American Reacts to The Seekers: I Am Australian (I am, You are, We are Australian) GOOSEBUMPS.

[@sarahchipperfield28]

As an Aussie I have always felt that this should be Australia’s National Anthem. 💜🇦🇺😊

[@TheAngeltinks]

We all do

[@paulvanderkamp5682]

Absolutely, can you imagine what it would be like for our Olympian athletes

[@clairesaunderson3483]

me too but im am so sick of the debate about it make a decision and live with it. our anthem was decided by a vote and yes times change and attidues change but as a nation do we really want to be influinced by the current trend or do we stand by where all our people have come from and thats what makes Australia uniaue and freaking awesome.

[@clairesaunderson3483]

and Sarah, I love this song, it means so much more to me than advance australia fair, first generation Australian to ten pound poms

[@sarahchipperfield28]

@@clairesaunderson3483 absolutely 😊

[@huynhse]

Being of Vietnamese heritage and living as an Australian, This song touches the heart strings every time. It has greater meaning than our Australian Anthem itself. As a refugee, we found salvation in Australia and a Future for our generations present and more to come. I wake up each morning humbled Knowing that I have woken up being Australian and be forever grateful. One day, my children to be, will be reminded of the gravity of why.... ....

[@jmc7636]

Loved your comment.

[@burney7418]

Much love to and your family.

[@lynneperry7454]

We are all the richer for having you and your family here.

[@simplelife6294]

Yep proud Viet-Aussie, came over a refugee as a child and love my Australia. I love love The Seekers, and this song brings me to tears 🥰 🇦🇺

[@danilmnop2212]

❤❤❤❤

[@grannym2880]

No matter how many times I hear this song, when Judith sings and we join in the chorus, I struggle not to cry. It just fills you up and reminds you to be a proud Aussie. Thanks for loving it as much as we do.

[@dianneford7059]

Our Seekers been around since 1960's. Did fantastic in the UK. Yes in a new Australia this should be the national anthem.. it tells the story of our country, from the Aborigines at the beginning, the arrival of the British ships with the convicts in chains, then the migration of different peoples and finally .. our blended fantastic country where we became a melting pot and we all are Australians

[@Ishidanfarded2370]

But sadly she is a self confessed communist

[@doubledee9675]

You're not alone.

[@narelle4356]

So true, just amazing

[@4325air]

Well, I must tell you that I, too, get teary-eyed every time that Judith joins in......and I am American!

[@miranda7458]

Rest in Peace Judith Durham. An icon of Australian music. Her beautiful voice will live on in the hearts of so many Australians and others around the world.

[@DrMoorehen]

Cheers! I have australian relatives, xxx

[@Redgolf2]

I didn’t know that she died! 😞

[@daysofsunshine1]

@@Redgolf2 just a week ago

[@arnoldnjo-annerupkalvis2803]

@@Redgolf2 On the 5th of August 2022 our Judith Durham passed away. She will be sadly missed by her fellow Aussies...Jo

[@GeorgianneNienaber]

Such a huge loss but her music will endure. The carnival is not over 💕💕🙏🙏

[@pamelawillms9843]

We lost her voice, silenced by time the same week as Olivia Newton John. RIP Judith Durham. Australia needs this song as a National Anthem.

[@janemacintyre9801]

👏👏Agree 100%

[@MrMambott]

Damned well Spot On

[@lindylufromoz5111]

Yep absolutely. Info for Ryan: The Seekers were huge in the 60s here & in the UK. RIP Judith Durham - What a voice.

[@betula2137]

It has the potential to be more nationally rousing, so the more influence, the more likelihood

[@clairesaunderson3483]

@@betula2137 I respect Advance Australia Fair as our anthem, it has always been our national anthem my whole life. I feel the seekers song conquers and never devides. it brings joy, tears and understanding of wherever we came from we are now united as Australians, it is a truly an incredible gift that Judith has graced us with. RIP Judith, Heaven was waiting for your voice to fulfil its choir xxxxx

[@QueenCaitiePie]

This absolutely should be the Australian National Anthem. It’s such a beautiful song that demonstrates and embodies Australia our culture and our hearts!

[@stefannils2032]

Bless you

[@aristideau5072]

Yep, totally agree, it's so cringy I get second hand embarrassment when it is played at a sporting event and who TF uses girt?, it's doesn't stir any emotion unlike like the Greek national anthem, _Hymn_ _to_ _Liberty_ that has the verses (has more gravitas in Greek but u get the gist) We knew thee of old, O, divinely restored, By the lights of thine eyes, And the light of thy Sword. From the graves of our slain, Shall thy valor prevail, as we greet thee again, Hail, Liberty! Hail! Yet, behold now thy sons With impetuous breath Go forth to the fight Seeking Freedom or Death. And we saw thee sad-eyed, The tears on thy cheeks While thy raiment was dyed In the blood of the Greeks.

[@dmr8914]

Trouble is, every time i hear it i get too emotional to sing it! lol

[@chriscody2778]

Myself & millions of Aussies want this as our National Anthem 😢

[@laurab391]

It should be. It's amazing!! From your friend in the USA.

[@ansett7687]

Agreed. Well overdue

[@dannywhitbread3588]

Yes please!!!!!

[@lisamareepritchard6375]

I'm an Aussie & agree

[@mreale2811]

I remember The Seekers in the 60s , when I was a teenager in England, they were fabulous. 🇨🇦🇬🇧

[@stephenshort4281]

It's not just a song. It's a fabulous history lesson. Love it! R.I.P. Judith Durham 😥

[@BobLouden-r9q]

Does it cover the pioneers that cleared the land for food to feed a new country does it cover the timber cutters that made the sleepers to build train tracks and build towns cities and Ports. Does it cover the volunteers that fought in 2 WWs . Great song but as to being a history lesson? I think not.

[@BobLouden-r9q]

@@dreemlite5950 explain how the song is a history lesson, I'm truly interested.

[@nathr7375]

@@BobLouden-r9q It told some history that's how, it doesn't need to cover everything ever. Did one of your history lessons consist of everything since the beginning of time? I think not.

[@hitmengleeclub]

@@BobLouden-r9q good for you Bob, she didn't have time mention miserable fuck-wads either

[@BobLouden-r9q]

@@hitmengleeclub ROFL

[@julesmarwell8023]

this kind of explains our character a bit Ryan. WE DO NOT SHOUT ABOUT IT we do not fly the flag every 20 feet. but our home is buried deep inside. our subconscious, in our heart. thank you for showing your genuine respect. You and your, take care. and bless you DIGGER

[@karenstrong8887]

The Seekers were world famous. In this concert to say goodbye Judith is half sitting on a tall stool. She came back from having a massive stroke to do this. You need to go way back when they were all young and listen to songs like, The Carnival Is Over and so many more. All 4 were and are talented.

[@chchwoman9960]

Of course, they played The Carnival is Over last at this farewell concert. I defy anyone not to cry

[@pauldobson2529]

They were massive from the 60s onwards…Judith Durham, Bruce Woodley, Keith Potger and Athol Guy. Bound for South Australia, Georgy Girl (was a symbol London’s Swinging 60s). There was a huge concert at the Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne, down by the Yarra River just out of the CBD.

[@johnangelico667]

@@pauldobson2529 That concert still holds the record for the number of people in attendance.

[@evelynpaterson2823]

I too thoroughly enjoyed the Seekers, nice to see younger generation enjoying them as well

[@Betru2u60]

Love love love the seekers every since I was a little girl.

[@coldlakealta4043]

This Canadian had tears and shaky hands. Never have I heard such pure love expressed for one's country, nor respect for its Indigenous past. The Aussies are our mates in the British Commonwealth - the most popular kids in class! Two residual takes: Judith Durham has the most beautiful, powerful voice I have ever heard, and this American has the most moving and genuine "reaction" I have ever seen. A quote from Tiny Tim: God Bless us all, each and every one.

[@rodtegge3243]

Sadly Judith passed away on 5 August 2022 in Melbourne, age 79. She was loved in Australia and will be greatly missed.

[@markhill9275]

Goodonya mate! We love our Canadian brothers and sisters!

[@coldlakealta4043]

@@markhill9275 and you, my friend!

[@grahamholton8542]

The Seekers were famous in the 1970s. They did concerts in Canada

[@lifeasrini]

Canada + Australia = distant siblings who have never met but know they're related ❣️💐🇦🇺

[@stanleypennock2118]

Judith Durham had one of the purest and most beautiful voices of the last 60 + years. The Seekers didn't have or need all the fancy mixing equipment. Their harmony was amazing! I had a huge crush on Judith as a 14 year old in the mid 1960s and at 72, she is still in my heart!

[@ullumhero9002]

I'm an indigenous Australian and I loved this song since I was a little boy and I also think this should be the national anthem❤️ love the reaction 😁

[@tomtomruth]

As a kiwi, I would imagine that many Aussies would love this as their anthem. It is truly a GREAT song!

[@coldlakealta4043]

as a Canadian, I second your sentiments. I wish we had something that spoke of the love and history like this

[@georgemanifold6802]

Its funny because as a proud Aussie I often find myself humming the NZ national anthem because it is so good compared to the Aussie one. Even when watching you flog us in the Rugby 🤣🤣

[@grugnat653]

As a Kiwi, who the fuck cares whether your libtard priors perfectly align to the current status quo. Hilarious, well done, any other amazing opinions you'd like to share or should I just turn on the telly?

[@nadnerb2k]

In some ways I'm glad our Australian anthem is so weak. In others . . . It is awful, like how so many verses are actually about England (we don't sing those but frankly their existence and implicit racism should've disqualified Advance Australia Fair as an anthem). But performed right: like in the opening ceremony of 2000 Olympics - it can work. This song is leagues ahead. But I'm glad it's not the anthem. Because whenever it gets performed, it's done with reverence befitting an anthem, which anthems so often don't get. The NZ anthem is simply beautiful, and the US anthem is too. @tomtomruth is there an equivalent NZ song, a non anthem, that can stir the emotions like this one? There just has to be . . . (asking in a non-competitive way - educate me 🙂)

[@XolaresTiberius]

I’m from a long line dating back to Oxford and last names that involve NT Gregory and barker. My great grandfather was laid to rest near airs rock with an massive bolder

[@boogoodie]

I'm so proud to be Australian. I was born in England and came to Australia when I was 4. I was naturalised and became a true blue Aussie. That's the message with this song, no matter where we came from, we are all Australian and so proud to be so. It should be our national anthem. The seeker's are so amazing. I love a lot of their music. Dear Judith Durham is no longer with us, sadly. She's an angel in heaven. I cried the day she died. She was a very special woman, with an amazing voice. I miss her still. God bless you Judith, you live on in our hearts and in your music. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@evilroyslade6477]

❤

[@julesmarwell8023]

@@evilroyslade6477 spoken like a true blue digger

[@passionfruitprincess]

I was born in Sydney 59 years ago & feel so blessed to be part of this wonderful melting pot of so many different places :)

[@m.l.b.2908]

I'm a New Zealander and I get tearful on ANZAC Day when we sing Advance Australia Fair after our own anthem, but this song makes me emotional every time I hear it. It's such a beautiful ideal.

[@iandawson3171]

I love your national anthem. Ours is crap.

[@lifeasrini]

I lived in NZ for awhile and it warmed my cold Aussie heart when I heard the children singing the Anthem in English and then in Maori ... THAT is a beautiful idea ❣️💐

[@m.l.b.2908]

@@lifeasrini We're really lucky here as our dialects in Te Reo Māori are very similar, so we can have one anthem and it makes sense. I would love it if the major sports grounds in Australia could incorporate something from the mob whose land they're on. Whether an anthem in the local language, or a welcome of some kind, or challenge like a haka etc... Obviously you couldn't do the same anthem at the MCG as you would at the Gabba or at Stadium Australia, but I think something similar could occur over time to what has happened here. We learned the words to the Māori anthem and locals would probably pick up the words in the relevant language at the stadium they most often visit. Give them lyrics sheets, include a phonetic form as well as the standard written form to help with pronunciation, and people will learn. It took us a long time to become really unified behind our bilingual anthem, but it was worth the wait.

[@andrewmacdonald7423]

I'm A Brit and it wells me up as a song. The Anzac version on KZbin even more so Diggers and Kiwis are all part of my Family Mate.

[@toys7198]

@@m.l.b.2908 if you look up the Australian All Stars vs the All Blacks they both do a challenge and it's really awesome to watch, very different styles but both just amazing

[@vanessachristidis9252]

As a child of Greek migrants, this song has so much more meaning than I can ever express. Living here has been a gift 💝 & it gives me goosebumps all the way down to my knees 🧡

[@sgtleska]

I love you, fellow Australian.

[@kane2522]

I absolutely love how Greek Australians are so proud to be Australian! Our diversity makes us stronger. 💙

[@debshaw100]

Me too. Daughter of migrant Italians. I love the country my parents were born in, but I’m grateful for their huge sacrifice to come to Australia for me and my brother and sisters.

[@terryinozland]

Well said

[@bridgetmclean4410]

My Dad was born in Corinth & moved to Australia with his family when he was 10 in the 60’s! ❤️ He was proud of his Greek roots but just as proud to be an Aussie ❤️

[@estherlesch2998]

Proud Aussie here loving this song, should have been our National Anthem

[@dmr8914]

Its kinda weird to see an "non-Aussie" get chills from an truly Aussie song worthy of our National Anthem. That's the power of a song

[@coldlakealta4043]

Well, this Canadian "non-Aussie" got chills and damp eyes too. Love of country knows no bounds. Bless you all.

[@grasfarmrs2004]

he's not the only american to get those chills...

[@eldorta]

From Spain myself, yet this song brings tears to my eyes. Should definitely be Australia's national anthem.

[@musicbruv]

This pom gets chills and a few tears in my eyes. R.I.P Judith.💔

[@davidd1492]

Judith Durham has one of the purest voices. Still sings beautifully at 78 years of age, even after having a stroke in 2013.

[@moonshaddow55]

Agreed, just love her voice.

[@alanhutchins302]

Vale Judith

[@danielgrey5754]

@@alanhutchins302 Vale Judith. Sic transit gloria. When the carnival is over.

[@iamasmurf1122]

passed away now though at 79

[@robertbutler8004]

David D and we lost Judith 6/8/22

[@barbaramacdonald4886]

I’m an Aussie and it brings tears to my eyes, it really inspires me to such patriotism The seekers really were something

[@brooktu4249]

I'm an old guy who has heard this song, maybe a couple of hundred times. I'm also an immigrant to this great country. Still, every time I hear the song I fight to hold back the tears. There's something so hauntingly personal about the music and the lyrics. Like millions of other Australians, I think this song should be our National Anthem. One of the best songs ever written, anywhere. Great reaction to a great song.

[@oceans9687]

Amen to that bro

[@raebean6018]

I feel exactly the same way when I hear this. It just makes me so grateful and proud to be Australian!

[@philipgibbs5751]

I don't fight back the tears. Just let em flow.

[@sholtowilson8451]

Nothing quite stirs the Aussie heart and spirit like this song, makes you feel bloody proud.

[@ozzeelady6029]

100% ! It’s such a spiritual song deep in our psyche.

[@normabalmaceda4554]

I am a migrant and naturalised Australian. My heart in my throat when I hear and sing this Australian ‘anthem’. Makes me feel I am truly accepted and am so proud to be Australian!

[@RiverSanguine]

Song shouldn't make you feel truly Australian. You are here. You are Aussie.❤

[@twilightroach4274]

Me too

[@paul4124]

Good on yer mate.

[@kafrose1]

No one sings this as beautifully as the Seekers. Even in their "advanced" ages their voices are controlled and beautiful. God bless them all!

[@G6JPG]

Given one of them wrote it ...

[@taviag4302]

I have known this song my entire life but I have never heard the Seekers sing it, amazing doesn't begin to describe it. Wow.

[@almighty3372]

I am no Australian, but I have listened to this song countless times, and each time I listen to it I have tears in my eye........this angelic voice!!!!!!!

[@sueloughnan]

Judith Durham died last year - lung disease. That was why she was sitting. How she could still sing?????

[@almighty3372]

@@sueloughnan don't know how she did it, but she did it on stage.

[@dm588]

And she sang this after having a stroke. A most beautiful lady, sadly missed. 😥 ❤ Listen to her sing..Mornington Ride, The Carnival is Over, Georgie Girl.....

[@lynettesmith1893]

I can hardly write this comment, my eyes are filled with tears of joy, sadness & my heart is filled with pride. Such a legacy the Seekers have left us, never forgotten & loved beyond forever.

[@robertprior94]

🇦🇺

[@distant_sounds]

As an Aussie living now in the US, this song and a few others have risen in importance for me and mean so much more than they did before. I'll always be an Aussie no matter how long I'm away. I'll continue to waltz my Matilda each and every day.

[@peterfromgw4615]

Mate, and watch your billy boil!! And keep an eye out for a jumbuck. But, mate, keep an eye out for the troopers, 1, 2,3. Good luck to you from another Aussie. Grüße aus Australien.

[@evaadams8298]

Am listening and crying 😭 so proud 🇦🇺❤️

[@cbisme6414]

Distant Sounds hi from home, no matter where you roam, you'll always call Australia home 🐨🦘🇦🇺👍 stay safe... From another Dinky Die True Blue 💙

[@distant_sounds]

@@cbisme6414 Thanks mate! You too.

[@jeremykothe2847]

Just reign in your Ned Kelly. They have cameras everywhere now.

[@dexterdean]

I'm so glad this young American enjoyed one of Australia's biggest gems.

[@catherinedavidson1661]

This song encapsulates everything about Australia. Her history, her people, her culture, her landscape and flora and fauna.

[@jacqz7520]

THIS should be our National Anthem! 🇦🇺 I love this song; it gives me goosebumps every time I hear it. Nobody sings it as well as The Seekers. I was born in the south of England, but my family emigrated to Australia when I was nine. I’m a full-on Aussie now, & love this amazing land. I’ve ALWAYS loved The Seekers too, right from their very first songs. They were huge in the UK in the 60’s. Listen to all their songs; they’re amazing! Love Judith’s voice, & their harmonies.

[@jacqz7520]

@W Don’t be a thorough dipstick!! I was 9 when I came to Australia; I’m 65 now! So, I’m as Aussie as you can get, married a very Aussie bloke, have 3 very Aussie children & now 3 Aussie grandchildren! So put aside your obvious bias & HUGE prejudices & get over yourself!

[@kezkezooie8595]

I'd love to see this song become our national anthem too. It's inclusive, acknowledges First Australians, it covers major points of our history and it embraces the ethos of the best parts of Australian culture. I'm very luke warm about Advance Australia Fair. A big factor being because I'm in my 60s and learnt it with the original lyrics, which gave no acknowledgement that Australia was populated before British colonization and were very pro British Empire. One of the verses was: When gallant Cook from Albion sailed To trace wide oceans o'er True British courage bore him on Til he landed on our shore Then here he raised old England's flag The standard of the brave With all her faults we love her still Britannia rules the waves

[@michaelcipriano1713]

From an Australian to an American, we thank you brother that you were so touched and showed such emotion to this great song by the Seekers, our great Australian band. Please listen to more of the Seekers, they are brilliant. And yes Judith's voice is truely Angelic.

[@takearight.]

I was 10 or 11 when Georgie girl came on, was so lively and in tune it made me smile and hum 😃 As far as I knew, that was their first radio hit. Although I’m sure they had some songs before that.. love them.!

[@lifeasrini]

@@takearight. I grew up with my grandma singing that song when she ran upstairs .. so I still sing "hey there Georgie girl ...." when I go upstairs ❣️💐

[@takearight.]

@@lifeasrini loved them! 🖐🏻😀

[@coastallad1010]

@@takearight. I think you will find " I'll never find another you" was their first hit.

[@takearight.]

@@coastallad1010 ..You’re right! 1965, I have watched that video many times over.. I always chuckle at the double bass player, Athol Guy? ( I don’t know why.. LOVE that song! Georgie girl was 1967..😃

[@ruthmanning6661]

Tears now…….I am so very proud to be Australian. I am from Scottish,Irish and Welsh immigrants that helped carve this beautiful country into Australia…..I love you Australia.💖💖💖🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺

[@australialover4899]

I am from Germany and this song is one of my favorite songs... I've been to Australia several times and love this great country! I am Australian in my heart...

[@kristenturner1280]

We are one! You are Australian ❤

[@n3vulaa]

We’re all happy to have you here! (I’m Swiss-German on my papa’s side :D)

[@megdunks3945]

Comments like this make me even prouder to be apart of one of the longest living cultures (very proud indigenous Australian woman) in the world and to be living in one of the greatest countries I am so glad you love this country as much as we do

[@julesmarwell8023]

Danke mein freinde

[@blotski]

Her voice never seemed to lose its quality as she aged. Unbelievable really.

[@annabromilow9498]

An Ozzy here and you are right, can’t get through the song without shedding a tear. I’m so proud to be an Australian and I love that this song shows that you might be born or live somewhere else but you are always welcome here and through our love and acceptance of all people, you become one of us too. Over here, we really are all Australian and that includes everyone ❤️

[@garyholt4445]

Sadly we lost one of our national treasures last night, Judith Durham, the pure voice you hear in this group passed away at the ago of 79.. If you like her voice, and who doesnt, go check out more the The Seekers music.. Judith Durham was lead singer of the group for most of their recordings but on this song it was Bruce Woodley. Listen to songs like Morning Town Ride, or The Carnival is Over, you will hear the purity of Judith's voice.

[@ianmurray3974]

Yes, we lost dear Judith last Friday. A wonderful Melbourne girl. Makes me proud to be a Victorian. Love you Judith.

[@bennettblum3513]

Judith Durham is truly an angel. May she rest in peace.

[@ayron703]

Very sad to hear this news 😢

[@KevinSmith-ki7yl]

I’m English grew up listening to the seekers had to get out the tissue’s listening to this,what a sad loss and what a voice

[@Hakausu]

I thank God for KZbin, which allows young people all over the world to keep learning about the beauty of Judith's voice. In one song that she wrote herself, she says, "Please remember me by music and a song". Real commitment, excellence and love of music will always be timeless.

[@miriamgillham6701]

I am Australian, it always, always brings me to tears every time. Thank you for this. So appreciative.

[@margbuckley3534]

Ditto

[@sueluxton7779]

So glad you loved it..we are very proud of our song and our entertainers. Thanks

[@PH_1964]

I'm English in Australia and grew up with The Seekers. I'm reduced to tears every time. God bless you Sir and R.I.P Judith 🙏

[@margaretvanson3601]

I'm a New Zealander, I grew up with The Seekers. I still love them. Their voices still send shivers down my spine and tears in my eyes. How lucky the Aussies are to be able to call them their own.

[@toby9999]

How's things over the ditch?

[@helen6517]

Same - Kiwi who grew up with the Seekers. love Love LOVE Judith Durham, always have. Always wanted to be able to sing like her ❤

[@margaretvanson3601]

@@helen6517 me too, but my voice is too high so I couldn't imitate her lovely melufilous mezzo.

[@neddyladdy]

and not one of them was stolen from over there either

[@coldlakealta4043]

hey, now ... the whole world has the privilege of calling them "our own" ... greatness knows no borders ... they have been this Canadian's "own" group since 1964 ...

[@argosz8046]

Goosebumps every time Judith sang. One of the most pure Australian voices. This song is always goosebump material.

[@ZestySea]

You’re right. Absolutely. Goosebump material

[@MerkMan280se]

I grew up listening to the Seekers. I still love listening to them. This song, however is the one that really touches my heart and I would love for the powers to be, make it our national anthem. It is concise, precise and represents us all in Australia.

[@ashleyking6743]

As an Aussie this hits me right in the feels. This and “I still call Australia home” are both amazing and heartfelt songs

[@coldlakealta4043]

... as a Canadian, this "hit me right in the feels" too. what a beautiful, powerful tribute to all that has made you a great nation, including tribute to the pre-European era. My dad flew with Aussies in WW2 on one (barely) memorable night they conferred official "matedom" on him. Something to do with drinking beer from a hat. He wore it proudly.

[@Pipsaus410]

I am of British descent, from convict stock on my mother’s side and second generation Scottish on my father’s side. I am a proud Australian - this song never fails to bring up goosebumps! RIP Judith. ❤ Judith Durham had the most amazing voice!

[@adampurcell7119]

Any Aussie that can listen to this without a tear has some serious questions to ask of themselves

[@BassGirlSusan1961]

how right you are

[@arfajob4246]

Any resident brother. Heavy stuff.

[@TheMattozzie]

@Leo He would definitely hate this song

[@mdx7460]

I’m British, and it is giving me chills. Never heard it before. Gorgeous song.

[@joshuasilverii5762]

I for one, cannot.

[@chrmnlp4413]

Some other Australian songs to get the emotional goosebumps going are; 'I was only 19' (Redgum), 'The band played waltzing matilda'(Eric Bogle), 'These days' ( Powderfingers final live performance), and 'Don't dream it's over' or 'Better be home soon' (Crowded house). When you listen to the words, these will get your tear ducts melting.

[@alliegal45]

Great Southern Land by Icehouse 😉

[@noone6559]

Along with Beds are burning by Midnight Oil... once again a song about Indigenous Australians and people who are 'not white'...

[@omaopa6923]

I still calling Australia home,love it 🇦🇺

[@clintonburr852]

I wholeheartedly agree with ‘I was only 19’ (redgum)

[@jamiepenney3720]

John Farnham, When the War is Over is one of my favourites.

[@chelseahale7981]

As an Aussie myself, you are now an honorary Aussie mate. ❤

[@dangermus74]

I am an Aussie. I’ve lived abroad tfor 10 years. Hearing that song again Gave me goosebumps and I was in tears by the end.

[@coldlakealta4043]

as a Canadian, hearing that song gave me goosebumps and tears too. your homeland is wherever place your heart may be in

[@forgoodnesssake9161]

I’m a 57 year old Aussie woman. I grew up with the Seekers as a young child. There harmonies were amazing and I loved them. I certainly recommend you listen to them more. Her name is Judith Durham and she is great. Listening to this version I was welling up as I had never heard it before. It is certainly an anthem for us. So thanks for doing this. I was moved.

[@robertthomson2159]

Sang their songs at school, didn't we?

[@johnschuh8616]

John Denver, the very popular singer wrote “Country Roads” which West Virginia has adopted as its state song. He was not from there, but he got it really right. My wife of West Virginian, and having made many visits to that beautiful state, I get emotional whenever I hear it, It could be the song for many states. Saw Denver sing it when we visited friends in Alaska.

[@Carrie_13]

I'm an Aussie and yes, YES this should and needs to be our National Anthem! Love this song!!! Gives me goosebumps of pride every time I hear it. RIP Judith ❤

[@markobrien8215]

Such a great song - as an Irishman who lived in Sydney for a year, I'll always have fond memories of Australia. Love the nod to Ned Kelly - there are great historical and family links between Ireland & Australia 🇮🇪🇦🇺

[@catherinelove3043]

4 th gen Aussie Irish heritage💕🇦🇺🙂🇮🇪

[@angelavinen2881]

I'm 4th to 5th Generation Irish convict heritage. My grandmother still had the Irish red hair. Australia is definitely the place where people have come from all lands for refuge, even our first Australians may have been seeking refuge 40 to 60,000 years ago? Sadly a lot of history is lost, so we may never know why for sure.

[@MrMambott]

For Sure 🙂

[@Yobbo14]

👍

[@anEyePhil]

My great great great Grandfather, James Smith, was convicted of stealing a cow in Enniskillen in 1815. He was transported to Sydney in 1818 where he served his 7 years. On earning his freedom he decided to stay in New South Wales and received a land grant on the Hawkesbury River, where he established a productive farm and river boat business. His grandson’s son was my grandfather. His headstone is still readable in the Catholic cemetery of Windsor near the River. I’m very proud of my Irish heritage.

[@elizabethscott7660]

True mate. I shed a tear for the soul of the song, then one for the perfection of Judith's beautiful voice, and another for the fact that she isn't performing anymore. Finally I cry a river because I love this amazing ancient land and this song makes me remember that. John Williamson is another Aussie singer who loves this land. 'It's Raining on the Rock' 'Cootamundra Wattle' 'Chandelier of Stars' 'Home Among the Gum Trees' and the other tear jerker that is definitively Aussie, 'True Blue'.

[@glennreeves6814]

Amen bro.

[@Mirrorgirl492]

Fair dinkum :)

[@mariabromwich8897]

I have a cat named ‘Bill’ after a John Williamson song (my Bill is an indoor cat, though😁)

[@robertthomson2159]

ken oath

[@garryellis3085]

Play more Seekers songs. They were Australia's first International super group, back in the 1960s. Judith Durham had one of the most haunting & beautiful voices in modern music!

[@alanw8552]

Incredibly sad that Judith Durham has passed away. Her voice took the Seekers to global fame. One of the finest voices ever & a beautiful human being. Fondly remembered & never to be forgotten. RIP Judith.

[@robyourtime]

Played at my Aussie grandfather's funeral. The tears come flowing pretty quickly

[@coldlakealta4043]

bless his memory

[@jade7249]

Being Australian this is one song i am proud of The Seekers were an awesome group

[@maryguy9013]

America should take the word to heart: "We are One: We are Many" We Are American and we should be singing as one: not the divided chaos we are enduring at this time. Please listen to the words closely this song will tug at your patriotic spirit. "We are many : but we are One as the family of humanity" Judith you are going to be missed RIP

[@c8Lorraine1]

We are proud to welcome people from all walks of life to come enjoy and add to this wonderful land and culture.

[@noelwebb6843]

Australia has just as much division as the states, on a much smaller scale of course,like everything else. Whilst we don't have Donald Trump publicly dividing the country, we have an upcoming referendum to give Aboriginals constitutional recognition & a voice to parliament which has divided us. Your right though about the main chorus simply replacing Australian with American makes it just as valid for you guys over there as it is for us here in oz

[@cavramau]

So many of the moteefs fit the USA. Early English transportation. Coming to ancient culture and land on tall ships. Fighting in the great European wars. It goes on and on. Immigration.

[@JRWtheIII]

Look up Guthrie and this land is our land.

[@JRWtheIII]

The seekers are my parents generation. Do a good favor and listen to their total harmony. Magical voices.

[@kazuakigabychan8147]

This song makes me cry every time I listen to it. When I first heard it, I was dumbfounded. I'm proud to be living in Australia. I wish America had a song like this. Although Judith Durham is gone, this song lasts for ever. Thank you Judith, for entertaining us despite your health problem. So many singers these days force themselves to sing, but you are natural. You are the Australian Voice. May you rest in peace.!

[@barrysteven5964]

America desperately needs a song like this. Too many people there are forgotten that America was built by people who came from 'all the lands on earth' and that the first Americans had been there for many thousands of years before that.

[@kazuakigabychan8147]

@@barrysteven5964, Yes, indeed. It's good that the new Aussie Govt is trying to embrace Aborigines in the Constitution. Australia is more of an inclusive society now.

[@michaelbyrnee9584]

By now, I am sure you know the history of the Seekers. I am also a Yank, yet every time I heard this superb song, I feel like I am also a part of their family. Truly a great anthem for any country.

[@carolynh8866]

Judith Durim has one of the best live voices ever along with another Aussie Legend John Farnham who's live versions are even better than his studio recordings. He has perfect pitch with a 3 octave range. try You're the Voice which is his most well known song. Or his version of Help. Cheers from WESTERN Australia

[@Dr_KAP]

Hahahahaggaa great lead in to Farnsey Carolyn, I see what you did there 😉

[@carolynh8866]

@@Dr_KAP hehe

[@lynneperry7454]

Western Australian here too. Farnsy (John Farnham) and a live version of You’re the Voice would be a great follow up to this stunning song. I would defy Ryan Was not to be affected by it.

[@noelanderson8915]

The guy who led off the song actually wrote the song and lyrics. In my humble, opinion this should be the Aussie National Anthem. Judy Durham is the lady with the great vocal voice. We almost lost her in a car accident some years back, but thank goodness we didn't and he regained her brilliant voice. I'm an oldie so I guess I have an excuse for having The Seekers on my playlist, but then who needs and excuse for having great music on your playlist. Mine has a wide span from Opera "The Four Tenors" to James Taylor "Fire and Rain" and many, many others. Goosebumps here too mate.

[@Isleofskye]

I am English. This WILL be your National Anthem,My Friend..

[@noelanderson8915]

Sad news in following up on this is that Judith Durham has just passed away. Very sad news,

[@Isleofskye]

@@noelanderson8915 Terrible news about a wonderful Lady...

[@Hakausu]

Thank you for mentioning that too. There is something about singer/songwriters that is so special. Bruce Woodley is another one who, like Judith, is skilled in writing AND performing.

[@stephen-ws7ne]

Dobe Newton, a great aussie singer songwriter, also contributed to the writing of this song along with Bruce Woodley

[@hrushby]

I remember the exact classroom we learnt to sing this song in grade 5 in Primary School (age 10-11ish). It's a staple in an Aussie childhood

[@brettevill9055]

The Seekers were the first Australian band, or one of the first, to achieve international success, which was back in the early Sixties. Judith Durham has one of the great voices of recording history.. This song is from one of their comebacks, in the late Eighties. I has been a huge success, and is spontaneously becoming a mainstay of Australian patriotic music. They teach it to the kids in most public schools now. And a lot of official citizenship ceremonies for newly-naturalised Australians used to end with everyone singing "We Are Australian", until they got a copyright strike. The Commonwealth is going to have to buy the copyright from Bruce Woodley and Dobe Newton.

[@brettevill9055]

If you want to try a few more of The Seekers' number-one charting songs, try "I Know I'll Never Find Another You" and "We'll Build a World of Our Own".

[@lynnepashley4281]

I agree

[@malcolmnicholls2893]

Unaustralian!

[@VanillaMacaron551]

@@brettevill9055 The Carnival is Over

[@voulafisentzidis8830]

@@brettevill9055 Georgie Girl and Morningtown Ride are also great.

[@gavindwyer6249]

Having just watched this a day after Judith Durham passed away, I was getting chills and emotional. I grew up listening to The Seekers (my parents loved their records and played them constantly), and eventually grew to love them. Other gems are I'll never find another you, Morningtown ride, Georgy Girl, A world of our own.

[@michelleovenden8192]

I get to sing the 2nd verse of this iconic song at our Australian Day Celebrations next week. As a descendant of convicts, I cannot tell you how proud I am and how much this song means (or should mean) to all Australians. We do come from many different backgrounds and histories and are proud of them, but also proud that we are, now, all one. This song embodies all of that. I also prefer it to Advance Australia Fair.

[@louisehoffen2295]

Love this song and Judith and the boys. Can say as 6th gen Aussie, it’s about our history and the coming together of our wonderful population ❤

[@johnschuh8616]

Your nation ha huge potential, Don’t let the greenies make you keep your riches buried, Australian gold, after all, back in the 19th century brought the world out of a 20 year depression along with that of Alaska and the Yukon.

[@marghat2184]

I was actually at that concert and Judith's voice was just that pure and clean. She was a true treasure and so humble. She just thought she was a girl from Oz, nothing special. A sad loss for our country.

[@johnschuh8616]

Shed behaved that way, but she knew her worth.Unless Karin Carpenter she had great confidence. from an early age.

[@Peajay007]

Hello from Melbourne Australia I had a really bad day today. Then I watched your video and I feel so much better. Thank you 🇦🇺

[@merlenehendry-silver7741]

Penn, beautiful song, stay well, from Sunny Coast, Qld.

[@Peajay007]

@@merlenehendry-silver7741 right back at ya

[@paul4124]

Judith Durham had the voice of an Angel. Every time l listen to this song it brings tears to my eyes. I am Australian and bloody proud of it. ❤🇦🇺

[@danielaelliot2492]

I grew up on the Gold Coast. I live in England been here for nearly a decade. Ive never stopped feeling home sick for Australia. This song really hit me. Maybe one day I can come home

[@robertprior94]

There's no place like home...🇦🇺

[@LeaPustetto]

She was pitch perfect an incredible singer. 👏 she a genius

[@Ramvo1111]

My family and I always sing this when it comes on SBS/TV Network❤️

[@bettyartis3648]

Judith Durham has one of the purest voices ever. The Seekers have a huge amount of great songs. Great reaction.

[@wildwestjanbutcher650]

This is the anthem of Australia’s heart. It means so much more to Aussies than Advance Australia Fair ever will.

[@SirSoup44]

This song shows every aspect of Australia. This will always be my home no matter where life takes me

[@vk3crg]

The Seekers are Australian national treasure. Judith Durham is the singer - her voice is incredible. Check out more of their tunes. Just discovered your channel and really like your reactions. Well done Ryan. Oh and by the way the “g’day mate” at the end was pretty good! Craig - Australia

[@spiderbrandt4066]

Gday mate I am Australian I'm 70 and remember when the Seekers first stared , and they are Evan older than me and that was a Live Performance , the started back in 1962 in Vic

[@gordontaylor3489]

G'day Ryan from Bonnie Scotland. I heard The Seekers singing this over 6 months ago, and I can't stop listening to it. Whenever I feel down, or a wee bit emotional, I play this and my mood immediately changes. Best wishes, Gordon Taylor. By the way, the Seekers have been around (original members) since the early 1960's.

[@rostallar4243]

Slim Dusty is another true Aussie singer, R.I.P. Slim Dusty!

[@kimarcher8487]

I was at one of their Farewell performances and they were wonderfull. They are all in their 70’s and sound terrific. That is our history in song. Long live The Seekers music.

[@Mia_Louiise]

I’m Australian & I just had tears 😢 very proud Aussie here 🇦🇺🦘💙

[@melindaharrington900]

So much sweeter today hearing that the beautiful and talented Judith Durham died a few days ago. God Bless Her. Thank you, Judith. When I was a little girl, you were the voice of our nation.

[@simon2077]

Dude this is FOLK ROCK. They had a great range in music including I'll Never Find Another You & Georgy Girl. Take a listen you'll love this group. I'm so glad I got to live in this time. R.I.P. Judith!

[@peterdel3307]

Should be our national anthem it's everything Australia 🇦🇺

[@robertthomson2159]

ken oath.

[@amcc5704]

I am an Aussie and I have heard this song a million times and every time - I get goose bumps. Makes me proud to be an Aussie. Judith Durham and the Seekers did Australia proud. I am glad you enjoyed it.

[@MotherofBeerus]

Omg. I’m an Aussie and watching this was awesome!! Best song ever

[@mgbchoralmusic6443]

Judith's voice is one of the all time great voices. Perfection in the studio and live as you can hear here. The song is brilliant. I've never heard a song that makes virtually everyone who hears it tear up. And I'm Canadian!

[@richardmorris5828]

Listen to her sing Danny Boy

[@coldlakealta4043]

hello, homie. I'm Canadian too and it challenged my composure. I don't think I have ever heard a song which conveyed love of country so much. So much for "our home and native land" - which it isn't for so many of us.

[@johnschuh8616]

Patriotism in its purest form.

[@williamporter8355]

God bless Judith i heard you guys 60 years ago and you have never changed still the best group Australia has seen.

[@sammij7863]

This song tugs at the heart strings. Thank you for your appreciation of it. RIP Judith, a truly beautiful voice

[@Erizedd]

Hey Ryan! Just watched this reaction for the first time now, and it occurred to me that one day you could be calling yourself Australian too. I wonder? :) Anyway, thank you for reacting to a song that means so much to so many Aussies, and truly encompasses the Australian identity, and for appreciating it as you have.

[@Bellas1717]

Most Australian musicians came up through the pub and club scene, so if they made it they really could sing. They are ALL best listened to live. Australian music is a rabbit hole from which you might never emerge :) Following (apologies for the length) is something I used with my students in teaching the 'dream' of the song - giving explanations of the song's lyrics in brackets after the lyrics. I came from the dream-time, (The Dreamtime is the creation time for indigenous Australians. The Dreaming is the creation of their world and the things that populate it, living and non-living.) From the dusty red-soil plains. (Most of the interior of Australia, 'the Outback', is desert, composed of red soil formed from the weathering of the iron-rich rocks found there. Only the fringe of Australia is cities and green.) I am the ancient heart, the keeper of the flame. (The keeper of the Aboriginal stories and traditions, passed along orally and also in dance around the flame of the corroboree [ceremony].) I stood upon the rocky shores, I watched the tall ships come. (The rocky landforms close to landing of the incoming First Fleet vessels bringing the first British colonisers.) For forty thousand years I've been the first Australian. (It is now known to be closer to 65,000 years that indigenous Australians have been here.) I came upon the prison ship, bowed down by iron chains, (The First Fleet of British ships brought English and Irish convicts, many just sentenced because of theft of items such as a loaf of bread to feed starving families, or Irish Catholics for practising their religion when this was outlawed by Protestant England. The Puritans who went to North America suffered the same persecution.) I cleared the land, endured the lash, (The convicts were set to work to clear land for farming, build roads, bridges, dwellings, etc and were whipped to keep them working.) And waited for the rains. (There were long periods of dry, often drought, and intense heat, with the heavy rainfall -“the rains” providing welcome relief.) I'm a settler, I'm a farmer's wife on a dry and barren run, (Settler was the name for free people who settled in Australia; a run is a cattle or sheep farm.) A convict, then a free man, I became Australian. (Because convict sentences were seven or more years long, and return to England was often impossibly expensive, most convicts stayed once they had served their sentences. They were then released from bondage asnd became free men and women.) I'm the daughter of a digger, Who sought the mother lode. (A digger [later the name for Aussie soldiers] at that time was a prospector in the gold rush that began in 1852 in the goldfields of Bathurst, New South Wales, and Ballarat and Bendigo in Victoria. The mother lode was the deep vein of gold ore from which washed the small specks and nuggets that prospectors found in streams. The dream was to find that incredibly rich vein of gold.) The girl became a woman on the long and dusty road. (Families walked very long distances and in very harsh conditions to reach the goldfields -hence girls becoming women.) I'm a child of the Depression, (The Great Depression of 1930s followed the Wall Street Crash in the USA, and saw many families around the world lose all their savings, job retrenchments followed as businesses collapsed, many families were reduced to destitution.) I saw the good times come, (The 1940s started off with an economic resurgence, and this continued post-WW2.) I'm a bushie, (An Aussie who lives in the 'bush', the remote regions of Australia.) I'm a battler, (What Aussies call ordinary people, ones who just get by making a living and a life.) I am Australian. We are one, but we are many, And from all the lands on earth we come. We'll share a dream and sing with one voice, "I am, you are, we are Australian" (Australia is an incredibly multicultural nation, with the largest Greek population outside Greece, for instance, as a result of post-WW2 and later migration from Italy, Syria, Lebanon, etc. In later years, migration from Asian countries and our neighbouring Pacific Islands, as well as ongoing migration from British and other European nations. I'm a teller of stories, I'm a singer of songs, I am Albert Namatjira I paint the ghostly gums. (Albert Namitjira [1902-1959] was a famous Aboriginal artist who painted in non-traditional Aboriginal style. His paintings of Australian Ghost Gums, - a smooth, white-barked eucalyptus tree - became famous and commanded huge prices.) I'm Clancy on his horse, ('Clancy of the Overflow', a famous poem of an Australian drover - stockman “cowboy” - by A. B "Banjo" Paterson.) I'm Ned Kelly on the run, (Ned Kelly was an infamous Australian bushranger [Australian name for an outlaw] who led a gang - the Kelly Gang. He wore distinctive rough armor with a conical helmet. He was caught and executed at 25 years of age.) I'm the one who waltzed Matilda, ('Matilda', from the famous Australian song 'Waltzing Matilda', is the swag: the gear of the drover/bushie was placeded on a cloth and the corners lifted and tied together in a knot. A stick was then pushed through under the knot and the 'swag' was carried across the bushie's shoulder, which made it swing - or 'waltz' on the bushman’s back.) I am Australian. I'm the hot wind from the desert, I'm the black soil of the plains, I'm the mountains and the valleys, I'm the drought and flooding rains. (Australia is the driest continent on Earth. Most of the edges of the land are mountainous, so the rains fall on the mountains and coastal regions and usually do not reach inland.) I am the rock, (Uluru [indigenous name] or Ayer’s Rock [as named in 1873 by the explorer William Gosse, the first non-Aboriginal person to see Uluru. He named it after Sir Henry Ayers, the Chief Secretary of South Australia at the time.] Uluru is the famous huge red monolith in central Australia.) I am the sky (The southern sky has quite different star patterns to the northern hemisphere.), The rivers when they run, (River beds are often dry because of Australia’s low rainfall, the rivers towards the centre of Australia often only run after the rains.) The spirit of this great land, I am Australian. We are one, but we are many, And from all the lands on earth we come. We share a dream and sing with one voice, "I am, you are, we are Australian." (The dream is one of inclusion and equality for people from all lands. We are not there yet, but we are actively working towards it.)

[@fairlymoon448]

Beautiful breakdown thank you

[@katharineshade9550]

Such a fantastic explanation, thank you!

[@zombiemeg]

I was really hoping a fellow Australian would explain this (which you did beautifully) so people could understand the full significance of this song and why it means so much to us. It is our past and our hopes for the future. Everyone who lives here, whether they were born here or not, is Australian. 🤍

[@minwade5436]

Thank you for the beautiful description of the song’s entire meaning.

[@catherinegiesige9863]

I enjoyed this narrative as much as the song. Thank you, that is a perfect description.

[@ohana444]

Rip Judith D. I love being an Aussie and I love how you love us to. Welcome to our Country.🙏🇦🇺

[@catherinegiesige9863]

When I was living in the US, this song and I Still Call Australia Home, would always bring me to tears, and they often still do. There is a 100% chance of goosebumps too. I have been reading these comments, and continue to cry. We are one; in all our variations. We are all different, yet all the same. We love Australia, and our family's part in the history of it; ancient or recent.

[@Nannie-Short-Legs]

I am Australian and love that you love this song. Us Australians love it. I wish it was our anthem. Thank you for appreciating it. X

[@johnclarke-vs9qe]

Judith was an amazing singer. The boys could really back her and enhance the sound. Great group.

[@chloearmitage9636]

Love it that you can appreciate our music. We are a small country, but we are very proud. We know where we originated from and how and we are still proud. We have a few songs like this and we love them. Look up "I was only 19". It's another one you might like. Love your channel and how you think and react.

[@lauradebruin2396]

I’m an Aussie, brought tears one of my favourite groups that were in the 60’s, no drugs, just beautiful music and Judith’s voice, wowee,

[@julierice100]

Thankyou for your reaction Brought tears to my eyes Judith Durham was the lead singer...beautiful voice I am Australian and live near Sydney NSW

[@MaxPulse1]

The Seekers have been a rock in the music industry. Massive here and in the UK, and Judith has one of the purest voices ever! 60 years of performing!!

[@johnkochen7264]

The Seekers had their heyday in the 60’s, a time that performers actually had to perform. Talent, commitment and hard work instead of computers and autotune.

[@heatherpayne78]

I still cry every time I hear this - love it. Especially at the ANZAC day services or on Australia Day in the afternoon when I'm watching classic Aussie TV. Makes you feel all patriotic & whatnot. The Seekers are(were) awesome.

[@Artyshell53]

Seriously should be our anthem. Western Australia sends love 🥰💖

[@aussieginger1960]

Agreed I really don't know all of Advance Australia Fair but I know every single word of this song and have no choice but to sing along,

[@pepifogarty5016]

Totally agree this should be our National Anthem

[@davidjohnston7512]

100% this should be our national anthem..

[@marianjeffrey8684]

Agree.

[@tommihail2178]

One of them along "I still call Australia Home"..The choice should be taken by us the public in a referendum instead of the pollies..Regardless which anthem I'm a PROUD AUSSIE❤️❤️🙋

[@jamespasifull3424]

You're gonna need to hear Judith Durham (the voice of The Seekers) sing her solo version of Oh Danny Boy. It's perfection! There WILL be tears! 😭😭😭

[@G6JPG]

Yes, it's my favourite of hers too. And when she was at her most beautiful, too.

[@sepp5762]

The video of her very first performance singing Danny Boy is amazing. It here on KZbin, she's very young, about 17.

[@G6JPG]

@@sepp5762 Yes, she's beautiful, and hits the high note ("I'll be _here_ ") not only apparently completely without effort, but also without belting it, as many performers do.

[@coldlakealta4043]

well, James. I accepted your challenge and took a listen. I wanted to pause it half way through to regain my composure. It is on my eternal playlist ... cheers from Canada

[@johnschuh8616]

Have you heard of Deanna Durbin,? huge movie musical figure of the 1940s, Tired of the stupid system she withdrew when she was 30, Star with her version of Danny Boy,