I'm 75-years old and have been a professional musician for over 50-years. In this time I have never heard a rendition of this song better than Cassidy's. On every conceivable level, from her otherworldly vocal technique, to her remarkable phrasing, to her tasty guitar fills, I've never heard better, by anyone, from any era. This is definition of an musical purist who put artistic integrity before commercialism. I only hope she found the fulfillment on the other side that she never received here.
I bought a car recently and her cd was the only music I listened to for a week and it finally hit me. Her dynamics was the thing she did like no one. In several words or one sentence she could shift dynamics three or four times in a way that was genuine and communicated so much. Sure she could do runs and great things like many wonderful singers too but I feel like this is her special magic. I am not a professional at all. Just an avid listener, so your view on this would be so nice. Like many I discovered her too late to see her live even though I lived only twenty miles or so from her. Your comment really touched me. 🙏
@@HearturMind Actually, its all of her techniques, COMBINED. For example, you could have great phrasing, but choose the wrong chords, or worse still, sing out of key. To create a truly great performance like this, you must master ALL of the elements that constitute a professional performance, of which wonderful phasing is only a part.
I am gob smacked. I thought Judy's versions were the sine qua non of this song, but I was wrong. This is the most stunning version of this iconic magical song I have ever heard. Surely Judy was bowing down in tears and reverence in heaven as Eva sang this song. Taken at 33, as my beautiful Karen was taken just short of her 33rd. I hope they are playing together in heaven.
@@ChuckHackney Don't get me wrong, this song belongs to Judy. It's her signature number, and that will never change. But his version is so great that I think that even Judy would have loved her!!
I grew up near Eva. She worked at the nursery in my hometown. I saw her many times. She was a quiet, humble, and giving person. I didn't know that she was a singer until later in my life. To my great surprise, I discovered that the greatest singer of our time had helped me buy an African violet. She was literally an angel on earth. And gave us a glimpse into her soul in her music. There will never be another Eva. But thank goodness she left us with recordings of her divine singing. Although I've heard her sing this song many times, I can never get through it without my heart fluttering and shedding a tear. Thanks so much for honoring her, Fil.
She was the most wonderful artist of our time. I discovered her music in 2010 and didn't listen to anyone else for 2 years (what would be the point)? But from everything I have heard about her, as great a musician and singer as she was, she was an even better person. Getting a flower from an angel. Oh My!
This guy is an excellent analyst, very specific, even technical, musician-savvy observations, no broad, pointless raving. Not that Eva shouldn't be raved about.
Eva Cassidy, for me, is one of the few artists who can transport you to a mood that is difficult to achieve elsewhere. It is one of the most musical voices I heard. It is an incomparable, superb, almost out-of-this-world experience.
I discovered this great musical artist back in 2005, after hearing her on a public radio station on the way home from work. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Having been a musician since 1963, I never heard music sung and played that truly reached in and grabbed my soul. I cried like a baby. Even now when I hear this song, it affects me the same way. She was special and a gift from God.
Eva was suffering with a cold during this performance. You are correct that Eva would take a song you thought you knew, and take it and make it a brand new song that was hers. I have all the CD's that were released of her. An angel that was taken to teach the heavenly angels how to sing. She is missed, but as long as her music lives, so does she.
Eva stayed pretty close to the original composition and melody on this one. She wasn't one to embellish, unlike pop stars who destroy the national anthem at sporting events.
I remember when a friend introduced me to Eva. I was so amazed and thrilled by her voice. It was a miracle to hear. Then I learned that voice had been silenced; a devastating loss. A talent that proves humans can be remarkable.
This is my favorite version of this song and one of the best ever live performances. I love this version so much, that I used it at my mother’s funeral.
Another Reactor said Eva was singing a duet with her Guitar! That seemed like a perfect characterization of this Angelic Magnificent Performance. Perfect Beauty!
Possibly the most beautiful voice I have ever heard. Such pure, raw talent. She sang songs that moved her. She wouldn’t be compromised and just pop or just jazz. She did country, gospel, jazz, etc. Hearing the his song for the first time made me just STOP…stop everything and focus only on her. Not many performances nor artists can do that. She and her guitar seemed to blend seamlessly! No auto tune. No smoke or lights. Just stunning and rare talent!
The look in your eyes was one I hadn't seen from you before. The look of a child that just found out that music can be magical. She touched your heart.
I had a similar thought, but then I probably have a similar look on my face. The words take us back to childhood, while Eva’s performance transports us far beyond the present. The joy in our heart can so easily overflow into tears. “God, Thank You for music, and thank You for Eva.”
it is undeniable that Eva Cassidy had a rare gift. To touch the audience's soul with her music. She performed her music under her own terms. A fantastic arranger that takes a sing we all know and transforms it into something more touching as if the sing was meant to be done that way. She was an angel that lived way too short.
Whenever I need to cry but can't for some reason, Eva's 'Over the Rainbow' releases all those pent-up emotions. So beautiful, so heartbreaking, yet also so healing, this rendition Eva gifted to the the world is one I will listen to over and over.
A shout out to the composer of Over The Rainbow. Surely one of the most timeless works in all of music history. Never has there been a song written that expresses such, almost childlike hope, for a brighter future, a happier place, a longing for something beyond this current realm.
I have never heard this version of Over the Rainbow before, but this was a beautiful version and a bit tear jerking. Eva was another singer who had a beautiful, soft, smooth, and angelic voice, who was taken away from us way too early in her life. May she RIP! 😥❤
Eva's version of "Over the Rainbow" is so popular and loved that it has become the new standard of this song even over Judy Garland's version. It seems that in the last few years when ever someone covers this song it's always Eva's version that they perform!
I had not heard of Eva until now, and I gasped when you said she died from cancer shortly after this. She had such a lovely voice, and the arrangement here of "Over The Rainbow" was so beautifully captivating....I applaud her for wanting to play her music her way. She was a shining star. Damn cancer. I hope Eva found her rainbow. Nicely done Fil.🌈
@Bobb Grimley Thank you Bobb! I will research her further. As I said in my comment, I was taken aback at her death so young. She lives on through the music she left behind, to the benefit of us all.☮️💜
Cindy, check out her album Live from Blues Alley. It’s otherworldly. She sings Over the Rainbow in that concert too, and it’s completely different, but just as amazing.
Fil you are the best. I’ve loved watching this song of Eva’s and The Autumn Leaves so many times. No one is better. Not even Judy. She makes me cry every time. Thank you for your great comments.
Now we know how great she was. I’m so grateful for those who insisted on putting the little that we have of her recorded out there for us to appreciate. Thanks, Fil for spreading the word.
Still gets me like it did when I first heard it on the car radio and had to pull over to listen. It's not safe to drive crying. Beautiful analysis befits the beauty of the performance, glad the block has been lifted.
"Autumn Leaves" was just another popular ditty until Eva got her hands (vocals and guitar) on it. Then it became the most sublime composition and performance in my experience.
Her rendition of Autumn Leaves make me cry. She was a nuanced, authentic performer, and it is such a shame we never got to see her evolve as an artist. Now I want to go watch it again, tissue in hand.
It's a blessing that we are able to see her at all. She was gone for years before I was exposed to her. When she died, she had performed for fewer than a thousand people. How many musical prodigies never even get as far as she did? We are lucky to have as much Eva as we do.
Judy Garland was so young and you could hear hope in her voice. I never heard of Eva Cassidy or her story. So melancholy is her voice, and so sad is her story. I cried as I listened as Fil said "if this doesn't move you?" Well Fil you introduced me to a true song bird of phenomenal talent whose voice and weeping guitar I'll never hear live. You gave her homage and posthumously the praise is well deserved. Thank you for all the work you do, without you I'd never known the grace of this lovey lady.
There are two songs I can't stand: My Funny Valentine & Over the Rainbow. When I discovered her & later heard her version of this song I was gobsmacked. She brought me to tears, and still does every time I hear her sing it. She simply had one of the most beautiful & beautifully emotionally truthful voices I have heard in my 70 yrs. And just a p.s., Rickie Lee Jones' version of My Funny Valentine totally changed how I heard that song. I'm still unable to listen to anyone else sing those songs.
when you say, "if this doesn't move you emotionally" at 6:54 I can hear your voice almost break and your eyes got moist. Eva can do that to people regardless how many times they might listen to the same song.
When I hear stories about people who succumb to cancer, it makes me cherish my own life all the more. I had a metastatic tumor in my head, which spread to both sides of my neck. In 1979. It wasn’t caught super early, but obviously early enough as I’ll turn 66 this year. You can survive cancer, but please PLEASE, if you see something strange on you, get it looked at by a doctor. ❤️
I absolutely loved your review of this song. To me this is the most beautiful song that has ever been recorded. When I listen to Eva sing this song, I know that she is singing about Heaven. Little did we know that a few short months later, she would be there. The song truly moves me more than anything else 🌈🌈🌈
She was and is amazing! A perfect example of how sometimes just a voice and a guitar is enough. I remember when I played the video of her singing 'Autumn Leaves' to my nephew who was about 3 yo at the time, he couldn't take his eyes of the screen, he was like hypnotized. And Eva's rendition of 'Over the Rainbow' is refreshing, like a totally different song. I love it.
“If this doesn’t do something to you, there’s something wrong with you….” Well said, Phil ❤️❤️ couldn’t agree more, it’s a very moving song because of how she sings it.
A well renowned guitar critic once critiqued Eva’s playing, and he said the arrangement she played was absolutely outstanding. Eva, of course, didn’t think she was any thing other than an ordinary player or as a performer! Extraordinary, ‘ordinary’ woman! I love this version and performance, and have everything she ever recorded. Up there with Aretha, Karen, Patsy and Anne!
This rendition of the great classic never fails to brings tears to my eyes. Eva sings it with such emotion, so sweet with a touch of sadness. Her brilliant, understated guitar work is a joy to listen to. We lost her far too soon. Thanks Fil for bringing back this amazing performance.
Thank you so much for putting a spotlight on Eva's incredible guitar playing in this performance. So easy to miss as the singing is as beautiful as you're going to find on any song by any singer ever. The playing is so perfect it just sounds like it's recorded and not played by her live... Thank you for that, and thank you for the entire great reaction.
I simply love this version. For me, it’s the best version ever, of this beautiful song! The bookends of every extreme emotion I’ve ever experienced sit right there in every line, every note, every beat, every phrase and every breath of this free- flowing delivery every single time I listen to it!
Yes, it was Terry Wogan who championed Eva's version of Over the Rainbow, on BBC Radio 2. He certainly got that one right :) it's hard to listen to this rendition without a tear in your eye (for the right reasons of course). Simply breathtaking
I only just came across your reaction of Eva Cassidy. A few years ago, when I attended a friend's funeral this song was played at the end, as it was my friend's favourite song I found out later. The emotions on the day went to another level when this song was played. I tracked down and purchased her double compilation cd, which I play quite often. Her version of Sting's 'Fields of Gold', also stirs the emotions. Whatever song Eva sang, she made it her own.
I loved your analysis and breakdown of this remarkable singer’s rendition of this classic. While her voice is by now recognized as being one the best, her playing is often underrated. She had a habit of making familiar songs her own, such as this, Songbird, Autumn Leaves and others. Well done and thanks for making it available - I haven’t seen her sing live very often.
I have been watching the Blues Alley video of her and, my friend, it will shock you. I think an angel was amongst us and she was brought home early. I feel like she truly understands how to professionally perform aaaand arrange. And do you know what truly makes her special? She plays an acoustic guitar while controlling her voice like that. Impressed? I certainly am. She was Julliard School of Music scholarship worthy. I have a very high regard for this woman.
Typically excellent analysis of a performance I’d heard many times before Fil posted this, but Fil brings new appreciation and understanding. Thanks, Fil. You’re tops.
Because of watching reations to Sydnie Christmas, I was lead to Eva Cassidy whom I never heard sing. Amazing acoustic performance made even more special since it was recorded at that jazz club on my 49th birthday Jan. 3rd. Thanks !
Another who was gone far too soon. Her cover of Stings 'Fields of Gold' from this night is one of my go to songs to show off my so so stereo. Always goes over better than when I show off my Rock Collection and get mostly meh's. Goose bump city.
If I recall correctly, from a different session, but even 20 years later her Danny Boy never fails to get me all verklempt. Tall Trees in Georgia is a tune that probably few of us were aware of before the Blues Alley sessions. And don’t get me started on her Wade in the Water, and People Get Ready. FWIW, I think insufficient props have been given to Chris Biondo and the entire band, Keith Grimes, Lenny Williams and Raice McLeod, et al.
Every single time I hear this, it wounds me. Eva's voice destroys me. I wish I could have seen her live... but I think I have seen her, in my dreams, in my heart.
it's so refreshing to listen to someone that not only knows what they are talking about but also has the ability to express himself in such a lucid and deep manner on the subject . brilliant ?
Well there's nothing wrong with me Fil. Eva's version of Over the Rainbow was over the top. It may sound blasphemous but I like this version the best even better than the original... Such a tender voice that can lay you out flat. Thanks for revisiting this video. I have never heard of her until now. It's funny you had to go back to the past to bring this to the future Marty McFly 😁. I just couldn't resist. As always you are a class act above and beyond anyone else on Utube. You keep resting that arm and keep Rocking 🤘
Eva was a star in every way brilliant singer and guitar playing she left us far to early she will alway's be missed it;s a tragedy she passed so soon I love her performance here it's by miles the very best version of this beautiful song Eva Cassidy we miss you so much wish you were here with us life's not fair LOVE YOU FOREVER THE BEAUTIFUL, GORGEOUS, LOVELY EVA CASSIDY BLESS YOU THE VOICE OF A ANGEL.
Eva had of the most amazing voices I've ever heard, with incredible tone, control, phrasing and emotion. After reading her bio again, I realized that she recorded this live performance (along with several other songs from this gig) in January 1996 and she passed away from metastatic melanoma later that year in November. Such a huge, immeasurable loss. An interesting note about this gig was that she apparently had a cold and initially didn't want to release the live recordings because she didn't like the sound of her voice....the world of music would have been a worse place if these masterpieces were never released.
Been enjoying your channel for some time. I’m not a musician, yet I still can so benefit from your content. It helps me appreciate more, what I already appreciate so much. This video, dedicated to the exquisite Eva, was you at your best. It moved me deeply. Thank you.
I'm not a musician either and we're not alone. He has many viewers who are not either. I've learned so much from Fil. What I really find cool is that I've been able to recognize some technical stuff when listening to other musicians and singers. 🤘
Thanks for expressing my thoughts. About Fil especially, but about music in general. I was always ashamed about music (my choir teachers always told me to move my lips and not make a sound from 3rd primary until 2nd secondary, since it was a mandatory course) and even at a University level when I tried to take beginning singing. An opera singer and teacher asked if it was too late to get my money back for the course. (it was) She apologized but I was so humiliated that I never continued. Fil is an amazing analyst. I've followed him since he had 13,000 subs.
first heard Eva on my car radio driving at night ~ 2016 'Stormy Monday' at Blues Alley .. was blown away! 'soulful black artist' I thought. Sublime. Learned more, then I cried. Sweet Angel never got her due in her short time.
She's phenomenal -- as a singer AND as a guitarist (which for some reason many people overlook and I'm baffled why). I'm glad you mentioned her playing in your vid! We played this at my father's celebration of life. Bit of a struggle because my sister wanted Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's version. I thought the plunkety-plunk of his ukulele and his singing couldn't match the soulfulness of Eva's version. (Hey a ukulele and Israel make great background music for a luau but not for a celebration of life.)
She actually does that same dynamics on her live "Take Me To The River" a song we have heard covered as much as Rainbow. She goes in on this thing and brings an amazing performance that NOBODY has done like she did it. She was also backed up by a talented group. Check it out.
Thanks for bringing this back, Fil. Haven't listened to Eva in way too long. She was so talented....great vocalist, but her musicality seemed so natural and dynamic and magickal. Love her and need to break out her music and just be prepared to feel emotions cause that's always a given with her.
This is my opinion based on my life experiences. I have seen the Mona Lisa at the Louvre and Michaelangelo's David up close. I have been to theater in cities around the world. I have read great books and poetry. I have experienced all forms of art and human creativity. Yet none has the power to move me, to touch my soul and send me to another plain of existence like music. No art form can bring back or evoke a memory like music can. It is the supreme expression of beauty and spirituality that we have. No art form can move me like music can, and it is not even close. This video and your reaction once again demonstrates the supreme power of music to move every fiber of one's being.
This hearted comment about the absolute power of music makes my day. I have a feeling you feel the same way and that is why I penned it. Love your channel, Phil, and may you continue to react and rock on. Hugs from North Carolina. BTW, never knew about this artist till I saw her on your channel. Extraordinary performance by a performer whose talents must have come from somewhere over the rainbow.
It's "expression" as if a world class narrator was reading to you from a great book. Same concept. Emphasis, expressiveness, emotionality....she is telling a story VOCALLY. You feel every word, sense every meaning, and your spirit soars.
As usual, highly thoughtful and articulate commentary. The performance is' a piece of rare art, and her vocal phrasing and dynamics --and guitar playing!-- is suburb. "Autumn Leaves" at the same show also knocks me out.
Patience... Eva had pure musical loving patience for both the vocal delivery and the guitar work... The saying goes "Love is patience"... Well the Eva exemplified pure love for music... Thanks for the great reaction and commentary on this artist we sadly lost too soon...
Eva left our world far too early. I love her version of Fields of Gold. I remember the first time I heard it. Driving on the Autobahn in Germany going 120 miles per hour and then suddenly getting emotionally moved to the point of tears, is not exactly ideal and a little terrifying. But what it shows is that her music was so brilliant, that I still remember where exactly I was when I first heard it and the only thing about music is to know what I like and what I don't like. Yet, Eva Cassidy singing Fields of Gold pushed me much further than 'like vs don't like'. There is a girl, which I think is a little bit like her. Some of you may remember Connie Talbot? When she was six years old she sang 'Over the Rainbow' on Britain's got Talent. She has her own UA-cam Channel and not so long ago she was seen on 'America's got Talent'? (not 100% sure if that was the show). I find her singing nearly as moving as Eva Cassidy's singing and I think Connie may be one to watch out for. Right, that's my comment, back to practising my Ukulele. Day two: Fingers are hurting, but I grit my teeth and do my 20 minutes practising the three chords I managed to learn yesterday :-) (Knopfler.. here I come :-) )
Oh my goodness Phil you are SO interesting to listen too. You make so much sense. This is the first time I've watched one of your videos. I can't wait to binge on more. Eva Cassidy was literally a one off natural genius in my opinion. She was one of very few artists I've listened to who make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up in a most marvelous way ❤
I adore this singer and beautiful lady! She was so special. An amazing singer, guitar player, artist and gentle lady who loved nature. Loved your analysis and concur with it all! She was a pure gem. Cancer is so cruel to rob us of what more she would have done had she not died from that horrible disease at the tender age of 33. Wasn't she simply beautiful? What a loss to her family and the world of music. May she be continuing to shine her gorgeous light in Heaven sweet beautiful lady. Thank you for your wonderful appreciative review.
I'm amazed by how many commenters had some sort of personal connection to Eva. I've lived in the DC area for almost 40 years, and I learned of Eva when the local jazz station started playing her version of What a Wonderful World every day. Sadly I never got to see her, but I am very lucky now to be playing in a band with her regular drummer. He has wonderful stories about her and like everyone else, says she was a total sweetheart. I love the way you (Fil) are honoring her here.
I'm 75-years old and have been a professional musician for over 50-years. In this time I have never heard a rendition of this song better than Cassidy's. On every conceivable level, from her otherworldly vocal technique, to her remarkable phrasing, to her tasty guitar fills, I've never heard better, by anyone, from any era. This is definition of an musical purist who put artistic integrity before commercialism. I only hope she found the fulfillment on the other side that she never received here.
I bought a car recently and her cd was the only music I listened to for a week and it finally hit me. Her dynamics was the thing she did like no one. In several words or one sentence she could shift dynamics three or four times in a way that was genuine and communicated so much. Sure she could do runs and great things like many wonderful singers too but I feel like this is her special magic. I am not a professional at all. Just an avid listener, so your view on this would be so nice. Like many I discovered her too late to see her live even though I lived only twenty miles or so from her. Your comment really touched me. 🙏
@@HearturMind
Actually, its all of her techniques, COMBINED. For example, you could have great phrasing, but choose the wrong chords, or worse still, sing out of key. To create a truly great performance like this, you must master ALL of the elements that constitute a professional performance, of which wonderful phasing is only a part.
@@tiffsaver 🙏 thx. So glad her work is still appreciated decades later and some great captures were made.
I am gob smacked. I thought Judy's versions were the sine qua non of this song, but I was wrong. This is the most stunning version of this iconic magical song I have ever heard. Surely Judy was bowing down in tears and reverence in heaven as Eva sang this song. Taken at 33, as my beautiful Karen was taken just short of her 33rd. I hope they are playing together in heaven.
@@ChuckHackney
Don't get me wrong, this song belongs to Judy. It's her signature number, and that will never change. But his version is so great that I think that even Judy would have loved her!!
I grew up near Eva. She worked at the nursery in my hometown. I saw her many times. She was a quiet, humble, and giving person. I didn't know that she was a singer until later in my life. To my great surprise, I discovered that the greatest singer of our time had helped me buy an African violet. She was literally an angel on earth. And gave us a glimpse into her soul in her music. There will never be another Eva. But thank goodness she left us with recordings of her divine singing. Although I've heard her sing this song many times, I can never get through it without my heart fluttering and shedding a tear. Thanks so much for honoring her, Fil.
Bowie?
@@johnemmerich7075 Beltsville. Behnke Nursery. She lived in Bowie.
She was the most wonderful artist of our time. I discovered her music in 2010 and didn't listen to anyone else for 2 years (what would be the point)? But from everything I have heard about her, as great a musician and singer as she was, she was an even better person. Getting a flower from an angel. Oh My!
Behnke's
@@joelorsong9127 Yep!
Eva was so connected to her voice and guitar...they were one.
Very few people have this depth.
Truly one if the brightest stars.
The pain in her vocal is so visceral, so vivid, so tangible, so palpable. In this one vocal, Eva captures the essence of the human condition.
This guy is an excellent analyst, very specific, even technical, musician-savvy observations, no broad, pointless raving. Not that Eva shouldn't be raved about.
Would love your take on Eva's "Autumn Leaves"! Thanks.
I've seen her many many times. I've played with people she's performed with, and I'm so sad that she left us so soon. She was one in a million.
What an honor. I only discovered her after she passed. So sad.
Agreed. Her painting is as magnificent. 💙
@@Meezer I have a couple of cards that I got from her. She was a sweet human being.
@@TheWerequat I do also. And purchased some prints of hers also.
@@Meezer 💙
Eva Cassidy, for me, is one of the few artists who can transport you to a mood that is difficult to achieve elsewhere. It is one of the most musical voices I heard. It is an incomparable, superb, almost out-of-this-world experience.
Chilling, almost otherworldly rendition. Fantastic.
I discovered this great musical artist back in 2005, after hearing her on a public radio station on the way home from work. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Having been a musician since 1963, I never heard music sung and played that truly reached in and grabbed my soul. I cried like a baby. Even now when I hear this song, it affects me the same way. She was special and a gift from God.
bravo YES! Listen to hr Autum Leaves, equally fantastic
Eva was suffering with a cold during this performance. You are correct that Eva would take a song you thought you knew, and take it and make it a brand new song that was hers. I have all the CD's that were released of her. An angel that was taken to teach the heavenly angels how to sing. She is missed, but as long as her music lives, so does she.
I too have all of her available recordings
yes
Eva stayed pretty close to the original composition and melody on this one. She wasn't one to embellish, unlike pop stars who destroy the national anthem at sporting events.
She was also dying from malignant melanoma.
I remember when a friend introduced me to Eva. I was so amazed and thrilled by her voice. It was a miracle to hear. Then I learned that voice had been silenced; a devastating loss. A talent that proves humans can be remarkable.
This is my favorite version of this song and one of the best ever live performances. I love this version so much, that I used it at my mother’s funeral.
Never ever has a voice touched me so deeply...
So fragile yet so strong, Eva is more than talent, a direct connection with the soul of the song. Beautiful!
Another Reactor said Eva was singing a duet with her Guitar! That seemed like a perfect characterization of this Angelic Magnificent Performance. Perfect Beauty!
Possibly the most beautiful voice I have ever heard. Such pure, raw talent. She sang songs that moved her. She wouldn’t be compromised and just pop or just jazz. She did country, gospel, jazz, etc. Hearing the his song for the first time made me just STOP…stop everything and focus only on her. Not many performances nor artists can do that. She and her guitar seemed to blend seamlessly! No auto tune. No smoke or lights. Just stunning and rare talent!
Every song she sang, she made her own. What a gifted musician she was.
Sing sweetly, Angel Eva. You are missed and loved -- now and Forevermore.
Love her rendition of "Fields of Gold" by Sting - so powerfully delivered! Golden and shimmering! An amazing performer!
Sting said himself there was some kind of magic in her voice
Eva was only with us for a short period, but she left us with an immeasurable gift.
The look in your eyes was one I hadn't seen from you before. The look of a child that just found out that music can be magical. She touched your heart.
I had a similar thought, but then I probably have a similar look on my face. The words take us back to childhood, while Eva’s performance transports us far beyond the present. The joy in our heart can so easily overflow into tears. “God, Thank You for music, and thank You for Eva.”
Yup.
He's witnessing musical magic and knows it.
He's no dummie.
it is undeniable that Eva Cassidy had a rare gift. To touch the audience's soul with her music. She performed her music under her own terms. A fantastic arranger that takes a sing we all know and transforms it into something more touching as if the sing was meant to be done that way. She was an angel that lived way too short.
Whenever I need to cry but can't for some reason, Eva's 'Over the Rainbow' releases all those pent-up emotions. So beautiful, so heartbreaking, yet also so healing, this rendition Eva gifted to the the world is one I will listen to over and over.
I can't watch or listen to this without shedding tears. The song, vocals and her tragic ending gets me every time.
A shout out to the composer of Over The Rainbow. Surely one of the most timeless works in all of music history. Never has there been a song written that expresses such, almost childlike hope, for a brighter future, a happier place, a longing for something beyond this current realm.
I have never heard this version of Over the Rainbow before, but this was a beautiful version and a bit tear jerking. Eva was another singer who had a beautiful, soft, smooth, and angelic voice, who was taken away from us way too early in her life. May she RIP! 😥❤
Eva's version of "Over the Rainbow" is so popular and loved that it has become the new standard of this song even over Judy Garland's version. It seems that in the last few years when ever someone covers this song it's always Eva's version that they perform!
I had not heard of Eva until now, and I gasped when you said she died from cancer shortly after this. She had such a lovely voice, and the arrangement here of "Over The Rainbow" was so beautifully captivating....I applaud her for wanting to play her music her way. She was a shining star. Damn cancer. I hope Eva found her rainbow. Nicely done Fil.🌈
Cindy Powers Nicely said Cindy perhaps Eva Cassidy and Judy Garland are sharing the same rainbow way up high? 🌈
@Bobb Grimley Thank you Bobb! I will research her further. As I said in my comment, I was taken aback at her death so young. She lives on through the music she left behind, to the benefit of us all.☮️💜
@@drewpall2598 I have no doubt that is true my friend 🌈🧡
Cindy, check out her album Live from Blues Alley. It’s otherworldly. She sings Over the Rainbow in that concert too, and it’s completely different, but just as amazing.
"Autumn Leaves" will blow u away then, we are lucky to have this footage
Her version is the best of this song! So touching! Tears just flow!!!
Fil you are the best. I’ve loved watching this song of Eva’s and The Autumn Leaves so many times. No one is better. Not even Judy. She makes me cry every time. Thank you for your great comments.
Now we know how great she was. I’m so grateful for those who insisted on putting the little that we have of her recorded out there for us to appreciate. Thanks, Fil for spreading the word.
Still gets me like it did when I first heard it on the car radio and had to pull over to listen. It's not safe to drive crying. Beautiful analysis befits the beauty of the performance, glad the block has been lifted.
I read your comment and thought it was mine because the exact same experience happened to me.
"Autumn Leaves" was just another popular ditty until Eva got her hands (vocals and guitar) on it. Then it became the most sublime composition and performance in my experience.
I hear you. Autumn Leaves is one of her best imo. It’s got a truly haunting quality to it.
Agree. Autumn Leaves is my favorite of hers.
Her rendition of Autumn Leaves make me cry. She was a nuanced, authentic performer, and it is such a shame we never got to see her evolve as an artist.
Now I want to go watch it again, tissue in hand.
It's a blessing that we are able to see her at all. She was gone for years before I was exposed to her. When she died, she had performed for fewer than a thousand people. How many musical prodigies never even get as far as she did? We are lucky to have as much Eva as we do.
Agree.
Judy Garland was so young and you could hear hope in her voice. I never heard of Eva Cassidy or her story. So melancholy is her voice, and so sad is her story. I cried as I listened as Fil said "if this doesn't move you?" Well Fil you introduced me to a true song bird of phenomenal talent whose voice and weeping guitar I'll never hear live. You gave her homage and posthumously the praise is well deserved. Thank you for all the work you do, without you I'd never known the grace of this lovey lady.
Don Mclean's lyrics from his famous song VINCENT apply to EVA perfectly: "THE WORLD WAS NEVER MEANT FOR ONE AS BEAUTIFUL AS YOU" EVA.
Great to see the props for the wonderful Eva. RIP to this fantastic talent.
I count the day I discovered Eva, purely by accident, as one of the luckiest days of my life.
Me today. She makes me cry.
this is absolutely my favourite song of all time with a rendition that is unmatched by anyone - it is absolutely beautiful; it is perfection....
I have this album. And every song is one take, no do overs, just perfect. She was truly one of a kind.
There are two songs I can't stand: My Funny Valentine & Over the Rainbow. When I discovered her & later heard her version of this song I was gobsmacked. She brought me to tears, and still does every time I hear her sing it. She simply had one of the most beautiful & beautifully emotionally truthful voices I have heard in my 70 yrs.
And just a p.s., Rickie Lee Jones' version of My Funny Valentine totally changed how I heard that song.
I'm still unable to listen to anyone else sing those songs.
I also have not been able to stand Judy Garland's version of Over the Rainbow. But Eva's version of it is something else entirely.
when you say, "if this doesn't move you emotionally" at 6:54 I can hear your voice almost break and your eyes got moist. Eva can do that to people regardless how many times they might listen to the same song.
Generational talent! Never mind the wonderful guitar…her vocals are unmatched! I love her recordings! 70 years old and very few like her come along!
When I hear stories about people who succumb to cancer, it makes me cherish my own life all the more. I had a metastatic tumor in my head, which spread to both sides of my neck. In 1979. It wasn’t caught super early, but obviously early enough as I’ll turn 66 this year.
You can survive cancer, but please PLEASE, if you see something strange on you, get it looked at by a doctor. ❤️
I absolutely loved your review of this song. To me this is the most beautiful song that has ever been recorded. When I listen to Eva sing this song, I know that she is singing about Heaven. Little did we know that a few short months later, she would be there. The song truly moves me more than anything else 🌈🌈🌈
She was and is amazing! A perfect example of how sometimes just a voice and a guitar is enough. I remember when I played the video of her singing 'Autumn Leaves' to my nephew who was about 3 yo at the time, he couldn't take his eyes of the screen, he was like hypnotized. And Eva's rendition of 'Over the Rainbow' is refreshing, like a totally different song. I love it.
“If this doesn’t do something to you, there’s something wrong with you….” Well said, Phil ❤️❤️ couldn’t agree more, it’s a very moving song because of how she sings it.
Your analysis of this performance does this song justice, Eva Cassidy was a one of a kind.
She's also singing superbly here but, playing some quite intricate picking at the same time !
A well renowned guitar critic once critiqued Eva’s playing, and he said the arrangement she played was absolutely outstanding. Eva, of course, didn’t think she was any thing other than an ordinary player or as a performer! Extraordinary, ‘ordinary’ woman!
I love this version and performance, and have everything she ever recorded. Up there with Aretha, Karen, Patsy and Anne!
I KNEW it! Of course you would cover Eva; brilliant! Thank u!!
Everything Eva sings makes me cry. There is something about her singing.
Such a beautiful rendition of this classic song
She sings like an angel, and now she sings with the angels. Just beautiful. ❤
Eva is definitely one of my all-time greats. Her version of "Fields of Gold" is another gem beside this one.
What an absolutely beautiful voice. I love when a performance comes from the heart. Thanks for this one Fil. I needed this today.
She had such a good ear for her vocal choices, it makes sense that her ear for the guitar arrangement would be just as superb.
This rendition of the great classic never fails to brings tears to my eyes. Eva sings it with such emotion, so sweet with a touch of sadness. Her brilliant, understated guitar work is a joy to listen to. We lost her far too soon. Thanks Fil for bringing back this amazing performance.
I just found her today.My life is better. Thank You, Eva
🥰 I've got everything she's ever done and I am totally astounded every time I listen. She is most incredible!
Thank you so much for putting a spotlight on Eva's incredible guitar playing in this performance. So easy to miss as the singing is as beautiful as you're going to find on any song by any singer ever. The playing is so perfect it just sounds like it's recorded and not played by her live... Thank you for that, and thank you for the entire great reaction.
I simply love this version. For me, it’s the best version ever, of this beautiful song! The bookends of every extreme emotion I’ve ever experienced sit right there in every line, every note, every beat, every phrase and every breath of this free- flowing delivery every single time I listen to it!
Many thanks Fil! You 'Rock'! 🎸
Yes, it was Terry Wogan who championed Eva's version of Over the Rainbow, on BBC Radio 2. He certainly got that one right :) it's hard to listen to this rendition without a tear in your eye (for the right reasons of course). Simply breathtaking
I only just came across your reaction of Eva Cassidy. A few years ago, when I attended a friend's funeral this song was played at the end, as it was my friend's favourite song I found out later. The emotions on the day went to another level when this song was played. I tracked down and purchased her double compilation cd, which I play quite often. Her version of Sting's 'Fields of Gold', also stirs the emotions. Whatever song Eva sang, she made it her own.
Thank you so much for highlighting her guitar work. This is a brilliant arrangement, exquisitely executed. She truly was one in a million.
What a loss. Thank god they recorded these live performances.
Eva Cassidy - simply perfect in her music, her art and herself! 💙
I loved your analysis and breakdown of this remarkable singer’s rendition of this classic. While her voice is by now recognized as being one the best, her playing is often underrated. She had a habit of making familiar songs her own, such as this, Songbird, Autumn Leaves and others. Well done and thanks for making it available - I haven’t seen her sing live very often.
I have been watching the Blues Alley video of her and, my friend, it will shock you. I think an angel was amongst us and she was brought home early. I feel like she truly understands how to professionally perform aaaand arrange. And do you know what truly makes her special? She plays an acoustic guitar while controlling her voice like that. Impressed? I certainly am. She was Julliard School of Music scholarship worthy. I have a very high regard for this woman.
thanks for going back to post this
Superior version.
Voice of a angel. Sad she passed so young.
Also , take a listen to Autumn Leaves .
Typically excellent analysis of a performance I’d heard many times before Fil posted this, but Fil brings new appreciation and understanding. Thanks, Fil. You’re tops.
If this beautiful, extraordinary rendition of over the rainbow doesn’t get to you emotionally, you should check your pulse.
Because of watching reations to Sydnie Christmas, I was lead to Eva Cassidy whom I never heard sing. Amazing acoustic performance made even more special since it was
recorded at that jazz club on my 49th birthday Jan. 3rd. Thanks !
Her voice is mesmerizing. So lovely.
Another who was gone far too soon. Her cover of Stings 'Fields of Gold' from this night is one of my go to songs to show off my so so stereo. Always goes over better than when I show off my Rock Collection and get mostly meh's. Goose bump city.
Yes, absolutely one of my top favorites.
Yes, that was an utterly beautiful version of Fields of Gold. The voice of serenity…
I never liked that song until I heard her version. I've now listened to it more times than I can count.
Still don't like the original.
If I recall correctly, from a different session, but even 20 years later her Danny Boy never fails to get me all verklempt. Tall Trees in Georgia is a tune that probably few of us were aware of before the Blues Alley sessions.
And don’t get me started on her Wade in the Water, and People Get Ready.
FWIW, I think insufficient props have been given to Chris Biondo and the entire band, Keith Grimes, Lenny Williams and Raice McLeod, et al.
Thanks so much, Fil - really heartfelt analysis of an unforgettable artist. Eva's voice always touches the heart.
Every single time I hear this, it wounds me. Eva's voice destroys me. I wish I could have seen her live... but I think I have seen her, in my dreams, in my heart.
it's so refreshing to listen to someone that not only knows what they are talking about but also has the ability to express himself in such a lucid and deep manner on the subject . brilliant ?
Well there's nothing wrong with me Fil. Eva's version of Over the Rainbow was over the top. It may sound blasphemous but I like this version the best even better than the original... Such a tender voice that can lay you out flat.
Thanks for revisiting this video. I have never heard of her until now. It's funny you had to go back to the past to bring this to the future Marty McFly 😁. I just couldn't resist. As always you are a class act above and beyond anyone else on Utube. You keep resting that arm and keep Rocking 🤘
Eva was a star in every way brilliant singer and guitar playing she left us far to early she will alway's be missed it;s a tragedy she passed so soon I love her performance here it's by miles the very best version of this beautiful song Eva Cassidy we miss you so much wish you were here with us life's not fair LOVE YOU FOREVER THE BEAUTIFUL, GORGEOUS, LOVELY EVA CASSIDY BLESS YOU THE VOICE OF A ANGEL.
Eva had of the most amazing voices I've ever heard, with incredible tone, control, phrasing and emotion. After reading her bio again, I realized that she recorded this live performance (along with several other songs from this gig) in January 1996 and she passed away from metastatic melanoma later that year in November. Such a huge, immeasurable loss. An interesting note about this gig was that she apparently had a cold and initially didn't want to release the live recordings because she didn't like the sound of her voice....the world of music would have been a worse place if these masterpieces were never released.
Been enjoying your channel for some time. I’m not a musician, yet I still can so benefit from your content. It helps me appreciate more, what I already appreciate so much. This video, dedicated to the exquisite Eva, was you at your best. It moved me deeply. Thank you.
I'm not a musician either and we're not alone. He has many viewers who are not either. I've learned so much from Fil. What I really find cool is that I've been able to recognize some technical stuff when listening to other musicians and singers. 🤘
Thanks for expressing my thoughts. About Fil especially, but about music in general. I was always ashamed about music (my choir teachers always told me to move my lips and not make a sound from 3rd primary until 2nd secondary, since it was a mandatory course) and even at a University level when I tried to take beginning singing. An opera singer and teacher asked if it was too late to get my money back for the course. (it was) She apologized but I was so humiliated that I never continued. Fil is an amazing analyst. I've followed him since he had 13,000 subs.
first heard Eva on my car radio driving at night ~ 2016 'Stormy Monday' at Blues Alley .. was blown away! 'soulful black artist' I thought. Sublime. Learned more, then I cried. Sweet Angel never got her due in her short time.
She's phenomenal -- as a singer AND as a guitarist (which for some reason many people overlook and I'm baffled why). I'm glad you mentioned her playing in your vid! We played this at my father's celebration of life. Bit of a struggle because my sister wanted Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's version. I thought the plunkety-plunk of his ukulele and his singing couldn't match the soulfulness of Eva's version.
(Hey a ukulele and Israel make great background music for a luau but not for a celebration of life.)
She actually does that same dynamics on her live "Take Me To The River" a song we have heard covered as much as Rainbow. She goes in on this thing and brings an amazing performance that NOBODY has done like she did it. She was also backed up by a talented group. Check it out.
Such a beautiful interpretation of a classic, loved it
Thanks for bringing this back, Fil. Haven't listened to Eva in way too long. She was so talented....great vocalist, but her musicality seemed so natural and dynamic and magickal. Love her and need to break out her music and just be prepared to feel emotions cause that's always a given with her.
This is my opinion based on my life experiences. I have seen the Mona Lisa at the Louvre and Michaelangelo's David up close. I have been to theater in cities around the world. I have read great books and poetry. I have experienced all forms of art and human creativity. Yet none has the power to move me, to touch my soul and send me to another plain of existence like music. No art form can bring back or evoke a memory like music can. It is the supreme expression of beauty and spirituality that we have. No art form can move me like music can, and it is not even close. This video and your reaction once again demonstrates the supreme power of music to move every fiber of one's being.
This hearted comment about the absolute power of music makes my day. I have a feeling you feel the same way and that is why I penned it. Love your channel, Phil, and may you continue to react and rock on. Hugs from North Carolina. BTW, never knew about this artist till I saw her on your channel. Extraordinary performance by a performer whose talents must have come from somewhere over the rainbow.
It's "expression" as if a world class narrator was reading to you from a great book. Same concept. Emphasis, expressiveness, emotionality....she is telling a story VOCALLY. You feel every word, sense every meaning, and your spirit soars.
The more I see and hear this number, the more I fall in love with it. Beautiful genius! ❤
Thank you. My wife loves her. I new nothing about her . When my wife was playing her I new instantly Eva was something special.
Thanks again. Phil.
As usual, highly thoughtful and articulate commentary. The performance is' a piece of rare art, and her vocal phrasing and dynamics --and guitar playing!-- is suburb. "Autumn Leaves" at the same show also knocks me out.
Patience... Eva had pure musical loving patience for both the vocal delivery and the guitar work... The saying goes "Love is patience"... Well the Eva exemplified pure love for music... Thanks for the great reaction and commentary on this artist we sadly lost too soon...
This is still my favorite reaction/analysis of this performance. No other even comes close.
Eva left our world far too early. I love her version of Fields of Gold. I remember the first time I heard it. Driving on the Autobahn in Germany going 120 miles per hour and then suddenly getting emotionally moved to the point of tears, is not exactly ideal and a little terrifying. But what it shows is that her music was so brilliant, that I still remember where exactly I was when I first heard it and the only thing about music is to know what I like and what I don't like. Yet, Eva Cassidy singing Fields of Gold pushed me much further than 'like vs don't like'.
There is a girl, which I think is a little bit like her. Some of you may remember Connie Talbot? When she was six years old she sang 'Over the Rainbow' on Britain's got Talent. She has her own UA-cam Channel and not so long ago she was seen on 'America's got Talent'? (not 100% sure if that was the show). I find her singing nearly as moving as Eva Cassidy's singing and I think Connie may be one to watch out for.
Right, that's my comment, back to practising my Ukulele. Day two: Fingers are hurting, but I grit my teeth and do my 20 minutes practising the three chords I managed to learn yesterday :-) (Knopfler.. here I come :-) )
Oh my goodness Phil you are SO interesting to listen too. You make so much sense. This is the first time I've watched one of your videos. I can't wait to binge on more.
Eva Cassidy was literally a one off natural genius in my opinion. She was one of very few artists I've listened to who make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up in a most marvelous way ❤
Tears at 2:00 pm on a Thursday afternoon. 😢 What an intimate, emotional performance. I'm so happy you decided to reload this video.
To fall in love with a voice is to live forever happy. Our hearts can be filled with joy at anytime through her music.
I always feel like crying when I hear her sing this.
I adore this singer and beautiful lady! She was so special. An amazing singer, guitar player, artist and gentle lady who loved nature. Loved your analysis and concur with it all! She was a pure gem. Cancer is so cruel to rob us of what more she would have done had she not died from that horrible disease at the tender age of 33. Wasn't she simply beautiful? What a loss to her family and the world of music. May she be continuing to shine her gorgeous light in Heaven sweet beautiful lady. Thank you for your wonderful appreciative review.
I'm amazed by how many commenters had some sort of personal connection to Eva. I've lived in the DC area for almost 40 years, and I learned of Eva when the local jazz station started playing her version of What a Wonderful World every day. Sadly I never got to see her, but I am very lucky now to be playing in a band with her regular drummer. He has wonderful stories about her and like everyone else, says she was a total sweetheart. I love the way you (Fil) are honoring her here.
I’ve always found Eva’s songs so calming.