Eva Cassidy "Over the Rainbow" REACTION & ANALYSIS by Vocal Coach / Opera Singer

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

We just released merchandise! Check out the full line-up here: thecharismaticmerch.com

[@TimothyCampling]

My favorit song is Autmn Leaves. I would love to hear you comment on that one two.

[@misternormL]

Not simping. Just saying nice hair, beautiful. :)

[@barrywicker2253]

I love this wpmen, she stirs happiness in my blood. Spirit in my soul. I love her ! BARRY WICKER

[@barrywicker2253]

@@TimothyCampling BARRY WICKER Eva would have me soul and all, she is such a beautiful spirit ! I'm so happy watching her

[@barrywicker2253]

She inspires me to create ! 😆

[@ericgerber9751]

Everyone focusses (and rightly so) on her incredible voice, but I want to just point out that her guitar playing is also stunning!

[@themackayfamily2015]

Taught by her father

[@susansapp6136]

In this reaction I heard (by "The Charismatic Voice"), the first description of the perfect combination that Eva Cassidy has with her guitar. I've heard that she hated the guitar because it was difficult to keep in tune, but we'll get to that later. "Conversation" with the guitar is what stuns me here because that is EXACTLY what it is. They are both singing here, in perfect chorus with one another and that takes a lot of study, practice and passion. I've played guitar, but mostly to myself and know that it isn't all that easy. You match that with her perfect clarity and emotion ... you've got something that will last a very long time. God bless you Eva. May we have your legacy around forever. We know where you are singing and playing now.

[@spacelemur7955]

Absolutely true. If I could play like that, I would never worry about singing. It's not flashy, but it's perfect, as far as I can hear.

[@EchoSevenNine]

I remember sitting down to learn this on guitar one time until I realised it has about 50 different chords and variants.

[@deborahpaulin1188]

Larry Shair breaks down her incredible guitar skills here on KZbin in an Eva Cassidy vlog 10 months ago.

[@macronencer]

I'm a 58-year-old man. If you want to make me cry, just play pretty much any Eva Cassidy recording. She seems like she was some kind of special being, not of this world, sent here to soothe and heal.

[@JR-bj3uf]

Same

[@davidharkin8554]

Very I sadly missed her 😢

[@kld5617]

Yeah same here just well up😊

[@larkinfessenden6150]

@@JR-bj3uf Same

[@stratnut7146]

I said something very similar before I read your comment. At least I’m not alone in my thinking. Just beautiful

[@bobblakely4413]

This is how you describe Eva simply the best voice God ever gave anyone

[@justlookin11]

The BEST reaction to this I've seen. Eva's loss was a loss for all of us.

[@tomblondell5804]

Evas work was ethereal, it was spiritual, God was in her, she was an Angels voice speaking to mere mortals. She also was singing this song while having a cold which may have caused the breaks in her voice at the end and a few other places.

[@jedislap8726]

Eva Cassidy is one of the few singers that makes this 44 year old man cry every time I listen to her. I have to thank the late Sir Terry Wogan for introducing me and the rest of the UK to her music.

[@rsimko]

you are not alone

[@kinglear5952]

It was a wonderful contribution by Terry Wogan to bring this singer to a wider audience as she was so so gifted and a lovely performer.

[@littlesheetable]

Me too. I cry every time.

[@jjanderson8235]

.... me too 😢😹

[@theresadoherty9783]

Agreed. Consider listening to some of my songs.

[@donstrasbaugh663]

Eva’s Autumn Leaves from the Live at Blues Alley is the greatest vocal performance I’ve ever experienced. As a musician of over 40 years I’ve never heard anything even close to it. Eva is all alone at the top of the mountain. She is phenomenal!🎺

[@tcteadrinker2110]

In case you've missed this head on over to the documentary One Night That Changed Everything kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnbUq4eij8mZidE as her band reminisces about the recording. About 20 or 21 minutes into the movie listen to what her pianist Lanny Watkins has to say about accompanying her.

[@commontater8630]

I agree absolutely, her Autumn Leaves would be my no. 1 recommendation for a followup to Over the Rainbow.

[@deborahpaulin1188]

So so true.

[@rdretske1]

100% agree. Her Autumn Leaves is the best vocal I’ve ever heard in any genre. I’ve played that song for 40 years, but never knew it until hearing her sing it.

[@wilburfinnigan2142]

Eva is dead and gone and new people have arrived to take their place. I would suggest you watch/listen to Lucy Thomas's singing tribute to Eva and have your mind changed !!!

[@rocroc]

I remember the first time I heard Eva Cassidy. My wife and I were traveling from our home in Nashville, TN to our birth home in Akron, Ohio to visit family. On Route 71 just prior to turning onto route 76, "Fields of Gold" came on the radio. I immediately asked my wife to catch the singer so we could buy it. The next day we bought the CD "Songbird" and learned the history of Eva Cassidy. It was a wonderful CD but a very sad day to learn of her death and the wonderful music she left behind. It is still almost incomprehensible she could have been taken so early. "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" was on that same album as well. Today, my wife is gone now but we retired and built a home 3 miles from the exit of that turn off. I don't make that turn often now but when I do I think of Eva and sometimes play her songs. "Over the Rainbow" is hers alone and one of my favorite songs as well. They all remind me of my wife and 52 years of marriage. So, thanks in advance for what I know will be a great broadcast. Tomorrow, there will be a bunch of new listeners who find Eva Cassidy and begin the journey my wife and I made so many years ago. Thank you....

[@davee7962]

Songbird is a classic album. Like Tom Waits Closing Time.

[@cwright2910]

She was a jewel… Gone too soon…

[@annabelliott]

Her music is SOOOO beautiful, and so very heartbreaking hearing it now.

[@erinhafer228]

The first time I heard Eva, I was driving on a hwy through Dayton and they played Over the Rainbow on a little radio station called WYSO. It caught me by such surprise, and I ended up having to pull over bc I couldn’t see through my tears. I was immediately hooked, went and bought Songbird, Live at Blues Alley, Time After Time etc. It felt like I had found a secret treasure! She was also a spectacular artist, I bought one of her prints and it hangs in my living room 🥰 seeing others discover and fall in love with her truly makes me happy!

[@rocroc]

@@erinhafer228 - Erin, what year was that? I used to go from Nashville/Louisville to West Liberty several times a year. I often drove through or around Dayton.

[@jeffhunt2778]

I was the soloist on this song in the 7th grade so it has always meant a lot to me. I ran across Eva Cassidy in 2010, bought her CD. I was doing a lot of traveling for work by car, hours almost every day with Eva. For 2 years I don't think I listened to anyone else. She took over my ears. My favorite singer of all time. No, let me rephrase. The best singer of all time. Go ahead, argue with me. Go ahead.

[@as7326]

It's rare that the mere sound of a voice can move you to tears. Eva was rare.

[@PhotoTrekr]

Happened upon Eva Cassidy, fell in love with her voice, then found out that she had died, all in the space of an hour. I was heartbroken and she is missed.

[@derekmiles9306]

Same

[@linmonash1244]

Same

[@bknsty14]

I think that’s the story for most of us. But at least we found her.

[@serbian88]

@@bknsty14 and its such a blessing, isn't is? :')

[@Stefnmaddy]

Same. Man that sucked. Walked down the aisle to fields of gold

[@kevinashley4434]

Eva saved my life . In 2001 I was newly sober . It was the 4th of July and I was alone and listening to parties and fun of that holiday . Her story came on Nightline and after hearing it I decided that if she could do as she had done , I could stay sober one more night . She is a favorite of mine . I'm so glad you did took time to give her a moment. Kevin

[@valenstyle9090]

Hope you’re still doing well!! 😊

[@lindseytaylor1522]

Im glad you made it through

[@rushy67rr97]

I’m a Rock & Metal guy but Eva Cassidy 😯 I just can’t listen to this lady without welling up, that tone is like honey on a summer’s day, she was such a beautiful mesmerising performer, if I could have one artist in the world back that left us too soon its Eva Cassidy ( closely followed by Karen Carpenter ) stunning..

[@jayedwards1205]

The opposite here... I find her unlistenable ... her tortured , snail-like renderings of old standards

[@Xiph1980]

@@jayedwards1205 so, are you really going to reply something to this extend to everyone's post? We get it, it's not your taste. That's OK, not everyone likes the same things. But not everything has to be to your liking either. Don't like it? Don't listen to it. Don't have to be such a little pathetic douche about it.

[@jayedwards1205]

That’s inane ... Don’t like my comments, dont read them ...see how that works ?

[@randybaker6042]

What would be expected of someone who finds Eva Cassidy unlistenable? Replying in a negative fashion on a bunch of people's comments. Raining on the parade. Makes perfect sense. lol

[@jayedwards1205]

Just stop the personal attacks and insults , how about that ?...I am simply stating my views of this singer’s performance ... there is no “ parade” that I am aware of ..

[@labradoreadore]

I was so blessed to see Eva at Blues Alley In Georgetown, Washington DC.. This is her version which everyone sings now. We all love you so Eva. Heaven listens to you forever ✨

[@stevebradbury1914]

Your extremely lucky, I'm very jealous.

[@kevinbrown6070]

I envy you

[@virghammer1]

Ahhhhhhh ... you lucky, fortunate person. Thank you for sharing with us.

[@labradoreadore]

@@virghammer1 you’re welcome 💓

[@MrsMiamore1]

Oh you're so lucky

[@freedomtracksrecords4452]

What is amazing about Eva Cassidy is that this is a live version and not the result of studio polishing and embellishment like a lot of voices we hear. Janis Joplin once said, that she didn't write songs, she "felt songs" and I think that is what makes someone stand out from the pack as much as anything.

[@deborahpaulin1188]

Check the Eva Cadsidy video here on YT by Larry Shair from 10 months ago. He goes into great detail about her talent as a guitarist. I consider her among the purest and most versatile of female vocalists.

[@chaunceywilliams8405]

Not to mention she was sick with a cold the night they recorded.

[@shanecovey1901]

Everytime I hear Eva sing, I can't stop myself. So many songs she sings, it even doesn't matter because she draws the tears out of me like poison from a wound and cleans my soul.

[@susansapp6136]

Shane: the passion and understanding she had for God's intent with music was way beyond what we've understood (most of us). I know she is with Him and will be there for all of us again if we'll listen.

[@KeithGriffin]

What a perfect metaphor. Poison from a wound.

[@jasonstinebaugh8447]

Good God! I'd never heard of her! I was just barely an adult when she died. This was beautiful and somehow, even more heartbreaking than the original. Such a tragic loss at so young! Thank you for introducing me to her Elizabeth! Thank you so much! Well, now I'm down a rabbit hole. I just listened to her renditions of Cyndi Lauper's Time After Time, and True Colors. Both were AMAZING! Time After Time absolutely wrecked me! I just sobbed. And that does not happen often! But afterward, I felt emotionally cleansed! I highly recommend both songs by the beautiful Eva Cassidy. Thank you again Elizabeth!

[@g3synth205]

Check out "Autumn Leaves". It's from the same night she performed Over the Rainbow. It might be my favorite. I discovered her through a reaction channel too, if I recall correctly.

[@Nonny54aussie]

Try Fields of Gold, beautiful.

[@johnatyoutube]

This song is pure velvety magic - the epitome of Eva - an incredible combination of heart and vocal mastery. I grew up near Eva. She worked in the nursery in my hometown. She was a humble and quiet introverted person. Her passion and pain came out in her singing. She was the most magnificent singer of our time. She actually had a cold when she recorded this live at the Blues Alley jazz club in Washington, DC near where we lived. It only enhanced the tenderness in the song. It's impossible to listen to this and not be moved. Such an incredible life and talent cut short. She became famous posthumously. To me, this is her finest song. She takes it to a level no other singer has been able to - not in vocal pyrotechnics, but in heart - an expression of her soul. Her interpretation, dynamics, and vocal control are out of this world. This far outshines the Garland performance. We're blessed that she left us this and her other works. She's inspired many singers including Adele. I'm so grateful that you highlighted her. She lives on in her beautiful music

[@galenstone9097]

You cannot teach what Eva had. One of the finest voices of the past forty years.

[@jeffstevens4262]

It breaks my heart to know that only 10 months after this amazing recording was made, Eva was dead at only 33 years old. This is so beautiful. I believe that if Judy Garland herself had heard this beautiful version of her song, she'd absolutely love it too. God rest and bless them both. So sad that both ladies died way too young. 💔💔

[@KyleS.1987]

This is going to be great and I'm going to try not to cry. What a gift Eva was to this world.

[@DavidTateVA]

This is going to be great and I'm going to cry like a baby. Can't help it. Every time.

[@Xiph1980]

Well, that's not S.M.A.R.T. formulated, no way that "not crying" goal is attainable...

[@rjimeson1]

I cant listen to Eva's "Fields of Gold" and "Over the Rainbow'" without my eyes welling up. Her voice and emotion will pull it out of you. I know it was coming for you, too, Elizabeth when your video began. Sure enough....

[@jayedwards1205]

I cry at the horrific things she does to old standards

[@DavidTateVA]

@@jayedwards1205 De gustibus non est disputandum. I hope you find performers who do them just the way you love.

[@mikepope9503]

“Fields of Gold” (especially if you compare it side-by-side with Sting’s original) and “Autumn Leaves” are two of my other favourites from Eva’s catalogue. Her musical expressiveness is literally breathtaking.

[@jhonea66]

The cracks in her voice are due to the cold she had that night. To be able to sing so beautifully like that, with a cold, is a gift indeed. I’m glad you did this one, Eva was a gem.

[@ericbraun4652]

I dunno... she may have had a cold, but she could bring those cracks to any song she wanted WHENEVER she wanted. I've listened to every song of hers I could find.

[@Chris1969o]

Were you there that night?

[@Marvin4521]

@@Chris1969o asking about the "cold"? If they were there to know she had a cold? It's been well documented that she had a cold, by the band, friends and family that were at the 2 nights of recordings.

[@georgewashington5979]

@@Marvin4521 I have to second that. I saw the documentary of her band mates that were with her on the two nights of recording that said she was disappointed in her own performance due to the cold.

[@MikeTheBike58]

Ignore all the negative.....she did indeed have a cold and was very disappointed in her performance too.

[@9Ballr]

"I think that ending was a great example of something that wasn't technically perfect but was emotionally perfect, and emotionally perfect will trump technically perfect in my book every single time." “To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable.” - Ludwig van Beethoven.

[@byzinski]

Blame it on Trump again !!!??? 🤣

[@ThothBob]

i wouldn't even bring the idea of trump anywhere near this - he corrupts everything he touches, and this is timeless, perfect beauty. let it stay that way. ;)

[@rexrogers1859]

@@byzinski Yawn.... Politics of any sort doesn't belong here.

[@hillsane9262]

@@byzinski So sad! I guess you think it gives you meaning and purpose to try to change everything into some stupid political discussion!

[@lukula2934]

I'd agree with that sentiment. I did notice that her voice fell away slightly in the ending notes.I've little doubt that she was already in physical crisis from the cancer ravaging her body even during this performance. I'd heard that she almost cancelled that night because she had a "bad cold". An unsung master of the song and the essence of each note, each ebb and flow, and each place she carried us to. I imagine her practicing, hour after hour, and never stopping until it conveyed her sublime and ephemeral signature. Thank you Eva, You gave us so little, and so much.

[@markbatarina4512]

It’s amazing how she can control the volume of both her voice and guitar to get louder and softer at perfect times during the song. It gives the song so much more depth and allows me as the listener to visualize what the song is trying to present.

[@kathystaursky4063]

I was lucky enough to be at Blues Alley to hear her perform live as well as Fleetwoods. What a truly gifted , beautiful and humble artist she was. Her angelic presence will be with us forever.

[@virghammer1]

Ahhhhh ... you lucky, lucky lady! Beautiful. Thank you. Ahhhhhhhh ... I'm so wistfully jealous, Kathy ... - Stay safe and well, --- The One Here Who Is ... smilingly envious....

[@jennyinmexico9038]

I saw her at Blues Alley and also at Feetwoods. Thank you for the lovely reminder. What a small little world we live in. And it takes Eva to unite us and to touch these hearts all over the world. God bless that little Marylander! What a gift she still is.💝

[@DonCohen2649]

Best ever

[@selmonb921]

For me having been into Eva for many years, after hearing her story, was the fact, she had the Flu during this gig, but most remarkable, is it is one Mic, and guitar and her voice! In a small room of maybe 200 people, with nothing but silence from the crowd, shows me this is about as perfect as it gets.

[@susansapp6136]

Great music doesn't have much to do with loud, odd noises, rhythm and dance. The experience is "beauty is in the eyes of the beholder". I'm 73 now and am thankful that I've had the chance to look back at all of the music that flowed before and realize that the lyrics we all know mean something else as we age. Thankful is a mild word for the revelations in review. The first version of this song was a little girl in a garden making wishes and it didn't mean a whole lot except for a pretty melody, a talented singer and a story that haunts all of us. THIS version, though, kicks you in the gut and makes you realize that ALL of it means something a whole lot bigger and connects us in understanding.

[@scotsman6712]

​@@susansapp6136I couldn't play this version at my mom's funeral,it would have been too sad- I went with Iz's version.

[@valdeeracruso1734]

@@scotsman6712 I prefer Iz's version! It feels more emotional to me.

[@Llamedos]

I was rushing, getting ready to go out, and this video of Eva Cassidy came on the TV. I stopped everything and became overwhelmed. Tears ran down my cheeks. Never heard anything so beautifully sung before. When I heard later that she had passed... I never felt such a loss and grief for a person I never knew or could never know. Thank you for a brilliant and thought provoking review.

[@A-small-amount-of-peas]

When Terry Wogan first played this on his morning show I was travelling to work with my Dad. Two grown men father and son trying their best not to tear up (A father and son dynamic is a tough one)At the end of the song even Terry who was a very professional broadcaster said in a voice that was close to cracking "Have you ever heard something as beautiful as that? " or something along those lines. I still haven't to this day

[@sharonlock3780]

I was the same. I was driving to work and I pulled over because I was crying so much. I needed to take a minute to realise that I had heard a genius at work. I still cry when I hear it now.

[@mindfulskills]

This never fails to bring me to tears. Besides all of the wonderful vocal attributes that Elizabeth cites, Eva is a towering GENIUS of spontaneous musical improvisation. This version was not set in stone; we are literally watching her invent it. Eva fearlessly wanders far from the sheet music, and yet somehow finds and delivers the inner spiritual truth of this song more fully and devastatingly than anyone else who has ever sung it.

[@patriciapendlbury2603]

Her autumn leaves is both gut wrenching and haunting

[@harrisonandrew]

For me, Eva’s version of that song is the definitive version. It is mastery bordering on genius. Those guitar parts are awesome and not at all easy to do especially when singing out of your skin. It always triggers emotion in me and it was beautiful to see you review and react to it (I did shed a tear or two). Another one by Eva that gets me every time is ‘Autumn Leaves’. The pictures she paints in her version of that song are so vivid that you feel exactly how you would feel if story in the song was actually happening to you. In certain mindsets or situations, the emotions triggered by the performance can be too much to cope with. Pure genius.

[@Roy-mw5js]

You can't sing that song better then that! She pulls every bit of emotion you can get out of the words in that beautiful song❤

[@grahamcrabbe8369]

I’m so glad that you picked this song to review. The first time that I heard it I was in a room with a group of people who were deep in conversation and this played in the background. Slowly but surely people stopped talking, each getting drawn in by this angelic voice until eventually nobody was speaking and they were all captivated by this song. At the end there was a collective sigh and exhale and we knew we had heard something special.

[@grbenny]

She makes me cry. Every time.

[@briankirchhoefer]

I could listen to her playing guitar alone even without singing. Beautiful bass runs between the classical melody with a touch of jazz. Then her voice is so beautiful. So difficult to do both simultaneously.

[@etaoinbshrdlu]

It was fun to revisit Elizabeth's sensitive, thoughtful response to Eva C. Moved, fighting back the tears. Other reviewers failed at fighting them back! The 'British Guitarist' said at the end of his response, "If this doesn't move you, there's something wrong with you!" Another reviewer, a mixed martial arts guy, big and tough, was so moved he just put his head on his desk and broke down sobbing! So much for tough guys not having sensitive hearts!

[@RJBlankenship]

OMG! I had never heard her before. I am going to buy everything she ever recorded right now. ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL

[@irhonda31]

And you won’t be disappointed!

[@tednottodd]

Unfortunately for us, there isn’t much of a catalog. I may have the story wrong, but I believe she was “discovered” by a DJ in England. If memory serves, her recording of this and one other song were played on the BBC after her death and she became an overnight success in Europe, albeit posthumously.

[@fredc.meekinsjr.5553]

@@tednottodd Correct.....she had a strong following in the DC area during her lifetime, but her fame came years after she died. Perfect pitch, and a very talented guitar player as well.

[@sabyegrp]

@@tednottodd Over the Rainbow went to number one in England just days after it was first played as you describe.

[@martinwilliams6312]

The phrase 'voice of an angel' was never more appropriate. This is from an album Blues Alley and ALL of it is incredible!

[@AlbeniztoZappa]

I'm a guitar player. Been playing for decades and struggle with how to connect with and play with emotion. Eva Cassidy has become my... muse I guess in performing with emotion. I can't get through the first 2 notes of this song without tears.

[@bevklayman4158]

You are a wonderful listener. This is so rare. Thank you. I really heard her anew through your listening.

[@Nro52]

Never thought I´d see a reaction to Eva. Just her and her guitar was the stuff dreams are made of. Thank you, Elizabeth, for bringing a little of her light to a broader audience!

[@mydogdidit]

The first time I heard this rendition of this song I was driving. I had to pull over due to the tears in my eyes. Stunningly beautiful. I had never heard her. Not only the voice, her guitar-playing is amazing. One of the most amazing talents ever!

[@elizabethleyden892]

Me too. I hadn't heard of her before, nor had I heard her version of the song. It was on the Terry Wogan show, I was driving to work, and had to puoll over as my eyes were full of tears. Since then, I bought several of her albums. One unique quality she had is that her emotion forces you to listen to the songs. I, for one, can't play her albums simply as 'background music'.

[@KenOtwell]

Another great Eva song - at her last performance just a few weeks before her death - she chose to sing: "What a wonderful world." I can't imagine anyone choosing a better way to say goodbye and thanks to life.

[@radio-su6lh]

Please, please Elizabeth do more reactions to Eva. I just love your heartfelt responses to her singing, made me even more emotional seeing that. May I suggest Autumn Leaves as your next Eva track. Many thanks for a wonderful & informative reaction. x

[@jolanhowes3604]

Yes, Autumn Leaves.

[@777colin1]

The sad part is that the world arrived too late to appreciate her talent, her voice and her playing. We are so blessed to have this video, so we can see what has been lost to us all. Just think about what her talent is to take an iconic song, that everyone knows, change it, and make it your own and then make it better than the original. RIP Eva, November 2 1996 will be remembered as a date of what we lost.

[@martinsinfield42]

This is the review of Eva Cassidy that I have been waiting for. An absolutely natural talent reviewed by a master of the vocal art. When you listen to Eva's beautiful voice, her phrasing and emotion, you know you were hearing something stunning and very unique. Thank you for your wonderful review. It was clear that you were quite emotional at times. I think most people react that way because, with the benefit of hindsight, the song and it's heart-wrenching delivery are foretelling that this magical voice will soon be stilled for ever.

[@rk41gator]

Eva is exquisite. ABSOLUTELY EXQUISITE.

[@michaelacord228]

Enjoyed your reaction. Eva has been my favorite singer for many years. The guitar part is quite difficult--there are tutorials on youtube helping guitarists learn to play it. Someone asked Elton John who he listened to. He named one singer--Eva Cassidy.

[@nobodyspecial7185]

There's not much better than listening to Eva Cassidy except watching you react to it.......

[@erichnussbaum]

Yes, it's the same level!

[@hahabass]

This has been a brilliant, BRILLIANT analysis. Loved this! You must be a great coach. Thank you, for sharing ❤️

[@pack-ui7pl]

Newbies should listen to Mick Fleetwood's memories of Eva and her rendition of Autumn Leaves. I am a 75 year old Vietnam Vet and tear up on most of her songs. The world lost what angels have inherited

[@muthajohn]

I agree... Autumn Leaves or my favorite, Nightbird

[@longboardmed]

Thank you Sir, blessings to you.

[@wieslawmar3556]

I have this same feelings, men 60 years old, greetings from Poland

[@irhonda31]

Ahhh...her version of Autumn Leaves...takes you to another level.

[@dukewalker9144]

The angels are EVA's back-up singers! :)

[@dianesparrow1592]

Every time I listen to Eva's Over the Rainbow, i find it heartacheingly beautiful. I believe music is the language of our hearts.

[@phillipmitchell5879]

By far, the most beautiful & powerful version of this song, ever. Eva was so special - a gift, an angel. Writer & composer Harold Arlen & Yip Harburg would be amazed & delighted. Little did they know - they really wrote this song for her. And her version of 'The Autumn Leaves' is equally unique & magical. God Bless you, Eva, wherever you are...

[@RockDocNeal]

Every time I listen to this I'm in tears. Not only is the tone, control and dynamics of her voice jaw dropping, her beautiful and emotional interpretation of the melody and great guitar playing brings it over the top. ❤😭

[@roshi98]

The chord shapes she uses are perfect. There are simpler, less stretchy options but instead, she uses the ones where the phrasing exactly compliments her vocals. And her phrasing, it's almost unbearably good. She was a top-tier instrumentalist as well as a vocalist.

[@moomoopuppy508]

Its hard for me to listen to her music without getting emotional. Its my favorite rendition of the song. All her covers are my favorites. "Autumn Leaves" is one of my favorite songs of hers.

[@andypullin4702]

I have no idea how she does it, she pulls the tempo of the vocal line all over the place, which would normally irritate my musical OCD beyond belief, but somehow she makes it sound natural and right. Add the richness and vulnerability of her voice and the total is......amazing.

[@Drewg351]

Exactly. I thought the same thing the very first time I heard this song and as she opened, and moved the vocal line, I wasn't sure if I was going to like this or not. Well, it was AMAZING. UNBELIEVABLE.

[@patrickbrooker4302]

That made me sob. I never heard of her and feel guilty. Oh man that was so beautiful.

[@MikeTheBike58]

Listen to her sing Fields Of Gold and Songbird.

[@JohnBare747]

One of the best voices ever, so sad she is gone. This cover is so melancholy and emotional.

[@JamesLemakos]

As beautiful as her voice is, I could sit and listen to her play the guitar for hours.

[@ChicagoDB]

I’m glad you’re doing Eva Cassidy. “Fields of Gold” and “Tennessee Waltz” are probably my two favorites...but “Over the Rainbow” is what finally brought her fame...as with many great artists throughout history - she became famous after her death.

[@jeffstumpf9129]

She needed a longer life with many more brilliant recordings to get the fame that she deserves. Her name doesn't appear on any of the lists of greatest jazz singers of all time because of that reason. There's no doubt she would have, she was that good.

[@downeybill]

Tennessee Waltz!

[@jayedwards1205]

Try listening to Judy Garland sing it

[@Africa-ky1bg]

Autumn Leaves 🍁🍁🍁 is breathtaking

[@betsyslaughter76]

Also Danny Boy, just beautiful!

[@jefftaylor2595]

That was beyond beautiful. I’ve never heard this version before and I can’t imagine a better rendition. I was moved to tears more than once.

[@shaniecesingleton3704]

Eva Cassidy has one of the most beautiful and powerful voices I’ve ever heard. “Over The Rainbow” has always been sung beautifully, but this version gives you chills.

[@RealGoldRealWealth]

First time here for me. I have Eva's CD and loved her voice and rendition of this song but I was blown away at your talent (have not heard you sing yet) by your analysis and comments from your first time listening to her singing. The look on your face and the expressions in your eyes and smiles said even more. Thank you for sharing yourself and your heart with us..

[@nilswestman4013]

Not only the most beautiful voice I have ever heard, the guitar playing is magical.

[@turtleislandlac1490]

Finally a vocal coach reacted to Eva. I've been waiting for so long for this and have been checking KZbin every few months. And now I see several people have reacted to it but I enjoy your analysis the most.

[@garypotter5569]

"But when you see a master do it..." And that is the defining sentence. Eva Cassidy was a Master.

[@omie1]

Wait till you hear her version of "Autumn Leaves". She takes that song to a different stratosphere.

[@barrysmith9407]

Ask Sting about her version of his "Fields of Gold"

[@Old_River]

So you're saying this is the best female vocal performance ever. Got it.

[@TomAJohnson1919]

Yes

[@thomasdelany2034]

Terry Wigan, BBC, persistently played her music until people recognised her genius. A tribute to them both.

[@keithd4406]

Yes Terry brought Eva to a British audience, via bbc radio 2 , thanks Terry and Eva, sadly both gone, happy times.

[@thegroovetube3247]

Persistently? He played this song on his Breakfast show, and that single play triggered the biggest audience response the BBC had ever received to a song. The rest, as they say, is history.

[@davekincaid6729]

I can't see anyone doing that song better than Eva did it. Simply perfect! 😥

[@msanastasiaalexander]

15:20 is where I collapse into full on sobs. It's so beautiful I can't bear it.

[@lindsayheywood7195]

Me too

[@topgazza]

This version always brings me to tears. For me the absolute definitive version. Just beautiful and a truly perfect voice. Her guitar playing is always exquisite. For me one of the greatest voices of all time. Your love and enthusiasm for this piece is so much fun

[@MindenMoose]

I have listened to this Eva recording so many times I couldn't tell you have many and from the very first "Somewhere" my eyes tear up. The subtlety and brilliance of her guitar are perfect partners to her unmatched voice

[@vickyandres6922]

It’s like she is in complete control of all the elements of her voice. Dynamically holding back in the beginning to draw you in. Then opening in the end to give us all chills.

[@joel2421]

Gonna need a big box of tissues for this one EZ. Me too. I had the pleasure of working with Eva on a song many years ago before she was famous. We were recording a Rap song at her boyfriend’s studio well last midnight and needed a better singer for the Hook. Chris suggested Eva whom none of us knew or had heard sing. We didn’t have much more money so he offered to have her sing it on his time and when we came back to mix we could keep it or not, with no charge either way. Words can never express how stunned we were as the song played. I still hadn’t met her and recall saying to Chris “I didnt know your girl was black”. He insisted she wasn’t and I didn’t believe him. She sounded like a stone cold R&B singer. And that TONE! (song snippet here kzbin.info/www/bejne/hmbNcpmrZ7acpLc ) Anyway we kept the vocals and despite the fact that the song never actually got put out until years later, Eva was so grateful that she offered to sing at the rapper’s (Ras Ran Amon) upcoming wedding. She was crazy nervous before the ceremony, but once she started singing it was a wrap. Stunned faces everywhere. She still is criminally under known in the US, although very famous in Europe. Hopefully that changes.

[@alanclarke8117]

Good Sir, Eva completionists everywhere salute you!

[@mojorider8455]

Wow, you folks were fortunate to have worked with Eva. Thank you for sharing your story about her. And you are so right---it's a crime that she STILL isn't well known in the US, even after all these years since she broke thru.

[@Rosannasfriend]

That’s incredible. Thanks for sharing this story about this legendary artist. What an honor to hear it and an honor for you to have worked with her.

[@babiesrphotoops]

I love your beautiful story.

[@linmonash1244]

Criminally unknown. Absolutely right, but changing now. Gathering momentum.

[@gorebrush]

The most tragic part of Eva's story for me, and this is what brings me to absolute tears everytime I think about it - she had an incredible gift, incredible talent, but it was all too late for her to enjoy it. Breaks my heart everytime.

[@arapaimagold8088]

Too late for everyone on Earth.

[@rongotwalt4487]

So glad to hear You're reacting to one the finest singers I face ever witnessed ! Eva has a magical quality that's mesmerizing ! Her phrasing , silky soprano voice and performances are heartwarming ! She's been gone for 25 yrs now but for those who have heard her she will always be in our hearts ; God she could sing ! Thank you and get ready to be amazed ! 🤗🇨🇦♥️

[@kellycoleman715]

Perfect performance of voice and guitar. Such emotion.

[@JimBobele]

Eva's version is so beautiful that it really hurts. And having in mind her tragic story always brings tears to my eyes. When I look into her eyes in this video I always have to think that she knew something before. There is some sort of sadness in her view... She is gone way to early

[@BigBass-xf5yi]

Eva’s version is absolutely gut wrenching. It yanks at so many of your emotions. I literally need a few moments of silence after hearing this version.

[@JohnBare747]

I read an article by a friend of hers and she said that Eva was in a great amount of pain during this performance.

[@Pupda]

@@JohnBare747 Nope. That was much later, shortly before she passed, at a benefit/fundraiser held in her honor in the fall. At this point she may - key word “may” - have had some hip pain which she attributed (at the time) to standing on a ladder to while painting murals at a local school. That hip pain would grow and later lead to discovering her cancer in the early summer, but wasn’t a factor on this night. On this night and the night before she was only suffering from a cold. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnzSqHqXoM99h6ssi=z6zaWjYhshVt5BYl @ 15:35

[@aliciagarcia5749]

Eva's guitar playing was just as emotional and beautiful as her singing was. We are truly blessed to have had her with us here on earth. She's shining down on us through her colored rainbow lenses and beautiful blue sky. Thank you for this reaction & analysis Elizabeth. --- Excuse me, I think I need a moment to compose myself.

[@waltpyron8236]

A++ on recognizing her guitar ability, which I thought about myself; in that very, very few top singing artists have had both abilities!!

[@childcrone]

Such a wonderful, completely compatible weaving of blues, jazz and classical guitar-feeling elements ...like they were never separate to begin with. The way she 'uses' the guitar as almost a duet with herself; so captivating.

[@Wishpool]

This one makes me tear up every time. I don't know how you held it together, Lizzie! I read somewhere that she wasn't happy with this performance, since she was sick and her voiced cracked a little, but I love how "real" she sounds! I also think her facial expressions (or lack thereof) really add to the emotion/sadness of her cover of this beautiful song.

[@MikeWhalley]

I'm a 43 year old grown man and this makes me cry every time I hear it. It just connects with your emotions in unexplainable ways. Simply beautiful.

[@catticusfeline4623]

Thank you, Charismatic Voice, for sharing your impressive knowledge and experience as a vocal coach and opera singer. Your intricate analysis of the magnificent Eva Cassidy's rendition of the classic ballad "Over the Rainbow" is enlightening and educational.

[@osemank]

Eva's interpretation is now the "go-to" version of wannabe pop stars on talent shows. None can match Eva's version but it is great to know that she has inspired many young women (and men??) to sing with subtlety and depth of emotion. Thank you, Elizabeth - seeing your face as you heard her glorious voice for the first time was lovely. R.I.P. Eva.

[@Contedrumsman]

This will be a very intense reaction, Eva was absolutely stunning! Sad fate, but we all have her music and voice, fortunately forever.

[@creatingmusicwithpassion4932]

You're my new hero for recognizing one of the greatest singers ever! I am a singer songwriter stumbled on her and she has been such an inspiration. She's singing live for one and all the black and white videos are during a live performance and every song is amazing, spot on, effortlessly, deep, clean, emotional...just perfect! May I mention her acoustic guitar work while being a true elegant vocalist? I'm a rock/pop/blues singer/writer but grew up listening to contemporary music and I recently met a female keyboardist classically trained and hoping to get her hooked on Eva and see what we can do...Thanks!

[@rgplpc]

I can add nothing to your many viewers who expressed their admiration for the music and emotional expression Eva Cassidy shared with us. She was the best, and we were lucky to have her. Can you imagine what the world would have missed if she had lived earlier without recording devices? Thank you for your analysis, and for joining with the rest of us in our pure enjoyment of, and appreciation for, this lady.

[@stratnut7146]

I’m a 54 old male singer and although I’ve watched this performance many times, I still get shivers listening to this absolute pure beauty. If I was at this performance live I would have been a blubbering mess. You cannot only hear the emotion in her voice and guitar accompaniment , but see the emotion in her face. She was an angel sent down to show us what beauty truly is and taken from us far too soon.

[@mr1d44ever2]

Eva Cassidy (33). Karen Carpenter (32). So sad these two wonderful, iconic singers passed so very young. Doesn't seem fair.

[@johnclement4158]

It's not, at least not from our view.

[@MrJeffinLodi]

I've been listening to Eva's stuff for years. She does the most beautiful versions of many well known songs, and they are often better than the original. This one is INCREDIBLE. It actually brings me to tears; it's crazy powerful

[@richardtatten2921]

I recently discovered Eva through another reaction. I was immediately in love. The reactions are all great but I wished as much attention was paid to her guitar playing. Both are beautiful!

[@mrkmywrds]

Why do I feel like after you stopped recording, you played it all the way through just for your own pleasure? Thank you for allowing me experience an old favorite through the heart of such a sensitive listener.

[@michaeltang4975]

I found Eva Cassidy through You-Tube just a few days ago. She is by far the most genuine and emotionally expressive singer I've every heard. She did not let technique or style define her. She expressed her innermost self, her feelings and emotions through every single note and nuances in her voice. Unplanned, unforced, but only in the moment driven by her inner promptings. Totally herself. She sings to the immensely sensitive, beautiful, vulnerable and often forgotten parts of ourselves driving us to tears. She was not just a beautiful singer but a preciously beautiful soul. She was and is a beautiful gift to the world.

[@candybanks8717]

She could've done this with an Iron Maiden song. Everything Eva touched became hers. She was miraculous.

[@mrnobody9104]

Kudos for this reaction, Eva had the most pure beautiful voice. RIP Eva your voice is pure gold!

[@callandick429]

15:20 When she opens her voice for that final "Somewhere" it is such a despairing sound, as if she is desperately reaching for something she knows she can't attain. Such a beautiful, emotional performance.

[@frankbreuer8849]

It can't get any better - her singing is spine tingling

[@frankbreuer8849]

It is already ALL in how she played the intro: slowed the tempo down before she started singing ... then this crystal clear high pitched note instantly tugging the heart strings. Beyond any comparison.