Ken, I saw George on this tour at MSG. Oddly he did a ton of covers like Now That We Found Love and on and on lol. It was fantastic. He did this song but in the verses stayed within himself. Yes, he did the aerobics but the tone of the song was more heavy hearted, and that’s appealing to me. What I find funny is I grew up a full on metal head but loved people like George, And many more. It’s funny that you hit on them as our earlier influences I.e. Foreigner, Purple, anything Dio are the same. I think it’s cool that you show you’re cultured musically. I won’t be pigeonholed in to one thing and I’m glad you are the same.
Ken Tamplin Vocal Academy yes. It’s like you said. He was never killing him self to reach a note or anything. Was just all available to him and he used it perfectly every time. The sone mothers pride live is mind blowing
Scott, I believe this was his Cover to Cover tour ( wish I had been there) he launched so his fans could have something to look forward to. He refused to allow Sony to make more money off his new music and there fore he decided to perform a concert of covers. Personally I think he was the Master of covers. he took all the songs to another level. His voice and his delivery was like no others. I love him so much!
5 років тому+5
@@mcflotty That is a wonderful song. But one is what amazed me and maybe influenced into George's vocals/style/music/ the most with absolute originality and sound of the voice was "Hand to Mouth". There is so much extensive overbreath ...I think it could be a record holder in this category. In fact, I lived in USSR at thet time, we knew not much about western music, and this was something head-turning. I should confess that at start I thought it was low female vocal, as with whispering it is quite hard to tell what is going on - I did not know about George Michael..he wasn't in disco hits and not in radio, so that was discovered. And that's how I started to sing. And I should confess again - I wanted to sound like him because I felt I have similar texture in voice, but I lack language, feel, knowledge... so George taught me that all through endless singing his songs from both albums, wham repertoire... new songs. Hand to Mouth is something not from here... I don't know how people like George come up with such music and sound. It's a mystery for me.
When you put together the whole package, the delivery, the texture, the intonation, the perfect pitch, and the ability to reach those he's singing to, no one...NO ONE...comes near this man, regardless of how much they think they might. This is a whole different level of vocal prowess and it will forever remain untouched. Music lost an original, a once-in-a-lifetime talent, an icon. There will NEVER be another George Michael.
R H Absolutely. I've seen a lot of comments on a lot of George's performances and never seen a SINGLE negative one. Without a doubt the best live performer I've ever seen.
Queen & George Michael - Somebody to love (live from Freddie's tribute concert) is out of this world. I'm so happy he was chosen for that song, it is outstaning! :)
Kasia Zawartko aw and please check the rehearsal videos of Freddie Mercury tribute concert on UA-cam, George Micheal , David Bowie , Annie Lenox and all other Great legends reharsing before concert , so sincere , so emotinal and geniuine 💕💕💕
@@Go_Won_Hee Yeah Freddie and David had a challenge that made every single one better with under pressure. Same goes for this song with Elton and George. I love every single part of it, the emotional start of George, the great range of Elton and how they sound together and beat it up to a whole new level- just outstanding and a great part of my life and music history.
Whenever George sang a duet he never tried to take the spotlight off the other singer. Sometimes George’s natural talented just outshined the other performer. George was such a perfectionist and he was always pitch perfect no matter who he sang with I would imagine they put a little more effort into their performance to match George’s natural ability. George was the ultimate performer and song writer. What a talent he was.
George's "Kissing a fool" is about my favorite vocal ever. He had such an unbelievable gift. He could attack your soul like a bull or a butterfly, and all in between RIP.
He wouldn't want you to sob but to hear his songs as if he was singing them just for you. Now you can go and grab a tissue! I was listening to a short interview with him the other night explaining how he would create some of his songs and it sent shivers through me just hearing him speak after losing him so long ago. We will all forever miss him but it's up to us to keep his memory alive.
I loved that...my father in law is a country gospel music singer and writer..hes won a few awards...and even he says that George Michael was the best singer of all time!!!
It's Eltons song. He doesn't have to sell himself on anything. He and George complimented each other's talents. I didn't view it as a competition. Two great talents coming together for a celebration of song is how I hear it. When George introduced Elton, it was out of respect and admiration.
This is my favorite version. I loved George Michael. Thank you for showing this. Edit: I'd like to add something to my comment..... I don't think what GM was doing when Elton came out was theatrics. I think he was just feeling it so much, that he felt the need to compliment Elton when he sang. He was so into that song.
I totally agree with you. George didn't just perform with his vocals but put his whole body into projecting what he was saying. When you see his other performances, it's the same. Just look at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert. He puts everything he can into making the song the best he can and does it brilliantly.
@@abstractalexx9031 Of course you are entitled to your opinion as to what you hear but I have to side with everyone else also. NO-ONE has ever come close to this genius. The purity of his voice and inspirational lyrics are just a few things that blows me away. I recently conversed with a woman whose second language was English but due to George's flawless pronunciations she actually used his songs to better her English language skills as she could understand each word he sung. There is no other artist that I have ever encountered who can pronunciate the way George did whilst also performing on stage. He was rarity amongst vocalists and no-one can hold a match to his natural born talent.
George is one of the most soulful live singers of the last few generations. His range, connection to song and ability to convey the story is unparalleled.
He had a personal understanding of the lyrics, so he didn't have to sell it; he brilliantly illustrated the vulnerability of the human condition in a way that people who have been through hell are able to.
George stated in an interview that anything that you'd ever want to know about him is all in his songs. He was singing his life story. I suffer from Severe Chronic Spinal Pain amongst other health issues and the majority of my life has been a living hell. Listening to George calms me when having exceptionally bad days which is better than reaching for more meds straight off. He has been my constant companion since the start of his career which was when I was injured. He is singing in the background right now as I'm having another bad day. It's so comforting to have George help me through my life journey. If only he could "Heal The Pain"!
I can`t agree with you. This is one of the most beautiful duets. Every time I watch this I get goosebumps when Elton comes on. Two artists doing their best, that`s how I see it. You see and feel the respect and the love they have for each other. I wouldn`t change a thing.
Isn't it amazing how songs have so many memories for us, good or bad they are an integral part of all our lives. Also, George was an amazing singer. I'll always remember his performance at the Freddie Mercury Tribute too.
Agree, Agree, Agree. There will never be another not even close to holding a candle to George Michael, when he would sing, you can feel it in your bones, his voice was a story being told of such sincerity, and sensitivity, a beautiful person with a beautiful soul❤
Ken - As great a singer you are, this shows GM is from another planet. He IS the gold standard for me. His ability to move from soft and airy to full and loud in a musical way within a single phrase is unparalleled. e.g., "I took a change and changed your way of life." IMO
To this day I still get goosebumps when George introduces Elton and the crowd loses its collective mind!! Love this presentation. Great breakdown as usual Ken, thank you!
George wrote most of his songs, played almost all instruments in his albums… an absolute legend….. he never compromised on the output whether it was his song or someone else’s and that’s why he was able to create magic even on covers…
Aimée K in the "Symphonica" album there is a version of Elton's song "Idol" from the 1976 "Blue Moves" album. It is beautiful, I highly recommend it too.
I never paid much attention to George Michael until he performed Somebody to Love at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert in 1992 & he blew me away. I don’t think I’ve heard anyone sing that song as well as he did & he nailed it in rehearsal too. Another loss to the world of music when he passed. And I agree, I’d rather George sang it solo. Nice to see Jonathan ‘Sugarfoot’ Moffett on the drums.
Totally agree. GM owned the song. Have always loved the song, but ever since hearing GM's version, now when I hear Paul McCartney's version, it is so clear that GM's voice is one of the most sublime. Ever.
I love Elton John... but the love affair I've had with George Michael started in 1983 with Wham's first appearance on American Bandstand. One of the greatest singer/songwriters in my lifetime. I never heard that man hit a wrong note, no matter how many times I watched something live. Did you know that George wrote music in his head? He only put lyrics on paper to work them out. The day he died, in my head, I saw all those beautiful notes we never heard floating up to heaven. I still mourn that loss. 😢 I would love to hear your analysis on George's performance of Somebody To Love for the Freddie Mercury tribute at Wembley. ❤
Julie Keesee I'm a super fan also. If you haven't read Andrew Ridgeley's new Memoir you should. I thought it was excellent as the thoughts and evenrs shared we're clearly from one who would know. The book has a lot of insight.
As an artist of several genre's, you've just given me the most beautiful vision when I read what you said about the notes floating to Heaven! I'll never forget this, thank you.
Ken, You are awesome, Man. Seriously. Every word and every way you explain George's singing is what I've been saying since I was 12 years old. He was powerfully phenomenal and his range and was spot on! He did it at Live aid and he did it again years later. That man was born to sing and for any private aliens he may have had, he knew it. On that stage he lit up because that was who he was. Thank you for expressing it! ;)
@Ronnda Munshower I felt it completely the other way around. Elton just sung the lyrics but George made us feel the words and the meaning. I love both artists so I'm not showing bias but just explaining how I felt it.
Here's an interesting side note to the performance. This was during his 1991 Cover To Cover tour and of course about a week or two later is when he made his only performance in Washington State at the Tacoma Dome. It was truly an awesome experience to watch the wonderful beautiful uber talented generous man known as George Michael 😊.. It is a memory I will treasure forever because for us George Michael fans he lives in our hearts forever.
If you love George Michael versions of songs, I'd have to say "Somebody to Love" at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert was amazing. It was by far the best performance, and best sung version, of all the singers they had that day.
Jonathan Moffett (MJ's drummer) on the drums, Deon Estus on bass, awesome pianist, George Michael and Elton John on lead vocals, (adding Bernie Taupin, co-writer) .. this couldn't fail the test of time. George Michael was probably at his best ever at the time..
Angel Arkhangael he was always at his best. That voice NEVER CHANGED (and it never would have even if he lived until 100 - as he will in my heart) his voice, notes, pitch, were exact and he was not satisfied unless it was delivered with near perfection. He didn’t ruin his voice with anything, his voice and delivery was smooth and exact as buttery silk💕
@@raanusant His voice will never age for any of us true admirers. He will always be in our hearts. Although somehow I think smoking two dozen spliffs a day weren't exactly helping him keep his voice the best it could be. Luckily it never showed during his lifetime but maybe in future it may have had an impact.
I appreciate what you were communicating about being in the moment of the song to transmit a great performance. I always felt like Elton kinda “phoned this one in” even though an Elton phone-in is still pretty darn good. I always thought that George being a consummate professional and perfectionist was really pulling out all the stops to do his very best to pay respect to the song and Elton and the audience. George knew it could be an iconic performance and he put in the work.
Rob Bamford I agree with you. But I don’t think Elton “phoned it in”. That was his voice. He doesn’t have the power or singing ability of George. He never did. He did his best Elton John and George did George Michael. The beauty of it is they blended so well and made an iconic rendition of this song together.
I’m a rock/metal guy but I have to admit “father figure” is a guilty pleasure, great song. Dare I say that a great song transcends both genre and time...
George Michael is just so unfairly left out of most Best Male Singer lists nowadays... We all remember Freddie, but George was a powerhouse as well! Love this video, love this reaction, keep up the quality content Ken!
I thoroughly agree with you...George Michael's vocal was more complimentary. ..with no reason of impeding on Elton ..that's it really. R.I.P. Mr George Michael.
You saw this differently than I did. I didn’t see a competition. I saw Elton being Elton....he’s always been theatrical....he’s a diva, he’s admitted that. George, I was just enjoying his soul. I love it when he goes off. I see a lot of respect there between the two of them.
You said exactly what I've felt since I was a kid. I heard george start the song, Eltons song, then Elton came in and it was a completely different feel. Far less feeling in my opinion. Which is completely fine I mean Elton can do whatever the hell he wants to do and it still sounds great, it still is great, he is great, but George brought heart to the song because it means maybe a little bit more to him than it does Elton at this point. that was maybe written at a point in elton's life that he doesn't relate to so much at the moment he's singing it in this video. George Michael seems to have not only the feeling behind it but an extreme appreciation for the song and a connection to the lyrics and it's evident in his singing.
I’m so glad the Sun did’nt go down on YOU !!! It’s amazing we even survive childhood! You were / are a very precious boy! This is definitely your song & what a beautiful job George did!😊🌻🤗💕
He wasn't just committed but a perfectionist. Everything had to be done just right which is why he arranged and produced all of his songs. It's such ashame that it took his passing for people to finally appreciate the genius in his music and songwriting abilities. You're so right, he never over-performed! What makes me feel so appreciative is that George did all this for us.
@@krisushi1 Great post , as a life long fan and admire of George Michael I think he was ever underestimated or appreciated , it just took awhile for the newbies and the younger audience to discover his iconic overall superstar talent One of the legends in my generation 😎🤛🙌👌🙏🇦🇺
He was purposely. And blatantly, under appreciated. He went up against the industry. Even though he lost, walking outside, down the stairs of the court house, he stopped at the podium and blasted them again and the judge. So that is when they realized they weren’t shutting him up. So of course now, Sony is going to “ RELEASE” him from his slave contract, because having a trouble maker bug mouth mega star that made them $150 Million off his first few years with them, he’s just not worth keeping around. Right. He is the same guy with something important to say as to why you landed in court in the first place… he put you there. But now all the sudden SONY is going to let him out of his contract because they can’t have the embarrassment! Then why didn’t you let him out of his contract when he asked You said no ! He said fine taking you to court. Because they needed to show him who was the boss, but it didn’t work! After that , that was pretty much it for any kind of umm, let’s say turning back for compromise because they also , executives of Sony America. Apparently made homophobic slurs to him. So GM didn’t give a shxt either way he wasn’t going to be their career slave especially now! So they let him out if his contract of course for a price. Which they were also banking on that he wouldn’t have it, but he did. Because it’s never been about the money with GM. If he would have followed suit of most that sign they overspend, and then they are even more saturated of being being owned by the industry. Not him! But they still since they are the media, also hindered his career. Starting with the California set up!
Awesome! George Michael is my favorite male vocalist of all time. I know, not the most technical of course but just the emotion and tone of his voice really touches a lot of people.
I get I’ve come into this late.. like 3 yrs late.. but I need to comment. GM went up simply because he was matching Elton’s energy. He needed to.. if he didn’t, this song would have been mediocre. Matching Elton’s energy is what I believe, a true collaboration is all about. GM.. God love him, made this song the legendary hit that it is. He knew when to be his true authentic self and he knew when he needed to go hard to match Elton’s vibe. This is why this is one of the greatest collabs of all time. It’s because of George Michael. Legend! Can’t believe this is live. Just perfect ❤️
KEN TAMPLIN ELTON JOHN & GEORGE MICHAEL (R.I.P) are Amazing! Thank you for sharing your incredible reaction & explaining the way he is singing! You are Awesome,my friend! Keep it up! God Bless you,ALWAYS!
You re so right about george he had that special quality that grabs you speaks to your heart pleaseé( listen to the song you have been love)from him george michael every note he sings there is really haunting
chris mas It was the media controversy of him being in a relationship with another guy. It was still big news about gays or bisexuals. George was really talented, and should have won awards.
@@taoist32 I disagree. I really don't think anyone cared about George's love life. He died then Carrie Fisher died two days later and Debbie Reynolds, Carrie's mother and a huge American film star, died the next day. I think it was just a huge week of loss and George kind of got lumped into the mix. Who remembers that Farrah Fawcett died the same day as Michael Jackson? George won many awards including; Brit, American Music, MTV and Grammy awards. He was huge.
Ken Tamplin Vocal Academy i don’t think so either. Maybe at the time it was controversial but times have changed. George had a very special quality to his voice. He didn’t have a crazy range but he sang every note with intention. I listen to this video all the time and it always breaks my heart when I see him hug Elton at the end.
George Michael was one of the best voices of our time. Please react to Somebody to love by George Michael at the Freddie Mercury Tribute. He actually sings it better then Freddie
George is just an awesome singer. Everything he sings is perfect. Watching his face every emotion can be seen in his face and the same when he is singing it. George doesn't need anyone to sing a song with, he's in a class of his own. There is no one better than him and there never will be again. Its virtually impossible to take my eyes of him while he is singing. A voice that has been silenced well before his time and now gradually coming up to that fateful day on which we lost him, Christmas doesn't have the same meaning anymore, it's just the remembrance of the day we lost a great man, with a huge heart and voice. To this day he is still loved and missed by all his fans can be seen
Every time I hear him start singing this song I literally start bawling ...the emotion he puts into it, the vulnerability... He outsang Elton by far ...
I'm glad you did this video because George Michael is my all time favorite singer. He just had the most amazing and unbelievable talent. He was truly blessed. Lou Gramm is my second favorite. Thanks for all of your hard work with all of your videos.
Exactly as you say, George Michael sings to you personally. Not only one song, but the whole concert. Even in a big stadium it's very intimate. Because of that I fell in love with him when I joined my sister to a concert. So few days later we went again and a few months later once again. I compared it with a concert of Robby Williams who was on stage to be cheered at. George Michael is on stage to sing for you.
Ken you are spot on...I actually had an argument about this song with my ex-wife back in the day. She loved Elton but I told her that George Michael was just a better singer than Elton, period. And as much of a legend as Elton was, I would rather have heard Goerge sing this one himself.
I agree,Elton has a unattractive accent that "He can't hide" lol...that makes all his material sound alike. "Philadelphia Freedom" in all material. He was great writer...George is so polished and I do not even need to ask who inspired him..Elvis Presley.. I challenge anyone to TRULY dig into his material,forgetting the "Hunka Hunka or Hound Dawg motif and not consider him THE KING when all said and done. He gets hooked to a motif (from film and Vegas)that stops people before truly digging in,thinking they seen it all already.NOPE!!!!! Elvis will never stop hooking people in,with same material through all time.
Such a beautiful song love that song so much both great in there own rights rip to George Michael 🙏❤ love Careless Whisper ❤❤ but i agree Michaels singing is more intimate
@@kentamplin You are Awesome! GEORGE MICHAEL is Awesome! I always enjoyed when he sang with Elton John. Great singer! He will live on in our hearts forever! R.I.P GEORGE MICHAEL!
Ken thank you for sharing this, I really agree with you regarding George Michael, what an amazing Voice , Talent and Human being! Me and you are roughly the same age and it was very UN-Cool to listen to Wham or George Michael with my Motley Crew , Metallica friends however I was a Vocal Fan and cared immensely about vocal abilities , all of Georges albums and performances were recorded and portrayed with such emotion and depth, so loved his abilities . God Bless! Jeff ps, don't drink gasoline : )
I just mentioned this song in a previous comment. He sings it just like you and he are in the same room alone, such is his brilliant way of communicating his voice. I always appreciated how he took every advantage to state that it was his admirers that he was performing for and nothing else. I'm not at all an emotional person but this song in particular really gets to me. The words are so softly sung with such meaning that even someone like myself is very affected.
Thank you very much for this review, Ken! I’m a huge fan of George Michael and was very glad to see such a detailed reaction to one of his best vocal performance!
@@Barkingspider Bernie Taupin writes the lyrics. Elton John writes the music. That's how has been for ALL their songs from day 1 in 1967 right up to now.
@@Barkingspider The comment was about vocal ability, not songwriting. George wrote the majority of his songs anyway, arranged them and produced! That's far more impressive to me.
@@krisushi1 i like the elton songwriting more than any other type of songwriting. elton is my fav but i like george only vocally and when he covers other songs. im not huge fan of george's songs tbh.
Groovy shirt Ken! I agree ... George Michael’s voice brings you in to his delivery of Elton John’s phenomenal tune. Each have their own way of ‘telling a story’. George Michael’s voice has such an awesome tone ... you want more & more. His delivery of any story creates an incredible stage presence. “WHAM!” 😉🎶
That laying his heart out there - is George Michael. The emotion and delicacy of his voice and power is unique. Completely. Elton wrote this 20 years earlier than this performance, never made it to number 1 - George decided to put this out (with royalties going to charity) and it sold through the roof - finally making it number 1. I know which version is better and I am not wishy washy - George brought the soul to this - like he did with every tune
Rosetta umm, The song was composed and performed by Elton John but the lyrics were written by Bernie Taupin. It originally appeared in his self titled and second album.
This man had a voice of an Angel. He was one of the few artists that can actually do that. One of my Hero’s. Thanks for dissecting all the little details Ken.
This was a VERY personal performance by George Michael.. at the time his partner was in the late stages of HIV and AIDS and died around a year later. Elton was in and out of deep depression and drug rehab at the time. Lets not forget Elton is post-op on throat surgery here and the voice never really returned to what it once was. George was always flawless in the studio and live... RIP ... we lost one of the all time greats.
I love them both. Very sad that George left us. George's voice consistently makes me cry, it was so beautiful. Elton's strength is his songwriting (w/ Taupin) & his wildness. He loves the dramatic, so it makes sense that he would take that direction. Plus, as a special appearance, the dramatic made sense for me. I understand what you mean about how it takes away from the meaning of the song itself, but taking it to a place of joy and celebration between two iconic voices worked very well for me. Both voices very different in their own right, but each one uniquely recognizable. George's voice was pure beauty and precision.
I remember George talking about when he was younger and he was in his fathers restaurant and heard a song. He said that the melody went one way but he realized that it should’ve been different. After hearing his version of Elton’s don’t let the sun go down on me, I figured that this was the song he was talking about. I was sold on George Michael from day one in a 1984 Saturday morning Casey Kasem’ s count down. I caught Wake me up before you go go I was 14 and saw all the girls and I thought this was the ticket. I worked at looking, singing like and dressing like George Michael for years. Like you I realized that George Michael was real and wrote and sang from his heart. There are some things that you wish would never change. I wish we could do some things over.
Your a hundred percent right George is completely Amazing when he does I can't make you love me on MTV is one of my favorites including this one love your video's there so real RIP George Was Amazing and so is your channel brotha Rock On! ! 😎🤘
Love your comments about the showboating. Like you said, after Elton comes out, the feel of the song changed completely. Even when George participated in the "showboating" with Elton, he never tried to show him up. He was a consummate performer, and provided an excellent supporting performance.
Totally understand what your saying about this review. GM was killing it on his own. And I'm no singer but at the beginning as you mentioned had so much heart in it. Love the song with both. But the feel would of been amazing with just GM doing the whole thing. Love your posts. Just found you this evening. great job and I really enjoy just watching your feedback. Really is a joy to watch. Thank you and be blessed and keep up the great reviews.
Great analysis & breakdown Ken!!! For me, it is so difficult to explain George Michael's voice, & the affect it had on his fans, other than, it was able to penetrate even the toughest of skins, & touch the places you didn't even know existed.......I agree that Elton is who he is, and we love him for his theatrics, showmanship, flashy clothes, & entertainment factor, & yes his voice is quite powerful, but just not in the way George Michael's was, & he never even had to try.....I really miss him.....RIP velvet voice (25-12-2016) 💔💔💔
Great video Mr. Tamplin, it's good to hear about some more good memories about your past. Elton John and George Michaels are so good together, can't do no wrong.
Ken, I dig your way of approaching music. You make sense and you do teach people how to sing! I dig your shirts, odd comment I know. But you are the real deal! I have been in music a long, long time and you are correct when you say "where did the music go?" When my mood is down and I feel the world crashing around...I pop on one of your pod casts and things just don't seem so bad. 10 thumbs up !
it looks like you failed to mention that George took the harmony twice on the last line of the chorus he let Elton shine with the lead vocal and he overlaid the most perfectly balanced Harmony I think I've ever heard
![George Michael, Elton John - Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me [REACTION] | Rebeka Luize Budlevska](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/y5h-2teAlhQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Ken, I saw George on this tour at MSG. Oddly he did a ton of covers like Now That We Found Love and on and on lol. It was fantastic. He did this song but in the verses stayed within himself. Yes, he did the aerobics but the tone of the song was more heavy hearted, and that’s appealing to me. What I find funny is I grew up a full on metal head but loved people like George, And many more. It’s funny that you hit on them as our earlier influences I.e. Foreigner, Purple, anything Dio are the same. I think it’s cool that you show you’re cultured musically. I won’t be pigeonholed in to one thing and I’m glad you are the same.
Scott Schmitz Fantastic singer.
Ken Tamplin Vocal Academy yes. It’s like you said. He was never killing him self to reach a note or anything. Was just all available to him and he used it perfectly every time. The sone mothers pride live is mind blowing
Love George's voice
Scott, I believe this was his Cover to Cover tour ( wish I had been there) he launched so his fans could have something to look forward to. He refused to allow Sony to make more money off his new music and there fore he decided to perform a concert of covers. Personally I think he was the Master of covers. he took all the songs to another level. His voice and his delivery was like no others. I love him so much!
@@mcflotty That is a wonderful song. But one is what amazed me and maybe influenced into George's vocals/style/music/ the most with absolute originality and sound of the voice was "Hand to Mouth". There is so much extensive overbreath ...I think it could be a record holder in this category. In fact, I lived in USSR at thet time, we knew not much about western music, and this was something head-turning. I should confess that at start I thought it was low female vocal, as with whispering it is quite hard to tell what is going on - I did not know about George Michael..he wasn't in disco hits and not in radio, so that was discovered. And that's how I started to sing. And I should confess again - I wanted to sound like him because I felt I have similar texture in voice, but I lack language, feel, knowledge... so George taught me that all through endless singing his songs from both albums, wham repertoire... new songs.
Hand to Mouth is something not from here... I don't know how people like George come up with such music and sound. It's a mystery for me.
When you put together the whole package, the delivery, the texture, the intonation, the perfect pitch, and the ability to reach those he's singing to, no one...NO ONE...comes near this man, regardless of how much they think they might. This is a whole different level of vocal prowess and it will forever remain untouched. Music lost an original, a once-in-a-lifetime talent, an icon. There will NEVER be another George Michael.
R H
Absolutely. I've seen a lot of comments on a lot of George's performances and never seen a SINGLE negative one. Without a doubt the best live performer I've ever seen.
Roxanne H except for Freddie
I love what you said.
Whats interesting is how he started his career in a mere 'boy band', with no real indication of what an amazing vocal he would become.
Amen
Queen & George Michael - Somebody to love (live from Freddie's tribute concert) is out of this world. I'm so happy he was chosen for that song, it is outstaning! :)
Kasia Zawartko that one is incredible
Kasia Zawartko aw and please check the rehearsal videos of Freddie Mercury tribute concert on UA-cam, George Micheal , David Bowie , Annie Lenox and all other Great legends reharsing before concert , so sincere , so emotinal and geniuine 💕💕💕
@@Go_Won_Hee Yeah Freddie and David had a challenge that made every single one better with under pressure. Same goes for this song with Elton and George. I love every single part of it, the emotional start of George, the great range of Elton and how they sound together and beat it up to a whole new level- just outstanding and a great part of my life and music history.
Kasia, you read my mind! I'd love to see Ken tackle that one!
Kasia Zawartko
He actually chose the song himself. He picked it because he found out it was Freddie’s mother’s favorite.
Whenever George sang a duet he never tried to take the spotlight off the other singer. Sometimes George’s natural talented just outshined the other performer. George was such a perfectionist and he was always pitch perfect no matter who he sang with I would imagine they put a little more effort into their performance to match George’s natural ability. George was the ultimate performer and song writer. What a talent he was.
Thank you.
Well said!
The great ones in my opinion always let others shine. Makes it so much more enjoyable to listen to as well.
George's "Kissing a fool" is about my favorite vocal ever. He had such an unbelievable gift. He could attack your soul like a bull or a butterfly, and all in between RIP.
Love your analogy.
I cant watch anything with George Michael in it without sobbing. I miss him so much. Greatest singer/songwriter this world has known xx
Same here 😢❤
Me too
UK DoctorFRCS Me too. Fell in love with him in 1984.
He wouldn't want you to sob but to hear his songs as if he was singing them just for you. Now you can go and grab a tissue! I was listening to a short interview with him the other night explaining how he would create some of his songs and it sent shivers through me just hearing him speak after losing him so long ago. We will all forever miss him but it's up to us to keep his memory alive.
Now I'm sobbing too 😟😢😭 .. 😄
I loved that...my father in law is a country gospel music singer and writer..hes won a few awards...and even he says that George Michael was the best singer of all time!!!
Without a doubt 👌
Yes he is
Yes he is
It's Eltons song. He doesn't have to sell himself on anything. He and George complimented each other's talents. I didn't view it as a competition. Two great talents coming together for a celebration of song is how I hear it. When George introduced Elton, it was out of respect and admiration.
Well said! Too often this beautiful duet gets comparison comments
George Michael was amazing. Even his later concerts he was absolutely on point.
Absolutely, Elaine!
This is my favorite version. I loved George Michael. Thank you for showing this. Edit: I'd like to add something to my comment..... I don't think what GM was doing when Elton came out was theatrics. I think he was just feeling it so much, that he felt the need to compliment Elton when he sang. He was so into that song.
I totally agree with you. George didn't just perform with his vocals but put his whole body into projecting what he was saying. When you see his other performances, it's the same. Just look at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert. He puts everything he can into making the song the best he can and does it brilliantly.
George Michael was the greatest singer of all time. His vocal control, his ability was unparalleled.
Um Freddie Mercury, Elton John, Billy Joel hes not the best but he is great
@@abstractalexx9031 Elton John and Billy Joel are nowhere close to George Michael when it comes to vocals
@@jonperans And what about Mercury? George is King, but Freddie is a god.
George was FANTASTIC! One of the best, but the best were MJ and Elvis!
@@abstractalexx9031 Of course you are entitled to your opinion as to what you hear but I have to side with everyone else also. NO-ONE has ever come close to this genius. The purity of his voice and inspirational lyrics are just a few things that blows me away. I recently conversed with a woman whose second language was English but due to George's flawless pronunciations she actually used his songs to better her English language skills as she could understand each word he sung. There is no other artist that I have ever encountered who can pronunciate the way George did whilst also performing on stage. He was rarity amongst vocalists and no-one can hold a match to his natural born talent.
George is one of the most soulful live singers of the last few generations. His range, connection to song and ability to convey the story is unparalleled.
He had a personal understanding of the lyrics, so he didn't have to sell it; he brilliantly illustrated the vulnerability of the human condition in a way that people who have been through hell are able to.
George stated in an interview that anything that you'd ever want to know about him is all in his songs. He was singing his life story. I suffer from Severe Chronic Spinal Pain amongst other health issues and the majority of my life has been a living hell. Listening to George calms me when having exceptionally bad days which is better than reaching for more meds straight off. He has been my constant companion since the start of his career which was when I was injured. He is singing in the background right now as I'm having another bad day. It's so comforting to have George help me through my life journey. If only he could "Heal The Pain"!
George is something out of this world…covered so many originals and made them even better…and no one else could do that ever!!
Indeed!
I love his cover version of Killer by Seal / Adamski
I can`t agree with you. This is one of the most beautiful duets. Every time I watch this I get goosebumps when Elton comes on. Two artists doing their best, that`s how I see it.
You see and feel the respect and the love they have for each other. I wouldn`t change a thing.
Isn't it amazing how songs have so many memories for us, good or bad they are an integral part of all our lives. Also, George was an amazing singer. I'll always remember his performance at the Freddie Mercury Tribute too.
Agree, Agree, Agree. There will never be another not even close to holding a candle to George Michael, when he would sing, you can feel it in your bones, his voice was a story being told of such sincerity, and sensitivity, a beautiful person with a beautiful soul❤
Rock on!
George slays on this. I didn't appreciate how great of a vocalist he was. Started listening to him alot after he passed & was absolutely blown away.
So glad you finally discovered his great talent.
Ken - As great a singer you are, this shows GM is from another planet. He IS the gold standard for me. His ability to move from soft and airy to full and loud in a musical way within a single phrase is unparalleled. e.g., "I took a change and changed your way of life." IMO
I love your description about being from another planet! I have heard of people who believe that one in three people on earth are actually aliens!
To this day I still get goosebumps when George introduces Elton and the crowd loses its collective mind!! Love this presentation. Great breakdown as usual Ken, thank you!
George wrote most of his songs, played almost all instruments in his albums… an absolute legend….. he never compromised on the output whether it was his song or someone else’s and that’s why he was able to create magic even on covers…
Great song! I agree George makes this song
George Michael's vocals on this song is simply angelic.
What an AMAZING collaboration, George Michael is magical! Thank you for doing this one!
George Michael was an amazing live singer! Have you listened to his live version of Tonight (Elton John cover)? If not, you should🙂..
Aimée K in the "Symphonica" album there is a version of Elton's song "Idol" from the 1976 "Blue Moves" album. It is beautiful, I highly recommend it too.
Aimée K
His live version of Tonight is so beautiful. It’s like a hymn.
Tonight yeaaa best version best singer great singer velvet voice George Michael 🎙️🎸♥️
TONIGHT 👌👌👌⭐⭐⭐⭐🎤
ut the instrumental is too artificial. i only liked the vocals.
I don’t think anyone can match George Michaels voice. Ever. Period. Simply amazing!!
I also prefer George Michael's version
I'm glad you agree, Ile Ileana!
I think George's velvet and Eltons snarl complement each other perfectly.
I never paid much attention to George Michael until he performed Somebody to Love at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert in 1992 & he blew me away. I don’t think I’ve heard anyone sing that song as well as he did & he nailed it in rehearsal too. Another loss to the world of music when he passed.
And I agree, I’d rather George sang it solo.
Nice to see Jonathan ‘Sugarfoot’ Moffett on the drums.
Also believe George Michael covering "The Long and winding Road" is better than the Beatles version.
Totally agree. GM owned the song. Have always loved the song, but ever since hearing GM's version, now when I hear Paul McCartney's version, it is so clear that GM's voice is one of the most sublime. Ever.
Yes! I totally agree with that
Don't agree, I love the cover but the original is fantastic.
Couldn't agree more!!!!
Yes! I've been saying this for years.
I love Elton John... but the love affair I've had with George Michael started in 1983 with Wham's first appearance on American Bandstand. One of the greatest singer/songwriters in my lifetime. I never heard that man hit a wrong note, no matter how many times I watched something live. Did you know that George wrote music in his head? He only put lyrics on paper to work them out. The day he died, in my head, I saw all those beautiful notes we never heard floating up to heaven. I still mourn that loss. 😢 I would love to hear your analysis on George's performance of Somebody To Love for the Freddie Mercury tribute at Wembley. ❤
Do the jitter buug *snap* *snap**snap* lol
Julie Keesee I'm a super fan also. If you haven't read Andrew Ridgeley's new Memoir you should. I thought it was excellent as the thoughts and evenrs shared we're clearly from one who would know. The book has a lot of insight.
As an artist of several genre's, you've just given me the most beautiful vision when I read what you said about the notes floating to Heaven! I'll never forget this, thank you.
Ken, You are awesome, Man. Seriously. Every word and every way you explain George's singing is what I've been saying since I was 12 years old. He was powerfully phenomenal and his range and was spot on! He did it at Live aid and he did it again years later. That man was born to sing and for any private aliens he may have had, he knew it. On that stage he lit up because that was who he was. Thank you for expressing it! ;)
Great assessment👍
Elton sang the song.
Michael let the song sing through him. If that makes sense.
Perfect assessment
@Ronnda Munshower I felt it completely the other way around. Elton just sung the lyrics but George made us feel the words and the meaning. I love both artists so I'm not showing bias but just explaining how I felt it.
Here's an interesting side note to the performance. This was during his 1991 Cover To Cover tour and of course about a week or two later is when he made his only performance in Washington State at the Tacoma Dome. It was truly an awesome experience to watch the wonderful beautiful uber talented generous man known as George Michael 😊.. It is a memory I will treasure forever because for us George Michael fans he lives in our hearts forever.
Nicely put.
If you love George Michael versions of songs, I'd have to say "Somebody to Love" at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert was amazing. It was by far the best performance, and best sung version, of all the singers they had that day.
ninman58👍👍👍
I was there ...........it was so awesome.......no words! 💖
ninman58 I totally agree!! George Michaels did a fabulous job
Absolutely. No doubt.
I agree he nailed it for sure...he was a very talented singer r.i.p.
Jonathan Moffett (MJ's drummer) on the drums, Deon Estus on bass, awesome pianist, George Michael and Elton John on lead vocals, (adding Bernie Taupin, co-writer) .. this couldn't fail the test of time.
George Michael was probably at his best ever at the time..
Angel Arkhangael he was always at his best. That voice NEVER CHANGED (and it never would have even if he lived until 100 - as he will in my heart)
his voice, notes, pitch, were exact and he was not satisfied unless it was delivered with near perfection. He didn’t ruin his voice with anything, his voice and delivery was smooth and exact as buttery silk💕
@@raanusant His voice will never age for any of us true admirers. He will always be in our hearts. Although somehow I think smoking two dozen spliffs a day weren't exactly helping him keep his voice the best it could be. Luckily it never showed during his lifetime but maybe in future it may have had an impact.
I appreciate what you were communicating about being in the moment of the song to transmit a great performance. I always felt like Elton kinda “phoned this one in” even though an Elton phone-in is still pretty darn good. I always thought that George being a consummate professional and perfectionist was really pulling out all the stops to do his very best to pay respect to the song and Elton and the audience. George knew it could be an iconic performance and he put in the work.
Rob Bamford
I agree with you. But I don’t think Elton “phoned it in”. That was his voice. He doesn’t have the power or singing ability of George. He never did. He did his best Elton John and George did George Michael. The beauty of it is they blended so well and made an iconic rendition of this song together.
What a talent you were George! Thanks for all you gave us!
Excellent analysis I still did not get over George's death, thanks for remembering it, and showing how big it was. Greetings from Argentina.
I’m a rock/metal guy but I have to admit “father figure” is a guilty pleasure, great song. Dare I say that a great song transcends both genre and time...
It would be interesting to know what you thought of 'Jesus To A Child'?
CALL 'EM LIKE YA HEAR 'EM, KEN! MAKE NO APOLOGIES AS YOU ARE THE MASTER!
I get that same feels when i listen to George. No other singer captivates me like him. He is the epitome of Male Vocal.. ❤ Elton aint too shabby 👍😂
George Michael is just so unfairly left out of most Best Male Singer lists nowadays... We all remember Freddie, but George was a powerhouse as well! Love this video, love this reaction, keep up the quality content Ken!
Sebastián Allende George was awesome!
We just have to keep others remembering how great of an artist he was.
It is very overrated to praise rock singers who mistreat and tear their voices, and after ten years their voices are already hoarse and full of vices.
I thoroughly agree with you...George Michael's vocal was more complimentary. ..with no reason of impeding on Elton ..that's it really. R.I.P. Mr George Michael.
No hate, nothing but love, appreciate your insights.
Ken, this is one of the best reaction videos you have done. I really enjoyed your commentary about the heart and soul of singing.
You saw this differently than I did. I didn’t see a competition. I saw Elton being Elton....he’s always been theatrical....he’s a diva, he’s admitted that. George, I was just enjoying his soul. I love it when he goes off. I see a lot of respect there between the two of them.
Rock on!
@@kentamplin I still respect your opinion though. ❤️
@Grace Elizabeth
I totally agree!
This is the song that got me into Elton when I was like 12. That was the start of one heck of a journey!
You said exactly what I've felt since I was a kid. I heard george start the song, Eltons song, then Elton came in and it was a completely different feel. Far less feeling in my opinion. Which is completely fine I mean Elton can do whatever the hell he wants to do and it still sounds great, it still is great, he is great, but George brought heart to the song because it means maybe a little bit more to him than it does Elton at this point. that was maybe written at a point in elton's life that he doesn't relate to so much at the moment he's singing it in this video. George Michael seems to have not only the feeling behind it but an extreme appreciation for the song and a connection to the lyrics and it's evident in his singing.
Thankfully you're still with us Ken!!! I'm also an official member of the "I did a lot of stupid stuff" club.... Great review/reaction as always!!!
I’m so glad the Sun did’nt go down on YOU !!! It’s amazing we even survive childhood! You were / are a very precious boy! This is definitely your song & what a beautiful job George did!😊🌻🤗💕
He was such an under appreciated songwriter. And he never over-performed.
Side note i know he didn’t write this 👍🏻just in general. he was very committed to his craft.
He wasn't just committed but a perfectionist. Everything had to be done just right which is why he arranged and produced all of his songs. It's such ashame that it took his passing for people to finally appreciate the genius in his music and songwriting abilities. You're so right, he never over-performed! What makes me feel so appreciative is that George did all this for us.
@@krisushi1 Great post , as a life long fan and admire of George Michael
I think he was ever underestimated or appreciated , it just took awhile for the newbies and the younger audience to discover his iconic overall superstar talent
One of the legends in my generation 😎🤛🙌👌🙏🇦🇺
He was purposely. And blatantly, under appreciated.
He went up against the industry. Even though he lost, walking outside, down the stairs of the court house, he stopped at the podium and blasted them again and the judge.
So that is when they realized they weren’t shutting him up. So of course now, Sony is going to “ RELEASE” him from his slave contract, because having a trouble maker bug mouth mega star that made them $150 Million off his first few years with them, he’s just not worth keeping around. Right.
He is the same guy with something important to say as to why you landed in court in the first place… he put you there.
But now all the sudden SONY is going to let him out of his contract because they can’t have the embarrassment!
Then why didn’t you let him out of his contract when he asked
You said no !
He said fine taking you to court.
Because they needed to show him who was the boss, but it didn’t work!
After that , that was pretty much it for any kind of umm, let’s say turning back for compromise because they also , executives of Sony America. Apparently made homophobic slurs to him.
So GM didn’t give a shxt either way he wasn’t going to be their career slave especially now!
So they let him out if his contract of course for a price. Which they were also banking on that he wouldn’t have it, but he did. Because it’s never been about the money with GM.
If he would have followed suit of most that sign they overspend, and then they are even more saturated of being being owned by the industry.
Not him!
But they still since they are the media, also hindered his career.
Starting with the California set up!
Not in a million years Elton could beat George, I totally agree with Ken.
George had a voice like chocolate - so incredibly talented and a lovely guy to boot. Prefer his version too. Such a HUGE loss.
A huge loss, indeed, Sinead!
For me the song was all about George Michael. The voice, the blue jacket, his movements were everything.
That's just George being himself with no frills attached as he never needed them.
Awesome! George Michael is my favorite male vocalist of all time. I know, not the most technical of course but just the emotion and tone of his voice really touches a lot of people.
😀
I get I’ve come into this late.. like 3 yrs late.. but I need to comment. GM went up simply because he was matching Elton’s energy. He needed to.. if he didn’t, this song would have been mediocre. Matching Elton’s energy is what I believe, a true collaboration is all about. GM.. God love him, made this song the legendary hit that it is. He knew when to be his true authentic self and he knew when he needed to go hard to match Elton’s vibe. This is why this is one of the greatest collabs of all time. It’s because of George Michael. Legend! Can’t believe this is live. Just perfect ❤️
KEN TAMPLIN
ELTON JOHN &
GEORGE MICHAEL (R.I.P) are Amazing!
Thank you for sharing your incredible reaction & explaining the way he is singing! You are Awesome,my friend! Keep it up! God Bless you,ALWAYS!
ROCKETJEFF Matejek Thank you!
@@kentamplin
You are welcome!
KEEP ON STOMPIN'!
I respect honest people a lot...Yes George should have performance this alone
ever sins Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert 92 i knew george was the real thing and in his own league!!
Tony Önneberg👍👍👍
You re so right about george he had that special quality that grabs you speaks to your heart pleaseé( listen to the song you have been love)from him george michael every note he sings there is really haunting
Love your description of George's voice sounding "haunting". It does on many of his songs.
When George passed I was so sad with how little it was covered. What an amazing talent and sadly not as appreciated like Elton is.
I didn't even know he died! The news didn't cover it at all it seems. 😥
chris mas It was the media controversy of him being in a relationship with another guy. It was still big news about gays or bisexuals. George was really talented, and should have won awards.
@@taoist32 I disagree. I really don't think anyone cared about George's love life. He died then Carrie Fisher died two days later and Debbie Reynolds, Carrie's mother and a huge American film star, died the next day. I think it was just a huge week of loss and George kind of got lumped into the mix. Who remembers that Farrah Fawcett died the same day as Michael Jackson? George won many awards including; Brit, American Music, MTV and Grammy awards. He was huge.
Ken Tamplin Vocal Academy i don’t think so either. Maybe at the time it was controversial but times have changed. George had a very special quality to his voice. He didn’t have a crazy range but he sang every note with intention. I listen to this video all the time and it always breaks my heart when I see him hug Elton at the end.
Ken Tamplin Vocal Academy good point!
George Michael was one of the best voices of our time. Please react to Somebody to love by George Michael at the Freddie Mercury Tribute. He actually sings it better then Freddie
George Michael got the most beautiful voice ever hands down ... the guy on live is like the studio and even better
George is just an awesome singer. Everything he sings is perfect. Watching his face every emotion can be seen in his face and the same when he is singing it. George doesn't need anyone to sing a song with, he's in a class of his own. There is no one better than him and there never will be again. Its virtually impossible to take my eyes of him while he is singing. A voice that has been silenced well before his time and now gradually coming up to that fateful day on which we lost him, Christmas doesn't have the same meaning anymore, it's just the remembrance of the day we lost a great man, with a huge heart and voice. To this day he is still loved and missed by all his fans
can be seen
Every time I hear him start singing this song I literally start bawling ...the emotion he puts into it, the vulnerability...
He outsang Elton by far ...
❤️
when you're happy you enjoy the music but when you're sad you understand the lyrics.
George Michael was just so damn naturally good. Such a sad day when he died.
I'm glad you did this video because George Michael is my all time favorite singer. He just had the most amazing and unbelievable talent. He was truly blessed. Lou Gramm is my second favorite. Thanks for all of your hard work with all of your videos.
pearlady22 He was phenomenal.
Exactly as you say, George Michael sings to you personally. Not only one song, but the whole concert. Even in a big stadium it's very intimate. Because of that I fell in love with him when I joined my sister to a concert. So few days later we went again and a few months later once again.
I compared it with a concert of Robby Williams who was on stage to be cheered at. George Michael is on stage to sing for you.
Ken you are spot on...I actually had an argument about this song with my ex-wife back in the day. She loved Elton but I told her that George Michael was just a better singer than Elton, period. And as much of a legend as Elton was, I would rather have heard Goerge sing this one himself.
I agree,Elton has a unattractive accent that "He can't hide" lol...that makes all his material sound alike. "Philadelphia Freedom" in all material.
He was great writer...George is so polished and I do not even need to ask who inspired him..Elvis Presley..
I challenge anyone to TRULY dig into his material,forgetting the "Hunka Hunka or Hound Dawg motif and not consider him THE KING when all said and done.
He gets hooked to a motif (from film and Vegas)that stops people before truly digging in,thinking they seen it all already.NOPE!!!!!
Elvis will never stop hooking people in,with same material through all time.
Yes both of them somehow seep deep into your soul with their songs .together.Double deep
Such a beautiful song love that song so much both great in there own rights rip to George Michael 🙏❤ love Careless Whisper ❤❤ but i agree Michaels singing is more intimate
KEN TAMPLIN
Thanks for sharing your story! I would love to hear more!
ROCKETJEFF Matejek👍👍👍
@@kentamplin
You are Awesome!
GEORGE MICHAEL is Awesome! I always enjoyed when he sang with Elton John.
Great singer! He will live on in our hearts forever!
R.I.P GEORGE MICHAEL!
Ken thank you for sharing this, I really agree with you regarding George Michael, what an amazing Voice , Talent and Human being!
Me and you are roughly the same age and it was very UN-Cool to listen to Wham or George Michael with my Motley Crew , Metallica friends however I was a Vocal Fan and cared immensely about vocal abilities , all of Georges albums and performances were recorded and portrayed with such emotion and depth, so loved his abilities .
God Bless!
Jeff
ps, don't drink gasoline : )
Glad you enjoyed it!
The Barbara Streisand of guys. His version of "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" will make you cry.
I just mentioned this song in a previous comment. He sings it just like you and he are in the same room alone, such is his brilliant way of communicating his voice. I always appreciated how he took every advantage to state that it was his admirers that he was performing for and nothing else. I'm not at all an emotional person but this song in particular really gets to me. The words are so softly sung with such meaning that even someone like myself is very affected.
You couldn't resist ..... and you were right !!! One of the best duets ever !!!!!!! thanks for this Coach Reaction !
Thank you very much for this review, Ken! I’m a huge fan of George Michael and was very glad to see such a detailed reaction to one of his best vocal performance!
I'm so glad you enjoyed it, Фархад Азизбейли!
Even Elton admitted in a video interview that George has a better voice than he has.
Luigi Camp Bernie wrote 400 of Elton’s songs. Co-wrote some but the majority were his lyrics.
Barking Spider what does that have to do with anything that comment was about
@@Barkingspider Bernie Taupin writes the lyrics. Elton John writes the music. That's how has been for ALL their songs from day 1 in 1967 right up to now.
@@Barkingspider The comment was about vocal ability, not songwriting. George wrote the majority of his songs anyway, arranged them and produced! That's far more impressive to me.
@@krisushi1 i like the elton songwriting more than any other type of songwriting. elton is my fav but i like george only vocally and when he covers other songs. im not huge fan of george's songs tbh.
Groovy shirt Ken! I agree ... George Michael’s voice brings you in to his delivery of Elton John’s phenomenal tune. Each have their own way of ‘telling a story’. George Michael’s voice has such an awesome tone ... you want more & more. His delivery of any story creates an incredible stage presence. “WHAM!” 😉🎶
This is the most fantastic duet I just love it so much
That laying his heart out there - is George Michael. The emotion and delicacy of his voice and power is unique. Completely. Elton wrote this 20 years earlier than this performance, never made it to number 1 - George decided to put this out (with royalties going to charity) and it sold through the roof - finally making it number 1. I know which version is better and I am not wishy washy - George brought the soul to this - like he did with every tune
Fun fact: Elton wrote his most famous melody «your song» in 15 minutes.
Rosetta umm, The song was composed and performed by Elton John but the lyrics were written by Bernie Taupin. It originally appeared in his self titled and second album.
@bob christopher
yes, if you read her comment again, she said his melody, not the lyrics.
bob christopher he said melody dummy
I always say that we learn something new everyday, thank you.
This man had a voice of an Angel. He was one of the few artists that can actually do that. One of my Hero’s. Thanks for dissecting all the little details Ken.
This was a VERY personal performance by George Michael.. at the time his partner was in the late stages of HIV and AIDS and died around a year later. Elton was in and out of deep depression and drug rehab at the time. Lets not forget Elton is post-op on throat surgery here and the voice never really returned to what it once was. George was always flawless in the studio and live... RIP ... we lost one of the all time greats.
I love them both. Very sad that George left us. George's voice consistently makes me cry, it was so beautiful. Elton's strength is his songwriting (w/ Taupin) & his wildness. He loves the dramatic, so it makes sense that he would take that direction. Plus, as a special appearance, the dramatic made sense for me. I understand what you mean about how it takes away from the meaning of the song itself, but taking it to a place of joy and celebration between two iconic voices worked very well for me. Both voices very different in their own right, but each one uniquely recognizable. George's voice was pure beauty and precision.
I never tought of that but you are absolutely right. It was a big diffrence in singing for me once you pointed it out !
Awesome!! 😀👍
I remember George talking about when he was younger and he was in his fathers restaurant and heard a song. He said that the melody went one way but he realized that it should’ve been different. After hearing his version of Elton’s don’t let the sun go down on me, I figured that this was the song he was talking about. I was sold on George Michael from day one in a 1984 Saturday morning Casey Kasem’ s count down. I caught Wake me up before you go go I was 14 and saw all the girls and I thought this was the ticket. I worked at looking, singing like and dressing like George Michael for years. Like you I realized that George Michael was real and wrote and sang from his heart. There are some things that you wish would never change. I wish we could do some things over.
Both soulful singing from Elton and George! Great video Ken!
Can you do a comparison video about Elton’s pre-vocal surgery and post-vocal surgery?
Your a hundred percent right George is completely Amazing when he does I can't make you love me on MTV is one of my favorites including this one love your video's there so real RIP George Was Amazing and so is your channel brotha Rock On! ! 😎🤘
You have competitive energy today - good analysis
Andrew Storm Thank you!
Love your comments about the showboating. Like you said, after Elton comes out, the feel of the song changed completely. Even when George participated in the "showboating" with Elton, he never tried to show him up. He was a consummate performer, and provided an excellent supporting performance.
George sings the whole song on the Live aid 1985 video with Elton playing piano. It's an amazing performance.
Joe Larson 👍👍👍
I think it worked perfectly. Together, they played off each other like it was supposed to happen.
Totally understand what your saying about this review. GM was killing it on his own. And I'm no singer but at the beginning as you mentioned had so much heart in it. Love the song with both. But the feel would of been amazing with just GM doing the whole thing. Love your posts. Just found you this evening. great job and I really enjoy just watching your feedback. Really is a joy to watch. Thank you and be blessed and keep up the great reviews.
Great analysis & breakdown Ken!!! For me, it is so difficult to explain George Michael's voice, & the affect it had on his fans, other than, it was able to penetrate even the toughest of skins, & touch the places you didn't even know existed.......I agree that Elton is who he is, and we love him for his theatrics, showmanship, flashy clothes, & entertainment factor, & yes his voice is quite powerful, but just not in the way George Michael's was, & he never even had to try.....I really miss him.....RIP velvet voice (25-12-2016) 💔💔💔
Well said. Thank you, sandylee!
Great video Mr. Tamplin, it's good to hear about some more good memories about your past. Elton John and George Michaels are so good together, can't do no wrong.
Zion Martell 👍👍👍
Ken, I dig your way of approaching music. You make sense and you do teach people how to sing! I dig your shirts, odd comment I know. But you are the real deal! I have been in music a long, long time and you are correct when you say "where did the music go?"
When my mood is down and I feel the world crashing around...I pop on one of your pod casts and things just don't seem so bad.
10 thumbs up !
Thank you, Juli!
I believe that was Michael Jackson's drummer Jonathan Moffett
it looks like you failed to mention that George took the harmony twice on the last line of the chorus he let Elton shine with the lead vocal and he overlaid the most perfectly balanced Harmony I think I've ever heard