I understand there was a lot of tension during the Notorious Byrd Brother sessions, but I personally think this group was never the same after getting rid of the horse.
McGuinn: Byrd Facilitator. Changed those folk 2/4 tunes to 4/4 and added jingle-jangle; put music to Clark's lyrics; nurtured Crosby's and Hillman's psych-pop and country-rock ambitions; allowed Parsons to be Gram; provided White with exposure. McGuinn's approach as an ensemble (a trait he shares with Hillman) is the key to his longevity and positive influence on all those he works with, including, before the Byrds, The Chad Mitchel Trio, and Joni Mitchell, and recently, Marty Stuart. C'mon, guys, The Byrds are McGuinn's brood, and Hillman and White tie for second because they both collaborated on a higher level and contributed what was needed when it was needed. Hillman also gets credit for introducing the band to White.
Johncooper You're absolutely right. The Byrds' were defined by their sound, their soaring harmonies, the jingle jangly 12 string guitar of McGuinn, and the musical arrangements for which McGuinn was primarily responsible. Think of Mr. Tambourine Man, Turn!Turn! Turn! and My Back Pages to name a few, these were all McGuinn arrangements that even changed the original artists' conception of their own songs. Dylan who sat in on the recording of Mr. Tambourine man, promptly changed to electric guitars after hearing the arrangement. At the 30th anniversary Bob Dylan concert that featured Dylan, McGuinn, Tom Petty, Neil Young, Eric Clapton, and George Harrison, Roger McGuinn sang the opening verse and they performed McGuinn's arrangement not Dylan's. Same thing happened at the Kennedy Center Honors for Pete Seeger. McGuinn was chosen to sing his version of Turn, Turn, Turn, with Seeger commenting that it was the definitive version. Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Don Henley, even George Harrison all acknowledged McGuinn's influence on their music. To not rate McGuinn #1 is a joke. Without Roger (Jim) there is no Byrds. You guys are a joke.
The Byrds did massively influential original work. Every writing member of the original Byrds (and GP) had great post-Byrds work. Music would been poorer if the original band had stuck together into old age.
Top 5: 1. Jim McGuinn - Really invented that cool jangle rock sound. 2. Roger McGuinn - Got involved in some weird religion and fired all the band's good songwriters so he could keep his Dylan cover band going. 3. Tony Gwynn - Wasn't in the Byrds, but for sure one of the all time great hitters in baseball. I've got a couple of his rookie cards in my closet. 4. Ranking Roger - Also wasn't in the Byrds, but wanted to give him a shoutout anyway. 5. Roger McGinn - No idea who this is.
1.Roger Mcguinn -I Love his guitar and voice and I like a lot of his songs especially the stuff he cowrote with Jacques Levy. 2.Gene Clark- Love his voice and songwriting 3.David Crosby- his harmony vocals lead vocals are great and has some good songs. 4.Chris Hillman -Had some great songs 5. Michael Clarke- mostly put him here for being an original member but I enjoy a lot of his playing. 6.Clarence White-Love his guitar playing and even a fan of his voice. 7. Gram Parsons- huge Parsons fan in general I prefer bonus tracks on sweetheart where they put his vocals back. 8.Kevin Kelley- loved his playing on nothing was delivered so hunted down the few things he did outside the byrds which led me to one of my favorite artists Phil Ochs. Wrote and sang an unreleased song that's a bonus track on the deluxe version of sweetheart and I like the song. 9. Gene Parsons- like his drumming and some of his songs. 10.John York not a bad bass player and wasn't a terrible singer. 11. Skip Batten I like his bass playing and some of the songs he wrote but I he's the weakest singer and songwriter they had most of his songs with Kim Fowley are horrible
Top 5 1. Roger McQuinn - my favorite voice in the group, weary, ragged, neurotic, upbeat and happy, haunting and harmonious, spacy, wise and vulnerable, embodying many different characters like an actor playing different roles in a series of movies. Though it may sound cliche in covering Bob Dylan so much, I think McQuinn came closest in the group to capturing the "voice of a generation sound" in some of the original Byrds' songs, which is why so many including me think of the Byrds as the best American band and the one that best captures the spirit of the 60s which is why they were featured prominently in the sound track to Easy Rider. Also, McQuinn was the best guitarist until Clarence White came responsible for the distinctive jangly and later psychedelic experimental sound. He also received full credit for compositions of two of my favorite songs by them, my 2nd favorite, Fifth Dimension and Mr. Spaceman, It Won't Be Wrong is also really good and instrumental in writing many others including two late song favorites, Just a Season and Lover of the Bayou in a totally different style. . , 2. Chris Hillman - wrote my favorite Byrd's song, Thoughts and Words and another favorite Have You Seen Her Face, also teamed with McQuinn to write another favorite SO you Want to be a Rock and Roll Star, impressive voice and was there for their best albums, doesn't stand out quite as much for me as McQuinn vocally or instrumentally but his song writing is as good or better. 3. David Crosby- I am one who prefers his work in the Byrds to Crosby Stills Nash and Young. His best songs like Everybody has Been Burned, Draft Morning, What's Happening are some of my favorites. and he has some excellent collaborations. his voice also stands out to me as really distinctive and fabulous at setting a spacy ominous kind of trance like mood when he keeps it reined in a bit. The cuts left in for Notorious Byrd Brothers between songs give a flavor of how difficult he seems to be to work with a real urge to pick on certain members in a pretentious way so to me the reason he was kicked out seems obvious. Furthermore, the very quality that makes him appealing: the spacy experimentation and the genuine free spirit is also a liability like on Mind Gardens and his Hey Joe freak out hippy simulation. 4. Gene Clark - really close to Crosby and in a personal sense I like him more, he wrote a lot of excellent early songs, has an impressive and distinctive voice but was only with the group for two albums and wasn't there like David Crosby was for what I think are their very best albums. 5. Clarence White excellent guitar player. I will have to explore his contributions more to more fairly assess especially song writing, but I will always have a hard time putting him higher because of the members associated with the earlier albums which are more foundational in sound though the Byrds Untitled is tied for top 3 for me and it is a double album, so I will think this placement over.
Awesome review. McGuinn has to be #1 as he was the voice of the Byrds and was on every album. I think I would fit Clarence White in a little higher. He made the later-day Byrds relevant.
I know this is a tough list to do but Crosby has to be higher. He directly inspired the turns towards Raga and Psychedia. Plus The Byrds were known for their harmonies and that was all crafted by him. He was the one continually pushing the others towards embracing original material and pushing them further
1. Roger McGuinn 2. Chris Hillman 3. Gene Clarke 4. Gram Parsons 5. David Crosby 6. Clarence White 7. Michael Clarke 8. Gene Parsons 9. John York 10. Skip Battin 11. Kevin Kelley
1. Blue Poison Dart Frog 2. Blue Jay 3. Blue Morpho Butterfly 4. Greater blue-ringed octopus 5. some geckos 6. Moor frog 7. some iguanas 8. Blue Sea Star 9. Blue Whale 10. Blue heron you freakin guys. that.. was.. AWESOME. it will be claimed that this all-time insane episode of Side 3 was the result of a very long and exhausting recording day, but we Listo faithful will choose to believe the unofficial account that Kramzer, weary of his colleague's disparagement of psychedelia, dropped a little Purple Haze in Jason's coffee and everyone was eight miles. Listo 4ever and ever and ever 🎉👑🎵
1. Roger (Jim) Mcguinn 2. Gene Clark 3. David Crosby 4. Chris Hillman 5. Gram Parsons 6. Michael Clarke 7. Clarence White 8. Gene Parsons 9. Skip Batten 10. John York 11. Kevin Kelley
11. Kevin Kelley - Did what he needed to do for one album. 10. John York - Did what he needed to do for two albums. 9. Skip Battin - Weak singer and songwriter, but I thought he contributed very well to their live stuff (I agree their later period albums are inferior to the early ones, but they became a better live act). 8. Michael Clarke - He had his moments ("Turn! Turn! Turn!", "Eight Miles High"), but he was ultimately replaceable. 7. Gene Parsons - Best drummer the band had, and not a bad singer/songwriter. 6. Gram Parsons - I HATE putting him here. If I was including all he did he would be near the top. He deserves a lot of credit for pushing them towards country, but I consider his work after his stint with the band to be far superior to his stuff on Sweetheart of the Rodeo. 5. Clarence White - The word "underrated" is too often used for musicians who are actually "rated". White truly is one of the great overlooked guitarists. He's ahead of Parsons because he contributed so much as a session man and member. 4. David Crosby - Would actually have him higher, but I dock him for "Mind Gardens" and their mediocre cover of "Hey Joe". His harmonies were so crucial to what we now consider the "classic" Byrds sound, and I appreciate his unique approach to songwriting ("Everybody's Been Burned", "Renaissance Fair", "Lady Friend", "Draft Morning"). 3. Chris Hillman - I think you guys undersold him a little on his bass skills (someone in the comments already mentioned his playing on "Renaissance Fair"). His songs really helped make Younger Than Yesterday the classic album that it is, and he was bringing the country rock before Gram Parsons joined. 2. Gene Clark - His time in the band was brief, but he set the standard for original songs in the band. Every song he contributed to the band was high quality, and "I'll Feel A Whole Lot Better" is one of the greatest songs of all time. Underrated singer too. Really wished the band kept him. 1. Jim/Roger Mcguinn - I concede that he didn't have what it took to carry the band on his own. He didn't write many songs (though I would argue he came up with many gems: "It Won't Be Wrong", "5D", "Mr. Spaceman", "The Ballad of Easy Rider", "Chestnut Mare"). The reason why he's at #1 is because he defined the sound of the band more than any other). His pop-friendly Dylan vocals, the jangle of the Rickenbacker, the psychedelia, and (love em or hate em) the shades. I'm not arguing he had the most talent, but I think he defined the sound of the Byrds more than any other member.
Gene Parsons built the B-Bender guitar for Clarence White. So while it was White's idea, Parsons made it happen. That in itself is super cool. He is the best drummer they had except for Hal Blaine. He was a good singer and writer, and when they stretched out the songs and jammed with the two guitar army of White and McGuinn he was right there with them pushing it on. Michael Clarke had trouble keeping time.
Having met Clark, Crosby, Hillman and McGuinn and having communicated with the surviving ex-Byrds and associates over the past 30-plus years, I don't feel any need to rate them. Each had his strengths, they all contributed very unique songs and McGuinn, Crosby and Hillman all had unique approaches to their chosen instruments, as did latter-day Byrd Clarence White. The core also managed to bring in great talent: Gram Parsons, Hugh Masekela, Paul Beaver, Van Duke Parks, John York and Gene Parsons. Up until the very end, they managed to produce a body of work rarely equalled. They inspire every creative thing I do. Tom Robinson, ex-ByrdsOnline (BOAS)
11. Skip Battin: The only member to add negatively to the band. His songs are annoying and insufferable. 10. Kevin Kelley: He drummed on Sweetheart of the Rodeo, so he didn't do anything wrong, but was just kinda there. 9. John York: Wrote the third-best song about a dog in the band's history. That's... about it. 8. Michael Clarke: The best drummer the Byrds had was Hal Blaine. 7. Gene Parsons: Fine drummer, but a great songwriter and singer. I love his straightforward country vocal style on "Yesterday's Train" and "Gunga Din." 6. Gram Parsons: Just wasn't around long enough to rank higher. 5. Gene Clark: Was only there for two albums. Great songwriter and good vocalist, but just not long enough. 4. David Crosby: Some of his stuff went a bit far, and the best album is the one right after he left, but he was still a crucial member. 3. Clarence White: His guitar work really shines on those last few albums. 2. Chris Hillman: Fantastic bass player (Renaissance Faire, anyone?) but he's just as important to the invention of country rock as Gram Parsons. 1. Roger McGuinn: Not only was he a unique and innovative guitar player, but he has one of my favorite voices in all of music. His tracks are enjoyable, even on the weakest albums.
this is hilarious... reminds me of when 100 parents are in the crowd at a little league game and cant agree if the score is 4-3 , or 5-3 , or even which team has the lead... then some parent will say, "I have it all on video" , but no one ever bothers to watch the video
I thought that breakdown was their tribute to the "Dolphin's Smile" in-studio argument from "Notorious Byrd Brothers." I kept waiting for Jason to whine about how he was just doing this for the money and Kramzer to say "c'mon man, just play better!"
I've always loved the horses ass and what he went on to accomplish with CN, CSN, CSNY, and just C. I have also come to appreciate the songwriting of Gene Clark. But I must say that I REALLY admire Chris Hillman. The man was a part of some amazing groups: The Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers, and Manassas.
Byrds has always been a fav of mine also and you trio guys doing a double vid take on The Byrds is very awesome ..They were a weird band because of the bizarre changes they had of different members and they are still remembered for their accomplishments and notoriety of even the not so good songs they had in the mix that many seem to end up enjoying anyways .. American Pastime is creeping in on me now as a bit likable. .Notorious Byrd Bros came out to be my fav a few years back also..We all know where the good stuff is ..
BYRDS: The early years: Only Mr.Tamborine Man and Turn! Turn! Turn! are relevant; today. McGuinn could have done them both without the other three, utilizing the Wrecking Crew and scale background vocalists. (Eight Miles High is relevant, but not in the overall scheme of this scenario). The 'So You Want to be a Rock and Roll Star' era: Crosby initiates psych-pop, and then exhibits his dark side; Hillman follows suit with more psych-pop and adds country-rock that introduces Clarence White (who ultimately replaced him) to the mix. The Performance Years: Hillman has stated that while with the Byrds (as well as the Flying Burrito Bros,) they were innovative in the studio, yet "shambolic" on stage. Mr. White corrected that flaw (at least for the Byrds).;
I'll second that. The Byrds ended for me after 'Sweetheart'. I also agree with the comment that the expectation after 'NBBs' was yearning for more of the same. In the UK we had only got hold of 'NBBs' album in the spring of 1968. Imagine how stunned we were when the Byrds strode onto the stage at the Albert Hall later in the summer with a new line-up and gave us tracks from 'Sweetheart' and some golden Byrd 'oldies'. That they were now playing Country, didn't feel at all wrong, it was a surprise but not at all a bad one. They had already started down that road a way back. I did notice that Jagger and Richards were in the audience, just behind where I was sitting, obviously there to see Gram Parsons. I don't know, but I imagine it was one of the last times Gram played with the Byrds as they were off to S. Africa and he didn't go with the band. 'The Gilded Palace of Sin' followed a bit later, it has to be one of my all-time "greatest" from the ex-Byrds 'nest'.... and so many more followed on from that particular source. ❤❤❤
@@frankieelen7238 I don't think they were ever as good after Gene Clark left. Then Crosby. Then Hillman. Then no more Byrds at all really. Gene was a terrific songwriter and their best lead singer. Crosby was more of a harmony singer and McGuinn was never a strong singer in my humble Canadian opinion.
You hadn't noticed Chris Hillman's bass? Everybody's been burned? And McGuinn has to be number 1 just for playing that solo. As for the B-bender, Chris Hillman said White was better without it and he should know.
Good editing job, Kram! I've mentioned before that we subcribers enjoy when you make one another laugh. You guys have been friends forever, so Please leave more goofs and laughs in the edits! Thanks.
Gotta love Clarence White. Your video made me spin Royal Albert Hall 1971 just now which is just incredible courtesy of White (that Eight Miles High just rips). If he didnt die so young, he could've formed the greatest jam band of all time.
Kram's Director's Cut remix is fascinating. I'm glad he left the two-minutes of arguing over which number you're on in. I eagerly look forward to your "Ranking Every Member Of Captain & Tennile" video.
On a more serious note: Thanks gang for doing these videos. I'm now going to go listen to a bunch of albums by The Byrds. SEE WHAT YOU DID??!!! Cheers!
Worthy of mention: Gene Parsons co-invented the B-bender with Clarence White and constructed it himself (and did co-write and sing "Yesterday's Train"); Hillman's bass playing was uniquely melodic (listen again, Joe), probably due to his having started out as a Bluegrass mandolin player. Overall: McGuinn's Rickenbacker and lead vocals, Crosby's harmonies and Hillman's bass-playing were the classic sound of the Byrds, just as Clarence's B-bender was the sound (and, as you say, the redeeming factor) of the latter-day Byrds, so leaving any of those four out of at least the top five Byrds is egregious. Caveat: if Gene Clark had stayed in The Byrds, his song-writing and vocals would likely have made him number 1 on the list. Bottom line: good on you guys for deep-diving on The Byrds.
I always felt that David Crosby had a great contribution to the band, I think it was him that arranged the harmonies within him, Roger, Gene & Chris. He learned a lot from hanging out with Brian Wilson.
yep , there seems to be alot of negativity towards crosby , and im fine with him on a musical level but he seems to be a tool , but who knows for sure? and shouldnt effect opinions musically. I like his work with the airplane. [ a fav band of mine] Cheers!
Hilarious video! My favorite is Gene Clark, even though he was only with them briefly. If you haven’t heard his solo album No Other, check it out immediately. It’s incredible and one of the best of the early 70s country rock era. I like it more than most of the Byrds albums.
I saw Gene Clark live in LA just a few months before he died in 1991. A small venue and I was about 15 feet from him. His eyes were sunken and he looked emaciated. But damn....he put on a great show. Started solo acoustic and then was joined by a band consisting of 2 other people.
Yes, one of the greatest albums in any decade. On some days I even prefer White Light but my goodness, No Other stands alone and surprises me even now. I never thought it was overproduced like others say. It's a perfect 5 star album.
The only real disgrace about the Byrds is that their best drummer was a session man: Hal Blaine. :-/ Among the official ones, I prefer Gene Parsons. My favorite Byrd members? Gene Clark and Gram Parsons as composers, David Crosby as a singer and rhythm guitarist, Roger "Jim" McGuinn as a guitarist (although Clarence White might be technically better, but I go with McGuinn in his inventive), Chris Hillman as bassist. I can't rank them, though. I think they are pretty well-balanced in their own merits. However, Gene Clark has an extra merit as a singer and, so, he's quite possibly my very favorite Byrd.
Gene Parsons sang and wrote "Yesterday's Train", "There Must Be Someone" and "Gunga Din". He released a couple of solo albums. He made a cover of a Phil Ochs song "My Kingdom for a Car" that is worth a listen. There are a couple of short video interview segments on RUclips, on one of them he tells a funny story about how John York got fired.
Gene Parsons did not write There Must Be Someone. It was written by Vern Gosdin. It also seems to be a track with no Roger McGuinn contribution. Yesterday's Train was co written with Battin.,
No need to rank them. Each one of them is unique and great as solo artists but together, they wefe the best! You can not remove mcguinn or chris hillman or gene ,croz,michael clarke
I really enjoyed your Byrds week, guys. Cheers. This video is awesome and fun. Just like Joe, my number one is Gene Clarke as well, great songwriter. Chris Hillman a close second, Gram Parsons third. Never been much of a David Crosby fan. Funny thing with the Byrds is that they had a leader in Roger McGuinn who was by far not the most creative member of the band. Having said that, for better or worse, Roger McGuinn was the Byrds.
1. Jim/Roger McGuinn 2. Chris Hillman 3. Gene Clark 4. Gram Parsons 5. Michael Clark 6. David Crosby 7. Clarence White * 8. Gene Parsons 9. Skip Battin 10. John York 11. Kevin Kelly * Jason and Kram are delusional I tell you lol. White may have kept those albums from being a abysmally bad, but he didn’t contribute anything to any good album (except for Dr. Byrds & Mr. Hyde), so it’s not enough for him to make the top 5, much less #1.
Clarence White was as innovative as Jimi Hendrix. But to call him the most important member of the Byrds means you have no concept of what a band is. There are tens of thousands of guitar players, me included, that have attempted to play like Clarence White, but he was a guitar player who provided a sound and style. Bands need songs. Songs are the most important vehicle that carries a band. If Gene Clark was not in the band they may have languished as a one hit wonder. Roger is one of the greatest voices in Americana music history. Ever hear the great Tom Petty. He used McGuinn's voice and band as a template that resulted in his massive success. So, McGuinn/ Gene Clark, or Gene Clark /McGuinn are the most important Byrds. Personally, I would say Gene is number one because of my respect for the hundred songs of his that I have listened to. Hillman, the consummate pro, the adult in the room, the guy next door, has had the most consistent marvelous career, and I love and admire him more than any of the others but as a Byrd he should be number three. He had the vision to see that American music was going to be a mix of folk, rock, blues, and country, and without him 'Sweethearts' would never have been made. Clearly one of the architects of country rock, he also was the number two force in the great Stephen Stills' best band, Mannassas. He has also been credited with sending Gram Parsons to go listen to this young folkie singing in Washington named Emmylou Harris. Desert Rose, Chris and Herb, touring with Tony Rice and his brother, he made top shelf viable music until his recent retirement. Crosby's harmony singing, and arrangements including the use of counter melodies were innovative and are copied by all and the style is imperative in folk and country rock 60 years after MTM. He is a solid number four. Also check out the isolated rhythm guitars for Eight Miles High. His prowess at that time was underrated. Next at 5, Gram Parsons for his direction, then Clarence at 6. M Clark 7. Gene Parsons 8. Skip at 9 was a savage jammer. John York 10, and at 11, Kevin Kelly, although I recently noticed the change up in the drum beat of 'You Ain't Goin' during the chorus, which is an outstanding nuance. I cannot be sure however if he did actually play this part or whether it was a ghost studio drummer. Incidentally I just recorded a record of Gene Clark songs with musical compatriot Pete Mancini which was released recently on Paradiddle Records. Check it out please. The album is called 'Silent Troubadour.'
Nobody loves Clarence White more than Ido, but # 1 member of The Byrds when he wasn’t even a twinkle in anyone’s eye when The Byrds were actually The Byrds?! You guys are off the wall of your own creation. That would be like choosing Billy Preston as your favorite Beatle. The iconic gender creating sound of the initial lineup/albums was for the most part driven by McGuinn’s unusual guitar sound/style/pacing along with his complimentary vocalizations, whether you liked or were annoyed by that fact. Without Mcguinn, The Byrds would not have had anywhere near the unique sound & influence they had. Maybe you had to be there , which, at 72 years of age now, I was. Back to my original thoughts on the matter, White was certainly the main attraction during their later years, but that was when they were The Byrds in name only.
Jeez guys. I though you all were too young to be having senior moments! Some random comments. In a very recent interview with David Crosby, he said he considers McGuinn to have been 50% of the talent in the Byrds. I can't imagine not putting him at #1 on the list though I don't disagree with some of your criticisms of him including less than consistent, stellar songwriting. The unsung hero? I think you all nailed it with the high ranking of Chris Hillman. Clarence White was phenomenal on guitar and clearly elevated a mediocre period for the Byrds. Gram Parsons was a great shot in the arm for the Byrds as he successfully convinced McGuinn to go all in on the country direction. I also agree with downgrading Crosby. His contributions were fairly mediocre except for his excellent harmony vocals. The most forgotten talent would have to be Gene Clark who was a great songwriter from day one when nobody else was writing. Overall, an interesting list with some good criticisms. As for Joe's comment on the McGuinn glasses, all I can say is you had to there!
Yeh Gene Clark #1 for sure. A Glolden voice, incomparable stage presence and arguably the greatest song writer of all time, with Dylan himself putting him amongst the top.
Joe knowing the solo work of Gene Clark helps arrive at the correct answer. Having White as number 1 is a hoot. Funny video but please anyone who doesn't know Clark's other work don't wait. I'm kicking myself for not discovering it sooner. White Light and No Other are stunning. I understand your obsession Joe.
11. Kevn Kelley - I don't even think he drummed on Sweetheart - pretty sure it was session guys. Edit: he did play on Sweetheart. But it was just one album. RIP 10. Skip Battin - Was in the act Skip and Flip before joining the Byrds. Certainly part of the "great live act" that they were in their later years, but something of a goofball overall. RIP 9. John York - Wasn't in the band very long, and didn't really stand out. 8. Gene Parsons - This isn't really fair of me, since he was the best drummer they had, but it was in the not-great period. 7. Michael Clarke - He was terrible live, but his stuff on the first four albums (often after many takes, lol) was fine. As I said in the other videos, his drumming on their two best songs ("Turn!x3" and "8MH") is actually quite inspired. RIP 6. Gram Parsons - Love Gram Parsons outside of the Byrds (even the International Submarine Band stuff is pretty good). Hate what he did to the Byrds (Kram hit the nail on the head - more NBB-type stuff would have been great if they had developed along those lines, especially if they had gotten White into the band then to replace Cros immediately, instead of having Gram steal Hillman). Sweetheart was extremely influential, but not a great record in itself. His two songs and his vocals are definitely the best thing about that album. RIP 5. Clarence White - Although Kram and Jason are inspiring me to sit through at least the first three post-Sweetheart albums again soon to listen specifically for his playing. RIP 4. Chris Hillman - I get the feeling that all three of you kind of miss the point with Hillman. He took inspiration for his bass-playing style with the Byrds from Larry Knechtel's great work on "Mr. Tambourine Man." Listen to those first five albums again, just for the bass work. He wasn't McCartney, but he provided excellent "humming bass lines" throughout, and on a few tracks, what he chooses to play is absolutely fantastic. Before White joined, he was the band's second-most important instrumentalist by far. I am not as enamored with his Younger Than Yesterday tracks as many are - they're pretty good, but "So You Want to Be a Rock 'n' Roll Star" with McGuinn is the best songwriting credit for him on that album by a pretty big margin for me - and he's a somewhat stiff lead singer (even on the Burrito Brothers stuff, but **everyone** sounds bad next to Gram), but I love his songwriting on NBB, and his harmony singing on those two albums. 3. David Crosby - My top three are the three who started it all. Crosby's ego, loud mouth, and contentiousness (and occasional goofiness, i.e. the embarrassing version of "Hey Joe," the awful "Mind Gardens," and the lyrics to "Triad") were a problem. However, he's the architect of their harmonies, inspired the Coltrane/Shankar influence on "Eight Miles High" and his own composition "Why," and wrote some great songs for the group - "Everybody's Been Burned," the aforementioned "Why," "Renaissance Fair," "Draft Morning," "Gathering of Tribes," "Lady Friend," "It Happens Each Day," and "Dolphin's Smile." I find his work with CSNY, and to a lesser degree his solo work, to be quite disappointing in comparison. He was also a huge D-word to Gene Clark, and by far most responsible for Gene's decision to leave, which made the Byrds a far lesser band over the next three albums (and they were **great** during that time) than they would have been otherwise. 2. Jim/Roger McGuinn (Byrds fans usually just say "McGuinn," and once again, it's "McGwin") - Didn't put down the best instrument in rock until occasionally doing so from Sweetheart onward. His 12-string work alone earns him a huge place in rock history. The Byrds as they turned out on the first album were largely his vision. Not so enamored of his Dylan imitations and his songwriting, but he was the architect. 1. Gene Clark - He wasn't "just on the first two albums" - he wrote "Eight Miles High," their best song, and sang on that and "Why," and of course he was the A-gamer on the reunion album. His songwriting while he was in the band was fantastic, very well able to rival the Dylan and Seeger covers they were doing, and his singing and overall presence was huge. RIP Re-ranking the top 6 based on the composite of their work with the band combined with their work outside it: 6. White 5. Crosby 4. Hillman 3. McGuinn 1-2. A tie between Gram and Gene Clark.
It was Kevin, his pedigree as a drummer was actually good albeit under the radar, Gene Parsons was very complimentary about his predecessors ability . Rumours abound as to whether Jim Gordon drummed on some of 'notorious'.
11. John York 10. Skip Battin 9. Michael Clarke 8. Kevin Kelley 7. Gene Parsons 6. David Crosby (totally agree with Jason, in fact spent his whole career as the weakest link in great bands) 5. Gram Parsons 4. Chris Hillman 3. Gene Clark 2. Clarence White (sings my favorite Byrds song) 1a. Roger McGuinn 1 Jim McGuinn
@@mikemauzey3996 Well, you hit on an interesting point. I know every channel needs its content to stay afloat but I view it as rather silly to be ranking band members of any band as each brings their own stamp to the proceedings. There are many music channels here on YT with informative and educational content that do a much better job at expressing their dislikes in a manner that wouldn't insult the bands, artists or their fans and that's the main reason I only check in here sporadically now and, in this instance, my love for The Byrds.
Hillman is definitely cool, but there are no Byrds without McGuinn’s soaring Rickenbacker 12 string, his eclectic cover choices and passion for sci-fi and psychedelia. 5D has it all in one stellar song. Eight Miles High is stunning modern rock. Hillman wrote two fantastic songs on Younger Than Yesterday, but mostly just played bass up until then, and got really good on it by the time YTY and NBB rolled around. But Crosby was also writing awesome songs toward the end of his Byrds tenure, too. Lady Friend is gorgeous. Everybody’s Been Burned is hypnotic and so Crosby. Draft Morning and Change is Now are two of the standout tracks on Byrd Bros., despite being fired from the band he co-founded. Like Joe said, Gene Clark was the best writer in the Byrds, making their first two albums so memorable, with a folky melancholy and gorgeous melodies. I Knew I’d Want You and I’ll Feel a Whole Lot Better and Here Without You from the debut, and The World Turns All Around Her and Set You Free This Time from the Turn Turn Turn LP defined the band’s original lyrical and melodic direction right from takeoff. It was a shame that personal demons and fear of flying short-circuited his contributions and longevity in the Byrds. None of the other three were on his level as a writer or singer. I’d have to rate him #1, with McGuinn #2, Crosby just edging Hillman out for #3 (mainly due to his great harmony singing). Hillman at #4, and producers Terry Melcher and Gary Usher tied for the honorary 5th Byrd. They took a raw and inexperience band and created a majestic sound for 6 magical albums.
Has anyone heard the bonus "track" on the Notorious Byrd Bros CD featuring Crosby berating Michael Clarke for his lack of drumming chops? It's horrendous.
My top 11 11. Michael Clark-hired for his looks, became a good drummer later on. 10. Kevin Kelley-Pretty good drummer, wrote and sang "All I have are memories", a personal fav. 9. John York- Pretty good singer, Bassist and songwriter. On 2 records. 8. David Crosby- an OG, became big later on, did a lot to make the psychedelic byrds interesting. 7. Skip Battin- Monster Bassist and pretty decent singer songwriter. 6. Gene Parsons- Great multi instrumentalist and songwriter. Wish they had cut more of his tunes. 5. Gram Parsons- only on one record, shortest serving member, Helped pushed to country music. Great singer-songwriter. 4. Chris Hillman- the OG country byrd and a great musician and songwriter. 1/2 of the musical heart of the first incarnation. 3. Gene Clark- One of the founding 2. Great singer and songwriter, only on 3 records. 2.Clarence White- Best musican to ever be in the band all around. Revolutionized acoustic and electric guitar. 2nd longest serving member. 1. Roger McGuinn- Great musician. Founded the band with Gene, 1/2 of the musical hearts of both the first and 2nd incarnations. only consistent member. Best songwriting was with Jacque Levy imo.
I sort of agree with both Joe and Jason. I do not rate his Byrds time that highly but he is still my favourite Byrd, purely on the back of the fact that No Other must rank as one of the top 10 albums of the 70s.
I grew up in the 60's and The Byrds were one of my top 5 bands. Loved the early stuff the best and I HATED the country stuff as a teen and those feelings stuck. 11. Kevin Kelley 10. Skip Battin 9. John York 8. Gene Parsons 7. Gram Parsons (more name confusion I had as a teen...Jim McGuinn vs Roger McGuinn and Michael Clarke vs Gene Clark) 6. Clarence White (his invention of the string bender was awesome) 5. Michael Clarke (got better and better...listen to 8 Miles high) 4. Chris Hillman (solid bass player and wrote some good tunes) 3. David Crosby (Bombastic narcissist with the silver tongue. But his high harmonies gave the early stuff magic) 2. Roger McGuinn (his Rickenbacker 12 string along with Crosby's high harmonies made The Byrds soar...very iconic. But his "crime" was dragging The Byrds name thru the country road mud. Should have renamed the band) 1. Gene Clark (best singer and best songwriter and he wrote my favorite Byrds song 8 Miles High. But...the only Byrd who literally was too scared to fly)
For me, and I can only speak from myself, McGuinn is 1. White is 2, Hillman 3, Gene Clark 4, Crosby 5 Gram Parsons 6 and Gene Parsons 7, primarily for creating the B-bender for Clarence. No small contribution! The other guys I can't really rate. Gram was important, although he was in the band for less than a year. The Byrds took that country road right till McGuinn folded it up in 73. Such a shame that Clarence died just a few months later. White did not want the Byrds to end. Maybe they would have done more in the later 70's if fate had not been so cruel. Maybe Roger lost heart in trying after his Guitar Ace was gone.
The impression I get of David Crosby is that he's kind of a dick. I don't believe any of the members of CSNY are on speaking terms with him, and he just trolls on Twitter.
I just checked out the Eagles band member rankings.. it didn't disappoint! Can I suggest (and I know you are fans) you do a Beach Boys band member ranking at some stage? Don't know about you but I'm ranking that bitter and twisted old Republican Mike Love pretty low!
You've probably come across this video about Clarence White's B-Bender Telecaster before, or something similar, but here's a pretty cool video with Marty Stuart about it. ruclips.net/video/r8H08Xs_w8A/видео.html
That Ranking the Eagles Members video has more views than your actual Eagles Ranked list. And man, so much hate towards you guys in the comments of that video. Which is pretty funny considering that Kram was way harsher on Glenn Frey in the actual Eagles album ranking video. Gene Clark, Chris Tillman and David Crosby are my favourite members of the Byrds. Dunno how I'd rank the rest. Gram Parsons and Clarence White would be pretty high too.
Clark, Crosby, Hillman and Parsons did their best work outside of The Byrds. Crosby, Clark and Parsons all had solo albums that were better than any of The Byrds albums IMO. This was fun. Thanks for leaving in all the messy stuff. ✌🏻
Appreciate the video, insightful and entertaining as always. For me, ranking members would have to include their contributions to the history of the band regardless of whether they were original members or not. I would take a little issue with not including members in the top 5 only because they weren’t original members. Going that route, you wouldn’t be able to include Lindsay Buckingham or Stevie Nicks in the top 5 of Fleetwood Mac members, Brian Johnson out of contention for top 5 AC/DC, or most shockingly you’d have to put Neil Peart behind John Rutsey in a Rush members ranking. Sacrilegious.
I have to speak up for Skip Battin. I would agree that his songwriting didn't fit the Byrds, but his bass playing on some of their live recordings is some funky shit. As a member of the Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers and New Riders of the Purple Sage, he has a strong pedigree. I very much like his solo records, away from the Byrds his vaudevillian songwriting works much better. Gene Parsons also deserves some credit for inventing Clarence White's B Bender guitar, and his solo albums are strong country rock records. Also, his earlier work with Gib Guilbeau is rather fine. Interesting listings.
Lol this video is my mood right now, need to do more work but just can't. Anyway, here's my ranking of members on albums I'm familiar with (sorry not enough exposure to rank Clarence White et al.) 1- Chris Hillman 2- Gene Clark 3- David Crosby 4- Gram Parsons 5- Roger McGuinn 6- Kevin Kelley 7- Michael Clarke
You might want to give Gene Clark's work a try, like "No Other", "The Fantastic Expedition of Dillard and Clark" and "So Rebellious A Lover" with Carla Olson.
11) Skip Battin- Excellent Bassist, but a mediocre Byrd. Nonetheless RIP Skip. 10) Gene Parsons - excellent drummer, talented singer but mediocre Byrd. I feel that if Gregg Allman had hired him and Skip Battin, they might have done something interesting, as they are more southern rock style musicians, Mcguinn, on the other hand, is not. I don't think the Gene Parsons/Skip Battin era Byrds sounds like shit because of lack of talent, but rather because of their lack of chemistry with Mcguinn 9) Kevin Kelly - Despite people thinking of him as a temp who was solely hired because he was Chris Hillman's cousin and just happened to play drums, he was actually a pretty adequate drummer Before joining the Byrds, he was a member of the Blues/Folk rock band "The rising suns." He was the only Byrd to come out of a rock and blues background rather than Bluegrass or folk. As Roger Mcguinn himself has stated, Kevin Kelly's drumming and musical background is what made Sweetheart of the Rodeo Country Rock rather the straight Country. RIP Kevin! 8) John York- Much like Clarence White, he was good friends with the Byrds before even becoming an official member, plus he's the only Byrd to join post Crosby who actually understood what the Byrds were about, being a veteran of the LA scene himself, touring with bands like the Mamas and the Papas. He also started a band with Gene Clark in the 80s called CRY. He seems like an extremely down to earth kind of dude, and he's extremely humble too. 7) Clarence White - He's like the Jimi Hendrix of Country Rock. Unfortunately, he just happened to join the band at their all-time low point. RIP Clarence 6) Michael Clark- I actually like his style of drumming 5) Gram Parsons - I despise country music, but I'll give credit where it's due. He helped reinvent country music and break down the huge genre dividing walls between the country world and the rock world. RIP Gram! 4) David Crosby - He's a talented rhythm guitarist, incorporating elements of jazz and R&B into his style. He's probably the best harmony singer to come out of the USA during the 60s. Unfortunately, he was a huge dick. Nonetheless, RIP Dave 3) Chris Hillman- I'm not a huge fan of country music at all, but I love Chris Hillman's bass playing technique, and he's also a very talented songwriter. He saved the Byrds from utter failure after Gene Clark left. 2) Roger Mcguinn- I mean, his unique style of guitar playing influenced everyone from George Harrison to Johnny Marr and many others. If Roger Mcguinn wouldn't have been around REM and Tom Petty wouldn't either. 1)Gene Clark-The tortured soul, he had the true mind of an artist, but like many artists before him and after him, he was well set on the path of self destruction. RIP Gene! You truly are and forever will be a legend. #Noother
My opinion of Roger McGuinn was greatly increased with his fantastic cover of Dylan's "Up to Me" from a Dylan tribute album in 2005: ruclips.net/video/p-42Z-fpK_A/видео.html
I understand there was a lot of tension during the Notorious Byrd Brother sessions, but I personally think this group was never the same after getting rid of the horse.
The horse apparently had problems getting along with McGuinn, but surprisingly bonded with Michael Clarke.
And then Gram Parsons comes to obscure that fact.
hilarious-- + true
@@wesleyorser4451 the horse wasn't there furlong.
McGuinn: Byrd Facilitator. Changed those folk 2/4 tunes to 4/4 and added jingle-jangle; put music to Clark's lyrics; nurtured Crosby's and Hillman's psych-pop and country-rock ambitions; allowed Parsons to be Gram; provided White with exposure. McGuinn's approach as an ensemble (a trait he shares with Hillman) is the key to his longevity and positive influence on all those he works with, including, before the Byrds, The Chad Mitchel Trio, and Joni Mitchell, and recently, Marty Stuart. C'mon, guys, The Byrds are McGuinn's brood, and Hillman and White tie for second because they both collaborated on a higher level and contributed what was needed when it was needed. Hillman also gets credit for introducing the band to White.
Johncooper
You're absolutely right. The Byrds' were defined by their sound, their soaring harmonies, the jingle jangly 12 string guitar of McGuinn, and the musical arrangements for which McGuinn was primarily responsible. Think of Mr. Tambourine Man, Turn!Turn! Turn! and My Back Pages to name a few, these were all McGuinn arrangements that even changed the original artists' conception of their own songs. Dylan who sat in on the recording of Mr. Tambourine man, promptly changed to electric guitars after hearing the arrangement. At the 30th anniversary Bob Dylan concert that featured Dylan, McGuinn, Tom Petty, Neil Young, Eric Clapton, and George Harrison, Roger McGuinn sang the opening verse and they performed McGuinn's arrangement not Dylan's. Same thing happened at the Kennedy Center Honors for Pete Seeger. McGuinn was chosen to sing his version of Turn, Turn, Turn, with Seeger commenting that it was the definitive version. Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Don Henley, even George Harrison all acknowledged McGuinn's influence on their music. To not rate McGuinn #1 is a joke. Without Roger (Jim) there is no Byrds. You guys are a joke.
What an even greater band they would have been if Gene Clark had stuck around. His post Byrds stuff is great, especially No Other.
Clark's No Other reminds me of Denis Wilson's Pacific Ocean Blue, because it's a solo album as good as the main band's work
The Byrds did massively influential original work. Every writing member of the original Byrds (and GP) had great post-Byrds work. Music would been poorer if the original band had stuck together into old age.
Top 5:
1. Jim McGuinn - Really invented that cool jangle rock sound.
2. Roger McGuinn - Got involved in some weird religion and fired all the band's good songwriters so he could keep his Dylan cover band going.
3. Tony Gwynn - Wasn't in the Byrds, but for sure one of the all time great hitters in baseball. I've got a couple of his rookie cards in my closet.
4. Ranking Roger - Also wasn't in the Byrds, but wanted to give him a shoutout anyway.
5. Roger McGinn - No idea who this is.
1.Roger Mcguinn -I Love his guitar and voice and I like a lot of his songs especially the stuff he cowrote with Jacques Levy.
2.Gene Clark- Love his voice and songwriting
3.David Crosby- his harmony vocals lead vocals are great and has some good songs.
4.Chris Hillman -Had some great songs
5. Michael Clarke- mostly put him here for being an original member but I enjoy a lot of his playing.
6.Clarence White-Love his guitar playing and even a fan of his voice.
7. Gram Parsons- huge Parsons fan in general I prefer bonus tracks on sweetheart where they put his vocals back.
8.Kevin Kelley- loved his playing on nothing was delivered so hunted down the few things he did outside the byrds which led me to one of my favorite artists Phil Ochs. Wrote and sang an unreleased song that's a bonus track on the deluxe version of sweetheart and I like the song.
9. Gene Parsons- like his drumming and some of his songs.
10.John York not a bad bass player and wasn't a terrible singer.
11. Skip Batten I like his bass playing and some of the songs he wrote but I he's the weakest singer and songwriter they had most of his songs with Kim Fowley are horrible
Top 5
1. Roger McQuinn - my favorite voice in the group, weary, ragged, neurotic, upbeat and happy, haunting and harmonious, spacy, wise and vulnerable, embodying many different characters like an actor playing different roles in a series of movies. Though it may sound cliche in covering Bob Dylan so much, I think McQuinn came closest in the group to capturing the "voice of a generation sound" in some of the original Byrds' songs, which is why so many including me think of the Byrds as the best American band and the one that best captures the spirit of the 60s which is why they were featured prominently in the sound track to Easy Rider. Also, McQuinn was the best guitarist until Clarence White came responsible for the distinctive jangly and later psychedelic experimental sound. He also received full credit for compositions of two of my favorite songs by them, my 2nd favorite, Fifth Dimension and Mr. Spaceman, It Won't Be Wrong is also really good and instrumental in writing many others including two late song favorites, Just a Season and Lover of the Bayou in a totally different style. . ,
2. Chris Hillman - wrote my favorite Byrd's song, Thoughts and Words and another favorite Have You Seen Her Face, also teamed with McQuinn to write another favorite SO you Want to be a Rock and Roll Star, impressive voice and was there for their best albums, doesn't stand out quite as much for me as McQuinn vocally or instrumentally but his song writing is as good or better.
3. David Crosby- I am one who prefers his work in the Byrds to Crosby Stills Nash and Young. His best songs like Everybody has Been Burned, Draft Morning, What's Happening are some of my favorites. and he has some excellent collaborations. his voice also stands out to me as really distinctive and fabulous at setting a spacy ominous kind of trance like mood when he keeps it reined in a bit. The cuts left in for Notorious Byrd Brothers between songs give a flavor of how difficult he seems to be to work with a real urge to pick on certain members in a pretentious way so to me the reason he was kicked out seems obvious. Furthermore, the very quality that makes him appealing: the spacy experimentation and the genuine free spirit is also a liability like on Mind Gardens and his Hey Joe freak out hippy simulation.
4. Gene Clark - really close to Crosby and in a personal sense I like him more, he wrote a lot of excellent early songs, has an impressive and distinctive voice but was only with the group for two albums and wasn't there like David Crosby was for what I think are their very best albums.
5. Clarence White excellent guitar player. I will have to explore his contributions more to more fairly assess especially song writing, but I will always have a hard time putting him higher because of the members associated with the earlier albums which are more foundational in sound though the Byrds Untitled is tied for top 3 for me and it is a double album, so I will think this placement over.
Awesome review. McGuinn has to be #1 as he was the voice of the Byrds and was on every album. I think I would fit Clarence White in a little higher. He made the later-day Byrds relevant.
I know this is a tough list to do but Crosby has to be higher. He directly inspired the turns towards Raga and Psychedia. Plus The Byrds were known for their harmonies and that was all crafted by him. He was the one continually pushing the others towards embracing original material and pushing them further
1. McGuinn
2. Clark & Hillman tie
3. White & Crosby tie
1. Roger McGuinn
2. Chris Hillman
3. Gene Clarke
4. Gram Parsons
5. David Crosby
6. Clarence White
7. Michael Clarke
8. Gene Parsons
9. John York
10. Skip Battin
11. Kevin Kelley
1. Blue Poison Dart Frog
2. Blue Jay
3. Blue Morpho Butterfly
4. Greater blue-ringed octopus
5. some geckos
6. Moor frog
7. some iguanas
8. Blue Sea Star
9. Blue Whale
10. Blue heron
you freakin guys. that.. was.. AWESOME.
it will be claimed that this all-time insane episode of Side 3 was the result of a very long and exhausting recording day,
but we Listo faithful will choose to believe the unofficial account that Kramzer, weary of his colleague's disparagement of psychedelia, dropped a little Purple Haze in Jason's coffee and everyone was eight miles.
Listo 4ever and ever and ever 🎉👑🎵
I love your comment, but I’ll be damned before I accept a list of blue animals where blue whale isn’t No. 1. - Joe
@@TastesLikeMusic have you seen the blue poison dart frog tho ? 😂
1. Roger (Jim) Mcguinn
2. Gene Clark
3. David Crosby
4. Chris Hillman
5. Gram Parsons
6. Michael Clarke
7. Clarence White
8. Gene Parsons
9. Skip Batten
10. John York
11. Kevin Kelley
11. Kevin Kelley - Did what he needed to do for one album.
10. John York - Did what he needed to do for two albums.
9. Skip Battin - Weak singer and songwriter, but I thought he contributed very well to their live stuff (I agree their later period albums are inferior to the early ones, but they became a better live act).
8. Michael Clarke - He had his moments ("Turn! Turn! Turn!", "Eight Miles High"), but he was ultimately replaceable.
7. Gene Parsons - Best drummer the band had, and not a bad singer/songwriter.
6. Gram Parsons - I HATE putting him here. If I was including all he did he would be near the top. He deserves a lot of credit for pushing them towards country, but I consider his work after his stint with the band to be far superior to his stuff on Sweetheart of the Rodeo.
5. Clarence White - The word "underrated" is too often used for musicians who are actually "rated". White truly is one of the great overlooked guitarists. He's ahead of Parsons because he contributed so much as a session man and member.
4. David Crosby - Would actually have him higher, but I dock him for "Mind Gardens" and their mediocre cover of "Hey Joe". His harmonies were so crucial to what we now consider the "classic" Byrds sound, and I appreciate his unique approach to songwriting ("Everybody's Been Burned", "Renaissance Fair", "Lady Friend", "Draft Morning").
3. Chris Hillman - I think you guys undersold him a little on his bass skills (someone in the comments already mentioned his playing on "Renaissance Fair"). His songs really helped make Younger Than Yesterday the classic album that it is, and he was bringing the country rock before Gram Parsons joined.
2. Gene Clark - His time in the band was brief, but he set the standard for original songs in the band. Every song he contributed to the band was high quality, and "I'll Feel A Whole Lot Better" is one of the greatest songs of all time. Underrated singer too. Really wished the band kept him.
1. Jim/Roger Mcguinn - I concede that he didn't have what it took to carry the band on his own. He didn't write many songs (though I would argue he came up with many gems: "It Won't Be Wrong", "5D", "Mr. Spaceman", "The Ballad of Easy Rider", "Chestnut Mare"). The reason why he's at #1 is because he defined the sound of the band more than any other). His pop-friendly Dylan vocals, the jangle of the Rickenbacker, the psychedelia, and (love em or hate em) the shades. I'm not arguing he had the most talent, but I think he defined the sound of the Byrds more than any other member.
Gene Parsons built the B-Bender guitar for Clarence White. So while it was White's idea, Parsons made it happen. That in itself is super cool. He is the best drummer they had except for Hal Blaine. He was a good singer and writer, and when they stretched out the songs and jammed with the two guitar army of White and McGuinn he was right there with them pushing it on. Michael Clarke had trouble keeping time.
Gram Parsons fan, myself. Honourable mention to Chris Hillman
Damn Joe, why you gotta diss on Roger’s glasses like that. Them shades were SLICK
Having met Clark, Crosby, Hillman and McGuinn and having communicated with the surviving ex-Byrds and associates over the past 30-plus years, I don't feel any need to rate them. Each had his strengths, they all contributed very unique songs and McGuinn, Crosby and Hillman all had unique approaches to their chosen instruments, as did latter-day Byrd Clarence White. The core also managed to bring in great talent: Gram Parsons, Hugh Masekela, Paul Beaver, Van Duke Parks, John York and Gene Parsons. Up until the very end, they managed to produce a body of work rarely equalled. They inspire every creative thing I do. Tom Robinson, ex-ByrdsOnline (BOAS)
11. Skip Battin: The only member to add negatively to the band. His songs are annoying and insufferable.
10. Kevin Kelley: He drummed on Sweetheart of the Rodeo, so he didn't do anything wrong, but was just kinda there.
9. John York: Wrote the third-best song about a dog in the band's history. That's... about it.
8. Michael Clarke: The best drummer the Byrds had was Hal Blaine.
7. Gene Parsons: Fine drummer, but a great songwriter and singer. I love his straightforward country vocal style on "Yesterday's Train" and "Gunga Din."
6. Gram Parsons: Just wasn't around long enough to rank higher.
5. Gene Clark: Was only there for two albums. Great songwriter and good vocalist, but just not long enough.
4. David Crosby: Some of his stuff went a bit far, and the best album is the one right after he left, but he was still a crucial member.
3. Clarence White: His guitar work really shines on those last few albums.
2. Chris Hillman: Fantastic bass player (Renaissance Faire, anyone?) but he's just as important to the invention of country rock as Gram Parsons.
1. Roger McGuinn: Not only was he a unique and innovative guitar player, but he has one of my favorite voices in all of music. His tracks are enjoyable, even on the weakest albums.
Clark and hillman are my favorite
this is hilarious... reminds me of when 100 parents are in the crowd at a little league game and cant agree if the score is 4-3 , or 5-3 , or even which team has the lead... then some parent will say, "I have it all on video" , but no one ever bothers to watch the video
I thought that breakdown was their tribute to the "Dolphin's Smile" in-studio argument from "Notorious Byrd Brothers." I kept waiting for Jason to whine about how he was just doing this for the money and Kramzer to say "c'mon man, just play better!"
@@billslocum9819 ahaha
I've always loved the horses ass and what he went on to accomplish with CN, CSN, CSNY, and just C. I have also come to appreciate the songwriting of Gene Clark. But I must say that I REALLY admire Chris Hillman. The man was a part of some amazing groups: The Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers, and Manassas.
Agreed. I actually prefer the Manassas debut to any Byrd's record.
Byrds has always been a fav of mine also and you trio guys doing a double vid take on The Byrds is very awesome ..They were a weird band because of the bizarre changes they had of different members and they are still remembered for their accomplishments and notoriety of even the not so good songs they had in the mix that many seem to end up enjoying anyways .. American Pastime is creeping in on me now as a bit likable. .Notorious Byrd Bros came out to be my fav a few years back also..We all know where the good stuff is ..
BYRDS: The early years: Only Mr.Tamborine Man and Turn! Turn! Turn! are relevant; today. McGuinn could have done them both without the other three, utilizing the Wrecking Crew and scale background vocalists. (Eight Miles High is relevant, but not in the overall scheme of this scenario). The 'So You Want to be a Rock and Roll Star' era: Crosby initiates psych-pop, and then exhibits his dark side; Hillman follows suit with more psych-pop and adds country-rock that introduces Clarence White (who ultimately replaced him) to the mix. The Performance Years: Hillman has stated that while with the Byrds (as well as the Flying Burrito Bros,) they were innovative in the studio, yet "shambolic" on stage. Mr. White corrected that flaw (at least for the Byrds).;
After Hillman left, I don't consider those guys to be Byrds, except for McGuin, or the music to be real Byrds music.
I'll second that. The Byrds ended for me after 'Sweetheart'.
I also agree with the comment that the expectation after 'NBBs' was yearning for more of the same.
In the UK we had only got hold of 'NBBs' album in the spring of 1968. Imagine how stunned we were when the Byrds strode onto the stage at the Albert Hall later in the summer with a new line-up and gave us tracks from 'Sweetheart' and some golden Byrd 'oldies'.
That they were now playing Country, didn't feel at all wrong, it was a surprise but not at all a bad one. They had already started down that road a way back.
I did notice that Jagger and Richards were in the audience, just behind where I was sitting, obviously there to see Gram Parsons.
I don't know, but I imagine it was one of the last times Gram played with the Byrds as they were off to S. Africa and he didn't go with the band.
'The Gilded Palace of Sin' followed a bit later, it has to be one of my all-time "greatest" from the ex-Byrds 'nest'.... and so many more followed on from that particular source. ❤❤❤
@@frankieelen7238 I don't think they were ever as good after Gene Clark left. Then Crosby. Then Hillman. Then no more Byrds at all really. Gene was a terrific songwriter and their best lead singer. Crosby was more of a harmony singer and McGuinn was never a strong singer in my humble Canadian opinion.
You hadn't noticed Chris Hillman's bass? Everybody's been burned? And McGuinn has to be number 1 just for playing that solo. As for the B-bender, Chris Hillman said White was better without it and he should know.
Y’all crack me up sometimes. Good to see you not taking yourselves too seriously. Kramzer should’ve just starting eating a Hoagie 😂✌️💜
Very enjoyable video, guys! And hey - those granny glasses were considered cool in 1966! :)
The Byrds before the Eagles! Once again Gene Clark fully on 3 Albums,
Gene Clark " No Other" is in my top 10 albums ever
It’s sooo gooooood. - Joe
Good editing job, Kram! I've mentioned before that we subcribers enjoy when you make one another laugh. You guys have been friends forever, so Please leave more goofs and laughs in the edits! Thanks.
Agreed ^^^
My favorite blue animal is the fabled and elusive Blue Meenie...
Gotta love Clarence White. Your video made me spin Royal Albert Hall 1971 just now which is just incredible courtesy of White (that Eight Miles High just rips). If he didnt die so young, he could've formed the greatest jam band of all time.
The debut is my favorite album, and Crosby is still by far my favorite member. Thanks for sharing guys.
I want more of these tired and emotional videos from you guys!
At first I was getting really annoyed by you guys but shortly later I started really enjoying this totally insane video. This was fun to watch.
Kram's Director's Cut remix is fascinating. I'm glad he left the two-minutes of arguing over which number you're on in.
I eagerly look forward to your "Ranking Every Member Of Captain & Tennile" video.
On a more serious note: Thanks gang for doing these videos. I'm now going to go listen to a bunch of albums by The Byrds.
SEE WHAT YOU DID??!!! Cheers!
The later Byrds were a rocking band live and all were good musicians.
Your best show yet . . . absolutely astutely hilarious!!!
Lol, heck of a video (loved the unedited behind the scenes bit) and heck of a week (one of my favorites, well done Joe)
Worthy of mention: Gene Parsons co-invented the B-bender with Clarence White and constructed it himself (and did co-write and sing "Yesterday's Train"); Hillman's bass playing was uniquely melodic (listen again, Joe), probably due to his having started out as a Bluegrass mandolin player. Overall: McGuinn's Rickenbacker and lead vocals, Crosby's harmonies and Hillman's bass-playing were the classic sound of the Byrds, just as Clarence's B-bender was the sound (and, as you say, the redeeming factor) of the latter-day Byrds, so leaving any of those four out of at least the top five Byrds is egregious. Caveat: if Gene Clark had stayed in The Byrds, his song-writing and vocals would likely have made him number 1 on the list. Bottom line: good on you guys for deep-diving on The Byrds.
I always felt that David Crosby had a great contribution to the band, I think it was him that arranged the harmonies within him, Roger, Gene & Chris. He learned a lot from hanging out with Brian Wilson.
yep , there seems to be alot of negativity towards crosby , and im fine with him on a musical level but he seems to be a tool , but who knows for sure? and shouldnt effect opinions musically. I like his work with the airplane. [ a fav band of mine] Cheers!
Should make a ranking of best Dylan covers of all time. #1 All Along the Watchtower, #2 Mr Tambourine Man.
'All Along The Watchtower'... do you mean the XTC cover? 😜
Hilarious video!
My favorite is Gene Clark, even though he was only with them briefly. If you haven’t heard his solo album No Other, check it out immediately. It’s incredible and one of the best of the early 70s country rock era. I like it more than most of the Byrds albums.
Agree 100%
you're right! I've got "No other" on CD and vinyl, i love it, at least in my top 20 albums ever
I saw Gene Clark live in LA just a few months before he died in 1991. A small venue and I was about 15 feet from him. His eyes were sunken and he looked emaciated. But damn....he put on a great show. Started solo acoustic and then was joined by a band consisting of 2 other people.
Yes, one of the greatest albums in any decade. On some days I even prefer White Light but my goodness, No Other stands alone and surprises me even now. I never thought it was overproduced like others say. It's a perfect 5 star album.
Came for the content, stayed for the utter confusion.
My number 1: Bob Dylan
😂 no doubt about it
@@threestringsomg… get a life
The only real disgrace about the Byrds is that their best drummer was a session man: Hal Blaine. :-/ Among the official ones, I prefer Gene Parsons.
My favorite Byrd members? Gene Clark and Gram Parsons as composers, David Crosby as a singer and rhythm guitarist, Roger "Jim" McGuinn as a guitarist (although Clarence White might be technically better, but I go with McGuinn in his inventive), Chris Hillman as bassist. I can't rank them, though. I think they are pretty well-balanced in their own merits. However, Gene Clark has an extra merit as a singer and, so, he's quite possibly my very favorite Byrd.
Gene Parsons sang and wrote "Yesterday's Train", "There Must Be Someone" and "Gunga Din". He released a couple of solo albums. He made a cover of a Phil Ochs song "My Kingdom for a Car" that is worth a listen. There are a couple of short video interview segments on RUclips, on one of them he tells a funny story about how John York got fired.
Gene Parsons did not write There Must Be Someone. It was written by Vern Gosdin. It also seems to be a track
with no Roger McGuinn contribution. Yesterday's Train was co written with Battin.,
No need to rank them. Each one of them is unique and great as solo artists but together, they wefe the best! You can not remove mcguinn or chris hillman or gene ,croz,michael clarke
I really enjoyed your Byrds week, guys. Cheers. This video is awesome and fun. Just like Joe, my number one is Gene Clarke as well, great songwriter. Chris Hillman a close second, Gram Parsons third. Never been much of a David Crosby fan. Funny thing with the Byrds is that they had a leader in Roger McGuinn who was by far not the most creative member of the band. Having said that, for better or worse, Roger McGuinn was the Byrds.
Fun video. What time was this recorded at? I was looking at Jason's clock thinking it was 2:40 AM, but then I realized his clock never moved.
It wasn’t that late. Maybe like 10 pm.
@@TastesLikeMusic i dont know how many videos it took me to realize jasons clock said the same time
You guys should definitely do this with Yes and Deep Purple members.
Gene Clark-White Light is my favorite album by an ex-Byrds member
Same...hauntingly beautiful.
1. Jim/Roger McGuinn
2. Chris Hillman
3. Gene Clark
4. Gram Parsons
5. Michael Clark
6. David Crosby
7. Clarence White *
8. Gene Parsons
9. Skip Battin
10. John York
11. Kevin Kelly
* Jason and Kram are delusional I tell you lol. White may have kept those albums from being a abysmally bad, but he didn’t contribute anything to any good album (except for Dr. Byrds & Mr. Hyde), so it’s not enough for him to make the top 5, much less #1.
Clarence White was as innovative as Jimi Hendrix. But to call him the most important member of the Byrds means you have no concept of what a band is. There are tens of thousands of guitar players, me included, that have attempted to play like Clarence White, but he was a guitar player who provided a sound and style. Bands need songs. Songs are the most important vehicle that carries a band. If Gene Clark was not in the band they may have languished as a one hit wonder. Roger is one of the greatest voices in Americana music history. Ever hear the great Tom Petty. He used McGuinn's voice and band as a template that resulted in his massive success. So, McGuinn/ Gene Clark, or Gene Clark /McGuinn are the most important Byrds. Personally, I would say Gene is number one because of my respect for the hundred songs of his that I have listened to. Hillman, the consummate pro, the adult in the room, the guy next door, has had the most consistent marvelous career, and I love and admire him more than any of the others but as a Byrd he should be number three. He had the vision to see that American music was going to be a mix of folk, rock, blues, and country, and without him 'Sweethearts' would never have been made. Clearly one of the architects of country rock, he also was the number two force in the great Stephen Stills' best band, Mannassas. He has also been credited with sending Gram Parsons to go listen to this young folkie singing in Washington named Emmylou Harris. Desert Rose, Chris and Herb, touring with Tony Rice and his brother, he made top shelf viable music until his recent retirement. Crosby's harmony singing, and arrangements including the use of counter melodies were innovative and are copied by all and the style is imperative in folk and country rock 60 years after MTM. He is a solid number four. Also check out the isolated rhythm guitars for Eight Miles High. His prowess at that time was underrated. Next at 5, Gram Parsons for his direction, then Clarence at 6. M Clark 7. Gene Parsons 8. Skip at 9 was a savage jammer. John York 10, and at 11, Kevin Kelly, although I recently noticed the change up in the drum beat of 'You Ain't Goin' during the chorus, which is an outstanding nuance. I cannot be sure however if he did actually play this part or whether it was a ghost studio drummer. Incidentally I just recorded a record of Gene Clark songs with musical compatriot Pete Mancini which was released recently on Paradiddle Records. Check it out please. The album is called 'Silent Troubadour.'
Listening now. Good stuff! - Joe
Nobody loves Clarence White more than Ido, but # 1 member of The Byrds when he wasn’t even a twinkle in anyone’s eye when The Byrds were actually The Byrds?! You guys are off the wall of your own creation. That would be like choosing Billy Preston as your favorite Beatle. The iconic gender creating sound of the initial lineup/albums was for the most part driven by McGuinn’s unusual guitar sound/style/pacing along with his complimentary vocalizations, whether you liked or were annoyed by that fact. Without Mcguinn, The Byrds would not have had anywhere near the unique sound & influence they had. Maybe you had to be there , which, at 72 years of age now, I was. Back to my original thoughts on the matter, White was certainly the main attraction during their later years, but that was when they were The Byrds in name only.
Best Side 3 so far.
4.5 stars.
Jeez guys. I though you all were too young to be having senior moments! Some random comments. In a very recent interview with David Crosby, he said he considers McGuinn to have been 50% of the talent in the Byrds. I can't imagine not putting him at #1 on the list though I don't disagree with some of your criticisms of him including less than consistent, stellar songwriting. The unsung hero? I think you all nailed it with the high ranking of Chris Hillman. Clarence White was phenomenal on guitar and clearly elevated a mediocre period for the Byrds. Gram Parsons was a great shot in the arm for the Byrds as he successfully convinced McGuinn to go all in on the country direction. I also agree with downgrading Crosby. His contributions were fairly mediocre except for his excellent harmony vocals. The most forgotten talent would have to be Gene Clark who was a great songwriter from day one when nobody else was writing. Overall, an interesting list with some good criticisms. As for Joe's comment on the McGuinn glasses, all I can say is you had to there!
Yeh Gene Clark #1 for sure. A Glolden voice, incomparable stage presence and arguably the greatest song writer of all time, with Dylan himself putting him amongst the top.
Joe knowing the solo work of Gene Clark helps arrive at the correct answer. Having White as number 1 is a hoot. Funny video but please anyone who doesn't know Clark's other work don't wait. I'm kicking myself for not discovering it sooner. White Light and No Other are stunning. I understand your obsession Joe.
White Light is an amazing album. From the cover to the beautifully crafted music. The sparse production helps focus on Gene's haunting lyrics.
You should have done this member ranking for the White Stripes
We really got to see how the sausage was made in this episode lol
11. Kevn Kelley - I don't even think he drummed on Sweetheart - pretty sure it was session guys. Edit: he did play on Sweetheart. But it was just one album. RIP
10. Skip Battin - Was in the act Skip and Flip before joining the Byrds. Certainly part of the "great live act" that they were in their later years, but something of a goofball overall. RIP
9. John York - Wasn't in the band very long, and didn't really stand out.
8. Gene Parsons - This isn't really fair of me, since he was the best drummer they had, but it was in the not-great period.
7. Michael Clarke - He was terrible live, but his stuff on the first four albums (often after many takes, lol) was fine. As I said in the other videos, his drumming on their two best songs ("Turn!x3" and "8MH") is actually quite inspired. RIP
6. Gram Parsons - Love Gram Parsons outside of the Byrds (even the International Submarine Band stuff is pretty good). Hate what he did to the Byrds (Kram hit the nail on the head - more NBB-type stuff would have been great if they had developed along those lines, especially if they had gotten White into the band then to replace Cros immediately, instead of having Gram steal Hillman). Sweetheart was extremely influential, but not a great record in itself. His two songs and his vocals are definitely the best thing about that album. RIP
5. Clarence White - Although Kram and Jason are inspiring me to sit through at least the first three post-Sweetheart albums again soon to listen specifically for his playing. RIP
4. Chris Hillman - I get the feeling that all three of you kind of miss the point with Hillman. He took inspiration for his bass-playing style with the Byrds from Larry Knechtel's great work on "Mr. Tambourine Man." Listen to those first five albums again, just for the bass work. He wasn't McCartney, but he provided excellent "humming bass lines" throughout, and on a few tracks, what he chooses to play is absolutely fantastic. Before White joined, he was the band's second-most important instrumentalist by far. I am not as enamored with his Younger Than Yesterday tracks as many are - they're pretty good, but "So You Want to Be a Rock 'n' Roll Star" with McGuinn is the best songwriting credit for him on that album by a pretty big margin for me - and he's a somewhat stiff lead singer (even on the Burrito Brothers stuff, but **everyone** sounds bad next to Gram), but I love his songwriting on NBB, and his harmony singing on those two albums.
3. David Crosby - My top three are the three who started it all. Crosby's ego, loud mouth, and contentiousness (and occasional goofiness, i.e. the embarrassing version of "Hey Joe," the awful "Mind Gardens," and the lyrics to "Triad") were a problem. However, he's the architect of their harmonies, inspired the Coltrane/Shankar influence on "Eight Miles High" and his own composition "Why," and wrote some great songs for the group - "Everybody's Been Burned," the aforementioned "Why," "Renaissance Fair," "Draft Morning," "Gathering of Tribes," "Lady Friend," "It Happens Each Day," and "Dolphin's Smile." I find his work with CSNY, and to a lesser degree his solo work, to be quite disappointing in comparison. He was also a huge D-word to Gene Clark, and by far most responsible for Gene's decision to leave, which made the Byrds a far lesser band over the next three albums (and they were **great** during that time) than they would have been otherwise.
2. Jim/Roger McGuinn (Byrds fans usually just say "McGuinn," and once again, it's "McGwin") - Didn't put down the best instrument in rock until occasionally doing so from Sweetheart onward. His 12-string work alone earns him a huge place in rock history. The Byrds as they turned out on the first album were largely his vision. Not so enamored of his Dylan imitations and his songwriting, but he was the architect.
1. Gene Clark - He wasn't "just on the first two albums" - he wrote "Eight Miles High," their best song, and sang on that and "Why," and of course he was the A-gamer on the reunion album. His songwriting while he was in the band was fantastic, very well able to rival the Dylan and Seeger covers they were doing, and his singing and overall presence was huge. RIP
Re-ranking the top 6 based on the composite of their work with the band combined with their work outside it:
6. White
5. Crosby
4. Hillman
3. McGuinn
1-2. A tie between Gram and Gene Clark.
It was Kevin, his pedigree as a drummer was actually good albeit under the radar, Gene Parsons was very complimentary about his predecessors ability . Rumours abound as to whether Jim Gordon drummed on some of 'notorious'.
11. John York
10. Skip Battin
9. Michael Clarke
8. Kevin Kelley
7. Gene Parsons
6. David Crosby (totally agree with Jason, in fact spent his whole career as the weakest link in great bands)
5. Gram Parsons
4. Chris Hillman
3. Gene Clark
2. Clarence White (sings my favorite Byrds song)
1a. Roger McGuinn
1 Jim McGuinn
Joe’s takes are always the best lol
Gene Clark hands down for me, then David Crosby.As far as you guys I think you're great, you gel well together like a proper team
For the next video we will rank the members of Listography...Who wants to start?
That’s like ranking the kids.
@@mikemauzey3996 Well, you hit on an interesting point. I know every channel needs its content to stay afloat but I view it as rather silly to be ranking band members of any band as each brings their own stamp to the proceedings. There are many music channels here on YT with informative and educational content that do a much better job at expressing their dislikes in a manner that wouldn't insult the bands, artists or their fans and that's the main reason I only check in here sporadically now and, in this instance, my love for The Byrds.
Really like this new section, ranking members of bands, great👍
this is like abbott and costello " who's on first"
Hillman is definitely cool, but there are no Byrds without McGuinn’s soaring Rickenbacker 12 string, his eclectic cover choices and passion for sci-fi and psychedelia. 5D has it all in one stellar song. Eight Miles High is stunning modern rock. Hillman wrote two fantastic songs on Younger Than Yesterday, but mostly just played bass up until then, and got really good on it by the time YTY and NBB rolled around. But Crosby was also writing awesome songs toward the end of his Byrds tenure, too. Lady Friend is gorgeous. Everybody’s Been Burned is hypnotic and so Crosby. Draft Morning and Change is Now are two of the standout tracks on Byrd Bros., despite being fired from the band he co-founded. Like Joe said, Gene Clark was the best writer in the Byrds, making their first two albums so memorable, with a folky melancholy and gorgeous melodies. I Knew I’d Want You and I’ll Feel a Whole Lot Better and Here Without You from the debut, and The World Turns All Around Her and Set You Free This Time from the Turn Turn Turn LP defined the band’s original lyrical and melodic direction right from takeoff. It was a shame that personal demons and fear of flying short-circuited his contributions and longevity in the Byrds. None of the other three were on his level as a writer or singer. I’d have to rate him #1, with McGuinn #2, Crosby just edging Hillman out for #3 (mainly due to his great harmony singing). Hillman at #4, and producers Terry Melcher and Gary Usher tied for the honorary 5th Byrd. They took a raw and inexperience band and created a majestic sound for 6 magical albums.
Excellent summary. Agree about Gene being #1. There was "No Other" choice....
Has anyone heard the bonus "track" on the Notorious Byrd Bros CD featuring Crosby berating Michael Clarke for his lack of drumming chops? It's horrendous.
Yeah. That was something hey:)
Yeah. Crosby picking on the drummer, blissfully unaware that the axe is gonna land on his neck in the nearness of future...
You survived the Frey mob, now you’re getting brave enough against an army of angry drummers…
My top 11
11. Michael Clark-hired for his looks, became a good drummer later on.
10. Kevin Kelley-Pretty good drummer, wrote and sang "All I have are memories", a personal fav.
9. John York- Pretty good singer, Bassist and songwriter. On 2 records.
8. David Crosby- an OG, became big later on, did a lot to make the psychedelic byrds interesting.
7. Skip Battin- Monster Bassist and pretty decent singer songwriter.
6. Gene Parsons- Great multi instrumentalist and songwriter. Wish they had cut more of his tunes.
5. Gram Parsons- only on one record, shortest serving member, Helped pushed to country music. Great singer-songwriter.
4. Chris Hillman- the OG country byrd and a great musician and songwriter. 1/2 of the musical heart of the first incarnation.
3. Gene Clark- One of the founding 2. Great singer and songwriter, only on 3 records.
2.Clarence White- Best musican to ever be in the band all around. Revolutionized acoustic and electric guitar. 2nd longest serving member.
1. Roger McGuinn- Great musician. Founded the band with Gene, 1/2 of the musical hearts of both the first and 2nd incarnations. only consistent member. Best songwriting was with Jacque Levy imo.
I really disagree about the later Byrds. They're my favorite band and who I think of when I think Byrds.
Side three never disappoints!
I like Joe's list. I'll adopt that one.
This doesn’t have to do with the byrds but I wanted to know your opinion on Ween and if you might do a listography on them?
Someday. I personally have no opinion on them yet. - Joe
It's crows for me every time. Very entertaining video!
Spooky!
I sort of agree with both Joe and Jason. I do not rate his Byrds time that highly but he is still my favourite Byrd, purely on the back of the fact that No Other must rank as one of the top 10 albums of the 70s.
Love this idea please do this with ever band you u do
I grew up in the 60's and The Byrds were one of my top 5 bands. Loved the early stuff the best and I HATED the country stuff as a teen and those feelings stuck.
11. Kevin Kelley
10. Skip Battin
9. John York
8. Gene Parsons
7. Gram Parsons (more name confusion I had as a teen...Jim McGuinn vs Roger McGuinn and Michael Clarke vs Gene Clark)
6. Clarence White (his invention of the string bender was awesome)
5. Michael Clarke (got better and better...listen to 8 Miles high)
4. Chris Hillman (solid bass player and wrote some good tunes)
3. David Crosby (Bombastic narcissist with the silver tongue. But his high harmonies gave the early stuff magic)
2. Roger McGuinn (his Rickenbacker 12 string along with Crosby's high harmonies made The Byrds soar...very iconic. But his "crime" was dragging The Byrds name thru the country road mud. Should have renamed the band)
1. Gene Clark (best singer and best songwriter and he wrote my favorite Byrds song 8 Miles High. But...the only Byrd who literally was too scared to fly)
Dang, what ball busting producer has you guys recording these hour after hour?? The confusion is REAL!! 😀
For me, and I can only speak from myself, McGuinn is 1. White is 2, Hillman 3, Gene Clark 4, Crosby 5 Gram Parsons 6 and Gene Parsons 7, primarily for creating the B-bender for Clarence. No small contribution!
The other guys I can't really rate.
Gram was important, although he was in the band for less than a year.
The Byrds took that country road right till McGuinn folded it up in 73.
Such a shame that Clarence died just a few months later. White did not want the Byrds to end. Maybe they would have done more in the later 70's if fate had not been so cruel. Maybe Roger lost heart in trying after his Guitar Ace was gone.
Wasn’t it David Crosby who tweeted “meh” in response to the announcement of Eddie Van Halen’s death? Automatic last place.
The impression I get of David Crosby is that he's kind of a dick. I don't believe any of the members of CSNY are on speaking terms with him, and he just trolls on Twitter.
@@edgustafson Not to mention he looks like a damn walrus.
didnt know he said that about eddie [ a icon], wow what a total tool!!
@@bengalgangster Yes, even if he wasn't a fan, it's still a classless thing to say.
Just Crosby being Crosby.
I always get a little excited when I see a blue jay in my yard, they are pretty great.
Hell yeah!
i used to have a oriole feeder in my yard and they are awesome . Used to get yellow ones , which you dont see as much
Crows at dawn are my favourite...
John York should get some credit for writing Gunga Din.
He didn't. Gene Parsons wrote it, sang it, and played most of the instruments too.
I just checked out the Eagles band member rankings.. it didn't disappoint! Can I suggest (and I know you are fans) you do a Beach Boys band member ranking at some stage? Don't know about you but I'm ranking that bitter and twisted old Republican Mike Love pretty low!
Wins Most Hilarious Listography!
You've probably come across this video about Clarence White's B-Bender Telecaster before, or something similar, but here's a pretty cool video with Marty Stuart about it.
ruclips.net/video/r8H08Xs_w8A/видео.html
It got real deep around 25:30 mark.
That Ranking the Eagles Members video has more views than your actual Eagles Ranked list. And man, so much hate towards you guys in the comments of that video. Which is pretty funny considering that Kram was way harsher on Glenn Frey in the actual Eagles album ranking video.
Gene Clark, Chris Tillman and David Crosby are my favourite members of the Byrds. Dunno how I'd rank the rest. Gram Parsons and Clarence White would be pretty high too.
Clark, Crosby, Hillman and Parsons did their best work outside of The Byrds. Crosby, Clark and Parsons all had solo albums that were better than any of The Byrds albums IMO. This was fun. Thanks for leaving in all the messy stuff. ✌🏻
Appreciate the video, insightful and entertaining as always. For me, ranking members would have to include their contributions to the history of the band regardless of whether they were original members or not. I would take a little issue with not including members in the top 5 only because they weren’t original members. Going that route, you wouldn’t be able to include Lindsay Buckingham or Stevie Nicks in the top 5 of Fleetwood Mac members, Brian Johnson out of contention for top 5 AC/DC, or most shockingly you’d have to put Neil Peart behind John Rutsey in a Rush members ranking. Sacrilegious.
ranking flying animals: the sequel
My number 1 is Gene Clark too. Please do the same material with The Beatles :)
I have to speak up for Skip Battin. I would agree that his songwriting didn't fit the Byrds, but his bass playing on some of their live recordings is some funky shit. As a member of the Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers and New Riders of the Purple Sage, he has a strong pedigree. I very much like his solo records, away from the Byrds his vaudevillian songwriting works much better.
Gene Parsons also deserves some credit for inventing Clarence White's B Bender guitar, and his solo albums are strong country rock records. Also, his earlier work with Gib Guilbeau is rather fine.
Interesting listings.
Chaos reigns😵
Was that the bloopers reel?
Lol this video is my mood right now, need to do more work but just can't.
Anyway, here's my ranking of members on albums I'm familiar with (sorry not enough exposure to rank Clarence White et al.)
1- Chris Hillman
2- Gene Clark
3- David Crosby
4- Gram Parsons
5- Roger McGuinn
6- Kevin Kelley
7- Michael Clarke
gram parsons is my number 1 ,but mostly his outside music., which im getting into alot now , is the reason for my choice
You might want to give Gene Clark's work a try, like "No Other", "The Fantastic Expedition of Dillard and Clark" and "So Rebellious A Lover" with Carla Olson.
Very funny.
11) Skip Battin- Excellent Bassist, but a mediocre Byrd. Nonetheless RIP Skip.
10) Gene Parsons - excellent drummer, talented singer but mediocre Byrd. I feel that if Gregg Allman had hired him and Skip Battin, they might have done something interesting, as they are more southern rock style musicians, Mcguinn, on the other hand, is not. I don't think the Gene Parsons/Skip Battin era Byrds sounds like shit because of lack of talent, but rather because of their lack of chemistry with Mcguinn
9) Kevin Kelly - Despite people thinking of him as a temp who was solely hired because he was Chris Hillman's cousin and just happened to play drums, he was actually a pretty adequate drummer Before joining the Byrds, he was a member of the Blues/Folk rock band "The rising suns." He was the only Byrd to come out of a rock and blues background rather than Bluegrass or folk. As Roger Mcguinn himself has stated, Kevin Kelly's drumming and musical background is what made Sweetheart of the Rodeo Country Rock rather the straight Country. RIP Kevin!
8) John York- Much like Clarence White, he was good friends with the Byrds before even becoming an official member, plus he's the only Byrd to join post Crosby who actually understood what the Byrds were about, being a veteran of the LA scene himself, touring with bands like the Mamas and the Papas. He also started a band with Gene Clark in the 80s called CRY. He seems like an extremely down to earth kind of dude, and he's extremely humble too.
7) Clarence White - He's like the Jimi Hendrix of Country Rock. Unfortunately, he just happened to join the band at their all-time low point. RIP Clarence
6) Michael Clark- I actually like his style of drumming
5) Gram Parsons - I despise country music, but I'll give credit where it's due. He helped reinvent country music and break down the huge genre dividing walls between the country world and the rock world. RIP Gram!
4) David Crosby - He's a talented rhythm guitarist, incorporating elements of jazz and R&B into his style. He's probably the best harmony singer to come out of the USA during the 60s. Unfortunately, he was a huge dick. Nonetheless, RIP Dave
3) Chris Hillman- I'm not a huge fan of country music at all, but I love Chris Hillman's bass playing technique, and he's also a very talented songwriter. He saved the Byrds from utter failure after Gene Clark left.
2) Roger Mcguinn- I mean, his unique style of guitar playing influenced everyone from George Harrison to Johnny Marr and many others. If Roger Mcguinn wouldn't have been around REM and Tom Petty wouldn't either.
1)Gene Clark-The tortured soul, he had the true mind of an artist, but like many artists before him and after him, he was well set on the path of self destruction. RIP Gene! You truly are and forever will be a legend. #Noother
My opinion of Roger McGuinn was greatly increased with his fantastic cover of Dylan's "Up to Me" from a Dylan tribute album in 2005: ruclips.net/video/p-42Z-fpK_A/видео.html
Clarence white was brilliant!!!