I had the pleasure of driving Stevie Windwood from the Plaza Hotel to JFK airport , we chatted for the 40 minutes it took, he was so down to earth and kind. A really great musician and human being
Check out Ben Rector's song "range rover". His idol is Steve Windwood and there's a line in the song that says playing Steve wildwood on the radio. Steve was awesome enough to record hammo d b3 organ and synth parts for the song
Steve wrote this song 20 years before this performance. And the performance is getting close to 40 years old. And I am still watching it! Total classic.
I recently watched a video of Steve, Ginger Baker, and Eric Clapton doing "Can't Find My Way Home". It was very early on, no studio, just pure, pure, soul. I have always loved Steve, but that song gets me every time .
More people need to understand that this guy is one of the best musicians we’ll see in our lifetime. Arc of the Diver - and pretty much every song in that album is him playing all instruments.
Pay attention, kids. That’s talent. No auto tune needed. That voice of Steve’s, instantly recognizable, in perfect t pitch. That is a man that has mastered his craft through years of hard work. He’s not reliant on some software to do half his job for him.
@@Want0nS0upThank you for this. So many commentators want everything to be about how untalented everyone is now, compared to how wonderful everyone was when they were young. Show them a real mirror and they’d see an old man on front porch … saying the same shit their fathers and grandfathers said before them.
@@Want0nS0up Yes, but if you listen to his live voice from 1970 or so and compare it to this performance you can hear improvement in pitch control at least. Steve was always a great talent, as you say. Like all of the greats, he also worked at it and didn’t take his gift for granted.
Winwood is a virtuoso, arguably the most precocious and gifted rock and roll artist ever. His contributions to rock-and-roll cannot be overstated. From what I’ve heard, he’s a regular guy, down-to-earth and humble.
It is interesting that so many people express this opinion, one which I share, but I often feel as if in the big picture, he does not get the notoriety he deserves. As teenager in the 60s, I did not really hear any of his music and during an 8 year diversion from the real world while I was serving in the Marines, I had little exposure to popular music so throughout the late 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s, I really did not know much about him or his music. In fact, it wasn't until I retired that I started spending more time with music (thanks to streaming services) and started revisiting the era that was a blind spot to me. When I discovered Traffic, that pointed me toward Winwood, and the more I followed his path through the various groups and solo efforts, the more impressed I became. He did so much that I had no idea about because again, I don't think he gets the notoriety he deserves. After taking this path though my missing decade of popular music, I have to say that Windwood stands tall in my mind as a powerful force in music. ( I was almost totally ignorant of Queen and their place in music history as well. I spend far more time out of the US than in the US, and even when there was an Armed Forces Radio Network station, these stations tended to be very vanilla with what they played, so I did not hear most of Queen songs until I was in my 50s. Weird, yes?. I heard one song on the armed services station that I only heard once but I did not know who sang it or what it was called and I loved it so much!. It wasn't until 2008 until I heard it again, but did not know the artist, though I thought it might be Steven Stills, so I started listening to more Steve Stills, and one day I found it and the title was "Singing Call." Wow. How could I have fallen in love with a song and not known the name for 35 years!
One of my all time favorite songs-----Ever created. I could not and can not get enough of this classic. I also loved the music video for it as well. Steve Winwood is a Legend with an incredible voice.
I was hit by a car on 7/27/86 while jogging. I was in the first hospital of two when this aired. I wasn’t supposed to live but God had other plans. Life is Good. 🍻☮️
Believe or not life is not coo😢4 me... but then as a resan widow.. at least I adopted my brother and and 2 cats. They passed right after my husband... but I am hanging tuff... those r the cards I was delt😢
Very difficult song - I have been in cover bands that tried it and it took a lot of rehearsing to get tight. Anton had it down from the jump of the opening timbale fill - Paul and Will clammed it in a few spots - but overall a good performance with little to no rehearsal.
You are mostly correct. However, Elvis knew exactly what racism did: it financially cheated black artists, and exacerbated the abuse of black musicians. ELVIS TOOK A STAND and fought against these abusive practices. Once, a promoter proclaimed that Elvis's (all black) backup singers couldn't appear on stage with Elvis. Elvis told the promoter no deal, and that he himself, the backup singers and the other musicians wouldn't play. The racist promoter buckled, and the show went on.
Can anyone imagine teenagers today listening to Steve Winwood’s music? Neither can I. Or even people in their 20s? The 1980s were the greatest decade ever.
@@ClearOutSamskaras look at the intense focus (especially Paul on keys) exhibits while playing this song. Normally Paul can play most songs in his sleep. The repertoire of songs he knows and can play right off the bat is arguably the most extensive on the planet.
@@ClearOutSamskaras The percussion in this song is quite complex. Goes way beyond the "one and two, one and two" of most rock-pop songs. And the beat is the rhythmic basis for the other musicians, so the whole song is made more complex as a result.
It's hard to describe what a genius this man is. He wrote Gimme Some Loving around the time of his 18th birthday. He had already had multiple hits with the Spencer Davis Group, having joined them at 14.
It really stood out back then too but maybe not for being the kind of high water mark it turned out to be. So much out of the 70s and 80s will never be matched.
Saw him in Chicago at the Crossroads Festival with Eric Clapton in 2010. He did Blind Faith and Traffic songs that you would've sworn you were listening to the albums.
And if you get a chance to hear his version of "John Barleycorn Must Die" in his older voice is worth a YT listen. The one I saw was him in his home studio solo.
Winwood one of the most talented musicians of any era! Plays almost every instrument, one of the greatest voices, master songwriter, and played in some of the greatest bands! He definitely honered soul and roots music! And the most humble person I have ever seen in the music business!
Have you ever in your life seen a backing group enjoy themselves so much as when they did give me some loving? Absolutely fantastic, this video never ages, just like Mr Winwood.
That band was always on fire. They were learning artists material non stop. and they always nailed it. like they had been playing those tunes for years.
@@kenbranaugh8251 Steve has done much better and this is not a great song, it's fine but who needs the backup vocals smelling themselves? So many bands have too many backup singers with sort of the same sound.
The Beatles gave him a cameo appearance in the film Magical Mystery Tour! See if you can spot him. Yeah, I agree, one of the very finest ever! There were rumors around 1969 that The Beatles asked him to join and be a Beatle. It was an idea to refresh the energy in the group. Rumor has it that he immediately declined, saying something like, 'Hey sorry, but you guys are too strong a unit to risk messing up the balance you're known for, so I can't do it. Besides, I love you as you are, your'e my heroes.' Very classy response, if true.
@SEZWAH Music Holy cow, I didn't know that! Obviously, Steve was very careful about what he committed to, perhaps because he's always been firmly in charge of his own destiny.
This was a great high point of live tv music. With a pickup band Steve Winwood plays his greatest two songs. Backup singing by the truly great Dolette McDonald. Drums by Carole Steele (mentored by Mongo Santamaria), who is without peer. The forever dependable Sid McGinnis on guitar - he is adaptable tand perfect with every great rock front man. Paul mostly perfect. The clunker notes that make live music worth listening to!! I can listen to this again and again and again.
Multi talented man. Singer/Songwriter and musician. Had the pleasure to see him twice. He opened for Tom Petty about 12 years ago at the Hollywood Bowl.
I had just listened to I'm a Man and decided to relive the catalog of Stevie winwood. What an incredible musician and writer and performer. Fantastic live version of higher Love and high life. I'm 72 and this is the soundtrack of my life.
Paul is the icing on the cake on this one! Letterman was so smart having Paul as Musical Director for all those years (1982 to 2015). Love to you, Paul, and David for having this level of musical talent for us!
@@joecarusopop-jazzswingsing1562: You can tell Paul is super focused on this song because it has complex rhythms and syncopations. Paul hits a few clunkers on the bridge, but that is forgivable.
I was able to see him at Bethel Woods in 2016. I believe he was 75 years young at the time. He sounded just like he did in 86. It was a pleasure to be able to see such an amazing artist as Steve. Thank you for sharing your talents with us.
,I still remember seeing and hearing Winwood sing with Jimmy Page shortly after Bonham died. Page was so happy with Winwood and his heart felt singing, Jimmy hugged Steve immediately after they finished playing.What we hear now, 'Higher Love", one of the best pop songs of the 1980s. I love it.
Saw Stevie at the Hyde Park London musical festival three or four years ago, and his voice was exactly the same as it’s always been. I was amazed. Flew all the way to the UK just so that I could hear HIM, even though Santana and Eric Clapton were there as well.
1986, and "Gimme Some Lovin'" was already a twenty-year-old song. Steve Winwood was, in my opinion, the most gifted singer/songwriter to come out of the whole "British Invasion." His songs are on a whole 'nother plane.
I love Winwood, an etheral musician who defies the pigeon hole, yet gives us everything he's got, without the ego so common in higher level performers. Thank you Mr. Giller and thank you Mr. Winwood.
Yes, joyful, but in a peaceful way. I think he's realized something fundamental about happiness; that it's part of us and to access it, you need to get out of it's way. He doesn't feel like he has to prove anything to anyone.
Know what I always respected about Steve Winwood? He's always about the music and the music only. You never hear about him spouting off politics, drug abuse, womanizing, anything like that...and after an over 50 year career, that's no small feat.
His daughter is married to the co-chairman of the Conservative Party in Britain, but I haven't heard Steve talk politics. The area where he now lives is a conservative area, so I suppose the people she grew up with would be largely conservative.
What a talent, I remember Higher Love when it 1st came out, and instantly liked it, and it was only a couple of years ago (thru you tube) that it was Steve Winwood that sang Give me loven song too...
I'm 66 and I've spent the night listening and watching these videos of the greatest music of all time. Started with Tom Petty, moved on to the Traveling Wilburys, then videos of Harrison, Clapton, Dylan, Roy Orbinson. Certainly grew up during the greatest time. Makes me smile and then brings tears to my eyes.
I saw Spencer Davis with Steve Winwood in 1967 do Gimme Some Lovin. Sounds EXACTLY the same as last year when I saw him in Palm Springs in 2017. THAT'S 50 years kids. THAT is a STAR!!! Man is amazing!!!
The level of talent is not matched by many. Must of been incredible to see live. I remember spinning around the living room at age 4 when higher love came out ❤️
Can't mistake that voice or that organ.....Steve Winwood stands alone as a Rock God live.....he always sounds as if he is in the studio.....tremendous talent.....
@@RollingOrmond I respectfully disagree, Steve still sounds fantastic for his age. Yeah, he's older on that live album, but considering he 60's 70's icon peers, he sounds fucking fantastic! Steve has aged well. Thanks for existing Steve!
@@ericchavarria4436 Agreed. I saw him a few years ago doing a 7 song set opening for Steely Dan. Last year I saw him do a full show - 15ish songs - with his daughter, Lilly, opening for him and joining him towards the end of his set. Great show. Great band. He played almost all old stuff and only one solo number and nothing off one of my favorites - Arc Of A Diver. When he's behind that Hammond or out front on Dear Mr Fantasy it's a great time.
@@davidcassidy3956 The singing isn't the difficulty - except that you come in cold, so you have to know the pitch perfectly. Playing the song is the difficult part. There are time changes, multiple keyboards, multiple percussion, guitar, bass...
Good God what a performance. Paul said the band was nervous but they pulled out one of the greatest live performances of Higher Love ever. Anton sounded just like JR. Then you close with Gimme Some Lovin! The band and Steve are so connected.
The last time I saw Steve Winwood was at the Peace Center here in my hometown of Greenville, South Carolina. The song selection was excellent. He could do three shows of hits and well-known material and not repeat himself. His ability to faithfully reproduce the music and yet keep the excitement of a live performance is nothing short of amazing. His daughter Lilli opened up for him and joined with him later on stage. She was excellent singing "Higher Love" doing Chaka Khan's parts which is no mean feet. This was no oldies act. His music and talent are as vital as ever. A true Giant of the industry and a genius bar none.
You hit it on the head. He is in the realm of Mozart and the great masters, born with remarkable talent, too many to list, and as down-to-earth as the man on the street.
"There is a higher law( i.e love ) than the Constitution ." How politically incorrect is that ? Because it was William H. Seward , Abe Lincoln's secretary of state that said it .
My favorite musician, singer, songwriter, just pure brilliance from day 1. Thank you Steve Winwood for your inexplicable contributions to the world of music and the memories that come with your gifts you so graciously share with the world ❤
Just look at how much the Band are enjoying playing with Steve. It's not often that you get to accompany such a gifted, talented artist as Steve Winwood.
I’m sure I’ve probably commented before but this Guy is Pure Soul! This is live and to sound this Good is just pure Gifted! Stevie if your reading this please know your songs are Eternal and I can’t wait to meet you.
David Letterman set the standard for musical performances on his show. Steve Winwood is great, but Letterman offered a venue for so many talented artists that were not as well known or mainstream. I saw many artists over the years that became favorites due their exposure on Letterman. Check out The Low Anthem - Ghost Woman Blues if you want a great performance. Not as flashy as Winwood but GREAT musical talent. Also ANY of the shows featuring Warren Zevon, especially the last when he knew the cancer would take him soon; a class act that transcended music.
This ( & Darleen Love’s annual Xmas performance ) is the most memorable to me. But I really thought this was the one where Dave approached him to shake hands at the end of the song, & said, “My goodness, did anyone get hurt?!”.
I was born in 1981, and have been listening to ALL of Steve Winwood's music since I was in the womb. Listening to it right now. I guess that's obvious. My children enjoy this amazing musician as well! So glad we made it!
Winwood is one of the most talented creative artists and musicians,songwriter and performer to have come along,a true original that has written so many great songs and albums
I was taking Private Pilot's Training at the time, I think I did my 1st Solo Flight, the following weekend after this aired. I would listen to this Album, along with PG's "So", and PS's "The Boy in the Bubble", on the way out to Langley Flight School. Great Times! 😊
That was cool seeing those musicians getting to play and sing all time rock classic with the original singer, looks like they’re having the time of their lives
Brings me back to my days living in Germany with a 1 & 3 year old….. I WORE this album FLAT out! Always raises my spirits to hear Higher Love to this very day! Thank you Stevie Winwood for being part of the soundtrack to my life!💜
After years and years of watching Letterman's NBC show every night, this performance of Gimme Some Lovin always stuck with me. I remember when we taped this on VHS we'd play it over and over. Such joy. Thanks so much for posting!!
This was the summer i turned 21. I thought i knew everything back then 😉. I remember driving down the highway in the summer with the windows open and this song blaring on the radio. Was living the high life for sure. ❤
I had the pleasure of driving Stevie Windwood from the Plaza Hotel to JFK airport , we chatted for the 40 minutes it took, he was so down to earth and kind. A really great musician and human being
I smoked a joint with Steve at the Hilton I was a maintenance man at the time his AC unit went up in the presidential room
And he also showed me how to play the piano that was in the room do top that one Johnny
Wow. I love such stories.
How lovely to hear this. Must love this after so much hate speech lately. My poor aching HEART ❤️ needs more Kindess.
Steve Winwood owes me $20.
Steve is the G O A T!💖🧡💛💙💜❤💚
Yes, he is.
Anything by Steve Winwood is an antidepressant to me!!
Check out Ben Rector's song "range rover". His idol is Steve Windwood and there's a line in the song that says playing Steve wildwood on the radio.
Steve was awesome enough to record hammo d b3 organ and synth parts for the song
I smile reading this, am pretty ill, but smiling now..
A lot of people say Steve Windwood is underrated but he’s always been a legend as long as I can remember.
Since he was 16
@@vh3092 'Blues in F', the B side of 'Gimme Some Lovin'
He was a child prodigy in his city in England!
I believe that too
Whoever said that?
Steve wrote this song 20 years before this performance. And the performance is getting close to 40 years old. And I am still watching it! Total classic.
Paul effed the dog on this one😢
Paul was really high
I like how Steve Winwood is not flashy with no special effects just plain ole talent on display.
He looks embarrassed by the fuss everyone is making.
Some serious shoulder pad game though!
@@DVD927 I too wore a jacket with shoulder pads. It was a thing in the late eighties, early nineties.
Can’t find my way home is a classic. Written and sung by Steve Winwood.
Hello Laura,
How’re you doing?
Thanks for your love, support and for being an amazing fan! ❤️
It's nice meeting you here
I recently watched a video of Steve, Ginger Baker, and Eric Clapton doing "Can't Find My Way Home". It was very early on, no studio, just pure, pure, soul.
I have always loved Steve, but that song gets me every time .
I feel that:)
I have fallen in love with him three times...❤
We will NEVER AGAIN have music like this... the 1980's... in the life of the world!!! 🥺
Ummm...this was recorded with The Spencer Davis group in the 60's
The musicians do the job competently but music is in the ear of the beholder, but I suppose its a tad better than Rap with a "C" to me!?!
No lip syncing going on. Just a pure on-pitch and powerful vocalist. Sounds as good as the record.
Paul Schaeffer would not let any lip syncing go on in his band.
And they still got their sheet music out. Peak performers. They leave NOTHING to CHANCE!
@@Michael-no6jw Shaffer; Paul Shaffer.
Really, I didn't know that. Good on him.@@Michael-no6jw
Exactly my first thought once the percussions kicked in! REAL MUSICIANS!!
More people need to understand that this guy is one of the best musicians we’ll see in our lifetime. Arc of the Diver - and pretty much every song in that album is him playing all instruments.
Truly one of the best albums in recording history.
Amen. I am 70
Keep in mind when he recorded "Gimme Some Lovin" he was SIXTEEN.
Arc of a Diver great album.
An amazing album and testament to why Winwood is a one-of-a-kind.
Except here he dances with shoulder pads and a ridiculous kimono.. while 2 not 1 inferior players play the keys. This is trash.
Pay attention, kids. That’s talent. No auto tune needed. That voice of Steve’s, instantly recognizable, in perfect t pitch.
That is a man that has mastered his craft through years of hard work. He’s not reliant on some software to do half his job for him.
He was this good at the age of 18 years. Years of hard work? More likely, a talent most of us will never possess.
Thank you, and perfectly said!
What a voice this man has!!!😮🤩😎
@@Want0nS0upThank you for this. So many commentators want everything to be about how untalented everyone is now, compared to how wonderful everyone was when they were young. Show them a real mirror and they’d see an old man on front porch … saying the same shit their fathers and grandfathers said before them.
@@Want0nS0up Yes, but if you listen to his live voice from 1970 or so and compare it to this performance you can hear improvement in pitch control at least. Steve was always a great talent, as you say. Like all of the greats, he also worked at it and didn’t take his gift for granted.
Winwood is a virtuoso, arguably the most precocious and gifted rock and roll artist ever. His contributions to rock-and-roll cannot be overstated. From what I’ve heard, he’s a regular guy, down-to-earth and humble.
It is interesting that so many people express this opinion, one which I share, but I often feel as if in the big picture, he does not get the notoriety he deserves. As teenager in the 60s, I did not really hear any of his music and during an 8 year diversion from the real world while I was serving in the Marines, I had little exposure to popular music so throughout the late 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s, I really did not know much about him or his music. In fact, it wasn't until I retired that I started spending more time with music (thanks to streaming services) and started revisiting the era that was a blind spot to me. When I discovered Traffic, that pointed me toward Winwood, and the more I followed his path through the various groups and solo efforts, the more impressed I became. He did so much that I had no idea about because again, I don't think he gets the notoriety he deserves. After taking this path though my missing decade of popular music, I have to say that Windwood stands tall in my mind as a powerful force in music. ( I was almost totally ignorant of Queen and their place in music history as well. I spend far more time out of the US than in the US, and even when there was an Armed Forces Radio Network station, these stations tended to be very vanilla with what they played, so I did not hear most of Queen songs until I was in my 50s. Weird, yes?. I heard one song on the armed services station that I only heard once but I did not know who sang it or what it was called and I loved it so much!. It wasn't until 2008 until I heard it again, but did not know the artist, though I thought it might be Steven Stills, so I started listening to more Steve Stills, and one day I found it and the title was "Singing Call." Wow. How could I have fallen in love with a song and not known the name for 35 years!
Love any band Steve Winwood has played with especially Cream & Blind Faith ❤❤❤❤❤❤😊😊😊
Steve Winwood's voice is unbelievable. A voice like that comes from up above. What a great performance.
Still is. His was the best performance at the Coronation Concert.
The lady on backup vocals is right there with him. Does she have any solo albums?
He's terrible in this video.
He sounds like Ray Charles!
@@JadamhodgesNo, he ripped off Ray Charles, as did Joe Cocker and a number of other UK singers.
What a handsome man! Steve that is and this takes me back to the 80's when times were simpler and listening to his music just put me a a good mood.
"Well🤔,...I'd have to get dinner and a show first."
A beautiful memory of the 80's which Winwood was creating.
One of my all time favorite songs-----Ever created.
I could not and can not get enough of this classic.
I also loved the music video for it as well.
Steve Winwood is a Legend with an incredible voice.
I was hit by a car on 7/27/86 while jogging. I was in the first hospital of two when this aired. I wasn’t supposed to live but God had other plans. Life is Good. 🍻☮️
Believe or not life is not coo😢4 me... but then as a resan widow.. at least I adopted my brother and and 2 cats. They passed right after my husband... but I am hanging tuff... those r the cards I was delt😢
He will turn your mourning into dancing as you give Him the broken pieces of your heart. :)
Now you have "Higher Love"
It might have been the Arc of a diver.
How come God gets credit for healing you but not hitting you with a car?
Saw him tonight in Newhampshire August 10 24. He is still an amazing musician.
Hey! I was there too. Great show and so happy to see him again!
I would love to be able to see him perform before I die! Or him!😅
@@marktroddyn3351Hey! Did he open for The Doobie Brothers with Michael McDonald when you saw him?!
He did!
Good for you...
That unmistakable voice stands out from all the rest.... 15 years old writing hits for the Spencer Davis group... Friggin Legend!!
Rare case of singer carrying the band live. Awesome and timeless
They aren't his regular band. I think they l were trying to learn it that day and it's highly syncopated rhythms.
Paul was saying how hard the song was. I don’t think they had much time to rehearse.
Well said Sir👏🏾
Fig was ON IT for higher love. Good cover, though Paul lagged a bit.
Very difficult song - I have been in cover bands that tried it and it took a lot of rehearsing to get tight. Anton had it down from the jump of the opening timbale fill - Paul and Will clammed it in a few spots - but overall a good performance with little to no rehearsal.
Steve Winwood is a musical genius and has an awesome voice
Remember. Winwood started at 14 with Spencer Davis and his group. Remarkable long history of excellence.
No doubt. I wasn’t alive during his reign but I still I got nothing but respect for this man. Dude is so talented
Winwood is rock royalty right up there with McCartney, Jagger/Richard, Clapton, Page and a select few others.
Why's your "royalty" all white?
AGREED.
@M Mac enough said
You are mostly correct. However, Elvis knew exactly what racism did: it financially cheated black artists, and exacerbated the abuse of black musicians. ELVIS TOOK A STAND and fought against these abusive practices. Once, a promoter proclaimed that Elvis's (all black) backup singers couldn't appear on stage with Elvis. Elvis told the promoter no deal, and that he himself, the backup singers and the other musicians wouldn't play. The racist promoter buckled, and the show went on.
@@humanpersonjuniorjr829 ELVIS WAS ONE COOL DUDE WAY AHEAD OF HIS TIME HELPED MANY BLACK FOLKS AND ARTISTS.
One of THE greatest singing voices EVER
Great voice but give Dolette credit, she's carrying Winwood a lot.
I've always liked Winwood's voice. He and Mark Knopfler are my top vocal pics
@@topixfromthetropix1674 No one is carrying Winwood here...he is on his complete own planet in terms of singing ability
Can anyone imagine teenagers today listening to Steve Winwood’s music? Neither can I.
Or even people in their 20s?
The 1980s were the greatest decade ever.
Steve Winwood for the last 54 years!! ..carry on sir Winwood....
Not only do they listen, they sing and play that music. You just gotta search youtube. It's a golden age for musicians for sure !!
Steve was part of the 1960’s, too.
No they weren't. Remember that whole aids thing? We didn't have that in the seventies.
Always loved Steve's music ❤
Steve îs now 74 old but his music has no age!
He's one of the best ❤
He’s touring this summer w the Doobie Brothers
Hello. This is the near future. Steve is now 76. Looking forward to future updates.
Love this song which is dedicated to my favorite brother, and best friend Keith. I’ll never forget or stop loving you. I forgive you♥️
Talk about a complex and difficult song to do live with studio quality. These musicians are absolute talent.
Why is it a difficult song?
@@ClearOutSamskaras look at the intense focus (especially Paul on keys) exhibits while playing this song. Normally Paul can play most songs in his sleep. The repertoire of songs he knows and can play right off the bat is arguably the most extensive on the planet.
Notice how every Musician had their sheet music right in front of him/her. Especially Paul. Peak performers leave nothing to chance.
@@ClearOutSamskaras The percussion in this song is quite complex. Goes way beyond the "one and two, one and two" of most rock-pop songs. And the beat is the rhythmic basis for the other musicians, so the whole song is made more complex as a result.
@@ClearOutSamskaras The complex rhythm of each instrument (1st song), vocals, backing vocals etc. Masterpiece.
38 years ago this was number 1. Classics will always rock ⬆️
TOTALLY!!! 🙌✨✨✨
I miss my 80s❤
Still gives me goosebumps after all these years and I'm 66!!
Me, too!
Me too I’m 69
Hell I'm 74. I still can't get 'nuff of Winwood.
we has it great back then , 70's n 80's
My baby girl was six weeks old at the time of this episode. She is patiently waiting for me in heaven now. She brought me so much love.🥰
I’m so sorry.
We all have someone, a beloved one, waiting for us in heaven. God Bless and eternal peace to all our dearly departed. 🙏🥰🌹
❤🩹
Sorry Clarissa about your baby girl, my daughter was almost 7 months when this came out. She waits for me since 6/5/2020 due to an Epileptic seizure.
I'm sorry for your loss 😢
I wish we could manipulate time and go back to these days❤
It's hard to describe what a genius this man is. He wrote Gimme Some Loving around the time of his 18th birthday. He had already had multiple hits with the Spencer Davis Group, having joined them at 14.
My favorite since 1971...LSOHHB...my life was never the same ...
Genius
A radio anthem of the 80s
worn
I remember the first time I heard it in my preteen bedroom in Avon Ct.
You my fatbelly friend are a Steve Winwood encyclopedia
The charts for higher love must be insane.
Stevie Winwood can still give a great show in 2024!
It always amazes me how Paul Shaffer can just fill in for anybody at anytime.
good players can
@@bigbromiki1 agreed. Im more surprised how impressive the sound of the room has improved over the years.
Growing up watching letterman i never realized how talented Shaffer was
And you can easily tell Paul was having a blast playing with one of his apparent idols.
@@chrisj62489 one of the founders of Blues Brothers
No one will ever make music like this again. Performed for the sheer joy of it.
Hello Linda,
How’re you doing?
Thanks for your love, support and for being an amazing fan! ❤️
It's nice meeting you here
It really stood out back then too but maybe not for being the kind of high water mark it turned out to be. So much out of the 70s and 80s will never be matched.
How can anyone sing like that? How can anyone sing like that for fifty years? Winwood's a miracle. Thanks for posting this.
Saw him do Gimme Some Lovin in Omaha, opened for Tom Petty. His voice, like himself, just cool.
Saw him in Chicago at the Crossroads Festival with Eric Clapton in 2010. He did Blind Faith and Traffic songs that you would've sworn you were listening to the albums.
He's great. Whoever was in charge of the mixing board should be shot though. At least they proved he was not lip-syncing!
If I only had one thousandth of Winwood's talent, I'd still be awesome...
Dave is so so so cute!!!!
Steve Winwood is a legend for many reasons. I love all the Traffic songs. He is truly one of the greatest of the 20th century.
I adored Traffic back in my teens. they helped shape my musical tastes for 50+ years now
And if you get a chance to hear his version of "John Barleycorn Must Die" in his older voice is worth a YT listen. The one I saw was him in his home studio solo.
Even his mullet is legendary.
Winwood one of the most talented musicians of any era! Plays almost every instrument, one of the greatest voices, master songwriter, and played in some of the greatest bands! He definitely honered soul and roots music! And the most humble person I have ever seen in the music business!
Great drumming and percussion!
One of the premier voices of rock, and a fabulous musician. So great live! Gave me chills watching this.
Well it's March 2020, and still loving it. Wish we were back in the 80's.
Time flys what.
such a fun time in the entertainment world especially the early letterman years.
After my last breath I'm going back to the 80s 🤗
This bloody virus
I was tonight, for about 10 minutes. 😊
Have you ever in your life seen a backing group enjoy themselves so much as when they did give me some loving? Absolutely fantastic, this video never ages, just like Mr Winwood.
All Steve had to bring was Dolette, the rest was sufficient to play.
Steve is the man !
That band was always on fire. They were learning artists material non stop. and they always nailed it. like they had been playing those tunes for years.
@@kenbranaugh8251 Steve has done much better and this is not a great song, it's fine but who needs the backup vocals smelling themselves? So many bands have too many backup singers with sort of the same sound.
Totally agree. I truly inspired performance with Schaeffer joyfully pounding his keyboard with every beat.
Steve Winwood, one of the finest and coolest performers from the greatest era.
The Beatles gave him a cameo appearance in the film Magical Mystery Tour! See if you can spot him. Yeah, I agree, one of the very finest ever! There were rumors around 1969 that The Beatles asked him to join and be a Beatle. It was an idea to refresh the energy in the group. Rumor has it that he immediately declined, saying something like, 'Hey sorry, but you guys are too strong a unit to risk messing up the balance you're known for, so I can't do it. Besides, I love you as you are, your'e my heroes.' Very classy response, if true.
strexus
He still is in 2019
@SEZWAH Music Holy cow, I didn't know that! Obviously, Steve was very careful about what he committed to, perhaps because he's always been firmly in charge of his own destiny.
Still sounds GREAT and Still Handsome ,after all these years !! 💜
The most attractive ginger ever, and the second most talented ❤️ Love that Stevie Winwood! Bless you for the music
This was a great high point of live tv music. With a pickup band Steve Winwood plays his greatest two songs. Backup singing by the truly great Dolette McDonald. Drums by Carole Steele (mentored by Mongo Santamaria), who is without peer. The forever dependable Sid McGinnis on guitar - he is adaptable tand perfect with every great rock front man. Paul mostly perfect. The clunker notes that make live music worth listening to!! I can listen to this again and again and again.
For me it was the impromptu leg kicks. :)
Fig is on drums, Carol is on congas, not timbales. This single timbale is played by Fig; mounted amoong his own set.
love "Stevie " Winwood as we all knew him as "way back when".indeed "bring me that HIGHER LOVE!
Hello Theresa,
How’re you doing?
Thanks for your love, support and for being an amazing fan! ❤️
It's nice meeting you here
I had the pleasure of going to Steve Winwood's concert he is such a performer he didn't want to leave the stage he just kept singing and singing 😊😊😊
Multi talented man. Singer/Songwriter and musician. Had the pleasure to see him twice. He opened for Tom Petty about 12 years ago at the Hollywood Bowl.
I can’t imagine him being an opener for Tom Petty. They are both so huge. But what a show that must have been. ❤
I had just listened to I'm a Man and decided to relive the catalog of Stevie winwood. What an incredible musician and writer and performer. Fantastic live version of higher Love and high life. I'm 72 and this is the soundtrack of my life.
Paul is the icing on the cake on this one! Letterman was so smart having Paul as Musical Director for all those years (1982 to 2015). Love to you, Paul, and David for having this level of musical talent for us!
Paul always wanted the guys in the band to just play exactly what's on the record.
Paul and the guys were the best ! I got to meet Paul after a show he was a gentleman !
He really delivered night after freaking night! Never a dud performance. Probably the best sideman of all time. One of a kind!
@@joecarusopop-jazzswingsing1562: You can tell Paul is super focused on this song because it has complex rhythms and syncopations. Paul hits a few clunkers on the bridge, but that is forgivable.
don't come across live performances like this anymore. legendary.
Steve sails above the musical crowd - amazing talent and a real nice guy. That organ riff on "Gimme..." just cuts right through to your soul.
Ripping off black music. What a bitch.
Its the song from Iron Eagle when the attack the enemy airbase!
I was able to see him at Bethel Woods in 2016. I believe he was 75 years young at the time. He sounded just like he did in 86. It was a pleasure to be able to see such an amazing artist as Steve. Thank you for sharing your talents with us.
,I still remember seeing and hearing Winwood sing with Jimmy Page shortly after Bonham died. Page was so happy with Winwood and his heart felt singing, Jimmy hugged Steve immediately after they finished playing.What we hear now, 'Higher Love", one of the best pop songs of the 1980s. I love it.
Saw Stevie at the Hyde Park London musical festival three or four years ago, and his voice was exactly the same as it’s always been. I was amazed. Flew all the way to the UK just so that I could hear HIM, even though Santana and Eric Clapton were there as well.
1986, and "Gimme Some Lovin'" was already a twenty-year-old song.
Steve Winwood was, in my opinion, the most gifted singer/songwriter to come out of the whole "British Invasion."
His songs are on a whole 'nother plane.
I love Winwood, an etheral musician who defies the pigeon hole, yet gives us everything he's got, without the ego so common in higher level performers. Thank you Mr. Giller and thank you Mr. Winwood.
Well said. Exactly. So much talent and so humble. Very rare. And he seems to be a joyful person!
Yes, joyful, but in a peaceful way. I think he's realized something fundamental about happiness; that it's part of us and to access it, you need to get out of it's way. He doesn't feel like he has to prove anything to anyone.
Yes, I agree. If I were to try to define joy, it would be inner peace. None of the self-destructiveness in so many musical artists. He's a gift!
Andrew Mantle
Well said!
It's not over. Maybe he shows at Woodstock 4
Know what I always respected about Steve Winwood? He's always about the music and the music only. You never hear about him spouting off politics, drug abuse, womanizing, anything like that...and after an over 50 year career, that's no small feat.
His daughter is married to the co-chairman of the Conservative Party in Britain, but I haven't heard Steve talk politics. The area where he now lives is a conservative area, so I suppose the people she grew up with would be largely conservative.
For sure ❤🔥
@b s perfect answer. Honestly who Cares.
excellent point!
He really is a musicians musician.👌
What a talent, I remember Higher Love when it 1st came out, and instantly liked it, and it was only a couple of years ago (thru you tube) that it was Steve Winwood that sang Give me loven song too...
I'm 66 and I've spent the night listening and watching these videos of the greatest music of all time. Started with Tom Petty, moved on to the Traveling Wilburys, then videos of Harrison, Clapton, Dylan, Roy Orbinson. Certainly grew up during the greatest time. Makes me smile and then brings tears to my eyes.
Great, dear. Just like me, same age, same music. Listening at night...
I saw Spencer Davis with Steve Winwood in 1967 do Gimme Some Lovin. Sounds EXACTLY the same as last year when I saw him in Palm Springs in 2017. THAT'S 50 years kids. THAT is a STAR!!! Man is amazing!!!
The only difference then and now: the key's a step lower in F# so that he can hit the higher notes.
I got to meet Spencer Davis in 2001, lovely guy.
The level of talent is not matched by many. Must of been incredible to see live. I remember spinning around the living room at age 4 when higher love came out ❤️
I played bass with Stevie and the Spencer Davis Group at the Whiskey in 1967. Pamela des Barres was there, everybody got an excellent blowjob.
He's timeless. Admired him when I was a kid; then this:
th-cam.com/video/eoSn2Y-b6wI/w-d-xo.html&start_radio=1
Can't mistake that voice or that organ.....Steve Winwood stands alone as a Rock God live.....he always sounds as if he is in the studio.....tremendous talent.....
YESS
Yeserree
Does this guy ever give less than a superb performance? I haven't heard it.
His latest live album wasn't that good. Too much meandering and between-song chatter. The old stuff is great though.
@@RollingOrmond I respectfully disagree, Steve still sounds fantastic for his age. Yeah, he's older on that live album, but considering he 60's 70's icon peers, he sounds fucking fantastic! Steve has aged well. Thanks for existing Steve!
Saw him this same year at the New Haven Coliseum. Fantastic show with a great Caribbean back up band.
@@ericchavarria4436 Agreed. I saw him a few years ago doing a 7 song set opening for Steely Dan. Last year I saw him do a full show - 15ish songs - with his daughter, Lilly, opening for him and joining him towards the end of his set. Great show. Great band. He played almost all old stuff and only one solo number and nothing off one of my favorites - Arc Of A Diver. When he's behind that Hammond or out front on Dear Mr Fantasy it's a great time.
He’s still going strong at 71 and can still deliver.
His voice is so angelic. Love all his songs!
One of the greatest live performances I've ever heard. Winwood is a living legend.
Steve's voice is unique what a fantastic contribution to the TRUE MUSICAL GROUPS the talented legends
Higher Love is a difficult song. Steve Winwood is one hell of a musician and how can he sing like that? Amazing!
Effortless, as well!
It's not that difficult song. Try to sing it.
@@davidcassidy3956 The singing isn't the difficulty - except that you come in cold, so you have to know the pitch perfectly. Playing the song is the difficult part. There are time changes, multiple keyboards, multiple percussion, guitar, bass...
Great album, too.
@@davidcassidy3956 karaoke sure, but creating and phrasing the song is a completely different challenge
Good God what a performance. Paul said the band was nervous but they pulled out one of the greatest live performances of Higher Love ever. Anton sounded just like JR. Then you close with Gimme Some Lovin! The band and Steve are so connected.
yes Anton did greaaaaat.
Paul gave him a rare hug, at the end, so he was clearly impressed.
Will Lee did a fantastic job on synth bass.
Carol Steele played Conga’s on Original album release … and is in the Official Video release playing conga’s
ALWAYS enjoy hearing Steve sing. Thank you.
Listen up kids, this is what music, GOOD MUSIC sounds like learn from this!
The last time I saw Steve Winwood was at the Peace Center here in my hometown of Greenville, South Carolina. The song selection was excellent. He could do three shows of hits and well-known material and not repeat himself. His ability to faithfully reproduce the music and yet keep the excitement of a live performance is nothing short of amazing. His daughter Lilli opened up for him and joined with him later on stage. She was excellent singing "Higher Love" doing Chaka Khan's parts which is no mean feet. This was no oldies act. His music and talent are as vital as ever. A true Giant of the industry and a genius bar none.
When was that?
You hit it on the head.
He is in the realm of Mozart and the great masters, born with remarkable talent, too many to list, and as down-to-earth as the man on the street.
I love Lilli..I am sure his other kids are as talented but she is brilliant and seems as humble as her father
We need more songs like Higher Love these days.
Bravo to Steve! Love that man. ❤️🙏
It would Politically incorrect to say Higher in a song these days.
"There is a higher law( i.e love ) than the Constitution ."
How politically incorrect is that ?
Because it was William H. Seward
, Abe Lincoln's secretary of state that said it .
I agree!
This song and this album were my bright light to help me navigate a challenging time in my life.
Fresh as tomorrow .Thank you Mr Winwood.
My favorite musician, singer, songwriter, just pure brilliance from day 1. Thank you Steve Winwood for your inexplicable contributions to the world of music and the memories that come with your gifts you so graciously share with the world ❤
Remember, on Arc of a Diver he played every instrument. Immensely talented along with a voice that is timeless.
Hi Chas, yeah - I still listen to Arc of a Diver. Clearly of its time but fantastic. Spanish Dancer - brilliant
@@georgebennett3197 Exactly. Not a huge fan of its production, but you can't argue that it's not a brilliant album.
C dg canal yo ask a all HA all ha Mx vv m. Gong s
Most people think of Winwood as a keyboard player but he's also an exceptional guitarist.
@@leonardbreau8928 He played guitar during at least one of Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festivals. So many great performances during those.
What an excellent composer,musician and collaborator, also brings out the best in others!
Distinct voice and can’t be mistaken for anyone else!!!! Fabulous!
Just look at how much the Band are enjoying playing with Steve. It's not often that you get to accompany such a gifted, talented artist as Steve Winwood.
I love ❤️ Steve Windwood!!!!
I’m sure I’ve probably commented before but this Guy is Pure Soul! This is live and to sound this Good is just pure Gifted! Stevie if your reading this please know your songs are Eternal and I can’t wait to meet you.
I'll bet this was arguably the greatest performance on Letterman.
I have to disagree..... the "arguably" part.
No doubt about it.
David Letterman set the standard for musical performances on his show. Steve Winwood is great, but Letterman offered a venue for so many talented artists that were not as well known or mainstream. I saw many artists over the years that became favorites due their exposure on Letterman. Check out The Low Anthem - Ghost Woman Blues if you want a great performance. Not as flashy as Winwood but GREAT musical talent. Also ANY of the shows featuring Warren Zevon, especially the last when he knew the cancer would take him soon; a class act that transcended music.
Arguably
Check Whitney Houston’s “saving all my love” . It’s a jaw dropping display of talent.
This ( & Darleen Love’s annual Xmas performance ) is the most memorable to me. But I really thought this was the one where Dave approached him to shake hands at the end of the song, & said, “My goodness, did anyone get hurt?!”.
We didn’t know we had it so good when it came to music.
What a great band they were. They crushed "Higher Love", reading off charts.
Epic. The studio audience received a blessing that day.
John Candy and Steve Winwood on Letterman, I'm setting my VCR
Eugene Levy to boot!
Who would of expected John to not be around eight years later. R.I.P. Mr. Candy
Good idea ! I’ll make the Jiffy Pop !
A while ago, when I would play this CD in the car, my then-young niece would sing along: "Bake me a higher loaf!" Love it!
CatMom break me a high on love
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
I LOVE this SO much! LOL!
such a good set of performances
I was born in 1981, and have been listening to ALL of Steve Winwood's music since I was in the womb. Listening to it right now. I guess that's obvious. My children enjoy this amazing musician as well! So glad we made it!
Winwood is one of the most talented creative artists
and musicians,songwriter and performer to have come
along,a true original that has written so many great
songs and albums
What a treat! From 38 years ago, no less! Paul and Steve... Two of the greatest of our musical lives. Thanks, guys. We love you.
Every single person on this stage was having SO MUCH FUN.
I was taking Private Pilot's Training at the time, I think I did my 1st Solo Flight, the following weekend after this aired. I would listen to this Album, along with PG's "So", and PS's "The Boy in the Bubble", on the way out to Langley Flight School. Great Times! 😊
Stevie Windwood is the man This takes me back to a great place / time in my life.
And he still sounds so fine. Unique singing voice. Legendary.
Party happening
Right there on stage
So tight
So glad..😄
So Stevie
So Blues Bros...
Rock on...🤘
Steve Winwood, one of the greatest singers and musicians ever. Also a fantastic songwriter. I was a Traffic fan from Day One back in the sixties.
That was cool seeing those musicians getting to play and sing all time rock classic with the original singer, looks like they’re having the time of their lives
I always loved Steve and his music ❤
Brings me back to my days living in Germany with a 1 & 3 year old….. I WORE this album FLAT out! Always raises my spirits to hear Higher Love to this very day! Thank you Stevie Winwood for being part of the soundtrack to my life!💜
After years and years of watching Letterman's NBC show every night, this performance of Gimme Some Lovin always stuck with me. I remember when we taped this on VHS we'd play it over and over. Such joy. Thanks so much for posting!!
I'll bet it sounded amazing in that studio. Having been there, I can tell you that the audio was tight...and loud!
This was the summer i turned 21. I thought i knew everything back then 😉. I remember driving down the highway in the summer with the windows open and this song blaring on the radio. Was living the high life for sure. ❤