If you think the song is sad at 16 what until you're 50+ and you get to reflect back on your life. I'm enjoying the channel and your approach to the songs.
WOLD and "Story of a Life" are great Harry tunes. Cool dude. Fed millions with his food pantry. Died young in a car crash in Long Island, NY. Met him and talked with him for about a half hour once. Humble and kind. Great storyteller.
Lovely genuine reaction, I saw it hit you, just like it hit most of us the first time we heard this - Harry has that ability to get under your skin, so the good news is there's plenty of other great (and mostly sad) stories still to hear from him - not least, the sequel to this song, called...erm...Sequel! Mr Tanner is another you have to hit, especially as a performer yourself, but to hear why he was such a huge concert draw throughout his career (despite only really having one huge hit and a few minor ones) try just about anything from the Greatest Stories Live album, even 30 000 Pounds of Bananas (but ONLY consider the live version of that one, ditto with Circle; conversely Cat's in the Cradle is about the only one I'd say to definitely stick to the studio version). Oh, the falsetto voice on this song was John Wallace, his bass player, who had/has a 5 octave range and backed Harry throughout his career.
I was fortunate enough to see Harry Chapin when I was in college (late '70's). What a treat! A talented storyteller who could make you laugh or cry. Don't know if anyone has ever done a reaction video to Mr. Tanner, but I agree with you - think it would be perfect - another song featuring John Wallace's vocals.
This song was actually in my high school English book. As an example of the modern version of songwriter/poetry/lyrical arts. I was 17. Now I'm 41. It just gets sadder as you get older. 😢
Harry was very philanthropic, and even generous almost to a fault..He would, many times, do shows, get paid and give his money to others..To the point that in got him in trouble with his bandmates...He was on his way to do yet another free outdoor concert, when he was killed in his VW bug. Run over by a semi...He had just started his Charitable org. (Long Island Cares) to feed the hungry, the year before. It's still going strong today.
OMG Daniel, YOU are a sensitive young man. 😢 I have tears in my eyes right now because you are making me see and feel lyrics again. We only had Harry Chapin a short time really. He was only 38 when he was killed by a tractor trailer rear-ending his car in 81. He was such a storyteller. You really listened to his songs because his stories unfolded so beautifully until the last line. The message here I guess is we usually get what we ask for, so be careful. That is very true. Thanks for doing this one.
Another level of sadness and regret. As the seventies started a new technology was introduced...FM radio in STEREO. DJ’s were now free to play longer more complex music. Late night, often stoned DJs with slow deep voices introduced America to prog, jazz fusion, and folk. It was a thrilling time for music lovers. Harry Chapin’s songs were masterpieces of the lonely and disaffected. Songs like Taxi and A Better Place to Be were on regular rotation. A movie was made called FM , and a TV series ran for several years (WKRP in Cincinnati) that chronicled this special time. Thanks for the play. ✌️🐾 Ps, I warned you this was 😢
That's a song reaction that needed Daniel to just go ahead and repeat the damn song so we would've gotten to hear even more of his thoughts. Best reaction yet on this channel. I haven't heard Taxi in a very long time and had forgotten how intensely deep, sad and vulnerable it truly is. Well... my reaction was tears.
It is obvious that music will be your friend for life. However you are finding your picks, they are doing a tremendous job. Isn't it wonderful to get to know the music that can move you to tears, the artists that shaped generations with their passion. So many great bands that the rabbit hole is truly endless. Glad you are taking your time to examine so many genres. Never expected you to do 'Taxi'. What a lovely surprise. I saw Chapin in concert twice - he was so personable he made the college gymnasium seem like a living room. And, yes Cat's in the Cradle would be good for the next. For me, not quite as emotional, but more painful truth wrapped in a beautiful song. I would say congratulations on hitting 1000 viewers the other day. And then you go ahead and grow by another 30%. Cool beans!
Harry my absolute favourite, greatest song writer of stories ever , loved him since 1971. That’s Big John his band member , I saw him live in York U.K. a few months before he died . Harry love you .
OMG Daniel you reviewed Taxi. First time I've ever seen this reviewed. I love this song, it always makes me cry. Cat's in the Cradle is great too, his wife wrote the words. Thank you thank you thank you. Through the too many miles and too little smiles, I still remember you :(
@@1nelsondjthen you must live on youtube, I will put that on my bucket list of shit I'll never do. But thank you so very very much, you are truly a saint.
@@1nelsondj Yeah, but India? I mean, has ever a reactor missed the point about every single song like her? I unsubbed from her long ago. She doesn't really get into it or talk about how the song made her feel the way, you know, Daniel does, or Andy and Alex.
This song was done on the TONIGHT SHOW, WITH JOHNNY CARSON. WHICH SUCH AN IMPACT THAT HE SANG "TAXI" AGAIN THE FOLLOWING NIGHT BY REQUEST. NEVER HEARD OF THAT HAPPENING BEFORE, OR SINCE. RIP HARRY CHAPIN WHO DIED WAY TOO EARLY. YOU HAD A BUNCH FANS IN HIGHSCHOOL BACK THEN, IN WISCONSIN...🤩✌
Carson also did that with Richie Havens who sang "Motherless Child" on the show. The response was so strong Carson asked him to come back the following night, which he did.
Long story short, I got to meet the band and party with them while they jammed with a few local musicians. Harry was otherwise engaged in another room. They were great people and didn't try to make any of the local musicians feel inferior to them, although we obviously were.
I’m 71 years old...I love listening and seeing your reaction to the music I grew up to...saw Harry in concert at Wollman Skating Rink in Central Park....he sang this song and touched my heart....it’s a beautiful remembrance of our youth...of Woodstock....of life. Please react to “Remember When The Music”....I hope it touches you too.
I'm so happy Daniel you picked this gem for your reaction video. I do have this song on a 45. What a decade of music the 70's. Harry was a great humanitarian and died in an automobile accident on July 16, 1981. RIP HARRY.
Yes, that's the same guy big John Wallace he has a vocal range of 5 octaves. A Better Place To Be- Harry Chapin I have lyrics from a better place to be tattooed on my forearm Harry's my favourite musical artist and it is my favourite song of all time.
The lyrics in this case is straight forward. I think when you read ahead of him singing it, it takes away from the incredible image that's conveyed in Harry's fantastic ability to story-tell. But it's my favorite Harry Chapin song, & I glad you decided to listen to it.
Great reaction, I went to many Harry Chapin concerts on Long Island always small venues it was like sitting in his living room great singer song writer, after each show he would come to the lobby to meet everyone he would talk to everyone, sign autographs, most of the money earned went to charity. You must react to Mr. Tanner, WOLD, My Cory’s coming, the rock, A better place to be, and circle sung at the end of every concert, by the way the falsetto is none other than Big John Wallace. Go down this rabbit hole you won’t be disappointed.
A couple of fun facts about Harry. Came from a musical family and grew up in NYC...His father (Jim) was a great Jazz drummer and drum teacher. He was inducted into the Modern drummer's HOF, and many other awards..Invented drumming techniques, etc..His brother Tom used to have a Sunday morning kid's show in the early 70's called "Make a Wish."
They both didn't get what they wanted in the end. Their dreams were to be a pilot and an actress. They settled unhappily for what they got. It's about the love that got away and unfulfilled dreams.
I think people miss the two "SOLILOQUYS" in the song. He shouts from his innermost man something on the inside has made him fail at his dreams. And the "other singer" is her innermost shout, seems she married a guy and lost her dreams, but had a house. So at the end, she was acting happy, and he was flying high on weed. Its a tale of dreams that fell short. Life's like that.
I think those two passages illuminate their true idealized selfs..which contrast with the lives that they ended up living. It’s sad because they realize the differences but feel they are powerless to change. It almost feels like self loathing or guilt. To quote The Boss from his song The River: “Is a dream a lie if it don’t come true, or is it something worse”
SIDECAR DOG & woody so in a sense it was their dreams that drove them apart in the first place and caused them to feel embarrassed and ashamed when they meet again. In the beginning they had each other but split up to chase their dreams. Harry sings the line “that a better man never would have let her go” and that is for me the key insight of the song. The dreams are the villains of the story. Harry has a mad wizard in his head enlightening his mind and Sue has her drives too. Would they have ever been able to build a relationship or would these inner forces have driven them apart anyway? The redeeming part of the song is that Harry certainly realizes his mistake and Sue probably does too. I’m not satisfied with the ending, simply getting stoned offers no redemption, I want him to go back to her house and see her. I want resolution.
Harry Chapin was a masterful story song writer. Hearing him live is so much better so please listen to his live albums. Harry did enter the Air Force Academy but it wasn't what he hoped it was. His music was amazing, so much feeling in all of his songs! His philanthropic work was even more impressive! You have to listen to more of his stuff, especially Sequel, Mr. Tanner and A Better Place To Be.
YES! What a great song/story!!! Can't believe I still remembered the lyrics...singing along with the first verse. My dad had this tune on one of his tapes we used to listen to while working in the garage. If you do Cat's In The Cradle I won't participate because I don't feel like crying for 20 minutes LOL! Likewise for The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald. THIS one is bad enough! I didn't think this is was true story, highly emotional music though, absolutely. What I take away is regarding the line "Another man might have been angry...." is him realizing they could have been good together but the kind of man HE is let her go with good thoughts because he knew she was going places and he didn't want to hold her back. He is happy she is successful and made it despite his situation and the fact they could have had a life together, he knew he would have held her back. I don't think she's showing him anything with the huge tip (for that time period it WAS a huge tip) other than that she remembers and cares for him and is being generous because she can. BTW, I really love the song facts portion, cool info to learn!
The storytelling, the pathos, the real human experience! Harry was a master of it all. We need Harry today, He (and Judy Collins, of course) were the voice of a generation, and of a people. There are still a few of us that bought what they were selling. Kindness, caring, and a stength of character. Like what you like, don't go out of your way to be a dick to others, and don't take shit from anyone.
I was a senior in High School when this came out, had the record would listen every night. Now 50 years later understand the song better. We regret the things we did not do.
Neither one of them really accomplished their original dreams. This song is about how we settle for less In my opinion. Harry really did want to be a pilot but he was letting the outside world dictate his life ("tide him over") which wasn't the real hm. The real him was the creative, dreaming "wild man wizard" that was hiding inside. So he gave up on his dream to be a pilot, just like she gave up on her dream to be an actress. The weed reference is just a coincidence in that it allows him to say he's flying even though its not the same as being a pilot, just like she is acting, just not on a stage. I saw Harry live in concert back in 1980. He was sick and the first date was cancelled, so he made a special trip back by himself and played a 3 hour acoustic show to make up for it. It was phenomenal.
I saw Harry five times here in CT. His live concerts were o intimate. I have seen everybody from Queen to the Allman Brothers and none better than Harry. A better place to be is a great Harry song.
Hi Daniel - Harry was known as the ‘story teller’, and like other artists of the time, had a remarkable talent for bringing the listener into the tale. Aside from his artistic ability - he was a true humanitarian and remains sorely missed to this day. Keep up the good work Daniel, you’re also very talented and I appreciate what you’re doing here.
The high voice is the cello player. Saw Harry a lot in the 70s. He used to stop the show and sit on the edge of the stage, just talking with the audience. Small venue stuff. Great stuff.
Harry is TOO good at telling stories. I absolutely can not listen to “Cat’s in the Cradle” without it becoming a bucket of tears situation for me. It just becomes an overwhelming swirl of thoughts about my father and me and my son and me.
Good to see the younger generation enjoying classic oldies! I play both "taxi" and "cats in the cradle" on the guitar. Harry is such a nice guy My brother went to one of his shows and as Harry was headed for the stage my brother was standing off to the side singing Taxi and Harry turned and walk up to my brother and sang the rest of the song with him! Harry died way to soon!
When this song premiered, I was rocked and Harry became one of my favorite artists. Btw, like many of his songs, it is sort of biographical. After high school, he did join one of the military academies (I forget which) to be a pilot.
I Love Harry's Music I'm Happy You Reacted to His Song,I'm Enjoying Your Channel You're a Fine Young Man,God Bless You Danial Good To See Youre Keeping Great Music Alive
I was a little younger than you when Harry died in 1981. I remember it vividly. I knew Cats in the Cradke, but had not known much of his other work. That day I heard Taxi and listened intently for the first time. I had a similar reaction to yours. I became a fan then & hunted down his work and info on him while in high school and then college. I wish I had seen him live. $20 was a lot of money in those days.
Hi, hope you're doing well. Just a comment on Harry Chapin. It was 1981 and Christmas Day. Taxi got a lot of airplay on radio and I knew the song. My brother bought an album and one of the songs was 30,000 pounds of bananas. So the families together it's Christmas Day and we have Christmas music on the radio , an announcement came over the radio that Harry Chapin had passed away in auto accident on a bridge in New York City. My brother and I looked at each other and both our hearts sank. Thank you very much for remembering Harry.
It's about unrealized expectations. Two people who never realized their goals and meeting reminds each of them what they've lost since they were young; what they have failed to do. The $20 is because she is taking pity on him, not trying to prove herself I think. "Another man never would have let her go" -- but that's not just NOW! The lesson hadn't got too far -- they hadn't gotten to LOVE, or making love if you prefer but I think it speaks to ending it too soon as the real point. And she isn't happy any more than he is. He substituted being a taxi driver for being a pilot, or at least for flying high and doing something with his life.. and whatever she did, it wasn't being a movie star.
The bridge falsetto was sung by Tom Chapin, Harry's brother and fellow performer. Tom plays guitar, banjo, mandolin, and a variety of other instruments.
Harry died here on the Long Island Expressway on the way to a Concert at Eisenhower Park. He started Island Harvest a food Pantry here. Listen to the version with the extra Verses.
If you don't get at least a little choked up when you hear "Cat's In The Cradle", well, I don't know. Yes, please do it next. Great reaction here. Classic song.
Another nice job and that is what he looked like. See my comments on a previous Jim Croce video. The other singer is a male singing in the falsetto range. Cat's In The Cradle is another one that will get to you, possibly your dad as well. Enjoy your journeys and if you want to explore some non main stream amazing music please let me know. I have guided many younger people through various music. Peace to you Daniel
Again I think you'll find the official video of this is him playing at live I've seen it a million times and other people react to it it's always best if you could find the live one you'd love it even more
I know an empath when I see one, and you are one. I have so much respect for you and am so glad I stumbled across your page. Your future is bright, young man. ❤️✌️
My favorite Harry Chapin song! Very melancholy. If my memory serves me right, the bass player (John Wallace) sang the falsetto solo in the middle. I always thought that the characters dated briefly when they were younger, maybe high school or college, but possibly were from pretty different backgrounds or something. I don't know why, but it often seems like the most beautiful songs are sad ones.
Music definitely touches emotion, good, bad or indifferent. Lyrics can do the same. Love your journey through so many songs that I’ve enjoyed . There’s sooooo many more.
Harry Chapin was the greatest storyteller, ever! Yes, his plans were, originally to enter the Air Force Acadamy. You need to listen to "Sequel". which is the next episode in this story. Also, check out "A better place to be".
One must imagine Harry happy. There is a lot of freedom to a life with your own thoughts. He lost the love of his life, and didn't seem to feel the need to find a replacement. There is a lot of freedom in that as well. He, as a taxi driver, was probably happier than very many people locked in relationships they might better be released from. He died tragically young, and was once our very best and brightest. Easy to hear his entire body of work...and well worth the time. "Sniper" is devastatingly good, but devastating as well. "Sun Morning Sunshine" is the exact opposite, and a real feel-good song. Especially if you are a traveler on the road. It starts: "I came into town with a knapsack on my shoulder, and a pocket full of stories that I just had to tell..."
I was at a friend's house, about to leave for a concert Harry was giving when my buddy's brother told us he'd just died in a car accident. It was crushing
Harry was probably the best story teller. As mentioned earlier, Sequel is the appropriately named song that continues this story many years later. I think you’d like this one as well. Mr Tanner is another great story, as is A Better Place To Be.
Now that my memory is a little jogged and I just talked with my brother. It was a rear-end accident by a huge truck that actually took his life. Much too soon and Daniel thank you so much
I recently stumbled upon this channel. You’ve been doing a great job. This song is a particular favorite of mine. I like everything you said about it. What makes is better is that you actually did this song on my birthday of all days! 👍🏻👍🏻 I did have a couple recommendations. First, John Lennon's "Imagine". Very intriguing lyrics and music. Second, if you like story songs, check out "Coward of the County" by Kenny Rogers. I think you will like the message it sends. Anyway, keep up the good work!
That is a picture of Harry on the album cover. In retrospect, I think he looks a little like Isaac Mizrahi. I saw Harry in concert around 1974 when I was about your age and found this song and his other great story telling songs profound, but they get more meaningful as you get older.
Harry was the balladeer extroidinaire. I love his voice, I used to have all of his albums on vinyl. This is such a nice song. I think the high voice is one of Harry's brothers. Thanks for the reaction. I saw him live once and literally everyone in the audience was teary. He could totally bust out a story. In the end, he is flying and she is really not living the dream. Sometimes what we think will make us happy can crush the life right out of us.
LOVE THIS SONG You’ve hit the story teller par excellence!! Listen to his Live album. His stage presence is sooooo good. Keep it up w HC 30,000 pounds of bananas ( this is a must listen to live version) Mr Tanner A better place to be All my life’s a circle Cats in the cradle WOLD I wanna learn a love song She’s always 17
You have to listen to the sequel. It has to be done now. Cat's in the Cradle is a masterful song. But everyone knows it. Unpacking any of the other marvellous suggestions offered would showcase Harry's talents further. Such a storyteller. So craftful. So much to learn from listening to his music and pulling it apart and examining it. I do appreciate that when you are listening to these tracks you are feeling the music. I like that you are there ready for the changes. Oh. Two minutes and thirty seconds was at one stage the industry standard for radio broadcast. This sat in nicely with how the broadcasters would slot in their advertising. I remember the shift in Australian radio was in 1969 with Russel Morris's Real Thing which ran for 6:40 and was somewhat controversial due to it's length. Composer's rights being valued on time aired made longer songs more profitable for the composer. Rock music was booming, the audience was ready, and longer songs gained some hold of the airwaves.
My favorite Chapin song is WOLD about a washed up DJ who lost his family because of his gypsy lifestyle. So much loss and yearning and regret packed into 5 minutes. Would love to hear you react to it because you would do it justice.
I sang Taxi to my children as babies - trying to get them to sleep - whatever it was it worked - and with three kids I must have sung it to them thousands of times. There's a sequel to the song that came out in 1980 - it picks up the story and completes the circle.
A song of dreams unrealized. Both settled for far less than they originally dreamed of. Very sad but a song that resonates with so many people. I think the majority of people live lives of unrealized dreams.
Harry told a tale like no one else. This song takes some serious thought. It's not one to listen to and then move on to the next shiny....It requires some contemplation to more fully understand it. I say :"more fully" because unless you lived it, you may never really "get" it. That's not a fault or yours, it's just an impossibility. One's lived experience can only be approximated, never truly duplicated...
It's like a whole little movie plays out in your mind's eye as you listen to this - fantastic. Glad you enjoyed it to the point of tears - say welcome to your humanity!
You now have to try some Cat Stevens : would love to hear you analyze On The Road to Find Out (original 1970 version), Sitting, or the slightly more esoteric/proggy 18th Avenue.
Yes, please do Sequel by Harry to get the rest of this story. New sub here and I love your reaction/discussions. Very enjoyable. I was so much like you at your age as far as dissecting music. Many years later and I'm still the same. Wonderful to watch someone young learning these songs and appreciating them just as they are.
If you think the song is sad at 16 what until you're 50+ and you get to reflect back on your life.
I'm enjoying the channel and your approach to the songs.
I did think it was sad at 16. Now I'm 40 and it rips me up.
Absolutely agree
I LOVE Harry Chapin. The man and his music. A deep dive into Chapin life and music will leave you weeping.
My favorite ballad ever, by anyone. This song brings me to literal tears every single time I hear it.
WOLD and "Story of a Life" are great Harry tunes. Cool dude. Fed millions with his food pantry. Died young in a car crash in Long Island, NY. Met him and talked with him for about a half hour once. Humble and kind. Great storyteller.
Lovely genuine reaction, I saw it hit you, just like it hit most of us the first time we heard this - Harry has that ability to get under your skin, so the good news is there's plenty of other great (and mostly sad) stories still to hear from him - not least, the sequel to this song, called...erm...Sequel! Mr Tanner is another you have to hit, especially as a performer yourself, but to hear why he was such a huge concert draw throughout his career (despite only really having one huge hit and a few minor ones) try just about anything from the Greatest Stories Live album, even 30 000 Pounds of Bananas (but ONLY consider the live version of that one, ditto with Circle; conversely Cat's in the Cradle is about the only one I'd say to definitely stick to the studio version). Oh, the falsetto voice on this song was John Wallace, his bass player, who had/has a 5 octave range and backed Harry throughout his career.
I was fortunate enough to see Harry Chapin when I was in college (late '70's). What a treat! A talented storyteller who could make you laugh or cry. Don't know if anyone has ever done a reaction video to Mr. Tanner, but I agree with you - think it would be perfect - another song featuring John Wallace's vocals.
Big John Wallace! Fantastic!
This song was actually in my high school English book. As an example of the modern version of songwriter/poetry/lyrical arts. I was 17. Now I'm 41. It just gets sadder as you get older. 😢
Harry was very philanthropic, and even generous almost to a fault..He would, many times, do shows, get paid and give his money to others..To the point that in got him in trouble with his bandmates...He was on his way to do yet another free outdoor concert, when he was killed in his VW bug. Run over by a semi...He had just started his Charitable org. (Long Island Cares) to feed the hungry, the year before. It's still going strong today.
He was part of the inspiration behind Band Aid and We Are The World.
Saw him sing this song at a small college before his early death. Best concert I ever seen.
OMG Daniel, YOU are a sensitive young man. 😢 I have tears in my eyes right now because you are making me see and feel lyrics again. We only had Harry Chapin a short time really. He was only 38 when he was killed by a tractor trailer rear-ending his car in 81. He was such a storyteller. You really listened to his songs because his stories unfolded so beautifully until the last line. The message here I guess is we usually get what we ask for, so be careful. That is very true.
Thanks for doing this one.
Another level of sadness and regret. As the seventies started a new technology was introduced...FM radio in STEREO. DJ’s were now free to play longer more complex music. Late night, often stoned DJs with slow deep voices introduced America to prog, jazz fusion, and folk. It was a thrilling time for music lovers. Harry Chapin’s songs were masterpieces of the lonely and disaffected. Songs like Taxi and A Better Place to Be were on regular rotation. A movie was made called FM , and a TV series ran for several years (WKRP in Cincinnati) that chronicled this special time. Thanks for the play. ✌️🐾
Ps, I warned you this was 😢
The falsetto is "Big John Wallace" he is a rare talent in his own right.
That's a song reaction that needed Daniel to just go ahead and repeat the damn song so we would've gotten to hear even more of his thoughts. Best reaction yet on this channel.
I haven't heard Taxi in a very long time and had forgotten how intensely deep, sad and vulnerable it truly is. Well... my reaction was tears.
It is obvious that music will be your friend for life. However you are finding your picks, they are doing a tremendous job. Isn't it wonderful to get to know the music that can move you to tears, the artists that shaped generations with their passion. So many great bands that the rabbit hole is truly endless. Glad you are taking your time to examine so many genres.
Never expected you to do 'Taxi'. What a lovely surprise.
I saw Chapin in concert twice - he was so personable he made the college gymnasium seem like a living room.
And, yes Cat's in the Cradle would be good for the next. For me, not quite as emotional, but more painful truth wrapped in a beautiful song.
I would say congratulations on hitting 1000 viewers the other day. And then you go ahead and grow by another 30%. Cool beans!
Harry my absolute favourite, greatest song writer of stories ever , loved him since 1971. That’s Big John his band member , I saw him live in York U.K. a few months before he died . Harry love you .
OMG Daniel you reviewed Taxi. First time I've ever seen this reviewed. I love this song, it always makes me cry. Cat's in the Cradle is great too, his wife wrote the words. Thank you thank you thank you. Through the too many miles and too little smiles, I still remember you :(
You're not the only one with the tears, my friend. It brings me to literal tears every time as well. Still dryin' my eyes from this viewing.
I did a quick search and found 6 more reactions to it. India Reacts also reacted to a sequel which I haven't heard, need to check that out.
@@1nelsondjthen you must live on youtube, I will put that on my bucket list of shit I'll never do. But thank you so very very much, you are truly a saint.
@@1nelsondj Yeah, but India? I mean, has ever a reactor missed the point about every single song like her? I unsubbed from her long ago. She doesn't really get into it or talk about how the song made her feel the way, you know, Daniel does, or Andy and Alex.
You are a good young man...with an old soul...peace
You are wise beyond your years.
This song was done on the TONIGHT SHOW, WITH JOHNNY CARSON. WHICH SUCH AN IMPACT THAT HE SANG "TAXI" AGAIN THE FOLLOWING NIGHT BY REQUEST. NEVER HEARD OF THAT HAPPENING BEFORE, OR SINCE. RIP HARRY CHAPIN WHO DIED WAY TOO EARLY. YOU HAD A BUNCH FANS IN HIGHSCHOOL BACK THEN, IN WISCONSIN...🤩✌
Carson also did that with Richie Havens who sang "Motherless Child" on the show. The response was so strong Carson asked him to come back the following night, which he did.
Long story short, I got to meet the band and party with them while they jammed with a few local musicians. Harry was otherwise engaged in another room. They were great people and didn't try to make any of the local musicians feel inferior to them, although we obviously were.
that is an incredible song. havn't listened to it in years, but the older ya get, the more it is relatable. wow....
No one played the heartstrings better than Harry Chapin. The story of Harry and Sue continues in the appropriately named Sequel
Thanks, I didn't know that. I'm going to look it up and give it a listen.
You want your hearstings pulled? Try Red Sovine. Phantom 309, Teddy Bear...grab a box of tissues before you start, though...
👍👍 Sequel was SO GOOD. IMHO as good as the original. Thanks for mentioning!!
@@christinerobinson548 th-cam.com/video/qNdmatofxwQ/w-d-xo.html
I’m 71 years old...I love listening and seeing your reaction to the music I grew up to...saw Harry in concert at Wollman Skating Rink in Central Park....he sang this song and touched my heart....it’s a beautiful remembrance of our youth...of Woodstock....of life. Please react to “Remember When The Music”....I hope it touches you too.
"A Better Place To Be" is one of the most heartfelt stories he has ever done.
Beautiful, haunting and sad song. Music like this will never come our way again.
If you watch the live version, the guy with the high voice is the bass player.
You did a great job with this very emotional song. Thank you for this one. The great storytellers give you a nugget of truth to discover for yourself.
A happy story song is Carrie by Joni Mitchell.
The storyline, the instrumental arrangements and Chapin’s vocals are just so captivating.
I'm so happy Daniel you picked this gem for your reaction video. I do have this song on a 45. What a decade of music the 70's. Harry was a great humanitarian and died in an automobile accident on July 16, 1981. RIP HARRY.
Its so nice to see someone "get" the message of this song...as clear as I feel it is, many people miss the point...
Yes, that's the same guy big John Wallace he has a vocal range of 5 octaves.
A Better Place To Be- Harry Chapin
I have lyrics from a better place to be tattooed on my forearm Harry's my favourite musical artist and it is my favourite song of all time.
Harry Chapin was an awesome storyteller! Practically all of his songs tell a story. Beautiful reaction to a beautiful song Daniel. 💜
The lyrics in this case is straight forward. I think when you read ahead of him singing it, it takes away from the incredible image that's conveyed in Harry's fantastic ability to story-tell. But it's my favorite Harry Chapin song, & I glad you decided to listen to it.
Great reaction, I went to many Harry Chapin concerts on Long Island always small venues it was like sitting in his living room great singer song writer, after each show he would come to the lobby to meet everyone he would talk to everyone, sign autographs, most of the money earned went to charity. You must react to Mr. Tanner, WOLD, My Cory’s coming, the rock, A better place to be, and circle sung at the end of every concert, by the way the falsetto is none other than Big John Wallace. Go down this rabbit hole you won’t be disappointed.
A couple of fun facts about Harry. Came from a musical family and grew up in NYC...His father (Jim) was a great Jazz drummer and drum teacher. He was inducted into the Modern drummer's HOF, and many other awards..Invented drumming techniques, etc..His brother Tom used to have a Sunday morning kid's show in the early 70's called "Make a Wish."
All my life's a circle, sunrise to sundown......
They both didn't get what they wanted in the end. Their dreams were to be a pilot and an actress. They settled unhappily for what they got. It's about the love that got away and unfulfilled dreams.
I think people miss the two "SOLILOQUYS" in the song. He shouts from his innermost man something on the inside has made him fail at his dreams. And the "other singer" is her innermost shout, seems she married a guy and lost her dreams, but had a house. So at the end, she was acting happy, and he was flying high on weed. Its a tale of dreams that fell short. Life's like that.
I agree. The deeper level to this song.
I think those two passages illuminate their true idealized selfs..which contrast with the lives that they ended up living. It’s sad because they realize the differences but feel they are powerless to change. It almost feels like self loathing or guilt. To quote The Boss from his song The River: “Is a dream a lie if it don’t come true, or is it something worse”
SIDECAR DOG & woody so in a sense it was their dreams that drove them apart in the first place and caused them to feel embarrassed and ashamed when they meet again. In the beginning they had each other but split up to chase their dreams. Harry sings the line “that a better man never would have let her go” and that is for me the key insight of the song. The dreams are the villains of the story. Harry has a mad wizard in his head enlightening his mind and Sue has her drives too. Would they have ever been able to build a relationship or would these inner forces have driven them apart anyway? The redeeming part of the song is that Harry certainly realizes his mistake and Sue probably does too. I’m not satisfied with the ending, simply getting stoned offers no redemption, I want him to go back to her house and see her. I want resolution.
The story doesn't come together until 10 years later with Sequel. It ties it all up..
@@markoneil2055 he reacted to sequel also.
Harry Chapin was a masterful story song writer. Hearing him live is so much better so please listen to his live albums. Harry did enter the Air Force Academy but it wasn't what he hoped it was. His music was amazing, so much feeling in all of his songs! His philanthropic work was even more impressive! You have to listen to more of his stuff, especially Sequel, Mr. Tanner and A Better Place To Be.
YES! What a great song/story!!! Can't believe I still remembered the lyrics...singing along with the first verse. My dad had this tune on one of his tapes we used to listen to while working in the garage. If you do Cat's In The Cradle I won't participate because I don't feel like crying for 20 minutes LOL! Likewise for The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald. THIS one is bad enough! I didn't think this is was true story, highly emotional music though, absolutely.
What I take away is regarding the line "Another man might have been angry...." is him realizing they could have been good together but the kind of man HE is let her go with good thoughts because he knew she was going places and he didn't want to hold her back. He is happy she is successful and made it despite his situation and the fact they could have had a life together, he knew he would have held her back. I don't think she's showing him anything with the huge tip (for that time period it WAS a huge tip) other than that she remembers and cares for him and is being generous because she can.
BTW, I really love the song facts portion, cool info to learn!
love your reactions -- you are smart and have a kind heart -- thank you -- smiles and love from an old hippy
My favorite song of all-time. Thanks for your reaction.
The storytelling, the pathos, the real human experience! Harry was a master of it all. We need Harry today, He (and Judy Collins, of course) were the voice of a generation, and of a people. There are still a few of us that bought what they were selling. Kindness, caring, and a stength of character. Like what you like, don't go out of your way to be a dick to others, and don't take shit from anyone.
I was a senior in High School when this came out, had the record would listen every night. Now 50 years later understand the song better. We regret the things we did not do.
One of the most gifted songwriters of our time. His career tragically
cut short. 🎵
Neither one of them really accomplished their original dreams. This song is about how we settle for less In my opinion. Harry really did want to be a pilot but he was letting the outside world dictate his life ("tide him over") which wasn't the real hm. The real him was the creative, dreaming "wild man wizard" that was hiding inside. So he gave up on his dream to be a pilot, just like she gave up on her dream to be an actress. The weed reference is just a coincidence in that it allows him to say he's flying even though its not the same as being a pilot, just like she is acting, just not on a stage. I saw Harry live in concert back in 1980. He was sick and the first date was cancelled, so he made a special trip back by himself and played a 3 hour acoustic show to make up for it. It was phenomenal.
Thanks for that interpretation. I never thought of it like that before, but I think you nailed it.
I saw Harry five times here in CT. His live concerts were o intimate. I have seen everybody from Queen to the Allman Brothers and none better than Harry. A better place to be is a great Harry song.
Hi Daniel - Harry was known as the ‘story teller’, and like other artists of the time, had a remarkable talent for bringing the listener into the tale. Aside from his artistic ability - he was a true humanitarian and remains sorely missed to this day. Keep up the good work Daniel, you’re also very talented and I appreciate what you’re doing here.
The high voice is the cello player. Saw Harry a lot in the 70s. He used to stop the show and sit on the edge of the stage, just talking with the audience. Small venue stuff. Great stuff.
Harry is TOO good at telling stories.
I absolutely can not listen to “Cat’s in the Cradle” without it becoming a bucket of tears situation for me. It just becomes an overwhelming swirl of thoughts about my father and me and my son and me.
Good to see the younger generation enjoying classic oldies! I play both "taxi" and "cats in the cradle" on the guitar. Harry is such a nice guy My brother went to one of his shows and as Harry was headed for the stage my brother was standing off to the side singing Taxi and Harry turned and walk up to my brother and sang the rest of the song with him! Harry died way to soon!
Harry Chapin was a great observer of the human condition.. and a master of translating it into music. One of the great story tellers of our time
When this song premiered, I was rocked and Harry became one of my favorite artists. Btw, like many of his songs, it is sort of biographical. After high school, he did join one of the military academies (I forget which) to be a pilot.
I Love Harry's Music I'm Happy You Reacted to His Song,I'm Enjoying Your Channel You're a Fine Young Man,God Bless You Danial Good To See Youre Keeping Great Music Alive
I was a little younger than you when Harry died in 1981. I remember it vividly. I knew Cats in the Cradke, but had not known much of his other work. That day I heard Taxi and listened intently for the first time. I had a similar reaction to yours. I became a fan then & hunted down his work and info on him while in high school and then college.
I wish I had seen him live.
$20 was a lot of money in those days.
Hi, hope you're doing well.
Just a comment on Harry Chapin.
It was 1981 and Christmas Day.
Taxi got a lot of airplay on radio and I knew the song.
My brother bought an album and one of the songs was 30,000 pounds of bananas.
So the families together it's Christmas Day and we have Christmas music on the radio , an announcement came over the radio that Harry Chapin had passed away in auto accident on a bridge in New York City.
My brother and I looked at each other and both our hearts sank.
Thank you very much for remembering Harry.
It's about unrealized expectations. Two people who never realized their goals and meeting reminds each of them what they've lost since they were young; what they have failed to do. The $20 is because she is taking pity on him, not trying to prove herself I think.
"Another man never would have let her go" -- but that's not just NOW!
The lesson hadn't got too far -- they hadn't gotten to LOVE, or making love if you prefer but I think it speaks to ending it too soon as the real point.
And she isn't happy any more than he is. He substituted being a taxi driver for being a pilot, or at least for flying high and doing something with his life.. and whatever she did, it wasn't being a movie star.
Great channel. Just watched your CTTE reaction upon which I suggested some Harry Chapin. What a coincidence.
Harry Chapin was one of the BEST of the music storytellers. I never get tired of hearing this song, after all these decades later.
The bridge falsetto was sung by Tom Chapin, Harry's brother and fellow performer. Tom plays guitar, banjo, mandolin, and a variety of other instruments.
What a great and beautifully written song..loved your reaction Dan....
Harry died here on the Long Island Expressway on the way to a Concert at Eisenhower Park.
He started Island Harvest a food Pantry here. Listen to the version with the extra Verses.
"Sequel" is another song that is a sequel to Taxi, where they meet again 10 years later.
These songs are poetry and classic stories set to music. They really don't go out of style. I believe you can see that Daniel. 👵✌
If you don't get at least a little choked up when you hear "Cat's In The Cradle", well, I don't know. Yes, please do it next. Great reaction here. Classic song.
Another nice job and that is what he looked like. See my comments on a previous Jim Croce video. The other singer is a male singing in the falsetto range. Cat's In The Cradle is another one that will get to you, possibly your dad as well. Enjoy your journeys and if you want to explore some non main stream amazing music please let me know. I have guided many younger people through various music. Peace to you Daniel
Again I think you'll find the official video of this is him playing at live I've seen it a million times and other people react to it it's always best if you could find the live one you'd love it even more
You have such a tender heart Daniel…never lose it!
I know an empath when I see one, and you are one. I have so much respect for you and am so glad I stumbled across your page. Your future is bright, young man. ❤️✌️
My favorite Harry Chapin song! Very melancholy. If my memory serves me right, the bass player (John Wallace) sang the falsetto solo in the middle. I always thought that the characters dated briefly when they were younger, maybe high school or college, but possibly were from pretty different backgrounds or something. I don't know why, but it often seems like the most beautiful songs are sad ones.
Music definitely touches emotion, good, bad or indifferent. Lyrics can do the same. Love your journey through so many songs that I’ve enjoyed . There’s sooooo many more.
Harry Chapin was the greatest storyteller, ever! Yes, his plans were, originally to enter the Air Force Acadamy. You need to listen to "Sequel". which is the next episode in this story. Also, check out "A better place to be".
One must imagine Harry happy. There is a lot of freedom to a life with your own thoughts. He lost the love of his life, and didn't seem to feel the need to find a replacement. There is a lot of freedom in that as well. He, as a taxi driver, was probably happier than very many people locked in relationships they might better be released from.
He died tragically young, and was once our very best and brightest. Easy to hear his entire body of work...and well worth the time.
"Sniper" is devastatingly good, but devastating as well. "Sun Morning Sunshine" is the exact opposite, and a real feel-good song. Especially if you are a traveler on the road. It starts: "I came into town with a knapsack on my shoulder, and a pocket full of stories that I just had to tell..."
Nobody could tell a story like Harry Chapin.
Once you age and have this happen it's more bittersweet than sad.
If memory serves me, Harry actually was admitted to the Air Force Academy. Also, check out a live version of W*O*L*D
I was at a friend's house, about to leave for a concert Harry was giving when my buddy's brother told us he'd just died in a car accident. It was crushing
Harry was probably the best story teller. As mentioned earlier, Sequel is the appropriately named song that continues this story many years later. I think you’d like this one as well. Mr Tanner is another great story, as is A Better Place To Be.
Now that my memory is a little jogged and I just talked with my brother. It was a rear-end accident by a huge truck that actually took his life. Much too soon and Daniel thank you so much
I recently stumbled upon this channel. You’ve been doing a great job. This song is a particular favorite of mine. I like everything you said about it. What makes is better is that you actually did this song on my birthday of all days! 👍🏻👍🏻 I did have a couple recommendations. First, John Lennon's "Imagine". Very intriguing lyrics and music. Second, if you like story songs, check out "Coward of the County" by Kenny Rogers. I think you will like the message it sends. Anyway, keep up the good work!
That is a picture of Harry on the album cover. In retrospect, I think he looks a little like Isaac Mizrahi. I saw Harry in concert around 1974 when I was about your age and found this song and his other great story telling songs profound, but they get more meaningful as you get older.
Harry was the balladeer extroidinaire. I love his voice, I used to have all of his albums on vinyl. This is such a nice song. I think the high voice is one of Harry's brothers. Thanks for the reaction. I saw him live once and literally everyone in the audience was teary. He could totally bust out a story. In the end, he is flying and she is really not living the dream. Sometimes what we think will make us happy can crush the life right out of us.
LOVE THIS SONG
You’ve hit the story teller par excellence!! Listen to his Live album. His stage presence is sooooo good.
Keep it up w HC
30,000 pounds of bananas ( this is a must listen to live version)
Mr Tanner
A better place to be
All my life’s a circle
Cats in the cradle
WOLD
I wanna learn a love song
She’s always 17
Great reaction! Awesome song. You can't help but feel sad for both.
My favorite song by Harry Chapin.
Get out the Scotch and call the boys. We're listening to Harry and toasting melancholy.
Thanks for your honest and emotional response.
You have to listen to the sequel. It has to be done now. Cat's in the Cradle is a masterful song. But everyone knows it. Unpacking any of the other marvellous suggestions offered would showcase Harry's talents further. Such a storyteller. So craftful. So much to learn from listening to his music and pulling it apart and examining it. I do appreciate that when you are listening to these tracks you are feeling the music. I like that you are there ready for the changes. Oh. Two minutes and thirty seconds was at one stage the industry standard for radio broadcast. This sat in nicely with how the broadcasters would slot in their advertising. I remember the shift in Australian radio was in 1969 with Russel Morris's Real Thing which ran for 6:40 and was somewhat controversial due to it's length. Composer's rights being valued on time aired made longer songs more profitable for the composer. Rock music was booming, the audience was ready, and longer songs gained some hold of the airwaves.
Harry would shake everybody's hand. I did it 3 times. He had enormous hands, the size of a 1st basman's mitt
My favorite Chapin song is WOLD about a washed up DJ who lost his family because of his gypsy lifestyle. So much loss and yearning and regret packed into 5 minutes. Would love to hear you react to it because you would do it justice.
A fantasticly wonderful voice. ..
Harry was a great story teller.🚕
I sang Taxi to my children as babies - trying to get them to sleep - whatever it was it worked - and with three kids I must have sung it to them thousands of times. There's a sequel to the song that came out in 1980 - it picks up the story and completes the circle.
It’s Big John Wallace singing in place of Sue, behind Harry.
You are wise way beyond your years young man and you nailed this review.This song still gets me teared up....almost 50 years later.
Unfortunately to me "cats" kinda hits close to home. Taxi is so sweet
A song of dreams unrealized. Both settled for far less than they originally dreamed of. Very sad but a song that resonates with so many people. I think the majority of people live lives of unrealized dreams.
A Better Place to Be off his live album Greatest Stories
Harry told a tale like no one else. This song takes some serious thought. It's not one to listen to and then move on to the next shiny....It requires some contemplation to more fully understand it. I say :"more fully" because unless you lived it, you may never really "get" it. That's not a fault or yours, it's just an impossibility.
One's lived experience can only be approximated, never truly duplicated...
It's like a whole little movie plays out in your mind's eye as you listen to this - fantastic. Glad you enjoyed it to the point of tears - say welcome to your humanity!
A lyric lovers delight. I know you love love you
You now have to try some Cat Stevens : would love to hear you analyze On The Road to Find Out (original 1970 version), Sitting, or the slightly more esoteric/proggy 18th Avenue.
Yes, please do Sequel by Harry to get the rest of this story.
New sub here and I love your reaction/discussions. Very enjoyable. I was so much like you at your age as far as dissecting music. Many years later and I'm still the same. Wonderful to watch someone young learning these songs and appreciating them just as they are.
Yep. Gets to me too. One of my wife's favorite songs.