@AirplayBeats reacts to Traffic - Low Spark Of High-Heeled Boys Like comment and subscribe patreon.com/user?u=81569817 Airplay Beats 3609 Bradshaw Rd Ste H #337 Sacramento, CA 95827
Steve Winwood was a professional musician at age 14 with the Spencer Davis Group. Insane talent. He started playing piano at age 4. Some people are just born with it.
The great Steve Winwood (British artist) is a genius. He's in his mid 70s these days, and still performing. Please react to his song "Can't Find My Way Home. or "Roll with it," his R&B hit. This guy is one of the greats. Plays about 20 different instruments, and his vocals are legendary.
An important band in the history of rock and roll. A song made for the doobie, if you know what I mean. Just have to say that you guys are quickly becoming my favorite "reactors". Great song selections, intelligent observations, and letting the music speak for itself. Unlike so many other reactors you understand music, instrumentation, mixing, and song-writing. And you don't waste your time trying to decipher lyrics that aren't what they appear to be. You hear the influences of jazz, garage-band rock, classical, and even Mo-Town in these classic songs. Just finished going through your whole video catalog. Keep up the good work. Continue to learn and incorporate what you have learned into your dialog. Looking forward to seeing how your channel develops over time.
You are on the same page as I see myself. Their choices are really strong. Watched some Rush video reactions then SRV and Sabbath. GFR. They have good taste absolutely.
Awesome...so glad you guys found this! Steve Winwood on keys and vocals; he eventually went on to form a short-lived super group Blind Faith with Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker and Ric Grech. Keep'm coming!
Winwood didn't "eventually" go on to be in Blind Faith - he'd already been there and done that. Spark came out after Blind Faith had broken up, and Traffic re-formed.
Fabulous band, went through a several different phases. This was probably their jazziest/jammiest version. Chris Wood was a brilliant sax player. Loved running his sax through a fuzz pedal. His distorted wail on the fade-out is spine-chilling
@@johnhoerl7326 I’m pretty sure it’s his Hammond going through a fuzz, I heard the interview so long ago I can’t be sure if he specified what keyboard or not. It’s mostly single notes but if you listen closely you can hear a few places where he hits more than one note…
@@bstaff1901 Must be a Hammond, or maybe a Farfisa? Doesn’t sound like a Mellotron or a Minimoog even accounting for the distortion, and I can’t think of any other synths at the time that would have been capable of that sustain
You just heard one of the most unique and innovative songs from this group or any group. The song's ethereal mood just takes you to wonderful places. Glad you appreciate their fusion of styles on this song. They have a deep catalogue to explore with varied styles. Steve Winwood's piano and vocals are top tier and his song from when he was in Blind Faith "Can't Find My Way Home" is one not to be missed if you've not heard it.
I'm 72 and a former disc jockey back in the seventies and eighties. You dudes have excellent taste in your musical selections. This is one of my all time fave tunes. Steve Winwood is a genius. Wrote GIMME SOME LOVIN and I'M A MAN as a teenager and formed BLIND FAITH with Clapton when he was 20.Check out CAN'T FIND MY WAY BACK HOME. Winwood's huge solo career is worthy of a deep dive also.
Did you ever listen to his album Arc Of A Diver? The entire album is amazing. I heard it new and bought the album back in the day. I didn't know this was Winwood too. He's always been in a special upper echelon of Musical Genius in my book.
I tell anyone that will listen that this song is the reason I am a Musician. Figured if I could make one person feel the way this song was making me feel before I die, I can die knowing I achieved something worthwhile. Jim Gordon's Drums, Chris' Flute, Rebop's Congas, its all there. The "Low Spark.." begins as it ends - it never stops playing man.
Steve Winwood, is a truly talented musician and singer, his voice is unmistakable, once you have heard it. Seen him a couple of times live, and he is just as good, if not even better, than anything he did in a studio. As others have noted, he got a start as a professional musician at a VERY young age, but he proved he was worthy of the praise and promotion. He has been in several groups over the years, Traffic, The Spencer Davis Group, Blind Faith, his own band, and plus guest appearances with MANY other groups. Everyone wanted to play with him, and did. All the other guys in Traffic were very talented as well, but it was really Steve's band.
Steve wrote this song about the greedy record companies, and their executives, manipulating the young and inexperienced Bands and artists into signing recording contracts that made everyone rich, except the artists and Bands who created the music. This was a very common practice in the early 70s in the Rock music world. "Manfred Mann's Earth Band," also had a song about the same time, about this same issue. It was called "Blinded by the Light," a huge hit song in the mid 70s. Thanks guys. another winner
That solo instrument is an organ played through a fuzz box by Steve Winwood who plays the keys and is also the lead singer. He plays a lot of sax-inspired lines and the fuzz makes it sound even more reedy for lack of an actual word. Definitely a psychedelic sax sound, but the occasional polyphony is the biggest giveaway.
This song and the album are in my top ten. Love Traffic! Back in the day, this was one of those albums to listen to with friends. Candles, incense, and something else burning. Leaning back, eyes closed, floating with the music! ☮️❤️😎
you mentioned the jazz element in the music. During the 60's and 70's a lot of the musicians listened to a huge variety of music from 40's, 50's, bebop to blues, to country, to world music, and they attended schools to learn classical, jazz, etc. So when you do the reactions of this era of music you will hear all sorts of styles creep into their music. Thanks for including this in your reaction, a classic by any means!
The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys, Traffic cast aside commercial wisdom to build the album around an epic title track that is their creative culmination and a perfect blend of rock, jazz, and international music. Winwood and the boys employ some African instruments to create a soft, almost dreamy atmosphere on several album pieces. Try Traffics, DEAR MR. FANTASY, or Steve Winwoods early work with THE SPENCER DAVIS GROUP - 'Gimme Some Lovin', 'I'm A Man', (he was 15 and sang like Ray Charles), a child protegee; or Steve Winwood featuring Chaka Khan-' Higher Love.' Good Job, Guys. Another great tune.
'Little Stevie Winwood' Who knew such a young man could make such an impact. I miss the days when there were truly talented musicians, when you could tell who was singing, who was playing guitar and drums. REAL music.
Yeah man, Traffic! Great musicianship and arrangements and of course Steve Winwood's vocals. Early on he was in the Spencer Davis Group and he sang "Gimme Some Lovin". Also check out "Empty Pages" by traffic. Peace.
So glad you're checking out Traffic, one of my favorite bands. Some of my favorite songs: Empty Pages, Freedom Rider, Walking in the Wind, Dream Gerrard, Tragic Magic, Many a Mile to Freedom, 40,000 Headmen, Light Up or Leave Me Alone; and lots more great songs.
I'm sure noted below is information about Steve Winwood, artist extraordinaire, but the man on drums on this track was Jim Gordon, one of the finest session musicians ever. He played with Joe Cocker, Delaney and Bonnie, Eric Clapton, The Everly Brothers, George Harrison, Frank Zappa, and many others. More Traffic to discover: Glad/Freedom Rider, Empty Pages, Shootout at the Fantasy Factory, 40,000 Headmen, Pearly Queen, Feelin' Alright, and on and on. As for Steve Winwood solo: Higher Love with Chaka Kahn, Roll With It, Talking Back to the Night, Arc of a Diver, Spanish Dancer, Finer Things. Although this song is so jazzy, it's a staple of any classic rock station. Great song, so glad y'all liked it!
My friend just curious, did you see them when this album came out, I saw them and Leon Russell came out with his "" Carney "" album and he was the opening act for them, 1st and only time I saw someone ,Leon Russell and Band do three encores. Great concert what a super group.
Traffic was a British rock band formed in 1967 that blended elements of psychedelic rock, folk, jazz, and blues. The band consisted of Steve Winwood (vocals, keyboards, guitar), Jim Capaldi (drums, vocals), Chris Wood (flute, saxophone, keyboards), and Dave Mason (guitar, vocals). Their debut album, "Mr. Fantasy," featured the hit single "Dear Mr. Fantasy" and established the band's signature sound. Traffic continued to evolve over the course of their career, experimenting with different genres and incorporating more diverse instrumentation, such as sitar and percussion. Despite frequent lineup changes, the band remained active throughout the 1970s, releasing several successful albums including "John Barleycorn Must Die" and "The Low Spark of High-Heeled Boys." They disbanded in 1975, but Winwood went on to a successful solo career. Traffic's legacy lies in their innovative blending of genres, the virtuosic musicianship of the band members, and their influence on the development of progressive and jazz rock. They remain highly regarded among music critics and fans alike.
Traffic's music still sounds good today. Thanks for the excellent review. I think you will enjoy their catalogue...can't wait till you give their work John Barleycorn must die a listen!
Woo-Hoo, the train keeps on rolling with you guys, now with Traffic, a band that is its own genre and one of the best of that era. Try them live at Santa Monica in the early 70s, that video is utterly amazing, they get lost in their own groove and take you along for the ride. Great video and a time capsule for sure. I saw them a couple times, the last time when they reunited for one album and tour, I saw them a week before Woodstock II in 1994, they were fire once again. You can see their Woodstock II set on YT. Steve Winwood, amazing vocals, songwriting, keyboards and guitar, he and Traffic are wonderful artists. Enjoy! 🎵🎸🎤🎹🎷🎶
Love Traffic! Their most known song is probably “Mr. Fantasy”, another great song and totally different from this song which is one of my favorites. By the way, they came before Steely Dan and yes, they’re an English band.
OMG I couldn't click fast enough. I never thought I'd see anyone react to this. This has to be my FAV song from the 70s. It's so good. I can't wait to see you all react to this since you are both so musically astute.
Hey guys check it!!! My older brother used to turn me on to all different types of music. I think I was 14 or 15 and he took me to his apartment with a buddy... He said shut up and listen!!!! LoL he put this on the turntable and I have never been the same!!!!!!! What an awesome experience as a teenager.. 💕
Hey guys Ned from Spain again. Loving your choices as always. Traffic started just after Steve " the prodigy " Winwood left Spencer Davis Group. Steve ( G/vox/keys/bass..) teamed up with Jim Capaldi ( dr / vox ), Chris Wood ( sax / flute ) and Dave Mason ( g / vox ) in 1967. They had some hits in a lot of different styles but eventually became a more jazzy rock band after Masons departure. They're just amazing. Winwood continues to perform and sounds great even now.
Aww man, you've gotten to Lil' Stevie Winwood! I've always said that if I could have 1 musician's talents, it would be him. He's a top tier singer, amazing on keys and is a knockout guitarist - don't believe me - check out his 2007 Crossroads Guitar Festival sets (Clapton's Festival - seriously, check it out! There's a short set of him by himself, then he's joined by Clapton and company ). God knows what other instruments the man has mastered; I'm sure it's many. Anyways, enjoy the rabbit hole, it's deep.
Love this-lotta hazie times listening to Traffic. "High heeled boys" is reference to the Band in platform boots-the style back then. Steve Winwood, when playing with Spencer Davis group did a recording of "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out". Totally Soul sound. Love YOUR channel. You break it down, not just make comments. Appreciate your knowledge✌🏼
@@debrabrabenec Its still in reference to "high heed boys" that were wearing platform boots- same dudes, same title. All TIES Together✌🏼 no matter who coined the phrase/title. R. Crumb used this image for Keep on Truckin- Furry Freak Bros.--Zap comic books.
Great album from Steve Winwood/Traffic, the whole anthology is worthy of a concentrated listen. If you get a chance, check out an earlier great album "John Barleycorn Must Die".
It was hard to get radio stations to play this because its was so long. I had to beg at times to get it played, and was turned down more often than not. Steve Winwood was such a prodigy.
Traffic was a British band that had among its members Steve Winwood and Dave Mason. And while there were saxophones used on this song, the sax sounds you were talking about was likely a synthesizer. Synths were very popular in the early 70s when this was released (1971).
Love your reaction to this great band and wonderful cut. Very tasty, jazzy indeed! Also, loved the reference to Tower Records. What fabulous memories of my youth into my young adult years roaming the record bends for new music. So many gems found at this iconic record store chain that came from my hometown of Sacramento, CA. I spent so many hours at the Broadway location it was like a formal education in music. I purchased this very LP at Tower Records, Broadway. Of course, another great memory is all the incredible album cover paintings that adorned the outside of the store.
So glad you did this one. All us oldsters were just waiting to see your faces when they reached that chord at the end! Incredible aren’t they? No doubt, a song for the ages.
Good one fellas. Follow the Steve Winwood thread!!! (Spencer Davis, Traffic, Blind Faith, Solo). Child prodigy. Some of his well known songs include "I'm a Man", "Gimme Some Lovin'", Can't Find My Way Home", "Higher Love", "Roll With It"......many more....
I know it's been a while since you posted this, but in all my years I thought Steve Winwood was a vocalist, although I seem to remember seeing him play a piano I didn't know he played other instruments, thanks for the info
Steve Winwood is a great vocalist and organ player. Traffic made a lot of great music, that unfortunately may become lost because I don't think there is a lot of video on the group, try some songs like Mr. Fantasy, 40,000 Headmen, Pearly Queen Shanghai Noodle Factory.
Dipping our feet into some more jazz, I see. Wonderful song, and Chris Wood (RIP) was my idol as a sax player back in the day. PHAT!!! I remember my Dad walking by my room when I had this going, stopping and saying "Nice Song".
😅 Wow ! this takes me back,. First time I heard this I was sitting outside a cafe somewhere in Morocco early 1972 . Great choice, great band, great reaction as always p.s. They where a British band , c'mon guys if you don't know a bands origin your first port of call should always be "I think they're British"
Around this time there were a whole bunch of songs about the predatory practices of record labels. This, Working for MCA, Barracuda, Blinded by the Light, Zantz Can't Dance, Have a Cigar, Death on Two Legs, Baby You're a Rich Man, and many others. Steve Winwood, the composer, vocalist, and keyboard player here, played behind BB King, Howlin' Wolf, Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, and others on their UK tours at 13 and 14.
Steve Winwood (started Traffic when he was about 19) at age 15-16 (from an otherwise forgettable film).: th-cam.com/video/VwqsmNR_Q1M/w-d-xo.html Eric Clapton heard about this kid up north in England (Steve Winwood) and went to see him--said I couldn't believe what I was seeing/hearing --this 15 year old kid with pimples, playing piano and singing like Ray Charles. Steve and EC later became bandmates in the short-lived supergroup, Blind Faith (one album), that also included EC's bandmate from Cream, the mighty genius drummer, Ginger Baker.
British -- four people Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, Chris Wood and Dave Mason. Steve Winwood was 23 at the time. Winwood was 15 when performing as organist/singer with the Spencer David Group, and 19 when he wrote & performed I'm a Man with them. Insane talent.
This is my favorite song of all time as you can tell from my user name. Traffic were known for their Jazz Rock genre. This band will forever hold a place in my heart and mind. 😊
In the GROOVE...this is transcendental. So glad you found this one. KILLER drums by the late Jim Gordon of Derek and the Dominoes fame, and percussive wisdom by Jim Capaldi and Rebop Kwaku Baah.
Hell yah! I woke up to my clock-radio to catch my school bus to high school one morning in 1972. I will never forget it. I'm 65 and have been a fan of Traffic and Steve Winwood ever since. Steve Winwood continued to have hits as a solo artist into the 80's and beyond. Before Traffic, check out his superstardom with "Blind Faith" and "Can't Find My Way Home". True classic progressive late 60's rock. Nothing like it ever since!
The first time I heard this tune, which introduced me to Traffic, was in the late 80's in a friend's dorm room. I asked who it was and he told me it was Steve Winwood's old band. I said, 'The 'Roll with It' guy? In 1992, I saw Winwood do it live in is solo show, then in 1994 saw the reformed Traffic play it live.
Nice pick. This takes me back. Way back. Big stereo speakers and turntable. I sure wish I had all those albums. This was a favourite. Steve Winwood started very young. Fantastic talent. Some of the best right here. Love the Jazz sound. Just looked at the videos. You have a new Sub ! Great music. 🎵
Love this album!! Steve Winwood, piano and vocals. He has one of those instantly recognizable voices. He started out in the 60s when he was 15, I think, with the Spencer Davis Group who had a big hit with "I'm A Man." He also performed with Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and a bunch of other musicians at the ARMS concert in London in 1983. Love your reactions, Thanks.
I remember when this first came out. Only played on the local FM Station after 11 pm. They abandoned top 40 from 11 pm till 5 am. They could play longer songs like this. Yes, Emerson Lake and Palmer, Pink Floyd, Allman Bros, Steely Dan, Jethro Tull and so many more great bands that released his kind of great music that was not released as top 40 singles. A wonderful time for wonderful music.
Tremendous to hear again - great track to cover guys. This is a high point in the sophisticated end of jazz/rock/fusion back in the day. Steve Winwood a Brit for sure. very cool. Thanks
I've looked through a lot of comments, and of course most of the plaudits are going to the genius that is Steve Winwood. I'd like to put in a word for Jim Gordon, sitting in for Jim Capaldi on drums, who plays an absolute blinder throughout, loose, funky, shifting time signatures with ease, throwing brilliant fill after brilliant fill. I NEVER get tired of hearing this song.
Jim Capaldi & Steve Winwood were a great writing and singing duo #airplaybeats ..... Same album "Light up or leave me alone". Winwood is a huge talent, but Capaldi doesn't seem to get the love he deserves. He wrote the lyrics to Dear Mr. Fantasy, Rainmaker, Rock & Roll Stew.
Great tune, so very old. I normally never share this in a group is that I had my oldest of five sons when I was 16, he is 48 and the second son eight years later but almost ALL of the songs I hear you play were born the same year as Mike! Man! I am old AF! Thanks for listening with me! I enjoy watching you guys find joy in my dear old friends!! Steve Winwood is definitely from England!
The instrument in question is Steve Winwood on the Hammond organ. He's running it through some kind of processing, but still going into the Leslie amp.
That final chord, purposely dissonant as a final F U to music executive's shady practices was always chef's kiss for me. One of my favorite songs of all time
I'm so happy that you got to this song!!! Traffic is amazing. Steve Winwood is an icon, both vocally and instrumentally. Has been sought out by the greats, including Jimi Hendrix, to play on Voodoo Child. Jimi wanted to be in a band w/Steve. Child prodigy, worshipped Ray Charles, was backing up American blues musicians touring in the UK since he was a teen.
Steve Winwood was a professional musician at age 14 with the Spencer Davis Group. Insane talent. He started playing piano at age 4. Some people are just born with it.
I believe he played every instrument on the album Arc of a Diver (a song they should listen to as well)!
@@j.h.3777 recorded the album at his studio and he engineered, mixed and produced it too
Also a member of Blind Faith in late 60s, a super trio with Eric Clapton and Ginger Baker.
he still is...
He is a walking, talking, singing and playing, freaking, musical note! 🎵
The good old days, when sophisticated quality music was created by talented people.
So true
And we thought it was just normal 😅
when people actually knew how to play their instrument. And play at a high-level.
You are dead on!
Amen!
The great Steve Winwood (British artist) is a genius. He's in his mid 70s these days, and still performing. Please react to his song "Can't Find My Way Home. or "Roll with it," his R&B hit.
This guy is one of the greats. Plays about 20 different instruments, and his vocals are legendary.
An important band in the history of rock and roll. A song made for the doobie, if you know what I mean. Just have to say that you guys are quickly becoming my favorite "reactors". Great song selections, intelligent observations, and letting the music speak for itself. Unlike so many other reactors you understand music, instrumentation, mixing, and song-writing. And you don't waste your time trying to decipher lyrics that aren't what they appear to be. You hear the influences of jazz, garage-band rock, classical, and even Mo-Town in these classic songs. Just finished going through your whole video catalog. Keep up the good work. Continue to learn and incorporate what you have learned into your dialog. Looking forward to seeing how your channel develops over time.
I agree .
You are on the same page as I see myself. Their choices are really strong. Watched some Rush video reactions then SRV and Sabbath. GFR. They have good taste absolutely.
100% what why said! Would love to see them react to Robert Palmer Sneakin Sally through the alley. That is one everyone needs to experience 🤘💜
Hooked on these two right now. Hearing some songs I missed growing up.
It’s gonna
Rock just as they’ve been doing 👍👍👍🌹
Awesome...so glad you guys found this! Steve Winwood on keys and vocals; he eventually went on to form a short-lived super group Blind Faith with Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker and Ric Grech. Keep'm coming!
Blind faith one of the best albums ever.
Had to Cry Today!
They only made one album but it was an excellent one.
Winwood didn't "eventually" go on to be in Blind Faith - he'd already been there and done that. Spark came out after Blind Faith had broken up, and Traffic re-formed.
Fabulous band, went through a several different phases. This was probably their jazziest/jammiest version. Chris Wood was a brilliant sax player. Loved running his sax through a fuzz pedal. His distorted wail on the fade-out is spine-chilling
Also played flute and other wind instruments.
That’s not a sax. It’s a keyboard played through and effects box according to Steve Winwood.
@@bstaff1901 Wow, all these years I’ve heard it as the sax heavily distorted. Interesting
@@johnhoerl7326 I’m pretty sure it’s his Hammond going through a fuzz, I heard the interview so long ago I can’t be sure if he specified what keyboard or not. It’s mostly single notes but if you listen closely you can hear a few places where he hits more than one note…
@@bstaff1901 Must be a Hammond, or maybe a Farfisa? Doesn’t sound like a Mellotron or a Minimoog even accounting for the distortion, and I can’t think of any other synths at the time that would have been capable of that sustain
You just heard one of the most unique and innovative songs from this group or any group. The song's ethereal mood just takes you to wonderful places. Glad you appreciate their fusion of styles on this song. They have a deep catalogue to explore with varied styles. Steve Winwood's piano and vocals are top tier and his song from when he was in Blind Faith "Can't Find My Way Home" is one not to be missed if you've not heard it.
“Can’t Find My Way Home” is great!
One of those songs that makes the conscious part of your brain take a break. The music just washes over you and carries you away.
Great way to put it. Let your mind run free.
Welcome to the world of Jazz, European Folk, and some of the best Rock Music. Man, you can never go wrong with AirplayBeats and Traffic.
I'm 72 and a former disc jockey back in the seventies and eighties. You dudes have excellent taste in your musical selections. This is one of my all time fave tunes. Steve Winwood is a genius. Wrote GIMME SOME LOVIN and I'M A MAN as a teenager and formed BLIND FAITH with Clapton when he was 20.Check out CAN'T FIND MY WAY BACK HOME. Winwood's huge solo career is worthy of a deep dive also.
Did you ever listen to his album Arc Of A Diver? The entire album is amazing. I heard it new and bought the album back in the day. I didn't know this was Winwood too. He's always been in a special upper echelon of Musical Genius in my book.
Everything he said 🙌 Love these favorite songs I don’t see anyone reacting too.
@@Greg-io1ip such a phenomenal album!!
I tell anyone that will listen that this song is the reason I am a Musician. Figured if I could make one person feel the way this song was making me feel before I die, I can die knowing I achieved something worthwhile. Jim Gordon's Drums, Chris' Flute, Rebop's Congas, its all there.
The "Low Spark.." begins as it ends - it never stops playing man.
Steve Winwood, is a truly talented musician and singer, his voice is unmistakable, once you have heard it. Seen him a couple of times live, and he is just as good, if not even better, than anything he did in a studio. As others have noted, he got a start as a professional musician at a VERY young age, but he proved he was worthy of the praise and promotion. He has been in several groups over the years, Traffic, The Spencer Davis Group, Blind Faith, his own band, and plus guest appearances with MANY other groups. Everyone wanted to play with him, and did. All the other guys in Traffic were very talented as well, but it was really Steve's band.
He even played organ on Hendrix's "Voodoo Child!"
One of the best jams ever!
Steve wrote this song about the greedy record companies, and their executives, manipulating the young and inexperienced Bands and artists into signing recording contracts that made everyone rich, except the artists and Bands who created the music. This was a very common practice in the early 70s in the Rock music world. "Manfred Mann's Earth Band," also had a song about the same time, about this same issue. It was called "Blinded by the Light," a huge hit song in the mid 70s.
Thanks guys.
another winner
FYI, Blinded by the Light was written and performed by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band a few years before Mannfred Mann covered it.
@@gregcable3250 Thanks for the info. I wasn't aware Blinded By t Light was written +preformed first by Bruce S. Prefer his version IMO 👍🏻
I think Pink Floyd did a whole album about this theme. A lot of disappointed musicians, but nothing has changed.
Jim Capaldi wrote these lyrics.
@@egoequus6263 Wish you were here, and some of the songs from money, and even a few from the Wall
That solo instrument is an organ played through a fuzz box by Steve Winwood who plays the keys and is also the lead singer. He plays a lot of sax-inspired lines and the fuzz makes it sound even more reedy for lack of an actual word. Definitely a psychedelic sax sound, but the occasional polyphony is the biggest giveaway.
Thanks. Yea at times I felt like I heard a reed and then didn’t hear it at times. This clears it all up for me.
Sounded like an E-flat sax with a trumpet mute 🤷♂️😏
Chris Wood(RIP) was the sax player
One of the few long ass tracks that doesn’t need any editing. A straight banger!🖖🏼
Steve Winwood is just amazing. He started with The Spencer Davis Group when he was 14, playing the hammond b3 organ and singing like Ray Charles.
This song is one of the all time classic greats and yes a British band. As for the lyrics, it is about the music system ripping off the musicians.
This song and the album are in my top ten. Love Traffic! Back in the day, this was one of those albums to listen to with friends. Candles, incense, and something else burning. Leaning back, eyes closed, floating with the music! ☮️❤️😎
Black light posters. ❤
Heard that! I am so fortunate to have had this era of music as the soundtrack of my youth
Jack Daniels n coke 😂❤
@@Tarkus7 don't forget lava lamp. The red one.
And a big fat reefer !
you mentioned the jazz element in the music. During the 60's and 70's a lot of the musicians listened to a huge variety of music from 40's, 50's, bebop to blues, to country, to world music, and they attended schools to learn classical, jazz, etc. So when you do the reactions of this era of music you will hear all sorts of styles creep into their music. Thanks for including this in your reaction, a classic by any means!
By ANY means!
@@debrabrabenec Thank you, I thought it sounded incorrect but couldn't get my head to the 'any'. I did an edit, thanks again!
The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys, Traffic cast aside commercial wisdom to build the album around an epic title track that is their creative culmination and a perfect blend of rock, jazz, and international music. Winwood and the boys employ some African instruments to create a soft, almost dreamy atmosphere on several album pieces. Try Traffics, DEAR MR. FANTASY, or Steve Winwoods early work with THE SPENCER DAVIS GROUP - 'Gimme Some Lovin', 'I'm A Man', (he was 15 and sang like Ray Charles), a child protegee; or Steve Winwood featuring Chaka Khan-' Higher Love.' Good Job, Guys. Another great tune.
'Little Stevie Winwood' Who knew such a young man could make such an impact. I miss the days when there were truly talented musicians, when you could tell who was singing, who was playing guitar and drums. REAL music.
Yeah man, Traffic! Great musicianship and arrangements and of course Steve Winwood's vocals. Early on he was in the Spencer Davis Group and he sang "Gimme Some Lovin". Also check out "Empty Pages" by traffic. Peace.
Just "sparked" a bowl and loved this song for the millionth time.
So glad you're checking out Traffic, one of my favorite bands. Some of my favorite songs: Empty Pages, Freedom Rider, Walking in the Wind, Dream Gerrard, Tragic Magic, Many a Mile to Freedom, 40,000 Headmen, Light Up or Leave Me Alone; and lots more great songs.
Excellent recommendations Mary! Some of my favorite and some of their best! Well done.
@@ungenerationed9022 thanks
Dream Gerard is a must react to song!
I'm sure noted below is information about Steve Winwood, artist extraordinaire, but the man on drums on this track was Jim Gordon, one of the finest session musicians ever. He played with Joe Cocker, Delaney and Bonnie, Eric Clapton, The Everly Brothers, George Harrison, Frank Zappa, and many others. More Traffic to discover: Glad/Freedom Rider, Empty Pages, Shootout at the Fantasy Factory, 40,000 Headmen, Pearly Queen, Feelin' Alright, and on and on. As for Steve Winwood solo: Higher Love with Chaka Kahn, Roll With It, Talking Back to the Night, Arc of a Diver, Spanish Dancer, Finer Things. Although this song is so jazzy, it's a staple of any classic rock station. Great song, so glad y'all liked it!
Saw Steve live perform this....Steve Winwood is a giant in the history of rock. Immense career.
My friend just curious, did you see them when this album came out, I saw them and Leon Russell came out with his "" Carney "" album and he was the opening act for them, 1st and only time I saw someone ,Leon Russell and Band do three encores. Great concert what a super group.
Stevie Winwood on the Harmond ogan thru a fuzzbox- incredible
He also played and sang for the Spencer Davis Group at 15-16yrs old-amazing!
Traffic was a British rock band formed in 1967 that blended elements of psychedelic rock, folk, jazz, and blues. The band consisted of Steve Winwood (vocals, keyboards, guitar), Jim Capaldi (drums, vocals), Chris Wood (flute, saxophone, keyboards), and Dave Mason (guitar, vocals).
Their debut album, "Mr. Fantasy," featured the hit single "Dear Mr. Fantasy" and established the band's signature sound. Traffic continued to evolve over the course of their career, experimenting with different genres and incorporating more diverse instrumentation, such as sitar and percussion.
Despite frequent lineup changes, the band remained active throughout the 1970s, releasing several successful albums including "John Barleycorn Must Die" and "The Low Spark of High-Heeled Boys." They disbanded in 1975, but Winwood went on to a successful solo career.
Traffic's legacy lies in their innovative blending of genres, the virtuosic musicianship of the band members, and their influence on the development of progressive and jazz rock. They remain highly regarded among music critics and fans alike.
That is a great memory, going to Tower at midnight, listening to a new release. I have a similar one about John Barleycorn Must Die.
Traffic's music still sounds good today. Thanks for the excellent review. I think you will enjoy their catalogue...can't wait till you give their work John Barleycorn must die a listen!
Woo-Hoo, the train keeps on rolling with you guys, now with Traffic, a band that is its own genre and one of the best of that era. Try them live at Santa Monica in the early 70s, that video is utterly amazing, they get lost in their own groove and take you along for the ride. Great video and a time capsule for sure. I saw them a couple times, the last time when they reunited for one album and tour, I saw them a week before Woodstock II in 1994, they were fire once again. You can see their Woodstock II set on YT. Steve Winwood, amazing vocals, songwriting, keyboards and guitar, he and Traffic are wonderful artists. Enjoy! 🎵🎸🎤🎹🎷🎶
My all time favorite Desert Island Song !!! I play this song on guitar and keyboards for the last 10 years !
Love Traffic! Their most known song is probably “Mr. Fantasy”, another great song and totally different from this song which is one of my favorites. By the way, they came before Steely Dan and yes, they’re an English band.
OMG I couldn't click fast enough. I never thought I'd see anyone react to this. This has to be my FAV song from the 70s. It's so good. I can't wait to see you all react to this since you are both so musically astute.
Hey guys check it!!! My older brother used to turn me on to all different types of music. I think I was 14 or 15 and he took me to his apartment with a buddy... He said shut up and listen!!!! LoL he put this on the turntable and I have never been the same!!!!!!! What an awesome experience as a teenager.. 💕
I’m glad this video took you back to those great times!!
Riding with the brothers once again great great song!!! Steve winwood is amazing and this track is hypnotic.Yes indeed!
Saw Traffic in Detroit at the Grande ballroom, all the good bands came into Detroit when they were 1st starting out. It was great.
Yes they did. All the great bands respected the Detroit scene back in the day!
Hey guys Ned from Spain again. Loving your choices as always. Traffic started just after Steve " the prodigy " Winwood left Spencer Davis Group. Steve ( G/vox/keys/bass..) teamed up with Jim Capaldi ( dr / vox ), Chris Wood ( sax / flute ) and Dave Mason ( g / vox ) in 1967. They had some hits in a lot of different styles but eventually became a more jazzy rock band after Masons departure. They're just amazing. Winwood continues to perform and sounds great even now.
"And the man in the suit just bought a new car
On the profit he made on your dreams..."
Such a great line among many great lines.
That’s a DEEP line
The track “Mr. Fantasy” also by Traffic is a certified banger
Steve Winwood is a musical genius. A virtuoso on multiple instruments and a unique vocalist...
Aww man, you've gotten to Lil' Stevie Winwood! I've always said that if I could have 1 musician's talents, it would be him. He's a top tier singer, amazing on keys and is a knockout guitarist - don't believe me - check out his 2007 Crossroads Guitar Festival sets (Clapton's Festival - seriously, check it out! There's a short set of him by himself, then he's joined by Clapton and company ). God knows what other instruments the man has mastered; I'm sure it's many. Anyways, enjoy the rabbit hole, it's deep.
Love this-lotta hazie times listening to Traffic. "High heeled boys" is reference to the Band in platform boots-the style back then. Steve Winwood, when playing with Spencer Davis group did a recording of "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out". Totally Soul sound. Love YOUR channel. You break it down, not just make comments. Appreciate your knowledge✌🏼
Actually, the actor Michael G. Pollard was hanging out with Steve and wrote the line "low spark of high-heeled boys" in his notebook.
@@debrabrabenec Its still in reference to "high heed boys" that were wearing platform boots- same dudes, same title. All TIES Together✌🏼 no matter who coined the phrase/title. R. Crumb used this image for Keep on Truckin- Furry Freak Bros.--Zap comic books.
what an awesome classic. a jam song, remember many teen years partying to this! a brilliant song no Doubt!!
Great album from Steve Winwood/Traffic, the whole anthology is worthy of a concentrated listen. If you get a chance, check out an earlier great album "John Barleycorn Must Die".
Agree! That album doesn't get enough attention. It's terrific!
It was hard to get radio stations to play this because its was so long. I had to beg at times to get it played, and was turned down more often than not. Steve Winwood was such a prodigy.
“Dear Mr. Fantasy” is a must !
Traffic was a British band that had among its members Steve Winwood and Dave Mason. And while there were saxophones used on this song, the sax sounds you were talking about was likely a synthesizer. Synths were very popular in the early 70s when this was released (1971).
love Love LOVE Traffic…🎉🎉thank you so much! The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys: love 💕 💕 💕
Love your reaction to this great band and wonderful cut. Very tasty, jazzy indeed! Also, loved the reference to Tower Records. What fabulous memories of my youth into my young adult years roaming the record bends for new music. So many gems found at this iconic record store chain that came from my hometown of Sacramento, CA. I spent so many hours at the Broadway location it was like a formal education in music. I purchased this very LP at Tower Records, Broadway. Of course, another great memory is all the incredible album cover paintings that adorned the outside of the store.
Loved the Broadway Tower Records! Same thing…fantastic memories there!
I grew up at the same Tower location from about ‘68
So awesome that you found this track. So many great songs from Traffic!
So glad you did this one. All us oldsters were just waiting to see your faces when they reached that chord at the end! Incredible aren’t they? No doubt, a song for the ages.
Good one fellas. Follow the Steve Winwood thread!!! (Spencer Davis, Traffic, Blind Faith, Solo). Child prodigy. Some of his well known songs include "I'm a Man", "Gimme Some Lovin'", Can't Find My Way Home", "Higher Love", "Roll With It"......many more....
most forget Steve is a multi instrumentalist - he plays guitar amazingly well , organ, piano, and quite a number of other instruments
I know it's been a while since you posted this, but in all my years I thought Steve Winwood was a vocalist, although I seem to remember seeing him play a piano I didn't know he played other instruments, thanks for the info
I bought this album when I was in High School. I had not heard this song in a very long time. I’m so glad you posted it along with your reaction.
Great keyboards little hand clapping great sax drums the whole package
Steve Winwood is a great vocalist and organ player. Traffic made a lot of great music, that unfortunately may become lost because I don't think there is a lot of video on the group, try some songs like Mr. Fantasy, 40,000 Headmen, Pearly Queen Shanghai Noodle Factory.
Just beautiful art
Dipping our feet into some more jazz, I see. Wonderful song, and Chris Wood (RIP) was my idol as a sax player back in the day. PHAT!!! I remember my Dad walking by my room when I had this going, stopping and saying "Nice Song".
One of the all time classics here. 50 yr old tune that grooves to no end. Dear Mr Fantasy is another good tune from Traffic. Feelin Alright
Saw these guys live in concert at the old Cincinnatti Reds stadium in 1969. Always a great show.
My fav Traffic/Steve Winwood composition! You guys are tapping into some incredible music!
Good find, another band that can't be forgotten, keep up the good work.
😅 Wow ! this takes me back,. First time I heard this I was sitting outside a cafe somewhere in Morocco early 1972 .
Great choice, great band, great reaction as always
p.s. They where a British band , c'mon guys if you don't know a bands origin your first port of call should always be "I think they're British"
Around this time there were a whole bunch of songs about the predatory practices of record labels. This, Working for MCA, Barracuda, Blinded by the Light, Zantz Can't Dance, Have a Cigar, Death on Two Legs, Baby You're a Rich Man, and many others. Steve Winwood, the composer, vocalist, and keyboard player here, played behind BB King, Howlin' Wolf, Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, and others on their UK tours at 13 and 14.
What a great choice and love your reactions, love that you REALLY LISTEN! Awesome. I’m sitting here, listening my ass off with y’all. Thank you!❤
U guys R gonna luv TRAFFIC
I saw Traffic in 1971 fantastic band !
And a BIG THANK YOU for not stopping the music every 10 seconds for some inane comment like others do - keep it up!
Another amazing band with so many great songs
I LOVE how much you appreciate great music.
Steve Winwood (started Traffic when he was about 19) at age 15-16 (from an otherwise forgettable film).: th-cam.com/video/VwqsmNR_Q1M/w-d-xo.html
Eric Clapton heard about this kid up north in England (Steve Winwood) and went to see him--said I couldn't believe what I was seeing/hearing --this 15 year old kid with pimples, playing piano and singing like Ray Charles. Steve and EC later became bandmates in the short-lived supergroup, Blind Faith (one album), that also included EC's bandmate from Cream, the mighty genius drummer, Ginger Baker.
British -- four people
Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, Chris Wood and Dave Mason.
Steve Winwood was 23 at the time.
Winwood was 15 when performing as organist/singer with the Spencer David Group, and 19 when he wrote & performed I'm a Man with them.
Insane talent.
One of my favorite bands ever!!
This is my favorite song of all time as you can tell from my user name. Traffic were known for their Jazz Rock genre. This band will forever hold a place in my heart and mind. 😊
In the GROOVE...this is transcendental. So glad you found this one. KILLER drums by the late Jim Gordon of Derek and the Dominoes fame, and percussive wisdom by Jim Capaldi and Rebop Kwaku Baah.
I remember hearing this song all the time on FM radio late at night! The ambiance of this song always blew my mind!
And that SAX! Wow!
Brilliant song by a brilliant band... Steve Winwood kills it and I love the sax
Hell yah! I woke up to my clock-radio to catch my school bus to high school one morning in 1972. I will never forget it. I'm 65 and have been a fan of Traffic and Steve Winwood ever since. Steve Winwood continued to have hits as a solo artist into the 80's and beyond. Before Traffic, check out his superstardom with "Blind Faith" and "Can't Find My Way Home". True classic progressive late 60's rock. Nothing like it ever since!
The first time I heard this tune, which introduced me to Traffic, was in the late 80's in a friend's dorm room. I asked who it was and he told me it was Steve Winwood's old band. I said, 'The 'Roll with It' guy? In 1992, I saw Winwood do it live in is solo show, then in 1994 saw the reformed Traffic play it live.
Not many people have reacted to this . Thank you
Thats Chris Wood on alto with a pickup into a guitar effect of some type. Perhaps a Univibe.
Great sound and way ahead of its time.
Nice pick. This takes me back. Way back. Big stereo speakers and turntable. I sure wish I had all those albums. This was a favourite. Steve Winwood started very young. Fantastic talent. Some of the best right here. Love the Jazz sound. Just looked at the videos. You have a new Sub ! Great music. 🎵
Love this album!! Steve Winwood, piano and vocals. He has one of those instantly recognizable voices. He started out in the 60s when he was 15, I think, with the Spencer Davis Group who had a big hit with "I'm A Man." He also performed with Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and a bunch of other musicians at the ARMS concert in London in 1983. Love your reactions, Thanks.
Another great band! Well done guys! FYI, song is about getting ripped off by record company executives.
You guys are really bringing back the memories. Tower records.
I remember when this first came out. Only played on the local FM Station after 11 pm. They abandoned top 40 from 11 pm till 5 am. They could play longer songs like this. Yes, Emerson Lake and Palmer, Pink Floyd, Allman Bros, Steely Dan, Jethro Tull and so many more great bands that released his kind of great music that was not released as top 40 singles. A wonderful time for wonderful music.
Great rabbit hole here, guys..
Other gems by Traffic:
Glad
Freedom Riders
Empty Pages
Tragic Magic
Light Up or Leave Me Alone
Rainmaker
40'000 Headmen 😄
Tremendous to hear again - great track to cover guys. This is a high point in the sophisticated end of jazz/rock/fusion back in the day. Steve Winwood a Brit for sure. very cool. Thanks
I saw Stevie Windwood a few years at the Portsmouth, VA pavilion. Amazing musician and Traffic was a great band.
I grew up with this ! so many original masters. No two were alike.
I've looked through a lot of comments, and of course most of the plaudits are going to the genius that is Steve Winwood. I'd like to put in a word for Jim Gordon, sitting in for Jim Capaldi on drums, who plays an absolute blinder throughout, loose, funky, shifting time signatures with ease, throwing brilliant fill after brilliant fill. I NEVER get tired of hearing this song.
Jim Capaldi & Steve Winwood were a great writing and singing duo #airplaybeats ..... Same album "Light up or leave me alone". Winwood is a huge talent, but Capaldi doesn't seem to get the love he deserves. He wrote the lyrics to Dear Mr. Fantasy, Rainmaker, Rock & Roll Stew.
You gentlemen have excellent taste in music. Thank you!
Great tune, so very old. I normally never share this in a group is that I had my oldest of five sons when I was 16, he is 48 and the second son eight years later but almost ALL of the songs I hear you play were born the same year as Mike! Man! I am old AF! Thanks for listening with me! I enjoy watching you guys find joy in my dear old friends!! Steve Winwood is definitely from England!
My all-time favorite song....
The instrument in question is Steve Winwood on the Hammond organ. He's running it through some kind of processing, but still going into the Leslie amp.
This song. Live 72 (full song) is a mesmerizing watch. Great song.
That final chord, purposely dissonant as a final F U to music executive's shady practices was always chef's kiss for me. One of my favorite songs of all time
I'm so happy that you got to this song!!! Traffic is amazing. Steve Winwood is an icon, both vocally and instrumentally. Has been sought out by the greats, including Jimi Hendrix, to play on Voodoo Child. Jimi wanted to be in a band w/Steve. Child prodigy, worshipped Ray Charles, was backing up American blues musicians touring in the UK since he was a teen.