Richard Thompson - 1952 Vincent Black Lightning

[@dgnorwich1205]

As a person who has played guitar for almost 60 years (I'm 70 now), RT's performance is truly humbling. As a rider of motorcycles for almost 50 years, I can't listen to the lyrics without a tear coming to my eye. This is simply one of the finest ballads performed by one of the finest guitar players of all time. Thank you, Richard.

[@LeadMe2TheBliss]

It's beyond me why RT is not in the Rock & Roll HOF yet but someone like Eminem is? That is totally absurd and makes zero logical sense.

[@edmerkel2407]

Brother you said it all, I'm 73, have three guitars, and I don't have these notes on any of them!

[@leemac1659]

I'm 75, been playing over 50 years. If I could play 1/10 as good as this, I'd die a happy man.

[@bobmp2284]

this Vincent must have had an after-market modification. They didn't have an ignition key, it was just a switch no key, and a little button to cut the feed from the dynamo to stop the bike. Good song very well played but they could have done a bit more work on the tech side for us pedantic old motorcycle riders. ''Note, I didn't write bikers''

[@alansnowdeal9845]

Had the Distinct Pleasure of Meeting when He Played@Local Opera House.1 Of My Most Favorite Meetings in the Music World!!

[@Louisejames23]

I’ve been to a lot of gigs but I’ve never seen one man and an acoustic guitar better than Richard Thompson. Awesome musician.😬👍🤘

[@speeddemon9555]

in my humble opinion, this is one of the best songs ever written.

[@ericbloss7032]

My opinion too

[@MrRonk55]

"In my opinion, there's nothing in this world like a '52 Vincent and a red-headed girl".

[@speeddemon9555]

@@MrRonk55 i have two red headed sisters, with tempers, so i agree to disagree.

[@Noitisnt-ns7mo]

@@speeddemon9555 Better than one two headed sister. Although that probably would have been quite popular with the lefty's of our equal rights cancel cultures.

[@speeddemon9555]

@@Noitisnt-ns7mo two headed ? that would be a conversation starter, as for lefty's and cancel culture, along with the woke morons in our society, they can all go and get f#%$^* excuse my typing.

[@juliebiddle1636]

I've always loved this song but I felt it needed another verse, so in the spirit of the "folk process" I've written one. Come down young James, said Red Molly, it's your 17th year There's breakfast on the table and a story to hear I'll tell you of your father's last night in this world Before I was your Mother, just a red headed girl He wasn't any saint and he died just as he lived He had one precious treasure in his life to give, And she took young James outside And gave him his father's Vincent to ride!

[@ehawkins7124]

ha

[@Beemerboy324]

This is good, really good. Next time I do this song I might just add it - and tell folks who wrote it.

[@juliebiddle1636]

@@Beemerboy324 Thank you!

[@Ironjack53]

yep thats going to be sung with this great song in years to come!! ,starting with me!!

[@butchlawson]

Okay, this is a fitting and logical addition. Very nicely written, Miss Julie. It will surely be added to the song by many, including me.

[@twray1835]

Every time I hear Richard play this wonderful song, I am left speechless over the lack of recognition of one of the greatest guitarists alive today.

[@antainemacconmidhe7306]

I only heard of him because Christy Moore covered his song Beeswing and it happens to be one of my favourite Christy songs. Other than that I would never have heard of him. He’s a master of his craft!!

[@hughmaxwell8143]

Worry not. Rhichard Thompson is rated (justifiably so) in the the top twenty guitarist list of all time. Having been to see him a few times now, alone on stage, you keep looking around for the rest of the band. Such a full sound.

[@ceharris999]

At least we know, and I suspect Richard likes it like that. Ive been in awe since I saw him and Linda at the Basildon Arts Centre a million years ago

[@Tagurrit]

I found him through the Celtic Woman’s version of Beeswing.

[@MSYNGWIE12]

I agree and I gotta give Arlo a plug though, he's on my kitchen window sill, with Alice, WHAT A STRANGE CROWD- WHY DON'T THEY LAUGH- and yeah, when you meet many "cats" who love folk, why haven't they heard of Richard and Linda and Teddy? Guitar player extraordinaire up there with John Fahey- I blame pop radio in part- Namaste for pointing this out. Now where did I leave those pickles...Namaste

[@jedtattum9996]

i am of the opinion that this man can play a guitar.

[@bridgets.6464]

well spotted. what gave it away? :D

[@chuckwilliam4746]

lol

[@LocatingGoku]

I am of the opinion that your opinion is the correct opinion to have, so thank you for sharing your opinion with us.

[@chokinonashes61]

I concur with your correct opinion

[@duncanmcgroyne9317]

You ain’t wrong!

[@lieseweiss1224]

Best version I’ve heard of this song. The picking is astounding. He ages like fine wine.

[@roddymcniven8734]

Well he did write it

[@lieseweiss1224]

@@roddymcniven8734 And he has done many different versions of it over the years, with this one being my favourite. I fear I may have missed your point?

[@superglide6680]

I beg to differ. Miranda Russell sings a beautiful rendition.

[@johnsimmons5681]

agreee! amaaazings! sevunteen!

[@LeadMe2TheBliss]

​@@lieseweiss1224 What it means is no one can touch Richard, every RT fans knows that. Hell, even David Gilmour couldn't cover this song. He is probably the best kept secret in the music business, and that is a true shame!! But I'm pretty sure all of us RT fans know that! The man is a rock god that will never truly get the appreciation he deserves and it's a crime if you ask me!

[@jimstoddard9291]

We saw Richard in Tacoma last year, and he still knocks this song out of the park. Incredible song, incredible talent.

[@LeadMe2TheBliss]

He would never tarnish his legacy, if he wasn't performing his songs at the best of his ability and happy with his skills he would for sure stop touring. I hope to see him live some day.

[@johndavies4541]

Trying to decide if Suzanne Vega and Louden Wainwright are looking on in awe or thinking "shit we're next"!

[@moelydon]

Shit scared. In my opinon

[@colinsacks8200]

Louden is a good fiend of Richard's.

[@RTRoberto]

Pretty sure that Vega, red hair and all, wants to get amorous with him.

[@johnnybs7]

loudon wouldn't be worried cos his star shines just as brightly. As for Suzanne vega………..

[@axleblaze123]

Haha Luka was an emo song before emo was even a thing. Haha before it's time in my opinion

[@stevieboy1522]

Richard Thompson might just be the most underrated guitar player, singer, songwriter ever.

[@3genac]

By whom? Other than these ignoramuses. R Kelley on the list. No sign of Brittany Spears. www.rollingstone.com/interactive/lists-100-greatest-songwriters/#bj%C3%B6rk

[@tullfan7872]

I'd never heard of him until I saw an interview he did with Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull. He sounds like a master acoustic guitar player.

[@ThefightingCelt]

Electric guitar as well . Rolling Stone named Richard Thompson in their top 20 guitarists of all time . The man is a genius .

[@jennbamboo]

Hey Guys this Maestro has many awards for both his songs and guitar playing. You should listen to a couple of his 50 or so albums. Seen him live so many times. Never fails to impress. My hat’s off to Richard Thomson!

[@BearLove82]

@@3genac Only the people who never heard him!

[@MerkinMuffly]

One of the true masters of the acoustic guitar, if quality of work had anything to do with album sales, Thompson would be a billionaire.

[@nineteenfrankie]

If you're speaking of songwriting ability don't forget John Prine, and John Hiatt too.

[@garthrmunisweatlive7265]

LIL WAYNE and the like wouldn`t be quite so wealthy.Thompson would be a GAZILLIONAIRE!!

[@JacKass00001]

Not just with an acoustic guitar. One of the few guitarists I've ever seen capable of playing ac/el fluently. Just seen one other guitarist capable of this: Joe Bonamassa. Noo... actually he is a better acoustic player, than electric. Electric Bonamassa = flashy stuff. IMHO much better when he got the acoustic guitar in front of him. Stopped the flashy shit, and just sings/play. Alone. Impressed me a lot. My major moment with Bonamassa.

[@Mr14monroe]

Jac Kass Let us not forget Norma Kaukonen in that small group as well.

[@JacKass00001]

Julie Alexander Jorma, I presume? Just know him from Airplaine. Have to check up on him. TXS!

[@leecliett9621]

“If fate should break my stride…” My favorite line. Great tune.

[@patchdavis35]

Fate will break each of our strides, eventually. .. .

[@stuartholme4457]

My favorite line too!

[@HWS2]

There are so many great lines in this song that I couldn't begin to choose just one. It's absolute masterpiece in every respect: writing, singing, and, especially, guitar playing.

[@frogprince42]

Perhaps the only 17th century highwayman ballad containing a motorcycle.

[@johnely]

Sung by a reincarnated 17th century troubadour.

[@desertbill01]

The road was a ribbon of moonlight over the purple moor....

[@energyideas]

This is the best single person performance recording of all time. He wrote it, sings with fantastic inflection, and the guitar action is other-worldly with layers I might never understand. A master craftsman at work, and recorded for our enjoyment. Thanks.

[@BillMurrayismyuncle]

Couldn't have said it better myself. Truly a masterpiece.

[@bernhardlohr4662]

With each word- you´re right! B.L.,germany

[@davidthompson1466]

True. Perhaps one of the most beautiful, complex, entertaining songs I've ever heard. The guitar work alone is superhuman

[@JohnD-dl2lb]

9

[@energyideas]

@@JohnD-dl2lb troll, 11

[@stapleremover]

One of the last times I saw my ex-husband (with whom I parted on friendly terms over a decade ago) was when I invited him and his girlfriend to see RT play live a few years ago. When he ended the show with this song, I glanced over at my ex and saw him literally wiping tears from his eyes. Fast forward to last weekend - my ex, only 68 and apparently in excellent health - had a heart attack and died two days later with his girlfriend, me, and the rest of his family at his bedside in the hospital. We will be playing this song at his memorial. Rest in peace, Lenny.

[@albertandrews130]

He mist have been a biker

[@stevoschannel4127]

In tears thank you for your story

[@gary96397]

Did your ex have the jibajab ?

[@roadking99jokerst60]

Sounds like he had a fond memory that wet his eyes. Many feel a loss at his passing.

[@stuartstibbs2069]

Nice.

[@dancochrane5577]

If you don’t think Richard Thompson gets recognition, you must live under a rock. Trust me, among fans, peers, etc. he’s damn near worshipped.

[@LeadMe2TheBliss]

He gets recognition for sure, but he also sadly doesn't get the recognition he truly deserves in my opinion.

[@CorePathway]

Guess I’ve been living a rock, never heard of the dude before a friend shared this.

[@allbottledup9513]

@@CorePathwayI’m sure locally he gets more attention, but he’s not broadly appreciated. I only found this song a year ago, and I have spent MANY years digging through old music from all over the world. If someone as thorough as I had trouble finding him, I can only imagine how few people know him.

[@CorePathway]

@@allbottledup9513 There is so much talent out there!

[@BastDG]

@@allbottledup9513 fortunately, the radio station I listened to from the early 90's to just a few years ago (KFOG in San Francisco) had Acoustic Sunrise - and Rosalie played a lot of Richard's songs. Plus I was a Fairport fan from the 80's.

[@michaelmueller8772]

The reactions of the two on stage is telling. They are in awe of what they're seeing. Personally, I'd be terrified at having to follow that, but they just look honoured to be there. Loudon especially, is just breathing it in, whilst Vega is learning every little thing that she can. A masterful performance.

[@dannycostello1978]

Totally agree.

[@chickenlampbrent]

So bloody great. My Grandad rode a Vincent rapide in Lancashire in the 1930's. 90mph on the cobblestones, they called him "mad Harry".

[@ChrisHuffmusic]

***** Love that!!

[@reefabud]

***** hearts out to the man

[@marniepattersonleonard9103]

***** Would love to have known that guy!

[@Corky341]

+Brent Postlethwaite My Dad rode a Brough SS80 just before the war and told his mother he'd gone over 60mph. She didn't believe him because 'you wouldn't be able to breath at that speed'.!!! How times and bikes have changed.

[@hairyarsewelder]

+Brent Postlethwaite I'm a Biker - And Men like your Grandfather are the Men who I have the utmost Respect for

[@lastrada52]

If it isn't already, this is slowly becoming one hell of a classic tune. Already legendary among bikers world wide. An incredible story in its lyric. Songwriting at its finest. Guitar playing that is thrilling. And like Tom Waits, Thompson just knows how to sing a story, how to tell it, how to use inflection in all the right places. If you listen carefully your mind's eye will create a vivid picture about what Richard is narrating. For those unfamiliar, a 1952 Vincent Black Lightning was a great motorcycle...today worth a lot of money. One of the best songs I ever heard.

[@chucklaneChuckylane]

+John LaStrada This song was enough to get a little watery in the eyes the first few times I heard it when it came out, & still the best rendition ever done (since it was his anyway) the part where he sees angles on Arials got me. A very profound statement by you and I really like the way you compaired him to Tom Waits, most people I know don't know who either of the two artists are.

[@lastrada52]

+chuck lane (Chuckylane) - Thanks for the compliment chuck lane. Yes, many people don't know Richard or Tom -- well, their lives are empty then. These men are the modern day poets, because the real poets today don't get much recognition. My son is a biker and he downloaded the tune to a real good system he brings to biker shows. Many bikers from other states always gather around when he plays this song by Thompson and they are moved by it. It's become a pilgrimage to his bike to listen and talk about the song (his girlfriend drives his 1965 Ford pickup with the system on it). They too, not all, were unfamiliar with Thompson's work. It's a document -- when you can touch a group of people with a tale they can relate to and a credit to your creativity when you can reach into them with it. Thompson, of course, is also blessed. He's one of the greatest guitar players I ever heard. A compelling quirky genius in his approach. If you haven't heard his "Cooksferry Queen," from Mock Tudor, treat yourself today.

[@susanfischer3671]

+John LaStrada - "...Thompson just knows how to sing a story,...""'

[@garryr486]

Well said John. He's a master story teller. Beeswing is another superb tune.

[@unclemunch]

A 1951 just sold for $929,000.

[@scarfingers]

I just now tonight saw a photo of my dad on his 1952 Vincent HRD Black Lightning and had no idea about this song! I would have played it for him before he died in 2019. What a song! Thank you, Richard Thompson

[@Noitisnt-ns7mo]

Anyone who owned that bike must of had an interesting backstory, I'm sure. Just seems to me.

[@scarfingers]

@@Noitisnt-ns7mo Yep, my dad was a one of a kind! He snagged my mom, (his molly) with that bike. I wish I had the photo of her sprawled across it. My dad rode until he was in his late 80s when we convinced him to just drive his car from then on.

[@NJA1039]

One of the greatest love songs of the English language in the 20th century. That's a fuckin fact

[@BrokeDownBob]

Hell yes!

[@tobortine]

I come back here every now and again just to recharge my soul.

[@evansrt]

Agree -that's what I am doing right now

[@sixstringedthing]

It's part of my regular Soul Armoursmithing video rotation, background music while I hunt down little bits of uplifting knowledge about human society or culture or art or progress. Scientific knowledge, theological knowledge, behavioural knowledge. All of which I melt down and use to repair the craters where the big shells have hit, or the areas where my plating has simply been worn away by the acid corrosion of daily life in western society. Eventually it all gets melted down into Stuff That I Know About Life.

[@tobortine]

sixstringedthing Beautifully expressed.

[@sixstringedthing]

Thanks, glad you got it. Check this out next time you need a recharge (one of my uploads): watch?v=wk6xsPA6N10

[@tobortine]

sixstringedthing Can you link that again please, I can't find the video.

[@kennewicksheri]

A POET an artist "..red hair and black leather, my favorite color scheme..."

[@ThatGuyThanus]

Mine too! Great line, too!

[@sammyscotch9945]

O than you would like me. Red hair and I look my best in black leather jacket

[@keneelee]

One of my favorite lines in any song - and a personal favorite color scheme!

[@buddyhansome237]

if i went to one of his shows and this was the only song he played i would go home feeling like i hears 2 hours of music.

[@milesgma]

When I took my seventeen year old grandson so see RT for the first time he (RT) started this song, grandson sucked in a deep breath, and didn't let it out until the song was over. Religious experience.

[@jaredsaef300]

I actually first heard this song when Richard Thompson opened for a Bonnie Raitt concert. I had no idea who he was or about this song. I immediately fell in love...

[@jagtone]

First time I saw him play this live, I had already heard the song dozens, maybe hundreds of times. He still blew me away.

[@timryan1154]

What could over 300 people possibly not like about this performance? And how did they get here?

[@doranmaxwell1755]

Been riding Harleys for 40 years... this is the best motorcycle song ever.

[@larrywinter3940]

I'm happy Indian is mentioned but it wouldn't matter if it wasn't.

[@robertmitton3584]

And harleys are a poor excuse of a motorcycle.

[@doranmaxwell1755]

@@robertmitton3584 Well.... early on I had a lot of brit bikes... Trumpets and Beezers. Couldn't trust one that had even moderate miles on it. Police would run them old pans and shovels for 50k or more miles and then someone would buy it at auction and run it till the pistons almost swapped holes LOL. We didn't have much money but we could always get a Harley running. Keep all your pistons... might just do a garage hone on a worn cyl and find the piston that was the closest LOL... we rode these duct tape and bailing wire worn out bikes from state to state.. there were no credit cards or cell phones. If it died on the side of the road? you could always get it home if you knew basic mechanics. The Vincent.... a work of art. But you might want to look up "crocker' You have never seen a Harley in a motorcyle wrecking yard. But I am a bit out of touch since the newest one I have every owned was an 81 and it was twenty years old when I got it.

[@alansnowdeal9845]

Thats a Freakin Sweet English!!

[@theseustoo]

Yep! Arlo Guthrie's 'Motorcycle Song' notwithstanding! 😁

[@therealzilch]

The ancient art of telling an epic story through song is not dead. Thanks, Richard.

[@jamesedwards2237]

There's another great storytelling songwriter I'll be seeing in December here in Phoenix - John Prine!!

[@vanceoverstreet4182]

What a Frosty song Great story powerfull I also like Del M. version

[@georgefowler3027]

But is is .......?.

[@solukhumbu911]

yes , i have run into a few of these musical stories and it always rings some deep valve of my heart.

[@adanacman666]

I have come to the conclusion that this guy is the single most underated artist in the history of music,he is a true master,destined to playing folk festivals and the like for ever,and thats a good thing,he is accesible,humble and funny,unlike those artists who become super famous where they become disconnected from their audience.............

[@alansnowdeal9845]

So True&SO UNDERATED on This Side of The Pond!!Met&What a Man!!Speaks as Eloquent as He Sings!!Fun Dude!!

[@ericb9426]

If Molly kept that Vincent it would be worth a small fortune today. Thanks to whoever posted this; I love this song and can only sit in awe of the guitar work.

[@petechilds788]

One of my favorite songs of all time, let alone acoustic folk, etc.. his song writing and guitar playing brings tears to my jaded face and eyes. He has a real soul.

[@barryrobertson5278]

The best thing about this is of course the performance. The second best is the look on Suzanne Vega's face wondering how she's going to follow that!

[@durhamy]

Who would thumbs-down this magnificent guitarist and such incredible lyrics? Trolls...maybe.

[@FarmallDoctor]

Are you kidding me? This is the most amazing performance I have seen in ages by ONE musician.

[@cisium1184]

He's actually done it even better than that. It sounded like he got lost a bit in his long break.

[@janereddiex270]

...a 52 Vincent and a Red Headed Girl.........

[@chrissampson1937]

rimaphil: I don't think it was a dig at Arlo. It's a schtick he does, playing a sorta is-it-or-isn't-it game with the audience. Once, someone called out "Vincent!"... And he played the first coupla bars of Starry Starry Night. And I'm sure he meant no offense to Don MacLean.

[@jefftenpas4673]

Or maybe he was referring to Van Gogh in a left handed kind of way

[@LazyIRanch]

He's referring to Arlo's motorcycle song, "I Don't Want a Pickle, I Just Want To Ride on my Motorcycle".

[@kevinb3812]

I was driving through Boulder I believe when I first heard this song on the radio. Who IS That!!!! I nearly crashed my car. I became an instant fan of a guy I am embarrassed to say I overlooked in the seventies & eighties. I follow Richard Thompson now!

[@glancycorner7425]

It was in the 80s when I lived in Denver. I get it! 🥰

[@JLRoberson]

From its release to this very day, this song has never failed to rip me apart every time.

[@Boomeranger]

I was driving the first time I heard this song. I had to pull over.

[@HWS2]

agreed. to this day, I can't get through it without getting teary-eyed.

[@YmerejLNitram]

Nothing against Ms. Vega and Mr. Wainwright, but I would hate to have to follow this.

[@dannyeglen4750]

Suzanne finishes watching this and then addresses the crowd "Anyway, this is called Luka" hahaha!

[@edwardlouisbernays2469]

oh god at 71 Years Ols this Still makes me Weep

[@daveross1004]

same for me at 77

[@robertrapp2694]

I discovered this song a couple of weeks ago and have listened to it maybe a hundred times. Why am I not tired of yet. With every listening appreciate it more.

[@Noitisnt-ns7mo]

It is full circle.

[@maryjones8140]

I’m the same. Discovered it a week ago and can’t stop listening and crying and singing along

[@BikerRagles]

I was named after this bike by my uncle. Vincent black lightening, My Grandad got my uncle into bikes, he is into choppers, and don't get me wrong he still likes normal bikes, Sadly my Grandad passed away over Christmas and went to his funeral yesterday and there was some backstory about him about bikes. That is why i am named Vincent.

[@slimtimslide]

Cool story, but I'm wondering which of your three initials - S, B, or G, stand for Vincent?

[@markdirenna159]

Am I the only person in the world that doesn't have a family tie to a mad relative on a Vincent?

[@vdavis4785]

@@markdirenna159 No, my uncle had a Norton. :)

[@douchebag7747]

Everytime i watch this, i am amazed by RT's playing....and also by the way that Suzzane and Loudon seem totally in awe!

[@kcd2120]

Indeed. I hope they didn’t have to follow him!! It’s a level of playing and skill that can barely fail to bring tears.

[@rickb9238]

I have to listen to this song every now and then to hear Richard Thompson’s voice and amazing guitar playing on this wonderfully written song. It never ceases to please my soul. Thank you Richard.👍👍

[@legmaker50]

Every guitarist watching this video is thinking "shit, I wish I could play like that".

[@kjjerome]

Except Chris Smithers he's the best!

[@secretarysmith3307]

look up josh turner guitar. not only can he pick, he covers this song. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqaXd5Klp95qbdU

[@paulmartin3725]

Nope, I just think "I'll never play like that, forget it, no wishin', no hopin'" ! I do my own mediocre version and I ain't about to try & match the Master.

[@bardmoss]

Every guitarist watching ANY Richard Thompson video should be thinking what you said. I do a fair version of Pharoah, but it's nothing at all like Richard on the guitar part.

[@jamiescott1080]

Not being cocky here, but this isn’t as awkward as it looks if you’ve got the alternating thumb thing down. There’s an excellent tutorial on KZbin. I’m no virtuoso but it’s doable. Some of the solo break licks are really tricky so I replace them with much easier ones but the main bits are not impossible.

[@charlesbraun8867]

Once you have been on the other side of life, songs like this bring back wild memories.

[@stelvans]

My guitar is now a coffee table.. Whats the point.

[@johnbarry1965]

Mine's tinder!!!!

[@Krabadaque]

Come on! Start practicing or lower your bar a little. Playing guitar isn't a competition - the most important thing is that it's fun!

[@richardstavale6270]

Exactly right Stäni.

[@manthasagittarius1]

Mine won't even crawl out of the gig bag long enough to be sawed up for a coffee table.

[@twattyshed]

I hope it's decaffeinated!!!

[@DavidKAnderson]

As said in the comments on another version of this gem, Richard Thompson is the guitarist your guitar heroes idolize.

[@theseustoo]

An all time classic song from Richard Thompson... one of the finest singer-guitarists EVER! :D

[@anonanon1791]

One of the greatest songs ever written. Just a man, his voice and a guitar.

[@tomhennerfeind8972]

That Song hits me every time i hear it. And there is no better Version than the original by Richard Thompson! No Sean Rowe, Mc Coury and Reckless Kelly won't do, they don't have the soul like a Vincent 52 :)

[@RolandTumble23]

All the covers I've heard--including a couple that you didn't list--are good-verging -on-great. But RT himself is, indeed, in another class entirely.

[@artcflowers]

Miranda russell has a tasty band behind her cover of this great tune. Its on yt. She nails it.

[@roylatekajxam]

Does any one else question "IF" Molly turned him in for his Vincent, or am I just cynical? 😬

[@meob2259]

Yes

[@jinglecat3678]

Well, he didn’t steal the bike. He stole for the money to but the bike. Maybe she turned him in for that but it’s sort of implied that she’s a criminal as well.

[@gonepostal474]

British bikes always had more soul, as does Richard Thompson.

[@jamesrowan4008]

Ya I only got a retro ! bonnie.but at least it's not a Hardley

[@MikeSmith-lt4rh]

I had a Triumph sticker from the 70s that said Limey soul my dad had a Bonneville&my best friends dad had a Trident .That Trident wow she wanted to fly.

[@patlatorres7000]

To this day I still remember the first time I saw Richard play this song, back in 1992 or '93 -- shortly after Rumor and Sigh was released. I still consider it to be one of the best true love songs ever written! One cannot listen to it without feeling the heartbreak when hearing of James being shot. A great song, if ever there was one!

[@sixstringedthing]

My grandpa passed away last week. In my memory he is mostly just bushy eyebrows, an amazing silver-tinted beard, and a booming resonant voice. But in his young days in England he owned a Vincent Black Shadow, and migrated to Australia on a Velocette via Europe, India, Kashmir, Pakistan and Southeast Asia. Farewell Bob. May you always find fair winds and a following sea... and a Vincent to ride.

[@solarpoweredboat]

Ahh, you're a sailor too. Motorbikes and sailboats have a close relationship.🏍⛵️

[@sixstringedthing]

G'Pa Bob could tell you more about than I, never did have natural-born sea legs, but he did his best to teach me. I watched and helped where I could as he built three beautiful timber watercraft, one of his own design. Sailboats for him were made of wood, and canvas, and rope. Sisal and hemp even, until he finally had to admit the benefits of nylon. He said fiberglass and metal had no "soul"... for a boat that is, a bike is a different story. :) Best wishes for fair winds and empty roads from Gosford, Australia.

[@JOHNBROWN-fw3hq]

sixstringedthing T0000 dam good

[@Bluebuthappy182]

That's one hell of a trip. He must have had a ball.

[@michaelworse6034]

Beautiful rendition to a cool guy .

[@vegn_brit5176]

Richard Thompson, one of England's best kept secrets. He deserves a lot more recognition.

[@jCd1058]

Through this song, Richard Thompson shows the soul of the British Isles. No wonder he is such a beloved guitarist, singer and lyricist.

[@arneemilbredland2339]

This song always brings tears to my eyes. It`s so beautiful , magnificent and honestly performed.

[@tomandaj1]

one of my favorites by Richard. Man, WHAT a guitarist ...

[@rickb9238]

I can’t count how many times I’ve listened to this song. I love everything about it from the lyrics to Richard’s amazing guitar playing. I find myself drawn back to his version many times over the years.👍👍

[@LeadMe2TheBliss]

Did he not originally write this song!? I thought he did.

[@jeffgaumond4250]

Hands down the best motorcycle song ever. Second place: Moby Grape's Motorcycle Irene. Richard Thompson is still a fantastic guitarist.

[@RichardFeynmanRules]

Says Red Molly, to James, "Well that's a fine motorbike. A girl could feel special on any such like." Says James, to Red Molly, "My hat's off to you. It's a Vincent Black Lightning, 1952. And I've seen you on the corners and cafes, it seems. Red hair and black leather, my favorite color scheme." And he pulled her on behind, And down to Boxhill, They'd Ride. Says James, to Red Molly, "Here's a ring for your right hand. But I'll tell you in earnest I'm a dangerous man; For I've fought with the law since I was seventeen. I've robbed many a man to get my Vincent machine. And now I'm twenty-one years, I might make twenty-two. And I don't mind dyin' but for the love of you. But if fate should break my stride, then I'll give you my Vincent, To Ride." "Come down Red Molly, " called Sargent McQuade. "For they've taken young James Aidee for Armed Robbery. Shotgun blast hit his chest, left nothing inside. Oh, come down, Red Molly, to his dying bedside." When she came to the hospital, there wasn't much left. He was runnin' out of road. He was runnin' out of breath. But he smiled, to see her cry. And said, "I'll give you my Vincent. To Ride." Said James, "In my opinion, there's nothing in this world Beats a '52 Vincent and a Redheaded girl. Now Nortons and Indians and Greavses won't do. Oh, they don't have a Soul like a Vincent '52." Well he reached for her hand and he slipped her the keys. He said, "I've got no further use...for these. I see Angels on Ariels in leather and chrome, Swoopin' down from Heaven to carry me home." And he gave her one last kiss and died. And he gave her his Vincent. To Ride.

[@colderwar]

Two things - Feynman is a personal hero of mine. Second, Vincent engines are an answer to a question that nobody asked. I wouldn't kick one out of bed though :))))

[@munkeenevahrong239]

I think he says Nortons Indians and BSA's or Beesas. Nickname for a BSA bike. Nit pickin, just my love for this tune.

[@irvinslagter8298]

I agree. He definitely says "Beezers" That's we all called them when I was a kid. Had a '55 Goldstar. Wish I still had it!!

[@NSULAMathematics]

In this version he definitely says Triumphs and Nortons and Beezers. The Greeves, however was a British motorcycle, prototype made in 1951, first sold in 1953. In some versions, RT uses the lyrics posted above. Regardless, he is an incredible player, singer, writer, performer. This song is a fine example of the concept, write a great song and it will find its path.

[@dickvarga6908]

Sgt McRae Beasers not Greaves.

[@Mariekesone]

Folk music to the Core and One of The Best if you ask me... Fairport Convention and Sandy Denny :-)

[@AntonyFleck]

This is one of the most Amazing pieces of song writing/performances that I've ever seen/heard!!!! The Man's blown me away!!! Ah, just love it!!!!.....

[@-C.T.-]

Truly...I feel sorry for anyone who doesn't recognize the brilliance of this song and performance.

[@josephsmyth3106]

I see Angels on Ariels in leather and chrome Swoopin down from Heaven to carry me home Brilliant

[@peteromalley9124]

I love this song, especially when done by Richard (I like how he changes the names of the bikes that "won't do"), as his effortless but stunning guitar playing just drives the thing along like an old Scottish ballad.

[@Brakelateatmsn]

Brilliant! A '52 Vincent would have no keys to give... but this marvelous tune holds one of the best lines in music history regarding fate. As far as the "thumbs down" count, it just goes to show there are 27 (to date) soul less clods in the world. A shame they walk the earth with their eyes, ears... and hearts closed. /Brakelate/

[@kevinmilcarek8202]

Brakelateatmsn ...welll....in richard's song there are keys for the 52 vincent to give! just leave it at that.....and as for thumbs down, i suppose they would be described best as musically myopic-lots of that around!

[@danielraidt9611]

Kevin Milcarek I prefer describing them as Soulless Ass Holes

[@Gwyhir]

Brakelateatmsn Maybe the key was for the wheelchains we used to use.I rode other peoples Lightnings twice in my life and my own Vincent Comet. But at 70 no more riding for me. I do spend a lot of time playing my guitar tho !

[@Gwyhir]

Pete McLeod In fact now I cant remember if they were Lightnings or Shadows !

[@sammoon2906]

+Brakelateatmsn Maybe he was talking about the lengthy procedure for starting a Vincent as the 'key'? If you're not a Vincent guy, you aren't starting a Vincent without explanation...

[@geraldgreen6278]

The music and words are the stuff of my dreams. 79 years young and 62 plus riding still tempting fate feeling that mystical wind.

[@chrismartin500]

For the life of me I cant understand how any breathing human being could give this a thumbs down. What a talent.

[@janem291]

Wow wow wow! Why have I never looked this up on KZbin? My dear brother, now gone from this world, introduced me to this song and outstanding guitarist 11 years ago. I play it often, but never witnessed how amazing Richard Thompson is to watch. It’s a breathtaking song. Love love love it. Thank you, Richard ❤️

[@kevinb3812]

I feel proud to have introduced my brother to Richard Thompson too... I just took him to a concert without any introduction. He said:" It sounds like three guitars up there! I can't believe it's only one".

[@cabarlahh]

No one quite tells a story like Richard...amazing beautiful song...and that guitar ? just blows me away...thanks for posting..

[@msjadeli]

One of the finest songs ever written and performed anytime anywhere. Richard, thank you for this song and the many other songs you've given to the world.

[@martinevans75]

My grandad didn't speak much about the war. But he did mention several times about how gutted he was that his father donated the Vincent bike my grandad and his brother had been working on. Sent to the foundry to drop bombs. Last time I saw him, I showed up on a 600cc Yamaha Fazer and he loved it. Miss you grandad.

[@ReverbAndBeer]

Red Molly set James up! When they first meet she walks up to him and the first thing she says is, "That's a fine motorbike". James is 21 and full of hormones. Molly knows bikes and looks great - poor James was doomed from the moment he swung her up onto the seat behind him". A FOOL in love! How is it that Sgt McCray was standing right outside the bank's door just as James came walking out after committing an armed robbery? Why was he shot in the chest immediately at point blank range? Nowhere in the story does James draw on the cops (or, was it just Sgt McCray? Where there any other police there? ). James had been a thorn in law enforcement's side since he was 17, and they wanted him gone. Molly knew what that bike was worth and she would do anything to get it. She contacted McCray and offered him a sweet deal - she will get James to rob a bank by telling him that if they had enough cash they could ride that '52 into the sunset, and be together forever. Then, she will tell McCray when it will go down - on one condition: Red Molly gets the 1952 Vincent Black Lightning. I've already written the screenplay. But the movie rights to one of the greatest songs ever written are apparently not for sale. Too bad - the ending is awesome!

[@margaretdennison7387]

My late husband used to holler it didn't have a key. However we both loved the song

[@Stiamh]

Was about to make the same comment - glad to see your husband preempted me.

[@kategilpin5982]

It certainly does have a key! It never gets out of its key!

[@jmvlock1929]

I've heard RT say the same thing, haha. Something along the lines of needing the image but being slightly bothered by knowing that it was a kickstart bike.

[@BillMcGaughy]

Best girl boy motorcycle song ever.

[@susanfischer3671]

Oh, I dunno - have you heard Arlo Guthrie sing about a motor cycle and a pickle?

[@werner.x]

Arlo's song is so different, can't compare them. And i don't remember the girl-part in the pickle-song. Arlo sure is another great storyteller., love him.

[@liveforband211]

Spotify actually recommend this to me. Been listening to it nonstop this past week. Glad to have discovered such a great songwriter and guitar player

[@solowinterwolf]

If you don't think the British invented Bluegrass, listen to Del McCoury's performance of this tune

[@NiallMor]

This song has migrated into bluegrass music and become something of a standard. Thanks for sharing the original version.

[@pattyfutrell5236]

Yes, I heard it recently at a concert by the Del McCoury Band. When Del asked for requests, someone yelled out “The motorcycle song!” We all knew what he meant.

[@39MercFlathead]

This is a great song and, as would be expected, Thompson does the best version by far. He really buffs the legend of the Vincent. My father was a California Highway Patrol motorcycle cop in the 30s and 40s. A friend from his police days had a shop where he took me to learn to ride and buy my first bike. In the back was a 1954 Vincent Black Shadow, the owner's bike. Black frame, big-Big-BIG black engine and 150 mph speedo. Scary! I wanted to ride it so bad, but was told no. It was for the owner and close friends who knew how to ride because, as he pointed out, "it had a frame like a door hinge" and had way to much power for a 15 yr old. I got to ride it at a track a few years later before going off to college. It did indeed have a squirrelly frame, one slow lap was enough to make my knees shake and I came close to wetting my pants.

[@Hollcall]

Years ago , chap called Jeff Tanner [ RR mechanic } owned a Black Lightning with a Black Shadow motor. Thing would ........FLY. He had a Eurocar Dealership in local area for years.

[@williamnethercott4364]

Brings tears to my eyes. I've never owned a Vincent but I once had an old Triumph and I get the emotional connection. In fact, my Dad's dream machines were "Vincent/HRD" and Brough Superior. Although he never owned either of them, he had an Ariel and he's been with the angels since 1974. (WIpes eyes and scolds self for being so soft). An amazing song.

[@danreynolds447]

There is nothing like ..a brit..bike..they do have ..soul.

[@williamnethercott4364]

They certainly do, usually full of mischief!

[@danreynolds447]

Ther..pickey..they only ..start..when ..there in..the mood..

[@anihtgenga4096]

". . . and if Fate should break my stride . . ." What a lyric!

[@William-y9d]

This is is absolutely one of the best songs ever written.

[@jacquisantangelo6542]

Never get tired of listening to 1952 Vincent Black Lightning💕

[@lewisforemanmusic]

One of the best songwriters. One of the best guitarists. One of the best songs.

[@gordonwallin2368]

Cheers from the Pacific West Coast of Canada.

[@joecburke]

Bloody fabulous rendition, the best I've heard and crystal clear. Vintage Richard T.

[@Eric-lw8te]

I'm not crying... YOU'RE crying! 🖤🖤

[@odinsoath973]

I love britsh bikes I always will, I know the feel of them on a british road theres nothing finer...this song makes me cry, for all the right reasons :)

[@EldarKinSlayer]

I rode American Iron loved the looks of the Brit Bikes but they were too small.

[@shelleydonovan7703]

One of the most romantic songs ever written.

[@ReverbAndBeer]

No!!! Red Molly set James up so she could get the bike!!

[@debl9957]

Love song, sad one at that

[@Recycledhooligan]

Greatest motorcycle themed love story ever.my woman says I’m a hopeless romantic.i dedicate this song to her. I always feel like a king.when she rides with me on my bike.

[@Exakta66]

"And he gave her one last kiss and died And he gave her his Vincent to ride"...

[@davidstarr1959]

One of the all-time greatest motorcycle love stories ever written!!!

[@peteandrews3172]

totally agree..and when Bob Dylan does a cover of it you KNOW it's a great song!

[@albertandrews130]

@Dave T Wasn't Born to Follow

[@xkguy]

I encountered this song 2 weeks ago via the Sean Rowe version. It is a simply perfect song. As a hack songwriter I know something is good when pangs of jealousy creep over me when I hear the underlying poetry that I will now never be able to write myself...there are 2 line in particular that stand out..."if fate should break my stride...' and.... 'he was running out of road, he was running out of breath'. You don't have to write 2 songs of this quality to be considered great.

[@robbiarohac3848]

You're probably a better poet than you think. But I understand the jealousy. I discovered Sean Rowe after watching The Accountant. Trying to Leave Something Behind plays as the credits roll. I love this version: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZvIY5hrhZ2XjM0

[@garywhitt98]

In my humble, but amazingly insightful and spot on opinion, Richard Thompson and this song belong to each other.

[@brianhickey666]

and that is how an instrument is played

[@betholschowka8865]

I found this song because of a Clive Cussler book: I was reading a bit near the end, when the hero of the story jumped on a Vincent Black Shadow to chase the bad guy. Well, I Googled "Vincent motorcyle" because I wanted to know what one looked like, and this video popped up. Richard Thompson has since become one of my favorite artists. So, thank you Clive Cussler, and thanks to the one who posted this video. (I think the book was "Plague Ship", but I'm not certain.) P.S., I wasn't looking at the screen when he began to play, and I though it was two guitars. I was astounded that it was just him. Wow!

[@soaringvulture]

There aren't two guitars because there's no one who could play the other one.

[@jamesdunne5638]

I can't recount how many time's I have listened to this superb version of this track .....It still makes me smile EVERY time! "My hat's off to you" Richard Thompson. What a track...What a fucking talent you are. Cheers!

[@dacrowster]

He sings this song for the millionth time with so much soul and power, incredible!

[@DannyHustle]

The first time I heard this song it about knocked me flat on my back. One of the most finely crafted pieces of storytelling I’ve ever heard. Just brilliant, everything about it.