Wish we could have this forever.........real singing from the heart!!! I loved Manhattan Transfer from jr high school 1977 still the greatest to ever do it!!!!
Dude, I listen to jazz, my ear is trained, and I sing this stuff, which I bet you don't. Yes, MT ends up a major third lower. Their first chord is F major seventh, and their last chord is Db major. But dude, if you knew the piece, you would know that that's what's written. It modulates, dude. MT is right on the money.
Folks-------------i say it again; we'll not see or hear, the likes of this ever again. -----------Vocal mastery , & 1000% pure class.---------------------RIP, Tim Hauser.
Vocal groups simply do not get ANY better than this!! WOW. This is probably the quintessential a cappella song, and NO better group to sing it than the Manhattan Transfer. (I think it might be physically impossible to listen to these harmonies and not get the chills....) If you ever get a chance to see them in concert, DON'T MISS IT!!!!
They got the harmonies absolutely right. If someone is not familiar with the chord structure of this song, they may be forgiven for thinking that some of the chordal intonations may be incorrect, but if you check the written music, you will see that they are absolutely spot on. A superb arrangement of a wonderful song.
Critical is an understatement. Comparing a studio recording with a live performance is ridiculous for a number of reasons. On top of that you can see they were singing the last song of the evening as evidenced by the sweat pouring down their faces. Taking on an a cappella piece for the last number is physically and technically demanding to say the least. Perfect pitch is not even an issue because they aren't singing with any instrumentation. As long as they're in tune with each other they can be as flat or sharp as they want to be. Try singing 60 to 90 minutes a day 4 to 5 days a week while on tour having to deal with various conditions like singing outside or inside, large and small venues, etc Then we'll all talk about your perfect pitch and cracking a note here and there. Today's standard? Not top professionals? Today's top professionals lip sync their studio recordings. Clueless RUclips critics.
This is just todays generation who don't understand music. This is Manhattan Transfer. I don't think I've ever heard them out of tune. This is a style of Acapella, Barbershop Quartet, 40's style, etc,.
I think people being too critical with these comments. I'm not a trained musician, singer or have perfect pitch. However, I do know what I like and the harmonies and the song itself just made me smile and enjoy every minute of it. It was my favorite song on their Best Of MT album. RIP Tim....you were pretty darn great and thank you for bringing us all the wonderful music.
Give props to the genius who arranged this. Gene Puerling, if anyone has listened to The Singers Unlimited before you know that this guy is probably the best jazz vocal arranger who ever lived
The legendary Gene Puerling did this arrangement for the group, on '81's "Mecca For Moderns" Just masterfully done, but yes, I do wonder how The Singers Unlimited would have done it. Thank-you, Tim, Janice, Cheryl and Alan: you're just the best, and the memories are forever. Wolfsky9
i've liked them since i was a little kid and i never tire of hearing them sing this one ....romantic, bittersweet, nostalgic, foreboding.....the adjectives are endless....it is a piece of perfection.....thank you MT for making this song part of my life's soundtrack
Beautiful song sung by a great group. In fact, the song is so great that anyone with a decent voice can make that song sound good. Thank you Manhattan Transfer.
Qué canción más romáantica, cuando te encontré un ruiseñor cantó en Berkeley Square It was such a romantic affair and there were angels dining at the Ritz Cinco estrellas para ésta canción.Really I'm a fan of Manhattan Transfer
Still the best...as always!!!! And anyone who can find some group with tighter Jazz harmonies----well, good luck!!!!! These four have been doing this for over 30yrs!!! And, they sound great--still!!!! I was in a community chorus several years ago (and enjoyed all 3yrs I sang with them)...This was our 1st Jazz song that we sang...Love it!
When I think of how long they've been around and how consistent they've always been, then when I think of all the fly-by-nights out there trying to past for "singers," well I'm afraid there's just no comparison. MT is such a joy to hear. Thanks for always being such a good group to listen and admire!
They attempt more sophisticated chords and harmonies and that we have them put to such challenges is a credit to their vocal accomplishments. This is not one of my favorote MT tunes but it is one of my favorite songs of all-time. A real beauty!
i've performed this arrangement several times. It is performed here perfectly. Not too many groups will put themselves out there like this these days. Pure tone, no electronic garbage added. Smooth folks, love the tune. Thanks for your arrangement.
In my opinion, Mel Torme and Nat King Cole set the standard for this song. But this is my favorite rendition by far. It doesn't get any better than this. Thanks for posting it.
When they were on tour, this was their closing selection. They sent the band off and said, "OK, gang. Let's get quiet. We will do this song a capella. You keep the theater quiet and you won't miss a note." (And we didn't.) They hit the last note, the lights went down for 30 seconds, and then the house lights came up to a dark curtain. Who needs massive crescendos?
Found the music for this when I was getting music out for my Madrigals class. Begged my music teacher and he said we might learn it. It's amazing!~ I could only hope we sound half as decent as these guys.~
They were sponsored by Akai at the time, and had to wear stuff that fitted in with the ad campaign. Never mind what they were wearing - this is one of the best examples of acapella you'll ever hear.
Tuning? Yes - there is a blatant Gene Puerling-esque modulation at 2:30. It's at the reprise of "The streets of town...". BTW - Thank you sergios345 for giving us this live performance. The MT's recording is impeccable, but the live show is magical! RIP Tim Hauser
This is the first I've seen MT singing this lovely song, although I have it on CD. It is, in my musical opinion, the best rendition I've ever heard. MT's control of pitch and harmony is extraordinary. I just love the change at the end from avante garde jazz harmony (discord) to traditional root position classical harmony.
Manhattan Transfer, thank you for a wonderful performance, and a wonderful piece. OMG. For the haters, well... you're entitled to your opinion. This piece is quintessential.
We had tickets to see them a long time ago. Unfortunately, they cancelled the performance. I was so disappointed. I was really looking forward to seeing them. Bummer.
@brando1388 lol...it was the early 80's....this was the era of asymetric clothing, hairstyles and a kind of quasi art deco style....it looks funny now but it was pretty stylin' back then
I really love it, as it reminds me so tenderly to sunny days exploring life in the eighties. Therefor my tags would have noting to do with the music (sorry manhattan..) but much with the moments it has coloured.
Same for me :) I joined a choir in my city to delve into the music of Manhattan Transfer, Singers Unlimited etc. Sadly, it will probably take some years until we reach a level which enables us to try this music (according to our instructor at least). We'll see...
We (the Stockholm City Voices) loved singing this arrangement in the Sweet Adelines International Finals in Seattle in 2010. It is indeed a very challenging arrangement, but oh, so lovely to sing... I tried to put the link here, but couldn't figure it out, haha.. But if you find Stockholm City Voices - Final 2010 Seattle Part 2 on youtube, there you have it. Hope you enjoy it... x
@ssummersify I like this song specifically because of the "out-of-tune" parts, which of course are actually precisely in tune. That's what makes the song so nice to hear. And yes, it's very difficult to sing, so I have to admire the Manhattan Transfer for managing it so well. They must all have perfect pitch or something.
quartertone perfection. But if you love MT, you should give a listen to Lambert, Hendricks and Ross. They, or more to the point, Jon Henricks, were genius.
This is quite possibly the most ridiculous thing I have EVER read regarding music and singers. The whole overarching point of this arrangement is that there isn't a completely "square" four part chord until the last one: it's gorgeous music as metaphor for the story they are telling.
@therealzilch Indeed, this is NOT an easy vocal work to nail down. Very difficult intervals through most of the song, and the harmonies are such that you can't be even a TINY bit out of tune (it would destroy the entire magic of the tight jazz chords).
Wish we could have this forever.........real singing from the heart!!! I loved Manhattan Transfer from jr high school 1977 still the greatest to ever do it!!!!
Dude, I listen to jazz, my ear is trained, and I sing this stuff, which I bet you don't. Yes, MT ends up a major third lower. Their first chord is F major seventh, and their last chord is Db major. But dude, if you knew the piece, you would know that that's what's written. It modulates, dude. MT is right on the money.
Folks-------------i say it again; we'll not see or hear, the likes of this ever again. -----------Vocal mastery , & 1000% pure class.---------------------RIP, Tim Hauser.
the opening is fondly remeniscant of "London by Night" also arranged by Puerling. Ahhhhhh, what wonderfulness.
Vocal groups simply do not get ANY better than this!! WOW. This is probably the quintessential a cappella song, and NO better group to sing it than the Manhattan Transfer. (I think it might be physically impossible to listen to these harmonies and not get the chills....) If you ever get a chance to see them in concert, DON'T MISS IT!!!!
They got the harmonies absolutely right. If someone is not familiar with the chord structure of this song, they may be forgiven for thinking that some of the chordal intonations may be incorrect, but if you check the written music, you will see that they are absolutely spot on. A superb arrangement of a wonderful song.
Probably the most perfect acapella piece they've done. Godspeed, Mr. Hauser.
This song just relaxes me so very much!
You're so right, they are perfect.
+Andy Dunn Except, it's out of tune.
Critical is an understatement. Comparing a studio recording with a live performance is ridiculous for a number of reasons. On top of that you can see they were singing the last song of the evening as evidenced by the sweat pouring down their faces. Taking on an a cappella piece for the last number is physically and technically demanding to say the least. Perfect pitch is not even an issue because they aren't singing with any instrumentation. As long as they're in tune with each other they can be as flat or sharp as they want to be. Try singing 60 to 90 minutes a day 4 to 5 days a week while on tour having to deal with various conditions like singing outside or inside, large and small venues, etc Then we'll all talk about your perfect pitch and cracking a note here and there. Today's standard? Not top professionals? Today's top professionals lip sync their studio recordings. Clueless RUclips critics.
Preach, brother, PREACH!!
This is just todays generation who don't understand music. This is Manhattan Transfer. I don't think I've ever heard them out of tune. This is a style of Acapella, Barbershop Quartet, 40's style, etc,.
Undoubtedly the best interpretation and rendition of this old classic - this kind of music will never die - this is what life is all about.
I think people being too critical with these comments. I'm not a trained musician, singer or have perfect pitch. However, I do know what I like and the harmonies and the song itself just made me smile and enjoy every minute of it. It was my favorite song on their Best Of MT album. RIP Tim....you were pretty darn great and thank you for bringing us all the wonderful music.
Give props to the genius who arranged this. Gene Puerling, if anyone has listened to The Singers Unlimited before you know that this guy is probably the best jazz vocal arranger who ever lived
Love this song! Originally a WWII hit. Anything acapella in 4 part harmony... can't beat it!
masterpiece .. there are many :) .. what can you loose? Just your blues .. So loose them! gets me all emotional every time - I love it!!
I never get tired of hearing Manhattan Transfer. No one does this song better
The legendary Gene Puerling did this arrangement for the group, on '81's "Mecca For Moderns" Just masterfully done, but yes, I do wonder how The Singers Unlimited would have done it. Thank-you, Tim, Janice, Cheryl and Alan: you're just the best, and the memories are forever. Wolfsky9
This is trademark Manhattan Transfer sound. Love it!
Brilliant. Probably the best a cappella singing you'll ever hear.
i've liked them since i was a little kid and i never tire of hearing them sing this one ....romantic, bittersweet, nostalgic, foreboding.....the adjectives are endless....it is a piece of perfection.....thank you MT for making this song part of my life's soundtrack
Beautiful song sung by a great group. In fact, the song is so great that anyone with a decent voice can make that song sound good. Thank you Manhattan Transfer.
This is what in tune sounds like when real musicians perform. The imperfections are what makes it perfect.
One of my all time favourite arrangements and groups.
Qué canción más romáantica, cuando te encontré un ruiseñor cantó en Berkeley Square It was such a romantic affair and there were angels dining at the Ritz
Cinco estrellas para ésta canción.Really I'm a fan of Manhattan Transfer
Absolutely stunning performance. To get such near-perfect intonation in an a capella live performance is almost unbelievable.
Still the best...as always!!!! And anyone who can find some group with tighter Jazz harmonies----well, good luck!!!!! These four have been doing this for over 30yrs!!! And, they sound great--still!!!! I was in a community chorus several years ago (and enjoyed all 3yrs I sang with them)...This was our 1st Jazz song that we sang...Love it!
Oh, just beautiful harmonies! Those chords are sooo tight!
When I think of how long they've been around and how consistent they've always been, then when I think of all the fly-by-nights out there trying to past for "singers," well I'm afraid there's just no comparison. MT is such a joy to hear. Thanks for always being such a good group to listen and admire!
They attempt more sophisticated chords and harmonies and that we have them put to such challenges is a credit to their vocal accomplishments. This is not one of my favorote MT tunes but it is one of my favorite songs of all-time. A real beauty!
absolutely wonderful. i'm sure any Brit still around that was alive during the Blitz would probably think the same.
They played this song at my nanna's funeral almost a year ago. I can just hear my poppa singing it. Miss you guys so much xxx
This song is their Masterpiece. It just wraps you up and holds you tight in a celebration of the human voice.
Grandes artistas voces excepcionales perfecta conjuncion de las mismas
tough harmonies....yes? BUT....aren't THEY GOOD!!! The best!!
i've performed this arrangement several times. It is performed here perfectly. Not too many groups will put themselves out there like this these days. Pure tone, no electronic garbage added. Smooth folks, love the tune. Thanks for your arrangement.
In my opinion, Mel Torme and Nat King Cole set the standard for this song. But this is my favorite rendition by far. It doesn't get any better than this. Thanks for posting it.
A reminder of my childhood in wartime Britain. This is an astonishing good rendition, and I thank you sincerely for sharing it on YT.
Just tear-jerkingly stunning! How tight can it get!?!?! Love !!
When they were on tour, this was their closing selection. They sent the band off and said, "OK, gang. Let's get quiet. We will do this song a capella. You keep the theater quiet and you won't miss a note." (And we didn't.) They hit the last note, the lights went down for 30 seconds, and then the house lights came up to a dark curtain. Who needs massive crescendos?
RIP Tim Hauser. You will be missed.
Between 2:19 and 2:30 is my favorite section of the song...that's when they show off their vocal prowess.
wow! I too have been looking for this version forever. Thankyou much!
Found the music for this when I was getting music out for my Madrigals class. Begged my music teacher and he said we might learn it. It's amazing!~ I could only hope we sound half as decent as these guys.~
They were sponsored by Akai at the time, and had to wear stuff that fitted in with the ad campaign. Never mind what they were wearing - this is one of the best examples of acapella you'll ever hear.
This is classic! I was looking for this a few weeks ago and I'm thrilled you posted it! Thank-you!!!
We totally sang this in our Chamber choir in college....gosh, I love this arrangement.
4 words! Love love love it!!!!
Tuning? Yes - there is a blatant Gene Puerling-esque modulation at 2:30. It's at the reprise of "The streets of town...". BTW - Thank you sergios345 for giving us this live performance. The MT's recording is impeccable, but the live show is magical!
RIP Tim Hauser
BEAUTIFUL....
I got told to listen to this by my choir president. This is amazing!!
This is the first I've seen MT singing this lovely song, although I have it on CD. It is, in my musical opinion, the best rendition I've ever heard.
MT's control of pitch and harmony is extraordinary. I just love the change at the end from avante garde jazz harmony (discord) to traditional root position classical harmony.
Manhattan Transfer, thank you for a wonderful performance, and a wonderful piece. OMG. For the haters, well... you're entitled to your opinion. This piece is quintessential.
They are truly awesome.
Sang this in high school as part of a jazz ensemble. Love this song and arrangement.
Thank you for posting this part of my past... I love hearing it again.
Back in the day, they used to do this RIGHT AFTER the calisthenic workout that was "Birdland." Unbelievable.
Beautiful...
I used to sing this with a choir I was in......So beautiful but so darn hard to keep in pitch!
the arrangement was Gene Peurling ! Amazing arrangement of this exquisite song!!
Favorite of all my music life forever!!!
fantastic...never ceases to amaze me!!!!
nice video..thanks for posting...
aahh...this is taking me back, we loved this arrangement
We had tickets to see them a long time ago. Unfortunately, they cancelled the performance. I was so disappointed. I was really looking forward to seeing them. Bummer.
@brando1388 lol...it was the early 80's....this was the era of asymetric clothing, hairstyles and a kind of quasi art deco style....it looks funny now but it was pretty stylin' back then
This song is just incredible.
I really love it, as it reminds me so tenderly to sunny days exploring life in the eighties. Therefor my tags would have noting to do with the music (sorry manhattan..) but much with the moments it has coloured.
One of the best songs ever. I love it. MT rule.
we're singing this in my quartet at school. its sooo beautiful
There is no better version of this song than this..
Pure musical artistry at its best.
I don't think I have heard them do any song I did not like. Just a great group.
on the outside chance, ok manhattan transfer its time for a huge comeback
So romantic. I know it by heart. I would love to have someone to sing it to.
Same for me :) I joined a choir in my city to delve into the music of Manhattan Transfer, Singers Unlimited etc.
Sadly, it will probably take some years until we reach a level which enables us to try this music (according to our instructor at least). We'll see...
Enjoy the progress! :) Have fun!
wow............
great
Thank you so much! What ever happened to beautiful music?
I saw this show. The costumes were sort of outer spacey.... startrek kinda ... The opening no. was BOSS!
Beauty...
Yes, agree!!
And thanks for the correct spelling of Berkeley, even though we in the colonies cannot connect that spelling with "Barkley" pronunciation!
We (the Stockholm City Voices) loved singing this arrangement in the Sweet Adelines International Finals in Seattle in 2010. It is indeed a very challenging arrangement, but oh, so lovely to sing... I tried to put the link here, but couldn't figure it out, haha.. But if you find Stockholm City Voices - Final 2010 Seattle Part 2 on youtube, there you have it. Hope you enjoy it... x
@ssummersify I like this song specifically because of the "out-of-tune" parts, which of course are actually precisely in tune. That's what makes the song so nice to hear. And yes, it's very difficult to sing, so I have to admire the Manhattan Transfer for managing it so well. They must all have perfect pitch or something.
thank you for downloading this they had a lot of tallent
Great performance
Wonderfull
@boyhermosa mmmm-- so caressing, i feel sleepy now :)
Thanks to Gene Puerling's arrangement, this is a classic.
quartertone perfection. But if you love MT, you should give a listen to Lambert, Hendricks and Ross. They, or more to the point, Jon Henricks, were genius.
Actually, Dame Vera Lynn who had the big hit with this during WWII is still alive and active.
Gene Puerling was one of the original Hi-LOs
this would go perfect with the new fallout game
Good call on Kraftwerk. Can you say 'Numbers'! They should be sportin' some ol' school 40's attire. Either way - this version is extremely dialed in.
mmmm...That's good.
forcing myself to sleep with this one
Their parts are inpecable. Even with the sheetmusic in front of me, I find no fault. It's crazy. But cazy awesome nonetheless.
Missed them..wonder where they're now?
This is quite possibly the most ridiculous thing I have EVER read regarding music and singers. The whole overarching point of this arrangement is that there isn't a completely "square" four part chord until the last one: it's gorgeous music as metaphor for the story they are telling.
where can one purchase this film footage of the Manhattan Transfer doing what they do best???
@AlfaAxel :: I could add: When you are on a stage you cannot always hear what you sing. I have tried and find it most confusing.
@therealzilch Indeed, this is NOT an easy vocal work to nail down. Very difficult intervals through most of the song, and the harmonies are such that you can't be even a TINY bit out of tune (it would destroy the entire magic of the tight jazz chords).
nice...
they were rushing it a bit. ~