All Time Rock Vocalist Shares The Story Of A Killer 70s Rock Classic | Professor of Rock

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: Who are the most underrated singer in rock history? To me Burton is up near the top, who are your picks?

[@drmorqWarrenProject]

Burton is really a top notch guy... Terry Kath was a great singer but only known for guitar..

[@5jr.racing982]

Tony Lewis....the Outfield

[@dalecallihan2689]

To me it’s Brad Delp of Boston what a voice with great vocal range

[@tonytheHAT]

I think as great of a musician and song writer he is, not much gets said about Prince's beautiful voice.

[@javierortiz82]

One of the most underated singers in the top of my head is Richie Sambora, I love how bluesy his singing is, but he's always overshadowed by JBJ.

[@davidgerow]

The Guess Who should be in the Rock Hall Of Fame.

[@paulring4267]

Absolutely…. No question about it.

[@easternwoods4378]

The Rock Hall is a self serving clique. Burton doesn't want the honour and I don't blame him

[@ronniek7748]

Without a doubt!! Problem is that they are Canadian 😡

[@mbiv2000]

If any group ever deserved to be there they most assuredly do.

[@ZIG4ZAG20]

The RRHOF needs to be A RRHOF but it’s not and never will be. For everyone they got right, there’s an infinite amount they’ve done wrong.🤘🖖✌️🎸🥁🎤🎹

[@pocopico7409]

Burton has to be the absolute BEST interview in history over the last half-century. Even though he talks about things that happened 50+ years ago, he still talks about them with a smile on his face and excitement, as if it all happened a couple of weeks ago! And he’s just so nice to whoever is asking the questions in an interview, as if he doesn’t even realize he’s one of the best singers and entertainers in history. He’s just the best all-around (kind and humble) person you’ll find in show business. Would love to meet him and have a beer with him. 😊

[@redspice55]

I agree 💯 %

[@FOXLIES]

Nobody ever talks about how great a vocalist/piano player Burton Cummins is....I never understood it.....this guy is a TOP SHELF TALENT

[@zaenkmus]

I am guilty of not thinking about him much recently despite how huge and the Guess who were before. But revisiting him, I actually think he is even better than Elton John - if you take vocal quality and keys together. I am really excited to see him in New Westminster BC next month..

[@billybandyk0720]

@@zaenkmus Damn fuckin' right RE: Burton Cummings > Elton John. My faves from the Guess Who: "Clap For The Wolfman"; "Dancing Fool"; "Running Back To Saskatoon"; "Guns, Guns, Guns"; & "Heartbroken Bopper". We all know how legendary Randy Bachman really is yet the L8 Dom Troiano did a very respectable job as Randy's replacement in the Guess Who. Dom's guitar work on "Clap For The Wolfman" & "Dancing Fool" r top-notch w/in their own right. Again; Dom Troiano may b nowhere near Randy Bachman's caliber but Dom Troiano definitely could jam w/the best.

[@annastinehammersdottir1290]

Because no one actually notices Canadians.

[@billybandyk0720]

@@annastinehammersdottir1290 Sadly so. Ironically; I'm from Detroit, MI but I've always had an affinity 4 Canadian musicians (thanks 2 Canadian radio stations such as the Ol' "Big 8" (CKLW-AM 800); nowadays, CKLW-AM is a news-talk station (since 2000)).

[@FOXLIES]

@@annastinehammersdottir1290 Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Celine Dion, Brian Adams, Drake, Shinia Twain, Rush,Jim Carrey, Mike Myers, Lorne Micheals ! SNL, Dan Ackroyd, The Weekend, NO PROBLEMS GETTING NOTICED

[@allensharlow7763]

THE GUESS WHO: is one of the best rock bands in the world, Period !!!🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦👍👍👍😎😎😎

[@lindalou6105]

Agreed

[@pasekmi]

Not even in the Rock n Roll hall of fame yet.

[@dibber43]

"These Eyes"...one of THE greatest classic rock songs EVER!!!🎯

[@grandwonder5858]

No doubt about it! 100% agree! It’s my favorite Guess Who song! American Woman is second!

[@alanwallace5342]

Burton was never underrated in Canada. In the 70's just about everyone recognized him as our best rock singer.

[@babsannbr]

Same for Metro Detroit, Michigan in the late 60s, 70s and beyond. TGW & BC never underrated! Absolutely one of my all-time favorite bands and soloist.

[@skipwilson4792]

What a humble and gracious man.

[@valeriegibson6521]

For those of you living in Canada and watch the Winnipeg Comedy Festival - it takes place at the Burton Cummings Theatre.

[@bigdeal6852]

One of the best groups and singer/songwriters of all time. 👍👍

[@kenthawley5990]

Burton Cummings indeed does have one of the best voices in popular music. Such a great range that hits all the feels. His solo hit "Stand Tall" really shows his skills.

[@lawrencefox9225]

"No time" one of the first songs I greatly absorbed.

[@garymartin1045]

It was 15 when this came out. It was about the Vietnam war It was a Song about kids losing their lives in a stupid country. For What The Communist took it over anyhow. Then they Start trading business with them and Russia and all these other countries to knock us out of our jobs. Back in the 90s or 2000s to China and Russia communisthey give them our jobs. How corrupt is our government?

[@REL3712]

Awesome. Burton Cummings one of the greatest voices of all time. The Guess Who wore out my 8-track player in my '69 Mustang. Still love their music to this day.

[@dianewilliams1125]

I did it in my 66 mustang!❤❤❤

[@pyrexmaniac]

Burton's voice is not of this world. His voice is so utterly distinctive....I can't think of another male vocalist whose voice is so instantly recognizable....it is so incredibly unique and mesmerizing.

[@csh43166]

Burton Cummings is one of my favorite singers of all time! LOVE his voice!

[@oppothumbs1]

He was thinking of Hollywood for a time. Did a nice STand Tall solo.

[@angelaforman7519]

I always thought “She’s Come Undone” is one of the most passionate, emotional vocals ever recorded. His breath even catches as one point. And

[@billburkhead9737]

Undun - my favorite Burton vocal.

[@bobasher731]

Absolutely one of my favorite songs of all time.

[@robster7316]

Then you’ll love this clip from 1977 on CBC television: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJbclK1jhrl8irc

[@bgrigg07]

I can only up vote this comment. My favourite GW song.

[@larry4111]

GREAT song, yes.

[@rickdunham4394]

I was the house photogapher at Wings Stadium in Kalamazoo Michigan in 1975 when The Guess Who made a stop there. I was so excited to be able to meet my all time favorite singer, Burton Cummings. I was back stage before the show but the band was getting ready for the show so I wasn’t able to say much more than a quick hello and I’m very excited 20 to photograph you. The show met all my expectations and more Afterwards I got to sit around and have some 8x10 photos from another show autographed and Burton was kind enough to stand for a photo of the two of us together. That was in 1975 and today is 2023. Nearly 50 years ago! I still have and treasure that photo.

[@MrRoundwound]

Awesome. Great story

[@grandwonder5858]

Did you have that photo framed and hung on your wall? I know I would!

[@lindyfrank5342]

It is so refreshing to see Burton so grateful. He and Randy are ICONS like ROCK GODS...in Canada.

[@Hardhat74]

Burton Cummings was born to sing. I pray that I'm able to catch a show of his while he's still performing. Definitely a legend and should've been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame a long time ago.

[@stephenhanft1226]

The Guess Who are one of the greatest underrated bands of all time. They had such a great string of hit songs. Love their music.

[@Rick-jg8vx]

Well said.

[@stylesb959]

Many great memories of the guess who in my late teens , always loved 70’s music even though I was 10 in 1980

[@Mikethompson303]

Do you guys want to see Adam put on lipstick too?

[@richeneflowease3622]

We need to write to rock'n'roll Hall of Fame to get them inducted 💌

[@nkapiariesjeffbeezos796]

Underrated,think not, they were one of the most popular bands in the 70’s, heard them all the time on the radio back in the day. Nobody cares about R &R H O F anyways Burton and Randy crushed it back then

[@davidodell6608]

Really enjoyed this interview. I have been a Guess Who fan forever. This was a treat. And, yes, Burton Cummings IS one of the most underrated singers of the Rock/Pop Era! Thank you!

[@janiscalaba4932]

Absolutely Burton Cummings has one of the best voices on the planet!! ✌️❤️🌹

[@johanncat-s007]

One of the nicest and most talented guys of that era, who, even here, never belies in his cool stories what a voice he has. This guy could have been a star on Broadway if that was what he'd wanted. During the pandemic, he live-streamed desk concerts *from his house* and told stories about his life experiences in music. Just a terrific dude who comes off as a fan of rocknroll first, and singer second, and a rock star . . . about fifth on this list.

[@robertbruce1887]

Thank you so much Professor of Rock for doing on the best interviews with one of very best Rock musicians here in Canada. I was fortunate enough to see him play at an excellent venue, the Imperial Room at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto ( not sure if this venue is still operating) It was just basically him & his piano. Great music & l will never forget how he briefly spoke between songs at one point & said that he was very lucky, in that he never wanted to do anything else for a living in his life, but what he was doing tonight, saying that sadly, many people work all their lives at work they really don't like. ( sadly so true). I also remember watching, when we came home from elementary school, Where It's At on CBC TV in the late afternoon. Thanks again for your interviews🇨🇦

[@NickNicometi]

Burton is probably my favorite vocalist in popular/rock music. He's also a wonderfully grateful and genuine man.

[@Myronkline]

My God, there's just nothing like the music of these late 60s and 70s bands. And how cool is Burton Cummings and Randy Bachman. Such a humble great guys. God bless them for the music.

[@unclerumple9287]

Burton Cummings & Randy Bachman... What a combo!!!!!!!!! Still cry every time I hear “These eyes.”

[@TheAmtwhite]

Not underestimated by Canadians of my generation. He’s amazing!!!

[@marthawelch4289]

Burton's joy, with just a little bit of pride added, over other artists recording his songs is so refreshing and heartfelt.

[@garymartin1045]

Yeah, most of these idiots will Sue for anything you do. People say things about this guy negative. But just typical acknowledgeable, idiots.

[@frankmisaege3520]

Burton is one of the greatest singers ever...no matter what genre you pick. Period.

[@Neilfrozn]

When Burton Cummings is talking, you can see the total joy on his face. He obviously loves what he does. And, that passion comes through in his music.

[@pattisimmons67]

This was NOT NEARLY LONG ENOUGH! I could have listened to this for a whole lot longer! Burton Cummings. There's so much I could say about him and the Guess Who. I was a VERY small child when they came on the music scene, like an infant. I didn't actually hear them until I had become a teen and then graduated in the 80's. I think I heard every song off every album The Guess Who, Bachman and Cummings and Cummings himself ever did. I remember a movie he was in and the song "You Saved my Soul" from when I was a kid. THAT was the moment. Right there! He's just awesome (she says with that schoolgirl crush in her eyes).

[@denisedoherty4909]

There is an excellent documentary on You Tube about him. Don't remember the name but you would really like it

[@i-a-g-r-e-e-----f-----jo--b]

There are many Burton interviews and TV specials with him posted on KZbin. One was where he had just been busted for pot in Canada and had shaven his face and had his hair short around the early 80s!

[@redspice55]

The movie was Melanie from 1982. I've watched it. It was good. Too bad he wasn't in more movies but I guess his music was what he really wanted to do. And he's fantastic!

[@tonytheHAT]

Adam said that Mr. Burton Cummings doesn't give a lot of interviews, and I'm listening and asking myself, he needs to do A LOT of interviews! What a wonderful sit down with our Professor of Rock!!

[@RockandRollWoman]

Cummings is a gifted mimic, and KZbin is a great place to prove that.

[@mrchrislatino]

I've seen him at least 15 times over the past 45+ years. Definitely one of the greatest.

[@dianewilliams1125]

These eyes is on my top ten! Im 66 and remember when it came out and i was hooked! Thank you Burton!❤❤❤

[@moonbeanification]

BURTON !!! One of the GREATEST rock vocalists ever, and a super human being to boot. Fantastic interview !!!

[@timcorner2821]

Burton also toured with Ringo Stars Second All Star Band in 1992. Just shows you how highly he was regarded by his peers in the music industry.

[@davidodell6608]

Yes, I saw Burton Cummings with Ringo Starr at the Gorge Amphitheater in George, Washington. His was the stand-out performance among many great performances!

[@Glockcustom]

Burton Cummings a true Canadian icon.

[@joeblaumer2085]

For me, rock-n-roll icon.

[@elleemzed2176]

I grew up in Winnipeg. The Guess Who’s music was played everywhere when I was growing up. We are all very proud of them!

[@johnlosert922]

Burton Cummings IS severely underrated as a vocalist. Loved the Guess Who since I was 10. Rock on!

[@mikeclarke952]

This was awesome. I'm Canadian and turning 60 this year, so I grew up with The Guess Who and Bachman Turner Overdrive on the radio all through my teenage years. Running back to Saskatoon, Albert Flasher, No Sugar Tonight, all great hits too. Cheers

[@oppothumbs1]

Best songs were Undone, NO Time left for you. Laughin' might be my fav as I don't hear it much but it is one hell of a song

[@jamesedwards2237]

@@oppothumbs1 These Eyes!!

[@billybandyk0720]

"Clap For The Wolfman" & "Dancing Fool" (w/the L8, GR8 Dom Troiano replacing Randy Bachman on LEAD GUITAR) does it 4 me. Nvrthlss; Randy's wide spectrum of musical styles will ALWAYS R8 HIGH W/ME (especially the jazzy feel.of "Lookin' Out For #1" & "Blue Collar"). Though I'm American-born (from Detroit, MI; a "stone's throw away from Windsor, ONT, CAN); I've always had an affinity 4 Canadian musicians (Randy Bachman, Burton Cummings, Ian Thomas, & Kim Mitchell would b my "Mt..Rushmore" version of Canada's BEST ROCK MUSICIANS!!!! H.F.Y.!!!!!).

[@ChuckHackney]

God bless Canada many times over. The land of maple leafs has given us so many talented artists and great music, to wit (not a complete list) just the ones I adore: Guess Who, Gordon Lightfoot, Cymarron, Stampeders, Bryan Adams, Celine Dion, Lover boy, Shania Twain, and Miss Anne Murray. And these are just my fave artists, there are so many more. British invasion?? What about Canadian invasion?❤

[@redspice55]

​@@ChuckHackneyDon't forget our national treasure Gord Downie RIP ❤️

[@kimberlyschreder2046]

I was so fortunate to see the Guess Who in the 70's. Thank-you for doing this interview.

[@suzanneprior3251]

Wonderful interview! Burton Cummings is such a good story teller. A Canadian treasure! Thank you

[@RU-HDD-4-HVN]

Nailed it Adam, Burton has to have a place as of one of the highest talent of a vocalist including all the great ones that are always mentioned. Burton earned that spot in history the hard way and we're all the better for it thank God and His grace. Naturel raw, and refined all in one. A classic for a lifetime. A musicians musician that inspired future musicians.... talent and a sound beyond his own.

[@captozone]

My dad was playing their album in 69 literally had the stereo cranked as I rode my bicycle to see how far away I could still hear it. I was about 5 blocks away when silence. I rode back to see my dad loading up the speakers into the car, as he just bought the system the day before,. When he returned with a new pair he had blown the other pair by playing them so loud! I was lucky my dad was a total hippie/rebel who loved rock and roll! Many fun times back then and I'm grateful for his passion for music. Miss you dad!

[@jwilder2251]

The Guess Who are incomparable. It’s hard to even come up with another band that has a similar sound.

[@leondadoun5421]

I once connected with Burton online and told him that I thought his song "Sour Suite" is lyrically right up there with anything that could've been written by Jimy Webb and he wrote back to tell me that he considered that such a compliment because Jimy Webb was one of his idols. Still very humble and grounded.

[@Gardeninggirl1107]

Riding my stingray to the beach with my transistor radio taped to the handlebar and hearing "These Eyes" play when almost there and hearing it again on my way back home.

[@clarkcraig6959]

I don't understand how these guys haven't been nominated or inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame yet. True trailblazers cut the path for many musicians after them. they also had a great body of work.

[@randyjordan5521]

Randy Bachman says it's because Jann Wenner just doesn't like The Guess Who. Same with Grand Funk. It took many years for Neil Diamond, Chicago, and the Doobie Brothers, when those great acts should have gone in 25 years ago.

[@craigbutterfield592]

I can explain it.

[@hot88s23]

Because the R n R Hall of Fame is NewYork-centric bullshit.

[@rickyward542]

My very first concert in 1969 was the Guess Who and yes their exclusion from HOF is a farce. My understanding is that HOF does not like American Wonan thinking who are these Canadians taking a poke at us. Could just be a rumor but must be some odd reason.

[@stevegibsonii3910]

Because the rrhof is more political than musical.

[@gediminasmurauskas7817]

It's an absolute crime that the Guess Who are not members of the Rock-and-Roll Hall of Fame. They were already rock-n-roll legends 40 years ago. Burton Cummings is an underrated stellar vocalist, while Randy Bachman is an excellent guitarist, creator of several memorable guitar licks. Bachman was also a guitar mentor to Neil Young, who also spent his formative years in Winnipeg. The Guess Who should have been inducted into the RnR HoF some 25+ years ago, just several years after the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. The Guess Who were truly pioneers of the (rock-and-roll) 'Canadian invasion' into the USA going back to the 1960s!

[@robertgrowcock4238]

The Guess Who’s greatest hits album is my go to album when riding my motorcycle. Wind in your face, Burton Cummings voice in your ears and great stereo separation of the music by Randy Bachman and the rest of the band that you get on 800 amps through 4 speakers that surround you just speaks to me. Outstanding. Thank you to both you and Burton for sharing!

[@noracola5285]

I never knew Burton was such a wholesome guy, I love him! 🥰

[@flapjackson6077]

In addition to being one of the very best vocalists, Burton Cummings is a genuinely cool and gracious guy.

[@donnahalper9110]

I always loved the Guess Who. I'm a former deejay, and the visual you showed of the LP "Dreams of a Child"-- look closely and you'll see the child is holding a mezuzah. I gave Burton that as a gift. He is such an amazing talent, and he went through a lot. Glad he's doing well now. Great interview. Love your channel, Adam.

[@richardpenner5515]

Hi, Donna: Trust me, every long-time Rush fan knows exactly who you are. Great to find out you enjoyed this other Canadian treasure. Thanks for everything!

[@midnightblu3388]

Hi Donna, I ADORE Burton Cummings, my Fav singer & he's such a nice, shy gentlemen!! He WAS absolutely smoking hot HOT HOT, BIG crush, BUT l didn't know he went thru alot. Would u b so kind & tell me what it was?? THANK YOU

[@donnahalper9110]

@@midnightblu3388 he had several very difficult relationships, and he also had a problem with alcohol. Also, he and Randy Bachman had a falling out. I gather that eventually things got resolved and they got back on speaking terms, which is a good thing.

[@midnightblu3388]

@@donnahalper9110 THANK YOU Donna I knew about some of those, I ADORE Burton & watch as many interviews as I can. He made me LOL when he said he smokes like a chimney. I know he said Randy hated his partying, that's probably why they fell out. Thanks for responding so quickly, appreciate it!

[@donnahalper9110]

@@midnightblu3388 Randy went through a religious phase, and I get the impression he no longer wanted to hang around with Burton (and vice versa). But as the years passed, I think Randy mellowed and whatever they had argued about didn't seem as important anymore.

[@pczrvp]

What an underrated/forgotten band. The Guess Who, Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings need to be celebrated for the amazing music they've produced. Thank you Adam. Once again, you've put the spotlight where it should be. Well done.

[@jack5402]

One of my all-time favorite singers. A truly unique voice and an incredible talent. Another reason to be a proud Canadian!

[@TreyTreydawg]

I don't know the particulars of what awards are handed out here and there and how respect is measured, but I play piano and sing and I sing Burton's work, and I talk to a lot of music people and he garners nothing but a sense of awe, his approach to the piano and voice are mesmerizing, he is attributed the same respect as Elton and Billy Joel and that's REAL RESPECT. I loved the interview and I'm grateful to Burton for the great songs.

[@Karmakatt6]

His vocal reverberation and power.. Art Garfunkel had awesome reverb skill but Burtons power was unlimited in his prime.

[@jeaniegrant5592]

Burton Cummings is MOST CERTAINLY NOT underrated! He has the most amazing and.beautiful voice out there anywhere

[@dawnclaibourne2183]

What a great interview! I feel so fortunate to have been born in 1964 to young parents who loved rock and folk music, because I got to listen to all sorts of awesome music from bands including The Guess Who, The Who, The Doors, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, etc. etc. as soon as it was released. We didn't make it to Woodstock, but I remember seeing the movie at the drive-in when it came out, sitting in the back seat of my parents' 1965 Mustang with my sister, both of us in our pajamas. Listening to Burton Cummings talk about "These Eyes" brings back a lot of memories that I've associated with that song. Thanks so much for bringing it to us, Professor, and birthday greetings and felicitations to you!

[@usarik43]

He is a great interview! One of the most underrated singers and musicians.

[@emmettmcclary2151]

When I was teaching at Valley State I met and started to play with the Professor who taught Composition and Theory and at that time, he just would not play with anyone anymore even though he'd cut teeth on the Detroit Sound where he grew up influenced by MC-5, Detroit Wheels, Motown and on and on such great music makers. We finally started playing together and called ourselves the "Professors of Rock" our Tip-Jar said, "Any request written on a one hundred dollar bill dropped into the tip-jar will be played and sung wheather we know it or not, we can stand it if you can!" Our motto, which was started by a fan in Oxford was, "It's damn near impossible to stump the Professors!" And it was true, we'd both been playing Rock, Pop and some Blues since the sixties so we had a song list that was long, diverse and eclectic, putting it nicely. We both loved the History of Rock & Roll and did our best to honor the writers and performers. We'd both worked professionally playing as soloists and with band combinations from two, three and in my case up to eight musicians. As with so many musicians we'd both opted out for security, in financial ways and in more stable lives. I absolutely love the many ways you cover all of these great writers and musicians to honor their genius and greatest sounds! I'm 71 now and wanted to audition for a job as a Piano-Man on a cruise line. I decided instead to start playing keyboards and singing with a six piece hard rock band and with my addition it became seven, Two ladies doing background vocal harmony and some lead vocals, two blazing guitarists, bass, drums, and then me Now whenever I perform my main goal is to "Honor the Writers, Performers and Musicians", do honest renditions of their songs and do them right. Thank you for sharing all the reasons why we should.

[@MrPiratebrain]

One of your best interviews he has such a humble sense of humor. He made me love the song even more. I was born in 1961. I remember when this song came out.

[@Arturo-sm1tb]

What a nice man, that Burton Cummings. Humble, thoughtful, smart and so talented.

[@DreamsSketcher]

@@Arturo-sm1tb Qualities of a great Canadian.🇨🇦

[@midnightblu3388]

@@Arturo-sm1tb YOU forgot smokin hot HOT HOT when he was in his 30s, I ADORE him ^ boy did i have major crush!! Beautiful man inside & out, LOVE how sweet, kind & a humble gentlemen he is!! Such talent!!! My Fav voice EVER

[@xTheFly]

I was a bartender/waiter in the 90s and who walks into my lounge before I open? Burton Cummings. He asked if he could come in and of course I obliged. He was such a humble and unassuming guy to serve. Yes I bought his coffee and toast! I wouldn't have had it any other way. Love the Guess Who.

[@brandonerickson5188]

Burton Cummings is my favorite singer of all time. He has every tool in the toolbox as a vocalist, and he uses all of them. Incidentally, "These Eyes" was the song for me and my first girlfriend in high school. With those sad, beautiful lyrics, we should have known our relationship was doomed.

[@migueldeleon6677]

Not only a great singer, but an amazing keyboardist who also plays flute and some guitar. All-around great artist.

[@stevekrause5931]

Great interview, and Burton is so enthusiastic and into it and. Thanks.

[@mikeevans5412]

For a guy who gives rare interviews he seemed giddy as hell to give this one. Their whole catalog is incredible to me. My favorite pop culture moment for the band is in “Almost Famous” Phillip Seymore Hoffman playing Lester Bangs “Give me The Guess Who!”

[@billburkhead9737]

Burton is an amazing music historian and collector - if you haven't done so already, check out his FB page. I've seen him lately in concert and he can still bring it!

[@ponzo1967]

Says something about the host I think 🤔

[@violinmke]

The Professor talks music in intricate detail and Burton loves music.

[@mikeevans5412]

@@billburkhead9737 thanks for turning me to his FB page. Your not kidding. Great history there!!!!

[@lawrencealberts898]

I was on a plane going from Minneapolis to LA. A lady behind me was talking about being a publicist for a singer who was also on the plane. As the conversation went on with those she was sitting next to, it became apparent to me, but not others for some reason, that she was talking about Burton Cummings. I had a few brief words about him/the Guess Who, as they were a band I listened to a lot back in their heyday. I get off the plane and siting on a chair was Burton. So I struck up a conversation with him. Very, very nice and humble. He was so appreciative that I remembered who he was/is, and how his music impacted me back then. I have their music in my library to this day.

[@redspice55]

Just wow!

[@mike2webster]

Thank you for honouring one of the greatest singer/songwriters to have ever emerged from Canada! The Guess Who paved the way for every Canadian artist, and then Burton went on to be an immensely successful solo artist! My whole family played The Guess Who and Burton records constantly. Absolutely magical music. During Canada’s first quarantine, Burton would play live on Facebook for free to help us all kill the time. Again, absolutely magical, his voice is as strong and beautiful now as it was in 1969! A legend and an inspiration, and again I thank you for featuring him. 🇨🇦❤️

[@redspice55]

Burton is fantastic! I listened to his Covid concerts too late at night. They were wonderful. I missed them when they stopped.

[@EdmHistorEE]

He used to come into the record/CD store I worked in, when I lived in Victoria, BC. Always had time to talk about the Guess Who, his solo stuff, or music in general. He was on a real big John Lennon kick in the 2000s, buying up all we had. Someone approached him as he was going through the racks and asked if he was Burton Cummings, and he just smiled and said "Yeah, I get that a lot" and kept on browsing. :)

[@auldthymer]

He acts like a giant teddy-bear: "I just want to give him a hug"

[@midnightblu3388]

@@auldthymer He has said in several interviews that he was quite shy, especially with the ladies, as he was always playing the music while others were picking up the ladies! What a smokin hot guy he was in his 30s, especially on the Dinah Shore show, he was so HANDSOME thought I'd faint, LOL he sang Stand Tall after his gf of over 8 yrs dumped him & married a lawyer. Check that show out if u get a chance, great SHOW with Ray Charles, & comedian George Carlin. He wrote Stand Tall after his gf dumped him, hope she regrets hurting him & gets her KARMA

[@redspice55]

​@@midnightblu3388Well I guess you could say dumping him worked out great. For him. He made a hit record that everybody loves!

[@Caylynn72]

My dad saw The Guess Who back before they made it big, in a Winnipeg bar. I took both my parents to see The Guess Who in the early 2000s. Burton Cummings is Canada’s McCartney.

[@lisamorrison2149]

Love The Guess Who. "American Woman" is my fave. Thanks for showcasing Burton, one of the greatest rock voices of all time..and a fellow Canadian.🇨🇦😉

[@ProfessorofRock]

Always! More to come.

[@josephduhanuk5029]

Two other incredible tunes...Runnin' Back to Saskatoon and Glamour Boy!!

[@vjr5261]

Love The Guess Who. Always loved his voice , ever since I was a kid riding around in the car with my mom in the 60s listening to LA radio station KHJ.

[@johnathandavis3693]

Wow- Burton looks GREAT. Refreshing to see a real rock star of his vintage doing so well. So many 20-30 yrs. younger than him have a lot more "mileage" on them LOL....

[@drewwin794]

Yes Burton Cummings is definitely one of the best voices in RNR!

[@BenJamminKraftbc]

This is my Uncle Burt :) I went my whole life being a fan of their music, and not until my grandfather passed away in 2010 did I find out Burton was our uncle :)

[@mattperegrine873]

A couple months back I did a deep dive into The Guess Who's entire catalog. I was so impressed with how well the songs hold up despite the years. One of my favorite gems is "Pain Train" it totally sounds like a song that an indie band would've played in '94.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very true. I just did the same thing. Love NO TIME>

[@Rick-jg8vx]

@@ProfessorofRock Matt, I bought up all TGW CDs from before Burton, through Burton and post-Burton. The post-Burton stuff is slim pickins' but I agree with you that the catalog is deep. I think my favorite deep track is "Lie Down" or possibly "Running Back to Saskatoon" or maybe "Its My Pride"... or "Sour Suite".

[@terrygreene4166]

I just seem Burton in concert about a month ago. Excellent concert. He played mostly Guess Who turns including Clap for the Wolfman.

[@EsausHeel]

Yep. Saw him last Tuesday. He struggled with high notes but the musical skill and presence were still there, and of course his voice was unmistakable. Great show.!

[@jamescpotter]

These cats wrote and recorded incredible material. My favorite is Undone, the "B" side of No Time. WOW!!

[@johnathandavis3693]

I remember the girls in 6th grade would bring 45's to school and play them during free time on the classroom record player. I remember that EXACT 45....

[@karenmandeville7116]

Share the Land!

[@paulmitchison]

My first 45 was Laughing by the Guess Who. Flipped it over and it was Undun, an even better tune. (No Time came later). American Woman was another two-sided hit, No Sugar Tonight. These guys were my favourites.

[@1L6E6VHF]

Undun was great! I especially love the flute solo. More kudos for the sudden end.

[@paulcesare8927]

Your Burton Cummings' interview is probably one of the best rock star interviews I've ever seen and heard. Burton is so open, honest, authentic and such a great communicator in describing in detail...the culture of the 60's, 70's...in terms not only of music but racial status of the times. This is an incredible jam...my memories are so vivid as a Woodstock participant and am most grateful to have the blessing of being 19 years old in 1969...living through the Renaissance of Rock Music. Those days were volcanic and its music and people like Burton Cummings made the world a better place!!!!

[@IllumeEltanin]

What a personable guy. A shame he isn't available more often. Glad to hear there is more of this one to come. Have a great birthday, Professor.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thank you!

[@Swede1066]

I saw Burton Cummings perform with Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band back in 1992. Man, what a show!

[@Alloy7]

It's on KZbin -- "No Time" is amazing.

[@PeteBreen]

The Guess Who are tragically underrated. Burton Cummings is easily one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree 100%

[@DDKaraokeOutlaw]

You're correct. One of my favorite songs is Undun (1969).

[@Caylynn72]

Yes, he’s Canada’s McCartney.

[@audiotomb]

Cummings was never under appreciated by those who grew up then Very nice interview - you brought out his joy What a wonderful guy

[@kato64]

I’ve seen both Burton Cummings and Randy Bachman in concert several times, both solo and as a duo, and was even fortunate enough to see the Guess Who, when they reformed for their “Running Back Through Canada” tour, around 20 years ago. They never fail to entertain. If our COVID status holds I may even get to see them together again, next summer (show has already been delayed twice). I follow BLC on Facebook. One of the few celebs who posts on his own page, instead of filtering it through minions. Dozens of great stories, along with lots of “personal interest” items, on anything from TV shows, to movies, and animal life. Definitely a fellow I’d love to get together with over a couple of beers. It’d be a fascinating evening…at least for me. lol

[@johnypitman2368]

Pretty frickin humble for a mega star with a one in a billion voice. Always respectful of Backman too

[@timbates6309]

Awesome interview. The Guess Who was my very first favorite band. When I first started listening to the radio back in early 1970, one of the first songs I heard was No Time. I was mesmerized. It became the first single that I ever bought. Also that same year they had American Woman, No Sugar Tonight, Hand Me Down World, Share The Land & Hang On To Your Life. What a year. I hope there are more interviews to come with Burton.

[@davehansford7677]

The Guess Who’s “American Woman” was the first LP I ever bought. I bought it on a field trip to the USA 🇺🇸 while I was in grade 8. Mostly so I could brag to the cashier that they were Canadian, like me! 🇨🇦

[@DianaJG8]

I'm an absolutely HUGE Burton Cummings fan! I wore out his solo albums. Really enjoyed this interview!! 👌

[@DosBear]

My Grandmother actually babysat the Drummer of The Guess Who when he was a child. I would say Burton Cummings is the most underrated singer in rock history as well. He grew up in my neighborhood but was 14 years older. I never did meet him or see him in concert but always loved their music.

[@pcb1313]

Guess who, one of the best rock and roll catalogues out there, Can listen for hours.

[@chipsterb4946]

Burton Cummings would only be underrated by people who didn’t listen to his voice. I remember “These Eyes” stuck in my head for weeks when I listened to it on my “transistor radio”… must’ve been 1969. ETA: best video of yours yet. What a delightful man! Good interview.

[@lib556]

Underrated is an understatement! I had the chance to see the original iteration during a reunion tour they did in the late 90s/early 2000s. They did every song of theirs that I knew and they were note perfect. They even did a few BTO songs and some of Burton's huge solo hits. What a great night that was!

[@jml-rj5re]

Burton Cumming was/is one of the greats. Superb vocalist. Marvelous storyteller. Well done on the interview!

[@lme7382]

Burton Cummings has one of the greatest voices in rock n roll. Love The Guess Who! They belong in the RRHOF. 🎸🎸🥁🥁

[@phillipsolesky2677]

I'm not typically a big fan of yours, but you're right on about Cummings. The best Baritone of all time and CERTAINLY the best of all time in rock and roll. I was 10 when These Eyes was popular. I remember staying up some nights until they played it on our (my brother and me) clock radio. Funny thing is, by 1975 I was big into BTO. It wasn't until about 5 years ago that I found out Cummings and Randy Bachman founded Guess Who.

[@tnrodgers]

Burton is such a fun interview. These eyes ranks right up there with all their best. I’ve seen Jr Walker, he crushed it, but the Guess Who were just exceptional.

[@irishheart4768]

I loved all there songs, I would only listen to the Guess Who in high school with my boyfriend at the time and we got married right after high school.what memories.

[@Zofer-1920]

Another great interview! I love how in many of these interviews, the guests start off polite, maybe some friendliness, but by the end of the interview…you often see their faces beaming in pleasure of conversation! It becomes more intimate conversation. And so many of their responses to your questions and prompts are answered with enthusiasm and even joy. I really enjoy you and Sean Evans of Hot Ones 🔥 Best interviewers on KZbin!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Why thank you! That's a high compliment.

[@ginacherry-fraley7627]

I agree immensely! And he seems like a great guy that I want to hangout with.

[@pablocruiser209]

Spot on Professor...........Burton Cummings is and was a fantastic singer. What a gift!

[@procrastinator9]

Something about this channel repeatedly makes me happy. There's specifics like the great way you edit in all the references, the amazing back stories, the genre of music that I've loved my whole life, your encyclopedic knowledge, your silly hats and self-disclosure...so much more. But there's something more elusive to definitions yet impactful. Thanks, Prof! Keep it up.

[@Rick-jg8vx]

Agree. The Prof of Rock always brings the music and artists that are interesting. Not the same spin on the same superstar artists that we've heard a million times.

[@suzannevilicich7637]

Burton Cummings!!!! My Mom’s sister married a mounty and so I have cousins in Winnipeg. Hearing Burton and The Guess Who I become teary eyed. The memories of visiting Winnipeg. They were so popular in Michigan where I grew up. I’ve been in Los Angeles since I was 19 yet my older brothers always played Junior Walker and the All Stars. I wanted this to go on and on. Burton is up there with Brian Wilson in my opinion. My friend Billy Hinsche was going to introduce me to Burton yet that never came to pass. I believe Burton’s mom worked at “Eatons” the department store in Winnipeg where my aunt bought me my 1st pair of bell bottoms when I was five. The flood of emotions I have are all over the place yet I believe Burton is nothing short of a genius. BRAVO!!!!!