I'm 68, English, UK and still love anything and everything by EW & F (which was in my age group in my heyday!), but this is the best modern day cover ever; especially since they cover more than one tune, as well other artiists apparently; and Oleg's sax solo's are just amazing, there is simply no one band who has done this better in my personal view!
Yes I love their story… the term music is universal really holds true right here. Their story is amazing as a former session keyboardist I listen to some great music and I’ve never heard a tribute band this good in my life…. A friend turned me onto them a while back. I can’t never stop listening to them….
I am, without question, THE biggest EWF fan on the planet!!! And I am brutally critical of any band that attempts to compare to OR cover their material. But these guys have sincerely earned my humble respect. Just WOW!
All of the great bands from that great music era of the 70s are getting much older. We are so lucky to have Leonid and Friends to continue to carry the “torch” into the next generation. Hopefully, they all will be able to stay together. Yes, it does bring tears to your eyes!
Someone else left to He went back to Ukraine to help his family. They were effected by the war. ☹️ I think it was the guy who sang most of Chicago songs
@@mazie7952 Serge Tiagnyriadno was their lead singer. He lived in Ukrain. Many of his recordings were done from there. The war made it impossible for him to continue.
I'm a 66 year old man from London, I tear up every time I hear this band especialy when they do ewf covers, it takes me back to a time when the world was a more pleasant place to be....👍
If you liked this cover, you should check out Leonid & Friends cover classic Chicago cuts. Mind-blowing. I have yet to hear a cover band anywhere on the planet equal to this group and here's why: First, keep in mind that they are half a world away, both geographically and culturally. Yet they are able to interpret not merely chords, arrangements, vocals, phrasing, etc. They flawlessly interpret the essense of the selections, the mood of the times, the subtleties and meaning of the verses to an astonishing degree. Their artistry extends way beyond mere musical talent. They are unique because of their ability to interpret the cultural, social, and environmental influences that helped shape these great songs in the first place, half a world away.
The is now the definitive cover version of this hit song, for I believe if you close your eyes you would swear it was actually EWF and the amazing vocals of Philip Bailey taking us on a "fantasy" journey.
They are a great band, no doubt about it. But, honestly, he doesn’t really sound that much like Phillip Bailey to me. I actually think he sounds more like Eddie Kendricks or a mix between the two. If I was listening to the music with no video, I would think that at least SOME the same musicians were involved and that a great falsetto singer was involved but not actually Phillip Bailey! Bailey is really in a class by himself.. And he sings whistle register when he sings this song live. Which takes it up to an absolutely unbelievable freakishly good level. Go type in to hood and listen to EWF song called “Mighty Mighty” and listen to Phillip Baileys soaring falsetto/whistle register toward the end, he’s a stone cold FREAK OF NATURE! Phillip Bailey is in a class all by himself.. trust me on that.
I LOVE seeing Harri Best's reaction. I feel the same way listening to Leonid and Friends. Leonid and Friends are just INCREDIBLE. LOVE this group. Insanely good,
Man, Daniil absolutely NAILED it! That's a hard line to sing at the end, but Daniil slayed it...the whole band is just incredible! I would LOVE to meet these guys, maybe someday...
I've never heard anything like what this incredible group of musicians puts out. I understand that they're some of the best pop musicians in Russia, but the phenomenal talent devoted to covers is amazing!
They may all be Russian now but they were not. Serge co founder is Ukrainian, and Sergey is Moldovan. They have both left and it's said for family etc. In truth I think the reasoning goes deeper and may just come from governments and they can not say that of course.
It's interesting you mentioned the bassist... who is Leonid, the founder/leader of this group, and also happens to be responsible for transcribing (recreating the musical parts) from the original arrangement, as well as being the sound mixer and mastering engineer! I don't believe I've ever heard a musician/recording engineer this capable of recreating a beloved recording so faithfully.
When he started the band, he first arranged many Chicago hits WITH NO ORIGINAL SCORES! He did it by EAR! He/they were so good that Chicago even put a link to them on their website and Chicago's drummer sat in with them during a live performance!
Even on the junk audio format that YT provides it sounds great. The "Does Anybody Know What Time it IS" audio capture is phenomenal, especially the horns.
this is a reminder to the world, that music is a great uniter...!!!!! a bunch of russians in the 2000s doing an amazing job covering R&B from the 1970s.....
I've been watching these guys for over a year now. When I first heard them they totally blew my mind. Bringing so many artists together who are at the top of their game. Just, well wow !!!!!!!!!! It's like listening to honey, it makes my ears, heart and mind feel soooooo good.
God this band is so incredible bravo bravo. Thank you Maurice for bringing this music for all us to enjoy RIP BROTHER .....RIP. And yes I too get a lump in my throat when listening
My favorite Earth, Wind and Fire song! They sound just like the original. If I was only listening to the audio and hadn't watched the video, I would have assumed it was EWF.
Leonid and Friends don't play -- around! If you're going to do a cover, take notes watching these guys and gals. They knocked it out of the park, Michael - thanks to you and Harri!
I got to 5' 26'' and suffered with the same emotional reaction as you HarriBest. I have tears of joy in my eyes. They are phenomenally excellent. I just discovered them this week. If you haven't already, see EW&F In The Stone by Leonid and Friends, Also Chaka's Ain't Nobody. You'll be shedding buckets of tears as to how good these guys really are
Harri, dear- you are the ONLY top reactor listening to this amazing band. You’re musical taste is the best!!!!! I can’t Believe that Danil can do both Maurice AND Phillip!!! I hope they’ll come to the UK. I was so lucky to see them here in California. ❤😊
They've also given us something we didn't know we needed: an up close view of how incredibly talented Chicago and EWF are. Something about seeing it played..
Hi Harri, Thank you for doing my request. I'm happy to have shared it with you. I will be seeing these guys for the 5th time on June 15th. I hope that you have the opportunity to see them one day. Realize that when you acknowledge the bassist, that is the great Leonid himself: the musical genius that makes this magic possible! - Brooklyn Mike
Holy cow!! When he started singing, my jaw dropped. I was afraid to even listen to this, a cover of this song seemed almost blasphemous. But I'm converted! I got to see EWF in '76 or '77. It was INCREDIBLE! I'm sorry you never got to see 'em live. I've loved 'em since high school, & am astounded this cover is so good! Great reaction, thank you!!
Great reaction. Like so many other songs they've played to perfection, they sure nailed this one as well. These guys are so ultra talented it's ridiculous. The fact they do covers to actual "reaL' music from back in the day is so refreshing, Grew up listenong to EW&F, Chicago, etc. and having these iconic songs brought back to perfection in today's age is stunning. Simply unreal.
Kay, it was both of those songs that were my introduction to L&R. I have had the privilege to see them 3 times. I'm missing them this year as they are touring the East coast right now, but they are truly the best!
Harri, your heart was captured. These are some of the finest musicians in the world. The leader has given them the magic and joy of EWF’s very complex song.
Dude, I feel you, man. I recognize Leonid, the drummer and the female vocalist, the rest are part of a rotating cast of, I don't know, outstanding session musicians? This bands catalogue is TO DIE FOR, it transcends words and the depth of singers and musicians seems bottomless. Yeah man, these guys are a MUST SEE live, full stop.
I never heard of this band but holy cow!!! Everything you said about them is so true. They are incredible and I've been a huge EWF fan since I was 15, 46 years ago.
I first heard Leonid & Friends a few yrs ago when I was introduced to them by one of my brothers. THEY ARE PHENOMENAL. I dont know how to dance, but if I did, I'd dance to them, playing Fantasy, with my lady.
This band is truly amazing! Found them by accident over a year ago. Saw them for the first time in Kansas City this past October. Bought two tickets up front and was absolutely blown away! Amazing performance, amazing talent!😘
I agree 100% I found this amazing group as along time Chicago Fan L&F preformed at a our local venue I was blown away by thier performance. As a bonus they added EWF and Steely Dan to thier set list. I felt like I was in Heaven! As a former musician Drummer/Percussionist I attend many many venues. The best by far was Chicago/EWF tour.L&F brought me back to that day! I close my eyes and feel the music that hits my soul. Keep the music alive my friend! I enjoyed your comments and sharing the emotion!
The vocals at the end by Danil Buranov are one of the best performances I've even heard.
You must listen to The Paris Select Band do this song - perfection.
The group needs their own show...
They already have their own show. Come see them on tour!
@@wandasmith3038 They have their videos and concert tours
Omg can’t stop watching it
I'm 68, English, UK and still love anything and everything by EW & F (which was in my age group in my heyday!), but this is the best modern day cover ever; especially since they cover more than one tune, as well other artiists apparently; and Oleg's sax solo's are just amazing, there is simply no one band who has done this better in my personal view!
Leonid has a great talent. He gets the best musicians and singers in Russia and Ukraine to perform in this fabulous group Leonid & Friends❤
They're from Russia and Ukraine??? So wonderful, and life affirming!
Yes I love their story… the term music is universal really holds true right here. Their story is amazing as a former session keyboardist I listen to some great music and I’ve never heard a tribute band this good in my life…. A friend turned me onto them a while back. I can’t never stop listening to them….
I am, without question, THE biggest EWF fan on the planet!!! And I am brutally critical of any band that attempts to compare to OR cover their material. But these guys have sincerely earned my humble respect. Just WOW!
I totally get it!!!
I totally AGREE! Best cover of anyone I’ve ever heard! 🎯🎊🎉🙂
Music as it was and should be.
Absolutely beautiful band that makes you smile.
If an alien came to our planet and asked, “Earthling, what is music?” Just play this!
My thought was similar, but instead for someone from 100 years ago....
This group was recommended by a fellow musician...This group is incredible!!
"The strings take you to heaven". Superb!
PLEASE bring this style of music back. SO SO SO SO SO SO good.
100%!! EW&F are absolutely timeless and modern music is just missing so much it's sad.
I concur
Как прекрасно поют эти русские. Они и Штатах поют великолепно на английском языке. Респект
They are amazing!!
Soglasna❤
Their drummer is world class.
THIS IS THE BEST BAND IN THE WORLD ,, end of ....Conan UK
What's amazing is their tempo is ALWAYS SPOT ON!
This group one of the best group of the world i love you lionid n' friends....❤❤❤ i'm from Srilanka 🇱🇰 🇱🇰 🇱🇰
WOW!
THEY’RE AWESOME. IF I HAD MY EYES CLOSED, I WOULDN’T KNOW THE DIFFERENCE.
I've probably watched this clip a hundred times. It IS the best rendition of Fantasy ever performed. I loved seeing your reaction to it.
Excelentes músicos dsd San Luis, Argentina 🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷
All of the great bands from that great music era of the 70s are getting much older. We are so lucky to have Leonid and Friends to continue to carry the “torch” into the next generation. Hopefully, they all will be able to stay together. Yes, it does bring tears to your eyes!
I can't say enough good things about this band. The energy, the happiness, the tightness....best cover of EWF there is.
realy true musicians, incredibel stuff 👍
Wow! I didn't think anyone could cover this song but man, they nailed the vocals. Very impressive!!
Русские ребята, браво!
@@ВинтикиШпунтик-я6т В России есть величайшие музыканты, особенно Серджио Рахмонинов!!
@@ВинтикиШпунтик-я6т th-cam.com/video/t5QpqrEFj0o/w-d-xo.html
It makes me teary too because all the musicians are so excellent. Leonid is a musical genius. L&M captures all the soul of EWF.
Totalmente de acuerdo, tienen muuuuy buenos covers que nos capturan el alma.
OMG - what a cover!
This band is incredible. I do miss the guitarist who first started recording with them. That man is one of the best guitarist on the planet.
He left for personal reasons. I hope he’s alright. Yes he’s a phenomenal guitarist and singer!
Sergey Kashirin is indeed amazing.
Someone else left to
He went back to Ukraine to help his family. They were effected by the war. ☹️ I think it was the guy who sang most of Chicago songs
@@mazie7952 Serge Tiagnyriadno was their lead singer. He lived in Ukrain. Many of his recordings were done from there. The war made it impossible for him to continue.
@@MarkM58 Leonids son is Roman. He manages the band.
I'm a 66 year old man from London, I tear up every time I hear this band especialy when they do ewf covers, it takes me back to a time when the world was a more pleasant place to be....👍
My favorite cover band ever.
Absolutely incredible 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Danil absolutely nails the vocal! WOW!
If you liked this cover, you should check out Leonid & Friends cover classic Chicago cuts. Mind-blowing. I have yet to hear a cover band anywhere on the planet equal to this group and here's why: First, keep in mind that they are half a world away, both geographically and culturally. Yet they are able to interpret not merely chords, arrangements, vocals, phrasing, etc. They flawlessly interpret the essense of the selections, the mood of the times, the subtleties and meaning of the verses to an astonishing degree. Their artistry extends way beyond mere musical talent. They are unique because of their ability to interpret the cultural, social, and environmental influences that helped shape these great songs in the first place, half a world away.
The is now the definitive cover version of this hit song, for I believe if you close your eyes you would swear it was actually EWF and the amazing vocals of Philip Bailey taking us on a "fantasy" journey.
His voice *does* have an uncanny resemblance, agreed. Intonation and rhythm are spot on.
Are you sure it's not EW&F? 😂
Amazing!
@@kmach1000 I had to listen REALLY closely...for a mo, I thought they were lip syncing😊!
@@kellyhoward6941 True! 😆
They are a great band, no doubt about it. But, honestly, he doesn’t really sound that much like Phillip Bailey to me. I actually think he sounds more like Eddie Kendricks or a mix between the two.
If I was listening to the music with no video, I would think that at least SOME the same musicians were involved and that a great falsetto singer was involved but not actually Phillip Bailey!
Bailey is really in a class by himself.. And he sings whistle register when he sings this song live. Which takes it up to an absolutely unbelievable freakishly good level. Go type in to hood and listen to EWF song called “Mighty Mighty” and listen to Phillip Baileys soaring falsetto/whistle register toward the end, he’s a stone cold FREAK OF NATURE!
Phillip Bailey is in a class all by himself.. trust me on that.
My jaw just drops with every new offering from L&F, especially the ones from EWF and Chicago and I totally enjoy your reactions to each one, Harri.
They also do Steely Dan! Check out My Old School- it’s phenomenal!
@@TheDivayenta love it.
I LOVE seeing Harri Best's reaction. I feel the same way listening to Leonid and Friends. Leonid and Friends are just INCREDIBLE. LOVE this group. Insanely good,
Love them🎉❤🎉
THEY DON'T DISAPPOINT. Leonid & Friends are excellent, outstanding, delightful.
This is the greatest Band on the Planet right now !!!
Can't get any better than this.....
Man, Daniil absolutely NAILED it! That's a hard line to sing at the end, but Daniil slayed it...the whole band is just incredible! I would LOVE to meet these guys, maybe someday...
Incredible. Love your reviews❤I saw them live last September. Jaw dropping performance.😁
THE MAN WHO ARRANGED THIS MUSIC--------DID IT ALL BY EAR. ALL OF IT !
I had the same reaction as you friend ,tears in my eyes ...old man 75 ...........
One of the BEST covers my ears have EVER heard!
I've never heard anything like what this incredible group of musicians puts out. I understand that they're some of the best pop musicians in Russia, but the phenomenal talent devoted to covers is amazing!
They may all be Russian now but they were not. Serge co founder is Ukrainian, and Sergey is Moldovan. They have both left and it's said for family etc. In truth I think the reasoning goes deeper and may just come from governments and they can not say that of course.
They are Russian and Ukrainians working together.
They are not known in Russia. There are almost no comments in Russian under their videos on TH-cam.
I want 2 marry /all of them is just how much i luv themmmm !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111111111
Serge had to leave and join the Ukraine mandatory military service for the Russian war against Ukraine
Absolutely nuts!! FANTASTIC
Le meilleur groupe j’adore j’ai 60ans j’ai l’impression de les écouter pour la première fois c’est fantastique unique
It's interesting you mentioned the bassist... who is Leonid, the founder/leader of this group, and also happens to be responsible for transcribing (recreating the musical parts) from the original arrangement, as well as being the sound mixer and mastering engineer! I don't believe I've ever heard a musician/recording engineer this capable of recreating a beloved recording so faithfully.
When he started the band, he first arranged many Chicago hits WITH NO ORIGINAL SCORES! He did it by EAR! He/they were so good that Chicago even put a link to them on their website and Chicago's drummer sat in with them during a live performance!
Even on the junk audio format that YT provides it sounds great. The "Does Anybody Know What Time it IS" audio capture is phenomenal, especially the horns.
These guys are stunning! Best cover group on the planet. Every one of their songs are worth checking out...
I didn't reach the vocals yet but HOLY SHEEEEET of paper..these musicians SOUND INCREDIBLE!!!!! Its not even funny how good they sound
They are so damn good!!!
this is a reminder to the world, that music is a great uniter...!!!!! a bunch of russians in the 2000s doing an amazing job covering R&B from the 1970s.....
I've been watching these guys for over a year now. When I first heard them they totally blew my mind. Bringing so many artists together who are at the top of their game. Just, well wow !!!!!!!!!! It's like listening to honey, it makes my ears, heart and mind feel soooooo good.
Leonid & Friends are world class..!!! This band easily leaves every other band doing a cover version miles behind.
What an excellent choice, this band is just fantastic. Thanks Michael and I have a feeling Harri liked it too. 😉
Hi Cynthia, Thank you; I'm happy to have been able to share it with you! - Brooklyn Mike
God this band is so incredible bravo bravo. Thank you Maurice for bringing this music for all us to enjoy RIP BROTHER .....RIP. And yes I too get a lump in my throat when listening
i WAS 31 Y/O IN THAT SUMMER OF '78---------THIS WAS MY #1 SONG ALL THAT SUMMER. AWESOME !!!
My favorite Earth, Wind and Fire song! They sound just like the original. If I was only listening to the audio and hadn't watched the video, I would have assumed it was EWF.
Leonid and Friends don't play -- around! If you're going to do a cover, take notes watching these guys and gals. They knocked it out of the park, Michael - thanks to you and Harri!
Hi PN, Thank you; I'm happy to have been able to share it with you! - Brooklyn Mike
7:58 I loved your standing ovation!
I got to 5' 26'' and suffered with the same emotional reaction as you HarriBest. I have tears of joy in my eyes. They are phenomenally excellent. I just discovered them this week. If you haven't already, see EW&F In The Stone by Leonid and Friends, Also Chaka's Ain't Nobody. You'll be shedding buckets of tears as to how good these guys really are
Insanely Incredible sound. The highest level talent possible. Could listen to this continuously forever.
Harri, dear- you are the ONLY top reactor listening to this amazing band. You’re musical taste is the best!!!!! I can’t Believe that Danil can do both Maurice AND Phillip!!! I hope they’ll come to the UK. I was so lucky to see them here in California. ❤😊
I saw them in Columbus Ohio and a great concert it was.
when you close your eyes and hear that beautiful guys from the honarable , you will feel the honest and blessed sound of EW&F to your guts .....!
They've also given us something we didn't know we needed: an up close view of how incredibly talented Chicago and EWF are. Something about seeing it played..
Now you HAVE to hear Leonid do Earth Wind and Fire "September". One of my favs by them
Extraordinarios estos rusos no hay más que aplaudirles y darles las gracias por recordarnos esta música maravillosa. Gracias por tu programa.
👍🙏❤yesss.....and written in the stone👍
Leonid and Friends just keep on giving us great stuff
I love this song!!!, and the cover band is phenomenal, I’m glad you are ready enjoying it!!
Fabulous!!!!!!!
What a astonishing tribute to the funky gods EW&F 🥰🤩😁😛
Hi Harri, Thank you for doing my request. I'm happy to have shared it with you. I will be seeing these guys for the 5th time on June 15th. I hope that you have the opportunity to see them one day. Realize that when you acknowledge the bassist, that is the great Leonid himself: the musical genius that makes this magic possible! - Brooklyn Mike
Thank you Michael
Holy cow!! When he started singing, my jaw dropped. I was afraid to even listen to this, a cover of this song seemed almost blasphemous. But I'm converted! I got to see EWF in '76 or '77. It was INCREDIBLE! I'm sorry you never got to see 'em live. I've loved 'em since high school, & am astounded this cover is so good! Great reaction, thank you!!
Holy Guacamole Batwomyn !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
It was surprising
@@puremontana5010 It sure was!!
Exactly, I get chills when I listen....EVERTIME! Thank you so very much.
Leonid and Friends have made a fabulous tribute to Earth Wind and Fire and the genius of black music before RAP ....
Great reaction. Like so many other songs they've played to perfection, they sure nailed this one as well. These guys are so ultra talented it's ridiculous. The fact they do covers to actual "reaL' music from back in the day is so refreshing, Grew up listenong to EW&F, Chicago, etc. and having these iconic songs brought back to perfection in today's age is stunning. Simply unreal.
So glad you found Leoni and Friends. I’ve seen them twice in concert. They have excellent Chicago covers like “I’m a man” And “Beginning”.
Kay, it was both of those songs that were my introduction to L&R. I have had the privilege to see them 3 times. I'm missing them this year as they are touring the East coast right now, but they are truly the best!
@@janiscollette1737 I saw them in Pasadena and San Juan Capistrano. My cousins and my sister have made it a family outing
You have discovered a diamond. As have I !!
Just gives me chills
The first time I heard this I was absolutely ASTOUNDED! Those vocals…WHAT??!
Unbelievable! Never heard any band do EWF a better honor! I was just blown away.
SO GLAD you discovered these guys!!!! They are INCREDIBLE!!!
I am so glad I wasnt the only one with that reaction about this band... so butter smooth....
They are insanely good. It makes me cry too.
Talent has no limits. Just wow
Harri, your heart was captured. These are some of the finest musicians in the world. The leader has given them the magic and joy of EWF’s very complex song.
Considered the #1 Cover Band in the world according to Billboard. L&F
GREAT MUSICIANS HAVE A GREAT EAR & CAN CARRY THE VERY ENERGY OF THE MUSIC THE REPRODUCE! BRILLIANT - LEONID & FRIENDS!!👏👏👏👏
The greatest cover band I've ever heard.
What a star turn for Danil!! This is such a beautiful piece. Bravo to the band and all personnel. What a joy!
Dude, I feel you, man.
I recognize Leonid, the drummer and the female vocalist, the rest are part of a rotating cast of, I don't know,
outstanding session musicians?
This bands catalogue is TO DIE FOR, it transcends words and the depth of singers and musicians seems bottomless.
Yeah man, these guys are a MUST SEE live, full stop.
The touring group consists of 11 (10 male, 1 female). The strings, percussion, and some of the brass are added for this selection.
Leonid & Friends are a MUST for fans of Chicago and other funky, horn-driven bands, well worth going down the rabbit hole with these guys.
I've seen Leonid & Friends 7x, they never disappoint. Their pursuit of excellence is unrivaled. And they are wonderful folks.
u lucky, jammy dude!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11111111111111
I never heard of this band but holy cow!!! Everything you said about them is so true. They are incredible and I've been a huge EWF fan since I was 15, 46 years ago.
There are many on youtube to sample.
They're phenomenal. You'll be playing their videos for some time. :)
They are currently on tour. Incredible!
You and I are the same age. :)
Okay, that was real nice! He hit the note!!!!!
I first heard Leonid & Friends a few yrs ago when I was introduced to them by one of my brothers. THEY ARE PHENOMENAL.
I dont know how to dance, but if I did, I'd dance to them, playing Fantasy, with my lady.
I've heard them do other cover songs. They're amazing !
This band is truly amazing! Found them by accident over a year ago.
Saw them for the first time in Kansas City this past October.
Bought two tickets up front and
was absolutely blown away! Amazing performance, amazing talent!😘
The most perfect song ever created!
I agree 100% I found this amazing group as along time Chicago Fan L&F preformed at a our local venue I was blown away by thier performance. As a bonus they added EWF and Steely Dan to thier set list. I felt like I was in Heaven! As a former musician Drummer/Percussionist I attend many many venues. The best by far was Chicago/EWF tour.L&F brought me back to that day! I close my eyes and feel the music that hits my soul. Keep the music alive my friend! I enjoyed your comments and sharing the emotion!
Amazing, brilliant, perfect, I am in tears! So good!