I am, without question, THE biggest EWF fan on the planet!!! And I am brutally critical of any band that attempts to compare to OR cover their material. But these guys have sincerely earned my humble respect. Just WOW!
Yes I love their story… the term music is universal really holds true right here. Their story is amazing as a former session keyboardist I listen to some great music and I’ve never heard a tribute band this good in my life…. A friend turned me onto them a while back. I can’t never stop listening to them….
All of the great bands from that great music era of the 70s are getting much older. We are so lucky to have Leonid and Friends to continue to carry the “torch” into the next generation. Hopefully, they all will be able to stay together. Yes, it does bring tears to your eyes!
If you liked this cover, you should check out Leonid & Friends cover classic Chicago cuts. Mind-blowing. I have yet to hear a cover band anywhere on the planet equal to this group and here's why: First, keep in mind that they are half a world away, both geographically and culturally. Yet they are able to interpret not merely chords, arrangements, vocals, phrasing, etc. They flawlessly interpret the essense of the selections, the mood of the times, the subtleties and meaning of the verses to an astonishing degree. Their artistry extends way beyond mere musical talent. They are unique because of their ability to interpret the cultural, social, and environmental influences that helped shape these great songs in the first place, half a world away.
God this band is so incredible bravo bravo. Thank you Maurice for bringing this music for all us to enjoy RIP BROTHER .....RIP. And yes I too get a lump in my throat when listening
Man, Daniil absolutely NAILED it! That's a hard line to sing at the end, but Daniil slayed it...the whole band is just incredible! I would LOVE to meet these guys, maybe someday...
The is now the definitive cover version of this hit song, for I believe if you close your eyes you would swear it was actually EWF and the amazing vocals of Philip Bailey taking us on a "fantasy" journey.
They are a great band, no doubt about it. But, honestly, he doesn’t really sound that much like Phillip Bailey to me. I actually think he sounds more like Eddie Kendricks or a mix between the two. If I was listening to the music with no video, I would think that at least SOME the same musicians were involved and that a great falsetto singer was involved but not actually Phillip Bailey! Bailey is really in a class by himself.. And he sings whistle register when he sings this song live. Which takes it up to an absolutely unbelievable freakishly good level. Go type in to hood and listen to EWF song called “Mighty Mighty” and listen to Phillip Baileys soaring falsetto/whistle register toward the end, he’s a stone cold FREAK OF NATURE! Phillip Bailey is in a class all by himself.. trust me on that.
I've been watching these guys for over a year now. When I first heard them they totally blew my mind. Bringing so many artists together who are at the top of their game. Just, well wow !!!!!!!!!! It's like listening to honey, it makes my ears, heart and mind feel soooooo good.
I got to 5' 26'' and suffered with the same emotional reaction as you HarriBest. I have tears of joy in my eyes. They are phenomenally excellent. I just discovered them this week. If you haven't already, see EW&F In The Stone by Leonid and Friends, Also Chaka's Ain't Nobody. You'll be shedding buckets of tears as to how good these guys really are
I LOVE seeing Harri Best's reaction. I feel the same way listening to Leonid and Friends. Leonid and Friends are just INCREDIBLE. LOVE this group. Insanely good,
Harri, dear- you are the ONLY top reactor listening to this amazing band. You’re musical taste is the best!!!!! I can’t Believe that Danil can do both Maurice AND Phillip!!! I hope they’ll come to the UK. I was so lucky to see them here in California. ❤😊
This cover just CRUSHES me to the core. It is over the top good, so many layers of lushness and individual expression from every player. Simply magnificent musicianship!
I'm 68, English, UK and still love anything and everything by EW & F (which was in my age group in my heyday!), but this is the best modern day cover ever; especially since they cover more than one tune, as well other artiists apparently; and Oleg's sax solo's are just amazing, there is simply no one band who has done this better in my personal view!
I am amazed at this Group. I sent a message to my Good Friend Myron McKinley of Earth Wind & Fire. I told him your still my all time favorite Group, But these Guys are a close second. The orchestra really adds to their performance. But over all fantastic.
I've never heard anything like what this incredible group of musicians puts out. I understand that they're some of the best pop musicians in Russia, but the phenomenal talent devoted to covers is amazing!
They may all be Russian now but they were not. Serge co founder is Ukrainian, and Sergey is Moldovan. They have both left and it's said for family etc. In truth I think the reasoning goes deeper and may just come from governments and they can not say that of course.
Hi Harri, Thank you for doing my request. I'm happy to have shared it with you. I will be seeing these guys for the 5th time on June 15th. I hope that you have the opportunity to see them one day. Realize that when you acknowledge the bassist, that is the great Leonid himself: the musical genius that makes this magic possible! - Brooklyn Mike
It's interesting you mentioned the bassist... who is Leonid, the founder/leader of this group, and also happens to be responsible for transcribing (recreating the musical parts) from the original arrangement, as well as being the sound mixer and mastering engineer! I don't believe I've ever heard a musician/recording engineer this capable of recreating a beloved recording so faithfully.
When he started the band, he first arranged many Chicago hits WITH NO ORIGINAL SCORES! He did it by EAR! He/they were so good that Chicago even put a link to them on their website and Chicago's drummer sat in with them during a live performance!
Even on the junk audio format that YT provides it sounds great. The "Does Anybody Know What Time it IS" audio capture is phenomenal, especially the horns.
They've also given us something we didn't know we needed: an up close view of how incredibly talented Chicago and EWF are. Something about seeing it played..
Love,love, love it. How many times have I listened and still get the chills from this AMAZING sound... Thank you... It is to good for words...Peace to the world.
I'm a 66 year old man from London, I tear up every time I hear this band especialy when they do ewf covers, it takes me back to a time when the world was a more pleasant place to be....👍
My favorite Earth, Wind and Fire song! They sound just like the original. If I was only listening to the audio and hadn't watched the video, I would have assumed it was EWF.
Leonid and Friends don't play -- around! If you're going to do a cover, take notes watching these guys and gals. They knocked it out of the park, Michael - thanks to you and Harri!
to soak your soul in these sounds is way beyond beautiful, from their very first post to what will , one day, be their very last note, I will enjoy [ROCK ON
I agree 100% I found this amazing group as along time Chicago Fan L&F preformed at a our local venue I was blown away by thier performance. As a bonus they added EWF and Steely Dan to thier set list. I felt like I was in Heaven! As a former musician Drummer/Percussionist I attend many many venues. The best by far was Chicago/EWF tour.L&F brought me back to that day! I close my eyes and feel the music that hits my soul. Keep the music alive my friend! I enjoyed your comments and sharing the emotion!
Someone else left to He went back to Ukraine to help his family. They were effected by the war. ☹️ I think it was the guy who sang most of Chicago songs
@@mazie7952 Serge Tiagnyriadno was their lead singer. He lived in Ukrain. Many of his recordings were done from there. The war made it impossible for him to continue.
Kay, it was both of those songs that were my introduction to L&R. I have had the privilege to see them 3 times. I'm missing them this year as they are touring the East coast right now, but they are truly the best!
Harry, that was amaizing performance by Leonids and friends ambeliveable, How can they sound só presize and recreat that peace of unique pearl of music by Earth Wind and Fire, thank you man to present on social mídia now and for the future genration to come, what real music sounds like.
Great reaction. Like so many other songs they've played to perfection, they sure nailed this one as well. These guys are so ultra talented it's ridiculous. The fact they do covers to actual "reaL' music from back in the day is so refreshing, Grew up listenong to EW&F, Chicago, etc. and having these iconic songs brought back to perfection in today's age is stunning. Simply unreal.
I first heard Leonid & Friends a few yrs ago when I was introduced to them by one of my brothers. THEY ARE PHENOMENAL. I dont know how to dance, but if I did, I'd dance to them, playing Fantasy, with my lady.
Harri, your heart was captured. These are some of the finest musicians in the world. The leader has given them the magic and joy of EWF’s very complex song.
![American reacts to Posts That Prove American's Think That Only They Exist [part 2]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/KZ_wRzra8yo/mqdefault.jpg)
I am, without question, THE biggest EWF fan on the planet!!! And I am brutally critical of any band that attempts to compare to OR cover their material. But these guys have sincerely earned my humble respect. Just WOW!
I totally get it!!!
I totally AGREE! Best cover of anyone I’ve ever heard! 🎯🎊🎉🙂
Leonid has a great talent. He gets the best musicians and singers in Russia and Ukraine to perform in this fabulous group Leonid & Friends❤
They're from Russia and Ukraine??? So wonderful, and life affirming!
Yes I love their story… the term music is universal really holds true right here. Their story is amazing as a former session keyboardist I listen to some great music and I’ve never heard a tribute band this good in my life…. A friend turned me onto them a while back. I can’t never stop listening to them….
Music as it was and should be.
Absolutely beautiful band that makes you smile.
"The strings take you to heaven". Superb!
The vocals at the end by Danil Buranov are one of the best performances I've even heard.
Omg can’t stop watching it
THIS IS THE BEST BAND IN THE WORLD ,, end of ....Conan UK
PLEASE bring this style of music back. SO SO SO SO SO SO good.
I can't say enough good things about this band. The energy, the happiness, the tightness....best cover of EWF there is.
All of the great bands from that great music era of the 70s are getting much older. We are so lucky to have Leonid and Friends to continue to carry the “torch” into the next generation. Hopefully, they all will be able to stay together. Yes, it does bring tears to your eyes!
Le meilleur groupe j’adore j’ai 60ans j’ai l’impression de les écouter pour la première fois c’est fantastique unique
And the video makes it even more fun!
Excelentes músicos dsd San Luis, Argentina 🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷
It makes me teary too because all the musicians are so excellent. Leonid is a musical genius. L&M captures all the soul of EWF.
Totalmente de acuerdo, tienen muuuuy buenos covers que nos capturan el alma.
The group needs their own show...
They already have their own show. Come see them on tour!
@@wandasmith3038 They have their videos and concert tours
Wow! I didn't think anyone could cover this song but man, they nailed the vocals. Very impressive!!
Русские ребята, браво!
@@ВинтикиШпунтик-я6т В России есть величайшие музыканты, особенно Серджио Рахмонинов!!
@@ВинтикиШпунтик-я6т ruclips.net/video/t5QpqrEFj0o/видео.html
If you liked this cover, you should check out Leonid & Friends cover classic Chicago cuts. Mind-blowing. I have yet to hear a cover band anywhere on the planet equal to this group and here's why: First, keep in mind that they are half a world away, both geographically and culturally. Yet they are able to interpret not merely chords, arrangements, vocals, phrasing, etc. They flawlessly interpret the essense of the selections, the mood of the times, the subtleties and meaning of the verses to an astonishing degree. Their artistry extends way beyond mere musical talent. They are unique because of their ability to interpret the cultural, social, and environmental influences that helped shape these great songs in the first place, half a world away.
If an alien came to our planet and asked, “Earthling, what is music?” Just play this!
My thought was similar, but instead for someone from 100 years ago....
Absolutely incredible 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
What's amazing is their tempo is ALWAYS SPOT ON!
My jaw just drops with every new offering from L&F, especially the ones from EWF and Chicago and I totally enjoy your reactions to each one, Harri.
They also do Steely Dan! Check out My Old School- it’s phenomenal!
@@TheDivayenta love it.
Their drummer is world class.
Close your eyes and dance, perfect and amazing.
THEY DON'T DISAPPOINT. Leonid & Friends are excellent, outstanding, delightful.
This group one of the best group of the world i love you lionid n' friends....❤❤❤ i'm from Srilanka 🇱🇰 🇱🇰 🇱🇰
realy true musicians, incredibel stuff 👍
Insanely Incredible sound. The highest level talent possible. Could listen to this continuously forever.
God this band is so incredible bravo bravo. Thank you Maurice for bringing this music for all us to enjoy RIP BROTHER .....RIP. And yes I too get a lump in my throat when listening
Man, Daniil absolutely NAILED it! That's a hard line to sing at the end, but Daniil slayed it...the whole band is just incredible! I would LOVE to meet these guys, maybe someday...
The is now the definitive cover version of this hit song, for I believe if you close your eyes you would swear it was actually EWF and the amazing vocals of Philip Bailey taking us on a "fantasy" journey.
His voice *does* have an uncanny resemblance, agreed. Intonation and rhythm are spot on.
Are you sure it's not EW&F? 😂
Amazing!
@@kmach1000 I had to listen REALLY closely...for a mo, I thought they were lip syncing😊!
@@kellyhoward6941 True! 😆
They are a great band, no doubt about it. But, honestly, he doesn’t really sound that much like Phillip Bailey to me. I actually think he sounds more like Eddie Kendricks or a mix between the two.
If I was listening to the music with no video, I would think that at least SOME the same musicians were involved and that a great falsetto singer was involved but not actually Phillip Bailey!
Bailey is really in a class by himself.. And he sings whistle register when he sings this song live. Which takes it up to an absolutely unbelievable freakishly good level. Go type in to hood and listen to EWF song called “Mighty Mighty” and listen to Phillip Baileys soaring falsetto/whistle register toward the end, he’s a stone cold FREAK OF NATURE!
Phillip Bailey is in a class all by himself.. trust me on that.
Fantastic performance. Boy oh boy.
Incredible. Love your reviews❤I saw them live last September. Jaw dropping performance.😁
I've been watching these guys for over a year now. When I first heard them they totally blew my mind. Bringing so many artists together who are at the top of their game. Just, well wow !!!!!!!!!! It's like listening to honey, it makes my ears, heart and mind feel soooooo good.
7:58 I loved your standing ovation!
Love your natural expression that you reacted to the band.
I got to 5' 26'' and suffered with the same emotional reaction as you HarriBest. I have tears of joy in my eyes. They are phenomenally excellent. I just discovered them this week. If you haven't already, see EW&F In The Stone by Leonid and Friends, Also Chaka's Ain't Nobody. You'll be shedding buckets of tears as to how good these guys really are
Absolutely nuts!! FANTASTIC
I LOVE seeing Harri Best's reaction. I feel the same way listening to Leonid and Friends. Leonid and Friends are just INCREDIBLE. LOVE this group. Insanely good,
Harri, dear- you are the ONLY top reactor listening to this amazing band. You’re musical taste is the best!!!!! I can’t Believe that Danil can do both Maurice AND Phillip!!! I hope they’ll come to the UK. I was so lucky to see them here in California. ❤😊
I saw them in Columbus Ohio and a great concert it was.
Best. Dam cover band of everyone’s originals you will ever hear!!! Fantastic band !!
These guys are stunning! Best cover group on the planet. Every one of their songs are worth checking out...
Как прекрасно поют эти русские. Они и Штатах поют великолепно на английском языке. Респект
They are amazing!!
This cover just CRUSHES me to the core. It is over the top good, so many layers of lushness and individual expression from every player. Simply magnificent musicianship!
SO GLAD you discovered these guys!!!! They are INCREDIBLE!!!
Don’t think anyone can do an EWF cover better than these guy and gals ❤❤❤❤
I'm 68, English, UK and still love anything and everything by EW & F (which was in my age group in my heyday!), but this is the best modern day cover ever; especially since they cover more than one tune, as well other artiists apparently; and Oleg's sax solo's are just amazing, there is simply no one band who has done this better in my personal view!
One of the BEST covers my ears have EVER heard!
GREAT MUSICIANS HAVE A GREAT EAR & CAN CARRY THE VERY ENERGY OF THE MUSIC THE REPRODUCE! BRILLIANT - LEONID & FRIENDS!!👏👏👏👏
Danil absolutely nails the vocal! WOW!
What an excellent choice, this band is just fantastic. Thanks Michael and I have a feeling Harri liked it too. 😉
Hi Cynthia, Thank you; I'm happy to have been able to share it with you! - Brooklyn Mike
Love them🎉❤🎉
I am amazed at this Group. I sent a message to my Good Friend Myron McKinley of Earth Wind & Fire. I told him your still my all time favorite Group, But these Guys are a close second. The orchestra really adds to their performance. But over all fantastic.
I've never heard anything like what this incredible group of musicians puts out. I understand that they're some of the best pop musicians in Russia, but the phenomenal talent devoted to covers is amazing!
They may all be Russian now but they were not. Serge co founder is Ukrainian, and Sergey is Moldovan. They have both left and it's said for family etc. In truth I think the reasoning goes deeper and may just come from governments and they can not say that of course.
They are Russian and Ukrainians working together.
They are not known in Russia. There are almost no comments in Russian under their videos on RUclips.
I want 2 marry /all of them is just how much i luv themmmm !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111111111
These guys know they are killing it and by the look on their faces they know they are making history
Hi Harri, Thank you for doing my request. I'm happy to have shared it with you. I will be seeing these guys for the 5th time on June 15th. I hope that you have the opportunity to see them one day. Realize that when you acknowledge the bassist, that is the great Leonid himself: the musical genius that makes this magic possible! - Brooklyn Mike
Thank you Michael
It's interesting you mentioned the bassist... who is Leonid, the founder/leader of this group, and also happens to be responsible for transcribing (recreating the musical parts) from the original arrangement, as well as being the sound mixer and mastering engineer! I don't believe I've ever heard a musician/recording engineer this capable of recreating a beloved recording so faithfully.
When he started the band, he first arranged many Chicago hits WITH NO ORIGINAL SCORES! He did it by EAR! He/they were so good that Chicago even put a link to them on their website and Chicago's drummer sat in with them during a live performance!
Even on the junk audio format that YT provides it sounds great. The "Does Anybody Know What Time it IS" audio capture is phenomenal, especially the horns.
They've also given us something we didn't know we needed: an up close view of how incredibly talented Chicago and EWF are. Something about seeing it played..
Can't get any better than this.....
when you close your eyes and hear that beautiful guys from the honarable , you will feel the honest and blessed sound of EW&F to your guts .....!
Love,love, love it. How many times have I listened and still get the chills from this AMAZING sound... Thank you... It is to good for words...Peace to the world.
I'm a 66 year old man from London, I tear up every time I hear this band especialy when they do ewf covers, it takes me back to a time when the world was a more pleasant place to be....👍
Dedication, attention to detail and synchronicity always brings the highest quality possible.
I love this song!!!, and the cover band is phenomenal, I’m glad you are ready enjoying it!!
They are just as good Live
My favorite cover band ever.
My favorite Earth, Wind and Fire song! They sound just like the original. If I was only listening to the audio and hadn't watched the video, I would have assumed it was EWF.
Just gives me chills
THE MAN WHO ARRANGED THIS MUSIC--------DID IT ALL BY EAR. ALL OF IT !
I had the same reaction as you friend ,tears in my eyes ...old man 75 ...........
Leonid and Friends don't play -- around! If you're going to do a cover, take notes watching these guys and gals. They knocked it out of the park, Michael - thanks to you and Harri!
Hi PN, Thank you; I'm happy to have been able to share it with you! - Brooklyn Mike
I didn't reach the vocals yet but HOLY SHEEEEET of paper..these musicians SOUND INCREDIBLE!!!!! Its not even funny how good they sound
Have seen them live 3 times and they were fantastic every time, and great live entertainers!
The first time I heard this I was absolutely ASTOUNDED! Those vocals…WHAT??!
Incredible sound, absolutely loved it! I listen to this every day it just fires me up.....
Considered the #1 Cover Band in the world according to Billboard. L&F
to soak your soul in these sounds is way beyond beautiful, from their very first post to what will , one day, be their very last note, I will enjoy [ROCK ON
Talent has no limits. Just wow
I agree 100% I found this amazing group as along time Chicago Fan L&F preformed at a our local venue I was blown away by thier performance. As a bonus they added EWF and Steely Dan to thier set list. I felt like I was in Heaven! As a former musician Drummer/Percussionist I attend many many venues. The best by far was Chicago/EWF tour.L&F brought me back to that day! I close my eyes and feel the music that hits my soul. Keep the music alive my friend! I enjoyed your comments and sharing the emotion!
My thoughts exactly... this one keeps me coming back!
i WAS 31 Y/O IN THAT SUMMER OF '78---------THIS WAS MY #1 SONG ALL THAT SUMMER. AWESOME !!!
WOW!
THEY’RE AWESOME. IF I HAD MY EYES CLOSED, I WOULDN’T KNOW THE DIFFERENCE.
What a star turn for Danil!! This is such a beautiful piece. Bravo to the band and all personnel. What a joy!
This band is incredible. I do miss the guitarist who first started recording with them. That man is one of the best guitarist on the planet.
He left for personal reasons. I hope he’s alright. Yes he’s a phenomenal guitarist and singer!
Sergey Kashirin is indeed amazing.
Someone else left to
He went back to Ukraine to help his family. They were effected by the war. ☹️ I think it was the guy who sang most of Chicago songs
@@mazie7952 Serge Tiagnyriadno was their lead singer. He lived in Ukrain. Many of his recordings were done from there. The war made it impossible for him to continue.
@@MarkM58 Leonids son is Roman. He manages the band.
So glad you found Leoni and Friends. I’ve seen them twice in concert. They have excellent Chicago covers like “I’m a man” And “Beginning”.
Kay, it was both of those songs that were my introduction to L&R. I have had the privilege to see them 3 times. I'm missing them this year as they are touring the East coast right now, but they are truly the best!
@@janiscollette1737 I saw them in Pasadena and San Juan Capistrano. My cousins and my sister have made it a family outing
They are so damn good!!!
Harry, that was amaizing performance by Leonids and friends ambeliveable, How can they sound só presize and recreat that peace of unique pearl of music by Earth Wind and Fire, thank you man to present on social mídia now and for the future genration to come, what real music sounds like.
El mejor cover. Tan bueno como el original. Mùsica que no debe morir.
Great reaction. Like so many other songs they've played to perfection, they sure nailed this one as well. These guys are so ultra talented it's ridiculous. The fact they do covers to actual "reaL' music from back in the day is so refreshing, Grew up listenong to EW&F, Chicago, etc. and having these iconic songs brought back to perfection in today's age is stunning. Simply unreal.
I can only wish the young people in this world can be blessed with live performances from this epic group Leonid and Friends.
It's hard to do anything but SMILE, listening to this. And maybe, shed a few tears of musical JOY. What a truly beautiful thing to experience...
Awesome! Leonid cover Rules! This Guy rocks!!!
Now you HAVE to hear Leonid do Earth Wind and Fire "September". One of my favs by them
I first heard Leonid & Friends a few yrs ago when I was introduced to them by one of my brothers. THEY ARE PHENOMENAL.
I dont know how to dance, but if I did, I'd dance to them, playing Fantasy, with my lady.
Leonid and Friends have made a fabulous tribute to Earth Wind and Fire and the genius of black music before RAP ....
I am so glad I wasnt the only one with that reaction about this band... so butter smooth....
Leonid and Friends just keep on giving us great stuff
I'm SO GLAD you got teary-eyed because the first time I heard it I cried. It's so beautiful!!! I'm crying once again!
Harri, your heart was captured. These are some of the finest musicians in the world. The leader has given them the magic and joy of EWF’s very complex song.
They are insanely good. It makes me cry too.
can you imagine this group creating their own music?