Nick Drake can teach unknown musicians a lesson. MAKE YOUR MUSIC. Record it the best you can with the time and resources you have. Even if you're a total unknown, MAKE IT FOR YOU. Because remember, when Nick Drake died, he was a VERY obscure musician, known to an extremely small group of fellow folk musicians. And here we are decades later, and the QUALITY OF HIS ART has slowly made him become a very well known musician worldwide with millions of listens. It was like that with MANY musicians: folk artist Judee Sill, the punk band Death, and in some extreme cases like Sibylle Baier where her son literally found her recordings decades later in an attic and decided to release them. All these musicians now are highly revered decades later by hundreds of thousands of people and in some cases millions of people. So MAKE YOUR ART. Make it, and release it into the public like a message in a bottle being thrown into the sea. It will have its own journey in terms of being noticed, which is up to chance, but make sure whatever is in the message reflects the best music you can make.
I've greatly admired Nick Drake's music since 1998, when a total bad lady ended our relationship and a friend suggested that I should listen to '5 Leaves Left. Since then I've discovered Bryter Later etc. He's so unheralded, it's unbelievable. I've a huge diversity in music, but I don't know of anyone who has hit me like Nick Drake. I'm a huge Dylan fan, but if I had one option,i it would be Nick Drake.
For me, he is the Van Gogh of music. He gained spotlight after his death, although he never gain good reputation for his music in his lifetime. He suffered depression and his lyrics is pure poetry and emotions like Van Gogh's paintings.
Weird story. I first time I heard this song was this morning. I was running late. So I decided to get an Uber to my destination. When I sat in the Uber this song was playing. I hardly talk to drivers but I could not help but ask what this piece of music was. This song was like it was sent from heaven and I'm not religious. It made my life make sense and I have never related to a song like this before, especially with my type of music being techno, house and rap. But what makes this story weird is that I was on my way to therapy for major depression. I searched for the artist of the song and soon as I got home and found out about his tragic battle with depression. This song feels too good to be true and It has potentially saved me. Its incredible how much I relate to this song, from the lyrics, singing style and the instrument. It is like it was written for me. And played at the perfect time to change my life around.
I hear people say this kind of music is too sad, or makes them feel sad, but for someone who suffers from depression, it is some of the most uplifting music
Dude, yeah, everyone listens to this music and doesn't get the same thing. Hope your depression is getting better. You might reach a tipping point like me and realize you are better than the corporate job you're heading to. Its sucking your blood. Theres more out there, people like us need to stick together. We know what's going on but cant admit it without freaking people out in defense of our security.
Sitting on the bed watching the rain outside. Decided to put this on because of something that came up on FB recently. A friend of mine sent me this music 30 years ago without knowing that it probably saved my life. Sometimes just knowing that you're not alone on the bad days is enough.
EJt You can see the only film of him on the Fairport Convention live in Kent. It's on Yt. 1970 I think,with Dave Swarbrick lead singing. What a time it was. I left England just before the putrid Glam rock and pseudo progressive era. Commerce can always sell you what you later find to be dross culture. They couldn't sell him.franciose hardy the french singer had a soft spot for him, he went to see her but hadn't the courage to knock on her door. Oh to have been at his elbow and pushed through that door. Sad.
When I was about fifteen (1975 or so), I came across a copy of his self-titled album in a cutout bin. I mistakingly put on the b side first, which started off with this. I was already sold on the guitar, but when I heard his voice and those lyrics, I was mesmerized. I was almost in tears how a human being could produce something this beautiful, yet haunting.
Sid Clark it's never to late to find something wonderful. I'm finding out about some jazz classics now. Mingus' Goodbye Porkpie Hat strikes me like this Written about the life of Lester Young. So Long Frank Lloyd Wright is a song you might like by Simon & Garfunkle. You know them, but this is a deep cut you won't hear on the radio. Classical music is full of songs that convey this mood. Moonlight Sonata is famous. Happy listening.
Well. I've got nothing! For God sakes, I'm a player/song writer and now almost ashamed to say it without having this Giant of an artist in my life! I'm going to binge listen to him for the rest of my life! And I'm going to share share share!!!!
It's just absurd that this wonderful singer and songwriter was almost ignored during his lifetime. So many years later, his songs still touch me deep inside.
exactly. Don’t know why.. Maybe his focus on music/ his music was very personal, original for him. Enough of a story telling. Seems like people didn’t take it as... (back then)
If you measure success in purely monetary terms, Drake's career as a musician was an unqualified failure. If you measure success in terms of creating timeless, transcendent art, then Nick Drake is right up there with Bach.
@@aphextwintool He had some bad experiences playing live, because of his different tunings and how long it took to tune. The crowd would lose interest and he felt sleighted and gave up live performances. So he never was able to promote his music properly. I think he did one radio spot and that's it. He then spiralled into a deep depression, which led to his early death.
My boyfriend introduced me to this song 2 years ago. 3days ago he took his life. My life is forever altered but I will remember him through his immaculate taste in music. Thanks Jaan. (His name is Aravind, jaan is the nickname we gave each other out of sheer love)
This song helped me go through the passing of my fiancée since she loved this song. The days I spent crying while listening to this ( am tearing up as I type this. ) and thinking about her in my own way helped me cope with her passing though if I think about her the thought of her lose comes back but it doesn’t hurt as much though I wish she was still here with me and humming this song. I don’t know what possessed me to to listen to this beautiful song but I’m glad it did.
Lyrics: Betty came by on her way Said she had a word to say About things today And fallen leaves. Said she hadn't heard the news Hadn't had the time to choose A way to lose But she believes. Going to see the river man Going to tell him all I can About the plan For lilac time. If he tells me all he knows About the way his river flows And all night shows In summertime. Betty said she prayed today For the sky to blow away Or maybe stay She wasn't sure. For when she thought of summer rain Calling for her mind again She lost the pain And stayed for more. Going to see the river man Going to tell him all I can About the ban On feeling free. If he tells me all he knows About the way his river flows I don't suppose It's meant for me. Oh, how they come and go Oh, how they come and go
All of us are Nick Drakes. Living like a shadow, passing by a candle light, and sounding like a tiny whisper in this very place... People just don't know.
We are not all Nick Drakes, we all are not Mozart or Bach or Wagner or Hendrix. You are on to something but you phrased it like a socialist. Speak for yourself brother.
This comment means so, so much to me, for the single reason that my father's actual last name was Drake, and they both were Nick Drake fans so they named their firstborn son, you guessed it... Nick! They agreed that the main reason they went through with it was that some day, decades later, I could make a mildly funny joke about an entirely mid comment on future internet video streaming service UA-cam. Thank you all, for joining me on this journey.
Your ear really wants that tritone to go to the 5th, but honestly I think some of the most beautiful chords and writing constantly teases with people's ears.
@@dawnosguthorpe1 I agree with you. It's so beautiful and yet so sad. It reminds me of the music to Walkabout, not musically but just the feeling it gives me. If you haven't heard it, give it a whirl. Peace
Yes. I just heard this for the first time yesterday. For some reason it reminds me of the past which I increasingly ache for. I agree with your comment but in my case it also takes me to places that I've never been but perhaps wish I had. Also we almost have the same birthday. Mine is June 10, 1948 and Mr. Drake's was June 19, 1948. But I agree that this song is indeed hauntingly beautiful.
Nick Drake was very talented. The shifting rhythms, the use of minor to major tonality and the use of dissonance makes this song very interesting to listen to. Quite a musician's musician. He passed much too soon in his career.
Wow. That was the first time i ever heard this. Truly a beautiful song. I can see Beck borrowed a lot from this song when he wrote the Sea Change album. One of my all time favorite albums
This song reminds me of a girl I almost married and if i'm honest, had buried so deep in the past, sometimes I forget she existed. It was an intense relationship. We were together for 2 years. She played this song as part of a compilation one evening whilst giving me a massage and did it again many times. She found scars on my back I never knew were there and couldn't remember getting. She wondered what cruelty must have been inflicted on me in my childhood and by whom. I still don't know. I found out her scars too - she suffered from depression so deep and so dark it was like a black hole that threatened to suck me in as well. She wanted to get married. I did not. We were so young. I did not know how to deal with her depression. We seperated on mutual terms, still saying we loved each other and began writing letters and sending each other gifts for years, which tapered off. The way I felt when I saw her, I resolved that we would never see each other again. I put her in the past, like the boxes containing her letters. We crossed paths again last year at the most banal of places, a supermarket. Now in our 30s, both married with kids. We each bore the kinds of wounds you pick up in life, mine mostly physical; I was recovering from a car crash at the time and was in pain. We spoke and hugged and caught up and compared our scars as it were; hers seemed worse than mine. She helped me at the checkout and the thought occurred to me, where would we be now had we still been together? Perhaps in a supermarket on a friday night, her helping me at the checkout and each of us complaining about our scars. That black hole was still there and for a period, I felt myself being pulled once more into its orbit. I remembered how that felt. I could not pull her up; she only pulled me down. We parted ways as though we would see each other again the next day. I may never see her again. And that's ok. I remain thankful that in the intervening years I met and married my best friend, who is like a ray of light. We have a beautiful son together. Life is good. I wish the same for her. My wounds healed in time. I hope hers do too.
@@hanlon3957 I used to write. I am now a Police Officer, of all things! That is how I got injured in the crash at that time. I am better now. Thank you for your kind response. I didn't think anyone would read that. I wrote it for myself more than anything - like a message in a bottle, thrown into a stormy sea. Writing was the release. I never expected the sea to surrender it to anyone. But here you are. Thank you once again.
@@satyakigoswami1702 thank you, sir. That is a very kind thing to say! A few people have suggested that to me over the years and I am seriously considering it. If I ever do, I will try to get in touch with you to let you know! Thank you once again for your encouragement.
@@David-vw8wz just saw your reply now, I’m glad you are better now. Of course! You should definitely get back into it if your wanting to. Thank you for sharing your story with us!
I heard this song in 2015 after my father passed away. Before he passed he told me I needed to get ahold of our estranged side of our family; my Aunt Linda, Sandi and grandmother Wanda. He said; "search for them, you will find what you're looking for" I had just turned 50 years old. I found them only to find out that my grandfather was a famous country western recording star. Lucky White of the Dude Ranch Playboys. He toured with Bob Wills, Hank Williams, Little Jimmy Dickens, Les Paul and Mary Ford. Gonna see the River Man, tell him all I can, about the plan.... This song brought me to tears, I found what I was looking for.... Thank you Nick
+John Soutter Well it kind of does. I live in an area of two universities and the kids that are labeled as intelligent that attend these places speak another language! Thick as pig shit and I was the kid in the special needs classes!
I have a former girlfriend Jane to thank for introducing me to Nick,and his wonderful music.She sadly passed away a couple of years ago,we had 11 really great years together.She was always Hazy Jane,but River man is my favourite.Kept asking her to marry me,but she never did sadly.I don't often play Nick's music,but always nice memories of good times.
In "Beeswing," Richard Thompson wrote that this song's string arrangement "is the greatest in popular music, better than 'Eleanor Rigby,' 'Kashmir,' or any other contender. It was all recorded live, with Nick singing and playing in the middle of a mere twelve string musicians, although it sounds huge."
It's so melancholic to see him, so lonely as if was waiting or expecting to be born in another world. His songs takes you to the other world (his world)...he was disappointed to not find the people he was speaking through his songs :( , but we are here 😊
This is by far the most melancholy track of my lifetime .. Beautiful and timeless .... Its truly shockingly good today as it was back in the day ......
A genius who was not appreciated in his own time. A tragic cliché. All he wanted was to touch people with his music. It took some time, but it happened. RIP Nick Drake ! Many thanks 🙏
I never even realized it was in 5/4 until I tried learning to play it myself. In fact, it's still harder to stay in time with this song than with other 5/4 songs I know, mostly because this one feels so much like 4/4 unless you're *really* listening for it.
I think this is my favourite song. Depression has been my foe and friend throughout my life. I've learnt so much from it and this man sings depression perfectly for me. This song is a blessing. For those of you on a similar path, much love.
Thank you for your brilliant comments,my family always critised me for listening to Nick,but as someone who has battled depression and anxiety and having been hospilised on numerous occasions, I seriously relate to his music,I played riverman recently when I had a panic attack in which I seriously thought was a heart attack and his music helped me,it is so sad that he was never appreciated when he was alive,whether he committed suicide or whether he played around with his antidepressants,which in those days was very dangerous, we will never know,he was never going to be like Elton John who came across when they were both starting out,not because of lack of talent,but because of the black dog which keeps us back all the time
I didn't want to like Nick Drake when I heard about him - I thought it was a hipster thing. But I finally listened these past few months. I WAS DEAD WRONG. As a musician/guitarist, I can say honestly this guy was a genius - no hype. His guitar tunings and patterns are so unique that the melody hangs above it almost detached - like the music floats. Combine that with his voice - like he has pillows in the back of his throat - and its all becomes amazing. Thank God for recorded sound !
of course man, I don't know why people are so inclined to categorize things and make assumptions upon those categories before hearing it or feeling it. for me, i rate artist by how self-expressive they are through whatever medium they choose to use. how much of their true selves is being articulated into musical melodies and words. secondly is, how much can i understand it or relate to it. everything else is unimportant to me. and Nick Drake is just purely awesome for whatever category of music anyone wishes to put him in, I don't care. simply great.
I always love to read or hear people talk about discovering Nick Drake. I was late to the party myself and didn’t discover him until the 80’s and then got everything by him. At the beginning I was a bit like “Have you heard the word of Jesus?” But then after time I still go back to his music and its as fresh as it was the first time I heard it.
his approach to playing guitar and constructing songs is so unique. he is a master at his craft, yet considered a hidden treasure. maybe too dark or too real for the masses.
Impossibly transcendental and elemental at the same time. Every time I hear his music, and this song in particular, I am transported, elevated, illuminated. Nick was a treasure beyond all reckoning.
Listening to this masterpiece always reminds me of Hermann Hesse's "Sidarta", when Sidarta starts to listen and to understand what the river has to teach us...
First saw him play 2 songs in Les Cousins Greek St. Soho London,in the 70's..he was so poignant and articulate,so fragile.A rare artist for sure.He will always be remembered....always.
Whoa! Sonic memory there! There needs to be a site or book of quotes from people who saw him. That being said,they are already in the bios. You're so lucky!!🎼
This is my first time to hear of Nick or hear his music. I really have no words. It is breathtakingly beautiful and it takes me away. This is the most uniquely done video that I ever seen. I want to learn more about him and his life. He had such a beautiful smile, but it seems he didn't use it much. I'm so sorry that he has passed over.
Hello friend.Brought together by our love of Nick's music -what a legacy!He wouldn't believe his popularity now as he was so ahead of his time and misunderstood.He was shy and didn't do showbiz parties -I related to him so much but I have managed to shift the black dog ... For now ❤
I first heard this song on Facebook, posted by someone after they had heard the news that their friend, my son, had been shot and killed. Hearing it brings back the feeling of that terrible day. The river for Roland was the Gila River in New Mexico, he'd spent a lot of time near that river for many years; somehow the tribute of that one person who thought of him as the "Riverman" was comforting to me on that most devastating day. March 24, 2011.
Mesmerizing. First time I heard this, it made me stop what I was doing to just listen. Can't say that ever happened before. Now that I know his story, it's even more haunting.
I've been listening to this song for three days straight. Such a beautiful voice. Haunting song and nostalgic melody. He was like another Jim Morrison. Rest in peace Nick. I want to listen to this song at the beach on a cloudy lonely afternoon just by myself.
Never heard anything more beautiful. An Absolute in a world of disconnected, dangerous nonsense. This man was a sage, no less than Plato and his teachers
Nicks song are just perfect for autumnal listening. This is the time of year when I love to listen to his music.His songs capture the nostalgia for the going away of summer and heralding the arrival of autumn/winter. Sublime
Yes, I feel the same. I would call it melancholy beauty, as with the music and voice of Sandy Denny. Just so beautiful and moving. . .and yet strangely uplifting at the same time.
I've been hearing it for fifty of mine. You can see him in a Fairport Convention film on YT,taken in 1970 in Kent.He was to meet Francoise Hardy the French singer, she had a soft spot got him. He hadn't the courage to knock on her door. She might have saved him. Oh to be at his elbow and push him through the door. Sad.
@@GasFinger1 well i wouldnt really say that either, for any of them, considering they were still young when they passed. both phenomenal, but not quite masters
TIM BUCKLEYS FIRST ALBUM STANDS OUT AS A BRILLIANT CREATION NOTHING HIS SON DID ( AND I STRUGGLE TO THINK OF ANY SON OR DAUGHTER OF A GENIUS ARTIST WHO HAS ) COME CLOSE , NICK DRAKE WAS BRILLIANT BUT HIS VOICE RANGE COULD NOT COME CLOSE TO TIM BUCKLEYS , SO HE WOULD HAVE BEEN STUCK IN A RUT FOR FUTURE CREATIVITY .
Nick Drake was an artist from the future were we will live like a real brotherhood of people. Some artists come early in life and give us glimpses from this liberated world- we just have to thank them- and most times we don't....
Nick was one of the most talented poetic singers of all time. He inspires my art-projects 100-million-moon percent. A very beautiful human-soul that should still be with us now.
I discovered Nick Drake 30 yrs ago. Every time I hear this song I get chills bumps and tears. There are some artists and songs that do that if you really listen.
His song "Poor Boy" came up on my GooglePlay "Sophisticated 70s" channel. Had never heard him before... and I'm 59 ! WTF !!!? This is only my third song so far... ahhh... so much to discover. Here we go........... ;-)
I know you were way gone before my time, but I want to say that you were a true artist, Nick. It's a shame that so many artists don't get much of their recognition until it's too late. I'm sorry that you had to battle with depression for so long, and had to be misunderstood for so long during your life. There are so many like him who went through the same thing.
If life is like a river, which it surely is, taking us as passengers from a point of origin, a birthplace, back to the immense body...the ocean source, which in turn may return us to the origin, then the river man, could be perhaps just a mystical friend, a man who ferries people across the river or could imply God .... one who understands and/or has dominion over the river. THAT is why this song always makes me tear up and wipe my brow. It is a work of genius...
Ok, first try playing this guitar part over the 5/4 time - which is hard enough. Then try singing at the same time. Then try giving it the required atmosphere. Oh yeah, also try writing something this good. Then you will realize Nick Drake was a genius.
Someone in a doco (can't remember whether it was a friend or a sound engineer) described his method as 'machine-like' (it its precision, not its feel) - sadly by the time he did his last recordings he was no longer able to play and sing at the same time
Timeless, effortless, otherworldly so many words have been used to describe this beautiful and wonderful music yet somehow they never do it justice, Nick Drake a beautiful enigma
JEEZ! HOW COME IT'S 2018 AND I BARELY HEARD ABOUT THIS MAN!?!?!?!?!?! I AM GOING THROUGH A LOT OF EMOTIONAL PAIN AND AS I LISTEN TO THIS IS GIVING ME SOME SORT OF HEALING VIBE, LIKE THERE'S NO PAIN BUT JUST THIS SOOTHING MELODY...DAMN!!!
Its therapy in an album form.It stops you and causes you too reflect and think about life in the time the song starts and ends..Truly wonderful in my opinion. Melancholic music in my opinion triggers more emotion than uplifting songs !!!
He of the level of the Beatles or even Led Zeppelin in a sort way but with very little know about of him. Amazing ! thanks Nick Drake your inspartion will carry on many life times.
Yo amo "Northern Sky" es la melodia mágica que me ayuda a salir de mis estados down. Que gran talento el de Nick Drake 💫 y gracias por su música y que llegara a mi vida♥️
Nick Drake can teach unknown musicians a lesson.
MAKE YOUR MUSIC. Record it the best you can with the time and resources you have. Even if you're a total unknown, MAKE IT FOR YOU. Because remember, when Nick Drake died, he was a VERY obscure musician, known to an extremely small group of fellow folk musicians. And here we are decades later, and the QUALITY OF HIS ART has slowly made him become a very well known musician worldwide with millions of listens. It was like that with MANY musicians: folk artist Judee Sill, the punk band Death, and in some extreme cases like Sibylle Baier where her son literally found her recordings decades later in an attic and decided to release them. All these musicians now are highly revered decades later by hundreds of thousands of people and in some cases millions of people.
So MAKE YOUR ART. Make it, and release it into the public like a message in a bottle being thrown into the sea. It will have its own journey in terms of being noticed, which is up to chance, but make sure whatever is in the message reflects the best music you can make.
This comment really changed the way I think about my music. Thank you so much
I've greatly admired Nick Drake's music since 1998, when a total bad lady ended our relationship and a friend suggested that I should listen to '5 Leaves Left. Since then I've discovered Bryter Later etc. He's so unheralded, it's unbelievable. I've a huge diversity in music, but I don't know of anyone who has hit me like Nick Drake. I'm a huge Dylan fan, but if I had one option,i it would be Nick Drake.
great music will always see the light of day and find appreciation...just sometimes happens after the artist has passed :(
Thank you for these words❤️
I've done this with my poetry and art. I've sold about 3 books online so far but maybe one day long after I'm gone it will reach more people
A guitar, a violon, a cello, an orchestration and the voice of Nick = One of the greatest song ever written and recorded... for Eternity!
I don't much about guitars violins cellos or orchestration. But God this is so fucking beauttiful
This beautiful voice washes over me like liquid calm and transports me to a safe place where my heart forgets cruelty and the vicious trauma of life
For me, he is the Van Gogh of music. He gained spotlight after his death, although he never gain good reputation for his music in his lifetime. He suffered depression and his lyrics is pure poetry and emotions like Van Gogh's paintings.
So on point. A modern day artist unappreciated in his time whose suffering fueled his art until he died. Beautiful. I hope he has been at peace.
He and Syd Barrett
My friend introduced me to him yesterday and I said the exact same thing
Greatness has walked amongst us..a true genius.Alas his pain was too great ...
Yes
Weird story. I first time I heard this song was this morning. I was running late. So I decided to get an Uber to my destination. When I sat in the Uber this song was playing. I hardly talk to drivers but I could not help but ask what this piece of music was. This song was like it was sent from heaven and I'm not religious. It made my life make sense and I have never related to a song like this before, especially with my type of music being techno, house and rap. But what makes this story weird is that I was on my way to therapy for major depression. I searched for the artist of the song and soon as I got home and found out about his tragic battle with depression. This song feels too good to be true and It has potentially saved me. Its incredible how much I relate to this song, from the lyrics, singing style and the instrument. It is like it was written for me. And played at the perfect time to change my life around.
Read Carl Jung about synchronicity.
I hear people say this kind of music is too sad, or makes them feel sad, but for someone who suffers from depression, it is some of the most uplifting music
😘😘
Dude, yeah, everyone listens to this music and doesn't get the same thing. Hope your depression is getting better. You might reach a tipping point like me and realize you are better than the corporate job you're heading to. Its sucking your blood. Theres more out there, people like us need to stick together. We know what's going on but cant admit it without freaking people out in defense of our security.
Someone very close to me had a similar experience. Hope you're doing well now.
Nick Drake was a fragile and gentle soul. His tenderness was too precious for this world. Too bad, he was a true artist.
Something the industry lacks more than ever today
yeh man. reminds me of the lyrics of Don Mclean - Vincent. "this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you"
Nick Drake, Ian Curtis, Mark Sandman, Jeff Buckley, Scott Hutchison, and far, far too many more. Left us far too soon, and so appreciated by so many.
I still can't believe people in 1969/1970 couldn't comprehend the absolute beauty of Five Leaves Left smh RIP Nick Drake
not just five leaves. he didn't have a bad track
some did
One of Heath Ledger’s favorites
Put it down to the massive competition in those days - SO different to nowadays!
I've seen you on a ton of RYM comments sections lmao what the heck
Nick Drake. The Kafka/van Gogh of music.
A sensitive gentle soul who now plays for the Gods.
You’re cool
Sitting on the bed watching the rain outside. Decided to put this on because of something that came up on FB recently. A friend of mine sent me this music 30 years ago without knowing that it probably saved my life. Sometimes just knowing that you're not alone on the bad days is enough.
Shows what happens when you're a quiet soul, unable to sell yourself: Brilliance isn't enough. ND, never forgotten.
EJt You can see the only film of him on the Fairport Convention live in Kent. It's on Yt. 1970 I think,with Dave Swarbrick lead singing. What a time it was. I left England just before the putrid Glam rock and pseudo progressive era. Commerce can always sell you what you later find to be dross culture. They couldn't sell him.franciose hardy the french singer had a soft spot for him, he went to see her but hadn't the courage to knock on her door. Oh to have been at his elbow and pushed through that door. Sad.
I owned all of his albums, when they came out back in the 70s, and this song is my absolute favorite...I was so sad when I heard of his death.
When I was about fifteen (1975 or so), I came across a copy of his self-titled album in a cutout bin. I mistakingly put on the b side first, which started off with this. I was already sold on the guitar, but when I heard his voice and those lyrics, I was mesmerized. I was almost in tears how a human being could produce something this beautiful, yet haunting.
Yess
This song always makes me cry..like a weeping from my soul. Amazing...
I was born 1953, discovered him when his 1st album came out. He still moves me to tears 🙏
Drake's three original albums are titled Five Leaves Left, Bryter Later and Pink Moon. There isn't a self-titled release.
Make that 'Bryter Layter'.
Cant believe i had never heard of this man. Nearly 74 years old, have missed listening to him all these years.
Nick was younger than you. He would have been 72 now.
Happy you have now...
Sid Clark it's never to late to find something wonderful. I'm finding out about some jazz classics now. Mingus' Goodbye Porkpie Hat strikes me like this
Written about the life of Lester Young. So Long Frank Lloyd Wright is a song you might like by Simon & Garfunkle. You know them, but this is a deep cut you won't hear on the radio. Classical music is full of songs that convey this mood. Moonlight Sonata is famous. Happy listening.
A time for everything,
I’m 60 and never of heard of him till today. Better late than never!
Well. I've got nothing! For God sakes, I'm a player/song writer and now almost ashamed to say it without having this Giant of an artist in my life! I'm going to binge listen to him for the rest of my life! And I'm going to share share share!!!!
It's just absurd that this wonderful singer and songwriter was almost ignored during his lifetime. So many years later, his songs still touch me deep inside.
exactly. Don’t know why.. Maybe his focus on music/ his music was very personal, original for him. Enough of a story telling. Seems like people didn’t take it as... (back then)
If you measure success in purely monetary terms, Drake's career as a musician was an unqualified failure.
If you measure success in terms of creating timeless, transcendent art, then Nick Drake is right up there with Bach.
That's almost the norm with great artists and geniuses....
@@aphextwintool He had some bad experiences playing live, because of his different tunings and how long it took to tune. The crowd would lose interest and he felt sleighted and gave up live performances. So he never was able to promote his music properly. I think he did one radio spot and that's it. He then spiralled into a deep depression, which led to his early death.
@@clingard2810 yeah… People that creative could be very fragile
I am new to Nick Drake . I've never heard anything like this before. Wow
Only heard him for the first time yesterday..all day today... wonderful
This is beautiful. Should be a soundtrack for a movie.
My boyfriend introduced me to this song 2 years ago. 3days ago he took his life. My life is forever altered but I will remember him through his immaculate taste in music. Thanks Jaan. (His name is Aravind, jaan is the nickname we gave each other out of sheer love)
I'm so sorry to hear that💔. May he be resting in peace🙌🏽, and may your heart be comforted.
Rest in peace Jaan
I am so sorry for your loss.
I am sorry for your loss .
RIP Jaan
im so sorry for your loss, rest in peace Jaan
Probably one of the most beautiful songs and arrangements I have heard .
Really is...!!! Be hard to find a more blissfull, emotional creating song.
@@matthewsmith1931 Thanks for saying this ..I agree the production was amazing ...I love this guy ! !..
so true
More than true. Best song I ever heared
Probably almost most definetly
One of the most beautiful songs of all time.
In a beautiful english churchyard in Tanworth in Arden lies one of England's greatest ever singer songwriters ❤❤❤❤❤❤
This song was such a comfort in what was one of the darkest periods of my life.
Same
This song helped me go through the passing of my fiancée since she loved this song. The days I spent crying while listening to this ( am tearing up as I type this. ) and thinking about her in my own way helped me cope with her passing though if I think about her the thought of her lose comes back but it doesn’t hurt as much though I wish she was still here with me and humming this song. I don’t know what possessed me to to listen to this beautiful song but I’m glad it did.
Made me tear up reading your comment , hope you're well my friend
❤
Lyrics:
Betty came by on her way
Said she had a word to say
About things today
And fallen leaves.
Said she hadn't heard the news
Hadn't had the time to choose
A way to lose
But she believes.
Going to see the river man
Going to tell him all I can
About the plan
For lilac time.
If he tells me all he knows
About the way his river flows
And all night shows
In summertime.
Betty said she prayed today
For the sky to blow away
Or maybe stay
She wasn't sure.
For when she thought of summer rain
Calling for her mind again
She lost the pain
And stayed for more.
Going to see the river man
Going to tell him all I can
About the ban
On feeling free.
If he tells me all he knows
About the way his river flows
I don't suppose
It's meant for me.
Oh, how they come and go
Oh, how they come and go
THAT is song writing! It’s magnificent!
Thank you !
wow… I’m at a loss for words.
he s a poet;;
Simply, tragically, beautiful
sometimes, something so delicate - the voice, the guitar, the arrangement, the pace, the quiet -can leave you on the ground, looking at the sky, agape
All of us are Nick Drakes. Living like a shadow, passing by a candle light, and sounding like a tiny whisper in this very place... People just don't know.
Ok is true!
We are not all Nick Drakes, we all are not Mozart or Bach or Wagner or Hendrix. You are on to something but you phrased it like a socialist. Speak for yourself brother.
@@mikeschneider1624you put too much into it. we all have a bit of Nick Drakes mentality in our lives.
Yea, love says that we are, ultimately
This comment means so, so much to me, for the single reason that my father's actual last name was Drake, and they both were Nick Drake fans so they named their firstborn son, you guessed it... Nick! They agreed that the main reason they went through with it was that some day, decades later, I could make a mildly funny joke about an entirely mid comment on future internet video streaming service UA-cam. Thank you all, for joining me on this journey.
I like how he ends on an unresolved lydian chord, gives off a vibe of uncertainty and tension.
Your ear really wants that tritone to go to the 5th, but honestly I think some of the most beautiful chords and writing constantly teases with people's ears.
Major minor interplay throughout the entire song, too. Lifting, falling, reaching, lifting, falling, reaching... It's a dance. A dance in 5/4.
You like that huh, dirty little nerd.
Drake was a genious. A very special music by a very special guy.
His depression runs deep, very dark and dismal...I couldn't even imagine.
he really was. rest in peace to him.
Absolutely. How absolutely awful he hated himself/his life so much that he ended it.
@@sarahtomlinson2493 know that for sure?
Brilliant , some poor souls are only with us for a moment but they truly leave a lasting impression .
This is the most haunting and most beautiful song I've ever heard. It took me to places that I've forgotten I've been. Masterpiece!
Beautifully put.
I totally know what you mean
@@dawnosguthorpe1 I agree with you. It's so beautiful and yet so sad. It reminds me of the music to Walkabout, not musically but just the feeling it gives me. If you haven't heard it, give it a whirl. Peace
I can hear where Seal got his vocal style from!!
Yes. I just heard this for the first time yesterday. For some reason it reminds me of the past which I increasingly ache for. I agree with your comment but in my case it also takes me to places that I've never been but perhaps wish I had. Also we almost have the same birthday. Mine is June 10, 1948 and Mr. Drake's was June 19, 1948. But I agree that this song is indeed hauntingly beautiful.
Nick Drake was very talented. The shifting rhythms, the use of minor to major tonality and the use of dissonance makes this song very interesting to listen to. Quite a musician's musician. He passed much too soon in his career.
Nick Drake listened to jazz and it shows. The C lydian chord gets me.
Wow. That was the first time i ever heard this. Truly a beautiful song. I can see Beck borrowed a lot from this song when he wrote the Sea Change album. One of my all time favorite albums
This song reminds me of a girl I almost married and if i'm honest, had buried so deep in the past, sometimes I forget she existed. It was an intense relationship. We were together for 2 years. She played this song as part of a compilation one evening whilst giving me a massage and did it again many times. She found scars on my back I never knew were there and couldn't remember getting. She wondered what cruelty must have been inflicted on me in my childhood and by whom. I still don't know. I found out her scars too - she suffered from depression so deep and so dark it was like a black hole that threatened to suck me in as well. She wanted to get married. I did not. We were so young. I did not know how to deal with her depression. We seperated on mutual terms, still saying we loved each other and began writing letters and sending each other gifts for years, which tapered off. The way I felt when I saw her, I resolved that we would never see each other again. I put her in the past, like the boxes containing her letters. We crossed paths again last year at the most banal of places, a supermarket. Now in our 30s, both married with kids. We each bore the kinds of wounds you pick up in life, mine mostly physical; I was recovering from a car crash at the time and was in pain. We spoke and hugged and caught up and compared our scars as it were; hers seemed worse than mine. She helped me at the checkout and the thought occurred to me, where would we be now had we still been together? Perhaps in a supermarket on a friday night, her helping me at the checkout and each of us complaining about our scars. That black hole was still there and for a period, I felt myself being pulled once more into its orbit. I remembered how that felt. I could not pull her up; she only pulled me down. We parted ways as though we would see each other again the next day. I may never see her again. And that's ok. I remain thankful that in the intervening years I met and married my best friend, who is like a ray of light. We have a beautiful son together. Life is good. I wish the same for her. My wounds healed in time. I hope hers do too.
That is beautiful, are you a writer?
@@hanlon3957 I used to write. I am now a Police Officer, of all things! That is how I got injured in the crash at that time. I am better now. Thank you for your kind response. I didn't think anyone would read that. I wrote it for myself more than anything - like a message in a bottle, thrown into a stormy sea. Writing was the release. I never expected the sea to surrender it to anyone. But here you are. Thank you once again.
Good Sire, you need to get published!
@@satyakigoswami1702 thank you, sir. That is a very kind thing to say! A few people have suggested that to me over the years and I am seriously considering it. If I ever do, I will try to get in touch with you to let you know! Thank you once again for your encouragement.
@@David-vw8wz just saw your reply now, I’m glad you are better now. Of course! You should definitely get back into it if your wanting to. Thank you for sharing your story with us!
I heard this song in 2015 after my father passed away. Before he passed he told me I needed to get ahold of our estranged side of our family; my Aunt Linda, Sandi and grandmother Wanda. He said; "search for them, you will find what you're looking for" I had just turned 50 years old. I found them only to find out that my grandfather was a famous country western recording star. Lucky White of the Dude Ranch Playboys. He toured with Bob Wills, Hank Williams, Little Jimmy Dickens, Les Paul and Mary Ford. Gonna see the River Man, tell him all I can, about the plan.... This song brought me to tears, I found what I was looking for.... Thank you Nick
Such a beautiful song nephew, you found us. 💝 I wish you could have meant your grandfather.
Wow. Great story ❤
Your Grandad was Country Music royalty 🤩
Can't believe he was only 21, so mature sounding
+alex tongue maturity was never and will never be about age
+John Soutter Well it kind of does. I live in an area of two universities and the kids that are labeled as intelligent that attend these places speak another language! Thick as pig shit and I was the kid in the special needs classes!
And he just got better with each record
Poles apart from most of todays 21 year olds
21 what! He why does all the grate singers die so young
21 years old? Seriously? Can you imagine the amazing music he would have made as he matured further?
that ending is one of the most devastating and chilling sections of music ever recorded. yes, how they come and go.
First heard this late to the party..in a film, The Perfect Man...looked it up, fell in love with it and want it at my funeral. It's beautiful.
I have a former girlfriend Jane to thank for introducing me to Nick,and his wonderful music.She sadly passed away a couple of years ago,we had 11 really great years together.She was always Hazy Jane,but River man is my favourite.Kept asking her to marry me,but she never did sadly.I don't often play Nick's music,but always nice memories of good times.
In "Beeswing," Richard Thompson wrote that this song's string arrangement "is the greatest in popular music, better than 'Eleanor Rigby,' 'Kashmir,' or any other contender. It was all recorded live, with Nick singing and playing in the middle of a mere twelve string musicians, although it sounds huge."
I just heard Richard himself read that in the audiobook and immediately took a break to come here. :)
The most beautiful song about the weave between life and death that I have ever encountered.
One of the most beautiful songs of the 20th Century.
It's so melancholic to see him, so lonely as if was waiting or expecting to be born in another world. His songs takes you to the other world (his world)...he was disappointed to not find the people he was speaking through his songs :( , but we are here 😊
This is by far the most melancholy track of my lifetime .. Beautiful and timeless .... Its truly shockingly good today as it was back in the day ......
A genius who was not appreciated in his own time. A tragic cliché. All he wanted was to touch people with his music. It took some time, but it happened. RIP Nick Drake ! Many thanks 🙏
A chill-air overcast day in late October is the perfect time to listen to a Nick Drake song. 👌🏻 😌
Nick takes us to different mystical dimension
couldnt have said it better myself
I've been seeing this video since it was uploaded 11 years ago. Happy Birthday Nick
What a masterpiece. Beautiful melody floating over the top of that off-kilter 5/4 guitar track and not one note over-produced. Brilliant.
I never even realized it was in 5/4 until I tried learning to play it myself. In fact, it's still harder to stay in time with this song than with other 5/4 songs I know, mostly because this one feels so much like 4/4 unless you're *really* listening for it.
I think this is my favourite song. Depression has been my foe and friend throughout my life. I've learnt so much from it and this man sings depression perfectly for me. This song is a blessing.
For those of you on a similar path, much love.
Thank you for your brilliant comments,my family always critised me for listening to Nick,but as someone who has battled depression and anxiety and having been hospilised on numerous occasions, I seriously relate to his music,I played riverman recently when I had a panic attack in which I seriously thought was a heart attack and his music helped me,it is so sad that he was never appreciated when he was alive,whether he committed suicide or whether he played around with his antidepressants,which in those days was very dangerous, we will never know,he was never going to be like Elton John who came across when they were both starting out,not because of lack of talent,but because of the black dog which keeps us back all the time
The string section gives this brilliant song double the balls , it is absolutely gorgeous every line in the song is pure gold !!!!
You left this physical world 40 years ago to the day, we love, miss and appreciate you.
40 years.. wow...
Who?
@@jamescricketson9464 Silly sad person ... I would assume that you live with your mum!.
@@merseydave1 I'm not allowed to ask? You post this comment and then start lashing out at me because I was curious?
@@jamescricketson9464 No not curious, just THICK.
I didn't want to like Nick Drake when I heard about him - I thought it was a hipster thing. But I finally listened these past few months. I WAS DEAD WRONG. As a musician/guitarist, I can say honestly this guy was a genius - no hype. His guitar tunings and patterns are so unique that the melody hangs above it almost detached - like the music floats. Combine that with his voice - like he has pillows in the back of his throat - and its all becomes amazing. Thank God for recorded sound !
I think you deserve some kind of award for this comment, perfect, ^oo^
of course man, I don't know why people are so inclined to categorize things and make assumptions upon those categories before hearing it or feeling it. for me, i rate artist by how self-expressive they are through whatever medium they choose to use. how much of their true selves is being articulated into musical melodies and words. secondly is, how much can i understand it or relate to it. everything else is unimportant to me. and Nick Drake is just purely awesome for whatever category of music anyone wishes to put him in, I don't care. simply great.
What you say about the floating and pillows is so apt.
I always love to read or hear people talk about discovering Nick Drake. I was late to the party myself and didn’t discover him until the 80’s and then got everything by him. At the beginning I was a bit like “Have you heard the word of Jesus?” But then after time I still go back to his music and its as fresh as it was the first time I heard it.
his approach to playing guitar and constructing songs is so unique. he is a master at his craft, yet considered a hidden treasure. maybe too dark or too real for the masses.
Impossibly transcendental and elemental at the same time. Every time I hear his music, and this song in particular, I am transported, elevated, illuminated. Nick was a treasure beyond all reckoning.
Never heard of him ... never heard his music... first time listening to him.... amazing....wow.
This is the best version, added sound effects and all 🖤
Listening to this masterpiece always reminds me of Hermann Hesse's "Sidarta", when Sidarta starts to listen and to understand what the river has to teach us...
Yes this is exactly what I thought when I first heard this most beautiful and gentle song
Well I read that this song was inspired by Hesse's novel, that's how I discovered it, so it's no coincidence
Nick was a musical genius ….I’ve been listening to him since 1979. I still get goose bumps when I hear this song. Incredible talent !!
One of the most beautiful song most people have never heard. Probably why its beautiful.
First
saw him play 2 songs in Les Cousins Greek St. Soho London,in the 70's..he was so poignant and articulate,so fragile.A rare artist for sure.He will always be remembered....always.
Lucky!
any idea which guitar he was playing? lot's of debate about this for some reason
How cool is that to see him perform! He's so underrated!
Lucky you....A greeting from Italy......
Whoa! Sonic memory there! There needs to be a site or book of quotes from people who saw him. That being said,they are already in the bios. You're so lucky!!🎼
This has to be the most haunting and emotionally charged song i've ever heard by far.
Truly amazing talent. R.I.P Nick Drake.
absolutely
This is my first time to hear of Nick or hear his music. I really have no words. It is breathtakingly beautiful and it takes me away. This is the most uniquely done video that I ever seen. I want to learn more about him and his life. He had such a beautiful smile, but it seems he didn't use it much. I'm so sorry that he has passed over.
Everyone in these comments are my bestfriends for loving this song as much as me.
Yes, that's for sure
Hello friend.Brought together by our love of Nick's music -what a legacy!He wouldn't believe his popularity now as he was so ahead of his time and misunderstood.He was shy and didn't do showbiz parties -I related to him so much but I have managed to shift the black dog ... For now ❤
I first heard this song on Facebook, posted by someone after they had heard the news that their friend, my son, had been shot and killed. Hearing it brings back the feeling of that terrible day. The river for Roland was the Gila River in New Mexico, he'd spent a lot of time near that river for many years; somehow the tribute of that one person who thought of him as the "Riverman" was comforting to me on that most devastating day. March 24, 2011.
So sorry for your huge loss. I know this beautiful song must bring comfort for you.
May he rest gently, I hope you have found some peace after losing your son xxxx
Peace Be With You, (from Colorado's mountains).
Mesmerizing. First time I heard this, it made me stop what I was doing to just listen. Can't say that ever happened before. Now that I know his story, it's even more haunting.
I've been listening to this song for three days straight. Such a beautiful voice. Haunting song and nostalgic melody. He was like another Jim Morrison. Rest in peace Nick.
I want to listen to this song at the beach on a cloudy lonely afternoon just by myself.
Never heard anything more beautiful. An Absolute in a world of disconnected, dangerous nonsense. This man was a sage, no less than Plato and his teachers
Nicks song are just perfect for autumnal listening. This is the time of year when I love to listen to his music.His songs capture the nostalgia for the going away of summer and heralding the arrival of autumn/winter. Sublime
You just summarised the exact feeling I feel when I listen to his music, I couldn't put it better myself, the peacefulness of Autumn. Thank you!
you could be right just watching the leaves falling of the trees.Great song. Sad end to a talented artist.
Certainly so much more that.
Yes, I feel the same. I would call it melancholy beauty, as with the music and voice of Sandy Denny. Just so beautiful and moving. . .and yet strangely uplifting at the same time.
Yes! I thought I was the only one who thought his music reminded me of autumn. I love him!
One of the most beautiful songs I’ve heard so far in my 22 years of life.
I've been hearing it for fifty of mine. You can see him in a Fairport Convention film on YT,taken in 1970 in Kent.He was to meet Francoise Hardy the French singer, she had a soft spot got him. He hadn't the courage to knock on her door. She might have saved him. Oh to be at his elbow and push him through the door. Sad.
Welcome to the beautiful side...relax...listen...enjoy.....
Jeff Buckley and Nick Drake were two of the most ingenious musicians that died way too young.
Tim buckley was the genius
@@GasFinger1 he was good but jeff was on anorher level
@@erlendnordstrand9196 tim was the master
@@GasFinger1 well i wouldnt really say that either, for any of them, considering they were still young when they passed. both phenomenal, but not quite masters
TIM BUCKLEYS FIRST ALBUM STANDS OUT AS A BRILLIANT CREATION NOTHING HIS SON DID ( AND I STRUGGLE TO THINK OF ANY SON OR DAUGHTER OF A GENIUS ARTIST WHO HAS ) COME CLOSE , NICK DRAKE WAS BRILLIANT BUT HIS VOICE RANGE COULD NOT COME CLOSE TO TIM BUCKLEYS , SO HE WOULD HAVE BEEN STUCK IN A RUT FOR FUTURE CREATIVITY .
Imagine writing a song like this at 20 years old. In fact, imagine writing it during an entire lifetime... Ahh Nick, I wish you didn't leave so soon.
I've never heard a song more haunting, or beautiful.
BOTH?
It is totally stunning
haunting and beautiful is what i look for too
obvously you never heard elliott smith👎
Just recently stumbled upon this guy..... completely mesmerized.
This is quite possibly THE most beautifully written and played song that there ever was or will be.
Legendary....and fully deserving of that status.
Nick Drake was an artist from the future were we will live like a real brotherhood of people. Some artists come early in life and give us glimpses from this liberated world- we just have to thank them- and most times we don't....
Can you imagine something more beautiful than this????
A true, true poet.
I have been listening to this song for 40 years.......on every listen it reveals and surprises emotions within me....astonishing
Nick was one of the most talented poetic singers of all time. He inspires my art-projects 100-million-moon percent. A very beautiful human-soul that should still be with us now.
R.I.P. Nick,you left us 40 years ago today,but you will never be forgotten.
I can't believe I've only just discovered this. A flawless song, lifted to the heavens by that string arrangement. I am tearing up listening to this.
Same.
I discovered Nick Drake 30 yrs ago. Every time I hear this song I get chills bumps and tears. There are some artists and songs that do that if you really listen.
You were too beautiful and deep for this world Nick Thanks for reminding us to keep seeking the beauty It matters ☺💝🎆
This is absolutely incredible. This is GOLD. Ashamed to say Im just now really listening to his music. Wow.
musicisbrilliant I wouldn't be surprised if Ed Sheeran is his biggest fan.
Why do you mention Ed?
Sorry wrote on the wrong reply.
:) Oh no, its all cool. Have a good day!
There’s never a better time to hear Drake rather then never experiencing him at all
It's simply what music should be.....poetry put to musical notes.
Simply.
This song brings me to tears every time I hear it, yet I've listened to it 100s of times..
His song "Poor Boy" came up on my GooglePlay "Sophisticated 70s" channel.
Had never heard him before... and I'm 59 ! WTF !!!?
This is only my third song so far... ahhh... so much to discover.
Here we go........... ;-)
Enjoy! His three albums are required, essential listening.
Me too ! I missed out
And me @ 72
I know you were way gone before my time, but I want to say that you were a true artist, Nick. It's a shame that so many artists don't get much of their recognition until it's too late. I'm sorry that you had to battle with depression for so long, and had to be misunderstood for so long during your life. There are so many like him who went through the same thing.
Wow! Just wow! I have only heard this for the first time today!!! What an unbelievably beautiful, haunting and incredible piece of music.
If life is like a river, which it surely is, taking us as passengers from a point of origin, a birthplace, back to the immense body...the ocean source, which in turn may return us to the origin, then the river man, could be perhaps just a mystical friend, a man who ferries people across the river or could imply God .... one who understands and/or has dominion over the river. THAT is why this song always makes me tear up and wipe my brow. It is a work of genius...
My favorite Nick Drake song. There is something so nostalgic about it...It touches me so deeply. RIP Nick Drake.
Ok, first try playing this guitar part over the 5/4 time - which is hard enough. Then try singing at the same time. Then try giving it the required atmosphere. Oh yeah, also try writing something this good. Then you will realize Nick Drake was a genius.
Not to mention his insane finger picking technique.
He showed me how he did stuff like this when we were at Cambridge together, back in 67/68. He made it look easy. Genius, as you said.
Someone in a doco (can't remember whether it was a friend or a sound engineer) described his method as 'machine-like' (it its precision, not its feel) - sadly by the time he did his last recordings he was no longer able to play and sing at the same time
And also creating unique tunings and using them the way he did.
Ed Gilchrist amazing. what was he like?
What a truly beautiful song that will never date. Such melodic music. I wish I'd written this. So beautiful words can't do it justice.
Timeless, effortless, otherworldly so many words have been used to describe this beautiful and wonderful music yet somehow they never do it justice, Nick Drake a beautiful enigma
JEEZ! HOW COME IT'S 2018 AND I BARELY HEARD ABOUT THIS MAN!?!?!?!?!?! I AM GOING THROUGH A LOT OF EMOTIONAL PAIN AND AS I LISTEN TO THIS IS GIVING ME SOME SORT OF HEALING VIBE, LIKE THERE'S NO PAIN BUT JUST THIS SOOTHING MELODY...DAMN!!!
Its therapy in an album form.It stops you and causes you too reflect and think about life in the time the song starts and ends..Truly wonderful in my opinion. Melancholic music in my opinion triggers more emotion than uplifting songs !!!
He of the level of the Beatles or even Led Zeppelin in a sort way but with very little know about of him. Amazing ! thanks Nick Drake your inspartion will carry on many life times.
Yo amo "Northern Sky" es la melodia mágica que me ayuda a salir de mis estados down. Que gran talento el de Nick Drake 💫 y gracias por su música y que llegara a mi vida♥️
His voice and the sound are surreal.