Some country artists didn’t like him. Said he was folk not country. Some folk artists said he was too country. But the millions that bought his records said it was just great music.
Yes! One of my brothers has talked of this need to pigeonhole artists into a "category." It seems many of us by nature must put everything in its "place", instead of just recognizing and enjoying greatness.
It really is ... especially to those of us who have found "our place", that home we never knew we had "coming home to a place he'd never been before" ... we each find it. The mountains and the sea are my place. There's magic in nature
The song is HIS song. Story of his life. Military brat who ran away to go to California. Then he was born again when he found his mountains. Meteor showers sitting around a campfire. Fire in the sky. RIP John ♥️
According to his wife, he dumped his family in the mountains miles from anywhere and then hardly ever came home. 'You're always singing about living in the mountains but you spend most of your time touring the world!'
beautiful: also true story: I worked with an old man at our business in St Louis, MO area, who was of many things also a professional photographer. He was an honory cuss lol. anyway he and his family several years ago took a camping trip to Colorado. He and his family were cooking breakfast over a campfire with their tents in the background in the most beautiful scenery a person could imagin. Suddenly a man on a horse rode up to them and it happened to be of all peopole John Denver. John said that they were camping on his private property and my co-worker said "I'm sorry we didn't see any signs, and John Denver said yeah well we propbably need to fix those signs, and my coworker invited John to join them for breakfast and John sat, ate, and fellowshipped with them. then about 15 years later, John Denver happened to be in the St Louis area and they needed a photographer and he still had my co-worker's phone number and remembered his name and called him and he proceeded to be the photographer for John Denver that weekend. It was amzing John Denver still remembered the my co-worker after all of those years. It really represents how down to earth John Denver truly was Reply
Trisha_B_done- I have always admired John Denver his songs always have lift up my heart and I also admire his work on saving wild horses. I hope to see this couple listen to his other song fly like an eagle.
Bill Danoff, who wrote Country Roads, was going to make it about Massachusetts, where he was from. He changed it to W. Virginia. I always loved John Denver, still listen to the LP's. But, Speaking of Bill Danoff.... How about a little "Afternoon Delight", with the Starland Vocal Band?
This is very true. True musicians and performers know and appreciate his greatness. In 1990, Guns and Roses went in before John at the Farm Aid concert. The band stuck around after their performance because they wanted to see John Denver perform. They were in awe if his. He went on stage with an acoustic guitar and nothing else and absolutely brought the house down with Rocky Mountain High.
Arguably the most romantic song ever written is "Annie's Song." Annie was John's wife, and John wrote this song in his head while riding up a ski lift in Aspen, Colorado. Took him less than twenty minutes to write it. "The Eagle and the Hawk" is another very emotional and vocally powerful song. You could react to any song off of his live album, "An Evening With John Denver" and not be disappointed with a single song! "Looking For Space" is a song that will have your souls transcending beyond the physical world and into the heavens while at the same time taking you deep inside yourselves. John Denver's music truly does speak to the soul. "Rhymes and Reasons" "Prisoners" "Calypso" "Thank God I'm a Country Boy" "Grandma's Feather Bed" Damn! There is just so many great great songs!!!
Annie's Song was sung at my wedding, 1977. ALSO, as with all the songs listed, he tells a great story in "Matthew's Song". Calypso is a story as a tribute to Jacques-Yves Cousteau and his research ship, the Calypso. ... Calypso was the name of Cousteau's research boat that sailed around the world for ocean conservation. Wonderful song!!
I have never seen any channel react to The Eagle and the Hawk, maybe because it is such a short song. I know there is a remastered version on youtube and it really showcases the power John could bring when he wanted to.
You were spot on, on everything you said. I love what you said about Looking For Space, I couldn't have explained it any better. Truly one of his best songs.
He was also an actor, movie with George Burns, “Oh,God”, and most of all he was an environmental advocate and nature lover. Liked his TV special with Jock Cousteau on the boat, Calipso. Also remember he did a TV special taking his children on the Colorado River, rafting thru the Grand Canyon. Adventurous!
I've been down the rabbit hole watching RUclipsr's First TIme Hearing videos. I must say, it warms my heart to see so many young people appreciating his music. I was a huge fan back in the day. This song, especially the line, "He lost a friend, but kept the memory," had me crying like a baby for my late husband. We were married for 47 years, so I have many memories.
Not just the one artist or song, either. There are lots of young people from all walks of life who will appreciate the classics _if they hear them._ But you have to go looking, the streaming stuff only shows you music like what you already listen to.
John has a deep collection of self-written songs that you should check out. My fellow commenters will mention "Annie's Song", "Sunshine on My Shoulder", "Leaving on a Jet Plane", "Calypso" about the ship that Jacques Cousteau used for research, "This Old Guitar", and many others. He also did a bunch of songs with the Muppets. He was a gentle soul who loved nature. He is missed every day.
Rocky Mountain High was written by him when he and some friends were on top of mountain watching a meteor shower. That is the fire in the sky. Also I'm sure they were high. Always loved this song. And pretty much all of his songs. He was a gentle soul.
This song is so beloved it was adopted by Colorado as one of their two state songs. Enjoy this rabbit hole---John Denver never sang a bad song that I can remember.
Like he was born again at 27. Where his new life began? That he wasn’t really living until he found his home in the Rocky’s. That’s what I got. Such a great song. Always makes me want to cry. Not sure why.
I heard him and his band in person too. The band took a break And he continued to play on an acoustic guitar during their intermission. Absolutely incredible performer. So very missed.
One of the sadder days of my life when I heard of his plane crash on my car radio...then having them play "Rocky Mountain High" in a tribute. Cried my eyes out.
Me too cried for days. I loved his specials... and his music... I still play his 33 1/3 YES everyone albums. ORIGINALS... "THE EAGLE AND THE HAWK" Love the intro to this song.
There are no bad John Denver songs... just some greater than others. His combination of clear tenor, clean guitar work, orchestration, and surprisingly profound lyrics just keep giving. Check out "Calypso", "Take Me Home Country Roads", "Annie's Song", "I Guess He'd Rather Be in Colorado", "Sunshine on My Shoulders", so many others. BTW "I've seen it rain fire in the sky" is about seeing a meteor shower up in the clear air far from any city lights.
Take Me Home Country Roads is one of my all time favorites. I'll still crank up the radio when it comes on. Annie's Song is one of the most beautiful love songs ever written. Just a little story about Annie's Song.....I had gotten my first dachshund puppy just a couple of days before John Denver was killed in that plane crash. I was at a loss as to what to name her. My puppy and I were out in the yard, playing and raking leaves. Annie's Song came on the radio and right then my little doxie became Annie, because I liked the song and as a small tribute to John Denver.
There are no pretentions. There is no artifice. It is simply pure. The lyrics. The message. And, of course, the voice. Nothing is for show. Nothing is fake. Pure and heartfelt.
The ONLY songwriter to have TWO of his songs designated as OFFICIAL STATE SONGS. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” (West Virginia) {“…almost heaven, West Virginia. Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River. Life is old there, older than the trees…”} and “Rocky Mountain High” (Colorado) {“…Rocky Mountain High, in Colorado”}. Denver changed his name from Henry John Deuschendorf, Jr to John Denver to honor his adopted state of Colorado!
John Denver’s music catalog is DEEP. Guys, he was a legend. One of his songs is (or should be) the state song of West Virginia and this is the state song of Colorado. I mean, wow.
@@Cheryl_Haydon it's even in Fallout 76, a bad version and not John Denver but the song is there. I'm Canadian, it makes me long for home in Appalachia
Annie's song is probably one of the most beautifly written songs I've ever heard. You should react to it next. Country road is one of his most popular ones. But Annie's song! You can not go wrong!
The lyric line “I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky” refers to when he, his wife and friends would go backpacking in the Rocky Mountains in August and would watch the Perseid Meteor Shower at night. The song was written in 1972 and is about himself recently discovering the Rocky Mountain wilderness for the the first time “ in his 27th year” as the lyric refers to. About the lyric line “when he first came to the mountains his life was far away, on the road and hanging by a song”. By 1972 he was a fairly well known singer/songwriter and was on tour a lot. The “handing by a song” he’s referring to is “Take Me Home, Country Roads”, one of his most famous songs and now considered a country music classic. So this song is about his own personal journey discovering a part of the American wilderness and the need to protect it. It is also, in a larger context, an anthem of sorts for all of us who have wandered and hiked the American wilderness landscape. It was one of his biggest hits and was most always on his concert playlist. For me, back in the 1970’s when I hiked, I would play that song in my head while walking down the trail. Thank you for reacting to one of my all time favorite songs and musical artists. His untimely death in 1997 was a major blow to us all but his legacy lives on. I hope you react to more of his music in the future.
I can't say I've ever listened closely to the lyrics before; but, listening more closely now, they bring to mind the image of a 'Mountain Man' from the mid-nineteenth century.
This is exactly how and why this song was made about his life. John had so many wonderful songs and it's hard to pick a favorite because they are all so well written. My wife said that one of her favorite s is take me home country road, which she is from the country and so wants to go home ( homesick I guess ) but John Denver will always be in that rocky mountain high!
This song makes me want to live my life over again...mostly in a very different way than I have, keeping only a few things the same...for me it's sad and always makes me hold back tears even though its such a beautiful song.
My favorite version of the song is his live version .. at the end of this concert in 1974. Many of my favorite renditions are on this recording. "An Evening with John Denver" ruclips.net/video/I8u4V-cJLHw/видео.html
*30 yr old man squeeling like a school girl* "They're doing John Denver!!!" For real, this music shaped me as a child and sculpted me as a man. This guy is a GEM!!
John was crucified by rock music critics , and their very personal attacks did upset him BUT those critics just didn't get it. But, thankfully, lots and lots...millions and millions, did get it. The beautiful voice. The mood he created. The pictures he painted in song. The subject matter of his songs. John was great.
@@captaindunsell8568 I dont understand how Critics even gain legitimacy in an industry of ART, art being subjective. Critics have no place in any art related scene.
I was one of them ... he wasn't a rocker in an era of rocket's...yet later I did get it where "I came home to a place [I'd] never been before." Then I got it.
@@juuljitsu gotta agree Paul. "Art" critics are a pretentious bunch of sheep. For proof look at this year's Golden Globes awarding best picture for "The Banshees of Inisherin". A more dreadful film I've not seen in 10 years. Two hours of my life I can't get back. Critics only matter if they share your taste. As a group they are full of it. Sadly, John died about a mile from where I sit.
Never was a big fan, but liked several of his songs. Got suckered into going to a concert of his one time. It was just John and his guitars, no one else. I changed my mind about him that night, he was a very talented musician, one of the better acoustic guitarists I've ever seen and a unique voice for sure.
His Angel was an abusive drunk as well. He wasn’t even supposed to be flying as his license was revoked because of his drunk flying and driving. He was Uber talented. But no Angel. Ask his ex wife about the beatings. Dolly Parton is an Angel. Jmho
‘Know he’d be a poorer man if he never saw an eagle fly’ is a verse that speaks to John’s untiring efforts for the environment. Back when this song was released you practically had to travel to Colorado to experience a bald eagle in flight. Now fifty years later, living in Wisconsin, there is an abundance of bald eagles here available for viewing. Thank you John!
"He was born in the summer of his 27th year.....coming home to a place he's never been before"......the greatest songwriters are also great poets and philosophers!
"Rocky Mountain High" was primarily inspired by John Denver's move to Aspen, Colorado, three years before its writing and by his love for the state. The seventh stanza makes reference to the destruction of the mountains' beauty by commercial tourism. The song was considered a major piece of 1970’s pop culture and became a well-associated piece of Colorado history.
this is autobiographical and expressed his own sentiments about the colorado rocky mountains and all its glory and wildlife...he was an animal rights activist really before it was a big thing and nature truly was a theme throughout his library of songs...if u ever went to the colorado rockies u would realised he captured the feeling of how it is there as a poet would and then delivered the poem like nobody could with his voice...everything came together pretty often in this way with john denver songs...
What a lot of people don't appreciate is that in addition to having that incredibly pure, clear, and expressive voice, he was an exceptionally gifted guitarist. He made it sound so easy and natural, but I've heard professional guitarists say that what he was doing with the guitar in this song is actually very, very difficult and technically impressive.
If you want to hear more like this, Annie’s Song (written for his ex-wife either during or after their divorce) and Country Roads are beautiful. On the other hand, Thank God I’m A Country Boy is more upbeat and playful but still a great song.
@@ralphkern380 I’m so glad we were of that generation. I didn’t have a grandpa in my life as my maternal n paternal granddads died when my mom n dad we’re still in school. However, the feather beds n the home cooked meals and the music oh the amazing music from all genres ❤️ . What great memories to have. My grandma was seeing a guy that the only song I think he could sing n play as loud as could be was “Thank God I’m a country boy.” Lol. I can listen to it and smile now. But back then I wanted to send him directly to John Denver. One way. Do Not return to sender. She wound up marrying the “ country boy”. 😳. 🤣 🎶
John was a naturalist as in, living with nature. not a hippy or a totally off the grid type person. just someone who would work with nature. being out doors in nature was his place of enjoyment. and he wrote songs about it. that harmony of being with nature. he was not an "activist" more like a passive educating but through his songs and work brought an understanding of nature to the rest of us. he never pushed just informed us about working with nature in his own way. one of my top 5 John Denver songs is Calypso. he wrote in in honor of the famed researcher Jacques-Yves Cousteau. as a kid use to love watching Jacques Cousteau on TV. and FYI Cousteau was the one that invented the modern scuba tank. and the Calypso was one of Cousteau's reseach ships. check it out, it is a ship type you never seen before. sadly :( John died while flying a plane that he built. he loved the mountins of the Rocky's and Appalachian mountains. and had a foundness of the sea as well. like a lot of us at the time as I said he too enjoyed watching Causteau's documentries on TV, so much so he wrote the song Calypso.
Sorry, but John didn't build the Long Eze that crashed. It was home built, as per normal for this plane, but not by John. Sorry, it's a sticking point for me.
I am 80 yrs old and really appreciate your reacting to John Denver's beautiful song and voice. When I first heard him sing, my reaction was the same as yours. John Denver wrote and recorded "Perhaps Love" with one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century, Placido Domingo. Their voices blended so beautifully that all I wanted for Christmas was their album with the same name. I hope you react to this song as it is one of John Denver's finest. Also, John had a television show released for viewing each week. He sang his songs and told stories of his past. One story was so special that I remember it as if he told it only yesterday. He said when he turned 16 yrs old, his mother told him he could have a birthday party. He invited everyone he knew to this party. His mother prepared many barbecue sandwiches (Sloppy Joe's) for his friends along with other treats and soft drinks. He waited and waited for someone to show up to his party and, finally, one girl appeared. He then found out that another student (much more popular than he) had a party on the same night. The girl had gone to that party too, but after realizing that everyone John invited was there, she left and came to his party. John said the two of them celebrated with dancing and listening to music for quite some time until she had to leave for her home. He thanked her personally on TV that night and said her name (I have forgotten it). He said he hoped she was watching his show because he never forgot how kind she was and that she made his 16th birthday celebration a happy and successful one. He dedicated a song to her that night. That is the kind of man John Denver was. I am crying now remembering this fond memory.
@Loretta Gillespie, thank you for sharing that story. I'm about half your age, but I've loved John Denver's music since I was a child. His voice and the poetry of his words are timeless, transcending the generations.
John Denver was a voice of my generation. His music soothed the soul .Annies Song was played before I walked down the aisle 41 years ago. Beautiful song, beautiful day!! Thanks for playing!!
"County Roads" and "Annie's Song " are great songs. His whole catalog is really awesome. He pays tribute to a lot of our natural openness and wildlife and some of his monies goes to organizations.
I was really surprised by your reaction and the instant appreciation you felt for John's talent as both a writer and singer. This song brings a tear to my eye everytime i hear it. It's so personal and passionate. When I was a kid John Denver was this young, goofy and cool singer, actor and the biggest entertainer who was able to cross genres and perform with all other mega celebrities of the time. His celebrity was 100% talent based and clean. In 1985 as his star was fading and he was going through personal struggles I was in the summer before senior year of high school. I went to a non denominational Christian camp in Canada with a youth group. There were rumors that John was in the area which was very remote and that the camp was reaching out to him to come sing for us. As the week came to a close nothing happened. As they were serving dessert after dinner on our last night they announced a special guest and proceeded to introduce John Denver. One of the camp leaders came out dressed like 1971 John Denver with round glasses, a leather vest abd a cowboy hat and he began playing CountryRoads. I was so mad... We'd been had! Then one of the the councilors interrupted him and they got into an argument about him not being JD. After a back and forth about his cowboy hat fake John said he'd prove that John Denver wears a cowboy hat. He walked into the kitchen and a moment later the real John Denver walked out in a cowboy hat! There were probably less than 150 kids and adult chaperones in the room and he played a full solo concert as if he was on TV or at a sold out stadium. He told the background of each song and what he was thinking when he wrote them. He shared personal stories of his life and faith. He had just performed in the Soviet Union which was a big deal at the time so he talked about that and sang the last verse of Annie's Song in Russian. The Perseid Meteor Shower was going on and he explained "raining fire in the sky" and told us to stay up late to watch the shooting stars which we did. It was pretty incredible that he did that for us, during his vacation with family and friends but I think he really truly loved sharing his music with people.
I used to hate John Denver as a kid because my parents played him endlessly on long road trips. I was a stupid kid, I love him now! Beautiful songwriter and singer. Annies song is a great one of his.
I was the opposite...my Mum and Dad always played Glen Campbell, and they said to me "John Denver is for children", and that made me love him even more as a child...I recall he had a TV show in the 1970's, and I loved it
This guy had such a beautiful voice, he could do no wrong. It was a real tragedy when he died. He crashed his plane flying over Moteray Bay California. Xxxxx Rest easy Mr Denver. 💙💙💙💙💙
He was talking about himself being 27 and finding the Rockies “coming home where he had never been before”. Instant karma? The part about “fire in the sky” are the meteor showers during August and being so high up they are really visible. That was home from then on…
John Denver's voice was crystal clear. So beautiful. He wrote Rocky Mountain High when he moved to Colorado to express his love for the mountains and nature. This is one of my favorite John Denver songs. He is so missed!
You shouldn't ignore his songs "Take Me Home, Country Roads", "Sunshine On My Shoulders", "Annie's Song". He has many more, but those, along with "Rocky Mountain High", are pure classics
This song is a religious baptism. His voice, the lyrics, the music all transcend the mundane and bring the listener to a more majestic plane of experience. The opening line along with his mention of being born again. Later we get quiet solitude, grace and serenity. Nature is beauty and it unlocks the secrets of life.
This song is autobiographical and you have to know him to get gall the references. He is a balladeer and his music crosses many genres. Hi was an extraordinary singer/songwriter and a stellar guitarist. He played the 12-string at his concerts. He was an environmentalist and prophetic. Listen to Whose Garden Was This. Over 30 albums and decades of sell-out concerts, his appeal was multi-generational. I could write a book, but will end with he could also yodel. Thank you, thank you for reacting to my all time favorite artist. His music needs to live on to be enjoyed by many more generations.
Ironically enough some people initially misinterpreted this song to be about getting stoned and thus it was banned though later on many realized the mistake. Later when some parent groups tried to outright ban certain music there was a few music artists that teamed up to challenge these groups as well as some members of congress. John Denver was one of those artists and probably his words during those debates helped to keep america free from censorship in music. If you ever feel glad there is no censorship in music you can thank John Denver as he had a hand in making that happen in america.
John Denver was singing about a natural high, a euphoria gripping every fiber of his being when he wrote this song. The wonder and majesty of the mountains, the fire in the sky as the Sun set over the peaks, cascading the brilliant reds, oranges and yellows across the valleys. It's a high that is free and habit forming. A clean high, a high that enriches the soul. He will be missed.
I remember watching those congressional hearings. John Denver, Dee Snyder and Frank Zappa testified about the nessessity of freedom of expression in music. Al Gore was one of the congressmen.
Ken the fire raining down in the sky could have also been about watching the meteor showers from high up in the Mountain glades. Having done that on a few occasions, it is a magical euphoric high all its own! There is little to no artificial light and the stars are huge! There are many more stars visible than normal. Shooting stars, meteors are brighter, bigger, more visible and last longer than seen from anywhere else! There truly is nothing better than bedding down in a mountain meadow under the stars with no tent! Ask anyone who has done it, anyone!
My favorite John Denver song is 'Back Home Again'. He was in only one movie, I recall, called 'Oh, God! ' It's a comedy movie I absolutely love. He is great with George Burns.
He had such an angelic and pure voice. He was a legend to me in the 70s and I got to travel through the stunning Rocky Mountains in Colorado that he speaks of! Being in those mountains is an incredible experience. I believe he was the first “ celebrity environmentalist”.
It's nice to see young people appreciate John Denver... Back when he was on the charts in the '60s and '70s, there were a lot of people who ridiculed his music for being soft, pop, and folkish. Back then I liked all types of music, whether it was "hard" or "soft". I listened to whatever I was in the mood for. Now that I'm old, I've actually went back to discover music before my time, and now I love '50s rock and roll as much as the stuff from my youth in the '70s and '80s.
Early seventies John Denver was everywhere. String of hits, had a tv variety show and starred with George Burns in a mainstream movie. Helped build the "natural" lifestyle and ecology consciousness.
Prior to 1970, just around the time of his first album, he was living in Edina, MN, which is just up the road from where I currently live. His wife, Ann Martel is from St Peter, MN, so us folks from the land of 10,000 lakes take some pride in that.
This is by far my favorite John Denver song. The first lyrics - "He was born in the summer of his 27th year, going back to a place he's never been before" - are the most profound song lyrics ever.
Hey Jay and Amber! People who weren't around in the early '70s don't realize how big John Denver was back then. He was huge. Since you've discovered him, check out "Take Me Home, Country Roads", his first big hit. Another classic. Thanks.
Have you guys been missing out! John Denver was literally an American icon, especially in the 70's. In terms of record sales, he ranks at the top of the heap, with 14 gold and eight platinum albums in the US alone. Even beyond his musical talent he was a world leader in environmental issues, and had a deep love for nature and the wilderness. He was a goodwill ambassador around the world, spreading peace through his music.
Nothing beats the songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s so much individual talent and diversity i was so blessed to grow up in that time in history wouldn't trade it for anything
John Denver had such a pure tone to his voice. Listen to "Annie's Song" by him if you want to hear something romantic. For a more fun vibe, listen to Grandma's Featherbed and Thank God I'm a Country Boy.
Even "Annie's Song" which is about his wife that he loved very much has a positive nature theme You fill up my senses Like a night in a forest Like the mountains in springtime Like a walk in the rain Like a storm in the desert Like a sleepy blue ocean You fill up my senses Come fill me again
When John says "I've seen it raining fire in the sky"....he's talking about one night while camping in the Rocky Mountains with friends, they saw the Perseid meteor showers and he thought it looked like fire raining down. This song talks about when he first moved to Aspen Colorado and the wonder of the beautiful Rockies. :) I've been a lifetime fan and it's so wonderful to see young people like you discovering his music!!!!!
John Denver is considered both folk and country, and even soft rock. He was originally a member of the 60s folk group the Chad Mitchell Trio, before going solo. Take Me Home Country Roads, Sunshine On My Shoulders, Annie's Song are all great. I also like the really short song The Music Is You. His music is really timeless.
When he wrote this song he was with his wife and friends camping on the lake.they were by the campfire smoking weed and there was a meteor shower. So that's the fire in the sky. Great song amazing song writer and singer.
He wrote this on the top of a mountain in Colorado. John, his wife, & some friends went up the mountain to watch a meteor shower. This is what the song is about. John Denver is/was one of a kind!
"Raining fire in the sky"-- "Meteor showers." I have loved John Denver since he broke out with Take Me Home Country Roads. I got to see his final tour show a year before he died in that experimental plane crash-- gone too soon 1997. He is still sorely missed--- such a humanitarian-environmentalist, too. You love the sea? Heard of oceanographer Jacques Cousteau? My favorite song to listen to that lifts my spirits is "Calypso" dedicated to Cousteau's famous ship that went on many sea explorations.
John has a very deep catalog. One of his bigger hits was Take Me Home Country Road (West Virginia). Thank God I’m a Country Boy is an upbeat fun song. I was fortunate to attend his concert and it was hit after hit. He was very humble and humorous. RIP John.
"Singer Songwriters" were their own genre of music that ruled the 70's. Gordon Lightfoot, Carole King, James Taylor, Carly Simon, John Denver, Dan Folgelberg are some of the best to ever do it. Others like Jackson Browne and Bread are also great. So many great artists during the 70's.
To really appreciate John you need to see him doing a live performance, check out his duet with Mama Cass Leaving on a Jet Plane on the Midnight Special or his duet with Olivia Newton-John Fly Away
His catalog is so immense that it would take you years to hear all of it. His live performances had the same true sound his recordings had. He once did an album about the oceans and felt so strongly about one of his songs that he donated all proceeds in perpetuity to the Jacques Cousteau foundation to save the oceans. You should check out Poems, Prayers and Promises along with Grandma's Feather Bed, Annie's Song and Country Roads. Then dig into his later works.
The "fire in the sky" is a reference to Denver and his friends sitting around a campfire watching the Perseid meteor showers during the summer months of July and August, which are visible in the Colorado Rockies.
I never actually thought of that. I always assumed it was a reference to the amazing sunrises and sunsets we get here with the very bright reds and oranges.
@@Gizmo42Rodeo Yes, when Colorado adopted this as its state song, John Denver testified before the legislature about the meaning behind the lyrics. In that testimony, he assured the lawmakers that the friends around the campfire getting high reference was about his friends' excitement and feelings of euphoria at watching the Perseid meteor showers (the "fire in the sky") and not smoking pot.
Some country artists didn’t like him. Said he was folk not country. Some folk artists said he was too country. But the millions that bought his records said it was just great music.
exactly!
Aye. My bands were Hendrix, the Who, the Dead, Zappa, Zeppelin but Denver albums were mixed through. Magic writer and performer, sairly missed.
Yea, authentic - original artists are a category called Great.
Be independent and catch the best of it all!
Yes! One of my brothers has talked of this need to pigeonhole artists into a "category." It seems many of us by nature must put everything in its "place", instead of just recognizing and enjoying greatness.
He was John Denver - that's all that needs to be said
"He was born in the summer of his twenty-seventh year, coming home to a place he'd never been before," is one of the greatest lyrics ever written.
Absolutely agree! John was a magnificently gifted song writer/performer! And equally such a decent human being! Forever missed
Absolutely. From the moment I heard these lines, they have stuck in my head. It is a moment of introspection but with a hopeful spirit.
Agree!
It really is ... especially to those of us who have found "our place", that home we never knew we had "coming home to a place he'd never been before" ... we each find it. The mountains and the sea are my place. There's magic in nature
Pure pure poetry! Exquisite stuff. That's my oxymoron for it. Exquisite stuff!!!
If you want to see Amber melt into a little puddle, play “Annie’s Song”.
Or For You, Thought of You, I Remember Romance and on and on :)
Absolutely!
Good choice
Absolutely!
💯%❤️🤘🏻
He didn't just sing, he touched your soul. Incomparable!
So many of his songs move me more than any other artist ever!
Perfect
Perfectly said
Go to the Professor of Music and find the video about this song. The story behind it is a good one.
Well the once that said that stuff doesn't know anything there just dumb
The song is HIS song. Story of his life. Military brat who ran away to go to California. Then he was born again when he found his mountains. Meteor showers sitting around a campfire. Fire in the sky. RIP John ♥️
According to his wife, he dumped his family in the mountains miles from anywhere and then hardly ever came home.
'You're always singing about living in the mountains but you spend most of your time touring the world!'
beautiful: also true story: I worked with an old man at our business in St Louis, MO area, who was of many things also a professional photographer. He was an honory cuss lol. anyway he and his family several years ago took a camping trip to Colorado. He and his family were cooking breakfast over a campfire with their tents in the background in the most beautiful scenery a person could imagin. Suddenly a man on a horse rode up to them and it happened to be of all peopole John Denver. John said that they were camping on his private property and my co-worker said "I'm sorry we didn't see any signs, and John Denver said yeah well we propbably need to fix those signs, and my coworker invited John to join them for breakfast and John sat, ate, and fellowshipped with them. then about 15 years later, John Denver happened to be in the St Louis area and they needed a photographer and he still had my co-worker's phone number and remembered his name and called him and he proceeded to be the photographer for John Denver that weekend. It was amzing John Denver still remembered the my co-worker after all of those years. It really represents how down to earth John Denver truly was
Reply
@@andrewmorton9327 Annie is mega-wealthy now thanks to his touring and his voice.
Like the Beatles "Something" or Gerry Rafferty's "Baker Street"......this is one of those songs that darn near can bring a tear in it's beauty.
yup
It is always beautiful to see another generation discover John Denver. This song always brings a tear to my eyes.
❤
One tear for two eyes??
Trisha_B_done- I have always admired John Denver his songs always have lift up my heart and I also admire his work on saving wild horses. I hope to see this couple listen to his other song fly like an eagle.
Country Roads is one of John Denver's songs that they will like.
They were singing that at sporting events, especially WVU
ruclips.net/video/V7QOsLTomaA/видео.html
The full title is Take Me Home Country Roads
Bill Danoff, who wrote Country Roads, was going to make it about Massachusetts, where he was from. He changed it to W. Virginia.
I always loved John Denver, still listen to the LP's.
But, Speaking of Bill Danoff.... How about a little "Afternoon Delight", with the Starland Vocal Band?
Absolutely!!!
@@jethro1963 always sung at WV football games for sure.
There are two types of people in this world. Those who like John Denver, and those who won't admit it.
😂
Yep
Love him and his music!
This is very true. True musicians and performers know and appreciate his greatness. In 1990, Guns and Roses went in before John at the Farm Aid concert. The band stuck around after their performance because they wanted to see John Denver perform. They were in awe if his. He went on stage with an acoustic guitar and nothing else and absolutely brought the house down with Rocky Mountain High.
Love your reply. I play it to large groups of friends who one by one speak up one way or another how great John Denver is!
Arguably the most romantic song ever written is "Annie's Song." Annie was John's wife, and John wrote this song in his head while riding up a ski lift in Aspen, Colorado. Took him less than twenty minutes to write it. "The Eagle and the Hawk" is another very emotional and vocally powerful song. You could react to any song off of his live album, "An Evening With John Denver" and not be disappointed with a single song! "Looking For Space" is a song that will have your souls transcending beyond the physical world and into the heavens while at the same time taking you deep inside yourselves. John Denver's music truly does speak to the soul. "Rhymes and Reasons" "Prisoners" "Calypso" "Thank God I'm a Country Boy" "Grandma's Feather Bed"
Damn! There is just so many great great songs!!!
Annie's Song was sung at my wedding, 1977. ALSO, as with all the songs listed, he tells a great story in "Matthew's Song". Calypso is a story as a tribute to Jacques-Yves Cousteau and his research ship, the Calypso. ... Calypso was the name of Cousteau's research boat that sailed around the world for ocean conservation. Wonderful song!!
Poems, Prayers and Promises.
I have never seen any channel react to The Eagle and the Hawk, maybe because it is such a short song. I know there is a remastered version on youtube and it really showcases the power John could bring when he wanted to.
You were spot on, on everything you said. I love what you said about Looking For Space, I couldn't have explained it any better. Truly one of his best songs.
'Far Out!'
He was such a talented songwriter and singer. You won't regret diving into more of his music.
Another incredible 70s style..." singer/acoustic guitar.
He was also an actor, movie with George Burns, “Oh,God”, and most of all he was an environmental advocate and nature lover. Liked his TV special with Jock Cousteau on the boat, Calipso. Also remember he did a TV special taking his children on the Colorado River, rafting thru the Grand Canyon. Adventurous!
Jacques
" Country Roads" is a very powerful song. "Annie song" "Leaving on a jet plane" are other big ones of his.
Great suggestions. There is a cool video of JD singing Leaving on a Jet Plane with Mama Cass Elliot
All great songs. You sir, have good taste... :)
I've been down the rabbit hole watching RUclipsr's First TIme Hearing videos. I must say, it warms my heart to see so many young people appreciating his music. I was a huge fan back in the day. This song, especially the line, "He lost a friend, but kept the memory," had me crying like a baby for my late husband. We were married for 47 years, so I have many memories.
35 years for me, she was the greatest gift of my life.
I am 49 and I have loved John Denver's music since I was a tiny sprout. It is great to see younger generations appreciating 'my' music. 😊❤
God bless you for your thought and you obviously know you will see your husband again That's a guarantee and jesus name
Not just the one artist or song, either. There are lots of young people from all walks of life who will appreciate the classics _if they hear them._ But you have to go looking, the streaming stuff only shows you music like what you already listen to.
Yes, it does the same to me.
John has a deep collection of self-written songs that you should check out. My fellow commenters will mention "Annie's Song", "Sunshine on My Shoulder", "Leaving on a Jet Plane", "Calypso" about the ship that Jacques Cousteau used for research, "This Old Guitar", and many others. He also did a bunch of songs with the Muppets.
He was a gentle soul who loved nature. He is missed every day.
Be sure to watch “Leaving on a Jet Plane” with John Denver and Mama Cass Elliott.
Yes!! Yes! Yes!!
Love him so much, everything he has done.
@@delauber i had forgotten about that one. Oh yeah, it must happen
Rocky Mountain High was written by him when he and some friends were on top of mountain watching a meteor shower. That is the fire in the sky. Also I'm sure they were high. Always loved this song. And pretty much all of his songs. He was a gentle soul.
This song is so beloved it was adopted by Colorado as one of their two state songs. Enjoy this rabbit hole---John Denver never sang a bad song that I can remember.
Between Colorado and West Virginia, has any single person written songs that became state song for 2 different states?
Amen brotha!! ❤️👍🏼🇺🇸
I agree 100%.
Requiescat in pacem, John. You are a voice of my generation.
So true!
agreed
Lyrics are worth a second listen. "He was born in the summer of his twenty-seventh year ... going home to a place he'd never been before."
That described me...at 27....not to the Rockies but the Sandia Mts. in New Mexico
Like he was born again at 27. Where his new life began? That he wasn’t really living until he found his home in the Rocky’s. That’s what I got. Such a great song. Always makes me want to cry. Not sure why.
I heard him in person. I could not BELIEVE how powerful his voice was - it blew the roof off. I don't think he'd need an amp or speakers to do that!
Jealous! 😮
I heard him and his band in person too. The band took a break And he continued to play on an acoustic guitar during their intermission. Absolutely incredible performer. So very missed.
You were blessed.
rly? amazing!+
The sweet 70s WRIIIIIIGHT Here
He was a great musician, storyteller,environmentalist and a positive person. Always loved his onstage presence. He left us too soon. RIP.
John Denver had one of the purest, cleanest voices I’ve ever heard. He wrote beautiful lyrics and melodies too. Great, great artist.
One of the sadder days of my life when I heard of his plane crash on my car radio...then having them play "Rocky Mountain High" in a tribute. Cried my eyes out.
I feel so blessed to hear him twice in concert in Germany❤
I've been crying off and on for years. Everytime I hear his music.
I remember that day...😢
Me too cried for days. I loved his specials... and his music... I still play his 33 1/3 YES everyone albums. ORIGINALS... "THE EAGLE AND THE HAWK" Love the intro to this song.
“Talk to God and listen to his casual reply”. Gives me goosebumps every time. Pure gold.
Same
Same. 🥲
Agreed😍
There are no bad John Denver songs... just some greater than others. His combination of clear tenor, clean guitar work, orchestration, and surprisingly profound lyrics just keep giving. Check out "Calypso", "Take Me Home Country Roads", "Annie's Song", "I Guess He'd Rather Be in Colorado", "Sunshine on My Shoulders", so many others. BTW "I've seen it rain fire in the sky" is about seeing a meteor shower up in the clear air far from any city lights.
There will never be another John Denver. Ever. Miss his music so very much.
Well, Berkeley Woman didn’t age well lyrics-wise, but the music is solid.
@@rabidsamfan Touché 😃
Take me home country roads is definitely one of my favorite songs. Must on the list
Take Me Home Country Roads is one of my all time favorites. I'll still crank up the radio when it comes on. Annie's Song is one of the most beautiful love songs ever written. Just a little story about Annie's Song.....I had gotten my first dachshund puppy just a couple of days before John Denver was killed in that plane crash. I was at a loss as to what to name her. My puppy and I were out in the yard, playing and raking leaves. Annie's Song came on the radio and right then my little doxie became Annie, because I liked the song and as a small tribute to John Denver.
John Denver and James Taylor are gems….RIP John Denver on that high rocky mount🙏
Fire in the sky, beautiful sunsets.
He would be a poorer man if he never saw an Eagle fly. Most truest lyrics ever written.
There are no pretentions. There is no artifice. It is simply pure. The lyrics. The message. And, of course, the voice. Nothing is for show. Nothing is fake. Pure and heartfelt.
The ONLY songwriter to have TWO of his songs designated as OFFICIAL STATE SONGS. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” (West Virginia) {“…almost heaven, West Virginia. Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River. Life is old there, older than the trees…”} and “Rocky Mountain High” (Colorado) {“…Rocky Mountain High, in Colorado”}. Denver changed his name from Henry John Deuschendorf, Jr to John Denver to honor his adopted state of Colorado!
Love those songs. ❤️❤️❤️
I saw him in a coffee house in 1969 in Minneapolis before he changed his name.
John Denver’s music catalog is DEEP. Guys, he was a legend. One of his songs is (or should be) the state song of West Virginia and this is the state song of Colorado. I mean, wow.
Take Me Home Country Roads is at least the "adopted" song of West Virginia. Every native of WV I know loves that song!
@@Cheryl_Haydon it's even in Fallout 76, a bad version and not John Denver but the song is there. I'm Canadian, it makes me long for home in Appalachia
Annie's song is probably one of the most beautifly written songs I've ever heard. You should react to it next. Country road is one of his most popular ones. But Annie's song! You can not go wrong!
Have you heard this version? ruclips.net/video/AdDhg90KKtM/видео.html
Listen to Annies Song by monty python dudes funnnnyyyyyy
A lot people criticize him but he had probably the most crystal clear voice in the business I always enjoyed hearing him
JOHN D AND THE BEE GEES Should have made a 70s LP to gether wooooow
The lyric line “I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky” refers to when he, his wife and friends would go backpacking in the Rocky Mountains in August and would watch the Perseid Meteor Shower at night.
The song was written in 1972 and is about himself recently discovering the Rocky Mountain wilderness for the the first time “ in his 27th year” as the lyric refers to. About the lyric line “when he first came to the mountains his life was far away, on the road and hanging by a song”. By 1972 he was a fairly well known singer/songwriter and was on tour a lot. The “handing by a song” he’s referring to is “Take Me Home, Country Roads”, one of his most famous songs and now considered a country music classic. So this song is about his own personal journey discovering a part of the American wilderness and the need to protect it. It is also, in a larger context, an anthem of sorts for all of us who have wandered and hiked the American wilderness landscape. It was one of his biggest hits and was most always on his concert playlist. For me, back in the 1970’s when I hiked, I would play that song in my head while walking down the trail.
Thank you for reacting to one of my all time favorite songs and musical artists. His untimely death in 1997 was a major blow to us all but his legacy lives on. I hope you react to more of his music in the future.
I can't say I've ever listened closely to the lyrics before; but, listening more closely now, they bring to mind the image of a 'Mountain Man' from the mid-nineteenth century.
This is exactly how and why this song was made about his life. John had so many wonderful songs and it's hard to pick a favorite because they are all so well written. My wife said that one of her favorite s is take me home country road, which she is from the country and so wants to go home ( homesick I guess ) but John Denver will always be in that rocky mountain high!
This song makes me want to live my life over again...mostly in a very different way than I have, keeping only a few things the same...for me it's sad and always makes me hold back tears even though its such a beautiful song.
@@pureforce469 Same here.
You are correct.
This is, in my not so humble opinion, one of the most beautifully written and performed/recorded songs in music.
My favorite version of the song is his live version .. at the end of this concert in 1974. Many of my favorite renditions are on this recording. "An Evening with John Denver" ruclips.net/video/I8u4V-cJLHw/видео.html
*30 yr old man squeeling like a school girl* "They're doing John Denver!!!" For real, this music shaped me as a child and sculpted me as a man. This guy is a GEM!!
A pure voice…..a true storyteller…. “Seeking grace in every step he takes “… incredible lyrics
No country as good as 70s country
John was crucified by rock music critics , and their very personal attacks did upset him BUT those critics just didn't get it. But, thankfully, lots and lots...millions and millions, did get it. The beautiful voice. The mood he created. The pictures he painted in song. The subject matter of his songs. John was great.
I never listen to critics. They are failures as people and won’t to bring others down
@@captaindunsell8568 I dont understand how Critics even gain legitimacy in an industry of ART, art being subjective. Critics have no place in any art related scene.
I was one of them ... he wasn't a rocker in an era of rocket's...yet later I did get it where "I came home to a place [I'd] never been before." Then I got it.
@@juuljitsu gotta agree Paul. "Art" critics are a pretentious bunch of sheep. For proof look at this year's Golden Globes awarding best picture for "The Banshees of Inisherin". A more dreadful film I've not seen in 10 years. Two hours of my life I can't get back. Critics only matter if they share your taste. As a group they are full of it.
Sadly, John died about a mile from where I sit.
Really? i thought critics loved him. I remember he was very popular in the 70's.
Never was a big fan, but liked several of his songs. Got suckered into going to a concert of his one time. It was just John and his guitars, no one else. I changed my mind about him that night, he was a very talented musician, one of the better acoustic guitarists I've ever seen and a unique voice for sure.
I saw that concert too. What a gentle soul.
Gosh you're so nutty...how could u not be a huge fan? How old are u?
@@michaelasay8587 amen! I mean even people who are raised by wolves Love John Denver. 😀
John Denver is iconic. I love his voice. Such a talented man. Lost too early. R.I.P.
His Angel was an abusive drunk as well. He wasn’t even supposed to be flying as his license was revoked because of his drunk flying and driving. He was Uber talented. But no Angel. Ask his ex wife about the beatings. Dolly Parton is an Angel. Jmho
@@slimlouis6441 Human Frailty. I had wondered why he was so troubled. the truth hurts some people sometimes. sad
‘Know he’d be a poorer man if he never saw an eagle fly’ is a verse that speaks to John’s untiring efforts for the environment. Back when this song was released you practically had to travel to Colorado to experience a bald eagle in flight. Now fifty years later, living in Wisconsin, there is an abundance of bald eagles here available for viewing. Thank you John!
"He was born in the summer of his 27th year.....coming home to a place he's never been before"......the greatest songwriters are also great poets and philosophers!
coming home to a place he had never been before....
"Rocky Mountain High" was primarily inspired by John Denver's move to Aspen, Colorado, three years before its writing and by his love for the state. The seventh stanza makes reference to the destruction of the mountains' beauty by commercial tourism. The song was considered a major piece of 1970’s pop culture and became a well-associated piece of Colorado history.
this is autobiographical and expressed his own sentiments about the colorado rocky mountains and all its glory and wildlife...he was an animal rights activist really before it was a big thing and nature truly was a theme throughout his library of songs...if u ever went to the colorado rockies u would realised he captured the feeling of how it is there as a poet would and then delivered the poem like nobody could with his voice...everything came together pretty often in this way with john denver songs...
Changed his name to Denver 🥰
He really does capture the feeling of being in the Rockies. It reminds me so much what Colorado was like in the 70s before all the industry came in.
What a lot of people don't appreciate is that in addition to having that incredibly pure, clear, and expressive voice, he was an exceptionally gifted guitarist. He made it sound so easy and natural, but I've heard professional guitarists say that what he was doing with the guitar in this song is actually very, very difficult and technically impressive.
If you want to hear more like this, Annie’s Song (written for his ex-wife either during or after their divorce) and Country Roads are beautiful. On the other hand, Thank God I’m A Country Boy is more upbeat and playful but still a great song.
Grandma's Feather Bed --- recaptures my youth --- holidays and Grandma and Grandpapa's house --- all the cousins getting into everything ...
Annie's Song was written during a brief separation...They got reconciled and were married another 8-9 years before divorcing
@@ralphkern380 I’m so glad we were of that generation. I didn’t have a grandpa in my life as my maternal n paternal granddads died when my mom n dad we’re still in school. However, the feather beds n the home cooked meals and the music oh the amazing music from all genres ❤️ . What great memories to have. My grandma was seeing a guy that the only song I think he could sing n play as loud as could be was “Thank God I’m a country boy.” Lol. I can listen to it and smile now. But back then I wanted to send him directly to John Denver. One way. Do Not return to sender. She wound up marrying the “ country boy”. 😳. 🤣 🎶
Voice of a generation. May he rest in the peace he brought us with his music.
John was a naturalist as in, living with nature. not a hippy or a totally off the grid type person. just someone who would work with nature. being out doors in nature was his place of enjoyment. and he wrote songs about it. that harmony of being with nature. he was not an "activist" more like a passive educating but through his songs and work brought an understanding of nature to the rest of us. he never pushed just informed us about working with nature in his own way. one of my top 5 John Denver songs is Calypso. he wrote in in honor of the famed researcher Jacques-Yves Cousteau. as a kid use to love watching Jacques Cousteau on TV. and FYI Cousteau was the one that invented the modern scuba tank. and the Calypso was one of Cousteau's reseach ships. check it out, it is a ship type you never seen before. sadly :( John died while flying a plane that he built. he loved the mountins of the Rocky's and Appalachian mountains. and had a foundness of the sea as well. like a lot of us at the time as I said he too enjoyed watching Causteau's documentries on TV, so much so he wrote the song Calypso.
He was also in 'Oh God' and had a variety show. I loved watching him with the Muppets too.
John Denver donated all the royalties from his song, "Calypso," to the Cousteau research foundation.
I loved the shows with Jacques Cousteau. It's Because of him that I'm so fascinated with what's in the Ocean. So much natural beauty down there.
@@karensilvera6694 'Oh God' is a terrific comedy starring John Denver, George Burns and directed by Carl Reiner.
Sorry, but John didn't build the Long Eze that crashed. It was home built, as per normal for this plane, but not by John. Sorry, it's a sticking point for me.
His voice always brings a tear to my eye. John is so missed. One of the most beautiful voices ever.
I am 80 yrs old and really appreciate your reacting to John Denver's beautiful song and voice. When I first heard him sing, my reaction was the same as yours. John Denver wrote and recorded "Perhaps Love" with one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century, Placido Domingo. Their voices blended so beautifully that all I wanted for Christmas was their album with the same name. I hope you react to this song as it is one of John Denver's finest. Also, John had a television show released for viewing each week. He sang his songs and told stories of his past. One story was so special that I remember it as if he told it only yesterday. He said when he turned 16 yrs old, his mother told him he could have a birthday party. He invited everyone he knew to this party. His mother prepared many barbecue sandwiches (Sloppy Joe's) for his friends along with other treats and soft drinks. He waited and waited for someone to show up to his party and, finally, one girl appeared. He then found out that another student (much more popular than he) had a party on the same night. The girl had gone to that party too, but after realizing that everyone John invited was there, she left and came to his party. John said the two of them celebrated with dancing and listening to music for quite some time until she had to leave for her home. He thanked her personally on TV that night and said her name (I have forgotten it). He said he hoped she was watching his show because he never forgot how kind she was and that she made his 16th birthday celebration a happy and successful one. He dedicated a song to her that night. That is the kind of man John Denver was. I am crying now remembering this fond memory.
Yes. A beautiful collaboration.
@Loretta Gillespie, thank you for sharing that story. I'm about half your age, but I've loved John Denver's music since I was a child. His voice and the poetry of his words are timeless, transcending the generations.
Ms Gillespie, this is such a beautiful reminder of how John Denver was. Thank you so much for reminding all of us that used to watch. ❤️
I never heard that stody! Loved it
Now I gotta go find and listen to "Annie's Song", everyone suggesting it. One of the most beautiful love songs of all time.
For You is his other beautiful love song. Also My Sweet Lady
John Denver was a voice of my generation. His music soothed the soul .Annies Song was played before I walked down the aisle 41 years ago. Beautiful song, beautiful day!! Thanks for playing!!
A most excellent analogy of what John Denver was to a whole generation, whether they will admit or not.
"Shadow from the starlight is softer than a lullaby..." Pure poetry.
Amber this was 70s GOLD
Wasn't he magical..... purity, the voice of an angel. We were all blessed to have him for a time.
"I'd Rather Be a Cowboy ", "Windsong", "This Old Guitar ", the list is endless.
"County Roads" and "Annie's Song " are great songs. His whole catalog is really awesome. He pays tribute to a lot of our natural openness and wildlife and some of his monies goes to organizations.
Annie's Song is one of the most beautiful songs ever conceived, let alone performed!
I was really surprised by your reaction and the instant appreciation you felt for John's talent as both a writer and singer. This song brings a tear to my eye everytime i hear it. It's so personal and passionate. When I was a kid John Denver was this young, goofy and cool singer, actor and the biggest entertainer who was able to cross genres and perform with all other mega celebrities of the time. His celebrity was 100% talent based and clean. In 1985 as his star was fading and he was going through personal struggles I was in the summer before senior year of high school. I went to a non denominational Christian camp in Canada with a youth group. There were rumors that John was in the area which was very remote and that the camp was reaching out to him to come sing for us. As the week came to a close nothing happened. As they were serving dessert after dinner on our last night they announced a special guest and proceeded to introduce John Denver. One of the camp leaders came out dressed like 1971 John Denver with round glasses, a leather vest abd a cowboy hat and he began playing CountryRoads. I was so mad... We'd been had! Then one of the the councilors interrupted him and they got into an argument about him not being JD. After a back and forth about his cowboy hat fake John said he'd prove that John Denver wears a cowboy hat. He walked into the kitchen and a moment later the real John Denver walked out in a cowboy hat! There were probably less than 150 kids and adult chaperones in the room and he played a full solo concert as if he was on TV or at a sold out stadium. He told the background of each song and what he was thinking when he wrote them. He shared personal stories of his life and faith. He had just performed in the Soviet Union which was a big deal at the time so he talked about that and sang the last verse of Annie's Song in Russian. The Perseid Meteor Shower was going on and he explained "raining fire in the sky" and told us to stay up late to watch the shooting stars which we did. It was pretty incredible that he did that for us, during his vacation with family and friends but I think he really truly loved sharing his music with people.
Wow! That is absolutely amazing he did that for your camp! I would have thought I'd died and gone to heaven (I was very much in love with him, lol)
@@brendaalpert6171 Haha yeah, I think everybody was in shock. I still can't believe it happened.
I used to hate John Denver as a kid because my parents played him endlessly on long road trips. I was a stupid kid, I love him now! Beautiful songwriter and singer. Annies song is a great one of his.
I was the opposite...my Mum and Dad always played Glen Campbell, and they said to me "John Denver is for children", and that made me love him even more as a child...I recall he had a TV show in the 1970's, and I loved it
If you really want to be carried away the song “ Annie’s song” is one of the most beautiful songs ever written and beautifully sung by John.
It has also been covered 100's of times, one of those covers is by Kenny Loggins.
Have you heard this version? ruclips.net/video/AdDhg90KKtM/видео.html
I don't even have to listen to that song - I cry just thinking about it.
One by John.". Sad song.". will make you weep.. and the duet he did with Placido Domingo .. called Perhaps Love is sublime
@@sallybannister6224 I love a song that can make you cry
"Now he walks in quiet solitude the forests and the streams seeking grace in every step he takes." One of the most beautiful lines there is.
John Denver, no words. Every song he sang actually takes you away. ❤❤❤ leaves you yearning for more.
This guy had such a beautiful voice, he could do no wrong.
It was a real tragedy when he died. He crashed his plane flying over Moteray Bay California. Xxxxx
Rest easy Mr Denver. 💙💙💙💙💙
He was talking about himself being 27 and finding the Rockies “coming home where he had never been before”. Instant karma? The part about “fire in the sky” are the meteor showers during August and being so high up they are really visible. That was home from then on…
This Colorado lady can attest to that. Up in the mountains the stars are stunning and then you see the shooting stars it just mesmerizes you.
@@lisann229 I couldn't listen to the whole song. I miss the mountains so much!
John Denver's lyrics were simple and deep at the same time. Check out Annie's song "You fill up my senses, like a night in a forest".
Yes!!!!
As a Latina growing up in the South in the 70s, John Denver's songs gave me hope and solace. Calypso is my favorite.
John Denver's voice was crystal clear. So beautiful. He wrote Rocky Mountain High when he moved to Colorado to express his love for the mountains and nature. This is one of my favorite John Denver songs. He is so missed!
“Fire in the sky” ….shooting stars at night.
He was “born again” when he fell in love with Colorado. The “high” was the elation of finding peace and beauty.
You shouldn't ignore his songs "Take Me Home, Country Roads", "Sunshine On My Shoulders", "Annie's Song". He has many more, but those, along with "Rocky Mountain High", are pure classics
Amen! 🎵❤️🎵
If you listen carefully, the underlying theme in most of John's music is about protecting the environment. His lyrics left a huge impression on me.
This song is a religious baptism. His voice, the lyrics, the music all transcend the mundane and bring the listener to a more majestic plane of experience.
The opening line along with his mention of being born again. Later we get quiet solitude, grace and serenity. Nature is beauty and it unlocks the secrets of life.
This song is autobiographical and you have to know him to get gall the references. He is a balladeer and his music crosses many genres. Hi was an extraordinary singer/songwriter and a stellar guitarist. He played the 12-string at his concerts. He was an environmentalist and prophetic. Listen to Whose Garden Was This. Over 30 albums and decades of sell-out concerts, his appeal was multi-generational. I could write a book, but will end with he could also yodel. Thank you, thank you for reacting to my all time favorite artist. His music needs to live on to be enjoyed by many more generations.
I completely agree. And don't forget he also acted. "Oh God!" 😱😂😂😂
He was a hippocrite
@@jillwklausen OMG! Who could forget?!
Ironically enough some people initially misinterpreted this song to be about getting stoned and thus it was banned though later on many realized the mistake. Later when some parent groups tried to outright ban certain music there was a few music artists that teamed up to challenge these groups as well as some members of congress. John Denver was one of those artists and probably his words during those debates helped to keep america free from censorship in music. If you ever feel glad there is no censorship in music you can thank John Denver as he had a hand in making that happen in america.
John Denver was singing about a natural high, a euphoria gripping every fiber of his being when he wrote this song. The wonder and majesty of the mountains, the fire in the sky as the Sun set over the peaks, cascading the brilliant reds, oranges and yellows across the valleys. It's a high that is free and habit forming. A clean high, a high that enriches the soul. He will be missed.
I remember watching those congressional hearings. John Denver, Dee Snyder and Frank Zappa testified about the nessessity of freedom of expression in music. Al Gore was one of the congressmen.
Yeah blow hard Al Gore's dipsy wife Tipper was behind it
Ken the fire raining down in the sky could have also been about watching the meteor showers from high up in the Mountain glades. Having done that on a few occasions, it is a magical euphoric high all its own! There is little to no artificial light and the stars are huge! There are many more stars visible than normal. Shooting stars, meteors are brighter, bigger, more visible and last longer than seen from anywhere else! There truly is nothing better than bedding down in a mountain meadow under the stars with no tent! Ask anyone who has done it, anyone!
I did know that. Thanks.
My favorite John Denver song is 'Back Home Again'. He was in only one movie, I recall, called 'Oh, God! ' It's a comedy movie I absolutely love. He is great with George Burns.
Wow, forgot about that movie!
He had such an angelic and pure voice. He was a legend to me in the 70s and I got to travel through the stunning Rocky Mountains in Colorado that he speaks of! Being in those mountains is an incredible experience. I believe he was the first “ celebrity environmentalist”.
It's nice to see young people appreciate John Denver... Back when he was on the charts in the '60s and '70s, there were a lot of people who ridiculed his music for being soft, pop, and folkish. Back then I liked all types of music, whether it was "hard" or "soft". I listened to whatever I was in the mood for. Now that I'm old, I've actually went back to discover music before my time, and now I love '50s rock and roll as much as the stuff from my youth in the '70s and '80s.
Back then they might laugh at it, but everyone of them knew the words to Country Roads by heart!
I agree. He was such a special artist.
I listen to Rock and Country from the 60's up to today and have always loved Johns music...never understood what the haters problem was.
Early seventies John Denver was everywhere. String of hits, had a tv variety show and starred with George Burns in a mainstream movie. Helped build the "natural" lifestyle and ecology consciousness.
Prior to 1970, just around the time of his first album, he was living in Edina, MN, which is just up the road from where I currently live. His wife, Ann Martel is from St Peter, MN, so us folks from the land of 10,000 lakes take some pride in that.
Yes the movie "Oh God"!
This is by far my favorite John Denver song. The first lyrics - "He was born in the summer of his 27th year, going back to a place he's never been before" - are the most profound song lyrics ever.
well that and... "Jerimiah was Bullfrog" :D
Hey Jay and Amber! People who weren't around in the early '70s don't realize how big John Denver was back then. He was huge. Since you've discovered him, check out "Take Me Home, Country Roads", his first big hit. Another classic. Thanks.
I was their the 70s had John Denver big time
Have you guys been missing out! John Denver was literally an American icon, especially in the 70's. In terms of record sales, he ranks at the top of the heap, with 14 gold and eight platinum albums in the US alone. Even beyond his musical talent he was a world leader in environmental issues, and had a deep love for nature and the wilderness. He was a goodwill ambassador around the world, spreading peace through his music.
John Denver and Jim Croce are two of my all time favorite storytelling artists. So happy to see this reaction.
Time In A Bottle by Croce. Must listen!
Very good taste in music 👍
Both gone way too soon.
The best. They both are amazing.
"Annie's Song" is one you would have loved to have written for your wife. Sad to think such a love could end.
Nothing beats the songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s so much individual talent and diversity i was so blessed to grow up in that time in history wouldn't trade it for anything
BUUUUUUUUT this was them70s Amber
John Denver had such a pure tone to his voice. Listen to "Annie's Song" by him if you want to hear something romantic. For a more fun vibe, listen to Grandma's Featherbed and Thank God I'm a Country Boy.
Great suggestions!
Even "Annie's Song" which is about his wife that he loved very much has a positive nature theme
You fill up my senses
Like a night in a forest
Like the mountains in springtime
Like a walk in the rain
Like a storm in the desert
Like a sleepy blue ocean
You fill up my senses
Come fill me again
When John says "I've seen it raining fire in the sky"....he's talking about one night while camping in the Rocky Mountains with friends, they saw the Perseid meteor showers and he thought it looked like fire raining down. This song talks about when he first moved to Aspen Colorado and the wonder of the beautiful Rockies. :) I've been a lifetime fan and it's so wonderful to see young people like you discovering his music!!!!!
No kidding? I never knew that. Thanks for that information!
John Denver is considered both folk and country, and even soft rock. He was originally a member of the 60s folk group the Chad Mitchell Trio, before going solo. Take Me Home Country Roads, Sunshine On My Shoulders, Annie's Song are all great. I also like the really short song The Music Is You. His music is really timeless.
He wasn't afraid to be political (probably Chad Mitchell Trio), remember "The Ballad of Spiro Agnew?"
The purest voice.
His songs were hit after hit after hit. Carpenters, Bread & John Denver were all favorites back in high school.
*Rob Squad* the leader of the group Bread, David Gates, grew up in Oklahoma and went to high school with Leon Russell 😄😄😄
Yes such a gifted artist. Huge catalogue of songs. Tragically died in a plane crash in 1997. R.I.P.
When he wrote this song he was with his wife and friends camping on the lake.they were by the campfire smoking weed and there was a meteor shower. So that's the fire in the sky. Great song amazing song writer and singer.
He was the greatest storyteller of my time! 74years. John Denver is a hero for putting our history in song!
He wrote this on the top of a mountain in Colorado. John, his wife, & some friends went up the mountain to watch a meteor shower. This is what the song is about. John Denver is/was one of a kind!
My favorite John Dever song 🎵. Annie's song, take me home country roads all great songs.
Definitely check out "Annie's Song," "Sunshine on my Shoulder," and "Leaving on a Jet Plane." In fact, there's a version of that with Cass Elliott :)
This is my favorite John Denver song. When you see the Milky Way, shooting stars, from the Rocky Mountains, you’ll understand fire in the sky. 🌏✌️🇺🇸💙
"Raining fire in the sky"-- "Meteor showers." I have loved John Denver since he broke out with Take Me Home Country Roads. I got to see his final tour show a year before he died in that experimental plane crash-- gone too soon 1997. He is still sorely missed--- such a humanitarian-environmentalist, too. You love the sea? Heard of oceanographer Jacques Cousteau? My favorite song to listen to that lifts my spirits is "Calypso" dedicated to Cousteau's famous ship that went on many sea explorations.
John Denver has one of if not the purest voice I've ever heard. He has a huge catalog. I can spend hours chilling while listening to his music.
"Annie's song" and "my sweet lady" are my favorites of his. He is is missed greatly.
Mine too!
John has a very deep catalog. One of his bigger hits was Take Me Home Country Road (West Virginia). Thank God I’m a Country Boy is an upbeat fun song. I was fortunate to attend his concert and it was hit after hit. He was very humble and humorous. RIP John.
"Singer Songwriters" were their own genre of music that ruled the 70's. Gordon Lightfoot, Carole King, James Taylor, Carly Simon, John Denver, Dan Folgelberg are some of the best to ever do it. Others like Jackson Browne and Bread are also great. So many great artists during the 70's.
Don’t forget Paul Simon.
Donovan, Joan Baez, Joni Mitchel, Ralph McTell.
Yes Bread
You can add Kenny Rogers, Don McClain, Cat Stevens and Roger Whittaker to that list.
It's so cool to see someone discover John Denver. His voice was angelic in my opinion.
I've loved John Denver for fifty years. Your reaction to him was so touching. His music will be special forever. Thank you💕
Poems, Prayers, and Promises. Matthew. Cool And Green And Shady. Back Home Again. All outstanding songs!
Mathew and Cool n Green so overlooked! As well as Rhymes and Reasons.
To really appreciate John you need to see him doing a live performance, check out his duet with Mama Cass Leaving on a Jet Plane on the Midnight Special or his duet with Olivia Newton-John Fly Away
His catalog is so immense that it would take you years to hear all of it. His live performances had the same true sound his recordings had. He once did an album about the oceans and felt so strongly about one of his songs that he donated all proceeds in perpetuity to the Jacques Cousteau foundation to save the oceans. You should check out Poems, Prayers and Promises along with Grandma's Feather Bed, Annie's Song and Country Roads. Then dig into his later works.
He also donated the Royalties of Rhymes and Reasons to UNICEF and I Want To Live to The Hunger Project.
Windsong was the album with Calypso.
I just watched the Muppet show *Grandma's feather bed". So cute.
This sing gives me such NOSTALGIC JOY I can’t describe it
The "fire in the sky" is a reference to Denver and his friends sitting around a campfire watching the Perseid meteor showers during the summer months of July and August, which are visible in the Colorado Rockies.
Thanks.
I never actually thought of that. I always assumed it was a reference to the amazing sunrises and sunsets we get here with the very bright reds and oranges.
@@Gizmo42Rodeo Yes, when Colorado adopted this as its state song, John Denver testified before the legislature about the meaning behind the lyrics. In that testimony, he assured the lawmakers that the friends around the campfire getting high reference was about his friends' excitement and feelings of euphoria at watching the Perseid meteor showers (the "fire in the sky") and not smoking pot.