Eva Cassidy - Over the Rainbow - Reaction - Better than Judy Garland? Decide for yourself...

[@roytee3127]

Judy Garland was delivering a musical performance. Eva Cassidy was delivering a meditation on longing.

[@tazz3487able]

Eva was also saying goodbye.

[@CDKennedy24]

Really well said!! Spot on!

[@jdbroders64]

I cry every time I hear this angel. If you don't tear up listening to this unworldly beautiful voice, you're not human.

[@EC-dz3fb]

Very well-said.

[@cynthiabustamante2884]

Year's ago when I first heard her sing this song. I cried and cried. You don't just hear Eva sing you feel it.

[@rayjcalgary]

i STILL cry and cry years later!

[@lylefales9940]

I sent a reply but if it was incoherent I apologize. It was gone way before I would have hit send.

[@4orrcountry]

So true.

[@johnsimpson8782]

Eva seems to sing to an arrangement that so remarkably fits her talent. The last time through, when she lets her voice soar at "Somewhere...", I am a puddle of tears and memories.

[@anncain2432]

Yes, and if your eyes don't water, you're clearly distracted.

[@GutPyle]

Finally. Another fully grown man who cries as much as I do when I here her sing this. I have to listen when Im.alone to avoid all the "what's wrongs. Thanks.

[@suemanganaro9533]

Eva and I attended the same high school in Bowie, Maryland. She started playing around the DC/Annapolis area when she 1st started out. This version of Over the Rainbow was recorded at Blues Alley when Eva was sick. How she got through singing that song, I’ll never know. She was amazing, but sadly became widely known and appreciated after her death. RIP, Eva.❤️

[@larryshair]

I can tell that she was very special.

[@GiddingsMcCann]

I graduated Bowie High in '78. When did you graduate?

[@joelorsong9127]

As a friend, saw her performance a the Bayou benefit...Came out, with a walker and nailed Louis' What a Wonderful World. Not a dry eye in the house...most powerful thing I have ever seen musicallly.

[@shariwhitico6235]

Love her ❤❤❤❤.

[@kd8199]

I was friends with her aunt. Visited her grandmother who lived in Harper’s Ferry. Never had the opportunity to meet Eva. Like so many others, I never heard her sing until after her death.

[@guitarjonn7103]

Judy Garland's performance is iconic and I, like many, both love her and am broken hearted of the struggles she went through. But listening to Eva's, I feel I'm being touched by an angel, leaving me meditatively and tearfully quiet for a long while afterwards. No performance has ever touched my heart and spirit quite like it. Judy (along with it's composer and lyricist) is the source of my love of this song, but Eva took it and went to higher level, for me. Bless them both.

[@larryshair]

So well said, John.

[@alshelah100]

Knowing she sang this just after hearing her fate, she sang it with such hope and clarity. It gives me chills

[@jeffreyjameson5510]

@@alshelah100 this misinformation has been spread way too much. Blues alley recordings were in January of 96. She was diagnosed during the summer of 96. Made her final public appearance in September of 96 and died in November of 96. RIP Eva.

[@user-ii4zf5iq3t]

@@jeffreyjameson5510 I was diagnosed in Aug 95, Linda McCartney was too but she didn't make it. I went thru Chemo into '96 when I discovered Eva, then she too was gone. I had survivors guilt so bad. Why Eva. I hope and pray I get placed in Heaven next to the choir section. Can you imagine how beautiful it will be? Every time it rains I think,oh...Eva's singing again.

[@gardenlady73]

I could not agree more

[@carrbucks]

Eva owned every song she ever covered

[@BirdYoumans]

I always enjoy watching guys review this one because they have no clue what's about to hit them, and then, we are supposed to talk after we hear it right? lol! Tho I have been "retired" for some time now (quotes because tho I no longer travel and perform, I still produce vids for my youtube channels), Someone gave me the Songbird CD several years ago as I was unaware of her because at that time in my career I was so busy traveling and performing and producing and recording and anything musical you could think of and just really did not listen much to new stuff because there was no time. But I was producing a CD for a friend of mine who wanted to do Eva's version of People Get Ready so she brought the album in for me to learn it. I was stunned. Where had this lady been all my life, and sadly, she had already passed by that time (God had called her home early for a command performance). After she left that day I played the whole album and song after song after song I just could not get my jaw up off the floor. NO one had EVER affected me like this lady did, and In my early days it could not be overproduced or loud enough for me tho I had started getting into more of a blue/grassy kind of backup for my own music which had by then become Gospel music. But here was this wonderful, gentle sound that just commanded your full attention like no Marshall stack ever could. I listened to that CD over and over and over again while traveling and every place I could work it in. I finally had to just stop and get on to something else at some point so I let some time pass. But now and again when I need a fresh drink of water, I return to the well. I love this lady. There never was, and never will be, another one. Rest in peace dear lady. I will meet you on the other side before too long!

[@larryshair]

She was pretty incredible and it's so sad to know that her life was cut short. Very sad indeed.

[@chadtravis7832]

Eva's voice rips into your soul. She was a one of a kind. Very similar, in my humble opinion, to Karen Carpenter. Both had this ability to sing directly to you. Special stuff.

[@shawnmansfield1328]

Eva and Karen both could rip your heart out of your chest with their voices. So can Alison Krause.

[@toddburton6570]

It would have been lovely to hear Eva and Karen in a duet...

[@brubry12]

I searched for Karen Carpenter doing Over the Rainbow but could only find her doing The Rainbow Connection.

[@misanthropicmusings4596]

@@brubry12 Wow, I'd kill for a Karen Carpenter cover of Over The Rainbow! That being said this cover is something special -- the guitar playing compliments her voice, and I melt when she plays the bridge towards the end.

[@Powerstroke98]

@@shawnmansfield1328 Agreed, all are above so many others!

[@littleflick]

Goosebumps and tears every time. We played this at my Mum’s funeral, Eva Cassidy was her favourite 💕💕

[@jameskirks4332]

I'm so sorry May she rest in peace

[@albertber.]

Dear Larry, you are such a loving man! It's great that you're there! ❤️

[@edithelizabethmellanunez7396]

From time to time I return to this marvel played by Angela and Eva. It's a gift for the ears, for the soul And it shows the respect that Eva deserves to Angelina by not standing out in voice. Angelina shows respect and admiration for this beauty that she left us.

[@charlesyateschalfant]

One of the most beautiful pieces of music I've ever heard.

[@randyrodriguez1445]

Judy sang with the optimism of a child, Eva sang it with the melancholy of an adult. Simple as that.

[@ronraskind]

I personally discovered Eva Cassidy about 20 years ago from a family member. After hearing this song I was hooked. I learned that Eva was from the Washington DC area and was a classics, jazz, and Blues singer and guitarist who sang during the '80s into the mid-90s. She was only known in her local areas for the most part. Unfortunately, she died in 1996 at the age of just 33, from melanoma. After her death, word spread, and her music became more known, and she became legendary, selling over 10 million albums posthumously. As you heard, her arrangements of songs are totally unique and masterful, and her voice is so delicate, yet powerful, and crystal clear. It is instantly recognizable. There was only one full live video ever captured of her and it was during this performance that this particular song took place. There were a dozen songs in this performance at the Blues Alley lounge in the Washington area. Eva passed away just 9 months after performing this song. Introduce her to all the people you know as a talent like this should never be forgotten.

[@philpiper]

Beautiful comment Ron, everything I also wanted to say.

[@arthager8952]

I found her one night watching a Nightline ABC show. They dedicated a nice segment to her. It blew me away and brought tears I never thought would stop.

[@dream2451]

Also, there is a biography of her life, and she knew at this point, she was dying, which makes this album & video even more spectacular. If others would like another couple amazing performances, songbird, fields of gold and my personal favorite blues in the night.

[@dream2451]

Oh and with the exception of this album, she recorded all her own harmonies and most instruments on all her other studio recordings.

[@jejrstans]

Well said! A friend introduced me to her music shortly after her first CD came out. Never looked back! Perfect!

[@divindave6117]

3 or 4 years ago I was in the kitchen when this song came on the computer - my wife was watching her video of it. I had heard this rendition of this song before and I knew it had to be "THAT" girl because once you've heard it, there is no way to forget. I walked over to see the video with my jaw dropped. --- I was on a business trip to DC back in the 90s and this girl was playing in the hotel lounge. I heard her sing this song live, up close and personal, and like everyone else, was completely blown away by her rendition of it..... My wife filled me in and told me that she had died quite a few years ago and how she became internet famous many years after her death. I had no idea and I am still a little bit stunned to this day. Thanks for reviewing this. Ms Cassidy deserves all the accolades she can get. She sure could sing and tug on your heart strings. R.I,P.

[@jimmybarrett1413]

Eva Cassidy- fields of gold

[@trishalivingston1051]

Glad you are listening to Eva.. the world agrees. She is incredible.

[@patriciameyer8798]

Eva's version of "Autumn Leaves" is stunningly beautiful.

[@JohnLee-db9zt]

My favorite from her.

[@pacoy5319]

My closest friend, since childhood, lost her battle with cancer in 2005. We "discovered" Eva together and her songs flooded the service when she passed, as requested. Autumn Leaves was and always will be phenomenal. RIP Debbie and Eva.

[@Broonzied]

I agree, it is my favourite from Eva.

[@FlowerPowerWV]

My favorite as well. It's deep, wide, rich.

[@lioncurlew]

I think I want Eva to sing at my Funeral..XX

[@sallyhu5028]

THE definitive version. Recorded live. One take. And Eva was suffering from a cold. It was suggested that the recording be postponed but they were struggling financially and had already booked the venue. Fell completely in love with this version when it was played in one of the early episodes of kdrama My Name is Sam Soon. In this scene, the song captured and reflected Sam Soon's loneliness and missing her father - to whom she was very close and who had died. Not having ever heard of Eva, spent weeks chasing her version down and was over the 🌈 when I finally found it. Eva's voice is wondrous and her version captures the sadness and longing for someone. A yearning to be some place else ... to fly home.

[@jodiwalters2068]

The purity of her voice brings me to tears every time.

[@edgaraortiz]

So those chords that you were trying to figure out are actaully Chromatic chords. Those are chords that don’t belong in the key. She played this song in Ab Major. One progression she used a lot was playing minor 5 at the end. In chord letters, she played a lot of Db Major, then Db Minor, then lastly AbM back to the tonic. Having a minor 4 in a major key gives a mysterious and sad feeling to it. It’s so nice that she added that in. I love that you’re so raw with your thoughts in this stellar performance! I get teary-eyed every time I hear this.

[@Ozymandi_as]

Man, what is it about her voice? She brought you to tears within 20 seconds of singing her first note. The tone of her voice, and her phrasing, sitting above her exquisite finger-picking on her guitar, touches somethng so human snd universal to all of us. It's almost miraculous that music can do this, in hands of a gifted performer. Condolences on the loss of your father-in-law.

[@larryshair]

Thank you so much

[@dpatrick5164]

Finger picked slow acoustic jazz with the bass line chasing close behind the melody, leading the way into the next chord. She is one of a handful of guitarists to ever walk planet Earth with the unique ability to use a single acoustic guitar to fill a room like an orchestra. I cannot say if i am more impressed with her command of guitar, or her talent for arrangement , or her gorgeous voice. But all three presented in one package by one girl at one time is astounding.

[@ratroute8238]

This was recorded on the second night of two performances by Eva and the band, they hired a recording engineer to do a live album so they could get something on record and only had funds to record the two nights. The first night was unusable because of a technical glitch, so all of the album had to come from the single take...............and she nailed it.

[@roncypert8255]

I first heard Eva’s version a short while back and it hit this old biker/trucker oil patch badass exactly the same way it hit you. Her phrasing and angelic voice got to me emotionally so many times throughout her performance. Her live video of Cyndi Lauper’s Time After Time is another stellar performance.

[@ocmom7831]

You should check out her version of Autumn Leaves. Stunning!

[@gregoryzischke1843]

She literally shows how it's done, the phrasing, the power, the finesse of knowing exactly when to use both. This performance is simply a master class.

[@larryshair]

Indeed!

[@mysteewillow5787]

Connecting on soul level beautiful 😢

[@John_Malloy]

Yes indeed! In order to produce the "feeling" that everyone talks about certain technical things have to be mastered and then delivered in a performance. Her use of chord substitutions and melodic variation were a couple of things mentioned in the video. And her ability to control vocal dynamics and the delivery of the lyric were sublime. Her use of time, coming in before the beat and hanging on after, is another "effect" that she executes brilliantly.

[@kidpoker007]

Something about her voice makes people tear it up, it's absouluely amazing

[@jeffstevens4262]

Beautiful. Just beautiful in every way and from every aspect. Another brilliant artist taken way too young at only 33 from the bastards cancer. She sang like an angel, and now she is one herself. May God rest her dear soul. Larry, your first reaction was the same as mine and it still is every time I watch this beautiful video.

[@janna1878]

Eva is truly one of the most exquisite vocalists to have graced this earth. Yes, it's better.❤️

[@marylynn8455]

My condolences to you and your family on your loss. And yes, this song to me just hits differently than the original. More about loss and regret. Her version of Fields of Gold is stunning. Thank you.

[@larryshair]

Thanks so much!

[@littleflick]

Her Fields of Gold is so beautiful. So sorry for your loss x

[@leebay6093]

Yes Fields of Gold and Songbird ❤❤

[@wandertree]

Don't apologize! I cry every single time I hear her sing. She had an amazing power of connection and emotion. She could milk out every ounce of meaning and make you dream and believe things you didn't even know were in the song. She was a remarkable talent and woman.

[@gayleenhayes3788]

This version is so much more emotional. I have loved her voice for years.

[@samtan4729]

Yup, Eva successfully reinterprets an iconic number and manages to bring out more aching loss and melancholy and sublimity with her sophisticated and uncanny phrasing and musicality. Loved your reaction too as you were open to the singular talent of Eva.

[@bingobillable]

We are very fortunate that some of her music was captured before she passed at such a ridiculously young age. Some albums have been released posthumously, and they are beautiful.

[@AnyFuleKnoThat]

Eva was such a talent, with an awesome voice, this song by Eva holds a special part in my heart, we played it at my mum's funeral, it was several years before I could listen to this again after that, but now I play it often, thank you for this, Peace and Love ❤

[@mariah540]

Oh my gosh Larry....I love watching reaction videos to Eva's Over the Rainbow, mostly because of the silent melting shock that happens on the faces of those listening for the first time. I feel their wonder. With respect, your frequent interruptions broke that spell....I would so much rather watch you just melt listening to her...which you were, but then you injected analysis, which broke the spell. For this I would have much rather you waited until the end to provide your thoughts. Eva is amazing. Other worldly. This song is a gift. Peace out.

[@sheilapearce8561]

A beloved BBC Radio D J Sir Terry Wogan posthumously launched Eva Cassidy in the U K in the late 90's. Her rendition of Songbird and Fields Of Gold is fabulous too. She is always on the radio here. When de died a few years back her songs were played on a radio memorial. I love her.

[@marshamacmartin4769]

And now your life will never be the same after hearing Eva

[@pamstuckey8349]

I tell people to listen to Eva's version of this song and confidently say - You will never forget her performance

[@bethnotw5143]

I first heard of Eva Cassidy in the late 80s early 90s and was blown away by her voice. I bought her cds, and loved all her songs. The way she sings "Over the Rainbow" is simply stunning. She had a raw bluesie tone to her voice that gave me chills. Her song "Remember You by Heart" is a song I listened to often after my Dad passed in 1994, I cried many a tear! Eva sang every lyric in ways we could relate too, she made it real. I'm still so heartbroken this beautiful young woman passed away so early in her life. Thank you, Eva, for your beautiful voice which will live on in our hearts. Gone but never forgotten ⚘️❤

[@Germantownrunner]

I never get tired of listening to Eva's vocal gift. A proud daughter of our DC Metro area here, Eva lives and lives and lives. #RIP Songbird.✝✝✝

[@rhwinner]

She's self taught on the guitar. Handles those complex chords beautifully.

[@gsorge6968]

From what she has said, and I have read, her father worked with her a lot on guitar.

[@wagonmaster1974]

@@gsorge6968 For me, anyhow, it's not the chording she employs, although that is superb. It is her noting of a second singing of the song. I am not really sure how to explain it.. She made that beautiful Guild guitar which was, by then, an extension of her fingers and soul, absolutely come to life and sing. Therefore, when you hear the song, you hear two voices, singing in perfect harmony with one another. Add to that, you feel her music as much as you hear it, and that explains the goosebumps and chills and being transported to a different place and time. Yes, Eva owns Over The Rainbow - now. You'll never hear a better performance than this.

[@usaskjock]

Among all the Eva Cassidy's numerous profound musical talents, her dynamic phrasing simultaneously and equally eloquent, powerful, clean and pure on BOTH guitar and in her voice is something unmatched in musicianship. I've heard people whose voice was comparable or whose guitar playing was better, but I've never heard anyone do both so well

[@madelinesolk5734]

I read that her father, who was a musician, taught her how to play the guitar.

[@donnamarievalentine1156]

@@wagonmaster1974 Eva's voice and rendition is so unbelievably beautiful. I just came upon her today when listening to "Danny Boy" being Irish and all. I am so deeply sorry that she died so young and with such amazing gifts. I don't think we really need to argue over who sings "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" better. Eva Cassidy was/is so immensely talented. For me, though, I fell in love with Judy Garland and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" is still my all time favorite song. They videotaped me dancing with my husband at our wedding reception in the gardens "at night" at "The Mansion" (Fairleigh Dickinson University - Twombly Estate - related to the Vanderbilts - Madison, NJ) and I had them play Judy's version from the movie to it. It truly is so magical! I am definitely going to listen to all of Eva Cassidy's songs and I thank her from my heart for sharing her unbelievable talent and gift with us all. I pray for God to hold her close and for her to be singing with all the other angels!

[@katiehouston6211]

Eva’s version is so raw and honest and organic. Chills. Leaky eyes.

[@jodyholland5687]

She died a few months after she sang this song. She is over the rainbow now. RIP Eva!

[@richardedwards5310]

Preformed this in Sept of '96 and passed away in Nov of '96.

[@Ozymandi_as]

​@@richardedwards5310 I don't mean to be picky, but this was actually part of a gig recorded in January of 96. The performance in September of that year to which I think you are referring was a benefit concert at which she sang What a Wonderful World - which was also sublime and tragic.

[@L0C0vision]

Awww, no decision to be made. Eva did the impossible. She took a classic song and interpreted it so uniquely that it's essentially its own song, and all hers. I can imagine Judy listening to this version and wishing she had also done this rendition. So appropriate for her later in life struggles. I just wish I had found Eva much sooner. Prayers for you on this ever so tender journey through grief. I'm familiar and songs like this are the soundtrack that help the feelings bubble up.💛🙏💙

[@MichaelsExplorations]

Coming back listening to this masterpiece 😢2024 ❤peace and love everyone

[@kenneth1767]

Ok I've watched dozens of reactions to this song, and you win the most-in-touch-with-emotions prize. A very special song indeed.

[@larryshair]

Thanks so much Ken!

[@weldonbailey1005]

Still keep coming back to your reaction to this. Just excellent. U kinda chickened out and had to pause to do the breakdown cause just listening was getting to u. It's ok man, same here. Thanks again. And dont worry, Judy probably loves it too. How could she not? Angels as well. Mark

[@firemedic5100]

A most appropriate reaction. My eyes start sweating every time I hear this song. Eva had a cold when this live performance was done. Eva would only do songs that spoke to her, and she did them her way. Songs you thought you knew, Eva would take them, and make them sound brand new. A couple months after this performance, Eva was diagnosed with melanoma, and died a few months later. February 2, 2023, she would have been 63. Taken away too soon, but I'm sure she is teaching heavens angels how to sing.

[@jackiestevens-lock8664]

Oh bless you Chris. I wish I could just reach through the screen and give you a big hug. ❤️ So glad you’ve discovered Eva Cassidy. She’s been one of my favourite artists for years. Her voice is just so soulful. And although the Wizard of Oz is a classic film that I too looked forward to every year as a child, Eva’s version is far superior. Please listen to her versions of “Fields of Gold” or “Songbird” 😊

[@larryshair]

Thanks Jackie! Hugs back to ya!

[@chrisosti]

Not a single singer in the last 50 years can touch Eva. Pure, flawless, breathtaking. This song will play when my ashes are scattered in the Gulf... Most people don't know she was terrified to perform in public. She looks everywhere BUT the audience. Bless your sweet angelic soul Eva.

[@TITOFROG1]

Beautiful and heartfelt rendition of the Best Song ever written by Eva Cassidy. Her singing rips through your heart that you're left listening to it, unmoved and just feeling and emoting every word of its deep lyrics. RIP Eva ... gone too soon and never imagined and experienced the result, gratitude and enjoyment of all the people for her melodic voice and her great and unique interpretations of her songs. ❤🙏🎵

[@megandelynn6114]

Omg we lost her beautiful artistry way too soon! And I agree that this is the best version of this song-& I'm a theatre nerd who performed in the Wizard of Oz! She was simply astonishing!

[@RichDoes..]

Thankyou for sharing, she truly does have an amazing voice, I LOVE seeing first time reactions to Eva.

[@jimdonatelli2012]

her voice and guitar become one with her soul for one great instrument.how much beauty in one song message

[@michaeldobson107]

And that was a NAKED, LIVE MIC, Larry (I I have to respectfully disagree. That wasn't "narrow," that was a mile wide. Garland may have been the first, but Eva is without a doubt the best.) No studio magic, no overdubbing, no pitch shift, no delay, no eq or compression, no dreaded autotune. You are a musician. You know what I am talking about here. Like listening to someone sing in a room, guitar in hand. Most modern day singers (and I use that term lightly), would not be able to pull that off without a studio and half a dozen engineers. A completely naked vocal. Ethereal and haunting. Even Judy, as good as she was, (and she was,) couldn't do what we all heard here. An incredible talent, and one we won't see again in our lifetimes, I'm afraid (I'm about your age.) Such a waste. Imagine what she could have produced if the right record exec had come along and just recorded anything she wanted to sing, instead of trying to "package" and pigeonhole her into "pop," "jazz" or "blues" ONLY. So sad. Thankfully we have SOME of what Chris Biondi laid down on tape. But just imagine....

[@theukulelee]

Narrow? Narrow? She OWNS the Rainbow now. Judy had it a long time, but art knows no such boundaries. I think Eva stole it-- by a landslide, and remains the dominant interpreter today. I have heard it 100 times, I still get tears at the same spots as most everyone else. The UK certainly agreed. Eva was #1 on their charts forever when they heard it....

[@steffenjonda8283]

Eva Cassidy took every song she performed and made it better.

[@johnthegreek5836]

Judy Garland’s version will always be a classic but Eva’s version is heartbreaking and she slowed it down, beautiful done and I don’t think anyone can beat this cover

[@TheAtticradio]

@@wilburfinnigan2142don’t think so prefer Eva s version but that’s what makes KZbin so good - we all have an opinion and voice in text. Lucy Thomas has a fab voice it’s not my style/ fav but it’s besides the point .. she is superb singer. Really liked her version of The way we were

[@jfree336]

Eva made it totally her own, she took liberties with the phrasing, melody and harmony…and it rocks! Beautiful!

[@Mooseman327]

She re-harmonized the song. This is what jazz musicians do.

[@marycathrinelynch]

I am totally amazed that people are only learning about her now. I have listened to this beautiful and touching voice for years. Enjoy many of her songs please.

[@johnlent9406]

I need to tell you that I have been so moved by how moved you were about listening to this song, to eva cassidy's verson of this song. I have watched your reaction a few times because you are so human about being so honest about its beauty, and there is such joy in your face as you listen so carefully. Your love of the music becomes our love of the music, or causes that somehow. I am an old singer from Canada and I have known about eva cassidy for about ten years now, I guess. I really do feel that she has one of the best voices I've ever heard. There are such dynamics in her attack and in her bravery. She is truly outstanding that way. And she is also---and you speak about this so eloquently---very very subtle. She introduces a small streak of blues notes (especially the final 'skies are blue')...she is so restrained and yet her voice is so big. As Mavis Staples would say, GOOD GAWD ALMIGHTY!!! So thank you, thank you, thank you Larry Shair. I just love what you're doing. I have to sing this song this coming Saturday for the celebration of life of someone I really loved and admired, and you have helped me do that.

[@larryshair]

Thank you so very much for your kind words. I’m so sorry you have to sing this for a friends memorial. Blessings to you my friend.

[@buddyd1069]

Larry, don't be ashamed, she affected me the very same way. I'm 71 years old and she makes me cry like a baby.

[@safespacebear]

Eva remains undefeated

[@2462bf2]

Eva cassidy has one of my favourite voices, any song of hers is just beautiful.

[@jeffreyjameson5510]

I just think with her arrangement and completely different phrasing of the lyrics you just can’t compare them. I love both versions. And both had lovely voices. But Eva hits you in the feels for sure

[@lukula2934]

Eva was asked about that night and she said she almost cancelled due to a bad cold. Can you imagine? Such a gifted ,disciplined and sublime guitarist and singer...And such a tragic loss.

[@Illmatic1989]

What a voice 😳…and I love the cords too. Just her and her guitar letting all the emotions out. Truly touched me. Gosh this is my first reaction where I cried along with you. I wish I never stopped playing the guitar long ago. Great reaction again too!

[@blackbird8516]

You know on rare occasions you are immediately struck.....theelodic structuremazing vocals, reat guitar accompaniment,ncredible style and absolute lass.M.A.G.I.C...in anyones language....jaw dropping...heart wrenching...thank you so much for reacting to this. And a footnote; Judy or Eva....does it really matter when we are lucky enough to have been blesses twice.

[@tameraSBLY]

This beautiful, soulful and very young women with an absolutely flawless voice and skilled guitarist. ( she passed just a few months following this performance to Cancer) This song makes me cry every time I listen to it., Raw emotion.

[@lukula2934]

Yes, she said she had a bad cold and nearly cancelled, but it was more likely suffering from the ravages of that horrible disease. Didn't know her time was so near to ending after this, or that she knew it.

[@melodyannherringmcneely7842]

She didn’t know she had the cancer until several months later. She is singing in January of 1996 her. She was diagnosed in June of 1996 and she died in November of 2996 at the age of 33. 😢😢 Gone way too soon!💔💔😇😇❤❤

[@madelinesolk5734]

Her last performance was actually after this song and only a few days before she died. She had to be carried onto the stage in a wheelchair. She only could sing one song to say her goodbye. It was, “What a Wonderful World”.

[@JanetHancock-g3f]

Best ever! Love that you aren't afraid to show how it moved you. First time I heard it I also teared up. It's hauntingly beautiful. I've listened to this over and over. I don't think anyone can beat this.

[@nantague]

It's as though after Judy sang it a million other iterations came along -- and then Eve appeared to reclaim its soul. Thanks for your reaction; especially thanks for recognizing her intricate guitar work.

[@perrylitchfield669]

Larry, welcome to the magical world that is Eva. A world of passion, emotion, chills and tears. When it is just her and her Guild, there are two voices singing. Hers and her guitar's. Both sung to perfection. Both reach out and hug you into her world. There is no escape. I am 66 years old and mesmerized by her soul. Thank you for your honest view. Condolences for your loss.

[@raymondmorgan2041]

And we must never forget she played the acoustic guitar as well so beautifully. This demanded skill and attention. And she seemed so alone and sad as she deeply moved our hearts. It struck me as a Lament for the vagaries of our lives - asking questions - simple questions - that impact us but have no definitive answers. Yet we must carry on: The Rainbow for Eva was Heaven. Thank-you.

[@nomopms1]

First time I heard her sing this song, I cried because it was so beautiful. Still is!

[@jamesdrynan]

It's a sad testament that today's generation doesn't delve back into the past to discover movies and music that were instrumental in creating entertainment today. That said, Cassidy and her musical abilities are incomparable. Not better than Garland or any other singer. The magic she wields is her ability to make you FEEL the emotion of her delivery. That is why tears flow while listening to her.

[@thejigantics2641]

What else is music about unless it’s emotion and connecting with people. This does that every time for me and I’ve heard it many, many times. This is live which in a world of melodyne is even more impressive. Great vocal technique, tone, power and restraint, tastefully beautifully executed

[@maggymayi2]

I can barely get through Over the Rainbow or Autumn Leaves without sobbing. Eva had a voice that could not remain earthbound as it was purely angelic!

[@paulritz5655]

For fun let us throw The version Iz did and contemplate the comment “angel voices not remaining earthbound,….?!” What’s with this;…?

[@bruceelliott764]

YOu know, I watched The Wizard of Oz from a very young age and so enjoyed hearing her sing this song. As an adult, my appreciation and love for this song have grown deeper. In the early 2000s, I discovered Eva Cassidy and her rendition of this song. Yet I will not succumb to the temptation to declare one rendition "better" than the other. They are both among the most beautiful and awe-inspiring songs of all time, and there is no reason to choose one over the other. Love and enjoy them both...

[@peoplehavetherights]

I have now been following Eva for the past several weeks. It is so sad that so very little live performances of hers still exist. Larry, I think we both teared-up when we heard "Somewhere" for the first time, and I still do...every single time I watch it. Here I am at age 63, and am in awe of who she was and what she gave to all of us. God Bless.

[@madelinesolk5734]

Try, You Take My Breath Away. It might!

[@pbcreative6388]

Years ago, before she became more widely known, I was listening to Terry Wogan on the radio and he was talking about this amazing singer who had died. He played a couple of her songs which I thought were good. Then he said she had recorded a version of "Over the Rainbow". Oh no I thought, this is going to sound terrible! Then he played it and I was absolutely gobsmacked! What a voice! But also what an amazing arrangement. Things don't get any better than this. True talent. Such a very sad loss too.

[@tinamarief51]

It's hard to compare the two singers They each had their own style Two great women who touched so many people RIP Eva and Judy, you are missed 💔

[@Guy8417]

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! It is sooo hard to find reactions to Eva, which is weird when you think of all the artists who have stated her as an influence. To me, there are NO better vocalists...equal to, maybe, but none better. Not sure if there are videos for ir but you should give Blues in the Night a listen, show how powerful her voice is. Glad this was your introduction to her. Not even 12 seconds in and the emotions are real! She puts such a sense of longing and loss into her version you can't help but respond. Her life was too short by far, such a beautiful talent gone way too soon.

[@philculp]

Just hit me with “I lost my father in law 2 days ago” My deepest sympathy brother. I’ve enjoyed your takes on music. But we’re all human and that hits harder than anything.

[@larryshair]

Thanks Phil!

[@jimmylee1776]

Eva Cassidy has the ability to interpret the lyrics & the music of a song as well as the emotions for the song. That is why songs she sung are hers. These combined with her angelic voice makes every song she sings - hers. I’m 80 years old & I have heard many versions of the song “Autumn Leaves” sung by many singers (including Nat King Cole) but none of them moved me like the version by Eva. Every time I listen to her version, I get teary because she is able to bring out the sadness of missing someone & remembering that someone. Please listen to Autumn Leaves by Eva.

[@teefkay2]

The thing that is so haunting is that she never sings the melody. She’s singing the counter-melody, but we know the song so well that we provide the melody in our minds.

[@FlowerPowerWV]

Great point

[@geordietone.2692]

RIP EVA , wish we knew months be4 this gig u r mega loved n hear every moment

[@minaharris3414]

Eve Cassady is a absolutely stunning and brilliant guitar and singer..Just love great talent of rare ones

[@leonwilcox4887]

Because you know the movie and the song and have good memories attached to it with your sister and family it is so clear how and why listening to this version has had such an emotional impact. My favourite reaction to this song I have seen and I have watched every reaction to this song I could find. Thanks it was awesome 🙌

[@rx7dude2006]

You found one of my all time favorite artists!I was going to suggest some of her songs.Her cover of Fields of Gold is amazing but so are all of her songs.

[@larryshair]

She's pretty amazing!

[@rx7dude2006]

@@larryshair Another amazing singer you may want to check out is Patricia Janečková, she is a classical opera singer.

[@davidhall92]

This Beautiful Angel brings on Soul Showers faster than an equatorial monsoon in summertime! ❤😢 God Bless her Soul shines as bright in Heaven as on Earth. ❤😊

[@mrstlu4838]

Just so glad you listened to this, best version I ever heard, too!

[@robynmatheson7687]

Your reaction is like mine when I first heard her 20 years ago. I have several of her CD’s. Please, please react to her renditions of “You’ve Changed”, “Stormy Monday “, and “Chain of Fools”. She has so much soul, and such a feel for jazz. You won’t be disappointed!

[@madelinesolk5734]

I LOVE all of those you mentioned, too. How about, “You Take My Breath Away”? Gorgeous.

[@sammy2840]

She makes the guitar weep along with her voice! Stunning!

[@candilumpkin1196]

This is my favorite version of this song. I don’t think I have ever watched or listened to it and not gotten teary eyed.

[@kevinjohns3872]

The Voice, that voice is the most beautiful thing. Boy can she play the guitar too. This lady was uber gifted.

[@T6ixT6ix]

love your reaction Larry as a first time listener to this. it gets me the same way every time i hear her version so be warned for the future, RIP Eva you beautiful soul xx

[@EmShannon]

Larry😊 It’s so great to see someone else who’s so touched by music as I am. Yes music makes people happy but the emotions that also come with it….. Also I can’t help myself when a tear runs down my face when it truly touches me with the artist voice and emotion behind it. I can’t understand others who have complete dry eyes and are looking at me crazy.

[@domprovisiero8093]

There has never ever been a song that touched my heart and entered my soul as this one sung by her. Thank you Eva and may you rest in peace.

[@wagonmaster1974]

Eva's audience was silent while she sang. She sang on a very personal level - it was as if her song was sung just for you. She reached inside herself and poured her heart out while she sang and played. While it is a horrible tragedy she left us so soon, her music has left an indelible mark on her following. No other person occupies the space where Eva sang. It is hers, alone. Be sure to react to her rendition of "Autumn Leaves."

[@RichMcCoy12]

Hang in there guy! I heard this 10 years ago and felt the same way as you! Yes, Eva's arrangement is from another world! Love to see someone struck by this the same as I was!!

[@RichMcCoy12]

Since I first heard this a lot of people have heard this and have tried to match it, but I don't think anyone ever will. This kind of magic happens only once, I think!