Jamaal listen to the live version by Leon, Willie Nelson and Ray Charles. Unbelievable live performance where the late great Ray Charles does a performance of a lifetime. Emotions flood the performance.
@@kevint1910 You beat me to it. LOL!! Great show. I have been trying to get Jamel to react to any Mad Dogs and Englishmen performance. I guess he doesn't get enough requests for it. Space Captain.
@@kimcoley7044 Better yet..play Leon singing it. His music is so beautiful. See if he picks out that phrase too, then you will know you're on the same wave length-IMO.👍🏻
The video was shot during a rehearsal. I grew up in Tulsa and Leon was one of the most humble people I ever met. I saw him dozens of times in concert and even shared a coney at Jim's Coney Island. You may want to research his connection to Elton John, the GAP band, Phoebe Snow, JJ Cale, the Rolling Stones, George Harrison, Frank Sinatra, Herb Albert, Willie Nelson, and many more. This man is the most unknown "famous" musician in the history of Rock and Roll. Eric Clapton referred to Leon Russell as the original rock god. Elton John said Leon was his idol. It has been said, "that you may have never heard of Leon Russell but you heard Leon Russell". Thank you for sharing his music.
I saw him many times over the years. He lived behind my friends house in Brookside and her brother was hanging out with him. We went to say a final farewell to him at his funeral. 😢
when i heard the first note of this on agt, i told my wife that the rest could just go home. what a song, what a song only one leon. rip, gone, never forgotten
Quote from Elton John: “It was the most magical of times because here was my idol accepting me. Actually, he could eat me for breakfast [playing piano]. I came from England and being a huge fan of someone like him and to have him accept me and kind of take me under his wing and be really fantastic to me the whole time. It meant the whole world to me that someone could show me that generosity that you admired so much. It helped validate me by saying, "Well if he thinks I’m alright then I must be alright because he’s my hero."”
I loved it when Elton said "I looked out into the crowd, it was my second night in America, and in the second row sat Leon, with his long hair and mirrored sunglasses. I was so intimidated. I was sure he would throw me in the back room, tie me to a chair and whip me, and say "This is how you play the piano!" But he was a lovely kind man and he took me on tour instead." Not verbatim, but as close as I can remember, esp the part about being tied to a chair and whipped. I remember the audience cracking up when he said it.
It begs the question of what happened?? This response justifies that question. I was thirteen and thru thru the 70’s to the end of the 90’s people got along and lived together just fine… then… it all happened.
Very interesting. While both LR and EJ started around the same time I believe Leon may have had a few years head start. And the other musicians he came in contact with were more diversified than was the case for Elton. Elton would become more successful commercially and that's why him calling Leon his idol or mentor is surprising. Surprising for a man with an ego as big as his. That's not to take away from Leon's accomplishments. He may not have sold as many solo albums or singles as EJ but if you were to count the number of hit singles he cut and countless collaborations he had with other artists then he'd far surpass EJ. His musical DNA is all over the music industry and across multiple genres. I miss artists like him and Harry Nilsson. Talk about 6° HN covered a Badfinger song and turned it into a no 1 hit. He was also the first artist to dub his voice across multiple tracks. Leon collaborated with the Ronnettes who were produced by Phil Spector who created "The Wall Of Sound". They had their own unique sound and style. Often imitated but never duplicated. Those of us who got to experience that era ( aka the Boomer period) in real time we're fortunate. Watching a video pales in comparison to living it.
Leon Russell had a career that spanned 60 YEARS! This song alone confirms the man as a true artist and a heavyweight. I remember Elton John praising Leon's skillz on piano when he said 'he (Leon) could play circles around me." That blew me away. Look into Leon's music, it will amaze and reward you with its richness and genuine virtuosity. The man was truly a marvel.
There’s a video of Leon’s induction into the R&R HOF where Elton lists all the people Leon played with and it is insane the amount of times we have heard him and not even known. What a legend.
@@chrishillyer5904 I didn't mean it as a put down of Leon, more one of the Hall itself for not nominating him as a performer. He certainly deserves to be there, however he got in . He's in good company, with Ringo and Carole King (who was inducted as a non performer with Gerry Goffin but should have been inducted as a performer years ago.). Leon got in with a couple other guys who'd been waiting a really long time as well, Alice Cooper and Neil Diamond, and I'm glad they televised his induction along with the performers, which they don't always do with sidemen.
I gotcha. The R&RHOF is kinda subjective. It’s not like sports where you can use stats and stuff. Dr. John and Tom Waits got in the same year as Leon. It was a good induction class.
I saw Leon Russell 3 times in concert here in Oklahoma.. Such a beautiful singer.. I met his son before the show, and he was just so nice. I got Leon's autograph outside his Tour bus! My mom gave me his signed album.. I grew up with his music since I was a kid..
So lucky you got to hear Leon live. Over 300 people have recorded this song. Yet the copyright is hard to track if you want to sample it. Mofo music business. Leon was in the Wrecking Crew. Watch that doc. Plus was the musical director for Joe Cocker's Mad Dogs tour. That's him on piano for The Letter, etc. Elton deeply influenced by that sound.
I just done some updated research and found out that this was not at Leon Russell's studio in Tulsa Oklahoma. Which He did buy and named it "The Church Studio." Many artist from around the world have recorded at his Church studio over the years. So what you see here in this video is a session known back then as "The Homewood Sessions" The Homewood Sessions Studio is located on Homewood & Vine, Hollywood California. Leon's session took place on 12-05-1970. Many of the people you see here were his band, family and friends. And the women you see actually baking a cake was his traveling secretary Emily. She was also the cook and a backup singer. Great stuff and classic video.
From this same “Homewood” session that was recorded for tv, he does an amazing version of Delta Lady, who also was Rita Coolidge, with his amazing back up singers including Claudia Lennear ( Stones wrote Brown Sugar for her) and Kathi McDonald who is amazing.. people always go on about the people with perfect voices, hitting those high notes etc.. but for me the voices that move me have soul, emotion, that thing... perfection can often bore me..
Yes! And all these ladies were stars all their own. 20 Feet From Stardom was about many of those fantastic ladies. Good stuff for sure. www.imdb.com/title/tt2396566/
I first saw him in 1971 at the SIU arena in Carbondale IL He was supporting his album Carny. My first arena show. I was one lucky Mo Fo to have lived in the age of giants, thanks brother
The Carpenters recorded the quintessential version, in my opinion. Lots of good covers, but theirs is the best (especially when she sings "and when my life is over...."). Gets me in the gut.
He is from Tulsa Oklahoma and one of the great musicians, wrote so many beautiful songs for others.. one of The Best concerts I ever saw..him, Willie, Jeff Beck, Elton ..
A few days after he died, I went to see The Alan Parsons Project in OKC. Right in the middle of the show they started playing this. The crowd went nuts.
This is why I miss old school radio. Every once in a while you'd hear a song like this - not a top 10 hit but a good DJ who knew his audience who play Leon Russell.
My favorite artist by far. You should watch video of him being inducted into the music hall of fame. Elton John did an incredible introduction. The magnitude of Russell’s writing and collaboration with other artists (including the Beatles) is simply amazing!!!!
I was so in love with Leon Russell in the early 70's. Played his "Asylum Choir" album over and over. Sadly, had kind of forgotten about him, Thank you for reminding me what an incredibly talent he was. Beautiful song.
Oh Jamel, this is such a beautiful song. I haven't heard it in awhile and just remembered how much I loved it when it came out. Thanks for this beautiful memory.
Leon Russell was an Oklahoman, musician, composer, arranger, producer and an musical artist. He was an incredible person. He was truly unique in his music, style and soulful voice. He influenced countless musicians. He played many instruments but is probably best known for his piano mastery. The Homewood sessions were recorded for public television. Leon lived in LA during this time and got some of his friends to come to the studio and hang out and help him with this show. Leon was a man of few words and he spoke through his music. I saw Leon play many shows in past years. I am glad you discovered his music. Your review was awesome and it is obvious you appreciate his music. Thank You
Glad you’re checking out more Leon Russell. One that I would recommend is his live performance of Jumping Jack Flash at the Concert for Bangladesh. This was a benefit concert put together by George Harrison, and has a number of great performances. When George put this together, during a flood and famine in the country of Bangladesh, it was one of the first big benefit concerts. It was many years prior to Live Aid or Farm Aid. I would also recommend more cuts from his album Carney, where Tightrope came from. That would include the songs Masquerade, Magic Mirror and Queen of the Roller Derby.
Watch Cher on UTube as she talks about Leon ( and other well known artists) during the early days of a talented group of studio musicians called the Wrecking Crew. My personal favorite is Bluebird! RIP, Leon..thank you for reacting to this beautiful song!!
For a time, I lived in Tulsa, Ok...used to drive by Leons house all the time...gated of course but a gorgeous old mansion!!! Lots of beautiful trees,...once saw him driving an old rolls around...so cool you guys, I waved, he waved back..I smiled so huge, as you could imagine!!! wow, RIP my friend Leon, xxx!!!!
Leon gives me goosebumps as soon as this song opens. So much add soul and gospel here. One of the greatest song ever written and recorded by so many other, it's incredible I believe he started playing piano when he was 4 or 5 years old I saw him in concert from the early 70's to just a few years before his passing. I miss you so much my beloved Leon. The master of space and time forever ❤
He was a huge fan of Little Richard and Ray Charles did a version of this song, but Leon wrote it and recorded it first Rita Coolidge was his girlfriend and love for years, but he went on to marry another woman and she was African American as were his children. I saw him live twice and he was as will always be amazing!
I'm a product of this song. This is my mom's song about my Dad. They have a crazy bond over Brother Leon. They went to see him together a cpl times in the 70s. They married in 76 I came along in 80. Thanks to brother Leon Russell for helping me get here!!!
Leon basically had a hippie commune as a band and choir. Everybody including the dog were in on his music. Leon was Elton Johns hero, he greatly admired his piano playing and overall talent.
This guy was one of the greatest session musicians of all time and great song writer. He has written songs and played for more big names than you could ever imagine.
Thank you so much for this reaction. I love Leon Russell and you don't hear many people that are listening to him. He's one of the greatest pianists of all time. Most of his playing was improviised. He rarely played the same piece the same way. You truly are helping keep good music alive.
This is one of the most beautiful songs ever written. I saw him do this live in Pittsburgh in 1971. -I was never the same!!!!! I love you in a place Where there's no space an' time I love you for all my life You are a friend of mine.
Leon was one of the nicest musicians you would ever want to know. I was a kid when this was recorded. Leon had the respect of all of us. Mr. Leon RIP. ✌️🎼🎶🎶🎶🎶🙏🏻. Later in my life he remembered me by name. I always had backstage passes, guess I was not lucky but truly honored. The woman you see from behind was mixing cornbread. Thank y’all
Leon's a singular talent. I remember the first time I heard him and I'm not all that thrilled at my buddy's choice in artists and by the end of the album I'm hooked. Very good example of not judging a book by its cover.
When I first heard this.... around '72.... I. WAS. STUNNED. It was sooo powerful and intimate. And then there was... his singing voice. Quite a combination!
The original will always bring a tear to my eye. I don’t think the raw emotions of the original songwriter can be duplicated by another, not entirely. There are some great covers, but if you really listen to the emotion behind Leon’s rendition this is a deeply personal song from one to another.
Leon was my cousin .. never missed a concert from Dallas to Denver for 50 yrs .. Gog Bless Him and his music .. I was really impressed to find out he was Elton's mentor .. No one can compare .. Thank You Leon .. You are missed..
I was privileged to be at one of his last concerts He was absolutely amazing and I'm here to tell you, he could bring any house down. Songwriter extraordinaire.
Because of this line he was often called the "Master of space and time". Totally digging his 70's style shirt! I'm telling you check out Leon and Mary Russell song "Rainbow in Your Eyes" from the Wedding Album. your ears will be blessed!🙏👂
Hey friend - found The Wedding Album on cd Amazon - checked first seller; was pricey; then "other sellers" & ordered yesterday for under $40 with $3.99 shipping; listed as like new. Keeping fingers crossed & checking porch in anticipation! Thanks again, Lee
This is such a beautiful song in both music and lyrics. His performance is one of my favorites. Then I heard the Carpenters cover of this song - wow. There's room for both.
Thanks for the shout out, Jamel...This song has always moved me to tears...And Yes, I have been fortunate enough to have dedicated this song to my first love...and being that in love with someone is something one never forgets...And this incredibly Beautiful song will not let You...'I Loved you in a place where there is no space or time, I Loved you for my life...You are a friend of mine'...ugh...Thank You for 'coming out front, when I was hiding'❤️
With the opening bars of this song the shivers start up my back. Leon wrote many beautiful songs, I think this is his best! This was a show produced for PBS featuring Furry Lewis, an old blues singer. I watched the first airing, had seen Leon in concert the year before. He was the best!
So beautiful... a very simple set... styrofoam cups on the piano... no fancy lights... no over-the-top arrangement... just a pure and beautiful love song.
I had the privilege of seeing Leon about a half dozen times in his elder years. Folks don't understand that there is no Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, or Elton John without Leon Russell and the city of Tulsa, OK. P.s. "Brother" Leon was married to the wonderfully talented and beautiful Mary McCreary in an age and place where interracial relationships were not widely accepted.
Leon. That's all. Just Leon. Love watching your reactions to the heroes of my youth. Especially Leon and the forever blessed Joe Cocker. They are making heaven groove.
Jamel, you are becoming a "self educated" musical genious . I love your enthusiasm for the music and proud to walk this Journey with you, as are many others.
Funny you did another Leon Russell request because I just requested his performance of "Young Blood" and looked it up and listened for the first time in years. Family thought I was nuts because I was moving around in my chair like I was seizing up! Lol
You are such a gentle soul. I can tell. I really enjoy your reactions. I am 62 and to see younger people enjoy my favorite music from the past is so heart warming.
Leon originated this in 1970. Donny Hathaway did a version in 1971. Then in the mid 2000's Michael Buble made this song popular again. Deep and meaningful, brother!
You had to remind me. One of the latest crooners to enter the Mellenia. Michael Buble. Here's his version of 'A Song For You'. th-cam.com/video/SkjEILbesQ8/w-d-xo.html
I believe that this was recorded live in a recording studio, surrounded by a Troup of musicians, and backup singers friends a baby and someone baking a pie or cake. Leon was an icon of the time. An ultimate session musician.
Jamel I love your channel, appreciate your message and reason for creating it. I dig the fact that you do research on the artists you react to. Thanks for reacting to A Song For You, which Leon wrote and sang so heartfelt in his inimitable style. That being said, Donny Hathaway RIP who in my opinion was and still is one of the greatest singer songwriters pianists and musical arrangers that ever graced planet earth in his short-lived time here, does Leon's song much more than justice. (Kody Lee's version was influenced by Donny, not Leon). It took my breath away the first time I heard it,(its a jaw dropper).as all of his music does. He gained more popular recognition when he recorded hits with Roberta Flack like "Where is the Love" and The Closer I Get To You". His most popular songs include "The Ghetto", "This Christmas", "Some Day We Will All Be Free", and "Little Ghetto Boy.” Hathaway is also renowned for his renditions of ", For All We Know", and "I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know,” Please check out and react to his version of A Song For You, along with "Giving Up" "For All We Know", and "I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know ". Unfortunately Donny battled paranoid schizophrenia and lost it when he took his own life at the age of 34. Thanks Jamel for making my life in self isolation during lockdown, so much more bearable. Imo you are the best out there at what you do..
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Jamaal listen to the live version by Leon, Willie Nelson and Ray Charles. Unbelievable live performance where the late great Ray Charles does a performance of a lifetime. Emotions flood the performance.
@@kevint1910 You beat me to it. LOL!! Great show. I have been trying to get Jamel to react to any Mad Dogs and Englishmen performance. I guess he doesn't get enough requests for it. Space Captain.
This is in his personal studio ... invite some friends over and lets do some songs ... for you!
@@brianmasinelli9694 I just did and Ray Charles performance brought tears to my eyes. Thanks for sharing
"Rainbow in Your Eyes" by Leon and Mary Russell
"I love you in a place where there's no space and time." Best line ever.
Amazing and unforgettable 😍🥰
Incredible line, incredible song, incredible talent. ❤️
💯🔥💫💥 BRILLIANT!!
Absolutely, the next person I fall in love with I am going to say this to him
@@kimcoley7044 Better yet..play Leon singing it. His music is so beautiful. See if he picks out that phrase too, then you will know you're on the same wave length-IMO.👍🏻
Leon Russell is always worth listening to,any time,any day.
Just about everyday I say :
"Alexa: Play Leon Russells' greatest hits."
@DevilsAdvacat
The video was shot during a rehearsal. I grew up in Tulsa and Leon was one of the most humble people I ever met. I saw him dozens of times in concert and even shared a coney at Jim's Coney Island. You may want to research his connection to Elton John, the GAP band, Phoebe Snow, JJ Cale, the Rolling Stones, George Harrison, Frank Sinatra, Herb Albert, Willie Nelson, and many more. This man is the most unknown "famous" musician in the history of Rock and Roll. Eric Clapton referred to Leon Russell as the original rock god. Elton John said Leon was his idol. It has been said, "that you may have never heard of Leon Russell but you heard Leon Russell". Thank you for sharing his music.
I lived in Sapulpa for a few years and got to see Leon at Cain's ballroom before he died. Awesome and under appreciated musician.
I saw him many times over the years. He lived behind my friends house in Brookside and her brother was hanging out with him. We went to say a final farewell to him at his funeral. 😢
Leon Russell is one of my lifetime favorites and this song is everything.
Back in the day my father said you need to live life genuine! This is what Leon Russel was and it can't be duplicated!
“I love you in a place where there’s no space or time”. One of the most beautiful lines ever penned.
I believe that's why he became known to us (his biggest fans) as MOSAT, the Master of Space & Time.
Leon was smokin’ hot. If you can catch his performance at “The Concert for Bangladesh”, he was the one who really rocked it.
Oh yeah, that Jumping Jack Flash performance is legendary.
Jamel please react to his „jumping jack flash/youngblood“ performance at george harrison’s concert for bangladesh - it‘s absolutely legendary!
@@mattmojomusic We had the album. It was great!
Looky here...Looky here...Young Blood...
Amen.
Leon Russell. The Master of Space and Time.
AKA: Music
homewood studios broadcast on pbs
when i heard the first note of this on agt, i told my wife that the rest could just go home. what a song, what a song
only one leon. rip, gone, never forgotten
Quote from Elton John: “It was the most magical of times because here was my idol accepting me. Actually, he could eat me for breakfast [playing piano]. I came from England and being a huge fan of someone like him and to have him accept me and kind of take me under his wing and be really fantastic to me the whole time. It meant the whole world to me that someone could show me that generosity that you admired so much. It helped validate me by saying, "Well if he thinks I’m alright then I must be alright because he’s my hero."”
Chills!
I loved it when Elton said "I looked out into the crowd, it was my second night in America, and in the second row sat Leon, with his long hair and mirrored sunglasses. I was so intimidated.
I was sure he would throw me in the back room, tie me to a chair and whip me, and say "This is how you play the piano!" But he was a lovely kind man and he took me on tour instead."
Not verbatim, but as close as I can remember, esp the part about being tied to a chair and whipped.
I remember the audience cracking up when he said it.
It begs the question of what happened??
This response justifies that question.
I was thirteen and thru thru the 70’s to the end of the 90’s people got along and lived together just fine… then… it all happened.
Filmore East is amazing
Very interesting. While both LR and EJ started around the same time I believe Leon may have had a few years head start. And the other musicians he came in contact with were more diversified than was the case for Elton. Elton would become more successful commercially and that's why him calling Leon his idol or mentor is surprising. Surprising for a man with an ego as big as his. That's not to take away from Leon's accomplishments. He may not have sold as many solo albums or singles as EJ but if you were to count the number of hit singles he cut and countless collaborations he had with other artists then he'd far surpass EJ. His musical DNA is all over the music industry and across multiple genres. I miss artists like him and Harry Nilsson. Talk about 6° HN covered a Badfinger song and turned it into a no 1 hit. He was also the first artist to dub his voice across multiple tracks. Leon collaborated with the Ronnettes who were produced by Phil Spector who created "The Wall Of Sound". They had their own unique sound and style. Often imitated but never duplicated. Those of us who got to experience that era ( aka the Boomer period) in real time we're fortunate. Watching a video pales in comparison to living it.
Leon Russell had a career that spanned 60 YEARS! This song alone confirms the man as a true artist and a heavyweight. I remember Elton John praising Leon's skillz on piano when he said 'he (Leon) could play circles around me." That blew me away. Look into Leon's music, it will amaze and reward you with its richness and genuine virtuosity. The man was truly a marvel.
One of the the greatest songs ever written: “I love you in a place where there is no space and time...” Genius.
There’s a video of Leon’s induction into the R&R HOF where Elton lists all the people Leon played with and it is insane the amount of times we have heard him and not even known. What a legend.
his performance from that night is probably my favorite live version
He got in the side door of RRHOF, as a sideman, same as Ringo did as a solo artist.
I can see how you see it that way but what a sideman he is. I believe he deserved to get in there for the Carnival album and A Song For You.
@@chrishillyer5904 I didn't mean it as a put down of Leon, more one of the Hall itself for not nominating him as a performer. He certainly deserves to be there, however he got in . He's in good company, with Ringo and Carole King (who was inducted as a non performer with Gerry Goffin but should have been inducted as a performer years ago.). Leon got in with a couple other guys who'd been waiting a really long time as well, Alice Cooper and Neil Diamond, and I'm glad they televised his induction along with the performers, which they don't always do with sidemen.
I gotcha. The R&RHOF is kinda subjective. It’s not like sports where you can use stats and stuff. Dr. John and Tom Waits got in the same year as Leon. It was a good induction class.
Saw him a couple of years before he passed away. Beautiful man. May his memory be eternal.
I saw Leon Russell 3 times in concert here in Oklahoma..
Such a beautiful singer..
I met his son before the show, and he was just so nice.
I got Leon's autograph outside his Tour bus!
My mom gave me his signed album..
I grew up with his music since I was a kid..
So lucky you got to hear Leon live. Over 300 people have recorded this song. Yet the copyright is hard to track if you want to sample it. Mofo music business. Leon was in the Wrecking Crew. Watch that doc. Plus was the musical director for Joe Cocker's Mad Dogs tour. That's him on piano for The Letter, etc. Elton deeply influenced by that sound.
Yes in Florida, epic. Saw him late 80's with Johnny Winter.
Elton John collaborated with Leon Russell late in his life; he was a huge fan.
Leon & Elton had been friends for ages. Elton called Leon his mentor. I saw them together in 2010. Fabulous!
yup! and elton also used some of leon's licks!
I seen them perform at the Bridge school Benefit concerts.
@@shannonbilyeu6845 Lucky you!
The video I found below is what led me to your reaction video! Very cool!!
th-cam.com/video/RGICB9945xo/w-d-xo.html
Later when Leon’s time was near Elton went to visit and the respect Elton showed him was legendary
I just done some updated research and found out that this was not at Leon Russell's studio in Tulsa Oklahoma. Which He did buy and named it "The Church Studio." Many artist from around the world have recorded at his Church studio over the years. So what you see here in this video is a session known back then as "The Homewood Sessions" The Homewood Sessions Studio is located on Homewood & Vine, Hollywood California. Leon's session took place on 12-05-1970. Many of the people you see here were his band, family and friends. And the women you see actually baking a cake was his traveling secretary Emily. She was also the cook and a backup singer. Great stuff and classic video.
Thanks for the explanation!
@@anthonym1427 Your very welcome.
I really enjoyed seeing the woman doing some cooking in one of the shots.
@@EdMan57 That may have been his mother in law. I think I will look into that. His wife was black and has a daughter who is also a singer.
@@Mr54nomore ,thanks for the info!
Shout out to my friend, thanks for taking me to a Leon Russell show!
RIP, Jack.
This is Leon's own studio. He invited some friends over. Kinda like Darryl's house!
Love the Paradise sessions with JJ Cale, sooo good!
This is at at Homewood and Vine. Leon's studio was Skyhill Ranch.
This is Homewood studios in Santa Monica, Leon bought the Church studio in ‘72.
Actually a public television station in LA. Entire show on TH-cam
check out the version of this song with Leon, Willie Nelson, and Ray Charles, just before Ray Passed
I love you in a place where there's no space or time. Best words. Leon is so very missed 💔
"LADY BLUE" next please.
Donny Hathaway's version of "A SONG FOR YOU" will bring a tear to your eye.
It sure will, I enjoy it over this version.
Sassymess mess Yeah and the Temptations did a fine version with Dennis Edwards on lead vocals.
Check out George Benson’s live version on Weekend In LA
@@rdecker62 Leon Russell wrote this song. All others version are a cover. Ray Charles does a great one too.
There is nothing better than Donnie Hathaway's version.
My wife and I were fortunate enough to see him in concert in a small theater setting. We were indeed very fortunate.
Leon also wrote “Masquerade,” covered by George Benson, and “Hummingbird,” covered by B.B. King.
I forgot "Masquerade "
Such a good songwriter.
He also co-wrote ‘Groupie (Superstar)’, covered as just ‘Superstar’ by the Carpenters.
lcozzarelli - wow!
@@lcozzarelli Leon said he wrote "Groupie" with Bonnie Bramlett (of Delaney and Bonnie). And that Rita Coolidge came up with the word Superstar.
I Saw Leon Russell in a little bar in Sebring FL and I sat 8 ft. In front of his piano with not many other people.
Next song from Leon, "Stranger in a Strange Land." But, honestly, just about anything by Russell is a must hear.
Yes, please!!
Leon's barn I believe
Couldn't agree more
Leon Russel was special in this world.
"I Put A Spell On You"
Excellent Leon !🎶🤗
From this same “Homewood” session that was recorded for tv, he does an amazing version of Delta Lady, who also was Rita Coolidge, with his amazing back up singers including Claudia Lennear ( Stones wrote Brown Sugar for her) and Kathi McDonald who is amazing.. people always go on about the people with perfect voices, hitting those high notes etc.. but for me the voices that move me have soul, emotion, that thing... perfection can often bore me..
Yes! And all these ladies were stars all their own. 20 Feet From Stardom was about many of those fantastic ladies. Good stuff for sure.
www.imdb.com/title/tt2396566/
Great song.... the Temptations do the best version, in my humble opinion.... smile on....
Hell yeah dude! check out Claudia Lennear's Playboy photoshoot
@sukie584 I'm with ya about voices with character in them. Joe Cocker comes to mind. Tom Waites & John Prine too.
I first saw him in 1971 at the SIU arena in Carbondale IL He was supporting his album Carny. My first arena show. I was one lucky Mo Fo to have lived in the age of giants, thanks brother
The Carpenters covered this song very nicely I might add. Leon Russell also wrote Superstar,also done by the Carpenters.
Rita Coolidge had a lot to do with Superstar.....but was not credited.....fyi...
The Carpenters recorded the quintessential version, in my opinion. Lots of good covers, but theirs is the best (especially when she sings "and when my life is over...."). Gets me in the gut.
He did? Ohhhhhhhh my 💜
The Carpenters could never hold a candle to Leon Russell!!
Back to the Island by Leon Russel. One of my favorites.
One of the best tunes ever
He is from Tulsa Oklahoma and one of the great musicians, wrote so many beautiful songs for others.. one of The Best concerts I ever saw..him, Willie, Jeff Beck, Elton ..
A few days after he died, I went to see The Alan Parsons Project in OKC. Right in the middle of the show they started playing this. The crowd went nuts.
OH YOU DID FIND LEON!!!! There is soo much more to him than this song, but I'm so glad you did this!!!
This is why I miss old school radio. Every once in a while you'd hear a song like this - not a top 10 hit but a good DJ who knew his audience who play Leon Russell.
Greatest....song......Ev A.....
thank u for reminding of this brilliant artist
My favorite artist by far. You should watch video of him being inducted into the music hall of fame. Elton John did an incredible introduction. The magnitude of Russell’s writing and collaboration with other artists (including the Beatles) is simply amazing!!!!
"I know your image of me is what I hope to be..." Beautiful.
Best concert I ever attended. Best back up group with him. Billy Preston was his keyboard man and he 'bout stole the show.
And back in the day, Leon playing piano for Joe Cocker
I was so in love with Leon Russell in the early 70's. Played his "Asylum Choir" album over and over. Sadly, had kind of forgotten about him, Thank you for reminding me what an incredibly talent he was. Beautiful song.
Oh Jamel, this is such a beautiful song. I haven't heard it in awhile and just remembered how much I loved it when it came out. Thanks for this beautiful memory.
Leon Russell was an Oklahoman, musician, composer, arranger, producer and an musical artist. He was an incredible person. He was truly unique in his music, style and soulful voice. He influenced countless musicians. He played many instruments but is probably best known for his piano mastery. The Homewood sessions were recorded for public television. Leon lived in LA during this time and got some of his friends to come to the studio and hang out and help him with this show. Leon was a man of few words and he spoke through his music. I saw Leon play many shows in past years.
I am glad you discovered his music. Your review was awesome and it is obvious you appreciate his music. Thank You
Glad you’re checking out more Leon Russell. One that I would recommend is his live performance of Jumping Jack Flash at the Concert for Bangladesh. This was a benefit concert put together by George Harrison, and has a number of great performances. When George put this together, during a flood and famine in the country of Bangladesh, it was one of the first big benefit concerts. It was many years prior to Live Aid or Farm Aid.
I would also recommend more cuts from his album Carney, where Tightrope came from. That would include the songs Masquerade, Magic Mirror and Queen of the Roller Derby.
I was at the Bangladesh concert. Leon stole the show
"This Masquerade" was later covered by George Benson in 1976, it was a major hit for Benson.
Yes!!! I LOVE his jumping jack flash/Youngblood medley on that album!!
@@fidge54 Lucky you! I would have loved to have seen that show live. George has always been my favorite Beatle.
@@blackeyedlily it was one of the best concerts I ever saw.. Only bummer was Lennon didn't show
HUGE Leon Russell fan...this song is an all time favorite!!
Watch Cher on UTube as she talks about Leon ( and other well known artists) during the early days of a talented group of studio musicians called the Wrecking Crew. My personal favorite is Bluebird! RIP, Leon..thank you for reacting to this beautiful song!!
That was pretty good what Cher said
For a time, I lived in Tulsa, Ok...used to drive by Leons house all the time...gated of course but a gorgeous old mansion!!! Lots of beautiful trees,...once saw him driving an old rolls around...so cool you guys, I waved, he waved back..I smiled so huge, as you
could imagine!!! wow, RIP my friend Leon, xxx!!!!
That's a sweet memory...thanks for sharing.
Really like his: Roll away the Stone, Shootout on the Plantation, Hummingbird and my favorite Back to the Island
Back to the Island is great!
Oh yes. So beautiful....
Leon Russell was one of the greatest song writers of all time chose anyone of the mentioned songs and we all will be entertained.
I always preferred Leon’s version!!
My favorite is actually "Magic Mirror", a deeper track off the album "Carney".
Leon gives me goosebumps as soon as this song opens.
So much add soul and gospel here. One of the greatest song ever written and recorded by so many other, it's incredible
I believe he started playing piano when he was 4 or 5 years old
I saw him in concert from the early 70's to just a few years before his passing. I miss you so much my beloved Leon.
The master of space and time forever ❤
"And when my life is over,
~remember when we were together... "😭😭😭
He was a huge fan of Little Richard and Ray Charles did a version of this song, but Leon wrote it and recorded it first
Rita Coolidge was his girlfriend and love for years, but he went on to marry another woman and she was African American as were his children.
I saw him live twice and he was as will always be amazing!
I'm a product of this song. This is my mom's song about my Dad. They have a crazy bond over Brother Leon. They went to see him together a cpl times in the 70s. They married in 76 I came along in 80. Thanks to brother Leon Russell for helping me get here!!!
The late, great, Mr. Leon Russell....
An American treasure, your songs live on forever....💞🇺🇸🎶
Leon basically had a hippie commune as a band and choir. Everybody including the dog were in on his music. Leon was Elton Johns hero, he greatly admired his piano playing and overall talent.
This guy was one of the greatest session musicians of all time and great song writer. He has written songs and played for more big names than you could ever imagine.
Thank you so much for this reaction. I love Leon Russell and you don't hear many people that are listening to him. He's one of the greatest pianists of all time. Most of his playing was improviised. He rarely played the same piece the same way. You truly are helping keep good music alive.
Elton John Idolized Leon. Said he wished he could play piano as good.
Russell wrote and performed some beautiful music. Bless his heart.
This is one of the most beautiful songs ever written. I saw him do this live in Pittsburgh in 1971. -I was never the same!!!!!
I love you in a place
Where there's no space an' time
I love you for all my life
You are a friend of mine.
"This man is skilled!"
Massive understatement.
Leon was one of the nicest musicians you would ever want to know. I was a kid when this was recorded. Leon had the respect of all of us. Mr. Leon RIP. ✌️🎼🎶🎶🎶🎶🙏🏻. Later in my life he remembered me by name. I always had backstage passes, guess I was not lucky but truly honored. The woman you see from behind was mixing cornbread. Thank y’all
Leon's a singular talent. I remember the first time I heard him and I'm not all that thrilled at my buddy's choice in artists and by the end of the album I'm hooked. Very good example of not judging a book by its cover.
When I first heard this.... around '72.... I. WAS. STUNNED. It was sooo powerful and intimate. And then there was... his singing voice. Quite a combination!
The original will always bring a tear to my eye. I don’t think the raw emotions of the original songwriter can be duplicated by another, not entirely. There are some great covers, but if you really listen to the emotion behind Leon’s rendition this is a deeply personal song from one to another.
Maybe ray charles...but that's about it
I love you in a place where's no space and time....absolutely incredible songwriting
So glad you found Leon. He is priceless. I get Goosies every time I listen to this.
Leon was my cousin .. never missed a concert from Dallas to Denver for 50 yrs .. Gog Bless Him and his music .. I was really impressed to find out he was Elton's mentor .. No one can compare .. Thank You Leon .. You are missed..
I was privileged to be at one of his last concerts He was absolutely amazing and I'm here to tell you, he could bring any house down. Songwriter extraordinaire.
I too saw Leon perform and month or 2 before he crossed over ... love me this Young Blood
Because of this line he was often called the "Master of space and time". Totally digging his 70's style shirt! I'm telling you check out Leon and Mary Russell song "Rainbow in Your Eyes" from the Wedding Album. your ears will be blessed!🙏👂
Hey friend - found The Wedding Album on cd Amazon - checked first seller; was pricey; then "other sellers" & ordered yesterday for under $40 with $3.99 shipping; listed as like new. Keeping fingers crossed & checking porch in anticipation! Thanks again, Lee
This is one of the most beautiful songs ever he wrote this, and he collaborated with many others.
Agreed such emotion conveyed in song and lyrics.
to be blown away you must watch Leon , Ray Charles and Willie Nelson do this----it will bring you to tears
When you looked at the camera, I smiled
He is in the songwriters HOF and was one of THE most sought after studio musicians ever. Love love love leon.
This is such a beautiful song in both music and lyrics. His performance is one of my favorites. Then I heard the Carpenters cover of this song - wow. There's room for both.
Thanks for the shout out, Jamel...This song has always moved me to tears...And Yes, I have been fortunate enough to have dedicated this song to my first love...and being that in love with someone is something one never forgets...And this incredibly Beautiful song will not let You...'I Loved you in a place where there is no space or time, I Loved you for my life...You are a friend of mine'...ugh...Thank You for 'coming out front, when I was hiding'❤️
With the opening bars of this song the shivers start up my back. Leon wrote many beautiful songs, I think this is his best!
This was a show produced for PBS featuring Furry Lewis, an old blues singer. I watched the first airing, had seen Leon in concert the year before. He was the best!
So beautiful... a very simple set... styrofoam cups on the piano... no fancy lights... no over-the-top arrangement... just a pure and beautiful love song.
I had the privilege of seeing Leon about a half dozen times in his elder years. Folks don't understand that there is no Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, or Elton John without Leon Russell and the city of Tulsa, OK.
P.s. "Brother" Leon was married to the wonderfully talented and beautiful Mary McCreary in an age and place where interracial relationships were not widely accepted.
Leon. That's all. Just Leon. Love watching your reactions to the heroes of my youth. Especially Leon and the forever blessed Joe Cocker. They are making heaven groove.
Love this. I have an old album he and Willie Nelson did together. RIP Leon Russell
My favorite Leon and Willie song together is "Sioux City Sue."
So proud of you dude-a young man who appreciates what my generation grew up with. Nostalgia...
This song! And this version! And the setting! So cool... so amazing... perfection. I have to listen to this regularly... it's my everything. 🧡💚💜
Me too...a least once every few weeks 💜🧡💚
My uncle was his tour driver and fill in drummer and personal friend of Leon for about a decade or more. He was heartbroken when Leon passed.
Jamel, you are becoming a "self educated" musical genious . I love your enthusiasm for the music and proud to walk this Journey with you, as are many others.
Fabulous artist performing one of his best songs ever. Glad you discovered him.
Such a gorgeous song. If you watch his rock and roll hall of fame induction on TH-cam you WILL cry
I can’t stop coming back to this. Music. Love. Respect. Genius. Brotherhood. All of it. Damn….. ❤️
THANK YOU FOR COVERING HIM
So happy to see you discover the soul-full Leon Russell!
Funny you did another Leon Russell request because I just requested his performance of "Young Blood" and looked it up and listened for the first time in years. Family thought I was nuts because I was moving around in my chair like I was seizing up! Lol
You are such a gentle soul. I can tell. I really enjoy your reactions. I am 62 and to see younger people enjoy my favorite music from the past is so heart warming.
Leon originated this in 1970. Donny Hathaway did a version in 1971. Then in the mid 2000's Michael Buble made this song popular again.
Deep and meaningful, brother!
And don’t forget The Carpenter’s haunting version, with Karen Carpenter on lead vocals.
You had to remind me. One of the latest crooners to enter the Mellenia. Michael Buble. Here's his version of 'A Song For You'.
th-cam.com/video/SkjEILbesQ8/w-d-xo.html
You forgot Karen Carpenter. Stellar cover!
I believe that this was recorded live in a recording studio, surrounded by a Troup of musicians, and backup singers friends a baby and someone baking a pie or cake. Leon was an icon of the time. An ultimate session musician.
Jamel I love your channel, appreciate your message and reason for creating it. I dig the fact that you do research on the artists you react to. Thanks for reacting to A Song For You, which Leon wrote and sang so heartfelt in his inimitable style. That being said, Donny Hathaway RIP who in my opinion was and still is one of the greatest singer songwriters pianists and musical arrangers that ever graced planet earth in his short-lived time here, does Leon's song much more than justice. (Kody Lee's version was influenced by Donny, not Leon). It took my breath away the first time I heard it,(its a jaw dropper).as all of his music does. He gained more popular recognition when he recorded hits with Roberta Flack like "Where is the Love" and The Closer I Get To You". His most popular songs include "The Ghetto", "This Christmas", "Some Day We Will All Be Free", and "Little Ghetto Boy.” Hathaway is also renowned for his renditions of ", For All We Know", and "I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know,” Please check out and react to his version of A Song For You, along with "Giving Up" "For All We Know", and "I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know ". Unfortunately Donny battled paranoid schizophrenia and lost it when he took his own life at the age of 34. Thanks Jamel for making my life in self isolation during lockdown, so much more bearable. Imo you are the best out there at what you do..
Leon was one of the best songwriters, musicians, arrangers, producers to ever live.
Check out his version of Masquerade. Leon wrote it. George Benson had a huge it with it in the late 1970s.
I had the pleasure of seeing Leon live at Willie Nelsons 4th of July Picnic back in the early 80s. So awesome.
Jamel, this is his song but was made famous by the Carpenters, just thought you might like that bit of trivia
Harry Cohlmia ....to many, Donny Hathaway made it famous 😉
this was written by Leon
Carpenters also made famous a song he co-wrote, Superstar, I believe with Bonnie Bramblett.
George Benson had big hit mid70s with it
His eyes were so gorgeous! R.I.P. sweet man. You are missed!!
Famous member of the "wrecking crew" Leon has backed everyone from Frank to Barbara; native of Oklahoma.