Alice's Restaraunt - Arlo Guthrie | College Students' FIRST TIME REACTION!

[@andyandalex]

We did it this year!! Our FIRST time ever listening to this song, AND it’s a day before Thanksgiving, let’s GOOOO!! 🔥🔥🔥

[@VGKDean]

His best song in City of New Orleans imo And it’s a banger

[@dkmarts]

An important, tongue in cheek, serious commentary on our society during the Vietnam war. Still rings true today. Arlo has a way of telling his stories. I listen to this every Thanksgiving. Thanks for doing this, this year, so I could also enjoy your response. It was needed then. Follow this by watching the film of the musical "Hair". Worth it. You'll never know, hopefully, what it was like then. But you can get an idea... have a great day and Happy Thanksgiving, guys!

[@V7avalon]

Whoo hoo! 🦃 Now watch the epic motion picture "Alice's Restaurant" 1969 for visuals and added depth to things you may have missed from the song. Must see anti war film. ☮✌

[@johncampbell756]

Vietnam hadn't gotten to its worst for awhile yet. Husband father was folk music legend Woody Guthrie. Without Woody, there's no Bob Dylan. Woody wrote "This Land Is Your Land."

[@jeffschielka7845]

Glad you liked Arlo's little Thanksgiving story. It's tradition.🦃 Happy Thanksgiving!!

[@jmhaces]

Arlo's dad basically invented modern protest folk music and was a huge inspiration to guys like Bob Dylan. Though Woody Guthrie's music did have a lot of humor, Arlo ran with it and perfected that comedy/social commentary thing. I remember a live recording of Arlo and his band performing Elvis Presley's "I Can't Help Falling In Love" somewhere in Europe with Pete Seeger (another folk music legend) and he starts telling a story about how many years before right after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the dissolution of the USSR they had performed that same song with Pete on a whim at some other festival in a country that had been up to that point part of the Socialist Block and how they were amazed at how this little song Elvis made famous easily bridged the political, historical, cultural and age gaps along with the language barrier and everybody there sang it. It's reminiscent of what he does in "Alice's Restaurant" because it's about something serious and important but he does inject a lot of humor into his story as he's telling it. He's really skilled at doing that.

[@jmpmusva]

fantastic performance!

[@thecliffdweller1212]

YESSIR! "This Land Is Your Land" should be the National Anthem

[@loosilu]

@@thecliffdweller1212 Absolutely! For one thing, people can actually sing it!

[@BobSoltis1]

Can't forget Pete Seeger's contributions.

[@jgsrhythm100]

Sadly Our bands mentor "David Grover"(Arlo's guitarist and musical director) just passed away several weeks ago. He was a wonderful guy. His band Shenandoah(recruited by Arlo) was the house band at Woodstock(2nd stage). We went to school in West Stockbridge where this songs, story takes place. Arlo's drummer Terrence Hall aka Terry A La berry is a brilliant drummer hilarious character. Look him up!!A&A should now check the film based on this song titled "Alice's Restaurant" all based in the very location "Stockbridge Ma, where the song is based. BTW Arlo was born in 47. He was only 20 when he recorded this!! Lastly this reminds Alex of Toy Story because Randy Newman was partially influenced by the folk storytellers, like Arlo, his Dad , Pete Seeger etc.

[@markoneil2055]

At 80, Alice Brock from this song remains in Provincetown, where she’s lived for 40 years. Now, she’s battling serious health issues, including COPD and heart disease, and relies on an oxygen tank. And after a recent hospital stay, the medical bills are piling up. Lamot and Davis organized a GoFundMe campaign to assist their longtime friend. The goal was to help her pay for rent on her small cottage and pay down some of her health-related bills. Since launching the fundraiser at the end of September, they’ve raised around $180,000 for her. She was an artist until her health got bad. She helped everybody, including Arlo her whole life, especially the dying aids patients gathering in Provincetown during that time. It is great that people came together to help her with her bills and rent so she can stay in her beloved Provincetown.

[@mysticmavens811]

I met her many years ago - she was a talented artist and was hosting an exhibit of her work near at a gallery near my hometown. She offered her vacation rental in Provincetown to me - wish I’d taken her up on the offer and stayed there!

[@Sherdelune]

Alice Brock passed on November 21, 2024 in hospice. Rest well, Alice.

[@DSBac]

Arlo's version of "City of New Orleans" is my favorite Arlo song. One of my favorite songs to play on guitar. You should check that one out.

[@neekerbreeker]

Seconded! One of my all-time favorite songs.

[@thecliffdweller1212]

"This train's got the disappearin' railroad blues"

[@jimmyfortrue3741]

No one ever reacts to this classic... I hope they do someday.

[@Kilroy-h5u]

Absolutely!!!

[@loosilu]

LOVE that one.

[@Morpheus903]

It's called the Talking Blues. It's an awesome style of music and story-telling that few musicians can do as well as Arlo Guthrie. It's good to see younger people enjoying Arlo!!!

[@aileenturrietta7553]

Arlo Guthrie's father Woodie wrote "This land is your land this Land is my Land" and was a American icon himself. Great reaction. Happy Thanksgiving to all!! 🦃 🦃

[@izzonj]

And a lot of people who know that song don't realize it's a protest song about how destitute farmers who lost everything in the dust bowl were being blocked by state troopers from entering California and other states.

[@andyman58]

A great movie about Woody is Bound For Glory. I must have watched it 10 times when it was on HBO back in the day.

[@emmelleperry9956]

Arlo's father Woodie was an American folk legend. Check him out!

[@aileenturrietta7553]

@@izzonj I know. Whenever I hear that song I think about the Grapes of Wrath with Henry Fonda.

[@izzonj]

@@aileenturrietta7553 exactly! Knowing that totally changes the song, doesn't it!

[@tchampagne1494]

His father, Woody Guthrie, was a legendary activist. He traveled to migrant worker camps and used his music to promote unionization to improve worker conditions and pay. His father wrote, "This Land Is Our Land", a folk classic.

[@Historian212]

Yes, ironic how Woody’s song is used now, when it was a protest song at the time, asserting that the land belongs to everyone, not just the wealthy.

[@SkankyYank]

ROOTS!

[@JHN12x12]

Woody was blacklisted after refusing to name names for the HUAC hearings, and survived for years by playing at campuses and coffee houses, before becoming more acceptable again.

[@anthonyfoutch3152]

@@JHN12x12 lots of people were blacklisted and John Wayne was notorious for helping run the Blacklist. Some people even died thanks to his efforts.

[@JHN12x12]

whoops! I confused Woody and Pete Seeger! Woody wasn't called in front of HUAC, I think he was hospitalized by then. Understandable, considering how close Arlo and Pete have been over the years.

[@HiramLoki]

Arlo's father was the GREAT Woody Guthrie. The man is an American legend. If you don't know that name you def need to look him up.

[@massimosaffioti8798]

Yes, Woody wrote many great songs, including my favorite... This Land is Your Land!

[@kjmorley]

“This machine kills fascists" We could use Woody today.

[@loosilu]

Woody's music is in the Smithsonian.

[@georgeperkins4171]

I was gonna say that. Arlo made a movie based on this song. Woody appears in it (bed ridden tho)

[@HiramLoki]

@@massimosaffioti8798 The original version is quite biting and not the version we sing today.

[@HRConsultant_Jeff]

This song is actually a real story and there are even newspaper clippings to support most of this. By the way the finger picking in this song is pretty complicated. i learned the entire song when I was in my teens note by note and to keep the chord progressions going for 17 minutes is a minor accomplishment. I was asked to perform this often in college (the Viet Nam war was still fresh in everyone's mind). You brought a big smile to my face today and some fond memories of some friends who are no longer with us, except in my memories. Have a great Thanksgiving.!! PS his other songs, Riding on the City of New Orleans, Coming into Los Angles (bringing in a couple of keys), and the Motorcycle Song.

[@williamadams5560]

True but some of the facts are fiction

[@robertpotts2164]

It happened in Stockbridge Ma. The restaurant not there anymore but the church is.The irony of the story is he wasn't allowed into the army to fight in Vietnam because he was a convicted litterbug.

[@larrystuder8543]

Arlo has a tendency to start a song, stop in the middle, tell a story, then come back and finish the song, as he does here. He does that with "Comin' Into Los Angeles", with "The Motorcycle Song, and does a great Live version of "The Garden Song". Any of those might be good to react to, if you want to do more. .

[@garryfrater7536]

I can't forget I didn't mention in my comment coming into Los Angeles.

[@larryfisher7056]

Back when I was in college in 1969 I also learned this finger pick and was never able to make my mouth do the story at the same time. So, my brother learned the whole "song" and we used to play it for friends. Keeping the guitar pick going for that long took some effort but it was a lot of fun doing the show.

[@vincentfadale3140]

Arlo’s father was the legendary Woody Guthrie. A major influence in American music. Arlo’s most popular song was THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS. I don’t think you should leave this planet without hearing that song. GOBBLE GOBBLE PEACE

[@loosilu]

Woody Guthrie is an all time American treasure. And City of New Orleans is gorgeous.

[@gailjordan9170]

Steve Goodman wrote City of New Orleans. I do like both versions, though.

[@mikemaricle9941]

@@gailjordan9170 Willie Nelson does a nice rendition of it also,

[@marielaveau5321]

I've ridden The City of New Orleans many times, once from Chicago TO New Orleans. ✌️

[@daveenberg9075]

Growing up in the 60's watching the war on the six o'clock evening news, seeing one of my cousins come home in a metal box, seeing the protests and getting my notice to register with selective services gives me a prescriptive on the song that probably can't be completely understood unless you lived though it yourself

[@wjbiii]

My high school had a talent show, which limited each performer's time to fifteen minutes. I played the back half of this solo with my acoustic guitar and had 500 kids in the auditorium singing it with me. My senior years: 1974.

[@loosilu]

15 minutes is a long slot! sounds like a blast.

[@Alewifes_Husband]

You're my sister's age. She had this record and I had learned it well by junior high. I was a 1980 graduate.

[@itsmadfar]

Gave me goosebumps, reading your story....

[@TheWizardKs]

/salute to another 74 grad.

[@mark-be9mq]

Arlo holds an annual "Garbage Trail Walk" fundraiser each May to help families suffering from Huntingtons Disease, the genetic illness that took his father Woodie Gutherie. It following the route of his (true) Thanksgiving adventure from the Church( he runs as a community center) to the Dump, & into town past the police station and finishing at Alice's. It's a beautiful, Fun walk thru rural Western Mass. Arlo is a kind generous man who, true to the convictions of his youth, runs many community and cultural programs out of the (converted) Church in the story. They finish the day with a Thanksgiving dinner that unites, folks and families with Huntingtons with, health care workers and researchers that work with and on the dreaded disease. And a Guthrie family concert. He is a special person. Worthy of Thanksgiving. Cheers Arlo. Thanks gents.

[@neekerbreeker]

I didn't know this. How awesome! Thanks for sharing.

[@mark-be9mq]

@@neekerbreeker you are welcome. Glad to share his good work.

[@SiriusJMoonlight]

I saw him once & got the t-shirt!

[@scapito]

Arlo Guthrie is so much fun! Love The Motorcycle Song. It's also known as Pickle or Significance of the Pickle. When you hear it, you'll understand why people call it those names.

[@sjw5797]

There's a stoo-action animated short called "No No Pickle" that's based on that song. I remember watching it at one of the International Tournees of Animation back in the early eighties. I think it can still be found on KZbin.

[@danbeatle1]

It’s a must hear, alright!

[@loosilu]

THis is my favorite Arlo Guthrie song.

[@lisarainbow9703]

But...... I don't want a pickle...

[@kellycraig-slogar6676]

@@lisarainbow9703 I jus wanna ride on my motor cikle......I don't wanna tickle, I jus wanna ride on my motor cikle......I don't wanna die, I jus wanna ride on my motor.....cy.....cle ~ LOL, good 'ol days!!!

[@thecraigster8888]

This song hit such a chord with the times that they made a movie around the whole plot with Arlo starring in it. The scene in the movie recreating the induction center where all the draftees had to go was incredible. I had to report to the center in Chicago and the building was identical to the one in the movie. The experience of walking around in your underwear and standing in long lines was the most realistic recreation of that process I’ve ever seen in any Vietnam era movie, and this was a comedy.

[@duncanparsons]

Such a good film.. must watch it again

[@novaculus]

I went through the Chicago induction center in 1971, on my way to Hell. The vibe from the song and the movie is perfect. God save our nation from politicians who use our military to serve their political agendas.

[@thecraigster8888]

@@novaculus I went through there in 1969. I chose to join the Air Force for 4 years to keep myself out of the Army draft. I think I made the right decision, especially after seeing what some of those draftees went through. They were lined up in the induction center and a Marine went through them looking for “a few good men” to draft into the Marine Corps. That would have a mind blowing experience.

[@jamessweet5341]

"....eat dead burnt bodies, VEINS IN MY TEETH. I wanna kill...."

[@alshotrodsandratrods8780]

I went through the induction center in the Charleston navy yard just outside of Boston. It was the same as the one in the movie. One kid jumped out the second-floor window to prove he was too crazy to be drafted. There was a third floor but he wasn't that crazy

[@jeffmartin1026]

A great Thanksgiving tradition for over 50 years now. A local DJ is coming back from retirement tomorrow just to continue his tradition of playing it for us. It means a lot more to those of us who lived under the shadow of getting drafted but I am glad you two got the drift and enjoyed the song.

[@jeffaube]

We saw Arlo perform this live a few years back, too. He mentioned how people would ask him if he knew it would become the big hit it was. He said, “no, if I’d known that, I’d have made it a lot shorter!”

[@Cboy2023]

I cant believe u did this! This is the coolest thing u have ever done!

[@58BURST]

Keep in mind, he's playing an incredibly complex finger picking pattern, while telling an 18 minute story. Arlo was quite talented.

[@Historian212]

He still is.

[@jenniferh6813]

Yes indeed. We enjoyed one of his live performances not long before the pandemic lockdown.

[@thejoshsings9280]

That 18 minute story became a movie in 1967

[@krypticviper1613]

I wouldn't say incredibly complex. It's not all that hard. Rather the stamina is what makes it impressive.

[@Mr05Chuck]

Big time memories with this vibe. One of the first songs I learned on guitar. It was a crowd fav to play at pot parties in 1973. Everyone sang. Believe it or not most college students knew all the words to this song back in the day when prompted.

[@stuartbloch28]

"City of New Orleans" paints a awesome picture of a dying breed of railroad locomotive engines.

[@martinl8574]

To ppl of my generation this song is iconic. It's social commentary at it's purest and bravest. That's why we still celebrate it every Thanksgiving. To All, I wish you a very happy Thanksgiving!

[@CharCanuck14]

Yes....my generation too! Happy Thanksgiving to our American neighbours - from Canada.

[@tomspence6183]

That song is so of-the-time, I thought it might lose something in the translation, you guys got it, which is excellent. I was two years younger than the draft but had friends and neighbors who were selected, scary times it was the satire and dark comedy that was needed and Arlo delivered. Respect to all who served. Happy Thanksgiving.

[@johnhalverson1133]

The draft nabbed me right out of college, but hey...Im still around at 74 and smiling. Peace.

[@nmgallegos]

Need to hit Arlo’s song Coming Into Los Angeles, which I believe is his best song!

[@gravyjohn]

...bringin' in a couple of keys...

[@nmgallegos]

@@gravyjohn Exactly!

[@lehooper]

Woodstock live

[@williambevins]

@@gravyjohn don't check my bags if you please....

[@patcoats]

'don't check my bags if you please, mr. customs man.' :) love that song!

[@jimreedy1960]

I am so glad you listened to this song. It was a classic and Arlo's humor came through as well as his opposition to the war. For kids my age at the time, this song represented the counterculture, as people described us. Draftees were dying for nothing in Vietnam and there seemed to be no end to it. Not to mention that huge toll it took on the Vietnamese. Hearing Arlo wisecrack his way through encounters with the cops and the draft board people was hilarious to us.

[@elgonwilliams7624]

When my oldest daughter was a Senior in HS, we had to drive 90 minutes to get to an Amtrak station and I put this album on. She laughed her ass off. It became one of her favorites, so she shared it with her friends.

[@vincentschmitt7597]

I played it for a friend while we drove to the Everglades. I said you have to hear it at least once.

[@elgonwilliams7624]

@@vincentschmitt7597 Definitely a rite of passage song.

[@lynnhoffmann247]

This was a family tradition with my family until my dad passed away. Miss him so much, especially this time of year.

[@dianalynncody8334]

When I was a young girl, my mom and I would drive on Thanksgiving day just to listen to this on the radio. She has passed on and I’m 62 and I still listen to this every Thanksgiving, sweet memories of my precious mom. Thanks for always making my day! Happy Thanksgiving 🦃

[@cheryl83]

It's not about the music or singing. It's all about the story. Which is freaking hilarious 🤣

[@chris...9497]

"Alice's Restaurant" is the "It's A Wonderful Life" of alternative music.

[@paulonius42]

Don't forget, it's all true!!!! The entire story. Crazy, epic, hilarious ol' Arlo is a treasure!

[@DonnaleaSpencer]

In my family, if someone says ' I want to show you something" - the standard response is " twenty-seven 8x10 color glossy photographs with circles and arrows and a paragraph on the back of each one?" Happy Thanksgiving & keep up the great reactions!

[@jamesbenton8347]

Woody Guthrie’s guitar had scribbled on it, “This machine kills fascists.”

[@rhondahandley9595]

I had forgot that.

[@ajschroetlin2196]

It would be busy these days. Seems like fascism is on the rise again.

[@kevanwillis4571]

Donovan copied it .

[@2869may]

@@ajschroetlin2196 Lock downs, and mandatory vaccinations, "Green passes", free speech being canceled blocked and deleted.... Like this comment will probably be...

[@jasonbeard4713]

Was that Pete Seegar?

[@stevenlees245]

Stockbridge is a beautiful little town in the Berkshire mountains in western Mass. I visited there in 2017 looking to see where artist Norman Rockwell lived and worked. His first studio was in an old building above the Stockbridge General Store. While looking around I discovered down an alley next to this building was a small restaurant called Theresa's Stockbridge Café. On the sign it said "formerly Alice's Restaurant." I did some research and found that this was the actual location of the Alice's restaurant from the Arlo Guthrie song and that the song is a true story. I learned that Officer Obie from the song was William Obenhein, who once modeled for Norman Rockwell for a couple of paintings. I also located and visited the church that Alice lived in with her husband. It is now owned by Arlo Guthrie and known as the Guthrie Center, a non-denominational church. I learned that Alice became an artist and moved to Provincetown, Mass. where as of 2017 she still lived. I also found that James Taylor, a resident of the area, once checked in to a psychiatric hospital in Stockbridge at some point. There is even a line in "Sweet Baby James" that Taylor mentions Stockbridge. Who knew that Stockbridge had such history. And that is just the tip of the iceberg.

[@KealohaHarrison]

Yes!!!!! My favorite Thanksgiving tradition, I listen to the song and watch the movie back to back every night leading up to Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving to all

[@philipem1000]

THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH!! I was 18 in 1967. I felt this song. That was an incredible feeling to hear it again and you guys totally got everything about the song. The comedy, the social commentary, the amazing skill Arlo has at telling a story, the musicality (Arlo comes form a musical tradition and he's a great musician) the length of the song is one of its strongest points. But you totally got something culturally ripped from the past and heard it the way I first did way back in the 60's. Yes it was indeed a NEEDED song. Oh. And there really was an Alice's Restaurant.

[@brianmusson1827]

Arlo Guthrie is a legend. I have seen him in concert and he is a funny man as well as a great singer and musician. Have a listen to 'City of New Orleans' a great story song not written by him but a great version. I still love this song nearly 50 years later. Also his Dad Woody had a great influence over Bob Dylan

[@bretthardin9239]

flying into los angeleeeese bringing in a couple Kis

[@bretthardin9239]

@@sgholt he wrote the greatest country and western song evr written lol

[@michaelgray4964]

@@bretthardin9239 Keys. As in kilos of weed.

[@bretthardin9239]

@@michaelgray4964 uh ki kilo add an s cause its plural kis

[@stevious7278]

Kid...I'm glad you liked this great piece of anti-war music. I have loved this song since I heard it age age 14 in 1971. It sure shaped my feelings about war; and what a fantastic and powerful way to do that... with humour. Thanks for taking the time to listen without interrupting and in silence...kid.

[@GreggOliverBass]

His dad was a social reform GIANT... Bob Dylan's inspiration

[@peacetoyou63]

Welcome to the Group W bench boys!! I named my dog Arlo three years ago when my husband found him lying in garbage by his office a week before Thanksgiving! If you ever get a chance to see Arlo Guthrie live, do so!!! Great storytelling and songs. He was very young when recorded this and he’s still performing.

[@Cashcrop54]

One of my life's best music experiences was seeing Arlo live & doing Alice's Restaurant. It was like hearing it for the first time. Arlo isn't crazy at all. He's just got a great imagination. The guitar is one of my favorite parts of it. Having Woodie Guthrie for a father helps too. Thanks for doing this great song.

[@barunica56]

The humor was a way of facing down the horror that was the Vietnam War. I'm glad you guys liked it.

[@AP-gb3eh]

The most adorable anti war protest songs ever. When every 18 year old was dreading that frickin notice and so many of our kids never came back - physically or mentally. It’s a classic you’re right we needed this song we would laugh . Check out his Dad Woodie Guthrie. A national hero

[@David-iv6je]

His dad was legendary

[@Rick-or2kq]

His old man (Woody) was a working mans hero, very involved in bringing to light the plight of the working man and their efforts to organize unions to bring about better pay and working conditions.

[@briangroboski4751]

You were right on, Andy, when you said we needed this song then. We did.

[@midnightblue6668]

My local radio station, 101 the Fox, plays Alice's Restaurant at noon on every Thanksgiving. It's a tradition to listen to, even though I've had this on CD for ages. It's great. =)

[@bigb6046]

Check out Arlo's "Coming Into Los Angeles" a classic.

[@grimgrinningtracy9157]

Arlo was practically a family member in our household, he was so beloved. Mom and dad met him, great guy to this day. The whole Guthrie family, multiple generations are in music. We even had a cat named Arlo after him.

[@kevinsandy707]

That song has been a Thanksgiving tradition of mine for over 40 years. Never miss playing it

[@jacobrufer7150]

Well done grasping the significance of the historical context. The draft was a serious issue for us during the Viet Nam era.

[@neekerbreeker]

I was born in 1967 and I've heard about this song my whole life. I finally understand all the love for it 👍🎶 Happy Thanksgiving, Andy and Alex! 😊🦃 I'm VERY thankful for this channel!! ❤️

[@lizabethlu8824]

This was a nice surprise! It's the first time I've heard this in probably 50 yrs. He played in my hometown in 2015 and sold out before I even knew about it. It's a major regret that I didn't get to see him live. He's a talented and good man who had a huge impact back in those days when the draft loomed over the heads of all young men.

[@wicky4473]

This SUCH an American classic. Been to Alice’s a few times over the years, it’s a real place!

[@SabineThinkerbellum]

haha, me too

[@wicky4473]

@@SabineThinkerbellum another New Englander?

[@scooterbaby1]

Me too

[@Mannahnin]

And last I recall you can still meet Alice, as she has an art studio and shop in Provincetown.

[@wicky4473]

@@Mannahnin oh yeah, that’s right, I think. I’ll have to ask a friend who has a place there. Another artist, small community.

[@TheJessmart70]

Thanks for reacting to this song! It means a lot to me, my dad always played this song every year on Thanksgiving. I miss him, he died about 15 years ago from serving 2 tours in Vietnam and suffering from cancer due to Agent orange. Keep rocking guys.

[@phillipradcliffe8037]

I got to see Arlo live in 1981, and he played his version of Steve Goodman’s song City of New Orleans (one of my favorite songs of all time). Goodman was supposed to be on tour with him, but he passed away a few weeks before the show. Arlo formally retired from touring in 2020. By the way, Arlo also played at Woodstock.

[@allenswanson2423]

'84, not '81. I saw that tour too. Goodman's beloved Cubs finally made the playoffs, but Steve had died 2 weeks before. In classic Cubs form they took the first two games, then lost 3 straight and the 5-game series. One of the games was happening during the concert, & Arlo occasionally updated the Peoria crowd with thew score.

[@phillipradcliffe8037]

@@allenswanson2423 You're right. It was '84.

[@ptrlxc]

Arlo is such a blast in concert. Has little stories before each song, but certain songs, like this, he’ll go off in tangent, seemingly way off somewhere in left field, but somehow finds his way back, while playing his song. You’ll leave his concerts with a sore face from laughing and smiling so much.

[@Maisie9798]

Bravo 👏! Alice is a real person and my parents knew her. My mom had the Alice's Restaurant Cookbook! And they would go and visit her. You have done a mighty good deed! Happy Thanksgiving 🦃

[@paddyo2922]

I've listened to this every Thanksgiving since I was a kid in the 70's, good to see it still being appreciated

[@captainmoretokin2172]

my brother and i watched the movie every thanksgiving up until his death 3 years ago. now i wont watch it anymore. i tried but just couldnt do it.

[@flubblert]

"City of New Orleans" - Arlo Guthrie. An inspiring song about a train, the railroad, and America. Goose pimplelee

[@rorystorm4284]

Let's not forget, written by the exquisitely talented Steve Goodman, may he RIP.

[@flubblert]

@@rorystorm4284 Yes... Chicago's own. I like Arlo's version though... Although Willie Nelson does a pretty good version also.

[@carolynschmidt7672]

Love that song. Pure poetry.

[@flubblert]

@@carolynschmidt7672 Iconic.

[@kelleybunny]

I've met Arlo..one of the coolest storytellers ever!

[@patrickmichaelrosser6287]

THANK YOU! I needed this ditty today. Can't help but smile!

[@shemanic1]

one of those tunes that once heard, Never forgot. I love it & still grin after many listening's, I would get friends to relax, & listen to the whole thing, in silence, most loved it. There is evidence that says this actually happened to Arlo. Of course his dad Woody is a folk legend.

[@tommccafferty5591]

I tore up my knee playing high school football in 1967. Lost my student deferment and had a relatively low draft number. Sent the draft board a letter from my knee surgeon in November 1970. I heard nothing from the draft board for all of 1971. I didn't know if they forgot about me, if I should call, or just do nothing. I got home from work in February 1972 and there was a letter from the draft board. I set it on the coffee table, stared at it for an hour or so, had a couple of drinks to work up the courage to open it. I finally did and there was my new draft card, saying I was classified as 4-F, unfit for military duty. I never had to take a physical or be examined by the military doctors. I have had 6 surgeries on that knee and had it replaced in 2001, so I guess they might have been right.

[@vincentschmitt7597]

My older brother's best friend died of cancer from Agent Orange. Be thankful you weren't sent over. His mother fought for years for the Federal Government to own up to it.

[@tommccafferty5591]

@@vincentschmitt7597 I am grateful.

[@bruceday4036]

Good to hear you didn't have to go. Ironic but That knee may have saved your life

[@bruceday4036]

My neighbor didn't come back

[@perrylc8812]

I always listen to this song either before or after Thanksgiving. I can’t remember to play it safe my life. I did empty a bar years ago by playing this song & “I don’t want a Pickle" back to back. The next time I went to the bar they had taken both songs off the jukebox.😊

[@peterstilla8733]

Alice's Restaurant was a movie too, and a really good one, believe it or not. It wasn't about the song and it was more drama than comedy. One of the real curiosities of the 60s and we'll worth checking out.

[@bartstarr100]

I like the movie, but the storyline was really cornball with the bike racer guy. But Arlo turned out to be a good actor.

[@johnbrowne3950]

The very last scene is superb.

[@peterstilla8733]

@@johnbrowne3950 no kidding. The main character staring into space at her bleak life ahead.

[@johnbrowne3950]

@@peterstilla8733 Yeah, you nailed it. The director took time for the audience to grasp the meaning of the shot which was poignant and beautiful at the same time.

[@rogerkelly7988]

Finally someone who is giving Arlo Guthrie his due first heard this in 69 and have to listen to it about 3 or 4 times a year thanks guys you have made an old hippie's day

[@jodyhintenach6461]

It's not so much a Thanksgiving song as it is a protest song. Arlo is, after all, Woody Guthrie's son

[@blackeyedlily]

Such a great example of one aspect of the Vietnam Era anti-war movement. And folk singers, like Arlo’s father Woody Guthrie and his contemporaries (who Arlo grew up with) were an essential part of many important social movements, like labor organizing, standing up for migrant workers rights and early environmental issues. So having grown up in that environment it would be natural for Arlo to apply the same ideas with his music to the antiwar movement. And now I have to share my particular Arlo Guthrie experience with you. I worked for the Ruth Eckerd performing arts center when it first opened up in Clearwater, FL in the early 80s. At this time Arlo Guthrie regularly toured with the folk singer Pete Seeger. And they played at Ruth Eckerd Hall. So my friends and I who worked there got to meet Arlo and Pete backstage and I got Arlo to autograph my copy of the Alice’s Restaurant album. One of my friends had made the arrangements for Arlo and Pete’s accommodations, so we all knew where they were staying on Clearwater Beach. So after the show we went down to the bar of that hotel and sure enough Arlo eventually came down to the bar. And he was nice enough to tolerate the bunch of us kids in our early twenties who invited him over to sit down and have a beer with us. The poor guy was probably just trying to get a little peace and quiet and here we all were. He was very gracious and talked to us for a bit, but didn’t stay terribly long. This wasn’t something that we typically did with the performers and I’m not quite sure why we were so inspired to do it in this particular instance. But it is a memory I will never forget. A few years later I got rid of all my vinyl albums, with the exception of my autographed copy of Alice’s Restaurant, which still has a place of pride on my bookshelf. And I agree with other commentors who suggested you check out Arlo’s cover of The City of New Orleans!

[@carolynschmidt7672]

Yes

[@IllumeEltanin]

I was fortunate enough to see Arlo perform live four times. The first time I was looking forward to hearing this, because I didn't know Arlo only performed this on its anniversary every 10 years, due to its length. The second time was also not on an anniversary, but I wanted to introduce some friends to Arlo live, as his shows were just cool, laid back story telling performances. The third time was for the 50th anniversary of the album, aand the last was for the 50th anniversary of the movie, so I did get to hear Arlo perform this live twice. And yes, while the basic story remains the same, he updated the relevance each time as why the Alice's Restaurant Massacree movement needs to be sung loud and proud. It's a shame Arlo has retired from touring due to health reasons. I believe he is still hosting his annual Thanksgiving event at the church in Stockbridge, MA. Perhaps he'll still perform this at that event on the anniversaries.

[@markoneil2055]

I saw him for the 50th movie anniversary a few years back. I can check it off my bucket list to hear Arlo sing this live. I have been to the Guthrie Center and heard a local band there and hanging out in the parking lot across the street, you just have to start singing while looking at the tracks the song's refrain. His daughters are quite the singers also.

[@maruad7577]

When I saw him, he sang a song about pickles and motorcycles. Similar style though obviously not as powerful.

[@IllumeEltanin]

@@maruad7577 ... I don't want a pickle I just want to ride on my mo-tor sickle And I... don't want to die I just want to ride on my Mo-tor CY... cle. For me, his next best after Alice's Restaurant is Spirit of New Orleans. Even my son on the autism spectrum recognized that one, due to the coffee commercials. Good morning America How are ya Well don'tcha know me I'm your native son...

[@maruad7577]

@@IllumeEltanin It's a great song. I like the original by Goodman just a tiny bit better but both versions are good. I rode the City of New Orleans in 1988 to attend the world SF convention there. It was the roughest train ride I have endured because heat wave that summer had warped all the tracks.

[@markoneil2055]

@@maruad7577 Yes , He had a corny slideshow behind him while doing the pickle song.

[@nicholasmaycock267]

First time I've heard this song since student days back in the mid 1970's. Brings back many memories of late nights drinking and chilling out. A classic of its kind.

[@rubenduran9517]

So happy you listened to this. My college buddy showed this to me about 25 years ago and I've listened to it off and on for years. The last few years I've made it a point to listen at Thanksgiving. I don't talk to my college buddy anymore which saddens me but this song takes me back to fun times in the mid 90s. Happy Thanksgiving guys and A&A family!

[@jefffiore7869]

Back in the 70's all the rock radio stations played this song every thanksgiving, it was a tradition.

[@thecliffdweller1212]

"if you wanna end the war and stuff you gotta sing louder" That's Woody's kid "Bound For Glory" / "All You Fascists Bound To Lose"

[@snowbirdlady7221]

This is only the second time in my entire life I have listened to the whole thing. Actually got a lot more out of it all these years later! Enjoy your Thanksgiving A & A.

[@JohnnyTalia]

This made my day. I had a similar experience in 1972, and as it happens only 2 weeks after Thanksgiving. My draft lottery number was 73, and I got the "Greetings" letter from Uncle Sam, went for the draft physical, got the psychological questioning, the whole nine yards. But the war was winding down quickly then, and I suspect that none of us at that draft physical ever got selected or inducted - as it turned out, the Peace Accords were signed only 7 weeks later. But this song brought me back to those times, that culture.

[@hockemeyer1]

Arlo's father is Woodie Guthrie who was a folk singer and activist. One of his songs that you may know is "This Land is Your Land, this Land is my Land.".

[@gregghelmberger]

Right now my life sucks awfully hard. A&A is one of the things I'm thankful for. I don't have the money for your Patreon, but I'm thankful that three times a week I get to visit you anyway. You've helped me through some tough times. Thank you.

[@TheWizardKs]

Hang in there bro, it will get better, just keep pushing.

[@gregghelmberger]

@@TheWizardKs Thank you. I guess everybody goes through it at some point. This is just my time, that's all.

[@nancy9478]

Gregg, know that we care about you, Our Father loves you beyond measure. I know what it's like to be in your shoes, and I can tell you bad times don't last. There is always something better waiting. Love and peace in Christ to you.

[@magichands8791]

This is such an AWESOME song!! I’m so glad it’s come back around into the public conscience

[@Keith-if6zv]

I will echo the request for Arlo’s “Coming into Los Angeles” BUT do the live version from Woodstock!!!

[@kentmains7763]

City of New Orleans is just fantastic, definitely need to hear it.

[@joelliebler5690]

The irony of this story is that so much of this is the way things were back in the day!

[@ChicagoDB]

My dad has an old ski song that we've always loved and is the only song I've ever heard that is nearly as long as "Alice's Restaurant" I grew up with both of them...love them!

[@ladykoh4678]

I have Loved this song since it came out, and I am 62! And yes I am a patreon! Happy Thanksgiving to my favorite music reactors! Just remember, no littering or you will never be drafted. LOL

[@benshafer5198]

Born in 1964, and though I've heard much about the song and have heard bits and pieces, this is the first time listening all the way through. Was a bit young to get it back then, but this is pure folksy genius & THIS is lowkey how you start a movement

[@motodork]

Listening to this at thanksgiving is a requirement.

[@vixybanker]

I'm 64 years young. And since I have been 15 my bestie and I had a ritual. In NYC, the rock radio stations played this song at noon EVERY Thanksgiving. So, she and I would get a radio, a joint, and go to our "group W bench" and have a blast. My crew and me hung out in The Bronx in a beautiful park on a bench, doing whetever, in the 70's. What fun it was to be a teenager in the 70's!!!!

[@allisonreed7682]

What a blast to listen to this with y’all! Arlo Guthrie, as many have mentioned, is Americana/Folk royalty, being the son of Woody Guthrie (This Land Is Your Land). He is also a gifted musician. His song “Coming into Los Angeles” is finger-picking heaven. Since Andy brought up Randy Newman, I thought it was worth mentioning that Randy Newman wrote many songs for other artists, including Three Dog Night’s “Mama Told Me (Not to Come).”

[@richardtaylor8595]

I just want to thank you so much for doing this song. Here in Cleveland, Ohio radio station 98.5 plays this at noon and 6 pm every Thanksgiving. I love this so much . Have a Happy Turkey Day. Now go get stuffed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Arlo even turned into a movie which is cool as well. I LOVE HIS other music. He is a great folk music musician.

[@dragonfly1153]

What a warm and gracious holiday message you gave. Thanks for being good humans. And of course I love the song!

[@brucewatts8447]

His father is Woody Guthrie the great folk singer who was Bob Dylan's Idol.

[@brendamcd704]

YAY!! So glad you did this song. It's a tradition in my home at 12 noon on Thanksgiving Day. The folkie, mountain top vibe here is a direct influence from his dad, Woodie Guthrie, one of America's pre-eminent folk singers. And yes, comedy, music and anti war sentiment kiss here and it works so well. (Check out Coming Into Los Angeles.) Happy Thanksgiving to both of you!

[@TheDivayenta]

This is the great protest and singer Woody Guthrie’s son. His concerts are amongst the best I’ve ever been too. Arlo is a born storyteller and humorist.

[@mjwaldrep]

A great Thanksgiving tradition! I'm glad you "got" this song. It's a cool meandering story within the song with impactful points made. Thanks for doing it.

[@arrow5deb]

Thanks so much for doing this song! It brought back so many memories- even just seeing the album cover, lol. I first heard it when it was released & then saw the movie, which sticks pretty closely to the song. Had fun reading the comments- glad to know there are that many old hippies left - sometimes I feel alone like a dinosaur so this made me feel good!!! Man, just like yesterday & yet a lifetime ago...

[@kiwihib]

Your never alone here an old hippie from New Zealand bought the record when it first came out saw the movie at the first screenings. Bring on the motorcycle song.

[@arrow5deb]

@@kiwihib “I don’t want a pickle...”. Lol

[@tjtampa214]

Yeah, mid-60s was scary for a society that was way different than what we have now. You had the Vietnam War and you had the Draft. I remember being afraid for my brother and his friends and my sister's boyfriend and everyone. You turn 18 and you could die! The government can take you and send you away and you would never come back again, many did not. And those who did come back, many were severely addicted to drugs and missing arms and legs and had head injuries, Etc.

[@kayaman1]

I've been a fan of arlo for years...he is still playing, as a matter of fact I saw him at a small hall in Plymouth Massachusetts a few years ago. He played the entire masscree... and my favorite THE MOTORCYCLE SONG along with claymation video made over 45 years ago. He said it had been in the back of a draw all these years. He also said that he would have never made Alice's restaurant so long if he had known it was going to be such a hit and have to play it all the time....

[@harlowrioux5790]

lol ." I don't want a pickle..."

[@carlaharrington5120]

Best part of this song is that it is based on a true story! There literally was an Officer Obie!

[@stopspammandm]

He also played himself in the moive

[@gvbezoff]

So I first heard this song in school. Back in 1966-1967, our grade 5 teacher, Mrs. Ball, introduced us into a lot of music, including this and Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind". The social commentary in "Alice's Restaurant" went completely over my 8 year old head.

[@johnsparks8083]

Listened to this EVERY Thanksgiving for the last 41 years!

[@billwaters7615]

I used to work with a guy who could recite every word of this song. Once a year is perfect for me, and this year I heard it on your channel after which we had a "Thanksgiving dinner that couldn't be beat".

[@itzel1735]

Yup it’s a classic. Coming up Christmas, it’s traditional to do Joni Mitchell’s “River”.

[@themoviedealers]

Check out the cover of that by Robert Downey Jr ! He's a great singer!

[@itzel1735]

@@themoviedealers I remember Ally McBeal. 😉