TOP 20 SINGER SONGWRITER SONGS OF ALL TIME

[@quinnmitchel4075]

0:34 Maggie May - Rod Stewart 1:32 Heart Of Gold - Neil Young 2:32 Cats In The Cradle - Harry Chapin 3:38 Everything I Own - David Gates 4:23 Running On Empty - Jackson Brown 5:02 Sister Golden Hair - America 6:04 Send In The Clowns - Judy Collins 6:48 Rocket Man - Elton John 7:15 Danny’s Song - Kenny Loggins 7:54 Wild World - Cat Stevens 8:51 Country Roads - John Denver 9:50 Fire and Rain - James Taylor 10:36 Operator - Jim Croce 11:36 I am… I said - Neil Diamond 12:38 Wichita Lineman - Glen Campbell 13:48 Homeward Bound - Simon and Garfunkel 15:10 Summer Breeze - Seals and Crofts 16:29 Carefree Highway - Gordon Lightfoot 17:11 The Times Are a-Changin - Bob Dylan 18:19 Both Sides Now - Joni Mitchell Took me like 10 or more minutes to make this lol

[@ms.chuckfu1088]

Thanks

[@JoanaSantos-zt2fp]

Thank you 🙏

[@bioof4]

Love the pfp dude pj for life

[@amielaicart866]

Thank you

[@retro1937]

Thanks

[@claygilchrist632]

Just blown away that Joni would send that. What a gift to cherish forever! Speaks volumes about the quality of person she is.

[@BigBoysStudios]

I thought Rick might start to cry tears of joy when telling us about that. What a fabulous thing for Joni to do.

[@peterkelley6344]

@@BigBoysStudios Beyond Fabulous.

[@awboat]

@@BigBoysStudios While simultaneously telling Don Henley to go f himself.

[@josipdasovic881]

@@BigBoysStudios You're right. Rick got very verklempt when he was telling the story. Good for him, and good for Joni!

[@sberesford2523]

So basically all the great music came out in the 70's

[@douglasskaalrud6865]

Joni Mitchell serves up a lesson to the blockers on how to treat a guy who is giving them a gift.

[@dylanpardon9723]

100%

[@TheMclesc]

I’m really hoping we get a second vid about her then

[@troyoswald5683]

Very well said!

[@itzel1735]

Joni Mitchell’s been serving up lessons to guys in the music business for a very long time.

[@karlopalenzuela7915]

Obviously winners are the grateful ones!

[@ktrmeadow]

Man I was lucky to be 10 in 1971 and the daughter of an extreme music lover that owned a Magnavox TV and stereo store. We had the top of the line equipment at home. Never a dull needle or lack of bass. Boy do I miss my dad. We took bridge over troubled water on some type of portable player to my aunt that was committed to a mental hospital then. Music was our life.

[@MegazoneMusic23]

Born in 71 here. Jim croce was so awesome. My dad sang his songs and I love all his classics

[@jorikemusic6365]

I do miss Carole King on this list. Such an amazing songwriter who didn't just write amazing songs for herself but also worked on tons of other songs for other famous artists

[@mikecolumna]

I totally agree!

[@yellawerder3279]

Agree. I was waiting for Carole King, Heart or maybe Karla Bonoff. Until the very end it looked like he was going to neglect women songwriters all together. Unbalanced in my opinion.

[@jorikemusic6365]

@@yellawerder3279 Yessss heart should have defenitely been on there!! They have some real masterpieces. I agree it was kind of unbalanced

[@johnbailey3877]

Right on!!!’ “So far away”?

[@davidmiller9485]

did you read the title for the video? it's not about the artist/songwritter. It's about a song from a great songwritter/singer.

[@danwhitehurst9592]

When my wife and I were struggling in a crappy apartment early in our marriage I learned to play and sing Danny’s Song and played it for her because I was proud of how well I played it. Years later she told me that when she heard the “ even though we ain’t got money” line she knew we’d be ok and together forever. Amazing how certain songs seem like they were about you.

[@albertschepis]

Yea, this is what Rick is talking about regarding this list, but sadly there are so many commenters here that don't get it and insist on pissing all over it. I'm shocked and dismayed. If I was Rick I wouldn't read the comments - it would be pointless and soul-sucking. These people are mostly trolls. You provided an example of what music is about - life and living. All these other people are just babies and don't get that.

[@jwingels3208]

EXCELLENT SINGING THIS TIME AROUND. NO NSAL, CRYSTAL CLEAR NOTES & VOOD DIAPHRAM SUPPORT, NO MORE STRAIN AT THE TOP OF YOUR RANGE, GOOD MIX OF HEAD &CHEST VOICE. GOOD JOB!

[@karenpellerin5841]

Today I learned who wrote the song. I had no clue.

[@billybrown9766]

Some artists send copyright notices, others send gifts... Thank you Joni!

[@trentruckle7326]

RUSH is another group that's really good about sending gifts out to content creators that bring them to the younger generations.

[@trentruckle7326]

@@joe-e-geo What could strange device be? When I touch it gives forth a sound. Its got wires that vibrate and make music. Of what could this thing be that I found. Of course thats from memory. So it might be slightly off. But so many options. But im guessing that or maybe a line from Red Barchetta

[@gregharrison5479]

Litigate or appreciate. Joni is Canadian, that's how we live.

[@PreventiveCarnivore]

She's just wonderful.

[@mfourcade75]

Rick seems deeply touched by the gift he received from Joni Mitchell and it's really moving. I thought Joni Mitchell was a great personality from many points of view. But it's good to know that she is also a kind person.

[@chrisdgoldie]

“Both Sides Now” never fails to squeeze a few tears out of my eyes. Beautiful song!

[@JB-ti7bl]

We're no longer allowed to see things from "both sides".

[@k2thepeak]

Agreed. Joni is on my MtRushmore of Singer/Songwriters with “Both Sides Now” alone giving an early glimpse of her unique genius. When you add her body of work it’s a slam dunk. Such an Important song, imho.

[@davidyohalem629]

I believe the song is titled "Clouds."

[@milliway2010]

Emma Thompson's "Clouds" scene in Love Actually was astounding. Joni's lyrics and Thompson's performance was so in tune that we felt every beat of her breaking heart...it was so powerful that even as a long time fan of Alan Rickman I rather disliked him for a while.

[@arboreusmcclane1672]

Croce is way underrated...that guy was a musical genius...

[@m.e.w.4394]

And he died way too soon 😥

[@sandikorevaar4743]

The whole list were geniuses.

[@eduardoribeiro383]

CAN WE PLEASE HAVE A COMPLETE VIDEO ON CROCE? PLEEEEEEASE 🙂

[@raymondpierotti8414]

He's so underrated, he's overrated.

[@terrypussypower]

As absurd as it sounds, I think Croce’s surname had a lot to do with him not being as well known as his talent deserved, especially in the UK. It looks and sounds too much like “crotch”!

[@johnthursfield3056]

No Carol King? I regard Tapestry as one of the greatest singer songwriter albums of all time.

[@kenkeaton6824]

This is who I thought would be at least #2.

[@jgamb914]

I agree

[@bigbaby9189]

Oh no! Just started the vid and that’s a massive disappointment

[@spearsba]

Exactly

[@steponikchad9859]

Oooh, Carol King. Definitely.

[@germany664]

I’d like to also give Nick Drake a mention for his “Five Leaves Left” Album

[@fallinghausen2707]

For any of his records...

[@yearnpill]

Place to Be and River Man are unbelievably touching songs, Nick Drake is a genius

[@germany664]

I believe the simplicity of his arrangements combined with his unique voice and guitar playing is what has allowed him and his songs to become timeless. And that is a credit to his genius songwriting ability that transports the listener to a completely different place and time, supernatural if you ask me.

[@MrWolfriver]

A good nod. Amazing songs and a talent lost so young. On a vacation many years ago I re-routed our family trip by several hours to visit his grave in Warwickshire.

[@sonicfoxxmusic4281]

@@MrWolfriver Sweet move.....did you ever catch one Jack Savoretti's version of Northern Sky...he wasn't given permission from Nick Drake's Foundation for nothing...google JACK SAVORETTI NORTHERN SKY...it's is wonderful...I met Jack and his Manager in his very early years..both very humble men. They did Nick justice.

[@sNs-jb5ss]

Kris Kristofferson One of the most underrated songwriters and lyricists!

[@moondancer4660]

What do people always say that so many singers and songwriters and bands are underrated? They are not underrated unless you under rate them.

[@flyingfishsurf]

Someone who makes it into the Songwriters Hall of Fame is usually not underrated.

[@Tacotac64]

Underrated ? not by Dylan who once said : " When it comes to songwriting, I'm not fearing anyone but Kris Kristofferson"

[@bobo8741]

Me and Bobby McGee

[@robertpolnicky7702]

The mainstream public will put a song like tiny Tim tiptoe through the tulips on top.

[@flapjack489]

Jim Croce is so underrated, glad you added him to the list.

[@SoCali_Surfer]

Glad he was not forgotten!

[@craigf.5855]

I wouldn't regard him as underrated, moreso gone way before his prime. To be a legend, as he was, in such a short time is a testament to how talented he was. Such a same, since he had so many more incredible songs ahead of him

[@CurtHowland]

"Operator" brings me to tears every time.

[@fredrickmartinez8724]

He is a legend! I love him so much!

[@fredrickmartinez8724]

@@mattrogers1946 and he is a hell of a guitar player too.

[@singlesideman]

Joni really set the example of how to appreciate what Rick does, sharing the greatness of great artists' work.

[@5pajoe]

Also, surely have to include McCartney, composer of the most covered song in history. Apart from Hey Jude, Let It Be, Michelle, For No One (nicely covered by Emmylou Harris, who also did a great version of Here, There and Everywhere), Blackbird, etc.

[@PatrickBennettJr]

Eleanor Rigby, Long and Winding Road, the list goes on and on....

[@trajan6927]

Same with Pete Townshend the man singlehandly wrote 150 songs for The Who and 150 solo songs. Maybe you might have heard of this songwriter named T

[@trajan6927]

named Townshend? Or that band called The Who?

[@danieloliver20]

He'd get blocked playing McCartney

[@siroswaldfortitude409]

@@danieloliver20 aah is that why Macca is not on there? Good point

[@1ladolcevita1]

Great list... I don't know how you could narrow it down to 20. And leave out Paul McCartney, Dolly Parton, John Lennon, Billy Joel!!!

[@danster4713]

i guess each of them could have a video of their top 20 greatests song writing of all times.

[@constechable]

Dolly Parton definatly has to be there.

[@andreamarvin9817]

I was waiting for dolly!

[@hcamp74]

I mean Stevie Wonder has a good case too

[@lololomo5484]

@@hcamp74 Stevie established himself in the 60's....Before Beato's time. But even the Beatles were flabbergasted at his songwriting capacity.

[@kaydekaiser7044]

"Harvest" is the Neil Young 1972 album. "Harvest Moon" is the 1992 Album.

[@cannibal4363]

Caught that too...

[@bertrandvanasch]

Yep . Just « harvest » Such a great album

[@bthorntonwriter]

Saw that too, Kayde. And the two are nowhere near equal. "Harvest Moon" is enjoyable and well-done. "Harvest" is a world-beater.

[@MMartinBen]

@@bthorntonwriter Respectfully, I disagree entirely. Harvest Moon is an opus.

[@mattcorregan4760]

@@MMartinBen I agree, Harvest Moon is a masterpiece!

[@Itwasashovel]

I’m surprised he didn’t have Leonard Cohen in the list. He’s got to have been one of the best singer songwriters of all time.

[@deanschulze3129]

Oh, Yes! Bono Called Cohen's Hallelujah the most perfect song ever.

[@francislill7599]

And Brian Wilson is one of the best

[@normatible9795]

Agreed. No Jim messinA, either..l guess they are his personal choices..imagine, Leonard Cohen was missed out but America is included

[@hoborock007]

@@normatible9795 We like America

[@normatible9795]

@@hoborock007 I like America too. In 1980, America performed at the arane ta coliseum in Manila and though I’m pregnant with my 3rd child, I bought a ticket to see them. That’s how I love America,the band. I only wanted to see Jim Messina included

[@melodynearlyful]

Every one of these songs are amazing. I've carried them with me so many years. I cried all the way through... (I lost my beloved husband at barely 59 years old to covid. Ken was compromised due to Chemo treatment.) We both loved music and many nights would pull up songs on KZbin that we did not already have our own copy of- we'd sing and reminisce about what we were doing when the song was popular in our teen years. He'd quiz me on the band that sang them- I did pretty good but he was great at knowing. He often danced me around the room. I met him- the love of my life on April 16th, 2014 and he died Jan. 13, 2020. Only 5 years & 9 months. Forever changing my life both times. Thank you for this so much!

[@fabiocaetanofigueiredo1353]

So sorry for your loss

[@marnaehrech1223]

What a beautiful story! Thank you for sharing it. Blessings!

[@XX-ol7lf]

Big hugs. 🙅‍♂️

[@markhasleton6403]

Hang in there ,darlin'

[@melodynearlyful]

@@markhasleton6403 Thank you.

[@BettyHorn]

I'm surprised Carole King didn't make the list. Imo, Tapestry is a masterpiece.

[@lololomo5484]

That's a pretty big OOOPS by Rick. I sometimes wonder if James Taylor wrote the gorgeous "Fire and Rain." Or if BFF Carole was in on it.

[@johnbobbitt6872]

Agreed. Sorry, Rick.

[@sailormatlac9114]

I would agree, but I hope you are aware you could fill that list with literally hundreds of names... and if you go outside the anglosphere, it just exploded. It's almost an impossible task. I see it has a way to discover Rick's interest in music rather that something objective.

[@BettyHorn]

@@sailormatlac9114 very true

[@Boogie597]

@@lololomo5484 nope JT wrote it about a personal friend

[@chopper4484]

Lennon, Van Morrison, Springsteen, Dave Matthews, David Gray, Tracy Chapman, Johnny Cash, Nick Cave, Tom Waitts, Townes Van Zandt, Lou Reed, Mark Lanegan needs a Top 100. Absolutely great vocal performance. Thanks Rick!

[@rabihbourji2069]

Waits,nick,lou and bob,i love you man

[@sendjamin]

McCartney, Harrison, Hendrix, Jagger, etc etc etc

[@EricGranata]

+1 for Nick and Tom

[@HailRider]

Jeff Lynne

[@ragnadrabinowitz7629]

westerberg

[@raymondlugo9960]

I'm a rock and metal guy born in 1970. "Country Roads" is a song that my dad and I used to play when I was learning my first chords and it still brings us joy to play.

[@terrys3313]

I sang along with all these songs, I still have them on vinyl LPs. "Heart of Gold" was on the "Harvest" album. The "Harvest Moon" album came out years later.

[@stevenniemiec8872]

You beat me to that correction - nice job!

[@sloanpeters]

20 years later!

[@tomisdabomb02]

Corrrrrrect!

[@1_hopelesshuman]

You beat me to it as well though I already corrected it in another post.

[@danwhitehurst9592]

Love Harvest Moon. It’s the song my wife and I had our first dance to when we got married. That song brings forth a whole day of memories.

[@maureenyoung6416]

Yay John Denver! His music is the soundtrack to my childhood and my third graders love learning "Country Roads" every year!

[@JB-ti7bl]

Here in Japan they love that song too. Kids love the "mountain mama" part. Country Roads, Beatles and the Carpenters...Big in Japan!

[@bobomaigret5430]

I used to work with a woman who grew up near John Denver. When he was drunk he wd throw stones at her bedroom window and ask her to make out with him. She was 14, he was 22.

[@lololomo5484]

I own a handsome country snowglobe that plays a musicbox version. A prized possession.

[@karenpellerin5841]

I don't think that my child (who grew up in France) knows a single song on this list. Other than John Denver's.

[@farsicalspeaking3356]

Thank you for including Gordon Lightfoot, and so high up the list. A poet, singer, troubadour. Wrote some of the most meaningful songs of my youth.

[@dennisking7872]

His earliest recordings with United Artists are extremely good when he was a folk troubadour back in the 1960s long before "If You Could Read My Mind" made him well known outside of his native Canada.

[@georgebarry8640]

Gordons depth sets him apart. the lyrics are truly closer to poetry. He is a treasure. Not appreciated by all..but that doesn't change the fact that he is among the best.

[@billcompeau4835]

Gordon is number 1 by a wide margin in my opinion, a real treasure

[@sl6066]

As the list counted down I was waiting to see if Gordon Lightfoot would be included and preparing to write a negative comment if he wasn’t. I was 14 and visiting a friend just a 30 minute drive from where Gordon grew up in Ontario when I heard his first album, Lightfoot, in 1964. My friend and I played that LP so much in a few days I’m surprised it didn’t wear out. Then friends and I used to walk by his house in Toronto on our way to high school, always hoping we might see him. Later I had the privilege of attending a live concert he gave at York University . We sat on a gym floor for a couple of hours within 30 feet of him. It wasn’t comfortable, but who cared. Still a huge fan and so proud of his contribution to Canadian and world music.

[@spider033181]

@@billcompeau4835 Not even close to number 1. He shouldn't even be on the list. What about Paul McCartney? John Lennon? Phil Collins? Boz Scaggs?

[@Caperhere]

That was a wonderful trip down memory lane. Wish the kids of today had a constant supply of the music we did. It was part of what brought us together. Thank you both.

[@deathbypigx3h]

Fire and Rain is one of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever heard. Glad to see it represented on the list

[@kristenspencer9751]

Every guitar player learned that song!

[@Master23-w3m]

The Bee Gees composed some great songs performed by other artists, such as "Islands in the Stream" by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, "Eaten Alive" by Diana Ross and Michael Jackson, "Immortality" by Celine Dion, "Woman in Love" and "Guilty" by Barbra Streisand, "Grease" by Frankie Valli, "I Just Want to Be Your Everything, "Shadow Dancing", "Everlasting Love", and "Don't Throw It All Away" by their younger brother Andy Gibb, "Heartbreaker" by Dionne Warwick, "Chain Reaction" by Diana Ross, "If I Can't Have You" by Yvonne Elliman, "Emotion" by Samantha Sang, "I Will Always Love You," "You and I," and "Evening Stars" by Kenny Rogers, and many more. They also wrote and performed their own classic hits, including "How Deep Is Your Love," "To Love Somebody," "Massachusetts," "Stayin' Alive," "I Started a Joke," "Too Much Heaven," "Don't Forget to Remember Me," "Words," "You Win Again," "Tragedy," "How Can You Mend a Broken Heart," "I've Gotta Get a Message to You," "Night Fever," "More Than a Woman," "You Should Be Dancing," "Rest Your Love on Me," "Jive Talkin'," and many more. Robin Gibb had a successful solo career, writing hits such as "Boys Do Fall in Love," "Juliet," "Another Lonely Night in New York," "Saved by the Bell," and others.

[@nanoRat]

If there ever was a Renaissance woman, it is Joni Mitchell.

[@jalgratturMBA]

If there ever was a Renaissance vocalist, it is Jason Tillery

[@urbangorilla33]

I just noticed yesterday that Google lists her as a painter, so, yeah.

[@AKCobra1120]

Getting old sucks, but lists like this make me smile because it makes me realize - I grew up in the golden age of music.

[@tommihail2178]

As I say to the youth "I might be old but I got to see all the cool Bands"😂

[@cindyharrington5958]

Me too. We were lucky.

[@1600362]

I remember seeing Freddie and Queen in the 70's and it still reminds me how lucky we were to have the 70's music and groups!

[@Radzoso]

I'd like to give John Fogerty, Carole King and Bonnie Raitt a mention.

[@cookrich]

Was a bit surprised by Carole King’s omission although I think the ones selected were equally deserving.

[@seanmurphy3753]

bonnie Raitt songs, by Tom Waits, Angle of Montgomery... PERFECT!

[@seanmurphy3753]

And add, John Prine too.

[@TastyChevelle]

@@seanmurphy3753 of course John Prine

[@brucedillinger9448]

Indigo Girls are great storytellers!

[@rexweigel6740]

I live for these episodes. Most of these songs and artists were popular when I was in the Marine Corps in Vietnam and the lifers would only play country western music on AFVN radio. I was wounded and spent 3 years in Naval Hospitals where we couldn't play radios or tapes. When I finally got back to being a civilian my hearing was impaired and although I could hear most of the music (I think) the lyrics were difficult to discriminate. These episodes erase that void and every time I watch one it fills the musical abyss I have lived within for the last 54 years. Mahalo for sharing your gift, and expertise, of musical history. Semper Fi.

[@berryster]

Carole King needs a spot on this list. Songwriter, solo performer, checks all the boxes. Sorry Rod Stewart, HTR....

[@cheneyrobert]

I think her omission may be due to copyright strikes? Same reason no Van Morrison, Keith Jarrett and others on KZbin....very sad....Tapestry is an incredible album 💿👏👏👏👏👍🏻🥂

[@infinitesyntax6263]

​@@cheneyrobert It's also a trick to drive video engagement: Omit a few well known artists that people would expect to appear and the comments just pour in.

[@larryrhoe2835]

Ya I thought when Ric said she it was going to be Carol King.

[@cheneyrobert]

@@infinitesyntax6263 😂yeah gets the crowd riled up for sure 🥂

[@arthurbrands6935]

Frankly, I would have had Ronnie Lane up before Rod Stewart any day!

[@egeb7]

Joni Mitchell is indisputably a genius, I love her music so much. It's super cool and sweet of her to send you a personal gift like that, what an awesome person.

[@stewiegriffin993]

was so happy that he put her at number one, because for all the praise she gets, she doesn't get enough. Not only is she one of the best lyricist in modern music history, she is an absolute genius of a musician and an arranger. The best jazz musicians of her time admired her and played with her (and apparently she's a great painter too from what I hear! imagine having it all)

[@michaelrg3836]

I watched this video just to make sure Joni got a mention. How do you even chose from her collection of songs? Number 1: brilliant!

[@blackbird8900]

Joni is a pure legend. I live in her hometown of Saskatoon, SK, and it is crazy because she does not receive the recognition here that she should. My kids all teenagers now were raised on her music.

[@jowicks5720]

I'm blown away by Jason's voice! I haven't heard such a great singer in a very long time. The world needs more Jason!

[@stormydavis]

His voice sucks, he hogs the mic, he's chewing gum and he's leaning forward! Not much of a singer

[@jowicks5720]

@@stormydavis Each to their own... but I wholeheartedy disagree. As do numerous others, it would seem.

[@stormydavis]

@@jowicks5720 so you think it's okay that he was chewing gum while he was singing? And his voice was very gruff and very loud and covering the mic, not a singer not a vocalist and I'm not the only one that disagrees... As you said each to his own...

[@jowicks5720]

@@stormydavis Yet he seems to be doing pretty well for himself... go figure!

[@stormydavis]

@@markdickens6426 geez I'm glad somebody else agreed with me. A true singer can sing soft loud with feeling, that singer had none of the above.

[@provincialfish]

20 is pretty finite but there are a lot id put in that I feel get overshadowed by some of the others. Phil Ochs, Tim Hardin, Townes Van Zandt, Buffy Sainte Marie etc etc

[@victoriah1322]

Every song brought back of memory. Not only does this show my love of music, it shows my age. Keep rockin’, Rick!

[@stxlaxPP]

what i learned from this video is that any song can be a pearl jam song with the right singer lol

[@jamesweldon9726]

I thought his rendering of Neil Diamond sounded like Scott Stapp (of Creed) attempting it.

[@PlayaSinNombre]

This guy is what Pearl Jam could have been... if they had hired a singer that could enunciate...

[@bartdevries8531]

With the wrong singer, you mean. Can’t stand the vocals.

[@jasperchance3382]

@@PlayaSinNombre songwriting isn't all that good, either

[@BakedNConfused]

@@bartdevries8531 Pearl Jam - Black Is one of *thee* greatest songs ever . Check yoself

[@davidjackson2297]

I have got another legendary suggestion: Lennon Mccartney

[@vaskylark]

Bigtime! Was thinking same thing, tons of others too though.

[@axzblade]

Fax the Lennon and Paul where both amazing song writers alone just listen to imagine or let it be

[@MikeBD187]

Are you using a specific definition of singer-songwriter? That is the only possible reason that Lennon and/or McCartney are not all over this list.

[@stlmopoet]

He was avoiding a headache. Even covers of their songs sometimes get blocked.

[@vaskylark]

@@axzblade I agree Lennon/McCartney awesome songwriters, but Imagine? That is the worst song, the lyrics are terrible.

[@Claunere1]

I grew up in the 70's. For the little girl in me and my adult self now Bread will always hold a special place in my heart.

[@jackstah]

Also known as “Greatest Singer Songwriters of 1971 America”

[@seastarbutterfly]

I was going to comment the exact thing. Now Rick can do the 80s. 90s. 00s. Etc.

[@sacriste]

Or better 1971 USA

[@DriveBetter]

Guess it was the peak of songwriting

[@1dkappe]

@@DriveBetter indeed. The GOAT was very active in that time: Bob Marley. We could make the list less lilly white by adding him as the new #1.

[@drewmalesky9869]

Fair

[@terrariumelio974]

Leonard Cohen is missed on this list, but I can only imagine how difficult it must be putting this list together.

[@davekeating.]

Yes, Leonard Cohen, how could we forget his song writing, pure poetry

[@bjbell52]

I would have added Donovan to that list.

[@kevinm6475]

get him in there !!!!!

[@jamesaaron7211]

Can’t have the whole list be Canadian.

[@johnc5160]

.....and John Denver is in!? And Kenny Loggins!

[@adamjg4]

Honestly, you'd need a 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 or 100 part series for this topic.

[@hollybronwyn8176]

Absolutely true. I kept thinking of people to add to this List. :)

[@donnaallencprw343]

Agree. In addition to Van Morrison, how about Peter, Paul & Mary; Freddie Mercury; Burt Bacharach; Carol King; The Carpenters; Pete Townsend; Robbie Robertson ..... I completely agree with the #1 pick though - Joni Mitchell is a creative genius. I'm also happy with all the other choices and am impressed to see Bread on the list. This "Singer/Song Writer" category needs to be expanded.

[@larryk5541]

Having been fortunate to have grown up during that period, I've always said that the best songs ever as well as best artists came out in the 60s and the 70s. Your list encapsulated my favorites and I was thrilled to see Sister Golden Hair on your list as it is probably my favorite song of all time. Not assigning fault to your list because there are so many more to choose from, I'd also recommend Carole King, Paul McCartney, Christine McVie, John Lennon, Chuck Berry, Stevie Wonder, John Fogerty, and Bob Marley. God, I love this music!

[@PearConference]

Really surprised to not see Tom Waits on here. He's written a crazy amount of incredible, unique songs. I can't remember Rick ever mentioning him come to think of it

[@vikz5786]

Yeah, he'd be first on my list. So many people have covered his songs.

[@jonnywickham654]

The goat

[@bthorntonwriter]

A-MEN, Daniel. A-MEN!

[@1dkappe]

He wrote my second favorite XMas song: “Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis.”

[@johnsrabe]

@@1dkappe “I don’t have a husband; he don’t play the trombone.”

[@edd2771]

I understand why he doesn’t make the list, but Dan Fogelberg was a pure singer/songwriter and a vastly underrated composer and guitarist. I’d love for you to fit him into your channel somehow, someway. He deserves it.

[@sandyhammond]

Agreed ... would have loved to see Dan in there somewhere.

[@Onlygloo]

Yesss ! The innocent age is one of my all time favorite album which I bought at least three times since release due to the overuse of the medium !

[@mutt3135]

I agree -- Fogelberg was a hell of a songwriter, and just an all-around great and extremely versatile musician. Fantastic guitarist (both acoustic and electric) fantastic pianist, great singer, great lyricist. I would say anyone who only knows his radio hits doesn't know him much at all. A lot of his radio hits were admittedly a bit schmaltzy, but he wrote so many brilliant "deep cut" songs. Jackson Browne said Fogelberg had the voice of an angel and had him do backing vocals on his "Late for the Sky" album. Joe Walsh was impressed enough with him to produce and play on his "Souvenirs" album. Don Henley, Glenn Frey and Graham Nash sang on that album as well. Joni Mitchell sang on "Nexus" off "The Innocent Age" album and Emmylou Harris sang a duet with him called "Only the Heart May Know" on the same album. His "High Country Snows" album included blue grass legends like Doc Watson and Jerry Douglas just to name a couple. Vastly, vastly underrated singer/songwriter.

[@tommonk7651]

Fogelberg is often forgotten and oh so talented. Have tons of his music.

[@Andre5225]

Rick, I know you know how popular Dan was and still is. He’s one of my favorite people to cover. I hope you’ll consider doing something on him.

[@migueldecarvalho8012]

I'd love to see a show about back up vocals - how Queen did it, how country music does it, etc. Who's with me? I hate it when people ask for likes, but if you do, maybe Rick'll do a show on it.

[@urbangorilla33]

I agree whole-heartedly, vocal arrangements are the ultimate icing on the cake of a great song. And not easy to do. It needs to be arranged/scored, performed and recorded/mixed/EQ-ed etc. Complex stuff.

[@alexalaserbean]

I love to hear a Beach Boys ep.

[@aaronbruce5568]

Definitely. Even the Beatles, the Beach Boys, the Zombies, and so many other artists had a great talent for creating great vocal textures.

[@tbluesboye]

"20 feet from stardom" about that subject. Check it out. Great documentary

[@johnbailey3877]

That is a phenomenal, creative and insightful suggestion !!

[@kevinhoffman4371]

The depth and quality of Van Morrison’s catalog earns him a place here.

[@Aussie_Built-65model]

Yep good call ✔

[@AbbeyRoadkill1]

No Van Morrison is definitely an oversight.

[@michaelanderson5442]

Always overlooked, never copied, iconic songs!

[@lemonninja9932]

100 percent. Couldn’t believe Van the man didn’t make this list.

[@t-bo-lesotho]

No Stevie Wonder or David Bowie, either. Or Tim Hardin. Or Nick Drake.

[@Knickerson]

Just wanted to mention, Harry Nilsson’s “Without You” and “Everybody’s Talkin’”. The latter especially captured that sort of melancholy that existed during the singer songwriter era.

[@richardfurness7556]

Neither of which were written by Harry Nilsson.

[@Knickerson]

@@richardfurness7556 Lol. I read the credits wrong on that one. “By Nilsson” as in, sung by Nilsson. Ah well.

[@richardfurness7556]

@@Knickerson Not your fault. Judy Collins made the list with a song she didn't write.

[@chrismcrouch]

I was shocked that Harry Nilsson didn't make the cut, especially since he falls squarely within the soft rock sound that Rick seemed to be going for with this video. I would probably have picked "One", because people know the song, it has minimal orchestration, and Nilsson wrote it (unlike "Without You" or "Everybody's Talkin'").

[@AlternativeSack123]

Even though Nilsson didn’t write those his own songs were still exceptional

[@franksmildyears7323]

10:35 I love when I see Jim Croce gets appreciated, he's such a great singer, he was the first singer-songwriter I've listened to and still one of my favorites next to Bob Dylan & Tom Waits. Although his lyrics were insanely simple, they were great (But as Pete seeger once said: Any damn fool can get complicated. It takes genius to attain simplicity) and I think that any one in any part of the world could understand him and relate to what he's saying, vocally and instrumentally (if that is actually a word), as I remember 4 years ago, when I first listened to him in Tarantino's Django unchained, I could barely read an English article but I understood everything he'd said in all his songs. It's insane how much I have learned about myself and the world from his songs. Sadly he passed away so early, I hope one day we'll see a movie about him, a great movie.

[@brianirvine6978]

Warren Zevon to me at least, is one of the most underrated songwriters of our time. His contemporaries have nothing but praise but it never translated to the wider public. Can we see some Zevon content Rick?

[@notbraindead7298]

Brian Irvine: Good Comment! I also think Zevon was a "unique" singer/songwriter of exceptional talent.

[@jonchristiansen51]

I waited in anticipation for Warren...

[@whoarethebrainpigs]

absolutely ///didnt notice he was absent...and just realised Lenny was missing...Rick's usually on the money but a couple snuck through to the keeper here ,,,Donald Fagan. anyone???

[@georgesekavec1020]

Glad that this is at least one of the top comments, one of the most unappreciated talents of all time.

[@baronfyrewhine]

It was either Warren Zevon or Al Yankovic and I for one was glad to see that Rick chose Al. If there's a choice between mediocre level talent novelty song writers, Al wins every time.

[@MarceloLaraM]

Beautiful songs I listened for the first time, thank you

[@dankulkosky6045]

John Prine. Leonard Cohen. Lucinda Williams. Emmy Lou Harris. Kris Kristofferson. Etc

[@hosstbl1]

I love Emmy Lou Harris, but she spent the vast majority of her career doing other people's songs.

[@davidyohalem629]

@@hosstbl1 Many by Gram Parsons. Her taste is impeccable.

[@nostromo7928]

Leonard Cohen, absolutely!

[@YashicaMat]

But America, Seals and Crofts, Kenny Loggins... 😧

[@mariestriegler1109]

And what about Neil Diamond!??

[@JoeBrookhouse]

Thank you so much for including David Gates. As a child of the 70s, his songs informed my romantic ideal. This song is incredibly special to me since he wrote it about his father who had passed a few years earlier.

[@alannicolle3361]

I only learned this fact recently. Gates has one of the sweetest voices ever. I only know the hits, but I'm glad that I know them.

[@MichaelScotto]

Good to see Rick giving "America" and Jim Croce props. Underrated.

[@charlesschoeman9488]

Some of my favourite songs and artists I still have many of these albums, (original vinyl LP's). I was in my 20's during the 70's, now I'm in my 70's in the 20's. Love your videos. 👊

[@KimBioni]

I missed Leonard Cohen on this list, he's such a great songwritter, also Roger Waters

[@kafkapharnaum2690]

I went straight to the comments in case something like this would be there about Leonard Cohen and now I don't really feel like watching the video...

[@FERREIRAPHOTO]

I agree. And so many others. I didn't know about half of those people, and I understand why. This is a *very* subjective list.

[@KimBioni]

@@kafkapharnaum2690 still a solid list, but yeah, maybe he just forgot, that's the problem with lists

[@KimBioni]

@Rod Berg "Anthem" is one of the most beautiful songs i've ever heard

[@MrTeff999]

@@KimBioni maybe it needed to be the top 21 singer-songwriters

[@KinProductions]

I kind of just want to hear you guys cover every single one of these.

[@somebodyandthem]

In flames we trust

[@Luca-sg8zf]

Yes, please!

[@sexmachina]

Best ever cover band ever?

[@christinel5486]

Me too!

[@rickhibdon11]

Especially that Dylan tune! That was the best version I've ever heard!

[@ZenFox0]

Jason Tillery does a terrific job covering all these phenomenal artists, and Rick does a super job as always. Great list! 👏🏼

[@serpyllum]

I dunno, I thought his cover of the Judy Collins vocals on "Send in the clowns" was pretty damn hilarious.

[@BrandonHoyt]

Jeeeeez that guy can sing!! Also crazy how much he sounds like Cat Stevens.

[@skdesign98]

Gordon Lightfoot a true legend and actually one of Dylan's favourite songwriters!

[@rex8958]

Hit after hit from Gordon, one of the best of all time for sure, sadly not talked about much within the new generations

[@richardl3835]

Thanks Rick for reminding me how much I use to enjoy Gordon Lightfoot. I recently resurrected by my turntable and records collection, but for some reason I have been skipping over my copy of the Gordon's Gold. Listening to it now.

[@paullowe342]

Agree with all of you. A Bruce Cockburn mention would have been great. Perhaps a top ten Canadian songwriter list by the great Rick Beato.

[@cheneyrobert]

🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦😎👍🏻🥂

[@dougrobinson8602]

@@richardl3835 Skipping? Maybe you need a new turntable!

[@supertramp78]

Stephen Sondheim wrote Judy Collin's hit. JImmy Webb wrote Glen Campbell's hit. So how are these on a 'singer songwriter' list?

[@RockandRollWoman]

Take out any one of those covers and add Carole King. I'd add Dan Fogelberg too, and John Hiatt, even though no one knows who he is. But those are just me. Everyone has their favorites.

[@c.j.rogers2422]

Good point. Great songs, but they don't fit the criteria.

[@danserdutz6700]

Jimmy Webb's '10 Easy Pieces' album was one of the finest of that decade. He wrote, sang and played piano on each gem. Very Well Deserved

[@tonymiller6847]

Nah! Lots know Hiatt.

[@jaykay6387]

Yes. Would have thought that a "singer-songwriter" list of songs would require the "songwriter" to have actually sung the song. Kind of wrecks the list for me. And no Carol King, come on, Rick. List needs to be redone, I'm DQ'ing the whole thing!

[@tomforsythe7024]

Willie Nelson? I know it isn't a country music list, but he is a giant.

[@spearsba]

Willie and Merle, and Dolly. Prolific song writers. How about Kenny Rogers and Lionel Ritche

[@SeanVedell]

Or Vince Gill. Hits, hits and more hits plus he can shred. He just does it clean. Ignoring Country is a disservice to American music.

[@philiphicks1273]

Well then Harlan Howard trumps them all! ;-P

[@DeeEllEff]

@@SeanVedell As is leaving out jazz; e.g., many consider Duke Ellington the greatest (non-singer) composer of songs of the 20th century.

[@SeanVedell]

@@DeeEllEff Agreed. Pat Metheny, Chick Corea…the list is endless.

[@ChristineStaats-vu4qr]

We are about the same age and these were so many of my favorite songs and/or favorite song writers. Loved this so much. Thank you. Took me back to the 70's.

[@ronmer]

Townes Van Zandt, and John Prine needed at least an honorary mention. Townes is/was amazing. Even Dylan wanted to record with him. Prine was/is an American treasure.

[@c.j.rogers2422]

Was, unfortunately. Mr. Prine died just over 1 year ago.

[@barakbalestrery4138]

Yep he was American treasure. Friends of Science is a favorite of mine. " Friends of Science say the world will end most any day. And I say that's okay, becsuse I don't live here anyway.

[@BlackAxe-ti7tj]

I'm surprised that I had to read so many comments without someone mentioning Townes Van Zandt. He's one of my favourites!

[@davidyohalem629]

@@BlackAxe-ti7tj Mentor of Steve Earle, who is also strangely absent.

[@brin57]

@@davidyohalem629 Even Steve Earle himself could be on this list

[@alecspeer]

#19 A Heart of Gold is from 1972's "Harvest". "Harvest Moon" is a different album by Neil, released 20 years afterward in 1992.

[@javierheras2327]

Exactly, I was about to write the same thing. The two albums have nothing to do with each other apart from the similar titles.

[@JamesWilliams-en3os]

@@javierheras2327 actually, the two albums have a number of connections, although this hasn’t got much to do with the original comment. As Neil stated in an interview (it’s here on KZbin) “the songs tell [him] how hey need to go”, and he felt that the songs he wrote for Harvest Moon were similar to the songs he wrote for Harvest. He brought together most of the same musicians to record Harvest Moon that he had used on Harvest.

[@garyfredericks814]

I was going to say that :)

[@johnhughes3214]

I would also mention "Vincent" by Don McLean and "At 17" by Janis Ian, two incredibly beautiful but melancholy songs.

[@kevinb3812]

Who can argue with that... great stuff!

[@laddrob]

@@kevinb3812 Or Society's Child

[@kevine7414]

Totally agree, beautiful, open, vulnerable, poetic songs.

[@Tagurrit]

Janis Ian is spectacular.

[@1tabt]

@@TagurritSociety's Child

[@mobdevice]

Amazing singing Jason! So warm and expressive

[@tommcdonald1873]

In an era where you get copyright strikes, have videos demonetized, etc., Seeing what Joni Mitchell gave for you for showcasing "Amelia" proved at least with her and others like Peter Frampton your work is appreciated, and so do I.

[@The_Smith]

No matter how long she's been away, Ms. Mitchell's Saskatchewan roots run deep. That was a nice thing she did.

[@dont_follow5777]

I just love Circle Game

[@brucewilcox4135]

She is from Fort McLeod Alberta, not Saskatchewan.

[@The_Smith]

@@brucewilcox4135 born there, grew up in Maidstone, Northbattleford, Saskatoon, I think we can share :)

[@karenpellerin5841]

@@brucewilcox4135 I understand why you said that, but I read in Wikipedia that she considers Saskatoon her hometown. What's yours?

[@ShotDownInFlames2]

1970 to 1975 was officially the Singer Songwriter era. "Suite to Judy Blue Eyes" could be on the list too.

[@TexanUSMC8089]

Really? How about Bob Dylan in the 60's. I could write a whole list on the folk singers of the 60's.

[@saucyjk6453]

Yep. And elton john was the biggest. Full stop.

[@davidyohalem629]

@@saucyjk6453 He should be disqualified. He always worked with a lyricist (Taupin), never wrote a word.

[@davidyohalem629]

@@TexanUSMC8089 Tom Paxton, Richard Fariña, Gordon Lightfoot, Robbie Robertson, Marty Balin, Jesse Colin Young, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Laura Nyro, John Sebastian, Phil Ochs, Len Chandler...Lots of pre-1970 singer-songwriters. Smokey Robinson, Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye...

[@karenpellerin5841]

@@davidyohalem629 ??? Seems to me I heard Jason sing Carefree Highway, no?

[@AudioVile]

As much as I liked them all, You two absolutely CRUSHED #8, Operator. Outstanding 'mini-rendition.' I was surprised and thrilled with Joni Mitchell at #1. She is my favorite solo artist (along with James Taylor). I know this is 2 years ago, but I just discovered you this week and subscribed. I have LOTS of catching up to do!

[@JB-ti7bl]

Beware, binge watching Rick Beato can be dangerous to your work attendance.

[@AudioVile]

@@JB-ti7bl I can believe THAT!!!

[@drewliedtke2377]

That Joni Mitchel story legit got me choked up. What a class act.

[@rickroberts1067]

Me too!

[@wandasmith8201]

Your playing is so beautiful and calming. I so enjoyed this video. Your playing and the vocals are great. Thank you

[@deadstar44]

I had chills when I saw that special dedicated gift from her.

[@brianprinty112]

Yeah, I got goosebumps too! I love when real connections are made from artists to fans

[@lisafuller624]

Me too!

[@Drums-ve8on]

I feel like there is a big gap where Carol King should be.

[@davidcopson5800]

Well, he's done his list now, so it's too late baby.

[@joemarshall4226]

And Laura Nyro

[@davidmusicmaker]

@@davidcopson5800 , too clever.

[@joemarshall4226]

I like Carole King...who doesn't?...but which of her songs stands up there with Mr Tambourine Man, Sounds of Silence, Hallelujah, Operator, Both Sides Now, or John Prine's Paradise....i guess Up On The Roof would be the one....it's a great song..... .

[@thekevinkaye]

@@joemarshall4226 (You Make Me Feel Like) a Natural Woman, You've Got a Friend, It's Too Late, Crying in the Rain, Will You Love Me Tomorrow, So Far Away

[@isaaccooksey7752]

Rick: “I love Bob Dylan so much I named my son after him.” Also Rick: mentions Bob Dylan once in a blue moon

[@randymarthins3473]

Is Rick's son named Bob or Dylan?

[@bobbybobbatunday9959]

Uncle Robert?

[@isaaccooksey7752]

@@randymarthins3473 His name is Dylan

[@gregmcamp]

@@randymarthins3473 Plot twist: His sons name is Zimmerman

[@allenswanson2423]

@@gregmcamp yeah, he and his brother sue had it hard in elementary school

[@wendyvaldez5381]

As you surely know, "Heart of Gold" was on the album "Harvest". ”Harvest Moon" was it's sequel that came out in the 90s. Love the list! .

[@MrFloyd-te1nh]

Heart Of Gold is from the album called "Harvest"; "Harvest Moon" is a different album

[@ILoveDawko]

Both amazing albums, and I couldn't believe it when I looked up the year Harvest Moon was released!

[@mikereiss4216]

@@ILoveDawko Harvest Moon is better imo. There's one wonky track on the original.

[@MrFloyd-te1nh]

I love both albums! there isn't one song I don't like

[@realmusic962]

We were the backup band for Seals & Crofts in the 80's in large clubs. They were always fantastic at hanging around after shows and affectionately talking with fans. Great guys.

[@08thriver]

Probably saw you in Chicago!

[@neilschroeder7854]

50 years later and Summer Breeze still holds up. Just as fresh as the day it was recorded.

[@jimandlizhudson2501]

And the Isley Brothers' version was just as great. Love both.

[@hotjamsm07]

So very cool that Joni responded with love, to the love that you showed for her and her music. This made my day. There are truly wonderful people in this world, Joni and Rick are two of them.

[@blackjackreward4456]

Fun fact, I believe it was Joni who told my friend that one must be careful of Bob Dylan, when he stays at friends' places he's got the incurable habit of stealing his friends' stuff. No joke, any confirmations out there of this fact?

[@micke3035]

A very nice gesture of Joni, the world needs more like her!

[@LillyMarz777]

No it doesn't.

[@barriwinter1853]

Carol King's TAPESTRY. One of the best albums of all time.

[@julianneflora-tostado7785]

Please consider Joni Mitchell’s Woodstock

[@katherinemorelle7115]

Also, Don McLean’s Tapestry. He’s also my favourite singer songwriter.

[@nineball039]

@@julianneflora-tostado7785 Woodstock is a song not an album.

[@karenpellerin5841]

One of the most forgotten! I had to seek it out.

[@seanmegumi]

I hope Joni, like Bob, can someday be recognised by the Nobel Committee for her always-fresh poetry. She credits her English teacher for help in avoiding clichés, a commitment that has resulted in her digging deepest, as a songwriter and as a human being. “Joni for the Nobel in Literature”!

[@OuterGalaxyLounge]

Rick: Brings in own singer to comply with KZbin rules. KZbin: How can we find a way to screw with this?

[@scottmcgregor562]

Well, Rick screwed KZbin great the one time he just sang all the songs himself. His voice is so bad the KZbin algorithms didn't pick up on him singing copyrighted material.

[@mloftin6472]

I bet his talented vocalist friend can do Chris Cornell vocals justice.

[@jamesgoddard2321]

@@mloftin6472 After Chris died he sang “Seasons” with Rick on guitar, in tribute. Well worth looking up and viewing.

[@mloftin6472]

@@jamesgoddard2321 I will right now. Thanks!

[@Lepidopray]

I stopped counting ads at 5. KZbin WINS!!!!

[@TimeWaverTV]

Great listing, all exceptional songs and songwriters, each has had so many great songs that could extend this list. Great Vocals Jason, great compilation dear Rick - as always 🙂

[@Orangie2008]

Even I choked up a little that Joni Mitchell sent you that signed gift. What a treasure. I resonated clearly with each choice, sir!

[@mongobanger]

Me too

[@jmarty1000]

Heck I choked up just seeing "Both Sides Now" at #1, because I have always felt that song is the masterpiece of the art form.

[@guitarjonn7103]

Thanks Rick. What an honor to get that from Joni Mitchell, congrats. Puzzled why Carole King and John Prine didn’t make the cut on this.

[@DeeEllEff]

Also disappointed about Prine’s absence.

[@bengui9749]

Yeah, disappointed not to see John Prine included.

[@queenslanddiva]

Maggie May was an astounding song when it was released. So many wonderful songs here, bringing it all back! Disappointed that Leonard Cohen couldn't find a place!

[@justinevirtue1755]

Was thinking of Cohen too. He's in a category all his own though.

[@MartijnHover]

Maybe many people think he's mostly about the lyrics, being an accomplished poet, but his music and guitar playing really weren't all that bad. I taught myself to play the guitar, more or less, with the aid of a song book of his. "Halleluja" is of course a classic.

[@stevejette2329]

Suzanne takes you down.

[@AmandaHugandKiss411]

100% agreed

[@davecarbee3955]

Totally agree with Gates being underrated. Great choice. Nice note when you sang 'place' in #10

[@seanhollandcanada]

I actually got teary-eyed when he showed the gift that Joni sent him.

[@greyhairedphantom4038]

Me too 🥲

[@hnnymn]

Me too.

[@dwaynebruny]

Yeah, "Nick" appeared moved 😂

[@dwaynebruny]

*Mitchell:* What Noooow? *Agent:* You've been agrandized - yet again... on... The KZbin, ma'am. *Mitchell:* Again? Show me. INTERN!!! *Intern:* Your Pro Book appears fallow, ma'am, after you spilled herbal tea on the keyboard. *Mitchell:* SILENCE... PLEBE!!! Bring me the Pad. *Rick:* Joni Mitchell, one of the BEST singer songwriters... a treasure... phenomenal voice... lyrics to die for... * *Mitchell hears* * Joni Mitchell blah blah blah Joni Mitchell blah blah... Joni Mitchell... *Agent:* Rather flattering review, wouldn't you say, ma'am? I suggest we acknowledge the gentleman in some manner. *Mitchell:* What holiday is upon? *Intern:* Christma... *Mitchell:* SILENCE... DUST UNDER MY FEET!!! Agent? *Agent:* The Yule Tide is near, ma'am. *Mitchell:* Fetch the gift. *Agent:* We appear to have an abundance of these box sets, ma'am. *Mitchell:* PEASANT!!! SHARPIE!!!... Dick, is it? *Agent:* Rick, ma'am. *Mitchell:* Merry Christmas, Nick... *Intern:* It's "Rick", your ladyship... *Mtchell:* You're REAaaaLLY getting on my nerves... Merry Christmas... "NICK". Now... both of you... PISS OFF. Mama needs some Real Housewives. Where's the remote? *Intern:* It appears you've gummed it up with humus, Mistress. *Mitchell:* Bring me the instrument. Looks like Joni needs to write another song.

[@leoleandro2605]

@@dwaynebruny funny

[@tomokra]

K-Tel Presents Rick Beato and the Sounds of the Early 70s

[@dmlevitt]

I'd buy it. I was watching old K-Tel ads the other day. hilarious. cheers Tom

[@paulsimmons5726]

Funny, funny, funny!

[@jdekong3945]

bit harsh

[@1dkappe]

Soundtrack for the Popeil Pocket Fisherman fishing trip.

[@Wichitan]

If Jim Croce was alive and making music today, he never would have seen any over-the-air play, much less had a top ten hit. He'd be trying to get his music known via the music stores or band websites, like a lot of artists today. You have to consider the musical era; the singer-songwriter era was centered on the early 70s. Sure, there are others that aren't on this list, and even modern day singer-songwriters (BTW, 'MTV Unplugged' doesn't count), but they're much harder to identify in the current 'music' market. Which is very, very sad.

[@lisaannbarriner9633]

John Denver is seriously underrated and under appreciated, IMHO. Not many can do folk like he did.

[@ziblot1235]

A lot of the counter culture types, that were taking drugs and partying non stop, felt like John had "sold out" or gone "hollywood", when he had his TV show. It didnt help his image much. Then there was that mpvie with George Burns. Uhhh, yeah, Hollywood. But his songs were pretty and have stood the test of time quite well.

[@ppierquet1]

Yes, I think John Denver is underappreciated....his music seems to be fading, yet he crafted some of our most beautiful tunes! RIP, John....

[@dawnvickerstaff]

Oh Rick, here's my musical history complete with all the stories, the memories, the emotions, the loves, the losses, my life. Thank you.

[@dbc603]

"Wichita Lineman" is one of my all time favorites. I think the line "I need you more than want you, and I want you for all time" is one of the greatest lines ever written. Thanks!

[@DHarri9977]

Glen Campbell another great artist, I watched the documentary on Netflix "I'll be me" which takes you along on his final tour before being completely overtaken by dementia.

[@eggchipsnbeans]

Actually my favourite line is when he sings "and if it snows that stretch down south will never take the strain". I can't thing of songs celebrating the work of the ordinary man or woman

[@dalemartell8639]

And Glen was one of the greatest guitarists off all time.

[@Pomoz7]

@@dalemartell8639 Indeed he was, but Jimmy Webb wrote this song as well as Galveston. Glen was chosen to release it because Jimmy was not as easy on the eye as Glen. I have heard Jimmy sing and I don't think he is as good a singer either. What a great songwriter though!

[@ChristianW1975]

Glen Campbell is easily one of the most talented musicians of all time, AND he could sing like a dream

[@andrewowen7377]

I really enjoyed this one - I am 61 so this is my own lifetime of musical memories. I think our generation produced the most creative and inventive music

[@enviableechidna]

I don't know. I think most people end up feeling like that about the music that was popular when they were teenagers/early adults. While I can appreciate the difficulty in paring a list like this down to 20 people/groups I feel like calling it "all-time" is a bit hyperbolic. I'd put Pink or Sara Bareilles up against really anyone on this list for their ability to tell stories not just with music but in their words as well. Others have noted the general absence of female singer-songwriters at all. Even sticking with a similar time period, leaving out Carole King and Dolly Parton just seems a massive oversight. I think in 20-30 years people will be talking about Pink the way we talk about artists like Bob Dylan or James Taylor...an artist who just defined the era. Many of her songs lean more into the "pop" vibe, which I can understand might not be everyones favorite (and can sound just over-produced). But there is really no denying the poetry of many of her songs not released as singles. Family Portrait just makes me ugly cry and Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken just feels so anthemic, despite being a much more low-key song.

[@truthlikevelcro5689]

We totally did. I sang in my 1st band in 1974. I loved EVERY SINGLE ONE of these songs. Great artistry.

[@ronaldjasonind]

Everyone's talking about some song or the other being left out, but man let's just take a moment to acknowledge the amazing musicianship of Rick and the singer dude here, blows my mind. I could literally just listen to a whole album of this amazing duo!

[@darkhill556]

I'm so thankful that Rick has chosen to invest the time to create these videos for us. He's an insanely skilled musician, an awesome teacher, and a great role model in a whole bunch of ways. Thanks Rick, we appreciate all you do!!!

[@desertgirl45]

Yes....Rick & his singer guy are just great!

[@GlamorganManor]

I was thinking the same thing about an album!

[@hanreality.7266]

No, I wasn’t feeling it for the singer.

[@JohnResciniti]

The full versions of these songs with those two performers would make a hell of an album!

[@pvtmurre]

Another 20 singer/songwriter songs that I'd rate as highly as Rick's picks: 1964 - Tom Paxton - The Last Thing on My Mind 1965 - Donovan - Colours 1967 - Tim Buckley - Phantasmagoria in Two 1967 - Leonard Cohen - Suzanne 1968 - Van Morrison - Sweet Thing 1969 - John Stewart - Razorback Woman 1969 - Townes Van Zandt - Fare Thee Well, Miss Carousel 1970 - Kris Kristofferson - Casey's Last Ride 1970 - Don McLean - Castles in the Air 1971 - Carole King - So Far Away 1974 - Bert Jansch - Travelling Man 1975 - Janis Ian - Watercolors 1975 - Joan Baez - Diamonds and Rust 1975 - Guy Clark - L.A. Freeway 1976 - Kate & Anna McGarrigle - My Town 1978 - John Prine - Bruised Orange (Chain of Sorrow) 1985 - Suzanne Vega - Marlene on the Wall 2014 - Adrianne Lenker - Indiana 2019 - The Tallest Man on Earth - What I've Been Kicking Around 2019 - Ian Noe - Letter to Madeline

[@sealisa1398]

No words for Joni…a mind treasure. Stunning talent that reaches into our little heads.

[@danielduesentriebjunior]

It brought me to tears that you chose Joni Mitchell as the winner. I don't know the other artists presented here so well like her, but she was/is outstanding. Her lovely compositions and looks, her development from country music more towards Jazz. All those top musicians who wanted to play with her like Pat Metheny, Lyle Mays, Jaco Pastorius, etc... Reminds me of the top musicians who wanted to play with Miles Davis, later becoming famous themselves.

[@stefanmathias8239]

Billy Joel is definitely missing here, and of course Carole King. Besides this, Rick's selection shows again his deep understanding of songs and songwriting, and what it can give to us.

[@zvipatent]

Thx. I noticed Billy Joel missing also.

[@007KayElleKay]

Lennon and McCartney are missing but yes , Joni Mitchell deserves her place at number one !

[@michealkristofferson2955]

I'm so with you regarding the absence of Billy Joel and Carole King too.....and has he ever heard of Paul McCartney?

[@commontater8630]

There are so many songwriters missing, ones who wrote stuff better than Neil Diamond *ever* wrote, that I don't know where to begin. I love Rick's videos, but now I'm finding there's an awesome chasm between us where taste in songwriting is concerned.

[@skinovtheperineum1208]

@@commontater8630 - I think that was Ausable Chasm. It's in New York.