old talent! I wore my Chapin albums out. They guided my youth! I mourned for months when he died. I never felt as close to anyone until Tracy Chapman. She helped fill the hole in my life later on.
There was not much more for us to talk about, whatever we had once was gone. Been there. A lifetime ago I had the pleasure of seeing him at the University of Cincinnati Fieldhouse. Thanks for this Fil. It's one of your best.
I saw one of his last concerts. Amazing... He was his own opening act. Came out by himself, played a few songs, then introduced each band member. Such a humble man. Deeply missed.
This was our "roadtrip" song. We didn't have a tape player in the car in 1972, so, we all joined in and sang the song ourselves. So many memories come flooding back. I was lucky enough to see him in concert in a small theater in 1978, too. Thanks.
This song significantly moved my emotions as a young 14 year old school boy in the late 1970’s. The beauty of the composition both musically and lyrically, added to my own memories of the time, equally affects me today..
One of those songs where the older you get, the more you can appreciate and relate to it.The twenty something version of me always liked this song, but I appreciated it more for the story and the pure artistry. Now that I'm 55, I get all that plus a richer appreciation of it and what he was singing about. What a terrific artist and story teller.
Harry was accepted to and attended the United States Air Force Academy. It is very difficult to get accepted to. He left before he was obligated to actually serve in the Air Force. These are what all the references to flying are in this song. Thanks for highlighting all these great artists. Appreciate your efforts!
I have to admit to never listening this intently on the lyrics or composition of this song before. Harry was a great musician. As always it was a great video analysis, Fil
I can remember having to pull the car over and absorb the news when it was announced that Harry Chapin was dead. Great job of reviewing the man and his music. Great shout out for big John Wallace! Wayback in the day when I got suckered into buying laser disks, a Harry Chapin concert was one of the few discs available. The disc kicks off with Harry going solo for “a story of a life” and then transitions into “shooting star” as he introduces the band. It was just wonderful and my kids grew up with it. That concert is available from the Harry Chapin website and I think it’s called “you are the only song”. If you like Harry Chapin it is a must have. I would also recommend one of the “ I stashed the bill in my shirt “ T-shirts!
Two things I learned from this. I didn't know that "Big' John had such a large vocal range and didn't know he was into film. I have his Gold Medal Collection. The stories he tells in interviews alone made the set worthwhile. The story he told of his grandfather's story of two kinds of tired is inspirational.
Harry was one of my favorite artists in the '70's...deeply heartfelt lyrics about life were his gift...such a loss musically, as well his humanitarian work. Wonderful reaction, Fil.
And complements to the TV studio Director. Watched the live setting before broadcasting. He captured every vocal, cut to show individual instrument on cue. Excellent and enthusiastic analysis.
Wow, what a good man he was and so many don't know who he is. RIP Harry Chapin and God bless. Good stories he told. I'm glad people will know more of him from your analysis Fil. You do so much good for those forgotten artists. Awesomeness is Fil ! 👍
I was at university at a fairly small university where Harry played one of his charity concerts. It was only him without the rest of the band, so he had to carry everything, and still did an amazing job. It was a small venue, maybe a hundred people at most, so intimate. This was not long before his tragic death. He was so decent, so caring, so real. It's so true that only the good die young.
"Now if a man tried to take his time on Earth And prove before he died What one man's life could be worth Well, I wonder what would happen to this world?" The first gig I went to was Harry Chapin, Southport Theatre, February 4th, 1981. I was 6 years old. What I wouldn't give to have been a little older at that time. An incredible person, songwriter, performer. We need more like him. Thanks for the video, I always love seeing other people discovering some the great 'unknown' performers (most people look at you blankly when you mention Harry Chapin, but smile when you start singing 'Cat's in the Cradle', or 'W*O*L*D'. God bless you Harry.
Thanks for doing this, Fil! There are a lot of hardcore Harry fans out there (like me lol) who think he was under-rated, over-criticized, and was just known for "Taxi" or "Cat's in the Cradle." He was a great guitarist, and songwriter, and philanthropist... I could go on... Check out his ultimate opus, "There Only Was One Choice." Thanks, again.
Thank you for telling Harry's story and background to those too young to know him. I saw him last in December 1980, the day John Lennon died. He spoke so eloquently about how much Lennon influenced him.
It really is refreshing to see young people appreciate the great music that was the soundtrack of our youth. I’ve so enjoyed a lot of the reaction videos but I always come away from yours having learned something. Thanks for that. Peace.
Wow...I'm lucky to have lived through this era of music. And I'm even luckier to still be alive and have Fil break down why I found the music and the artist so endearing.
My mom took me with her to a Harry Chapin concert in 1977, when I was 7 years old. It remains one of my fondest childhood memories, and I still love his music.
Harry the greatest story teller in song ever , never ever be beaten , still my all time music hero , love him.Thank God I saw him live in U.K. before we lost him forever
Two songs that imo are the absolute best at telling a story that hits me squarely in my solar plexus. Taxi & Cats in the Cradle. Both during & after listening I can think of the lyrics and how devastating the events were upon the person involved. As a teenager both portrayed a place in life I hoped never to be.
October 15 1977 I saw the "Four Together Concert for World Hunger" at Detroit's Olympia Stadium - just Harry, John Denver, James Taylor and Gordon Lightfoot, with Lightfoot's guitarist, Terry Clements and Denver's rotating stage. Bing Crosby had died the day before, and Lightfoot and Denver worked up a duet on Irish Lullaby for the show. Really bad quality audio exists of much of the concert on youtube. And John Denver did the Big John Wallace part on Taxi.
Thanks for your thoughtful reflections on Harry and for helping to keep his spirit and legacies alive. We've shared your video on the Harry Chapin Foundation's Facebook Page.
Harry Chapin's "Greatest Stories Live" album will change your life if you let it.
absolutely. A better place to be, so to speak
Mr Tanner , 30,000 lbs..........of Bananas.. All My Life's a Circle. Great great album
Been listening to this album/8 track/MP3 for decades, it’s amazing! And don’t forget W O L D!
Corey's coming for me
It did mine x
No one writes stories like this today. Killer lyrics. If they do I’m missing them and they do not have the vocal delivery and presentation impact that Chapin did. I’m teaching myself this song on guitar and love playing it. Good backing band too. We lost him too early in his magical life. Good selection Fil!
Chapin was a national treasure. Taxi was always an important song to me. But it was (too many) many years later I found his song Sequel. I felt like a part of my life had come full circle. I am so happy you chose to recognize Harry
All your life's a circle ♪♫♬
I'm glad too, Mr Wilson :)
Sequel was done 10 years after Taxi. It matched the time lapse between the two events
Harry described himself as a third rate rock star. My sister saw him in London in 1977. After the show, he came out and met the fans, and signed autographs. My sister even got a kiss from him.
Cool!
I am jealous.
My wife got one in Charlotte also
I saw him a few times and what you’re saying is absolutely right. He usually played somewhat small venues and would come and talk with the fans and yes I got a kiss as well
Nice comment - thanks
Fil, I love how you research the artist before you post these videos. You should be a professor of music at Oxford. From now on, I shall refer to you as Dr. Fil.
Haha thanks Will!
Yes. He did Harry justice because he was so much more than his music and Fil really did himself proud by showing the man Harry was and the impact that he had. Harry died on his way to a charity concert driving his Volkswagen Rabbit, not the car a mega star would usually be driving, but it matched Harry a simple man who would rather spend his money helping those less fortunate that indulge himself. A real example of a great human being,not by what he said or even sang about, but by his actions and deeds!
Wings of Pegasus and Will Hohenstein Seriously! I’ve been enjoying these breakdowns for a short while now and am staggered by Fil’s bank of knowledge. I’m putting you (Fil) at around 40, give or take. It seems you’ve spent your lifetime listening to, learning about, and appreciating so many styles and genres of music, not to mention that you’re a very accomplished musician yourself. And that you give all these breakdowns without a bit of negative feedback is extraordinary. We are all appreciating you very much-as well as leaning a lot about music some of us have grown up on. Looking forward to discovering more of your content.
@@sfbayareagirl I think he looks younger than 40 but when he talks about his background, he can't be as young as he looks..
@@sfbayareagirl he's 36 and should do a video on his vitamin regimen.
Been listening to Harry Chapin for 50 years. Need I say more.
What a lovely tribute to Harry Chapin. And as I have told my daughters, my generation was and is blessed with superb artists.
You are so right! People today have no idea what it was like to grow up and "adult" with some of the greatest creative minds ever.
My Harry Story. I had been to a couple of his concerts and as his way, he stayed after and sold t- shirts ect.. and signed autographs for his "World Hunger Year" non profit project. I'd been given the book of his poetry so I stood in line to have a word and get an autograph. My turn came and he reached out and gave me a hug and to my great delight kissed me right on my lips. I handed over my book and he took it and smiled, thumbing through it he chuckled and asked with laughter " how many children do you have my dear?" I answered three. Well he said " One of them is quite the artist." True enough I replied. You see one of the rascals had marked with great aplomb the book with green and orange markers. I, perhaps should not have brought my book but I knew he'd understand and he did. At his next visit to Duluth, Minnesota I had front row seats ( in the orchestra pit) and at one point he sat on the edge of the stage and sang " Mail Order Annie" and he looked at me during the song and believe it or not smiled and nodded. When we met again after the show he said after his well placed kiss, " Anymore artwork to show me? I was flabbergasted he remembered and we both laughed when I said not today Mr. Chapin but I'm sure the little guy will paint your portrait one day. I love Harry and miss him.
That feeling when you see an old girlfriend many years later. Its a strange feeling and he captures it here. Always loved this song.
Or old boyfriend.....
I have just started talking to my first real girlfriend from 43 years ago and this song does nail the feelings. Harry was just so great and such a good man it was so terrible when he died. R.I.P. Harry.
He did a follow up to this song on a later album also worth a listen.
Man, you hit it all in your opening statements about another immense talent that we lost too soon. We call them dinosaurs for a reason, they were powerful and they walked the musical landscape with big big steps.
Robert Horn Great comment!
Big John had a five octave vocal range, simply incredible...
Harry Chapin was such an exceptional storyteller, singer, and humanitarian. I saw him perform in 1980 and was so shocked and saddened when he died the following year. Thanks for your analysis and for filling us in on the background of this talented man whose legacy continues to live on.
One of the greatest story songs ever. It takes a true artist to fit a 400 page novel into a 6 minute song! Al Stewart's "Roads to Moscow" is another.
I forgot about Al Stewart. Another good story teller and excellent guitar player.
@brad zybola Lol!
YES, Al Stewart, very different backrounds and ending but 'Al' COUNTS!
Thank you for all of the background info, Fil. Harry Chapin was one of the best songwriters who ever lived. No one could tell a story like Harry did. He had a beautiful soul. RIP, Harry. You are missed.
Years ago when I was a professional baseball umpire, I met an older gentleman who was Harry’s mailman years ago. He said he was one of the nicest gentlemen one could ever ask to meet. He said he was devastated when he heard Harry had been killed. I was blessed to have listened to Harry’s records as a child because my dad loves him, and I have been hooked ever since!
Harry has made me cry so many times. He remains my favourite songwriter and most admired humanitarian.
Here in Nova Scotia, each summer we pay tribute to Harry Chapin in festival ,,thanx for this young man
This song is one of those that you never forget because the story and his singing really touch you.
Knowing about Harry's life, always brings a tear to my eye. That, only a few years after writing "Cat's in the Cradle" about a father missing his son's formative years, he died from head-on collision with a truck, due to suffering a massive heart attack... and he never got to see his son grow up.
They say that his heart was in good condition but very badly damage from the accident.
@@wingsofpegasus really? I should Google it to read up more, since my knowledge predates the Internet :)
Not head on. It seems like he veered in to the lane in front of a semi. He had put his emergency flashers on. Not sure why the truck driver and company were found at fault in that scenario. Semi drivers often get blamed for others inattention or carelessness although they make mistakes as well.
Thank you for recognizing and paying tribute to this exceptional human being. The world would be a much better place if there were more people like Harry Chapin.
We still have Tom.
I saw Harry a few times in Toronto. He would always end the concert by turning the lights up and sitting on the edge of the stage to talk to fans. He signed autographs before the show outside of the theatre. What a nice, genuine man and great talent.
Just got to add my praise for a job well done, Fil!
Harry Chapin, Jim Croce, Dan Fogelberg. All great story tellers, all lost way too soon. 😔
Thank you for bringing this special music to the forefront, Fil!
Hello Alanna!
@brad zybola Hi Brad , you goof, lol!
@brad zybola Hi Paula! Nice to meet You! 😀
I bet Fil gets a real kick out of researching this music from our past.
It's obvious Fil is much younger than we are.
Nice to see a member of the younger generation appreciate what I grew up with.
@@paulablissett9396 Hi Paula! 🖐
Song always haunts me out. Guess that’s what great songwriting is all about. Pretty special.
Bill White and almost ' magical to touch emotion
This one haunts me too
Have you heard the longer version where he adds a verse and its later?
Everyone knows and loves the hits, but Harry's music deserves a deep dive. He will open your eyes. You might even see things from differing angles.
Fil, you never cease to amaze me with your pursuit of great music and your amazing ear and taste of said music. Thank you so much for your contribution to the world of music!! ❤👌✌👍
I was sure you were too young to appreciate Mark Farner but your analogy was spot on and with their best song and all of your subsequent analogies as well. Kudos to your musical ear. An old soul is harbored within you, my friend. You choose the cream of the crop. Keep them coming Fil. You Rock!!
Thanks Shawn!
I agree! Best channel on youtube!!
Thanks 🙏 for featuring him. Sad we lost him so young
Great story about a story teller who gave us music and so much more. Well done Fil
ToeB001 Woof what a huge loss
Crying for the loss of this GREAT TALENT 🙁
One of the best storytellers of all time. I was lucky enough to see Harry in concert the year before he died. Still the best concert I have ever seen. I still go to see his brother Tom when he comes through town.
I stashed the bill in my shirt. I love this tune. You don't hear this hardly at all on the radio, it's always cats in the cradle. Yeah, I still listen to the radio sometimes. Good choice Fil. ROCK!
The song is too long. I think his longest is There Was Only One Choice
Years before "We Are The World" and "Live Aid," Harry was a one-man show accomplishing the same thing for those 80+ different charities.
Exactly ,you sometimes feel that they jumped on the bandwagon ,but HC started it more power to him and his legacy.
@@raychambers3646 More a continuation than a bandwagon to be fair - Ken Kragen, who instigated USA for Africa, had been Harry's manager and has stated that he felt it was Harry's spirit working through him to make those events happen.
He was killed on the way to a concert on the Long Island Expressway. We drove past the wreck on the way to the concert. We miss you, Harry.
I can’t image how horrified you were. I saw Harry in concert many times in the Boston area. Always a great time and he always put his whole being into every song. His band mates too were excellent- especially Big John Wallace! And the cello! I still get misty every time I listen. ❤😢❤
The depth of this man must be heralded as complimentary to the depth of his music. A great performer and a great man. Thanks for that backstory.
Fantastic! Harry is another of the great story teller. He died not far from where I live in NY. Devastating. Besides being such a great talent he devoted so much of his life to helping those less fortunate. I loved him. 🤘✌♥️
debbie basile I remember his music, but was not aware he also helped the less fortunate, that’s really cool
@@gwag8410 Yes what a great person ! ♥️
Another spot on analysis Fil. I was really young when this and Cats in the Cradle came out. As I age, I see how really special Harry and others were in the 70s. He proved you didn't have to be a loud electric band to win fans over.
I always liked Cats in the Cradle. It really sums up how parents can become workaholics, worried about money and neglecting their children. And at the end he says horrified "And as i hung up the phone it occurred to me; my boy was just like me, my boy was just like me".
Thank you Fil for recognizing this man, 47 years ago I fell in love with this music, it will live in eternity.
I was raised on Harry Chapin. I remember exactly where I was when he died. Both of my parents were crying at the loss of such a great humanitarian and Singer Songwriter. My only accomplishment in the Music world, was learning the entire Varities and Balderdash album as a tribute to my Dad after he passed away. Great video, loved it! Will share with friends and family!
Hi Fil
Yet another detailed and worthwhile analysis by you. Thankfully his legacy remains, through his music. Today's music has no chance of comparison. They tell complete stories in a few minutes. Wondrous and bring tears...
Fil - I saw Harry live once and the one thing you missed is that his concerts were just great fun. He was an absolutely great entertainer. He got the audience into his songs and EVERYBODY felt so good just being there
Saw Harry here in the Midwest around 1980 at a small theatre. We had a thunderstorm that night; & the lights went out, he finished solo with a flashlight...it was awe inspiring!
Thank you. Harry is one of my all time favorites and a personal hero. Saw him live twice and wish it could have been more. The second time was with his brothers and the regular band. The show was a total fun time including sing a longs. He completed the Taxi saga with a song called Sequel. He performed them back to back from then on. Cats in the Cradle is another epic along with many others. He placed food collection bins for non perishables outside his concerts for donations to local food banks. He even hung around after shows quite often to chat with the fans. His compassion may never be matched because it was completely genuine. Tom hosted a PBS kids show where he sang and told stories called Make a Wish.
Cool!
Me an my uncle saw him in concert in Scranton pa. We were so lucky to one of the great storytellers of all time
Saw him in London a few times got a book of his poems and my wife got a kiss from him ,absolutely fantastic concert ,all his songs have great story lines,still play them today.
He did a show called the Cottonpatch gospel. The music and it is absolutely incredible.
I went to school with his son and daughter. From Huntington•LongIsle ny
I think the accident was on the LIE [long island expressway]?
Jen is a very nice person. She is putting out pretty good music in her own right. Check her out. jenchapin.com/
Fil, thank you for highlighting Chapin’s performance. For me Chapin was about as good as story-telling singer/ songwriters get.
What an awesome and tragic story. Another musician from my childhood that takes me back in time. Thanks Fil.
THANKS SO MUCH for analysing the singer songwriters of the 60s & 70s who contributed so much to music
I was always a Harry Chapin fan. He really was a complete package with the writing, arrangements, and musicianship. Great memories.
I still listen to him from time to time.
👍
Possibly the greatest of the late great story tellers.
I loved that reaction. The appreciation you have for Harry is quite touching. I saw him live twice in London and he was truly amazing. Greatest lyricist ever in my humble opinion, as can be testified in the sublime Sniper.
I get a doubly warm flood of memories as, besides being touched by Harry’s music, my young family & I were all big fans of his brother Tom’s Sunday morning educational tv show in the U.S. 1971-1975. Harry wrote songs for the show as well. Seems music & gentle uplifting kindness are deep traits in the Chapin family.
wow, brings back lots of 70's memories, - thanks Fil !!
Thanks for posting this- a truly remarkable story and performance, not only Harry himself, but the other musicians as well.
I was just a girl when this song came out. I have always loved it. The music is so great, the story is even better! Love Harry Chapin❤
I liked this guy way back then. He was on the radio alot. sad ending.
@brad zybola my condolenceses. no, no story.
Harry was "fabulous". What an artist! I am so pleased youngsters like you are connecting with the old talent! I wore my Chapin albums out. They guided my youth! I mourned for months when he died. I never felt as close to anyone until Tracy Chapman. She helped fill the hole in my life later on.
There was not much more for us to talk about, whatever we had once was gone. Been there. A lifetime ago I had the pleasure of seeing him at the University of Cincinnati Fieldhouse. Thanks for this Fil. It's one of your best.
So hauntingly beautiful. I remember when he died. So sad. He was wonderful! Thank you for all of his background. 🤘 Pam
God. This brings back memories. A whole different world ago...
So many great songs by Harry, Flowers are red and green, great message.
Green trees are green!
I saw one of his last concerts. Amazing... He was his own opening act. Came out by himself, played a few songs, then introduced each band member. Such a humble man. Deeply missed.
Amen.
This was our "roadtrip" song. We didn't have a tape player in the car in 1972, so, we all joined in and sang the song ourselves. So many memories come flooding back. I was lucky enough to see him in concert in a small theater in 1978, too. Thanks.
Dance Band on the Titanic and Sniper are another couple of my favorites.
This song significantly moved my emotions as a young 14 year old school boy in the late 1970’s. The beauty of the composition both musically and lyrically, added to my own memories of the time, equally affects me today..
One of those songs where the older you get, the more you can appreciate and relate to it.The twenty something version of me always liked this song, but I appreciated it more for the story and the pure artistry. Now that I'm 55, I get all that plus a richer appreciation of it and what he was singing about. What a terrific artist and story teller.
Loved his music. I grew up listening to his story's. A really tragic way to die so young.
Harry was accepted to and attended the United States Air Force Academy. It is very difficult to get accepted to. He left before he was obligated to actually serve in the Air Force. These are what all the references to flying are in this song. Thanks for highlighting all these great artists. Appreciate your efforts!
I've loved Harry for 44 years.
I have to admit to never listening this intently on the lyrics or composition of this song before. Harry was a great musician. As always it was a great video analysis, Fil
Kathy Prior Good point. I forgot to mention that.
Hats off to Mrs. Chapin for keeping the foundation active. I’m sure that’s what he would’ve wanted
I can remember having to pull the car over and absorb the news when it was announced that Harry Chapin was dead. Great job of reviewing the man and his music. Great shout out for big John Wallace! Wayback in the day when I got suckered into buying laser disks, a Harry Chapin concert was one of the few discs available. The disc kicks off with Harry going solo for “a story of a life” and then transitions into “shooting star” as he introduces the band. It was just wonderful and my kids grew up with it. That concert is available from the Harry Chapin website and I think it’s called “you are the only song”. If you like Harry Chapin it is a must have. I would also recommend one of the “ I stashed the bill in my shirt “ T-shirts!
Fil, Thanks for reacting to this genius.
Great choice Fil. Thanks!
Two things I learned from this. I didn't know that "Big' John had such a large vocal range and didn't know he was into film. I have his Gold Medal Collection. The stories he tells in interviews alone made the set worthwhile. The story he told of his grandfather's story of two kinds of tired is inspirational.
Harry was one of my favorite artists in the '70's...deeply heartfelt lyrics about life were his gift...such a loss musically, as well his humanitarian work.
Wonderful reaction, Fil.
A great song made even better by Fil's analysis. Thank you for recognizing the great talent of Chapin.
One of the greatest storytellers ever! Cat’s in the Cradle still moves me! No one else like him!
Legendary, such a wonderful example he was in so many different ways.
And complements to the TV studio Director. Watched the live setting before broadcasting. He captured every vocal, cut to show individual instrument on cue. Excellent and enthusiastic analysis.
Wow, what a good man he was and so many don't know who he is. RIP Harry Chapin and God bless. Good stories he told. I'm glad people will know more of him from your analysis Fil. You do so much good for those forgotten artists. Awesomeness is Fil ! 👍
Thanks!
I was at university at a fairly small university where Harry played one of his charity concerts. It was only him without the rest of the band, so he had to carry everything, and still did an amazing job. It was a small venue, maybe a hundred people at most, so intimate. This was not long before his tragic death. He was so decent, so caring, so real. It's so true that only the good die young.
Wow, I remember when this tune came out...so hauntingly beautiful...the story of so many lives, thank you Harry, thank you Fil. 🚖💫👍👍
"Now if a man tried to take his time on Earth
And prove before he died
What one man's life could be worth
Well, I wonder what would happen to this world?"
The first gig I went to was Harry Chapin, Southport Theatre, February 4th, 1981. I was 6 years old. What I wouldn't give to have been a little older at that time. An incredible person, songwriter, performer. We need more like him. Thanks for the video, I always love seeing other people discovering some the great 'unknown' performers (most people look at you blankly when you mention Harry Chapin, but smile when you start singing 'Cat's in the Cradle', or 'W*O*L*D'. God bless you Harry.
Amen.
I love Harry Chapin. The man was like a wizard bringing his stories to life through music. Thanks, and keep up the fantastic work.
Thanks for doing this, Fil! There are a lot of hardcore Harry fans out there (like me lol) who think he was under-rated, over-criticized, and was just known for "Taxi" or "Cat's in the Cradle." He was a great guitarist, and songwriter, and philanthropist... I could go on... Check out his ultimate opus, "There Only Was One Choice." Thanks, again.
No argument about “There Only Was One Choice”, but “Taxi” & “Sequel” show the man’s amazing lyrical genius.
@@damonmusselman406 Agreed. Love Sequel.
Way to go Phil !
Great taste in 🎶 Music
Great taste in People
Phenomenal Job Here🙏
Excellent choice and analysis
Thank you for telling Harry's story and background to those too young to know him. I saw him last in December 1980, the day John Lennon died. He spoke so eloquently about how much Lennon influenced him.
It really is refreshing to see young people appreciate the great music that was the soundtrack of our youth. I’ve so enjoyed a lot of the reaction videos but I always come away from yours having learned something. Thanks for that. Peace.
So much we didn’t know, thanks Fil....
10th grade shop class 1972, Linton HS. Iwas lucky enough to see a live concert of Harry on the USS ForrestalCV59 in Mayport FL, about 1978--ish...
Wow...I'm lucky to have lived through this era of music. And I'm even luckier to still be alive and have Fil break down why I found the music and the artist so endearing.
Another Great American story teller. (RIP🙏 Harry!)Keep em coming Fil! I really enjoy your channel! 👏👏👏
My mom took me with her to a Harry Chapin concert in 1977, when I was 7 years old. It remains one of my fondest childhood memories, and I still love his music.
Harry the greatest story teller in song ever , never ever be beaten , still my all time music hero , love him.Thank God I saw him live in U.K. before we lost him forever
Two songs that imo are the absolute best at telling a story that hits me squarely in my solar plexus. Taxi & Cats in the Cradle. Both during & after listening I can think of the lyrics and how devastating the events were upon the person involved. As a teenager both portrayed a place in life I hoped never to be.
October 15 1977 I saw the "Four Together Concert for World Hunger" at Detroit's Olympia Stadium - just Harry, John Denver, James Taylor and Gordon Lightfoot, with Lightfoot's guitarist, Terry Clements and Denver's rotating stage. Bing Crosby had died the day before, and Lightfoot and Denver worked up a duet on Irish Lullaby for the show. Really bad quality audio exists of much of the concert on youtube. And John Denver did the Big John Wallace part on Taxi.
Thank you. Yes, he was such an amazing musician and human being. Thank you for putting this out there.
Thank you for refreshing my memory about this fine musician. from E.T..G.San Rafaell Ca.
Have always loved Harry's songs, his delivery, his message, his music... everything resonated
Thanks for your thoughtful reflections on Harry and for helping to keep his spirit and legacies alive. We've shared your video on the Harry Chapin Foundation's Facebook Page.
Thanks!