I'm obsessed with this band. I love that all these different people getting together for the love of music and playing/singing so well. Simply beautiful! ❤
I as well. I just found them a couple of days ago searching for Earth Wind and Fire. They are great at everything they cover, from soul to pop to ballads.
It’s super cool to see and hear this ensemble perform. I’ve never heard a better, more true representation of the originals. They’re my favorite cover band, ♥️
@@crystalclarity6766 ... L&F's "covers" ... are as good as, or sometimes even BETTER than the originals, and they blow my mind every time I listen to one of them. I know all of their cover songs very very well, and they are note for note ... perfection !
I doubt you guys have any idea how much joy you bring to us old folks by covering these great songs of the 60’s and 70’s. I’m 78, when I’m having a not so good day, all I have to do is dial you up and things improve. Thanks so much!!!
How can a group from Russia get an American R&B song SO SPOT ON?! Every single part, from vocals to baritone sax is absolutely incredible! This song is very special to me and you folks bring back all the good memories and feelings from this time! Thanks 😊!
How can we in the US find it so hard to believe that Russian musicians could possibly be SO good? Prejudice and misinformation. Thanks to both of our governments for screwing us around. Just let us make our own friends, OK? Love is spread and passes from one to another by music. Everybody sing! A one'a a two'a a three'a! ROCK!
@@FriPilot if you’re responding to my comment, READ IT AGAIN! It’s nothing but compliments for this great band! Many don’t even speak English but you’d never know, they’re that good! Read the history on who/how this group started; extremely encouraging!
John, I think they're tremendous and my remark was not a response to you. More a commentary on world prejudice. I went through this with a band called Cubanismo several years ago. Nonsense with our immigration people targeting a great peace loving band who found it hard, then impossible, to enter the US. It pisses me off. cheers!
I hope every member of the band knows how much we appreciate the passion and love they put into their renditions of these American classics. You are truly touching our souls, it's not just music, it's our childhood, it's our memories triggered by this music which are not just songs, but part of our fabric of life.
Unbelievable arrangement! Superb vocals by Mikhail Puntov... What a voice! His backup vocals were perfect! The entire group of musicians could have not given a better performance. They were all in with heart & soul. I liked the horn section arm & hand motion and snaping to the beat while Mikail was singing. ~So Very Hard To Go~ (Tower of Power cover)... is a hard song to sing, at the vocal levels he did. You could feel the feeling he put into that song... he made the songs words come alive! I have been around a long time, going to clubs, concerts and cruises, you guys & girls are truly one of the greatest performances I have seen, ever!. Make sure Mikhail sings this song on the Blue cruise out of Miami this spring and at Blue Ocean club at Salsberry, MA. - Sorry, but I have to get back to watching this video over again & again.... Love you Leonid & Friends... -DJ Sal - Boston, MA
So Very Hard to Go, originally recorded by the Tower of Power, is perfectly covered here by Leonid & Friends. This cover version features the unbelievable lead vocal of Michael Puntov, who sounds exactly like Lenny Williams who was the lead singer in the original Tower of Power version of So Very Hard to Go. Michael really nailed the vocals on this recording, as he perfectly captures the vocal performance exactly as it sounds on the original recording. Every nuance and inflection of Michael’s vocals are exactly as they were recorded before in this original recording by Lenny Williams! I was absolutely astounded when I first heard this perfectly crafted cover version by Leonid & Friends. I could not believe that anyone could sound EXACTLY like the Tower of Power. After listening to it again, and again, I was finally able to wrap my mind around the whole concept of the Leonid & Friends recording being an absolutely perfect reproduction of the original.recording as it was done by the original artist.
OMG! TOP? And Michael Puntov does Lenny Williams note for note in the same key. Whew. This guy can sing. And then there is the orchestra, the brass, the completeness. I am such a L&F fan and this is why. This is not a cover; it is a tribute.
The string section adds soooooo very much to all of these tracks and videos. You can tell these musicians are “into” the songs as much as any other musician. 👏👏👏👍👍👍🎶🎶🎶🎵🎵🎵🥂🥂🥂
As usual, a shimmering cover of a great tune by this amazing collection of musicians. Lead vocal was incredible, loved the guitar work. I'm always waiting for the next Leonid vid to drop.
As a 71 year old man who has loved music since I was 8 years old. This is the best cover bands I have ever heard in my life. And my favorite song is so very hard to go by Tower of Power.. You did a wonderful job on that particular song, all of your cover songs are excellent. God bless you and your Band, hope to see you in state of Virginia. Very soon Mickey
ONE WORD....DAMN!! OMG they all NAILED IT...but that young man singing...OWN THIS REMAKE of an ABSOLUTE CLASSIC....Kudos to everyone playing as well....WOW!
I can't even count how many times I've listened to this cover. And it just gets better and better every time. I see Leonid up there smiling and it looks like he's just going to float right up off the floor. You can tell every one of these musicians are putting their hearts and souls into this song. What a powerful feeling it must be for them to recreate something so great. And it means so much to us who are listening to this great song. Music is indeed the universal medium and Leonid and Friends do it better than anyone.
At 70, my heart is broken that some fool has unleashed the dogs of war- again. I have followed the band for years, and you are among the best bands ever. You were supposed to play in Durham at the Carolina Theater in May. I was excited at the prospect. This release is a wonderful, if not complete, consolation. The Russian and Ukraine people deserve peace. I hope it comes soon.
Having traveled well I can testify we all have more in common than most will ever know. The Russian "government" is at odds with the world, not the Russian People.
Leonid NAILS this. If I had a complaint, Michael Puntov, doesn't quite have the soul of Lenny Williams, but a VERY serviceable job on this. I got goosebumps when the brass came in. Just like when I was a teen and first heard the song. I can't help but love these guys.
YOURE WAY OFF THATS A POLITICALLY CORRECT STATEMENT AT BEST FEELS NOTHING AT ALL LIKE TOP DAVID GARIBALDI, ROCCO PRESTIA... UM... NO BETTER LUCK NEXT TIME
I don't even know what to say regarding how great these folks are. As a bassist and drummer for over 40+years, played with everybody, I'm speechless with these Russian brothers and sisters doing this song! It's so GREAT I literally don't have words. God bless you folks and continued success! They are so GREAT I just don't know what to say!
Leonid & Friends play, my eighty eight year old father and I are moved to tears, and the world becomes a joyous place. Thank you for the meticulous restoration of all the glorious songs that I grew up with. Please don't ever stop. Amidst the pandemic, failed economies, and a looming world war, your music just might be what the world needs to be inspired and come to its senses.
I have no words, I am so overwhelmed by so much talent, voice, brass, strings, guitars, what talent! thank you for the tears of auditory enjoyment! Gentlemen, ladies, thank you, thank you, thank you for life!
Missing Serge so, so much on this. I know it's nothing to do with you Leonid, but it's bloody heart-breaking what is happening. Let's hope things get better very soon.
Speechless....just speechless...what a high class performance! All of them professional musicians of high quality. And then so modest. I can't call everyone by name, but all of you....spot on! Very good. If you look good , one of the female violists goes up totally with eyes closed in this outstanding performance. Who doesn't ! Greets from Rotterdam , The Netherlands
We saw them on Nov 22, 2022 at the House of Blues in Dallas. 2500 seats. Sold out. We visited with several people around us and discovered that Leonid & Friends has a group of folks that follow them from event to event. Denver, Charlotte and New Orleans were sitting near us. They lead with "So Very Hard to Go" and didn't mess around after that. They performed (with a break) for 3 hours and we audience was happily exhausted at the end. THIS IS A GREAT GROUP. GO SEE THEM IF YOU GET THE CHANCE!
we were there too, if you think this is all studio work, you would be mistaken, the sound the same live. We have scene them twice, outstanding every time.
I call them the best "Cover" Group/Band in the World. If you listened to the music without any knowledge, you would think that they were all "Originals". This is my humble opinion.💯
Wait a minute! wait, no, nooo, no. I'm still marinating on what I just heard. If I close my eyes I can't tell the difference except for Lenny Williams. Your EWF covers, Tower of Power. 2 of the best bands, groups in the game and you nailed them. I'm still SMH. Please cover more songs because you guys are different. In the very best and highest form of the word different.
The best cover of this song I've ever heard. But this group is one who can pull it off. Thank you for introducing this generation to the amazing legends of the past. Great music must be kept alive. Have a great day, everyone.
I have literally played this video over 100 times. I can’t get enough of it. It is refreshing to see that everyone performing has a smile on their face and just seems to be having a blast doing this not to mention the impeccable quality and attention to detail in every respect.
I'm a former Top40 radio DJ. I played the original Tower of Power record when it was first released in 1973 - and loved it. This cover is PERFECT. Maybe, just maybe, even better than the original. Well done!
I think Lenny Williams has the better clearer voice... but the rest of the band is great, and the music is spot on! this version of "SO Very Hard To Go" sounds exactly like TOP remastered issue.
Michael’s voice is spot on and his accent sounds more American than Russian. That’s what’s amazing about this group they are all extremely talented and entertaining
@@samsteen2115 I would like to see Igor try out my cousin’s travel kit. It’s based on the magic Russian hidden dolls toy. Everything stacks into the bass drum. Cymbals and stands and seat would be a drag along. TreeHouse Drums, Topeka,Kansas. All kits are custom made. Anyway, this stage band’s presence is just too much to take in. Sorta’a like watching a Formula 1 race. Just blink, and you’ll miss something. I’m glad that Leonid ousts tighter the video collages; East River is one that is action packed. What fun.
The beautiful young lady in the white jacket playing (viola?) showing the emotion of the music is what makes this video really great. Good song great performance (as usual!)
Yup she's a violist on this and ATLHG and a 2nd violinist on "In The Stone". Not that I've, umm, noticed her more than the other string players. Umm, no not at all 🙂
Both of them. That shows the level of expertise and hours of practice it takes to know the song and concentrate on what they are hearing to get the timing right. They are probably trained as classic musicians and getting to play this type of music make they so joyous.
Instant GOLD! You are all so fabulous. The joy displayed in your faces will overcome the hate and destruction on display by a certain few. Stay strong and stay safe. All of you are in our hearts and prayers here in Ocean City Maryland USA. Sending all our love.
I was listening to this song on my way back from San Francisco to LA in 1973 and Leonid and Friends brought back many memories from that time in my life. I have heard this song for 7 days in a row and will never get tired of it. Leonid and Friends , thank you again for making me feel like a 19 year old again!
When I saw them live in LA a couple years ago and they were playing this TOP classic I closed my eyes for a few seconds and was transported back to 1973. Simply amazing.
I agree - thanks for playin' songs from my absolute favourite greatest (almost all white) funky band of the world - only you L&F can play as well, thanks to all musician and singers and expecially the great great horn section - those are russians that we'll love forever: music is what we need to understand we are all brothers. C'mon Serge, it will end soon and you'll be back in the band again, no doubt about it
Excellent Excellent cover of the original. The voice inflections, the horn section, the drums & percussions, the orchestra. Nailed it. Shout out to Oakland's own Tower of Power featuring Lenny Williams
Exquisite cover! Goosebumps! I love that soul coming out of the lead vocalist, Michael Puntov. It really hits the spot. And the horns, just tight enough to kill it. Tower of Power should be proud. Music is what will heal this world. I hope Serge and his family are well. God bless you guys. 🙏
So very good right? I agree, MIchael knocks it out of the park. Good tight beat and spot on musicianship. I have been listening to this for six days now. Their rendition of "After the love is gone" is perfect too. God bless you Carlos.
Hats off to you all. It's about time someone actually understands how great this song is and how special the Tower of Power is. Everything from the singing to the musicianship is perfect. Bravo.
I was in a band in Fruitvale East Oakland in the mid 70's when I met Lenny Williams at a tire shop on Foothill Blvd. Lenny and I sort of vaguely recognized each other and said a casual hello and talked a bit. Lenny and ToP were a whole stratosphere above what we could do, even tho' we had the gifted Coke Escovedo in our band ..but he was cool and casual, just talking about music, east oakland life .. Lenny had a great look, even just out in public he looked like a star. Anyway, it turned out I wound up buying my very first electric keyboard from him, it had a phase shifter built in :-) that became my sound for the next coupla years .. he brought it to my place on 34th Av., we kicked it and played for a bit .. a really great memory I'll always treasure .. at 74 I'm still playing .. for the Lord in church 😇 I understand Lenny serves the Lord as well, so it's all good
I was so happy to see this video today! It must be very difficult for everyone in the band right now. Praying for health & safety for you all, and a rapid end to the struggles and conflict in the region. Bless you and stay safe!
This is absolute perfection! I've been listening to these covers repeatedly. I've seen TOP live and can't get over the joy in these performances. I'm blown away by both. Transcends politics too, a Ukrainian group played this one in Moscow, albeit before Putin's heinous invasion. This is pure joy...
This song has a lot of meaning for me personally and this is a spot-on cover. Incredible work. Comes at a tough moment on this planet. Here's to better times.
This was an incredible cover! It gave me goosebumps! Everything was spot-on: vocals, horns, strings, rhythm and guitar! What a wonderful arrangement! Thank you for taking the time to make the video and share it with the world! You all rock, and I thank you for bringing some much-needed joy to me today. I'll have it on my repeat play for a long time! 🎶❤️🔥👏👏👏
That was absolutely FANTASTIC! We are sad that Serge had to leave. All of this war crap really must be a tough emotional weight on everybody in the group. However, even through all of this you guys stepped up and blew the roof off the studio. America loves you and can't wait for your return.
@@AustinElwess Serge is Ukranian and when that Putie Russkie attack of Unwarranted aggression against Ukraine happened last February, he apparently had to leave Russia, possibly to fight there?! So very sad for all concerned there!
Loved Serge. Maybe he will return. What a voice! But, all the vocalists are amazing. Along with the musicians. Can't get enough of this band! Carry on. 🤩
Damn this was so perfect. And boy can that young man sing. Kudos. It`s not easy to have that sound that Tower of Power projected but you made it look easy.
I love the violin and viola players smiling at 3:45 or so. It makes me smile to see them enjoy playing their parts. This band is simply incredible. I have seen them on tour. I wish they could bring the entire group on tour. I would be happy to pay more to see the entire group perform.
Thank you very much for bringing us back in my memories to listen my favorite Band Tower of Power as you render this tribute Song Very Hard to Go. I am so happy you Leonid and Friends that you really did a good job with your band, you did a fantastic job in giving tribute to Chicago, EWF, Tower of Power etc. Been watching now in Vienna, Austria, Europe all your Tribute song to all Bands in USA. I am one your fans now. Good luck to your next recording and concerts 🤩🙂😘
Another impeccable cover of a song from one of my favorite bands, Tower of Power! The singer is absolutely fantastic, with great technique and tone, but I have to admit that I was thinking of Serge during the song. I hope you are all doing well and I sincerely wish peace and happiness to you and your Slavic brothers and sisters in Ukraine. ☮☮❤❤
@@dougconley Serge is Ukrainian and he is in Ukraine now. The rest of the band just arrived in the US for a tour. The band is donating part of their tour proceeds to Serge. (I went to their opening night last night.)
As a Lebanese musician, the music that these Russian musicians recreate is better than any other European or American, or any other nationalities I've ever heard in the last 30 years. What a privilege to listen to your music.
These are the songs you would hear coming out of radios everywhere on the streets of Los Angeles in the 70s. Inner city soul music. I loved it through and through and still do as I know you all do.👏🏼👏🏼 It’s the horns tho 🎺
This is a fantastic cover of a great song. The vocal is great and the trumpet solo is on point. Leonid, the mix is about as good as it gets. Thank you so much.
I agree with your comment Mike, especially that of the trumpet, which is over the top great keeping in mind that the original session from ToP was done with a french horn.
So beautifully done! I have to say that Konstantin's guitar is dripping with Soul (with a capital S). The horns are perfect. Michael's vocals are spot on! Thank you and I'm praying for peace.
This song was my favorite song back in 1973 and it's now my favorite song again in 2022. Amazing and special. TY TY TY! Praying for peace and happy to see the tour is bringing Love into peoples hearts.
Mine too. Hard to believe it's been that long. In 1973 I was stationed at North Island Naval Air Station in San Diego, CA. My Navy days are long behind me, but this music will be with me forever. Thank you Leonid & Friends for preserving such great songs for everyone to enjoy.
I do have to say that this song was made for his Lead Vocal Range!!! Great Job on the Vocals!!!, All the Rest of the Band Always Rocks!!! Never a Disappointment! You Guys Rock!!! From your Place to the U.S.A.!!! 🎤
This fantastic song, originally done by the Tower of Power, provided the basis for Leonid Vorobyev to add another song and recording to his growing catalog of perfectly replicated Covers. Leonid and Friends then executed a flawless performance with Michael Puntov, the lead singer for Leonid and Friends in this video, sounding identical to the original studio recording lead vocal by Lenny Williams and the Tower of Power. Michael Puntov’s performance is, IMHO, the best cover version lead vocal ever! Add in the aforementioned flawless performance by all the other Leonid and Friends players, and the result is an incredible masterpiece! This performance and recording are fabulous gems that will be forever enshrined in my “Music Hall of Fame”! Thanks to Lenny Williams and the Tower of Power. Their original studio recording of So Very Hard to Go is one of the best songs/recordings ever, and it provided a fantastic roadmap for Leonid and Friends to replicate and Cover!!
I am the greatest Tower of Power fan in the world and I learned to sing this song when it first came out. I was only 7 years old. This is the best cover of a T.O.P. song that I've ever heard! Well done! I'm gonna see you guys in Santa Clarita, California next month. I can't wait!
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Thank You So Much! As a member of Tower Of Power for the last 20 years, I can say we are honored and also that you guys sound Fantastic!!
This should be a pinned comment. ❤️🔥
this is so cool to see
Got Tommy's endorsement!!!!!!! Wait til I show this to Randy Michaels.
I hope the rest of TOP enjoys it as well.
Tommy is as classy as they come. I'm not surprised that he would share some encouraging words.
BRAVO, Leonid and orchestra! BRAVO!
Michael knocks this song out of the park.🤩🤩🤩
I'm obsessed with this band. I love that all these different people getting together for the love of music and playing/singing so well. Simply beautiful! ❤
I as well. I just found them a couple of days ago searching for Earth Wind and Fire. They are great at everything they cover, from soul to pop to ballads.
It’s super cool to see and hear this ensemble perform. I’ve never heard a better, more true representation of the originals. They’re my favorite cover band, ♥️
I have watched this video at least 10 times and always get goosebumps. Going to see them in Beverly Hills in November for a 'Chicago' tribute.
I am too especially the lead singer
@@crystalclarity6766 ... L&F's "covers" ... are as good as, or sometimes even BETTER than the originals, and they blow my mind every time I listen to one of them. I know all of their cover songs very very well, and they are note for note ... perfection !
Not only did they capture the sound but they captured the soul as well. Bravo!
I doubt you guys have any idea how much joy you bring to us old folks by covering these great songs of the 60’s and 70’s. I’m 78, when I’m having a not so good day, all I have to do is dial you up and things improve. Thanks so much!!!
Yes same here😂I love them
Ditto! Fabulous band!
I'm 72 and I feel the same way.
Eu 57 anos. Linda
😅😢😂❤❤❤
The lead singer's voice is one of the best I've ever heard. I admit it - I'm jealous! :)
He sounds a little like Bruno Mars
He's very good, but he isn't Lenny Williams.
How can a group from Russia get an American R&B song SO SPOT ON?! Every single part, from vocals to baritone sax is absolutely incredible! This song is very special to me and you folks bring back all the good memories and feelings from this time! Thanks 😊!
How can we in the US find it so hard to believe that Russian musicians could possibly be SO good?
Prejudice and misinformation. Thanks to both of our governments for screwing us around. Just let us
make our own friends, OK? Love is spread and passes from one to another by music. Everybody sing! A one'a a two'a a three'a! ROCK!
@@FriPilot if you’re responding to my comment, READ IT AGAIN! It’s nothing but compliments for this great band! Many don’t even speak English but you’d never know, they’re that good! Read the history on who/how this group started; extremely encouraging!
John, I think they're tremendous and my remark was not a response to you. More a commentary on world prejudice. I went through this with a band called Cubanismo several years ago. Nonsense with our immigration people targeting a great peace loving band who found it hard, then impossible, to enter the US. It pisses me off.
cheers!
@@johnfpotega2017they’re fantastic ❤
Because good music has no boundaries
I will only admit to listening to this 8763 times.
It is rather enjoyable.
Me too lol
only 1 less than me !!
Egg Zackly
Não canso de escutar.
I hope every member of the band knows how much we appreciate the passion and love they put into their renditions of these American classics. You are truly touching our souls, it's not just music, it's our childhood, it's our memories triggered by this music which are not just songs, but part of our fabric of life.
You said exactly what I was feeling, and have felt for years since discovering Leonid & Friends here. Thank you!
I really love this rendition!
I couldn't have said it better.
Well said!!!
exactly. like classic comfort foods of our youth, the music is a touchstone back to the blissful days as a teenager.
Unbelievable arrangement! Superb vocals by Mikhail Puntov... What a voice! His backup vocals were perfect! The entire group of musicians could have not given a better performance. They were all in with heart & soul. I liked the horn section arm & hand motion and snaping to the beat while Mikail was singing. ~So Very Hard To Go~ (Tower of Power cover)... is a hard song to sing, at the vocal levels he did. You could feel the feeling he put into that song... he made the songs words come alive! I have been around a long time, going to clubs, concerts and cruises, you guys & girls are truly one of the greatest performances I have seen, ever!. Make sure Mikhail sings this song on the Blue cruise out of Miami this spring and at Blue Ocean club at Salsberry, MA.
- Sorry, but I have to get back to watching this video over again & again....
Love you Leonid & Friends... -DJ Sal - Boston, MA
So Very Hard to Go, originally recorded by the Tower of Power, is perfectly covered here by Leonid & Friends. This cover version features the unbelievable lead vocal of Michael Puntov, who sounds exactly like Lenny Williams who was the lead singer in the original Tower of Power version of So Very Hard to Go.
Michael really nailed the vocals on this recording, as he perfectly captures the vocal performance exactly as it sounds on the original recording. Every nuance and inflection of Michael’s vocals are exactly as they were recorded before in this original recording by Lenny Williams! I was absolutely astounded when I first heard this perfectly crafted cover version by Leonid & Friends. I could not believe that anyone could sound EXACTLY like the Tower of Power. After listening to it again, and again, I was finally able to wrap my mind around the whole concept of the Leonid & Friends recording being an absolutely perfect reproduction of the original.recording as it was done by the original artist.
This band has just nailed the complete 60's , 70's and 80's sound .
OMG! TOP? And Michael Puntov does Lenny Williams note for note in the same key. Whew. This guy can sing. And then there is the orchestra, the brass, the completeness. I am such a L&F fan and this is why. This is not a cover; it is a tribute.
Absolutely 🤙🏽😎
What group can y’all NOT do?!?!?!?! L&F, y’all are absolutely AMAZING!!! Y’all gotta come to Arizona!!! Big, big fan!!!
@DJKhrome the are right now here in Texas. Then going to Arizona i
Totally agree. They are FANTASTIC!!!! Just beyond! I've listened to this about 100 times already. I can't get over how good they are.
Époustouflant !
The string section adds soooooo very much to all of these tracks and videos. You can tell these musicians are “into” the songs as much as any other musician. 👏👏👏👍👍👍🎶🎶🎶🎵🎵🎵🥂🥂🥂
FINALLY!!! Leonid and Friends doing Tower Of Power. Long overdue!
Agreed.
I've asked for some ToP for awhile now and finally my wish came true.
Eventually, it just had to be done.
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT🥰😍🎶🎤
yes. I've been waiting
Fabulous!! Here’s wishing all of you safety and good health during these trying times in your region of the world. Best wishes from Ohio, USA. 👍👍👍
Same from Lewis Center, Ohio.
Maravilloso
Same from Cleveland Ohio
Youngstown here
@@zorak1704 cuyahoga fallls - look forward to seeing you in June!
As usual, a shimmering cover of a great tune by this amazing collection of musicians. Lead vocal was incredible, loved the guitar work. I'm always waiting for the next Leonid vid to drop.
As a 71 year old man who has loved music since I was 8 years old.
This is the best cover bands I have ever heard in my life.
And my favorite song is so very hard to go by Tower of Power..
You did a wonderful job on that particular song, all of your cover songs are excellent.
God bless you and your Band, hope to see you in state of Virginia. Very soon
Mickey
Im right behind you at 68 years. I feel your sincerity.
Michael, the band will be in Hopewell on May 12th and Alexandria on July 5th. Hope you can make one or both of the shows.
@@trekkeruss A verry kind gesture. Thank you. Who knows how the future may uunfold.
Yes sir! I absolutely agree!😊
I am 75 and it brought tears to my eyes. So moving .
Igor is an amazing drummer. He has nailed this classic perfectly.
he nails all their songs the guy is amazing
yeah, he's great, he always kills it
Slayed it, as usual
He's incredibly good!
I've seen some great drummers, but Igor tops them all. His left hand is amazing.
ONE WORD....DAMN!! OMG they all NAILED IT...but that young man singing...OWN THIS REMAKE of an ABSOLUTE CLASSIC....Kudos to everyone playing as well....WOW!
Agree!!
Michael Puntov absolutely killed it on the lead vocals!! And, as usual, so did everyone else!!
I know very few in the band speak English, but I wonder if that lead singer does, anyone know? Another wonderfully thoughtful rendition
@@pputnam100.... soon he has to have a talked to the public !
MICHAEL KNOCKS IT OUT DA PARK !!!
Indeed! He was fantastic! Some of the same riffs that Lenny Williams did and then some!
Totally. An incredible performance.
I'm SPEACHLESS . . . . from a loyal fan of T O P over 50 years, I Thank You ! ! ! I Thank You All ! ! !
I'm speechless as well.
I can't even count how many times I've listened to this cover. And it just gets better and better every time. I see Leonid up there smiling and it looks like he's just going to float right up off the floor. You can tell every one of these musicians are putting their hearts and souls into this song. What a powerful feeling it must be for them to recreate something so great. And it means so much to us who are listening to this great song. Music is indeed the universal medium and Leonid and Friends do it better than anyone.
Powerful music from this awesome group. I'm a fan forever!
@@rosaliaboomer9773me too!!
Same here. I have been playing it over and over again. Michael is an outstanding, extraordinary, cutest vocal. AMAZING!!!!!!!
Same here. LOL!
@@rosaliaboomer9773so am I! I’ll never tire tire of these fabulous simgers n musicians 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
At 70, my heart is broken that some fool has unleashed the dogs of war- again. I have followed the band for years, and you are among the best bands ever. You were supposed to play in Durham at the Carolina Theater in May. I was excited at the prospect. This release is a wonderful, if not complete, consolation. The Russian and Ukraine people deserve peace. I hope it comes soon.
Amen to that. Love the band, hate the war. It makes me feel guilty to listen.
Having traveled well I can testify we all have more in common than most will ever know. The Russian "government" is at odds with the world, not the Russian People.
The Russian people need to clean their own house. They are responsible for their government.
@@hugh-johnfleming289
The Russian Government,, Ukraine Government AND NATO.
Bullies in the sandbox.
The band just arrived in the US two nights ago and played their first concert last night. I expect that they will play your concert in May as planned.
Michael Puntov totally nails this vocal! This is definitely one of my top favorite Leonid and Friends tunes, and they're all fantastic!
Yep…Michael is superb…and that baritone sax by contrast!
The guy can definetly sing .
I don't think people understand how difficult it is to reproduce these songs note for note. Even the original artists can't pull it off.
Thinking the same!!!
Agree
Same there, i wish to watch their concert somewhere in the America‼️
Leonid is the one who transcribes the songs note for note.
No words can describe how good this cover is.
Agreed
They must have had so much fun recording this. The smiles on the faces of the string musicians say it all.
I've been listening to this cover for the better part of a year......the best cover Hands Down !
the tempo is way too fast. It should be more laid back.
I agree 1000 percent. Michael's lead vocals are amazing. The back up from the band is as spot on as always. They can do any song justice.❤🎷🎺🎶💜
It's very difficult to duplicate the Tower of Power sound, but this band is spot on. This is my favorite Leonid and Friends cover.
Leonid NAILS this. If I had a complaint, Michael Puntov, doesn't quite have the soul of Lenny Williams, but a VERY serviceable job on this. I got goosebumps when the brass came in. Just like when I was a teen and first heard the song. I can't help but love these guys.
YOURE WAY OFF
THATS A POLITICALLY CORRECT STATEMENT AT BEST
FEELS NOTHING AT ALL LIKE TOP
DAVID GARIBALDI, ROCCO PRESTIA...
UM... NO
BETTER LUCK NEXT TIME
Me too
@@drumtwo4seven , guess you missed Tom's from TOP comments. Take a seat.
@@Derickbass Even Lenny Williams CANNOT duplicate what he originally did in this song...hats off to Michael!
I don't even know what to say regarding how great these folks are. As a bassist and drummer for over 40+years, played with everybody, I'm speechless with these Russian brothers and sisters doing this song! It's so GREAT I literally don't have words. God bless you folks and continued success! They are so GREAT I just don't know what to say!
Leonid & Friends play, my eighty eight year old father and I are moved to tears, and the world becomes a joyous place. Thank you for the meticulous restoration of all the glorious songs that I grew up with. Please don't ever stop. Amidst the pandemic, failed economies, and a looming world war, your music just might be what the world needs to be inspired and come to its senses.
Just like this 83 year old lady upright bass player/singer, from Texas. Tears of just how their music moves me. Good. Music is priceless.
If only people could focus on what we have in common... like great music. Looking forward to the day your group comes back and tours here.
I have a Russian friend ,seems most folk want nothing to do with this war.
It's never the ordinary folk who start these things
@@noelbowerman1562 Turns out we are the extraordinary! Those ruining things are subordinary.
Leonid is back in America now on tour.
Shows how beautiful this world is... and how we are connected....
I have no words, I am so overwhelmed by so much talent, voice, brass, strings, guitars, what talent! thank you for the tears of auditory enjoyment! Gentlemen, ladies, thank you, thank you, thank you for life!
Agree ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Missing Serge so, so much on this. I know it's nothing to do with you Leonid, but it's bloody heart-breaking what is happening. Let's hope things get better very soon.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
In any case this song is not for Serge's voice....
@@ovatask I think Serge could have done it very well.
What's Going On?
@@bubblehead78 Он поднялся!
Speechless....just speechless...what a high class performance! All of them professional musicians of high quality. And then so modest. I can't call everyone by name, but all of you....spot on! Very good. If you look good , one of the female violists goes up totally with eyes closed in this outstanding performance. Who doesn't ! Greets from Rotterdam , The Netherlands
Wow! Super sound and vocals. Any Tower of Power fans out there to hear this band???
Hi Randy, We are going to see them this Friday night at the Southshore Room Harrahs South Lake Tahoe....going to be a kool show.
We saw them on Nov 22, 2022 at the House of Blues in Dallas. 2500 seats. Sold out. We visited with several people around us and discovered that Leonid & Friends has a group of folks that follow them from event to event. Denver, Charlotte and New Orleans were sitting near us. They lead with "So Very Hard to Go" and didn't mess around after that. They performed (with a break) for 3 hours and we audience was happily exhausted at the end. THIS IS A GREAT GROUP. GO SEE THEM IF YOU GET THE CHANCE!
we were there too, if you think this is all studio work, you would be mistaken, the sound the same live. We have scene them twice, outstanding every time.
I missed them in 2022. But, honey, I will be there 10/23! Can't wait. 🤩
I have my tickets to see them May 2 in Nashville! So pumped!
I call them the best "Cover" Group/Band in the World. If you listened to the music without any knowledge, you would think that they were all "Originals". This is my humble opinion.💯
Wait a minute! wait, no, nooo, no. I'm still marinating on what I just heard. If I close my eyes I can't tell the difference except for Lenny Williams. Your EWF covers, Tower of Power. 2 of the best bands, groups in the game and you nailed them. I'm still SMH. Please cover more songs because you guys are different. In the very best and highest form of the word different.
Just wow! That guy nailed the vocals. Incredible performance all round.
Michael Puntov take a bow.
I may have played this 15 times in a row now. Such a wonderful rendition of this song, and what an amazing lead vocal. Bravo!
I m right there wirh ya...hitting repeat.
Me, too . . unable to stop clicking 'Again, Again!'
I keep playing over and over, too. Loving it more each time
Same!
Ditto for me. My favorite Tower of Power song.
The best cover of this song I've ever heard. But this group is one who can pull it off.
Thank you for introducing this generation to the amazing legends of the past. Great music must be kept alive.
Have a great day, everyone.
Didn't this young man just pull off the perfect vocal cover? Awesome.
Yes, they nailed it, every nuance of the song permeated the air.
WOW!!! I CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF THIS CLASSIC HIT BY TOWER OF POWER WHICH WAS SUPERBLY DONE BY LEONID & FRIENDS! AMAZING COVER!!!
I have literally played this video over 100 times. I can’t get enough of it. It is refreshing to see that everyone performing has a smile on their face and just seems to be having a blast doing this not to mention the impeccable quality and attention to detail in every respect.
Fantastic
My sentiments exactly!
Agreed. This rendition and the joy of singing about happy sorrow permeate this music
Right behind you.
Discovered this tune about 2 weeks ago and I have played it every night since then
I'm a former Top40 radio DJ. I played the original Tower of Power record when it was first released in 1973 - and loved it. This cover is PERFECT. Maybe, just maybe, even better than the original. Well done!
It does sound to me too just a little better, with the more modern instruments. Just out of this world!!! Beautiful!!!!
I think Lenny Williams has the better clearer voice... but the rest of the band is great, and the music is spot on! this version of "SO Very Hard To Go" sounds exactly like TOP remastered issue.
Mic Gillette is smiling from heaven.🎺
Damn I really miss Mic....was a sweetheart of a guy
Michael’s voice is spot on and his accent sounds more American than Russian. That’s what’s amazing about this group they are all extremely talented and entertaining
Notice that the horn section plays without their native accent. The same for Igor’s artistry on the kit.
Your dead on Sam that horn section is awesome and Igor is just a beast lol
@@samsteen2115 I would like to see Igor try out my cousin’s travel kit. It’s based on the magic Russian hidden dolls toy. Everything stacks into the bass drum. Cymbals and stands and seat would be a drag along. TreeHouse Drums, Topeka,Kansas. All kits are custom made.
Anyway, this stage band’s presence is just too much to take in. Sorta’a like watching a Formula 1 race. Just blink, and you’ll miss something. I’m glad that Leonid ousts tighter the video collages; East River is one that is action packed. What fun.
Wow, I agree!
And during their last tour their drummer didn't know a word of English, but he is learning as quickly as possible.
The beautiful young lady in the white jacket playing (viola?) showing the emotion of the music is what makes this video really great. Good song great performance (as usual!)
Yeah..the Oriental lady👍
Michael Puntov! This is your Performbance of a Lifetime! Perfect cover by Leonid and Friends, featuring the lead vocals!
I love the violinist with the big smile and her eyes closed; she’s loving the music!
I noticed that too. She is enjoying the music
Same
Yup she's a violist on this and ATLHG and a 2nd violinist on "In The Stone". Not that I've, umm, noticed her more than the other string players. Umm, no not at all 🙂
Both of them. That shows the level of expertise and hours of practice it takes to know the song and concentrate on what they are hearing to get the timing right. They are probably trained as classic musicians and getting to play this type of music make they so joyous.
I was going to comment on her specifically.. I was right there with her
In a world of madness and tears, Lenoid and Friends makes my heart sing. You have my most sincere salute
Still listening at 68 years old ❤
I'm 65 an loveit!
Instant GOLD! You are all so fabulous. The joy displayed in your faces will overcome the hate and destruction on display by a certain few. Stay strong and stay safe. All of you are in our hearts and prayers here in Ocean City Maryland USA. Sending all our love.
Jaw dropping! Every time I watch this I am moved by how incredibly talented everyone is. And the vocal! The man was born to sing!
@@joelhoulette3244 And “Let’s go round again” by Tower of Power”!
One of the few times you hear an artist sing the song exactly like the original👏👏👏👏and the trumpet player👏👏👏❤️
I was listening to this song on my way back from San Francisco to LA in 1973 and Leonid and Friends brought back many memories from that time in my life. I have heard this song for 7 days in a row and will never get tired of it. Leonid and Friends , thank you again for making me feel like a 19 year old again!
When I saw them live in LA a couple years ago and they were playing this TOP classic I closed my eyes for a few seconds and was transported back to 1973. Simply amazing.
I’ve been waiting for Leonid & Friends to record this song. They knocked it out of the park. Amazing - as always. Michael is a great singer.
Same here, Adam. They crushed it!
I absolutely agree
I agree - thanks for playin' songs from my absolute favourite greatest (almost all white) funky band of the world - only you L&F can play as well, thanks to all musician and singers and expecially the great great horn section - those are russians that we'll love forever: music is what we need to understand we are all brothers. C'mon Serge, it will end soon and you'll be back in the band again, no doubt about it
@@maurofuso4544 whats wrong with serge
@@lauradavis3630 He is in Kyiv
Excellent Excellent cover of the original. The voice inflections, the horn section, the drums & percussions, the orchestra. Nailed it. Shout out to Oakland's own Tower of Power featuring Lenny Williams
Love the rich sound of that baritone sax!
The Bass is killer...wow
Exquisite cover! Goosebumps! I love that soul coming out of the lead vocalist, Michael Puntov. It really hits the spot. And the horns, just tight enough to kill it. Tower of Power should be proud. Music is what will heal this world. I hope Serge and his family are well. God bless you guys. 🙏
So very good right? I agree, MIchael knocks it out of the park. Good tight beat and spot on musicianship. I have been listening to this for six days now. Their rendition of "After the love is gone" is perfect too. God bless you Carlos.
so very hard to forget this song. Here Portugal in 2024. Leonid & Friends and Tower of Power, fantastic!
Salve, José. Saudações do Brasil.
Hats off to you all. It's about time someone actually understands how great this song is and how special the Tower of Power is. Everything from the singing to the musicianship is perfect. Bravo.
I was in a band in Fruitvale East Oakland in the mid 70's when I met Lenny Williams at a tire shop on Foothill Blvd. Lenny and I sort of vaguely recognized each other and said a casual hello and talked a bit. Lenny and ToP were a whole stratosphere above what we could do, even tho' we had the gifted Coke Escovedo in our band ..but he was cool and casual, just talking about music, east oakland life .. Lenny had a great look, even just out in public he looked like a star. Anyway, it turned out I wound up buying my very first electric keyboard from him, it had a phase shifter built in :-) that became my sound for the next coupla years .. he brought it to my place on 34th Av., we kicked it and played for a bit .. a really great memory I'll always treasure .. at 74 I'm still playing .. for the Lord in church 😇 I understand Lenny serves the Lord as well, so it's all good
😇⛪👏👍❤❤❤
I'm lost for words ❤
This is one of the best cover bands ever!!!! Will be attending one of their shows .❤❤❤
If you ever get a chance to see Leonid & Friends in concert. GO! They are that good! I just saw them on 9/16/23 and loved it!
What a voice. That song is "so very hard to sing"! I never thought someone could actually cover this with impunity!
Is it just me, but it sounds like Michael could cover some Stevie Wonder hits.
He’s got Bruno Mars written all over him, but having said that Bruno could probably bash out a few Stevie classics too!
Mega talent
@@KC-ro7zp Sir Duke would have a nice work-out for Leonid's bass too, good call! :-)
He has a high pitched tenor voice. Like a zillion other pop male singers. So yes.
Totally!
I was so happy to see this video today! It must be very difficult for everyone in the band right now. Praying for health & safety for you all, and a rapid end to the struggles and conflict in the region. Bless you and stay safe!
I love TOP. And i think this is the best performance that i have Seen! Really amazing and very perfect! Great !!!!
would have to be one of the BEST groups on this planet earth! cheers from NZ
This is absolute perfection! I've been listening to these covers repeatedly. I've seen TOP live and can't get over the joy in these performances.
I'm blown away by both. Transcends politics too, a Ukrainian group played this one in Moscow, albeit before Putin's heinous invasion.
This is pure joy...
This song was written by a genius.
This song has a lot of meaning for me personally and this is a spot-on cover. Incredible work. Comes at a tough moment on this planet. Here's to better times.
💓🎶 спасибо
Привет из Улан-Удэ Россия 🎸 Байкал рядом
May God bless your country, with such talents like your band, you’re all winners to me! Praying for you all🙏
russia become a bloody aggressor, killing many thousands of innocent people!
Whatever Leonid produces is top drawer. Superb talent from all these musicians 🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦👍🏻🙏
This was an incredible cover! It gave me goosebumps! Everything was spot-on: vocals, horns, strings, rhythm and guitar! What a wonderful arrangement! Thank you for taking the time to make the video and share it with the world! You all rock, and I thank you for bringing some much-needed joy to me today. I'll have it on my repeat play for a long time! 🎶❤️🔥👏👏👏
They are so good.
This is “my”music.
I honestly think some of their Chicago covers are better than the original
But this TOP cover is a far cry.
Stop playing it please
@@drumtwo4seven You are wrong, sir. I'm a life-long TOP fan, and I say they nailed TOP's sound. Why start crap?
That was absolutely FANTASTIC! We are sad that Serge had to leave. All of this war crap really must be a tough emotional weight on everybody in the group. However, even through all of this you guys stepped up and blew the roof off the studio. America loves you and can't wait for your return.
Why did Serge leave? Was there an announcement or something? He was one of my favorite members and his voice was gold
@@AustinElwess Serge is Ukranian and when that Putie Russkie attack of Unwarranted aggression against Ukraine happened last February,
he apparently had to leave Russia, possibly to fight there?!
So very sad for all concerned there!
Loved Serge. Maybe he will return. What a voice! But, all the vocalists are amazing. Along with the musicians. Can't get enough of this band! Carry on. 🤩
Damn this was so perfect. And boy can that young man sing. Kudos. It`s not easy to have that sound that Tower of Power projected but you made it look easy.
I love the violin and viola players smiling at 3:45 or so. It makes me smile to see them enjoy playing their parts. This band is simply incredible. I have seen them on tour. I wish they could bring the entire group on tour. I would be happy to pay more to see the entire group perform.
Thank you very much for bringing us back in my memories to listen my favorite Band Tower of Power as you render this tribute Song Very Hard to Go. I am so happy you Leonid and Friends that you really did a good job with your band, you did a fantastic job in giving tribute to Chicago, EWF, Tower of Power etc. Been watching now in Vienna, Austria, Europe all your Tribute song to all Bands in USA. I am one your fans now. Good luck to your next recording and concerts 🤩🙂😘
I might still have my very first LOVE if I could have played this song for her. Sing it with soul
Absolutely Beautifully executed to last note..!
You people's are simply amazing...
🙏🔥🙏🔥🙏🔥🙏
Another impeccable cover of a song from one of my favorite bands, Tower of Power! The singer is absolutely fantastic, with great technique and tone, but I have to admit that I was thinking of Serge during the song. I hope you are all doing well and I sincerely wish peace and happiness to you and your Slavic brothers and sisters in Ukraine. ☮☮❤❤
Yes, Serge is missed, but you have to admit that this kid is far better for covering this kind of material.
What happened to Serge??
@@dougconley, it's here: th-cam.com/video/f0Onk1Jv8Xw/w-d-xo.html
@@dougconley Serge is Ukrainian and he is in Ukraine now. The rest of the band just arrived in the US for a tour. The band is donating part of their tour proceeds to Serge. (I went to their opening night last night.)
@@karenrt8076 oh wow! Prayers for him and his family. So sad what is happening in Ukraine 🇺🇦 😢
One hell of a bunch of musicians.. Live these guys!!!
Love these guys!!
As a Lebanese musician, the music that these Russian musicians recreate is better than any other European or American, or any other nationalities I've ever heard in the last 30 years. What a privilege to listen to your music.
Russians? That explains this cover's excellent instrumentation.
Beautiful love their music,.Great voices ❤.
I watch this at least once a day and get chills every time I do! Leonid is a MUSICAL GENIUS! Thank you so much to ALL OF THE TALENTED MUSICIANS! 🎶
These are the songs you would hear coming out of radios everywhere on the streets of Los Angeles in the 70s. Inner city soul music. I loved it through and through and still do as I know you all do.👏🏼👏🏼
It’s the horns tho 🎺
This is a fantastic cover of a great song. The vocal is great and the trumpet solo is on point. Leonid, the mix is about as good as it gets. Thank you so much.
I agree with your comment Mike, especially that of the trumpet, which is over the top great keeping in mind that the original session from ToP was done with a french horn.
So beautifully done! I have to say that Konstantin's guitar is dripping with Soul (with a capital S). The horns are perfect. Michael's vocals are spot on! Thank you and I'm praying for peace.
Indeed!
This group did a great job on this cover version of the Tower of Power song.
This song was my favorite song back in 1973 and it's now my favorite song again in 2022. Amazing and special. TY TY TY! Praying for peace and happy to see the tour is bringing Love into peoples hearts.
Mine too. Hard to believe it's been that long. In 1973 I was stationed at North Island Naval Air Station in San Diego, CA. My Navy days are long behind me, but this music will be with me forever. Thank you Leonid & Friends for preserving such great songs for everyone to enjoy.
I didn’t know how beautiful these songs are until you guys sang them
This is my favorite song, and they absolutely nailed it. Fabulous. Even did the horn player hand snap & slide.
Beautiful. Nailed it again! Pure chills....Don't forget to pray for Serge in Ukraine. We love you.
I do have to say that this song was made for his Lead Vocal Range!!! Great Job on the Vocals!!!, All the Rest of the Band Always Rocks!!! Never a Disappointment! You Guys Rock!!! From your Place to the U.S.A.!!! 🎤
This fantastic song, originally done by the Tower of Power, provided the basis for Leonid Vorobyev to add another song and recording to his growing catalog of perfectly replicated Covers. Leonid and Friends then executed a flawless performance with Michael Puntov, the lead singer for Leonid and Friends in this video, sounding identical to the original studio recording lead vocal by Lenny Williams and the Tower of Power. Michael Puntov’s performance is, IMHO, the best cover version lead vocal ever! Add in the aforementioned flawless performance by all the other Leonid and Friends players, and the result is an incredible masterpiece! This performance and recording are fabulous gems that will be forever enshrined in my “Music Hall of Fame”!
Thanks to Lenny Williams and the Tower of Power. Their original studio recording of So Very Hard to Go is one of the best songs/recordings ever, and it provided a fantastic roadmap for Leonid and Friends to replicate and Cover!!
He's got a Bruno Mars feel to his vocals. Nice!
Lenny' s rendition of this song has a more soulful sound
@@paulacopeland8360 of course there's no comparison to the originator.... But it sounded amazing though you gotta admit that
My absolute favorite song by Tower of Power. Instruments are spot on !
Agree ❤❤❤❤❤❤
A great song...fun in elevators and grocery stores....Love TOP
Perfection! You moved my soul, just like Tower did in The City in the 70's. My love to all ~
watched this almost 100 times today, and still can't get enough!..fantastic cover!
I am the greatest Tower of Power fan in the world and I learned to sing this song when it first came out. I was only 7 years old. This is the best cover of a T.O.P. song that I've ever heard! Well done! I'm gonna see you guys in Santa Clarita, California next month. I can't wait!
Wow Hi Praise from the great Tommy P, and well earned, adding the strings, horns were great, these guys cook!