I started listening to this on 7/16/21. Bought this 8 track 45 years ago. I had no idea it was the anniversary of his death. Wow. RIP, Harry. Glad I got to see you in concert, so many years ago.
Was a huge Harry Chapin fan and organized a Harry Chapin Memorial Day at University of Redlands that same year we lost him! It was well attended and i even had a local minister, Robert Wallace speak on world hunger, which if you know anything about the man was Harry's soul project. He gave half of everything he earned to fight against hunger! An amazing humanitarian and i stoll listen to him every day. World's Shortest Story will also make one cry! God rest your rich soul, Harry.
I saw Harry Chapin a couple of months before he died....even though I have seen Pink Floyd, the Dead, and a host of other phenomenal acts, HIS concert was still the best I have EVER seen.
I bought tickets to see Harry at a small theater in Davenport Iowa in 1975, I was disappointed to find out after I purchased the tickets that would be just Harry at the show and not the whole group of singers and musicians. This show with just Harry and his accoustic guitar was the best show I have ever been to. Just Harry, just accoustic. Awesome!!!!!! I willnever forget how personal he was and how he engaged the whole audience for almost 3 hours.....
@@a2ndopynyn There is a concert on U Tube, Just exactly what you are looking for. Type in U Tube Harry Chapin Full Concert 10/21/78 Capital Theater. The concert is just Harry and his acoustic guitar. Although interestingly enough Chevy Chase comes out at the very beginning of the concert & shoots a few hoops with Harry. Then Chevy Chase helps out on the opening number. A great show I think you will enjoy.
@@a2ndopynyn O Good, Happy for you. Also earlier this evening when I was searching for that concert for you I stumbled upon a show called... "Harry Chapin Behind The Music" (U Tube) It is a 44:05 minutes long and gives a great back story behind Harry & his 3 brothers growing up and goes all the way through his career & passing. I watched it during the overnight hours and it was really great too. If you get a chance I hope you enjoy.
As do I. As a 64 year old codger I have had the privilege of introducing this song to my music major college junior son as he bemoaned the unqualufiesmpeoplemrendering opinions that ruined his enjoying his expression of his need to sing. He said this song is his life and now puts Harry on the top of his list of musical influences.
I can get through this song but if I try to explain it to someone, I start the bawl every time. Heard this the first time at an outdoor concert in Ohio and it just got to me. What a great balladeer!!!
I was born in 1982 so I never had the honor of seeing him perform.. Its thanks to my dad that my brother and I grew up listening to Harry and we still do. Every time we get together.. I could never hold back the tears when singing this one. When my son was born I would sing Mr. Tanner to him as a lullaby every night. Such a beautiful song :)
Same here, born in 78, but my best friend colleen, born in 1955 she grew up with his music and I got to learn more of his music behind cats in the cradle. Such an amazing, big hearted, talented and comical guy. Sadly colleen passed away this last week from copd, and I'm glad I got to be by her side these last few months. I'm listening to Harry right now reminiscing many of our good memories together. Harry is helping me right now while grieving the loss oof my best friend. Her faith is strong and so is mine, and I know we will be together again some day. Thank you Harry for helping me cope
As an engineer and producer I can attest to the truth expressed in this song. Far too often I have seen great talent be dismissed. Usually by those who have no talent of their own.
My mother loved Harry Chapin, I grew up with him and he is part of my soul. I was going to see him at the Club Casino in Hampton Beach, NH when I was only about 12 or 13 years old and just before the concert he was killed in a car accident. My mom played his records all night the day he died. I'll never forget it. He is the best story song writer ever, these songs still bring out so many feelings in me 40 years later.
My former priest (I'm an Episcopalian) was a tenor. I know he wanted to do it professionally but something happened. He became an ordained priest instead. I have a CD of one of the concerts he did for our church. Whenever I hear this song, I think of Fr. Greg.
I'm usually not a fan of live, but the songs on this album are the best, and for some, the first time I've heard them. While some artists flare and fade with equal speed, others remain, even long past their deaths. These are the storytellers, the ones whose music speaks to us on a very cerebral level. Along with Jim Croce and John Denver, Harry Chapin is one of those who will live on for a very long time. Too young too soon....
You forgot a few...Johnny Cash, Tom T. Hall, John Prine, Lacy J, Dalton, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Arlo Guthrie, Nancy Griffiths, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson, to name a few.
I'm a Mr.Tanner.Tried so hard all my life,I had the voice but not the crowd appeal (looks). I resolved myself to karaoke ,and won some competitions.Everyone said "why don't you do this professionally? You know that shoulder shrug you give when you don't really believe someone? " Thus I sing to myself and any drunk in a karaoke bar,but it does make me feel good.
No, I meant the big hairy guy with the beautiful tenor who sang with Chapin. However, John Denver was another terrific storyteller. As was Harry Nielsen
One of my most favorite songs on this album. A must for any Harry Chapin fan. RIP Harry we all love and miss you so much. I can't wait to get to Heaven for a concert. Love you my brother. 🌹😇🙏
Their was only one Harry and he was the best and we lost him way to soon. His band was very unique for their time, so much depth with their music. Love to listen to them
A fan from the early 70's, and Mr Tanner is one of my favorites. I was extremely fortunate to see him every fall from 76-80. I was stationed at the US Air Force Academy (in the hospital) the cadets would arrive aprox 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time. Myself and a few friends from the hospital went every year as soon as we could get into the facility. The first year he said hi to us, and we got to listen to a private concert (warm up) for about 2 or 3 hours. The following years, he recognized us, and walked right down to the front row and talk for a bit, and he thanked us for coming each year. For those who don't know, Harry attended the USAF Academy for 1 year, (1960) then dropped out. He seemed to have never gotten over this event in his life, he sang about flying (Taxi) and mentioned his dropping out every year to the cadets. He told the cadets how he was told by his squadron commander if he quit, he would have a hard time the rest of his life succeeding, because failing was easier. Then he would point to the crowd and say "I did become something" but you could tell, because he mentioned it every year, that it still bothered him. I was so sad to hear about his death, I never saw him again after his times at the USAFA.
@@chriswaco Thinking back to 1977, and pot smoking, at each of the 4 concerts I saw Harry at, he made a joke about (Marijuana) smoke and the "Cheap seats". This was the USAF Academy, so obviously, zero smoking (of any type). That line is sad, he used drugs to learn to accept the limits he had on his life, post quitting the Academy.
Saw Harry at the purple monster in Sarasota, Fla twice. Favorite memory of a concert. Met him after the show as he stood outside greeting everyone. Thank you Harry for guiding me to love music, and people more.
@@ianbrown4680My granddaughter *loves* this song, although (at age 5) she doesn't quite grasp the fact of it being a true story. I'm trying to figure out a way to take her to visit Scranton, partly because I've never been there either.
I ran across this and started listening to his stories. I haven't heard his music for many years. I am a 62-year-old man, and I will be listening to this and other/stories all day and I putter around the house.
Dayton, Ohio in Mr Tanner and Watertown, NY in A Better Place to Be. That was part of his hidden genius, using smaller less known towns as part of his classic songs!
Harry's songs are Timeless !! He tells a story so well, had that Rare ability to observe Life and put it into Beautiful ryme, music and song. He is one of the truely Greatest of All Time, thanks for sharing
Saw Harry in Hartford in 1980. I was in the navy in "Rotten Groton". Enjoyed the concert with some bubblehead friends. Bought this cassette and tried to wear it out. Still have tape, but had to put it in another cassette because felt pad fell off the original. Going to Scamp SSN-588 reunion this summer in Groton, Ct. Harry is still one of my favorite story tellers/ musicians. Love this album!
I saw Harry at a small venue at St. Francis College in 1973 or 74, was truly the best concert ever. I saw other groups of the era such as Dave Mason, Frank Zappa, Beach Boys, Leo Kottke to name a few but Harry was the best.
My son has this sing in his head today. He was born after Harry died. He shares the love if this music, by me, who had loved it from her dad....three generations....
So sorry you didn't get a chance to see Harry. I got to see Harry twice and he had his brothers Steve and Tom and John Wallace with him. He was pure magic and personal and humble. Some of the greatest concerts I ever saw. I always liked the sound of his little orchestra as they created a great backdrop to Harry's great original compositions.
I've said the same thing many times. what a fine human being he was. always giving, never taking. the other bands were all about the party. harry's music was all about the heart.
I think that this song, along with, Kevin Johnson's Rock n roll (I gave you the best years of my life) best describe the moment someone has to give up on their dreams. And it's brutal and sad when that happens. Lack of support and an inconsiderate critic sent Mr Tanner back to his ordinary world. Let's hope he was happy enough.
l saw Harry and the group 8 times live in concerts. A wonderful storyteller and balladeer. l still listen to my Cd's and on here often. Miss you Harry. Billy McNally
Rarely are we blessed with such talent. Harry did not just write songs, he saw below the surface of our daily lives, transferred our pain it into poetry, and elevated the drudgery of our mortal existence with his truth about the challenges of being human. Thank you Harry, my kids grew up singing your songs with me as I played my guitar in the den.
Musicians really need to bring these songs back! Look at the times on these comments: 6, 7, 9 years ago. He died way too early, but his songs don't have to.
What a great performer but an even better person. I never realized how much he gave of his time and money for hunger causes. Just a regular guy with a guitar in his hands and magic ensued.
World Hunger Year was our North Star at the University of Waterloo around 1979-80 ... thank you Harry. Thank you for coming to activate us. You are extraordinary.
I dont want to think how many years its been since I've heard this. Thank you. Sometimes amongst the garbage across the `Net, theres still something of worth.
this is why download / itunes is bad.. I picked up this album by accident.. liked the cover, song title.. had never heard of H.. and am now (to the annoyance of my friends) a proselytizer of Harry..
jerrodsdad You should have seen him in concert... followed him from 13 till his untimely death... he liked orange juice,,, remember sending oj backstage... this world lost a beautiful human.....and John was so big and clearly was his own... after harrys death, he showed his.......lol
Yes, Its the ending that always grabs me. Its kind of like a triumph after a tragedy, he ends up singing because he loves it, not because anyone else does.
My wife and I saw Harry a few times. Best was Rutgers auditorium. It was like hanging with the band in the basement. Big Harry fan is the Boss. Harry is a big reason why E Street Band concerts asked fans to bring food for the homeless and needy. Who you think put that bug in the Boss's Head. Boss carry on the work. Harry THANK YOU!!!
Are you at all familiar with this video? I understand he occasionally trots out this song, or some other Harry song, in concert. ua-cam.com/video/BMSaVEbHt-U/v-deo.htmlfeature=shared
Harry Chapin One Of The Greatest Men On Earth December 7, 1942 - July 16, 1981 While waiting outside of Colden Auditorium at Queens College, after a canceled concert, I met and had a few words with the man who was to have given the concert. In my eyes, one of the greatest men on Earth. He was a dedicated humanitarian who fought to end world hunger. He was the co-founder of World Hunger Year or WHY, now known as WhyHunger, a wonderful and efficient non-profit that is still helping feed hungry people today. He was instrumental in the creation of the Presidential Commission on World Hunger in 1977. He was a man that was posthumously awarded the highest civilian award in the United States, the Congressional Gold Medal. He was a man who performed benefit concerts for hundreds of worthy organizations during his career. He was a man who raised more than 3,000,000 USD for those in need in the last six years of his life. He was a man that donated to charitable causes an estimated 33% of the revenues from his indefatigable schedule of 200 plus concerts performed each year. Besides his tireless humanitarian work, he was an accomplished and creative renaissance man that during his life was nominated for the following illustrious awards: Oscar, Grammy, Peabody, Emmy, and Tony. He was a man that I was lucky enough to have seen in concert a handful of times between 1975 and 1980. He is a man that I still miss today. His name was Harry Chapin. by Mark R. Elsis EarthNewspaper.com/HarryChapin
I introduced my granddaughter to this song by way of the children's book novelization of it. She now routinely asks for the "singing bear" song. Interestingly, she also only accepts the GSL version, not even the Hamilton video performance.
@GamerGraphicsTV me too! my father listened to it off and on again and i don't think i even remember hearing it. But the CD "Greatest Stories Live" (The very same we're listening to) was in the basement one night while I was looking though the 200 CD thingy. For some reason I got hooked and wanted to hear every song I could find, I think this album is one of his best. God does he put Alot into his live shows.
The number of Harry songs where the album version supersedes the live version is a fairly small one. I actually don't care for the album version of this song because of the screeching violin sound (I think it's a violin) accompanying the recitation of the review ... which is not to say that this isn't offset by the sheer power and beauty of Big John singing in contermelody.
How can people like Mr. Tanner have their soul crushed and never sing again, while screeching/scrawling/caterwalling coworkers can't take a hint and continue their torture daily?!
With an invalidation campaign, you never actually know if you're good enough or not, because the goal isn't to recognize your talents, it's making you not matter even if you're mucho talented.
No it’s not, that’s a terribly cynical and pessimistic misinterpretation of the song. You seem to have completely missed the key refrain - “he didn’t know how well he sang, it just made him whole. “ No, he couldn’t make a career out of it, but that’s not the point.
** "TAXI" Original Manuscript. ** THE AUCTION ON THIS VERY-SPECIAL ITEM ENDS @ 7PM EST TONIGHT! (June 18th, 2020) - PRICELESS FOR ANY HARRY CHAPIN FAN. ---- It breaks my heart to have to part with it, but I am auctioning a special piece of history for any Harry Chapin fan -- a hand-annotated typed working draft of the lyrics for 'TAXI,' with Harry's changes written in ballpoint and pencil throughout the manuscript. It's also accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Sandy Chapin. As a huge fan of Harry and "Taxi" I've played the song hundreds of times during my live shows and purchased the manuscript from Harry's estate 5 years ago. The best part of the experience was getting to speak to Sandy Chapin. Priceless for any fan of the man himself. To see images and perhaps place a bid, click here: rrauction.com/preview_itemdetail.cfm?IN=9199 PS - This item was donated by Sandy Chapin solely to support Long Island Cares, a food bank that supplies 600 pantries and food kitchens with food and emergency relief. --- 100% of the proceeds from my winning bid of this item, when I originally obtained it, went to support Long Island Cares. rrauction.com/preview_itemdetail.cfm?IN=9199
Music was his life; it was not his livelihood. RIP Harry. Love you, man.
Who's listening in 2024?
Harry Chapin will always remain one of the best storytellers to ever grace a stage. Im a 22 year old guy, good music is timeless.
It doesn't matter how old you are. I've listened to him since I was three and I loved him then and I still love him now, regardless of my age.
You have a good ear, Ryan.
Greatest Stories Live is an amazing collection of short stories by a very talented writer. It's just an album instead of a book. 🙂
♾
Thanks for a refreshing perspective that this is real
Who else is remembering Harry Chapin today? 😥💔 12/7/42 - 07/16/81
I started listening to this on 7/16/21. Bought this 8 track 45 years ago. I had no idea it was the anniversary of his death. Wow. RIP, Harry. Glad I got to see you in concert, so many years ago.
@@gonoles56 you are so lucky.
I grew up listening to Harry Chapin, and the only analogy I can think of for him is: The candle that burns twice as bright, only burns half as long...
Nicely said.
That explains much, I am not so bright.😆 ...still here.
So true. He was one of a kind with a personality as big as his talent.
How accurate
Yo bro
Like Mr. Tanner, music was Harry's life. Harry has made my life richer.
Beautiful energy boss.....carry on your on to something
Was a huge Harry Chapin fan and organized a Harry Chapin Memorial Day at University of Redlands that same year we lost him! It was well attended and i even had a local minister, Robert Wallace speak on world hunger, which if you know anything about the man was Harry's soul project. He gave half of everything he earned to fight against hunger! An amazing humanitarian and i stoll listen to him every day. World's Shortest Story will also make one cry! God rest your rich soul, Harry.
I saw Harry Chapin a couple of months before he died....even though I have seen Pink Floyd, the Dead, and a host of other phenomenal acts, HIS concert was still the best I have EVER seen.
When the question is asked about anyone I could see in concert, it is always Harry.
The family band was so accomplished. It would be wonderful even if Harry and his family didn’t sing . Together the talent was over the top.
I bought tickets to see Harry at a small theater in Davenport Iowa in 1975, I was disappointed to find out after I purchased the tickets that would be just Harry at the show and not the whole group of singers and musicians. This show with just Harry and his accoustic guitar was the best show I have ever been to. Just Harry, just accoustic. Awesome!!!!!! I willnever forget how personal he was and how he engaged the whole audience for almost 3 hours.....
I was at that show, I live in Davenport. It was a great time and memory maker!
I was too young to have hoped to have seen that. But I'm glad you both did. It's such a shame that no recordings of such shows exist.
@@a2ndopynyn
There is a concert on U Tube, Just exactly what you are looking for.
Type in U Tube Harry Chapin Full Concert 10/21/78 Capital Theater.
The concert is just Harry and his acoustic guitar. Although interestingly enough Chevy Chase comes out at the very beginning of the concert & shoots a few hoops with Harry. Then Chevy Chase helps out on the opening number.
A great show I think you will enjoy.
@@frankkinley6272 Found it. Absolute brilliance. Thank you!
@@a2ndopynyn
O Good, Happy for you.
Also earlier this evening when I was searching for that concert for you I stumbled upon a show called... "Harry Chapin Behind The Music" (U Tube)
It is a 44:05 minutes long and gives a great back story behind Harry & his 3 brothers growing up and goes all the way through his career & passing.
I watched it during the overnight hours and it was really great too. If you get a chance I hope you enjoy.
Never sang again. Saddest words ever written.💖
Why do I choke up every time I hear this song....the Magic of the lyrics, phrasing.....exceptional.......
As do I. As a 64 year old codger I have had the privilege of introducing this song to my music major college junior son as he bemoaned the unqualufiesmpeoplemrendering opinions that ruined his enjoying his expression of his need to sing. He said this song is his life and now puts Harry on the top of his list of musical influences.
Because Mr. Tanner gave it his best, and his best netted him a snobby critic's kick in the crotch. So when your best just ain't good enough.....
Same.
Every
Damn
Time.
For the same reason I do. It's a pure window into the soul.
I can get through this song but if I try to explain it to someone, I start the bawl every time. Heard this the first time at an outdoor concert in Ohio and it just got to me. What a great balladeer!!!
I feel like I’ve heard this before. Someone recommended it to me. This is some good music
I was born in 1982 so I never had the honor of seeing him perform.. Its thanks to my dad that my brother and I grew up listening to Harry and we still do. Every time we get together.. I could never hold back the tears when singing this one. When my son was born I would sing Mr. Tanner to him as a lullaby every night. Such a beautiful song :)
Same here. Born in 84 and my dad used to play this on tape in the truck while headin out fishin.
A×
Born in 1985. Never had a the honor either.
Born in 1980 here and I share the same feeling. So grateful to my Dad for introducing me to Harry.
Same here, born in 78, but my best friend colleen, born in 1955 she grew up with his music and I got to learn more of his music behind cats in the cradle. Such an amazing, big hearted, talented and comical guy.
Sadly colleen passed away this last week from copd, and I'm glad I got to be by her side these last few months. I'm listening to Harry right now reminiscing many of our good memories together. Harry is helping me right now while grieving the loss oof my best friend. Her faith is strong and so is mine, and I know we will be together again some day.
Thank you Harry for helping me cope
This is a Fucking Masterpiece.
You’re goddamn right 🍀I named my son after Harry
I miss this music genius 🎉
As an engineer and producer I can attest to the truth expressed in this song. Far too often I have seen great talent be dismissed. Usually by those who have no talent of their own.
+Makali Utlatolisdi I think it happens way too often!
Well Said!!!
I've just made a similar comment. You're so right
This song always fills me up and brings me to the verge of tears.
OMG, me too 😢
My mother loved Harry Chapin, I grew up with him and he is part of my soul. I was going to see him at the Club Casino in Hampton Beach, NH when I was only about 12 or 13 years old and just before the concert he was killed in a car accident. My mom played his records all night the day he died. I'll never forget it. He is the best story song writer ever, these songs still bring out so many feelings in me 40 years later.
I have the newspaper story of the day he died
I wonder if they ever fixed the interchange where he died. It was described as dangerous in the newspaper article.
My former priest (I'm an Episcopalian) was a tenor. I know he wanted to do it professionally but something happened. He became an ordained priest instead. I have a CD of one of the concerts he did for our church. Whenever I hear this song, I think of Fr. Greg.
Don't get much better than this, one of Harry's top 5 songs. R.I.P. Sounds even bettter like a lot of his songs do, on this live album
I'm usually not a fan of live, but the songs on this album are the best, and for some, the first time I've heard them. While some artists flare and fade with equal speed, others remain, even long past their deaths. These are the storytellers, the ones whose music speaks to us on a very cerebral level. Along with Jim Croce and John Denver, Harry Chapin is one of those who will live on for a very long time. Too young too soon....
You forgot a few...Johnny Cash, Tom T. Hall, John Prine, Lacy J, Dalton, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Arlo Guthrie, Nancy Griffiths, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson, to name a few.
@@phildo7158 MCC is still alive.
The best songwriter from America ever. Period.
I'm a Mr.Tanner.Tried so hard all my life,I had the voice but not the crowd appeal (looks). I resolved myself to karaoke ,and won some competitions.Everyone said "why don't you do this professionally? You know that shoulder shrug you give when you don't really believe someone?
" Thus I sing to myself and any drunk in a karaoke bar,but it does make me feel good.
What a storyteller. Have loved Harry since the '70s. Also loved John's besutiful voice.
No, I meant the big hairy guy with the beautiful tenor who sang with Chapin.
However, John Denver was another terrific storyteller. As was Harry Nielsen
*****
Dianne is referring to Big John Wallace, the person singing "Oh Holy Night" in the background and was a member of Harry's group.
I remember when Harry died. I was in a university in 1981 and heard about it. So sad. A genius of lyrics!
We need artists like Harry today. Desperately. We need story tellers with soul.
Marty Schoenleber have you listened to Good Old War, Fleet Foxes, or Father John Misty?
Absolutely 💯
One of my most favorite songs on this album. A must for any Harry Chapin fan. RIP Harry we all love and miss you so much. I can't wait to get to Heaven for a concert. Love you my brother. 🌹😇🙏
Their was only one Harry and he was the best and we lost him way to soon. His band was very unique for their time, so much depth with their music. Love to listen to them
This was a very moving song
Harry Chapin songs will make you cry. My goodness.
A fan from the early 70's, and Mr Tanner is one of my favorites. I was extremely fortunate to see him every fall from 76-80. I was stationed at the US Air Force Academy (in the hospital) the cadets would arrive aprox 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time. Myself and a few friends from the hospital went every year as soon as we could get into the facility. The first year he said hi to us, and we got to listen to a private concert (warm up) for about 2 or 3 hours. The following years, he recognized us, and walked right down to the front row and talk for a bit, and he thanked us for coming each year.
For those who don't know, Harry attended the USAF Academy for 1 year, (1960) then dropped out. He seemed to have never gotten over this event in his life, he sang about flying (Taxi) and mentioned his dropping out every year to the cadets. He told the cadets how he was told by his squadron commander if he quit, he would have a hard time the rest of his life succeeding, because failing was easier. Then he would point to the crowd and say "I did become something" but you could tell, because he mentioned it every year, that it still bothered him. I was so sad to hear about his death, I never saw him again after his times at the USAFA.
"I go flying so high, when I'm stoned"
@@chriswaco Thinking back to 1977, and pot smoking, at each of the 4 concerts I saw Harry at, he made a joke about (Marijuana) smoke and the "Cheap seats". This was the USAF Academy, so obviously, zero smoking (of any type). That line is sad, he used drugs to learn to accept the limits he had on his life, post quitting the Academy.
Saw Harry at the purple monster in Sarasota, Fla twice. Favorite memory of a concert. Met him after the show as he stood outside greeting everyone. Thank you Harry for guiding me to love music, and people more.
Van Wezel Hall? I saw him twice there too! I loved when the crowd joined in his “sing-a-longs”. Not another like him.
I so miss Harry's inspiration.....
I grew up listening to tapes of Harry in my dads pickup.
"Harry, It Sucks!"
"You can always count on the cheap seats".
Can't drive through Scranton P.A without listening to this album!
@@ianbrown4680My granddaughter *loves* this song, although (at age 5) she doesn't quite grasp the fact of it being a true story. I'm trying to figure out a way to take her to visit Scranton, partly because I've never been there either.
I ran across this and started listening to his stories. I haven't heard his music for many years. I am a 62-year-old man, and I will be listening to this and other/stories all day and I putter around the house.
Dayton, Ohio in Mr Tanner and Watertown, NY in A Better Place to Be. That was part of his hidden genius, using smaller less known towns as part of his classic songs!
Those two are my favorite songs
I love this song so much. It’s so beautiful. Music that is heartfelt is the language of the soul.
Harry's songs are Timeless !! He tells a story so well, had that Rare ability to observe Life and put it into Beautiful ryme, music and song.
He is one of the truely Greatest of All Time,
thanks for sharing
Awesome
Saw Harry in Hartford in 1980. I was in the navy in "Rotten Groton". Enjoyed the concert with some bubblehead friends. Bought this cassette and tried to wear it out. Still have tape, but had to put it in another cassette because felt pad fell off the original. Going to Scamp SSN-588 reunion this summer in Groton, Ct. Harry is still one of my favorite story tellers/ musicians. Love this album!
I saw Harry at a small venue at St. Francis College in 1973 or 74, was truly the best concert ever. I saw other groups of the era such as Dave Mason, Frank Zappa, Beach Boys, Leo Kottke to name a few but Harry was the best.
My son has this sing in his head today. He was born after Harry died. He shares the love if this music, by me, who had loved it from her dad....three generations....
Harry was the greatest musical Storyteller of all time! I regret that I never saw him perform live in concert.
So sorry you didn't get a chance to see Harry. I got to see Harry twice and he had his brothers Steve and Tom and John Wallace with him. He was pure magic and personal and humble. Some of the greatest concerts I ever saw. I always liked the sound of his little orchestra as they created a great backdrop to Harry's great original compositions.
I saw Harry in Sydney and London I was devestated when he died still remember it too this day such a waste of a talented and beautiful man
Harry you are missed thanks for the music rip .
Came here after Richard Goodall sang on AGT. It just reminded me of this song, and I had to play it for my wife.
I've said the same thing many times.
what a fine human being he was. always giving, never taking.
the other bands were all about the party. harry's music was all about the heart.
I think that this song, along with, Kevin Johnson's Rock n roll (I gave you the best years of my life) best describe the moment someone has to give up on their dreams. And it's brutal and sad when that happens. Lack of support and an inconsiderate critic sent Mr Tanner back to his ordinary world. Let's hope he was happy enough.
😢 miss him
Me too my friend 🥹
Pure Magic!
l saw Harry and the group 8 times live in concerts. A wonderful storyteller and balladeer. l still listen to my Cd's and on here often. Miss you Harry. Billy McNally
Rarely are we blessed with such talent. Harry did not just write songs, he saw below the surface of our daily lives, transferred our pain it into poetry, and elevated the drudgery of our mortal existence with his truth about the challenges of being human. Thank you Harry, my kids grew up singing your songs with me as I played my guitar in the den.
My dad always played this album,best memories spent at home,watching records go around in circles.
i cried the first time i heard this, i still shed a tear to it every now and then
You and me both
Musicians really need to bring these songs back! Look at the times on these comments: 6, 7, 9 years ago. He died way too early, but his songs don't have to.
What a great performer but an even better person. I never realized how much he gave of his time and money for hunger causes. Just a regular guy with a guitar in his hands and magic ensued.
World Hunger Year was our North Star at the University of Waterloo around 1979-80 ... thank you Harry. Thank you for coming to activate us. You are extraordinary.
I dont want to think how many years its been since I've heard this. Thank you.
Sometimes amongst the garbage across the `Net, theres still something of worth.
this is why download / itunes is bad.. I picked up this album by accident.. liked the cover, song title.. had never heard of H.. and am now (to the annoyance of my friends) a proselytizer of Harry..
Preach it!
jerrodsdad You should have seen him in concert... followed him from 13 till his untimely death... he liked orange juice,,, remember sending oj backstage... this world lost a beautiful human.....and John was so big and clearly was his own... after harrys death, he showed his.......lol
Join the Church of Harry
+Cat Foster Harry. was the person we should all aspire to be
Yes, Its the ending that always grabs me. Its kind of like a triumph after a tragedy, he ends up singing because he loves it, not because anyone else does.
He has been a long time favourite for me and I have missed what he could have done and saddened by his death
As a young man of 50 Chapin was a staple with my dad.
My wife and I saw Harry a few times. Best was Rutgers auditorium. It was like hanging with the band in the basement. Big Harry fan is the Boss. Harry is a big reason why E Street Band concerts asked fans to bring food for the homeless and needy. Who you think put that bug in the Boss's Head. Boss carry on the work. Harry THANK YOU!!!
Are you at all familiar with this video? I understand he occasionally trots out this song, or some other Harry song, in concert.
ua-cam.com/video/BMSaVEbHt-U/v-deo.htmlfeature=shared
I sorely miss harry chapin and his band.
I was lucky to see Harry live and he was not only a great songwriter
Screwed that up lol but not many could entertain a crowd
He had enormous talent and I think of h often !!
I'm glad my dad gave me this gift.
quite possibly my favorite song of all time
My dad and mom ran a small, humble, dry cleaner shop in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn from the early 70s to the early 90s...this hits hard...
Thoughtful , sad but wonderful.
Another one who died way too soon he was great.. I saw him at a college auditorium in Jersey on a maybe a couple of thousand people it was the best
Used the refrain lyrics in my Mom's eulogy. They described her love of music perfectly. Thank you harry Chapin.
See today’s WSJ editorial by Mike Kerrigan. Let beauty nourish and move you. He mentions this song and a short story. 2/3/2024
The man's amazing
I reminds me life is made of simple things thank you dad
Look forward to showing my kids this man's legacy
I wonder how many Mr. Tanners there are out there?
A bunch in the shower every morning!!!!!
One lived in a full house
What a song! Bittersweet.
Harry Chapin
One Of The Greatest Men On Earth
December 7, 1942 - July 16, 1981
While waiting outside of Colden Auditorium at Queens College, after a canceled concert, I met and had a few words with the man who was to have given the concert. In my eyes, one of the greatest men on Earth.
He was a dedicated humanitarian who fought to end world hunger. He was the co-founder of World Hunger Year or WHY, now known as WhyHunger, a wonderful and efficient non-profit that is still helping feed hungry people today. He was instrumental in the creation of the Presidential Commission on World Hunger in 1977.
He was a man that was posthumously awarded the highest civilian award in the United States, the Congressional Gold Medal. He was a man who performed benefit concerts for hundreds of worthy organizations during his career. He was a man who raised more than 3,000,000 USD for those in need in the last six years of his life. He was a man that donated to charitable causes an estimated 33% of the revenues from his indefatigable schedule of 200 plus concerts performed each year.
Besides his tireless humanitarian work, he was an accomplished and creative renaissance man that during his life was nominated for the following illustrious awards: Oscar, Grammy, Peabody, Emmy, and Tony.
He was a man that I was lucky enough to have seen in concert a handful of times between 1975 and 1980. He is a man that I still miss today.
His name was Harry Chapin.
by Mark R. Elsis
EarthNewspaper.com/HarryChapin
TANNER: "Thought Answering Networking Naturally Entertaining Relaxing" Maybe, "A" List!
I introduced my granddaughter to this song by way of the children's book novelization of it. She now routinely asks for the "singing bear" song. Interestingly, she also only accepts the GSL version, not even the Hamilton video performance.
Love this song
@GamerGraphicsTV
me too! my father listened to it off and on again and i don't think i even remember hearing it. But the CD "Greatest Stories Live" (The very same we're listening to) was in the basement one night while I was looking though the 200 CD thingy. For some reason I got hooked and wanted to hear every song I could find, I think this album is one of his best.
God does he put Alot into his live shows.
GREATEST STORIES LIVE is a perfect example of the pure, mutual love between the performer & the audience. He blessed us all.
The number of Harry songs where the album version supersedes the live version is a fairly small one. I actually don't care for the album version of this song because of the screeching violin sound (I think it's a violin) accompanying the recitation of the review ... which is not to say that this isn't offset by the sheer power and beauty of Big John singing in contermelody.
Every time the "critics" get me down I return to this song and it helps me regain my perspective. Giving them any power is a travesty.
Reminds me of my daddy
How can people like Mr. Tanner have their soul crushed and never sing again, while screeching/scrawling/caterwalling coworkers can't take a hint and continue their torture daily?!
Sensitivity, mainly. It's definitely not fair.
On one of his many solo/charity shows; my dad was selected to do John's part from the audience.
Sublime...
Big John Wallace , what a talent !
i aw Harry at olmpic village in Lake Placid, and at iup in 1980. what a tragedy his death he was a good one
Harry somehow understood while we were stumbling in the dark.
Awesome
For those who know the sting of not being good enough...
That song alone is what drove me to be the that i can
With an invalidation campaign, you never actually know if you're good enough or not, because the goal isn't to recognize your talents, it's making you not matter even if you're mucho talented.
👍👍👍
This was one of three CD's in my dad's car. Now every time I hear any of these songs in their recorded form, I never can sing along correctly.
The moral of the story here is do what you know you are good at not what others think you do good.
No it’s not, that’s a terribly cynical and pessimistic misinterpretation of the song. You seem to have completely missed the key refrain - “he didn’t know how well he sang, it just made him whole. “ No, he couldn’t make a career out of it, but that’s not the point.
Agreed!
He sang oh holy night
Big John Wallace!
** "TAXI" Original Manuscript. ** THE AUCTION ON THIS VERY-SPECIAL ITEM ENDS @ 7PM EST TONIGHT! (June 18th, 2020) - PRICELESS FOR ANY HARRY CHAPIN FAN. ---- It breaks my heart to have to part with it, but I am auctioning a special piece of history for any Harry Chapin fan -- a hand-annotated typed working draft of the lyrics for 'TAXI,' with Harry's changes written in ballpoint and pencil throughout the manuscript. It's also accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Sandy Chapin.
As a huge fan of Harry and "Taxi" I've played the song hundreds of times during my live shows and purchased the manuscript from Harry's estate 5 years ago. The best part of the experience was getting to speak to Sandy Chapin. Priceless for any fan of the man himself. To see images and perhaps place a bid, click here:
rrauction.com/preview_itemdetail.cfm?IN=9199
PS - This item was donated by Sandy Chapin solely to support Long Island Cares, a food bank that supplies 600 pantries and food kitchens with food and emergency relief. --- 100% of the proceeds from my winning bid of this item, when I originally obtained it, went to support Long Island Cares.
rrauction.com/preview_itemdetail.cfm?IN=9199
sad tragic winter storm in a WV BUG we lost one of the BEST!!!!
You do know he died July 18 1981 right?? No winter storm!
He was driving a Rabbit, not a Bug.
Yes it was a "Rabbit"@@landyachtfan79
My name is Tanner and I'm from Ohio 😁
John Connor I’m just a Tanner