Also adding "Let's Lock The Door" to the list. I have always loved Jay's voice and this group. Haven't listened to them for awhile so thanks for the reaction.
Jay Black, from Brooklyn, was my aunt's best friend. He came to all our family events. But, my Dad was the bandleader and even though he offered Jay to sing he always said no. It was my Dad's night and he was so humble & just wanted to be a guest. He said the spotlight is yours . Great guy! 😊
Glad you finally around to “The Voice” AKA Jay Black. He died last year and despite being ill he would still perform. He joined an existing band and changed his name to Jay. Most of their music was remakes of 50’s and 60’s hits, but they all sound great.
Jay & Amber, you'll love their "Come a Little Bit Closer", "This Magic Moment" and "Let's Lock the Door (And Throw Away the Key)" !!! Jay Black, what a voice!!! edit - He had some specialized vocal training from what I recall.
I'm so glad you got to listen to Jay & The Americans. They are one of the great groups from the 60's. Their lead singer was Jay Black. Many have referred to him as "The Voice". Incredible singer. Great song choice to start with this group. "Cara Mia" was their biggest hit and most well-known song. Other songs from Jay & The Americans that I highly recommend are "Come A Little Bit Closer", "Let's Lock The Door", "This Magic Moment" and "Walking In The Rain".
The Voice... imagine if you could have a musical talent TV show called The Voice and it could be hosted by Jay Black, Roy Orbison, Gene Pitney, Freddie Mercury, etc... 🤯
Ummmm no. His son, Beau Black, has won several creative Emmy awards for his composing for various TV shows but Jay's granddaughter is only 3 (born in 2021).
Jay's name was actually David Blatt. He took over as lead vocalist for this band when their previous vocalist left. His name was Jay. So to keep things consistent David took the name Jay Black so Jay and the Americans still made sense. He passed about 2 and a half years ago or so and was I think around 82. He was singing occassionally even as he aged and could still sing magnificently. For more of this group you might try This Magic Moment, Walkin in the Rain, Come a Little Bit Closer and more!!
This is such a great song. I love all the different versions of Jay Black's voice in this one. Jay was trained as a Jewish Cantor (person who sings prayers in a synagogue) and he had amazing voice control.
Finally!!! This group held their own against The British Invasion, actually opened for The Beatles on their first U.S. concert!! Echo the others suggesting “This Magic Moment”, “She Cried”, “Let’s Lock The Door”, and “Come A Little Bit Closer”❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
@@stevehatton-bw3bo that wasn't a tour. And J&TA were only called at the last minute because the actual opening acts were stranded by a blizzard & Jay & Co could get there. They didn't know much of anything about The Beatles, didn't respect them or their teenybop fans & neither The Beatles nor Brian Epstein had anything to do with hiring them. They were substitutes. If you want to call that "Opening for The Beatles on their first American tour" go right ahead... 🤣
@@stevehatton-bw3bo they were called in to that show at the last minute as substitutes by the promoter. The actual opening acts were stranded in a blizzard & J&TA could get to the gig. Neither The Beatles nor Brian Epstein had anything to do with the choosing. Jay didn't respect the teenybop crowd & barely heard of The Beatles & didn't want to do the gig.
OMG stopped dead in my tracks when I saw the notification for this reaction. Hands down one of my favorite songs of all time. Oh the drama and the passion of this song just sends me. Such a classic!!❤
I'm so excited that you found this band with "The Voice," Jay & The Americans! I was in HS in 1965 when this came out! Amber, I knew that you would be blown away with this song but I'm so happy with how much Jay liked it! There's another video on YT with them singing this live. They sound the same as this studio version. Even if you don't actually put a reaction on here but you MUST see it. Love them sooooo much! Love from your Okie friend from Kansas, Odie!!! 🌞 ❤❤❤
You just listened to one of the ten best voices in rock and roll...Jay Black...His birth name was David Blatt... He got to know frank Sinatra during the 1960s and frank even asked him to be in a movie with him and he did ... Jay Black was indeed classically trained during his youth... This is a good rabbit hole to go down... He had a couple more really good popular songs..."Come a little bit closer" and "This magic moment"... Both of these songs are fire... Great reaction guys... I'll see you on the next one... Keep Being Awesome....
😮WOW 😮😮😮I CANNOT BELIEVE you guys are reacting to this group. Jay & The Americans was one of my favorite bands in the 60's. 😮😮😮 Loved this group along with Gary Puckett & The Union Gap and The Association. I Loved their sound. Good Reaction 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Oh! Got to catch my breath! Jay Black was lead singer and was amazing even later in his career. Oh, rock and rock it is. Get ready for more. Get ready. Yes! Glad you dug it. Started as "street corner rockers" on the East Coast. Jay Black was the 2nd lead singer. He passed in October, 2021 at 82 but could wail in his upper years. Other songs. Try "Walking In The Rain". "Only In America", with original lead singer whose name escapes me. Guys, very glad you heard it and dug . Gear reaction. Thanks.
You know, I've been following this channel for quite some time now and it often occurs to me how overwhelmed you must feel at times. There's a lot of good music out there more than any of us could probably ever listen to. I'm grateful for the things you do react to however there's a reason you've been so successful it's because you're so authentic.
My favorite song from 1965. I love this group. They had so many hits from the 60s. Their hits include "She Cried", "Let's Lock the Door and Throw Away The Key", "Come A Little Bit Closer", Sunday and Me", "Some Enchanted Evening", and "This Magic Moment".
Thank you for reacting to this iconic song sung by Jay’s iconic voice! I first heard this song as a little kid on my neighbors little 45 record player and was blown away. Just a few days ago, I was hoping you guys would react to this song and was so surprised to find it today! Check out their other songs mentioned in the other comments. Love your channel too! You guys are always so uplifting!
I am so happy to hear this one featured. It's perfection. Two of my favorite notes held are Jay Black in "Cara Mia" and Marvin Junior of The Dells in "Stay in My Corner". Omigoodness, what incredible ear candy! 😊
Jay Black was a trained classic singer one of the greatest singers ever. Many very good songs. This Magic Moment, Come a Little bit Closer, Walking in the Rain(best cover ever) and more. Popular successful group mid to end of the 60s.
What was more impressive he did pbs at 62, and hit every note. Jay Black one of the greatest voices on the planet, no auto tune ! Rip Jay Black you and Jonny Meisto are singing to the Angels.
David Blatt (Jay Black) first sang in a choir at Temple Beth-El in New York. He was the 2nd lead singer of Jay & The Americans and the best remebered. He was known as The Voice. Take a look at the live version of this song to see how effortlessly Jay was able to hit those high notes. We lost him 2 1/2 years ago, but his music will last forever.
Jay and Amber, you've struck gold with Jay & the Americans... thanks so much! The band produced a beautiful early '60s song call 'She Cried" with Jay Traynor as the lead, but a band slump led Traynor to depart and Jay Black, the guy you just heard, replaced him for the many wonderful songs to come. "Only in America" was among the many great Jay songs, as well as many mentioned below. What I'll tell you, Amber, remember your mention of blowing the roof off, and singing in a coliseum? Well, among the most memorable concerts I attended was back in the '70s when Jay & the Americans and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons would be the lead acts in a series of oldies concerts at Madison Square Garden. Want to experience those chills that come from hearing greatness? Hear Jay Black and his backing singers perform Cara Mia in front of 20 ,000 at MSG. Hope you get to read this, Jay and Amber, and that we'll get to enjoy more of your Jay & the Americans reactions! Thanks again!
Love Jay Black! What a voice! Wish you could see him sing on video! He has a voice for any genre. Thank you for reacting to this awesome artist! Classy, yes!! Other of his songs to react to: Come a Little Bit Closer and This Magic Moment. Stunning!
Just to let you know, I was watching a PBS station when they were doing 60's groups. It's been a while, but they had original singers and bands on..Jay, and the americans were one of the groups.. mind you, they all were much, much older when they appeared on the show, and he sang Cara Mia, and took the roof off..at his age at that time, he could still hit and hold those notes..it was fantastic. Thank you, and RIP, Jay Black ❤
Knew the intro to this would shake your hearts! Every time I listen to Jay Black sing Cara Mia I almost stop breathing...he is phenomenal. Yes..almost opera. ❤
Always wanted to hear Jay live but never had the chance. They played nearby recently but we lost Jay a year or so ago so I didn't go. Yes Jay was opera trained.
This is on YT, too! I saw it recently when another reactor found them. YT has videos of them singing this when it was first out and another one of Jay singing this when he's in his 70's. Both are live and must-sees ?(😂). ❤❤❤
❤❤❤Jay and the Americans are an American rock group who formed in the late 1950s. Their initial line-up consisted of John "Jay" Traynor, Howie Kane (born Howard Kirschenbaum), Kenny Vance (born Kenneth Rosenberg) and Sandy Deanne (born Louis Sandy Yaguda), though their greatest success on the charts came after Traynor had been replaced as lead singer by Jay Black (born David Blatt) and Marty Sanders (born Martin Joe Kupersmith) were added to the line-up.[2]❤❤❤
So happy you've finally listened to Cara Mia. I've been suggesting it for the last couple of years. I knew Jay would be amazed by Jay Black's voice. Sadly, he passed away in 2021. I saw him in a video at an oldies concert about 10 years ago and he could still hit those high notes. Some of their other songs; Come a Little Bit Closer, Only in America; Let's Lock the Door (And Throw Away The Key); Some Enchanted Evening, This Magic Moment.
@@gregorymoore2877 Hold on, I'll get that info right now: #3: What's New Pussycat- Tom Jones #2: I'm Henry VIII, I Am- Herman's Hermits #1: (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction- The Rolling Stones I would say, the only one that is better it the Stones song. 🙂
Jay Black had one of the finest voices in rock/pop music. Another excellent and unique voice was Gary Puckett, of Gary Puckett and the Union Gap. You'd love their songs! And remember: in the 60s, no autotune!
Jay Black (aka David Blatt) had a wonderful voice. As a teen, we always heard he was classicly trained, but when I read his Biography shortly after his death (2021) there was no mention of voice training. He went bankrupt and sold his naming rights to pay tax debts due to gambling addiction. His voice stayed pure even into his 70s.
Jay & the Americans were a popular group in the 60's. Their genre was pop-rock, but they incorporated blue-eyed soul, italian opera & doo-wop into their overall sound. Jay Black's real name was David Blatt.
i love you guys! Your openness and true appreciation of older music (from my generation) really thrills me . I learn so much from your fresh responses to music I have loved for years.
I am so glad that you finally got to Jay and the Americans. Now you have to do more. This Magic Moment, and Come a Little Bit Closer should be next. Buckle up amigos.
**** Dropping another suggestion here … another singer, one that you’ve not reacted to: MEL CARTER, his biggest hit from 1965: Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me … considered one of the most romantic and forthright songs of all time!
Was lucky enough to take my parents to an oldies show featuring music from their day and was lucky enough to hear him sing. Still had a great voice though he was up there in years.
One of two terrific "Jay" groups from the '60s. The other was Jay & the Techniques, a pop soul group from Pennsylvania and one of the early integrated bands of that era. Their big hit was "Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie," a cute but groovin' love tune.
I just checked them out on Wikipedia. I’m glad, too. There’s a list of all their hits. It’s been a long time since I heard their music and I had forgotten many of their songs. Thanks for the reminder 🤗
When I was a little girl, I would sing for my mom. This was one of the songs. I really got into it. lol She always acted like she loved it. But did she? Imagine a little girl singing like this. Haha!!
I've loved this song since I first heard it when they were playing oldies at work one day. So glad I discovered it. The other biggest hits by Jay and the Americans are "Come A Little Bit Closer" and "This Magic Moment" but they have so many great songs.
The lead singer, "Jay Black," was born David Blatt. He had used the name David "Black" before joining Jay & The Americans. When he replaced the original "Jay" (John "Jay" Traynor) in 1963, he changed his name to "Jay Black." He was also known simply as "The Voice," for obvious reasons! His voice was phenomenal in the original recording of Cara Mia that you listened to, but it arguably became even better by the time he was in his late 50s and early 60s. He was still able to hit the high notes and the falsetto well into his 70s. Truly an amazing singer.
I’m thrilled you discovered Jay and the Americans. Jay Black was a friend of my family and graciously sang at my parents wedding at the Cotillion Terrace in Brooklyn on November 1st, 1970. A true class act who maintained his amazing voice till the end.
Doo Wop/pop. I remember my older siblings back in the 60’s listening to them. Cool song! Saw him on a PBS music show. He was in his 70’s and he could still hit and hold that high note! 😉
In grew up in the 50's and into the 60's and was surrounded by all this wonderful music. Just didn't know how lucky I was when I got in the car with my older sister and we listened to the best music ever. Burgers were 15 cents, gas was 29 cents per gallon. Of course, minimum wage was just $1.25 per hr., too, so it all leveled out. Good times, folks. Good times.
Thanks for this and you two are amazing to watch! Thank you. I’d forgotten about this song and many memories swept over me. Not sure if anybody’s said this already (apologies) but we who grew up with this music were inundated with fresh , great music nonstop during the 60s and 70s. But! For me, in a rural area in the ‘60s, my only access was my transistor radio and WLS out of Chicago. How many nights did I fall asleep with that radio planted next to my ear? Wow. And now I can hear it anytime. Thank you again. We were and know we are blessed to have this music as the soundtrack of our youth. 👍 way up. ❤
As I read, they started singing 50 years ago in Brooklyn, NY. Funny thing is that three of them were named Jay throughout the years. Jay Black (that sung Cara Mia) died in 2021.
Now that you’ve found Jay & The Americans, you’ll need to listen to Come A Little Bit Closer and This Magic Moment.
The two that I was going to suggest.
I'd add "Let's Lock the Door" to the others!!!
They're 60s Rock 'n Roll!!
I'll add "Only In America"
@@JonHammerHeart oh yeah!
Also they had "This magic moment" and "Come a little bit closer" and others You'll love them!!!
Don't forget "She Cried" and "Only In America".
The first Jay. Sung She Cried. Great voice in his voice. Dont think you can tell them apart.
Also adding "Let's Lock The Door" to the list. I have always loved Jay's voice and this group. Haven't listened to them for awhile so thanks for the reaction.
This "Jay" was able to sing this magnificently into his 70s. He had a heck of a voice.
...and in the original key with no autotune!
@@Spo-Dee-O-Dee I would like to enter into evidence, Sir Tom Jones.
@@Spo-Dee-O-Dee Hey how do you go by sending Jay a music video request? Or do you know his email address to send them one?
@@bert_towle What is Jay's email address so I can send them a music video request?
@@Spo-Dee-O-Dee Would you know how to send them a music video request?
Fun Fact: Before forming Steely Dan Donald Fagen and Walter Becker were touring members of Jay and the Americans.
I knew someone would beat me with this fact... and it was you.
Good deep fact for us 'Dan fans.
Huh, really!! I absolutely did not know this!! WOW!!
@@bobthebear1246Ditto!
From 1970 to 1971, right before they formed steely Dan.
I did not know that! Ya learn something new every day 😊
You need to listen to This Magic Moment by Jay and The Americans!
I think it is great that this younger generation is discovering and enjoying the great music of the past.
One of the greatest male voices ever.
Totally agree.
@@stevenklein3195 Me too -- Gary Puckett was another one!
and roy orbison@@alleykeosheyan4779
Trained in Cantorial School to sing in the synagogue.
"COME A LITTLE BIT CLOSER" is my pick for the next song from this amazing group!!!!! Please put it on the list!!!!
Jay Black, from Brooklyn, was my aunt's best friend. He came to all our family events. But, my Dad was the bandleader and even though he offered Jay to sing he always said no. It was my Dad's night and he was so humble & just wanted to be a guest. He said the spotlight is yours . Great guy! 😊
Glad you finally around to “The Voice” AKA Jay Black. He died last year and despite being ill he would still perform. He joined an existing band and changed his name to Jay. Most of their music was remakes of 50’s and 60’s hits, but they all sound great.
R.I.P. Jay Black
That explains why I remember the song from when I was little, and it coming back later (I was born in 1950)
Oh no. I didn't know he had passed away.
There were 3 Jays
His actual name was David Blat.
Come a little bit closer is their all time number 1 hit, They started in a little cafe on the other side of the border.
Jay & Amber, you'll love their "Come a Little Bit Closer", "This Magic Moment" and "Let's Lock the Door (And Throw Away the Key)" !!!
Jay Black, what a voice!!! edit - He had some specialized vocal training from what I recall.
"Come a Little Bit Closer" is awesome! My late uncle used to play it regularly.
@@mkmstillstackinso cool!
@@MrSteveLoucks Thank you!
trained as a Cantor in a synagogue
Jay Black, all class for a voice. Another power voice from the same era, Gary Puckett from Gary Puckett and the Union Gap.
Yes, Jay Black and Gary Puckett had the best voices of that era in pop music.
Loved them both big fan of Gary Puckett and the union gap!
Both great!
I seen Jay Black in a free concert in Coney Island about 15 years ago and he still sounded great. This guy had a powerhouse voice.
This song peaked at #4 in the summer of 1965. Jay Black has a fantastic voice.
Amazing 1965 memories ! The late great Jay Black. Passed away a couple years back. Was belting out "Cara Mia" into his late 70s.
When Jay & Amber were blown away by his voice only part way into the song, I couldn't help thinking, 'You ain't heard nothin' yet.'
Ba ba ba ba baby, they ain't heard nothiin' yet.
I'm so glad you got to listen to Jay & The Americans. They are one of the great groups from the 60's. Their lead singer was Jay Black. Many have referred to him as "The Voice". Incredible singer. Great song choice to start with this group. "Cara Mia" was their biggest hit and most well-known song. Other songs from Jay & The Americans that I highly recommend are "Come A Little Bit Closer", "Let's Lock The Door", "This Magic Moment" and "Walking In The Rain".
The Voice... imagine if you could have a musical talent TV show called The Voice and it could be hosted by Jay Black, Roy Orbison, Gene Pitney, Freddie Mercury, etc... 🤯
A few seasons ago,a young kid won the Voice!!!! This is his grandfather!!!!!!
Who was that?
Ummmm no. His son, Beau Black, has won several creative Emmy awards for his composing for various TV shows but Jay's granddaughter is only 3 (born in 2021).
Opera quality. Range, depth, and emotion....gorgeous.
Jay's name was actually David Blatt. He took over as lead vocalist for this band when their previous vocalist left. His name was Jay. So to keep things consistent David took the name Jay Black so Jay and the Americans still made sense. He passed about 2 and a half years ago or so and was I think around 82. He was singing occassionally even as he aged and could still sing magnificently. For more of this group you might try This Magic Moment, Walkin in the Rain, Come a Little Bit Closer and more!!
This is such a great song. I love all the different versions of Jay Black's voice in this one. Jay was trained as a Jewish Cantor (person who sings prayers in a synagogue) and he had amazing voice control.
"This Magic Moment" Great song!
Listen to Jay and the Americans, Cara Mia then and now, fifty years later.
Finally!!! This group held their own against The British Invasion, actually opened for The Beatles on their first U.S. concert!! Echo the others suggesting “This Magic Moment”, “She Cried”, “Let’s Lock The Door”, and “Come A Little Bit Closer”❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
That's weird; I saw The Beatles twice on their first US tour & these guys were nowhere to be seen... 😮
The Beatles first concert Feb 11? 1964, Washington DC.
@@stevehatton-bw3bo that wasn't a tour. And J&TA were only called at the last minute because the actual opening acts were stranded by a blizzard & Jay & Co could get there. They didn't know much of anything about The Beatles, didn't respect them or their teenybop fans & neither The Beatles nor Brian Epstein had anything to do with hiring them. They were substitutes. If you want to call that "Opening for The Beatles on their first American tour" go right ahead... 🤣
@@stevehatton-bw3bo they were called in to that show at the last minute as substitutes by the promoter. The actual opening acts were stranded in a blizzard & J&TA could get to the gig. Neither The Beatles nor Brian Epstein had anything to do with the choosing. Jay didn't respect the teenybop crowd & barely heard of The Beatles & didn't want to do the gig.
Cool info; I only know that they did.
OMG stopped dead in my tracks when I saw
the notification for this reaction. Hands down one of my favorite songs of all time. Oh the drama and the passion of this song just sends me. Such a classic!!❤
I had the same reaction, a big smile on my face and I whispered to myself ALL RIGHT, FINALLY.
Me too !!@@bgallagher8129
Me too, I love the song and so many others that were huge hits!
Finally getting around to one of the top male voices of all time! And you’re right Jay, he was opera trained.
Wow, I'm glad you played this. I'd forgotten what a very powerful voice he had!
I saw him (Jay Black) about 12 years ago and his voice sounded exactly the same!!!! it was Amazing! May he RIP
Jay was operatically trained, and it shows.
It's about time. Jay Black's voice is amazing. Any song you do will blow your mind. And there are plenty more.
I'm so excited that you found this band with "The Voice," Jay & The Americans! I was in HS in 1965 when this came out! Amber, I knew that you would be blown away with this song but I'm so happy with how much Jay liked it! There's another video on YT with them singing this live. They sound the same as this studio version. Even if you don't actually put a reaction on here but you MUST see it. Love them sooooo much!
Love from your Okie friend from Kansas, Odie!!! 🌞 ❤❤❤
You just listened to one of the ten best voices in rock and roll...Jay Black...His birth name was David Blatt... He got to know frank Sinatra during the 1960s and frank even asked him to be in a movie with him and he did ... Jay Black was indeed classically trained during his youth... This is a good rabbit hole to go down... He had a couple more really good popular songs..."Come a little bit closer" and "This magic moment"... Both of these songs are fire... Great reaction guys... I'll see you on the next one... Keep Being Awesome....
😮WOW 😮😮😮I CANNOT BELIEVE you guys are reacting to this group. Jay & The Americans was one of my favorite bands in the 60's. 😮😮😮 Loved this group along with Gary Puckett & The Union Gap and The Association. I Loved their sound. Good Reaction 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Oh! Got to catch my breath! Jay Black was lead singer and was amazing even later in his career. Oh, rock and rock it is. Get ready for more. Get ready. Yes! Glad you dug it. Started as "street corner rockers" on the East Coast. Jay Black was the 2nd lead singer. He passed in October, 2021 at 82 but could wail in his upper years. Other songs. Try "Walking In The Rain". "Only In America", with original lead singer whose name escapes me. Guys, very glad you heard it and dug . Gear reaction. Thanks.
You know, I've been following this channel for quite some time now and it often occurs to me how overwhelmed you must feel at times. There's a lot of good music out there more than any of us could probably ever listen to. I'm grateful for the things you do react to however there's a reason you've been so successful it's because you're so authentic.
I whole heatedly agree, This is my no.1 go to reaction site.
Come a Little Bit Closer is their signature song. There were 3 different lead singers for this group. None of them were slouches
right back to the mid 60's, this was such a big hit and we all knew the words
Jay had a great falsetto voice. By sheer coincidence, my grandmother had a falsetto teeth.
😂😆😄
Walkin' In The Rain is another song that deserves recognition. I think it was their last hit.
My favorite song from 1965. I love this group. They had so many hits from the 60s. Their hits include "She Cried", "Let's Lock the Door and Throw Away The Key", "Come A Little Bit Closer", Sunday and Me", "Some Enchanted Evening", and "This Magic Moment".
Only in America!
@@marknewton6984 Good song! I forgot about this song.
You should also check out their Come A Little Bit Closer and She Cried. And their cover of The Drifters', This Magic Moment.
Thank you for reacting to this iconic song sung by Jay’s iconic voice! I first heard this song as a little kid on my neighbors little 45 record player and was blown away. Just a few days ago, I was hoping you guys would react to this song and was so surprised to find it today! Check out their other songs mentioned in the other comments. Love your channel too! You guys are always so uplifting!
I am so happy to hear this one featured. It's perfection. Two of my favorite notes held are Jay Black in "Cara Mia" and Marvin Junior of The Dells in "Stay in My Corner". Omigoodness, what incredible ear candy! 😊
Jay Black was a trained classic singer one of the greatest singers ever. Many very good songs. This Magic Moment, Come a Little bit Closer, Walking in the Rain(best cover ever) and more. Popular successful group mid to end of the 60s.
What was more impressive he did pbs at 62, and hit every note. Jay Black one of the greatest voices on the planet, no auto tune ! Rip Jay Black you and Jonny Meisto are singing to the Angels.
Come a Little Bit Closer by Jay and the Americans, that's what you need to hear next! It's a fun song!
David Blatt (Jay Black) first sang in a choir at Temple Beth-El in New York. He was the 2nd lead singer of Jay & The Americans and the best remebered. He was known as The Voice. Take a look at the live version of this song to see how effortlessly Jay was able to hit those high notes. We lost him 2 1/2 years ago, but his music will last forever.
Jay and Amber, you've struck gold with Jay & the Americans... thanks so much!
The band produced a beautiful early '60s song call 'She Cried" with Jay Traynor as the lead, but a band slump led Traynor to depart and Jay Black, the guy you just heard, replaced him for the many wonderful songs to come. "Only in America" was among the many great Jay songs, as well as many mentioned below.
What I'll tell you, Amber, remember your mention of blowing the roof off, and singing in a coliseum? Well, among the most memorable concerts I attended was back in the '70s when Jay & the Americans and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons would be the lead acts in a series of oldies concerts at Madison Square Garden. Want to experience those chills that come from hearing greatness? Hear Jay Black and his backing singers perform Cara Mia in front of 20 ,000 at MSG.
Hope you get to read this, Jay and Amber, and that we'll get to enjoy more of your Jay & the Americans reactions! Thanks again!
Love Jay Black! What a voice! Wish you could see him sing on video! He has a voice for any genre. Thank you for reacting to this awesome artist! Classy, yes!! Other of his songs to react to: Come a Little Bit Closer and This Magic Moment. Stunning!
What a voice on Jay Black. Next "This magic moment"
Just to let you know, I was watching a PBS station when they were doing 60's groups. It's been a while, but they had original singers and bands on..Jay, and the americans were one of the groups.. mind you, they all were much, much older when they appeared on the show, and he sang Cara Mia, and took the roof off..at his age at that time, he could still hit and hold those notes..it was fantastic. Thank you, and RIP, Jay Black ❤
He'd been treated for throat cancer prior to that performance.
I saw that program and a couple of others.
Knew the intro to this would shake your hearts! Every time I listen to Jay Black sing Cara Mia I almost stop breathing...he is phenomenal. Yes..almost opera. ❤
Nothing like 60's music!
Always wanted to hear Jay live but never had the chance. They played nearby recently but we lost Jay a year or so ago so I didn't go. Yes Jay was opera trained.
Such a great song!!!
Wonderful
Thanks for doing this one, my dad used to play the 45’ of this , good to hear an oldie.
Waited for this reaction. You should compare his appearance on the oldies concert when he was older (70+). He was amazing & he still had it.
This is on YT, too! I saw it recently when another reactor found them. YT has videos of them singing this when it was first out and another one of Jay singing this when he's in his 70's. Both are live and must-sees ?(😂). ❤❤❤
You just heard Jay Black, one great voice. RIP Just pick any of there songs. You won't be disappointed
Another golden oldie😊
Magical voice.😊
He did train to be opera singer.from long island ny.like me.
❤❤❤Jay and the Americans are an American rock group who formed in the late 1950s. Their initial line-up consisted of John "Jay" Traynor, Howie Kane (born Howard Kirschenbaum), Kenny Vance (born Kenneth Rosenberg) and Sandy Deanne (born Louis Sandy Yaguda), though their greatest success on the charts came after Traynor had been replaced as lead singer by Jay Black (born David Blatt) and Marty Sanders (born Martin Joe Kupersmith) were added to the line-up.[2]❤❤❤
Oh I remember them. I was young. “This Magic Moment” was my favorite song of their’s.
So happy you've finally listened to Cara Mia. I've been suggesting it for the last couple of years. I knew Jay would be amazed by Jay Black's voice. Sadly, he passed away in 2021. I saw him in a video at an oldies concert about 10 years ago and he could still hit those high notes. Some of their other songs; Come a Little Bit Closer, Only in America; Let's Lock the Door (And Throw Away The Key); Some Enchanted Evening, This Magic Moment.
Before watching the video, I KNOW for a fact that Jay is going to love the falsetto. It's pretty neat. This was a #4 hit in 1965.
If this only made it to #4, makes wonder what made it to 1, 2, and 3 that week.
@@gregorymoore2877 Hold on, I'll get that info right now:
#3: What's New Pussycat- Tom Jones
#2: I'm Henry VIII, I Am- Herman's Hermits
#1: (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction- The Rolling Stones
I would say, the only one that is better it the Stones song. 🙂
@@BillGraper Cool info! I'd heard "Henry VIII" knocked "Satisfaction" out of the #1 spot. That must have been right about to happen.
@@gregorymoore2877 Yep, 2 weeks away.
Jay Black had one of the finest voices in rock/pop music. Another excellent and unique voice was Gary Puckett, of Gary Puckett and the Union Gap. You'd love their songs! And remember: in the 60s, no autotune!
Jay Black (aka David Blatt) had a wonderful voice. As a teen, we always heard he was classicly trained, but when I read his Biography shortly after his death (2021) there was no mention of voice training. He went bankrupt and sold his naming rights to pay tax debts due to gambling addiction. His voice stayed pure even into his 70s.
Oh gosh, this song takes me back to my early teens.
Jay & the Americans were a popular group in the 60's. Their genre was pop-rock, but they incorporated blue-eyed soul, italian opera & doo-wop into their overall sound. Jay Black's real name was David Blatt.
"Come a little Bit Closer" is not to be missed.
i love you guys! Your openness and true appreciation of older music (from my generation) really thrills me . I learn so much from your fresh responses to music I have loved for years.
Jay Black was amazing. He was singing on PBS oldies specials, hitting those high notes, well into his 70s. "This Magic Moment" is a classic.
This Magic Moment by Jay and the Americans!
There is a UA-cam clip of oldies stuff and Jay Black sings this song in his 60's or so and does a fabulous job! Thanks!!
It was on a PBS special. A vocal coach analyzed it actually as good as when it was first released . The PBS special was in 2004.
An over the top performance in the best way.
Still have the '45 single for almost 60 years now. When I hear that song it's always summer in the mid 60s. Thanks!
I am so glad that you finally got to Jay and the Americans. Now you have to do more. This Magic Moment, and Come a Little Bit Closer should be next. Buckle up amigos.
Been a minute since I last heard them!❤❤
You will love "This Magic Moment". Jay was called "The Voice". Jay was a trained classical singer and was known as "The Voice".
Wow. I'm almost 63, and you've time warped me back to being almost 4.
**** Dropping another suggestion here … another singer, one that you’ve not reacted to: MEL CARTER, his biggest hit from 1965: Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me … considered one of the most romantic and forthright songs of all time!
Was lucky enough to take my parents to an oldies show featuring music from their day and was lucky enough to hear him sing. Still had a great voice though he was up there in years.
One of two terrific "Jay" groups from the '60s. The other was Jay & the Techniques, a pop soul group from Pennsylvania and one of the early integrated bands of that era. Their big hit was "Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie," a cute but groovin' love tune.
The two of you are the best doing this show than the many others that do it, just a total pleasure to hear both of you, incredable❤😊
Jay Black has a great voice,they had many great songs!!
I just checked them out on Wikipedia. I’m glad, too. There’s a list of all their hits. It’s been a long time since I heard their music and I had forgotten many of their songs. Thanks for the reminder 🤗
A few years ago on PBS they had a whole bunch of oldies groups and I got to see him and hear him sing this song again
When I was a little girl, I would sing for my mom. This was one of the songs. I really got into it. lol She always acted like she loved it. But did she? Imagine a little girl singing like this. Haha!!
I've loved this song since I first heard it when they were playing oldies at work one day. So glad I discovered it. The other biggest hits by Jay and the Americans are "Come A Little Bit Closer" and "This Magic Moment" but they have so many great songs.
The lead singer, "Jay Black," was born David Blatt. He had used the name David "Black" before joining Jay & The Americans. When he replaced the original "Jay" (John "Jay" Traynor) in 1963, he changed his name to "Jay Black." He was also known simply as "The Voice," for obvious reasons! His voice was phenomenal in the original recording of Cara Mia that you listened to, but it arguably became even better by the time he was in his late 50s and early 60s. He was still able to hit the high notes and the falsetto well into his 70s. Truly an amazing singer.
I’m thrilled you discovered Jay and the Americans. Jay Black was a friend of my family and graciously sang at my parents wedding at the Cotillion Terrace in Brooklyn on November 1st, 1970. A true class act who maintained his amazing voice till the end.
Doo Wop/pop. I remember my older siblings back in the 60’s listening to them. Cool song! Saw him on a PBS music show. He was in his 70’s and he could still hit and hold that high note! 😉
This Magic Moment was my favorite of his. I wore this album out. It came out my senior year in high school.
In grew up in the 50's and into the 60's and was surrounded by all this wonderful music. Just didn't know how lucky I was when I got in the car with my older sister and we listened to the best music ever. Burgers were 15 cents, gas was 29 cents per gallon. Of course, minimum wage was just $1.25 per hr., too, so it all leveled out. Good times, folks. Good times.
Dang. You needed a video that was live and watch him sing it!!! It’s so smooth and easy for him
60’s pop. Check them out doing “She Cried”, “Only in America”, “Come a Little Bit Closer”, “This Magic Moment” and “Think of the Good Times”
Thanks for this and you two are amazing to watch! Thank you. I’d forgotten about this song and many memories swept over me. Not sure if anybody’s said this already (apologies) but we who grew up with this music were inundated with fresh , great music nonstop during the 60s and 70s. But! For me, in a rural area in the ‘60s, my only access was my transistor radio and WLS out of Chicago. How many nights did I fall asleep with that radio planted next to my ear? Wow. And now I can hear it anytime. Thank you again. We were and know we are blessed to have this music as the soundtrack of our youth. 👍 way up. ❤
Great reaction. Thank you for the good vibes. Have a great weekend you two.
“Time To Say Goodbye” Sarah Brightman and Andrea Bocelli one of the best operatic performances ever!
I must have listened to this song a thousand times.
As I read, they started singing 50 years ago in Brooklyn, NY. Funny thing is that three of them were named Jay throughout the years. Jay Black (that sung Cara Mia) died in 2021.