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

This really caught me off guard. I have to say that this is the most incredible cover of this song that I have ever heard. Let me know what you think!

[@roytee3127]

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

[@tazz3487able]

Eva was also saying goodbye.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@marshamacmartin4769]

Eva is not singing a show tune. It's heartfelt and artistic Put together with the guitar chops hands down , slam dunk beats Judy G . No contest.

[@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.

[@jimmybarrett1413]

Eva Cassidy- fields of gold

[@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.

[@AmazinCarpeDiem]

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

[@lioncurlew]

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

[@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

[@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!

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@charlesyateschalfant]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@gayleenhayes3788]

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

[@jodiwalters2068]

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

[@albertber.]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@AmazinCarpeDiem]

Great point

[@kidpoker007]

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

[@janna1878]

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

[@katiehouston6211]

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

[@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 ❤❤

[@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.

[@sharongaskell]

Eva and guitar duet..so intertwined. A true partnership.Better than Judy?? Apples and oranges but still yes..no question.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 ❤

[@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....

[@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.

[@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.

[@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”.

[@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!

[@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.

[@2462bf2]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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.💛🙏💙

[@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;…?

[@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.✝✝✝

[@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!

[@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.

[@minaharris3414]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@timothycardoso1364]

Judy's is beautiful, just beautiful, however, Eva sings from truly the depths of her soul. That voice, the way she plays that guitar, like a second voice and the emotion she puts into this song cannot be outdone.

[@larryshair]

Both versions were really incredible. I would have never thought that someone would be able to come close to Judy's version. This was special.

[@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.

[@jimdonatelli2012]

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

[@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 💔

[@weldonbailey1005]

I keep coming here to watch your reaction. It is without question my favorite version of this song. No disrespect intended to Judy but...it just is. Thank you for your reaction to it. Yours is also one of my fav reactions to it. Seriously, ty.

[@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."

[@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.

[@mrstlu4838]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@kylecompton3305]

It's not better, just completely different. Both break our hearts and both are sensational! Both are tragic and both deserve our love and admiration! RIP both of you angelic souls! I will admit, this version makes me cry, even after 100 times! It's about heartbreak and hope and rarely does life give us the opportunity for both in one song and in two versions!

[@mwflanagan1]

Makes me cry every time. I feel sorry for us for losing her.

[@kevinjohns3872]

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

[@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.

[@sammy2840]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@wildwood3031]

Truly one of the most beautiful versions of this song. She is one of my favourite female artists and interpreters of songs. It was tragic that she died before all her success. She does a beautiful version of fields of gold and interestingly there is a mashup of Eva and Angelina Jordan doing fields of gold.

[@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.

[@leebay6093]

Eva’s version of Songbird is truly mesmerising too ❤❤ she was magnificent

[@nealsandidge3951]

By far the most moving vocal performance I've ever heard.

[@robertsweeney9183]

Eva Cassidy is the best singer of this song. Eva cassidy was the best female singer ever. I think God was teasing us with a little bit of heaven.

[@pamstuckey8349]

That last sentence you shared here - I really think you are right

[@geraldharkness8830]

i went to a funeral where this was played...god i still feel shivers to this day1

[@tinaavelar5965]

I love Eva’s rendition so much that this song will be played at my funeral as well. ❤

[@trishalivingston1051]

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

[@lumpyrutherford875]

Apples and oranges. Judy Garland sang the original song the way it was written for the movie. Eva Cassidy came up with her own unique arrangement and sang it her way. Both are good in their proper context. I've heard a lot of singers try to perform Eva's arrangement, but I don't know why they do that. It just invites inevitable comparison and they'll always come up short. ::sigh:: You just have to wonder what else she could've done had fate not been so cruel to take her so early. But at least we have what she left us to enjoy and to remember her by.

[@susanfurner1988]

I love Eva's version . It's fantastic in it's own right . Even more beautiful because of the tragedy ogf her passing . I don't believe it takes away from Judy 's. Different times and take on it . Eva's is " heavenly " . 💖

[@larryshair]

So sad that her life ended so short.

[@kidpoker007]

Her voice is so dam PURE!!!

[@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!

[@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.

[@InfoArtistJKatTheGoodInfoCafe]

Eva Cassidy is flying with happy little bluebirds beyond the rainbow right now for eternity!🌈

[@larryshair]

Indeed!

[@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.

[@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

[@inesspanni]

Stunningly beautiful!!! Better because it is the alchemy of heart, emotion, and pristine vocals! Yesssss!!!

[@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.

[@technicolour0]

I honestly think comparing the two artists is counterproductive. They have very different approaches to the song and each version is beautifully done. I love Eva’s version. It is heartfelt and moving. Judy Garland however owned this song (quite literally - it was written with her in mind). If you compare Eva’s to the version Judy performed in the wizard of oz, it has to be remembered that Judy was only 16 when she recorded it. she sings it exquisitely and her voice is extraordinary, but she has not yet gained the emotional intensity that she did in her later performances. In her later concert performances of the song (many available on KZbin), the heartbreaks of Judy’s also tragically short life have become very evident in the performances and she gives the lyrics real meaning. If I had to choose it would definitely be Judy’s versions, but I would actually just prefer to appreciate both wonderful artist and their very different styles.

[@staceysmith8173]

I agree I normally don't compare artists because they are each their own

[@jamil2447]

Of all the "Better than" opinions voiced in the past this one is sad. Ordinariy I respectfully believe Chris's subjectives are thoughtful. But this one is like saying Mick Jagger is a better guitarist than Jimi Hendrix. Judy Garland IS the Rainbow. And all those tears? I felt very sorry watching a man melting like ice cream on a scorching sidewalk. I can only guess he was going through some 'none of my business' personal crisis or he has an incredible soft spot for the late Ms. Cassidy.

[@jamil2447]

Technicolour0, very well said.

[@Marlaina]

@@jamil2447 If you paid attention to what he said, his father in law, whom he was close to *died* shortly before he listened to this song. Also condemning someone for feeling emotions is gross. Grow up.

[@jamil2447]

@@Marlaina Your characterizations of my response to Chris is disappointing and at best sort of rude (pay attention & grow up). I only condemn demons and Chris is pretty damn far from unholy. Your ridicule is a random attempt to single me out as your designated heartless airhead aka asshole. Had you been paying attention you would surely know that I believe stating that one artist is better than the other is reckless behavior promoting bad feelings among creative individuals and their fans. Chris doesn't deliberately instigate conflict. By you telling me to "grow up" must give you a superiority complex like no other. I'm new to your class, Miss Mariah. Please be a more understanding teacher before sending me down the hall to visit the principal.

[@veeherreraJanecka]

Her voice and nuanced timing are astonishing to me. The most beautiful voice I’ve ever heard.

[@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. ❤😊

[@revjfletcher]

All I can think is wait till he gets to that 4-minute mark! My favorite rendition.

[@A-small-amount-of-peas]

I felt so sorry for you that you were already affected 2 lines in. But with this song it's just impossible not to be moved. Beauty in it's purest form

[@kenhall5551]

I've listened to this countless times. I cry each time. Her whole catalog of music I divine

[@larryshair]

She's was pretty incredible.

[@carrbucks]

Eva owned every song she ever covered