@@keithgillum3414 I was just starting to do the exact same calculation. I guess if you lived through these times, you'd immediately see the b.s., but the real question is...why???
That’s funny. I am 71 as well and I’ve enjoyed this song ever since it came out when I was 23. I guess harrystevens9564 has a really impressive time machine.
It's hard to describe how much this song has meant to me since March of 1977. Simply, it was beyond perfection to a young 23 year old and means more now to an aging, reflective 68 year old. It's a Van Gogh set to music!
@@carolinegodden4364 I've met Al a couple of times after concerts, and he is a totally humble, approachable genius. That's exactly what I expected from such a thoughtful lyricist. He is just the best storyteller ever. He must be a blast to even be around. Best wishes to you and your family! Give Al my highest regards!
@@larrypeden9729 Hey man, THAT is a perfect song also! No doubt! I always thought "Smoke from a distant fire" was another one. How about " Don't worry baby" by the Beach Boys?
Beats "You go strolling through the crowd like Dick Cheney contemplating a crime" all to hell! (Yes, Al actually has sung it that way live sometimes...)
79 I graduated & left for the USN. The song followed me, right up to today @ 63 yrs old. The piano & solo guitar does send chills. And that saxophone is a killer again as in Time Passengers.
My husband introduced me to.this song when we both just got out of college in DC and we are still tigether as today and still listen to it never get tired of it Such a master piece and still performing Thanks Al for making it part of our lives together. Such a nostalgia.
I’ve actually cried listening to this song and I’ve probably heard it hundreds of times in my youth. I was 18 when it was released. It is a beautiful, mysterious timepiece and most surely a classic. Thank you Al and the members of your band for giving us such beauty right into the palms of our hands. Peace to you always.
I was going through my early teens when this came out. The beauty, and allure of the song continues to this day, and is in fact enhanced knowing what an incredible piece of musical composition this is. Just sublimely as beautiful as being 13 all over again.
The 70's were the greatest and most magical decade for both pop and rock music. You'd never hear a Top 40 hit with instrumental passages and solos like this in the 80's or any other decade.
The seventies seemed like a time when you could just go on n on with a jam and it was always was fantastic. New rifts and chord combos you never heard before..all made your sense go crazy and to hear them today they still do...
What's amazing about listening to a song over 4 decades old, is it makes you see how much of the old world has utterly changed forever, over and over, and it also lets you see the part of yourself that hasn't changed at all
The imagery created in the song reaches into your heart creating both happiness and a melancholy feeling about inability to change circumstances beyond your control, but also the importance of embracing the moment.
+Tom Johnson Awesome. Never saw Casablanca, wondering if it's romantic. Gonna try to find it now. My idea of a good time is parking in the middle of nowhere on a moonlit night, with someone very special, and a song like this comes on the radio.
+Tom Johnson If you watch the live version Al Stewart, Year Of The Cat, Royal Albert Hall, May 16 2015, he explains where the song came from, the significance of the piece from Casablanca and the title of the song. Maybe not as good a version as this one but I've yet to hear Al Stewart sing this song badly. Inspired and inspirational music. It's not easy to say what is my favourite song of all time but God, this one is right up there along with Time Passages.
I really believe this is QUITE POSSIBLY the most perfect song EVER written about the “human experience”. EVERY time I hear it I’m convinced even more..
1977 had so much great talent, and we listened to lots of it. This is a great, great song, and I am glad I was growing up at the time. The guitar solo always gave me chills, and it still has the power.
I loved the guitar solo, but for me, it was the piano, and the sax,...but I loved those little twinkling bell sounds, too... just loved Al's soft voice, and cute smile...
Do you think these guys had any idea we will be watching and enjoying to tears this show after thirty plus years? Great version. I love the flavor that every instrument brings to the mix. Great piano intro, great sax solo and the guitar is second to none. The melody simply creates an atmosphere. It's raining like it's the end of the world. Thanx, and greetings from Buin, Chile.
+Luis Flores I see Al Stewart live pretty much every year. He tours with guitarist Dave Nachmanoff, and the two man show plays very small (200-300 people) venues in the US. Dave is incredibly good. The first time I went I thought I might be a tiny bit disappointed not to have the full band. Not at all. Dave and Al make enough sound for 4 guitars. I go for the music, of course, but also for Al's stories and musings. He spends almost as much time talking to the audience as he does playing. He talks to folks, I've had my picture taken with him before a show when I found myself standing in the lounge next to him. It's always just such a wonderful evening. At this point, I almost feel like I know the man. (Almost) I can tell you that he often says that he is indeed amazed and appreciative that we still listen to his music. :)
+Dave Thompson Saw him two weeks ago in Washington. Yep. Live in California, retired. He plays in the state often. Going to try to make more of his shows.
Very cool, flatchyu. I recently relocated from Atlanta to Michigan and I have tickets to see him this summer in Chicago. WooHoo! Thankfully he likes to work!
@@Conan-j8c No, the sax solo on the original recording was performed by the legendary Phil Kenzie, who did the solo as a favor to producer Alan Parsons (yes, that Alan Parsons.)
One of the best Art Bell Coast to Coast AM bumper songs. From the great American southwest I bid you all a good evening, good morning, wherever you may be.
This music came out many years before I was born.. but I gotta agree with you. this song is SOOOOOO beautiful..... even makes me think of life with beautiful nature as listening to this music.. btw pardon me to be random.. I love my CAT at home.. Meow... :-P
I agree, can you imagine someone writing Year of the Cat, Roads to Moscow, Soho (Needless to say), Time Passages, On the Border, Nostradamus, etc today. They all tell such powerful stories. Rick Beato has just released a video talking about the lack of lyrics in modern music.
No money these days . Young people are spending it in different ways. This is just brilliant, would have just loved being there..I like to know more about the pianist. The story of how this song was written is fascinating.
@@Dmab661 "Herbert Smith so true! It’s now a pool of nothingness!!" 50 years ago we loved the music of the moment imagining how great it would be in 50 years. WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED????????
It's different now, neither better or worse. We're just much, much older now, and nothing will vibrate the heart strings quite the same again as when we were much, much younger. That said, check out NPR's Tiny Desk Music. You might be surprised.
One of the best songs ever written. A perfect, evocative poem perfectly accompanied by heart touching music. I play it on my acoustic guitar and my head imagines the beautiful accompaniment of all the other instruments that make up this amazing piece of beautiful music.
I'd be honored if some Al Stewart & late 70s fans would take a listen to my acoustic piano & vocal performances of TIME PASSAGES and WHAT A FOOL BELIEVES by Michael McDonald on my YT channel in tribute to a couple of the true masters of melodic lyricism and composition. Live acoustic with no autotune or digital editing. Thanks and peace.
When I Heard this song for the first time it was when I had 7 years old in my country el Salvador and now I have 48 years old and I still love this song and I still listen and watch this song nice souvenir
There are no more poetic lyrics in rock than the first few lines of Year of the Cat ... "In a country where they turn back time... You go strolling through the crowd like Peter Lorre contemplating a crime." "She comes out of the sun in a silk dress running like a watercolor in the rain." --- It doesn't get better than that. It just doesn't. Couple that with seamless guitar-sax transition and you have a timeless classic. Every year becomes The Year of the Cat.
Al Stewart's Year of the Cat LP (as well as the next release, Time Passages) came out when I was age 15 and 16 respectively and was a huge influence on me to learn to play guitar. I remember hearing the song "Time Passages" on a Christmas morning and it was just beautiful feelings all day. Thanks Al, you and the band are awesome.
Wasn’t he involved on “Dark side of the Moon” . I am pretty sure he was, had his own band with a hit “Time” . I love RUclips so much great music & info about artists on it.
I still remember the first time I heard it on the radio. There was something distinctive, unusual and mysterious about it. No doubt one of the best songs of the 20th century.
An awesome version of one of my very favorite songs. As so many here have commented: it gave me chills when it was new, and still does today. Absolutely a master songwriter!
" MINOR CORRECTION": SYNTHESIZER MAKES VIOLIN SOUNDS< NO ACOUSTIC< MERELY " 2 " OPPOSING ELECTRIC RIFFS(AL IS A MAESTRO GUITARIST TOO)+ BASSIST , DRUMMER & LADY VOCALIST R "KOOL" AS A " JEWEL">>+ALTO SAX MAN IS EXTRAORDINARY(AL QUOTED AS " SAX SOUNDS LIKE A MOOSE" IN INTERVIEW BACK WHEN)FROM THE TENOR/ELECTRIC VIOLIN GUY(DECADES OF PLAYING TIME/COMPOSITION/JAMMING)
After analyzing all the versions ever made of this song, I must concur that this is the best live version ever made. The perfect harmony of the instruments and people (including the crowd) makes it magical. They all play their part well even the lady with the tambourine and the bassist. My favourite player is the saxophonist...it is hard to cast the proper saxophonist for this song, especially when the part differs from one video to another. The saxophone version of this song was more elaborate, swave and profound. I liked the liberty Al gave to the guitarist and saxophonist. The mellotron piano was sublime. The keyboardist really enjoyed this session and you can see it in his smiles here and there. What a bliss!
Funny thing is, this is an almost completely different set of musicians to those who played on the Year of the Cat studio album 3 years earlier. It's: Adam Yurman on guitar instead of Tim Renwick Harry Stinson on drums instead of Stuart Elliot Robin Lamble on bass instead of George Ford Robert Alpert on piano instead of Peter Wood Bryan Savage on saxophone instead of Phil Kenzie Krysia Kristianne on backing vocals instead of David Pack & others Only Al (of course) and Peter White played on the studio version.
*Robert Alpert he said at the intro to the song, not Herb Alpert. I would have been very surprised if they had Herb Alpert on the piano, given that he's a trumpet player.
Hmm, I don't see (or hear) it. I find the Old Grey Whistle Test live one from 1976 far superior. From the better piano playing to the audio balance to the saxophone solo's, I think the 1976 performance stands out more. I still like hearing every version of this song though, it never gets old.
This isn't just a song, it's a hymn. Knowing it since the late 70s, it was a great honor to me me, when I really met Al Stewart (in 2008) and even talked to him. (He also signed a CD cover.) Great gentleman and unbelieveable talent...
To think of how such a composition originated, materializing from the brilliant mind of Stewart. The progression, the lyrics, the instrumental parts; all so eerily captivating and beautiful. It reminds me of distant lands and experiences which have yet to exist.
Thanks for that. As someone else said, this could be the greatest song of all time. A bold statement when you consider what other well composed and crafted songs there are (e.g. American Pie/Hotel California etc, etc, etc) but it has to be right up there
I love watching how musicians communicate on stage. Watch at 7:28, how the sax player just gives the smallest glance with his head toward Al to hand off the solo, and then Al turns to the guitar player to pass it on. I also love how the sax player matches the high note at the end of the guitar solo at 7:47 and takes it from there. This is an awesome performance. I just want it to keep going on and on...
MR AL STEWART & BAND MATES HAVE BEEN " PERFORMING" W/ME SINCE EARLY 70"S, STARTING W/"CAT"( NEVER HAD A FELINE TILL I MARRIED-MANY SINCE, THRU TODAY.ONLY MY SHELTY SHEPARD MIX " TIPPY" LOVED MY PLAYING & WOULD CLIMB THE UPPER SCALE TO HIGH F# W/ME, WHILE MOM("WINDY"-SHELTY) RAN DOWN THE STAIRS TO ESCAPE. NO ACCOUNTING FOR TASTE AMONG DOGS.
“Handing off” the solo is a time honored and respected stage technique that quality musicians in all genres employ to ensure the audience can follow the performers with their eyes” with the help of a glance and slight nod for entertainment purposes.
This music will never get forgotten.my son is 37 years old. This song came out7 years before he was born and him and his children listen to this and love it
"She comes out of the sun in a silk dress running like a watercolor in the rain..." There is an old anecdote about how one time Frank Sinatra told George Harrison that "Something" was the most perfect love song he had ever heard, and that he wished he would have penned it. There are Dead Poets - and live ones too! - that wish they would ever have been so clever as to have penned what very well may be the most perfect line ever in a song. Simply a masterpiece for the masses.
I will never tire from this tune.. we use to wake up and get ready for school and get to listen to the radio before we walk out the door. Truly a time capsule of the 70s.
Listening this eternal melody, sat on my private room, eating dark cocoa without sugar, the mind flies so far, years in a second, and I only can feel a deep love and be grateful to the life. 🥲❤
Exactly what my mind goes back to everytime I hear this song....indelible images of my college days. Such a sweet soundtrack to wrap them in. Makes them all the more poignant and incandescent. What an incredible piece of music and musicianship. It's amazing how much of an effect this song has on everyone who hears it. Most I know truly stop what they're doing to really listen to it. It's like they too are taken back to special times in their lives that this melody captures and holds still for them to relive again. If only for a few moments .....
A estas alturas de mi vida (55 años) puedo decir que esta es mi canción favorita. Siempre me gustó desde adolescente. Me produce una sensación deliciosa al escucharla
@Byron Galvez: I couldn't agree with you more. This was a song that was a great part of my youth and is now ( Largely due to the internet ) a great part of my old age. Peace to you Byron and may our Lord grant you many more years to enjoy.
This is so technically perfect and disgustingly good. I am in total awe. Its like watching a great movie. Ive watched it six times in two days to make sure I didn't miss anything.
One of the greatest songs ever written. A masterpiece that evokes space and time - stirs memories of when life was easy, yet hidden with unknowns. The grand rhythm and sound remains as fresh as ever ! Love it.
My roommate at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1976-1977 insisted that the song’s title was “The Ear of the Cat.” We got into a big argument over it and he didn’t speak to me for days. :)
My favourite parts are the incredibly seamless handover from Al's guitar to Adam's at 5:05 (before I saw this clip I thought it was all done on one guitar), and the equally seamless handover from Adam's guitar to Bryan's sax at 7:46. Both give me goosebumps every time. I must have played this a hundred times but I never tire of it.
I went to a small concert he held around 2000, when I was living in Reading, UK. It was a nice intimate affair, and at the end of the concert, Al stood at the door talking to anyone who wanted to say hello along with signing his merch. He didn’t leave until everyone who wanted to say hello had their chance.
Esta versión en vivo me sacude el alma cuando el pianista hace el intro de "As Time Goes By", sólo un melómano sensible puede percibir lo bellísima de esta versión...
A few people have been asking about the artists on this clip. This is the lineup as I believe it was for this performance: Al Stewart Vocals & Lead Guitar Robert Alpert Piano Adam Yurman Lead Guitar Peter White Synths Bryan Savage Saxophone Harry Stinson Drums Robin Lamble Bass and the late, wonderful Krysia Kristianne on Tambourine. This stunning recording was made at Musikladen in Germany in 1979, and you may never see a more professional live performance than this. Everyone's timing is perfect with no mistakes, especially Bryan Savage, who saunters onstage as casually as a casual thing to blow gorgeous perfect sax solos every time. My favourite parts are the incredibly seamless handover from Al's guitar to Adam's at 5:05 (before I saw this clip I thought it was all done on one guitar), and the equally seamless handover from Adam's guitar to Bryan's sax at 7:46. Both give me goosebumps. I must have played this a hundred times but I never tire of it.
Roger, thank you for listing all the artists. I hope they are still alive and playing music. Sorry to hear the female tambourine player is no longer alive. RIP.
If you can find the dvd of that whole concert at Musikladen, it's well worth whatever you have to pay to get it. It's a short show, seven songs I think, but all perfect, and with more of Al's magical lyrics that embody such touching imagery. Krysia Kristianne plays keyboards or sings on several items, and Peter White shows off his incredible talent on Spanish guitar, lead guitar, piano, and of course synthesisers, as in this wonderful masterpiece track.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
![Gerry Rafferty- "Baker Street" LIVE 1978 [Reelin' In The Years Archives]](/img/1.gif)
I love this song when i was 17... 71 now and still loving it. Im getting old, this song is not. Never will.
I'm no mathematician but this song came out in 1976. If you were 17 when it cam out, you'd have been born in 1959, which would make you 65 now.
@@keithgillum3414 I was just starting to do the exact same calculation. I guess if you lived through these times, you'd immediately see the b.s., but the real question is...why???
It's only our bodies that get old.
Not that it ain't an issue, anyway... 😅
That’s funny. I am 71 as well and I’ve enjoyed this song ever since it came out when I was 23. I guess harrystevens9564 has a really impressive time machine.
It appears I'm not the only one who thought your claim didn't sound right.
It’s 2025 and this song still sounds as great as it did when it was originally recorded! I was born in 1962 and remember this song well as a teen.
He played here tonight in Clearwater FL. Saw him last year about this same time. Great evening
@@davidflynn5395 cool, nice that he is still performing.
it's a masterpiece in all the world. ! i like this again in 2025. i am 66 . greetings from Italy . this music will never die!
@@gfranco-w7i Greatings from Canada!
1962 model here too....I agree with all you said.
It's hard to describe how much this song has meant to me since March of 1977. Simply, it was beyond perfection to a young 23 year old and means more now to an aging, reflective 68 year old. It's a Van Gogh set to music!
Wonderful thought to share. Thank you, I will pass it onto Al. Little SiSTAR here. CJ x
@@carolinegodden4364 I've met Al a couple of times after concerts, and he is a totally humble, approachable genius. That's exactly what I expected from such a thoughtful lyricist. He is just the best storyteller ever. He must be a blast to even be around. Best wishes to you and your family! Give Al my highest regards!
First time I heard this song was probably summer before turning 11 yo. Fell in love with Al Stewart as a musician. It’s a beautiful song.
I'm with you without a doubt my favorite song of all time
I agree with you Hal
I have always said that this is the most perfect song I ever heard. You can listen to this a million times and it never gets old. Thanks Al!
Correct. In that regard, this song is perfection!
I agree . my friends think I am crazy for thinking so
What about What Does It Take by Junior Walker and the Allstars!
@@larrypeden9729 Hey man, THAT is a perfect song also! No doubt! I always thought "Smoke from a distant fire" was another one. How about " Don't worry baby" by the Beach Boys?
Yes its the perfect song.
It was my anthem to my girlfriend. She's still around 48 years later............our sons nicknamed her the Cat.
Yes. Simply, yes.
@@ChefTareckI totally love my wife.
That's awesome
this is not just a song
its a little victory of the human being against eternity
@Z Thank you !
pequeña victoria del ser humano contra la eternidad. How beauty that is!
Ramiro......Damn , that is profound. Is it you or something you heard once?
@@shanemiller9000 Its just me Shane, so thank you :) I guess this excellent music just gets the best out of everyone. Saludos !
I totally agree. It fulfills me everytime I listen.
"She comes out of the sun in a silk dress running, like a watercolor in the rain..."
One of my favorite lyrics ever, the first time I heard it in 1979 through right now.
The imagery of this lyric is limitless
@@timothyjepson6457 Yep. You can almost see her.
Beats "You go strolling through the crowd like Dick Cheney contemplating a crime" all to hell! (Yes, Al actually has sung it that way live sometimes...)
Such a vivid description you can’t help but see it all in one’s imagination.
79 I graduated & left for the USN.
The song followed me, right up to today @ 63 yrs old.
The piano & solo guitar does send chills.
And that saxophone is a killer again as in Time Passengers.
Yep……same age and feeling here…..
My husband introduced me to.this song when we both just got out of college in DC and we are still tigether as today and still listen to it never get tired of it
Such a master piece and still performing
Thanks Al for making it part of our lives together.
Such a nostalgia.
79 here too
You're absolutely correct On 62 and I remember it well
Love this song as a teenager now 70 never gets old
This is a song, that you can't imagine anyone covering and doing it any kind of justice
I’ve actually cried listening to this song and I’ve probably heard it hundreds of times in my youth. I was 18 when it was released. It is a beautiful, mysterious timepiece and most surely a classic. Thank you Al and the members of your band for giving us such beauty right into the palms of our hands. Peace to you always.
Thanks Linda. I have cried so many times. OMG. Even wrote a short story about it1
You are certainly not alone...
much better than his lesser known hit "the year of the possum"
I'm from that era as well and this song conjures up fond memories of my youth. A timeless classic.
@@kbtube8125 🤣🤣🤣
One of the very few songs that I never tire of listening to. Quite simply, a masterpiece.
I was going through my early teens when this came out. The beauty, and allure of the song continues to this day, and is in fact enhanced knowing what an incredible piece of musical composition this is. Just sublimely as beautiful as being 13 all over again.
"She comes out of the sun in a silk dress running like a watercolor in the rain"
That is just about my favorite line of any song ever made
My thoughts exactly.
Women n water mmmmmm
The best lyric ever!
My senses discovered the complexity of a woman wearing patchouli in 1976 when the album first came out. (If ya know what I mean)
It is as surreal as it is literal
The 70's were the greatest and most magical decade for both pop and rock music. You'd never hear a Top 40 hit with instrumental passages and solos like this in the 80's or any other decade.
No you wouldn't. The path music has taken saddens me deeply.
there were solos in the 1990s all the time.
@@monetarnie3841
In pop songs?
ELO comes to mind, I believe they had quite a few post '70s but definitely one of the exceptions.
The seventies seemed like a time when you could just go on n on with a jam and it was always was fantastic. New rifts and chord combos you never heard before..all made your sense go crazy and to hear them today they still do...
What's amazing about listening to a song over 4 decades old, is it makes you see how much of the old world has utterly changed forever, over and over, and it also lets you see the part of yourself that hasn't changed at all
So true!
Wise words, my soulmate. Very wise words.
And reminds us that the world has been changing like this since ever since
Your comment is nearly as good as the song.
The imagery created in the song reaches into your heart creating both happiness and a melancholy feeling about inability to change circumstances beyond your control, but also the importance of embracing the moment.
I like how the pianist starts out playing "as time goes by", right out of a Bogart movie.
Tom Johnson
Me too. That is one of the best versions of that song ever. I wish this version was officially released
+Tom Johnson dumb me didn't get that.
+Tom Johnson Awesome. Never saw Casablanca, wondering if it's romantic. Gonna try to find it now. My idea of a good time is parking in the middle of nowhere on a moonlit night, with someone very special, and a song like this comes on the radio.
+Tom Johnson He is a wonderful pianist. and someone very dear to my heart for 30 plus years. Glad you enjoyed his talent.
w
+Tom Johnson If you watch the live version Al Stewart, Year Of The Cat, Royal Albert Hall, May 16 2015, he explains where the song came from, the significance of the piece from Casablanca and the title of the song. Maybe not as good a version as this one but I've yet to hear Al Stewart sing this song badly. Inspired and inspirational music. It's not easy to say what is my favourite song of all time but God, this one is right up there along with Time Passages.
After 39 years this song stills kick ass :D
You know it!
A lot!
you bet it does mate
You bet it does pal.
what you said :)
I remember this song when I was a teenager in the 70's. Now listening to it with one of my cats sitting in my lap
I really believe this is QUITE POSSIBLY the most perfect song EVER written about the “human experience”. EVERY time I hear it I’m convinced even more..
There is another competitor 'The last time I saw her Face, Gordon Lightfoot
There are a ton of people who feel exactly that way as do I!!
Yes it IS!! so beautiful.
I agree with you one hundred percent!
1977 had so much great talent, and we listened to lots of it. This is a great, great song, and I am glad I was growing up at the time. The guitar solo always gave me chills, and it still has the power.
Nice comment. The guitar and sax solos both do it for me!
I loved the guitar solo, but for me, it was the piano, and the sax,...but I loved those little twinkling bell sounds, too... just loved Al's soft voice, and cute smile...
No , I get it 100% …it hit me square between the eyes as a 16 year old and still does to this very day..
Al with his angelic voice and pleasant Scottish lilt
Hmm he is from Bristol I think: Clifton in the Rain.
The greatest song of the 20th century.
Agree!!!
YES YES 🙌
one of the greatest songs of my life
Not just of Your life... ;-)
A timeless masterpiece. It gave me goosebumps when it was released in the seventies and it gives me goosebumps today.
Do you think these guys had any idea we will be watching and enjoying to tears this show after thirty plus years? Great version. I love the flavor that every instrument brings to the mix. Great piano intro, great sax solo and the guitar is second to none. The melody simply creates an atmosphere. It's raining like it's the end of the world. Thanx, and greetings from Buin, Chile.
+Luis Flores I see Al Stewart live pretty much every year. He tours with guitarist Dave Nachmanoff, and the two man show plays very small (200-300 people) venues in the US. Dave is incredibly good. The first time I went I thought I might be a tiny bit disappointed not to have the full band. Not at all. Dave and Al make enough sound for 4 guitars. I go for the music, of course, but also for Al's stories and musings. He spends almost as much time talking to the audience as he does playing. He talks to folks, I've had my picture taken with him before a show when I found myself standing in the lounge next to him. It's always just such a wonderful evening. At this point, I almost feel like I know the man. (Almost) I can tell you that he often says that he is indeed amazed and appreciative that we still listen to his music. :)
Thanks, Dave for sharing such a great experience. I would love to see the guy live. We all envy you a bit.
+Luis Flores yes
+Dave Thompson Saw him two weeks ago in Washington. Yep. Live in California, retired. He plays in the state often. Going to try to make more of his shows.
Very cool, flatchyu. I recently relocated from Atlanta to Michigan and I have tickets to see him this summer in Chicago. WooHoo! Thankfully he likes to work!
The saxophone player adds another dimension to the song.
Bryan Savage is his name..
Superb!
Absolutely!
Sorry his raucous tone marrs the song for me or maybe my equipment?.Is it same player on record ?
@@Conan-j8c No, the sax solo on the original recording was performed by the legendary Phil Kenzie, who did the solo as a favor to producer Alan Parsons (yes, that Alan Parsons.)
Sublime, one of most beautiful songs ever written , deeply touches the heart.
Yes I agree. I play this song to my Cat. 🐱
One of the best Art Bell Coast to Coast AM bumper songs. From the great American southwest I bid you all a good evening, good morning, wherever you may be.
Could be the greatest song of all time
+Zed That's been mine opinion for a long time
I'm agree. Great song, remains my childhood in school...
Har to tell but you are close.
This music came out many years before I was born.. but I gotta agree with you. this song is SOOOOOO beautiful..... even makes me think of life with beautiful nature as listening to this music.. btw pardon me to be random.. I love my CAT at home.. Meow... :-P
No.
Definitely one of the greatest of all time though.
I don't think anyone under age 25 is even capable writing a song like this today.
Try age "45"....
@@thebordernow How about you two compromise and say 33 & 1/3...
lil peep was great
I agree, can you imagine someone writing Year of the Cat, Roads to Moscow, Soho (Needless to say), Time Passages, On the Border, Nostradamus, etc today. They all tell such powerful stories. Rick Beato has just released a video talking about the lack of lyrics in modern music.
There are some few songs that will last forever. This is one of them.
that pianist is sensational!
More proof how far popular music has fallen in the past 40 years.
Herbert Smith so true! It’s now a pool of nothingness!!
Thank you
No money these days . Young people are spending it in different ways. This is just brilliant, would have just loved being there..I like to know more about the pianist. The story of how this song was written is fascinating.
@@Dmab661
"Herbert Smith so true! It’s now a pool of nothingness!!"
50 years ago we loved the music of the moment imagining how great it would be in 50 years.
WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED????????
It's different now, neither better or worse. We're just much, much older now, and nothing will vibrate the heart strings quite the same again as when we were much, much younger. That said, check out NPR's Tiny Desk Music. You might be surprised.
One of the best songs ever written. A perfect, evocative poem perfectly accompanied by heart touching music. I play it on my acoustic guitar and my head imagines the beautiful accompaniment of all the other instruments that make up this amazing piece of beautiful music.
Sounds like the start of a tribute to me! If anyone deserves this "highest compliment", it's Al Stewart.
From a time when recording artists were actual musicians...
Dang Skippy !
And a time when talent meant something.
I'd be honored if some Al Stewart & late 70s fans would take a listen to my acoustic piano & vocal performances of TIME PASSAGES and WHAT A FOOL BELIEVES by Michael McDonald on my YT channel in tribute to a couple of the true masters of melodic lyricism and composition. Live acoustic with no autotune or digital editing. Thanks and peace.
AMEN
@@JustMe-qo7yw and amazing song-writers
My youth has slipped away. At least this beautiful masterpiece was part of it. Thank you Al. Tears of joy!!
As both an Al Stewart fan and fan of the film Casablanca... this is perfect
These are the kind of moments I wish I could go back in time and enjoy.
When I Heard this song for the first time it was when I had 7 years old in my country el Salvador and now I have 48 years old and I still love this song and I still listen and watch this song nice souvenir
There are no more poetic lyrics in rock than the first few lines of Year of the Cat ... "In a country where they turn back time... You go strolling through the crowd like Peter Lorre contemplating a crime." "She comes out of the sun in a silk dress running like a watercolor in the rain." --- It doesn't get better than that. It just doesn't. Couple that with seamless guitar-sax transition and you have a timeless classic. Every year becomes The Year of the Cat.
Indeed my friend.
Al Stewart's Year of the Cat LP (as well as the next release, Time Passages) came out when I was age 15 and 16 respectively and was a huge influence on me to learn to play guitar. I remember hearing the song "Time Passages" on a Christmas morning and it was just beautiful feelings all day. Thanks Al, you and the band are awesome.
When I take my first starship journey this tune will be along for the ride. Might be the only one I will need. Incredible!
Alan Parsons knew his shit, one of the finest producers there ever was.
Wasn’t he involved on “Dark side of the Moon” . I am pretty sure he was, had his own band with a hit “Time” . I love RUclips so much great music & info about artists on it.
Thanks for that bit of musical lengendry and history. . Time Passages too? He easily his greatness with Time .
@@beagle7622 he also had Games People Play as a hit with the Project.
Without Stewart and Wood's song there would be nothing to produce.
@@ConservativeAnthem Absolutely but a good producer just adds that little something the recording had.
The piano intro is sublime. Always boosts my mood.
Darn right!!!! Even my cat loves this!!!!!
It is amazing indeed! Its one of the best piano riffs ever in my opinion!
Exactly. Sets the mood perfectly
Sublime. Vivan Los Gatos...
His song was meant to be a tribute to Casablanca. So the intro is not random.
I still remember the first time I heard it on the radio. There was something distinctive, unusual and mysterious about it. No doubt one of the best songs of the 20th century.
My absolute favourite!!!
نیم درصد شاید یه فارسی زبان این کامنت رو ببینه ولی این اجرا یکی از ده ها اجرای بسیار زیبا وبی نظیره این خواننده هست که چهل سال پیش شنیدم
An awesome version of one of my very favorite songs. As so many here have commented: it gave me chills when it was new, and still does today.
Absolutely a master songwriter!
2022, and I’m still listening to this masterpiece, Al. It’s as beautiful today as ever.
Amazing sequence of solos: sax, eletric guitar, acoustic guitar, violin, all of them melodic and beautiful.
One of the pop jewels of all time.
" MINOR CORRECTION": SYNTHESIZER MAKES VIOLIN SOUNDS< NO ACOUSTIC< MERELY " 2 " OPPOSING ELECTRIC RIFFS(AL IS A MAESTRO GUITARIST TOO)+ BASSIST , DRUMMER & LADY VOCALIST R "KOOL" AS A " JEWEL">>+ALTO SAX MAN IS EXTRAORDINARY(AL QUOTED AS " SAX SOUNDS LIKE A MOOSE" IN INTERVIEW BACK WHEN)FROM THE TENOR/ELECTRIC VIOLIN GUY(DECADES OF PLAYING TIME/COMPOSITION/JAMMING)
After analyzing all the versions ever made of this song, I must concur that this is the best live version ever made. The perfect harmony of the instruments and people (including the crowd) makes it magical. They all play their part well even the lady with the tambourine and the bassist. My favourite player is the saxophonist...it is hard to cast the proper saxophonist for this song, especially when the part differs from one video to another. The saxophone version of this song was more elaborate, swave and profound. I liked the liberty Al gave to the guitarist and saxophonist. The mellotron piano was sublime. The keyboardist really enjoyed this session and you can see it in his smiles here and there. What a bliss!
Funny thing is, this is an almost completely different set of musicians to those who played on the Year of the Cat studio album 3 years earlier. It's:
Adam Yurman on guitar instead of Tim Renwick
Harry Stinson on drums instead of Stuart Elliot
Robin Lamble on bass instead of George Ford
Robert Alpert on piano instead of Peter Wood
Bryan Savage on saxophone instead of Phil Kenzie
Krysia Kristianne on backing vocals instead of David Pack & others
Only Al (of course) and Peter White played on the studio version.
*Robert Alpert he said at the intro to the song, not Herb Alpert. I would have been very surprised if they had Herb Alpert on the piano, given that he's a trumpet player.
Oops yes, that was a word / brain association blip. I had meant Robert all along. Have corrected it now, thanks.
until I went back and watched it again I was all excited thinking "wait Herb Alpert plays piano too?!"
Hmm, I don't see (or hear) it. I find the Old Grey Whistle Test live one from 1976 far superior. From the better piano playing to the audio balance to the saxophone solo's, I think the 1976 performance stands out more. I still like hearing every version of this song though, it never gets old.
This isn't just a song, it's a hymn.
Knowing it since the late 70s, it was a great honor to me me, when I really met Al Stewart (in 2008) and even talked to him.
(He also signed a CD cover.)
Great gentleman and unbelieveable talent...
" HATS OFF TO ROBERT ALPERT A FINE GUITARIST & KEY BOARDIST!!
It is now 2023. I still listen to this as well as Time Passages. They are simply timeless pieces of art.
I also loved his last hit song You're On My Mind ( Like a song on the radio)
It's so good it hurts
you are so perfectly correct
Carolyn Albert I agree.
Great way to put it...
Best kind of hurt.
Love how the song progresses. Instrumentals are perfect. Great Piano intro. Just perfect!!!
That guitar solo always gets me and the segue into the sax solo is just special.
To think of how such a composition originated, materializing from the brilliant mind of Stewart. The progression, the lyrics, the instrumental parts; all so eerily captivating and beautiful. It reminds me of distant lands and experiences which have yet to exist.
+David Peterson Time Passages does the same for me
Mimi mami are you sure you were replying to my comment?
Thanks for that. As someone else said, this could be the greatest song of all time. A bold statement when you consider what other well composed and crafted songs there are (e.g. American Pie/Hotel California etc, etc, etc) but it has to be right up there
The thanks were to pykkervots
Mark Dallinger yes mark. A strong argument could be made as to how the song has held up over time; flawless in lyrics timing and arrangement.
I love watching how musicians communicate on stage. Watch at 7:28, how the sax player just gives the smallest glance with his head toward Al to hand off the solo, and then Al turns to the guitar player to pass it on. I also love how the sax player matches the high note at the end of the guitar solo at 7:47 and takes it from there.
This is an awesome performance. I just want it to keep going on and on...
+svyt Excellent observations and analyses!~~~ I can't agree with you more. :)
MR AL STEWART & BAND MATES HAVE BEEN " PERFORMING" W/ME SINCE EARLY 70"S, STARTING W/"CAT"( NEVER HAD A FELINE TILL I MARRIED-MANY SINCE, THRU TODAY.ONLY MY SHELTY SHEPARD MIX " TIPPY" LOVED MY PLAYING & WOULD CLIMB THE UPPER SCALE TO HIGH F# W/ME, WHILE MOM("WINDY"-SHELTY) RAN DOWN THE STAIRS TO ESCAPE. NO ACCOUNTING FOR TASTE AMONG DOGS.
The unspoken word is where it's at.
Retroceder hace daño a mi mente el yo era... menos años de todas maneras. YE MÜ GUAPA
“Handing off” the solo is a time honored and respected stage technique that quality musicians in all genres employ to ensure the audience can follow the performers with their eyes” with the help of a glance and slight nod for entertainment purposes.
Its hard not to cry while listening to this awesome song. It brings back so many memories. Saw him live and backstage in Munich, Germany
This music will never get forgotten.my son is 37 years old. This song came out7 years before he was born and him and his children listen to this and love it
LOVE AL STEWART AND ALL HIS GREAT MUSIC,BRINGS BACK MANY MEMORIES!!😸
"She comes out of the sun in a silk dress running like a watercolor in the rain..."
There is an old anecdote about how one time Frank Sinatra told George Harrison that "Something" was the most perfect love song he had ever heard, and that he wished he would have penned it. There are Dead Poets - and live ones too! - that wish they would ever have been so clever as to have penned what very well may be the most perfect line ever in a song. Simply a masterpiece for the masses.
The 70's at their best. So glad I was in my teens and was able to hear it all!
Me too!
Magical and Magnificent!❤️
I will never tire from this tune.. we use to wake up and get ready for school and get to listen to the radio before we walk out the door. Truly a time capsule of the 70s.
Listening this eternal melody, sat on my private room, eating dark cocoa without sugar, the mind flies so far, years in a second, and I only can feel a deep love and be grateful to the life. 🥲❤
Nice comment, but please treat yourself to some sugar or even some beer! 😅
Played this for my grandson when he was 2. He’s 5 now and has the best taste in music. I think I did ok with this one…
I'm forever 21 when I hear this song
I was 8
Me too.
Tony P I’m forever 17, just loved this song, never knew what they looked like. Such a simple x. Great music.
Exactly what my mind goes back to everytime I hear this song....indelible images of my college days. Such a sweet soundtrack to wrap them in. Makes them all the more poignant and incandescent. What an incredible piece of music and musicianship. It's amazing how much of an effect this song has on everyone who hears it. Most I know truly stop what they're doing to really listen to it. It's like they too are taken back to special times in their lives that this melody captures and holds still for them to relive again. If only for a few moments .....
23 for me.
This music is so happy, simple and captivating; at the end the sax is heart breaking. Simple songs last forever...
Daniele Rigo But it’s not such a simple song.
@@jimeiden2360 >> yes rather complex tune for sure.
@@marktrail8624 And yet Al can totally do these songs solo live and they feel complete...
A estas alturas de mi vida (55 años) puedo decir que esta es mi canción favorita. Siempre me gustó desde adolescente. Me produce una sensación deliciosa al escucharla
@Byron Galvez: I couldn't agree with you more. This was a song that was a great part of my youth and is now ( Largely due to the internet ) a great part of my old age. Peace to you Byron and may our Lord grant you many more years to enjoy.
Siiii tal cual!!!
This song just goes through my soul, I've loved this song since I was 14 years old, BEAUTY til this day!💖
The saxophone player wow.
Totally awesome..
This is so technically perfect and disgustingly good. I am in total awe. Its like watching a great movie. Ive watched it six times in two days to make sure I didn't miss anything.
One of the greatest songs ever written. A masterpiece that evokes space and time - stirs memories of when life was easy, yet hidden with unknowns. The grand rhythm and sound remains as fresh as ever ! Love it.
Wow great memories.
I was born in 1967 but remember this song..
😁
Same. Part of my youth and now I relate to it out of memories
My god! If only music sounded this good now
By any definition, a musical masterpiece!
Takes me back to my teen in the 70s. Nostalgic! Al the great!
40 years but never stop listening to this song with beautiful lyric, tune , haunting guitar solo and the bust of beautiful saxophone.
2023 january 2 ,,,,cannot get enough of this song
My roommate at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1976-1977 insisted that the song’s title was “The Ear of the Cat.” We got into a big argument over it and he didn’t speak to me for days. :)
My favourite parts are the incredibly seamless handover from Al's guitar to Adam's at 5:05 (before I saw this clip I thought it was all done on one guitar), and the equally seamless handover from Adam's guitar to Bryan's sax at 7:46. Both give me goosebumps every time.
I must have played this a hundred times but I never tire of it.
This is one of those classic tunes that NEVER gets old. Love it!! 😊❤
There are just no words to describe how perfect this is.
I went to a small concert he held around 2000, when I was living in Reading, UK.
It was a nice intimate affair, and at the end of the concert, Al stood at the door talking to anyone who wanted to say hello along with signing his merch.
He didn’t leave until everyone who wanted to say hello had their chance.
2024, 53. bring back memories of my child-hood. Living in West Africa, Liberia
Liked the song just fine, when I was a kid. Now I love this song. I guess it reminds me of so many good old memories. Thanks for posting it
And we didn't know this would be the look at if it. We thought there would be more.
40 years now... and the song and sax are still 'killer' sounds !!
Al Stuwart..........我が青春の１ページ😌✨❤️
7:47 sax taking over the guitar solo is just seamless. Top 5 songs of my life, from an 11yr old in 1976. Thanx mom for listening to this, I still do.😊
Esta versión en vivo me sacude el alma cuando el pianista hace el intro de "As Time Goes By", sólo un melómano sensible puede percibir lo bellísima de esta versión...
Y ya perdí la cuenta de las veces que me emociona escuchar ese bello intro...
I agree with you. I had forgotten this song until I happened upon this quite by accident.
Al Stewart such a poet!!! I love this song then and always!
A few people have been asking about the artists on this clip.
This is the lineup as I believe it was for this performance:
Al Stewart Vocals & Lead Guitar
Robert Alpert Piano
Adam Yurman Lead Guitar
Peter White Synths
Bryan Savage Saxophone
Harry Stinson Drums
Robin Lamble Bass
and the late, wonderful Krysia Kristianne on Tambourine.
This stunning recording was made at Musikladen in Germany in 1979, and you may never see a more professional live performance than this. Everyone's timing is perfect with no mistakes, especially Bryan Savage, who saunters onstage as casually as a casual thing to blow gorgeous perfect sax solos every time.
My favourite parts are the incredibly seamless handover from Al's guitar to Adam's at 5:05 (before I saw this clip I thought it was all done on one guitar), and the equally seamless handover from Adam's guitar to Bryan's sax at 7:46. Both give me goosebumps.
I must have played this a hundred times but I never tire of it.
Roger, thank you for listing all the artists. I hope they are still alive and playing music. Sorry to hear the female tambourine player is no longer alive. RIP.
If you can find the dvd of that whole concert at Musikladen, it's well worth whatever you have to pay to get it. It's a short show, seven songs I think, but all perfect, and with more of Al's magical lyrics that embody such touching imagery. Krysia Kristianne plays keyboards or sings on several items, and Peter White shows off his incredible talent on Spanish guitar, lead guitar, piano, and of course synthesisers, as in this wonderful masterpiece track.
Someone has posted the concert on YT
ruclips.net/video/_pgaZDJALWE/видео.html
Thank you, I've spent years trying to find out who the skirt playing the tambourine was! 😅
Growing up in the 70s we got to the listen to the best rock and drive the most awesome cars. A great time to be young.
THIS SONG WILL STILL THRILL US TILL THE END OF HUMAN EXISTENCE ON THIS PLANET
I'm 35 and this is true talent overlooked.
I'm 57 and still this music never quits and yes overlooked, long live"The Year of the Cat"!
was on the charts in the day . a popular song!
I’m 78 and 😻
Wonderful, haunting song, with some of the most beautiful lyrics ever.
Beautiful song and will always be for years and years. Timeless classic I love.