"Hard to Say I'm Sorry/Get Away" (Chicago Cover) by Leonid & Friends, Reaction/Analysis

[@jonweaver4605]

What I find amazing besides the musicianship is the countenance of all the musicians you can tell they’re truly humble and full of joy

[@Beauty-and-the-Dia-betes]

I met them last Friday, you can see how much they love the music and us fans. My hubby chatted with Leonid like he was a friend he was meeting after a long time separated.

[@rickstadel5285]

@@Beauty-and-the-Dia-betes Was that in Russian or English? (Sorry -- just playin' . .)

[@squatch545]

I love the way everyone in the string section is smiling, swaying, and having a good time.

[@mbt1955]

I love this band!!! Can we give props to Leonid for what he has put together and his bass chops too.

[@scottsanders9090]

Do we actually realize what we are witnessing? It is quite common when assembling the elite, whether in sports or many other arenas that the results fall far short of highly anticipated expectations. Leonid and Friends are truly the dream team that delivers beyond dreamed expectations. We have been blessed by the sharing of their gift.

[@rickstadel5285]

! ! ! Yes, and WHAT A GIFT !

[@rustytrotter1677]

Their drummer is always impressive to me.

[@ThomasAndersson-rl7ij]

Music is greater then small men who pretend to be leaders. I love these Chicago covers by Leonid and his friends. I`m amazed by the singers.

[@biundo63]

Leonid and his horn section have perfected the Chicago horn sound better than anyone else.

[@gozirraizroose]

They just nail it every single time.

[@TNKHART]

Love this cover by Leonid and Friends. They nailed it!

[@reezehanson1660]

I got goosebumps listening to this! Can’t stop smiling!

[@ronprewitt6607]

It used to drive me crazy when radio stations would stop the music before the Get Away Exclamation Point was played. This is probably one of my very favorite Chicago songs.

[@buffalobraves9]

They still do. They never play Get Away.

[@Duh6666666]

The brass section makes me weep with joy, they are so on point and punchy. L&F make Chicago new again, wonderful stuff.

[@jimbizness3864]

Chicago. The pinnacle of American pop music in the 70s, played to perfection. Time after time.

[@1BobsYourUncle]

Chicago wasn’t a “pop” music band. They were playing jazz and fusion in the 60’s…

[@jimbizness3864]

I hadn't heard their jazz music. Please give me a title and I'll check it out.

[@nickavenoso7851]

@@jimbizness3864 Chicago has done multiple different genres. Jazz, fusion, progressive rock, rock, folk, Latin, Bossa nova, pop rock, disco, orchestral, blues, pop, funk, soft rock, etc, so it can be hard to pinpoint a specific style or label them as performing just one style of music. They became a lot more poppier when Terry Kath (their guitarist) died in 1978 and Chicago had a couple somewhat successful albums until landing with producer David Foster with Chicago 16 and he suggested that they move towards a more softer, pop and ballad oriented sound. I would recommend checking out tracks like, “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?, “Devil’s Sweet,” “Loneliness is Just a Word,” “A Hit By Varese,” “Questions 67 and 68,” “While the City Sleeps,” “Aire,” “Hanky Panky,” and others if you want a glimpse into their jazz/jazz fusion style. It’s unfortunate to me that some people don’t know that Chicago released their first album in 1969.

[@michaelbradley7529]

When I hear them play a song I know well there is an immediate emotional recognition. In other words, it makes me remember how I felt the first time I heard the original. My nostalgia is not as specific as others may be, I just remember a general place in time with no real details, just the emotions it brings back. I catch myself smiling.

[@rusty9129]

This is several years old already, but just like each of their videos, I am absolutely dumbfounded by the pronunciation in English and all the little subtle nuances from the original singer's pronunciations. Not only does this group perform the musical parts perfectly, but even the slightest details of vocals are 100% in a language that isn't even theirs!! Mind blown!!

[@kirkkimball-martinez2402]

Serge and Sergey are one of those that has and will be so hard to replace, they have Peter C and Terry K guitar down like no other.

[@Beauty-and-the-Dia-betes]

I'll just say when they play this live they go through the Get Away part at the end twice. It's so much fun and sounds just as good as it does here.

[@karensaldanha4760]

As Chicago does live. 2 times is better than one time😊

[@Beauty-and-the-Dia-betes]

@@karensaldanha4760 last time I saw Chicago was at Radio City Music Hall in 1992. I’ve heard some say during that time period they weren’t the same Chicago from years past. They were really rocking so no complaints from me.

[@karensaldanha4760]

@Beauty-and-the-Dia-betes Starting in 1970 I've seen them over 20 times in all time periods. Early, better jams and improvisations. Later better harmonies and even later better bringing other groups to play together like EW&F, Doobies, Reo Speedwagon, Huey Lewis & the News and the Beach Boys. I actually really like the latest singer (Peter Replacement) Neil Donnel, because he hits the notes dead on. Peter was often hitting notes flat live, and Jason would often sound shrill when covering Peter's Parts.

[@Beauty-and-the-Dia-betes]

@@karensaldanha4760 I definitely agree about Jason, although when we saw them he sang quite well. I’ve watched other YT videos of full Chicago concerts, some were so disappointing with how the lyrics were sung. I wish I had been able to see them live, too much regular life has gotten in the way.

[@caprise-music6722]

Oh heck yeah. That’s the ticket!

[@Hettepop]

This was actually one of the first L&F covers I discovered over 6 years ago; I was so excited to see this one and find out how Jeff would respond to it. His honest and emotional reaction put tears in my own eyes. I finally got to see L&F in person in Alexandria, Va. almost 3 years ago when my son got us tickets, The show had been postponed twice, by the Pandemic and then visa issues. If was as amazing and was as I expected them to be. I hope you are truly blown away!

[@RavenSky1013]

One of those songs that made me into the person I am. Formative years and all..lol

[@alanreynolds4944]

Difficult to describe the emotions in listening to this, but moving would be one. As many have said Leonid and Friends capture the essence of the song and then take it to another level. This is my favourite lineup, no disrespect to the present guys who are amazing. The arrangement is impeccable and I’d like to highlight the vocal harmonies which are themselves complex. Thanks again Jeff for your expert analysis which adds to the enjoyment of this video. I live in the UK and am hoping to fly across for the fall tour and see them in Oxnard in the hope I can say hello and express my appreciation in person for your contribution in promoting this band

[@StrateleStudios]

Definitely come say “hi”! 👍

[@YvetteFrost]

So flipping good🎉😊 and i love ❤️ chicago!wow

[@sideofcaution]

This is awesome. I mean, ANYTHING by David Foster. Not easy. Just… wow

[@hallewis389]

That's the analysis I want to hear you talk about. Thanks for pointing out the details of this song. L&F are the best.

[@maryannarep]

The slow triplets right before 12:57 were amazing.

[@rickstokes2239]

Nothing like that horn section!

[@megstsauveur6881]

I especially loved this! Lots of memories tied to this song, as young teen back in 80s. ❤

[@thomaskeyzers3295]

It's always a great pleasure to to hear Leonid & Friends. Ksenia Buzina is a eye candy ;-)

[@naknaksdadn572]

i remember trying to tell Valery Martynov that i too was a trumpet player at one of their shows and he did not understand me, but he handed me his trumpet. i was slightly embarrassed and he finally understood. They are such gregarious and friendly people despite the language barrier.

[@GordonA-Jr]

Transport back to high school, WOW!!!

[@jordanenebrad5250]

I love your analysis, and joy you have in reacting to this band!

[@ndpd11]

Hi Jeff, I'm 68 and grew up with Chicago music, and I just love Leonid and Friends. As you have said, "No one does it better." I enjoy watching you smile as you listen, and sort of shaking your head at the perfection of the music and vocals with their beautiful harmonies. I do the same thing.

[@patrickhill8748]

When I saw them in Jax they went around again on Get Away!! Blew everyone away! Perfection!

[@StrateleStudios]

Oh man! 😃👏👏👏

[@vegasatc]

Absolutely impeccable. ❤

[@mikek2218]

We are the same age Jeff, and there was a lump in my throat as well. These guys are incredible.

[@MrJohnw2454]

Finally, my favorite!

[@rickstadel5285]

You *better* get to talk to Leonid at Oxnard ! We have questions that need ANSWERS ! Love your stuff, sir. Keep it comin' !

[@randykling138]

When you see them live, pay some attention to their stage management. I've seen them 3 times -- each time performers leave and re-enter the stage invisibly. They're so good at directing your attention that you just see that now they're here and now they're not. These guys are ultimate professionals.

[@rickstadel5285]

Yup -- excellent stagecraft.

[@marktizzard47]

Perfect everytime. Thanks

[@betmo]

one of my favorite chicago tunes

[@dbcanada]

Thanks, Jeff. I'm always ready for more L&F. (Love the fat snare sound on this one.)

[@chuckrizzio5927]

Jeff, I truly enjoy your reactions to Leonid & Friends videos, especially their covers of Chicago music. I have been a Chicago fan for 50+ years. In a few of your videos you mention that you would like to meet them and ask Leonid some questions. You should "step outside the box" (your box) and reach out to them and do a video interview. I don't know if you have seen any of the interview videos online but Leonid's son Roman is the bands manager and he usually accompanies Leonid on the interviews.

[@Itsjandz105]

Wow such an amazing rendition. They never fail to disappoint.

[@jeffreyjacobs390]

You just feel the energy that the original group players in Chicago made so compelling .... Great job again, Thanks, GBjj

[@davidlevine1697]

the string section smiles says it all. such an up tune and they nailed the groove exactly. maybe i am crazy, but when the horns are shining, it reminds me of the Stan Kenton Band doing West Side Story. as always, Jeff, thanks for posting, and thanks for repeatedly reACTING TO l&f. ☮❤🙏

[@gattucio]

Hard to say I'm sorry was the first dance with a girl in my arms in my life. So it will always be one of my favourites ever. And that is also how I discovered Leonid some years ago. I just love them and what they do. Tonight after a very stressful period in my life it is pure joy to watch your videos and feel the Joy you have with this kind of music. Thank you!

[@StrateleStudios]

@@gattucio awwwww thank you for sharing that. 😊😊😊💪👏🫶

[@megstsauveur6881]

This song brings back memories of junior high school dances. 🩷🩷🩷

[@Curly34584]

Nailed it👍

[@duncanredman1312]

Another awesome listening experience, headphones on, surround sound on, omg amazing ♥️

[@Colletepaula]

Blooms after the piano and voice in begining thats exactly it.very simple melody clear voice and effective and the snare kick bit as you say attacks it and horn section interesting as always.🎉 Makes it theatrical,and jazzy bit shows just how to play music their way, the Chicago way not just pop music its a sensation

[@Sixwheelin]

They are so perfect. I wanted 10 more minutes of Get Away also lol. Much love Jeff! Keep 'em coming

[@valerielynn7256]

Miss serge he was a dead ringer for Peter cetera parts Chicago the band should bring him on with them to tour bc there still touring

[@peteabrh-fairest9463]

Pure tranquility in perfect harmony. That horn section...absolutely awesome! 🎵🙏🎼

[@Mr.StarryBreeze]

Great analysis Jeff. Love when you point these things out.

[@miltonslocum8957]

From the singers to the musicians this was excellent!👏👏👏

[@Straydogger]

Still waiting for their cover of Happy Man. 🙂

[@TheCybertiger9]

great song a little short but sweet

[@rgoers]

It is hard not to love everything Leonid & Friends has done but I am especially drawn to the earlier videos especially when Serge was with the group. This song in particular is one of my favorites and, to be honst, I like the way Serge sings it better than Peter Cetera. An interesting note on this one. It was released to KZbin in Jan 2018 and I listened to this almost every day. I believe sometime in 2019 it disappeared from the L&F channel as I managed to find it on someone else's feed and downloaded it to my computer then. But 3 years ago I posted a comment saying "Oh wow - its back", so it must not have been visible for over 2 years, which I believe is why it doesn't even have half as many views as "If You Leave Me Now".

[@kellycoleman715]

They do CHICAGO better than CHICAGO at times. Wow.

[@bradcozart5703]

Great analysis as usual Jeff. 😎 And as usual Leonid and the crew knocked another one over the center field wall.

[@bobbyg7102]

Jeff, if you haven't already, you have to check out their cover of Deep Purple's Stormbringer. It's amazing.

[@StrateleStudios]

That’s coming up soon!

[@caprise-music6722]

absolutely fabulous!

[@megstsauveur6881]

I’m hoping to see this wonderful group this weekend. They are performing about an hour away from me. If I can somehow convince my hubby to go! 🤞❤

[@KCmidwest-wm9jd]

Hi. I don't know this group. In the credits, I saw collaboration between artists in both Moscow and Kiev. This is an older video. What's their status now, with the war? I hope they are all safe. They are excellent performers.

[@rgoers]

Leonid & Friends is still making new videos and touring the USA. However, several band members have come and gone since then, including the lead vocalist in this video who was from Ukraine. As you might imagine the breakout of war limited his ability to particpate.

[@KCmidwest-wm9jd]

@@rgoers Thanks! I appreciate the update.

[@rickstadel5285]

@@KCmidwest-wm9jd They were just at the Ameristar in Kansas City last Saturday, October 12th, 2024. Seems like they come through here about every fall. It's worth the effort and expense to catch them live -- I can safely promise they will not disappoint.

[@KCmidwest-wm9jd]

@@rickstadel5285 Good to know. Thanks.

[@ridgemanron]

This song was arranged by David Foster and because of its huge success, Cetera agreed with Foster that he could definitely perform as a solo artist going forward.

[@sdmarion9613]

So Jeff, I have to ask: Is there an air instrument that you haven't mastered? I've seen you play all kinds of percussion, guitar, bass, woodwinds, brass, strings... I mean you name it! Let's not forget your right index finger conductor's baton. Keep it up man, lovin it!

[@squatch545]

I actually supply several air instruments to Jeff. I have built him a custom air guitar, air bass, and a couple of air drums.

[@StrateleStudios]

😂🤣😂👏👏👏

[@TheCybertiger9]

This song's last lyric that sings "YOUR gonna be the lucky one" Does anyone know what it implies ? I've always wondered and hits me hard. Anyone ?

[@alanreynolds4944]

Please Jeff can you take a look at East River by Leonid and Friends - you will not be disappointed

[@nickhayes7082]

With just about everything L&F does, I always get the sense that he tries to be true to the original recording but at the same time tries to make it cleaner and more impactful than the original. Not in the sense that they're better than Chicago or whoever, but in the sense that they want to, through a sense of Musician's Honor, do the original band justice and make it as bright as possible. Just my take.

[@rickstadel5285]

I concur.

[@jeffreyharvey8111]

Here is another song by the Farm: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqiqpaZ4lqlqo68si=ByJffiqBoNaDozFe

[@roykliffen9674]

As always a fantastic rendition by L&F, but to be honest, this is about the easiest rendition to distinguish from the original Chicago studio recording.

[@RobertMoles-i5f]

Do I detect something going on between Ksenia and Sergey? Mmmm!!!!

[@larspedersen9480]

Serge does Peter Cetera's vocal better than the original!!!!

[@KC-ro7zp]

Peter Cetera is the the master of this song, Serge does him much justice, imo

[@jetfixer3207]

I'll probably take a lot of heat for this one, but after attending several Leonid & Friends concerts, I must say, Mikhail (Michael) Puntov is a terrific singer, but as you see here, Serge Tiagnyriadno is just better.