...of course its impossible.. the man has been manufacturing tunes for some 45 years now. He is arguably a genius and godfather of early prog and power pop. I agree, this one would defintely be on my list. From his first Utopia album featuring the tandem of 3 keyboard wizards, i blasted this from my windows once in 1974 and had a riot squad show up at my door. True story..neighbors had called the police and said there was an epic disturbance at my home... TODD IS TRULY AN EPIC DISTURBANCE!
This is one of my favorite Rundgren songs. I have narrowed my "favorite" Todd songs down to 47 .... and this is definitely one of my 47-most-favorite Rundgren songs ever. (I tried to narrow it down even more, but I just couldn't do it ... it's damned-near impossible ...)
This came on the night after my 15th birthday. I stayed up through Helen Reddy and Neil Sedaka, only to fall asleep before Todd came on. I was so pissed. I remember The Spinners playing, and i was thinking, "Freakin' FINALLY, now Todd is next." Then .... sleep.
Clap your hands, raise your voice Some people will hide, they can't stand the noise But we're Freedom Fighters, and we've got no choice. And the world rolls on The reward will come It's just a question of how and when. I can't believe my eyes.
Jeah! Three keyboardists and they are really playing their instruments. No programming, just knobs and buttons. And it is also great to notice, that backing vocalists can be actually heard, thanks mixer man!
You have. To play to program too, and Todd did a crap load of It, so get off the slamming music ride, .. this would be better if it was in tune. Just saying...
This is freakin great!!!!! Close to the lineup I saw back in '75, but the Sales boys were in that one. I believe that was the original Utopia. I even hung onto my "program". Pyramid shaped with pics of the band & some short Bio's. Had Todd sign it about 5 years ago. He was surprised to see that bit of nostalgia thrust at him for an autograph! I treasure that piece of cardboard more than my diamond jewelry! Thanks rundgrenfan for this little diddy. Great memories!!!
Ralph Schuckett - Keyboards, Moogy Klingman - Keyboards, Roger Powell - synthesizers, John Siegler - Bass, Kevin Ellman - drums and Todd - Guitar. This is the group that recorded " Another Live " Nice one Rundgrenfan
@samsmumable standing next to Roger Powell is Ralph Schucket, and next to John Siegler is Moogy Klingman. On drums is the very wonderful Kevin Ellman. All are currently touring with Rundgren, however I believe Moogy is very ill these days and has made only a few appearances. Rundgren often played his guitar through one of the synthesizers, as you hear on 'Utopia Theme'
This Is Wonderful and Yes Amazingly Clear for the time it was filmed !!! It Just Always Amazes Me that People Are Blind to the Fact That Todd ... IS .. Godd Rock Love, Cherry XO
What a strange project for Todd to take on! I love the album this is from, but it still seems strange to me after all these years. I mean, I get that this happens in the middle of "prog" and "fusion" and that this is a more or less accurate reflection of the year 1974, yet it continues to surprise me 45+ years later.
Trying to get to see The Midnight Special was almost impossible for me in 75 most of the time since my parents hogged the TV, even that late at night! I'm glad I finally got to see this one! Thanx again!
So glad I caught the Utopia reunion for Moogy's fund raiser in NYC a couple weeks ago. Show sould still be up on Utopiashow"dot"com ( running 30 days from show I believe) This is a great vid. thanks for sharing.
Hey rundgrenfan....it was great to see this (your) clip associated with the AOL article about Moogy. Oh, the memories.... Thanks for posting this And to Moogy...get well Friend! We all send good energy to ya!
These gprs, the topias, was out there's yrs,1980s 1990s 2000s i realiz... can moved arounded, and jumped and also... i thoughts all time's when. I heard these grps chicago's but i mistaken. Most time's also corrected too,
Mr. Todd trundr... it's gifted artisited, he's can played guitars and can hold it's well and all these strums... heavy other's strum... is heaver, and todd and topia, 're experiences, artisited also now he's decide, it's time's too resigns, he's told other's grps, topia i'm tired and body hurting, legs 're numbs feets its numbs, too hands 're stiffs, let's quicked,
@@JetEarlewood M. Frog Jean-Yves Labat was replaced by Roger Powell who had released Cosmic Furnace. Labat released some albums and became a music business person in France.
The studio version of this number on the ikon is one of the most sublime 10 seconds ever recorded. So much LIFT... Listen to that, then listen to his lead break on Fascist Christ with the Metropole Orchestra. It's all there... and middle age suits his performance wardrobe better that's for sure :)
Yeah, "Freedom Fighters" is in 7/4 time. Siegler pushed the group into more experimental direction. Rundgren Klingman Schuckett Powell Siegler Ellman The best of the Utopias.
So great and awesome! I like this song very much. The lyrics... "Clap your hands! Raise your voice! Some people will hide, they can't stand the noise. But we're freedom fighters and we've got no choice!" Simple, but strong! And this difficult but beatiful melody... >>M.Frog's replacement Mr. Roger Powell! M. Frog Labat looks like Roger Powell, but I'm sure that I see Labat in this video. But one voice in the harmony really sounds like Powell's... So who is this keyboards player? o_O
@samsmumable I think the legendary London Hammersmith show you refer to took place Oct 9th '75- the whole show is available on a decent bootleg, with Luther Vandross & Anthony Hinton on backing vocals of course. Klingman & Schuckett had left by then & left Roger Powell to quickly learn all the keyboard parts. Intro/Mr Triscuits is longer & better on this recording imo. The BBC Radio show with Utopia was at Oxford Polytechnic 25th Jan '77- I remember listening to this live
Dave Chappelle once responded to criticism that he did a lousy, uninspired show by pointing out, "Hey, I'm Evel Knievel; I get paid for the ATTEMPT." I've always thought that a lot of Todd's music is rock's version of a stuntman's stunts: His songs are often on the edge of being out of control and he has to will them to hold together and be just cohesive enough to work. He often seems to be forcing the music, forging ahead and damn the danger! This is misleading, though. I believe he is always extremely well rehearsed/prepared. I also see a parallel between Todd's production (i.e., output) and, say, Woody Allen's output. Todd HAS to make music the way people have to breathe. Same w/ Woody. He HAS to make movies. The result is a staggering body of work. And not all of it is good. Patton Oswalt once said, "If you ever get the chance to read the entire collected works of Edgar Allan Poe, don't." But seriously, the sum total of Todd's body of work is remarkable, and when he's gone, the world will have lost one of it's most prolific, gifted songwriters/producers/performers.
Brilliant song and great performance with both Todd and the SG losing their rainbow shades but nonetheless psychedelic for it. That IS Kevin Ellman on drums. Look at 2'30. Samurai kimono.
LOL! I too see Roger there!! I am also seeing, incredibly, the drummer here as being the same drummer in Jeff Beck's Bolero video, am I right, wrong, or drunk?
...of course its impossible.. the man has been manufacturing tunes for some 45 years now. He is arguably a genius and godfather of early prog and power pop. I agree, this one would defintely be on my list. From his first Utopia album featuring the tandem of 3 keyboard wizards, i blasted this from my windows once in 1974 and had a riot squad show up at my door. True story..neighbors had called the police and said there was an epic disturbance at my home... TODD IS TRULY AN EPIC DISTURBANCE!
We're all freedom fighters. . . . . . so don't you forget it
What a performance!!! Fabulous!!
This is one of my favorite Rundgren songs. I have narrowed my "favorite" Todd songs down to 47 .... and this is definitely one of my 47-most-favorite Rundgren songs ever.
(I tried to narrow it down even more, but I just couldn't do it ... it's damned-near impossible ...)
First incarnation of Utopia, My senior year in HS. First time I saw Todd at Radio City Music Hall. Mind boggling!!!! I was instantly hooked.
Actually the third Utopia. 1st was TR & Sales Brothers. 2nd was with M.Frog Labat instead of Roger.
This came on the night after my 15th birthday. I stayed up through Helen Reddy and Neil Sedaka, only to fall asleep before Todd came on. I was so pissed. I remember The Spinners playing, and i was thinking, "Freakin' FINALLY, now Todd is next." Then .... sleep.
I second the notion. This is The Holy Grail!!! Thank you for posting this.
Roger Powell in the back. Was a sign of what was to come.
Clap your hands, raise your voice
Some people will hide, they can't stand the noise
But we're Freedom Fighters, and we've got no choice.
And the world rolls on
The reward will come
It's just a question of how and when.
I can't believe my eyes.
These were good days.
Jeah! Three keyboardists and they are really playing their instruments. No programming, just knobs and buttons. And it is also great to notice, that backing vocalists can be actually heard, thanks mixer man!
You have. To play to program too, and Todd did a crap load of It, so get off the slamming music ride, .. this would be better if it was in tune. Just saying...
One of the greatest groups ever put together.
A million thanks to the poster. Felt like I fell into an old record of mine.
This is freakin great!!!!! Close to the lineup I saw back in '75, but the Sales boys were in that one. I believe that was the original Utopia. I even hung onto my "program". Pyramid shaped with pics of the band & some short Bio's. Had Todd sign it about 5 years ago. He was surprised to see that bit of nostalgia thrust at him for an autograph! I treasure that piece of cardboard more than my diamond jewelry!
Thanks rundgrenfan for this little diddy. Great memories!!!
Dang this is old. Never seen this b4. Thank you !❤ What a group folks. Everybody in attendance moogy shuckett ellman etc.
My first Todd Show ever in 1975. With Ralph Schuckett, Moogy Klingman M Frog LaBatt etc. The 1st incarnation of Utopia AT RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL!!!!!!
Ralph Schuckett - Keyboards, Moogy Klingman - Keyboards, Roger Powell - synthesizers, John Siegler - Bass, Kevin Ellman - drums and Todd - Guitar. This is the group that recorded " Another Live " Nice one Rundgrenfan
LOVE THIS TUNE...! I was turned on to this LP in Art School in the late 80's - Keep your eye on the IKON!! (Great video, too!)
This was the '70s, kids!!
In part. The BEST part, sure, but just a part.
I can not think of a single song of his that I do not adore!!!!!!! Absolutely BRILLIANT!
@samsmumable standing next to Roger Powell is Ralph Schucket, and next to John Siegler is Moogy Klingman. On drums is the very wonderful Kevin Ellman. All are currently touring with Rundgren, however I believe Moogy is very ill these days and has made only a few appearances. Rundgren often played his guitar through one of the synthesizers, as you hear on 'Utopia Theme'
thank you so much for the 74 material ,, thought I would never see this!!!
The greatest version of UTOPIA with Mr. John Siegler and Kevin Ellman holding down the bottom.
This is the Utopia I saw in 1975 with Kevin Ellman on the drums.
AMAZING.... LOVE this song so much.. thanks for posting.!
Bass player thru 1975, John Siegler.
Utopia's best days......
John's bass playing is second to none just amazing along with Kevin Ellman what a great rhythm section.
WONDERFUL!!
This Is Wonderful and Yes Amazingly Clear for the time it was filmed !!! It Just Always Amazes Me that People Are Blind to the Fact That Todd ... IS .. Godd
Rock Love,
Cherry XO
INCREDIBLE!!!!! Such a great performer as well as great musician~~~
WOOOOOOOW I LOVE this song I was just a buc when I herd this album 1974-1975 ????? I was 14-15 .Thank You for the UTOPIA POST
Excellent! Todd had a real distinctive lead guitar sound in the 70's
He looks so good with bangs!!!!!
What a strange project for Todd to take on! I love the album this is from, but it still seems strange to me after all these years. I mean, I get that this happens in the middle of "prog" and "fusion" and that this is a more or less accurate reflection of the year 1974, yet it continues to surprise me 45+ years later.
My absolute FAVORITE Todd tune!!!!!! But I say that about so many of his songs - LOL!
Trying to get to see The Midnight Special was almost impossible for me in 75 most of the time since my parents hogged the TV, even that late at night! I'm glad I finally got to see this one! Thanx again!
Look around everyone is wondering where it's at do you Wonder or do you know? A true star!
So glad I caught the Utopia reunion for Moogy's fund raiser in NYC a couple weeks ago. Show sould still be up on Utopiashow"dot"com ( running 30 days from show I believe)
This is a great vid. thanks for sharing.
Moogy passed. This is still great today. Todd is God.😸
Hey rundgrenfan....it was great to see this (your) clip associated with the AOL article about Moogy.
Oh, the memories.... Thanks for posting this And to Moogy...get well Friend! We all send good energy to ya!
These gprs, the topias, was out there's yrs,1980s 1990s 2000s i realiz... can moved arounded, and jumped and also... i thoughts all time's when. I heard these grps chicago's but i mistaken. Most time's also corrected too,
wow I saw Todd in central park in 1975 another live it was the same line up Tanks
They play so well that in the middle of the song I thought they were miming to a record!
Mr. Todd trundr... it's gifted artisited, he's can played guitars and can hold it's well and all these strums... heavy other's strum... is heaver, and todd and topia, 're experiences, artisited also now he's decide, it's time's too resigns, he's told other's grps, topia i'm tired and body hurting, legs 're numbs feets its numbs, too hands 're stiffs, let's quicked,
Absolutely incredible! Thanks so much for sharing this with us all! Del
Still great!!
Three keyboard players, Moogy Klingman, Roger Powell and I guess the third is Ralph Shuckett.
MidWest Concert Video Who was M. Frog Labatt?
@@JetEarlewood M. Frog Jean-Yves Labat was replaced by Roger Powell who had released Cosmic Furnace. Labat released some albums and became a music business person in France.
The studio version of this number on the ikon is one of the most sublime 10 seconds ever recorded. So much LIFT... Listen to that, then listen to his lead break on Fascist Christ with the Metropole Orchestra. It's all there... and middle age suits his performance wardrobe better that's for sure :)
Roger's mic is super hot!!!
Wowza!
Thanks again!
I'm quite partial to the first incarnation of the group -- M. Frog kicks ass.
Beautiful - I haven't seen this since '75.
Whateverhappenedto - Kevin Ellman, samurai drummer
Absolutely beautiful! And, as long as we are taking requests, how about a nice 30+ minute "The Ikon?" :)
Siegler's one of the BEST!
Yes he is
Thank you, this is special music.
those were grat days for music...Todd lead the pack
fantastic clip! thanks so much for posting!
A fascinating timepiece. I remember hearing this on The King Biscuit Flower Hour.
The best!
Let's play "Who is on Stage". I see Todd Rundgren on lead vocals and guitar,..um.. John Seigler on bass. Anyone else care to add? ;)
21 poor... sorry... souls... That don't have a clue.
Their loss.
By 1975 and Another Live it was Roger Powell.
Phenomenal guitar player!!
I turn the world on to this song where I can by it being my ringtone !
@jflinn210 The london '75 concert Utopia played w/ luther Vandross on backing vocals is 1 of my top 5 Favorite live shows. Ever heard it?
roger powell no frog
Yeah, "Freedom Fighters" is in 7/4 time. Siegler pushed the group into more experimental direction.
Rundgren
Klingman
Schuckett
Powell
Siegler
Ellman
The best of the Utopias.
So great and awesome! I like this song very much. The lyrics... "Clap your hands! Raise your voice! Some people will hide, they can't stand the noise. But we're freedom fighters and we've got no choice!" Simple, but strong! And this difficult but beatiful melody...
>>M.Frog's replacement Mr. Roger Powell!
M. Frog Labat looks like Roger Powell, but I'm sure that I see Labat in this video. But one voice in the harmony really sounds like Powell's... So who is this keyboards player? o_O
Todd Rundgren is the man.
This entire album is so cool. ... My 23 year old son's name is ... you got it, Todd.
@rundgrenfan That's the FIRST on my RUclips Play lists !! Love, Cherry XO
Tight AF
@TheMuse58 Me too .Ellman ,Seigler,Moogy ,Shuckett and Frog @ the Tower in Upper Darby( Todd's alma mater). Indelible imprint. Todd-ler forever!
Erin Shaw So, M. Frog Labatt is Roger?
@samsmumable I think the legendary London Hammersmith show you refer to took place Oct 9th '75- the whole show is available on a decent bootleg, with Luther Vandross & Anthony Hinton on backing vocals of course. Klingman & Schuckett had left by then & left Roger Powell to quickly learn all the keyboard parts. Intro/Mr Triscuits is longer & better on this recording imo. The BBC Radio show with Utopia was at Oxford Polytechnic 25th Jan '77- I remember listening to this live
Dave Chappelle once responded to criticism that he did a lousy, uninspired show by pointing out, "Hey, I'm Evel Knievel; I get paid for the ATTEMPT." I've always thought that a lot of Todd's music is rock's version of a stuntman's stunts: His songs are often on the edge of being out of control and he has to will them to hold together and be just cohesive enough to work. He often seems to be forcing the music, forging ahead and damn the danger! This is misleading, though. I believe he is always extremely well rehearsed/prepared.
I also see a parallel between Todd's production (i.e., output) and, say, Woody Allen's output. Todd HAS to make music the way people have to breathe. Same w/ Woody. He HAS to make movies. The result is a staggering body of work. And not all of it is good. Patton Oswalt once said, "If you ever get the chance to read the entire collected works of Edgar Allan Poe, don't." But seriously, the sum total of Todd's body of work is remarkable, and when he's gone, the world will have lost one of it's most prolific, gifted songwriters/producers/performers.
Brilliant song and great performance with both Todd and the SG losing their rainbow shades but nonetheless psychedelic for it. That IS Kevin Ellman on drums. Look at 2'30. Samurai kimono.
Willy was on "Another Live," not Kev. I remember being disappointed that M. Frog and Ellman weren't on it... Still love the record, though!
O M F G
do not ever fuck with upper darby!
Showing up to be.. what .... do you want... a one to be... fighting for...? you or not....? saving ... think about that... it might be you... or not..
Strangled that guitar!
Hi Tell me more About How The Runt affected you .
Where is this from? Is there any video of this same cast playing the Utopia Theme?
This is neither a compliment nor an insult, but holy shit this is so fucking '70s.
LOL! I too see Roger there!! I am also seeing, incredibly, the drummer here as being the same drummer in Jeff Beck's Bolero video, am I right, wrong, or drunk?
The drummer is the great Kevin Ellman
You're right bunnyman2112. It is Willy Wilcox. Must've been the lack of beard that fooled me.
That would be Keith Moon.
@picchaz so is my 17 yr old!
Beast.
A veritable phalanx of keyboard players...
@rundgrenfan: Hello. So how about The Ikon???
@rundgrenfan Post "The Ikon" PLEASE!
Is it Good or is it Good??
Who is the bass player??? Is it Howie Epstein or not??? Can you be sure one way or the other ?????
Sheree Fant-Hasey yes it is John Siegler!
Seems 4/4 to me!
Jesus!! Muskrat love this is not!!! apparently no laws then for strangling an sg!!
Definitely could use an extra keyboard player...this sounds too sparse......😳
Not sure if serious...
Ha. Check out John Siegler's jewfro.
__
"Listen to The Ikon. Ringing in the sound of Eternal Mind."
Great Band. What year is this? '74? RIP Ralph Schucket and Moogy.