British guitarist analyses Michael Martin Murphey performing 'Wildfire' live in 1986!

[@donnacolwell3988]

This got me all misty eyed. Some songs are like a time machine, taking you back to a long ago place and emotional state - sad and beautiful.

[@scrappylifter8318]

I got surprised at the tears too.

[@NattyBumppo48]

This is definitely "one of those songs"......

[@georgewachsmuth9201]

Exactly. Perfectly stated….sad and beautiful.

[@TheBlueCream]

same emotion...dunno why..of a time long past.i see their faces..wonder what happened to them

[@TheBlueCream]

@@NattyBumppo48 yep...dunno why..of a time long past.i see their faces..wonder what happened to them

[@highnrising]

Michael M. Murphey actually did this song better as a middle-aged man, than as a young man in the '70s when it was a hit. Here, it sounds epic.

[@loriholloway5866]

Completely agreed. I just said that on another post

[@ivannovotny4552]

Exactly my thoughts.

[@JamesDeWeaver]

100% agree!

[@natashas9026]

Beyond perfection

[@pamelav.5699]

This was the greatest performance I have ever seen or heard Michael do live 💞

[@deckenneth]

The piano opening is pure magic.

[@cryhavoc38]

it is and so the the piano finale, especially those last few tender notes.

[@cathysandy3986]

When I was at Texas A&M in the late 70s MMM played a concert every year after bonfire. Tge concert would start sometime after midnight. He and the band would play for a couple of hours. Then the band would leave and MMM would sit on the edge of the stage with just his guitar and play for another hour or more. He would play never recorded songs or things he was working on or just things he liked. It was a privilege to see him many, many times. Some of my best memories from my youth.

[@lawrencetaylor4101]

What a great memory. Souvenirs in the key of life.

[@MemoryCircle]

Michael also worked as a summer-camp counselor near Dallas long, long ago.

[@Udontsay948]

Jesus I’m so jealous

[@rifflistener]

Always thought this was one of the best live performances ever done! And the joy in Michael’s smile as he plays through his solo you know that he knows that was as good as it gets

[@tomhenkel2311]

What a masterpiece, been listening to this for close to 50 years and it still wets my eyes.

[@monkmchorning]

Big major 7th chords will do that all the time.

[@tomhenkel2311]

@@monkmchorning It must work on your spine too. When a piece is great to me I feel it in my central nervous system I think.

[@monkmchorning]

@@tomhenkel2311 absolutely. But major 7ths are a way of getting there. The same with Pink Floyd's "Us and Them," and Fleetwood Mac's "Silver Spring." You can find more. Frank Zappa called it the "I'm in Love" chord.

[@TheBlueCream]

same..where the time go ?

[@tomhenkel2311]

@@TheBlueCream Sandy Denny's perfect version of "Who Knows Where the Time Goes" will mess with your emotions big-time. I play that on Facebook when one of my good pals leaves the game, as a tribute.

[@dustermaniac]

God rest my Mother.... She loved this song and when I was 8 years old she enrolled me in piano lessons and her only request was that I learn this song to play for her. It was her favorite song. It is such a beautiful song. Needless to say I can play all the piano to this song. 1975 was the first time my Mom, six brothers and one sister also experienced death for the second time in two years as we lost our Dad in 1973 at 44 years old and in January of 1975 we lost my little Brother Bruce at 5 yrs old. This song actually helped me get through this very heartbreaking time in my young life. RIP Dad, Mom, and Bruce. Thank you Fil for the very detailed review of this song from a musicians view. You are brilliant.

[@deborahh2556]

Fil, we love you, and your generous appreciation for different music through the ages.

[@josiec3804]

Every time I hear a song from the decades of 60's, 70's and 80's I can't help but feel a little sad about where music has gone in the last few decades...not saying there are not some good tunes here and there, but the singer/songwriters who told such great stories, who wrote songs we can sing along to and make us feel are rare these days. Thanks for the analysis Fil.

[@kimkochel6754]

Another perfect storyteller, with song. The late great, Harry Chapin . Like MMM 🌟🌟🌟🌟 a four star performer, who left us too soon. "Live and Stories" best album I ever purchased. 🙏🦋 RIP Harry Chapin.

[@Kim63146]

🎯

[@MrRdh567]

Jessie you hit the nail on the head!

[@stephenclark1551]

One of those songs that just shoots me back to that time in my life when life was fresh and anything was possible. Incredible song

[@donaldcook3112]

. . . Makes me think about the self-same, albeit with a different writer and song ; just 'when and 'where' ... exactly did it all amend to ' l e s s t h a n f r e s h ' and ' a-lot-less-than p o s s I b l e ' ? . . .

[@manofiske3318]

Now you have millions of lunatics running around in their filthy, talisman , face-diapers because a fairly mild corona "cold" virus with its terrifying Infection Fatality Rate of well under 0.2 %(and falling rapidly) happens to be circulation.

[@TheBlueCream]

where'd the time go ?..sigh

[@TheBlueCream]

@@donaldcook3112 yup... where'd the time go ?..sigh

[@MrRdh567]

Yes!!!

[@TommyGallagher]

Fil I love that you are all over Musically. Carpenters.... Michael Martin Murphy and beyond Great work BRINGING it Out for all

[@Yesica1993]

I always love that Fil is genuinely enjoying the music.

[@victoria-elliott-batman]

Me too. His smile lights up his face. Beautiful smile.

[@Kim-2277]

Mid-1970’s 3M played “Wildfire” without accompaniment at a Hillsborough Ave bar in Raleigh, NC. Mostly college audience was rude to him but he was professional & a virtuoso singer/guitarist. He earned my respect & admiration that night. Still has it!

[@GM-vf7px]

Young Foolish / rude audiences for the most part could never conceptualize or appreciate the Fineness & Beauty that this Masterpiece embodies! Wildfire/Michael Martin Murphy will never fear being critiqued by non-believers of the type of Heavenly Magic of Pure Perfection!! Anyone who Loves this song is a connoiseur of musical prowess of the Highest order!

[@89801wink]

MMM is one of the nicest, and humble people I have ever met. Great guy.

[@paml.6101]

He had that guitar sounding like a violin at the closing. Just outstanding.

[@warehousehhm3694]

One of the most beautiful songs ever performed.

[@glang4657]

Living in Nebraska, every time we get a blizzard I think of this song. Such a classic. Thank you for covering this song!

[@NattyBumppo48]

Pretty nice keyboard work as well. I'm 74 and remember this song well, from back in the day. MMM appealed to the hippie tree-huggers (like me) and John Denver crowd....lol This definitely takes me back....

[@justpray365]

I was living near the Black Hills of South Dakota when this song was released. I was coming out of the Black Hills one morning, and there was fresh deep snow on the ground. The sun was rising and there was a beautiful warm glow on the snow. At that moment this song came on. I was 20 then. I’m 66 now, and every time I hear this song, I am transported back to that moment.

[@cindypowers4993]

I have the original 45 I bought with my allowance money back in the day. I loved this song so much, the opening was captivating, Michael was just so believable in his longing to find 'Wildfire', the sprinkling of piano, just gorgeous. LOVE, LOVE ,LOVE👍🎶🎹🎸

[@rickrickard2788]

I just found this version of MMM's "Wildfire"- you couldn't have picked a better version of this- EVER. I was stunned by the keyboard player, and then MMM'S guitar solo at the end? Floored me. I GREW UP listening to this, over & over & over again- and I've NEVER seen this version- Absolutely blew me away, in 2021~ lol. I LOVE MUSIC. Immediately after watching it? I saw your review in the "recommended" window, and had to come straight here. Whadda ya know, a recommendation, actually on time, and on subject, lol. Fantastic job of reviewing this song, as always.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@ClassicTVMan1981X]

I loved that fast-paced flatpicking he did near the end of the song.

[@ronedee]

I love how Michael seemingly starts the verse late, and brings his vocal right to the edge of the next change. It gives the song a wonderful tension and anticipation. Just a fantastic performance!

[@timjohnson8820]

guitar solo at the end was a great addition to the song. love this version the most

[@39thala]

Excellent analysis on Michael's lead Fil. He's 'feeling' the music as he plays! When that happens, those dynamics just happen naturally without even thinking about it.

[@brianmarek6159]

Love, love this song, & this is the best performance Of this song I've seen. Such a beautiful voice.

[@loripond1839]

One of my FAVORITE songs, Fil!! Wow!!... this rendition it's much more intricate than the radio played version...✌❤🤘😁

[@lynndow3185]

I always loved hearing it, too..It was a nice surprise to hear that increased complexity!!

[@jasonjoyner6940]

I agree

[@scottydog62]

Exactly! That's why so many times I love to search KZbin for live versions of bands, The true musicians usually do it better live, That's when the real emotion comes out

[@jtwsince1968]

Great breakdown of this 70s classic with many guitar options for beginners or advanced players. I play this and is vey difficult song to sing for a male vocalist, definitely a karaoke power ballad worth practicing for any singer.

[@drsmokeybones]

What a great performance! Thank you Fil as always for shedding light upon it. This is a channel for musicians!

[@annettefordham]

I saw Michael Martin Murphy open for Buckingham Nicks at their last performance before joining Fleetwood Mac. I loved them both. 1975. Crazy thing- John Cougar (before he Mellencamped himself) opened for Heart- 1982.

[@jackvonewegen7656]

Wildfire (3M) and Frozen Love (B-N) two of my all time favorites. What a thrill! Three great talents.

[@jamesmoritz3584]

Exactly. Awesome!

[@bettykemp7122]

I’ve always loved this song, and this was a gorgeous rendition. Thank you!

[@suzannerobbins6293]

Hi Fil! One of my favorite performers! I really love his song What’s Forever For....but then there isn’t any song he doesn’t do beautifully! Wildfire was one of his best! Thanks for doing Michael...just love his music so much! He was a beautiful man too! ✌️

[@TheBlueCream]

still is..hes still alive

[@JoeBonez]

The man on the keys is brilliant.

[@allen_p]

I remember this song very well as it mentions a hoot owl outside his window and I have a Great Horned Owl in a tree by my house every night. It got played on the radio a lot. Just beautiful and moving. Great analysis breaking it down.

[@DivineInspirationsClothing]

😮 WOW...I had this same dream with a huge white horse that my husband & I owned who literally FLEW like the wind...I ALSO had a SNOW OWL in the oak tree by my bedroom window who hooted exactly 6 times b4 leaving & left a feather under the tree...in FLORIDA, too, of all places 😮

[@loriematthews6418]

Brings back a lot of memories..

[@Billsingsong]

Hell of an intro! could’ve been a song itself

[@paulm749]

As Fil says, the intro is based on a piece written by Russian classical composer Alexander Scriabin. It's titled "Prelude in D-flat, Op. 11 No. 15".

[@thasty100]

I love how you bring classic songs such as wildfire up and kinda of reintroduce them to people that may have forgotten them or never heard them before. It’s a classic and masterpiece and will be forever. 💕

[@lindatheubet9383]

Me too. I cry every time. Just a beautiful song.

[@CenterofLightRadio]

This song touches (is) my soul vibration. I have sang/played this song many times and I fall into bliss!

[@tracyzimmerman7912]

When I saw the title for this video I thought hell yeah. Wildfire has always spoken right to my heart. Yes the piano intro is its own and I love it. It's like hey now do you want to hear something deep and meaningful? This song to me has such spiritual meaning for me. This song leaves you mesmerized which I believed you were Fil. It's about enternity to me. The owl symbolizes death and wildfire is taking him home. That's the thing about music it speaks differently to each person. You don't know how much I appreciate you analyzing this song. Wildfire deserve to be hear by everyone. This really made my day! Oh yeah the Unicorn is my majical horse 😊

[@quietstorm9866]

I am 64. Heard this when I was 15. To this day this is my favorite song ever. Out of all of the so many brilliant songs I love.

[@lynnereagan8272]

How did you know?! I love this performance and can't get enough of this song...

[@TorToroPorco]

When I was a child one of things that helped pass the time on lazy summer afternoons was listening to the radio. The best songs would always remind me of summer and even years afterwards whenever I’d hear the song again it would bring back memories of my childhood summers. This was definitely one of those songs because its melody was so beautiful.

[@cindypowers4993]

So true, great memories come back to me listening to this song!!

[@dstinnettusa]

This has always been my favorite live performance of Michael Murphy. Flawless

[@winterlane2247]

Masterpiece! He seems so happy to be performing this song as opposed to many artists who confess that they hate performing the song they are most known for. I wonder how many people were inspired to begin piano lessons because of this introduction? I would be slightly suspicious of anyone who said they were not touched in some way by this song (In the same way I would be suspicious of anyone my dog didn’t like). What a story! What a storyteller! Love your channel!

[@josepht007]

i just finished a wildfire video, it was very complicated to piece together, but i hope you like it. joe t--kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKPMmWieabmcfsVh

[@emilygraham9968]

Love this!! Talk about take me back!! God, those were the days (sniff). Thanks Fil..

[@Yesica1993]

Always loved this song, but when I found this version (not so long ago!) I was blown away. Simply gorgeous.

[@dondonner1095]

I love the look on your face when the band joins in. you truly appreciate that perfect moment.

[@39thala]

Sure am glad Michael stayed up late until 3 in the morning with his friend writing songs that night and fell asleep on the floor and had that dream! Otherwise, we might not have ever been blessed with the creation of this beautiful, beautiful song!

[@tnmoppylaura5476]

I love love love this song. It’s beautiful in so many ways. I could see you performing this one Fil. Thanks for so much enjoyment.

[@wyheadintx]

If I were an actor, I’d rely on this song, as it ALWAYS makes me cry. I lost my sister in 1984, and this makes me picture her coming back to me. If only. 😢

[@itchiray]

I bought this LP when in London when it was released. I love to play this tune but it is a tuff one to sing! It soars.....I just wanna be a cosmic cowboy!

[@suehollar2578]

Loved this song. It could bring tears to my eyes. Great analysis!!

[@TheBlueCream]

same..evocative song

[@Spikeattack1]

Fil, I believe Michael also had one of his songs become the official state song for New Mexico. It is titled 'Land of Enchancement, New Mexico'. Great song! He always has been one of my favorite singers. Thx for this analysis!!

[@dannypgrizzle]

Love the man and his music. His live performances consistently achieve an almost spiritual rapture. When you visit the great spaces of the U.S. West - the Grand Canyon and such - Murphey is the artist on offer in the gift stores of the National Park Service. His 3-album Christmas series is also superlative. Trad the reviews on Amazon and be certain no bot wrote them.

[@roeltovar8601]

Wow, glad to know UK knows Michael Martin Murphy, thank you so much : )

[@drewpall2598]

Never get tire of hearing this song. great intro to the song. this is worth another run through Fil. 🐴🐎

[@aliciahager2961]

Thank you for this wonderful analysis of Wildfire! I had to play the song over several times even before you began to talk; I had almost more fun watching your face as you listened than watching Murphy play the song! I am not that experienced with an instrument, certainly not theory, but I always enjoy your videos, and this was no exception. I always learn something, and can appreciate the enthusiasm of a musician learning from another musician. I will watch this one several more times, and get goosebumps every time I listen to this beautiful song.

[@clwmentsvale]

Such a wonderful choice to analyze and brought back memories of a sweet time…

[@hansbrinker3578]

Always loved his first album - Geronimo's Cadillac ...Wildfire is a gem of a song. One of the great story tellers.

[@Timmy2toned]

I’ve seen him sing it many times, this is my favorite version.

[@trishbresolin8212]

Beautiful song

[@Kim63146]

One of my all time favorites! I cry everytime. A beloved, beautiful, breath-taking song. Mikes voice, the words, the melody. Touches my soul. I am still listening in 2022 and forever! ❤️

[@wingsofpegasus]

TIME STAMPS - 0:58 Performance 6:05 Analysis 8:10 Vocal Range 9:49 Rhythm Guitar/Chords 16:56 Lead Guitar Lines

[@chrisshelton4496]

Always loved this song since I was a kid. Great job Fil!!! 🤘🤘🤘

[@monalisaganser5813]

Brings back memories!

[@jackburkhart873]

I was in grade school when this song came out. The young girls were absolutely crazy about this. Especially the girls that had horses at home. My girl friend, now wife, being one of them. Great. Another one that got a similar reaction was Henry Gross and "Shannon"!

[@ivannovotny4552]

Thank you Fil for sharing this incredible video and your knowledgeable analysis.

[@williamludlow3788]

Classic song indeed. Never tired of listening to this song.

[@slbolfing56]

Loved this analysis! This song was a big hit when I was in college. Got a kick watching you smile at different parts that caught your fancy!

[@davidnunn6608]

“What’s forever for” is one of the most beautiful song I’ve heard.

[@pootthatbak2578]

Fil, you got my attention now..murph CAN SING!

[@Ritaholden1]

My favorite song of my childhood in the 70's. Thank you for sharing. Very dear to my heart.

[@pamegan8735]

Oh I love this analyses of Michael Martin Murphy!! Bring back memories of my beautiful cat that I name after this song. This is a great analyses as always you do !!! I’m watching it over again . Fil you are one super guy !!!🤘🏻 You’re the best !!!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@jenniferdnoseworthy2348]

Aside from all the info you’re giving us, and it’s a lot, I was watching the video and you, back and forth. I know that video off by heart haha I graduated high school in 86. I knew the parts that I look forward to the most and you had the same reactions that I did at the same parts lol I love people who appreciate great music in all it’s forms. No better feeling in the world, it feels like freedom. You have a great smile btw.

[@teriokeefe8733]

Jr. high welcome back! Thought I lost you. Come on guys you really need to hit that like button.

[@catofthecastle1681]

My favorite song he wrote he sold to the monkees! It is harmonically very close to this” What am I doin hanging round?” I like it much better, and it is a story song also!

[@susanhawkes2519]

Great song. I should be riding on that train to San Antone...

[@Whoisyou2211]

Fil, one of your gifts is helping us understand what makes a song like this so great. I've listened to the song countless times, but now I appreciate the work that much more given your insights.

[@mct54az]

Hey Fil, been watching for a long time now. You have made me aware of so much I never realized. Have been an SRV fan forever. Thank you for all that. Wildfire has been a hauntly persistent favorite since it was released. Glad you featured it tonight. It has oddly brought to mind another I would like to see you tackle. Cavatina, theme from the movie The Deer Hunter. It's been bouncing around in my head since 1978 when I first saw the movie. Great guitar music once you hear it it stays with you a lifetime. I am 67, thanks for keeping me rockin!

[@cindypowers4993]

Oh, wow, sounds so intriguing!!

[@cindylavina8270]

One of my all time favorite movie themes but I never knew the name of it! Thanks for the info - I googled it right away and listened - what joy!

[@mct54az]

@@cindylavina8270 it's a haunting tune that just gets in your DNA. Can't shake it, depending on your mood it can bring tears of joy or empathy. Always loved it always will.

[@cindylavina8270]

@RE B. I agree! The first time I heard it I was mesmerized. Thanks for the comments. ☮️

[@RoryVanucchi]

It's a great song from start to finish

[@ronking9125]

I attended high school with Michael in Dallas. He had a group called "The Kingsmen" and played often at assemblies. A few years later he recorded "Wildfire" and we all knew he was destined for greatness as a singer/songwriter. He has learned his craft well, as evidenced by the multiple gold records and albums, a Grammy nomination, induction in to the Cowboy Hall of Fame and many, many other accolades. Also, he inspired and encouraged other classmates of mine -- Ray Wylie Hubbard and B.W. Stevenson who also went on to have great careers. Recently I had the privilege of nominating Michael into our high school Hall of Honor. One more thing, just this month was the premier of the film "Wildfire - The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse."

[@mikemurray2298]

I was very fortunate to have drove him by limousine when I was a chauffeur to the Cowboy Hall of Fame here in Oklahoma City that you mentioned. There were several major country music stars/actors that I had in my limo including Tom Selleck which was the spokesperson that night and alot of country music artists from Oklahoma including Roy Clark, Reba MacIntyre. Garth Brooks, Brian White, Vince Gill and Gary Busey to name a few. It was a very fun and exciting experience having that many celebrities at once in my super stretch limousine. I'll never forget it.

[@ronagustines6589]

Thanks for analyzing my request Fil. I appreciate the technical breakdowns on the guitar and now I'm inspired to play again. I have another suggestion for you to analyze pertaining to horses. It's called "A Horse with no name" performed by America. As usual, you did an outstanding job on the analysis & keep up the good work.

[@debravirden7130]

I forgot how beautiful and haunting this song was. Thank you for analyzing this. Now I can start my nightshift on a high note!

[@Comet-hn3gm]

Was able to see him a few years back in a small venue in north east Oregon. Enjoyed his performance very much. My wife and I were able to visit with Michael after the show. Good memories. Nice Gentlemen.

[@johnholliday5874]

I got to see Michael in a small theater in Madison, Wisconsin about '88 or '89. Wonderful show. At that time the little run between the piano intro and the verse was played on a mandolin. "Sonofagun!"

[@davidhapka5410]

I loved that song in the seventies 🥺

[@direwolf6234]

caught him live summer of '86 in concord, ca opening for jimmy buffet... he and the band were totally cowboy'd up and were chuck wagon cookin... 'i just want to be a cosmic cowboy' ...yeeh hah...

[@jporter504]

I have heard this song many times nut never realized just how beautiful it was until now.

[@colakeith1]

Carolina in the Pines is another great song from that era of Michael Martin Murphy. An indepth analysis would be appreciated, too.

[@AlleyandGrey]

I was 16 when this song hit. I was in HS. He was pretty much a one hit wonder. But if you're going to have one this the way to do it. He had alot of competition in 1975. Thanks for posting this great memory....🙏

[@robertbeck7792]

Now in my 70's I still ride, from starting life in Cleveland, OH. But now in Montana for 46 years it's horses and music that keep me going. This song was simply magic captured some time ago and pauses me to stop and listen EVERY TIME I hear it. I particularly enjoy the host enjoying, and recognizing, an iconic and expertly performed song for the ages.

[@leeann4743]

Aw. This was great, Fil. :)

[@margelacosse1331]

I just about cry when I hear this Wildfire and Carolina in the Pines. Beautiful music that gets the heart. Seen him in person and it was wonderful. Thank you for this analysis. This put me in such a good place

[@kazilziya830]

I agree that this song improved with age. I bought this album on cassette when it first came out and was amazed how much better the song was with the longer intro. Enjoyed this very much and the pointers on your guitar. Great job. Peace

[@scottrobbins6216]

Thank You Fil ……. Very well presented

[@mennovroom5537]

The piano intro is amazingly beautiful. This song is one of my favorites.

[@lorenrobertson8039]

All the young girls I knew were in love with this song and this gorgeous man...dreamy and magic for sure! We listened for it to come on the radio and turn it up and sing our little hearts out. Heartfelt memories.

[@lorenrobertson8039]

Yep watching again~ I only wish that these people that do reaction videos would first listen to the song, then come watch your breakdowns before they do their videos. Most are just mangled messes! I guess they are not my thing!

[@BigMamou367]

That's Cowboy poetry. I've seen him before in a small setting about 6 years ago doing old cowboy songs. He is great. I have a couple of his CDs.

[@teresatorres3760]

Another favorite of mine it is almost like a painting brought to life by a haunting song once you hear it it so beautiful and the piano to me is perfection.

[@teresatorres3760]

Question does the end of the guitar sort of sound like a mandolyn sorry for the misspell

[@WRMmagic]

@@teresatorres3760 MMM is playing a tremolo technique which resembles a Mandolin tremolo.