Steve Winwood on Letterman, August 13, 1986, Stereo

One of the music highlights on Late Night: Steve Winwood's performances of "Higher Love" and "Gimme Some Lovin'." With Carol Steele on percussion and backup vocal and Dolette McDonald as second backup vocalist.
Early in the show, Paul warned Dave how hard the songs were to learn, especially in so short a time, in particular the middle section in "Higher Love," where the time signature turns on a dime. And, despite their professionalism, the band didn't quite pull it off.
The challenge with "Gimme Some Lovin'" was that Winwood had asked the band to play it not in its original key, G, but instead a half-step lower, in F-sharp, so that he could hit the high notes. Performing a song in F-sharp is no piece of cake, especially on the keyboard. But watching Will Lee and Dolette McDonald coordinating their spontaneous dance steps as well as Paul's awkward hug with Steve at the end illustrate the sheer love and enthusiasm the band had with this number.
Others have uploaded these performances, but this version is in glorious stereo.

[@johnsinger8503]

I had the pleasure of driving Stevie Windwood from the Plaza Hotel to JFK airport , we chatted for the 40 minutes it took, he was so down to earth and kind. A really great musician and human being

[@skipjack5964]

I smoked a joint with Steve at the Hilton I was a maintenance man at the time his AC unit went up in the presidential room

[@skipjack5964]

And he also showed me how to play the piano that was in the room do top that one Johnny

[@AroundTheWorldWithEase]

Wow. I love such stories.

[@blueheronprairie]

How lovely to hear this. Must love this after so much hate speech lately. My poor aching HEART ❤️ needs more Kindess.

[@catholicdad]

Steve Winwood owes me $20.

[@falconlairV]

No lip syncing going on. Just a pure on-pitch and powerful vocalist. Sounds as good as the record.

[@Michael-no6jw]

Paul Schaeffer would not let any lip syncing go on in his band.

[@larryl212]

And they still got their sheet music out. Peak performers. They leave NOTHING to CHANCE!

[@dongiller]

@@Michael-no6jw Shaffer; Paul Shaffer.

[@Deborah4Antiques]

Really, I didn't know that. Good on him.@@Michael-no6jw

[@user-uw6sz3oj3d]

Exactly my first thought once the percussions kicked in! REAL MUSICIANS!!

[@idontcare4gob742]

Steve Winwood's voice is unbelievable. A voice like that comes from up above. What a great performance.

[@melissa9375]

Still is. His was the best performance at the Coronation Concert.

[@jamesetling944]

The lady on backup vocals is right there with him. Does she have any solo albums?

[@tarstarkusz]

He's terrible in this video.

[@Jadamhodges]

He sounds like Ray Charles!

[@musik102]

​@@JadamhodgesNo, he ripped off Ray Charles, as did Joe Cocker and a number of other UK singers.

[@HOPEat]

I was hit by a car on 7/27/86 while jogging. I was in the first hospital of two when this aired. I wasn’t supposed to live but God had other plans. Life is Good. 🍻☮️

[@nancyfilingeri414]

Believe or not life is not coo😢4 me... but then as a resan widow.. at least I adopted my brother and and 2 cats. They passed right after my husband... but I am hanging tuff... those r the cards I was delt😢

[@petermatthew123]

He will turn your mourning into dancing as you give Him the broken pieces of your heart. :)

[@Superfreq69]

Now you have "Higher Love"

[@flipwright1138]

It might have been the Arc of a diver.

[@lebojay]

How come God gets credit for healing you but not hitting you with a car?

[@cidlopez]

More people need to understand that this guy is one of the best musicians we’ll see in our lifetime. Arc of the Diver - and pretty much every song in that album is him playing all instruments.

[@private_recruit4165]

Truly one of the best albums in recording history.

[@pattimoore35]

Amen. I am 70 Keep in mind when he recorded "Gimme Some Lovin" he was SIXTEEN.

[@robertilardi6290]

Arc of a Diver great album.

[@upstatenydude8322]

An amazing album and testament to why Winwood is a one-of-a-kind.

[@colinmcdonald2499]

Except here he dances with shoulder pads and a ridiculous kimono.. while 2 not 1 inferior players play the keys. This is trash.

[@Gatsinahonda]

I like how Steve Winwood is not flashy with no special effects just plain ole talent on display.

[@davidsurnameoptional1622]

Anything by Steve Winwood is an antidepressant to me!!

[@chickenjo23]

Talk about a complex and difficult song to do live with studio quality. These musicians are absolute talent.

[@ClearOutSamskaras]

Why is it a difficult song?

[@bluoval3481]

@@ClearOutSamskaras look at the intense focus (especially Paul on keys) exhibits while playing this song. Normally Paul can play most songs in his sleep. The repertoire of songs he knows and can play right off the bat is arguably the most extensive on the planet.

[@larryl212]

Notice how every Musician had their sheet music right in front of him/her. Especially Paul. Peak performers leave nothing to chance.

[@theevilascotcompany9255]

@@ClearOutSamskaras The percussion in this song is quite complex. Goes way beyond the "one and two, one and two" of most rock-pop songs. And the beat is the rhythmic basis for the other musicians, so the whole song is made more complex as a result.

[@b.hornetiii.6771]

@@ClearOutSamskaras The complex rhythm of each instrument (1st song), vocals, backing vocals etc. Masterpiece.

[@fatbelly27]

It's hard to describe what a genius this man is. He wrote Gimme Some Loving around the time of his 18th birthday. He had already had multiple hits with the Spencer Davis Group, having joined them at 14.

[@lindascanlan6317]

My favorite since 1971...LSOHHB...my life was never the same ...

[@indy5542]

Genius

[@BrianCarnevaleB26]

A radio anthem of the 80s worn

[@jv-ep2tc]

I remember the first time I heard it in my preteen bedroom in Avon Ct.

[@cmmnsenserules4339]

You my fatbelly friend are a Steve Winwood encyclopedia

[@Clarissasrtoro1]

My baby girl was six weeks old at the time of this episode. She is patiently waiting for me in heaven now. She brought me so much love.🥰

[@dongiller]

I’m so sorry.

[@beautybliss7127]

We all have someone, a beloved one, waiting for us in heaven. God Bless and eternal peace to all our dearly departed. 🙏🥰🌹

[@templemanning6180]

❤‍🩹

[@Corsairforu]

Sorry Clarissa about your baby girl, my daughter was almost 7 months when this came out. She waits for me since 6/5/2020 due to an Epileptic seizure.

[@theaterdreamer]

Pay attention, kids. That’s talent. No auto tune needed. That voice of Steve’s, instantly recognizable, in perfect t pitch. That is a man that has mastered his craft through years of hard work. He’s not reliant on some software to do half his job for him.

[@Want0nS0up]

He was this good at the age of 18 years. Years of hard work? More likely, a talent most of us will never possess.

[@suzannprice4440]

Thank you, and perfectly said!

[@cynthiablandford6213]

What a voice this man has!!!😮🤩😎

[@johnsrabe]

@@Want0nS0upThank you for this. So many commentators want everything to be about how untalented everyone is now, compared to how wonderful everyone was when they were young. Show them a real mirror and they’d see an old man on front porch … saying the same shit their fathers and grandfathers said before them.

[@thomaskrutulis2289]

Rare case of singer carrying the band live. Awesome and timeless

[@goodgirlsguide]

They aren't his regular band. I think they l were trying to learn it that day and it's highly syncopated rhythms.

[@rubenp8750]

Paul was saying how hard the song was. I don’t think they had much time to rehearse.

[@TheRomeerome]

Well said Sir👏🏾

[@catholicdad]

Fig was ON IT for higher love. Good cover, though Paul lagged a bit.

[@user-oo2ns6mq7f]

Very difficult song - I have been in cover bands that tried it and it took a lot of rehearsing to get tight. Anton had it down from the jump of the opening timbale fill - Paul and Will clammed it in a few spots - but overall a good performance with little to no rehearsal.

[@PatriotSteve]

Winwood is rock royalty right up there with McCartney, Jagger/Richard, Clapton, Page and a select few others.

[@cedcol356]

Why's your "royalty" all white?

[@neocitran9996]

Steve F it’s too bad most don’t know that

[@neocitran9996]

C CHIMEX wow...really rude...steve, according to his brother, learned guitar in a few days, hey loved southern US rock music..loved Ray Charles, Little Richard and others...he knew and loved rock’s roots which were all from the southern US....It wasn’t like Elvis, he knew the soul of rock was from slaves and always tried to acknowledge its roots

[@DENIEL381]

AGREED.

[@madishari]

@@neocitran9996 enough said

[@bluntmasterflash1]

It always amazes me how Paul Shaffer can just fill in for anybody at anytime.

[@bigbromiki1]

good players can

[@sudeeprao1284]

@@bigbromiki1 agreed. Im more surprised how impressive the sound of the room has improved over the years.

[@chrisj62489]

Growing up watching letterman i never realized how talented Shaffer was

[@johndevlin347]

And you can easily tell Paul was having a blast playing with one of his apparent idols.

[@alexfranchuk9608]

@@chrisj62489 one of the founders of Blues Brothers

[@Laura-S196]

Can’t find my way home is a classic. Written and sung by Steve Winwood.

[@stevewinwood4279]

Hello Laura, How’re you doing? Thanks for your love, support and for being an amazing fan! ❤️ It's nice meeting you here

[@sarahalbers5555]

I recently watched a video of Steve, Ginger Baker, and Eric Clapton doing "Can't Find My Way Home". It was very early on, no studio, just pure, pure, soul. I have always loved Steve, but that song gets me every time .

[@Bluesnowman101]

I feel that:)

[@user-uy4cu7gh5c]

I have fallen in love with him three times...❤

[@shagadad1]

Steve Winwood is a musical genius and has an awesome voice

[@larryl212]

Remember. Winwood started at 14 with Spencer Davis and his group. Remarkable long history of excellence.

[@Toosii2times]

No doubt. I wasn’t alive during his reign but I still I got nothing but respect for this man. Dude is so talented

[@marsazorean62]

One of THE greatest singing voices EVER

[@topixfromthetropix1674]

Great voice but give Dolette credit, she's carrying Winwood a lot.

[@lynnemayer3628]

I've always liked Winwood's voice. He and Mark Knopfler are my top vocal pics

[@nobaddaze]

U R spittin' facts amigo

[@thomasandersen6719]

@@topixfromthetropix1674 No one is carrying Winwood here...he is on his complete own planet in terms of singing ability

[@soaringvulture]

How can anyone sing like that? How can anyone sing like that for fifty years? Winwood's a miracle. Thanks for posting this.

[@roadking99jokerst60]

Saw him do Gimme Some Lovin in Omaha, opened for Tom Petty. His voice, like himself, just cool.

[@douglaswilke8582]

Saw him in Chicago at the Crossroads Festival with Eric Clapton in 2010. He did Blind Faith and Traffic songs that you would've sworn you were listening to the albums.

[@DainBramaged00]

He's great. Whoever was in charge of the mixing board should be shot though. At least they proved he was not lip-syncing!

[@noelmajers6369]

If I only had one thousandth of Winwood's talent, I'd still be awesome...

[@tellyhennessey5422]

Dave is so so so cute!!!!

[@peggyjackson4925]

Still gives me goosebumps after all these years and I'm 66!!

[@tenore8]

Me, too!

[@grangrampa832]

Me too I’m 69

[@larryl212]

Hell I'm 74. I still can't get 'nuff of Winwood.

[@celticspike7]

we has it great back then , 70's n 80's

[@YankMcGill]

Have you ever in your life seen a backing group enjoy themselves so much as when they did give me some loving? Absolutely fantastic, this video never ages, just like Mr Winwood.

[@topixfromthetropix1674]

All Steve had to bring was Dolette, the rest was sufficient to play.

[@nobaddaze]

@@kenbranaugh8251 Lol why?

[@richardfurlott4243]

Steve is the man !

[@badhabits25]

That band was always on fire. They were learning artists material non stop. and they always nailed it. like they had been playing those tunes for years.

[@oppothumbs1]

@@kenbranaugh8251 Steve has done much better and this is not a great song, it's fine but who needs the backup vocals smelling themselves? So many bands have too many backup singers with sort of the same sound.

[@ovidiulupu8484]

Steve îs now 74 old but his music has no age!

[@tracyehogan9591]

He's one of the best ❤

[@lmbscriptsharcs2044]

He’s touring this summer w the Doobie Brothers

[@flipwright1138]

Hello. This is the near future. Steve is now 76. Looking forward to future updates.

[@dougpotosky4102]

Winwood one of the most talented musicians of any era! Plays almost every instrument, one of the greatest voices, master songwriter, and played in some of the greatest bands! He definitely honered soul and roots music! And the most humble person I have ever seen in the music business!

[@alitlweird]

Can anyone imagine teenagers today listening to Steve Winwood’s music? Neither can I. Or even people in their 20s? The 1980s were the greatest decade ever.

[@terranceanderson7715]

Steve Winwood for the last 54 years!! ..carry on sir Winwood....

[@bobbybeast1000]

Not only do they listen, they sing and play that music. You just gotta search youtube. It's a golden age for musicians for sure !!

[@craigeverhart4755]

Steve was part of the 1960’s, too.

[@peterolbrisch8970]

No they weren't. Remember that whole aids thing? We didn't have that in the seventies.

[@user-rz8bu6vl8x]

Always loved Steve's music ❤

[@lindahuff8976]

No one will ever make music like this again. Performed for the sheer joy of it.

[@stevewinwood4279]

Hello Linda, How’re you doing? Thanks for your love, support and for being an amazing fan! ❤️ It's nice meeting you here

[@johnb7337]

It really stood out back then too but maybe not for being the kind of high water mark it turned out to be. So much out of the 70s and 80s will never be matched.

[@esquibelle]

Steve Winwood is a legend for many reasons. I love all the Traffic songs. He is truly one of the greatest of the 20th century.

[@lindaward3156]

I adored Traffic back in my teens. they helped shape my musical tastes for 50+ years now

[@DaStoneboat]

And if you get a chance to hear his version of "John Barleycorn Must Die" in his older voice is worth a YT listen. The one I saw was him in his home studio solo.

[@stupendous1068]

Even his mullet is legendary.

[@Jlivingston66]

Winwood is a virtuoso, arguably the most precocious and gifted rock and roll artist ever. His contributions to rock-and-roll cannot be overstated. From what I’ve heard, he’s a regular guy, down-to-earth and humble.

[@shenmisheshou7002]

It is interesting that so many people express this opinion, one which I share, but I often feel as if in the big picture, he does not get the notoriety he deserves. As teenager in the 60s, I did not really hear any of his music and during an 8 year diversion from the real world while I was serving in the Marines, I had little exposure to popular music so throughout the late 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s, I really did not know much about him or his music. In fact, it wasn't until I retired that I started spending more time with music (thanks to streaming services) and started revisiting the era that was a blind spot to me. When I discovered Traffic, that pointed me toward Winwood, and the more I followed his path through the various groups and solo efforts, the more impressed I became. He did so much that I had no idea about because again, I don't think he gets the notoriety he deserves. After taking this path though my missing decade of popular music, I have to say that Windwood stands tall in my mind as a powerful force in music. ( I was almost totally ignorant of Queen and their place in music history as well. I spend far more time out of the US than in the US, and even when there was an Armed Forces Radio Network station, these stations tended to be very vanilla with what they played, so I did not hear most of Queen songs until I was in my 50s. Weird, yes?. I heard one song on the armed services station that I only heard once but I did not know who sang it or what it was called and I loved it so much!. It wasn't until 2008 until I heard it again, but did not know the artist, though I thought it might be Steven Stills, so I started listening to more Steve Stills, and one day I found it and the title was "Singing Call." Wow. How could I have fallen in love with a song and not known the name for 35 years!

[@kathytaverna9987]

Love any band Steve Winwood has played with especially Cream & Blind Faith ❤❤❤❤❤❤😊😊😊

[@BigLar56321]

One of the premier voices of rock, and a fabulous musician. So great live! Gave me chills watching this.

[@levinton1]

This was a great high point of live tv music. With a pickup band Steve Winwood plays his greatest two songs. Backup singing by the truly great Dolette McDonald. Drums by Carole Steele (mentored by Mongo Santamaria), who is without peer. The forever dependable Sid McGinnis on guitar - he is adaptable tand perfect with every great rock front man. Paul mostly perfect. The clunker notes that make live music worth listening to!! I can listen to this again and again and again.

[@dongiller]

For me it was the impromptu leg kicks. :)

[@DanLoFat]

Fig is on drums, Carol is on congas, not timbales. This single timbale is played by Fig; mounted amoong his own set.

[@strexus]

Steve Winwood, one of the finest and coolest performers from the greatest era.

[@continentalgin]

The Beatles gave him a cameo appearance in the film Magical Mystery Tour! See if you can spot him. Yeah, I agree, one of the very finest ever! There were rumors around 1969 that The Beatles asked him to join and be a Beatle. It was an idea to refresh the energy in the group. Rumor has it that he immediately declined, saying something like, 'Hey sorry, but you guys are too strong a unit to risk messing up the balance you're known for, so I can't do it. Besides, I love you as you are, your'e my heroes.' Very classy response, if true.

[@Atom-56]

strexus He still is in 2019

[@continentalgin]

@SEZWAH Music Holy cow, I didn't know that! Obviously, Steve was very careful about what he committed to, perhaps because he's always been firmly in charge of his own destiny.

[@caroljordan6130]

Still sounds GREAT and Still Handsome ,after all these years !! 💜

[@robschwartzenberger6698]

Well it's March 2020, and still loving it. Wish we were back in the 80's.

[@Vikseproducts]

Time flys what.

[@bsquared4604]

such a fun time in the entertainment world especially the early letterman years.

[@darringraham2613]

After my last breath I'm going back to the 80s 🤗

[@Sean-me4fv]

This bloody virus

[@gafas_]

I was tonight, for about 10 minutes. 😊

[@joshuaowens4797]

We will NEVER AGAIN have music like this... the 1980's... in the life of the world!!! 🥺

[@marsac9892]

Ummm...this was recorded with The Spencer Davis group in the 60's

[@genemars5158]

1986, and "Gimme Some Lovin'" was already a twenty-year-old song. Steve Winwood was, in my opinion, the most gifted singer/songwriter to come out of the whole "British Invasion." His songs are on a whole 'nother plane.

[@TonyTedeschi]

I'll bet this was arguably the greatest performance on Letterman.

[@Impulse21s]

I have to disagree..... the "arguably" part. No doubt about it.

[@earlmcclung9573]

David Letterman set the standard for musical performances on his show. Steve Winwood is great, but Letterman offered a venue for so many talented artists that were not as well known or mainstream. I saw many artists over the years that became favorites due their exposure on Letterman. Check out The Low Anthem - Ghost Woman Blues if you want a great performance. Not as flashy as Winwood but GREAT musical talent. Also ANY of the shows featuring Warren Zevon, especially the last when he knew the cancer would take him soon; a class act that transcended music.

[@sublimeade]

Arguably

[@toineshootsairballs]

Check Whitney Houston’s “saving all my love” . It’s a jaw dropping display of talent.

[@sunshine3914]

This ( & Darleen Love’s annual Xmas performance ) is the most memorable to me. But I really thought this was the one where Dave approached him to shake hands at the end of the song, & said, “My goodness, did anyone get hurt?!”.

[@bigbrotherisasob]

Most people have no idea just how hard it is to do that song live, and have it sound so good.

[@Lessontobe]

Apparently so! The female bongo drummer is terrible for one thing but I really like Winwood.

[@marcmiranda229]

It's really Anton Fig that keeps it all together. And he's reading sheet!!!

[@SunsetKetch]

keytar dude about had a fucking leftover measure in the bridge. lordy

[@granthurlburt4062]

@@SunsetKetch Can't you tell this is a difficult song for the musicians? And that they had to learn it really quickly? They did a great job and if you have an ear like you have, you should have recognized this. How often does Paul say this was hard to learn and they wre nervous? With the thousands of songs they have learned 5 days a week for years?

[@garyhenson117]

@@Lessontobe Has anyone mentioned that Carole Steele was on this Late Night broadcast because it was she who played congas on the original studio recording? She's (barely) visible in the background of the music video for the track, too.

[@eldergeektromeo9868]

Paul is the icing on the cake on this one! Letterman was so smart having Paul as Musical Director for all those years (1982 to 2015). Love to you, Paul, and David for having this level of musical talent for us!

[@joecarusopop-jazzswingsing1562]

Paul always wanted the guys in the band to just play exactly what's on the record.

[@richardfurlott4243]

Paul and the guys were the best ! I got to meet Paul after a show he was a gentleman !

[@demonicsweaters]

He really delivered night after freaking night! Never a dud performance. Probably the best sideman of all time. One of a kind!

[@DropAnchor1978]

@@joecarusopop-jazzswingsing1562: You can tell Paul is super focused on this song because it has complex rhythms and syncopations. Paul hits a few clunkers on the bridge, but that is forgivable.

[@mikeroberts9501]

Steve sails above the musical crowd - amazing talent and a real nice guy. That organ riff on "Gimme..." just cuts right through to your soul.

[@jamesoncass4867]

Ripping off black music. What a bitch.

[@Defender78]

Its the song from Iron Eagle when the attack the enemy airbase!

[@andrewmantle7627]

I love Winwood, an etheral musician who defies the pigeon hole, yet gives us everything he's got, without the ego so common in higher level performers. Thank you Mr. Giller and thank you Mr. Winwood.

[@FluffyRadical]

Well said. Exactly. So much talent and so humble. Very rare. And he seems to be a joyful person!

[@andrewmantle7627]

Yes, joyful, but in a peaceful way. I think he's realized something fundamental about happiness; that it's part of us and to access it, you need to get out of it's way. He doesn't feel like he has to prove anything to anyone.

[@FluffyRadical]

Yes, I agree. If I were to try to define joy, it would be inner peace. None of the self-destructiveness in so many musical artists. He's a gift!

[@MoonlightNothing]

Andrew Mantle Well said!

[@richarddouros7280]

It's not over. Maybe he shows at Woodstock 4

[@topixfromthetropix1674]

Oh Dolette! I worked this tour. Winwood was the only artist I ever worked for who gave out tour bonuses himself. Dolette is the female black singer you hire when you need three. She is also hysterically witty. One of the best things about that tour was Steve and Eugenie ate crew meal with the crew and interacted with us a lot. With Eugenie's Nashville accent (his wife is a ginger, too) and Steve's Brit accent when they get into an animated conversation,...it is funny. Always a class act.

[@jayhendricks67]

She's good but Chaka's got it locked

[@daviddemar8749]

Things for the story . I've been a fan of SW since I was 12 in '72. I've been a fan of Dolette McDonald since Bring on the night with Sting in '89

[@pitawalker3319]

What a fantastic story to tell.. As a lifetime fan of Steve Winwood since hearing The Spencer Davis Group as a 9yr old kid in the late '60s, the many testimonies of his genuine humble manner & musical genius over the many decades of his legendary career surely places him as one of the all time greats of music & your tale of his personal connections only adds to that legacy ..Truly a genuine gentleman.

[@daviddemar8749]

@@pitawalker3319 Isn't Dolette McDonald one of the singers in the documentary 20 feet from stardom or is it lisa Fisher? Or maybe it's both of them? I've forgotten. But I recommend it to Anyone who hasn't seen it. I'm certain that Merry Clayton (Gimme Shelter) is in it. I agree with your comments about Steve Winwood. I've been a fan since the early 1970s when I was in middle school. The staff members at the summer day camp I attended exposed me to a lot of great pop and rock music e.g. The Beatles , Deep Purple, Marvin Gaye, Harry Nilson, Cat Stevens, joni Mitchell, jimi hendrix, simon and Garfunkel, loggins and messina and Steve winwood and traffic. I was lucky to go to a great music and arts camp😊

[@pitawalker3319]

@@daviddemar8749 I'm not entirely sure now that you've raised Lisa Fisher.. Have to re-view it, Excellent 2014? documentary of the muti-talented backup singers to the many iconic names of music history though ..Viewed many Winwood gigs over the decades, from "I'm A Man" fronting Spencer Davis Group as a teenager in the mid '60s & Traffic '94 Woodstock to Hyde Park in 2018.. All of them absolutely excellent professional live performances with so many icons of music.. Harry Nilsson in your list of icons is great, still have his '71 Nilsson Schmilsson vinyl album, "Jump Into The Fire" is still a favourite ..There are so many greats of the era.

[@J410music]

Good God what a performance. Paul said the band was nervous but they pulled out one of the greatest live performances of Higher Love ever. Anton sounded just like JR. Then you close with Gimme Some Lovin! The band and Steve are so connected.

[@lucguenette7534]

yes Anton did greaaaaat.

[@waynej2608]

Paul gave him a rare hug, at the end, so he was clearly impressed.

[@msoileau83]

Will Lee did a fantastic job on synth bass.

[@imtheman4805]

Carol Steele played Conga’s on Original album release … and is in the Official Video release playing conga’s

[@garyolshan4177]

One of the greatest live performances I've ever heard. Winwood is a living legend.

[@nkentable]

John Candy and Steve Winwood on Letterman, I'm setting my VCR

[@MattM0481]

Eugene Levy to boot!

[@rickyrudd28texacohavolinef2]

Who would of expected John to not be around eight years later. R.I.P. Mr. Candy

[@lisamoroney3036]

Good idea ! I’ll make the Jiffy Pop !

[@cacornett58]

Higher Love is a difficult song. Steve Winwood is one hell of a musician and how can he sing like that? Amazing!

[@Declare57]

Effortless, as well!

[@davidcassidy3956]

It's not that difficult song. Try to sing it.

[@winterlongone]

@@davidcassidy3956 The singing isn't the difficulty - except that you come in cold, so you have to know the pitch perfectly. Playing the song is the difficult part. There are time changes, multiple keyboards, multiple percussion, guitar, bass...

[@elijahrobinson2362]

Great album, too.

[@ylccowhie5577]

@@davidcassidy3956 karaoke sure, but creating and phrasing the song is a completely different challenge

[@vincentmagro4694]

The last time I saw Steve Winwood was at the Peace Center here in my hometown of Greenville, South Carolina. The song selection was excellent. He could do three shows of hits and well-known material and not repeat himself. His ability to faithfully reproduce the music and yet keep the excitement of a live performance is nothing short of amazing. His daughter Lilli opened up for him and joined with him later on stage. She was excellent singing "Higher Love" doing Chaka Khan's parts which is no mean feet. This was no oldies act. His music and talent are as vital as ever. A true Giant of the industry and a genius bar none.

[@conceptualclarity]

When was that?

[@tomaswilliamson9685]

You hit it on the head. He is in the realm of Mozart and the great masters, born with remarkable talent, too many to list, and as down-to-earth as the man on the street.

[@Grorge-en4em]

I love Lilli..I am sure his other kids are as talented but she is brilliant and seems as humble as her father

[@TiffanyT-LaDolceVita]

We need more songs like Higher Love these days. Bravo to Steve! Love that man. ❤️🙏

[@mikebradshaw6484]

It would Politically incorrect to say Higher in a song these days.

[@v.dargain1678]

"There is a higher law( i.e love ) than the Constitution ." How politically incorrect is that ? Because it was William H. Seward , Abe Lincoln's secretary of state that said it .

[@donnarowe1890]

I agree!

[@monicaford5106]

Steve is the G O A T!💖🧡💛💙💜❤💚

[@dannyhemphill7618]

Multi talented man. Singer/Songwriter and musician. Had the pleasure to see him twice. He opened for Tom Petty about 12 years ago at the Hollywood Bowl.

[@vickyandres6922]

I can’t imagine him being an opener for Tom Petty. They are both so huge. But what a show that must have been. ❤

[@michaelscott356]

What a treat! From 38 years ago, no less! Paul and Steve... Two of the greatest of our musical lives. Thanks, guys. We love you.

[@qnoorani]

don't come across live performances like this anymore. legendary.

[@waltermameli2026]

Can't mistake that voice or that organ.....Steve Winwood stands alone as a Rock God live.....he always sounds as if he is in the studio.....tremendous talent.....

[@gailharris4013]

YESS

[@gailharris4013]

Yeserree

[@flyerscout2]

I love Paul. This is when letterman was at his prime and late night tv was watchable. Now it’s all crap. Windwood is a master and a monster.

[@dplatt7290]

summers of 86, 87 and 88 were great because I could stay up late and watch Dave

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

Ahh, the good old days. lol

[@flyerscout2]

OMGWTFLOL thats how I know I am old. My good days are now called old. 😩

[@TC-dw6wg]

It is all crap now! Listened to Winwood back in the day and what a truly talented man he is!

[@mrsbluesky8415]

If I never see that creep Trevor Noah again I’ll thank my lucky stars. Why he’s still on air I’ll never know.

[@mootbooxle]

Even down a half step Gimme Some Lovin’ is a HARD song to sing! Winwood has a whole catalogue of superhuman belting songs!

[@user-cd7ds7cs3z]

What a handsome man! Steve that is and this takes me back to the 80's when times were simpler and listening to his music just put me a a good mood.

[@chasgorman1086]

Remember, on Arc of a Diver he played every instrument. Immensely talented along with a voice that is timeless.

[@georgebennett3197]

Hi Chas, yeah - I still listen to Arc of a Diver. Clearly of its time but fantastic. Spanish Dancer - brilliant

[@jlaw7670]

@@georgebennett3197 Exactly. Not a huge fan of its production, but you can't argue that it's not a brilliant album.

[@catherinealmonti4301]

C dg canal yo ask a all HA all ha Mx vv m. Gong s

[@leonardbreau8928]

Most people think of Winwood as a keyboard player but he's also an exceptional guitarist.

[@steveswartz8540]

@@leonardbreau8928 He played guitar during at least one of Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festivals. So many great performances during those.

[@clinicaleducator1237]

I saw Spencer Davis with Steve Winwood in 1967 do Gimme Some Lovin. Sounds EXACTLY the same as last year when I saw him in Palm Springs in 2017. THAT'S 50 years kids. THAT is a STAR!!! Man is amazing!!!

[@dongiller]

The only difference then and now: the key's a step lower in F# so that he can hit the higher notes.

[@Pashasmom1]

I got to meet Spencer Davis in 2001, lovely guy.

[@fogatron503]

The level of talent is not matched by many. Must of been incredible to see live. I remember spinning around the living room at age 4 when higher love came out ❤️

[@msaintpc]

I played bass with Stevie and the Spencer Davis Group at the Whiskey in 1967. Pamela des Barres was there, everybody got an excellent blowjob.

[@jonathanconroy9438]

He's timeless. Admired him when I was a kid; then this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6C2n2WPYsdpras&start_radio=1

[@nycinstyle]

,I still remember seeing and hearing Winwood sing with Jimmy Page shortly after Bonham died. Page was so happy with Winwood and his heart felt singing, Jimmy hugged Steve immediately after they finished playing.What we hear now, 'Higher Love", one of the best pop songs of the 1980s. I love it.

[@cristnuishope]

I’m sure I’ve probably commented before but this Guy is Pure Soul! This is live and to sound this Good is just pure Gifted! Stevie if your reading this please know your songs are Eternal and I can’t wait to meet you.

[@catmom1322]

A while ago, when I would play this CD in the car, my then-young niece would sing along: "Bake me a higher loaf!" Love it!

[@777jones]

CatMom break me a high on love

[@sazonsongs]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@DiffuseMoose]

I LOVE this SO much! LOL!

[@theseventhsojourner1413]

Does this guy ever give less than a superb performance? I haven't heard it.

[@RollingOrmond]

His latest live album wasn't that good. Too much meandering and between-song chatter. The old stuff is great though.

[@ericchavarria4436]

@@RollingOrmond I respectfully disagree, Steve still sounds fantastic for his age. Yeah, he's older on that live album, but considering he 60's 70's icon peers, he sounds fucking fantastic! Steve has aged well. Thanks for existing Steve!

[@howie9751]

Saw him this same year at the New Haven Coliseum. Fantastic show with a great Caribbean back up band.

[@BobInKC1]

@@ericchavarria4436 Agreed. I saw him a few years ago doing a 7 song set opening for Steely Dan. Last year I saw him do a full show - 15ish songs - with his daughter, Lilly, opening for him and joining him towards the end of his set. Great show. Great band. He played almost all old stuff and only one solo number and nothing off one of my favorites - Arc Of A Diver. When he's behind that Hammond or out front on Dear Mr Fantasy it's a great time.

[@HoopCITY76]

He’s still going strong at 71 and can still deliver.

[@ExiledStardust]

Every single person on this stage was having SO MUCH FUN.

[@theresaheyer537]

love "Stevie " Winwood as we all knew him as "way back when".indeed "bring me that HIGHER LOVE!

[@stevewinwood4279]

Hello Theresa, How’re you doing? Thanks for your love, support and for being an amazing fan! ❤️ It's nice meeting you here

[@susancohen8009]

What an excellent composer,musician and collaborator, also brings out the best in others!

[@SARJdk]

7:55 Seeing the band litterally jumping for joy of happiness is how I feel everytime I hear Steve Winwood. Also Paul reminding Carol Steele to come in with the tambourines is a great little moment.

[@ufjir]

So who was that fantastic drummer? He played timbales on the first tune and then killed it on the drums set with Gimme Some Lovin'.

[@SARJdk]

@@ufjir Anton Fig. A LEGEND.

[@karenr.sternberg1920]

Absolutely! The Music & their Happiness in it were just spilling out of their bodies. Will Lee jumping up & down shows he can barely contain it, 'til he & Donelle start dancing!!

[@bigdrew565]

​@@SARJdkYeah, he's great. He did great work on Ace Frehley's solo album. Probably could have been Kiss' Drummer after Peter Criss left the band, considering all the sessions he put in with them.

[@loreedavis5988]

Saw Stevie at the Hyde Park London musical festival three or four years ago, and his voice was exactly the same as it’s always been. I was amazed. Flew all the way to the UK just so that I could hear HIM, even though Santana and Eric Clapton were there as well.

[@sclogse1]

Man, this is THE guy I listened to while in Vietnam in 1972. It didn't mean I wasn't listening to Weather Report or Miles Davis, but for rock, he was the man.Another late night favorite to send around the joint pile was Nilsson's The Point.

[@BeeKay5150]

Know what I always respected about Steve Winwood? He's always about the music and the music only. You never hear about him spouting off politics, drug abuse, womanizing, anything like that...and after an over 50 year career, that's no small feat.

[@heliotropezzz333]

His daughter is married to the co-chairman of the Conservative Party in Britain, but I haven't heard Steve talk politics. The area where he now lives is a conservative area, so I suppose the people she grew up with would be largely conservative.

[@gailharris4013]

For sure ❤🔥

[@TC-dw6wg]

@b s perfect answer. Honestly who Cares.

[@dougpeters1625]

excellent point!

[@john-kl3ux]

He really is a musicians musician.👌

[@steerwithmyrear]

I grew up in the 90s living near Steve's home in England. He used to play the guitar for us whilst we sang songs at the kids church group every Sunday (I was probably 6-8yrs). Then fast forward to 2019 he was in the church choir at my sister's wedding. In the mid-2010s he ran some low-key charity gigs in the church. I went to a couple and saw him perform with people like Steve Gibbons and even Robert Plant.

[@ogr7771]

That was cool seeing those musicians getting to play and sing all time rock classic with the original singer, looks like they’re having the time of their lives

[@sparkomatic]

What a great band they were. They crushed "Higher Love", reading off charts.

[@markromero5331]

Nothing can top the song, "the low spark of high heeled boys"

[@charlenealban4318]

Absolutely my favorite song ever.....from Janet

[@rickyrudd28texacohavolinef2]

Great song indeed.

[@Meme-zc4cw]

Word!!!!

[@laconjo]

nothing!!!!

[@ludwigdrummer717]

Epic. The studio audience received a blessing that day.

[@lincolnmaceachern2410]

I had a really good stereo in the '80's; had this on vinyl, and one day, I really cranked up "Higher Love" when no one else was home. It sounded SO good.

[@bigbrotherisasob]

There's a lot going on in that song. Well done to have it sound that good.

[@Scrabblerouser]

Paul Shaffer and the World's Most Dangerous Band were SO good, and never got their due credit. They could play and hang with anyone. I love Anton's work on the drums here.

[@willshaw6405]

Erskine Thompson Absolutely damn right! You'd just hear snatches of music after the commercials, and it was so good, you wondered why they didn'tget a whole on-camera set at least once a week! WAY better than they needed to be...

[@dopamining7621]

I was just going to post a similar comment - that drummer is fantastic.

[@markdaniels7174]

I play bass and always recognized the immense talent of Will Lee. Great bass player, and such enthusiasm! Surprised to see him on keytar, though (on "Higher Love").

[@MikeKiker]

I like this better than the studio version for that reason. This band really breathes some life into this song.

[@regaltip8A]

Good old Anton Fig - the guy that used to drink cough medicine with Ace Frehley for a cheap high. Nothing compared to JR Robinson. Not even close.

[@yvettemarieg5245]

And he still sounds so fine. Unique singing voice. Legendary.

[@stefgalouzis9494]

Party happening Right there on stage So tight So glad..😄 So Stevie So Blues Bros... Rock on...🤘

[@gregorallnight371]

Winwood is one of the most talented creative artists and musicians,songwriter and performer to have come along,a true original that has written so many great songs and albums

[@klausrain111]

Steve Winwood, one of the greatest singers and musicians ever. Also a fantastic songwriter. I was a Traffic fan from Day One back in the sixties.

[@earnestprole9461]

The only person in human history who could truly rock a mullet.

[@MICKLUVR]

Patrick Swayze could

[@brandilampe4570]

MacGyver

[@j.m.6542]

Sonny Crockett

[@gailharris4013]

☺

[@lethargika9531]

MacGyver, then Steve

[@ChrisR-ne4kn]

After years and years of watching Letterman's NBC show every night, this performance of Gimme Some Lovin always stuck with me. I remember when we taped this on VHS we'd play it over and over. Such joy. Thanks so much for posting!!

[@joecarusopop-jazzswingsing1562]

I'll bet it sounded amazing in that studio. Having been there, I can tell you that the audio was tight...and loud!

[@saraabernathy4302]

This was the summer i turned 21. I thought i knew everything back then 😉. I remember driving down the highway in the summer with the windows open and this song blaring on the radio. Was living the high life for sure. ❤

[@royalpurple7655]

Back in the high life. What a great album.

[@suebrown7358]

Looks like everyone was having so much fun despite the difficulties - love Stevie's big smile through out! I bet the audience was really into it!

[@JJJJJVVVVVLLLLL]

pure musical joy

[@chasgorman1086]

Also , keep in mind , he was 39 here, already had 25 years in the business.

[@bonitarogers8843]

Wow, I hadn’t happened upon this video until now, I cannot express to everyone how great I think Steve Winwood is. Go out and search him. Also, look for him with Traffic and Clapton. One of the most overlooked musicians of the 70s and he is still around. I put him in my top three. Won’t give away his real rating because everyone should listen to him in the 70s and today. Amazing, you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy!

[@nonnie8388]

My favorite musician, singer, songwriter, just pure brilliance from day 1. Thank you Steve Winwood for your inexplicable contributions to the world of music and the memories that come with your gifts you so graciously share with the world ❤

[@marshallr4797]

Stevie Windwood is the man This takes me back to a great place / time in my life.

[@Gilyslas]

Winwood absolutely brilliant, truly a musician's musician.

[@GeraldWilhelmBradenComposer]

Steve Winwood is one of my all time favorite musicians, composers, and vocalists. I also remember how great Letterman's band was was Paul Shaffer. That band could have played with or toured with any national act of any musical genre, they were great!

[@george474747]

The house band were out of their depth here. Players on the Higher Love record included John JR Robinson, Nile Rodgers and Philippe Saisse!! No wonder Paul was nervous! This performance is full of major mistakes, especially on keys. As Paul said, it is a hard piece, but I still enjoyed it because of the drummer, the 3 elite pros from Steve's band and, above all, the fact that it's a great song. A lot of what they played right sounded great. That rhythm from @4:20 is particularly difficult... Just a phenomenal composition. I'd rather hear an under-rehearsed version of this than a polished version of most songs.

[@george474747]

Shame they didn't have Steve play some keyboard parts to make it easier for Paul.

[@jonathanolds813]

Absolutely the best band on late night TV.

[@peacefrog0521]

The World’s Most Dangerous Band. ❤

[@sassulusmagnus]

A truly remarkable vocalist. He's had that voice since his teens. Unbelievable. Killer drum + percussion work on this performance also.

[@staffoffice]

I was in that audience!! Soundtrack to my teenage years! FYI, he HATED to do this with no instrument in hand or a keyboard in front of him. He hates dancing around LOL!! Still an absolute professional.

[@melindahill9342]

Doctor Ya Ya Creator of Ecstasy Well, he looks great dancing around and singing and his smile is so cute!

[@SmartRobot-wc2fb]

Doctor Ya Ya Creator of...Indeed! The black chick doing the background vocals also is present in Sting's "If You Love Somebody (Set Them Free)" video...

[@Hs3u39]

I was surprised to see him here as a pure vocal front man. Cool though.

[@cherylruhr6001]

I felt for Paul who seemed nervous in the introduction. Playing keyboards for a real prodigy! He was glued to that music all right!

[@itorapadas]

Winwood actually danced great in this song that night in 86!

[@truthseeker474]

It was the best ever tribute to Stevie Winwood, the soulful voice of British pop,to be an act in Coronation Concert, for King Charles.❤🇬🇧

[@Noseypoke-mr7th]

CHARLIE SPOILT THE SHOW...NOT MY KING

[@objuan6]

Can’t Find My Way Home, one of the best songs ever writ! In my opinion.

[@ukewarrior]

I remember watching this live and was blown away by Winwood. Great upload, thanks for sharing it.

[@user-xi8xc7vf8y]

I think Stevie gave em a workout!! Loved it!!!

[@thebusinessintelshow4076]

Upbeat music that makes you feel good!! Steve Winwood is a huge talent!!

[@richardfurlott4243]

VERY HUGE !!!

[@Ericotheriault]

THIS is friggin GOLD..... Paul Shaffer, Stevie Winwood, Dolette McDonald, Carol Steele!..... the 80s were AMAZING

[@brendajones4569]

Dolette McDonald spent quite a bit of time backing Sting, too.

[@qthelost]

@@brendajones4569 Thank you. I knew that I knew her from somewhere else. She's in Sting's video for "If You Love Love Somebody Set Them Free."

[@_stardust62]

When record companies first heard SW they thought he a black singer... a lot of soul in the voice!

[@msozywood9832]

I keep coming back to this clip again and again.....year after year. The combination of all of them is SO joyful! Would have LOVED to have been in the audience on the night!

[@andyinoregon]

Hard to think of another rock and roller who has aged as well as Steve Winwood. Great posting, Don.

[@andyinoregon]

@Arpad Jones As I've commented elsewhere about Richards, I'm old enough to remember when the teen magazines referred to Keith as "the cute one" from The Rolling Stones. (:

[@bassetthound0533]

Maybe Carlos Santana!

[@dougpeters1625]

Winwood has been amazing for 50 years.

[@sebjoeko]

This is just great - had never seen this clip before. 'Blue-eyed' soul at its finest!

[@runninrebel1520]

I miss my 80s❤