Most music today, as it has always been, is played without pitch correction or other software filtering. That is because most music played, as always, is played live, in peoples homes, on the front porch, or in the backyard. If you want to hear this style of play go to where roots music or folk music is played. As Fil so eloquently says "It is a conscious choice to do it this way". We choose not to. And I'm a guy who feels he needs a little pitch correction. lol My garage band software has it built in. I have to turn it off. I choose to do so. I'm a little older than Bonnie and I grew up listening to her dad too. Fil could do a video on genre sound, starting with Broadway sound. But the key is always how musicians find a way to express the intangible, the emotional content. I make a concious decision to express emotion when I sing or play (NAS flute). The greatness of this song forces me to keep my emotions in just enough control to get through these lyrics without too much genuine cry getting in the way. RIP John Prine.
I just saw her perform this live 3 days ago. I've literally never experienced such a flawless, perfectly expressed song. I looked around and people had tears running down their faces. If you think she's amazing in the recording, you'd be floored at hearing this live. She's one of the rare performers who never lost her passion and authenticity over the course of a very long career.
Not likely I'll ever get to hear Ms. Raitt sing this song live, so I greatly appreciate your description of her performance. "Nick of Time" was the album that hooked me.
Wait, this won RECENTLY? Wow. I've paid so little attention to popular music because I find it soulless. But if this can still win, there is still hope. What a masterful performer she is. Fantastic analysis on this, thank you for your spot on insight.
I love her version - a woman's version - of this song. Written by guys, I am still fascinating at how much more profound these lyrics are coming from a woman's point of view. Our history degrades women who express such sentiments and, with these lyrics, we're confronted with a human expressing heart-deep desire - regardless of insulting labels.
This song is literally like a breath of fresh air. I’ve bitterly missed unprocessed vocals for decades now, but it’s not until I heard a totally raw new recording that I realised how much. It hits hard. It’s imperfect, and that’s what makes it awesome.
I concur. I love Bonnie Raitt, great player, beautiful voice, greatcsings, beautiful woman. The complete package. So glad Fil's video reminded me to re-listen. I shall revisit all the albums I have, this weekend.
I'm GenX and my parents were of the Silent Generation. I was raised on music of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Vocals with color and emotion, unlike the over-processed drivel prevalent in today's music. This is why I stick with indie artists for the most part. If it's the same 1-3 lines repeated for 2 1/2 minutes, it's not a song, it's a jingle.
Same here @ChaoticWonder same GenX, same much older parents…raised on show tunes, Sinatra, Barbra, and Classic Rock. I picked up a love for some “alternative” bands like Dépêche Mode and New Order in college, cause it was fun to dance to, and my friends all liked it. Another friend got me in to Coldplay about 15 years ago…but otherwise, generally if it was made after 1990, I don’t listen to it. The “new” stuff doesn’t even really sound like music/singing…it sounds like a computer not a human. Just because they can auto-tune and pitch correct doesn’t mean they should…the real human voice with all of it’s nuance is the beauty of vocals, not the computer altered ‘perfection.’
@@judyperilstein9752 That is an absolutely beautiful and perfect way to put it…you relate to the sound of another human with their music, not to a computer. Music and vocals are all about expressing emotion, feeling emotion, and pulling emotion from the listener…a computer can’t do this…I don’t think the brain recognizes it on the same level. Let people sing, let instruments play! Let the technology not override the humanity of music!
Pops was born in 1933 and died in 1996; he never liked rock-n-roll. He came back from Korea a man and thought rock-n-roll was for kids. He liked the swing of big bands and the great crooners. Ma was born in 1940 (83 now)* and loves the rock of the '50s (Elvis) and early '60s; she didn't like British Rock, but loved Motown as well as Country & Western. I was born in '67 (8/9) and discovered my own music in the 70s with KISS, AC/DC, etc, etc. So like many other GenXers I like music from 1920s-1990s - the music of my grandparents, parents and my generations, or what's otherwise known as "the music of the 20th century." I also enjoy any "real" music from hundreds of years ago, or today. Get it while you can, before AI takes over and destroys it all. Give me analog or give me death! *edit
What an incredible song. Bonnie Raitt is one of our best story tellers in song and has been for decades. She's one of our most underappreciated singers because she's always insisted on being herself and didn't play into the marketing machine. Her very human nuances in her singing are absolutely divine. No technology can improve upon the expression of the human experience that she imbues into her singing.
I wouldn't say she's unappreciated. Go back and look at all the awards she's won for her music. Yes, she did play for a long time without recognition, but that was decades ago. Since "Nick of Time," she has been considered among the best in music.
Saw her do this live, March 2023. Bonnie is amazing. She improves with age, like the fine wine she doesn't drink. I also love her for talking about her sobriety. She inspires on so many levels!
Bonnie is amazing, so happy she won the Grammy!!! she is also the sole songwriter on this track, very unusual these days, and as always it sounds simple but 'simple' is not mean easy. She wrote is after seeing a TV show about a woman that lost her son and his heart was given to a doner that eventually tracked down the mother... beautiful song and masterfully performed.
Man, you are a treasure. Just knowing there are other competent musicians that can truly appreciate things from Diamondhead to Glen Campbell and breakdown the intricacies of great songs of all genres without cork-sniffing snobbery, is a great service to humanity and music in general. Much love to you.
Who's your other 2? I like Susan Tedeschi and Stevie. Bonnie is my #1. The only other song I really like on this album is 'down the hall'. The others are bland to me, I don't care though cause it's still bonnie singing. LOL I forgot, I really like Grace Potters voice too.
Last heard Bonnie sing live in concert around 40 years ago - her voice was fine back then (before auto tune was a thing), and it's just fine now. Later heard her singing "Angel From Montgomery" with John Prine, both before and after John's throat cancer, and neither of them used or needed auto tune. Nice presentation!
As a kid, I saw John Raitt numerous times when he came to town for summer stock musicals. Within a time of several years later, Bonnie began performing and cutting records and became more successful financially than her dad. She then began treating him out at lunches and dinners on the road. His famous quote was, "She used to be known as John Raitt's daughter; now I'm known as Bonnie Raitt's father."
I saw John Raitt when I was 13. It was a summer theatre in the round. He came up the aisle and stood next to me as he waited for his next cue. The play was Kismet. He was bare chested and covered in perspiration. It my first crush on an older man. Over 50 years and I remember like it was yesterday. 😍
Saw a PBS July 4 special decades ago where they performed together, her with a hand held wireless mic and John with... maybe a body mic (like in a musical theater performance). They were obviously from different performance worlds but were very much together artistically. It was a delight to watch and hear.
Bonnie is just fabulous. I've loved her music only from the first time I ever heard her back in the 70's right up to today. I'm 71 and love great music because it never grows old. It's timeless healing to my soul.
I haven't checked whether someone else has already said this, but even if they have, it's worth repeating. As well as singing the song, of course Bonnie wrote it, and I'm pretty sure she produced it, too. And I imagine she was playing one of the guitars... She is a truly outstanding musician. 🥰
Okay. My reaction has been "makes me think of John Prine," but yes, I can see Leonard Cohen as well. I think why is the attention and focus to the literary art of the songwriting. Every single word is carefully considered, and perfectly placed in service of the story. That is the way Cohen was as well.
I Love You Irma! I found something about the tune strangely familiar since it first came out...I feel the Cohen link is what I was feeling...Thanks for sharing, made my day!
I'll add a third name to this list of "reminds me of ..." - Bob Dylan. Fits perfectly as the sort of story he might have told, and the way he would have told it. Fred
You've perfectly explained to the people who don't believe she deserved the award why she absolutely did. I've always said that purity and talent is by far the greatest basis of lasting music. Thanks, as always Fil!!!
Just saw Bonnie March 10 in Southern California - first show for her and her band in the new year, and she said they were just itching to get back on stage and make music again. She had a large contingency of family there and put on a wonderful show. She can make you cry, then turn around and rip. Glad to see the recognition she is getting at age 73. What do you want the girl to do? Just what she is great at.
This is such a lovely song! I love how Bonnie sung it with a lot of emotion in her voice. I like the natural, unedited voice of a singer because you can hear the emotions in their voices that you wouldn't hear if they were pitch corrected. Pitch correction and auto tune should be outlawed, lol!
I adore Bonnie Raitt! The word is overused but her voice is truly authentic. IT IS THE STORY in her songs that she delivers like no one else can. She's a superb musician as well as a singer but it is the troubadour character to her singing that so few had that puts it over the top.
"Blending pitch with expression and dipping in and out of pitch with vocal fry ".Love the way you explain music so astutely 🎵🎼 The subtlety &simplicity of the song is so well explained by you Fil:)
How had I not heard this before? The problem with ignoring modern popular music out of frustration is that once in a while you’ll miss something breathtaking. Also - never underestimate the ability of the Hammond(?) organ and Leslie speaker to magnify emotions. Thanks for the fantastic analysis of this incredible performance!
Bonnie Raitt's a cousin of mine. I always liked her sad soulful songs the best and I told her that once but she told me that her upbeat ones were the most popular with the crowds. Well, of course, that is how it is...Glad you are pointing out how brilliant this aspect of her talent is conveyed and without the pitch tech correction still carries through with her unique voice. I write and sing my own songs and many of them are the more obscure and subtle kind such as this song is. Bonnie's career always gives the status quo a surprise or two, doesn't it?
Hi Holly! I think I met you one time when I was asked by Bonnie and one of her dearest friends, Patty Ray (who was my bestie at the time), if I would babysit for a cousin's baby! Was that yours? It was in about 1971-ish? We were all very close-knit back then. I'm sure your little bundle of joy was a delight!
@@mamazalama No not I. Never had a child but taught art and music to many. I'll bet you would have been a great babysitter. I graduated from high school round about that time. Did you take the job?
I've been head over heels for this tune since the first time I heard it. But TBH I was so focused on the storytelling aspect (I swear she's channeling John Prine!) that I completely let the technical aspects slip past me. Thanks for unpacking it. Looking at all the elements brings a whole 'nother level of appreciation. You've truly outdone yourself here, Fil. Cheers!
PS: Not just "won A Grammy," Fil. Won freaking *Song of the YEAR*!!! I mean, how does that even happen in the context of today's industry? Been watching/listening to Bonnie since we were all kids and she was hanging out with Lowell George wondering what she was gonna be when she grew up. What a life journey. What a body of work. What an artist!
Bonnie is amongst my top favorite vocal performers. But, I don't keep up with that so much anymore. She's a story teller. Lots of people can sing a song, but Bonnie brings them to life. She tells the story like it's hers. That's an artist. 🥰
I love how you say she's singing as if the person telling the story is singing. I hear that person's sad acceptance of circumstances and the grief related to those circumstances in the way Bonnie is singing. This song is perfect in the way it expresses the subject matter.
I love artists that aren’t over processed. I can hear their emotions, and that’s what grabs me. It’s so REAL, like she’s sitting next to me. Thank you, Fil and whoever requested this one.
Brother, if you are crazy, you have good company! Anyone that truly loves music gets this...I had never heard this song until now...and I was blown away...is real music, real life, and real life is much stranger than fiction...Thanks for doing what you do, I always learn something
First saw her in 1977, saw her again with my daughter in 2005. Obviously we had all aged but her voice had not. Still the finest, most smooth with a little grit, effortless voice I’ve ever heard.
Feelings/emotions are not perfect. They're erratic. That comes through in the human voice. She uses her singing where appropriate, in order to tell the story the way SHE feels it. It comes from inside her, her soul, as it were, and her heart. It's just her, being her. It's her musical DNA. Only way I can really describe it. Gordon Lightfoot was a great storyteller. Sorry I missed that video- but on the plus side? I still have that one to look forward to. Great talents, both. Excellent breakdown, Fil.
I love that - her musical DNA. Great observation! There is no one else, and no computer, that can vocalize the way Bonnie annotates each note. It's completely unique, and uniquely identifiable to her. It's beautiful and as a society, we're losing the nuance of song - specifically singing... She's an icon and I'm so glad that Bonnie was recognized by her peers with that Grammy.
I choke up every time I hear this song. Incredible lyrics, fantastic performance by Bonnie and the musicians, and top notch production. Absolutely Grammy-worthy, and showing modern "artists" and the kids who listen to them how it's supposed to be done.
Unplugged has a potential for a whole new meaning: Music made WITHOUT programming "plug in" aps. You, know like they have been doing it on recorded music for decades before.
Bonnie Raitt is phenomenal. And seeing her live is the ultimate treat. She is humble and respectful and grateful while being the tops in her craft. This song is so touching - and also so reminds me of John Prine in its 'story'.
Thank you, Fil, for doing what you do. Your treatment here of Bonnie Raitt, in her rendition of this beautiful song, is not unlike her very performance - That of loving artistry. Heart and understanding, and an ability to express, which informs and captivates.
Bonnie was always amazing!!! Her voice doesn't require computer correction, unlike so many of the newer artists. Some of her songs are so raw and poignant that they bring tears to my eyes. Love has No Pride - Don't we all know it. Always happy to hear new material from her and for her to receive recognition for her brilliant work. Rock on Bonnie!
Keeping it REAL! As opposed to Manipulated. Bonnie has just such an incredible voice and just sings with a spoken beauty. Her interpretive ability is yes, indeed an art form.
She is a great all-around performer. She plays beautifully and tells a wonderful story. The song deserves to win awards. I wish there was more music like this in the world. It's so hard and stressful these days and we need to destress with something like this. Thanks, Bonnie, for a wonderful performance. Thanks, Fil, for the analysis. Stay safe and take care.
Bonnie's vocals in this song absolutely capture and reflect the pain, tinged with bitterness a grieving mother carries in her heart. This song both makes me cry, and gives me hope that someday such a stranger will appear at my door.
Thanks, I needed this today. Bonnie Raitt's voice often makes me feel like I want to cry - in a good way☺. Even before I realized what this song is about she was pulling at my heartstrings. She is masterful. And to loosely paraphrase my favorite character from Jurassic Park, "They spent so much time figuring out whether they _could_ hit the notes, they never stopped to think whether they _should_ hit them."
This is the way I want to hear a song, as if we were around a campfire. Who are these producers that decide the listeners need sanitized/sterilized musical notes? Make them go away!
Besides the wondrous analysis, I thought I would share a bit about when I met Bonnie Raitt and Bruce Hornsby (who opened for her) 30 years ago. It was a benefit concert (as she often does) and I was on the committee helping organize it. We were invited to a gathering with them both and at the beginning, Ms. Raitt said, "I will not sign autographs," and before she finished, people moaned. But she continued, "I can't look you in the eyes when I am looking down. I want to see who you are." Even though I had gone to see Bruce Hornsby, in that moment, I fell in love with Bonnie Raitt. The concert merely solidified it. And that they played together? Heaven! I treasure my photo with her more than I ever thought I could.
Had not heard this song before. I was a big fan of her second album, from the early 70's, _Give It Up._ Especially her treatment of the Eric Kaz song, _Love Has No Pride._ It never ceases to bring a lump to my throat. The song featured in this video strikes me as though it could have been written by Bob Dylan; she almost seems to be channeling him here. As I listen to this song develop, I think that lump is coming back. Truly magic & marvelous. Gives "keepin' it real" a whole new meaning. I've always admired her vocal work, and this only strengthens that admiration. Chip off the old block, BTW - her father John was well known for his long vocal soliloquy in the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical, _Carousel._ Thanks for your wonderful analysis! I heartily agree that no one will ever do, with Autotune, anything one-tenth as great as Bonnie can do "right out of the box." Fred
I too love Bonnie's "Give It Up" album from 1972. Was my intro to her music, along with her playing on Boston Common. On "Give It Up" I love best the Dixieland Jazzy/bluesy title tune and "Under the Falling Sky," written by Jackson Browne. "Love Has No Pride" is a deeply moving song and she uses lots of vocal breaks and textures to further her expressiveness.
Love Has No Pride was the first song I remember hearing by Bonnie Raitt (on a compilation LP - right next to Jesse covered by Roberta Flack) and it became one of my top 20 favourite tracks of all time (as did Jesse.)
Lyrics tugging at your heartstrings... delivered by the most beautiful instrument of them all - the natural, human voice! A true blend of pitch perfect, sprinkled with human 'imperfection' - musical art at its finest! THANK You, FIL!,💕
In the aftermath of the “controversy” surrounding Bonnie’s Grammy win (many thinking this song may not be deserving of the award) this was actually my first listen. I hadn’t listened to the full song…shame on me. It is a wonderful performance and Bonnie Raitt a wrote and gave us a beautiful song. Many have popularity mixed up with quality. Most of the other nominees for song of the year have never approached the the stunning quality of this song in an entire career. Bonnie has been doing this kind of thing since her start in the early 1970s.
Saw her in Sydney about 15 years ago. Unbelievable band, Jon Cleary on keys. Awesome power. On one song, Bonnie pulled up after singing one line, laughed and apologised for getting the pitch wrong, let loose the F word, very engaging. Must say, I didn't notice the error at all 😂. Brilliant, brilliant concert.
Bonnie Raitt is one of those singer/songwriters that exemplified what true musical talent is all about. Not only is she an amazing lyricist, but she is an incredibly expressive guitar player, and an amazingly emotive singer. Every aspect of her musical talent rings true and genuine, because of her minimalist style, and her utter rejection of post-production shenanigans. There aren't many musicians today like Bonnie Raitt, and we should all feel deeply blessed to live in a time when someone as talented and gifted as Bonnie is performing so that we can experience it first-hand...
Exactly right, mate, she is also acting as she sings, she moves through perspectives and we move with her, so subtle, she holds us in authentic space like a director actor as well as singer performer.
I can honestly say I never really took much notice of Bonnie although aware of her as I was. This is an impressive performance backed by what feels like a true story and honestly moved me to tears as I understood and empathised completely with the content and Bonnie's human emotional interpretation. Another sensitive appraisal by Fil who never ceases to amaze me with his perceptive precision
I saw her in concert here in Tucson about 10 years or so ago with a couple of my girlfriends. She was fabulous! Real voice. Real music. Real talent. ❤❤❤
This one reminds me of my favorite Sheryl Crow album, The Globe Sessions. Sheryl's voicings and expression is amazing. Her approach on these songs is both musical and artistically expressive of character, gliding in and out of "perfect".
I saw Bonnie Raitt live, a few years ago. She is a great singer and guitarist. I met her too. I'm a fan of her work. Thanks for sharing this analysis video. Cheers, Fil! ✌️
The greatest night of my life involved/included the great Bonie Raitt. At her break-out Grammy Awards (1990) I had the amazing privilege to be back stage-in the Green room with my date; Jan Gaye (Marvin's widow), her friend, Natalie Cole, Stevie Wonder, Sting, BB King and a woman I had never seen before-had no idea who she was. At one point she chatted me up, then was called to the stage..she returned-with a Grammy and actually made her way back to the sofa I was sitting on and shared her feelings/emotions-with me. She was so happy yet so down to earth and cool. . I still had no idea who she was or why she kept coming bac to me-but was happy for her-winning one, then two then three awards. And each time she talked to me with not just joy but humility. In addition to Ms. Raitt, I got to meet the others and share a few -very-amazing moments with each (well, Stevie's body guards were a bit off-putting so I didn't get much more than an introduction to him). All and all, it was The greatest night of my life...And I'm so happy to have "been there" for Ms. Bonnie Raitt.
Very reminiscent of Johnny Cash. This is absolutely lovely Fil. I hadn't heard of this song. Her wistful voice near the end reminds me of wandering thoughts and how we process moments like this in our mind, mulling over the memories, the feelings, and the acceptance. And because she is speaking for someone else it reminded me of EMPATHY and how we can connect through seeing another persons experiences and stories. The whole thing is a masterpiece. Thank you for doing this. Bravo Bonnie and Congrats on her award.
Thank you for giving Bonnie her flowers! She is a living legend. I have always loved her music and there have been so many young ladies who she has inspired.
What a storyteller she is! Thanks, Fil, for lending your expert analysis to the processes and dynamics involved in bringing this masterpiece to our ears. It’s even a bit of a comeback for Bonnie and provides a much-needed break from that bass-heavy, electronica-obscenica, leaking from the car next to me at the light.
I don't know if you're still reading comments on this or not. I've been listening to and purchasing her music for decades. For this peice, on particular, the perfect "imperfection" of her vocal style let's you into her soul. Life isn't perfect and is often messy, difficult, and heartbreaking. This song shows that in the way it should.
I'm not a musician so the instrumental discussion goes right over my head. But the impact is in Bonnie's voice - so raw and real. The emotion of the story and how she shares it - I can't count how many times I've listened to it, but it brings a lump to my throat and tears to my eyes every time. Any attempt to "polish it up" would gut the authenticity. Bonnie is the real deal and has shared that gift for Decades.
Someone earlier mentioned a raggedness in her voice. Yes, but it perfectly suited the grief in the narrator's voice. (I can't explain it correctly, sorry.) For years, when buying cds or digital music, I would think, "Yay, it's been remastered.", thinking they cleaned up the rattles/garbage from the background, but many times the songs, vocals especially, would sound flattened or just odd. Thanks to Fil and his videos, I'm now aware that most of that stuff has had auto-tune and/or pitch correction applied. I'd rather have the background garbage than "fixed" vocals any day.
I had instant great respect for her the first time I ever heard her and then saw her play and perform. I made room for her on the top shelf. She was every bit the master "song-teller" that was Johnny Cash, Harry Nisen, Jim Croce, Bill Withers, Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan. This is as story-deep as "Shes Leaving Home" by The Beatles. Stories speaking (musically) to the pain and beauty of humans in the act of being human beings. A privilege to receive such a piece of fine art. You can bet that any of that "slide" sound is being played by Bonnie; a slide guitar specialist.
I wasn’t aware that vocals have been subjected to ‘processed’ until I watched your video. I’ve Bonnie Raitt sing this song before and was struck by both the realism and nuance she brought to the performance. I am glad she was recognized for her contribution, she deserves it for she has earned it. Well done, appreciate your bringing the matter to our attention.
Bonnie is a treasure-this song tugged at my heart strings. It would've been a beautiful song to comfort my cousin after the loss of her son. I remember her singing 'Amazing Grace' at SRV's funeral. Fil, thanks for stating it's the exact opposite of pitch correction, it's subtle, maintains the dynamic range and going back to things used to be. 😊 God blrss, Marianne aka Celtic Gal 19:0219:05
Another great analysis. Thanks Fil. Bonnie always sings with honesty and integrity. I love the sweet quality of her voice. And her vibrato- just the right amount. To me this song sounds like a folk song from the 60s. I can hear Bob Dylan singing it in his gruff style. Bonnie is one beautiful, humble soul. She’s been a favorite of my since her first album was released and I saw her play with only her guitar and Freebo’s bass at Max’s Kansas City. She’s is a musician’s musician.
Great analysis and thanks for bringing this song forward. I hope there will be a trend toward less over-production and more authenticity. This song is a beautiful kick in the chest.
I sob every time I hear this song. Her vocal delivery is so grief-worn, just like the storyteller - the mother - in the song. It's the voice you would imagine hearing after years of cigarettes, alcohol, and sleepless nights living in utter grief. I can see the mother in a worn down town. I could almost see a movie spin up from this one powerful song.
You, Rick Beato, and the Professor of Rock are three of my favorite people. Something I've learned from watching all of you is how many singers/musicians understood both the art and the craft of music. Three that come to mind are Bonnie Raitt, Emmy Lou Harris, and Gordon Lightfoot. And then there's Patsy Cline.
I appreciate the way you analyze her performance. She is another of my favorite Female performer/singer/musicians. I always get enjoyment from your analysis videos and live streams. You bring me to a happy place. Thank you.
Thank you SO MUCH for the insightful and respectful appreciation of this AMAZING and REAL music! :D I know I can always count on thoughtful and well-expressed video content here! And re: Bonnie's amazing music.. it's SUCH a DELIGHT/THRILL to know that she's still putting out this quality of music at this stage of her career, this time of her life, whereas the general "entertainment industry" is SO dismissive of mature artists, especially WOMEN artists! Bonnie is a beacon of light and hope to all! :D
Bonnie's singing is somewhat like she was telling you a story and occasionally breaks into song....then she is singing a song and occasionally returns to simple speech and back again.
Amazingly, I had not heard this song before, nor realized the story behind it (so now it is my turn to get teary). Thanks for the thoughtful analysis of it. Bonnie's song is an excellent choice for showing how the qualities of 'subtle' and 'real' should not be underestimated, as you point out so well.
Thanks so much. Been listening to Bonnie Raitt for 50 years, I teared up when I watched her accept the Grammy. Your review (spot on as usual IMHO) captures a beatuiful song performed by a great musician accompanied by great musicians and recorded by a producer who who served the song. Wow. This one escapted by radar. I loved the commend by Just Passing Through. Exactly.
Yes i agree with your perception of Bonnie as the character, not Bonnie singing a song. Thanks for you analysis & observations Fil. A highly skilled performance by a number of people there isn't there. ❤
Thanks for this one. You remark on the story-telling in Bonnie's intonations, and you're right, it is special. Think a moment about where she might have gotten some of that aim, perhaps from her father, a man with a life in musical theater, where the singing is in service of the characters and their stories. It's not always done that way on stage, I guess, because of the need to project the voice, but still there's the need to tell the story. How lucky we are to have this studio performance where the subtleties can flourish. Sure, it could just be Bonnie's lifetime in the recording studio, perfecting her craft, but she's always had that storytelling quality, right back to her cover of Prine's masterpiece on "Streetlights" and revisited so many times live. I've been lucky enough to see and hear a live performance back in the early seventies, unforgettable. Lovely that she's still being recognized in the industry as the artist she truly is.
Bonnie winning the Grammy for this gave me a tiny bit of hope that maybe authentic music will still have a place in the world. Thank you Fil.
Amen to that!
Thank you, Fil. Thank you, Bonnie
AMEN!!!!!
There's no one better, alive today.
Most music today, as it has always been, is played without pitch correction or other software filtering. That is because most music played, as always, is played live, in peoples homes, on the front porch, or in the backyard. If you want to hear this style of play go to where roots music or folk music is played. As Fil so eloquently says "It is a conscious choice to do it this way". We choose not to. And I'm a guy who feels he needs a little pitch correction. lol My garage band software has it built in. I have to turn it off. I choose to do so. I'm a little older than Bonnie and I grew up listening to her dad too. Fil could do a video on genre sound, starting with Broadway sound. But the key is always how musicians find a way to express the intangible, the emotional content. I make a concious decision to express emotion when I sing or play (NAS flute). The greatness of this song forces me to keep my emotions in just enough control to get through these lyrics without too much genuine cry getting in the way. RIP John Prine.
Bonnie is magnificent. They should never mess with Bonnie’s voice.
I agree with you!
It wraps around you and soaks into your soul.
@@airenesmiler6624 Yes! Well said! Like Dimming of the day...gets right in there.
and her amazing talent on slide guitar.
@@susanj.walterspowers6860 Yes that too!
I just saw her perform this live 3 days ago. I've literally never experienced such a flawless, perfectly expressed song. I looked around and people had tears running down their faces. If you think she's amazing in the recording, you'd be floored at hearing this live. She's one of the rare performers who never lost her passion and authenticity over the course of a very long career.
Not likely I'll ever get to hear Ms. Raitt sing this song live, so I greatly appreciate your description of her performance. "Nick of Time" was the album that hooked me.
I saw her last year-totally agree. She’s masterful and one of my all time favorite artists
Wait, this won RECENTLY? Wow. I've paid so little attention to popular music because I find it soulless. But if this can still win, there is still hope. What a masterful performer she is. Fantastic analysis on this, thank you for your spot on insight.
Soulless is the operative word. This industry has become supersaturated w/ soulless entities and apparently evil spirits.
So you missed the "unknown singer wins Grammy" headlines. 😂
@@Ohcomeonnow2222 I suppose I did, but then again, I probably wouldn't be reading any rag that called Bonnie Raitt an "unknown singer".
She has won many Grammies.@@charliezxi
I was so amazed she won. I’ve been a huge fan of her for 30 years. Great singing, playing, and song writing. She’s a goddess!
She was genuinely amazed, too, it seems... What a moment!
Loved her from the very beginning.
I am absolutely amazed that this song was allowed to beat out the 'pop' sound.
Bonnie singing I Can’t Make You Love Me is one of my all-time favorites💕. She is so fricking REAL
Amen! So much pathos in that song.
I love her version - a woman's version - of this song. Written by guys, I am still fascinating at how much more profound these lyrics are coming from a woman's point of view. Our history degrades women who express such sentiments and, with these lyrics, we're confronted with a human expressing heart-deep desire - regardless of insulting labels.
This song is literally like a breath of fresh air. I’ve bitterly missed unprocessed vocals for decades now, but it’s not until I heard a totally raw new recording that I realised how much. It hits hard. It’s imperfect, and that’s what makes it awesome.
I concur. I love Bonnie Raitt, great player, beautiful voice, greatcsings, beautiful woman.
The complete package. So glad Fil's video reminded me to re-listen. I shall revisit all the albums I have, this weekend.
@@NickBR57 'DITTO'!
"literally"
Me too!😢
Hi🙏🙏🙏
I'm GenX and my parents were of the Silent Generation. I was raised on music of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Vocals with color and emotion, unlike the over-processed drivel prevalent in today's music. This is why I stick with indie artists for the most part. If it's the same 1-3 lines repeated for 2 1/2 minutes, it's not a song, it's a jingle.
Same here @ChaoticWonder same GenX, same much older parents…raised on show tunes, Sinatra, Barbra, and Classic Rock. I picked up a love for some “alternative” bands like Dépêche Mode and New Order in college, cause it was fun to dance to, and my friends all liked it. Another friend got me in to Coldplay about 15 years ago…but otherwise, generally if it was made after 1990, I don’t listen to it. The “new” stuff doesn’t even really sound like music/singing…it sounds like a computer not a human. Just because they can auto-tune and pitch correct doesn’t mean they should…the real human voice with all of it’s nuance is the beauty of vocals, not the computer altered ‘perfection.’
The music of my era. Took me years to figure out why I always sing along to the radio in harmony - all our music had harmony. 😊
ChaoticWonder, it’s all about humans relating to humans through music…Technology, please please don’t replace the human soul.
@@judyperilstein9752 That is an absolutely beautiful and perfect way to put it…you relate to the sound of another human with their music, not to a computer. Music and vocals are all about expressing emotion, feeling emotion, and pulling emotion from the listener…a computer can’t do this…I don’t think the brain recognizes it on the same level. Let people sing, let instruments play! Let the technology not override the humanity of music!
Pops was born in 1933 and died in 1996; he never liked rock-n-roll. He came back from Korea a man and thought rock-n-roll was for kids. He liked the swing of big bands and the great crooners. Ma was born in 1940 (83 now)* and loves the rock of the '50s (Elvis) and early '60s; she didn't like British Rock, but loved Motown as well as Country & Western. I was born in '67 (8/9) and discovered my own music in the 70s with KISS, AC/DC, etc, etc. So like many other GenXers I like music from 1920s-1990s - the music of my grandparents, parents and my generations, or what's otherwise known as "the music of the 20th century." I also enjoy any "real" music from hundreds of years ago, or today.
Get it while you can, before AI takes over and destroys it all. Give me analog or give me death!
*edit
ahhhhhhhh, I've been in luv with Bonnie for 50 or so years. She is a remarkable talent.
Me too Grumpy . Her voice is smoother than the finest honey!
Me too, dewdes, only for 60 yrs.
What an incredible song. Bonnie Raitt is one of our best story tellers in song and has been for decades. She's one of our most underappreciated singers because she's always insisted on being herself and didn't play into the marketing machine. Her very human nuances in her singing are absolutely divine. No technology can improve upon the expression of the human experience that she imbues into her singing.
I think you’re exactly right about her divinity.
Right except she's not "underappreciated"
I wouldn't say she's unappreciated. Go back and look at all the awards she's won for her music. Yes, she did play for a long time without recognition, but that was decades ago. Since "Nick of Time," she has been considered among the best in music.
Saw her do this live, March 2023. Bonnie is amazing. She improves with age, like the fine wine she doesn't drink. I also love her for talking about her sobriety. She inspires on so many levels!
Wow. Thank goodness this beautiful song wasn’t ruined by pitch correction. Thanks Fil.
Bonnie is amazing, so happy she won the Grammy!!! she is also the sole songwriter on this track, very unusual these days, and as always it sounds simple but 'simple' is not mean easy. She wrote is after seeing a TV show about a woman that lost her son and his heart was given to a doner that eventually tracked down the mother... beautiful song and masterfully performed.
I love BONNIES MUSIC. CAUGHT HER CONCERT 3 TIMES, ALWAYS A GREAT SHOW
Man, you are a treasure. Just knowing there are other competent musicians that can truly appreciate things from Diamondhead to Glen Campbell and breakdown the intricacies of great songs of all genres without cork-sniffing snobbery, is a great service to humanity and music in general. Much love to you.
Thanks for the kind words!
@@wingsofpegasus True words. Your passion really shines here.
She is in my top 3 for female singers. I actually waited on her when I was a waitress. She was so nice.❤
Who's your other 2? I like Susan Tedeschi and Stevie. Bonnie is my #1. The only other song I really like on this album is 'down the hall'. The others are bland to me, I don't care though cause it's still bonnie singing. LOL I forgot, I really like Grace Potters voice too.
Last heard Bonnie sing live in concert around 40 years ago - her voice was fine back then (before auto tune was a thing), and it's just fine now. Later heard her singing "Angel From Montgomery" with John Prine, both before and after John's throat cancer, and neither of them used or needed auto tune. Nice presentation!
A great duet.
RIP John Prine. I miss that guy. And he even left us with a goodbye song, "I Remember Everything," and he didn't even know it.
I was able to see her on my 50th birthday a few years back and she was still fantastic. Many years and many concerts and still delivered a great show.
@@wirenutt57or “When I Get to Heaven”
She is not just singing, she is acting the part, feeling the emotions. Great video, thanks Fil.
Very lovely voice. Her father was John Raitt, a great singer in musical theater. Thanks for your thorough analysis, Fil.
A couple decades ago now, she laid down some tracks with her Dad. I imagine if you poke around TH-cam they're up someplace. Fascinating document.
His Soliloquy from Carousel sets the bar so high. She’s a great guitar player too.
As a kid, I saw John Raitt numerous times when he came to town for summer stock musicals. Within a time of several years later, Bonnie began performing and cutting records and became more successful financially than her dad. She then began treating him out at lunches and dinners on the road. His famous quote was, "She used to be known as John Raitt's daughter; now I'm known as Bonnie Raitt's father."
I saw John Raitt when I was 13. It was a summer theatre in the round. He came up the aisle and stood next to me as he waited for his next cue. The play was Kismet. He was bare chested and covered in perspiration. It my first crush on an older man. Over 50 years and I remember like it was yesterday. 😍
Saw a PBS July 4 special decades ago where they performed together, her with a hand held wireless mic and John with... maybe a body mic (like in a musical theater performance). They were obviously from different performance worlds but were very much together artistically. It was a delight to watch and hear.
Bonnie is just fabulous. I've loved her music only from the first time I ever heard her back in the 70's right up to today. I'm 71 and love great music because it never grows old. It's timeless healing to my soul.
I’m so glad she remained true to herself- while so many others became marketable and successful, she sang her way. I’ve loved her for decades.
I haven't checked whether someone else has already said this, but even if they have, it's worth repeating. As well as singing the song, of course Bonnie wrote it, and I'm pretty sure she produced it, too. And I imagine she was playing one of the guitars... She is a truly outstanding musician. 🥰
This song has a sacredness about it. The topic, the organ, the humanity of it... beautiful on many levels.
I took your advice and listened to the song uninterrupted. Cried the whole time. So powerful. Also made me think of Leonard Cohen, don't know why.
Just the stunning, deep, storytelling perhaps?
Okay. My reaction has been "makes me think of John Prine," but yes, I can see Leonard Cohen as well.
I think why is the attention and focus to the literary art of the songwriting. Every single word is carefully considered, and perfectly placed in service of the story. That is the way Cohen was as well.
I Love You Irma! I found something about the tune strangely familiar since it first came out...I feel the Cohen link is what I was feeling...Thanks for sharing, made my day!
@@alansmith7626 thank you
I'll add a third name to this list of "reminds me of ..." - Bob Dylan. Fits perfectly as the sort of story he might have told, and the way he would have told it.
Fred
You've perfectly explained to the people who don't believe she deserved the award why she absolutely did. I've always said that purity and talent is by far the greatest basis of lasting music. Thanks, as always Fil!!!
Just saw Bonnie March 10 in Southern California - first show for her and her band in the new year, and she said they were just itching to get back on stage and make music again. She had a large contingency of family there and put on a wonderful show. She can make you cry, then turn around and rip. Glad to see the recognition she is getting at age 73. What do you want the girl to do? Just what she is great at.
I was there too. Sooo good!
This is such a lovely song! I love how Bonnie sung it with a lot of emotion in her voice. I like the natural, unedited voice of a singer because you can hear the emotions in their voices that you wouldn't hear if they were pitch corrected. Pitch correction and auto tune should be outlawed, lol!
I agree!
You're not the only one who dislikes auto tune
@@GaryCameron780 I know lots of people don't like auto tune, to me, it takes away all the emotions the singers are trying to express in their songs.
I adore Bonnie Raitt! The word is overused but her voice is truly authentic. IT IS THE STORY in her songs that she delivers like no one else can. She's a superb musician as well as a singer but it is the troubadour character to her singing that so few had that puts it over the top.
There are one or two younger singers who sound like her….they both have done covers of Angel from Montgomery.
Agreed! 😊
"Blending pitch with expression and dipping in and out of pitch with vocal fry ".Love the way you explain music so astutely 🎵🎼
The subtlety &simplicity of the song is so well explained by you Fil:)
How had I not heard this before? The problem with ignoring modern popular music out of frustration is that once in a while you’ll miss something breathtaking.
Also - never underestimate the ability of the Hammond(?) organ and Leslie speaker to magnify emotions.
Thanks for the fantastic analysis of this incredible performance!
You just said a mouthful...
Bonnie Raitt's a cousin of mine. I always liked her sad soulful songs the best and I told her that once but she told me that her upbeat ones were the most popular with the crowds. Well, of course, that is how it is...Glad you are pointing out how brilliant this aspect of her talent is conveyed and without the pitch tech correction still carries through with her unique voice. I write and sing my own songs and many of them are the more obscure and subtle kind such as this song is. Bonnie's career always gives the status quo a surprise or two, doesn't it?
Funny…I always like her sadder songs, also. But that’s me. Same with Emmy Lou.
Hi Holly! I think I met you one time when I was asked by Bonnie and one of her dearest friends, Patty Ray (who was my bestie at the time), if I would babysit for a cousin's baby! Was that yours? It was in about 1971-ish? We were all very close-knit back then. I'm sure your little bundle of joy was a delight!
@@mamazalama No not I. Never had a child but taught art and music to many. I'll bet you would have been a great babysitter. I graduated from high school round about that time. Did you take the job?
I've been head over heels for this tune since the first time I heard it. But TBH I was so focused on the storytelling aspect (I swear she's channeling John Prine!) that I completely let the technical aspects slip past me.
Thanks for unpacking it. Looking at all the elements brings a whole 'nother level of appreciation.
You've truly outdone yourself here, Fil.
Cheers!
PS: Not just "won A Grammy," Fil.
Won freaking *Song of the YEAR*!!!
I mean, how does that even happen in the context of today's industry?
Been watching/listening to Bonnie since we were all kids and she was hanging out with Lowell George wondering what she was gonna be when she grew up.
What a life journey. What a body of work. What an artist!
Thanks!
Bonnie is amongst my top favorite vocal performers. But, I don't keep up with that so much anymore. She's a story teller. Lots of people can sing a song, but Bonnie brings them to life. She tells the story like it's hers. That's an artist. 🥰
I love how you say she's singing as if the person telling the story is singing. I hear that person's sad acceptance of circumstances and the grief related to those circumstances in the way Bonnie is singing. This song is perfect in the way it expresses the subject matter.
She sure did deserve her Grammy award for this awesome song! You took a very insightful look at her naturally appealing vocal, too...loved it!
Bonnie Raitt's talent is enormous! She has an incredible range. I love your analisis of this soulful song.
I love artists that aren’t over processed. I can hear their emotions, and that’s what grabs me. It’s so REAL, like she’s sitting next to me. Thank you, Fil and whoever requested this one.
Brother, if you are crazy, you have good company! Anyone that truly loves music gets this...I had never heard this song until now...and I was blown away...is real music, real life, and real life is much stranger than fiction...Thanks for doing what you do, I always learn something
First saw her in 1977, saw her again with my daughter in 2005. Obviously we had all aged but her voice had not. Still the finest, most smooth with a little grit, effortless voice I’ve ever heard.
She makes the impossible, possible. Incredible song.
impossible?
Feelings/emotions are not perfect. They're erratic. That comes through in the human voice. She uses her singing where appropriate, in order to tell the story the way SHE feels it. It comes from inside her, her soul, as it were, and her heart. It's just her, being her. It's her musical DNA. Only way I can really describe it. Gordon Lightfoot was a great storyteller. Sorry I missed that video- but on the plus side? I still have that one to look forward to. Great talents, both.
Excellent breakdown, Fil.
I love that - her musical DNA. Great observation! There is no one else, and no computer, that can vocalize the way Bonnie annotates each note. It's completely unique, and uniquely identifiable to her. It's beautiful and as a society, we're losing the nuance of song - specifically singing... She's an icon and I'm so glad that Bonnie was recognized by her peers with that Grammy.
Bonnie is an honest musician, expect nothing less. Thanks for your glowing analysis of this song. Admiration sure shines thru w/every word!
I choke up every time I hear this song. Incredible lyrics, fantastic performance by Bonnie and the musicians, and top notch production. Absolutely Grammy-worthy, and showing modern "artists" and the kids who listen to them how it's supposed to be done.
Unplugged has a potential for a whole new meaning: Music made WITHOUT programming "plug in" aps. You, know like they have been doing it on recorded music for decades before.
Bonnie Raitt is phenomenal. And seeing her live is the ultimate treat. She is humble and respectful and grateful while being the tops in her craft. This song is so touching - and also so reminds me of John Prine in its 'story'.
Thank you, Fil, for doing what you do. Your treatment here of Bonnie Raitt, in her rendition of this beautiful song, is not unlike her very performance - That of loving artistry. Heart and understanding, and an ability to express, which informs and captivates.
Thanks for the kind words!
I love how much you love the "Art" of music!!!! It encourages my heart. True and real music and singing does that, doesn't it. It touches our hearts ❤
Bonnie was always amazing!!! Her voice doesn't require computer correction, unlike so many of the newer artists. Some of her songs are so raw and poignant that they bring tears to my eyes. Love has No Pride - Don't we all know it. Always happy to hear new material from her and for her to receive recognition for her brilliant work. Rock on Bonnie!
You're technical analysis is always enlightening, but it's your love of music that makes it special. Another great video
Keeping it REAL! As opposed to Manipulated. Bonnie has just such an incredible voice and just sings with a spoken beauty. Her interpretive ability is yes, indeed an art form.
She is a great all-around performer. She plays beautifully and tells a wonderful story. The song deserves to win awards. I wish there was more music like this in the world. It's so hard and stressful these days and we need to destress with something like this. Thanks, Bonnie, for a wonderful performance. Thanks, Fil, for the analysis. Stay safe and take care.
Bonnie's vocals in this song absolutely capture and reflect the pain, tinged with bitterness a grieving mother carries in her heart. This song both makes me cry, and gives me hope that someday such a stranger will appear at my door.
Thanks, I needed this today. Bonnie Raitt's voice often makes me feel like I want to cry - in a good way☺. Even before I realized what this song is about she was pulling at my heartstrings. She is masterful.
And to loosely paraphrase my favorite character from Jurassic Park, "They spent so much time figuring out whether they _could_ hit the notes, they never stopped to think whether they _should_ hit them."
WELL said!!!
@@garyneilson3075 Thank you :)
Lovely thought! I agree!
This is the way I want to hear a song, as if we were around a campfire. Who are these producers that decide the listeners need sanitized/sterilized musical notes? Make them go away!
I hope you all get a chance to see this Queen LIVE. It's as real as it gets - she is perfection at her age!
Besides the wondrous analysis, I thought I would share a bit about when I met Bonnie Raitt and Bruce Hornsby (who opened for her) 30 years ago. It was a benefit concert (as she often does) and I was on the committee helping organize it. We were invited to a gathering with them both and at the beginning, Ms. Raitt said, "I will not sign autographs," and before she finished, people moaned. But she continued, "I can't look you in the eyes when I am looking down. I want to see who you are." Even though I had gone to see Bruce Hornsby, in that moment, I fell in love with Bonnie Raitt. The concert merely solidified it. And that they played together? Heaven! I treasure my photo with her more than I ever thought I could.
Had not heard this song before.
I was a big fan of her second album, from the early 70's, _Give It Up._ Especially her treatment of the Eric Kaz song, _Love Has No Pride._
It never ceases to bring a lump to my throat.
The song featured in this video strikes me as though it could have been written by Bob Dylan; she almost seems to be channeling him here.
As I listen to this song develop, I think that lump is coming back.
Truly magic & marvelous. Gives "keepin' it real" a whole new meaning. I've always admired her vocal work, and this only strengthens that admiration.
Chip off the old block, BTW - her father John was well known for his long vocal soliloquy in the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical, _Carousel._
Thanks for your wonderful analysis! I heartily agree that no one will ever do, with Autotune, anything one-tenth as great as Bonnie can do "right out of the box."
Fred
I too love Bonnie's "Give It Up" album from 1972. Was my intro to her music, along with her playing on Boston Common. On "Give It Up" I love best the Dixieland Jazzy/bluesy title tune and "Under the Falling Sky," written by Jackson Browne. "Love Has No Pride" is a deeply moving song and she uses lots of vocal breaks and textures to further her expressiveness.
I agree.
@@carlcushmanhybels8159 Not to mention _Been Too Long at the Fair._
Love Has No Pride was the first song I remember hearing by Bonnie Raitt (on a compilation LP - right next to Jesse covered by Roberta Flack) and it became one of my top 20 favourite tracks of all time (as did Jesse.)
Lyrics tugging at your heartstrings... delivered by the most beautiful instrument of them all - the natural, human voice!
A true blend of pitch perfect, sprinkled with human 'imperfection' - musical art at its finest!
THANK You, FIL!,💕
In the aftermath of the “controversy” surrounding Bonnie’s Grammy win (many thinking this song may not be deserving of the award) this was actually my first listen. I hadn’t listened to the full song…shame on me. It is a wonderful performance and Bonnie Raitt a wrote and gave us a beautiful song. Many have popularity mixed up with quality. Most of the other nominees for song of the year have never approached the the stunning quality of this song in an entire career. Bonnie has been doing this kind of thing since her start in the early 1970s.
Saw her in Sydney about 15 years ago. Unbelievable band, Jon Cleary on keys. Awesome power. On one song, Bonnie pulled up after singing one line, laughed and apologised for getting the pitch wrong, let loose the F word, very engaging. Must say, I didn't notice the error at all 😂. Brilliant, brilliant concert.
Bonnie Raitt is one of those singer/songwriters that exemplified what true musical talent is all about. Not only is she an amazing lyricist, but she is an incredibly expressive guitar player, and an amazingly emotive singer. Every aspect of her musical talent rings true and genuine, because of her minimalist style, and her utter rejection of post-production shenanigans.
There aren't many musicians today like Bonnie Raitt, and we should all feel deeply blessed to live in a time when someone as talented and gifted as Bonnie is performing so that we can experience it first-hand...
Exactly right, mate, she is also acting as she sings, she moves through perspectives and we move with her, so subtle, she holds us in authentic space like a director actor as well as singer performer.
What a magnificent post!!
poetry
I can honestly say I never really took much notice of Bonnie although aware of her as I was. This is an impressive performance backed by what feels like a true story and honestly moved me to tears as I understood and empathised completely with the content and Bonnie's human emotional interpretation.
Another sensitive appraisal by Fil who never ceases to amaze me with his perceptive precision
I saw her in concert here in Tucson about 10 years or so ago with a couple of my girlfriends. She was fabulous! Real voice. Real music. Real talent. ❤❤❤
Bonnie’s performance is exquisite. Her vocals are a masterclass in storytelling.
THANK YOU for the comments about pitch corrected vocals. And this is a brilliant beautiful song.
This one reminds me of my favorite Sheryl Crow album, The Globe Sessions. Sheryl's voicings and expression is amazing. Her approach on these songs is both musical and artistically expressive of character, gliding in and out of "perfect".
I saw Bonnie Raitt live, a few years ago. She is a great singer and guitarist. I met her too. I'm a fan of her work. Thanks for sharing this analysis video. Cheers, Fil! ✌️
The greatest night of my life involved/included the great Bonie Raitt. At her break-out Grammy Awards (1990) I had the amazing privilege to be back stage-in the Green room with my date; Jan Gaye (Marvin's widow), her friend, Natalie Cole, Stevie Wonder, Sting, BB King and a woman I had never seen before-had no idea who she was. At one point she chatted me up, then was called to the stage..she returned-with a Grammy and actually made her way back to the sofa I was sitting on and shared her feelings/emotions-with me. She was so happy yet so down to earth and cool. . I still had no idea who she was or why she kept coming bac to me-but was happy for her-winning one, then two then three awards. And each time she talked to me with not just joy but humility. In addition to Ms. Raitt, I got to meet the others and share a few -very-amazing moments with each (well, Stevie's body guards were a bit off-putting so I didn't get much more than an introduction to him). All and all, it was The greatest night of my life...And I'm so happy to have "been there" for Ms. Bonnie Raitt.
Thank you Fil , for such a peaceful time listening to your analysis of this great work by Bonnie.
Very reminiscent of Johnny Cash. This is absolutely lovely Fil. I hadn't heard of this song. Her wistful voice near the end reminds me of wandering thoughts and how we process moments like this in our mind, mulling over the memories, the feelings, and the acceptance. And because she is speaking for someone else it reminded me of EMPATHY and how we can connect through seeing another persons experiences and stories.
The whole thing is a masterpiece. Thank you for doing this. Bravo Bonnie and Congrats on her award.
Beautifully said with understanding. Thank you for your ❤
Thank our lucky stars we have Bonnie in this world ❣️💙💕
Thank you for giving Bonnie her flowers! She is a living legend. I have always loved her music and there have been so many young ladies who she has inspired.
What a storyteller she is! Thanks, Fil, for lending your expert analysis to the processes and dynamics involved in bringing this masterpiece to our ears. It’s even a bit of a comeback for Bonnie and provides a much-needed break from that bass-heavy, electronica-obscenica, leaking from the car next to me at the light.
I don't know if you're still reading comments on this or not. I've been listening to and purchasing her music for decades. For this peice, on particular, the perfect "imperfection" of her vocal style let's you into her soul. Life isn't perfect and is often messy, difficult, and heartbreaking. This song shows that in the way it should.
I have been an admirer and appreciator of Bonnie Raitt since her early career. Thanks for analyzing this song.
Bonnie Rait is underrated and totally rocks.
I'm not a musician so the instrumental discussion goes right over my head. But the impact is in Bonnie's voice - so raw and real. The emotion of the story and how she shares it - I can't count how many times I've listened to it, but it brings a lump to my throat and tears to my eyes every time. Any attempt to "polish it up" would gut the authenticity. Bonnie is the real deal and has shared that gift for Decades.
Someone earlier mentioned a raggedness in her voice. Yes, but it perfectly suited the grief in the narrator's voice. (I can't explain it correctly, sorry.)
For years, when buying cds or digital music, I would think, "Yay, it's been remastered.", thinking they cleaned up the rattles/garbage from the background, but many times the songs, vocals especially, would sound flattened or just odd. Thanks to Fil and his videos, I'm now aware that most of that stuff has had auto-tune and/or pitch correction applied. I'd rather have the background garbage than "fixed" vocals any day.
You "explained" it just fine.
Thank you! I have no musical training, (or talent), so I don't always know the correct musical terms.
She sounds like Lucinda Williams, it's uncanny!
Shouldn't that be Lucinda Williams sounds like Bonnie Raitt?
@@pstanton2445 Ohhh, those are fightin' words! ☺️
I had instant great respect for her the first time I ever heard her and then saw her play and perform. I made room for her on the top shelf. She was every bit the master "song-teller" that was Johnny Cash, Harry Nisen, Jim Croce, Bill Withers, Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan. This is as story-deep as "Shes Leaving Home" by The Beatles. Stories speaking (musically) to the pain and beauty of humans in the act of being human beings. A privilege to receive such a piece of fine art. You can bet that any of that "slide" sound is being played by Bonnie; a slide guitar specialist.
Both this song and your analysis was beautiful, Fil. Thank you!
Thanks!
I wasn’t aware that vocals have been subjected to ‘processed’ until I watched your video. I’ve Bonnie Raitt sing this song before and was struck by both the realism and nuance she brought to the performance. I am glad she was recognized for her contribution, she deserves it for she has earned it. Well done, appreciate your bringing the matter to our attention.
Bonnie is a treasure-this song tugged at my heart strings. It would've been a beautiful song to comfort my cousin after the loss of her son. I remember her singing 'Amazing Grace' at SRV's funeral.
Fil, thanks for stating it's the exact opposite of pitch correction, it's subtle, maintains the dynamic range and going back to things used to be. 😊
God blrss, Marianne aka Celtic Gal 19:02 19:05
Sounds wonderful! Bonnie's voice is REAL and great as ever❤🔥
Another great analysis. Thanks Fil. Bonnie always sings with honesty and integrity. I love the sweet quality of her voice. And her vibrato- just the right amount. To me this song sounds like a folk song from the 60s. I can hear Bob Dylan singing it in his gruff style. Bonnie is one beautiful, humble soul. She’s been a favorite of my since her first album was released and I saw her play with only her guitar and Freebo’s bass at Max’s Kansas City. She’s is a musician’s musician.
Great analysis and thanks for bringing this song forward.
I hope there will be a trend toward less over-production and more authenticity.
This song is a beautiful kick in the chest.
Love how you mimic the song. You are Spot on. You are simply Awesome. Thanks for your Great channel ❤️❤️❤️
I sob every time I hear this song. Her vocal delivery is so grief-worn, just like the storyteller - the mother - in the song. It's the voice you would imagine hearing after years of cigarettes, alcohol, and sleepless nights living in utter grief. I can see the mother in a worn down town. I could almost see a movie spin up from this one powerful song.
I absolutely love Bonnie's voice and music! I'm so glad nobody messed with this beautiful song!
You, Rick Beato, and the Professor of Rock are three of my favorite people. Something I've learned from watching all of you is how many singers/musicians understood both the art and the craft of music. Three that come to mind are Bonnie Raitt, Emmy Lou Harris, and Gordon Lightfoot. And then there's Patsy Cline.
I appreciate the way you analyze her performance. She is another of my favorite Female performer/singer/musicians. I always get enjoyment from your analysis videos and live streams. You bring me to a happy place. Thank you.
Been Bonnie Raitt fan forever…. Very proud.
Thank you SO MUCH for the insightful and respectful appreciation of this AMAZING and REAL music! :D I know I can always count on thoughtful and well-expressed video content here! And re: Bonnie's amazing music.. it's SUCH a DELIGHT/THRILL to know that she's still putting out this quality of music at this stage of her career, this time of her life, whereas the general "entertainment industry" is SO dismissive of mature artists, especially WOMEN artists! Bonnie is a beacon of light and hope to all! :D
Bonnie's singing is somewhat like she was telling you a story and occasionally breaks into song....then she is singing a song and occasionally returns to simple speech and back again.
The only thing that matters is True human emotion expressed through the natural voice, one take live is true art.
Amazingly, I had not heard this song before, nor realized the story behind it (so now it is my turn to get teary). Thanks for the thoughtful analysis of it. Bonnie's song is an excellent choice for showing how the qualities of 'subtle' and 'real' should not be underestimated, as you point out so well.
Thanks so much. Been listening to Bonnie Raitt for 50 years, I teared up when I watched her accept the Grammy. Your review (spot on as usual IMHO) captures a beatuiful song performed by a great musician accompanied by great musicians and recorded by a producer who who served the song. Wow. This one escapted by radar. I loved the commend by Just Passing Through. Exactly.
Bonnie Raitt. Best concert I have ever attended because she is mesmerizing. She truly is a story teller
Yes i agree with your perception of Bonnie as the character, not Bonnie singing a song. Thanks for you analysis & observations Fil. A highly skilled performance by a number of people there isn't there. ❤
One can see Olivia through this song.
I so much appreciate the openness/spaciousness in the song allowing room for the story to evolve.
Thank you, Fil. The imperfections make it art
Thanks for this one. You remark on the story-telling in Bonnie's intonations, and you're right, it is special. Think a moment about where she might have gotten some of that aim, perhaps from her father, a man with a life in musical theater, where the singing is in service of the characters and their stories. It's not always done that way on stage, I guess, because of the need to project the voice, but still there's the need to tell the story. How lucky we are to have this studio performance where the subtleties can flourish. Sure, it could just be Bonnie's lifetime in the recording studio, perfecting her craft, but she's always had that storytelling quality, right back to her cover of Prine's masterpiece on "Streetlights" and revisited so many times live. I've been lucky enough to see and hear a live performance back in the early seventies, unforgettable. Lovely that she's still being recognized in the industry as the artist she truly is.