You will NOT see many, if any, LIVE performances like this in 2023!

Tonight we're taking a look at an actual live performance, unedited, by John Denver of 'Annie's Song'!
Original Video - • John Denver - Annie's ...
TIME STAMPS -
0:00 Intro
0:45 Performance
3:45 Analysis
7:31 Isolated Vocal
8:48 NOT Making Statements with Vibrato
12:56 Flute-tastic
14:35 Guitar
18:25 Great Mix
For more, check out my other sites! / wingsofpegasus www.wingsofpegasusband.com/ / wingsofpegasus Twitter - @wingsofpegasus Insta - @wingsofpegasusofficial

[@billybob1151]

That was our wedding song in 1982. Sadly, now she is in a home with Alzheimer's. She does not remember me, but when I play Annies Song on the cell phone, tears come to her eyes, then suddenly sites up hugging me. Maybe for only a short while she remembers me. That's the power of music in, Annies Song to us. We saw him in concert 3 times. Thanks to Jonh Denver for the song and Wings of Pegasus for reviewing it.

[@pamelaulrich3928]

@billybob1151- My heart breaks for you both. You must have a lot of beautiful memories of your life together.

[@billybob1151]

Thank you. Indeed, I have many fond memories of our life together.

[@karenbork706]

Your comment brought tears to my eyes.

[@AloisiaSedai]

❤️

[@ahill4642]

😌 that is beyond beautiful. ❤️

[@johnroberts1141]

During the 80s, I lived in Colorado, and was John Denver's acupuncturist. Still have the magazine article to prove it. I also treated some of his band members (which he graciously paid for), and John's Mother. He would bring his gold lear jet down to Colorado Springs, and have treatments from me. This man was larger than life, and he lit up any room he walked into. We became friends, and I will always treasure my time with John Denver.

[@johnwilliams1223]

Cool story! 😉 Would’ve loved to have met him.

[@barbarabrundage4625]

Did you know Mike Taylor then too?

[@helenjohnson7583]

Bless you for your service as an acupuncture practitioner! We had a good acupuncturist in Boulder in the early 1980’s and the work is life-changing. Your patients were fortunate to have you!

[@zenawarrior7442]

He lived in Aspen I think. CO wasn't ruined then by traffic, crazy potheads, expensive rent. He was amazing, what a treat 👐

[@HappyOne3]

Fortunate!

[@lotusmaglite]

One of the most underrated recording artists in human history. Constantly dismissed and denigrated by the gatekeepers of "cool," when he was actually way cooler and more subversive than all of them combined. Dude was not afraid to rip the John Birch Society and the Klan as part of the Mitchell Trio back in the 1960s, and attacked the Vietnam War before any artist not named Phil Ochs did. He defied his label to testify against the PMRC, and got booted for it. He was fighting climate change fifty years before it was cool. He stayed true to who he was from birth to death. He never caved to the critics; he never went Chris Gaines on us; he never quit; he never sold out; he never stopped trying to make the world a better place with his music and his activism. And he died as he lived: giving zero fucks about what the establishment thought he should be doing. Total badass.

[@2bigbufords]

Yea, he was a wife beating alcoholic. Total badass.

[@loislarson4472]

I so whole heartedly AGREE! I concerted with him 6 times. I try to pick my favorite song but there is always something on the next song\album that sneaks in. I do know I don't dislike any of his songs . His concerts were the BEST! ! So much interaction & lite comments, btwn John & audiences, band members. No other like him! He owned all his errors. he made. No ego then. We took tent 20:45 camping trips many times with our young boys. They knew what J D meant to me. At 1st sight of the Rocky's we had to practice all my JD songs LOUDLY !! We sang nonstop until setting up the tent & all over Colo. My husband fortunately loves JD too. I'd have to divorce him if he didn't. And arrangements have been made to play JD at my funeral. The Eagle & The Hawk He brightened my day always when driving home in rush hour traffic. He got me through 3 kidney transplants & more horrific obstacles. Starting on July 15, 1968. I miss & think about him EVERY - DAY. SUCH A BLESSED GIFT I WAS GIVEN TO LIVE WITH EVERYDAY ! AND PAY IT FORWARD! ❤ ❤❤❤️😻🌹🤟 JOHN, YOU ARE SO MISSED !!! AND I AM GRATFUL FOR YOUR CLASS ACT AND STORYTELLING THANK YOU ! ! !

[@soulshine8531]

❤

[@kateredhead7334]

I went to see John Denver, at the Montreal Forum. It was a hockey rink that held 25,000 for games. He stood there with an acoustic guitar, sang one song after another, no computers, no flashing lights, no half naked 'dancers'. 25,000 people sat and listened. Pure music.

[@kenrk]

The last time I saw John in concert, it was just him alone with his guitar. No background vocals, band, or anything - just him. He sounded incredible.

[@johnthemachine]

Some of his last shows in 97 were done that way, there are recordings on youtube, by far his best live performances.

[@sheelfjohnson]

You're so lucky.

[@ckp2ator389]

I saw him early in his career live, 1972 or 1973, similar, I don't remember a backup band, just him and a guitar. He was terrific. Friendly and good vibe with audience.

[@maureendrozda9960]

That's When He Was @ His Best!!

[@piscesempress1978]

My mom saw him in the 70's and he was accoustic and just him. She said it was one of the best concerts she ever attended. Just him and a guitar. Beautiful.

[@thomast8539]

Can we just give a quick nod to Phil and his stellar, unique, straightforward analysis of this performance? His dissection is easy to follow, even for most of us that don't really fully understand all of the aspects of music, musicianship, song structure, etc. Especially liked how Phil touched on the chord changes, playing them for us and then he rehashed the 3/4 time, so we could easily grasp how John had done it originally. Good stuff for those of us that only give about 1% of our attention to how the songs are put together and 99% to how they make us feel.

[@lebe220]

Fil really has a brilliant knowledge of music

[@thatsrich944]

Well, composing great music is 99% of how it makes you feel and 1% putting it together, so it's very similar.

[@trishz9571]

Yes. Fabulous analogy I can look at music clearer.

[@martinpowell5147]

No

[@terrirobertson7821]

Fil is master class in music. I don't think anyone compares. You can tell how much he loves music too. I usually zone out listening to people...But not with Fil.

[@Zaaxun]

No auto tune, pitch correction, mechanical enhancement, just the angelic voice given by the heavens.

[@loislarson4472]

Zaaxun, FAAARR OUTTT !!!!! 😂😅✌️

[@amethystsamia]

There is no such thing as a bad performance from John Denver. He is truly missed.

[@jasoncdebussy]

I'm mostly into rock music but ... John Denver was supremely talented. I love him!

[@suzettebavier4412]

@@jasoncdebussy Same❣️

[@wildelizabeth]

❤😢❤❤❤

[@billbally4419]

Besides his last flight . I think he was drunk too

[@sharonsouter357]

The autopsy ruled out alcohol and drugs when he died.

[@gnpahdc]

Fil, back in about 1980 or so (I think I was about 15, maybe younger), my mom and sister dragged me to a John Denver show. I was at my most narrow-minded musically. My taste and opinions were SUPER narrow when it came to music. But for some reason I went and hated the idea that I was going. He played in a 15,000 seat arena. He played in the round, with no backing band or singers. Just him, a guitar and a mic, in the round. From around the 3rd or 4th chord of song one he owned the room. Yeah, the arena seemed to shrink to a room, if you know what I mean. His whole thing was COMPLETETLY FABULOUS. I changed that night. I kid you not. And the breadth of my willingness to explore listening to different things has kept stretching from then on. He was a stupendous talent. And sir, thanks for your good work. Peace.

[@helenjohnson7583]

⭐️

[@TheVoxbox13]

👍

[@lilamuzik3385]

I love love this comment . Good for you.

[@gnpahdc]

:)@@lilamuzik3385

[@nanceb4him]

Wow, what a wonderful testimony. I wish I was there, and I totally believe it. The night (you can read my other post if you'd like) I truly gave him a chance, he wasn't "my type" , I fell in love with his voice, talent and humility. I don't think he will every have the respect vocally or musically he deserved.

[@bishdizzle67]

People don't realize how extremely gifted John Denver was. He was genius and genuine as they come.

[@draco4540]

i enjoy listening to john denver. i heard a story years ago (i don't know how true it is), that john denver's dad didn't want john to into music as a career thinking that john wouldn't make money at it or make it "big". needless to say, i'm glad that became a singer. i, also, enjoyed the movie that he was in "oh god" with george burns.

[@joejoejoejoejoejoe4391]

I'm mostly into heavy metal, but talent is talent.

[@fretfix1]

Yes. WE. Do.

[@Historian212]

Yeah, people do.

[@carly-jaymetcalfe6401]

I'll never forget where I was when I heard it on the radio that his plane had crashed. Devastating.

[@patriciahill1101]

I love how Fil just really appreciates and enjoys such a wide range of performers...he will grin widely every time he is pleased. I love his enjoyment as much as the performance.

[@phoebelim5040]

Yes, I really love seeing Fil's obvious enjoyment of these performances.

[@randyrudd5594]

Fil is so immensely talented in his own right- he so joyously conveys his knowledge and talent with us. His evaluations are AS entertaining and enlightening as the subjects. Great musician and kind individual.

[@louiserawle8999]

Me too!

[@kathleen109]

Yes! I love his smile when he appreciates something. He doesn't try to hide it.

[@umarae27]

Same here!!

[@MoparDen]

John Denver was the epitome of a talented entertainer. Gone too soon!

[@laurieswindow]

No one has ever done it better than John Denver. The sound of his voice makes me smile as much today as it did when I first heard Take Me Home Country Roads on radio so many years ago. I rarely share the experience of listening to John with those around me. He is the type of artist that can take a person to special place while listening to his voice and hearing him tell you a story as only he can. When he passed I not only mourned the loss of the person but also for the loss of any future entertainment and education and of course his stories. We miss you John. Thank you Fil for helping in bringing a smile to my face.

[@briankocheraabcdt4628]

See my comment about Singer-Songwriter Lara Fabian singing "Country Roads".

[@Sonia-xyz]

I have the same ecperience. ❤️‍🔥

[@ivannovotny4552]

Beautifully said.

[@Mark-bw1wx]

I think he was the most successful perhaps of any musician at evoking the grandeur and divinity of the mountain ranges that he loved so much. He seemed to be more at home in the rarified atmosphere of that world or in an aircraft, free of the bonds of pettiness down here. Soaring with the eagles now perhaps....finally.

[@peterbee88]

It’s awful

[@georgewachsmuth9201]

Over the years I have seen 100+ concerts. I saw John a few decades back and it remains my favorite one. He was perfect….everyone in the audience knew every word and everyone sang along. There were teens….and folks in their 70s and everyone joined in. A great talent lost….

[@sarahdee374]

I agree, loved the man and his music. Such a gift he gave us during his life and the legacy of beauty he left behind.

[@peggymaihafer6097]

Wow - that sounds wonderful! Lucky you!!

[@MostlyBuicks]

People singing along is the bane for those who paid money to listen to the performer.

[@Gort-Marvin0Martian]

@@MostlyBuicksWhy would you feel the need to be negative at the feelings of their encounter with the man. Almost every audience sings along. Maybe you should just always stay home!

[@gogi682]

This was a song played at a funeral I went to. How lovely. I loved him in the '70's!@@MostlyBuicks

[@Querencia7779]

John was a friend of mine. He was a magnificent singer/songwriter. His songs lift my heart, over and over again. I very much enjoy your channel. Your smile is effervescent; thank you for always having a ready smile. Your whole mannerism; the way you talk, your voice, your laugh- you’re such a bright spot in this dark world. Thank you for showing us, and reminding us….

[@AndyUK-Corrival]

Wow what an amazing friend to have, I never tire of his music. Wish I could have seen him live. Andy UK

[@louiserawle8999]

I think ANNIE'S SONG IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SONGS EVER WRITTEN.❤️❤️❤️

[@juliac8689]

I agree! ❤😊

[@paulinecarter2963]

My son had this song for his dance at his wedding with his bride 💕

[@llamasugar5478]

Absolutely! 🥰

[@yvonnesanders4308]

Am I misremembering? Didn't he write this after cheating on his wife?

[@louiserawle8999]

@@yvonnesanders4308 NO!! What a petty thing you are!!!

[@patrickgallagher3513]

Two things I find interesting. 1. The way John finished his notes extremely cleanly. & 2. the way that his larynx was free enough to give vibrato when he's humming or singing Nnn. John was the absolute master of making the complex appear both simple and laid back.

[@elizabethpowers7540]

I think there is a tendency to want to think that's just a natural phenomenon, and to an extent it is, but I've heard him talk about how he worked on it and asked for tips from quality singers like Placido Domingo. It's that thing they say about how the people who are best at anything put in the work to make it seem effortless.

[@M0odyBlue]

I had forgotten how beautiful and rich his voice was and how beautiful his songs were. Like visiting an old friend. Thank you, Fil!

[@johnbjorkman4144]

John Denver - "The best friend a song ever had."

[@manuelahrasky8472]

John Denver’s beautiful, pitch-perfect voice was one of the fabulous memories of my twenties. Such a wonderful entertainer who, very sadly, left us too soon.

[@joecamel3151]

Many folks, back in the day, tended to judge John Denver's music to be what I refer to as "candy jar" quality. Sweet, sentimental, but lacking the depth of "real artistry". I am extremely grateful that someone of your stature has brought Mr. Denver to the attention of today's audience. He had a distinct vocal style and his pitch accuracy during live performance was astounding. If a male voice can be called pristine, then his was exactly that. Thanks, Fil, for your astute observations.

[@AloisiaSedai]

As I said in my comment, I didn’t like his music at first for those very reasons, but hearing his voice live changed everything for me.

[@imchuckbass4757]

My dad was a rock dude who also had a taste for weird stuff, but he had a soft spot for John Denver. He hated 99% of the music my mom liked (maybe out of spite, who knows), but he was down with Denver!

[@louiserawle8999]

I think Country Road is beautiful,simple but beautiful,some times simple things are the best.

[@debrakiddoo318]

I was one of those too cool to see JD but a friend insisted I go o a concert in Phoenix and it was one of the most beautiful experiences. Fan for life after that. Rip.

[@diannespalding6542]

He also did some songs that were anything but shallow. Listen to some of the songs he recorded after visiting Alaska. Very deep and emotional. You don’t see that unless you listen to his entire body of work.

[@SQTierHog]

At about 1 min, when Fil hits that instant bright smile for a moment, you know he absolutely loves and admires who he's watching.

[@caridee4782]

Fil has a great smile!

[@e-spy]

yeah, I look for that too.

[@TheVoxbox13]

👍 New to the channel, but that caught my eye, too.

[@carollamontagne6710]

They don’t make music like this anymore. So real, so pure and true.

[@genghis_connie]

There really are musicians bringing things back to natural. I don’t know your style, but at least live, The Staves, Courtney Barnett, Julian Baker and boygenius are all in a new folk mixed genre. Father John Misty, as well (live). It’s sad that there are so few.

[@peterbee88]

That’s a definite result 👍

[@shankrl1]

yes they do, you're just stuck in the past

[@genghis_connie]

@@shankrl1 Why so rude? Does that make you feel big? How utterly pointless and juvenile. Offer some suggestions, say something meaningful, or hush yourself.

[@carollamontagne6710]

@@shankrl1 It would seem gone are the days when one could express their opionion without someone making a nasty remark or insult. I pity you.

[@david_a_uno]

The sound of John Denver's voice, at any stage of his career is so incredible. RIP

[@Anna-hl5zb]

After I sustained a brain injury from a car accident, I wasn't able to listen to music for a couple of years. John Denver was one of the artists that started my reintroduction to music. His voice to me is pure and calming. I love the little imperfections that retain the humanity and emotions of a song. I love that his music can make me smile and cry at the same time, it is cathartic. I don't quite understand the reasoning behind eliminating this from music. It seems to me that this strive for perfection is actually removing what made the song perfect in the first place. Artists should have the freedom to create music as they feel it. Another artist with a pure voice is Burton Cummings. I have seen him perform, just him and his piano and it was beautiful.

[@MrRukiddin]

That “ Deutschendorf “ guy was an amazing talent.

[@maureendrozda9960]

He Was Never From Denver, But - Yes! He Was! I Just Wished He Would Have Learned How To Read A Gas Gauge! John (Born Henry) Struggled With Depression....Maybe? He Was Ready To Go?? He Still Left Us Too Young!😥

[@TheDivayenta]

@@maureendrozda9960wasn’t he in a glider? It went down in my neck of the woods.

[@maureendrozda9960]

@@TheDivayenta I Don't Believe It Was A Glider - I Could Find No Specifics That It Was & I Remember Them Talking About A Fuel Issue The Day He Died. It Was An "Ameture Built Experimental Light Aircraft" That He Is Said To Have Had Three "Touch & Go" Landings In - Then "Disappeared To The West" Over The Water Off Monterey Bay In Mid Afternoon & Was Found Crashed In The Rocks In 30 Feet Of Water....

[@TheKatdawg65]

​@@TheDivayentaexperimental light plane.

[@suecox2308]

I feel as if I haven't heard an unfiltered singing voice in the past 20 years. This is not the voice he had as a young man but the slight hesitations and occasional strained notes sound real and the timbre of John's voice is just as appealing as it ever was.

[@FionaEm]

I think he sounds more authentic here; more folksy than country twang.

[@trekkiejunk]

A lot of singers today do not use pitch correction. You just have to look outside the pop/rock/hip-hop genre. Most jazz artists, for instance do not use it. Harry Connick Jr even puts a disclaimer on his albums stating "no pitch correction."

[@trekkiejunk]

@dancingcandle3872 -- Agreed, i always prefer his later voice to his younger voice. He sounds experienced here, whereas his early 70's voice sounded too naïve.

[@dathorndike4908]

His older voice had a more developed depth and richness that his younger voice

[@grasshoffers]

@@trekkiejunkahhh! I was hoping to hear this was going to be done. Thanks for sharing that. I have seen Him in concert once and he played, sang and performed about 3 hours and cut up with the audience.

[@sharonelliott2366]

Possibly the most gorgeous love song ever written, it can only be sung by John.

[@abacus299]

One of the most perfect vocal performances we will ever hear. Something truly life enhancing about John Denver's crystal clear voice. Some people are born to sing. Some are great tellers of songs. John Denver was both.

[@s44577]

This song is almost 50! (Released in 1974). It sounds as beautiful and fresh now as it did then. Good choice Fil!

[@Windsongbyrd2273]

John is an American treasure. , such a wonderful performer, a real musician, and composer. I had the privilege of seeing John in concert, fabulous show . As a young teen I wrote to John never expecting to hear back from him, but several months later I received a signed photograph and a short note that I stiil have, as you can imagine I was over the moon. Did he write the note? I don't know for sure, but my 13 year old heart believed it to be true.

[@lucindakubitz8193]

I wished I'd done that. My local library had yellow pages from many cities. I actually found his parent's address and phone number in the city they lived it. But never had the nerve to write the fan letter. Still one of m6 favorite singers many years later.

[@rebapuck5061]

Lucinda, you should have. Back in the 60's I got a pen pal from Liverpool by writing to Ringo Starr's mother and asking if she had teen neighbors.

[@rebekkad.2092]

John was a performer in every sense. He invited you inside his zone to be part of the concert. There will never be another. I saw him for $2.00 at Carroll College when he was just starting out.

[@joyfull5374]

I saw John Denver in concert three times. I had to drag my friends to go with me because they couldn’t believe I liked him so much. When the concerts were over, then they finally got it. It was his music, his poetry and it was him.

[@dreams2xs]

My first date back in the mid 70's was a John Denver concert. No warm-up group, no backup singers, just John and his guitar.

[@mardyroux8136]

Great first date! I adore John Denver, and saw him in concert in the late 1970s. He had a backing band but the concert was over three hours long. In the middle, JD sent the band off-stage for a break and for an hour it was him and his guitar. A refreshed backing band returned for the last part, but Denver himself never took a break. He totally gave himself to his audience for that extended period of time. I never saw a better concert.

[@Totem360]

Singers that hit notes slightly flat and then slide in, and can hit them spot on, can hit a perfect wave on a vibrato, or speed it up or slow it down as they desire, can slide between tones smoothly, or can keep them perfect, can keep the voice clear as a bell or dirty with various shades, but most of all know when to use which technique for which part of the emotions being presented based on the music and the lyrics and the moment in time with the audience; those are the best vocalist in my estimation and the machine just can't do that. Auto-Tune is a mechanical estimation of art. Why some people think it's Superior to the actual reality of human art, I'll never understand.

[@napamoonlight9997]

Auto tune is the dumbing down of music. It is a premeditated obliteration of true vocal talent. Free the voice Make natural talent your choice again

[@TexTom1981]

No auto-tune available, no cheats. Just an incredibly talented singer and guitarist. His song writing in the earlier years produced some incredibly long-lived songs.

[@chickenlady3155]

I saw him live a couple of times in 1982, when he was doing a one-man show, just him and his guitar. His voice was so powerful, it was like all the air in the theatre was electric, and even for a few seconds after each song finished, it felt as if the air was vibrating. I'd never heard anything like it.

[@robertcarpenter9836]

Like you had to catch your breath after listening to the beautiful enormity of his singing of the song. Never will there be a singer/musician of his caliber.

[@Andijt]

He played at my college in the early 70s. We were in a ballroom in the student center. He sat on a stool, played his guitar, and sang and we sat on the floor around him.

[@danbgt]

I grew up in the Texas Panhandle in a smallish town just outside of Lubbock. I was in high school in the 1960’s and there was a coffe house in the bottom of an old abandoned grain elevator in Lubbock called “The Granary”. They had live entertainment on weekends and from time to time a young Texas Tech University student named John Deutschendorf would play there. He was really good! 😂😂

[@janetseidlitz5976]

John was the Van Gogh of the 20th century. It is heartbreaking we lost him too soon.

[@moemcgovern7345]

So true

[@teresavance1643]

I'm a headbanger but my mom loved him. I don't remember him singing so wonderfully. Maybe it's bc I'm older but I'm sad I didn't appreciate him.

[@JohnMartin-dn9ez]

He was a friend of mine. Complicated fellow but salt of the earth. I would pick him up at the airport when he came to visit family. RIP old friend. Thank you Fil. ❤

[@ShowdogTiger]

I get what you're saying, brilliant artist and a cheater husband. Kind of like Jussi Bjorling. Even Pavarotti called him God and he was a dreadful alcoholic. Sometimes we really cannot throw babies out with the bathwater. You should write a book about your experiences with Mr. Denver. I would buy it.

[@orionswitness]

We are all as human beings lost and bewildered . John Denver created some beautiful songs .

[@kristinwright6632]

My all time favorite artist. His songs soothed my heart and inspired my life. Yes, I did learn he was complicated. Even when he wrote this I understand he was trying to save his marriage with Annie. I think he loved her dearly despite his many liaisons. But as I learned also, we are all complicated including me. I miss his work. I was devastated when he died. But then it seemed to me that he died in a way he would have wanted. Soaring, not wasting away. You are free to correct me.

[@susanmacdonald4288]

You're lucky to have known him.

[@JohnMartin-dn9ez]

@@kristinwright6632 when I got word that day my feeling was the same beyond the grief. Went out doing what he loved.

[@TranscendentLeader]

What I love, besides John and his music, is the face of Phil while he's listening to John. He almost becomes angelic listening to John. Beautiful feel, thank you Phil 💕

[@deb52811]

Ditto from me. This is the first video I've watched of Phil's channel and I could see his pure enjoyment and joy in listening to John and then speaking about his observations.

[@AbbyV1820]

Phil's reaction shines. But that's what John's voice does. It just draws you in.

[@MovieMakingMan]

My friend Ali got to sing with John. She was at a small tavern in Northern California overlooking the Pacific Ocean. She sang a few songs then John Denver walked in. They ended up singing a few of John’s songs together. Ali was thrilled. Ali had a wonderful voice and sang to me several times. I’m 2001 the World Trade Centers were destroyed so Ali flew from California to NY to help. She worked on the ‘pile’ for weeks. Later she developed a lung condition that sadly affected her beautiful voice. She has been battling the effects of breathing in what eventually was learned to be very dangerous particles from the ruins of the WTC. I still love her voice but she can’t hit all the notes she used to sing. She’s such a great friend.

[@scattysafari7742]

I saw John live many times in the 80s & 90s. His voice improved hugely in the 1980s after his duet with Placido Domingo. His producer Milt Okun said he learnt a lot from Domingo. His concerts were almost akin to a religious experience. Even in a crowd of 10k he sounded like he was singing to you alone. There was a communal, folksy warmth as we sang all the songs together. It felt like how the world could be if we put all our political & religious differences aside……There hasn’t really been anyone like him since his passing. I miss him.

[@kathrynkathryn4836]

I've seen and heard hundreds of singers in concert over the years. I was lucky enough to see John Denver in a large arena, and his performance was like no other. No synthesizers, pyrotechnics, just pure John Denver. The clarity of his voice was outstanding and so unique. Beyond compare.

[@kathrynambler1658]

I grew up on John Denver. He was my first crush. Experimental aircraft enthusiasts agree that his accident was completely preventable. Rocky Mountain High is the official song of Colorado. I love how he always takes inspiration from nature. He would be horrified if he were alive today.

[@w.patterson4413]

Fil, what I really appreciate is watching your face as you start artist's recordings. You really show appreciation for their abilities. Thank you for what you do .

[@susangarman9561]

When an artist can evoke such responses with their music, their work is pure gold.❤️❤️❤️

[@ripleyhrgiger4669]

John was literally magic. He is, or was, a true bard. His voice was as pure as freshly fallen snow.

[@trekkiejunk]

Literally? I love JD, but i beg to differ on his ability to actually commune with supernatural forces.

[@keepgrindingup7661]

Back in the day I thought he was just some wimpy folk singer. I've never been more wrong. I appreciate him more every year that goes by... I really wish I would have figured it out earlier. Most recently I saw the duet with Mama Cass and let me tell you they are two National Treasures. RIP

[@sketchley80]

Not to worry. Celebrate and honour JD now!❤

[@earlymorningtwilight9119]

Dan Fogelberg is just wonderful too. I saw him in concert with just his piano and guitar. Beautiful

[@helenjohnson7583]

I liked him! Is he still performing?

[@barbsink-krusenstjerna2320]

​@@helenjohnson7583Dan has also passed away ,sadly. Miss him also.

[@kristinaanderson1047]

Glenn Campbell too.

[@lisachauvin]

Dan Fogelberg by himself was the best concert I’ve ever been to ❤

[@elizabethlatorre5360]

Agree

[@Poverello2001]

In spite of the vocal “imperfections”, this is a perfect performance. It’s tough enough to sing and play guitar, and it’s even tougher to play a 12 string guitar with all the chord changes and right hand rhythm nuances by John. In spite of all his success, he is a very much underrated singer, performer and songwriter. A true talent in every sense of the word. Rest in Peace, John.

[@jasonbroom7147]

This song always reminds me of riding on a boat in rolling seas, where you are gently rising and falling with the swell of the waves. It evokes a constant sense of motion, soothing and comforting, climbing and crashing in a consistent and calming pattern.

[@frankishsid2692]

@jasonbroom7147 Excellent analysis

[@chthoniapodcast]

I am so glad you mentioned the flute in this one; it is an instrument that I REALLY miss in music that was present a lot in the 1970s, and provides a huge wave of haunting nostalgia. His vocal expression makes this an authentically beautiful song.

[@mroboe1032]

I agree with you about the flute. While I can't see the band clearly and I'm not sure when this was recorded, I believe the flutist is Jim Horn...an absolute giant of the flute and saxophone, with recording credits for days. I was privileged to tour with John in the mid 70's. It was my 1st big time tour and I remember his artistry every day.

[@phillipward8776]

You should hear John Denver and Cass Elliot sing a duet on Leaving on A Jet Plane.

[@mandarinlearner]

Saw another reactor do this song and comment was heartbreaking " there's too much love in this song for it to be popular now"

[@LD-bv1pm]

Fil's smile at the end of the performance says it all.

[@janetmckenzie146]

I saw John Denver in concert in about 1976 and it was an incredible experience-and now I understand why. Very subtle things-his vibrato, the echoing flute, the slightly flat or sharp notes-the ‘liveness’ of the whole thing-allowed his full expression to flow through. I’m also reminded how beautiful his voice was, the warmth, the fullness of the sound. Thank you for this review of one of my family’s favorite artists.

[@magneto7930]

John Denver was such a well-rounded artist. He came from an era where talent was absolutely necessary in order to succeed at what he did. His musicianship and his vocal abilities, along with the rest of the musicians on stage, is absolutely amazing here. Equally as amazing is the live mix of this whole performance. That would be unheard of today. In fact, nobody today would have been able to pull this off without the standard post-production. As always, great upload! 👍

[@Terri_MacKay]

This was unexpected. Last night, after the LS, my daughter and I were talking about John Denver, and ended up listening to, and singing along with, a lot of his songs. So, this video came as a timely and unexpected surprise. The thing that I love so much about his music is its honesty and sincerity, probably because so much of it is autobiographical. When he sang a song, it sounded "true", you believed what he was saying. It felt very intimate, like he was sharing very private parts of his life with us. And it was always beautiful.❤ Thank you so much for this analysis.😊

[@nancyloomis3046]

As a choir singer for many years (never solo work,) I know that our voices can be impacted by so many things, and voice or other fatigue or improper breath control, lack of proper warm-up, allergies or environment, especially at the edges of our range, can stress the voice to where pitch may be off at times. But for great singers and total pros like John Denver,and all the singing he did on so many tours, I figure his pitch was only off a small percentage of time and went unnoticed by most of the audience.

[@judydenver5362]

This is Magnificent!!!! Just look how an amazing, REAL voice like John's is graphed all over the place, with all those spectacular NUANCES, WARMTH, Variances, etc', etc., that make a real human voice!! Right after this Show, I actually met, and then dated John, for a time, right up to the time we lost him.

[@roberthessman4846]

A friend of mine used to work the concerts at the old Herheypark Arena . He got to see many, many bands and vocalists. He always said that John Denver had the most powerful voice he had ever heard.

[@joerenner8334]

I'm a beginner on guitar. And so, of coursr, have tried some Denver tunes. I quickly realized that even his simple tunes are not easy to sing. At all. He was legend.

[@teresacrawford1239]

From a young age, John had control over his voice. He sang with passion and it was felt by anyone listeningg. Just a gift that keeps on giving.

[@bennettmichaels4309]

I was never a big fan of John's , until...he was live on the old Phil Donahue show...and he had a bad cold...but still performed live on the show...much respect from that point on...

[@123Rockchild]

When I think of John Denver, the line “Thank God I’m a country boy” comes to mind! He was popular during the 70s…the decade of the singer-songwriters!

[@helenjohnson7583]

Yes. I thought it was a standard that would never end.

[@moemcgovern7345]

Don't forget Karen Carpenter.

[@jeffreyzeiss1326]

There will absolutely never be another John Denver

[@myfrestuff3453]

John Denver was the ultimate bard of the 20th century and an amazing musician. He was tremendously gifted and is tremendously missed. I saw his show at the Grand Ole Opry House, five minutes from my home as a child in 1976. It was one of the most memorable performances I've ever seen by anyone, and I've seen a lot of them, from The Jackson 5 to Ozzy Osbourne, from The Police to Public Enemy, from George Carlin to Iron Maiden, from Sting to the Temptations, from Dolly Parton to The Beastie Boys touring with Run DMC, from many Hee Haw tapings to Craig Ferguson, and from Elvis Presley in Las Vegas shortly after the John Denver show to Spamalot on Broadway. 😉😎

[@DawnLenn]

This has to be one of the most beautiful songs ever written. I bet you'd sound lovely covering it 😊. Beautiful analysis, Fil!

[@JR-pr8jb]

Not a lot of songs in 3/4 time these days, beautiful.

[@helenjohnson7583]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼/👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@anthonylong001]

I love the imperfection of an amazing live performance!

[@NTav540]

I am so tired of generic singing that is created by correcting the pitch of people's voices. The so called 'imperfections' make it so much more appealing to me. John's voice is true beauty here.

[@Indiskret1]

I was 9 when I heard this song the first time in 1974. I'm nearing 60 and still gets so overwhelmed with emotions listening to the magic voice of John that I still cries hearing him. Remember the day I heard he had died in an accident like it was yesterday. He was so very special. Looking at the world of today, I come to think of what Ringo Starr said about what happened to the hippie era: "We certainly blew it".

[@ggfelix9029]

Every time I have flown in or out of that little airport, I think of him. That mountain range holds the fog close to it. It's a tricky blindspot, in fog, even with instruments. We lost a real star.

[@elizabethpowers7540]

John Denver was the very first famous musician I ever saw in concert when I was 12 years old. Since then, I have probably been to at least 100 major concerts - several Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame members, and I swear to you he was still the best. I always say he never gets enough credit for the quality of his voice, but also he had incredible endurance. When I saw him, he went almost 4 hours (I remember this because my dad commented on how he was going to be late the next morning) and he gave his band a break about half way through, but he never stopped. He just picked up his guitar and sang and played all by himself for a few songs and sounded just as great at the end of the show as at the beginning - that's the kind of endurance I've only seen matched once - by Bruce Springstein.

[@SueProv]

It's one of the most beautiful love songs ever. Maybe the best

[@thetalkingboard]

A singer's subtle imperfections are part of their vocal signature. At some point, these edits are criminal. I also believe in vocal Darwinism...you can either sing naturally or you can't. And if you can't, you shouldn't be celebrated for talent you simply don't have.

[@MovieMakingMan]

I loved John Denver. Rocky Mountain High was my freedom song from getting out of the army. I saw him in about 6 concerts in Houston, Texas. I think I saw every concert he played in Houston. Later I was fortunate to meet him at a small dinner party at NASA-JSC. A few people were invited to the party that had a space theme. John Denver and June Lockhart were there. I got to meet and talk with John just before he played several songs. I got to talk with June Lockhart of Lost in Space fame too. What a lovely lady. So graceful and sweet. I learned to play all of John’s songs mostly on my 12 string guitar and when I shook his hand I thought about all the wonderful music he created with that hand. I remember one Fall when John had a concert scheduled in Houston. I wanted to go and was close to getting tickets but I had family to care for. A month after that concert John was killed in that terrible plane crash. I’ll always regret not seeing him one last time. Thank you Fil for yet another great video!

[@SimonJM]

As an aging rocker this song was a 'guilty pleasure' during the mid/late 70s.

[@Lazzar1958]

A VERY seemingly underrated, songwriter/singer/musician & environmental / social activist.

[@sharongaskell]

John was the most generous performer in concert..always encouraged us to sing with him. Other big names told the audience to be quiet..they were not there to hear us. ❤

[@junekeniston1001]

This is one of my all time favorite songs. No one sang like John. I grew up watching his tv performances/specials. It was always a special family event to watch him perform. No one will ever be like him.

[@myrrhsolace5875]

Ahhh… the old ladies like me are giving a sigh right now and dreaming of a waltz with our prairie skirts swirling

[@katherinea.rodgers8366]

Hearing his voice again warms my heart and takes me back to fond memories. Annie's song is so beautiful. Thank you, Fil for your ananlysis of this very talented John Denver who died too young.

[@SunShine-oc5dj]

What a wonderful love song. Any normal, loving woman could drown in those words ❤️

[@russbear31]

You know the story... John Denver claimed he wrote this song after an argument with his wife, Annie. It was his way of saying, "I'm sorry." 😊

[@HardRockMiner]

It gives me chills to listen to John do this song. It feels like something other worldly. Like a gift to feed the soul from a higher being.

[@Agislife1960]

There are no words to describe John Denver as a musician and song writer he was just legendary

[@suzannemcmaken4648]

John Denver brought joy into this world with his iconic, unforgettable, gorgeous melodies. What a talent sorely missed. 💔💝

[@walterco7701]

This song makes me cry every single time. It's a masterful exercise in evoking emotion.

[@DawnDavidson]

John Denver was one of my 2 favorite artists in high school (the other was Neil Diamond.) I got to see him Live in the 80’s at the Greek Theater in Berkeley, CA. He played an amazing set, most of which I don’t recall. What I DO recall with absolute clarity was his final encore. He performed my absolute favorite song off the Spirit album, “The Wings That Fly Is Home”. On the album (which was released in 1976; it was NOT a new song), this was a heavily orchestrated piece, full of texture and soaring violins. For the encore, he performed it solo, with just his guitar. I never would have predicted that he’d do it over a decade later, with just his guitar. The piece itself is a mystical, magical piece. That solo performance felt like true magic to me, like someone had read my mind to find out the absolutely perfect song, and had saved it for last as the cherry on top of the fabulous sundae of the concert. A memory I’ll treasure forever. Thanks for analyzing Annie’s Song, Fil. John’s performance was great, and I’m so glad they haven’t messed with it. Some things - like most of John’s performances - are perfectly imperfect just the way they are.

[@lancerx1759]

John Denver always gives me a natural High

[@micheladonofrio2285]

Those were the times when singers sang on their own and showed off their great voices.

[@micheladonofrio2285]

Glad to see that the troller has been taken down.

[@ernies8828]

There will never be another John Denver. His voice, playing, and performance were always very deep, tender, honest, heart-tugging, and timeless. I can not even listen without crying and breaking much of the time. He was a very compassionate and humanitarian person. He lived in Aspen, Colorado, my home state, where I have always lived, and John will be deeply missed.

[@remessinger]

Brings back memories. RIP, John.

[@sherry3099]

John was such a treasure. He provided so much of the soundtrack to my adolescence and teenage years. I had all of his albums. Every time I hear his voice it makes me happy and nostalgic. I’m so glad no one has tried to edit this magnificent performance. The whole concert was amazing. “I’m Sorry” honestly is the most heartbreaking breakup song ever. His guitar work on that combined with the pain in his voice 😢

[@A.Briggs628]

I love that song, ‘I’m Sorry’ You’re right. The lyrics are heart-crushing!

[@ckp2ator389]

Every time I hear this song, it's with a bit of sadness over how love can be so intense and beautiful but not lasting, and of course that John Denver left us way too soon. Great singer and songwriter, and a unique voice, unlike anyone else's.

[@SafeMoneyTrends]

Fil, when I was a young kid, I had the privilege of seeing John Denver live. It was actually my first concert. As I recall, he WAS very good but what impressed me most was that when the audience was being rude to the opening act, John walked on stage and scolded them. Silence and lots of guilty looks on the faces of many of the adults. HA!

[@judydenver5362]

...and John would also, at virtually every performance, ask the audience to basically be silent, and "not sing along with the verses". Something that drives me crazy, today, as now people are so rude, loudly singing along -at concerts!!! who wants to hear them sing along?? NO BODY!!! I go to a concert to hear the performer, in utter silence from the audience, really listen to the performer and every nuance and warmth in their true voice, and the delicacies and intricacies of the instrumentation and arrangement, and how it makes me feel, how it takes me away to someplace, and being with someone I so deeply admire. AUDIENCES- BE SILENT!!!!

[@kennethzullick6897]

When I was a teenager in the 70's I listened to his music, some friends of mine made fun of it because they were into harder rock genres. I didn't care I continued to listen. Obviously I could recognize true talent much better than them. I still listen to his music going to bed almost every night. He was a true master and I feel one of the top ten singers of all time.

[@BabsR]

Saw John in concert several times, always so much fun, and that pure clear voice was so special and very moving.

[@peggymaihafer6097]

Lucky you! I never got to see him in concert. I sure wish I had.

[@lechaewilliams4524]

Such a great talent, sadly missed.

[@calibadgerdude6082]

John’s voice was warm honey on a sore throat. If anybody ever had a voice that could be described as “golden”, it would be his. Such delicacy, and such power. Grew up listening to his records, and it’s always soothing to my soul.

[@JasonSavorn]

His voice is simple angelic. What a beautiful man too.

[@drewpall2598]

I have the John Denver "The Wildlife Concert" I never get tired of watching and listening to John Denver. I agree that the human elements are being taken away with technology. 😢

[@louisejohnson6057]

My late mum absolutely loved John Denver, and I discovered him through her. His voice is so rich and full and smooth, it always makes me think of real caramel, the kind made with butter and cream. This song is one of my favourites, just as it was one of my mums. He was amazing, and he was gone far too soon.