British guitarist analyses John Denver's vocal AND song writing quality

Tonight I'm taking a look at the legendary John Denver with his timeless classic!
Original video - • Video
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[@LirienNieve]

I was 16 and my girl friend was 15; she was crazy about John. Her mom said she couldn't go to his upcoming concert unless someone 16 went with her..... Well, I went as a casual listener, since that concert in 1974 (!!) I have been an ardent fan. He was fantastic, no opening act, no nonsense, simply two solid hours of beautiful vocals and excellent songs. He was engaging with the audience, made jokes and everyone had a great experience. Such a shame he passed away.

[@jodidavis6595]

I love your story. Thank you for sharing

[@adriennevanquill1263]

That tour was my very first concert. My parents took us to the UC Davis Rec Hall to see John. I was mesmerized. As you said, two glorious hours; John with the band, John by himself, John with a small orchestra. He is my all-time favorite performer.

[@katehalleron4688]

I was at one of his last concerts about 3 months before his death. He sang straight for 3.5 hours! One of the best songwriters of the 20th century, for sure - so full of hope and love and light. I still miss him.

[@elizabethpowers7540]

He was my very first concert - I was 12 and my father took me. He went way longer than 2 hours - he gave his band a break for several songs right in the middle, but he and his six string just kept going. I have been to dozens of shows since then; I've never been to a better one.

[@tinakercher8768]

@@elizabethpowers7540 I got to go a few times as well and was blown away at what an entertainer he was. He didn't take a break and gave a great, long concert each time. So good.

[@pimark69]

Thanks for giving John some love. Instead of focusing on his talent, many critics of that time chose to make fun of his clean cut image. "Calypso" is my favorite track of his. He was grossly underappreciated.

[@duncansonoryan]

My mother raised me on dear John Denver. He left such a deep impact on my life and outlook. My fave is "I want to live".

[@marianclough8577]

Agree, He was so impressed with Captain Cousteau & the work he did.

[@marthalowe1556]

I think most people liked him, but thought it was uncool to admit it as they bought his records and sang along with him on the radio.

[@tjdomerny4847]

I consider him among the greatest American songwriters of the era.

[@DataPilot370]

Calypso is my favorite, too. His vocals on top of the film clips of Jacques Cousteau make the video special.

[@patriciaadkinskrough9239]

My family saw John Denver in concert. He and the band played for about an hour; then he dismissed the band and he was alone with his guitar for almost another hour. Then the band returned for another 45 minutes or so. A three hour show. Hearing an entire basketball arena SOFTLY singing Annie’s Song brought chills. He was the greatest.

[@seuratguy]

John Denver's death is one that I still mourn. Such a loss.

[@moonharp]

Here, too. 💔

[@debishaw9355]

seuratguy , me, too

[@rnnow1]

seuratguy I was not even 20 yrs old. It felt like my heart broke.

[@lobo81865]

Same here, and Dan Fogelberg as well.

[@shirleymurphy1958]

Sad when he was taken .

[@jessicascott5847]

I love it when you smile during the performance.

[@Diana-gn8rp]

Me too. Such a beautiful smile.

[@onlyqhsrock]

I told him this on another video! I love the way a big smile comes across his face when he’s appreciating the performance he’s watching! His technical music knowledge means he appreciates these performances it on a level that non musical listeners can’t. I also LOVE his VAST knowledge of Rock history! Amazing and gratifying to see a young person appreciate the great classic rock music of the 70’s!

[@2dimples891]

You can tell he appreciates the music so much. Indeed a great smile!

[@lightningbug276]

Me too

[@angelablackthorne3026]

Jessica Scott IKR? Brilliant Smile🌈🌟 I feel I'm appreciating it properly if I'm smiling when Fil smiles too 😃

[@tinaleighton6390]

A friend of mine met John Denver in Aspen Colorado. She was walking her dog in the park and he happened to be in the park also. They sat on a park bench and talked for two hours. She said he was the most down to earth person she’s ever met. I love his music and I was sad the day he died

[@michellefederico4510]

What a wonderful story. It just cements the opinion I’ve always had of him, a genuine, down to earth, kind soul. Thanks Fil, for another respectful analysis and for sharing some things about John Denver I didn’t know.

[@suekelly840]

I listened to the Peter, Paul, and Mary version of this song for many years and I could never figure out its meaning. Why was this woman so sad about leaving her boyfriend? Then I heard John Denver explain that it was originally written for a male singer who is saying good bye as he leaves for his tour of duty in Vietnam, not knowing if he would be coming back to her. The song finally made sense to me. Thanks, Fil.

[@MScislow]

John Denver was like liquid sunshine, all of him, it simply flowed out of him and into the person listening to him, enveloping a person's heart and soul. One of God's gifts to humanity. Absolutely beautiful.

[@knitwits1903]

Liquid sunshine, that is a good description of him. I agree.

[@richardeidemiller6739]

His voice was pure and he wrote some of the most beautiful lyrics ever

[@cindywestlake6278]

Me too!😭

[@thomasweeks7992]

Brings me back to simple times

[@joeheid2776]

@Mason Albert Shut up asshole. Leave politics out of it.

[@TheArtfulAddict]

I loved to listen to his albums as a child. His kind, gentle voice was a comfort during my parent's divorce. Years later, his plane went down on my 30th birthday and I was devastated. I've never gotten emotional over movie stars, etc., but I cried when I heard the news. It was like I had lost a life long best friend. A few days later, my birthday present from my husband was delivered. He had ordered John Denver's double CD the week before, as a surprise. I played both CD's and just layed on the couch and cried. Now, when this cold, divisive world gets to be too much, I'll listen to his music and it rejuvenates my soul. Thanks, John, for everything. ❤

[@timturk]

Few singers surpass what they create in the studio, John Denver was one of those few.

[@HeavenleeMe]

Annie’s Song is one of the few songs that always makes me cry. The words are just lovely and he sang them so beautifully.

[@2dimples891]

HeavenleeMe ...I’ve always said I’d love to find a man who would write such a beautiful love song for me.

[@HeavenleeMe]

Alexis Mahon Absolutely!

[@vandalnonesuch8274]

After he died, his ex-wife, Annie had an interview and noted that she never listens to that song, because she can't stop crying! She preferred "Perhaps Love', which, BTW, featured as a guest vocalist, Placido Domingo, the great opera Tenor - doesn't sound like it would work, but it does, 'cause they aren't trying to outdo each other!

[@rudyredcat425]

It was my mom’s favourite song. I wanted to play it on the piano at her funeral, but i was a mess 😭😭. Still have trouble with it 10 years later. We lost you too soon. 💕💕 and miss you forever mom.

[@yancyneaola1468]

My choir director was a fan of John Denver. So much so that our choir sang Annie"s song. The arrangement was so gorgeous that to this day I still sing the harmony I was taught along with John whenever the song is played. I fell in love with his voice and songs

[@johnrains8409]

With apologies to Don McLean, the music died with John Denver. I cried that day and still get choked up just writing this note. The thing, for me, that made John so great, was not just his voice, or the lyrics, or the guitar playing, but his never failing ability to touch all our hearts with a somehow familiar memory of feelings and emotions we have all experienced in this life's journey.

[@joannaedwards6325]

John Rains Very well put Friend. I say DITTO!

[@moonharp]

Couldn't agree more. 💔

[@margaretgraham4092]

He wrote the soundtrack to a particularly difficult and trying time in my life, so I will always have a special place in my heart for the man and his music.

[@MacPro8CoreMan]

John Rains - I could not agree more. His voice has always just reached in and touched my heart. Loved him from the 1970's and cried when he died.

[@smbake]

Well said. I have said for years the greatest lyrics ever written are 'sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy.' I personally cannot feel anything but good when I hear him sing that.

[@bambamnj]

I always loved John Denver. I so agree with your comments about the uniqueness of his voice. There's never been anyone who sounded or can sing like John Denver. The songs he wrote were just so heartfelt and always brought out those feelings that we often hide away inside us all. What a loss it was when his life ended tragically. His songs are the kinds of songs where you just want to sit in the dark under the night skies and just let his voice take you away. Miss you Henry John Deutschendorf Jr.

[@judydenver5362]

This is really a very touching comment. Thank you so much.

[@Danner-a-gogo]

John’s voice is warm as honey. Comforting, wholesome, and healing in tone. Thank you, John; and thank you, Fil, for your respectful analysis.

[@Mikevdog]

John was not considered "cool", but lots of people secretly loved his music.

[@karenmeyer994]

He was cool for awhile he just got less cool over time. But given all the people at the concert, they weren't that secret about liking him.

[@micheleshelley6156]

So true, and that has always made me so sad! My family were loud and proud John Denver fans!! We had, "An Evening With John Denver," playing on the stereo my dad built constantly.

[@runningdeer2111]

I never understood that, I always thought he was really cool.

[@benpracht2655]

Like a John Mellencamp

[@ronduff4325]

Yep , me .

[@thegreyman4920]

John Denver was so amazing. That voice will brighten anyone's day!

[@stephenbaron5681]

I saw John in 1983 in a small 4K Arena, and being a country farm boy, he touched my heart and soul. Take me home country roads was an anthem to me as I was in 8 th grade when it came out.

[@marleneclausen30]

He gets many accolades for his writing and singing and well deserved. I rarely see him recognized for his playing. He was stellar on the 12-string, a master of the instrument. His concerts were the most wonderful I’ve been to and I saw him in concert so many times I lost track.

[@lisaredding5808]

You are very lucky. I only got to see him once.

[@kristynerosier2734]

Absolutely, one of the best guitar players of all time

[@timshelfer3826]

Amen to that. Very underrated as an acoustic guitarist.

[@maryannanderson7517]

John Denver is another great talent that was taken from us way too soon. I loved his voice and his style. It makes me sad to think of how many songs were undoubtedly still inside him that we will never hear.

[@TheJabernet]

Always loved John Denver. That dude had it all, songwriting, voice, awesome guitar player! This song always made me sad, especially with the haunting irony of his death. R.I.P. John Denver, you're awesome!!

[@ATResidentAlienFan]

He was CUTE too!! As he got older he was handsome as well. ~sigh~❤🎤🎵🎸😍😘😢

[@bethany_dawn5222]

Such a pure voice silenced way to young.

[@tezzrterry7485]

Shame he didn't put fuel in his plane, before taking off.

[@guysmalley]

Tezzr Terry the interesting thing is yes he should have fill up but he had fuel in the second tank. The problem was a design flaw where the transfer switch was located. Behind the seat Second it was a new plane to him so he never had to reach it

[@Inkslinger123]

Did I not read he had alcohol in his system too? I’m sure that’s what the papers were reporting at the time......

[@ingek5196]

@@Inkslinger123 It was reported, and you may have read it. However, this does not mean it was true. It was not, as the coroner's report clealy states.

[@mikebetts2046]

Let's add further to the irony... John Denver was also antagonistic towards the petroleum industry but was found to be storing large amounts of fuel on his property in underground tanks. And then to die from "running out" of fuel... But no knock on his artistry. He was clearly a very bright star.

[@damialle]

John was a brilliant singer/songwriter, we lost him far too soon. His lyrics told wonderful stories, his voice was pure and melodic, and his passion came through in every performance. He certainly left an amazing legacy of music that I still enjoy to this day. Thanks Fil for bringing back great memories.

[@Kirkunik1]

I saw John in concert at an outside amphitheater in the evening....the stars overhead. It was absolutely beautiful. His voice just soared into the heavens. It was magical. RIP John

[@gnpahdc]

I was dragged against my will to a John Denver concert in about 1980 in my high school years. I was into Kiss, Rush, Zeppelin, Floyd, etc., and HATED everything else. John was in the round for about 2 hours, all alone. By the end of the second song I was aware I was in a room with greatness. True greatness. I've seen the Stones, Dead, Rush, Seger, Hooker, BB King, Albert King, SRV and the list goes on. John Denver is on par with all of them, objectively. Taste is another matter entirely, of course. But this man was highly gifted.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Cool!

[@andersonamplificatio]

The mark of a good musician is liking all forms of music. Fil, you are a good musician. Keep up the good work.

[@mysteryjesus]

It is a delight to watch these videos. I completely agree that it is the mark of a good musician to like all forms of music and be open to everything. Too many musicians are limited by only liking one type of music and being arrogant about it.

[@Megan-tm9de]

He has respect for amazing artists. Yes!!

[@janetseidlitz5976]

He was so unique, the music industry did not know what to do with him or how to categorize him. It was really sad, because he was not recognized enough, and we lost him far too soon.

[@88Musk]

I knew him because of my dad and when he passed last year I heard a few of the John Denver songs and though of him. I will always have that association.

[@dianaprobst3157]

John never let vocal stunts overshadow the song. His sincerity, clarity & lyricism could turn even the simplest song into at least something fun (Thank God I'm a Country Boy), & frequently moving to the point of chills (Annie's Song). One of those artists you can listen to on repeat & never tire of it.

[@alterego3525]

It sounds goofy, but one of my favorites is John Denver and the Muppets Christmas show. He does a duet with Rolf and it is fantastic!

[@JOHNWLOUCKS]

no, it's great ! I am 70 and have fond memories of watching it with my daughter when she was little. We also had the album and played it every christmas for many years.

[@jessetamez7362]

One of my very favorite Christmas albums that transcends the holiday. Amazing!

[@curtismartin2866]

Every year, after Thanksging was over and our family piled into our car to head home, that was our first album of the Christmas Season. And for me, it still is.

[@johnboehmer6683]

WOW, if I could give your comment 100 likes, I would!! I thought I was the only one on earth that even knew of that song, much less love it...The very first year that special was on TV, I recorded it on my dinky cassette tape player, and my brother and I would always hack on Miss Piggy for running in screeching about her part in the show to destroy the impossibly touching ending of the song! 😁 I later got a REAL cassette version it, but this early version did not include the song Noel Christmas Eve 1918. When I got the CD about 10 years later, and heard that song, I was blown away all over again! Just incredibly beautiful imagery that captures the Christmas spirit impeccably for me, as it includes the celebration of the season, as well as the birth of Jesus. All to a really beautiful melody and John Denver's powerfully moving vocals. A Baby Just Like You is one of my all-time favorites also, just an awesome CD. Thanks.

[@lethiapage4767]

I love john with the muppets! Did you ever see the garden song? Link to follow.

[@dhutch71]

1971-75 USAF, no money, no T.V., married with baby in '74 - John Denver, Gordon Lightfoot, the Carpenters and several others were are only entertainment. We nearly wore out those LPs.

[@patlarimore6960]

You may not have had a lot of choice to listen to, but what you had was some of the best!

[@greghawkman]

Thank you Dana and Barb for your service to America and the USAF. I appreciate you!

[@markmiller3713]

Gordon Lightfoot is one of my favorites.

[@susanmccain5060]

Ahhh...good times.

[@zigman8550]

@Ziva David His dad was in the USAF.He flew B-58 Hustlers.A supersonic nuclear bomber.

[@elizabethpowers7540]

I'm midddle aged now and Johnn Denver was the first great musical love of my life. I have 6 siblings and music loving parents who all like different types of music, but one of the things that we have all always been able to agree on is that we all love John Denver. It's made me sad to think he might be being forgotten. This video makes me particularly happy because a music professional is pointing out things I have always thought, but don't hear people say. Thank you for appreciating and encouraging others to appreciate the skill that he actually had.

[@casperkittae2651]

Went to a concert of his in 1974. He was fantastic. 2 1/2 hours non stop. The band took about a 20 minute break, but John stayed onstage and just like this played guitar and sang. Was absolutely beautiful.

[@ksshepherd6906]

I love how Fil bobs his head and subtly emotes while he is listening to the song. He feels every note.

[@reeseroberts2587]

The only thing I can add to the excellent comments here, is that, in my opinion, John's songs fell into category of the "high lonesome" musical sound. John's songs could tug at your heart and take you on a journey, like other great singer-songwriters, if not more. He was in a class by himself.

[@wingsofpegasus]

👍

[@AuroraBoarder1]

In one interview, he described his music as Western rather than Country.

[@johnnydtractive]

Reese Roberts, That's a really great insight! Definite connection to artists & voices like Ralph Stanley, the Louvin Brothers, Bill Monroe.

[@vickiburt2676]

But when the trio Peter, Paul & Mary played guitar & sang this song it was really amazingly beautifully done.

[@cydkriletich6538]

As a former singer, I’ve always considered him a “singer’s singer.” His pure, beautiful tenor can soar at times, and nowhere more so than his song “Annie’s Song,” which is not only vocally beautiful, but lovely poetry. I believe every word and note he hits. I also feel a bit of kinship with him because, while he was older than I, our father’s were both stationed at the same Air Force Base in Texas at the same time. Thanks again, Fil.

[@tmctmc-hc5oi]

I don’t cry about celebrities...I cried when he died...clung to his music as a teenager and you know teenagers...I loved him....I grew up but the love for his voice and songs stayed ...I’m tearing up now :(

[@GS-xt8fu]

A voice as clear as the mountain streams he loved so much. Annie’s song.......is it one of the most beautiful songs ever written? Quite possibly John loved to go in to the mountains and some of his best songs came to him as he was at peace with nature. Wonderful. Truly

[@constructivecritique4049]

He was secretly involved in a marijuana grow operation that participated in guerilla warfare tactics while illegally growing the devil's herb in Colorado. Remember Rocky Mountain High? Yeah..... True as the day is long. 🤘🤘🤘

[@louisseanettebotha6981]

We covered Annie's song

[@babyrocasmama]

@@constructivecritique4049 seriously?

[@russbear31]

According to a JD documentary, he wrote "Annie's Song" in about 30 minutes after a fight with his wife (Annie). He actually wrote it while riding on a ski lift, brooding about his wife.

[@CKC411]

I was into punk and then early hip hop and new wave/alternative AND always loved Annie's Song. It is hard to deny talent when looking at art objectively, even if it is not your preferred style. John Denver was talented.

[@lynnemartin2291]

I love that you cover so many genres. Classic John Denver had that velvet sweet voice. This song reminds me when my USA boyfriend was leaving to go home to the US. It still makes me cry. The good news is that he did come back and we have been married for 45 yrs. 😘😘😘again thank you for all the amazing videos you cover. You are the best. We lost John way too soon.

[@k.r.murphy4301]

45 years. I have tears in my eyes.

[@szqsk8]

Katherine Murphy I'm in floods of tears. This song reminds me of my late husband who passed in 2019. We were together for 40 years.

[@nidahogal]

Beautiful! Best wishes on your long marriage.

[@bcaye]

Good for you!

[@bcaye]

@@szqsk8, console yourself with those great years! Not very many people get that.

[@oldladylovesBruno]

You are spot on about his voice control. His voice is mesmerizing. I was a teen and young 20s when John was here. Absolutely was in love with him. I was devastated when he died so young. He was so special. His music was incredible. I still listen to him. Still miss him. Still love him.

[@paulacorreira3943]

Sweet songbird soaring like an eagle.

[@haytguugle8656]

What always impressed me about John's singing is how, even in softer passages, there was power and projection - AND massive breath. No matter how much he projected and held a note (for a long time) the potency of the tone of his voice never waned. You never heard him exhaust his breath at the end of the note; vibrato or no. And even connecting the next line to the previous without taking a breath - and then holding a note out at the end.

[@jeffclark7888]

Agree.

[@rontiemens2553]

Fil, yours are far and away the best music performance analysis videos on KZbin. Or anywhere for that matter. There is not even a close second.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks Ron!

[@donitamcmahan999]

I agree!! And your LOVE for the music is absolutely SHINING as you are listening to the bands

[@chgreenewald]

Agree!

[@Soundhypno]

@@wingsofpegasus Hi Fil, another great sing song writer, the fifth Beatle. from 219 till 450 or so is a good listen! kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqTah35rqM5na68

[@thomasmalatesta7331]

Agree 100% !!!

[@gssheriff7278]

John Denver was great musician and song writer. I remember as a kid in the 1970s there was a lot making fun of John, Mr clean, Mr folk, but the ones who did that were untalented knobs like most of the 1970s crap bands and pop stars. He was himself. He sold millions because the audience knew he wasn't fake and he spoke to them. God bless John Denver.

[@sch7194]

John was drastically underrated...beautiful voice...great storyteller...wonderful human being !!!

[@Robin-gv2he]

He was Huge Back in the 70s! Everyone loved him.

[@brianmusson1827]

Oh John Denver how we miss you and that beautiful music. Another talented singer/songwriter who left us far too early.

[@rp89d28]

One of the greatest voices in the history of voicedom

[@hategreed1]

Equally SUPERB as a songwriter!

[@joeheid2776]

This man was insanely talented. God took him far too early.

[@lauriekane4686]

Whenever I hear John's music, I think of snow, a cabin in the woods, eagles in flight, sailing the seas and anything having to do with nature and the outdoors. We used to listen to his music as we headed up to Stevens Pass for a day of downhill skiing. Brilliant analysis of a brilliant artist BY a brilliant artist! Thanx Fil!

[@AuroraBoarder1]

Laurie Kane - I love the Seattle area, as well as John Denver!

[@jtoland2333]

Ah! A Washingtonian!

[@lethiapage4767]

John was a genius and I am still grieving him. I am crying right now! Hahhah God bless him. John was the first artist I was crazy about. Like proper bananas. I was about 6 I guess. I came from a really music loving family. I had hippie cousins who got me into Steely Dan and Joni Mitchell. My dad loved the cowboys like Marty Robbins. My mom played piano for church and listened to Mills Bros and Sam Cooke. But we all loved John Denver. And he quickly became very important to me as my fav musician among many many many in my home. I soon enough found my own favs too from watch wokfman jack and the midnight special. John got overshadowed a bit when I learned about Rod Stewart. With some like ain't love a bitch and hot legs it was all my mother could do to keep me saved and I know she really wished I was still in love with John? Anyway John still has a huge place in my heart. And in a curious turn of events my dad passed away in 1996. My mom moved to Texas and I went with her. The morning we got to my grandparents house after two days driving, I woke up and my mom carefully told me about his plane crash. I couldn't function for hours. Thanks so much for posting this. Another tidbit about this particular song is that my dad traveled for his work and for a time I had a very hard time when he was gone. He used to play me that song when he left. So anyway rambling now. So many memories. I'm happysad now.

[@joannaedwards6325]

Dear Lethia Page Thank you for your comment. I enjoyed reading it. Your family sounds great. Thinking about John Denver and/or hearing him ALWAYS MAKES ME EMOTIONAL TOO. Besides deep sadness I GET SO ANGRY AT HIM FOR FLYING THAT STUPID PLANE. ARRRRG!!!!!

[@texaz58]

John's pure ringing tenor was taken from us way to soon. He even did a duet once with Karen Carpenter on a tv special. I would have loved to have more of those two voices together. I have not seen anyone doing reactions to my other all time favorite singer, Anne Murray. She started out labeled as a country artist then enjoyed great success as a crossover performer. I think of her as a singer. She sang songs that you loved to hear over and over again. I hope that you or someone else shares some of her music with us.

[@gregganderson5458]

tesaz58 - John Denver and Karen Carpenter had such beautiful chemistry together, so warm and tender, and I love how he kissed her so sweetly and gently.

[@scottsteeves]

I am not ashamed to say I own John Denver albums. He was a great entertainer.

[@yourontheair]

enjoyed George Burns movie

[@yangerjamir0906]

You should be proud. JD was a legend.

[@TexasMagnolia]

He and Glen Campbell

[@Sleepy_Alligator]

No reason to be ashamed. John Denver was an extraordinary, legendary talent. Amazing guitar player, otherworldly singing voice, and a great song writer. Greatly missed, I hope he is resting easy...

[@thomasweeks7992]

He was also a great guy had his demons but a good human being

[@vintagebrew1057]

John wrote another beautiful song called "This Old Guitar" that any musician can relate to. Thanks Fil.

[@XxStratAttackxX]

I wish we still had Mr. Denver. If I could bring back 1 legend, it would have to be him. He was the most beautiful and bold voice in music that I can remember. He was so much more than a singer though. John lived his life on a mission to better serve the human race. He was the all American boy. It's sad to see that his life isn't celebrated as much as other great musicians that left us too early. He's just my all time favorite, but even my dad born in the year 1960 doesn't see what was so special about him. It's so strange. I see John as the biggest underdog in the music hall of fame.

[@kfgrip]

Never met John Denver but his voice and mannerisms. His way of speaking so softly but with an earnest conviction tells me that he was a very nice guy and a decent human being. Its a shame we lost him too soon but he loved to fly,and you should never suppress what you love.

[@timothysandvik6865]

When John died, he had such an impact on people he interacted with, even his ex wives were devastated. He was not perfect, and had his faults, but generally was into the environment and his loved ones, kids, fans, etc. hHe also had a song, Calypso, dedicated to Jacques Cousteau and saving the sea and marine life. That song is typically awesome.

[@dtucker4463]

Yes, Calypso. He did so many amazing songs, they slip in and out of memory till you hear them again and they absolutely take you to your knees ...

[@thomasweeks7992]

Saw him in concert 2 weeks before met him a nice guy asked me about myself and what I thought of the concert.

[@jimmccusker3155]

Fil - you nailed it with this analysis. John Denver's vibrato control is just so smooth and in such good control while controlled with his impressive figer style guitar playing. He makes it look easy. It's NOT.

[@tm1830]

How 34 people could give this a “thumbs down,” I’ll never know. John Denver is one of the best guitarists, Singer/songwriters ever. I have always enjoyed his music. Thank you for a wonderful critique of his work. I love your reviews!

[@meganwilliams2962]

Tone deaf? Idiots?

[@janicesnyder9305]

Jealousy

[@sheelfjohnson]

Contrarians. They're the worst. ☺

[@romarobbins270]

When John died, I cried for days, and I still miss him... a person I had never met. I’m not one to Stan on people, but I did for John Denver.

[@ninaholmes4120]

Thank you, Phil, for this beautiful tribute to John Denver. I loved him from the beginning and your very kind words have eased my pain...even now. I didn't know that about the fuel switch. Thanks for enlightening us about that awful tragedy. Yes, you do have a killer smile😊

[@genedandy]

Taken from us way too soon. A voice like no other. Didn’t need a band to back him up. Man could do it all on his own. Respect ✊

[@hashtag415]

🎵You fill up my senses 🎵Like a night in a forest *Sheer Poetry*

[@vitahealth.2372]

#Hashtag aha.

[@alanna8983]

@FiatDuster Oh booo! Not Annie's Song!!😮

[@GalegHelross]

Annie's Song gets me every time.

[@helenelatzanichsestito18]

One of the songs that always make me cry, so pure and beautiful

[@cyl742]

@FiatDuster So fun what appeals to people, it was my favorite.

[@Sweetumsitl]

😢 ♥ I love John so much. One of the clearest most beautiful male voices I've ever heard in my life. Didnt need any backing, no special effects, nothing. What breaks my heart is that I won tickets to his concert at Red Rocks in Colorado in the 90s, but was unable to go because I couldn't afford the trip there. Thank you for highlighting this amazing artist ♥ Also hurts my heart that he was snubbed at those country music awards due to not being country enough, and he was such a sweet soul. Annie's song is one of the most beautiful love songs of all time, in spite of the reason he wrote it. It tears my heart out every single time! Btw he was just genuine and sweet in the movie 'Oh God' with George Burns, without any acting training he did a great job.

[@cjcal2674]

John Denver really did have the lot as a musician. Excellent song writer, brilliant lyrics, very skilled guitarist and an incredible voice. He was fabulous.

[@peterrabbit4034]

I saw john Denver on a talk show years ago (maybe Johnny Carson?) where he told about the first time he heard Peter, Paul and Mary's version on his car radio. He was so flabbergasted that he had to pull over to the side of the road to avoid getting into an accident.

[@yaelrar.4460]

Annie's song and his eagle song are just so beautiful and timeless.

[@alanna8983]

Why Yaelra, I'd think you'd be against John Denver. After all, he was almost a communist with his environmental awareness and social activism.

[@truckerkevthepaidtourist]

so is his beautiful duet with a young almost unknown at the time Olivia Newton-John Fly Away

[@alanmackinnon3516]

@@alanna8983 why should politics need to come into it? Just enjoy the man and his music.

[@alanna8983]

@@alanmackinnon3516 This comment is related to another thread on another video. You haven't read those so this is out of context.

[@alanmackinnon3516]

@@alanna8983 sorry, I do apologise.

[@springsogourne]

No one lifts me like John. You can tell he loved life.

[@tonkacola]

I’m not a musician and don’t know much about the technical aspects of this creative artistry. I simply love music and am fascinated by watching guitarists play and sing. I am learning a lot from your videos. What I love about you is the way you seem to derive the same innocent joy and love of great music yet you are are able to dig deep into the production and teach us. Thank you so much. You are a treasure.

[@youtubingwithyou]

What RCA did to John Denver, dropping him from their record label, was shameful. This absolutely crushed John. I’ll never be able to wrap my head around why RCA did this to one of the best country singer-songwriters of all time.

[@teriw56]

Political conflict.

[@jimjohngirard]

I had a chance to meet John after his concert in Ceritos, CA in May of 1997. I was doing graduate work in southern California and had the chance to go back stage after the concert.... 5 short months later, he was gone... Fil, it would be great if you did another analysis of John on the 12 string.... maybe his rendition of the "Bells of Rymney"....or the dynamic "The Eagle and the Hawk"....just sayin'. Thanks so much for your channel, it is captivating...

[@nosoupforyou425]

Johns passing was and is a darkness in the music industry. His powerful, clear voice was unmatched! And his ability to convey wonderful moments in time is unsurpassed. That was the worst fall news 😔 and a sad end of a wonderful person.

[@Sheerkat7]

I saw one of the last concerts he gave before he died. So sad. He had such a sweet, pure presence.

[@1satisfiedmind]

John's Rocky Mountain High came out as I entered my teens. That song inspired awe and wonder and just made me feel good. He really was one of the best. I live in Colorado now, and can honestly say that to this day when i look out at the mountains that song plays in my mind, i smile and think of that song as my own story.

[@rosmeeker1964]

This old guitar taught me to sing a love song It showed me how to laugh and how to cry It introduced me to some friends of mine And brightened up some days It helped me make it through some lonely nights Oh, what a friend to have on a cold and lonely night This old guitar gave me my lovely lady It opened up her eyes and ears to me It brought us close together And I guess it broke her heart It opened up the space for us to be What a lovely place and a lovely space to be This old guitar gave me my life, my living All the things you know I love to do To serenade the stars that shine From a sunny mountainside And most of all to sing my songs for you I love to sing my songs for you Yes, I do, you know I love to sing my songs for you Songwriters: John Denver This Old Guitar lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc, Reservoir One Music

[@nedradavis292]

My favorite JD song!

[@johnboehmer6683]

@@jennifursun3303 , Looking for Space lS awesome, only outdone in my book by ln the Grand Way and Prisoners. Maaaybe Like a Sad Song also.

[@johnboehmer6683]

@@oldermusiclover yup yup

[@chrispavlich9656]

jennifur sun Some place cool and green and shady. And Matthew.

[@vickiburt2676]

Ros, what a great share of his poetry! TY

[@siobhanroberts8627]

This was a beautiful, respectful analysis of one our histories most beautiful talented compassionate Souls. I am so thankful that you can appreciate the skills and talent of an older generation. I was soooo afraid you were going to trash him. I still miss his presence... he is incomparable and irreplaceable. Thank you for an enjoyable breakdown of this wonderful mans music. Bless you.

[@kristynerosier2734]

Thank you for such a wonderful memorial for John. ❤️

[@SallyBedow]

His performances were so clear and crisp. And audiences sat in awe when he sang.

[@daydreambeliever6603]

The world is a sadder place without gentle John. I miss him.

[@matthewjamestaylor]

Great video! When I was studying voice (35 years ago) I found so many opera people with a secret stash of John Denver albums. He was the opera singer's guilty pleasure. :) Cheers.

[@danieltrickey9285]

Pavarotti sang with him on "Perhaps Love". John held his own with this mega opera singer.

[@kennyfrien-i]

@@danieltrickey9285 Actually it was Placido Domingo, who was one of the great "Three Tenors" trio with Pavarotti. But point taken! :)

[@danieltrickey9285]

@@kennyfrien-i You're right. Thanks.

[@phillipecook3227]

I can understand why. It's rare to find a live voice in pop/rock which combines overall control of phrasing, breath, diction and vibrato.

[@susanpohlers2638]

I saw John Denver in concert twice; once was THIS acoustic tour that he did (started in Australia and ended up over here in the U.S.) and let me tell you it was truly spell-binding. Just him & two guitars, one six string and one twelve string. I think his unique voice blended so well with guitar, the tone and vibrato of his voice melting into the vibrations of the guitar strings that worked so well for him. The last time I saw him was with a full band and he was still fantastic but this totally acoustic concert still lives on in my memory as truly a magical experience.

[@scrappydude1]

I saw a similar concert in 1984. He was magnificent. 2-1/2 hrs of just him, all alone, and 10,000 of us who all individually felt the whole thing was just for you!

[@leslieortenzi8875]

I saw him in concert just once and the stage was overflowing with musicians. It was impressive, but the purity and simplicity that I cherish in John Denver was buried in the instrumentation and innovations. I think there was even a didgeridoo!

[@joselevicanasenjo2171]

I would have loved to be there

[@cathymoore8775]

Me and my Mom loved John . He has a beautiful voice! I cried for days when his ultralight plane crashed. He was a very experienced pilot and they now think he needed to change fuel tanks and his experimental plane had to reach behind his seat to change tanks and he ran out of gas. He wrote dozens of beautiful inspirational songs! My Moms favorite was Sunshine on My Shoulders and when she was dying of cancer I played it and other John Denver songs for her many times. I still have the People magazine with him on the cover when he passed away. He was an environmentalist, philanthropist, and very generous loving person!

[@jamescarter8421]

He was a symbol for so much....peace, love, joy. Man we need a guy like him again.

[@justMe-zl4pu]

Fil

[@shanemccormick6072]

I guarantee he'd be an advocate for legalizing marijuana across the country

[@alanna8983]

@@shanemccormick6072 you better believe he would have. He would be giddy over the way Colorado has benefited from it.

[@JohnSmith-mk8hz]

Autotune is jealous of John's voice.

[@Wellch]

Autotune should be illegal although it could not help Yoko Ono...

[@tamarabradshaw4799]

Absolutely

[@tamarabradshaw4799]

@@Wellch Not possible to make her sound good.

[@garywilson3308]

Madonna's so bad live compared to her auto tuned CDs. The greats can reproduce their studio work or even better it. John Denver is one of the greats!

[@BigEightiesNewWave]

@@garywilson3308 The Virgin Tour was live and sounded great early 80s

[@kathymcdonagh7508]

John Denver, what can one say? I’m in love! He was a beautiful man inside and out He looked like he was made of gold🌟Shiney gold! Sooo gifted too Wow

[@catherinebrown1902]

Yes he was purely beautiful. I loved him.

[@jackkilman8726]

John Denver made everything he did sound effortless. It's nice to see his music being rediscovered and getting the respect it deserves.

[@markboyer6380]

John is the perfect example of a truly God given talent. He was amazing. He sings his songs so authentically that he transfers so much of his emotion to the listener. That one can bring tears to the eyes. Thanks Fil. Great vid with great analysis. Keep up the good work.

[@unity1016]

Definitely a lovefest going on here for me with John. I love his work. Another connection with conservation was with Jacques Cousteau, which brought about "Calypso".

[@user-qr8ki8ue4i]

Calypso is my favorite.

[@ladybear1103ify]

You have the best analysis video's but I have to say your smile rocks!

[@patlarimore6960]

John Denver doesn't just sing his songs, he feels the words and you can hear the emotion in his voice. I miss him, but I thank God I have his music on records that, in a way, keep him alive.

[@andrewpuckett5295]

I loved John Denver.

[@MAXIMUSISADOG]

I remember my mom talking us to see my dad get on a plane to go to Vietnam. It was never real until my best friends dad was killed over there. Johns music was a peaceful space in a uneasy time in America. Great song writer, gentle voice and crisp clean guitarist.

[@helenbirch9877]

I noticed a small voice crack on the high note of the first chorus, but he nailed it without stress the next time and then went even higher on the last one. That's how a pro singer handles a glitch. I was privileged to see him live at the Hollywood Bowl. Wonderful.

[@patriciastoj126]

Yep. Heard that. Touring must be hard on artist voices. Performing day after day. Kudos that he kept on with the song so well.

[@shagrabs]

John Denver was unique vocally , guitar playing and song writing. Incredible!!

[@loripond1839]

John Denver had so many beautiful, uplifting, gloriously written songs that are a joy to listen to!!... It's a cruel fact that so many of the most talented artists are taken from us way too soon!!.. you wonder if their lives had continued on how their art would have changed our world in so many ways...thanks Fil!...✌❤🤘

[@wingsofpegasus]

No problem Lori!

[@joannaedwards6325]

Dear Lori Pond Maybe John Denver today might not change the world but HE CERTAINLY WOULD HAVE A WONDERFUL WAY OF RESPONDING TO ALL THE CRAP THAT'S HAPPENING. I agree with you and enjoyed your comment. I am sure that if John Denver were alive now that his music WOULD MAKE ALL OF US FEEL BETTER ABOUT THINGS. GOD, I MISS HIM TOO!

[@tombreen932]

John put his heart and soul into all his songs you can hear it and see it in his face when he sang

[@shirleymurphy1958]

He was a breath of fresh air back then . This took me back too good memories. He felt every verse of his song and the heart comes thru in vocal.

[@WilsonEatsASMR]

He was just phenomenal! Missed big time!

[@patrickmessina1278]

Melody, melody, melody! The seemingly infinite permutations around a basic chord progression. The grand complexity within the magnificent shell of simplicity!

[@rodneywheeler2278]

I followed John for years and was fortunate to attend around 6 or 7 concerts here in upstate NY. At the last one, several months before he was killed, I cleverly snuck back stage and was allowed in to a practice room where he did a meet and greet with his fan club members. He would not sign autographs but did allow photos to be taken. I had my camera and was able to get a photo of he and I together. I was also able to get an autograph on a JD songbook that I had sent back stage earlier with a letter that I had written him. I was able to get the songbook back. The letter was gone, but he had signed the title page, and thanked me by name. I cherish both the book and the photo. He is missed by all who appreciated his writing ability and that beautiful voice.

[@shelleygiesbrecht4759]

He sang right straight from his heart, and it lit up his face. Magic!

[@mimoochodom2684]

I watch both you and the artist and you seem to smile in the "special" moments of a song or performance. I wonder if we do that too without realizing? It really shows how moving music is.

[@dragonmummy1]

He’s like a proud parent ❤️

[@brucewebb1114]

I had the pleasure to see this man in concert in 1980. He did the show in the round. I actually got to see him free because my brother worked at a radio station. Unforgettable. Thanks for sharing this.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Cool!

[@jeffwisener1378]

I saw him too, same tour

[@olivepoola9153]

His voice takes you to another place. A true artist that is dearly missed. I loved seeing him on the Muppets, he always had fun with them! RIP 💜 He amd Mama Cass did a duet of this song that's amazing as well!!

[@bobbibful]

He will always be the greatest in my eyes. I still grieve over his death. John, you are so missed.

[@benlundgren3760]

Compare this to participants on The Voice. Yes, contestants on The Voice might be vocally gifted but they haven’t paid their dues and done the work of a singer songwriter. John has the next level of talent and genuineness that you can’t copy. Great voices are a dime a dozen compared to putting together such a combination of skills, and work. What a talent! And great video