Gil Scott Heron "Winter In America" (1974) HIGH QUALITY

[@Smurfism74]

Well today there is truly a winter in America

[@gloriaalee540]

I’m72 and Gil Scott came first to my mind after hear this terrible news.😮

[@SuperAllenwill]

Anyone listening in winter 2024?

[@seventhhousesun]

Loud and clear.

[@erika7674]

Er, it's not quite winter yet, or at least not in the UK. But listening anyway, of course!

[@edwardtupper6374]

Listening for the first time today, although I already knew the revolution would put you in the driver's seat

[@meeshypeeshy1409]

We survived the winter of the 60s/70s. Not sure if we'll survive this one. 😢

[@RubyMoton]

I feel like crying when i hear this song!!!

[@southerncross3638]

I identified with this song as an 18 yr old in 74, and now as a 67 yr old, this song fits even better in 2023.

[@BeaperMcCrawdad]

I'm 25 and this song has me in tears. Hoping I survive the night to make it through to another day. Have the slave hounds on my trail. "Human trafficking" is just a watered down way of saying slavery.

[@judygedmistergaines7578]

@southerncross3638 💙💙💙👍🏼

[@judygedmistergaines7578]

@@BeaperMcCrawdadstay strong baby I'm so serious !!! 🙏🏼🫵🏼💪🏼

[@stuartmannefeld783]

Might have been his best song

[@symptomoftheuniverse4149]

That is because history will continue to repeat, until we all wake up!

[@macsenstockton5781]

I’m a 16 year old boy who listens heavily to rap but my dad showed me Gil and I’ve been listening ever since. One of the greatest.

[@SoundSignals]

That is wonderful! You are most welcome young man!

[@macsenstockton5781]

@@SoundSignals thank you 🙏🏽

[@frederickmuller8891]

@@macsenstockton5781 You understand! There is still hope for us!

[@frederickmuller8891]

@macsen stockton 2Pac.....

[@macsenstockton5781]

@@frederickmuller8891 2pacs a god bro

[@35boxes]

1974-2024 and this song still holds up today

[@Anglagard1]

There are two problems with growing old: the first is all the things you have loved and thought would be around forever changing, the other is all the things you hated and couldn’t wait to see pass stick around. It's so sad to see Gil leave us and the issues he sang about still here.

[@christopherhill1652]

+James Rozoff so true.

[@simoneblackwell9491]

+James Rozoff Well said James Rozoff. Exactly my brother.

[@starrysky2942]

+James Rozoff Amen

[@cdjblue52]

You said in 3 short sentences what has been churning in my gut for the last few years.

[@AriaElan]

Dear brother James, you are indeed a poet. I love the way you express what so many of us are thinking about. The level of bitter hatred and fear amongst tribes in America is overwhelmingly sad. Peace and One Love...

[@anthonypappas3877]

And let's not overlook Brian 'Stick' Jackson...flute work is superb.

[@roscoeward6761]

Also Kim Jordan on keys

[@kingcake54]

@@roscoeward6761 hunh? The keys are played by both Gil and Jackson - Kim Jordan is not in the credits - I saw this band multiple times and most of the time both Gil and Brian were playing keys - a third keyboard player would have been ridiculous

[@kingcake54]

@@roscoeward6761 Musicians Gil Scott-Heron - vocals, electric piano Brian Jackson - electric piano, acoustic piano, flute, vocals Danny Bowens - fender bass Bob Adams - drums (traps)

[@gusgarcia4461]

Saw Gil Scott and the Band perform this song here in London at the Commonwealth Institute. So glad I got to see the great man and his band. Gil that Winter has come to America and soon it will be the American Spring. I

[@lydiaboyd7629]

Does anyone know where Brian Jackson was or was doing during the time of Gil Scott-Heron’s health challenges?

[@fishcrabmusic]

Anyone in 2024?

[@debramitchell9177]

Absolutely 💯 %

[@savagecrawley41]

late night on "independence day" with it 2024 crazy his music gon tell the story of times then, now and so on

[@massimof.1968]

I'm here...

[@johncromwell2529]

🙏👏👍🇺🇦💪

[@johncromwell2529]

Winter on fire

[@illtakethebox]

this song is almost 50 years old.. and it's still winter in america

[@Mrsplanetmaster9]

Gettin colder every day...STAY SAFE‼💛🌿

[@ramonrios3811]

Indubitably!

[@robertrankins6073]

Without a doubt.It is still Winter in America.

[@Burt472]

And I'm sorry to hear...Sympathy from Italy

[@peterhudgens8817]

Gil Scott Heron was a pure genius.

[@supermax6401]

👍👍

[@pamelaromanelli5960]

One of the greatest of all time. If not The Greatest. Hundred of years ahead. Rare. Unique.

[@pamelagreenlee6134]

Absolutely

[@Burt472]

Indeed was....He's being missed

[@escofhari]

A Poet/seer etc.

[@jyotirvakyananda]

Who is here at the dawning of 2024 because it really is Winter in America, AGAIN, amazed that people ARE fighting, people do know what to say…and it may not make a difference?

[@rtoriq]

I always thought he said “don’t know what to say”, but it’s actually “don’t know what to save” (nobody’s fighting, bc nobody knows what to save…to which he later says “save your souls”)

[@jyotirvakyananda]

@@rtoriq Thank you for that correction. It doesn’t change my observation; but, it does deepen my understanding of the song. A definition of a poet is: a person who can dive into the Neptunian depths of his or her soul using themselves as bait; and draw The Leviathan of Art to the surface of their minds where it can - perhaps - be captured. The trick is to do this without being eaten by The Leviathan. R.I.P. Gil - often you drew The Leviathan; and sometimes The Leviathan ate you. And I don’t know what to say; but, I don’t know what I want to save.

[@sayaq]

Anyone else here listening August 2020?

[@loremalone9643]

yes, I am , so real

[@neenanoir1983]

Yup, thanks F is for family

[@TheCosmaddict]

I’m here...learning...that not much has changed.

[@hueybrown3238]

Long hot Winter

[@dizzyd243]

Yes -- trying to listen, really listen. After all that's happened, it's Winter in my heart. Now it's up to us to be the healers again.

[@glenninskeep7523]

I just realized something that hurts. This song was first done in 1974 and the lyrics ring loud and clear today.

[@Lyndanet]

America is forever changing . Best we can do is vote or even peacefully protest It’s a young country with various concepts of freedom and democracy and because of those ideals we are able to hear a song like this today. I appreciate that.

[@ramonrios3811]

Indubitably!

[@marthaoster9028]

It’s the genius of Gill Scott.

[@tlanerobinson5246]

Written almost 50 years ago. Ain’t nothing really changed.

[@kevinstewart3029]

Expectations for country born mentally ill.... even Pharmaceuticals can save it

[@tlanerobinson5246]

@@kevinstewart3029 Word.

[@thisgame2]

Because your a fool watching al TV for a sign

[@ericmartinez1665]

Your an actual idiot for commenting this

[@GodCipherDevineTV7]

The illusions of freedom changed

[@dopeymark]

I am just glad someone still listens....

[@johnarena9339]

+dopeymark thows of us that can truly see still love this guy and others that opened our minds &hearts and still give us the power to fight the monster

[@luvs2cover]

Always cuz👍

[@elaynesikelianos2878]

+dopeymark ~~ Each One, Teach One!

[@christopherhill1652]

+dopeymark I have been listening to him for over forty years. His message is as pertinent today as it was then.

[@johnarena9339]

same here funny how history repeats it self

[@AriaElan]

Ancestor Gil was one of the most sensitive, gifted poets/artists that Mama Earth ever birthed. I sang "Winter in America" for my term project in a constitutional law class. My professor used to be a DA. He gave me an A for performance and D for content and rounded it off to a B. :-) Peace and One Love...

[@shawnarainer6849]

that's amazing congrats

[@AriaElan]

Thank you Shawna. :-)

[@shawnarainer6849]

+Aria Elan welcs and lucks to you hope u succeed make ya parents around

[@joannedevine14]

Brilliant!

[@AriaElan]

Hello Joanne, I just uploaded my new social justice song "Hotter." When you get a chance, please check it out on my channel Aria Elan Thanks!

[@amd77j]

It's "Winter in America" here in July 2020. For real......

[@GS-kj6ur]

It's only getting worse my friend

[@amd77j]

@@GS-kj6ur Here we are a year later and it's still "Winter in America". And Gil, the Griot, is still telling Da' TRUTH......

[@mattmale7183]

Hello from 6th November 2024

[@annieleblanc4672]

This song immediately came into my mind early this morning, 11/6/2024. Feels very appropriate. 😢

[@ramondobrown1162]

Listening in 2021.......as Winter in America is still relevant!

[@DrDebTheHow2LoveMaster]

Certain truths will always be relevant.

[@Savantskd]

For me “Winter In America Is More Relevant because I am 70 years old and I’ve lived too many winters in this America. Missing the 70’s and 80’s and wanting my granddaughter to live in those years.

[@MidnightSwinger]

God, the amount of wear I put on this track in the days after January 6. Oh God…

[@MidnightSwinger]

@@DrDebTheHow2LoveMaster we hold these, in particular, to be self-evident…

[@erico888]

and on July 1, 2022, even more so with this supreme court.

[@philipvernot5619]

Frightening and depressing that this song is so god dammed relevant today.

[@hueybrown3238]

How about now?

[@RaptorJesus81]

Fuck off

[@hueybrown3238]

@@RaptorJesus81 damn, your persuasion is pretty obvious. How you like shit now MAGAT?

[@imshaunnurse]

@UCTob3ydRC_QJynJWzq-bKLg you sound stupid. The winter is all white people invading America not just Trump so stop before you make yourself look stupid as fuck

[@Rey-Nolds]

AND MORE SO NOW...

[@jagirinawa61]

From the Indians who welcomed the pilgrims And to the buffalo who once ruled the plains Like the vultures circling beneath the dark clouds Looking for the rain Looking for the rain Just like the cities staggered on the coastline Living in a nation that just can't stand much more Like the forest buried beneath the highway Never had a chance to grow Never had a chance to grow And now it's winter Winter in America Yes and all of the healers have been killed Or sent away, yeah But the people know, the people know It's winter Winter in America And ain't nobody fighting Cause nobody knows what to say Save your soul, Lord knows From Winter in America The Constitution A noble piece of paper With free society Struggled but it died in vain And now Democracy is ragtime on the corner Hoping for some rain Looks like it's hoping Hoping for some rain And I see the robins Perched in barren treetops Watching last-ditch racists marching across the floor But just like the peace sign that vanished in our dreams Never had a chance to grow Never had a chance to grow And now it's winter It's winter in America And all of the healers have been killed Or been betrayed Yeah, but the people know, people know It's winter, Lord knows It's winter in America And ain't nobody fighting Cause nobody knows what to save Save your souls From Winter in America And now it's winter Winter in America And all of the healers done been killed or sent away Yeah, and the people know, people know It's winter Winter in America And ain't nobody fighting Cause nobody knows what to save And ain't nobody fighting Cause nobody knows, nobody knows And ain't nobody fighting Cause nobody knows what to save

[@Burt472]

Thank you from Italy....Best

[@josenieto2832]

Wow! , Muchísimas Gracias!!! 👍🍀🍀🍀

[@bamadla]

Thank you for posting 👌🏾👌🏾🤚🏾🤚🏾🤚🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@timmccarthy3034]

thanks ...GREAT SONG....

[@evetunsil9273]

Great Music

[@terryross4199]

40 years later and still very much on point; the people; the environment; the nation!

[@home-boiew1673]

I remember then and I can see it now..... SMH!

[@Kamoblue]

Sign of a true poet.

[@caroleann1314]

On of the high lights of my life. I feel blessed not only that I got to live with his amazing songs, music, and poetry but I also got to see him perform live (in a small venue) in the UK. I wish more people had that blessing

[@sherryshabazz]

the more things change. the more they stay the same

[@sherryshabazz]

Yes awesome truly powerful

[@raylarkin5004]

The greatest piece of inspirational artistry of 1974. And to this day, i am still moved by its calm yet stirring power. Gil Scott Heron, I thank you ❤

[@viccarter2149]

His music is true and calming. I love this singer.

[@MissKidd721]

He hit so different with this. I’m 41 and this has been played all day since i came up on it yesterday. Reminds me of my mom. She been gone 2 years. She was 14 when this came out

[@Mrsplanetmaster9]

@@MissKidd721 And I was 20 yrs young , and now it's been "Winter in America" forever...and now it's freezing ❤💛🌿

[@patreeziasf]

I am so blessed to have seen him play many times in 80s. He was a legend in the UK. And then a final concert maybe 5 yrs ago?at Yoshi's San Francisco. 5 of us lined up on the curb after his " church," of a gig, speechless. We just bowed to him and he furled his long legs into a beaten up Toyota Corolla drive by a very old dear friend. Goodnight Mr Gill

[@jessenunez1706]

That's an amazing experience! Glad you and many others got to enjoy that.

[@RichardWestberg]

He passed in 2011. Saw him in Portland Oregon in 2010. A peak moment in my life. Happy Birthday, Gil!

[@GS-kj6ur]

wow really? i thought he would have died with money, thats sad

[@alwaysastudent]

@@RichardWestberg i was at that same show. The man was hilarious, and i noticed most people (from where i and my friend were sitting) did not get his comedic timing. it was very sad. i love the man (and seeing him had been on my bucket list for yeeeeeeeears), but the audience's lack of response ruined it for me. i have no regrets seeing him though. i'm glad i did, for he met the ancestors not too long after that appearance.

[@odnkill1]

Gil was a friend always was backstage @ the Bottom Line So was stick.

[@patrickc2411]

I’m a 65 year-old white, Irish guy, grew up in Birmingham,England and I’ve lived in northern Spain for the last 30 years. I only mention this to highlight the reach that Gil has. I’ve been listening to this man for 50 years and his intelligence,poetry,melody,politics have had an immense impact on my life. Thank you Gil, thank you Brian

[@barryholt488]

Thank you ❤️

[@tombsower6926]

Many of thèse black activists held quite radical views on anything white. Those who didn't were betrayed and brutally murdered

[@Mrsplanetmaster9]

and Thank U again🌹🌞💚

[@Uncle_Neil]

65 yr old here in Missouri, had this on 8-track, wore it out. Such great times.

[@johndconqueror555]

G.O.A.T

[@turdferguson8704]

To me this is Gil and Brian’s crowning achievement. Absolute masterpiece that will stand the test if time. RIP Gil Scott Heron you are dearly missed.

[@edwardglass5358]

The winter never leaves America. Genius of the poet laureate 😎

[@Burt472]

Sad ain't it....America and the so called most developed countries.....Hmmmmm

[@MrDallman]

Sitting here listening ,with tear filled eyes, to this masterpiece and I am thinking ...can music get any better than this ? IMHO I really do not think it can. As a 60 year old guy I have been a fan of this wonderful man for 40 years ...the poetry and lyrics , the music, the ambiance and soul. May God bless you and keep you GIL ....my love to you always. Sleep well my brother.

[@jondcarson52]

If you think this one is hard to keep your eyes dry, try "Pieces of a Man"

[@mikkalinka9781]

Today is the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attack on America. This incredible piece of music & poetry SAYS It ALL. R.I.P..........

[@MrDallman]

@@mikkalinka9781 you’re so right my friend….stay safe.

[@howardkoor2796]

Well said!

[@truefunksoul8638]

@@jondcarson52 Yeah because a 40 year fan of Gil has not heard 'Pieces Of A Man' .. which album can it be found on do you know? I have been looking everywhere for it.

[@marceldrew9894]

Gil's music NEVER went out of style. That passionate, empathetic, conscience Aries ✊🖤

[@sharifhassan7742]

I think it has a lot to do with the issues he speaks on, unfortunately, never changing

[@grrkerson]

Astrology has nothing to do with anything you fuckwit

[@HeavenOrHell74]

@@grrkerson being an Aries myself I believe in fact I know it does have a lot to do with it, so for you to call the guy a f--kwit is uncalled for. Merry Xmas and Salute to one of if not the Greatest musical artist and poet of All time

[@grrkerson]

@@HeavenOrHell74 astrology is fake psuedo-science, ding bat

[@minalove6582]

Yes sir ✌️

[@oldgeezer5861]

I'm a 55 year old English white boy and absolutely love Gil along with Curtis.

[@jazzbirdbecky]

Old Geezer Curtis?

[@Richard_Jones]

@@jazzbirdbecky Hey becky, as an equally old English white boy I'm guessing he meant Curtis Mayfield, both those guys knew what was going on.

[@AmadeoZeller]

@@Richard_Jones Yeah, and if they were both here today, Richard, think of all the canon fodder this current Trump's Administration would feed Gil's and Curtis's creative ire?

[@geegod9122]

Dnt u mean Brian jackson

[@ronjackson9895]

Don't forget Terry C​@@Richard_Jones

[@Samantha-qp9wf]

The flute is magnificent!

[@rutherfordBHAZED]

Hubert Laws

[@QuestionsAnswerz]

70's flute is priceless

[@nadiraabdullahmuhammad3350]

Brian Jackson is still with us ✊

[@jeromedavis7475]

Yessir

[@lynne1698]

Brian Jackson - "Stickman"

[@OGtruble]

I'm here in 2019, who else wit me?

[@ronrogers1446]

I'm wit you in 2019.

[@alessandromanzo7495]

Here I'am

[@timmccarthy3034]

me here in France...2019....

[@enarittaP]

Here because of Denzel, ROMAN J.ISRAEL,ESQ.

[@eljefe5957]

Los Angeles, November, zombie winter at skidrow

[@hplovehandle]

Miss you Gil. Your voice is needed now more than ever. :(

[@m5pilot397]

+Big Dave You got that right. Just as appropriate today as in the 1970s!

[@mizpahboy7513]

+Big Dave Given the political climate of today, the unbridled violence of police toward our civilians, the economy, the total lack of empathy toward our gay/lesbian brothers and sister. As well as ISIS or a whole litany of other problems that seem to plague or world today, Gil Scott's "Winter in America" is as apropos today as ever....there our still vultures circling beneath dark clouds in America.

[@hplovehandle]

***** Not just America my friend,the vultures wings are broad and their shadow falls wide.

[@mizpahboy7513]

+Big Dave So true!...peace go with you my brother

[@Lux7355]

+mizpahboy +M5pilot my first thoughts exactly, after not hearing this in like 35+ yrs. I was thinking it's almost *_MORE_* apropos than *_EVER_*, things have gotten _much_ worse since 75 _see above post_ (i.e. IMHO *_freedom_* is little more than a cruel _irony_ these days) and +Big Dave , yeah, you got that right, it's global (but then, it always _has_ been). On the upside, having been _plugged in_ for the better part of the last 30 years, I _am_ seeing some signs (in various and sundry forums/networks) that a good portion of the _current_ generation is starting to wake up to the fact that *_IT_* is _all_ just one colossal _snow-job_, by an _elite minority_ from top to bottom, designed for one thing only, to keep _them_ *elite*, but _"the great American hallucination"_ is not _unique_ to America, it's _everywhere_, it's just more _obvious_ (and _odious_ ? ;-) )here.... ...but then again, the _sheep_ have been multiplying too..... So there's that. It's a long road either way.

[@CW043]

50 YEARS later and words STILL RING TRUE!

[@diegowakefield]

50 years young, white woman hearing this song for the first time. What a beautiful, sad song that so moves me....and yes decades and decades and decades of perpetual winter here.... I'm going to check out Gil Scott Heron's other songs....such an incredible voice and message...

[@viccarter2149]

Grab a glass of wine and sit back and enjoy.

[@timmccarthy3034]

you will find that every thing he did , was a work of true genius......and be sad, too, to know that he died from the very thing he sang about......I know he never got the real star recognition that he so deserved....He played at small little venues, etc, and he got depressed, and he died from crack.. an .overdose......

[@eddiefigueroa6888]

Winter in America it's always been went to in America a nation run by those that are barely human if you know what I mean United never was divided always been aspirations in broken dreams yes the is always been nothing but a piece of paper and how I heroes have died in vain kickbacks and run outs Statue of libertie only what she could have been with the wind will the sun shine anymore in America

[@ayidonno]

@@timmccarthy3034 oh damn, that makes me sad that he died from crack, I'm 21 just discovered Gil Scott, he's been all I've been listening to, totally adore this man, do you by any chance have any recommendations of artists who make similar music?

[@gidgethrobowski3860]

​@@timmccarthy3034 You don't know what the heck you are talking about. Firstly, he was well-known and he had played big venues, and he went overseas to play various concerts. Also, he didn't die from the crack, he died from Aids although this may have contributed to his deadly condition.

[@brenekildare]

I can't believe how relevant to todays issues this 40 year old song is! Thank Gil.

[@cyrusdandridge2096]

The Constitution a noble piece of paper with free society struggled but died in vain and now democracy is rag time on the corner hoping for some rain

[@philippeoria7746]

Cyrus Dandridge so true❤️

[@poydenis]

Brilliant he was

[@williamjenkins5700]

After coming from Vietnam, I see no changes for me it will always be winter in america. Kill there hero,kill here and you go to jail. True that Gil ain,t nobody fighting cause nobody knows what to say. I wish I could have met you.Roll on my brother.

[@JohnFEden-gs5se]

+william Jenkins true words, my man.

[@philipscoggins9827]

Gil is the man😎god bless all you vets POW MIA 💜 🔷🇺🇸♦angelgrip⚡ West Philly Heyoka⚡

[@leonardhenderson3537]

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE WE LOST A LOT OF GOOD BROTHERS FROM COMPTON , CALIFORNIA DURING THOSE YEARS

[@isaiahkettles6701]

william Jenkins right on brother. One Vet to another. Thank you for Your service. God bless!

[@AFaceintheCrowd01]

When Denver’s all-night jazz DJ played this track in 1974 I bought it the next day.

[@novembertalespinner]

truth in a song never dies.

[@pb9688]

There ya go!

[@laurenceligon771]

Amen!

[@GS-kj6ur]

you can say that again, especially today

[@susankuhn9426]

So true.

[@davidcaudill644]

Truer words...

[@deaconpeters2994]

Gil Scott Heron was a man wise years and years before his time. R.I.P.

[@francescobonifazi2359]

Still sounds great today as he did back in the 70s. He was singer/songwriter, poet, social commentary genius... what more could you want in an artist? I hope young folk will discover him and keep his spirit alive.

[@viccarter2149]

Wonder what would he be sighing about today in 2022.

[@carolynzaremba5469]

@@viccarter2149 The same.

[@TheCullousus]

@@viccarter2149 just like Marvin Gaye. Nothings changed.

[@jskill908ify]

We need this brother more then ever today.

[@uneedaspurlock4424]

John Miller Yes we do you better say it and know it

[@michaelfrenke6757]

man we do

[@fahali54]

Gil Scott-Heron and his music is timeless. I miss that brother. Yes, I still listen, always have, alway will.

[@TeresaWashington-ii8cd]

I was told and I believe Gil Scott Heron was a Prophet and head of his time. This song spoke the TRUTH about America back then. And holds its TRUTH more today. Listen to the WORDS

[@grn-mq2qh]

Gil was a Bodhisattva who came down to comfort us denizons of Hell

[@ricksegal3065]

It's a shame we don't hear the flute in music for a long time now. I am 67 years old and remember listening to him in the late 60's and early 70's. Told about the truth in society and hate to say it, but it's not much better 50 years later. Thanks GSH for the great music!

[@jayruperot6952]

The flute frequency raises consciousness. Thats why its absent from the last 30yrs of music...

[@ricksegal3065]

​@@jayruperot6952 spot on

[@arthurswanson3285]

@@jayruperot6952 Brother Andre 3000 brought it back. Might check out his album now.

[@marcusudeh614]

Best revolutionary music ever, played the heck out of it, the first time I heard it

[@felipevelez2535]

One of the greatest singing revolutionaries of all time! Brother Gil, you are gone but never shall you be forgotten.

[@stuartmannefeld783]

Remote control by David Rockefeller

[@respect4theGoodGuys]

great song of disturbing actuality ..... so, lets grow even stronger now and walk on for worldwide peace, love & justice, led by gil & all the other love-power angels *!*

[@johncromwell2529]

Send us a hug from the vibesphere🤞🇺🇸

[@ryanmartin73]

Props to the writers at F is For Family for picking this song.

[@blackmon8719]

Bill Burr has amazing taste in music

[@289rory]

@@blackmon8719 He chose it? Well, damn. He really does.

[@jond007]

Is this something I can find on KZbin? Sounds very interesting.

[@289rory]

@@jond007 It's a netflix show, but there are various clips on here. Probably some sites to watch it bootleg.

[@blackmon8719]

Godly He probably did..he’s a musician and he plays a wide range of jazz on his podcast during the breaks

[@alimajeed7144]

Lyrics: From the Indians who welcomed the pilgrims And to the buffalo who once ruled the plains Like the vultures circling beneath the dark clouds Looking for the rain Looking for the rain Just like the cities staggered on the coastline Living in a nation that just can't stand much more Like the forest buried beneath the highway Never had a chance to grow Never had a chance to grow And now it's winter Winter in America Yes and all of the healers have been killed Or sent away, yeah But the people know, the people know It's winter Winter in America And ain't nobody fighting 'Cause nobody knows what to save Save your soul, Lord knows From Winter in America The Constitution A noble piece of paper With free society Struggled but it died in vain And now Democracy is ragtime on the corner Hoping for some rain Looks like it's hoping Hoping for some rain And I see the robins Perched in barren treetops Watching last-ditch racists marching across the floor But just like the peace sign that vanished in our dreams Never had a chance to grow Never had a chance to grow And now it's winter It's winter in America And all of the healers have been killed Or been betrayed Yeah, but the people know, people know It's winter, Lord knows It's winter in America And ain't nobody fighting 'Cause nobody knows what to save Save your souls From Winter in America And now it's winter Winter in America And all of the healers done been killed or sent away Yeah, and the people know, people know It's winter Winter in America And ain't nobody fighting 'Cause nobody knows what to save And ain't nobody fighting Cause nobody knows, nobody knows And ain't nobody fighting 'Cause nobody knows what to save

[@cyndip5445]

Thx for those profound lyrics. Unbelievable that they are possibly more relevant today than when he first spoke them. I grew up in the 70’s in DC, and although Gil was from Chicago, we claimed him, and he accepted☺️Love this man, I grew so much politically listening to him and many others during that period. He left us a legacy of truth and consciousness, and we feel the void of this ancestor😞

[@standingbeark2290]

Gil brings back sooo many memories. I met him sitting at the counter of the Florida Avenue grill in D.C. around 1979 when I was a student at Howard. He was cool and cordial as I always figured him to be. Tremendous talent and I've been a fan for many decades...

[@kevinwoodson1646]

Sat at the grille many days and wish I had your experience

[@kevinwoodson1646]

I was at Howard 1976 to 1983

[@standingbeark2290]

You and I share the same names. Weren't you in the dental school?

[@kevinwoodson1646]

@@standingbeark2290 I was in the medical school; finished hucm 1983

[@standingbeark2290]

Yes, actually use to get some of your mail, and I'd send it back. Lol we need to at least talk

[@edbyrnes888]

That this is timeless and relevant is a sad truth today.

[@stefankoch502]

I am touched by reading all the messages. World Wide Gil Community❤

[@MississippiDave]

Some artists like Gil Scott Heron almost blur the lines between poetry and prophecy.

[@sherryshabazz]

modern day seers

[@terencesmith3853]

I agree :-D!

[@Sakazhua]

its called vision, maybe we have to be high to see beyond the veil. perhaps that's why people who get high stay high, reality is too ugly like winter in america

[@rodrigocuri6206]

thanks for this coment

[@itkapatanka]

I thought that's what the goal of poetry is!

[@wygakyl]

It's winter again, Gil...they always bring it back to their winter..not for them, but for us. We could use you here...but I'll never forget.

[@stephanomarr6829]

Hopefully the history of the greatest humanitarian talent poets will mention SIR Gil....ONE of our greatest talents ever.....his words are TIMELESS......Ripower,GREAT ONE......ASE

[@jimmyjames1440]

A Last Poet

[@howardkoor9365]

What a painfully gorgeous song…

[@Teho231]

I heard this 50 years ago and it is still speaking truth today.

[@theflyent7106]

Beautiful so poetic so urban yet so jazzy n masterful... Simply, a masterpiece of America's joy and pain, long live Gil Scott Heron, thank you sir 👏👏👏👏🙏🙏🙏🙏💯💯💯💯

[@lisabullock7461]

Now it's 2022 I'm 68 still listening..

[@robertfriel7999]

Fine taste never grows old Lisa! Slainte ☘

[@claudiasiefer8495]

Same here!!!

[@gementertainment5606]

Gill Scott Heron is considered by the rap artists to be the Godfather of Rap... but he wanted no part of that title, he considered himself a jazzologist, and before he died he wrote the rap reply to rappers ... Message to The Messengers, calling them out for what "some" of them were doing to the black community... and he did it in a respectful manner. In my opinion Gil Scott Heron should be the most important black artist of the last 50 years, if people in the black community were fully aware of the depth of his contributions. Too many young people on the black community don't even know who he is. And that my friends, whatever color you are is very sad. But his music will live on. I predict they will write a bio-pic about him if it's done right, whoever stars in it, will win an academy award, because of his life was that deep and important. God bless you Gil Scott-Heron I'm glad I discovered you, late in life, better late than never. Godspeed you're on to bigger and better things. I'm a Christian who believes in reincarnation and you probably were on your final carnation however if not wherever you're at today, I'm sure you're contributing in major major ways. JL

[@cyndip5445]

I grew up in DC in the 70’s. We All knew who Gil Scott Heron was, not only bc of his prolific and profound music, but he was ours, a native Washingtonian! Problem is, if we paid attention, the world would know him, because he was an innovator, and especially relevant today! RIPower❤️

[@blehbleheh]

2:06 "The Constitution....a noble piece of paper....struggled but it died in vain." Man that rings after what we saw on Monday. Every song he's made is relevant. Especially now, more than ever.

[@seansmith3058]

our new national anthem.

[@katnkids3]

amen

[@Burt472]

Agreed and Respect from Italy

[@DdDd-gd1rr]

Sean Smith funny and sad

[@DdDd-gd1rr]

and true

[@Burt472]

Respect from Italy

[@henryhoneybadger2947]

It is still Winter in America in 2019

[@benjamintchang3923]

Been that way for a while. Gotta get money out of politics and start putting us, putting all people first.

[@Hebrewsista]

Very much so, even more so in this very season.

[@bonniemitchell2027]

Yes it is totally

[@Burt472]

Sorry about that and respect from Italy

[@andreawhite3009]

Yes.

[@damonbrown4548]

Born in 71, and still one of my favorite songs and artist!

[@blueoctgal]

Who the hell thumbs this down? This classic is more valid on this early winter day in 2020 RIP GSH you are sorely missed

[@georgiambambi9974]

We 'll listen Gil for ages...

[@zovalentine7305]

🙏 Rest in power and peace Gil Scott-Heron🙏

[@webbgems67]

Maybe the greatest poet of our time his brilliance is unparalleled.

[@Burt472]

I'd tend to concur on that

[@shottashabazz6721]

After listening to this masterpiece I guess it’s safe to say somethings never change

[@ramoncforman]

I remember the first time I heard this song my old head let me hear it and I been a Gil Scott Heron fan ever since R.I.P. brother.

[@Uncle_Neil]

Same here...forty years later and here we are, still waiting for the spring.

[@kimberlewagner2355]

Loving the Brother always Preaching the Father .. love the confused looks in the young ones faces Now they know

[@Vincent-po7qe]

I'm 55 and I turned my son 24 year old to Gil and he has been hooked ever since. He says dad this song is a description of our today. I replied well done son.

[@grn-mq2qh]

Salute you brother

[@patnq]

Such a beautiful song in these dark times....

[@katagostic166]

what dark times? USA is in dark times for too long, the whole world is. Dark forces just shift theirs focus from Europe to USA in the last 100 years. And no elections can change that. Unfortunately there will be no revolution even it will not be televised. Revolution has never been, they are just too strong. You can only sit, watch and lough.

[@ClaudeChaney]

And in 2014 ain't nobody fighting because nobody knows what to save.

[@kenwil32]

same in 2019

[@anthonylee5982]

2020...

[@Babygirl61868]

This song leaves me feeling so sad.

[@cyndip5445]

Pure genius. The arrangements are classic Gil! STILL relevant today😞

[@arelettia5670]

This songs makes me cry.

[@latanyatankersley466]

Who’s here in 2020? ❤️❤️❤️

[@BroTee5]

Gil Scott Heron was, and still is because His music lives on after Him, a North American Treasure, A North American and An African Icon who helped reshape progressive rap and laid the ground work for People like Common and other Progressive and even Radical rap artists. His work came through His Spirit, even though He spent much of His life as a Black man racked with illegal drug dependency and illegal drug problems. As we change from being in North America to being in the United States of Native America and prepare to give this precious land back to its rightful owners, there is no man more appropriate to listen to than Gil Scott Heron. Brother Tracy Gibson, Philanthropist, Businessman, Poet, LOVer of Humanity and Proud Great Uncle.

[@caroleann1314]

Woah Tracy. I am so fortunate that i came across Gil in my youth in England ( been in the US for the last 9 years) but I feel so blessed that I got to see him perform live in England in 1985. There were technical issues so he only performed for 50 minutes. The crowd who had waited years and traveled hundreds of miles were upset but I remember so clearly Gil saving the moment by saying ok we cant perfrom but I can recite for you. One of the absolute highlights of my life

[@BroTee5]

Carole Ann i never got to see Gil that I can remember. But I know He was a superior talent that cared about Black Peole even though He had an addiction problem. GOD Bless You, Brother Tracy Gibson...

[@caroleann1314]

Thank you Tracy. Btw my maiden name is Gibson!

[@carlbowles1808]

Gill Scott Heron was the great communicator of the 1970's. His messaging is relevant in 2024. RIP brother Gill 🙏

[@royhudson1461]

And The Brother had a voice that was perfect for his message,A deep thinker

[@voicegirl555]

Happy Birthday Gil! Wish you were still here.

[@lisabullock7461]

I was 21 when this song came out, I will be 64 at the end of this month. this song is relevant as it was in 1974. I get chills when I hear it. I listen to it almost daily. Rip Gil.

[@dwaynerose9315]

His music will live on in the conscious mind of those who know the struggle to be free in this America

[@haroldhastings8545]

Back in 1974. This album brought me peace every day

[@SidewaysBurnouts]

if we ever have a revolution, i think this is the national anthem.

[@simonlj1]

One hell of a human being, who let many know how it really is. Not many in his league, need many more like him.

[@Olsen65]

A true poet. And a visionary. And a damn good musician.

[@ronniecozzi8385]

50 years later and now it truly is winter in America. Except now there will be no more springs and summers. It's over.

[@Eris123451]

It's looking that way.

[@ronniecozzi8385]

@@Eris123451 Over and out.

[@JazzMaven]

He woke me up in "72 and I have been grateful ever scince...

[@HarryRobinson-vv4pt]

His music is needed more today than yesteryear.

[@SoundSignals]

And now it's winter Winter in America And all of the healers done been killed or sent away Yeah, and the people know, people know It's winter Winter in America And ain't nobody fighting Cause nobody knows what to save And ain't nobody fighting Cause nobody knows, nobody knows And ain't nobody fighting Cause nobody knows what to save

[@Rottweiler300]

I am a boy from Argentina, I am 19 years old and I am very happy to have discovered this album for me this masterpiece

[@mickyfloyd]

omg I just can't get enough of this tune...and it brings tears to my eyes all the time

[@scarlettmoore3263]

Went to see The Man twice at the Bijou Club in Philly. He spoke a hidden truth. He set this generation on its ear. We were home listening. This was 1970. We couldnt always afford a ticket but we were alway listening.

[@scarlettmoore3263]

Maybe I didnt word it right. He spoke truth and a truth that was sometimes hidden. He didnt hide anything. He was like salt to food, water to a dry mouth. Iloved and respected him alot.

[@gregreardigan8944]

I wish I could tell this man how much i love him and miss him .take this message to Sir Gil Scott!

[@umojaselassie6649]

Yes one...Beloved Brother:Gil Scott Heron...your words live on forevermore with out no ending!..so true!

[@theresebarbee2392]

Gil Scott was the man a voice of reason oh my gosh the words to his music hit every thing on the nail back then war racist problem drugs,sounds like today.gil scott was the best po

[@theresebarbee2392]

Poet singers of all time no one will ever put words like that together again ever.

[@ramonrios3811]

First was turn on to Bro. GSH during military duty, Vietnam era. 1975. " Winter in America" was the jam. It bought tears to my eyes. The more I heard from this " Messenger " the more my consciousness awakened. His voice resounded as a man's man lyrically teaching, expressing what his unfiltered eyes saw and his wordsmith skills constructed. His partner in most of his musical journey, Brian Jackson " Stick", together they were a catalyst for my growth which continues to this very day. This is more relevant now than ever before. Please continue to be hypervigilent. Never stop paying attention or you might lose yourself. " Peace go with you brother."

[@danjv]

Gil and his words are forever relevant. Artists such as he are timeless. Young folks should get hip to this and carry his message into time.

[@kevinstewart3029]

If you really want to get hip study the history of this country that what Gil did/ in it he found all the work he'd ever need!