Is this the HIGHEST sung note you've ever heard? Minnie Riperton was 1 in a million.

[@dana_brooke_27]

Everyone made such a big deal when Mariah did it. And I was like.. "So what, Minnie Ripperton did it in the 70's even better!" She had a beautiful voice. My canary loved this song too.

[@mistermilkman]

Minnie is my favorite singer of ALL TIME, but I don't think it's a matter of better, but preference. They have 2 different approaches & techniques with their notes. I think Minnie would b proud of Mariah. Minnie, n my opinion is thee Queen.

[@dana_brooke_27]

@@mistermilkman I agree and Minnie definitely was my preference. I'm not a big Mariah fan. I'm not into her technique of singing. Yes she has a beautiful voice but not my cup of tea. They always compared her to Whitney. I liked Whitney's technique much better. My all time favorite is Barbra Streisand. After I wrote this I had to come back and say I really admire Sade too. That's just that genre of music. Kinda classical jazz.

[@takemyhand1988]

Actually no. Minnie only rarely did actual whistle notes. She used high head voice most of the time. In the perfect angel album, loving you is the only album with whistle notes all other are head voice.

[@galenstone9097]

Mariah has given credit to Minnie countless times over the years. "No Minnie, No Mariah."

[@dana_brooke_27]

@@galenstone9097 Exactly..

[@tulyar57]

My only disagreement with this knowledgeable assessment is that she was probably one in 50 million. I remember hearing this live performance years ago. It is beautiful and insane. A violin can range between G3 to E7. She is probably the human equivalent of a stradivarius!

[@007EnglishAcademy]

Do Strads play higher than lesser violins - I think not.

[@JustMe-vk4fn]

What an extraordinary comparison. Never thought of it that way before. :D

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

@@007EnglishAcademy they just have a perfect tone. They finally figured out what the difference is. The wood used was from trees that grew during the ice age. The growth rings were very small or dense. So the wood has a very unique resonance. It is also why they are virtually priceless and totally impossible to duplicate or replace.

[@johnbailey3877]

Really beautifully said

[@peterruddock9990]

Absolutely correct- maybe the only one

[@americangirl6029]

Just a quick aside, the “Maya,” Minnie is referring to, is her then young daughter, Actress & comedienne, Maya Rudolph. 😊

[@labella9291]

THANK YOU! I love seeing people mention this.

[@imsosmart942]

Wow, did not know that Maya Rudolph was her daughter!

[@MrAdryan1603]

I had no idea Maya was her daughter... Huh. Crazy.. No wonder she can sing too, I guess. *I always thought she was singing like, "My oh, my, uh" or something like that hahah

[@jhankemeeyer1970]

Is there any way we can send this to her?

[@andrearodgers6980]

That Bridesmaid Lady Star??? omg NO

[@saiyanleague653]

Dude her voice is joy, something about her tonality and delivery. Just so beautiful, Angelic.

[@winterlongone]

When this came out, I was in chorus. I was a soprano with a 3 octave range. The entire class was completely blown away. No girl in class had a "whistle range".

[@starguy2718]

Minnie left us *way* too soon. What a voice!

[@pouch2598]

I tear up every time I see Minnie sing this, especially at the end when she says, “Maya, Maya...” So heartbreaking. Gone way too early in life.

[@StevesFunhouse]

Me too.

[@mariannemaloneywitherspoon6335]

Maya, Maya-refers to her daughter, Maya Rudolph from SNL fame. 3:36

[@Jerry-oo8hd]

…so do I but for a different reason. Oh it thrills me thru and thru, as it did then- but now I cry for the time I was 20 yrs. old. It’s gone. I miss the absolute innocence i had then- whether or not I believed I was innocent then, ( i did not). What an electifying trigger, Minnie is… Its the same kind of trigger I get living here in shitfuck Florida when I see some heavy duty black rain clouds dropping in from the west- I go back to Buffalo NY (spiritually) in the winter, the winter when the skies blacken up with snow and things get still…you can feel the quietude and the insulation of the snow on the march. Just seeing the clouds here, here in Shitfuck, FLA brings me to my better times, in my 20s, in my ma’s home, the homestead on thanksgiving night, when after having a good old mom-made turkey, I would head out to meet up with the gang to go get high and drive thru the blizzard. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING will ever compare to that time. thank you.

[@LaLeMay]

@@Jerry-oo8hdthis is a beautiful poignant memory…lovely to read and thank you for taking the time to write…and Florida is beautiful I do hope you can find some things to bring you joy & gratitude there…❤

[@Jerry-oo8hd]

@@LaLeMay thanks for your time and reply. Nah. Thats gone. I might've guessed in the 70s that this was the best it was gonna get. But I didn't. Have a Merry Christmas

[@drewpall2598]

Minnie Ripperton was another artist who left this earth way to soon. excellent analysis and rundown on her life! thanks Fil.

[@colb999]

My wife was a classical pianist and not overtly religious, but described her as the Voice of an Angel. God took her Home too soon. Thanks for this Fil. I've loved this song since the first time I heard it on the radio as a kid.

[@FreeSpirit47]

Minnie Riperton had 2 children. Her daughter, Maya, has 4 children. At the end of this song, where she says "Maya, Maya, Maya, Maya". She is actually singing to her daughter, Maya. I hope that at least one of Minnie's descendants will inherit her incredible vocal abilities.

[@RobbieFitzgerald]

My god, what a talent. And her daughter is too.

[@cherylcrawford2221]

❤️ Maya!

[@mkenific]

I love that she sings her daughters name at the very end of the song.

[@amcasanave]

The daughter is the comic actress Maya Rudolph.

[@ebaylistentomusic]

I saw her live. Boston Symphony Hall, opening for the Headhunters. She hit all her notes with ease and grace, an amazing angelic performance, sad she passed so young.

[@AckeeandSaltfish]

Stop showing off I’m jealous! 😂😂😂. I am absolutely in love with this woman! She was pure perfection, sublime, angel just EVERYTHING 😩😩

[@moonstone1159]

Wow! Her "whistle register" is impressive. OMG, that final note!

[@RalphOnofrio]

That is what an Angel sounds like....RIP,Minnie.

[@2011joser]

This lady mesmerized me with her singing in my youth just as much as Karen Carpenter did. Thank you for doing this video and making the point about the mis use of the whistle register. I also have felt that some more current singers use it as a trick and it always takes me out of their performance. Minnie was truly gifted and the we lost so much when she was taken so early.

[@GJoeJ010841]

The only one who sang higher was another Minnie: Minnie Mouse! But; she wasn't real!

[@angelafalsetta9489]

@@GJoeJ010841 TRUE! Well, LOLOL, I guess.

[@advancednutritioninc908]

I agree, I heard her live sing this song in 1975 as a sophomore. I was blown away!

[@MikeCoggan]

What has always struck me was how effortless that was. Everything about the performance from how she is dressed (including the flowers in her hair - what can I say, I'm a California boy) to the backing musicians, bird sounds and stage set are quintessential mellow 70s vibe. I was 15 and a sophomore in HS when it came out, and it still gives me goosebumps. California summer nights in the park, at the beach in Santa Cruz or backyard. Ya, I'm as spoiled. Sparkling in the Sand by Tower of Power, Summer and All Day Music by War have similar vibes. Fond memories

[@GJoeJ010841]

I have the Rotary Connection LP/UNBELIEVABLE! How about Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons' CANDY GIRL? When Frankie sings the last notes: "CanDEEE Girl?

[@sagedakotalmft7763]

I was also a sophomore in high school when the song came out.

[@sunnyday_lemonbars]

So effortless and beautiful. That last high note makes me tear up

[@AnnInghamlife-goals]

Yes, it was a summer vibe for me. Northern England, though! Not so glamorous!

[@Mt-ue9qz]

You took me back there. Thank you. 🎸🌴

[@TimBoulette]

Minnie Riperton was an astounding singer. I remember hearing this song as a small child (I was 6 when it came out) and it's haunted me ever since.

[@Spikeattack1]

The television show 'Soul Train' did a very moving tribute to Minnie Ripperton not too long after she passed away. She had been on the show several times.

[@maryharris2330]

This video was one.

[@prestwickpioneer3474]

@@maryharris2330 this is Burt Sugerman’s Midnight Special

[@tammydoolittle6054]

She had a beautiful voice and I'm sure she wouldve gone far in her singing career if it wasnt for her untimely death. May she RIP.

[@robertakerman3570]

Hi Tammy, I believe that she DID go far. We can agree that "further" might be the word.

[@tammydoolittle6054]

@@robertakerman3570 I agree! 😉👍

[@robertakerman3570]

@@tammydoolittle6054 If only everything could be so easily resolved. U made My day TYSM!

[@tammydoolittle6054]

@@robertakerman3570You're welcome. Have a great rest of your day! 🙂

[@arxsyn]

Maya Rudolph the comedic actress (SNL) is her daughter, with a lower Mezzo soprano singing range.

[@lelleithmurray235]

We used to do our DARNDEST to hit that top note! Thanks for making me giggle like a schoolgirl again Fil! She was quite a unique and exotic singer-another one again taken far too soon.RIP...

[@stevenuttley]

Just an unbelievable talent. I don't mean just the range, but the musicality and phrasing too, as well as the way she delivers the lyrics so they mean something. So sad that there aren't 50 MR albums as there probably would have been had she survived.

[@1TrueNature]

Wow she really had the voice of an angel

[@darrickedwards9624]

True voice of a angel incredible

[@laquerisma]

That gave me huge chills. My legs are still vibrating with them. Whaah.

[@philrobson4287]

Loving You came out in 1974. It’s a testament to quality that we are still admiring this piece. It will endure for many generations.

[@homegown1234]

Lovely singer. Learned she was practicing earlier in her career to be an opera singer. However, aren't we lucky she chose to sing beautiful songs like this one.

[@atxroque]

Such a clear and beautiful voice. It’s the only time I’ve ever heard whistle register that didn’t sound out of place. Great analysis! 🤘🏻

[@tommccarthy3052]

Find both the studio & live versions of "Inside My Love"...a better example of what she was fully capable of than this song. "Reasons" is also a good listen.

[@johngarbutt]

@@tommccarthy3052 Yes agreed.

[@elizabethhall9334]

I can hit an A7 most days (and probably higher when I was younger), but enunciating up there is definitely a challenge. A former chorus teacher used to tell the altos to do the enunciating for us lol. I wish she would have taught us how to channel Miss Minnie!!! And her AGILITY!!!!! This is so impressive 😍

[@julieontology7214]

Thank you for talking about Minnie, who was a Coloratura Soprano, the highest human voice. And yes, it is very rare. I had forgotten that she studied Opera originally. What a beautiful transition into popular music, sharing her wonderful gift and all of her skills with all of us regular people who don't go to the Opera very often, if at all.

[@frankboogaard88]

Minnie Riperton is, as far as I know, the only person in recording who actually used WORDS in the whistling register...

[@hijodelaisla275]

"actually"

[@frankboogaard88]

@@hijodelaisla275 yep. that is actually a word, actually is :D

[@frankboogaard88]

@@hijodelaisla275 But to get more technical: She used actual words which were understandable as words, not what others did and leave it to peoples imagination. What she did, very basic explanation, was to modulate her whistle register to sound like human speech.

[@hijodelaisla275]

@@frankboogaard88 Unintelligible words are "actual" words, too. They're just incoherent.

[@frankboogaard88]

@@hijodelaisla275 When they leave it up to imagination they might be conceived as words, that still doesn't make them 'actual' words

[@dagmar.6954]

I remember when this song came out in 1975. Had never heard anyone sing so high before. I know she has an incredible range, I think it is 4 octave & uses what they call the whistle register which is considered the highest register of the voice. Nice to actually see it on a graph.

[@Sealust50]

I'm CRYING right now!!! The appreciation I had for the beauty and God given voice of this woman is totally over the top and broke me down. I am a singer and can only dream of hitting notes like that. The beautiful, precious songbirds in the background were MADE to accompany her voice. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@kevinklein959]

I've listened to this song many times. Had to find a live version so I could hear if it was real or studio trickery. She was even more insane live. What a voice. And the isolated track makes it even more spectacular. Gone too soon....

[@isthisreal7274]

I was lucky enough to see a live performance of hers. I was very young, 14. She mesmerized me. She opened for George Benson at the Circle Star theater in San Carlos, CA. God Bless this angel.

[@KimSenior]

Phenomenal voice! I remember when this song came out I was amazed at her range RIP Minnie Ripperton, great song, great video!

[@Urroner]

I was listening to somebody analyze Boston's "More Than A Feeling" and the vocal range of Brad Delp blew me away. Towards the end of the song, the guitars hit a B5 and that was one of my favorite parts of the song. The guy who was analyzing the song, Rick Beato, got to that part of the song and isolated the guitars and sure, it was still my favorite part. He than than said he was going to isolate Rick Delp and I learnt that Rick had hit that note also. Not only did he hit it, but there was a power behind it with some to spare. I had never aware of that before, because he and the guitar blended well.

[@Scorchy666]

He was brilliant. He and Tom Scholz WERE Boston.

[@riinak7212]

Brad Delp was born in my hometown, and founded his Beatles coverband in the town I live in now. That led me to The Beatles, who inspired me to write music, while Nana Hedin inspired me to sing. :)

[@skipads5141]

Beato! as Pat Finnerty would say.

[@sharondavidson7412]

Was it the Rick Beato video you watched? If not, watch it.

[@angelafalsetta9489]

I can compare her to me one. I can compare no artist to any other.

[@charlessweeting9669]

I was at the release of “Perfect Angle “ at the Troubadour in 1975 .

[@carrieorsel1340]

This is fantastic. I'd only heard a clip of this performance before this. I knew she had control of her whistle register....just not this level of control. A true talent.

[@agingophelia9812]

Watched this performance many times, it always give me chills. Her fluidity is astounding.But so is the warmth of expression.

[@AnovaLisaDragonfly]

Minnie made me gasp in and shed a tear of twice in this video alone. Her singing has pulled on my heart strings and drawn tears of… joy? …something indescribable, a few times over the years. She was such a beautiful woman, a songbird with an anointed voice and energy. I have friends who remember where they were when they learned of her passing - the way people remember where they were when JFK was shot. She’s special like that. 💕 Thanks for this video. I never would’ve imagined there would be an analysis of her vocals like this. What a find!

[@lesleygraham5927]

I was only young when she passed, it broke my heart, though I couldn't work out why, I still remember where I was I was 7at the time and I lived in England at the time.

[@AnovaLisaDragonfly]

@@lesleygraham5927 ❤️

[@lavenderbee3611]

Love Minnie Ripperton, thank you for covering her amazing vocal abilities. I really miss the soft sensual nature of these old school singers, it's so uplifting.

[@tracyzimmerman7912]

Minnie is so sweet here. Her expression of the lyrics is priceless. Fil I love the breaks in her voice. I don't mean in the notes. It's sort of a pleading sound...a throat sound. That is true artistry. I do think it's amazing that her regular range hits her whistle range. It's rare that you find a singer that sounds like they are conveying thier heart to some else. I'm sure you know what I mean Fil. This analysis is perfect. You always deliver.

[@barblc3202]

Cyndi Lauper, in the middle of When You Were Mine, hits a very high note like that - couldn't find a live video where she does it, though. I love it when you have such great singers on as Minnie Ripperton and others who had the skill and training to sing almost anything. Cyndi is in that group - she had a wide range.

[@riinak7212]

Cyndi also has perfect pitch, or did while growing up. They say you can lose it, so who knows if she still has it? I think she can still sing though.

[@lawrencetaylor4101]

I saw Cindy do a song for a friend that died from an abortion. I don't remember the title but it was an amazing song. Cindy channeled into that visceral history of female suffering, a timeless song.

[@kelrogers8480]

@@lawrencetaylor4101 Tragic for both mother and baby to die like that.

[@jenfox3980]

There’s a video on KZbin of Cyndi at the MTV music awards. It shows her accepting the award and then she performs that song for the show. It’s a long clip and it’s on my liked videos but I have no clue how to send you the link. Sorry 😞 but I’m sure you can find it?

[@kathleenmoser8245]

I'm so glad you did this because she really was amazing. Also very underrated. You never hear about her with is a shame.

[@advancednutritioninc908]

As a sophomore in 1975, I had the privilege of hearing Minnie sing this song live! I was blown away! I had never heard anything like it before, nor have I since! I am not a musician nor amazing at singing but she was truly something special and this video helps me understand in even a more full way how special she was!

[@parisinthe30sx]

Such a beautiful voice. So sad that She passed away so young.

[@salamanca1954]

Chest voice, head voice, whistle voice. Every time I watch one of your videos I learn so much about the vocal art.

[@arxsyn]

Here's another tidbit: only Sopranos have head voices that hit C6. It's not called Soprano High C for nothing! Whistle register is also called Flageolet. Mezzo Sopranos and contraltos with their lower voices enter this register earlier than Sopranos do. This register is completely different from the modal voice, using the very top of the vocal structure. Very thin sound, hard to to control and most people can only make sounds not form entire words. I'm guessing Minnie was still in super head voice singing a phrase.

[@suchisthismystery2814]

On her live performance of "Can You Feel What I'm Saying", Minnie sings even higher than she does herein. And EVERY note is filled with feeling.

[@sarahpiaggio2693]

Thank you. I'd neither heard of this singer, heard her sing, nor do I remember hearing someone use the whistle register before, so there are a lot of new things here for me. It did occur to me that she sounded classically trained. She clearly put a lot of hard work and practice into her art as well as being talented. This singer is a real treasure, so it's a terrible pity that she died so young.

[@klb9142]

Minnie trained as an opera singer.

[@suchisthismystery2814]

Every note, every breath, every yearning, every feeeeeeeeeling ..., the incomparable, unsurpassable Angel of Soul ❤

[@carlasammons5407]

Wow….I haven’t heard that song in some time. There isn’t or hasn’t been another voice like Minnie. I dearly love that song. Such range and control. I cry every time I hear it. 💖 Thank you Fil. 👍🏻💖🙂

[@johnj2763]

Wonderful voice, impressive vocalist. Fun Fact: Before Rotary Connection, Minnie, as part of The Gems aka Studio Three provided the background vocals for the classic Fontella Bass hit "Rescue Me' from '67.

[@flamencoprof]

Which can be heard on YT. Link for the lazy: - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmillnp6j8qqftU

[@johnj2763]

@@flamencoprof Good link. If you have never seen this performance by Fontella on the old Night Music tv series with Jools Holland appearing with David Sanborn on a blazing sax and a smoking hot back up band, check it out. It's marvelous. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6C2m42eZ6lqeac

[@flamencoprof]

@@johnj2763 Excellent. Top performance from Fontella. BTW, I couldn't figure out where that high synth brass at the end was coming from tho.

[@johnj2763]

@@flamencoprof Lol. Good question. This was from the Night Music #116 broadcast in 1989. Santana, Lyle Lovett, Wayne Shorter and others were also on that show. There were plenty of musicians there and available but I can't answer that properly for you.

[@gethighonlife11]

Good to know. I like the song "Rescue Me". I used to think that it was Aretha Franklin.

[@johnfarnhamexperience]

I didn't even have to watch the video and I already clicked like, just mention her name, it's an instant click... but of course I watched it, it's Minnie... Minnie really is a one in a million... bloody sensational...

[@pinball1970]

That is furthest I have seen the program graphic jump up like that. Like the software was internally thinking WTF was that!?

[@helgar791]

Lisa Fischer could in her 25 year long career with Luther Vandross and, I believe, still can, hit that F#6, even at the wonderful age of 63. Please do a reaction to her doing "How Can I Ease The Pain" live from Japan in 1992.

[@sandraperkins203]

Yes! Lisa has an incredible voice. Would love to here your analysis of her voice.

[@helgar791]

@@sandraperkins203 Just to clear, not mine, but Wings of Pegasus. Are you listening Mr. Wings?

[@marknovak6498]

I remember hearing the song in the mid-70s when it was hit. The highlitch was surreal.she had control at unbelievably high pitches

[@baronessvarney9379]

I swear I suggested about a year ago that you show Minnie Ripperton's incredible range!! In case you saw that, thank you! That song came out when I was in college and everytime I heard it, I couldn't believe anyone could do that. Great show❤️

[@kukita2003]

Wow, what an incredible voice! I remember this song from my childhood. Haven’t heard it in years. Thanks!

[@larrywalter6476]

Hello Kumita2003 how are you doing?

[@sdingeswho]

Killer demo, Fil ❤️! To answer your question, the highest note I’ve ever heard sung is the one at the end of the aria “Der hölle roche kocht in meinen herzen” in Mozart’s “Die Zauberflöte” (aka the “Queen of the Night aria”). That note is right around Minnie’s top note, here 😁! P.S. A *million* thumbs up for Minnie being able to do this at all! 😮❤️😁🎶

[@catherinecrow5662]

Thanks Fil. As a vocalist, I very much appreciate your channel ! 💖

[@lieslwindjulie3230]

Very impressive, yes! Gone too soon. Her daughter, Maya Rudolph is a very funny lady and she is a great singer, too. Thanks for this analysis, Fil. It was great 🖤🤘🏽

[@prestwickpioneer3474]

She really was The Black Gold of The Sun. There is a few artists whose name can make me cry. Minnie is one of those. Her stuff with Rotary Connection is also awesome.

[@To.Si.Ma.]

That song is killer!

[@fredzeppelin3969]

I had been a huge fan of the dystopian film "Idiocracy" for many years until I realized the connection that "Rita", played in the movie by Maya Rudolph, is Minnie's daughter.

[@MartineH1]

Love see your facial expression and smile when the artist does something really good. Bless.

[@tnmoppylaura5476]

I remember this from back in the day. What a fabulous range. Thanks Fil.

[@larrywalter6476]

Hello TN how are you doing?

[@larrywalter6476]

Where are you from?

[@PrayerWarrior37]

Wow she truly is one of a kind that is amazing

[@lloydbraun6026]

Please do one on Annie Haslam of Renaissance. FYI, don’t know yet whether it’s covered in this video but Minnie Ripperton is the mother of actress Maya Rudolph who was on SNL for years. That’s why she sings Maya repeatedly

[@Rushcuckoo15]

Annie has an amazing singing voice. I believe she has a 5-octave range.

[@manofiske3318]

"FYI" - For those not residing in the United States or otherwise acquainted with its television fare/offerings, "SNL"* stands for "Saturday Night Live"(originally titled, "Saturday Night" debut Oct. 1975) a long-running comedy sketch program that airs _live_ hence... Rudolph(Maya), the biracial daughter of Riperton and song-writer-musician, producer Richard Rudolph is a comedienne who first gained wide(r)-spread notoriety when she appeared on " _SNL_ " as one of the ever-changing cast-members. She was still just a toddler when this song hit the charts, eventually, peaking at number one in 1975. * Current obsession with reducing names, titles, etc. needlessly, inconsiderately and/or carelessly is a plague society could do without. The practice, especially in the long-run, only serves to obscure and confuse.(Think: "KFC" for Kentucky _Fried_ Chicken company honchos decide that if they can get the public to go with the initials branding that somehow the "health-conscious" among us will forget or overlook the fact that the food is fatty, fried and not currently in vogue) While sinister intent may not be present in most instances, the outcome is not always innocuous. This initializing routine is often done purposely as one sets out to either deceive or mislead(obscure, what would otherwise be noted as fact) eg. "HIV" , "AIDS" on the serious side, less so, "CNN" . Your average bloke soon loses sight of what the letters/initials standing in for whole words, signify.

[@Pwecko]

@@manofiske3318 I would say she achieved fame rather than notoriety. To be notorious means to be well known for being bad or doing something bad.

[@manofiske3318]

@@Pwecko You said it; that's what _you_ would say.

[@drewm.2790]

Minnie Riperton and Mariah Carey really are the masters of the whistle register they have the best control and creativity

[@bobbiezapata5120]

I PUT BETTY Wright ( No.2 ) after Minnie!!

[@williamb4335]

Everybody always forgets Denice Williams. She was queen of the whistle as well.

[@bobbiezapata5120]

Why is Betty Wright ,isn't mentioned? She was definitely, doing that way before some that were mentioned!

[@crystalv6122]

Chante Moore has an impressive whistle register as well

[@johnatyoutube]

Beautiful singer, incredible instrument and master of whistle tone, passionate interpretation, and blissful song that brings it all together organically. This song blew us all away when it emerged in the 70s as something so different on the radio. This live performance reaches another level beyond the original recording. Her control and ornamentation in her whistle range is incredible. It's not surprising she studied opera. I would have loved hearing her sing the Queen of the Night aria. I wish we had much heard more from her. It's sad that we lost her so young. This is inspiring me to listen to more of her music. Thanks so much Fil!

[@mairehoward2949]

Wow - proof that "Loving You" is about Maya Rudolph! Minnie Ripperton was Maya Rudolph's mother. Maya said that Loving You was about Maya - but the record label made Ripperton change the lyrics before release. You notice at the very end of this live performance, Minnie says "Maya" several times. What love!

[@carr0760]

I read earlier today that in her final performance of this song before she died she said both Maya and Marc's names at the end.

[@carlwilliams6977]

That blew me away. Now that you mention it the physical similarity is obvious!

[@salamanca1954]

A voice from my youth. I had forgotten how amazing she was.

[@AzoreanZionist]

This brings back memories for me. I was about 11 or 12, and I had just enough money for 1 single, and I wanted to buy an ABBA single............but my older sister (by 6 years), convinced me to buy this one by Minnie Ripperton, even though I didn't like it.........I gave in and bought it 😆Lol.

[@wjewell63]

Yep......ditto man.,it was everywhere for awhile...

[@jeffsparey9585]

Oh those memories of being young in the 70,s

[@AzoreanZionist]

@@jeffsparey9585 I wouldn't trade those memories for anything 👍😉

[@jeffsparey9585]

@@AzoreanZionist same for me 👍👍👍

[@donquihote6023]

I very much loved this womans voice. She could make you feel things in your bones. Thanks. I have not heard her in years.

[@johncourt9580]

Hi Fil, a great analysis and info on her short life, and I'm old enough to remember the sad news report at the time I've probably never listed close enough to realize how clearly she sings the words at such an incredibly high pitch. You've given me impetus to have a closer look at her music!

[@tasoulagoodrick2767]

I had chills when I first heard Minnie sing this song many years ago and I still get chills today. Thank you for another fantastic explanation of the most exquisite female voice of all time 👌

[@lawrencetaylor4101]

I remember Minnie and her song, amazing tour guide for her journey through her vocal registry.

[@FreeSpirit47]

I discovered the music of Minnie Riperton long after she passed on. She has so much more music, with her vocal range, that makes each one a masterpiece. The bulk of her music has received far less acclaim than it deserves.

[@lynndow3185]

It's probably not really analogous, but her use of the whistle register reminds me of the musicians who use mic feedback artistically...something that would normally hurt my ears turned into something cool. It opens the mind.

[@larrywalter6476]

Hello Lynn how are you doing?

[@Justme77400]

It's the highest note I've ever heard!! She was amazing! She did this live performance different than the record.

[@bbwng54]

Dimash Kudaibergen sings D8. He is a generational talent from Kazakhstan who is taking over the world. Sold out his concert at Brooklyn Barclay Center in 2019, Sings in 12 languages, plays at least 6 instruments and sings a D8 note (way off the piano scale). Has fan clubs in > 100 countries, including the US, UK, etc. Check him out.

[@stephanlasure3746]

Ummm!! This is about Mizz Minnie!! NOT about whom you speak of!! Get wit' the program FooL!!

[@carr0760]

@@bbwng54 D8 is not "way off the piano scale." C8 is the last note on the piano. D8 would be the very next white key.

[@Be_Still_ps46.10]

May I say I absolutely adore your accent 😊 I can listen to you all day haha….from 🇺🇸

[@jdjohnson7299]

Wow. What a great subject! Minnie's whistle notes were actual full notes. Not like so many of them today that sound like little squeaks. Plus as you said, her notes were connected to the song. They didn't seem out of place or thrown in to try and impress. I remember the group she was in, Rotary Connection, which I constantly listened to back in the day. Great analysis. Thanks Fil!

[@Matzoa07]

So impressed with this song when it came out. It was a shock and I was saddened when she passed! For her to do this live is amazing!! Thanks for the reaction! Could you do Phil Keaggy Salvation Army Band, live! There are a few versions out there but he just kills it on acoustic and his voice is amazing!! I saw your “Time” reaction which was great! I saw Phil a few times live, once in a large venue and once in an intimate setting ….. he ripped it up both times!!

[@benji.B-side]

Excellent analysis of my favourite female singer. This video has been so insightful in understanding why I consider her voice and talent to have been truly exceptional and a true one-off singer. Thanks.

[@anthonyglennmollicasr.425]

I miss this beautiful lady, she had such an amazing voice.

[@bjspeck4337]

Heard her in person when she was doing small venues in Gainesville, FL back in the late 60s. My husband introduced her voice to me. Love what she did with The Rotary Connection. When my husband died, I sang You Made Me So Very Happy to him.

[@Banglish123]

I have fond memories of this tune as a kid. This video really highlights the range she had. But I wouldn't want to live next door to her. Lol. Another great vid 👍

[@Germantownrunner]

Ironically, it's the brightest (and most beautiful candles) that shine the brightest and burn out too soon. While Minnie's American songbook was cut short, the art that she left us was so satisfying. And for those who don't know, American comedienne and actress Maya Rudolph is Minnie's daughter and (not surprisingly) Maya was blessed with much of her mom's talent. She is quite a good singer. Fil, thank you so much for profiling and analyzing Minnie's incredible talent. You are helping to keep her legacy alive and expose her talent to a new generation of KZbin viewers. Well done, my man! You truly are the Secretary of Explaining Things! #ROCK

[@2011joser]

Can you please do Lou Rawls’ “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine”. That performance is another of the era that got to me just like Minnie did.

[@kaspinet]

Or Lady Love. So smooth and every word clear never mumbled. And those deep notes.

[@markmiwurdz202]

@2011joser. You may already know this. Back in the last century, I was told that Lou Rawls was the harmony vocalist on Sam Cooke's "Bring It On Home To Me". Sam and Lou do the call and response thing ("Yeah, Yeah, Yeah" ) after they sing the title line and before the next verse. Both of these guys were great singers. You and yours stay safe and well.

[@kaspinet]

@@markmiwurdz202 I love that. Makes sense because he would be starting his career around that time.

[@2011joser]

@@markmiwurdz202 did not know that . Thank you for sharing.

[@graybeard2113]

One of my singers as well.. B.A. era.. Before Auto tune. 😁

[@glamgal7106]

I wondered who sang this lovely song--just today I found out that it was Minnie Riperton. Thanks Fil for providing a wonderful analysis of Minnie, who I believe was referred to as "the Queen of the Whistle Register." I appreciated how you explained the use of vocal registers--head voice, chest voice, and whistle register--with regards to how they're used and how Minnie utilized them as per her operatic training in her performance. I agree that she was definitely one in a million. By the way, Chipper started whistling when he heard her singing. Thanks for keeping the music alive, Fil!

[@johnnymoondog]

Once heard, never forgotten !

[@stevewynn6937]

I’ve always gotten the chills from this song. 💜🦄

[@karenmetcalf8765]

I’m addicted to your channel and I know nothing about music composition, notes, etc., I’m enjoying learning from you. I’m also into your live performance analysis’s. I just came across a performance from The Alan Parsons Symphonic Project as a tribute song I choose. The song is “Time”, Live in Colombia. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the whole performance as well as the breathy singing of PJ Olsson. It’s a beautiful piece.

[@ltyrell405]

She had an amazing voice, incredibly beautiful and I could not believe my ears when I heard her whistle voice when the song came out in the seventies. I believe the Peruvian singer Yma Sumac who had an incredible range of over 4 octaves was supposedly capable of producing the highest note but I'm not sure if that is still the case!

[@drewpall2598]

I love the diversity of your analysis videos through your hard work your KZbin channel has become an excellent source to get a better appreciation of all artists and bands regardless of genres and decades. I wish more artists would get in touch with you as the ones you have mention. Keep Rockin' through the history of music Fil 👍

[@rickknight1810]

It was so lovely to hear her singing this song to her daughter Maya. For those who don't know, her daughter is Maya Rudolph, who was for many years a cast member at SNL.

[@PrayerWarrior37]

Her voice is so clear wow

[@Jack96993]

I remember that song! Minnie did an amazing performance! I never drank wine while l listened to her sing this song, as it always shattered my wine glass 🍷 Speaking of a special voice. Have you heard of Diana Ankudinova? She's a very rare contralto and polyphonic singer, a young Russian singer who had a really rough start in life I won't get into it here, but if you do a reaction video of her, trust me, you'll get all the background and history from all the reactions you will receive and there will be many! I'm pretty sure she has over 200 million views on KZbin A good start would be Wicked game and Falling in Love that she performed on a Russian TV show, l really enjoy your reactions and how you analyze performances

[@scottfromsouthcarolina3185]

Great video Fil. This is one of my all-time favorite songs. Besides Mariah Carey, I have heard Leona Lewis get into the whistle register but only to hit a note.

[@takemyhand1988]

Leona uses falsetto and head voice to hit high notes not whistle. There's Ariana Grande and Morissette amon who can do whistle register

[@lewiswoodhall]

Mariah’s Bb7 live was so good. Love Mariah and Minnie

[@janetf23]

Minnie Riperton put the whistle register on the map, like a treasure map, that I've heard a lot of other singers search for but, sadly, most of them just end up sounding like tea kettles. 🤷‍♀️

[@michaeltutty1540]

The only one I have seen who can truly compare is Morgan James. Her Dream On is out of this world.

[@kedavis]

"tea kettles" was hilarious!! 😂

[@TessMArt]

Looks like you don't know about Dimash

[@takemyhand1988]

@@michaeltutty1540 what about Mariah Carey?

[@osowallman5743]

One cant help but smile at the end, truly beautiful

[@factenter6787]

I remember first hearing her singing Loving You back in 70s whilst I was recovering from a serious illness. Her voice and the song were very comforting for me. I wept when I heard that she passed away soon afterwards. She was young, talented, and pretty.

[@jimwilson5148]

What an extraordinary talent who, unfortunately, is largely forgotten today. Thank you for doing this and bringing her amazing voice to so many new people

[@synergyhowacquisition3821]

one of the greatest voices of the female singers.... she was simply phenomenal".