Who Sang The "Gethsemane" High Note Best?

[@MisterGolightly]

Sing it, Jesus

[@bway_car08]

YAS

[@youtubingjaguar5082]

*SING FOR US!!!!!!!!!!* ;)

[@binklebabe4725]

Mister Golightly Praise JESUS!

[@benjaminwambeke9458]

Listen to Jesus, Jimmy

[@absdyna]

Nobody is even in the same ballpark as Ted Neeley!

[@bloocheez3]

So many of them treat the "WHY" as a separate part of the song. They transition to it and then shift back over to their normal voice. Gillan and Neely are the only ones that fit it in as an organic part of their phrasing.

[@bettievw]

Fenholt also did it beautifully

[@kosmosyche]

And also I noticed a lot of them sort of "singing" it. Like it is some sort of challenging vocal exercise and nothing more. If it was only that they would surely pass, but Gillan and Neely put all their passion and heart into it and their powerful dramatic delivery feels much more on point in the context of the song. It's not just a high note for a singer to sing, it's Jesus in his moment of despair.

[@wordforger]

@@kosmosyche Exactly. You should feel the ANGUISH in that note, where he's screaming to the heavens "WHY should I die?"

[@jnaught1358]

Agreed 100% There is HUGE difference in knowing what note to sing.. vs. (WHY) it needs to be sung. Emotional content is paramount in any song. Especially this one.

[@TaraColquitt]

@bloocheez3 thanks for your analysis. I have listened to this a few times and other videos. Now I can definitely appreciate the singers that incorporate that G5 through the entire phrase. It feels like a whole other experience.

[@AlanODuffy]

'Ian Gillan improvised it while recording the original concept album, and every other Jesus has been trying to top him since.' Absolutely correct; I recorded and mixed JCSS; very proud of this seminal work, which is still a thrill to hear fifty years later XX

[@elainejennings1]

I have loved that recording since I first heard it 40 years ago, and I still own and cherish the original album! It is for me the absolute benchmark for this musical, and Ian Gillan will always be the one and only. Iconic.

[@powerfuless]

WOW! What a historic project to be part of!

[@red66charger]

That is an impressive professional accomplishment, Alan. Thanks for helping make an album that has meant so much to me. It actually was the catalyst that awakened the musician in me at age 10.

[@red66charger]

Alan, can you share anything about the Grease Band's performance? I think Alan Spenner's bass work is pure genius as well as the organ and drums.

[@gyongyverjellinek3992]

Good sir, you did a damn fine job, 10/10.

[@petalynch2312]

Gillan and Neeley are the only ones who seem to know WHY they're singing that note

[@AdamThorton]

IDK. That Leo Jimenez dude sold it pretty hard too. 3:35

[@TannovandeKamp]

I feel like Balsamo also got it perfectly

[@QueenRedRosemary]

@@TannovandeKamp seriously, people say this as though Steve Bálsamo does not exist and totally kill it every time. He cries in each performance, he totally understands the point of the why.

[@thecore477]

you are right

[@alanmerritts]

Actually, a lot more men can hit this note than people think. It is just falsetto, which is easy for a lot of men. The good ones can sing it without you knowing it is falsetto. Also, to many men use falsetto for everything they sing. A lot of men do not know how to sing in a natural voice. It is slowly becoming a lost art because people are too lazy to work on it and being excepted makes it easier to use it.

[@Buzazu]

Ian Gillan and Ted Neeley are the best, but the spanish singers do a really good job too. It's not about hitting the note, it's about hitting the emotion. The anger, the confusion, the frustration, most singers hit the note but miss the mark.

[@marlenef777]

Exactly! Those notes are supposed to be about raw emotion. Not the prettiness or accuracy of it. The whole song should be raw. It’s a rock opera not a regular musical.

[@kaune1814]

Whrere is Camilo Sexto? The second best Jesus after Neeley

[@reginakrystyn]

I like Miguel the best of the Spanish singers

[@ดวงดาวรุ่งเรือง-ศ1ฃ]

I like Steve Balsamo best

[@lizab.stough9396]

just kind of odd for me to hear "por que?"

[@michaelgarza8271]

It's not Neeley's "Why?" that rips my guts out so much as his "nail me to the cross and break me!" sung with infinite longing and desperation and rage and affirmation. Utterly sublime.

[@AFhobbie]

Yes sir!

[@basilbrush7878]

It still brings me to tears after hearing it for 45+ years

[@finlaynixon2531]

Yes 💯

[@davidozzo7244]

Ian Gillan killed it too IMO

[@willeizlini]

totally agree!

[@happyMOO5]

Me seeing Sebastian Bach's name pop up: "oh i didnt know he had the range for this role" Me after hearing his attempt: "oh yeah, he doesnt"

[@urmomslover12]

Lol

[@marielazeno]

happyMOO5 LMAOOO

[@Stein1982]

He did once. Several songs that go up into the high fifth octave.

[@nyecrozier8663]

He has hit notes that high in the past, he just really whiffed when he was in JCS. Admittedly even in his prime with Skid Row he was a shaky enough singer live.

[@kirsty6005]

sounded like a cat being sick into a microphone

[@jacobyboyer3681]

Ted Neely and Ian Gillan have the Rock texture to their voices, where most of the other singers have a much more classical broadway sound to their voice. Meanwhile Sabstian Bach's voice is just not doing it.

[@anthonybrogan390]

have to agree

[@RYANG-THE-MANG]

Exactly. They are by far the best

[@gwynnus]

Well said

[@denaray3768]

You all need to watch this and then let us know what you think... This is the very finest performance of this song I have ever seen and I am 71 years old and have followed the show from it's very beginning... kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYLSq4uObLOXqM0

[@janchilton]

I agree with these two..Ted is still the best. A lot of the others just switched over to a falsetto, which seemed out of place and unnecessary. Ted sings it like it's coming from his soul...

[@kathieatkins9043]

Neely, so much passion and longing. I saw the movie when it first came out and saw Neely in the role again at the Fox theater in Atlanta in the 90’s. Brings me to tears

[@glenc5185]

It's not just the note, it's 1. whether it was done live vs recording 2. transition out of the note once it's completed 3. emotional content

[@jondunmore4268]

Also, I would count: "body," as in how much depth, power, fullness is in the note, rather than a thin, anemic falsetto (as some of these guys display). There are many live recordings of Ted Neeley performing this song, into his 70s, with as much fullness and body and power as he did in the movie version, and, of course, with acres of emotional content! He still seems to be the only one who actually sings it like *he is actually Jesus asking God to spare his life* while everyone else just sings it like a song.

[@GMAMEC]

Recording equipment is also a major factor.

[@ChrisValera]

Don’t think, feel! We need emotional content. Not anger.

[@kurtsherrick2066]

Ian Gillian who improvised the Scream is absolutely the best because that part wasn't supposed to be sung that way. It is the benchmark set by possibly the best voice ever in Hard Rock. Ian portrays the pain and anguish Jesus felt about His upcoming torture.

[@ladyloverockItaly]

Agree with you 👍😊

[@peterm1005]

Apparently he was offered the Jesus role because of ‘Child in Time’ so it’s a moral that those calling the shots wanted big screams somewhere along the line. Agreed - he set the standard.

[@StonePaul66]

Ian was best Jesus singer ever - what a brillant voice this mate has

[@kalapiziks7561]

AGREED. There is another performer I like for Jesus better (Amy Ray) but that's just a personal preference. As far as being technically great, NOTHING ever touches Gillan's performance in the concept album. NOTHING.

[@red66charger]

100% agree. Ian Gillan's will always be the best because, as you said, it is the benchmark. But is is also the best technically and passionately. But out of all these others, the Jeff Fenholt version comes the closest to Gillan's.

[@alecfed]

Ted Neeley was 74 in his last performance of this and could still hit the high note. I have to vote for him for that reason.

[@janickna]

I still remember seeing that tour, feeling just a little disappointed in the first act by his performance, and then immediately losing all of that disappointment when I realized he was just ensuring he had enough in the tank for Gethsemane. It was incredible.

[@layla-8369]

Same. I watched that too live and though his performance in other songs was... Well, not too great, he KILLED this song, and reached that note with no problem

[@willwilburn9473]

WRONG - Ten Neeley did a production of Jesus Christ Superstar in 2018 - 2019 with Corey Glover ("Cult Of Personality" - Living Colour) as Judas. The performance he did, at 76 years old, on opening night on Broadway WILL stand the test of time as being THE BEST performance of this song EVER. It was so spectacular I felt like I was literally being levitated out of my seat. There is actually video of that performance on KZbin.

[@cowboybbp1]

Gotta agree. Ted all the way.

[@TheNewMrsB4905]

Absolutely, man. Neeley FTW. I'd give my right arm to have seen him and the original cast live. If I ever met him, I'd go totally fangirl lol. Even my 11 yo son knows who Neeley is.

[@NSHM122]

It’s not just about hitting that high note strongly, it’s about portraying agony and suffering. I am biased since he was the first, but Ian Gillian displays such emotion in the song as well as a beautiful voice. I’ve never heard of Jeff Fenholt, but his was good too. The worst? Sebastian Bach.

[@AngelaMcCaslin]

Jeff Fenholt was the OG JC on Broadway.

[@IllegalsInMyYard1]

Sebastian’s style was NOT meant for the that song.

[@julieprejean]

Jeff Fenholt gets my vote.

[@I_see_provy]

Kinda hard doing that when the note is so high for a male. There's only so much u can do brotha

[@Juliuszsawyer]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eaW1emh6iJingKcsi=7rjSjN7eNWopBtup this version is also amazing

[@billknudson7895]

Ian Gillan, from the original soundtrack, is easily the gold standard. Sends shivers up my spine even now. It think Chuck Negron in his prime could’ve nailed it too.

[@SD-ir1vf]

Sure but mama told him not to come.

[@shawnkilpatrickmusic]

Gillan’s “All right… I’ll die” right after the money note never gets enough due. So metal. 🤘

[@fullmetalfreedom]

Ian Gillan and there is nobody else that can hold that vocal control with out flaw as he does. There is only ONE!!

[@billknudson7895]

@@SD-ir1vf Cause that ain’t the way to have fun. It’s easier to be hard!

[@mimigirl3362]

Oh yes Chuck can sing the high notes

[@FranciscoNS1992]

I’ve noticed that the majority of them are thinking about the note and not thinking about why Jesus is “screaming” in the musical , asking why in God’s plan he should die and then they would understand that it’s a scream of fear, desperation and doubt so it’s not about how beautiful you will sound but it’s about the feeling of desperation you will cause in the crowd!

[@albertdelafuente9977]

Estoy de acuerdo con su afirmación, y les recomiendo la actuación de 1977, kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIqVlopvYtJ0Z7c en esta interpretación Camilo entrega todo, y transmite el sentimiento y la pasión como nadie en la versión en el español que el mismo adapto y financió.

[@bethrunyan1856]

Nailed it.

[@koltankreamer1801]

Things like this are why I like Tim Minchin's Judas

[@Suzismymom]

Exactly 💯

[@thespian302]

I definitely care about how they sound

[@coleyblossoms1051]

The way Ian Gillan went for that note... pure improvisation, pure talent.

[@hutchmusician]

For me the greatest to ever do it is Neeley. And not just once or twice; the man has spent half a century embodying this role, and utterly nailing this incredibly difficult song. He’s on a different level.

[@jondunmore4268]

2:10 -- Should Sebastian Bach even be on this list, considering he was just making werewolf noises during the G5?

[@veganapiranha7365]

Such a disappointment too, since he had such a naturally high singing voice.

[@adrianooliveira7531]

Totally agree

[@endtimeslastdays7777]

Werewolf noises??!!🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@thallyska231]

🤣🤣🤣

[@FORGOTTENMINDFREAK23]

I think he couldn't hit the note so he used his head voice to scream it and provide the illusion of having hit it. It's a poor illusion.

[@EvaaLvsM]

Ian Gillan: the original, the creator Ted Neeley: the best performer Edit: wow the spanish guys are amazing

[@sergiotrujillo6854]

Camilo sesto

[@pablomedina9959]

Camilo sesto.. Even ian gillan and adrew loyd webber admit that the best interpretation its from Camilo..

[@keodalbarran8273]

Andrew Lloyd Barber is the original creator

[@wordforger]

Definitely felt that PORR QUEEEEEEEEEEEE?!

[@Zachary-ht2so]

@@keodalbarran8273 I just read a comment saying it was improvised. Might be false, but you know, mine as well mention it

[@StallionFernando]

The Spanish version by Camilo Sesto is one of the best. People should check it out.

[@agustingarcia9236]

I agree with you Camilo's is the best

[@roxanaborrero]

I agree...I don't know why he wasn't included in this video

[@angelruiz4992]

@@roxanaborrero easy, cause for English Speakers other languages don't exist

[@osskhar1980]

The best was camilo sesto there's no comparation!!!

[@angelruiz4992]

@@Thealvita I bet u speak 5 different languages as I do, don't u?

[@davideck3635]

Ian is still the best. It's about more than just hitting the note. With some of these guys you can see the effort it takes to reach this pitch. It feels like Ian does it from the depths of his soul and that's rock and roll! It looks so effortless when he does it.

[@sd4055]

Ted Neely is the only one for me. He has so much passion and pain in his singing. Makes me get goosebumps. Love that show.

[@AuroraTheAvali3735]

Ted Neely is definitely number one, but Ben Forster is a close second imo.

[@aragorn5284]

You're both WAY OFF BASE! Ian Gillen is The Only Correct Answer. ALL of the others are IMITATING Him. Ted Neally being one of the worst one's, and the Reason why the Movie adaptation was a BOMB at the box office. Listen to the Original Cast Album, ON VINYL, you'll never listen to the film version again !!!

[@AuroraTheAvali3735]

@@aragorn5284 I love Ian Gillan's voice (duh), but if I'm being honest, his performance in Jesus Christ Superstar is a bit... lackluster. Ted Neely's performance is so full of power and emotion, far more than any other performance, and imo, the only one who has come even close to that level of emotion and power is Ben Forster.

[@crimsonmaverick8237]

@@aragorn5284 What makes listening on Vinyl better exactly?

[@loushelton1596]

You need to watch Camilo Sesto.

[@mikeyc7928]

For those that need to compare 0:21 Ted Neeley 0:39 Eric Michael Krop 0:55 Gary Cherone 1:14 Ian Gillan 1:30 Luke Kennedy 1:47 Miguel Fernández 2:10 Sebastian Bach 2:27 Tom Butwin 2:44 Glenn Carter 3:01 John Arthur Greene 3:16 Jeff Fenholt 3:31 Leo Jiménez 3:48 Gerónimo Rauch 4:06 Paul Nolan 4:23 Trevor White 4:39 Ola Salo 4:54 Ben Forster 5:11 Danny Zolli 5:28 Drew Sarich (My Fav) 5:46 Steve Balsamo

[@GabrielSC00]

Camilo Sesto. Look for it and delight yourself

[@maytelamira1]

Increíble que no aparezca la versión de Camilo Sexto....por favor buscadlo y juzgad

[@focuspocusreviews7276]

Ted and Ian for the note....Steve for the whole song.

[@francisbtube]

Sebastian Bach and Paul Nolan horrible.

[@Tricia_K]

Thanks so much for this!

[@paulgajdos5734]

The two spanish singing jesus' were on point

[@Seneca84]

Well, talking about spanish singers, they didn't add Camilo Sesto's performance which is, hands down, the best one.

[@luismariavieitosoria1263]

@@Seneca84 Of course, great Camilo !! He and Ted Neeley the best of all.

[@pollypockets508]

I know right.

[@cassidyzollinger260]

I love Miguel Fernandez's version

[@davidetenorino]

Si te refieres a Gerónimo Rauch y Leo Jiménez, estás en lo cierto. Son increíbles, obviamente la versión de Camilo Sesto es espectacular!

[@Teresaj2009]

Ted Neely without a doubt. So good he can still hit it flawlessly 50 yrs later at the age of 80- amazing

[@dominysynclair]

Ian Gillan. But I will hand it to Ted having held on to his pipes, but that's just good genes.

[@suepearce2005]

No Steve Balsamo

[@stormstrucker]

I can't believe you didn't put the Spanish version by Camilo Sesto! I don't know whether it is the best but definitely the more passionate and one to be taken into account

[@carlosmayorperseguer3320]

Sure, the Best performance

[@danielmp2085]

The composer of the song recognized Sestos version was the best, I'm really thinking it's not on this video on purpose to not accept that a spanish version was superior

[@GODEED]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIqVlopvYtJ0Z7c Sesto go to 2 minutes 45 seconds to hear his note.

[@idaliabanos2589]

Indeed the most passionate…you feel his pain all thru!!

[@kevin.afton_]

He is a good singer and sings with passion but he is not a rock singer, and this is a rock opera.

[@Timliu92]

None of these singers are bad by any means, otherwise they will not be selected to sing this incredibly difficult tune. That said, my picks would have to be Ted Neely and Ian Gillan, hands down.

[@Brandon-yr3nj]

2:10 though

[@glowco.717]

What about John Arthur Greene? He nailed the high notes and sang it pretty well in general

[@Melekini49]

My favorite was Ian Gillian

[@TriciaPooh01]

Try listening to a Korean singer named Jinho. He was in the Korean version of Jesus Superstar, there's only 2 versions to listen to sadly. One he performed live at his group's concert and the other is him singing live in the studio, but it has been edited with the music over him singing.

[@aedof]

I know Ian was the OG, but damn I love Ted's version. It's so raw and full of emotion, while actually hitting the note pretty damn well. Although, the fact that I absolutely love his performance and the whole movie definitely influences my opinion.

[@marysanders7692]

You and everyone who's seen it

[@stevepurifoy2489]

Good point!

[@langdalepaul]

I didn’t really like the movie tbh. For me the original recording was the best cast and the best musically.

[@deborahgreen7231]

Yes indeed. He blistered the singing and the tears streaming down his face were real. GAH

[@cynthianavarro4316]

@@langdalepaul Totally agree. After 3 years of absorbing the original cast recording, the movie's soundtrack, and the movie itself, was good but not quite IT.

[@negiposi]

If anyone is still watching this video years later, I recently saw the tour of Jesus Christ superstar for the fiftieth anniversary. Everybody was phenomenal, the Jesus nailed the high note.

[@Theturtleowl]

I had the pleasure of hearing Ted Neeley live in 2019. He can still do that note.

[@deprofundis3293]

Damn. That's amazing! Where did you get to see him??

[@Theturtleowl]

@@deprofundis3293 In Amsterdam for the Easter tour :)

[@bananenneus1540]

@@Theturtleowl wait, Amsterdam in the netherlands? I live in the netherlands

[@Theturtleowl]

@@bananenneus1540 Ja daar, tijdens de Europese tour van 2019.

[@bananenneus1540]

@@Theturtleowl leuk

[@tyrakristiansen7188]

I actually prefer the raspy, growly notes, the clean ones sound so.. empty..

[@mrob611]

Agree.

[@ColbyBarradas]

You loved Sabastian Bach then.

[@paigehuson6897]

I would say I like a good balance between them

[@joerghevieras1923]

Absolutely!

[@cicadaboi101]

Idk, he's kinda the embodiment of purity so shouldn't it make sense that he'd sing purely.

[@chocolatMouse]

I actually liked some of the versions in different languages: Leo Jimenez in particular managed to convey actual pain and anguish with his rendition, rather than just singing the high note. Just like Ian and Ted did in their version and what made it stand out so much.

[@panmoncada7257]

HE WAS SO GOOD def top three with than. Drew Sarich at fourth because it’s that pain and anger and confusion!!!! It’s anger at everyone around him and himself. So powerful

[@CherryRedBanshee]

chocolatMouse Leo had me SHOOK. I felt that pain.

[@Ilma1984]

Check out the full version of Drew Sarich. I's incredible

[@raddest.radish]

I fully agree! It HAS to convey pain or it’s missed the point

[@DrWhom]

here's the Dutch version, if you care: zeg me dan zeg me dan, mijn God WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAR voor moet ik sterven laat me dan toch zien dat 't niet voor niets zal zijn toon me toch vooral iets van je oneindige brein wat is toch de reden dat ik sterven moet de hele toedracht weet ik wel maar 't waarom weet ik niet goed goed, dan sterf ik kijk maar goed hoe ik sterf zie dan hoe ik sterf

[@ladybug160]

Ted Neely for me, is the ONLY person who has ever brought forth the full emotional impact of this powerful song. He completely immerses himself physically, vocally and emotionally in every performance.

[@narunatsu1]

Couldn't agree more!!!

[@dominysynclair]

You're on drugs. There all just trying to put their own stamp on what Ian already perfected. Fenholt at least had the sense to try and do it like Ian.

[@ladybug160]

@@dominysynclair I have never done drugs, so I wouldn't know how that is supposed to sound. However, I do own both sound tracks, the vinyl album with Ian Gillan aswell as the one with Ted Nelly ( and the DVD). I have listened to both versions dozens of times, ( I got the vinyl soundtrack for my 16th Birthday ), as well as having watched the movie with Ted Nelly. And I have performed in a stage production of the same name. For me, no one has come close to Ted Nelly's vocal or visual performance/s. That does not necessarily mean I don't find other versions impressive. Only for me, Ted is still at the very top!

[@dominysynclair]

@@ladybug160 You sound exceedingly qualified to make this call. So, how do you esplain coming up with the wrong answer?

[@ladybug160]

@@dominysynclair As far as I am concerned, there is no " right or wrong answer" I am speaking from my personal opinion, and from what I personally feel about his performance as JC - nothing more nothing less. I respect not everyone may agree with me. However, that does not make my personal feelings on the subject " wrong" in anyway whatsoever. You are most welcome to disagree with my thoughts and feelings on the subject. For you too, are entitled to them as am I to mine!

[@RedRatTheRed]

People are underestimating my man Glenn Carter, he has such passion in the note it's really beautiful

[@ifoundthewords]

He's my favorite!

[@powerfuless]

It's not even a question. Ian Gillan hits the note and then does the most legit metal vibrato on it. He nails it because he's an actual rock star, not an actor pretending to be one.

[@queensinthesky]

Bang on! I feel like Ted Neeley is a great middleground between the rock raspiness and the much cleaner straight ahead delivery of the rest, but there's some special character to Gillan's wail. Pure hard rock. Deep Purple shit.

[@Astrosimi]

The history of the Jesus role has been actors trained in classical/theater vocal style singing parts that were basically improvised on the spot by a rock/metal singer. The reason barely anyone has been able to get that note is not because not only does Gillan's style and parts require the singer to go against every rule taught in theater singing, but on top of that, he also had one of the few golden voices of the heavy rock era. In a word: Inimitable.

[@powerfuless]

@@Astrosimi To be fair, musical theater singers are trained to be able to sing those notes eight shows a week. Two shows on Saturday and Sunday. And to do that for years as many shows run on Broadway that long. Making a living means being able to hit that note that often and consistently. So, they can't squeeze the notes the way rock and metal singers do. Most rock singers can pull off those notes in the studio and live for a few years, but eventually the wear and tear takes hold and their voices are wrecked.

[@Astrosimi]

@@powerfuless I don't blame them at all, you're completely correct! Singing like Gillan does will fuck up your voice for the latter half of your life, and for a musical theater actor, that's your livelihood down the drain. So definitely understandable that they do it as a falsetto - it's the least harmful way to do it consistently, and impressive in and of itself. I think ALW learned his lesson afterwards (when he was sure he had the clout to bring compositions straight to the stage) by making sure to write musical theater vocal parts, and not bringing in more hard rock legends to improvise!

[@SpotlightKid83]

Agree that Gillan is one of the best, but not the only real rock star in here. Gary Cherone (Extreme) and Leo Jimenez (Saratoga) were rock/metal singers before being cast as Jesus. Also Sebastian Bach (Skid Row), except he got cast at probably the lowest point of his career. A pity that Gillan's scream was turned down in the final mix and sounds much softer than it actually was (according to all his other screams live with Deep Purple). I saw Ted Neely live twice in the last 6 years and he totally killed it

[@lukasbjurstrom9940]

Ian Gillan, without a doubt. Just the fact that he improvised in the first place, aswell as that magnificent vibrato. No one else comes close imo!

[@aiden_macleod]

He sucks as an actor though.

[@Smoomty]

@@aiden_macleod what the fuck are you talking about? He was never an actor

[@AbrahamBarberi]

Yep

[@Pedro91795]

Imagine if Gillan had done the song more than just once ? A tour? Don’t you think he would have topped his original ? Me too…

[@BrendanClarkGuitar]

Truth!!!

[@oneday458]

Ted Neeley for for me. His emotional delivery in tune with body language, facial expressions, arm gestures ...i.e. the complete package, tears me up every time. In that moment - he is Jesus showing the torment he is going through. The bit that gets me most is the end from "Why then am I scared to finish, what I started. What you started. I didn't start it" onwards. Ted wins every time.

[@Gk2003m]

And to me, Neely’s body language in the moment he hits the note is weird. I get it from a ‘theatre’ performance standpoint, but most people screaming in fear are not holding out their arms in a victorious embrace (watch runners, cyclists etc who cross the finish line first in big race) of the world. Fernandez’ body language is far more appropriate. But Neely is also the clue to a question posed by a vocal coach who did a vid about this song: what would have become of Ian Gillan had he abandoned Deep Purple, and segued into theater? Answer: instead of singing Highway Star for 53 years, he’d have been singing Gethsemane.

[@bethandavies5898]

Steve Balsamo was AWESOME.. saw him live and he managed it brilliantly 8 times a week.

[@uniquemekylieb]

I agree with everyone's comments about having the emotion and intention behind the "why'" and how it's important to the song, but I think it's also important to note that if someone isn't properly trained in how to sing with a rock scream, especially at such a high note, it can be INCREDIBLY damaging to the vocal cords. Doing so consistently (like a tour or on Broadway i.e.) can cause nodules which can permanently ruin someone's voice. Also, it's really hard to just plain ole' scream at a specific note (which is why Sebastian Bach sounds particularly bad). That's why a lot of people who play Jesus or sing the song tend to transition to it in a way that's vocally healthy and then shift back to their regular singing voice.

[@holobenthic]

I hear you, but then the interpretation lacks depth, and it wastes the note, better not to sing it

[@joaogarcia6170]

Bach's sounds weird, like he didn't even try, I've seen amateur singers do better than that

[@holobenthic]

@@joaogarcia6170 I mean he's a heavy metal singer, his intentions must have been wildly different than all the other musical singers

[@thedream6088]

sebastan bach made me cringe so hard

[@thedream6088]

i could tell who was straining and it was hard to watch sometimes

[@thomasmurray3920]

Ian Gillian is head and shoulders above all the rest. It’s more than just the high notes, but also the raw emotion in the quiet parts, what one former opera singer called ‘quiet intensity’.

[@suejennings1568]

Totally agree.

[@alvaroalvaroalvaro]

he was the first jesus superstar and totally respect that but neeley performance is incomparable, adding the fact that he was acting and singing too

[@thomasmurray3920]

Well then we’ll agree to disagree regarding the singing. Regarding the movie, I was disappointed in it. I had really been looking forward to it so perhaps I had set my expectations too high. Seeing it again years later, my opinion didn’t change.

[@betsyj59]

I think Ted Neeley beats out Ian Gillan with the delivery of emotional nuance throughout the whole song but both interpretations are fantastic and both are head and shoulders above the rest.

[@joseluismoreno3008]

Ian Gillan is the best

[@p.h.4842]

Full offense but what is Sebastian Bach doing and who authorized it?

[@ineffabledolphin9139]

It was.. umm.. certainly full of anguish.. And uh... Pain

[@trinitysanabria1350]

I was sitting here enjoying these talented men slay this note, then here comes Sebastian .....making my eyes widen, and go “oooof....who gave a green light to this...”

[@matthewream1309]

You know... I don’t hate it actually

[@jwl2469]

"Mr. Gillan and Mr. Neely, please remain standing………… and the rest of you……… thank you for auditioning."

[@muzicaempathica6479]

EXACTLY 🎼🎹🎶🎙👑

[@thomaslowdon5510]

You have got to be joking lol

[@jwl2469]

@@thomaslowdon5510 You've got to be joking to be asking me that? You think the others are better? HA! Ian and Ted were the originators of the role's Rock power vocals, that all others have unsuccessfully tried to copy. The others have created the stereotypical, cookie-cutter, over-the-top, Broadway vocal style that's better suited for the Wednesday matinee crowd.

[@thomaslowdon5510]

@@jwl2469 sorry l dont agree.. As ive said before its one thing to reach and sustain a note. But hold a note in key and vocalise in that key is quite another...most of these guys reached high G. But didnt sing in it..Steve Balsimo does reach hold and sing....very few can do that to a credible standatd on a professional level..

[@fusspot57]

Ted Neely is always bang on the money but I also love Steve Balsamo who is technically really good, hits the note just right....and he's a lovely chap having worked with him once. As for Gillan, it's really "him" isn't it, right up his street and trademark wail. Sadly his pipes are not quite so agile now but he still has the authority to knock most pipsqueaks right out of the water!

[@meatballg8655]

Ian Gillan will always blow everyone else out of the water with his performance, not just for the high G but also for the follow up as well, he genuinely sounds like a man distraught at the knowledge that he must die, and is confused as to how this would help

[@RedRatTheRed]

Except he literally sings "Hiiiiiiii should i die"

[@leighreinhart6185]

I agree, the note sounds like a scream of suffering and futile desperation, which to me seems like the composer's intention. It reminds me how Diana Damrau nails the famous Queen Of The Night aria by making her high notes sound like haughty, mocking laughter. Few singers can perform it that way because it's so difficult, but it's what Mozart intended.

[@Catgate101]

Ian Gillan- most of the time. Ted Neely a very close second- but he had the added bonus of the visual effect too. Went to see JCSS last night for the first time- incredible. It’s only been here for a week but I managed to fit in 2 performances. Still buzzing today.

[@clarisebandru2150]

Neely, Gillan! I was always blown away watching Ted Neely sing this as a kid. I was lucky enough to see him on Broadway. There is something about this song and how they sing it that sends chills down the spine.

[@Blue71974]

One of the best interpretations I've heard is the one in spanish by Camilo Sesto, he puts so much passion into the whole thing it's definitely worth a listen

[@elinino5275]

But does he sing "POR QUUUUUUUUUEEEEEE"

[@jacobu5519]

He is by far the best to sing it in spanish, and is very soul touching. Im surprised he isnt here

[@sueellenhegstrom2391]

The ones I like the best have a rasp to them or some sort of lack of polish, because to me those truly portray the anguish Christ felt.

[@mjb7015]

That's why I like John Farnham's version, even though he doesn't even attempt the high note so isn't in this video. But his rendition is just so full of pain and anger and fear.

[@mickenziedavis3068]

What do you think of 2:10

[@grotto65]

It's not just about hitting the note. Ted Neely is the only one who was able to sing it with the level of rage and pain it required.

[@LegoSPQR]

camilo sesto

[@nowone666]

ted is def my favorite of the bunch, but let's not forget that it was ian gillan who came up with the high note part in this song in the first place :3

[@grammarnazi39]

Having seen Ted Neely perform this role twice, I can tell you that, even over 30 years later, the rage and pain are still fresh. He's amazing.

[@aiden_macleod]

That's why he's in the thumbnail of this video.

[@aiden_macleod]

@@nowone666 It's about the best performance. Besides, the note was written that way, and as I recall, it was Tim Rice, not Ian Gillan who wrote the song for the Rock Opera.

[@jamabarker4051]

Ted Neeley 🏆... some are close and really good, but Ted takes the cake every single time!!! ❤

[@LenaVoices]

Okay let's go through them all! Ted: Crushed it. Went for it, did fantastic, we stan Eric: very good and pretty good virbato Gary: lots of feeling, the high note was a bit strange but I think that's the video Ian: ICONIC. Still iconic and will always be. Luke: underrated my one of the best in this video. So much emotion in his performance. Miguel: he held the notes so well and kept them without faltering. Sebastian: that was screaming? Tom: Very good, lots of feeling and kept a good hold in that note Glenn: lots of very solid acting and really felt it. Wasn't too belty! John: yes it was good, but he just ruffed his way out of it Jeff: nice riffs, hit it and did his own thing Leo: He had a lot of feeling, love it Geronimo: held it! Great! Paul: It's good but I'm not feeling this one, Nolan. Trevor: didn't hold it too long but picked himself up Ola: a bit rushed, but acting in point. Ben: A bit weird but still impressive. The start was rough but landing good Danny: a little too high. Drew: leaned into it too much, the note after the high note was stronger. Steve:solid vibrato and put his heart into it.

[@BrandonCuringtonOfficial]

Almost everyone in the bunch sounds very good and all but *Ian Gillan is just eargasm-quality.*

[@viscera8442]

Can we all just agree that a classical voice doesn't really work for this song? Like, props to the guys who could hit this note, but Ian Gillen and Ted Neeley nailed it because they had a rock-sounding voice. They absolutely nailed it because they portrayed Jesus's anguish perfectly. A classical voice just doesn't portray that well

[@winterbelle708]

Noot Noodles do you mean classical technique or like a classical voice lmao, cause anybody can have a rock voice or a classical voice but like if you’re gonna approach a G5 like this, classical technique isn’t the worst thing to have under your belt

[@viscera8442]

@@winterbelle708 I meant voice :) But I agree, a classical technique would work very well but the voice however sounds a bit odd with the rest of the song lol Like a classical sounding voice almost feels too soft and quiet :o

[@winterbelle708]

Noot Noodles no no i get that but like, i mean twang is a technique that anybody can add to their voice ya know and that can sorta give it like that rock sound, but i guess i understand what you’re saying.

[@viscera8442]

@@winterbelle708 ahh I get that :>

[@manueldelgadillo7139]

The best is petr elfimov kzbin.info/www/bejne/o6nYh2eAp66KfdU

[@benhilton4884]

Ian Gillian 100. It’s they way he takes it naturally up and keeps the raspy sound. Too many of the other just jump straight into a screech.

[@marcelobrandao3312]

I, personally, love Steve Balsamo's version. Bright, clean, high, perfect. The 1996 version of JCS is my favourite.

[@robroise]

I agree. And there is No comparison

[@despinagounari7312]

I totally agree!!! Steve Balsamo's performances are absolutelly stunning!! I saw him twice at London's ''Lyceum Theater'' in 1996 and he was amazing!!!!

[@vixxlabrie3623]

Me too ❤️ Steve it's incredible singer 😍

[@deprofundis3293]

I thought I'd be a Neeley die-hard, but yeah, I'm camp Steve Balsamo now! (Not that I can't love both, lol.)

[@Nadinka_Leo]

Balsamo is the best!

[@Th3Clairv0yant]

I can't see Camilo Sesto... even Ian Gillan called to congratulate him...

[@AbandonedMines11]

Ian Gillian is the best. Of course, I grew up with the record albums where he plays the part, so I’m kind of biased in a way. Most of these performances in the video were pretty good. I thought it was interesting to hear the Spanish versions.

[@Ironredontop]

... And The Swedish perhaps? It's kinda different... 👍

[@Edwinjn1007]

I'd say Ted Neely in the movie and Ian Gillian close 2nd.

[@alisabrown7462]

Yes yes! I love the gravely sounds! Ted Neely is a close second

[@aragorn5284]

Ted Neally was one of the worst. KILLED the Movie adaptation !

[@NickDonellan]

Yeah i thought this was a rhetorical question considering Ian Gillian absolutely fucking killed it. I can only hit that note like once every 14 tries and when I do my vocal chords reach bleeding status.

[@keithstover2899]

Gillan. This song and "The Temple "when he sings, "But you have made it a den of thieves. Get out!" Absolute chill city.

[@jessica23claire]

TED NEELEY CAN STILL HIT THE HIGH NOTES. HE'S IN HIS 70'S. HOW. IS. THIS. MAN. HUMAN. I found a performance of him doing this song from LAST YEAR. EDIT: ahhh so cool there's an Australian production in here! (QPAC)

[@Abby-km6vr]

not another theatre trash channel It’s amazing! And I actually prefer his later performances to his earlier ones. I feel that as he ages, he shows much more emotion in his performances.

[@blackngoldcuttlefish3390]

I know. I find that incredible. I mean, his voice obviously sounds older now, all around....but the fact he can still hit all those notes (in my opinion, he even seemed more at ease in that really high range than the middle range)...it blows my mind. You rarely see singers able to "hit all the notes" after they reach a certain age.. And especially for him to have been playing such a screechy role his whole life....he must really be taking care of his voice and singing properly. I don't know how he did/does it.

[@danielchae1452]

Could you ask as much from any other man?

[@jessica23claire]

BUT IF IIIIIIIII DIIIIIEEEEEEEEE

[@jessica23claire]

Totally agree! The note sounds a lot clearer now, which is insane!

[@dragonsfire1968]

Only three I rate. Gillan, Neeley and Balsamo. Watching Balsamo's Gethsemane audition for the role for the 1996 UK run at The Lyceum had Andrew Lloyd-Webber weeping. No better accolade than that. He also sang it on a UK morning tv show in 1996 to promote the show, and £160,000 worth of tickets were sold in the 30 minutes following that performance.

[@annetteniebelski7513]

Balsamic Gethsemane

[@garyaizen8699]

Honorable mention for Ben Forster who sung it with plenty of emotion and a great climax.

[@samuelviden7412]

Balsamo is amazing. The entire 1996 cast is easily my favorite version overall, especially the record version with Alice Cooper as Herod. Zubin Varla’s Judas is amazing as well.

[@dt5095]

@@samuelviden7412 I second that. I watched the production at the Lyceum In London in 1996. The best musical I’ve ever had the pleasure of watching. Steve Balsamo and Zubin Varla were incredible. Although he sung it really well in this video, seeing them live was on a different level.

[@samuelviden7412]

@@dt5095 I'm jealous! I think Varla's Judas strikes the perfect balance between emotion and performance. I also love a singer that isn't afraid to rasp in musicals; typically musical singers tend to sing very technically and clean, but a bit of raspiness adds a human/emotional element to the singing IMO.

[@bluehavencd]

I'm surprised that Camilo Sesto wasn't mentioned, he is one of the originators of Jesucrito Superstar back when things started for a spanish version in 1975. His performance was godlike.

[@decost1m]

bluehavencd I agree. And he goes even higher than most...

[@cancunpalace]

Totally agree.

[@jasspeaks5684]

True!!

[@nintendonut100]

@@decost1m IIRC he actually performed it down half a step, still a great performance tho, and even a half step down this one gets high

[@lucyfer4420]

And he's done it live so many times long after the musical closed...

[@palmira2000]

Thank you so much for this video. As others below already mentioned, some are really good but Ted and Ian give you shivers. Singing is not only being able doing technical gymnastics with your voice but providing your soul to the audience.

[@PatrickKCompton]

Ian Gillan of Deep Purple and Ted Neeley are my favorites! :)

[@notfoursaken]

That's the only list you need. Forget Top 5, Top 10, whatever. Ian and Ted. Everyone else can sod off.

[@sunechristofferabel367]

Agree

[@danapb]

Cannot agree more! Ian Gillan, the original, puts some real rock grittiness into it and Neeley is so technically on point as well as has strong emotion behind it.

[@MrGratznorl]

i agree.

[@jamesclayton8975]

Ian and Ted enough said ❗️

[@pdoshadow]

Ian Gillan hands down! He sang it with the most passion and so naturally while everyone else focused on trying to get that note right.

[@aiden_macleod]

Subjective.

[@danielmartins8929]

True. In fact, he improvised that note, so it's the most natural.

[@jacqueshughes3085]

Yep - he was the first and it was he who improvised that note. Others now just copy.

[@alwaysbelieve45]

Steve Balsamo. Best pitch, vibratto, acting, emotion. Seamless transitions. PERFECT.

[@Sardnassik]

You may right about the phonation. BUT there is no power in his interpretation. Imagine: I love the life, I want to live but I must die. "WHY should I die?" This is not a sophisticated question but a desperated scream. So Ted Neely (specially in this: YT / watch?v=0rEVwwB3Iw0) after him Leo Jimenez.

[@miajoelle3203]

@@Sardnassik kzbin.info/www/bejne/m165emeZaJpjapI Here's a recording of Balsamo from the 1996 Cast, his desperation scream of "Whyyyy" is incredible

[@Sardnassik]

@@miajoelle3203 Actually I feel strange the falsetto in this song for this note. But it is my opinion, my liking.

[@miajoelle3203]

@@Sardnassik And I respect that, these singers are all uniquely gifted in their own ways and it's incredible to hear the amazing talents they possess 😊

[@Sardnassik]

@@miajoelle3203 And one more guy with a great talent. YT /watch?v=u4SobcNflRE

[@lisagrimes64]

Ted is still #1 in my book. He can still hit the note too. I met him a few years back and sat with him watching the movie.

[@algreen8035]

Ian Gillan not only sang it best, he created those screams, he set the benchmark for those who followed. None of whom surpassed him.

[@Neuroneos]

I agree with your statement. Neeley and Balsamo come closest.

[@free_siobhan]

Giglio33012 well what’s more important or impressive? Setting the standard of blowing the standard away like Nolan or Neeley?

[@whiteangel160]

Согласен - Gillan вне конкурса. Он - эталон, к которому стремились все

[@joseluismoreno3008]

Al Green you're so right, Ian Gillan was the first to be cast as Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar and the best one.

[@JavertRA]

He improv'ed (improvised - improved?) it, so it wouldn't be there without him. That said, I'd never heard Miguel Ferrnandez before but he just gave quite an effective performance.

[@Vixtay]

Definitely Steve Balsamo for the entire song of Gethsemane, he actually cries at the end of almost every performance and Ted Neeley was great.

[@kaity2775]

I love the desperate scream in Ted Neely’s. (Also partial since he was my first experience of JCS)

[@pollypockets508]

Kaitlyn Buckborough mine too!!!

[@jackijean8805]

Agree. I go w Ted Neely n Ian Gillian for the anguish, doubt n passion in voices. They were the songs more than the notes. Plus, had worst acoustics when they did it.

[@kleek2217]

I have to agree. The emotion conveyed by Neely is what does me in, not just the vocal range. Some of the singers are clearly just that - singers. Technically beautiful - but no goosebump giving angst in their performance.

[@vicd71]

Yup i have to agree with everyone. It wasn't just the singing, but the emotion conveyed with Ted Neely. All great singers in their own right, but nothing more than just singers.

[@kylsh1]

My goodness..they are ALL PHENOMENAL…. But Ted Neeley has my heart… 🤣🤣❤️❤️💪💪 I love this… I saw performances I’ve never even heard of… it’s so beautiful, all of them..❤️💪💪💪🔥🔥👍👍👍🔥🔥

[@hammondvoodoo9555]

The best and most fluent transition from the singing verses to the G5 scream without any doubt is done by Ian Gillan. For the other singers the high note is clearly something special but for Ian it is his natural flow to go to these notes and nothing is better than flow in music. The way he sings them is very hard to copy. He does it so effortlessly and there's the difference. Ted Neely comes in second but not even close.

[@papabon1622]

I think it's partially due to some sound editing how it flows onto his top note. Ted Neely's power and input is superior imo

[@elizethegama]

Pode até ser, mas ele não canta com o mesmo sentimento que Ted - nenhum deles chega nem perto nesse quesito...

[@rousefire]

You ar right . Ian startes the why out softer and then lets it grow . None of the others do that . They belt the Why out from the start .

[@craig05ish]

It is way easier to punch a note like that to hit it , hitting,it and growing through it takes so much more power and control and the way Gillian comes back out to chest voice is just spectacular, some of the newer versions hold the falsetto into the next words because switching there is really difficult.

[@JamesHarris-hl2bm]

Absolutely agree with you, Hammond Voodoo

[@RodrigoCantillano]

TED NEELY Simply Amazing performance ... in a time and a timeless context: 70s

[@Kazyman]

Neely did a decent job for sure, but Ian Gillan's screams have been untouched by all-comers over the years. Flat out.

[@Kazyman]

lol....well.....what can I say to THAT? I appreciate your blunt honesty? If you care to dig, you'll find that Ian Gillan never wore the "fagots make up" (wrong spelling, dude) and also Gillan would often say a word or to whilst he screamed. Example: In 'Gethsemane' he first screams "I'll" and sings "die" coming off the scream, which has EXCELLENT push, distortion and vibrato. Then again he screams, "Well I'll die" in the same song. He also tells Judas (with a scream) "GET OUT!" So you see, it's not only 'screaming'....and if it was, it was done in a most magnificent way. It took me years to learn how to scream with such authority, a forceful push of my diaphragm and controlled vibrato. And do you know WHY there's not a lot of screaming these days? Popular singers can't do it worth a shit. (There's that honesty again. lol) -a still performing vocalist and musician leaves you with sincere regards.

[@RodrigoCantillano]

thanks for answering Man Salute

[@Kazyman]

Mismo

[@karpovgambit9190]

Ted basically can't sing... your infatuation with him is merely conventional.

[@hexum7]

In the wise words of Lindsay Ellis- WHYYYYYY???

[@tomvandongen8075]

In the words of Lin Manuel Miranda, "why. I. Should. Die"

[@venomtang]

LOL does she sing it?

[@masarusenpai1952]

@@tomvandongen8075 why I *SHOULD* *_D I E_*

[@l.7282]

venomTang no but she made a compilation of ppl who did this song

[@ryan_alexander]

Hal It's about cats

[@CH-kl4of]

Drew Sarich is the top for me. Always will be. Saw him perform it life once, from one of the front rows. Outdoor stage. Absolutely breathtaking.

[@Mercutihoe]

As judgy and nitpicking we are of these guys, honestly mad respect to them for just being able to sing this note alone! I don’t even think I could hit it! That being said, drew sarich, wow.

[@NipponCat]

WHHYYYYYyyyy.... isn't long hair on men a thing anymore? I'd have to know, I'd have to know, my lord.

[@gfloflo]

NipponCat Japanese Lessons It still is, long curly haired man speaking. Long hair is the way

[@Turt3752]

N_8-bit_Dragon yeet.

[@SocialistSadako]

long hair looks so good on anyone, i have no idea why men look so fucking BORING nowadays

[@OrangeTabbyCat]

David Tennant is starting it again. I hope it will be a thing again! Oh yes how I hope!

[@laughinlori6893]

Neely sang it best but Carter wins for best hair IMHO.

[@LaurinaHawks]

I think it's clear, that only Gillan and Neely nail it. All others can hardly compete. As bloocheez3 said, they integrate both the high note in their process, without feeling forced to preparate it. It comes very naturally. The difference between Neely and Gillan is, that Gillan "sings" it more, with a melodic vibrato, while Neely does more a bit of "shouting" here. But both are perfect belters.

[@Sheabuttertend]

AGREED. I also think it’s a musical NOT MEANT for classical musical theatre vocals. I think you should legally have to be in a rock band and have been in and out of rehab AND prison before getting to sing this song.

[@pannalover326]

Totally agree. That's because it takes a rock voice. It is a ROCK opera after all. Ian and Ted felt the rock, deep inside, plain and simple. The rest were just trying to see how high they could go. The difference between the two, is Ted was singing it for a movie, hence the more "angry" tone here. Jesus was pretty angry at God, and Ted did a perfect job projecting that.

[@clarebirschel6951]

I was gonna say Gillan was awesome as well, only one up there with the original and best - Mr Ted Neely

[@pannalover326]

@@clarebirschel6951 Ted Neeley was not the original. Ian Gillan was, in 1970. Movie came after, in 1973.

[@lillianbrand1728]

Absolutely agree with you!!

[@Septikwill]

Why hasn't anyone commented on Ian's intonation? Just listen to the tremor in his voice. Goose bumps all over!!

[@xVx_Krt_xVx_KillMe]

However varied our lists become I think we’re all in agreement that Ted Neeley and Ian Gillan take the top 2 and Sebastian Bach is sitting the deadzone.

[@MsMakeupsavvy]

Apologies for being biased. But for me, Ted Neeley is the best.

[@AFhobbie]

- Ian Gillan (will be an old soul voice). - Ted Neeley (will be and old soul voice). You cannot offend those two naming a "one" and "second". Ian Gillan's performance (in the high note and in one piece) is addictive. I can rewind it for an hour. Neeley´s is like that high note voice for which the opera will be forever magnificent and repeated for decades. 3. Steve Balsamo at the end, comes as a breath of fresh air.

[@KarM908]

Ian Gillan has the better Vibrato, But 1st,Ted Neely has the Best input all the way around and a Good 3rd. Steve Balsamo

[@ОльгаШемякинская]

100% the same samle. NOTHING TO ADD.

[@QTCutes]

Kemkaz agreed 100%

[@QTCutes]

Not just about singing and hitting the note but playing Jesus in that moment bringing out the manhood in a God who was legitimately scared

[@ziggypop3225]

completely agree

[@TheMoqueca]

Totally agree with you

[@prosperfireson]

Thanks for putting this together. I have seen about 7 different productions of JCS from local community theater groups, colleges and a touring company featuring Ted Neally and Carl Anderson and I have been in two productions of JCS one with the now defunct San Jose Civic Light Opera that featured Carl Anderson as Judas and one at Da Anza Cummunity College during their summer theater program where I got to play Jesus which remains a high light of my performing days and the culmination of a dream to be in JCS and play Jesus. I have loved the show since I first listened to it when I was about 13 or so. What I really like about this montage of men taking on the role of Jesus is that this really reveals just how difficult singing the part of Jesus is. Gethsemane is obviously the pinnacle of that challenge vocally for men but, there are other very challenging parts in that role and your montage really shows a wide array of men taking on that challenge with varying degrees of success. Full disclosure I have been a fan of Ian Gillan's original rendition since I first heard it as a kid though I appreciate Ted Neally's version as well and respect anyone for taking on the role. That said, from this montage there is a quality in Ian Gillan's rendition of Gethsemane that I think is the gold standard and while there are a number of very good performances here I still would put folding money on Ian Gillan's original version. Thank you again for putting this together. Pete Hollister, CA

[@jeangentry6656]

Ian Gillian - everytime I hear his "WHHHYYYYYYY" I think of his intro wail in Highway Star.

[@masarusenpai1952]

NOBODY GONNA TAKE MY CAR

[@sonadilver563]

3:37 now *_THIS_* is when you step on a lego

[@Sardnassik]

You may right but he is the only one (except Ted) who sing this high G with power. (y) The power is so much important of this G. Everyone else concentrate to get the highness and sing falsetto and loses the power. :(

[@TimeLockLady]

You should have included Camilo Sesto, the original Spanish Jesus in the first version of the musical there. He's still to me the best one, he hits that note and his acting is amazing, he makes me cry every time!

[@adgarza]

There are many singers left out, like Paul Nicholas, Camilo Sesto, Enrique Del Olmo, and many others... There are some interpretations far better than others, but the result normally comes from how much are you inside the character and how good are you controlling your voice.

[@lolailogg4938]

@@adgarza Camilo Sesto is the best spanish singer and the first who sang this song so i think he should be in this video. And In my opinion Ted is the best!!!

[@adgarza]

@@lolailogg4938 Well... No. Camilo Sesto was one of the Spanish singers who sang this song. I think the first Spanish version was the Mexican One produced by Julissa and sung by Enrique Del Olmo as Jesus. Good, really good, but not great like Camilo Sesto. For me, the Mexican version is better in its music, but is somewhat weak in the voices (except for Judas [Jorge Abrahám]). Is exactly the contrary in the Spanish version of Camilo Sesto.

[@adgarza]

@@lolailogg4938 Here is the URL for the Mexican 1975 version. Sadly, the quality of the record is not that good: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXOd4irg7tjrMk

[@lolailogg4938]

@@adgarza You are right, in Mexico sorry i thought Camilo Sesto was the first spanish singer although here in Spain he was. I prefer Camilo...

[@HaapainenRouske]

This video is such a good example of technical skill meeting the ability to also perform the song. Like many others have said, Ted Neely's performance is absolute gold standard, hitting the note while not letting that moment to "outshine" the rest of the performance. It's not just that one moment where you get to flex your skills, but it's the emotional core of the song. It's so fascinating to hear the difference when the singer just focuses to hitting that note instead of performing the song. It's so jarring, even though it sound "good", there is just something missing. Really cool compilation!

[@brandondiaz9818]

This is one of my favorite musical theatre belts of all time

[@avitalyk]

Brandon Diaz I gotta "um actually" you there buddy. It's 100% falsetto, not belt 😁

[@TheAshumms]

depends how each singer is singing it. you can hear varying degrees of cricoid tilt with each singer.

[@MarcoGitto]

@TheAshumms Exactly. Most of the time the singer uses a stop-closure falsetto (that means that the vocal folds closing rate is higher, so it seems more "chesty", even though it's still a M2 mechanism).

[@ladybug55]

Ian Gillian & Ted Neeley

[@francoisecolombo1915]

Absolutely Ian Gillan then Ted Neeley

[@MultiBlackmore]

No doubt, the one and only IAN GILLAN. Camilo Sesto in Spanish version.

[@mastermind0981]

Correct

[@free_siobhan]

I think Ian is good on the high notes, but on the rest of the record just isn’t right. Super talented, but he just didn’t do it for me.

[@robertoc.dominguez6856]

Totalmente de acuerdo. Ian no solo hace la nota sino que la hace vibrar al mismo tiempo de forma casi demoníaca. A mi esta parte de Camilo Sesto no me convence, pero en el resto de la canción me gusta mucho como la canta.

[@Lavieja77]

Damn RIGHT

[@manueldelgadillo7139]

Roberto C. Dominguez te recomiendo escuchar a petr elfimov kzbin.info/www/bejne/o6nYh2eAp66KfdU

[@carolinfulmer379]

Steve Balsamo! There's a video of him from 2004 where he literally CRIES and pours so much emotion into the performance.

[@jamiesomers3078]

Hi Caroline I was in the same cast as him and trust me it was EVERY SHOW. He fixiates on a spot of light and doesnt blink for 45 seconds plus, then uses a private emotion n boom x

[@gracerees7376]

steve balsamo is actually my mother’s old best friend from when she was younger lol

[@michellepaillet8092]

Sure. Have you seen his performance in Ahoy? Recommend it, its just spectacular

[@lordofthejungle]

Balsamo was my JC growing up in the nineties and he definitely rocked it, maybe not his most heartfelt performance in the video here though - this one is much more fluid but isn't as nicely recorded - kzbin.info/www/bejne/mHy1gImDbs6HY80

[@brianhamilton5195]

Agree 💯

[@bryanmccarroll2633]

Ian Gillan has the most heart and feeling. Much more than any other.

[@Astrosimi]

Of course no one touches Gillan, he's the one that set the high bar. The high note, the way it produces a harmonic *that then shifts in pitch*, the emotion. Created the impossible standard of the role of Jesus needing hard rock vocal techniques (apparently, this does not include Sebastian Back. Yikes.) Ted Neely comes in second. There's a reason he got cast in the movie. He doesn't have the same technique as Ian but puts the fucking work in. Actually reminds me more of David Clayton-Thomas from Blood Sweat and Tears. Guy at 3:37 beats out basically anyone else in the video (including Broadway Jesuses/Jesi) just by virtue of doing it from the chest, not as a falsetto. I don't think anyone else in this video imitates Gillan's technique like he does. Even though he doesn't hold the note for as long, legitimately fucking impressive. No one else gets the rasp/harmonic. Ese es el poder latino!

[@aliolisu96]

Astrosimi yes, Leo did such a good job. In my personal opinion that’s the advantage of being an actual rock singer.

[@microns]

I'm agree with you, but, if you don't know him, search for Camilo Sesto performance for this song. He was, probably, the best spanish singer ever. It's sublime.

[@aliolisu96]

microns Yeeees, Camilo had one of the best voices in spanish music but he also gave to his performances such passion. I mean, you could feel the pain of the character through his voice...and when he kneels on the ground?! PURE MAGIC

[@anetakn6601]

@Astrosimi What do you think abut that version? kzbin.info/www/bejne/eaW1emh6iJingKc

[@bhellsite2854]

Ted Neely is my fave, but lots of others did really good too. You want to be able to hit the note, but the sound shouldn't exactly be pretty. If you can't capture the desperation and grit, there's no point.

[@NewMoonGypsy]

Most of these talented male singers seem to forget they are portraying a rock-opera of The Passion, as opposed to performing in a competition for the best High G. Teddy (even after 40+ years) and Ian, both kept the rock-opera flavor and emotion of this haunting rendition of the character's tortured acceptance of his fate intact. Most everyone else is just singing.

[@mv9787]

Steve Balsamo had the technique like 4 others, but Steve gave me goosebumps

[@Mutch820]

Ian Gillan will always be my favorite Jesus. In a very very close second would come Ted Neeley. I met him about 10/11 years ago after a performance. One of the nicest celbrities I have ever met. We spent about 40 minutes talking outside the theater.

[@hildaramirez8814]

I too vote for Camilo Sesto, may be rest in peace. Look for that 1975 concert that others have mentioned.

[@shawnbfowler8883]

Gillan and Neely nailed the emotion. Makes me cry very time I see the movie. I love to see the reactions of someone I'm sharing it with when that note comes along. They truly were not expecting it and to feel all the emotion accompanying it is an Epiphany in itself.

[@cherylnelson4259]

Ian Gillan's version is the absolute best. So much feeling and passion!! Ian Gillan has been my favorite singer for over 50 years!! So much natural talemt!! 😍 ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@ΕυανθίαΚαζαντζίδου]

Ian Gillan, incomparable, the best ever! He steps with absolute accuracy and high fluency exactly on every note throughout the whole song. Someone has to listen to all of it and the conclusion is inevitable.

[@billjanzent]

I think Ben Forster’s version is much way better in the filmed version of the 2012 tour.

[@ionaparkin]

Yessssss I agreee

[@smillamostberg8278]

I agree 100%!!

[@jeanmicheldescamps6566]

Definitely the best

[@jeanmicheldescamps6566]

Agreed 100%

[@theoddood6216]

this is the comment i went to the comments section for. thank you

[@Antonio-xv1yd]

Ted Neeley HANDS DOWN! Sung with true passion and from the heart with an insanely great voice

[@ricmaciel]

That's not even a question for me, lol

[@NicoBellisarioMusic]

Ian Gillian is the only one that really sells it

[@dominysynclair]

Well put. Can you believe some of these jackasses on here?