Bonnie Raitt & Jackson Browne "My Opening Farewell"

[@JohnnyCardinale]

Jackson Browne, is, quietly, probably, the best American singer songwriter of all time.

[@stargazer6753]

+ Johnny C. You are absolutely right.

[@dennisatwell2210]

Agreed

[@anthonyparkinson8547]

And so consistent. Listen to his early albums from the seventies and his most recent there is no fall off in quality

[@JohnnyCardinale]

@@anthonyparkinson8547 None

[@jayr526]

I can't agree with this, but he is in the group at the top. I have enjoyed his music for decades. And what a singer. Way better than John Prine.

[@gerarddickson8099]

Who makes music of such beauty anymore? Makes me feel grateful to have grown up in the 70s.

[@fabianomiceli6896]

me too... Born 1954

[@stephenmarceau7872]

Best music decade hands down!

[@darrylpalmer2649]

Right on. Seasoned in 70s folk rock soul.

[@jeffstemen6761]

Amen

[@TheJthelen]

Like wise

[@barrykamin8776]

This seventy year old listens to this music and the tears just seem to come. Thank you JB.

[@Julie-sl3po]

I just turned 70 and I know just what you mean. Jackson Browne is the best that's ever been

[@madprinter]

Yeah, me too at 66... Totally!.

[@ralphdavis9670]

I am 78 and I am freely crying.

[@elizabethkaufman1813]

❤ the older we get the more we understand

[@hiskidkeller]

@@elizabethkaufman1813 Amen

[@JM-wd7uv]

It’s been 45 + years and I still can’t stop listening to him. No other songwriter captures feelings better than JB.

[@lizmargolis5985]

Infinite gratitude to this two amazing artists - Jackson giving Bonnie the spotlight to his beautiful song is priceless. I am forever blessed to have grown up in the 70’s - the best music of my generation.

[@QueerAndUnplugged]

The music of the 60's and 70's is priceless.

[@elizabethhuisman6298]

These two artists are tremendously talented and pure! I love this song, both are so rich. Love Jackson's voice harmony. I love Bonnie's strong and passionate rendition. I love "there's a train every day, leaving either way, there's a world you know...." To be 16 years old and to write so poignantly and wise, Jackson is a truly gifted songwriter. This world would truly be dark without music, singers, songwriters, artists. Truly amazing talent!!!!

[@QueerAndUnplugged]

My God. Bonnie's soaring melody touches the Angels. And then there's the understated beauty of Jackson Browne's harmonies. Simply exquisite.

[@jwattfaqir]

Agree...this duet is the most beautiful one ever. And I was fortunate to hear it live - New Years Eve 1977 in Los Angeles

[@LvilleDude]

Jackson and Bonnie- so many memories, so much emotion. This nearly 72 year old loves them both.

[@oldbeatpete]

(it's been a long road, but a good journey!)😊

[@powers.cj.80]

Two of the best in their prime. Nobody is that good anymore. That performance is an all-time great.

[@myaimistrue100]

This song was written by Jackson Browne when in his early 20s. Bonnie is incredible and this version is beautiful, but even though he wrote this song, it's wonderful how Jackson just takes a back seat to Bonnie and does harmonies, though it's HIS song. To me, that's an artist with integrity. And his songwriting is genius.

[@skismith39]

I couldn't have said it better.

[@MANIMALIZED]

Agree 1000%

[@stargazer6753]

+Amy Bown. It appears that Jackson as usual does a song the way his partner wants it done. I loved seeing the two of them together on stage , what a treat. But with the upbeat tempo, it betrays the true sadness in this song. This song is a true heartbreaker.I agree with every thing you said previously. It is still a great performance.

[@JohnnyCardinale]

Brilliant

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

@Jay May Whew.

[@walterpewen7903]

This is why the 1970's were such a blessed time for music. No other decade produced as many incredible genres for people to enjoy. This kind of songwriting more or less passed with the decade. It's not just because I grew up with it, it really in many was was the peak in American music all around.

[@Hardcore3DaysGrace]

Actually, it is just because you grew up with it. Not that the music wasn't good. It's just that everyone feels that way about the music that was popular when they came of age.

[@65minimom]

Walter Pewen - Folk music 60s, Peter Paul & Mary, Bob Dylav

[@walterpewen7903]

Stu Raymond No, I don't think so. I've listened to popular music since the early 60's I graduated hs in 76. Overall, the best WRITING was in the 60's and 70's. If you were there you may remember. Music meant everything to a lot of us. I'm a native Californian who watched it all go down here. No compare, before or since

[@jackmckinney4110]

I am about nine years your senior and I couldn't agree with you more. The sixties had their genius as well with the Beatles and the rest of the British invasion, the memorable music from Motown, and the early acid rock. But the seventies had massive amounts of material coming from LA recording studios and Muscle Shoals studios. You can't discount Joni Mitchell, Hall and Oates , James Taylor, and a list of megabands that emerged at the time with gospel, folk, southern,light, and country rock influences. Truly an amazing time to be alive.

[@pjl92668]

Walter Pewen b

[@lawrencebassen6901]

I'm married now some 42 years to my wonderful wife. Our first date was seeing Jackson Browne at the Felt Forum in NYC. Since that night we've been to see him 15 times. I first saw Bonnie Raitt perform at Carnegie Hall as the opening act of an amazing triple Bill; Bonnie back in the days when Freebo played bass for her, and John Hall was on lead guitar that night. He stayed on for the 2nd band, which was Orleans! The headliner was Jackson Browne! I've been a professional musician for 58 years now. I play guitar, bass, keyboards, drums, and sing and write and record my own songs, playing and singing all the parts myself. So i think I'm qualified to say the following; I have never heard a more perfect performance of a perfect song by two of the most exquisite artists of our time! The subtle changes in the lyrics from Jacksons' version, the unusual harmonies added by Jackson, his gracious ability to surrender his masterful choice of words to her and add additional guitar parts in just the right places, all reveal the artistry these two obviously great friends bring to the table. Thank you for this shining example of what music can be at it's best. I have been and continue to be in awe of you both. And best of all, we're all still alive & well, and still performing! 💓

[@ralphdavis9670]

Bonnie Raitt captures the frailty of men better than anyone.

[@ralphdavis9670]

And also, the heart ache of women.

[@mjtala]

And, yet, Jackson Browne wrote these lyrics.

[@wb7997]

These two together... treasure.

[@thinwolf4516]

I covered this song in my younger days. It is still one of the most beautiful, saddest songs I know. This is one of the top two performances of it that I have heard in some 50 years. Thank you Jackson, for enduring beauty.

[@thinwolf4516]

What a privilege to have come across this video!

[@lauradewey5748]

You'd think that he wrote it just for her. Both are so amazingly good. I've been so lucky to have seen them both in concert multiple times. They just give their all to the audience. You'd think that they were singing directly to you alone.

[@ssalerno9200]

I just sang it the other night solo and am so awestruck by its quiet beauty. They are both treasures.

[@cathydew]

What a gift to get to see and hear these two greats perform together! Wow...

[@deanpippitt3170]

IM,69 YRS OLD TODAY, AND I CANT HELP THE TEARS THAT CLOUD THESE EYES LISTENING TO MY YOUTH ALL OVER. LOVE JACKSON BROWNE TODAY AS MUCH AS 50 YRS AGO. BONNIE RAITT STILL MAKES ME MELT, AND THE TWO OF THEM TOGETHER IS MESMERIZING. WISH THERE WAS A WAY TO LET THEM KNOW HOW THEY TRULY HAVE ENRICHED MY LIFE ALL THIS TIME AND I HOPE FOR MANY YEARS TO COME.

[@wasabiginger6993]

As a Boomer looking back I am so grateful that the music of the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s defined my world!

[@johnriggs2850]

I can count on one hand the number of songs that bring tears to my eyes.........this is one.

[@christinamcclurg2951]

Did me too.

[@CCRider-if7mw]

Yep....

[@tjwash2]

It’s so relatable. Who hasn’t been in this part of a burnt out relationship? Brilliant.

[@jimwegrzyn6358]

Always. It's amazing. So poignantly sad. Perhaps that's it. We've all been there. Lowest common denominator.

[@derekwood91]

There is simply nothing better than watching musicians at the top of their game, making what's incredibly difficult seem effortless. I absolutely love both of these people for what they have given over the years. Beautiful!

[@SirBloodnyt]

Bonnie is such a gifted artist. And to hear Jackson's amazing guitar work and brilliant harmonies with her makes this a perfect performance!

[@alancrompton4330]

Jackson & Warren, the soundtrack of my 1970s. And what a beautiful version this is.

[@RichBobo]

These two should have done more together - what a beautiful rendition of Jackson’s poignant song!

[@elghoutibrahimi7593]

Jackson Browne a legend

[@QueerAndUnplugged]

THIS is what the internet CAN be. Jackson Browne...& Bonnie Raitt.

[@rayokoa222]

but in the end can only cry

[@kenac64]

This is one of the best things I've ever heard. Seriously.

[@pattyhurley7966]

Moves me to tears over all the years. Two Legends

[@risakarr6960]

i’ve played this song over and over again and never get tired of it. beautiful lyrics and music

[@edwardtaub1988]

I think he's one of America's best song writers. Love you, Jackson Browne.

[@tomcoryell]

I’ve cried more tears over Bonnie Raitt songs than any other.

[@tjwash2]

tomcoryell listen to Louise. Maybe not a tear jerker but such a well told sad story.

[@susanrichard1653]

@@tjwash2 lawyer Louise, and nurse practitioner that l was blocked from. Both of you were love and compassion and l will never forget

[@chicken2jail545]

This one. Louise. Dimming of the Day, and of course Angel From Montgomery. Music can't get much better than that.

[@grantbentley4177]

Shows Jackson also knows the power of harmony skillfully delivered.

[@keithsimpson8335]

Listening to Jackson Browne or Bonnie Raitt albums back in the seventies, became a special time for me.

[@bonnieboswell6607]

I saw this concert in 1973 I believe in the old Boston Gardens. On a VERY snowy winter night my friends and I took off and drove the 150 miles to Boston in an old 60's something VW bug. NO HEAT, but the Grand Marnier kept us from freezing on the way down, the glow of this great concert kept us alive on the way back to the mt's of New Hampshire. Sweet memories

[@davidreynolds1368]

Yup..the places us northern new england kids would go back then in our old ..no heat!! vw bugs with the grand marnier..or somethin similar to keep us warm and with no adult supervision to speak of:) but.. those bugs, no heat and all were BEASTS in the snow!!

[@JeanetteFaith]

I first saw Jackson Browne in early 1974......his Opening Act was Bonnie Raitt!!! It was a great concert!

[@mimimimi377]

Bonnie is my all time favorite singer. Love Jackson Browne also☺️

[@waldosgrade]

Me too! At the Berkeley Community Theater.

[@1tishhead]

one of the saddest breakup songs ever. the glances exchanged between the two old friends at the end are priceless.

[@christinamcclurg2951]

Yep. Have been here...

[@tjwash2]

This gives me chills. A relationship full of ambivalence can be such a painful place to be. The emotions are so brilliantly captured here.

[@jimwegrzyn6358]

And we've all been there. For everyman...and woman.

[@ritabailey1742]

Have been a fan for decades

[@mirandalivingston8737]

Such a beautiful way to say " moving on" with a smile and warmer kiss on the forehead.

[@patti-joandersen9523]

I grew up in the 70s. I graduated in 1982, and wrote my senior term paper on Jackson Brown. His music, lyrics. Got an A. Saw him in NYC, celebrating his 60th birthday.

[@joeseeking3572]

I was not mature enough in 1982 to write a term paper of Jackson Browne's lyrics. Instead I scrawled the lyrics to Fountain of Sorrow on my maybe ex-girlfriend's locker in an attempt to explain me, us, and fading hope. Got her back for a time, but this was high school, and I eventually could not compete with someone who was - in our 17year old brains - more worldly.

[@davidross6954]

Beautiful! Just absolutely a beautiful duet!

[@Stringman1950]

Just love this. My Jackson ... my Bonnie. True legends. And the song is glorious.

[@mpowers2377]

I never get tired of this. These 2 together are extra special❤️

[@toddcuster3557]

Two of my favorite singers and one of my favorite songs. I must be in heaven.

[@elghoutibrahimi7593]

Jackson Browne the best of the best

[@lnl3237]

Back when I was a teen in the 70's, liked "my music" but was obsessed with old movies of the 30's and 40's and the big bands and American songbook. I was thrilled when Linda Ronstadt entered her Nelson Riddle phase. Found my way to a movie theater last September to see the documentary on her life, and since then, thanks to KZbin and Alexa, have been revisiting old acquaintances and making them good friends. Enjoying it all, but this ...this...Bonnie Raitt and Jackson Browne, acoustic guitars and a melancholy melody, well, for me, it's the singer-songwriter equivalent of watching Astaire and Rogers trip the light fantastic. Thank you so much for posting.

[@joe-vz6hx]

another big thumbs up on LR's Nelson Riddle albums - she really got me going on a lot of the old classics

[@markking2766]

I do believe that a movie could be created around the feelings generated by this song. Melancholic, dark and moody...with a dash of hope. Best version ever...thank you both.

[@lnl3237]

@@markking2766 "...a dash of hope," the secret ingredient.

[@rayokoa222]

God. What a heartbreaking song.

[@oldfisherman5112]

I had the pleasure of seeing both these artists multiple time and saw them do this song together twice.

[@ConstantGardener-q9q]

There is such a profound melancholy in this songbook that JB wrote and BR so often sang. The memories bring me to tears

[@tobypuente8841]

Ya, this one brings a tear or two...and Bonnie's voice (just like her Papa-real strong and full), does such justice to the words Jackson wrote. I love her so much

[@aphillips1987]

a big part of professionalism is not breaking down and sobbing while you sing a song of such beautiful magnitude, a truly stellar composition in every sense, the most tender imagery, the most touching lyrics. That's professional.

[@dougmisantoni4384]

a phillips World Class....

[@tomcoryell]

They got the tears out in rehearsal.

[@nancyboyd6273]

This is my latest song I'm learning to play. It was easier when the hubby was alive. He was so great LOVED CJB taught me so many of his songs. I sure wished we would have done this one. He loved CJB. We played many of his songs. I miss him soooo. Songs like this make me cry buckets.

[@feraldiva]

Tears my heart out every time. Saw this live and cried the whole time. Pure magic.

[@melaniemarshall6942]

Emotional indeed for me too.. I agree with you.. Pure Magic.. Cheers! Xo

[@petertatiner3167]

What a tender, moving, lovely song. Perfect duet.

[@susanrichard1653]

Gentleman as always

[@triumph6600]

That is true artistry by two people who are truly touched by this great song, and by each other’s passion for it. I love these two.

[@seandunn3116]

The greatest duet ever!

[@susandeason1356]

So beautiful. I’m glad I found this

[@jacksonbrowne-de2fu]

Hello 👋 Susan How're you doing, it's been a long journey, and I'm nothing without amazing fans like you who appreciate my musical craftiness, All love to you and yours ❤️

[@richardcheatham9490]

Good grief! How many times am I going to watch this? Lovely harmony, such a sad harmonica; just beautiful.

[@jerrycarnes5412]

Richard Cheatham

[@Fuphyter]

Goosebumps and tears...so hauntingly beautiful

[@jacksonbrowne-de2fu]

Hello 👋 Fuphyter How're you doing, it's been a long journey, and I'm nothing without amazing fans like you who appreciate my musical craftiness, All love to you and yours ❤️

[@QueerAndUnplugged]

I was lucky to be in the audience for this show...THANK YOU Jackson (and Bonnie) for giving me backstage passes and access.

[@jenniferdibuono]

QueerAndUnplugged Jealous. So jealous.

[@VivalaVida000]

Jay Dee Me too!

[@QueerAndUnplugged]

Austin City Limits!

[@edhalfen7380]

One of favorite Jackson Browne songs and Bonnie does so PROUD

[@tributetomama]

This is one of my favorite top ten songs of all time. I’ve followed Jackson and Bonnie since the 70’s and their music brings me back to my younger days when anything was possible. I lived this song along with many others of JB’s. Thank you Jackson for bringing me incredible joy through your music.

[@nitaalmand4264]

so sweet. they look at each other with love, appreciation and wonder.

[@christinamcclurg2951]

Yes, beautiful!

[@Lawrence-ks5vi]

Beautiful ,soft, gentle.Perfect art.We thank god that he can give us such unassuming but perfect talent.

[@LorenBaldwin-zu9jq]

This song was made for Bonnie’s voice & playing style…beautiful! Great lyrics by JB.

[@kaleokaden667]

I’ll never forget the first time I heard this so beautiful so sad a masterpiece

[@philipmacdonald6080]

Been so fortunate to see her about dozen times always so deeply personal in her Music Best Example Nick of time Song and Album

[@wncmtngirl]

Good Lord, this song makes me ugly cry and sling snot. Heart breakingly beautiful. Love these two so much!

[@johnlocker9020]

Most beautiful thing I ever heard

[@chmael55]

I got to see them at Universal Amphitheater in 1977. Great performers, great concert!!! How lucky all for all who grew up with the music of the 60's and 70's. Makes me ache for the loss of that connection.

[@albybak8989]

I absolutely have chills --- tears and chills --- I cannot even speak

[@mikeallen7537]

You know there are some performances that you can listen to over and over. Intensity and honesty trump slick production and great audio quality every time. Every time. Thank you jack thank you Bonnie for filling so many of the empty spaces in my life.

[@bdmcmonk6447]

the 70's. ahhhhhh, I was in love with this guy.............what a troubadour

[@raymondkomorowski1832]

There is almost no more beautiful feeling when you have chance to sing Harmony, it's even greater somehow man and woman, and the to add this beautiful song, these talented people....wow! First song I heard Bonnie was singing Harmony with Jackson on song "the times you've come" and when she comes charging in fir her first chorus, I still get goosebumps every time I hear it!....40 years later!

[@elroyaston6277]

Are you kidding me? it just don't get no better n this. Thank you. Saw em both in Houston in the 70s

[@Razorzzful]

Yes sirree Billy Bob. Live at best...

[@joaniezahn4971]

It just doesn't get ANY BETTER!!

[@kathleenbutton6599]

Love this version! Beautiful harmonies.

[@kathrynsonbergh7370]

❤ Two perfect legends❤

[@RepChrisWalsh]

The incomparable Bonnie Raitt opened up for Jackson Browne on New Years Eve in 1977...she started this beautiful song...he joined her after the first verse. goosebump inducing. memorable NYE with my dear dear friends Melinda and Elizabeth. And I actually had the opportunity to mention it to her at a Springsteen concert...she sat in front of me.

[@lupcokotevski2907]

Trivia: Jackson Browne was Laura Nyro's support act and boyfriend 1970/71. He wrote the song 'That Girl Could Sing' about Nyro.

[@ericbennion2128]

Or was it about Valerie Carter, the awesome backup singer who recently left us!?!?

[@fauxfurr]

That girl could sing I believe was for the Amazing Valerie Carter. Laura was also amazing but that song was Val's.

[@stargazer6753]

After Valerie Carter died Spring 2017, Jackson said that it was indeed for Valerie Carter that he had written "That Girl Could Sing". In the past it had been rumored that "That Girl Could Sing" was written about Joni Mitchell or Laura Nyro. He said he had been crazy about Valerie and had loved her for years.(Look for recent videos). That being said, this song is "My Opening Farewell". He probably wrote this somewhere around age 17 or 18, maybe older.What a lyrical song . Just the words "there's a way to go ", when there is a breakup. Does that not just say it all, with tears in your eyes. Some other versions are more solemn and sad than this one, as in his first album. Because he is with his long time friend Bonnie Raitt , it has a different tone.

[@tamaracline5739]

@@lupcokotevski2907 nope. He wrote That Girl Could Sing about Valerie Carter

[@starlitblond]

Baby stands before an open window Looking so far away He can almost feel the southern winds blow Gently touching his restless day He turns from his window to me Sad smile his apology Sad eyes reaching to the door Daylight loses to another evening Still he spares me the words goodbye Sits alone beside me fighting his feelings Struggles to speak but in the end can only cry Suddenly it's so hard to find The sound of the words to speak his troubled mind So I'm offering these to him as if to be kind There's a train everyday leaving either way There's a world you know There's a way to go I'll soon be leavin', it's just as well This is my opening farewell A child's drawings is left there on the table And a woman's silk is lying on the floor I would keep them here if I were able To lock you safe behind this open door Suddenly it's so clear to me That I'd asked you to see what you may never see Now my kind words find their way back to me There's a train everyday leaving either way There's a world you know Got a way to go I'll soon be leavin' it's just as well This is my opening farewell This is my opening farewell ♡♡♡

[@jshelledy1]

Thank you.

[@tomcoryell]

Yes thanks

[@nancyrodgers735]

Yes indeed...thank you

[@starlitblond]

@@jshelledy1 You are so welcome Jim!!

[@starlitblond]

@@tomcoryell Thank YOU Tom!

[@4483kathy]

Cry every time I hear this song. So beautiful.

[@softailspringer9915]

Folks, this is a gift to we mere mortals

[@stuntbaby63]

Bonnie and Clyde are awesome!

[@paultuvman5267]

What a moment!..iconic tune done so beautifully..thank you Bonnie and Jackson!!!

[@francoisbouvier7861]

Treasures. Absolute Treasures.

[@clarkjones7765]

Wow, what a find! I'm proud to say Bonnie and I went to the same super small High School in upstate NY. Unfortunately she graduated 10 years before I got there. Jackson Browne is one of my all times favs. Would love to have seen him and Joni Mitchell play together.

[@MarkStults]

A classic - pure poetry !

[@benvanbuskirk117]

this song literally brings me to my knees. weeping.

[@michaeldonovan2460]

I m glad I was a fan the first time I heard saturate

[@suzanneemerson2625]

The album was not called saturate. It was called Jackson Browne. In the photo, there is a woven burlap water bag behind his head. People would fill those with water and hang them on the front grill of their car when they were driving in hot weather so that the air flowing into the engine would be cooled. The instructions were to saturate the bag before filling it, hence the words “saturate before using” printed on the bag. When the bag was saturated, the fibers it was made from would swell and the fabric would become very tight and not leak. Then you could fill it with water and hang it on your car in front of the radiator to keep the engine from overheating while driving. Back in the day, you would see those on the fronts of cars in Southern California when it was hot. Makes sense that Jackson, living there, had one. The photographer decided it would look good as a background for a photo of Jackson for the album cover. He didn’t realize people from elsewhere wouldn’t know that wasn’t the title of the album, but simply instructions for the use of the bag. But … what in the world did people who didn’t know about water bags, and thought the words “saturate before using” were the title, think it meant? Saturate the record before playing it? Saturate the singer before listening . They must have thought it was a crazy title. Anyway, the title of Jackson Browne’s first album is “Jackson Browne.”

[@kimwatson7463]

This rendition is so beautiful! I saw them at Red Rocks together with David Lindley and someone for the life of me I can’t remember. It was a magical!

[@tommymcghee3778]

I witnessed these 2 awesome singer song writers preforming together back in the 2000’s in Sydney Capital Theatre so beautiful harmony these to troubadours of the past Beautiful melodies

[@makissoflife]

Two musical greats together on one stage...so good.

[@msmithrandir561]

Best Friends.....Beautiful Duet....Jackson's song

[@radkid06]

Classic. Can't get much better than this folks.

[@bubbathebulldog]

Can listen to this over and over!

[@patrickhenrypdx5355]

I grew up when Jackson Browne ruled the FM airwaves, but I learned of this incredible song from the album "Paper Airplane" by Alison Krauss. She does a beautiful, heartwrenching version. ❤

[@gebbarodeluca3887]

My two favorites vocalists and guitar players. Brilliant song. Classic all around. This is when music was music.

[@davidroan2775]

"There's a train every day, leaving either way, there's a world, you know, there's a way to go..." Always struck me as a song to be sung at Commencement celebrations...an Opening Farewell.

[@bonniecarpenter7267]

Love this!! Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt -- can't get any better than that!

[@Frivolous2003jessiegeyer]

💜✅love them both 🎉❤perfect poetry and passion

[@kenspitz29]

Fron Jackson Browne ‘s 1st Asylum Album. Thank-you ALL contributors. From 1971 to 2020. “To infinity & beyond !🇺🇸🚀🎼🎸🎻🎹🎤🥁Suddenly, ..

[@nancychace8619]

Pretty song. I had to look it up.

[@KM00Youtube]

Much appreciation for both Bonnie Raitt and Jackson Browne.