My ex-girlfriend and I were laying in bed ....and I've heard this song many times before as a kid but never paid attention to the words. She explained what the song meant and I listened for the first time closely to the lyrics. She passed away earlier this year from breast cancer. I miss her so much... this song brings tears to my eyes as I listen. She was from Colorado so I imagine her on this beautiful horse when I hear it. God Bless you... you will forever be missed by all who loves you.
...... 11 Years have passed since your Original Comment ..... I felt tears fall as I read it.... I pray that Time has been kind, that your loss has become manageable, ... Time does NOT " heal all wounds "...the passage of Time makes them manageable and helps the healing process. She is on that beautiful horse, I'm sure she would wish you to remember her that way. May you find a sense of Solace and Peace on this Cold Winters Solstice Night. 🙏🏻✨️
I also got the impression that Letterman teared up, but I never actually saw it happen. He clearly and expressively enjoyed the piece more than any performance I'd seen before.
@@dennismurillodennis3079 why the term used, “tear jerker?” There’s nothing wrong for Us men using the word emotional moment. Tear jerker is like artificial!!
Michael's amazing, he still sings it in the original key! I got a chance to play a gig with him in Colorado...being able to watch him play this song twice that weekend was my favorite musical moment of my entire life.
It's the song of a dying man out on the cold, hard prairie, longing for both the horse, and the love that he has lost...at the end, he sees them coming for him to roam together in the afterlife
The name "Wildfire," symbolizes the dangerous and out-of-control passion that kept these two would-be lovers from hooking up. They had a super crush on each other. She was a rich daddy's girl who owned a pony. He was a "sod-buster" (from the lyrics)...dirt poor farmer. The magic pony was sent to unite them via death. It's a classic "Romeo and Juliet" theme. This tragedy is what train wrecks people's emotions when they listen to the song. There are a lot of comments on TH-cam that consistently repeat things like "This song makes me cry, and I don't know why." Well, folks....There's your answer.
He has always beamed(that's the word) at the backup over the years...guy is genuine..but there are better vids of this,and they cut it short..try county road vid.
One of my all time favorites. I can remember falling asleep to this song on my clock radio back in 1975. This song and Sister Golden Hair took away a 12 year old's worries and off to sleep I'd go. Miss those days of no worries. MMM has a long, and excellent body of work.
This is music. Most of what I hear today, are remixes, and digital studio rolls, and lots of talking (rap). No creativity to the heart now like this song
Can't disagree with that. MMM did some very good songs and made some good records in the years that followed. But when he sings this, it blows everything else away.
It is special. A horse died here yesterday, we buried the old Mare today, close to where she often grazed. A Horse that nobody wanted and lived here over ten years at the Godwin ranch, she had a good life here with the mini pony.. ;/
First time that I have ever wanted to stand up and applaud Paul Schafer. Brilliant arrangement. One can easily tell how much personal and genuine enjoyment it gave to Letterman.
This was an abominably abbreviated-for-commercial-consumption performance ...sad and Paul Shaffer muddled his way through Here's the real deal: th-cam.com/video/gl4Y4FWWkn0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=vEFM6-_Ev7NWaoQ0
June 3rd of 2023 my father passed away while I was playing this beautiful and cathartic song. I think he found it soothing as he took his last breath. I wish I could tell him that he was a great Dad and lived a great life. When you do a person's slideshow for their celebration of life. You discover awesome and new things about them. RIP JJP 1-11-1943 to 6-3-2023 ❤
I played it too my teenage granddaughter. The tears came flowing from her eyes. It was so heart felt by her.it really amazed me. It really is a powerful song.
rick motacek YUP........BIG TIME! Those years were awesome, regardless of the strife in the world. Its a bigger mess now, than it ever was, but boy did we have music....not like the crud they call music these days. Half dressed girls with their bodies on display and gyrating and twitching all over like belly dancers. How can you call it music? How does a blind person interpret that behavior?
I'm a city guy, brought up largely on city music. But this song grabs me deep somewhere every time I hear it. Always has. This is what they call a masterpiece. And Mr. Murphey's performance here just levels me. Wow. Decades after it's initial release this song and the artist still blow me away. Probably more now than ever. Just, Wow.
Some nights in this brave era of technology, my wife and I will have a few glasses of wine and play music. Sometimes there's a theme, sometimes, it's just a free for all. We were playing "songs you think are the most well written" and after a warm up round, I chose this one. She asked about the line about the hoot owl and I told her, if memory serves, it's a Native American omen of death. She didn't believe me and googled it. And it was actually the CALL of the hoot owl that was the omen of death. We listened to that last verse again. Brought even more depth to an unbelievable song. I've heard it many, many times, but not much in the last 20 years. Michael Martin Murphey is the ultimate cowboy songwriter and one of the best songwriters of all time. And I just can't sign off without acknowledging that amazing jazz piano intro and outro.
Paul Shaffer is so talented. Reads new music and performs it so well, conducts the band, personifies pleasantness on a nightly basis, is a genuine guy with an expansive spirit. Just love what he and Dave were able to do over the years, and what he does for this song. Thanks to you, Paul. Love this.
He struggled a bit here and was spared much of the full piece , middle section and the outro...was looking forward to seeing how he'd handle it only to be reminded that this was network television and that it caters to the lowest common denominator so it was decided to foist/feed this hacked up mess to the masses rather than treat them to the real deal as it was concluded ahead of time that they would be incapable of remaining attentive for more than a few minutes...no matter what was going on. Tragic th-cam.com/video/gl4Y4FWWkn0/w-d-xo.html
Couldn't agree more Angela. I'm guessing that even the most obscure member of this band is a a major talent. These guys didn't get there by accident....lol
Memories of better days... happier and simpler times... when my older brother and parents were still alive... when I was just turning into a teenager... one of the most important songs of my youth...
Gary Haber I went through almost the same as you. Lost my brother and both parents by the time i turned 16. So my heart goes out to you and God bless you and your family 🙏
I hear you. Reminds me of me and my husband in the early years of our 32 year marriage, with our horses, cows, sheep, dogs, cats....an easy amazing time when all was right with the world. My husband and parents are gone now.
So many memories rush back to me when I hear this eternally beautiful song...May seem weird but I remember seeing mama singing this in the kitchen as a kid in the 80's. I didnt see my father alot but when I did he would ride down the dirt road that led to my house....When this song would come on she would be washing dishes and periodically look up...I never asked her who or what she was looking for but I knew she was looking for Dad.....She died in winter of 98' and before I said my final goodbye I put a beautiful flower in her hair like the ones she kept above the kitchen sink when I was a kid. You will always be my Wildfire, Mom....Thank You....
this album came out in the 70s while I was a teenager. it was a favorite at that time and can remember it so well. About 30 years ago (or so) I was very lucky to go to a small club and see this live. I was there with my parents along with my sister and her husband. My sister and I were both carrying our 1st child. 18 years later on her son's 18th birthday she passed suddenly. She was just 38 years old and last year I lost my dad. This song and that concert is so very dear to me and I feel such a loss. As with this song, I often wonder when she will come for me.
Beautiful song from old, yet, it is just as meaningful and beautiful as always. There are a lot of old goodies out there that is all but forgotten. Thank you for this wonderful old cowboy, country, song!
I lived in Western Nebraska and dated a cattle rancher. When I decided our relationship was over I spent much time on a ranch horse riding the pastures, even in the snow. I got bucked off once after another horse busted through her stall and thought of this song. It helped me through a very dark time.
I just returned home from one of his shows tonight (Dec. 13, 2008). He was FANTASTIC! As good as he ever was. A true gentleman and VERY fond of his fans. It was great to see a man passionate about his name being associated with a cause. He is ALWAYS performing and giving a portion of the proceeds to a much needed cause. THAT IS HOW CELEBRITIES AND PERFORMERS SHOULD BE ACTING AND DOING WITH THIER MONEY. God bless you Michael. ~A fan for life. Thank you for your music and heart.
This is one of those timeless classics.......like Stairway to Heaven.......... just doesn't get any better at all. The piano leading in and out is simply sublime. I live semi-rurally, and often hear the Hoot Owls at night........and every single time, I think of this song.
One way you can tell a good song is by how musicians react to it. Seems to me, Paul and the house band are doing their very best to give this great song what is worthy.
Joe Herald Yes I have to agree. Ive known this guy for years in TO when he played with my cousins. He was a real stuck up jerk and still is, but , having said that , he really did a good job with this and the band also.
Paul does his lead in so beautifully Michael came to our town in Oklahoma an gave a concert. Also Willie Nelson, blessed to see those guys in a small town venue! Miss Dave and Paul and the band...
On Farthers day my Grandson Connor played this song on the piano for me. It is my favorite song I have ever heard and I am 75 Thank you Michael Murphy and Connor Smith. I play every morning when I get up and when I go to bed.
I can only imagine that playing this song for MMM had to be one of the biggest honors that Paul Shaffer and the other guys in the band ever had during their decades in the Letterman Show. They nailed it about as good as anyone could.
This was an abominably abbreviated-for-commercial-consumption performance ...as Paul Shaffer muddled his way through Here's the real deal: th-cam.com/video/gl4Y4FWWkn0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=vEFM6-_Ev7NWaoQ0
IM 74 and over the years have heard this song many times but never really listen to the lyrics that well. I waved it off as mythology. But this song does get under your skin. The story of a young girl who goes out to check on her beloved horse during a snowstorm, finds him gone, goes out to look for him and gets lost in the snowstorm too. But the song has a beautiful positive ending though i dont completely understand it. But i agree its one of the finest and beautiful songs ever writen. Id like to see a movie of this story some day played out on the big screen. I think people would love it.
I've loved this song since it came out when I was 10 years old. And of course every young girl wants to be that girl riding Wildfire. I can't believe how perfect his voice still sounds. Such a gorgeous, haunting song.
Sitting here in tears as a 56 year-old California Girl you grew up in Southern California and moved to Tucson Arizona 1991. Unfortunately, having a debilitating chronic illness for the last 14 years. I am alone as most of my family and friends have passed on and the ones who are still here are hundreds of miles away. Realizing how amazing the seventies were and wondering why my life turned out like this. My life was so perfect then😢
My total go to song when asked what song will make you emotional every time you hear it. Without a doubt, maybe sometimes you just need to cry if so ....may I suggest Wildfire
I hadn't heard this amazing song for over 35 years. I remember hearing it as a child, and remembered it as another overly-sentimental, syrupy 70s tune. But here I was, a few months ago, standing in a sporting goods store absolutely transfixed to this masterpiece, as it blind-sided me like a foul ball in the bleachers (or rather, the camping tent section). I stood there in the store, stunned with the whole of this song- the lyrics, melody, and its seamless, beautiful arrangement. I stopped shopping altogether and just stood, listening so intently. When it was over, I asked a young store employee what radio station they were playing, and he said, "It's not radio, they pipe in 'muzak' here" with a cynical expression. In my mind, I envisioned smacking him upside the head, but a second later, I almost laughed out loud, so thankful that I had rediscovered this treasure, and thankful that I had grown to fully appreciate this wonderful song (even if it took 30 years) when this young person clearly did not 'get it', and thinking that one day, if this clerk was lucky, the same thought would occur to him.
Agree with you there. This song will last generations beyond Michael Martin Murphy. 50 years from now nobody will know the name Bieber. But MMM will be played 100 years from now. The band did an outstanding job on this song. Impossible to be perfect on a live take, but I have no complaints. This song is perfection and deserves the respect the band gave it. Kudos to them! I can only imagine how many hours they must have practiced before the live take. I don't know any of the band members personally, but I can just imagine that they demanded perfection themselves, and not MMM requiring it for this song.
Yes, 30 + years now I appreciate Billy Joel now much more as well. As a teenage guy back in the 70's, I wouldn't dare say to my male friends that I even "kind of" like this song. Though they probably did too!
thank you, and truly, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What a beautiful ode, and please remember, the past is still alive and ghosts are so lovely
That is so weird I had the same experience inside of a Home Depot (omitting talking to the clerk part)! Yes, such a masterpiece! He still has it when he sang on Letterman at age 62!
Criminally abbreviated and Paul, looking insanely rushed, struggled mightily on the keys. Sad that network bosses dictated and that the musicians involved agreed to permit this abomination to go out over the airwaves assuming that audiences hadn't the attention span necessary to withstand the richer and far more powerful full version replete with impressive Murphey guitar solo and lovely piano finish.
Simply one of the most hauntingly beautiful songs ever recorded. Brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it. Michael Martin Murphy is certainly an under-rated star!
I remember months before Letterman had MMM on his show to sing "Wildfire", he would briefly play an excerpt, and he did that many times, and I'd be thinking "I wish he'd play the entire song so that more people could here this beautiful song." Well, I never dreamed that he'd have MMM on his show to sing it, but I'm glad he did, and I remember watching it on TV that night. Love this song. It's a life-long favorite of mine.
Wildfire and Jackie blue by Ozark mountain daredevils were constantly played on WLS a.m .or something. Same with Sammy John's or whoever with the chevy van song.i miss the 70s.
Every time I hear this song Wildfire by Michael Martin Murphey it takes me right back to Junior High now when I hear it I reminisce what a talented songwriter and song is this it's part of Americana I'll never forget this song and and 1975 right on wildfire thanks Michael Martin Murphey for a great song and for people to relive their memories
Late 1970’s 3M sang “Wildfire” without accompaniment at a Hillsborough Ave bar in Raleigh, NC. The mostly college audience was rude to him but he was professional & a virtuoso singer/guitarist. He earned my respect & admiration that night. Still has it!
This song resonates with many boomers. It’s a metaphor for the betrayal of the American dream - toiling for years but not prospering, then overtaken by natural events, be they sickness or bad weather, and left helpless. At the end all we have is the dream. Once it sustained us, but now it’s all we can hope to escape to.
I met him as well in Oklahoma while he was doing a show at Cains Ballroom where I had also seen him perform at this same place but only 45 years ago! Imagine this...it was an amazing night that seemed to come full circle for me, regarding this performer. Both shows were fantastic. I didn't get to meet him the first show, but the second one (12 years ago now) I was honored to be able to meet him and visit a bit after the show. A very nice man he is, indeed.
Magprewye: This song makes you want to cry cause it is a masterpiece. The vocals, instruments especially piano, beat are just so perfect. It brings you so much joy listening the tears are tears of joy. I have the same issue to 😉. It also for me brings up so many memories when the world was a better place 🤔
Wow, I never knew that was a flute Riff. I always thought it was a synthesizer or electric piano. Murphey delivers such a high quality live performance, it's like his voice isn't aging.
The most beautiful song i 💗 have ever heard. I remember the first time i ever heard it ....made me cry like a baby. So beautifully touching. Perfect voice 😍
Sharon Husby brings me back to when I was a kid. It wasn’t cool for a guy to like this song too much back in the day - but to this day it still hits a nerve and just makes me sit back, melt and dream.
sometimes this song is too painful to listen to, I think of the people I love that are gone forever, the ones who are approaching that door, the pets I've loved, this song simply evokes the Mystery & Beauty of Life
God, I wish I could go back to 1975, just graduated from high school, met my wife of 38 years now, beautiful memories because an awesome song, and a beautiful girl. My Pammy...
I guess I'm a big sucker for a sweet ballad. I have loved this hauntingly beautiful song since the first time I ever heard it as a child. Even had the original 45. To hear it performed here, by then 63 year old composer, whose voice has grown better with age, is a real nice treat. Beautifully performed.
The pleasant but matronly looking back-up singer fascinates me - in an inquisitive way. She seems totally out of place but there she is. The cameraman gave her a good look too. I wonder what the story is there. Terrific song and performances.
I first heard this my freshman year of college (1977). MMM was opening for Kenny Loggins and this was one of the songs he performed. I've loved it ever since. It makes me nostalgic for those wonderful days so long ago when studying for an exam was my biggest worry.
I've had the opportunity to see Michael and his band in concert 5 times. Love them and this song. Reminds me of my darling horse loving, hore riding husband. He been gone 11 years. I hope he comes for me on his horse, Outlaw.
What's awesome to me is that 31 years after its release, he sings it in the same key as he recorded it... he hasn't lost anything, maybe his voice has developed a bit more fullness. He is a national treasure, as he strives to keep Western music alive, recording cowboy music from our past. Country and Western is not Western music... and he always shows the difference.
Never make music like this any more. How sad. I am so glad I lived in the time when this was created. This is real music...it leaves a special place in your heart and you never forget it. No music this day and time can even come close.
I remember when he came to North Texas State University (now called the University of North Texas University) and did a solo show in a small on campus concert hall. Unbelievable talented musician. The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band backed him up on his first LP.
Criminally abbreviated and Paul, looking insanely rushed, struggled mightily on the keys. Sad that network bosses dictated and that the musicians involved agreed to permit this abomination to go out over the airwaves assuming that audiences hadn't the attention span necessary to withstand the richer and far more powerful full version replete with impressive Murphey guitar solo and lovely piano finish.😒
I loved this song as a kid...could not resist listening to it on WLAT FM in Conway, SC although it gave me the shivers. It was a palpable fear of this song that drew me to it. MMM sounds great 30 some-odd years later. When songs told stories...boy do I miss those days.
a tremendous rendition of this song. so strong and yet a version that is great to hear. thanks to all invoved from the cbs orchestra and the late show with david letterman and especially michael martin murphy for appearing on the show...
My ex-girlfriend and I were laying in bed ....and I've heard this song many times before as a kid but never paid attention to the words. She explained what the song meant and I listened for the first time closely to the lyrics. She passed away earlier this year from breast cancer. I miss her so much... this song brings tears to my eyes as I listen. She was from Colorado so I imagine her on this beautiful horse when I hear it. God Bless you... you will forever be missed by all who loves you.
It's been 11 years since your post, but when I read it I cried. I only want to share with you the shock of the time gone by. Peace upon you, friend.
Bless you she’s alright ❤
I will think of her while I listen to this song tonight and wish peace upon you.
...... 11 Years have passed since your Original Comment ..... I felt tears fall as I read it.... I pray that Time has been kind, that your loss has become manageable, ... Time does NOT " heal all wounds "...the passage of Time makes them manageable and helps the healing process.
She is on that beautiful horse, I'm sure she would wish you to remember her that way.
May you find a sense of Solace and Peace on this Cold Winters Solstice Night. 🙏🏻✨️
@@texasstardust6010 Thank you so much for your kind words. It means a lot. 🙏 I wish you and your family a very happy and healthy new year.
I still cry, every time I hear this song. Hell, I'm the only one who replays this song, over and over.
One!
Me too. An older younger version, then a later one on Letterman when he seemed slimmer and sick.
I listened to it many times years ago and just found it again. Me too, makes me cry.
No. You’re not.😩
You’re not alone homie- me too
Letterman and I both sat there and cried while he played this. What a moment in time.
I also got the impression that Letterman teared up, but I never actually saw it happen. He clearly and expressively enjoyed the piece more than any performance I'd seen before.
@@RogerRoddComedian Dave requested Michael come on and perform this song for him. It's his favorite tune.
Hmmmmm
@@LinkRocks no shit, Sherlock.
@@LinkRocks I love this song
This is one of those rare songs that stops you in your tracks the first time you hear and even decades later it has the same effect.
agree I had never heard it up until 2 months ago now I can't stop listening to it. Lovely lovely song!
@@mollyerickson4897, Yes indeed!!
This is a tear jerker that never gets old.
@@dennismurillodennis3079 why the term used, “tear jerker?” There’s nothing wrong for Us men using the word emotional moment. Tear jerker is like artificial!!
Such a beautiful song. Brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it😢
Michael's amazing, he still sings it in the original key!
I got a chance to play a gig with him in Colorado...being able to watch him play this song twice that weekend was my favorite musical moment of my entire life.
It's the song of a dying man out on the cold, hard prairie, longing for both the horse, and the love that he has lost...at the end, he sees them coming for him to roam together in the afterlife
The name "Wildfire," symbolizes the dangerous and out-of-control passion that kept these two would-be lovers from hooking up. They had a super crush on each other. She was a rich daddy's girl who owned a pony. He was a "sod-buster" (from the lyrics)...dirt poor farmer. The magic pony was sent to unite them via death. It's a classic "Romeo and Juliet" theme. This tragedy is what train wrecks people's emotions when they listen to the song. There are a lot of comments on TH-cam that consistently repeat things like "This song makes me cry, and I don't know why." Well, folks....There's your answer.
Song is about a *magical pony
@@leeshepherd5669 _'Song is about_ whatever the hell the dumb listener wants it to be about.'
Thumbs up if you love how Michael Martin Murphy is just beaming in the final seconds of this video.
❤️❤️❤️❤️
He has always beamed(that's the word) at the backup over the years...guy is genuine..but there are better vids of this,and they cut it short..try county road vid.
One of my all time favorites. I can remember falling asleep to this song on my clock radio back in 1975. This song and Sister Golden Hair took away a 12 year old's worries and off to sleep I'd go. Miss those days of no worries. MMM has a long, and excellent body of work.
I agree exactly what you said about falling asleep to these songs. . . along with Alan Parsons Project. . . and Bread. . . 😊
Me too
Now, look around at all of the fools in their talisman, moron-masks. Sad times, indeed.
You could say that one hundred times buddy, Lovely song!
Wow beautiful music 🎶
The best era in music. Period.
Agreed!!!
This is music. Most of what I hear today, are remixes, and digital studio rolls, and lots of talking (rap). No creativity to the heart now like this song
this song pretty much made him an instant legend. its still as beautiful as the day he wrote it.
+liwmld Well said.
Can't disagree with that. MMM did some very good songs and made some good records in the years that followed. But when he sings this, it blows everything else away.
And the vocals are still there.
Its so wonderful to hear this great song from the 70s, love this song. Music today is awful!
simply the most heartfelt, moving, epic and haunting song of all time. it is and will always be my favorite.
It is special. A horse died here yesterday, we buried the old Mare today, close to where she often grazed.
A Horse that nobody wanted and lived here over ten years at the Godwin ranch, she had a good life here with the mini pony.. ;/
it is my favourite of all time as well, it moves me like no other song. I think this is the best version of it to.
gl0ck10mm lmao
@Huawei is a criminal organization. I was just about to say what you said! Totally agree!!!
Same feels like home
What a awesome Song arrangement and. Song structure . Just Great
borderline criminally abbreviated "version " of what could have been ...
It really is a timeless masterpiece. It touches my heart & soul and takes me right back to 1975 when I was 15. Such sweet memories. WoW. In tears.😢
WOW! I sure could have needed this song when I was 15 back in 1975 😢
One of the best songs ever !!
First time that I have ever wanted to stand up and applaud Paul Schafer. Brilliant arrangement. One can easily tell how much personal and genuine enjoyment it gave to Letterman.
This was an abominably abbreviated-for-commercial-consumption performance ...sad and Paul Shaffer muddled his way through
Here's the real deal:
th-cam.com/video/gl4Y4FWWkn0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=vEFM6-_Ev7NWaoQ0
As a Scottish woman this blows my mind the first 15 seconds it tells a story no words spoken amazing
June 3rd of 2023 my father passed away while I was playing this beautiful and cathartic song. I think he found it soothing as he took his last breath. I wish I could tell him that he was a great Dad and lived a great life. When you do a person's slideshow for their celebration of life. You discover awesome and new things about them. RIP JJP 1-11-1943 to 6-3-2023
❤
I am sorry for you Father passing I
I played it too my teenage granddaughter. The tears came flowing from her eyes. It was so heart felt by her.it really amazed me. It really is a powerful song.
Never fails to bring the tears... That Hoot Owl must be there for me as well....
Man I miss the 70's!!
rick motacek YUP........BIG TIME! Those years were awesome, regardless of the strife in the world. Its a bigger mess now, than it ever was, but boy did we have music....not like the crud they call music these days. Half dressed girls with their bodies on display and gyrating and twitching all over like belly dancers. How can you call it music? How does a blind person interpret that behavior?
+rick motacek I sure do too!
rick motacek Yes, we were young then.
Don't miss the 70's much, but I definitely miss 70's music, that's for sure.
rick motacek so do I...
I'm a city guy, brought up largely on city music. But this song grabs me deep somewhere every time I hear it. Always has. This is what they call a masterpiece. And Mr. Murphey's performance here just levels me. Wow. Decades after it's initial release this song and the artist still blow me away. Probably more now than ever. Just, Wow.
I cry every time I hear it !!!!!
Can’t help myself ….
Haunting beautiful song that makes me emotional every time I hear it even after almost 50 years
This doing has been on my mind. All night long.
Some nights in this brave era of technology, my wife and I will have a few glasses of wine and play music. Sometimes there's a theme, sometimes, it's just a free for all. We were playing "songs you think are the most well written" and after a warm up round, I chose this one. She asked about the line about the hoot owl and I told her, if memory serves, it's a Native American omen of death. She didn't believe me and googled it. And it was actually the CALL of the hoot owl that was the omen of death. We listened to that last verse again. Brought even more depth to an unbelievable song. I've heard it many, many times, but not much in the last 20 years. Michael Martin Murphey is the ultimate cowboy songwriter and one of the best songwriters of all time. And I just can't sign off without acknowledging that amazing jazz piano intro and outro.
Paul Shaffer is so talented. Reads new music and performs it so well, conducts the band, personifies pleasantness on a nightly basis, is a genuine guy with an expansive spirit. Just love what he and Dave were able to do over the years, and what he does for this song. Thanks to you, Paul. Love this.
He struggled a bit here and was spared much of the full piece , middle section and the outro...was looking forward to seeing how he'd handle it only to be reminded that this was network television and that it caters to the lowest common denominator so it was decided to foist/feed this hacked up mess to the masses rather than treat them to the real deal as it was concluded ahead of time that they would be incapable of remaining attentive for more than a few minutes...no matter what was going on. Tragic
th-cam.com/video/gl4Y4FWWkn0/w-d-xo.html
Couldn't agree more Angela. I'm guessing that even the most obscure member of this band is a a major talent. These guys didn't get there by accident....lol
Yeah Bro
@@NattyBumppo48 You might enjoy their rendition of "MacArthur Park" as well with special guest Jimmy Webb. I did.
Used to work in the city and one a lunch he sits down next to me. Had a 10 minute Convo, ate and went back to work. Very nice guy.
Memories of better days...
happier and simpler times...
when my older brother and parents were still alive...
when I was just turning into a teenager...
one of the most important songs of my youth...
Gary Haber I went through almost the same as you. Lost my brother and both parents by the time i turned 16. So my heart goes out to you and God bless you and your family 🙏
Gary Haber you could have written my story .. thanks
I hear you. Reminds me of me and my husband in the early years of our 32 year marriage, with our horses, cows, sheep, dogs, cats....an easy amazing time when all was right with the world. My husband and parents are gone now.
So many memories rush back to me when I hear this eternally beautiful song...May seem weird but I remember seeing mama singing this in the kitchen as a kid in the 80's. I didnt see my father alot but when I did he would ride down the dirt road that led to my house....When this song would come on she would be washing dishes and periodically look up...I never asked her who or what she was looking for but I knew she was looking for Dad.....She died in winter of 98' and before I said my final goodbye I put a beautiful flower in her hair like the ones she kept above the kitchen sink when I was a kid. You will always be my Wildfire, Mom....Thank You....
+nginster23 98 one of the most beautiful comments that I have ever read.
+Solomon Moriarty wow! This brought a tear to my eye. Thank you for such a wonderful, heartfelt comment. Your mother raised a good son.
may God keep blessing you some times thats all we have is memories and thank God they are great memories 💋
+Solomon Moriarty ..You're an awesome son and person, Thank the Gracious lord for providing us with Sweet memories. She's always with you.
this album came out in the 70s while I was a teenager. it was a favorite at that time and can remember it so well. About 30 years ago (or so) I was very lucky to go to a small club and see this live. I was there with my parents along with my sister and her husband. My sister and I were both carrying our 1st child. 18 years later on her son's 18th birthday she passed suddenly. She was just 38 years old and last year I lost my dad. This song and that concert is so very dear to me and I feel such a loss. As with this song, I often wonder when she will come for me.
I am going to watch this everyday instead of news♥️😘
Beautiful song from old, yet, it is just as meaningful and beautiful as always. There are a lot of old goodies out there that is all but forgotten. Thank you for this wonderful old cowboy, country, song!
I lived in Western Nebraska and dated a cattle rancher. When I decided our relationship was over I spent much time on a ranch horse riding the pastures, even in the snow. I got bucked off once after another horse busted through her stall and thought of this song. It helped me through a very dark time.
I just returned home from one of his shows tonight (Dec. 13, 2008). He was FANTASTIC! As good as he ever was. A true gentleman and VERY fond of his fans. It was great to see a man passionate about his name being associated with a cause. He is ALWAYS performing and giving a portion of the proceeds to a much needed cause. THAT IS HOW CELEBRITIES AND PERFORMERS SHOULD BE ACTING AND DOING WITH THIER MONEY. God bless you Michael. ~A fan for life. Thank you for your music and heart.
This is one of those timeless classics.......like Stairway to Heaven.......... just doesn't get any better at all.
The piano leading in and out is simply sublime.
I live semi-rurally, and often hear the Hoot Owls at night........and every single time, I think of this song.
One way you can tell a good song is by how musicians react to it. Seems to me, Paul and the house band are doing their very best to give this great song what is worthy.
Joe Herald Well said!
Joe Herald Yes I have to agree. Ive known this guy for years in TO when he played with my cousins. He was a real stuck up jerk and still is, but , having said that , he really did a good job with this and the band also.
+Richard E.J. O'Shea TO meaning Thousand Oaks?
Paul does his lead in so beautifully Michael came to our town in Oklahoma an gave a concert. Also Willie Nelson, blessed to see those guys in a small town venue! Miss Dave and Paul and the band...
And Letterman's reaction after the song.... 'Think he didn't like it??? LOL
On Farthers day my Grandson Connor played this song on the piano for me. It is my favorite song I have ever heard and I am 75 Thank you Michael Murphy and Connor Smith. I play every morning when I get up and when I go to bed.
No.1 tear jerk of all time..and he still looks and sounds great...God bless him
+Anthony Eugene .........but you black?
how old are you?
how old are you?
how old are you?
how old are you?
I can only imagine that playing this song for MMM had to be one of the biggest honors that Paul Shaffer and the other guys in the band ever had during their decades in the Letterman Show. They nailed it about as good as anyone could.
This was an abominably abbreviated-for-commercial-consumption performance ...as Paul Shaffer muddled his way through
Here's the real deal:
th-cam.com/video/gl4Y4FWWkn0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=vEFM6-_Ev7NWaoQ0
Songs just ain't written like this anymore..so beautiful
Triple M. - Great performances always!
I worked with Michael many times. Great guy and obviously extremely talented. His whole group are nothing but wonderful people.
IM 74 and over the years have heard this song many times but never really listen to the lyrics that well. I waved it off as mythology. But this song does get under your skin. The story of a young girl who goes out to check on her beloved horse during a snowstorm, finds him gone, goes out to look for him and gets lost in the snowstorm too. But the song has a beautiful positive ending though i dont completely understand it. But i agree its one of the finest and beautiful songs ever writen. Id like to see a movie of this story some day played out on the big screen. I think people would love it.
I've loved this song since it came out when I was 10 years old. And of course every young girl wants to be that girl riding Wildfire.
I can't believe how perfect his voice still sounds. Such a gorgeous, haunting song.
I was only 8 when it came out...and its not just girls, I'm a guy and I wanted a horse named Wildfire, too!
Horses represent the Holy Spirit. This song was a gift 🎁 from heaven.🐎🎶
Sitting here in tears as a 56 year-old California Girl you grew up in Southern California and moved to Tucson Arizona 1991. Unfortunately, having a debilitating chronic illness for the last 14 years. I am alone as most of my family and friends have passed on and the ones who are still here are hundreds of miles away. Realizing how amazing the seventies were and wondering why my life turned out like this. My life was so perfect then😢
I watched Dave for all of the 33 years he was on late night and this is one of the best performances ever!
agreed, when do you hear a true singer songwriter nail it nowadays?
FastEddie95 yes sir fast eddie. Yes sir
Dave had a real appreciation for great musical acts. See his tribute to a terminally ill Warren Zevon.
That is so true. I miss Dave and Paul on my TV every night.
What a beautiful song I 1st heard the song 15 years ago when I lived in Las Vegas Nevada and had love and have loved the song ever since
My total go to song when asked what song will make you emotional every time you hear it. Without a doubt, maybe sometimes you just need to cry if so ....may I suggest Wildfire
I hadn't heard this amazing song for over 35 years. I remember hearing it as a child, and remembered it as another overly-sentimental, syrupy 70s tune. But here I was, a few months ago, standing in a sporting goods store absolutely transfixed to this masterpiece, as it blind-sided me like a foul ball in the bleachers (or rather, the camping tent section). I stood there in the store, stunned with the whole of this song- the lyrics, melody, and its seamless, beautiful arrangement. I stopped shopping altogether and just stood, listening so intently. When it was over, I asked a young store employee what radio station they were playing, and he said, "It's not radio, they pipe in 'muzak' here" with a cynical expression. In my mind, I envisioned smacking him upside the head, but a second later, I almost laughed out loud, so thankful that I had rediscovered this treasure, and thankful that I had grown to fully appreciate this wonderful song (even if it took 30 years) when this young person clearly did not 'get it', and thinking that one day, if this clerk was lucky, the same thought would occur to him.
Agree with you there. This song will last generations beyond Michael Martin Murphy. 50 years from now nobody will know the name Bieber. But MMM will be played 100 years from now. The band did an outstanding job on this song. Impossible to be perfect on a live take, but I have no complaints. This song is perfection and deserves the respect the band gave it. Kudos to them! I can only imagine how many hours they must have practiced before the live take. I don't know any of the band members personally, but I can just imagine that they demanded perfection themselves, and not MMM requiring it for this song.
Yes, 30 + years now I appreciate Billy Joel now much more as well. As a teenage guy back in the 70's, I wouldn't dare say to my male friends that I even "kind of" like this song. Though they probably did too!
thank you, and truly, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What a beautiful ode, and please remember, the past is still alive and ghosts are so lovely
Odds are extremely slim the clerk had even heard of "Wildfire" but perhaps they can have a similar epiphany about another song from their youth
That is so weird I had the same experience inside of a Home Depot (omitting talking to the clerk part)! Yes, such a masterpiece! He still has it when he sang on Letterman at age 62!
You sure do heard it new live 1975. Now that was another time and space!
Paul NAILS the piano intro. I've loved this song from the minute I heard it. I am a 1975 graduate and this was from my era.
Criminally abbreviated and Paul, looking insanely rushed, struggled mightily on the keys. Sad that network bosses dictated and that the musicians involved agreed to permit this abomination to go out over the airwaves assuming that audiences hadn't the attention span necessary to withstand the richer and far more powerful full version replete with impressive Murphey guitar solo and lovely piano finish.
For 6 nights in a row. That lyric gets me.
Still can't get through this incredible song without tearing up...43 years and counting since I first heard it when I was 8 years old.
@@fasteddie9529 WOW!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
The first time I heard this song, I knew it was special. It still is, all the years has not dimmed its beauty.
Simply one of the most hauntingly beautiful songs ever recorded. Brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it. Michael Martin Murphy is certainly an under-rated star!
This song came out when I was a little girl, but it touched my soul. To this day, I still feel so connected to it. It’s so beautiful…😢
Letterman discovered this song late in life and was stunned by it that’s how this happened
I remember months before Letterman had MMM on his show to sing "Wildfire", he would briefly play an excerpt, and he did that many times, and I'd be thinking "I wish he'd play the entire song so that more people could here this beautiful song." Well, I never dreamed that he'd have MMM on his show to sing it, but I'm glad he did, and I remember watching it on TV that night. Love this song. It's a life-long favorite of mine.
Wildfire and Jackie blue by Ozark mountain daredevils were constantly played on WLS a.m .or something. Same with Sammy John's or whoever with the chevy van song.i miss the 70s.
Every time I hear this song Wildfire by Michael Martin Murphey it takes me right back to Junior High now when I hear it I reminisce what a talented songwriter and song is this it's part of Americana I'll never forget this song and and 1975 right on wildfire thanks Michael Martin Murphey for a great song and for people to relive their memories
I'm from the Caribbean and i must say this has to be in the best 100 songs of all time.
Late 1970’s 3M sang “Wildfire” without accompaniment at a Hillsborough Ave bar in Raleigh, NC. The mostly college audience was rude to him but he was professional & a virtuoso singer/guitarist. He earned my respect & admiration that night. Still has it!
This song resonates with many boomers. It’s a metaphor for the betrayal of the American dream - toiling for years but not prospering, then overtaken by natural events, be they sickness or bad weather, and left helpless. At the end all we have is the dream. Once it sustained us, but now it’s all we can hope to escape to.
I never get tired of this beautiful song.
It seems that everyone and his brother wanted to sing and play on this one. That's a tribute to the greatness of this song.
1975 it came out...and I still lose tears when I listen to it...a song of lost innocence...
Thats it...you nailed it. Cause i cry too....
That's it...well said. I was a junior in high school when Wildfire was released.
As a kid hearing this through AM radio and cheap speakers at the public pool, I had no idea what a sad haunting song this really is.
I loved this song. Beautiful but sad.
Gorgeous song. One of the best story ballads ever. Letterman's band kept that great feel. Kudos.
I had the privilege to meet Michael Murphey in Colorado, while working at a boot store, in late 70's. Nice guy!!! He also, bought some boots.
I met him as well in Oklahoma while he was doing a show at Cains Ballroom where I had also seen him perform at this same place but only 45 years ago! Imagine this...it was an amazing night that seemed to come full circle for me, regarding this performer. Both shows were fantastic. I didn't get to meet him the first show, but the second one (12 years ago now) I was honored to be able to meet him and visit a bit after the show. A very nice man he is, indeed.
I was there next in line. You sure took your sweet time.
He should have purchased a lid as well. That ten gallon hat looks like ... well ...ca ca.
Not sure why but this song makes me cry...always has
Me too!
Me Also. Great Lyric's
6'2"/ 230 lbs. = me too.
Same here
Magprewye: This song makes you want to cry cause it is a masterpiece. The vocals, instruments especially piano, beat are just so perfect. It brings you so much joy listening the tears are tears of joy. I have the same issue to 😉. It also for me brings up so many memories when the world was a better place 🤔
One of the best piano intros ever.
Wow, I never knew that was a flute Riff. I always thought it was a synthesizer or electric piano. Murphey delivers such a high quality live performance, it's like his voice isn't aging.
My childhood lived for your Vc.Glad&God bless.Again.Feel Goid.Thank you.
The most beautiful song i 💗 have ever heard. I remember the first time i ever heard it ....made me cry like a baby. So beautifully touching. Perfect voice 😍
Sharon Husby brings me back to when I was a kid. It wasn’t cool for a guy to like this song too much back in the day - but to this day it still hits a nerve and just makes me sit back, melt and dream.
It's an absolutely beautiful song. Michael Murphy has an incredible voice and was live on TV. Superb
Get tears every time I hear that song. Thank you Michael!!
k9ndn cry and smile at the same time .
In can’t say enough love words for this song wow❤
Not a big fan of country but this song always gets me almost to tears
70s best decade of the century. I still enjoy my time from the 70s and never want to forget.
sometimes this song is too painful to listen to, I think of the people I love that are gone forever, the ones who are approaching that door, the pets I've loved, this song simply evokes the Mystery & Beauty of Life
Not gone forever, just not on Earth anymore
One of those songs that everyone new where they were that summer and we all have a special place for it.
You can tell that Paul and the band put that extra effort in when it counts!
When I was just 16 years ago I heard this song for the first time! I have loved it ever since then! It has touched my heart so many times
Just saw him in concert in Denver. He still has great presence on the stage and does a great show.
I've seen him several times in concert, most recently last Saturday in Lewisville, TX. He still has it. Amazing musician!
how did this gent not have more success than kenny rogers...his voice is very easy on the ear
God, I wish I could go back to 1975, just graduated from high school, met my wife of 38 years now, beautiful memories because an awesome song, and a beautiful girl. My Pammy...
Joe Thornell That's so beautiful to say about your wife... always have loved this song... so beautiful.
Perfect. Perfect. And heart wrenching.
I guess I'm a big sucker for a sweet ballad. I have loved this hauntingly beautiful song since the first time I ever heard it as a child. Even had the original 45. To hear it performed here, by then 63 year old composer, whose voice has grown better with age, is a real nice treat. Beautifully performed.
I was 13 when the song came out, still a great song, he still sings it beautifully!!
The pleasant but matronly looking back-up singer fascinates me - in an inquisitive way. She seems totally out of place but there she is. The cameraman gave her a good look too. I wonder what the story is there. Terrific song and performances.
I first heard this my freshman year of college (1977). MMM was opening for Kenny Loggins and this was one of the songs he performed. I've loved it ever since. It makes me nostalgic for those wonderful days so long ago when studying for an exam was my biggest worry.
You can see it all happening in you mind’s eye.
I've had the opportunity to see Michael and his band in concert 5 times. Love them and this song. Reminds me of my darling horse loving, hore riding husband. He been gone 11 years. I hope he comes for me on his horse, Outlaw.
Childhood. Thank you to my parents for introducing this to me.
What's awesome to me is that 31 years after its release, he sings it in the same key as he recorded it... he hasn't lost anything, maybe his voice has developed a bit more fullness. He is a national treasure, as he strives to keep Western music alive, recording cowboy music from our past. Country and Western is not Western music... and he always shows the difference.
Never make music like this any more. How sad. I am so glad I lived in the time when this was created. This is real music...it leaves a special place in your heart and you never forget it. No music this day and time can even come close.
This song made me bawl like a baby when I was little
I heard it the year it was new.. I was a wee child. Still listening to it 42 years later . Wildfire has magic to last forever .
Do you remember why?
I’m a 58 year old white asshole and it still does.
His best tune.
Wow. Man, i just love a well-written song. And the memories of childhood.
I remember when he came to North Texas State University (now called the University of North Texas University) and did a solo show in a small on campus concert hall. Unbelievable talented musician. The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band backed him up on his first LP.
This is such a great version of this song. Michael a bit older now....lots of heartfelt emotion here......and Letterman eats it up.
Criminally abbreviated and Paul, looking insanely rushed, struggled mightily on the keys. Sad that network bosses dictated and that the musicians involved agreed to permit this abomination to go out over the airwaves assuming that audiences hadn't the attention span necessary to withstand the richer and far more powerful full version replete with impressive Murphey guitar solo and lovely piano finish.😒
Got to chat with Murphy one night before a show. Nice guy
The best thing to happen to the Letterman show in decades.
I loved this song as a kid...could not resist listening to it on WLAT FM in Conway, SC although it gave me the shivers. It was a palpable fear of this song that drew me to it. MMM sounds great 30 some-odd years later. When songs told stories...boy do I miss those days.
a tremendous rendition of this song. so strong and yet a version that is great to hear. thanks to all invoved from the cbs orchestra and the late show with david letterman and especially michael martin murphy for appearing on the show...