Spirit Of The West "And If Venice Is Sinking" - Official Music Video

[@messamurai2658]

I FEEL TRULY CANADIAN AS A STRAIGHT HISPANIC MALE LISTENING TO THIS INCREDIBLE MUSIC.

[@josephbrown5460]

Somewhere in the afterlife there is going to be a "Hall of Great Songwriters" and 80% of them will be Canadians. I'm from the States and I truly believe that bands like Spirit of the West and The Tragically Hip aren't big here for 1 reason - they make us think. Most of us don't like to do that. Or can't do it.

[@grahamford5261]

Wow. Great words.

[@lazzy2012]

I really don’t think so

[@BeakerInShortShorts]

Adorable and accurate when percentaged by population in my very humble opinion. I feel like the Commonwealth that knows anything agrees too! Wonderful comment. Best of luck mate. Edit: have you ever listened to Feeding like Butterflies?

[@josephbrown5460]

@@BeakerInShortShorts Just listened to FLB. Excellent! Thanks for hook-up!

[@BeakerInShortShorts]

I’m so happy. 👍🏼Talk about a little known band that was sadly unrated.

[@Ana-gx1li]

2019. Venice is sinking in the floodwaters and John Mann has passed away. Rest In Peace.

[@tragicallyfit]

Reality bites. :-(

[@leonacrystal1240]

kinda poetic

[@dancingqueenvan]

😭❤🙏

[@duncan3998]

Irony hurts. Left us with this 93 gem

[@1000_sweet_ideas]

I got to see this band and this song live when i was around 12, one of the best experiences of my life🎉❤🎉 SML john&the band, thankyou for everything

[@courtneywelch8618]

Four years John's been gone, and we could use his voice now more than ever. 😥

[@lita4458]

What an absolute joy giver this man was & still is. ❤ Love sent to the band & his loved ones. He is not forgotten.

[@citizenprotection]

REST IN PEACE JOHN MANN

[@bgrigg07]

Too young! Way too young!

[@MissGoodintentions]

very sad news

[@sharael8]

Love that man

[@citizenprotection]

Shara El Appreciated.

[@picklevamp]

R.I.P. John...no more suffering for you...thank you for making me proud to be Canadian...your music will live on forever 🍁🇨🇦

[@shawnjoncas6692]

Beautiful man

[@wesjohnson1783]

Still bummed about it.

[@Abdominal65]

​@@wesjohnson1783don't be, he was a gift, we all are. The fact that we are finite is what makes it all worth while. He's in a good place now.

[@shishamonger]

I didn't know he died...one of my FAVORITE singers of all time.

[@greg6500]

How did I never know these guys... Just discovered John Mann today and I feel the loss like he was my own family, I dont know why. RIP, you made the world a better place!

[@directedbydavid]

I saw them open for The Hip in Chicago in the mid 90s. saw them drinking in a bar hours later. said hello to them, and chatted with them for a long time. such nice guys.

[@samuelstevens9743]

I could listen to this song 10 times in a row and get shivers every time he first sings the line “and if Venice is sinking..”

[@nationaldepartmentofjoy2027]

Rest In Strength John Mann - and peace ever be with you. Here's to a True Canadian

[@danobrien3695]

My band, back in the late 90's, were playing in Halifax, Nova Scotia...Spirit Of The West were playing at the Birdland Cabaret...they came out to see some of our show (Split Crow) and asked us if we'd like to open for them that night, with the song "Barrett's Privateers"....what a great bunch of folks. Rest easy, John.

[@johndavies4541]

I took my the eleven year old son to see Spirit Of The West when they played Whistler about five years ago. They played their usual stunning show with John leaping around and not missing a note or beat once. After, as they were packing up, John came down to the remaining few folks hanging around and chatted with genuine interest to those who wanted to meet him. He took time to say hi and especially chat with my son. He just seemed to have this amazing ability to make a couple of folks he'd never met feel like he'd known them for years in the space of a few minutes.

[@leese27canadian]

That's a Canadian for ya, eh?

[@pbn1]

SotW were regulars when I lived in Whis ('90 to '95) and I can vaguely remember much the same thing of them and him. Genuine, hard working, much much loved band. Tourists couldn't get a look in - locals had the place packed before they could get in;) Thanks for reminding me @john davies - RIP JM.

[@darrylgillard1400]

I really liked the music,timeless

[@bradd6913]

That tone change into the first chorus hits everytime. John's voice is magical.

[@kevintucker1172]

This song literally sounds like a standard. Like it has always existed. That’s how you know it’s brilliant

[@fiddleheadsviolinstudio]

I met John Mann about 15 years ago at a small town concert. He gave me a huge hug and photobombed us. Super amazing man, kindest person. Heartbreaking that he left us all so soon.

[@MFE92]

Those of us who lived in cities covered by Canadian radio signal ranges got to enjoy this song a lot. Canada has a "Canadian Content Rule" which mandates that all Canadian broadcasters feature content that originates from at least 35% Canadian artists. Without it, a lot of us in the U.S. might never have been exposed to Spirit of the West, Barenaked Ladies, Cowboy Junkies, Rush, Triumph, Sum41 and countless others.

[@watervillegangmember]

a wonderful song about his honeymoon.

[@nicolewood1478]

I can’t stop crying. Gord Downie, now, John Mann. RIP.

[@northlander4370]

And Neil ...

[@ELEcomments]

@@northlander4370 All Canadian greats:(

[@mikeredmond1000]

Christopher plummer, today Feb 5th 2021

[@77721953]

Farewell, John. Your spirit and music equaled pure joy.

[@FrankieJamesNews]

Thank you John Mann for all the beautiful Scottish-influenced Canadian folk-rock music with Spirit of the West. I was lucky to meet John in Calgary about 20 years ago. May his beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.

[@aznmn83]

Venice literally is sinking today with the overnight flood... now I can't get this song out of my head!

[@DTC_0]

Came here to say exactly this.

[@iancorks8642]

Same here

[@mariod2855]

Thank-you for the music. RIP

[@kerrifarion6394]

2019 isn't the first time Venice has been flooded, nor the first time its been recognized as sinking. I have some vague social studies recall that this was recognized in the early to mid 1800's

[@LunaMoonJune]

just heard John left us as I was driving and singing this at the top of my lungs, goodbye John and thank you for all you gave

[@paulahillier1390]

I saw them at Brock University in 1993. They were amazing.

[@Bregh]

Didn't exactly get a Hip/Downey send off, but they deserved it every bit as much, IMO. Will miss them.

[@yahs808]

They had a sold out show at the commodore with all the local musicians there. Was quite the event

[@derekveltman7109]

John Mann, Rest in Peace, Good Sir, you are 'Home For a Rest" at last...

[@O_Towne_Bear]

57 and gone. What the absolute hell? John you will be missed - your talent, your voice and your strength. The best of Canada in your bones. RIP - You're home, now rest.

[@toddsmith1278]

This band is as Canadian as it gets, brilliant Mr Mann. We love you

[@NewWorldOps]

Such a great song!

[@duncan3998]

1st time a 1993 song has a accordion playing in background

[@caseyayaan9294]

I know im randomly asking but does anyone know a trick to log back into an instagram account?? I was dumb forgot my password. I would appreciate any tricks you can give me.

[@eligatlin144]

@Casey Ayaan Instablaster :)

[@caseyayaan9294]

@Eli Gatlin thanks for your reply. I got to the site through google and I'm in the hacking process atm. I see it takes a while so I will get back to you later with my results.

[@caseyayaan9294]

@Eli Gatlin it worked and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy! Thanks so much, you saved my ass !

[@brucephilbrick7104]

I'm all smiles listening to this song.

[@pbn1]

Whistler, early 90's. When SotW came to town it would be, without fail, one of the best nights of the year. RIP.

[@s.reid1992]

My mom and I would get drunk and dance like there was no tomorrow to this song! Rest in peace Momma thanks for the great music you shared with me throughout the years. Music is forever ❤

[@peterderkach5775]

I'm listening to this tonight and thinking of you, John. RIP.

[@scarbourgeoisie]

Was on the same ferry from Vancouver to Victoria with this band back in 1994. It was cool to see them as my wife and I saw them several times live when they played Toronto.

[@garysmith9051]

Can't believe this hasn't been viewed more, and liked more. Such a feel good tune. Makes me smile every time I hear it.

[@gymnastmaniac5114]

Gary Smith this song bring a feeling in me I cant eco pain

[@gymnastmaniac5114]

*explain

[@germanpickle]

@@gymnastmaniac5114 This song has been a regular on my playlists for at least 20 years. And today was the first time I looked up Marini's little man on a horse. By far the best line in this song

[@stevemcallister7541]

Never, ever get tired of listening to this song. And as Brad D said, John Mann's voices is magical.

[@somegalfromcan]

I'm gonna miss this band so much!

[@iheartthesmalls]

+somegalfromcan totally.

[@andrebitoff3726]

What an American Civil War vibe! Thanks from Detroit.

[@SharaEl-j1j]

We followed this band around for years. So many great memories of dancing and happiness in small bars and in Toronto with an orchestra. Miss John very much. I'm from Detroit too.

[@andrebitoff3726]

@@SharaEl-j1j I worked at 11 West Bistro, Younge and St Clair early 80s. DHS 1970.

[@sandrafaith]

This song never fails to raise goosebumps, make me happy and teary at the same time. One of my favourite songs, ever. Much love to John Mann.

[@the.artist.donaldb]

RIP, John Mann. You’ve done us proud #Canada. You fought the good fight. 🥃

[@JessicaPerry-888]

🪬♉️ Thank you!! ✌️♥️✨️

[@karenshano1701]

Condolences to John Manns family and friends. RIP to another great Canadian artist

[@francaclark2907]

I am crying...knew he was ill, but still, always hoping that we could live forever. Rest in Peace wonderful man.

[@ann-mariejardine7786]

R.I.P. John Mann This is a truly sad day , may the angels welcome you with open arms Xox

[@stroker-ve4ru]

Without a doubt He has been welcomed.

[@laurabernard385]

Best BC Band ever! Thanks John - much love to you!

[@AnastasiaManifests]

God this is beautiful... first time I've heard you guys...

[@ahanova33]

That was my reaction the first time I heard them, years ago... :)

[@Anthony1116]

OMG....North Vancouver will never be the same. RIP John. You were a legend in Vancouver.

[@angiedairou]

RIP :( So many good memories of John's talent.

[@susanficek1245]

Never tire of this wonderful song and singer

[@stroker-ve4ru]

Yet another great Canadian band,they announced the dates for their final tour.Show them some love and support if they come to your town.Good Luck John Mann

[@scottlich1950]

stroker 2007 GO RIDERS

[@dylanchatters7306]

A Band that highlights the best of Canadian for me

[@kathleenmcclurg7486]

Omg. Never heard of this band until I saw John Manns death on the internet. Love this music!! My 87 yr old Mother has alzheimer's , it's hard enough for a 87 yr old but his age??!! So very sad, I hope a cure is around the corner!! God bless...

[@C.S.I.S.RoyalCanadian]

Was Truly Blessed to see them Live one night on St. Patty's Day....🇨🇦

[@colinshipton4032]

I saw Spirit of the West back 1989 ,an Aussie working in Banff. Great memories ,remember having a beer with the band after the gig at the Rose and Crown. Labour Day is still one of my favourite albums.

[@cherylsibson8457]

If CBC hadn't have written about your 40-year carrier I wouldn't have known, such great music was there, Rest in Peace, and your songs will live on in another generation of music fans. Thank you for your work. My Mom had Brain Tumors my dad had Bowel Cancers, and what you did was show others that using technology and good friends who helped you along the way, that kind of help wasn't there back in the 1990's well some help was there, just the technology has improved and allows you to show endurance over conditions and adversity that we can't let diseases let us be at dis at ease over a disease.

[@arumrunner]

Thanks for all the great music John, you will be missed.

[@SickBoy99a]

Saw them one time, and they just rocked it! He was amazing. Miss him.

[@antoniogahan5301]

John U saved my life with this SONG!!!! My heart will always be with you!!!!!!!!!

[@retroboomer]

John Mann, lead singer of Vancouver-based Spirit of the West, has died after a years-long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Very sad.

[@Dehzee]

what an amazing last show! John is still hotter than hell, everybody's performance was electric! With Paul Hyde, Jim Cuddy, Steve Page, what a beautiful way to say good bye! It was my 4th s.o.t.w show, and though they always served it, the passion in last night's performance was palpable. It was more canadian than a hockey game! i wonder if there will ever be such a gathering of scottish canucks in vancouver again? thank you s.o.t.w for all the soul feeding music. though you are loved world wide, thank you for remembering celtic canucks by creating a sound that no one will understand quite like we do. Thank you for sharing so much of your time with us, canada loves you for it!

[@marvathome941]

he is now home for a rest........his music will continue to move people to joy, to laughter, to ponder, to wonder, to tears and quiet contentment. The music, and the words will transcend time so others can reach out and grab a piece of the joy we experienced. He moved hearts, minds, and bodies.......and WE..were fortunate as.. we got to see the star shine...THAT is his legacy and will be FOREVER

[@bangishimo7095]

RIP

[@thx4dluv]

I'm so grateful for the tunes he left behind. Always puts me in a good mood. John Mann will be dearly missed.

[@Joy-gc1pi]

Remembering this man.

[@junkycosmonaut]

Oh John, I am laughing while crying. You are so missed!

[@slyder-tv]

This song has been with us all for the past 26 years...it will remain a classic for the next 126 years. Thank you John, R.I.P.

[@supercarrera81]

Thank you for the decades of talent John, Rest In Peace.

[@23chiffy]

what a great friggin tune

[@kevinjamesmclean5309]

I saw this band that was introduced to me in Jasper Alberta. The show was at War Memorial Hall in Guelph Ontario circa 1990. Front row seats. I also witnessed a commentary by the late great Gwynn Dyer there the same year but in the back row.

[@heartmadefullmetal4297]

Saw many times in Buffalo, definitely highlight of college days. Thanks so much for the incredible shows and wonderful music.

[@mightyone3737]

My Dutch Opa liked this band, he dug the accordion because he also played, I'll never forget how much fun he had when he could let loose, he was a farmer through and through, but music was his joy (especially polka).

[@mightyone3737]

I bring red and gold wine... make sense of it!

[@darinmartinmusicpage]

Such a beautiful melody and a killer voice. Thank you John and Spirit of the West.

[@freedpeeb]

Rest in peace John Mann. Thanks for the music.

[@tattyheid1]

this just made me cry seeing John looking so beautiful and vital before all his health troubles. I love the band in all its various forms so much.

[@jackjill4614]

Was just singing this song earlier and then I heard the sad news :( RIP John Mann! You had the best smile

[@shawntulk84]

still my favorite song

[@paulbroland]

I loved this song, the first time I heard it.

[@pleasantvalleypickerca7681]

I watched a documentary about a month ago about how John Mann fought to stay connected to his music and fans as the disease progressed. It was a truly inspiring and had some footage of their last concert. I hope that the entire show was recorded and will be released someday.

[@shawndavidson8745]

This song should have gotten like 100,000,000 views.

[@Can613]

Thanks for everything that you gave us John. We miss you...

[@michaelgmitchell]

Brilliant art from a passionate, provocative artist. Bravo, Mr. Mann.

[@1320alibaba]

Been listening to this brilliant band since the 80's... You'll be sadly missed John. Rest easy.

[@terryalot6567]

So sad to see them leave the scene, The Commadore is the perfect exit point. Love you .

[@wornoutwrench8128]

My favorite SOTW song. Thank you for the music John. Rest in peace

[@yahs808]

RIP JM

[@DaveNagel-nq7me]

An absolute treasure of a song. These guys were to underrated.

[@ronancahill2487]

Great band. Will miss you. Thanks, for the great songs and memories.

[@stug.5628]

What a talent who was taken too soon. RIP John Mann. Thank you for all your amazing music.

[@evad520]

I got to see these guys in 94 or 95 and John was wearing the gay freedom rings he's holding in this video. I was impressed that at that time a straight guy was standing up for us.

[@9weasels]

Great song

[@richgauthier6328]

RIP John Mann. A great canadian musician!

[@chriskomorowski6260]

Rest in peace. A great Canadian Poet

[@pleasantvalleypickerca7681]

Saw them live at Emily Carr college in Vancouver in the late 80's. Awesome live show! Rest in peace John Mann.

[@victoriaabbott326]

Still love this song!

[@betty84]

Rest easy John. Such an amazing man and voice.

[@davidsinclair6249]

I can't stop listening to this song

[@yer_old_pal_Jerky]

They were like our friends, coloring the air that we all shared, these bands. Tragically Hip, Spirit of the West, Rheostatics, Blue Rodeo and more. Losing them hurts like losing a friend with whom you've lost contact. It almost hurts too much to listen to them now.

[@alankapolnek7912]

Listen anyway. Many things and people will go away from our sight, but I sure hope I never forget them all, even if it hurts. I used to cry when listening to old songs, making the family recipes, or looking at all the dusty photos from the years past. Sometimes I still do... that's okay, too. They live on inside my soul now.

[@ColinMartinNorth]

Rest in peace, brother. It's a hard passing, losing you.

[@markphillips199]

Seemed like a guy with not only a ton of talent but also a sense of humour! RIP

[@davehaig7392]

Thanks for the good times and memories, John. What a great live band. Rest. Condolences to Jill and the family.