A Change is Gonna Come - Sam Cooke | College Students' FIRST TIME REACTION!

[@andyandalex]

First time ever hearing Sam Cooke, what a brilliant timeless song, what are some other songs by him or other artists in this genre that we should check out?! 🔥🙌🏻

[@frankdiceiii5399]

Lost And Lookin. Just him and a bass. Will give you the shivers.

[@deebell510]

I hope you know what this song is about.

[@frankdiceiii5399]

@@deebell510 I do.

[@SaverioP]

Much, much respect for Mr. Cooke even if this isn't exactly my cup of tea.

[@wendylynn4318]

Journey. Steve Perry often does a pretty great imitation of Sam Cooke.

[@bendancar]

You're ready: Marvin Gaye, "What's Going On"." It is the natural follow up to this, from 1970. So great... feels much more modern.

[@scottmorschhauser4421]

Yep, spot on sir.

[@mrdis58]

1000% you have to follow this with What's Going On.

[@allisonreed7682]

@Benjamin Carmel completely agree!

[@MikeCoggan]

Actually they should do the entire "What's Going On" album. Start to finish - a concept album masterpiece

[@MikeCoggan]

Wake up Everybody. Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes with Teddy P

[@dougieyou]

Iv'e heard this song a million times and I'm sitting here in tears not only for the song but to see two young guys who get it. Excellence is excellence and this is it. It will always stand the test of time...A Masterpiece.

[@gaylasmith5279]

And you two DO get it. Alex, when you told of how someone told you about how there was a time if they walked down that street, they'd be strung up, it gave me chills. Perhaps I was naive enough after seeing what went on in the Civil Rights Era and racism in the south for so long, that I had hoped by the 21st century it would be the product of a bygone time. Yet here we are in 2021 and racism, bigotry, misogyny, etc. are all still alive and flourishing. Very sad. I'm glad now that I didn't bring children in to this messed up world. If I had, they'd be listening to my collection of vinyl for sure. Thanks, guys, for what you're doing! You very often make my day.

[@dannyrand6203]

You can't help feel listening to this

[@lford1130]

Same!!!

[@johnangelopoulos2000]

Guys, I commend you for coming across this song. I've been a Sam Cooke fanatic for well over 30 years now and a bit of nerd when it comes to his life and career. His historical importance cannot be over emphasized, for many reasons. You're right in that this song was written in response to the burgeoning civil rights movement being spearheaded by people like Martin Luther King during this time. It was actually came about because Sam Cooke had somehow heard Dylan's 'Blowin' In the Wind' and felt humbled that a white guy had apparently written a song that perfectly captured the spirit of what blacks were combatting at the time. He was quoted as saying, "I should have written that song!" because of his long standing support of the civil rights movement, and wrote in a way, to remedy what he felt was negligence on his behalf. Cooke was a star in the Black Gospel circuit for many years, when at 18 years old he became the lead singer of the foremost gospel group of the time, 'The Soul Stirrers'. However, he was very ambitious and wanted to crossover into the pop field. It was a forbidden for any gospel singer to do this and once you did, you could never go back ... the rules were very strict about this. Although he was torn, in the late 50's he recorded a song under a pseudonym, but was quickly discovered. He subsequently started recording a string of hits, that put him on top of the charts for the next few years. Song's like 'You Send Me', 'What a Wonderful World' etc. He is considered perhaps the greatest R&B singer ever by many influential singers that would follow, People like Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robins etc. His command and technique are the stuff of legend. Rod Stewart said that during his formative years, he listened to no one else for over two years at one point. Unlike many other black singers of the time, he was a very savvy business man and held onto almost all his publishing rights and did very well financially and even owned his own record label. The definitive tracks that show his some of his full capabilities, as well as being well arranged and well recorded probably come down to 3 key tracks. 'Bring It On Home To Me', 'Ain't That Good News' and 'Good Times'. Kudos for covering one of his songs, Lastly, what's most important about this dude, is he was kind of like the Michael Jackson of his time, in that he paved the way for many that follow directly in his footsteps, and more than other artist of the time besides Ray Charles, made R&B truly mainstream for the first time ever on a grand scale. That is no small feat. Hope some of this helps, gentlemen!

[@danlindberg7681]

Hey guys if you’re really serious about going deeper into this kind of stuff may I suggest singers such as Billie Holiday or Etta James try the song Strange fruit by Billie or the song At last by Etta 😜

[@chrissyc1996]

Thanks for the info on Sam Cooke, interesting stuff.

[@tgtrout]

@@danlindberg7681 They should also try "Damn Your Eyes" by Ethan James too.

[@danlindberg7681]

@@venitaspringman9578 may I suggest Ray Charles or Stevie Wonder🤪👊😜✊🤣

[@vincenthopwood1240]

There is some more context folks should be aware of, because this is much more than simply a song. "A Change Is Gonna Come", released a little over a week after Cooke's death, became the theme song of the Civil Rights movement and remains the purest distillation of the centuries of struggle African Americans have endured and continue face. It is still considered by many African Americans to be the Black national anthem, one of the most powerful expression of who we are as a culture and as a people that the world has ever witnessed. It is who we have been, and what we want to achieve, condensed under the pressure of bigotry and subjugation and shaped into a diamond of hope and optimism. To listen to this song is to catch a glimpse of the character and identity of African Americans.

[@m.gideonhoyle409]

This song was a mainstay of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. All of its lyrics refer to the challenges of that struggle. Cooke was an icon all on his own. He was one of the primary creators of what came to be known as soul music. He was also a successful entrepreneur and label owner at a time when most musicians didn't even own the rights to their songs.

[@HamiltonRb]

You are so right about the impact of songs like this in the civil rights movement. Another one that immediately comes to mind is Dion singing Abraham, Martin & John. Powerful lyrics

[@joeday4293]

Boys, on your own time, please check out the excellent Netflix documentary, "The Two Killings of Sam Cooke." It tells his story in general, and the story of this song in particular.

[@kurtmontas5439]

Marvin Gaye, What's Goin' On or Temptations, Papa Was A Rollin" Stone.

[@briangroboski4751]

Marvin Gaye's "What's Goin' On?" is an iconic song of the era as well. And, if you wanna start listening to Motown, the best, no, the, ONLY place to start is The Temptations, "My Girl", "Ain't Too Proud To Beg" and many many more.

[@surlechapeau]

A&A, Many great songs from this man. "You Send Me", "Cupid", "Twistin' The Night Away", "Another Saturday Night"... A pioneer with 20 Top 10 hits.

[@gaylasmith5279]

"You Send Me" is one of the smoothest, most beautiful love songs ever sung. And when you have Sam Cooke singing it, well, he sends you.

[@tracid3877]

Bring it on Home To Me

[@Historian212]

“Chain Gang”

[@1177kc]

His version of Summertime is so beautiful too.

[@michaelgreenberg106]

Love that Cupid song!!

[@Cboy2023]

Al Green does a great version of this song..while we are at it AL GREEN! One of the greatest singers EVER...Let’s Stay Together ..Tired of Being Alone ...Love and Happiness. And Otis Redding!!

[@javabill]

Love and Happiness is a pure classic from a pure classic!

[@gaylasmith5279]

Al Green also has a gospel background and smooth voice much like Sam Cooke. Just about anything you listen to by him is amazing. He does an awesome cover of "How Can You Mend A Broken Heart"? by the Brothers Gibb.

[@stewartnewman6365]

I totally agree CHuck Seigel. That backing music is far more appropriate. Now I’d like to hear Sam Cooke with Al’s band!

[@davidbooth7778]

You are right, I posted for them to hear Aretha's cover of this song. Maybe they will dip their toes in a little further into soul, gospel, motown.

[@ph8429]

TOOOOOTALLY

[@susanklasinski1805]

I can't help but feel chills when I hear this. This song came out after he died. Sam Cooke would have been 90 years old this year. So many unanswered questions about his death.

[@junietunes2148]

His voice gives me chills every time. Sam Cooke's death was so tragic

[@pauleagle3934]

It was the last song he ever recorded

[@susanklasinski1805]

@@junietunes2148 @Paul Eagle - I tear up a little usually whenever I listen because of that reason

[@allisonreed7682]

@Susan Klasinski I feel the same way when I hear this. There was no other voice like his.

[@junietunes2148]

@@allisonreed7682 Sam Cooke was a master at evoking feeling, from the first note out of his mouth, he just hooks you. I'm so proud that the Gents are branching out!

[@jthomann71]

With someone like Cooke you have to remember the time period. This is a guy who died in 1964, popular music was very different in that era. Remember to check out some more, especially Bring It On Home to Me.

[@dcook22]

What and amazing song that is. And lots of young people were introduced to it when they used it in a Guardians of the Galaxy movie.

[@DreamsSketcher]

I heard Bring It On Home To Me for the first time by an older contestant on X Factor. So good! As Simon said, she sounds like a legend.Her health prevented her from competing after that but you can see the video and I believe she is on ITunes if memory serves.Her name is Panda Ross. Here she is auditioning with this great song. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmOkpGCnr5V1jq8

[@1177kc]

@@DreamsSketcher I heard it first by Rod Stewart and then had to listen to Sam Cooke. Been a fanatic since.

[@angielofton6372]

The guy on the harmony vocal in Bring It on Home to Me was Lou Rawls.

[@michaelgreenberg106]

Yep! Bing Crosby was still very popular (great singer but bit dated).

[@adriennepender673]

A Civil Rights anthem. Sam Cooke was a master, and a direct influence on Marvin Gaye and so many great soul singers. Thank you for doing this.

[@junietunes2148]

I can't even imagine living in a world without Sam Cooke's music, my favorite singer of all time. This song is the most important song of the 21st Century IMHO

[@robertjackson9921]

Please listen to ' KEEP Moving On ' by Sam....how to live

[@jodan4]

AT our prom in 1956, we danced to Sam singing Darling You send Me.

[@gaylasmith5279]

Must have been a very magical evening.

[@mikeymckinnon5778]

Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough. The greatest feel good song ever written.

[@ednicholson7839]

Another great song of theirs is "If I Could Build My Whole World Around You", which might be my favorite.

[@mikeymckinnon5778]

@@ednicholson7839 Ain’t Nothing Like The Real Thing... 🔥

[@allisonreed7682]

Great song, and just about any Marvin Gaye would be fine by me!

[@mikeymckinnon5778]

@@allisonreed7682 Agreed 🤟🏼

[@adambnyc4875]

Lots of gospel singing in his background. Check out the story of his death, gents. And check out Al Greene, Curtis Mayfield, Marvin Gaye.

[@jen_eks2163]

Yes! And Otis Redding and Etta James

[@taylortyler1867]

"Let's Stay Together" is one of my all-time favorites.

[@Manageode]

I'm still all-in for Curtis Mayfield's Superfly and Pusherman!

[@ednicholson7839]

Yeah all of those guys, and Ray Charles, Otis Redding and Solomon Burke and a lot of others. I particularly like Al Green, especially "Love and Happiness" and "Take Me to the River".

[@Live2swim]

Or: Be Thankful for What You've got (Diamond in the Back) by William De Vaughn ( I have been corrected. Its not Curtis Mayfield)

[@jlsagely6892]

The sweet, sweet soul of Sam Cooke. Smooth as silk. Pure greatness.

[@junietunes2148]

Gents, I'm so stoked you did this song! The musical styling is old fashioned for sure, but his voice is so magical and the message of this song is timeless. Bring It On Home to Me is another great one by Sam Cooke. Definitely recommend Otis Redding, James Brown, Ray Charles, Etta James, Aretha Franklin, just so many great voices from Soul and Mowtown

[@SteveJones-id3cb]

Etta James's at last is a classic and moves me every time I hear it!

[@michaelgreenberg106]

Howzabout the immortal "I'm gonna shake my wang, dang, doodle, all night long"-by Koko Taylor. Funny and filthy as the title sounds.

[@sewildman50]

Can we get some Otis Redding, "Try a Little Tenderness" or "(Sittin' on) The Dock of the Bay" ? These are classics!

[@MikeCoggan]

Also These Arms of Mine or I've Been Loving You Too Long

[@IZZY_EDIBLE]

Oh hell yeah. TRY A LITTLE TENDERNESS!

[@boxerpaws55]

Dock of the Bay. wore that one out. Otis live is awesome too. Still hoping for Johnny Winter live Mad Dog and i smell trouble Live. they showcase the master Winter was. Then to top it off there's Keb Mo Walkin Blues (Robert Johnson cover)kzbin.info/www/bejne/laCvkKN5n7Wai8k

[@buckfan1969]

@@IZZY_EDIBLE And make sure it's the performance at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967!

[@roncypert8255]

If you didn’t hear Dock Of The Bay a thousand and forty-eleven times before you were 15 you didn’t have a radio. Great great song! Another super talent who died too soon!

[@nickriva15]

I see Sam Cooke and I click on it. That simple Excellent job!

[@RenR70]

Sounds like you might be a little young for his catalog but his song “Bring it on Home to Me” is considered to be the first true R&B song, background vocals by Lou Rawls.

[@dcook22]

OMG... how amazing is Lou Rawls?!?

[@SpaceCattttt]

Too young? They did both essentially give the song a top score. Not to mention that Sam Cooke himself was only 33 when he died, which is not that much older than the age of these two boys.

[@RenR70]

@@SpaceCattttt I’m just going by what Alex said about it being a little too old for him the reason why he didn’t like the orchestral part of the song. They gave it a high score because even if they didn’t completely like it they realize the greatness & importance of it.

[@otisdylan9532]

It's a great song, but R&B has been around since the '40's.

[@RenR70]

@@otisdylan9532 Yes the term has been to describe black music but I’m talking about true modern R&B. Before that it was Blues, Jazz, Doo Wop or Rock & Roll.

[@lnautomobile3248]

The song moves me so deeply. Tears every time. He took a huge artistic and controversial leap singing this in the early 60s, especially compared to his earlier safer songs.

[@margiemcpeak9304]

Thanks guys! Ready for Otis Redding's "Try a Little Tenderness"!? GO FOR IT‼🔥

[@gamera3000]

Yes. Try a Little Tenderness starts of like this but then develops the best groove.

[@Mike-rk8px]

Otis also did an excellent version of “A Change Is Gonna Come” after Sam was murdered.

[@Cochese59]

Also "These Arms of Mine" PLEASE!!!

[@margiemcpeak9304]

@@Cochese59, DEFINITELY "These Arms of Mine"!

[@robertbailey5239]

"Sitting on the Dock of the Bay" by Otis is his best.

[@Mark_McC]

Alex, you gotta remember this is early 1964 and he’s trying to reach out to mainstream white people who saw rock as revolutionary almost satanic music. The over the top orchestration is to attract those who would immediately dismiss it. Sure, for our ears it seems a bit much, but the orchestration is what made so many hear the message behind it.

[@valerievanwinkle6453]

Definitely. This song wasn't aimed just at the teen market of the time, but was meant to be cross-cutting and also appeal to the ears of the adults who were the generation of big band and swing music.

[@innercirclemusic1]

For sure. That galactic voice needed something strong to sustain it. The period was characterised by large, lush orchestrations and many big voices that were given free rein to shine. (Think Dela Reese, for instance). When this song hit the airwaves, time stopped for a moment. It's a nutshell assessment of the state of the world at this time and its message reaches far beyond the generations. Timeless.

[@bin5803]

There’s nothing over the top about it. It fits the mood of the song. Not everything needs to be “hip” and “cool” - music is just music.

[@gaylasmith5279]

Many thanks for taking a listen to Sam Cooke's "A Change Gonna Come". The man was blessed with a voice! Any time I hear this, especially when it's Mr. Cooke, I stop in my tracks. This is something I truly remember from my youth watching people dealing with Civil Rights and the War. Many thanks. Alex, as far as the music, it was a product of the times.

[@jgsrhythm100]

Hey Gayla!! Nice comment.

[@gaylasmith5279]

@@jgsrhythm100 Thank you!

[@burmajones803]

I'm with you Alex. That voice and those lyrics would benefit from a little more modern, minimal style of production, but that orchestral accompaniment was pretty much the style of the time. But oh, that voice! Thank you for playing this today my brothers. It was much needed in these parts! 👍🤘✌

[@allisonreed7682]

@Eric Blodgett imagine the music he would have made if his life had not been cut short!

[@francisedwards4069]

no, no no

[@normanleroy1874]

Wow. Great, great selection. This is digging into some quality right here. Adding soul and funk and r&b into the mix is a great step.

[@susanklasinski1805]

I agree Norman

[@Hooptie721]

His voice brings tears to my eyes! What a gift to the world he was!

[@johngravett4638]

This is a great example of why I love watching you guys. You're interested in hearing all different genres of music and can appreciate the merits in many different types of songs. This song is a classic and the more you hear it, the more it will grow on you. Keep up the good work guys.

[@johnnymartin49]

If you really want to hear music that discussed lynching go all the way back to 1939 and Billie Holiday singing "Strange Fruit". It put her in the path of J. Edgar's FBI because he didn't want her singing that song, they hounded her up until her death. The more you know 🌈 😎

[@melissa2688]

@BigJohn - Billy Crystal's uncle Milt Gabler recorded that song. I read about it in his book called 700 Sundays. Billy Crystal said that Billie sang Strange Fruit to him a capella and he cried like baby. He told her that he was going to record the song no matter what. You take care and stay safe 😷

[@johnnymartin49]

@@melissa2688 Thanks for the info.. 😎

[@DG-uh8uv]

I’m 65 years old and I remember the civil rights movement and the horrific stuff that was going on. I’m still driven to tears when I hear this man sing with the power and the passion in his voice. I would also like to hear a live version and I’m going to look for one. I totally get what you say about the music and I think that’s simply a product of the time. Thank you so much for reacting to this song. Thank you for the story about the 84 year old black man who’s story helps put things into perspective. I haven’t listened to this song in about a year and I don’t think I’m gonna let that happen again.

[@bodhisattva3774]

If this song doesn't tug on your heart strings you're not human.

[@bradballinger7761]

“Twistin the Night Away” is my favorite from Sam. That being said (to quote Alex), you should do an entire Motown live stream. There are just too many songs and artists to pick from. This way we can get you started with a handful...

[@Manageode]

Fabulous idea.

[@royalway12]

Rod Stewart did an excellent cover of that song.

[@susanmaggiora4800]

Motown stream would be so awesome!

[@hughdavidvisor1769]

Motown & Stax!

[@mark-be9mq]

Great Idea. Best way to appreciate the genre and era.

[@TrashWerewolf]

One of the most amazing vocal performances in history, hands down!!! Really glad you guys gave this a listen!!

[@mattshaw6180]

Sam Cooke: "Bring It On Home To Me." As good a song and performance as this one here; _timeless_.

[@WilliamTheMovieFan]

Yes!

[@gregsager2062]

Plus, it contains a great call-and-response duet with the immortal Lou Rawls.

[@britneyshearer5935]

LOVE that song

[@markkracht9413]

Not really that great of a vocal the song was ok.

[@maruad7577]

@@gregsager2062 That was Lou Rawls? Nice.

[@allisonreed7682]

I don't think I've ever clicked on one of your videos so quickly! What a thrill to see you reacting to Sam Cooke! His entire catalog is worthy of a listen, but a couple of songs that I especially love are "Bring It On Home to Me" and "What a Wonderful World." The instrumentation on "What a Wonderful World" is perfectly pared down with Cooke's vocals and drummer Ronnie Selico's subdued percussion at the forefront of the mix. To add to what @Peter Quinones suggested, I agree that you should consider taking a deep dive into the incredible Stax/Volt/Hi-Records (and Motown) universe: Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas, The Staple Singers, Albert King, Carla Thomas, Sam and Dave, Ann Peebles, Otis Clay, Eddie Floyd, Al Green, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, and dozens of others.

[@seansullivan7955]

NINA SIMONE - “Feeling Good” is of the era and equally powerful, but “Mississippi Goddam” is poignant and a very specific title that should appeal to Alex. Her accompaniment is on point because she runs the show from the piano.

[@markstoudenmire4935]

This^^^^

[@D_M_W]

"Strange Fruit" as well! It was the first time I heard her singing and it hooked me. So haunting... I know it was done first by Billie Holiday (and it caused her a lot of trouble), but Nina's is the best version in my book.

[@ThatsMyStuffYouBledOnTrevor]

Her version of “I Shall Be Released” blows my frickin mind

[@KH-ol6qz]

She cuts across time and space

[@KH-ol6qz]

@@D_M_W THANKS for bringing up THE LADY that sings the blues

[@ExpectTheSpanishInquisition]

Oh boy. You guys are in for another great ride!! I was wondering when you were going to get into this genre. The ORIGINAL Soul and Rhythm & Blues music is wide and deep, so you're opening up another lifetime of reactions. While we were all listening to the rock greats, we were also listening to the fabulous black artists at the same time. It was HEAVEN. The Beatles have been credited with taking many songs written or recorded by black artists (and being listened to by almost exclusively black people), re-recording them and giving them back to the white kids here in N.America. Some of the black songs they recorded were: Anna, Love Me Do, Long Tall Sally, Chains, Boys, Baby It's You, Twist and Shout, Please Mr. Postman, Roll Over Beethoven, You've Really Got a Hold on Me, Long Tall Sally, Money, Devil in Her Heart, Rock 'n Roll Music, Mr. Moonlight, Lucille, Memphis Tennessee, Shout and more. When the Beatles would play in the USA, they refused to play in halls where whites and blacks were segregated (yup, some halls were segregated in those days!) There are SO many great black artists and groups both male and female that it's a daunting task to list them all. Here's the best in no particular order and probably missing some. Sam Cooke Sam and Dave Otis Redding Marvin Gaye (with Tammy Terrell in the early days) Smokey Robinson (and the Miracles): Wilson Pickett Percy Sledge Arthur Conley Stevie Wonder The Commodores Lionel Ritchie (formerly of The Commodores) Curtis Mayfield Billie Preston Ray Charles Nat King Cole BB King Chuck Berry Harry Belafonte Isaac Hayes Luther Vandross Barry White Al Green Joe Tex The Four Tops The Temptations James Brown The Spinners Sly & The Family Stone The Spinners Jerry Butler Bill Withers Al Green Jackson Five Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes The Isley Brothers The Stylistics Staples Singers Ohio Players The O'Jays The Chi-Lites Earth, Wind & Fire Aretha Franklin Gladys Knight and the Pips The Supremes Mary Wells Martha and the Vandellas Little Eva The Crystals Barbara Mason Etta James Ella Fitzgerald Tina Turner Dionne Warwick Janet Jackson Minnie Ripperton The Chiffons The Marvellettes Betty Everett

[@hethmarie]

Bring it on home to me, live in Harlem version. It’s more personal because he felt at home.

[@PaulSmith-xc7vt]

Fantastic song. Sam Cooke was so good. I enjoyed Andy's take on this. I think the background sound actually adds to the song. Thanks guys.

[@loobyloo8980]

Sam Cooke was amazing and has so many good songs to choose from.

[@markstoudenmire4935]

Soooooooo many.

[@caryriggs5719]

Love your channel. You guys are stretching out a bit and I am enjoying it so much. There are so many important songs in people's lives by talented thoughtful artist that don't fit into the classic rock format that you do such a wonderful job at reviewing. Go forth young men and stay open to discovery. We appreciate you guys.

[@lisamorrison2149]

What an amazing voice. An important song for the civil rights movement. Thanks Andy and Alex for reacting to this.🌞

[@jrichard711]

Jr. Walker, "What Does it Take". 2 1/2 minutes of bliss.

[@jgsrhythm100]

I love Sam Cooke❤only draw back, production designed to hit a mainstream audience(white).In other words watered down. This live, a different story. Now time for the Funk Thank You(Falletme be mice elf Agin) Sly & Family Stone(not watered down) circa 70. greasy with serious stank. No overblown string section. Fattest bass you'll ever hear, with enlightening lyrics. This reaction will be on par with Born on the Bayou, Mannish Boy, Poast Toastee. A&A Forgive the incessant persistance, but nothing would give me pleasure more than to see the smile and stank face when the A's get hit with Larry Graham's bass!!!

[@gaylasmith5279]

Also Sly and the Family Stone, "If You Want Me To Stay". Another great song with an awesome bass line.

[@burmajones803]

I'm repping for ya' up in the pinned comment, so give me a thumbs up!

[@myratatano5187]

And add to the Sly Stone requests: Everyday People, Hot Fun In The Summertime, I Want To Take You Higher!

[@taylortyler1867]

jgsrhythm100 That _IS_ some funky ass bass! "Tell Me Something Good" by Rufus & Chaka Khan, "Body Talk" by The Deele, and "No Parking on the Dance Floor" by Midnight Star have some funky bass, too.

[@Manageode]

I would love to see their take on seeing Phillip Bailey sing Reason's, live, with his fabulous 4 octave range (I think 4 guys in Earth Wind & Fire had a 4 octave range!) And they have to like the sax. Anyone reading this and curious, you want to check out the video with him wearing a gold lamé headband and vest.

[@deborahcornell171]

One thing I've always loved about Steve Perry is that you can hear Sam Cooke's influence in his voice. Beautiful.💙🌿💚

[@michaellynch5254]

Whoo boy did you guys pick a powerful one. Good choice. Enjoy

[@DawnSuttonfabfour]

Goosebumps. Every time.

[@ninamravlja3632]

It’s funny, how Alex says the music distracts him from Cooke’s voice, but I don’t think I’ve ever really heard the music. It’s ALL about Sam Cooke’s voice. So much passion, so much pain, and so much hope. If you guys had an S+ tier, this song definitely belongs there. I’m so glad you’re delving into this genre. There is so much amazing music by Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, Al Green, Marvin Gaye. Even if you don’t do reaction videos, please do yourselves a favor and listen to some of this music.

[@rockster7676]

One of my favorite vocalist of all times, his voice has helped me with my own vocal range, an amasing local singer showed me a few tricks and it was sam cookes songs were the ones he trained me on.

[@EchoBravo370]

Do 'Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" by The Platters. 1959. Beautiful, beautiful vocals.

[@brettv5967]

Thanks for doing some Sam Cooke. Love his voice. You Send Me is my very favorite of his that my Dad used to play when I was a kid.

[@patrickgrant8842]

No autotune, cut and paste, beats, 500 tracks....Pure talent...

[@Mike-rk8px]

Even more amazing when you consider that he was a cigarette smoker!

[@tfe1788]

It's absolutely unbelievable top 5 Male Vocalists easy!

[@lisaw5604]

Yes! Sam Cooke is pure gold... That voice. omg! You've opened up a Pandora's Box of timeless music & artists at the forefront of laying the foundation of Rock n' Roll. I see "Bring It on Home" has been suggested. Other artists I'd suggest: Wilson Pickett, Little Richard, Otis Redding, Gene Vincent, Eddie Cochrane, Buddy Holly... The list goes on! Have fun with it... I think you'll dig the sounds you hear! Take care. Later, Fellas!👋☺🙌

[@bfernuttz3737]

Sam Cooke! Now you are into music gold!!! If Sam doesn’t move you, you don’t have music in your soul.

[@wicky4473]

Incredible, guys. So glad you featured him. The song never loses its relevance.

[@LeJaxon]

A song of despair, hope and sadly relevant still. Lets all hope that the change will come... We have to move from hope to action. Powerful stuff.

[@JerisEve]

What a voice he had. Sam Cooke wrote this song after hearing Bob Dylan and having the desire to write a song that had deep meaning. We listened to him so much at home that when my daughter was three and she received a teddy bear in a chef's apron and hat, she name it Sam Cooke. You really should listen to his recording of You Send Me. I could write a book on all the ways that song has turned up in my life.

[@bjs301]

Sam Cooke was one of my favorites as a kid. He was all over the radio in the early '60s, and the older kids bought all his records. A few great ones were Chain Gang, Having a Party, Another Saturday Night, Cupid, Bring it on Home to Me and You Send Me. It's almost unfair to list a few of his songs, because he had so many great ones. One of the best voices you'll ever hear. Terrible we lost him so young.

[@mikeymckinnon5778]

What a voice 💜

[@susanklasinski1805]

One of the best, Mikey

[@loosilu]

I just need to correct your heart color. :) 💚💚💚💚💚💚

[@susanklasinski1805]

@@loosilu 😁 I was hoping for Sinead today for St. Patrick's Day. Sam's good though.

[@loosilu]

@@susanklasinski1805 That would have been great! I can never complain about Sam, though.

[@eddieevans6692]

Sam Cooke has so many classic songs. You Send Me, What a Wonderful World, Bring It On Home To Me, Chain Gang, Twisting the Night Away and many others. And what a voice!

[@pleondidis]

Definitely check out Marvin Gaye: What's Going On, What's Happening Brother, Mercy Mercy Me!!!!

[@karenj3611]

Yay!! Been waiting for this one. Goosebumps from the first note

[@mischiefmanaged444]

What an AMAZING voice! Gave me goosebumps.

[@paulkossak7761]

If this song doesn't move you than you must have a heart of stone.

[@veloguy4]

One of the greatest songs ever written. The current movie A night in Miami is a semi factitial story about Sam Cooke, Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X and Jim Brown. Well worth the watch to put things into context

[@aliwantizu]

57 years later...has that change yet fully come?

[@lukedigiacomo7184]

A great follow-up would be Billie Holliday's Strange Fruit. In it she deals with the pervasion of lynching in the US at the time and it might be the most haunting vocal performance of all time

[@AyDotHam]

Can’t say I agree with you on the instrumental part. It’s just so powerful and having anything less I feel would be disrespect to his voice. It’s not too all over the place and you can still his groundbreaking voice clearly. I’m glad to see more people appreciating his voice💜

[@zeroceiling]

Sam didn’t seem to care what instrument they threw at him...he shoved it all aside just by the sheer power of his vocals..

[@danhartzog9274]

Live at the Harlem Square Club - probably the best live soul album of all time, along with James Brown at the Apollo. This has the music you want, with maybe even better vocals. He’s even better live because he was able to sound exactly how he wanted (ie, not under pressure from the record label to appeal to a mass audience).

[@danhartzog9274]

From Wikipedia: “Initially recorded on January 12, 1963, to be released as a live album entitled One Night Stand, the concert album was not released until 1985. RCA Victor, at the time, viewed the album as too gritty and raw and possibly damaging to his pop image, and quietly kept the recordings in their archive.”

[@jgefroh6692]

I always liked his voice, this song was an important song culturally, but i would rather hear him singing “Twisting the Night Away”

[@frankk600]

Try Aretha, Chain of Fools, the long version. Her voice is a fine instrument.

[@kmh_500]

Aint gonna lie this song always makes me cry

[@paulandresen8452]

About the client who talked about walking down the street with the probability of being lynched-- there's an old Billie Holiday song called "Strange Fruit" about lynching. I'm sure he's familiar with it.

[@loobyloo8980]

Please try Al Greene ‘let’s stay together’ or ‘can’t get next to you’ sooooo many goods songs to listen to from this artist!!!!

[@Pahdopony]

Bob Dylan “The Times They Are A-Changin'” from 1964. He was also involved in the civil rights movement. :)

[@s.s.2048]

I've never "pre-commented" on anything, but before I hit play... 1. There's going to need to be a category about "S." 2. His voice. His damn voice. 3. There will come a time in your lives when you've lived enough that this song will make you weep EVERY DAMN TIME. Also, just one man's opinion, but his song "Teenage Sonata" might be the most beautifully sung thing I have ever heard.

[@mattshaw6180]

To get past the studio overload, listen to anything from "Live at the Harlem Square Club, 1963." He played a crowd brilliantly and de-liv-ered.

[@tiffersworld380]

Died so young. An incredible talent. Anything by him would be awesome

[@johnd.michaels]

And here we are almost 60 years later, still waiting for that change to come...

[@peterquinones3522]

Keep going with artists like Wilson Pickett, Otis Redding, etc. Start getting into record labels - Stax, Motown, Sun - instead of individual bands! It's so much more rewarding as a listener!!! For example the artists Led Zeppelin signed to Swan Song who went nowhere, like Maggie Bell and Dave Edmunds, kick ass!!

[@joannwoodworth8920]

YES to your entire answer 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@jocgo]

Exactly. So much great music out there. Can even look a little earlier at artists produced by Phil Spector and his wall of sound. Lot of angles to consider.

[@allisonreed7682]

Well said!

[@valerievanwinkle6453]

I was born in 1964 and fell in love with Sam's voice as a little girl playing our family's '45's - Cupid, Another Saturday Night, Chain Gang. Most of his body of work will sound dated to modern ears in terms of production and style, but his voice is one in a million and what he achieved as an Black artist creating his own label at that time was absolutely ground-breaking. Still makes my heart flutter 💕

[@maryklacik5358]

Sam Cooke is one of the greatest. He has inspired so many singers like Steve Perry of Journey. He had a very sad tragic death. “One sad mistake took Sam away...” My favorites are “Having a Party” and of course “Meet Me at Mary’s Place” 😎

[@flubblert]

Steve Perry. Yep, you can hear it.

[@robindick2802]

Just mentioned Sterling Perry lol

[@robindick2802]

@@flubblert Steve Perry lol

[@flubblert]

@@robindick2802 what's so funny Robin? I certainly wouldn't dare compare him to Sam (are you kidding me?) but you can certainly hear the stylistic influence there. Frankly I never thought about till it was mentioned here, but I'd have to agree. I was a fan of Journey and Steve Perry's amazing vocal style is one of the reasons why.

[@robindick2802]

@@flubblert I was laughing at my typo. I don't know much about Sam Cooke but I do know he was a part of Steve's inspiration. I love Journey and especially with Steve Perry. He is my favorite singer since I was a teenager.

[@kmorri9]

I was nowhere near being born when this came out, but it brings tears to my eyes when I hear it. I stay home with my little ones now but when I taught high school history, one the lessons I made was song lyric analysis of civil rights songs from the '60s/early '70s. We did this one, Ball of Confusion, Say It Loud (I'm Black and I'm Proud), and a couple more.

[@Magravated]

It's wild that this was recorded 100 years after the Civil War. I was only 3 when this came out but I know this was a very important, socially relevant, gut wrenching song. I'm glad it made the rounds. ✌️❤️

[@johnboydTx]

Great inspiration for a better change in society and the American experience.... A powerful song... 🤔❤💙💚💛💜💗⛪🕌🕍Humanity ✌

[@ScottDeBerg]

This is one of the songs that may be THE song capturing the civil rights movement of the 60s. It's a damn crying shame that Sam Cooke didn't live long enough to see some of the progress with civil rights. And we're still not there yet.

[@8fran08]

One of the best voices ever. No need for complicated runs, belting, growing or any kind of vocal acrobatics, just his God given gift. No surprise that I 100% agree with Alex about the musical accompaniment. What about the song itself? I think it's one of the best ones written! It lends itself to be performed by many types of vocal styles and by evidence with you gents, stands the test of time. Ray Charles did a banging rendition and many others have too! Check your favorite artists, they might have recorded a version of this classic. As always gents, AGR! Mahalo 🤙😎

[@Divedown_25]

Ohh yes... if you know the old songs you start to enjoy the newer in a different way. Remember that the musicians from 1960-1975 had this type of music in the radio as young.

[@justinestes6400]

I love the orchestration. I think it shows how committed they were to the movement. This is not a pop song. It's a declaration of independence. It wasn't about if, it was when. Now!!

[@jacksonhstudios4421]

You should check out Ain’t No Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell

[@petepower4217]

Amazing, the human voice as an instrument. What a voice, so strong. Such a natural presentation. A blessed voice.

[@daveking9393]

You guys are really impressing me with some of these cuts lately

[@alleneh]

I'm 73 years old and still consider Sam as being one of the all time great vocalists. His music was a big part of my youth. Thanks guys.

[@laurakali6522]

Marvin Gaye’s very important album “What’s Going On” is 50 years old this year. Might want to check that out. Plus maybe some Solomon Burke and Otis Redding.

[@DAVIDFromIOWA]

This is one of the best songs ever created...I’m talking in human history.

[@larrywilliams1372]

You should check out Patsy Cline. She was such a powerful singer who's life was cut short in a plane crash. Try "Crazy" or "Sweet Dreams".

[@dcook22]

She was unreal

[@gaylasmith5279]

"Crazy" was written by none other than Willie Nelson and, yes, Patsy Cline had some pipes! "Walking After Midnight" is another favorite.

[@sjw5797]

@@gaylasmith5279 Originally titled "Stupid".

[@gaylasmith5279]

@@sjw5797 ?

[@junietunes2148]

There is a Patsy Cline deep cut called "Don't Ever Leave Me Again" she wails on it and it has a really cool rockabilly vibe to it. I love all her music though, taken way too soon

[@philpartynski3125]

This is a classic. The late, great Cory Wells sang this beautifully for Three Dog Night off of their “Suitable For Framing” album. Definitely worth a listen! “Try A Little Tenderness” as well (off their “One” album).

[@mattiefee]

Great track! You could chase it with some Al Green - Love and Happiness 😉

[@edoq78]

As relevant now as the day it was written - and what a voice

[@ph8429]

The next Sam Cooke song to do would either be "Bring It On Home To Me" or "Nothing Can Change This Love"

[@hongchen2554]

Great that you’re checking out classic soul / R & B cuts - such a rich vein of American music!! Sam Cooke is Rod Stewart’s favorite artist. “Live at the Harlam Square Club” captures raw versions of Sam Cooke hits. A few [of many] other artists from these genres worth hearing: The Four Tops, The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Etta James, Wilson Pickett, James Brown, Curtis Mayfield, Isaac Hayes, Al Green.