First time hearing DAN FOGELBERG - LEADER OF THE BAND REACTION

[@leighsaldivar4439]

Dan Fogelberg is from my hometown of Peoria Illinois. My stepmom used to sell him music at the music store. True story. I loved this song and his dad was a band leader. Truly.

[@charlesbunch8383]

As I'm sure you know, his song about New Year's Eve was based on a true story of when he ran into his old flame when he returned to Peoria.

[@danhartman8582]

Had several friends that went to Woodruff . I live in Peoria also from 72-76 . Remember how the girls in the bars used to talk about Dan back then . Everyone knew his beautiful music .

[@leighsaldivar4439]

@@danhartman8582 oh I went to central. Did you know they closed Woodruff? My stepmom worked at Kidder Music after she graduated from Bradley. That’s how she knew Larry Fogelberg. Crazy. Small world. I would’ve never thought Harri would react to this song!! I hadn’t even thought about this song for years. I was in elementary school from 72 to 76. You must be a lot older than I am. Not too often I talk to someone from Peoria. I live in Georgia and I do sometimes here because we have a Cat plant here. The 70s sure had a lot of soft rock pop songs. These songs never go out of style. Another channel I watch reacted to summer breeze today. Loved that too.

[@leighsaldivar4439]

@@charlesbunch8383 actually no I didn’t know that. Cool. Are you from there too?

[@danhartman8582]

@@leighsaldivar4439 still live in the area . I graduated from Washington High in 72 and my wife graduated in 72 from Central High . Also the store mentioned in his song Auld Ang Sine about the accidental meeting his ole flame is just off Spring St hill and Prospect just east of Glen Oak Park . Small world definitely .

[@kilolifter9491]

My dad was a fighter pilot for 25 years and retired a colonel. Im a 46 year old carpenter no wife or kids. Yet, my dad thinks everything I do is the greatest thing in the world. I know I’m not half the man he is, but I know he’s proud of me as his son.

[@Birkingham]

My dad too was a fighter pilot, retired as a lt. col. - and feel the same way. Cheers.

[@DarrellFanning-bx7xz]

That's beautiful man

[@catherinedorney6092]

My grandpa was a colonel in the airforce.nmy dad a career army man.. we were his band ❤❤

[@tcanfield]

It’s great that his father apparently went to one of Dan’s concerts near the end of his life and saw this performed live. You can just picture him sitting there tearing up and so proud of his son. I had a chance to see Dan in his prime and was absolutely impressed. The guy had it all going on, a consummate performer and great songwriter !

[@cindydlittle]

I believe it was his Carnegie Hall performance & both parents were there. Beaming, I assume.

[@kathleenmayhorne3183]

Mr Fogelberg wrote this while his dad was alive. He got to see his son as a success, and was interviewed himself. Both men are gone now.

[@catherinedorney6092]

This was my song for my dad Vietnam army vet...he was a soldier no clue what to do with kids. But he loved my mom and us and he figured it out. The best role model. Best father. Best example of a human being. He went into the hospital with back pain he couldnt move and 10 days later he was gone blood infection went to his brain. He was not a musician but we still sing for him. Ty for sharing❤❤

[@dagmar.6954]

One of my favorite artists & favorite songs by him. A loving tribute to his dad. Dan Fogelberg was such a great folk rock singer songwriter & storyteller. He also played multiple instruments such as guitar, bass, piano & mandolin. I had his double album "The Innocent Age" from 1981. It had so many good songs on it including "Same Old Lang Syne", "Hard To Say", "Leader Of The Band" & "Run For The Roses". He also had the hit "Longer" from the year before. We lost him much too soon (1951-2007).

[@dickmeijer5363]

I bought The Innocent Age when I was 18 ( I am 55 now).Brings back good memories. A great singer and songwriter who passed away to soon.

[@MrJbarreda]

My fav song of all times

[@greybeard2280]

Dan Folgelberg great songwriter, and a beautiful voice too match. What another great talent lost at a young age. Such a shame, but the music he left behind is timeless. Great reaction Harri! Here's another artist to dive into for sure.

[@HarriBestReactions]

Didnt know he passed..RIP

[@greybeard2280]

@@HarriBestReactions yes he passed away in 2007. What a talented man with a brilliant career!

[@SueProst]

His father was alive when this was written. He ended up a music teacher. Dan has another great song Same Old Lang Syne.

[@stevetournay6103]

"Another great song"...I'd say rather more than one other! 😀

[@FlipArt57]

Thanks you! That's nice to know!

[@LSwick-ss6nm]

On Monday we will lay my father to rest. He was a music minister who led choirs and orchestras. In the mid 60s he was in the airforce and couldn't wait to get out to resume his love of music. I have been contacted by people I never knew who tell me what my father and his ministry meant to them. One thing they all say is how kind he was. Because of him my children and I, as well as his other grandchildren have a love of music. We all sing, we all play and this is his legacy. Thanks for this review and your insight.

[@4theLord1]

Dan wrote this song while his father was living in this world. His father became a bit of a celebrity as everyone wanted to find out who this leader of the band was. I'm sure this was a very happy time for them both. Dan has said that this is his favorite song during an interview.

[@cog4life]

Another one of his life experiences. I love some Dan Fogelberg. The music can sweep you away in this song. ❤️✌🏼

[@ca6535]

His father was at the first concert where he played this song. He was still alive at the time. But his is one of my favorite songs of his or anyone. This and Dancing Shoes or Netherlands..

[@matt75hooper]

A Masterpiece for the ages. His Dad must have felt 10 feet tall. What a Legacy. Well done Dan. Well done.

[@claytondietl8136]

I cannot listen to this song without tearing up. It makes me think of my Grandpa. Especially the line "Papa, I don't think I said I loved you near enough". I'm crying just typing this. Such a BEAUTIFUL song!

[@kirpalite]

Here's to the few lucky ones to have a father like that.

[@JimiBurleigh]

This song always makes me think of my own father. My dad was a Salvation Army bandsman and when I was growing up in Scotland I'd walk next to him as the band would gather at the center of Ayr and parade to the church building. He was a world-class organist as well as one of the best horn players I ever knew. I play a little bit, too. Mostly guitar these days, but I feel an affiliation with the sentiment of Dan Fogelberg. "My life has been a poor attempt to imitate the man..."

[@vickielewallen3799]

Aww, great story, about your dad, and you. What a nice tribute ❤❤❤

[@becksullivan4796]

So cool.

[@johnbattles1002]

The Salvation Army is a wonderful organization! Founder William Booth had an amazing life and ministry, and was a godly man of prayer and faith. I know your Dad must have been a great man. Thank you for sharing this sweet memory of him with us!

[@ChrisLagos77]

This song is special to me as cry and remember my awesome father

[@elizabethstrawn445]

This is also a sad one.. hear we go again..My Mother died when I was younger but my Dad is still here at 85 7 kids 39 grandchildren 47 great-grandchildren .. but I learned from my Mothers death to tell my Dad that I love and appreciate everything he did and still does for all his family.. but this song has me crying cuz I think of the day when my Dad will be gone.. I still try at my age I'm the baby in the family to make my father proud it never stops even with age.. or death I'm guessing..

[@HarriBestReactions]

Your dad has done real good.Great legacy.RIP Mum

[@jamestaylor2920]

I lost my Mother 22 years ago and I can say that the love for and my pride in my mother survives to this day. I lost my Father 2 years ago at the age of 85. Cherish them while they are here, honor their memory when they've passed, and love them always. Tell their stories to your grandkids. Teach them how to live on after you have passed. Give a listen to a Paul Overstreet song titled "What's Going Without Saying".

[@sorrystaunton]

Dan’s father lived long enough for him to hear Dan sing this song to him……it always send chills down my spine….listen to Dan’s song “Forefathers”…..you’ll get those chills as well.

[@nadionmediagroup]

2:27 his dad lived to see the song released. But he was not around long after. Adds another element of depth to the song. It was a tribute, but brought on at least a bit by his father’s finite time left.

[@cjxavier5901]

Hearing this makes me shed a tear...my dad may have a lowly job in the eyes of society and never finished college but he's trying his best and I'm established now because of him and my two siblings are almost finished in their studies... I'm always imagining his rugged face his eyes full of eyebags because of exhaustion...he may not be perfect but he is still my dad

[@kevinmusso2397]

Harry… it’s quiet obvious that you have a kind heart and joyful soul. Bless you

[@charlesbunch8383]

Great song by Dan Fogelberg. Diamonds in my ears. ;-)

[@rickgibson4641]

This song was released in 1981 and Dans father , Peter Folgelburg died in 1982. He was a music teacher and the band director at Pekin high school in Peoria , Illinois. Dan passed away from prostrate cancer in 2007 at the young age of 56.

[@kenperkins7921]

Those 70s guys were incredible

[@brisbaneshadowsplayers4225]

Dan had a superb talent and amazing voice. His diction is amazing.

[@williethebeerman]

Dan said that after this song came out reporters were calling his father for interviews. Dan was an unbelievable singer songwriter. R.I.P.

[@LuckyDawgProductionsModerator]

Love Dan Fogelberg and this song. It gets to me every time. Great reaction!

[@roymoore3156]

One of my absolute favorites! Saw him in 73’ as an opening band, and man did he make a positive impression!!! Love Dan Fogelberg’s music so much!!!

[@kevinsievert4531]

I like your ability (or inability) to articulate the father/son connective tissue. I found myself watching this several times today and, welled up each time with some sweet form of nostalgia. 69 years old for goodness sakes and still finding Dan Fogelberg and this song so relevant.

[@natlee8947]

Great singer/songwriter. Loved his music.

[@michaelnancyamsden7410]

Beautiful. Loved this song since many years ago..

[@jennyph79]

this song always makes me cry- it's so beautiful ♥♥

[@garyarnett1220]

If memory serves Dan's father got to hear this tribute before he passed.

[@pamelapasechnick6899]

Dan Fogelberg is one of my all time favorite singer/songwriters! "Another Auld Lang Syne" and "Run For the Roses" (along with"Leader of the Band") are probably my favorite songs by him. Thank you for reacting to this one!

[@joelliebler5690]

My favorite solo artist!

[@jojowhite9296]

I'm envious of all you that have these great memories of your fathers. My dad was very selfish in that alcohol and gambling were the two loves of his life. Whatever my dad did in life, I tried to do the exact opposite.

[@craigmontgomery7684]

Back in 1982, I was in the Air Force and in the country of Greece for a month during Father's Day. I made my own Father's Day card to send to my dad. I quoted the third verse of this song: "I thank you for the music, and your stories of the road. I thank you for the freedom when it came my time to go. I thank you for the kindness, and the times when you got tough. And Papa I don't think I said, 'I love you' near enough." I played the guitar back then as well, and this was a song that every guitar player HAD to learn how to play. Years later, in 2013 when my father passed away, at his funeral, I quoted this verse again! My dad was always my hero, and this song makes me think of him every time I hear it. Loved your reaction to it!

[@juliac8689]

All of his songs had such great meaning and his voice was beautiful. ♥️

[@rigelmoon9030]

Thanx, Harri. Your choice of music is impeccable.

[@joelliebler5690]

I saw him many times live in concert and he was fantastic and engaged with the audience every time!

[@inkoinfinity2]

Thanks for the reaction, more dan fogelberg please! Lol

[@kathrynkissane5144]

Yep. So amazing. Always touches me deep

[@wearinganapron]

We all see our parents and our children through eyes of love. I think of my parents, and wish I could be as kind, as strong in their faith, as wise, as upright and noble, as they were. But they saw their grown children, and praised how we had exceeded them -- we earned more, were better educated, provided more for our families, travelled more, etc. We each feel what we lack, and admire it in the other. It's a cyclical admiration society. : )

[@Steffipantsify]

My amazing cousins played this song at the funeral of our amazing patriarch at my request. I could not have done it without sobbing but they are professional

[@russevans3586]

Took me a year to get this one on the acoustic - such a beautiful song and homage to his father.

[@KeatingChick]

Thank you so much for this reaction. Dan Fogelberg is one of the greatest songwriters/story tellers out there.

[@denisetowe895]

This was Dan’s first album and every song is gold! You can’t go wrong with any of his music if you’re looking for a story! He’s one of my fav of all time! Thank you for listening & appreciating this.

[@becksullivan4796]

Like so many, I think of my Dad when I hear this. He died when I was a teen. He played a little drums, liked to entertain. I’m in my 60s and still have days when I hear something he would like and I miss him. A good man with a life that ended far to soon. Take time to cherish those you love while they are still here.

[@ginalolajupiter2942]

Such a kind soul and gifted storyteller.

[@debbiechang5781]

This is literally déjà vu Harri! I was just talking with someone on another channel about how people were not reacting to this incredible artist. This song is about his father who was a conductor of a university band. It’s a beautiful song and a lovely tribute. Rest in peace Dan Fogelberg, who died of cancer at age 56. 😇🌺✌️

[@melodymcdonald2140]

I've remarked about the same thing, how can this incredible artist be overlooked? His music was a big part of my "soundtrack" in the 70s. It spans so many different genres, too. He was so talented...played more than a dozen different instruments and wrote most of his own music. He collaborated with other artists too, like almost all the various members of the Eagles...Joe Walsh produced several of his albums. "As The Raven Flies" is a good example of his ability to really rock. "Tucson Arizona (Gazette)" is an epic tale with amazing instrumentals. "Only The Heart May Know" is a sweet duet with Emmylou Harris. "County Clare" is a gorgeous instrumental he did with Tim Weisberg. So many wonderful songs to choose from...I still listen to his music all the time.

[@danacasey8543]

It seems like every Dan Fogelberg song brings tears to my eyes! An extremely talented man lost too soon.

[@rhiahlMT]

He's done some good ones. This definitely my favorite. Always reminds me of my father. Run for the Roses about the horses and Kentucky Derby horse race (one leg of the American triple crown races) is another. Of course none can forget "Auld Lang Syne". Dan released this before his father passed.

[@scm021374]

"Longer" is another beautiful song by him.

[@kimberley1449]

Was a tremendous musician in every way. Like the loss of Maurice and Robin gibb he was taken way too soon from us. I loved his music and still do at 65!!!

[@deegomez2089]

I use to call my father the leader of the band. My family was going to have this song at his funeral a year ago but it hit a little too close to home for us. Thanks for the love of music pops. Beautiful, beautiful song 🎶🎵

[@757optim]

This song got me the first time I heard it. Another one is "Same Old Lang Syne". Oh yeah - "Run For The Roses".

[@John_Locke_108]

Grew up listening to my father play and sign this song. Always chokes me up.

[@eternitywhisperstotheheart8416]

She gave to me a gift I know I never could repay.. her gentle way of sculpting souls took me years to understand.. I am the living legacy to the leader of the band.. Elda Caton (my grandmother) 🙏💜

[@JudithYD]

May her memory be a blessing.

[@dsusan17]

Fogelburg has a wonderful voice. Great commentary Harri! I want all my children to surpass whatever I accomplish.

[@v.downes9608]

Great song! Just loved it.

[@Rychek22]

Harri, your passion for music is inspiring to me, and I enjoy your reactions. It warms my heart to see all those CDs in the case behind you!

[@kenperkins7921]

Those 7os guys really knew what they were doing

[@sonjadeneale3474]

Your reactions continue to move me Harri. You seem to get so carried away in the music. Keep doing what you do. I appreciate you.

[@joannparker1977]

My husband and me fell in love back when we listened to Dan Fogelberg. We’re coming up on our 39th wedding anniversary. Thanks for posting. Actually, this was from 41 years ago for us. When we first started getting serious.

[@davidbentley145]

Such a beautiful music maker/song writer...so much heartfelt music...he is missed ...Ty Harri

[@vickilee7494]

A beautiful Poet

[@letno3662]

This song always brings a tear to my eye. Could have written about my own father. Beautiful!

[@User_gin_927untileternity]

Great song! He is famous for the New Year's Classic "Old Lang Syne."

[@shelleybleu4903]

Love this song

[@jerickson725]

I love that song too. It's actually called "Same Old Lang Syne". I lived a similar story during a Christmas visit in my home town/state, although it was not with Dan Fogelberg, unfortunately 😅.

[@User_gin_927untileternity]

@@jerickson725 yep, I know the song. But sometimes my fingers protest (lol)....it was a long time ago! ☺

[@jerickson725]

@@User_gin_927untileternity I'm not trying to be a "know-it-all" 😂, I just thought you or others would want to know the correct name. It's been a favorite of mine for years, and to tell you the truth, a few months ago I was trying to find it and had to google it, so that's why I knew for sure!

[@User_gin_927untileternity]

@@jerickson725 not a prob ! My son tested positive for Covid today, so my mind wasn't on what I was typing. Thanks

[@shelter9236]

That is a hard thing to learn to stop giving so much to your own detriment to where it's one sided energy. Some of us who are service to others love helping others and that is how we get paid back but sometimes it's to our detriment when it doesn't feel good anymore when we keep giving and don't ever get anything back from them whether a person, a group or a job. Then it's time to leave because that won't change. There is free energy exchange between people and then you build that up within each other so it continues to grow. Also some of us who like to give also may have a hard time receiving it as well, as in when we need help we are uneasy about asking for it, we expect others to see it, but they don't so that gets hurtful as well. So we have to learn to ask for help and assistance or we won't get it. Thank you for this one, Dan has a beautiful voice that just keeps on giving as well.

[@littleogeechee223]

Please react to Run For the Roses by Dan Fogelberg as well.

[@isaackovitz4791]

Hi Harri - I love your reaction and analysis of this song. I was a teenager when this was playing all day on the radio. A true part of my youth. You need to hear Dan Fogelberg's interview where he said that if there was just one song for him to have written, this was it and that this song came out and spread before his father passed away, so his father got to experience the glory and respect that his son put out there in his honor.

[@24sherbear]

Always loved Dan Fogelberg. I love how the “band” plays at the end of the song.

[@catherinedorney6092]

Thanks!

[@thomascarr3047]

This song will always make me think of my dad as this was one of his favorite songs. I played it often for him in his last month.

[@samuelrossmesa1430]

Yay, thank you for reacting to this classic. One of the first songs that I memorized back then as a kid, because I just loved listening to it, i found it soothing, memories of my childhood. Harri, I hope you also check out Dan Fogelberg's other songs that are my faves as well: "Longer", "Heart Hotels" and "Lonely In Love".

[@dlbeal]

Harri, his cover of Rhythm of the Rain is so soulful.

[@patriciacope6533]

I love his music...but i especially love his album "high country snows"

[@stevetournay6103]

Ah, the bluegrass project. Love Wandering Shepherd from that one...

[@garryokeefe1605]

This bloke was a great story teller and songwriter Harri with beautiful ballads and arrangements. 'Longer' is an evergreen, plus 'Dancing Shoes' , 'Give Me Some Time' , 'Phoenix', 'The Last to Know', 'Heart Hotels' and 'Along The Road.'

[@joelliebler5690]

Fantastic song and big hit still played today. My favorite all time solo artist. So much talent could play every instrument.Dan has so many great tunes in every style of music. Here are just a few of my favorite that guaranteed you will love:Netherlands,Tell Me To My Face, Pier of Gold, The Reach, Run For The Roses.

[@marthadigges7436]

Beautiful song and man...Please react to Dan Seals, Everything that glitters is not gold...

[@rhiahlMT]

I could never have surpassed my father. Because he is his own person. His being what he was allowed me to be me. The line "I thank you for the freedom, when it came my time to go". Sums it up. He let me fly.

[@eclecticwitch6669]

Love this!

[@suemontague3151]

Geez I used to listen to him all the time, certainly brings back memories 🙂🇦🇺

[@keymack2477]

Great reaction, Harri - as per usual! From here, considering the subject, you need to add "Everything I Own" by Bread to your list! Best regards to you, Harri!

[@deanadewall8400]

I liked this song way back when, but it never made me feel anything for my Dad(s). I just liked it.

[@aviatom1]

Great one Harri, tough song to listen to cause it's so relateable. Can only hope to live up to, or, surpass those standards as person.

[@vickiekezele8520]

We played this at my dad's funeral.

[@davidwilliams1820]

Beautiful reaction Harri. Dan Fogelberg was a great artist. Along with "Leader of the Band", "Same Auld Lang Syne" (a true story), and especially "The Reach" are among my favorites.

[@robertwalker1803]

Gone too soon…a class act who avoided the ego of being a star. Quiet and selfless man.

[@annehayes-grillo6600]

On the album, the song is immediately followed by a sample of his father's band playing John Philip Sousa.

[@vickielewallen3799]

Love his songs, especially "Run for the Roses" And "Another Old Lang Syne." Please react to those two! Love the channel, thx!

[@marckusel5602]

Check out The Power of Gold with Tim Weisberg (violin) The album Twin sons of Different Mothers

[@richarddexter7641]

I lost my Dad 6 years ago next month, and now I'm the leader of our band. Sadly, I'm now poorly attempting to imitate the man as his living legacy.

[@larrycrenshaw2953]

Hey there, good man .... thank you for doing this one. Here is a good live version / video on YT of it, and it tells a little about the back story of the song by the writer himself at the beginning. This is the title of the video > Dan Fogelberg - Leader of the Band (from Live: Greetings from the West) - Larry C. : > )

[@sharipetkovsek5502]

Love Dan Fogelberg!!! My favorite song by him is "Netherlands" Spiritual to say the least and an absolute masterpiece! Please give it a listen😊

[@juliethompson5160]

Some other Dan Fogelberg tunes to try: Part of the Plan, Missing You, Power of Gold, Since You Asked, and Tell Me To My Face.

[@johnlavalley5410]

His father actually lived long enough to see the success of this song he said people would treat him like a celebrity,sorry but Dan and his dad are making music in Heaven

[@drdr76]

I was so upset when he passed at such an early age, 53 I think, prostrate cancer. All I could think was "damn it, why didn't you get your annual check up?" He is missed by many.

[@jeffharry9675]

There are so many great songs by Dan, it's to pick out just two or three. I think of Same Old Lang Syne, Believe In Me, Dancing Shoes, Run For The Roses, There's A Place In The World For A Gambler, Forefathers, Since You've Asked, Ever On, Rhythm The Wild Places, Lovers In A Dangerous Time, Nether Lands, Power Of Gold. This is a good start. Enjoy!

[@kayakutah]

Along the lines of songs about fathers: "Listen to the Spirit" by The Pousette-Dart Band is among the greatest!

[@bobdelp2023]

GREAT FOLK ROCK HARRI :) AND R.I.P TO DAN AS WELL :( HE DID A BEAUTIFUL PIECE CALLED ( OLD LANG SYNE ) OR WE MAY KNOW IT AS ( AULD ) :) ANYWAY IT'S THE SONG THAT PEOPLE SING ON NEW YEARS EVE, HERES TO OLD FRIENDS, IT'S A GREAT SONG BY DAN.

[@karenj3611]

Love this song. Lost my dad not too long ago, even more poignant now.

[@leighsaldivar4439]

I’m sorry Karen