Chris Smither - Leave The Light On

[@nepalkat4733]

I'm 73. This song has so many levels of depth & meaning & connotation that it's hard to keep from weeping. I'm not alone in this; everyone I know who has heard it has said pretty much the same thing. I first saw Smither in 1967 in a small auditorium in the Boston University Student Union. I damn near levitated out of my seat with excitement with how good he was. Over the years he's just gotten better and better. Unlike many who claim the title, he is a true artist - poet and musician!

[@noelcraig2917]

Agreed, it’s an amazing song with layers of complexity. Maybe our age helps us to understand it.

[@earthworkr2]

I'm 47 and I hate new music. I like all genres if the song actually says something with depth. I'm beginning to understand this one more as I get older. He is among the real poets and artists, like you said. I have a very good friend that introduced me to this guy. What a gift!

[@hazwalk]

I first heard Chris about five years ago,I feel deprived of so many years of knowing of his music. We did get to see him live in Sheffield England earlier this year. I asked him will be come to Ireland , he said it's on the cards for 2024. Hope it happens.

[@williamballmaier2355]

I really appreciate your take on this beauty. I feel the same way. You got a few years me (I'm 55), I caught Smither on a rare college radio station in 1993 on a night shift. I feel blessed in way that I was so lucky to find these old records and songs on rare radio stations. The trick is to keep you ear close to the rail so you hear the train coming miles away. LOL

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@Halffastpaddler]

I am incredibly grateful to the photographer who videotaped Mr. Smither's fingers on the fret board through the intro and solos.

[@charlestaylor1584]

Thank You so very much Mr. Smither.

[@JLKDOOM]

I agree otherwise it would've taken me a while to figure out how to play it

[@matonguitar]

That cameraman was definitely a guitarist! ;-)

[@donhanlon7121]

​@@matonguitar😅good one☘️

[@KenKuninmusic]

This is an eloquent professional performance. No tricks, no gimmicks, just a lifetime of dedication and passion.

[@ronkarmelk3645]

and booz

[@alandavies987]

This is so close to my own playing style after 55 years of plucking the strings. I'm well pleased to see it!

[@stonesdude154]

I can't imagine ever growing tired of this song.

[@micheldab5561]

For true

[@grumblekin]

I couldn't have really understood this as a young man. After decades of scars and heartbreak and love and discovery I can finally get what he's talking about.

[@michaelworczak543]

Wrote the song. Played it alone, fingerpicking the base and melody. Sang along. This was beautiful. Thank you Chris.

[@billbeecher3080]

And is playing percussion with his feet...surprised you can't hear that.

[@gerardhaubert8210]

So glad that I ran across Chris, just wish it had been 50 years sooner

[@rafhenlow]

+gerard haubert I came across him a few months ago, & like you I wish I had heard him 50 yrs. ago. What a treasure & joy to listen to. Bought 4 of his albums.

[@jstanno61]

Dear lord, is this good. Teared up twice and I'm 31.

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@donhanlon7121]

For a yung one you recognise great music 🎶🎵💎☘️

[@laoban1954]

My God, but men and music such as this make our lives so much richer. Thanks, Chris.

[@sallyshipwreck4315]

And where the hell are we going to be when they all pass on?

[@towerhillbilly]

His picking and singing have always been top notch but in recent years his song writig/ lyrics have reached a high level of their own.

[@piorunekk]

This is, undeubtedly, a songwriting/poetry masterpiece. Never before anything moved me so strong, never before anyone said words so strong and with deep connection to my thoughts that I burst into tears right away. I just can't describe the impact this song had on me. No words can match what Smither did with his own. Hope I could someday hug this guy and just say thanks.

[@BobbyDPresents]

Had the same response my friend, tears while witnessing the "profound". A masterpiece for sure by any scale. Saw him perform 20+years ago and many more times subsequently. He is authentic and approachable, a class act to the core

[@lindalovesmusic9091]

He's playing close by tomorrow and I think I'll be going. This is the first time I heard him, and he is exactly what my soul needs right now.

[@MrPendell]

Was deeply moved myself by the whole package, musically and lyrically, and by the obviously hard won real world knowledge of philosophical stoicism behind it. I can’t figure out why I somehow had never heard of Smither before a couple of weeks ago when I stumbled across this masterpiece. I mess around a bit with stringed instruments of various kinds, and decided I wanted to try to work up a cover version. Knowing my sketchy Travis picking skills could never do justice to his unique guitar style, I decided to pick up a fairly newly acquired toy, an Irish Bouzouki, and have a go with that. I was 5 or 10 minutes into noodling around and finding little flourishes which could work with the Bouzouki chord structures and would sound sort of like what Smither is doing before I realized that the main chord progression is basically identical to another folk music masterpiece of stoic philosophy (at least I see it that way). In the 1967 film Cool Hand Luke, Paul Newman’s character, the luckless but absolutely indomitable Luke, having just learned that his mother had died while he was in prison, takes a moment to pick up a somewhat badly tuned Banjo and do a deeply moving version of a song called Plastic Jesus. The song was originally written as sort of a novelty comedy bit by an early 60s folk duo called the Gold Coast singers, but adaptations and covers of it based mainly on the movie version, and informed by the context there, have gone on to be a genuine part of folk music traditions in some circles in the years since. Not sure if Smither ever even heard any of those versions (although I would bet pretty good money he’s seen the movie at one time or another), but if there was some cross-pollination happening there, for me it only adds to the appeal of the whole package, rather than taking anything away from it. There are only so many workable chord progressions out there, and music of all sorts, but especially genuine folk music, has always been about borrowing and adapting elements from other places.

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@peterjones5045]

First saw Mr Smither 35 years ago in our native Wales. Mesmerised then and now, a consumate performer that respects his audience.

[@marksandstrom802]

Chris plays so well, these tunes could stand as instrumentals. The lyrics are just the icing on the cake.

[@Bry25able]

I have seen Chris 3 times now in the U.K., I feel very lucky to have found this master some 17years ago he is one hell of a musician and songster that you Chris.

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@thomasford5427]

Just discovered Chris Smither. My life feels so much richer, what wonderful artist!!

[@andrewcrane5105]

I'm over 5,000 years old. And man, this song is a keeper I tells you.

[@edmelusky3878]

Brings back so many memories. Some good, some sad, some, I'm still wondering about.

[@sharrison7662]

I've been left for dead before. . . . Dang, doesn't get much better than that. What a song and what a terrific singer, songwriter, performer. THANKS!

[@MeinTubengucker]

Gott, was gibt es doch so schöne Musik von Leuten mit so viel Gefühl! - Danke!

[@SpaceCowboyToo]

Just an incredible, gut-punching song. This guy can sure write some lyrics. Pure poetry! :)

[@brianmeekins4490]

Almost perfect, if not perfect. My favorite songwriter with one that's super important for me as I'm getting older.

[@Teatalktea]

My old friend and guitarist soulmate Fred, back in '67, now living a few thousand miles away in Ft.McMurray, sent me this clip recently and now I can't shake the vision of he and I playing it together, and I cry.........Any cheap flights London,Ontario to Fty.Mc.,Alberta ? No artist in a long time has moved me like this clip has !! Chris Smithers.....wish I coulda heard you and Townes Van Z. pick a few together !

[@linovela]

My god this performance was amazing and beautiful I cant get this melody out of my head

[@JohnWilson-bn1xs]

Ain't it so. He did this on PBS--Not Solely Bluegrass Festival. Outstanding. Incredible guitar technique. I'm trying to learn it...hard!

[@stanleypugh2974]

I feel I can’t listen to this song enough. He is so fabulous.

[@musicfan9587]

Just got home from hearing him sing this tonight in concert and I still have tears in my eyes. I have to say, as good as he is in all these clips, he is even better in person. What a privlilege and joy to have been able to hear him live again. God bless you, Chris, and your nearly 8-year-old little girl. Your songs have so much meaning to so many people and what a consummate guitarist! Go hear him live!

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@uinseann10]

One of my all time favourite singer/songwriters. Genius. fantastic song writers

[@kennethwatson3627]

just found Smither from Jazz fm. Never stopped listening simply great.

[@laoban1954]

Pure genius, lyrics and melody, and every time I listen to it I enjoy it more.

[@tleroi7182]

Chris always reaches deep into my soul and can make a grown cry!

[@Winfield8226]

Saw him tonite at the Musical Instruments Museum in Phoenix. Great concert. Love the songs, the guitar, the humor. Delighted I finally got to see him.

[@mewart...wildlifevideos]

Great song...........found it through Joe Browns cover ..........saw Joe live.........discovered Chris through him..........thanks for this. Best regards JJ

[@lordjagged8625]

Hadnt listened to Chris for a while, great to hear his beautiful songs again..

[@essgee1430]

Another gem from Chris. Great to see him in Canberra, Australia a couple of years ago. A highlight of the year. He tells life stories as they are - very close to home. A pleasure to hear.

[@uinseann10]

what a brilliant, consumate artiste, don't come much better than this and Chris.

[@fecklessmovies]

Chris Smither is a very underrated artist. Here in England anyway... dunno if he's famous in the US but here hardly anyone's heard of him. Amazing player, songwriter, performer and a true original.

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@Teddyb1939]

Beautiful Chris Smither singing and fabulous guitar, so good.

[@flashcat945]

Wow, just discovered Chris! Fantastic!!

[@Chingalo2006]

Best musician and songwriter of all time

[@tommyjamesdonahue]

One of my favorite songs of all time... and so clean and crisp live. Great composition!

[@Jackknifegyp]

Limitless gratitude, Mr. Smithers. One of the finest Wandering Minstrels.

[@annepayne7747]

Lovely Mr. Smithers....Just love this song....Love you x

[@anthonypepitoneVideo]

I love Chris best when it's just him and his guitar. Such great playing, singing, and songwriting.

[@picknfish]

Absolutely amazing artist. Fingerpicker extraordinaire. Playing here in Houston tomorrow. Saw him once with Ramblin Jack, Dave Alvin & Tom Russell...

[@stanleypugh2974]

I love this song. Listen and listen!!! Amazing Chris.

[@Teddyb1939]

Back again, magical Chris.

[@wolfstream1]

How beautiful this song and lyrics.... Chris Smither's a genuine artist that is always so refreshing to listen to.

[@williamfazzolari4391]

Smither is a musical treasure

[@bennettsteven]

ive just recently heard of Chris and have to say he sounds fantastic.

[@ted1bates]

God Bless you Chris Smither, a testimony to folk and fingerstyle guitar

[@WhiskerWhippers]

“…There’s just one destination, you better be on time...” Man, that hits deep.

[@Teddyb1939]

So,so good ,been around a bit has Chris,still magical.

[@glenr.4614]

Wow warmed my old soul”born in 1950” masterpiece!

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@brylorbs69]

Doesn't get much better than this in folk song writing!

[@ajcrowerules]

My favorite Chris Smithers song, and that's sayin' something! Great recording and production. Such an amazing song......

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@swampy0303]

Saw him live at Canberra - National Folk Festival in 2010. Met him later - A real nice guy. Awesome talent

[@setagluap52]

Great! Thanks, It seems the lyrics fit so well they could not be better at this time

[@chrissawyer6318]

outstanding lyrics and style. Love ya, Chris!!

[@julane50]

here via Alan .. great song writing , great guitar work , everything great! .j

[@jasonamettis]

Saw Chris @ the Stoughton Opera Huose. Incredible. He had the whole place tapping their feet. It was a lot of fun. I will see him again.

[@jmhibbs165]

What a joy .to find this! Thanks so much for posting

[@foxman9851]

Great song, great picking. Love it.

[@normaninhell]

BACK AGAIN THIS IS SO FANTASTIC

[@ted1bates]

Absolutely brilliant, may your guitar remain in tune evermore

[@timvermillion128]

Yeah, that's the spot...perfection.

[@MrStejeb]

This is amazing, what a talent.

[@stephenhenion8304]

You can see the Raw Emotion that he poured out on that one!! Amazing person. Amazing Song.🎵🎶🎵

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@richardharvey8795]

Everything about this feels like pure magic.

[@alisonbell6462]

Chris Smither, a true gentlemen of blues

[@GuyJudge]

Absolutely brilliant.

[@Adam-s4j]

Thank you brother this is the most beautiful song that I’ve heard this morning

[@alneill1987]

Hey Chris, one of the best that I've ever heard! Just a great performance. Thank you Al

[@Teddyb1939]

Chris is so talented,Great player and voice so easy.

[@xXcakePOPcarleyXx]

The very best in guitar playing and lyrics!

[@Zsolto66]

Chris Smither is quite new to me but I am absolutely thrilled by his music. Thank you for this excellent upload.

[@marysweetser6612]

I love him, he sings from his heart & soul

[@rckymtnhighs]

This is probably the 10th time I've watched this. What a great song. Damn this open D tuning though. I thought I could pick this song up easily.... Chris makes it look seamless.

[@AndyKimbel]

Will be posting a "How To on this song soon. In the interim, check out my other Chris Smither guitar videos on here..

[@kellycoble9388]

@@AndyKimbel good luck. Do you see the massive stretch he achieves while the thumb stays pivoted on the 5th fret? I just don't think that is humanly possible for most of us, and we need to be honest about that. It is an incredible stretch.

[@WhiskerWhippers]

@@kellycoble9388 I saw that too. Massive hands with seamless dexterity

[@pkelly2505]

Saw Chris in Marblehead MA back in January. I don't know of a lot of other performers who can so capture an audience.

[@bt5499]

This song is poignant. I cried. Well done sir.

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

Saw him in Seattle 8 years ago at their Labor Day Seattle Center festival: 4 day event,'Bumbershoot".You could walk by a number of evening acts.... SMITHER stopped us in our tracks! Wow! Sat down, fast, we did, for encores and encores!!! Aug 2018..

[@blancolirio]

Bravo!!!!!!

[@TheFrenkling]

einer der besten Singer/Songwriter überhaupt

[@cheechforprez]

Thanks for that, I doubt I have any chance of getting even close to that. I'm not being bashful but Chris Smither is amazing, so under rated it's a fury, but the world out there's a poor jury. He is a living legend, maybe IMO but he is

[@robertparsons5295]

Wow. First time hearing this. Fantastic.

[@AgrippaMarcus]

Chris you're such and inspiration - Unique- Thank you Chris

[@rkaydia]

chills.

[@ritaggn]

He is so good.

[@malarkey4435]

Amazing! Playing you Monday on Malarkey (7:30pm) on @KFAI in Minneapolis.

[@elliotminorart]

this is so good!

[@ChapmanJones]

Heard Chris on Pandora today... what Lino Vela said. And then me, just wow!

[@johnfred2689]

One of my favorite song, beautiful story line, lyrics, singing and guitar play.

[@galbas78]

man that was some pretty picking. such a good song as well.

[@BaktaBak3]

Love this song ! :-)

[@maryrouth3181]

I am a lady of mature years and am severely in love. I love this music, and this song is the so powerful.

[@micheldab5561]

Exactly true

[@KilamSabba]

Here’s his under-appreciated Live at the World Cafe version of No Love Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJubeHxql5ydhacsi=Pw51e1l92Pm2nKXF The best!

[@krejdloc]

A really great song and performance. Id like to know how to get rubber fingers also though. That three fret stretch without moving his thumb had me watching this in slomo .

[@seagullpie]

outstanding!

[@tazio2]

Stunning performer , hope he comes back to Ireland soon , uniqu etalent

[@lornaleblanc5130]

Love this.....

[@BullRiverRecords]

so good...

[@adamwalkercodes]

What a fantastic song!

[@PeteD1884]

Great song. I hope he plays it when he comes to Cincinnati in October 2012.