Sissel Kyrkjebø, Paddy Moloney & Kalle Moraeus - Shenandoah

Norwegian soprano Sissel Kyrkjebø performing "Shenandoah" with Irish musician Paddy Moloney and Swedish musician Kalle Moraeus at a TV-concert in Drammen Theater, Norway in 2001. Moloney died on 11 October 2021, aged 83.
Sissel, the international singing sensation and national treasure of Norway, is established as one of the world’s leading crossover sopranos. Her angelic and powerful voice has made Sissel a national institution and she has sung all over the world since her debut in the 1980s, selling over ten million solo albums. She contributed haunting vocal tracks for the soundtrack to Titanic and The Lord of the Rings, and has performed with singers like Charles Aznavour, Andrea Bocelli, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Jose Carreras, Placido Domingo, Mario Frangoulis, Josh Groban, Diana Krall, Tommy Körberg, Brian May, Willie Nelson, Neil Sedaka, Bryn Terfel, Russell Watson and many more. In 2005, Sissel was knighted by the King of Norway, as the youngest ever to receive this honour. And in 2006, her album 'The Spirit of the Season' with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir went to number-one on the Billboard Classical Charts, receiving a Grammy nomination.
"Shenandoah" (also called "Oh Shenandoah", or "Across the Wide Missouri") is an American folk song, dating to the early 19th century. The lyrics may tell the story of a roving trader in love with the daughter of an Indian chief; in this interpretation, the rover tells the chief of his intent to take the girl with him far to the west, across the Missouri River. Other interpretations tell of a pioneer's nostalgia for the Shenandoah River Valley in Virginia, and a young woman who is its daughter; or of a Union soldier in the American Civil War, dreaming of his country home to the west of the Missouri river, in Shenandoah, Iowa (though the town lies some 50 miles east of the river). The provenance of the song is unclear.
The song is also associated with escaped slaves. They were said to sing the song in gratitude because the river allowed their scent to be lost.
The Shenandoah area made many parts like wheels and seats for wagons going west. These parts were assembled in Conestoga Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania and settlers set out in Conestoga wagons down the Ohio River, on the Mississippi and west up the Missouri River. Lyrics were undoubtedly added by rivermen, settlers, and the millions who went west. With possible origins in Virginia, noting that its title is also the name of a Virginia river, the song has been considered for Virginia's official state song.

[@sisselfan]

See how others react when they hear Sissel perform this song. Playlist with reaction videos of KZbin users responding to "Shenandoah": kzbin.info/www/bejne/b6CWiJyoaaich8U

[@Ozmulki]

Agree. The best version ever!

[@crunchy2k]

Bizarre response from an Asian. What is this sisselfan in color?

[@밤꽃중달]

여러가지 버젼으로 부르는군요

[@sueannevans3646]

Vocally this is perfection.

[@giora150357]

With Sissel singing the World is a better place.

[@allenjones3130]

Sissel is one of the greatest singers of all time.

[@thomassmith1080]

Hello Allen. How’s your day going?

[@dappy848]

She is incredible and then Paddy starts up. This is one of the best pieces of music on record. The whistle is haunting.

[@KennethWiens]

Sissel still has a voice like an angel

[@sifridbassoon]

I just realized that this song is the American "Danny Boy." Both sing about someone having to leave home. So sad. So much loss. I think that as you get older, you appreciate the people in your life who are gone. Unfortunately, sometimes that can make this song excruciatingly painful. 😭

[@moranplano]

And very sad...but in a beautiful way.

[@fsinjin60]

They are both sea shanties which do not mention the sea.

[@kathleenalarid1150]

My son just left for the military one week ago. This song is so beautiful but still, it makes me sad.

[@mergenocide]

@@fsinjin60 It's kind of ironic, the idea is that Shenandoah was meant as a shanty for working on barges on the river, hence "you rolling river". And while they are called sea shanties as they became popularized in the mid to late 1800s on "the sea", the earliest evidence of sea shanties were actually from around the 1806 from slaves in Martinique, and slaves pushing cotton up and down the Mississippi river. So it's kind of full circle.

[@scott6763]

Well said...

[@richardbates3272]

Dear God, Is this what heaven sound like?

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWi8Z598gJx9mrc

[@floydfarless8448]

Yes !

[@justforthemusic90]

The Newsroom brought me here and it brought me tears. Both the scene and this song made me all emotional. So sad!

[@MarcAmbrosia]

Loved Charlie!

[@quinceygirl19]

I loved Charlie♥

[@justforthemusic90]

Brynna Caffrey Me too!

[@karilindsay3670]

I'll be back in a minute. :'(

[@danielprestonjones]

All the feels, man all the feels. Watching that Newsroom scene, then listening to this. Its just to much.

[@donloughrey1615]

I've watched this many many times. Sissel is a gift from heaven. This time I shed tears when Paddy's face was shown. R.I.P. Paddy Maloney.

[@tedsteele8154]

Likewise, I understand

[@fatimaursulaursula3147]

Não falo português, mas SISSEL e uma.das obras Divinas de Deus!

[@fatimaursulaursula3147]

Me encanta 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷

[@StephenRArchambault]

Same. Gift from Heaven!

[@richardhale3451]

Unbelievably beautiful rendition of the song in every regard. I have never heard the tin whistle played so beautifully.

[@GaryWells-sr2rf]

❤ I grew up singing this song for 60 years. This blows my mind. The melody is perfect. The singing is angelic!! 😢 something is in my eyes. Rest in peace Paddy 🙏🏻

[@danielperry8221]

I've been hearing this song for over 60 years-best version ever-thanks.

[@DouglasLawson-os5fb]

Just how stunning is that performance? Truly wonderful music, filled with heart felt passion. It puts modern day music to shame.

[@stephanieb3314]

God has blessed us all by giving us a voice such as Sissel's and and talent such as Paddy Maloney's. The angels in Heaven do not make better music.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWi8Z598gJx9mrc

[@leslieclary5572]

Her voice, the flute and violin are touching spiritually.

[@kenchristie9214]

Paddy is playing a penny whistle.

[@1tnrebel]

i can listen to sissel for hours and hours

[@peterflynn7440]

like millions of others who love REAL singing,

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@luisaascari1246]

An Angel that has come here to help us to survive

[@johnburns6422]

It is my most favoured films of all time ,I am in my late late seventies i have viewed the film a thousand times or so ,James Steward Brilliant .

[@johndaley3464]

I haven't heard such pure voice ever am 75 and love all types of music, am blown away by this

[@CFDavid]

What a beautiful instrument God gave her.

[@jessyjamess2082]

Mille Bravo ! Mes yeux pleurent quand j'entends Sissel Kyrkjebø chanter. 🥰

[@brunodhostel1201]

Moi aussi, et cela depuis plusieurs années !!

[@hmackie6823]

I am 61 years old now and yes...this is the greatest female voice I've ever heard...and I've heard most!

[@hmackie6823]

Leann Rhymes comes close

[@marianwalsh6297]

U are so right she is perfect

[@hmackie6823]

@@marianwalsh6297 if u like that,my favorite male singer is Otis Redding...especially the 1967 Monterey Festival songs

[@patrickmarmorat1126]

Judith Durham voice is also perfect

[@hmackie6823]

@@patrickmarmorat1126 I also like Judith and The Seekers

[@djbillybopdjbillybop2817]

Great song and singer also the late Paddy Moloney of the Irish Folk band The Chieftains sadly passed away on October 12, 2021, in Dublin “Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

[@floydfarless8448]

Amen. Teach the angels to sing the old songs.

[@georgfriedrichhandel4390]

My favorite American folk song and this is without a doubt one of the best renditions I've ever heard. Beautiful song sung so beautifully. What more can anyone ask for?

[@johndillard8588]

Thanks to political change it may, unfortunately, become forbidden American Folk music.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@theofficialphoenixtv5765]

@@johndillard8588 lmfao goo oen

[@johndillard8588]

@@theofficialphoenixtv5765 : what are you saying?

[@jeffcarpenter5147]

@@johndillard8588 That would be a hell of a loss.

[@lizgonyul]

So beautiful. Thank you.❤

[@tomclayton9358]

I love her voice and like very much that she doesn't paint he face.

[@billdouglas2936]

One of the most beautiful and talented people ever to hail from Norway.

[@andrewol1]

Paddy Moloney of the chieftains makes it for me. Fantastic tin whistle. Almost haunting combination with her voice.

[@CrownedWithLaurels]

I knew I recognised the earnest face above the tin whistle, cheers! It is lovely.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@HeartoftheDragonColo]

I heard the tones & had to look. Love ya Paddy!

[@geoffmcharg5969]

A simple tin whistle, and a ton of soul. Paddy we will miss you so. God bless.

[@willsherman1049]

One of the most beautiful songs in the American playlist. Sung beautifully by a superb voice. You should be happy you have access to it.

[@008zapotec]

As beautiful as the song is the story. It breaks me down every time. A french trapper falls in love with a Native American princess, leaves for war and seven years later, although the war doesnt kill him, he is dying to see her if not just one last time because her memory is what kept him alive. And no one knows or remembers him but his love endured the centuries.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4ipY3uBi9hmY8U

[@larrylamb3480]

WOW, I love the story line and it brings tears to my eyes of how love can truly and deeply touch our lives ! Thank you .

[@meteor2012able]

Thanks... I love the song more now.

[@da359]

I heard it was from a indian tribe's chief had a daughter, and the song is about a man wanting to marry her

[@Flattyre1]

beautiful song made the more beautiful, very splendid.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@johndwyer9591]

i thought i had died and gone to heaven listening to this,

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@bigdmac33]

Oh my goodness, I can feel the electric going down my spine.

[@checkmate440]

If anybody could be too beautiful it would be Sissel.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@jimsitko2392]

Truly a voice from heaven. I've heard many renditions of "Shenandoah" and nothing can come close to this one. With Paddy and Kalle at Sissel's side, the team was perfect. Sorry to hear of the passing of Paddy.

[@Maritimer2009]

After 60 years I can now say I have heard the most beautiful voice in the world!

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@joycemills2218]

It took me 81 but thanks be to God.

[@stevenavisky4031]

The energy of Sissel's voice is astral. Thank you.

[@peterhoughton]

Always a pleasure to listen to this lady, what a voice

[@pacrimco]

Tears come every time I hear Sissel's very emotional rendering of Shenandoah. The haunting whistle of Paddy Maloney sends chills up my spine and the violin perfectly mutes the whole presentation from falling off the very fine edge of musical magnifigance. Bravo, and Bravo, and Bravo!

[@deananderson6057]

SISSEL , YOU ARE AS BEAUTIFUL AS YOUR SINGING, LOVE U Deano from NZ.

[@SANTIAGO636]

Great to have the Chieftains playing with her...That Irish sound is unbeatable

[@noriemeha]

Yes Paddy on whistle is from the Chieftains. The fiddler is Moreaus whose brother composed the Koppangen tune.

[@lynprayerfulvigilantdiscer6923]

A foretaste of Heaven... the voice of an angel 🌈🙏🏻🌈

[@luckyluciano2395]

The most beautiful combination of words to describe a voice that I've ever seen.

[@luckyluciano2395]

@Henry Horner how do you know? I've had the misfortune to seeing the other side. I dealt with cancer since age 12 and now I'm 25. During one of my brain surgeries I saw something beautiful. I didn't want to come back. I wanted to stay. But I was being pulled back. As if I were being pushed. The misfortune of it is I came back. I wanted to stay

[@luckyluciano2395]

@Henry Horner come to find out I flatlined due to a massive drop in blood pressure. Now mind you, under general anesthesia, you don't dream. Any dream you have is you being not fully sedated. I don't know what it was.

[@donaldmatthew4980]

Hi Lyn, that'll do for me. X

[@painter790]

In my opinion there is no way that this performance of Shenandoah could ever be improved on. That crystal clear clear voice of Sissell's make shivers go down my spine---her voice inflections are perfectly done for this number. She has an amazing talent---I am one of her new fans. The addition of a violin and pipe perfectly complement the performance.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@larrylamb3480]

Amen !

[@larrylamb3480]

AMEN !

[@kevinwalsh6450]

It's actually an Irish tin whistle played by Paddy Moloney of the Irish traditional band the Chieftains

[@catherinemcdonald3063]

The audience is mesmerised, me too. Truly angelic. Beautiful.

[@henryhorner3182]

Discovering Sissel is one of the best highlights of last year. I keep returning and playing her music over and over again now.

[@noriemeha]

Yes, lockdown would have been more miserable without a daily input from that voice.

[@jamescasement6635]

Yes I found her during lock down this is the best version of my favourite tune absolutely mesmerising

[@djjim01]

Who, in their right mind, could ever give this a thumbs-down ???? Unbelievable !!

[@sandraoopie]

djjim01 there are plenty of people who gave me thumbs down when I posted a comment on a Holocaust-related article in which I wrote about my grandfather's brother who had died at the concentration camp Mauthausen. And that's just one of the unbelievable thumbs-down or up incidents I've experienced on the internet. So many monstrous dark slimy things dwell on the internet. I try mostly to keep my distance nowadays.

[@sandraoopie]

djjim01 of course I agree more wholeheartedly than I can ever express in words, but there are so, so, so many who don't, many of whom are often out in full force on internet forums like this where they can hide their evil behind the anonymity of the web.

[@djjim01]

sandraoopie You're correct about those who hide behind the obscurity of the www (web). If you have a few minutes, check out the song One Tin Soldier by Coven from the 70s movie Billy Jack. There are some really poignant words within the lyrics - - "Turned The Stone And Looked Beneath It, Peace On Earth Was All It Said". Therein, lies the ANSWER to most of the problems facing the World these days !!

[@sandraoopie]

djjim01 OK that is one of my all-time favorite songs EVER! What a brilliant song! A few years ago there was a screening of Billy Jack at a theater near me here in LA, and I thought I'd go check it out, thinking it probably wouldn't have held up that well after all these years. Well, boy was I wrong, it was still every bit as good and as powerful as back in the day when I was a little girl and it first came out. Best of all, there was a presentation by the stars, Tom Laughlin and Delores Taylor, after the screening. I felt so privileged to be there and hear them speak about this wonderful film. I believe Mr. Laughlin died not too long afterward, and then I felt even luckier that I'd gotten the chance to see him when I still could. Thank you for bringing up that song...I think I'll go listen to it on Spotify right now! Have a wonderful day and yes let's try to do all we can to make up for all the s**theads on the internet by doing the most good that we can during our time here.

[@djjim01]

sandraoopie One of my all-time favorites, too. Still good after all these years and never gets old. :-) Sometime during the early to mid 70s, for two years running, One Tin Soldier was the MOST requested song, Most often among radio stations across the U.S.A. Lucky You, to have been able to see Tom Laughlin and Delores Taylor in person, before he passed away.

[@hmackie6823]

perhaps the greatest female voice I ever heard

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@henryhorner3182]

She may not be the greatest. But can rightfully take her place with the greatest.

[@michaelbrand8279]

Beautiful performance! RIP Paddy Moloney--a big loss to the Irish music community. :'-(

[@rodfreburg6981]

the only word that comes to mind is perfection

[@chs6467]

I suspect that Sissel never decided on one particular music genre because she wanted to sing every beautiful sing that was ever written…Oh gosh what a wonderful singer!

[@AaronApanui]

She's a versatile singer indeed, who is not confined to songs from any particular genre. She is able to handle pretty much any song while putting her own elegant touch on it. Quite difficult to find this nowadays.

[@louiscrowe8699]

@@AaronApanui last

[@noriemeha]

She's not a snob musically nor, thank goodness, a diva.

[@saintjohnno]

First time listening to this version of Shenandoah .. This ladies voice is pure magic.. grabbed my attention from her very first note ... From the land downunder..

[@wallacebentley6655]

73 yoa and couldn't agree more. This is the performance where I discovered her and still treasure it.

[@joshuafarmer3467]

Her voice would make me go to Heaven. Jesus God she has a soul of music. Makes me sing myself. Beautiful.

[@hoborock007]

Ditto... couldn't say it better myself

[@conniewolf7300]

👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@BrianMulligan]

I was listening to this in the background when I heard that tin whistle. Paddy Moloney that my father had been listening to since the early sixties. Great song, great singing and great accompaniment.

[@ConorGalvin]

Lovely piece; especially on a slow Sunday. :-)

[@MrEointroy]

theres a beautiful instrumental by tony rice unit

[@twoZJs]

Conor Galvin Still lovely on this slow Sunday 010514. Don't think Emmylou Harris or Loreena McKennitt could do any better, so beautiful.

[@podgeleinenbach7748]

GoatDriver Ram Very relaxing sings like a angel

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@ketilliland]

Rest in peace, Paddy and thank you for the music.

[@brooke4627]

One of the finest and most touching versions of the American classic folk song. Shenandoah has been one of my favourite songs for many a year - and not without good reason. Some mysteries are forever.

[@donnanichols4157]

Absolutely beautiful. I lived in the Smokey Mountains and spent time in Shenandoah National Park. This is probably the most outstanding rendition of the song I have heard! It took me back to the Shenandoah's, the peacefulness, the clear skies, the birds ...the colors..

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@Teresa7087]

I've visited the Shenandoah valley many times. Used to live in VA. It is breathtaking. Now live in mts of western NC. Equally breathtaking.

[@janakis4789]

where did you live? Which town?

[@markrymanowski719]

Jo Stafford sung this. Interesting comparison. Here on utube.

[@jakobkovar8249]

Fyi ironically “Oh, Shenandoah” was written about a native chief up in New York State named Shenandoah, which is why the song references shenandoahs daughter. Even still, I like to think it’s a song about the park :)

[@justabaker5609]

I have listened to thousands of songs in all genres and her voice is without a doubt the most beautiful I've ever heard.

[@leslieclary5572]

My favorite song ever! I was in 6th grade the first time I heard it. I was so emotional, just overcome with something that I still can't explain. This song was made for her voice. Beautiful!❤️

[@scottlewis417]

What a wonderful performance. I love this song and have been listening to it for 55 years; this is the best version I have ever heard. I see nothing wrong with the breathing of Miss Sissel. She is an angel, and a musical goddess.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@pmartin7397]

This has got to be the most beautiful rendition of this song I've heard so far. Her beautiful voice and the plaintive Irish tin whistle make it an evocative experience.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4ipY3uBi9hmY8U

[@patoconnor8256]

Agree entirely. Sissel's voice is second to none,and PADDY MALONEY of the CHIEFTAINS group on the tin whistle, is the icing on the cake.

[@RobertSJHu]

Aloha to Sissel for your divine gift of song and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Am 79 years old and love your singinging. Your singing has extended my fragile human life and I thank God for you my kind human angel !!!!! Robert S.J. Hu June 17, 2021.

[@RobertSJHu]

Hi! again Sissel for your blessed song of "Shenandoah." Gratefully, Robert June 24, 2021.

[@hoplong61]

She has a very beautiful voice

[@betsyhall5094]

What a voice!! Love the emotion she puts into this lovely American folk song!!! I have always loved it. My brother used to sing and play it on his guitar--he has since passed and is in God's arms.

[@jeremydow1432]

Alms also always amen

[@abrogard142]

total beauty. and the expression on her face ! Like she knows. It all. Your heart. The effect she and her voice, the music, have on you..... Never seen her before I didn't know.

[@noriemeha]

Abrogard, she is an Aladdin's Cave of musical discovery.

[@abrogard142]

@@noriemeha Sure is. And check that penny whistle - making transcendental pure music.... totally in accord with the piece and her voice..

[@andyr3674]

Most beautiful and haunting version of this beautiful song, it brings to life the past with allits horror, romance, and those that wore blue, and those grey. God bless you america.

[@thomassmith1080]

Hello dear. How’s your day going?

[@divot101]

Beautiful song, beautiful lady, it doesn't get much better than this. Thanks.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWi8Z598gJx9mrc

[@john47742]

Pardon the philosophical bent... I don't understand how a human being can produce such a beautiful sound. I understand all the practice, lessons, etc. but, I still think it is a miracle. A miracle until I hear myself sing then I realize the miracle is bestowed on the few not the many. Sissel is one of the few!

[@djjim01]

Praise the Lord, He has sent one of Heaven's Angels unto Earth. Her name is Sissel !!!!

[@renoirmedical6412]

And, as far as Sissel's songs go, this one is pretty easy! Consider that!

[@williamsanders7221]

In my home city there is a beautiful cathedral built on the site of an old Saxon church.On a fateful day in 845 a.d.Viking longships came up the river.The city was sacked and the old church burnt to the ground. Today I have been listening again to this beautiful woman singing "Shenandoah" and can only say, Sissel,as far as I am concerned your Viking ancestors are forgiven. Tusen takk.

[@williamsanders7221]

ancestors are forgiven. Tusen takk

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4ipY3uBi9hmY8U

[@hotflsh]

This is my favorite song ever... Because SHE is singing it,!!!!

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@davideitutis450]

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VOICE I'VE EVER HEARD AND MY SECOND MOST FAVORITE SONG OF ALL TIME.....

[@shaileshmanjhi9797]

Can I ask your first favorite song mam ? @DavidEitutis

[@davideitutis450]

@@shaileshmanjhi9797 BLUE DANUBE

[@olejoe97233]

Like many people who have posted here, this was my introduction to the Sissel Kyrkjebø. I had been searching KZbin to see if I could find out who sung the title song to the 1954 movie "The River of No Return" -- Robert Mitchum or Tennessee Ernie Ford. I never answered that question, but my search led me to Mr. Ford's rendition of "Shenandoah" which is wonderful, and for some reason I brought up this video. I wasn't prepared for Sissel. I didn't know anyone could sound as good as she does here. It seems unfair that one of the most photogenic people in the world should also have one of the world's greatest voices. A distraction I have found in some of the recordings she did between 1992 and 2006 is that musical accompaniment often seems to compete with her rather than support her. But these two guys -- Kalle Moreaus and Paddy Maloney -- are all she needs. What a perfect match. The early Sissel, before she cut her hair, is my favorite. Just about everything she did then is impressive -- including an excellent TV show she headlined in about 1989 --I haven't found that show in its entirety on KZbin but someone posted in on the "30 Years of Greatness" tribute page to Sissel on Facebook. Just to clutter this post up a bit -- that show includes that spectacular video of her singing "Se Over Fjellet" and two others with similar outdoor settings, and about four songs from "West Side Story." And, for me, it all started here with "Shenandoah."

[@sisselfan]

+David Raby Here are the music videos of Sissel you were looking for. "Se over fjellet" (kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIrYg5KmZbKcpdU), "Seterjentens søndag" (kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4a1hGNsg9mBqJI), "Soria Moria" (kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZ3diIihpb2Cb9E)

[@mikey1941]

+David Raby It was Marilyn Monroe who sang the title song in River Of No Return.

[@olejoe97233]

+mikey1941 Marilyn Monroe sings the song in the film toward the end of the movie, but it is a male singer who sings the song over the opening credits. I was a boy when this movie was released in 1954. I have no idea what my source was, but it was my understanding that star Robert Mitchum sung the song over the opening credits. Many, many years pass, and I wonder about it again. This time I decide to look it up. I don't find an authoritative citation one way or the other. Tennessee Ernie Ford released a recording at the time the movie came out, and I downloaded a copy and listened to it. It could be Ernie Ford singing at the start of the movie. But, and this is a reason I doubted it was him, he doesn't get credit in the opening credits for singing the song, no one does. It made no sense to me that his name would not appear there if he had sung the song. Robert Mitchum had a minor career as a singer, that gained some traction when he sung the song to his movie "Thunder Road." I found a couple of off-hand quotes, on attributed to Leonard Maltin and the other to Robert's son Chris Mitchum that said that Robert Mitchum sung the song over the opening credits. Anyway, it wasn't an argument I was going to win, so...back then...I decided to listen to the video of Ernie Ford singing "Shenandoah," I think because the photo was in color. I thought it was great. Why, I then decided to click the video for Sissel, I have no idea. But, talk about getting blown away. I clicked on another and then another...Wow! Everything was wonderful! But, she not only sings better than just about anyone else, she presents the song in a way that make you think that she is singing just to you. And, now there is 30 years of her music available. A remark I once made was, "She started out perfect. Then she got better." Anyway, this is what happens when a geezer with too much time on his hands starts wondering about a 60-year-old Robert Mitchum movie.

[@mikey1941]

+David Raby Like you, I was a schoolboy when River of No Return came out, and it's well over 50 years since I saw it. I did remember Marilyn Monroe singing the song, but could not remember any other version. IMDB list both Robert Mitchum and Tennessee Ernie Ford as having sung the song in the film. I also have a book (part of a set covering all of the major studios) called The 20th Century Fox Story, which details all of the studio's films up to the 1980s. It confirms both Mitchum and Ford as having sung the song in the film. By the way, if you're interested, River of No Return is available from DVD Planet for $US8.99 - I'm thinking seriously of ordering a copy.

[@bonzo5261]

+David Raby I go with most of what you said, well worth a listen is Jimmy Rodgers sing Shenandoah and also Paul Robeson all superb.

[@davidmixon7379]

Dear Sissel, Thank you very much for Your version of Shenadoah It is the best. Your sound is amazingly clear and the heartfelt Feeling is wonderful. I'm from California and I am living in Fairfield Iowa a university town. I have heard all the folk singers . Your version of Shenadoah is by far the Best. Thank You For the opportunity To Hear such a Heavenly Voice.

[@carolbozek1625]

Her beautiful voice and gentle style put me into a state of grace and peace.

[@noriemeha]

I don't need drugs when there is this voice to give me grace & peace.

[@JoostVermeer]

Sissel is an incredible singer with an angelic voice. This is a an insanely good live performance!

[@TheMisfit291]

Sissel's voice as clear and pure as the Boyne perfectly accompanied by Paddy Moloney. This song always makes me cry but these are tears of joy for some of the most hauntingly beautiful music ever made

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@larrylamb3480]

AMEN .

[@ruthiebelle1]

I'm a Sissel fan, too, having lived in Norway. What a voice she has! This recording is a treasure.

[@Serge_Korr_Music]

I don't have any words!! That's so... And thanks so much for the Titanic!! I'm sure Mr. James Horner was very pleased!!

[@rightzfred275]

Wow I am in my 76th year and have nevern been more impressed

[@sisselfan]

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[@354452]

Sissel Kyrkebjö... så fantastiskt vackert.. Och Kalle Morenius på fiol... Mycket fin version av låten..

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWi8Z598gJx9mrc

[@davidcostello776]

You will not hear a better rendition of this beautiful song,also the great tin whistle playing of Paddy Moloney, just gorgeous.

[@henryhorner3182]

I can do without the sillly whistle. It detracts from Sissel's singing.

[@stevenedwards2162]

Heaven must be missing an Angel

[@ritadebeer9614]

Oh man what a God given voice!!!

[@henryhorner3182]

The perfect antidote for the mass (liberal) insanity of today's America.

[@idleonlooker1078]

What a magnificent and beautiful voice - as crystal clear as a fresh alpine stream!! It is a privilege to listen to her sing!! 👏👏👏👏👏 🥰👍

[@ciararespect4296]

Great Playlist you have

[@idleonlooker1078]

@@ciararespect4296 Thank you!! I hope you enjoy listening to some of it. I like listening to good music from all parts of the world. To me music truly is an international form of communication. 😊👍

[@ciararespect4296]

@@idleonlooker1078 same here. Good music is good music plain and simple!

[@Aikidobear129]

I grew up listening to this song being recorded by many, many talented artists but none sing it with more feeling than this beautiful lady. God blessed her with a gift and she's sharing it with us- for that I say Thank You.

[@pauldaly2522]

Boooommmm!!! Just simply blown away

[@39marco]

Sublime. Celestiale. Conoscevo l'interpretazione,altrettanto bella seppur così diversa, fatta dal Kingston Trio sotto il titolo "Across the Wide Missouri".

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWi8Z598gJx9mrc

[@pauljohnson7450]

It's always a thrill to hear Sissel sing. She has the most beautiful voice I have heard.

[@1allanbmw]

Several years ago, I was in Gettysburg PA. A painting in the round, of the battlefield that had been in storage for almost a hundred years, had been restored and was housed in a new building that had not been there the last time I had visited. A man & his mother were speaking German and I listened ( my 2nd language is Dutch). So eventually I asked what they thought of it all. He was a high school history teacher, so his interest was very keen. I know how I felt in Holland about places where history had unfolded, and I reflected on my own feelings there and then. So fast forward to a European rendition of musical Americana: This music... is so deeply embedded, I think, in the American psyche and experience that not everyone who performs it, does it justice. THIS rendition, is moving and stirring to the soul. I've loved this tune since I was a child. And with a hint of European flavor, this is by far the best version of a very American musical "prayer". I loved it! Thank you for posting it!

[@SilentBob731]

The more I listen to her , the higher she climbs on my list of "Favourite Voices of All-Time". Truly amazing. 😉

[@leshall6844]

How soul filling, how wonderfully the voice of this lovely lady soothes the heart. Thank you for adding some joyful moments to our sad, crying world of hate, greed and meanness.

[@noriemeha]

yes, sometimes she is almost messianic

[@sandragilbert8875]

I’m at a loss to say anything, just pure perfection ❤🌹💐

[@wallacebentley6655]

This is so often my go to song when I need comfort and peace. Never tire of it and her perfect voice.

[@iansargent1769]

Superb rendition of this tune Sissel's stunning lyrics and Paddy's haunting tin whistle.

[@mademoiselledusfonctionell1609]

Have you heard it whistled? I first heard this song in Jan Lindblad's version. He was a wildlife photographer, juggler and bird whisperer. I love that version as well.

[@donalroberthaughey4072]

Thank you Paddy Moloney, your magical music will live forever.

[@noriemeha]

He was our living connection to the great Sean O Riada who would have approved of Sissel.

[@nitush1000]

the newsroom brought me here... lovely song!

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@aeonjoey3d]

The first time I ever heard this song was a few years ago at Disneyland of all places, during their fireworks show... it just hit me in the gut, the melody is so beautiful, a few years later I was able to take my parents, a wonderful thing because we had grown up very poor, but being able to give them a vacation was a joyous occasion, as we watched the fireworks and Shenandoah came on, I could see my mother weeping, just as I had. *oh man* i'm tearing up just thinking about it.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWi8Z598gJx9mrc

[@michaeljordan3422]

Omg Breathtaking Best Version Ever Beautiful Brilliant Performance Love You Princess XXX

[@r.jeanvallieres5952]

Ms. Sissel's voice is what feelings sound like.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@michaelking5934]

❤😊

[@rr7firefly]

I think it's okay to cry when you hear something this beautiful.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpDHqqSCbtSSes0

[@justabaker5609]

You just have to love someone who brings such joy to your heart. God bless you always Sissel!!

[@ovejohansson4662]

look forward to be in my country of sweden and see norway and bergen,hope to see the best of the best,SISSELL

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4ipY3uBi9hmY8U

[@wc636]

not sure how many times I've watched this video. Just so addict to her voice.

[@sisselfan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4ipY3uBi9hmY8U

[@danmart1879]

God must have been there with these musicians and soprano. A highlight of the human spirit.