America is so underrated in my opinion, honestly their melodies and harmonies are right up there with Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young. Some other incredible songs by them are "I Need You," "Only In Your Heart," "Tin Man," "To Each Their Own," and "Sister Golden Hair" which became a radio staple.
You'd be surprised Tony. Radio stations especially have only ever propped up CSNY. Some even going as far as calling America just a pale imitator. 99 percent of the time "A Horse With No Name" and "Sister Golden Hair" are the only songs that receive radio play. So no, I don't live under a rock but today's generation has zero interest in their parents' "dinosaur bands."
@@Reshyrah Hmm..."Tin Man" and "Ventura Highway" were big hits and among their most played on radio, even last decade when I occasionally still turned it on. It's unlikely that George Martin would've chosen to be their producer if they were merely a CSN/Y clone. That's lazy criticism, an ill-informed view held by those who never actually listened beyond some of their earliest songs when they were still developing their style and hadn't always transcended their influences. These guys were more direct and less jazzy than CSN/Y with a strong pop sensibility and inventive arrangements.
Underrated. Hmm. Not when I lived thru the 70s and 80s. They are part of the sonic fabric of that era. Iconic. Bigger bands bigger successes more play don’t make other acts less important or influential.
The writer of Ventura Highway, Dewey Bunnell, explained: "The “alligator lizards in the air” came from another actual memory of living in California. My brother and I used to catch lizards and snakes all the time. There is an actual animal here called an alligator lizard. But this was also referring to a cloud formation, a shape. A long cloud that reminded me of an alligator lizard."
I grew up in a small town just east of San Diego. We had lots of snakes and lizards as well. And yes, we had had one that we called alligator lizards. They were pretty feisty and a pretty good bite. When this song came out, I really loved that part. Yeah, I figured it was cloud formations. Back before video games and cellphones we actually used our imaginations and looked at the sky. So many great songs from them.
Three down, so many more to go. "Sister Golden Hair" is a classic. "Lonely People", "Tin Man", "I Need You", and "Daisy Jane" are also wonderful songs. Thanks for reacting!
My boy Jay!!! Caught the “purple rain” reference!! Way to go. Amber you’ll like this too: I read that Prince loved this song and credits America for the inspiration behind HIS “Purple Rain.”Can so picture Prince kickin’ back in the day listening to this and hearing that line, studying the melodies and harmonies, and storing the phrase away for another day. So good!🔥🤙
@@Cosmo-Kramer There are 2 articles that are referred to as sources for this on Wiki, but it does not link directly to them, though they may be on the internet archive. So it's quite possibly true but we cant read the source unless someone does the legwork.
The track marked the emergence of Prince as rock royalty, and served as a bold rebuke to his detractors. Three years earlier, he had been subjected to vociferous abuse by a hostile, racist LA crowd, who baulked at seeing a playfully epicene, black performer open for The Rolling Stones. Now here he was delivering an arena hit for the ages: a rock anthem devoid of machismo, a power ballad stripped of schmaltzy histrionics. Pervasive throughout is an almost numinous gospel spirit, one that dismantled any false dichotomies between “black” soul music and “white” guitar-led rock. Yet “Purple Rain” was initially conceived as a country-inflected duet with Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks, who turned it down, claiming Prince’s vision for the song was “too much” for her. All that’s left of its country origins is its evocative title - which Prince lifted from the song “Ventura Highway” by the folk-rock group America, of anonymous-horse riding fame. ig.ft.com/life-of-a-song/purple-rain.html
@@gurulimbo Thanks for the link. Of course this doesn't even provide a quote from Prince about the song's name. The writer here is merely saying that Prince "lifted" the title from America. Well where did the writer hear that? Did he ever hear Prince say it, or was he just making an assumption based on the peculiarity of the phrase, that Prince *must have* gotten from the America song? My contention stands that Prince never said he got it from, "Ventura Highway", even though it seems clear that he did. But Prince talked glowingly about his influences, like The Stylistics whom he covered. But never mentioned America AFAIK.
This is one of Janet Jackson's favorite songs. She said she loved driving along the actual Ventura Highway by herself listening to this song. She said it was her "escape song." She had always wanted to do a cover of this song, but what she ended up doing was sampling this song in her song "Someone To Call My Lover."
“Alligator lizards in the air;” when I was working an assignment in Sonoma County, California I’d see those all the time sunning themselves on my porch. Tried to catch one but they’re speedy little things. This song has such California vibes. I thought you guys might like it 😊 It’s definitely a summer playlist staple. Edit: I think I read that they were referencing animal shapes in the clouds with that alligator lizard lyric. It’s just a memory the writer had from watching clouds while driving down the coast.
Great reaction to a 70's classic.This version must be a remastered version. When you have time,listen to the original studio version.I personally think it sounds better.Keep up the great reactions!
Love love this song. Lived in Los Angeles when it was popular and I knew Ventura Highway quite well. God, such memories!! How can you not love it! Summer, wind and sand and ocean.
Nice to hear of your memories...it's such a crazy world these days. The song gives me nice memories of my childhood when this song was playing on the radio.
I’ve listened to this song literally thousands of times. Would put it in when driving on Ventura highway. Such good memories. I’m SO HAPPY you two have really gotten into our music. You’ll be playing it the rest of your lives, and it will always make you happy!
Yes Cindi, these are good memories. I was fortunate enough to live in Isla Vista (IV) in the 70's. This was a beautiful stretch of highway. People tended to lean heavy on the gas pedal. But to wind along the coast with the ocean view of the islands and the clean ocean air blowing in was just amazing.
How did you not notice it's not the original version of the song then?? I don't know what this is but it certainly is not America doing this song in 1972 like the original.
Saw them in concert in 2006 or 07, and gotta say, it was probably one of the best concerts I've been to. Played every song they ever did, and were very friendly. They even came out after the show and hung out at the merch tables to talk to the fans. Just a class act all around.
My favorite America song. Great song by a great band. Also try "Sister Golden Hair" and "Lonely People." Such great singers and musicians. Love the reaction. Peace!
Also my favorite. Just a great song, Nostalgia, and that just take me away feeling. The first time I heard it on the radio, as soon as it was over I wanted to hear it again. I really like songs that make you feel a certain way.
The very first time I drove on the Ventura Highway (I34) this song came on the radio. Blue skies, fluffy clouds and 84 degrees. The volume went up and the windows came down. Every time I hear it again I can remember that beautiful moment. ✌️
I'll never forget hearing this once while driving on the Ventura freeway, back when traffic was not heavy. The day was absolutely beautiful, and i wanted the song and the drive to go on forever.
My grandparents loved in Orange County when I was younger. We lived just north of Santa Barbara. Every weekend we would drive down the 1 into the 5. This song always reminds me of those days past. Now that my grandpa has passed, this song means so much more. We bacana best friends during the last years of his life.
It was the reverse for me in the 70's. I grew up in Hollywood and my grandmother lived in Santa Barbara. Almost every weekend we went up the 101 through Ventura. One of the memorable spots was going over the hill down into Camarillo and the line of Eucalyptus trees that divided the highway that are now gone. Near Ventura there was the Big Yellow House restaurant that I always wanted to go to. When you got into S.B. you had traffic lights for a few blocks. I still try to stop at the original location of The Habit burger place in Goleta whenever going through the area.
Born and raised in Southern California and Ventura Highway is an actual Highway here and we do have alligator lizards, lol! This song makes me think of just warm sunny summertime in California ❤ it really brings back memories and puts a smile on my face 😊
Dean Tait I think so ,too! I left a comment a few minutes ago saying that the guitar riff heard throughout this song is the ring tone on my cell phone. Incidentally, I've never been to California - grew up in the Appalachian Mts.
LOVE LOVE this song. You definitely need to check out more America. “Daisy Jane” is a personal favorite of mine. Also, can we get more Jim Croce please “Operator (Thats Not The Way It Feels)”
This is one of my favorite songs of all time. I think i first heard this when i was 12-13 in 72 and 73. The guitar intro is so good all of it is just so good. I hope yall enjoy. Be interesting to hear from you both about your top fives that you have found on your journey.
This has one of my all time favourite guitar riffs ❤ I love this song! This is a road trip must for my playlist. America did the soundtrack to one of my childhood favourite films, The Last Unicorn
@@karicastanza5216 ❤ I still love that movie too! It had a lot of big name actors in it at the time and, of course, America did the whole soundtrack. My husband bought it for me back when we were dating (on DVD) but I can remember watching it as a kid on laser disc at my grandparents house 😂
Dewey Bunnell, the song's vocalist and writer has said that the lyric "alligator lizards in the air" in the song is a reference to the shapes of clouds in the sky he saw in 1963 while his family was driving down the coast.
THIS is an iconic song. I sing it in the car pretty much every time I drive down Ventura Highway (or even just driving toward Ventura). I had the lyrics near memorized from the first couple times I heard it. And yet, to this day I never get the lyrics 100% right. Hah. Thank you for another fun reaction video. A couple recommendations: Petula Clark, "I Couldn't Live Without Your Love"; The Vogues, "Turn Around, Look at Me"
I love when I watch people find and appreciate music that I’ve loved and has been part of my life for decades. It’s making a connection with strangers. Connecting through music. It’s a beautiful thing.
Janet Jackson years later had a hit song, "Someone to call my lover" that used this songs riff as a sample. It's also a great song. Alligator Lizards are native to CA & they'll jump.
Takes me back. When I was a kid, we would vacation in the Pocono mountains with some of my parents’ friends. Sitting up late in the cabin, playing cards and listening to America, Steeley Dan, Jefferson Starship, Fleetwood Mac, whatever cassettes the adults had in their cars. Now I need to call my mother.
Just a HELLO from sunny California!! I love y'all so much,I start my day off every day with ur channel!! Ur my absolute favorite reactors!! I've been here since y'all first started! Great song,my mom used to play this! I was a teenager in the mid 80's, I always want to say oh Amber your mom and I grew up at the same time and we listen to the same music! I was definitely an 80s girl dressed like Madonna with an attitude to match! :-) keep up the good work we love you so much.. ❤️❤️ Dannie ❤️❤️
This version is slightly different than the single version that was played on the radio. As for alligator lizards in the air, all I’ll say is this group - after their first album - were not known for their lyrics particularly making sense. For your next song, I would suggest more from their first album, including Three Roses, Sandman and Donkey Jaw. All gave beautiful acoustic guitar work.
It's different than the album version (which the single version is as shorter iteration of), and unfortunately doesn't portray the sheer stellar-ness of this song. Amber and Jay, Here is a link to the appropriate version. th-cam.com/video/H_417HPjVFI/w-d-xo.html
Had the pleasure to see them in 2017 in a small venue here in LA.. Been a huge fan of theirs since the 70's. So many great songs and what a performance up close and personal. One of my favorites is Sister Golden Hair and Daisy Jane. At the end of the show, I was able to meet the band backstage for a "quick meet and greet/handshakes". I was a little star struck for a few minutes I might say. Took some great video on my phone, which I visit from time to time. Love your channel guys.. Keep discovering great music. Remember, music will ALWAYS bring people together!!!!!!!
It doesn’t get any better than the music of America! They’re amazing musicians and songwriters! Pure talent! “All My Life” is one of my favorites ever by them. Very sweet.
I envy you so much …..hearing beautiful songs like this for the first time. I heard someone say this song makes them feel nostalgic for something they never had ..which I thought was great
This is the 40th Anniversary version, not the original. It's just a thing with me but I always have a problem with re-do's or re-mixes so I can't vibe to this. The original however is fire.
Great reaction to a terrific song guys! Amber: you really MUST check out It's A Long Way There by The Little River Band: it will push ALL your trippy/hippy/1970s buttons, I promise ☺☺☺. Make sure you get the LONG version (over 8 mins): there's a cut-down-for-radio version that criminally loses the main guitar solo.
America is so underrated. Two songs remind me of my older sister, JoAnn, Sister Golden Hair and Daisy Jane. She loved both songs and she loved the band, Bread. I miss her so much!
This song is way deeper than you can imagine. The artist and super rich have access to places you and I don’t have a clue about. It’s a story of the band’s journey to one of these places. Purple rain, prince & others talk about in their songs too. The nights are brighter than moonshine, alligator lizards. They ask Joe if he wants to stay and that he can always change his name. He refrains and says thank but no thanks. Maybe a place beyond the ice wall. Definitely a very deep song
The alligator and lizards in the air I think are clouds. I forget who wrote this because as a boy he was on a rode trip with his family and they got a flat tire. He wrote of things on the ride. I picture him laying in the grass looking up at the clouds.
Man, you guys have the most addictive review channel. Theres alot of em out there but I gave up all of em but you. Much appreciated. I know almost everything you review but its great because Im reminded of bands I forgot about. I end up going out on my patio, opening a beer and binging on the artist you share. Much thanks.
A long time ago when I was nineteen, a group consisting of myself and some friends went camping along the Klamath River in Southern Oregon. Anyway, one of the spots we camped at was along the rocky shoreline of the river. There were trees/bushes that weren't very tall, and the day was extremely hot. We noticed that among the trees were these lizards that would jump and soar through the air from branch to branch. They seemed to be everywhere. Eventually we also noticed the location contained a lot of rather sizable rattlesnakes, so we got the heck out and went swimming somewhere else. But over the years, that lyric: "Alligator lizards in the air" always reminds me of that place.
Saw them about 10 years ago and they sounded amazing still. This song is definitely trance worthy Amber. Their harmonies are so beautiful and with the instruments (diddly do do) I agree Jordan are so captivating. Lots more hits yet. Great reaction. Buckets of Maple Syrup love from Canada ❤️ ❤️ 🇨🇦🇨🇦
Since you love harmonies try the Association- "Never My Love", "Cherish", "Windy", "Everything That Touches You" and "Along Comes Mary" are a few of their hits.
I was 17 driving in California Highways first time so can relate. We had this in car was an 8 track tape bilayer and listened to America's harmonies as well as Moody Blues, Doobie Brothers, Pink Floyd, Yds, Heart Steely Dan , Fleetwood Mac Loggins &Messina and Wayne Shorter, Miles Davis, Paul Horn, for a little Jazz Was All was Good. M3 and my Soul Mate. Bliss
I loved this group and these songs were a staple on AM radio in the early 70’s. Did you know that they were from Britain? Three founding members were stationed in Britain when they were in the USA Air Force.
It's a combination of memories. Coasting down the PCH (Hwy 1), and watching clouds, that were reminiscent in shape to the lizards that were caught in childhood. One of the most freeing songs, ever. It helps me, this day, so much. ☮️Peace☮️A Just Peace ☮️
I've said this to you folks before and I'll say it again, this song and others off this album captures the very essence and vibe of the seventies. Gets to me every time I hear them
Yay!!! Finally! One of my favorite songs! 😁👍🏻💜 You need to actually drive down Ventura highway and listen to this! It's on the California coastline I believe. 🥰
I like a lot of America's music. 'I Need You' is a good song, and also 'Today's The Day.' I heard somewhere that song was written about the songwriter's dog who had run away. Each day he would think that 'today's the day' the dog would be found. As a lover of dogs, this makes me sad but it's a pretty song all the same.
According to an old interview: The “alligator lizards in the air” came from another actual memory of living in California. My brother and I used to catch lizards and snakes all the time. There is an actual animal here called an alligator lizard. But this was also referring to a cloud formation, a shape. A long cloud that reminded me of an alligator lizard.
One of my favorite concerts was seeing America at the "Palace Theater" Providence RI in 1973. A great place for a concert. I agree with all the songs mentioned, here's another one to add to the list if it wasn't mentioned yet "Don't Cross the River". Yea I enjoyed the 70's
Hey my brother & sister you MUST go way back to Benny Goodman’s Sing, Sing Sing. Big band will blow your mess out especially when Benny rocks his clarinet. This is a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ song!
LOVE this song. Jay I like the doodly doot door do part too. As soon as that guitar opens up I am just enthralled in the song. It's funny because I think of this song as a great gentle move around song like ride your bike or go for a walk or go to the park and roll down a hill or something like you used to when you were a kid something with a breeze and a beautiful sky.
![Steve Forbert - "Early Morning Rain" (Live at Turning Point in Piermont, NY, 10-20-24) [Audio Only]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/uET1lojyAd8/mqdefault.jpg)
![America • “Ventura Highway”/Interview/“Daisy Jane” • 1990 [Reelin' In The Years Archive]](/img/n.gif)
America is so underrated in my opinion, honestly their melodies and harmonies are right up there with Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young. Some other incredible songs by them are "I Need You," "Only In Your Heart," "Tin Man," "To Each Their Own," and "Sister Golden Hair" which became a radio staple.
Underrated?. Where have you been?. Under a rock. Back in the 70s they had hit after hit and even in the 80s they had hits.
America is better than crosby stills and nash.....way better!!
You'd be surprised Tony. Radio stations especially have only ever propped up CSNY. Some even going as far as calling America just a pale imitator. 99 percent of the time "A Horse With No Name" and "Sister Golden Hair" are the only songs that receive radio play. So no, I don't live under a rock but today's generation has zero interest in their parents' "dinosaur bands."
@@Reshyrah Hmm..."Tin Man" and "Ventura Highway" were big hits and among their most played on radio, even last decade when I occasionally still turned it on.
It's unlikely that George Martin would've chosen to be their producer if they were merely a CSN/Y clone. That's lazy criticism, an ill-informed view held by those who never actually listened beyond some of their earliest songs when they were still developing their style and hadn't always transcended their influences. These guys were more direct and less jazzy than CSN/Y with a strong pop sensibility and inventive arrangements.
Underrated. Hmm. Not when I lived thru the 70s and 80s. They are part of the sonic fabric of that era. Iconic. Bigger bands bigger successes more play don’t make other acts less important or influential.
The writer of Ventura Highway, Dewey Bunnell, explained: "The “alligator lizards in the air” came from another actual memory of living in California. My brother and I used to catch lizards and snakes all the time. There is an actual animal here called an alligator lizard. But this was also referring to a cloud formation, a shape. A long cloud that reminded me of an alligator lizard."
Thank goodness! I thought it was an LSD/DMT-type reference.
I thought they were just having some of that moonshine while writing the song!
I grew up in a small town just east of San Diego. We had lots of snakes and lizards as well. And yes, we had had one that we called alligator lizards. They were pretty feisty and a pretty good bite. When this song came out, I really loved that part. Yeah, I figured it was cloud formations. Back before video games and cellphones we actually used our imaginations and looked at the sky. So many great songs from them.
That was my guess, cloud formations,but I wasn't sure. Good call.
@@davidhowell7279 DID YOU GO TO MURRAY MANOR ?
I'd give the original version a listen. It's similar, but just sounds better to me than the 40th edition where their voices sound a little older.
Sounds almost like it's dragging
Exactly!!!! Can't beat the original. This sounds weird to me.
Couldn’t agree more. The original is one of my all time favorites by them
Can’t even listen to this version. So bad from Apple tinkering
I wondered why this sounded off. Thank you for mentioning this.
Three down, so many more to go. "Sister Golden Hair" is a classic. "Lonely People", "Tin Man", "I Need You", and "Daisy Jane" are also wonderful songs. Thanks for reacting!
I 2nd Sister Golden Hair!
Don't forget Sandman
Don't forget The last Unicorn, pretty sure that was America.
@@Bekka_Noyb I third Sister Golden Hair, which is my favorite by them but this one is a close second.
THESE ☝️ just to name a few. This is one of the bands you can start from the beginning and never have to stop. Every song is a homerun.
My boy Jay!!! Caught the “purple rain” reference!! Way to go. Amber you’ll like this too: I read that Prince loved this song and credits America for the inspiration behind HIS “Purple Rain.”Can so picture Prince kickin’ back in the day listening to this and hearing that line, studying the melodies and harmonies, and storing the phrase away for another day. So good!🔥🤙
Did not know that! Cool info! Thanks! Prince was The Man!
Please provide a link because Prince never said that as far as I know.
@@Cosmo-Kramer There are 2 articles that are referred to as sources for this on Wiki, but it does not link directly to them, though they may be on the internet archive. So it's quite possibly true but we cant read the source unless someone does the legwork.
The track marked the emergence of Prince as rock royalty, and served as a bold rebuke to his detractors. Three years earlier, he had been subjected to vociferous abuse by a hostile, racist LA crowd, who baulked at seeing a playfully epicene, black performer open for The Rolling Stones. Now here he was delivering an arena hit for the ages: a rock anthem devoid of machismo, a power ballad stripped of schmaltzy histrionics. Pervasive throughout is an almost numinous gospel spirit, one that dismantled any false dichotomies between “black” soul music and “white” guitar-led rock.
Yet “Purple Rain” was initially conceived as a country-inflected duet with Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks, who turned it down, claiming Prince’s vision for the song was “too much” for her. All that’s left of its country origins is its evocative title - which Prince lifted from the song “Ventura Highway” by the folk-rock group America, of anonymous-horse riding fame. ig.ft.com/life-of-a-song/purple-rain.html
@@gurulimbo Thanks for the link. Of course this doesn't even provide a quote from Prince about the song's name. The writer here is merely saying that Prince "lifted" the title from America. Well where did the writer hear that? Did he ever hear Prince say it, or was he just making an assumption based on the peculiarity of the phrase, that Prince *must have* gotten from the America song? My contention stands that Prince never said he got it from, "Ventura Highway", even though it seems clear that he did. But Prince talked glowingly about his influences, like The Stylistics whom he covered. But never mentioned America AFAIK.
This is one of Janet Jackson's favorite songs. She said she loved driving along the actual Ventura Highway by herself listening to this song. She said it was her "escape song." She had always wanted to do a cover of this song, but what she ended up doing was sampling this song in her song "Someone To Call My Lover."
“Alligator lizards in the air;” when I was working an assignment in Sonoma County, California I’d see those all the time sunning themselves on my porch. Tried to catch one but they’re speedy little things. This song has such California vibes. I thought you guys might like it 😊 It’s definitely a summer playlist staple. Edit: I think I read that they were referencing animal shapes in the clouds with that alligator lizard lyric. It’s just a memory the writer had from watching clouds while driving down the coast.
Where did you live in Sonoma County? I grew up in Petaluma,Ca.
Grew up in Pinole, CA myself! Hey neighbors!❤
I love America! I hope you like this one as much as I do!
I DO ! ❤️
Yes from Germany
Love the group and the song (by Simon and Garfunkel)
You won't find a bad America song. Beautiful, easy listening.
Great reaction to a 70's classic.This version must be a remastered version. When you have time,listen to the original studio version.I personally think it sounds better.Keep up the great reactions!
It sounds more like a re-recorded version from the 1980's. Thin and glossed over with too much polish and effects.
Yeah I really did not like this version at all. I was all thrown off. Lol
I noticed the difference, too.
this version sounds hollow, compared to the original..
Yeah, this version is messed up. Drags and cuts in and out. What a drag.
Agree!!!
Love love this song. Lived in Los Angeles when it was popular and I knew Ventura Highway quite well. God, such memories!! How can you not love it! Summer, wind and sand and ocean.
Nice to hear of your memories...it's such a crazy world these days. The song gives me nice memories of my childhood when this song was playing on the radio.
I AM SO LUCKY TO HAVE MY TEENAGE YEARS IN THE 70’S ! LOVE THE 70’S ! ❤️
@@deborahbishop3300 Me too!!
I’ve listened to this song literally thousands of times. Would put it in when driving on Ventura highway. Such good memories.
I’m SO HAPPY you two have really gotten into our music. You’ll be playing it the rest of your lives, and it will always make you happy!
Yes Cindi, these are good memories. I was fortunate enough to live in Isla Vista (IV) in the 70's. This was a beautiful stretch of highway. People tended to lean heavy on the gas pedal. But to wind along the coast with the ocean view of the islands and the clean ocean air blowing in was just amazing.
How did you not notice it's not the original version of the song then?? I don't know what this is but it certainly is not America doing this song in 1972 like the original.
Saw them in concert in 2006 or 07, and gotta say, it was probably one of the best concerts I've been to. Played every song they ever did, and were very friendly. They even came out after the show and hung out at the merch tables to talk to the fans. Just a class act all around.
My favorite America song. Great song by a great band. Also try "Sister Golden Hair" and "Lonely People." Such great singers and musicians. Love the reaction. Peace!
Sister Golden Hair is my fav
Also my favorite. Just a great song, Nostalgia, and that just take me away feeling. The first time I heard it on the radio, as soon as it was over I wanted to hear it again. I really like songs that make you feel a certain way.
You just can't go wrong with America! You need to check out Sister Golden Hair or Tin Man.
Wonderful song! Haven't heard it in a long time. Thanks! 🥰 Try "Sister Golden Hair", "Lonely People", "Tin Man" and "I Need You".
The very first time I drove on the Ventura Highway (I34) this song came on the radio. Blue skies, fluffy clouds and 84 degrees. The volume went up and the windows came down. Every time I hear it again I can remember that beautiful moment. ✌️
I'll never forget hearing this once while driving on the Ventura freeway, back when traffic was not heavy. The day was absolutely beautiful, and i wanted the song and the drive to go on forever.
My grandparents loved in Orange County when I was younger. We lived just north of Santa Barbara. Every weekend we would drive down the 1 into the 5. This song always reminds me of those days past. Now that my grandpa has passed, this song means so much more. We bacana best friends during the last years of his life.
AWWW ! ☺️
It was the reverse for me in the 70's. I grew up in Hollywood and my grandmother lived in Santa Barbara. Almost every weekend we went up the 101 through Ventura. One of the memorable spots was going over the hill down into Camarillo and the line of Eucalyptus trees that divided the highway that are now gone. Near Ventura there was the Big Yellow House restaurant that I always wanted to go to. When you got into S.B. you had traffic lights for a few blocks. I still try to stop at the original location of The Habit burger place in Goleta whenever going through the area.
@@RedBud315 SOUNDS AMAZING !
I feel truly blessed that I grew up with this kind of music as a kid in the 70’s.
What was once deemed Adult Contemporary is now called Yacht Rock.
Born and raised in Southern California and Ventura Highway is an actual Highway here and we do have alligator lizards, lol! This song makes me think of just warm sunny summertime in California ❤ it really brings back memories and puts a smile on my face 😊
If you guys don’t LOVE this song, there’s something wrong. IMO their Best Song ! Thanks
Dean Tait I think so ,too! I left a comment a few minutes ago saying that the guitar riff heard throughout this song is the ring tone on my cell phone. Incidentally, I've never been to California - grew up in the Appalachian Mts.
Yes!! America had so many great songs, and this is one of their best.
Saw them in Norman, OK. In ‘77!! Awesome! “Lonely People” is my favorite!!🤘🔥
Also, "Tin Man", "Lonely People", "Sister Golden Hair", "You Can Do Magic". These guys and Seals And Crofts back in the day......OH YEAH!!!!
Such a great song to have all the 70's vibe feels. Alligator lizards in the sky was from him being a little boy looking at clouds in the sky.
LOVE LOVE this song. You definitely need to check out more America. “Daisy Jane” is a personal favorite of mine. Also, can we get more Jim Croce please “Operator (Thats Not The Way It Feels)”
Yes, definitely more Jim Croce! "Operator" is my favorite song from him. Reminds me of a very personal situation.😥😞
I'm always up for Croce. I was singing "Operator" today while doing some work.
Also thought of "Roller Derby Blues"
1976, I'm riding a R75/5 Beemer, my buddy on a Bonny 750 on a road trip on Venture HWY. When I hear this song I close my eyes and I'm there.
This is one of my favorite songs of all time. I think i first heard this when i was 12-13 in 72 and 73. The guitar intro is so good all of it is just so good. I hope yall enjoy. Be interesting to hear from you both about your top fives that you have found on your journey.
One of the best songs ever and part of the soundtrack of our lives...
This has one of my all time favourite guitar riffs ❤ I love this song! This is a road trip must for my playlist. America did the soundtrack to one of my childhood favourite films, The Last Unicorn
One of my fav movies, too! I have the CD of the soundtrack. I don't own the movie anymore, though.
Minix That guitar riff is my ring tone! I get a lot of smiles out in public when my phone 'blows up'.
@@jaycorby it’s just beautiful and joyful to me at the same time ❤
@@karicastanza5216 ❤ I still love that movie too! It had a lot of big name actors in it at the time and, of course, America did the whole soundtrack. My husband bought it for me back when we were dating (on DVD) but I can remember watching it as a kid on laser disc at my grandparents house 😂
@@jaycorby Check out Janet's sampling the riff on some to call..th-cam.com/video/v2xLmhAo4NE/w-d-xo.html
Dewey Bunnell, the song's vocalist and writer has said that the lyric "alligator lizards in the air" in the song is a reference to the shapes of clouds in the sky he saw in 1963 while his family was driving down the coast.
America is one of my favourite groups they have so so many great songs!
THIS is an iconic song. I sing it in the car pretty much every time I drive down Ventura Highway (or even just driving toward Ventura). I had the lyrics near memorized from the first couple times I heard it. And yet, to this day I never get the lyrics 100% right. Hah. Thank you for another fun reaction video. A couple recommendations: Petula Clark, "I Couldn't Live Without Your Love"; The Vogues, "Turn Around, Look at Me"
Love America so much, love this song (especially the original version).
Oh wow! Just out of college, I saw America in concert, under the stars, on a beautiful summer night. A first date!
J/Amber, you'll love their "Sister Golden Hair" and "Tin Man" !!!
Sister Golden Hair!♥️
Sister Golden Hair is my favorite song by them,Easy.
Yes to the TINMAN 🔥🔥🔥
Yep. Tin Man live '75 even better than original.
I love when I watch people find and appreciate music that I’ve loved and has been part of my life for decades. It’s making a connection with strangers. Connecting through music. It’s a beautiful thing.
Sandman is a rock vibe that is rare for their style and a true gem ..
Janet Jackson years later had a hit song, "Someone to call my lover" that used this songs riff as a sample. It's also a great song. Alligator Lizards are native to CA & they'll jump.
Takes me back. When I was a kid, we would vacation in the Pocono mountains with some of my parents’ friends. Sitting up late in the cabin, playing cards and listening to America, Steeley Dan, Jefferson Starship, Fleetwood Mac, whatever cassettes the adults had in their cars. Now I need to call my mother.
For harmonies - Seals & Crofts "Hummingbird"
LOOOOOOVE this song! Especially after it was used in a pivotal scene of our favorite TV show, Veronica Mars.
America wrote beautiful easy listening songs. This is one of my favourties from them, amongst many gems! Wonderful!
Just a HELLO from sunny California!! I love y'all so much,I start my day off every day with ur channel!! Ur my absolute favorite reactors!! I've been here since y'all first started! Great song,my mom used to play this! I was a teenager in the mid 80's, I always want to say oh Amber your mom and I grew up at the same time and we listen to the same music! I was definitely an 80s girl dressed like Madonna with an attitude to match! :-) keep up the good work we love you so much.. ❤️❤️ Dannie ❤️❤️
This song is probably the epitome of the mid 70s California soft rock. Sister Golden Hair is really good
Yes! My favorite America song!😊❤️
I agree!
"Ah...Come on Joe...You can always change your name". One of my favorite lyrics ever!!!
😉
This version is slightly different than the single version that was played on the radio. As for alligator lizards in the air, all I’ll say is this group - after their first album - were not known for their lyrics particularly making sense. For your next song, I would suggest more from their first album, including Three Roses, Sandman and Donkey Jaw. All gave beautiful acoustic guitar work.
It's different than the album version (which the single version is as shorter iteration of), and unfortunately doesn't portray the sheer stellar-ness of this song.
Amber and Jay, Here is a link to the appropriate version. th-cam.com/video/H_417HPjVFI/w-d-xo.html
I only got to see them once in 1982 and that's when I was in the Air Force stationed at Aviano Air Force Base in Italy. What a great concert !
We were so blessed! Imagine? Turning on the radio and you’ve got: America, Eagles, Bread, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Jim Croce, James Taylor….
One of my favorite bands ever. Great harmonies! I've been listening to them a lot lately... "Tin man" is a great song too.
Had the pleasure to see them in 2017 in a small venue here in LA.. Been a huge fan of theirs since the 70's. So many great songs and what a performance up close and personal. One of my favorites is Sister Golden Hair and Daisy Jane. At the end of the show, I was able to meet the band backstage for a "quick meet and greet/handshakes". I was a little star struck for a few minutes I might say. Took some great video on my phone, which I visit from time to time. Love your channel guys.. Keep discovering great music. Remember, music will ALWAYS bring people together!!!!!!!
It doesn’t get any better than the music of America! They’re amazing musicians and songwriters! Pure talent! “All My Life” is one of my favorites ever by them. Very sweet.
My brother gave me this album for Christmas 1 year.... Great memory
One of my all time favorite bands. We were so blessed to have the music we did in the 70's, it was so creative and diverse and REAL!
Wish i could go back to 1970 , And be a teen again ..
I envy you so much …..hearing beautiful songs like this for the first time.
I heard someone say this song makes them feel nostalgic for something they never had ..which I thought was great
This is the 40th Anniversary version, not the original. It's just a thing with me but I always have a problem with re-do's or re-mixes so I can't vibe to this. The original however is fire.
When I was in high school this group was SOOO BIG, Played on the radio night and day.
Great reaction to a terrific song guys! Amber: you really MUST check out It's A Long Way There by The Little River Band: it will push ALL your trippy/hippy/1970s buttons, I promise ☺☺☺. Make sure you get the LONG version (over 8 mins): there's a cut-down-for-radio version that criminally loses the main guitar solo.
Another favorite American song..."SHE CAN DO MAGIC"
I get goosebumps every time at the beginning of this song.
Same, and it always makes me think of Janet Jackson.
Wow!! Haven't heard this in decades. Brings back nostalgic memories of days long passed... nice ones !
Gotta love songs that have a feel to them.
Oh how I miss the the 70's! Some of the best times and music when I was in my twenties. This 70 year old lady loves your videos. Keep them coming!
America is so underrated. Two songs remind me of my older sister, JoAnn, Sister Golden Hair and Daisy Jane. She loved both songs and she loved the band, Bread. I miss her so much!
One of THE iconic, definitive 70s tracks!!! Great call! 💜💜💜💥💥💥💯💯💯
Yeah Jay that guitar lick is wonderful. I’m a fan of these lyrics too.
This song is way deeper than you can imagine. The artist and super rich have access to places you and I don’t have a clue about. It’s a story of the band’s journey to one of these places. Purple rain, prince & others talk about in their songs too. The nights are brighter than moonshine, alligator lizards. They ask Joe if he wants to stay and that he can always change his name. He refrains and says thank but no thanks. Maybe a place beyond the ice wall. Definitely a very deep song
The alligator and lizards in the air I think are clouds. I forget who wrote this because as a boy he was on a rode trip with his family and they got a flat tire. He wrote of things on the ride. I picture him laying in the grass looking up at the clouds.
Correct!
Man, you guys have the most addictive review channel. Theres alot of em out there but I gave up all of em but you. Much appreciated. I know almost everything you review but its great because Im reminded of bands I forgot about. I end up going out on my patio, opening a beer and binging on the artist you share. Much thanks.
When I was a kid, every time this came on the radio, my dad would say "chewin' on a piece of glass" and I'd crack up! Dad jokes aren't new!😂😂
A long time ago when I was nineteen, a group consisting of myself and some friends went camping along the Klamath River in Southern Oregon. Anyway, one of the spots we camped at was along the rocky shoreline of the river. There were trees/bushes that weren't very tall, and the day was extremely hot. We noticed that among the trees were these lizards that would jump and soar through the air from branch to branch. They seemed to be everywhere. Eventually we also noticed the location contained a lot of rather sizable rattlesnakes, so we got the heck out and went swimming somewhere else. But over the years, that lyric: "Alligator lizards in the air" always reminds me of that place.
The guitar riff is actually two guitars in harmony. If you have headphones in, you can hear one in the left and one on the right.
Awesome! Never noticed that.
First time I ever heard the term "Purple Rain" used in a song.
This is just one of many great songs by this 70s Band. Love these guys.
Looks like you stayed in the 70s ALL 3 Songs Tonight ..10 12 2022 , Thanks Rob Squad
America always brings back memories of driving across the country back in the mid 70s.❤
Saw them about 10 years ago and they sounded amazing still. This song is definitely trance worthy Amber. Their harmonies are so beautiful and with the instruments (diddly do do) I agree Jordan are so captivating. Lots more hits yet. Great reaction. Buckets of Maple Syrup love from Canada ❤️ ❤️ 🇨🇦🇨🇦
Love these 70's soft rock songs. They remind me of my childhood.
Since you love harmonies try the Association- "Never My Love", "Cherish", "Windy", "Everything That Touches You" and "Along Comes Mary" are a few of their hits.
Indeed.... Assoc. is SO Chill
Definitely!!!
Dazed. Their sound let you forget your stress even if for a while. So happy I'm a 60s/70s person. Our music is the best!
Absolutely!
I was 17 driving in California Highways first time so can relate. We
had this in car was an
8 track tape bilayer and listened to America's
harmonies as well as Moody Blues, Doobie Brothers, Pink Floyd, Yds, Heart Steely Dan ,
Fleetwood Mac Loggins &Messina and Wayne Shorter, Miles Davis, Paul Horn, for a little Jazz Was All was Good.
M3 and my Soul Mate. Bliss
Teresa Gorden Now u'r talkin'!
This is one of my favorite groups..this was my era...This is my favorite song by them...stellar gold!
I loved this group and these songs were a staple on AM radio in the early 70’s. Did you know that they were from Britain? Three founding members were stationed in Britain when they were in the USA Air Force.
I’ve seen them live at least ten times. They are SO good! Keep digging into them, Sister Golden Hair, I Need You, or go 80s with You Can Do Magic!
It's a combination of memories. Coasting down the PCH (Hwy 1), and watching clouds, that were reminiscent in shape to the lizards that were caught in childhood.
One of the most freeing songs, ever. It helps me, this day, so much. ☮️Peace☮️A Just Peace ☮️
Another good classic band. America is underrated.
“Sister Golden Hair” is a total classic. You’ll love it too
I've said this to you folks before and I'll say it again, this song and others off this album captures the very essence and vibe of the seventies. Gets to me every time I hear them
For real.
I literally took the Ventura Highway to go see America several years ago. I also saw them way back in the late 70s. Great song, thanks for the share!
This is not the original version which is better, also better sound quality. Still love this song and band. Try their song Lonely People... or Tin Man
Just ran across a song you need to hear, Greg Lake (from Emerson Lake and Palmer) - From the Beginning. Beautiful!
Yay!!! Finally! One of my favorite songs! 😁👍🏻💜 You need to actually drive down Ventura highway and listen to this! It's on the California coastline I believe. 🥰
Please check out The Box Tops "The Letter" and "Cry Like A Baby" it's from the late 60's I think! 🤗
Also listen to "Tin Man" and "Sister Golden Hair" by America. 😃
I like a lot of America's music. 'I Need You' is a good song, and also 'Today's The Day.' I heard somewhere that song was written about the songwriter's dog who had run away. Each day he would think that 'today's the day' the dog would be found. As a lover of dogs, this makes me sad but it's a pretty song all the same.
Alligator lizards are clouds. People always try to see shapes in the clouds. ☁️☁️
According to an old interview: The “alligator lizards in the air” came from another actual memory of living in California. My brother and I used to catch lizards and snakes all the time. There is an actual animal here called an alligator lizard. But this was also referring to a cloud formation, a shape. A long cloud that reminded me of an alligator lizard.
Those Harmonies are what does it for me too! Them and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young! “Helplesly Hoping” or “Wooden Ships” would be good..
gurulimbo Ahhhh! Pure nectar! I own every song they wote, sang and recorded - CSN & Y
One of my favorite concerts was seeing America at the "Palace Theater" Providence RI in 1973. A great place for a concert. I agree with all the songs mentioned, here's another one to add to the list if it wasn't mentioned yet "Don't Cross the River". Yea I enjoyed the 70's
Hey my brother & sister you MUST go way back to Benny Goodman’s Sing, Sing Sing. Big band will blow your mess out especially when Benny rocks his clarinet.
This is a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ song!
LOVE this song. Jay I like the doodly doot door do part too. As soon as that guitar opens up I am just enthralled in the song. It's funny because I think of this song as a great gentle move around song like ride your bike or go for a walk or go to the park and roll down a hill or something like you used to when you were a kid something with a breeze and a beautiful sky.