Classical Composer Reacts to Song of Scheherazade (Renaissance) | The Daily Doug (Episode 216)

#Renaissance #Scheherazade #SongOfScheherazade
In this episode of #TheDailyDoug, I'm listening to and reacting to Song of Scheherazade by Renaissance, as performed live by them at Carnegie Hall in 1976. It's perhaps the most orchestral and symphonic piece of popular music that I've come across in some time. It's a wonderful ride through the fable of 1001 nights. Come along for the ride!
Bonus: Check out my exclusive interview with Renaissance lead vocalist Annie Haslam. It is a companion video to this reaction.
- • A Conversation with An...
Reference Video: • Renaissance Song Of S...
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[@walterspector735]

Annie is without question my favorite female vocalist.

[@Signs9]

Same here!

[@JK-js2td]

She is pretty badass

[@marksaxon]

You just can't beat the 70's for music...my favorite decade

[@bitTorrenter]

Most definitely! Literally the pinnacle.

[@gladeloy3341]

except for that disco crap !

[@philmann3476]

@@gladeloy3341 Yep, by '75, things had pretty much headed south -- at least as far as the "popular" stuff was concerned (which may explain why Renaissance never really did hit the big time).

[@Eleventhearlofmars]

@@gladeloy3341 some of the disco music was very well put together like Chic with the fantastic bass grooves of Bernard Edwards and guitar of Nile Rodgers. There was a lot of pith as well as there is in a lot of music genres including prog.

[@DrakusRecords]

One of the best, yet underrated prog rock epics of all time. It's up there with Close to the Edge and Supper's Ready IMO.

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

Also... I. The Revealing Science Of God Dance Of Dawn II. The Remembering High The Memory III. The Ancient Giants Under The Sun IV. Ritual Nous Sommes Du Soleil And... The Gates Of Delirium

[@thebrosevelts4436]

As you listen to more and more Rennaissance you will realize what a truly majestic and staggering band they are. Truly one of the all time great bands

[@dvzaccari]

I've heard this piece hundreds of times and I never get tired of it. Bravo!

[@george474747]

Well, this is the first time I've heard it, and I'm very glad to be introduced to it. What a fine piece of music!

[@williamcranstoun9566]

I was there in Carnegie Hall for that show. One of the highlights in my live musical experiences.

[@stephanevilleneuve9450]

I’m jealous.😒

[@KM-jm5xj]

@@stephanevilleneuve9450 me too...

[@KM-jm5xj]

wow! i bet!

[@lazyguy3555]

I met Annie on the last day of Strawbs 50th Anniversary performance. She was standing in the corner by herself, so I walked over to her and struck up a conversation. She was very friendly and personable. Got some nice photos with her. Great lady and great singer.

[@Pexster]

Love Strawbs! Hope Dave Cousins will be OK . . . Had a nice chat with original Renaissance keyboard player John Hawken when Strawbs did a handful of shows in and around Toronto years ago. They're all great guys.

[@lazyguy3555]

@@Pexster John was at the Strawbs 50th. I met him as well as the other members, past and present. David and Blue Weaver have been working on a set of DVDs since the concert. They have to sift through 15 hours of music.

[@gibstrat2671]

@@Pexster Saw the Strawbs in 75 and 76 in Toronto.

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

That Was Splendid And Courageous Of U...

[@goytabr]

Not the only report I've seen of Annie being incredibly nice. I read a comment in another video, by a guy who used to be sort of the leader of a Renaissance fan club in England back in the day, and as such was known by the band, but not in person. Annie heard that the mother, a sister or some other close relative of that guy had died, and she made a point of rushing to attend the wake, in gratitude for the guy's dedication to her and her band.

[@michelelucco5118]

In memory of beloved and sorely missed Michael Dunford, John Tout and Betty Thatcher.

[@carvcom1]

They are truly missed.

[@sanityassassin8161]

​@@carvcom1 Truly. So sad they're all gone -But what they left behind!

[@andyambrose4517]

Doug, back in 1976 at school most of the boys were into good old prog rock and other rock bands. We had a stereo in our common room and listened to each others albums. One day one of the girls bought in Live At Carnegie Hall and I was a convert...unbelievably beautiful...

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

Smart Chaps...

[@WayneHauber]

Mother Russia, a tribute to Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, is a moving piece and the reason I bought a Renaissance album. Running Hard and Scheharazade were also favorites.

[@chuckkostelc4636]

Annie Haslam has a voice like no other artist I've ever heard. It's so alluring and haunting at the same time. Things I don't understand, Black Flame and Mother Russia are a few examples more you'll quite enjoy. Very dark minor & diminished keys with strong rhythmic character. Like Yes, Scheherazade is just your beginning journey Doug.

[@MattMaginley]

Thanks for honoring Annie and Renaissance with your analysis, appreciation, and love. So happy you enjoyed this piece. It is a favorite. If you ever saw her live you would have had a gift to last a lifetime. Renaissance is a gateway to classical, renaissance baroque, and opera. For example: the piano intro to the song "Prologue" was borrowed from the beginning of Chopin's Revolutionary Etude.

[@Tsongkapa1]

And the best part is you're just getting started. Annie's vocal flights during the closing section of "Ashes are Burning" on this same album are the most awesome.

[@jimryan5479]

And the guitar solo was off the charts!

[@AnOldGreyDog]

@@jimryan5479 The BASS solo...

[@VIX_Noelopan]

@@jimryan5479 There was no guitar solo in the live version of Ashes, simply because Andy Powell (from Wishbone Ash. John Tout, in turn, played the Hammond organ in Throw Down the Sword on Wishbone Ash's Argus album) wasn't present in the three Renaissance Carnegie Hall shows.

[@violinmke]

Oh yeah

[@joaquinlezcano2372]

@@VIX_Noelopan a big shame if you ask me. The ending wasn't quite the same without the guitar solo

[@eduardoOlima]

Listen carefully John Tout, the complete totally underrated musicians of that era

[@antonveldt2365]

Yes. He is never named, but the tunes he created and 2nd melodies make he music of Renaissance outstanding. Though also not mentioned often are the other musician, all virtuosity with their own instruments. Terry could easily be up there with best drummers. Energic, right on spot, just what the music needs.

[@stephanevilleneuve9450]

All these young progressive British musicians of the 70’s had an incredible knowledge and sensitivity to write songs of this quality. And they were mostly musicians in their twenties. I don't know about you, but I didn’t have this talent at that age. I believe that Renaissance is at a level above all these groups for the complexity and the beauty of the arrangements of their music. Annie Haslam's voice is another instrument among these other talented musicians. You made my day, Doug. Thank you for your comments, always enlightening and enthusiastic. Now it's time to try Mother Russia from them. A shorter piece than this one where the orchestral arrangements give a very dramatic effect to the song. And Annie's voice ...

[@george474747]

I just can't get over how good the first half of this is - the beauty of the strings, the composition, the voice... I can't stop coming back to these chords. It's inspirational. Was it really written by non-classical musicians? Or a collaborative arrangement? It's subtle and sophisticated, while remaining as accessible as a movie soundtrack or theatre hit.

[@stephanevilleneuve9450]

@@george474747 From what I've read, Tony Cox contributed to the orchestral arrangements, but all the music for this work is by Michael Dunford (guitarist) and the band. John Tout, their talented pianist, was a classically trained musician and a major influence on the classical side of their music. Finally, Annie trained in opera singing. God I love her voice.

[@george474747]

@@stephanevilleneuve9450 Thanks!

[@ulfingvar1]

And imagine that the excrement that was punk had the balls to call itself more "relevant" than this true music. World is a cesspool!!!

[@BobKantor2000]

I saw this performed live at Carnegie Hall - brilliant performance

[@judygross1808]

me too!

[@donkick2622]

Me, too! I still have my Ticket!

[@ZorgyGirl]

Awesome ! I was born roughly ten days after this concert took place. So, yes, I know, I was born 2 decades too late, unfortunately.

[@jimryan5479]

Me too!

[@davidcohen821]

And me, as well. Orchestra, third row on the left aisle

[@tobytanzer]

There was some discussion and an attempt by Michael Dunford to produce a musical play or film of Scheherazade. He told me it suffered from a lack of interest and/or financing. Quite sadly he died two weeks after that conversation. Of all the band members, he was the most underrated, and the most talented as a composer. RIP Michael.

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

Quite Sad...

[@NashvilleKat1]

I've always loved when Jon Camp's bass functions as the lead guitar. It's a perfect foil and counterpoint to Annie's gorgeous soprano. I love "Ocean Gypsy" from this album. Such an enigmatic and haunting piece of music and song. There is a live performance on KZbin.

[@hootanfarzadpour9584]

Renaissance means love, tenderness, hope & beauty in Progressive Rock world. Loved them from the beginning (the 1st incarnation of the band in 1969) and this love grew more and more until it took me to the heavens by their masterpiece album "Scheherazade and the other stories". Once you get in touch with their fantastic music and the beautiful heavenly voice of Annie they will be always with you, like guardian angels. R.I.P great and underrated Maestros Michael Dunford & John Tout. And thank you master Doug for all the great music that you share here with your knowledge and pure joy. Cheers!

[@proplay51]

John could have played for Yes... and he would have been their finest keyboardist!

[@markjohnson9048]

That next piece that she's about to introduce at the end is "Ashes are Burning". IMHO, that's their best song (I'm a bass player, so I'm partial to Jon Camp's solo on that version). You'll definitely want to put that on your list, Doug.

[@Ignats75]

One of the greatest Bass jams of all time. And largely unknown. THeir loss. Our gain.

[@leekumiega9268]

I agree but don't for get mother Russia.

[@guidosarducci209]

I'm not sure if I get this precisely right (I don't have perfect pitch), but you know that ending note in Scherezade? In Ashes are Burning, I think she hits a note 2 octaves above it - more than once. I am NOT KIDDING. My daughter, who never shows that she's impressed, just said, "OK, so we've established that she must have sold her soul to the devil ..." I think of it as like "a controlled scream", but that doesn't even begin to describe how beautiful it is.

[@JonQuist]

@@Ignats75 Absolutely no doubt about it.

[@JonQuist]

This band has too many great songs that you should review. But this live version of Ashes Are Burning is the only song they recorded at that venue without the orchestra. So it is very different from everything else. The crescendo at the end is one of my favorite endings of any song I know. And the bass solo in the middle is probably easily in the top 5 or 10, but as mentioned above, almost nobody knows about it. Doug, do review more of their work, but definitely include Ashes Are Burning (the version from this album). Ensure that solo is introduced to a broader audience. Someone somewhere will be inspired.

[@builderga]

Loved the review. I was there at Carnegie Hall for the concert. Drove 6 hours to get there. Saw the band 5 different times and loved every concert. Annie is one of my favorite vocalists. the band is also great. Imagine doing rock without an electric guitar. Great piano, drums and especially the bass. John Camp is my favorite bassist.

[@joemaurone7923]

While I recommend "Mother Russia" as the next Renaissance reaction, like many others (a lot to sink one's teeth into for a classical composer's reaction), I'd never forgive myself if I didn't also suggest a reaction to "At the Harbour" from ASHES ARE BURNING, which incorporates "The Sunken Cathedral" by Debussy, my favorite orchestral composer.

[@allisonrich5061]

Mother Russia and Kiev.

[@dianequick3127]

Oh, thank you Joe Maurone! I had not thought about "The Sunken Cathedral" by Debussy. I will have to think about this one.

[@andrewvida3829]

Annie Haslam's voice is other-worldly. If you like Renaissance, you may also like Dead Can Dance.

[@pauldover1403]

Well, what a wonderful episode, Doug. Not only listening to an old familiar suite of songs played live (the album was a triumph) but also listening to your comments. I've said before that I don't always understand what you're saying but your obvious enthusiasm (facial expressions as well as words) makes the experience even better. I may be unusual but my favourite member of the band was always John Tout who stood out for me as a musician but of course, Annie had a special voice and personality which added another instrument to the group. It's so good to know that another generation is now listening to the music. I only saw the band play live once in 1976 but as luck has it the concert has now been released as British Tour '76. The band played at Trent Polytechnic in a modern multi-purpose room using a P.A. System that was borrowed from Sweet, a pop band of the time who were playing more rock music, Despite all of the problems the performance was incredible. It was a few months after "Carnegie Hall" so probably all of us had the album or at least had heard it but the group was just as good playing to a student audience. They were great times and I miss them but at least nowadays we have the chance to hear them once more.

[@ansfridaeyowulfsdottir8095]

I remember Renaissance and Sweet from the early 70s. {:-:-:}

[@bostonseeker]

This was such a treat. For those of us who were kids and teens then, that is an almost vanished world of the 1970s. And thank you Doug for looking for these artists to interview. You should try to find and interview Rachel Flowers, the brilliant pianist who interprets ELP.

[@kfleetwood]

Great master work, this. Another great piece is “A Song For All Seasons”. Of note, Annie worked with Steve Howe of Yes and recorded their version of “Turn Of The Century”, which is just marvelous. When I spoke with Steve a couple years ago he said he would love to do more recordings with Annie.

[@leoscone4036]

The ONLY big name band I ever had front-row center seats for was Renaissance. Staring directly up at Annie Haslam as she sang and swayed was magical. Great band, phenomenal singer.

[@schuylersouthwell2554]

Yes, her swaying during the instrumental breaks was hypnotizing.

[@davidlinde3990]

Annie is my favorite female vocalist by far.

[@tomkeane3778]

Backlit, translucent and luminescent. Beautiful voice and the legs weren't so bad either.

[@nolongerthere]

I'm partial to Touching Once (Is so hard to keep)! Everyone is firing on all cylinders and her high note at the ending still makes me shiver

[@JohnLRice]

Agreed, one of my favorites as well!

[@soggytom]

Yes, yes, a thousand times yes! For me, it's ALL of the album 'Novella'. BTW, Doug, another album with full orchestra and much Russian influence.

[@JohnLRice]

@@soggytom Absolutely agreed! If I was held at gunpoint and had to choose between only being able to listen to just the Scheherazade or Novella album for the rest of my life . . . I might consider just taking the bullet 😅 but . . . I know if I wanted to live I'd choose Novella! 🥰

[@BBHouseRodent]

Yes, Yes, Yes!

[@sturoc0]

NOVELLA .... their finest moment !

[@jeff6899]

Have always said Renaissance is maybe the most underrated rock music band of all time; followed by Strawbs. Lyrically, musically---all were talented, followed by Annie's 5+ octave, clean voice range. LONG time fans since the very earliest days

[@charlesxavier..]

Klaatu?😊

[@kingcurry6594]

Renaissance, Strawbs, Camel, BJH, Manfred Mann's Earthband - all very underrated but all amongst my favourite 70s prog bands.

[@adriangoodrich4306]

Doug, if this piece blew you away, the piece that follows it - "Ashes Are Burning" (the lyrics are about poetess and lyricist Betty Thatcher's near-death experience) - surely will? it and "Song of Scheherazade" surely vie for the title of their magnum opus? And Jon Camp's Squire-like leads bass is just something else. And as for Annie... But, for marginally shorter pieces, even nearly half a century later I am still blown away by "Can You Hear Me?" and "A Song for All Seasons" - not least because of Betty Thatcher's powerful lyrics. The former still sends shivers down my spine when Annie sings "Calling to the sky...", and the latter has the most fantastic and powerful finale of any Renaissance piece IMO. I am hoping and praying you find the time to cover all three. Then start on some more of the fantastic stuff, on "Turn of the Cards" and "Novella" in particular...

[@markspooner1224]

In all the years of waiting for recognition of Renaissance this has been the most rewarding reaction I've seen. If you are familiar with the Rimsky K piece you can hear which parts they cleverly included here to great effect. To anyone who isn't familiar with it the Fritz Reiner / Chicago Symphony Orchestra is recommended. Thanks Doug 10/10.

[@joemaurone7923]

For those not familiar (like me), do you have a time stamp of the Rimsky K quote? I've been curious for a while; thanks.

[@markspooner1224]

@@joemaurone7923 I can't think of all the parts but the very beginning is lifted from R.K. and near the end of the Sultan too about 6:49. I love the Renaissance very much but I've known the classical piece since childhood and it's has many great melodies.

[@piotrrusk]

@@joemaurone7923 12:16 - theme from the first suite Sheherazade.

[@joemaurone7923]

@@piotrrusk Thanks! Much appreciated.

[@VIX_Noelopan]

Yes, Shererazade by Fritz Reiner/Chicago Symphony at the Chicago Orchestra Hall on February 8, 1960, released at RCA's Red Seal label, is a marvel!

[@gthobaben]

I’m only in my 30s, so obviously too young to experience these sorts of things during the 70s. Had only heard “Things I don’t Understand” from Renaissance until your channel rekindled my curiosity. Appreciate the continued elevation of this and other bands!

[@nolongerthere]

So envious that you interviewed Annie. She brought a beautiful voice to the prog genre like no one else did. The band was amazing, combining rock sounds with an atavistic sensibility, and her feminine presence took us back to a beloved past we cannot recall individually.

[@sagitt1856]

Master Helvering, in the "reaction youtube" category, your channel is undoubtedly the most serious and the richest in teaching. Thank you for your wonderful work, your educational concern as well as for today's analysis. “Renaissance”, in 1976, with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and a choir: a feast for the ear. All the albums of this group are musical jewels... and of these "Scheherazade and Other Stories" is a diamond.

[@krabkrabkrab]

47 years after I first heard it and bought the album, it's wonderful to have it analyzed in this way. Thanks, Doug.

[@danalawrence4473]

I saw this band live and they played both this and Ashes are Burning- and both of them had the audience give standing ovations. Phenomenal! (And, Doug, Annie holding that note at the end of Ashes is chilling!). Annie is still a wonderful singer.

[@richardworrall3135]

Wonderful reaction Doug, thank you for giving this the attention it deserves. The band never really hit the big time here in the UK, but that doesn't mean that they didn't make some fabulous albums right up to their last significant work, 'A song For all Seasons" The title track would be a fantastic choice for a reaction, their last truly progressive symphonic work. There is such a rich seam of Renaissance music that awaits the seeker!

[@MsThebeMoon]

You discovered one of the most hidden gems of the 70's. I still listen to Renaissance every so often - quite a few times a year. Nothing like them.

[@sturoc0]

Every one of your videos I've watched- and there are some I haven't due to time and personal tastes- are like an in depth music lesson. Your theory analysis are eye opening for someone who has always, always, written and played by ear. Believing that music comes from the Heart first and then you grasp the tools you may need to complete it...and yet sometimes they're not needed. Letting the creation be what it is. That said, your observations : "in these three notes taking one note and turn it, pivot it into a new chord "..and .." Prog bands using Prism chromatic 3rd chord changes" really great insights !! I am so happy you have finally dived into Renaissance, a group i have listened to since I was a kid in the 70s . It brings tears to my eyes to see your reactions. Your observations are like a friend discussing various songs etc. Similar conversations I had with a long time best friend, colloborator, guitarist whom I had written soo many songs with -now passed on. Keep up the good work Doug, Renaissance's album Novella should be next !

[@dnashpdx]

OMG your video has awakened in me a long forgotten love of this band! Their composition, arragangement and performance. The harmonies, intervals.. Annie's range was beyond compare. I had every album they released on vinyl, including those one. TIme to tee them up on Spotify. TY!

[@garyvanremortel5218]

We've listened to Annie since 1972 and the Prologue album.

[@bostonseeker]

Prologue is great. That's how I discovered Renaissance.

[@Aitch412]

Why is the music of the 70's just soooooo much better...? musically, lyrically, spiritually, and technically brilliant... I thank god that I was lucky enough to be born early enough to appreciate REAL music

[@davidbulger3716]

I lost my friends autographed copy of Renaissance Live at Carnegie Hall. Unforgivable and irreplaceable. No auto tune on Annie’s voice ever as far as I know. I didn’t know she had a problem with smoke in the air. Had I known I wouldn’t have fired up at the concert I attended. Her voice is……. I’m lost for words. Maybe majestic would describe it.

[@user-hy1bk3gw7w]

You really should do song for all seasons, it has one of the most satisfying resolutions at the end!!

[@adriangoodrich4306]

I So agree!!!!

[@markhoesly3838]

I third the motion

[@garys6378]

Fourth!

[@pedrobriceno9191]

Fifth!!!!!

[@Schimnesthai]

Sixth of Firth!

[@NoirHammer]

I saw Annie a few times back in the 90s and she's as sweet as her voice. At that time she was inviting her fans to her house, I think in PA, to spend time with her on a personal level. Hope you review Black Flame and Ocean Gypsy.

[@seorsamaclately4294]

Good suggestions, I'd like to add Mother Russia, Running Hard, and Ashes to Ashes to this list.

[@seorsamaclately4294]

@@ytusersumone Thanks for reminding me. Have to put some Major Tom to my ears these days.

[@BBHouseRodent]

@@seorsamaclately4294 Let's face it, There are so many to pick from. Hoping Doug makes this a at least a bi-monthly thing for a while.

[@ralphmarrone3130]

Black Flame is my favorite Renaissance song.

[@michaelsalisbury1477]

The Krto Ocean gypsy idbtheoir worst song.

[@hansmoerenhout]

Love Renaissance. And their Sheherazade is probably them at their peak. The studio version and the live version. The whole double album is awesome. One of the best live albums ever. They’ve got a bunch of other incredible good epic tracks. If I have to propose one next I should say Ashes are Burning. The studio version is great but I can highly recommend a live video from KZbin recorded in RTL Luxembourg studio. You can see the band play, and I’ll tell you Doug, you’ll love Annie even more seeing her perform. I knew the song already when I saw this live version but it really brought tears in my eyes at the end. Definitely a warm recommendation to do that one! Greetings from the Netherlands and thank you for this awesome review!

[@paulhoyle4452]

Hi Doug...this is the first time I've watched a reaction from you LIVE....and like you, the first time I've hear this track too...excited.

[@nolongerthere]

Jon Camp doesn't get nearly enough love for his melodic bass work

[@augustovasconcellos19]

One of the best bass players that ever made a step on Earth. Unappreciated genius.

[@Laurasiana]

Definitely. He’s another of the great lead bass players slinging a Rickenbacker, like Squire and Lee. Since Renaissance didn’t have a lead guitar player (that just wasn’t Dunford’s thing), Jon really stands out.

[@adriangoodrich4306]

@@Laurasiana Absolutely! And I rate Camp with Squire and Lee as the three best Prog/symphonic Rock bassists.

[@allisonrich5061]

@@adriangoodrich4306 I second you on this. I love his bass lines and his voice. Without Jon Camp, it's not Renaissance.

[@augustovasconcellos19]

@@Sandervideoclipsegames-or7ui Yes. And I must add that he is also the soul of Renaissance sound.

[@RiquezaEmGotas]

John Camp's bass lines are comparable to those made by Chris Squire. He's quite good yet overlooked most of the time.

[@RiquezaEmGotas]

@@ytusersumone Yes, i definitely pay attention.

[@crhkrebs]

Absolutely agree, my friend.

[@Tarkus7]

They both play Rickenbacker basses. Jon Camp's sound is perfect for this music.

[@johnarcarese4301]

Imagine if Yes had covered Song of Scheherazade…

[@crhkrebs]

@@johnarcarese4301 not sure how well that would work. Very different bands, very different styles. I doubt Renaissance would cover "Close to the Edge" but I think they'd have a good time with "And You and I". But who knows?

[@willm4546]

Thank you for this wonderful analysis! This piece has been a favorite of mine for over 45 years and it's finally nice to hear critical acclaim from an expert.

[@alangillespie]

That was spectacularly good. Can't believe I've lived all these years and never really listened to Renaissance and I must correct that forthwith.

[@mikedavis6884]

Agreed. Wonderful stuff.

[@violinmke]

You're in for a treat.

[@bostonseeker]

Start with Prologue, then move to Scheherazade ...

[@MsThebeMoon]

Yes. You must. I never stopped listening to them since the 70's. And pass it on to the younger generations.

[@TimTim3000]

One of my favorite groups from the 70s but I've never seen such a detailed breakdown of their technique until I stumbled upon this. Nice, thanks!

[@chadbennett7873]

By far my favorite Renaissance piece. I found them back in the In Concert days in the very early 1970's and have been a fan ever since. Saw them live twice, once in Long Beach, California where I waited outside to get a chance to speak with Annie and Michael Dunsford. What a true pleasure and they both had such grace and dignity. So happy you can introduce this work of genius to people who haven't heard it before. It's my go-to piece when I'm struggling to get to sleep. Relaxes me like nothing else.

[@martinbroten9467]

As many times as I've heard "The Young Prince and Princess", it never ceases to amaze.

[@carvcom1]

I agree. It is one of my favorite Annie performances.

[@jeanbizet931]

I waited anxiously for a vídeo with renaissance and it is with song of sheherazade!!! Woow, such a perfect masterpiece. And the best comments. Thanks a lot Doug! Greetings from Brazil!

[@mikele5756]

I have never heard the live version. That was stunning. I have to listen to this entire album.

[@richardhoner7842]

I bet you loved it

[@michaelschey1084]

So glad your are finally discovering Annie and her voice and this classic line up. THIS is the best performance Renaissance has ever presented, ever. Everything about them is in this one song. Live at Carnegie Hall is still one of my favorite albums of all time.

[@jurgenvietz8395]

" There are surprises round every turn..." Yes!!!! That's what's the essence of the music, the composing of RENAISSANCE

[@grantpenton1850]

John Tout was such a perfectionist as he challenged himself and the band to create 7 albums of melodically rich symphonic prog. It was such a shame how it ended after 9 years- his sister had recently died, and an anguished John had insisted on going on with the tour. But on stage in Tel Aviv in September 1980 he suffered a breakdown after making a mistake, and left... the band fired him, and Terry quit out of solidarity. The band re-emerged in 1981 as a sort of synthpop band which released 2 albums... but without John it was far removed from the classic sound of their prime. But in the 2010s with a new line-up Renaissance continues to impress with new symphonic prog masterpieces and performances of their classic pieces.

[@goytabr]

Not to mention that Annie could just recite the phone book (now I'm betraying my age! 🤣) and she'd still move crowds to tears with her voice!

[@records45ful]

Renaissance "Day Of The Dreamer" is excellent from "A Song Of All Seasons" (1978).

[@stvdok]

Raja Khan. About eleven and a half minutes of pure joy and Annie's vocals are memorable and of course otherworldly.

[@arnaldospiller]

Thanks for bringing this to the spotlight. This is the most beautiful piece of music I've heard in a long time. Uplifting. Wow!!!

[@randyyorston2987]

Fantastic review of one of my favorite pieces of music ever. Doug, totally enjoyed your perfect analysis of what is a seminal work!

[@kellingc]

I'm so glad to get your take on this piece. I saw you had a conversation with Annie, and I'm excited to check that out after finishing this. Thank you for doing these and the posts.

[@MrDanielphenix]

Txs for your enthousiasm and clarity...you are so fun to watch and you make me feel good

[@isaacdemoorea]

Thank for this Doug. I have always had some resistance to 70s prog but your reaction helped me to appreciate this lovely piece of music. Awesome, keep it on!

[@daveford12]

Love your reactions your visual reactions are the best you express the same joy that had we had in the 60’s, 70’s when we heard their music for the first time. Ashes are burning is probably my favourite album by them

[@firebirdexplorervsg8672]

Highly enjoyable reaction and reminder of how outstanding Annie and the boys were back in the heydays of great music. It’s time to get my old vinyls out and listen to some Renaissance all weekend long. Thanks, Doug!✌️

[@RafaelMarques0210]

OOHHH MY GOD!!! Finally!!! For me this is the Masterpiece of Renaissance and this version is definitive the best!! Listen again with the video i really cried with Annie's voice... Jesus Christ!!!!!!!!!!!

[@estefaniasucre6966]

This is amazing. I was waiting for so long to listen to this reaction! This is a terrific masterpiece. Please do more Renaissance reactions, dear Doug!!! Please go to Trip to the Fair, Mother Russia and Can you Understand

[@andreatutrani]

Nice job Doug. I’ve been listening to this magnificent piece since it first came out. Being a concert percussionist I can relate to this outstanding suite and I truly enjoyed listening to you and your comments. There is so much more Annie Haslam and Renaissance for you to listen to and I look forward to your next show 😁👏🏽🎶

[@user-iz2je9gk6g]

I was at this concert in 1975. Carnegie Hall is a magical place to hear music. I enjoyed your take on the music. I always felt that Annie Haslem's voice was a musical instrument in itself.

[@mysteryb3]

I've really been enjoying the videos, Doug, and am digging into older ones and was thrilled to see you do a listen to this brilliant composition by Renaissance. I was fortunate enough to see them live in 1979 and this was a flashback of the best kind. Hearing this piece and Annie's incredible voice again after far too long gives me goosebumps. What a truly magical evening it was spent with these creative and talented musicians. Thank you.

[@grantpenton1850]

I was listening to this again yesterday, and immediately searched for commentary, thinking surely you had reviewed this- and it has been a delight to hear this, absolutely one of your best!!

[@there4im839]

THANK YOU, THANK YOU for this, Doug. It’s been a favorite for 40 years. Not only had I not heard the Carnegie version, but you provided a couple of mind blowing theoretical epiphanies for me. The way you gestured the harmonic pivot should be patented. I’m not a student, but endlessly fascinated by composition.

[@gailtaylor330]

Love this! And love your interview with Annie. Great stuff.

[@bobduerwald9805]

Song of Scheherazade has always been a favorite Renaissance song. Next you should try Ashes Are Burning. Many of my friends from Eastern Pennsylvania and the New Jersey/New York Metro area were in love with Annie and her spectacular vocals. Renaissance was the only rock group that I saw in concert 3 times. The two women of the 70's who had the purest vocals were Karen Carpenter and Annie Haslam.

[@cangurkok3541]

What a great review sir.Thank you so much for analysing this song.

[@ArBaCw]

Somewhere back in the early eighties I heard this song from this album for the first time on a "pirate radio station". I did not know to what band or what song I was listening but it immediate draw my attention, mainly because of this incredible sound of Annie Haslam, and although the song is quite long I could not stop listening. The next day I went to the record shop to buy the album and I was so surprised of the quality of all the songs on the album. Up to now I think this is by far the best live recording there is. In the weeks following buying this album I bought all of their albums and stil I buy everything they still release. And it's still good although my absolute favorite album still is "Live at the Carnegie Hall". I've played Scheherezade hundreds of times and the same for the song thats also on the album Ashes are Burning, which is also very very good with an epic end when Annie sings these incredible high notes. You should also listen to that song.

[@marieke1521]

I saw Renaissance on March 11, 1977, at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, GA - a concert that I will never forget. I was attending Auburn University at the time and drove to Atlanta with a friend in a red MG sports car. It was such a joy to see Annie sing live - her voice so crisp, clear and absolutely beautiful.

[@antoniocarlin5026]

Gavin Harrison first band was Renaissance on 1983, then the high school was Porcupine Tree and now the Master and Doctorate is in King Crimson!!!

[@tobytanzer]

Thanks for this! I wrote an extended comment for your interview with Annie video. Great interview, BTW.

[@davidbarker77]

Sooooooooo glad you did this. A wonderful melding of classical and prog. Your analysis was insightful, interesting and complementary. Thank you! Suggest Carpet of the Sun, Can You Understand and Song For All Seasons. Also, would still really love to see you do Big Big Train’s East Coast Racer. Thanks, Doug. Brilliant!

[@grahamnunn8998]

So great to see Annie blowing your mind. Such a great band, all virtuosos and amazing composers. Been a fan since the late 70s and it never seems to date.

[@robertc4826]

I had tickets in 1975 to see Renaissance in St Louis and sadly couldn't go. Fast forward to 2014 when I finally got to see them at the Levoy theatre in Millville NJ of all places. And Annie's voice was still a magnificent thing to hear !

[@adriangoodrich4306]

First one of Doug's I have watched live. Absolutely loved it - GREAT half hour! I think Doug is a convert! Watch his interview with the lovely Annie, too. So much more Renaissance for you to go at, Doug. I just LOVED this video, and the interview.

[@steveh111]

I've just found this reaction Doug - oh my goodness. One of my favourite tracks by one of my favourite bands, and you *add* to it with your commentary. Thank you so very much. 👍

[@wpaul-hc1xo]

really looking forward to next renaissance reaction, so many masterpieces

[@GrafStorm]

Well, you've re awoken me to Renaissance, they are indeed great musicians, so very worthy of a listen. Thanks, this was fun.

[@SteveBrant55]

I was at Renaissance’s Carnegie Hall concert, and listening to it again with your commentary brought tears to my eyes. It’s one of the most beautiful progressive rock songs ever written. I’m so happy you got to talk to Annie and will watch that video now!

[@stuartmcivor2276]

I've never heard this live version, only the studio one - it's great! I have just bought the album based on this.

[@tonyspencer692]

Thank you Doug for both this and the interview with Annie. I was a big fan of Renaissance in the 70s and saw them a couple of times at the Hammersmith Odeon in ‘74 ‘75 I think. I’d bought their first album (published) in 1970 when Jane Relf was their lead singer and followed them for a while. Annie was one of the best singers I’d ever heard, and she was tiny for such a big beautiful voice. Have been looking back through your Reaction videos and loving all your interpretations of some of the bands I used to follow (before family life restricted by theatre/concert going) like the Moody Blues, ELP, Crimson King, The Who and Genesis and looking forward to hearing more of your reactions. I was in my 20s at the time and didn’t have the musical appreciation to understand what I was listening to, I only knew it was good. Now listening to your reactions and explaining what is happening is helping me to understand why I was blown away by these musicians in the first place. Many thanks Doug.

[@fredreed8462]

Thanks Doug! I bow to you, Sir! Carnegie Hall version is a classic,, classic lineup and classic performance where the band and the orchestra jelled perfectly, and I can't wait to hear your conversation with Annie Haslam.

[@antonyjohnson4489]

Simply phenomenal. The video explains all, very expertly put.

[@SeeDeeSea]

That was absolutely amazing. The analysis was super too.

[@mauricesilva6177]

Amazing song Doug😁👍 I have been listening to them for a little over a year.Their music made me an instant fan also.Truly amazing,goes beyond words.Good job Doug breaking the song down😁👍

[@janerelffanclub4621]

Great to see you reacting to more Renaissance.

[@ozuidema]

Great show, as always Doug. One of my favorite tracks of all time. 25 minutes and not a weak moment. Annie's singing is out of this world. That A# at the end is killer, but also note how at 18:40 she ends that line "... for the rest of all his days". It always brings tears to my eyes and I have listened to this a hundred times. What I especially like about Annie's voice is the fact that she hardly uses any vibrato, an effect which I usually detest in vocals; it's just a trick to sustain notes but I think it's ugly. And it's way more difficult to hold the note steady the way she does. Thanks again. I know you're practically inundated with requests to cover al kinds of songs, but I respectfully suggest another one to add to the long list :): Metamorphosis, by Curved Air. It's also very "classical" oriented with wonderful keyboards from wonderboy Eddie Jobson (later in UK and Roxy Music).

[@musicobsessive56]

Re Curved Air. I totally agree. Either that or 'Piece of Mind' from their 'Second Album'. A very underrated and almost forgotten prog band.

[@peterdiehl2328]

Doug, I appreciate your joy with music I'm into since over 40 years. I discover some pieces a second time together "with you". Great Pleasure - THANKS!

[@Lafiel17]

Thank you for reacting to one of my favorite pieces of music.

[@vitman4414]

Oh My! I have not heard that before but that was absolutely outstanding! Thanks Doug. Wow!