Perfection. I'll never forget that evening when my parents were watching this show, October 1965. Daddy was amazed by Bobby. Dad had been a professional singer in the 1930's, a "Crooner," and a Bass- Baritone. He made us all not talk until it was over, then said he had never heard anything that came close to Bobby's voice.
While I agree ... I think there are very talented vocalists around, but they are not allowed to fly without a net on some tv performances. after a while the pressure of always sounding perfect sneaks into every performance. I really admire those who back themselves...
OMG the late Bobby Hatfild. This is his song. I was 15 yrs when I watched him sing this beautiful song in 1965. No auto tunes just pure raw talent! Pure raw talent! RIP Bobby...we miss your beautful voice!!! 💖
David Hunn It’s a very old song and there is even a version of an elderly Bill Medly doing it. My favorite part of this version is when the horns come in.
@@celiagorleski2716 Rest in happiness, Bobby. You earned your place in heaven from this performance. You used the talent you had to great effect, and awesome impact.
Is it just me or is it incredible that he can hit all of those notes with no visible strain on his face? He’s 100% killing it and he looks like he’s just speaking.
You have discovered the secret to singing. If you are visibly straining you are pushing too hard and need to adjust your technique (learn how access your upper range with your chords and throat and soft palate instead of by pushing). When you stumble upon how this works it is magic. It's like unlocking a door.
He's so casual, calm, and relaxed when he sings that it's soothing to listen to. It's rare. Can you imagine hitting those high notes without that straining look on your face? I can't. And trying to sing this would make the average person's throat sore lol.
The smooth, unstrained transition from one end of his vocal range to the other that always seems to be just as powerful as needed , yet never overpowering, and occurs with apparent ease.
This song, Unchained Melody, sung by Bobby Hatfield, is perfection from the first note to the last note, from beginning to end. What a gift this song sung by Bobby Hatfield is, an unmatchable gift, a timeless example of what is right in the world, an enduring gift to humanity.
I heard Bobby Hatfield plus the other righteous brother talking with Dick Clark I think. The other guy was not involved in this song because he thought it wouldn’t be good or a hit. He was joking and saying it was the worst mistake he ever made.
@@maryharvey6909 yes… he was joking…neither of them thought it would be a hit. It was an album cut for ‘Hung on You’, the single that Phil Specter was producing. Bill produced all their albums even those for Specter. Phil always put a “throw away’ on the B side of his intended hits and he thought so little of this song he used it on the flip side of ‘Hung on You’. When the deejays flipped the record and made Unchained Melody a hit he apparently was really ticked off….😁
I think everyone realizes and respects the knowledge and skills it takes to understand music. Anyway, you have to admire the person who arranged the song for "Bobby" if it wasn't him.
@@richardangers2566 I did read in an interview of Bill Medley that he did the initial arrangement and Bobby changed the ending … adding the high note on ‘I NEED your love’ which is what subsequent covers added …. Or at least tried to. Bill also played the piano on the studio recording.
@@zanhar7688 thank you. I am ignorant no more. Due to your kindness...I did see Bill in Western MA. At the big E. To think I saw a giant performer and arranger in the music industry.
Confidence yes, but maybe also relief that he did indeed nail it. I read that he was especially nervous prior to this performance because his parents were in the audience and he wanted to do well for them. I'd say he made them proud. I think this one-take live performance was far better than the studio release. An absolute triumph.
Bobby actually suffered from severe stage fright. He would sometimes be so nervous before a performance he would throw up. One of the best singers EVER!
Marcus P You are right. They say he was very nervous. It was being recorded. Full orchestra. Family and friends were there. He could not move, because of the cameras and sound set up. Yet, with all that pressure, he absolutely nails it. He probably had sung the song dozens of times and knew exactly how to sing it.
Michael Nettles He and Elvis were two completely different singers but given that Elvis could not have sang this song any better or maybe not as well but Elvis was a one of a kind singer and performer. There will never be another like him.
Bobby was from my home town Anaheim California. He was the president of my sister's senior class. Nicest guy ever. Humble and real...and just a GREAT singer.
@@lesliegeddes7896 we all have bad days; the best of humans is only a human at best, as the saying goes. I can't even imagine the pressure of a life in the limelight.
@@thekingsdaughter4233 Yes you are right. I wrote that comment when I had just begun to be aware of Bobby Hatfield's talents and legacy...and have just deleted the comment . Since then I have seen and read all I can find about him from multiple sources which indicate that Bobby Hatfield was as 'deedlerock' wrote. genuine, humble, kind, and obviously gloriously talented.
The main reason why I love your analyses is you'll take a song or a musician that I already love and explain to me exactly WHY I love them. You've been dead center spot on so far. I also love that dopey grin whenever someone proves their greatness, like when you watch Stevie Ray play or Bobby Hatfeild sing. RUclips is a richer place with you in it. Keep it up, please.
Lightning caught right there in a bottle. This is actually better than the single release. When I think that some 'artists' of today mime at a live concert this shows you what real talent is. Tremendous.
As a 64 year old Black man born and raised in MOTOWN I love music,especially Rock , Soul / R&B and Funk. In the Black community there are VERY,VERY few white performers that we would acknowledge have “IT”. The Righteous Brothers and TEENA MARIE , hands down would be “invited to the cookout “ !!!!!! They ,without a doubt have SOUL. Peace.
they adopted the name after black marines commented on their gospel like quality as Righteous.. hence the name..the other story i heard they got it while performing at the apollo..
You might want to check out Steve Winwood with the SpencerDavis Group singing Gimmie Some Lovin’, or Steve Marriott singing with Humble Pie with the accompaniment of the Blackberries singing Black Coffee. I guarantee you will be astonished at these white dudes too.
Bobby sang this better than everyone else, no contest. His voice is so beautiful and his performance is perfect. His breathing is so controlled. You can tell by Bobby's expression when he finishes, that he knows he nailed his performance, absolute perfection. Great analysis.
I saw the brothers in Reno and the simple truth Bobby's voice was a gift from GOD. No autotune needed dude could just flat out sing. Live was as good as the records, Bobby and Bill just blended so well together.
I saw this on TV live. Yes I’m that old. He mesmerized me. I was lost in the magic of the song and his delivery. When it was over I looked at my mother and she was crying like a baby, deep sobs and tears flooding down. I never met Bobby but did meet Bill in Las Vegas. He was kind and gracious as I told him my story. It was one he had heard many times before but appreciated that the song and their many hits were so dear to me and so many.
Nothing has changed other than corporations getting closer to taking over. But even that's not changed and has been happening since before any of us were born.
@@aylbdrmadison1051 I agree. Unfortunately such singers nowadays rarely get signed by the major labels and so they are stuck with performing at small venues and with little to no promotional backing. But they are most definitely out there, if you know where to look.
I am a knuckle-dragging mature man; yet this song can bring me to tears. And Fil, you have yet again brought into the light the otherwise esoteric technicalities of a great song.
You obviously enjoyed the performance as much as I did. Loved the Righteous Brothers, and...when I worked for the City of Ojai, Carl Hatfield was Mayor...Bobby's brother. So we got Bobby to sing for us one year at the city Christmas party. Yes, it was incredible. His voice is as clean, pure and powerful live as in the studio, even better.
This song is a very close, and emotional song for me. I am a man's man, but...I cry every time I hear it. My mom passed away 3 years ago. She had me record this song (her all time favorite) over and over again on a cassette so she could hear it over and over again. Everytime I hear it, I think of her. I miss, and love you so very much mom. Live to Survive!
I was already having an emotional time crying upon hearing this song today, as usual, then on reading your comment Im a disaster in tears. Its a great comment, your mum had such good taste in music, and a very loving son it seems.
Blue eyed soul. The Brothers were HUGE for a while. Everything they touched was gold. There's kind of a phenomenon happening these days on RUclips with 'reactors'. Younger listeners across all genera who never heard of them watch their vids and their faces melt. Can't believe their ears. This has to be one of the greatest 'pop' performances of all time. Live! No auto tune! Just a fabulous singer at his apex. Other artists including Elvis sang this tune and ALL fell well short of Bobby's performance.
This song could be recorded a thousand more times by a thousand different artists and they'd all just be trying to copy Bobby's performance. It is IMPOSSIBLE to imagine anyone ever improving on this.
rob duncan This song is definitely his to sing and it’s a gem. I do believe even Elvis Presley attempted to sing this, but Elvis couldn’t hit the high notes as well as he could. Also Elvis unfortunately sang this song when his health began to deteriorate.
@@lordmegatron7359 ya ive seen that video. Elvis's passion is there, as always in every performance he ever did. but i agree, he just couldnt hit the notes anymore
Perhaps not; but Leanne rimes performed the song when she was 13 or 14 and on the crescendo carries three consecutive notes, each note for several seconds without taking a breath. It is incredible and worth listening to. Sinatra was famous for how long he could carry a note; but i don’t think he could match Leanne rimes in how long she could carry a note. Perhaps not as good as booby hatfields, at least as far as interpretation, to say nothing of his hitting a note comparable to a soprano, but Leanne rimes version is definitely worth a listen.
I've NEVER heard such a perfect vocal- I agree with everyone who said Bobby OWNS this song. No one can top this! CHILLS. Thanks, Fil, for this lovely analysis of a sublime vocal LONG before autotune started messing things up.
Bobby Hatfield sang it, his partner Bill Medley produced it ( even though Phil Spector would try to take credit, he wasn’t even there the day they recorded it. It was to be an album cut, which by contract had to be produced by Medley. It wound up a B side on a single...someone turned it over and the rest is history) and Bill Medley played the piano on the recording. Bill has said if he knew it was going to be such a hit he would have hired a better piano player. What’s brilliant is Bobby is singing it live and not just singing to his recording.
Oh, Fil. I’ve been sitting here trying to figure out what words could possibly come together in such a way as to adequately express my feelings about your videos, but keep falling so short of the mark. Your appreciation for others’ talents is astounding and, because of your commentary, my own appreciation for the music I grew up on has grown exponentially. I’ve no musical talent whatsoever, but I’ve always admired those who do. Now that I’ve been watching this channel, you’ve taken that appreciation to all new heights. My sincerest thanks for sharing your insight and enthusiasm. Much love from Los Angeles.
For me, the entrance of the "shimmering strings" at the same time the lyrics refer to "lonely rivers flow to the sea, to the sea, to the open arms of the sea" is also meant to echo the shimmering of light on the ripples of flowing water. This reinforces in the listener's imagination, the mental images of water flowing to the sea. Very perfectly done!
The power in his voice is surreal. I’ve heard so many different singers from so many different genres over my lifetime, few have achieved that kind of power and emotion rolled into one. Don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of great singers past and present. But to sing with such power so flawlessly, is mind boggling.
I never tire of listening to Bobby sing this song.... And the lip bite at the end! 🥰 He makes it look so effortless. (I've always been a huge Righteous Brothers fan... Blue eyed soul ❤️❤️❤️)
Perfection to the highest degree, thank you Bobby Hatfield. No one can do this track, till now. Range, voice, melody, a masterpiece, God's gift indeed! Exceptional... thank u bobby
His voice is so incredible! The control & range he has is just phenomenal! I've always said he makes it look so easy! But doing it live and no auto tune! He truly was gifted! You are so knowledgeable..its great you are sharing this with us all! Ty! No one compares to Bobby! Imo
You've played my favorite song. ..who cannot love this guy's vocals. ..amazing. ..it will go down in history as one of the all time greats...nobody comes close. ...I can remember when I was in 8th grade and my teacher was asking us what our favorite song was. I stood up and said Unchained Melody and it has been since that time and that was way back in 69'. ..
Remember, this is 1965, no dubbing, no anything but voice and instruments. Personally, I think it is one of the most perfectly sung songs around. Pitch perfect, and the instrumentation is on point. Go watch people on RUclips watching this for the first time...shock...lol...on top of that, his voice is crystal clear. Phenomenal song and performance.
Bobby Hatfield made this song his own . No autotune back then , just live performances , pure talent & amazing vocals. Concerts in heaven must be special with Bobby .R.I.P.Bobby 😇🥰
Actually Bill produced and arranged it … and played piano on the studio recording. Bobby changed the last verse by adding that high note on ‘I need your love’.🙂
There is a story that when Bobby recorded this in the studio he said he could do it better. Bill said no you can’t. He knew it could not be done any better.
.....That crazy high note at " I neeeee- eeed your love" every singer aspires to......I can't imagine anyone sitting down in 1955 and saying, "I am going to write unchained melody" for a movie and "it will go down as one of the premier songs of all time."
>"I can't imagine anyone sitting down in 1955 and saying, "I am going to write unchained melody" for a movie and "it will go down as one of the premier songs of all time."" The version for the movie didn't sound like this, and left that way may never have been as successful as it ended up being; the popularity really came about when Bobby Hatfield sang this version. Bobby Hatfield changed the ending, and his rendition became so popular that most covers after his attempted to duplicate his rendition, even quoting that the song is a Righteous Brothers song. Regarding the original, the lyrics were written by Hy Zaret. The music by Alex North. Both were descendants of Russian immigrants. The majority of Hy Zaret's work was jingles, short comedies, and some children's songs and books. When Alex North asked him if he could help with some lyrics to the song Alex had composed, Hy was too busy painting his house. He did get some time to write the lyrics, but had no idea they would be his most popular works.
Gets me every time . In a World full of amazing performances , this to me , is the Greatest vocal performance of all time . Expression , vocal range , emotion and SOUL .
Live No auto-tune Very controlled singing Almost the whole register Singers like this don’t come by very often. How many couples have been conected , by this version of the song , on the dancefloor , through the decades ? Brilliant stuff. No matter what style of music you like. There’s no denying to it. Fantastic analysis of the song , my good man.
The voice control👏👏👏He is like a musical instrument! One of the most beautiful performances ever-has to be on a 100 best list. Thanks for another great analysis Fil😎(Bill’s voice is deep-don’t think it would have had same impact as Bobby’s performance on this one )
A smart arranger knows where to use the voices and a smart partner will keep silent when it is best for the song. Look at "Bridge over Troubled Water" Paul Simon knew the song would be best served if he let Art do the singing (and only coming in for some harmony in the last verse).
Everly Brothers, Simon & Garfunkel, The Carpenters, Hall & Oates, Chad & Jeremy, Sonny & Cher, where all good ones as well. Personal taste who you liked the best
@Gerald H autotune was invented in 1998, the same year that Cher released Believe which was the first. I get that it was about duos but I thought it was a mildly interesting anecdote
ArielView Dean and Jerry were more of a comedy duo, because although Dean Martin had a nice voice, Jerry’s was like nails on a blackboard. Now Jerry’s son Gary had a good voice in Gary Lewis & the Playboys
Timeless and priceless. Some songs just never go out of style, you will always hear them. On the radio, played in weddings, used in advertising, they are just always the type of songs that will always be there forever, and this is one one of them. Thanks Fil. Beautiful song.
What a singer Bobby was. Great vocal range. I use to see both Bobby and Bill at Bill's club called Medley's, in Fountain Valley Ca. Great times. Also, Bobby is related to the Hatfield clan from the Hatfield and McCoy's.
@DLAnder a bit off topic, but if you listen to Jewel's interviews she talks about her family's ability to sing, play and write when they were out doing cattle runs.
Timothy Butler I used to go to that club all the time in the 70s! I grew up in Fountain Valley, went to FV High School. Living in HB now and still loving this song.
One of the epic vocal performances of all time. This is one of those songs that will be still circulating 100s of years from now. This performance does eclipse the recorded versions. Bobby Hatfield just cannot be beat on this one.
Such a beautiful voice. The control he has over it is so phenomenal, So pure and flowing. I think that voice could cure the ills of the world. I really loved your analyses of this song Fil. It is as wonderful and the song itself.
I don't know any of that technical analysis stuff . I just know that Bobby Hatfield's performance has NEVER been matched by anyone else , on this song.
I fell in love with him by the time he came to the line “are you still mine?” I’m shouting at the video, “Yes, I’m yours, Bobby!” *sigh* Such a remarkable talent.
Lately, You seem to be analyzing the soundtrack of my life. I appreciate it, since “the unexamined life is not worth living.” Life hasn’t always been great, but the music is exemplary. You bring a deeper understanding of its wonder. Thank You, Dear Fil! ❤️
Thanks so much Fil for bringing these guys on here! I played this very song so many times when my hubby was in Vietnam I wore it out! They were two of my generation’s favorites! Gorgeous music!
Best singer ever I never realized how good he was when I was young I'm 89 years old now I took him for granted I guess and now that I've heard the lead singer of Queen I thought he was the best and the lead singer of The Platters but now that I hear Bobby again he's got them all beat he didn't get his credit when it was due I wish he could see it now help people love his range has Melody his everything I could listen to this over and over and now I've heard summer time wow didn't hear that back in the day,. Reaction🤩
Absolutely stunning performer and his ability to traverse up and down the vocal range is simply brilliant. I think if i could sing like just 1 performer, it would have to be Bobby Hatfield. Unfortunately i sound like a cat being strangled to death, although i never let that stop me from joining in whenever the Righteous Brothers, or any other great performers are letting loose, lol. Thanks as always for the analysis Phil.
I haven’t seen this video before. I rarely like a live version more than the studio cut, but this is spine-tingling good. If you can ever track down Billy Joel’s introduction of the Righteous Brothers when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, do yourself a favor and watch it. Joel gives a vocal lesson on the history of the various versions of this song. TFS.
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Bobby Hatfield owns this song. He absolutely aced this live performance.
I believe his mom was in the audience. A proud moment in time.
Perfection. I'll never forget that evening when my parents were watching this show, October 1965. Daddy was amazed by Bobby. Dad had been a professional singer in the 1930's, a "Crooner," and a Bass- Baritone. He made us all not talk until it was over, then said he had never heard anything that came close to Bobby's voice.
This was recorded live without benefit of auto tune. Vocalists in those days didn't need it, they had this remarkable thing called talent.
you should try live opera
Bobby Brady the satanic cabal isn’t interested unless it’s evil mindless programming
While I agree ... I think there are very talented vocalists around, but they are not allowed to fly without a net on some tv performances. after a while the pressure of always sounding perfect sneaks into every performance. I really admire those who back themselves...
@@Ursaminor31 "he satanic cabal" Oh lordy, another nutjob.
@@Christobanistan Nurse!!!!
No song has ever been sung more perfectly than this performance
Don McLean’s Vincent is right there for me. Both just spectacular.
I would say Jay Black’s “Cara Mia” comes very close.
I believe he did a magical description of Vincent van Gogh. One of my favorites.
OMG the late Bobby
Hatfild. This is his song. I was 15 yrs when I watched him sing this beautiful song in 1965. No auto tunes just pure raw talent! Pure raw talent! RIP Bobby...we miss your beautful voice!!! 💖
Hatfield, not Hatfild.
@@HansDelbruck53entendiste igual
The word, 'epic' is thrown around a lot, but how he sings this song is *_epic..._*
No Argument There ! 👍
Hi There.. can you please check my cover of this song.. Thanks.
This song was done by dozens of artists including Elvis. Hatfield makes it completely his. No one else is close.
Over 1550 cover versions of this song, apparently.
Definitely agree..its Bobby
David Hunn It’s a very old song and there is even a version of an elderly Bill Medly doing it. My favorite part of this version is when the horns come in.
No...No.... No one else has ever done this song.👍😎
Right on. It brings tears to my eyes!
A man with a voice and a song and the world stopped and listened
It's amazing to see an audience in total awe.
And listened and are still listening
REST IN PEACE, BOBBY.
@@jojosewist8921 well said .
@@celiagorleski2716 Rest in happiness, Bobby. You earned your place in heaven from this performance. You used the talent you had to great effect, and awesome impact.
I can't get enough of this song. His voice is angelic.
This version is better than any other Bobby did and it was live!! Nobody has ever been able to come near to this performance!!
He retired it.
nobody.
A young Leann Rimes (14 y.o.) comes close, but no other male singer does.
Is it just me or is it incredible that he can hit all of those notes with no visible strain on his face? He’s 100% killing it and he looks like he’s just speaking.
You have discovered the secret to singing. If you are visibly straining you are pushing too hard and need to adjust your technique (learn how access your upper range with your chords and throat and soft palate instead of by pushing).
When you stumble upon how this works it is magic. It's like unlocking a door.
I read that Bobby actually had the rare ability to hit 4 or 5 octaves which is rare in a singer
He's so casual, calm, and relaxed when he sings that it's soothing to listen to. It's rare. Can you imagine hitting those high notes without that straining look on your face? I can't. And trying to sing this would make the average person's throat sore lol.
The smooth, unstrained transition from one end of his vocal range to the other that always seems to be just as powerful as needed , yet never overpowering, and occurs with apparent ease.
His voice was mind blowingly gorgeous
This song, Unchained Melody, sung by Bobby Hatfield, is perfection from the first note to the last note, from beginning to end. What a gift this song sung by Bobby Hatfield is, an unmatchable gift, a timeless example of what is right in the world, an enduring gift to humanity.
I heard Bobby Hatfield plus the other righteous brother talking with Dick Clark I think. The other guy was not involved in this song because he thought it wouldn’t be good or a hit. He was joking and saying it was the worst mistake he ever made.
@@maryharvey6909 yes… he was joking…neither of them thought it would be a hit. It was an album cut for ‘Hung on You’, the single that Phil Specter was producing. Bill produced all their albums even those for Specter. Phil always put a “throw away’ on the B side of his intended hits and he thought so little of this song he used it on the flip side of ‘Hung on You’. When the deejays flipped the record and made Unchained Melody a hit he apparently was really ticked off….😁
I think everyone realizes and respects the knowledge and skills it takes to understand music. Anyway, you have to admire the person who arranged the song for "Bobby" if it wasn't him.
@@richardangers2566 I did read in an interview of Bill Medley that he did the initial arrangement and Bobby changed the ending … adding the high note on ‘I NEED your love’ which is what subsequent covers added …. Or at least tried to. Bill also played the piano on the studio recording.
@@zanhar7688 thank you. I am ignorant no more. Due to your kindness...I did see Bill in Western MA. At the big E. To think I saw a giant performer and arranger in the music industry.
I love the way he bites his lower lip and gives a little smirk at the end. He knows he absolutely NAILED it. That's confidence!
Confidence yes, but maybe also relief that he did indeed nail it. I read that he was especially nervous prior to this performance because his parents were in the audience and he wanted to do well for them. I'd say he made them proud. I think this one-take live performance was far better than the studio release. An absolute triumph.
It is so absolutely sweet and memorable. Bobby owns this, perfectly and absolutely
Bobby actually suffered from severe stage fright. He would sometimes be so nervous before a performance he would throw up. One of the best singers EVER!
Marcus P You are right. They say he was very nervous. It was being recorded. Full orchestra. Family and friends were there. He could not move, because of the cameras and sound set up. Yet, with all that pressure, he absolutely nails it. He probably had sung the song dozens of times and knew exactly how to sing it.
Ive never seen something so perfect live and to do it effortless like that is dam scary ! I'm glad I got to see this video
The vocal gymnastic in this performance is insane. Bobby Hatfield was one of a kind. RIP, you Legend.
This guy blew this song away. Pure soul. And you see almost how effortlessly he makes it look. Pure brilliance and ability.
Have yoù heard Bobbÿ sing "Sùmmertime"? Oŕ "Someŵhèŕè", or "briñg ìÿ on homè to mè" where he makes Bill smile? So ðarn good!!
He KILLS this. Not even Elvis could touch him.
Michael Nettles He and Elvis were two completely different singers but given that Elvis could not have sang this song any better or maybe not as well but Elvis was a one of a kind singer and performer. There will never be another like him.
Mmmmmm. Both are great singers. I am not sure he can top Elvis. But, I am definitely taking away from this guy’s talent. Elvis Forever. 😀
There is no way that Hatfield could compete with Elvis. Not a chance.
William Ludlow They were amazing. I will stick with Elvis as the best. ❤️❤️❤️😂😂
Fat Elvis belting this song, sweating over a piano, owned this song.
Bobby was from my home town Anaheim California. He was the president of my sister's senior class. Nicest guy ever. Humble and real...and just a GREAT singer.
@@lesliegeddes7896 we all have bad days; the best of humans is only a human at best, as the saying goes. I can't even imagine the pressure of a life in the limelight.
@@thekingsdaughter4233 Yes you are right. I wrote that comment when I had just begun to be aware of Bobby Hatfield's talents and legacy...and have just deleted the comment . Since then I have seen and read all I can find about him from multiple sources which indicate that Bobby Hatfield was as 'deedlerock' wrote. genuine, humble, kind, and obviously gloriously talented.
Thanks so much for sharing this personal note about Bobby!
Everything about him is perfection. His voice, range, breath control and his looks.
The main reason why I love your analyses is you'll take a song or a musician that I already love and explain to me exactly WHY I love them. You've been dead center spot on so far. I also love that dopey grin whenever someone proves their greatness, like when you watch Stevie Ray play or Bobby Hatfeild sing. RUclips is a richer place with you in it. Keep it up, please.
Thanks!
I agree with Jonathan Barton the analysis is super.
Lightning caught right there in a bottle. This is actually better than the single release. When I think that some 'artists' of today mime at a live concert this shows you what real talent is. Tremendous.
Not only does he nail this song live, which is pretty awesome in itself; he makes it look so effortless.
I can never really believe he's actually singing live, it's that perfect
Bob Seger said that Bobby Hatfield had the perfect rock and roll voice. I concur.
As I have said, When Bobby sings this song, you can feel his voice in your soul. RIP Bobby, you are missed.
This was filmed Live, no electronic stuff, and his mother was in the audience. When he bite his lip he know he nailed it.
His mother is like "That's my boy,Robert!"
As a 64 year old Black man born and raised in MOTOWN I love music,especially Rock , Soul / R&B and Funk. In the Black community there are VERY,VERY few white performers that we would acknowledge have “IT”. The Righteous Brothers and TEENA MARIE , hands down would be “invited to the cookout “ !!!!!! They ,without a doubt have SOUL. Peace.
What do you think of Dusty Springfield?
@@HELLH0WND First person I thought of too.
Black Marines at a local base started calling Bobby and Bill the Righteous Brothers, that's how they got their name, yes.
they adopted the name after black marines commented on their gospel like quality as Righteous.. hence the name..the other story i heard they got it while performing at the apollo..
You might want to check out Steve Winwood with the SpencerDavis Group singing Gimmie Some Lovin’, or Steve Marriott singing with Humble Pie with the accompaniment of the Blackberries singing Black Coffee.
I guarantee you will be astonished at these white dudes too.
Bobby sang this better than everyone else, no contest. His voice is so beautiful and his performance is perfect. His breathing is so controlled. You can tell by Bobby's expression when he finishes, that he knows he nailed his performance, absolute perfection. Great analysis.
This guy doesn't need a band.
All I hear is his voice
Yes I was thinking the exact same! And then I instantly thought of how I feel the same about listening to SRV playing guitar ❤
I saw the brothers in Reno and the simple truth Bobby's voice was a gift from GOD. No autotune needed dude could just flat out sing. Live was as good as the records, Bobby and Bill just blended so well together.
I saw this on TV live. Yes I’m that old. He mesmerized me. I was lost in the magic of the song and his delivery. When it was over I looked at my mother and she was crying like a baby, deep sobs and tears flooding down. I never met Bobby but did meet Bill in Las Vegas. He was kind and gracious as I told him my story. It was one he had heard many times before but appreciated that the song and their many hits were so dear to me and so many.
When talented artists mostly sang with heartfelt lyrics and with such soulful passion.
Nothing has changed other than corporations getting closer to taking over. But even that's not changed and has been happening since before any of us were born.
@@aylbdrmadison1051 I agree. Unfortunately such singers nowadays rarely get signed by the major labels and so they are stuck with performing at small venues and with little to no promotional backing. But they are most definitely out there, if you know where to look.
I am a knuckle-dragging mature man; yet this song can bring me to tears. And Fil, you have yet again brought into the light the otherwise esoteric technicalities of a great song.
Depending where I am in life that day, yeah I hear you and shed tears as well.
I really don't think there will ever be another voice like Bobby Hatfield. When you add Bill medley, it is magic.
Greatest duo ever. Change my mind.
Bill had the good sense to stand aside on this song and let Bobby shine....great move. Unselfish
I adore Bill on Ebb Tide! Stellar duo!
@@leslieortenzi8875 Bobby actually sang Ebb Tide.
You obviously enjoyed the performance as much as I did. Loved the Righteous Brothers, and...when I worked for the City of Ojai, Carl Hatfield was Mayor...Bobby's brother. So we got Bobby to sing for us one year at the city Christmas party. Yes, it was incredible. His voice is as clean, pure and powerful live as in the studio, even better.
This song is a very close, and emotional song for me. I am a man's man, but...I cry every time I hear it. My mom passed away 3 years ago. She had me record this song (her all time favorite) over and over again on a cassette so she could hear it over and over again. Everytime I hear it, I think of her. I miss, and love you so very much mom.
Live to Survive!
God bless you.
❤🙏🙏🙏
You're such a dear son. I'm sure it meant the world to her. ❤
I was already having an emotional time crying upon hearing this song today, as usual, then on reading your comment Im a disaster in tears. Its a great comment, your mum had such good taste in music, and a very loving son it seems.
Bobby's voice gives me chills. Sad that he died when he did. RIP.
Blue eyed soul. The Brothers were HUGE for a while. Everything they touched was gold. There's kind of a phenomenon happening these days on RUclips with 'reactors'. Younger listeners across all genera who never heard of them watch their vids and their faces melt. Can't believe their ears. This has to be one of the greatest 'pop' performances of all time. Live! No auto tune! Just a fabulous singer at his apex. Other artists including Elvis sang this tune and ALL fell well short of Bobby's performance.
They sure did.
Masterpiece by Bobby Hatfield, my favorite voice ever. It wasn't only Bobby gifted with that voice, the gift was ours being able to listen to it.
This song could be recorded a thousand more times by a thousand different artists and they'd all just be trying to copy Bobby's performance. It is IMPOSSIBLE to imagine anyone ever improving on this.
2023 Unchained Melody is still Bobby Hatfield's song.
im not sure this singing performance has ever been equaled
it is absolutely astounding
rob duncan This song is definitely his to sing and it’s a gem. I do believe even Elvis Presley attempted to sing this, but Elvis couldn’t hit the high notes as well as he could. Also Elvis unfortunately sang this song when his health began to deteriorate.
@@lordmegatron7359 ya ive seen that video. Elvis's passion is there, as always in every performance he ever did. but i agree, he just couldnt hit the notes anymore
When they both sing together... You just ache.
Perhaps not; but Leanne rimes performed the song when she was 13 or 14 and on the crescendo carries three consecutive notes, each note for several seconds without taking a breath. It is incredible and worth listening to. Sinatra was famous for how long he could carry a note; but i don’t think he could match Leanne rimes in how long she could carry a note. Perhaps not as good as booby hatfields, at least as far as interpretation, to say nothing of his hitting a note comparable to a soprano, but Leanne rimes version is definitely worth a listen.
Beautiful music is timeless.
Some is the words.
Some is the music.
This is both.
This song and this performance transcends time....it will stand forever.
its all about the voice, this is real talent, never to be repeated, no one will ever sing this song better, 10 out of 10
Bobby was only 25 during this performance. What 25 year old can sing like this in 2024. Rest in peace Bobby.
I've NEVER heard such a perfect vocal- I agree with everyone who said Bobby OWNS this song. No one can top this! CHILLS. Thanks, Fil, for this lovely analysis of a sublime vocal LONG before autotune started messing things up.
Bobby Hatfield sang it, his partner Bill Medley produced it ( even though Phil Spector would try to take credit, he wasn’t even there the day they recorded it. It was to be an album cut, which by contract had to be produced by Medley. It wound up a B side on a single...someone turned it over and the rest is history) and Bill Medley played the piano on the recording. Bill has said if he knew it was going to be such a hit he would have hired a better piano player. What’s brilliant is Bobby is singing it live and not just singing to his recording.
Oh, Fil. I’ve been sitting here trying to figure out what words could possibly come together in such a way as to adequately express my feelings about your videos, but keep falling so short of the mark. Your appreciation for others’ talents is astounding and, because of your commentary, my own appreciation for the music I grew up on has grown exponentially. I’ve no musical talent whatsoever, but I’ve always admired those who do. Now that I’ve been watching this channel, you’ve taken that appreciation to all new heights. My sincerest thanks for sharing your insight and enthusiasm. Much love from Los Angeles.
You came pretty close to the mark!! I'm grateful to read what you wrote and feel just the same way...also from LA.
@RBNightlinger : You put it quite adequately as far as I'm concerned.
I know. Fil is the best. I've learned so much and enjoyed so much from watching his videos.
the professor is a sparkling gem as is this song and performance
Well said
I especially love this live version where Bobby sings the high notes at the end ❤. Beautiful. I just love it.🙂
For me, the entrance of the "shimmering strings" at the same time the lyrics refer to "lonely rivers flow to the sea, to the sea, to the open arms of the sea" is also meant to echo the shimmering of light on the ripples of flowing water. This reinforces in the listener's imagination, the mental images of water flowing to the sea. Very perfectly done!
Thank-you for such a perfect comment.
Best vocalist performance of all time, hands down! Wow! Your background and commentary is priceless as well, Fil, as usual.
Skywolv
True that
The power in his voice is surreal. I’ve heard so many different singers from so many different genres over my lifetime, few have achieved that kind of power and emotion rolled into one.
Don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of great singers past and present. But to sing with such power so flawlessly, is mind boggling.
No one can sing it like Bobby. Who doesn't love this song.
I never tire of listening to Bobby sing this song.... And the lip bite at the end! 🥰 He makes it look so effortless. (I've always been a huge Righteous Brothers fan... Blue eyed soul ❤️❤️❤️)
Perfection to the highest degree, thank you Bobby Hatfield. No one can do this track, till now. Range, voice, melody, a masterpiece, God's gift indeed! Exceptional... thank u bobby
Single greatest male singing performance of all time. No other singer comes close. Not Frank, not Roy, not Tony, not anyone.
Uhhh what about Adam Lambert???
@@TrojansOwl1 nope
@@dawnaberry8452 🤣
Gene Pitney? 🤔
This is the best recording (done live) of this song. What a talent.
Everytime I hear this song, it brings tears to my eyes, Bobby's voice is so Incredible! I'm 68yrs old now and it "Still" gets to me!❤
We are over 50 years of Unchained Melody by Bobby Hatfield and noone has touched the range he reached on multiple levels...and noone will.
Peter Noone? :)
Dimash has about three more octaves. Not being negative to Bobby, its such a beautiful performance. He is amazing.
It’s not just the octaves, it’s the richness of his voice
@@howie9751 Bee Gees.
@@JeanetteFaith ??
His voice is so incredible! The control & range he has is just phenomenal! I've always said he makes it look so easy! But doing it live and no auto tune! He truly was gifted! You are so knowledgeable..its great you are sharing this with us all! Ty! No one compares to Bobby! Imo
I think this guy sums it all up listening to Bobby Hatfield just a heavenly voice second to none RIP Bobby ❤
The best love song ever. Brings tears in my eyes everytime.
You've played my favorite song. ..who cannot love this guy's vocals. ..amazing. ..it will go down in history as one of the all time greats...nobody comes close. ...I can remember when I was in 8th grade and my teacher was asking us what our favorite song was. I stood up and said Unchained Melody and it has been since that time and that was way back in 69'. ..
Remember, this is 1965, no dubbing, no anything but voice and instruments. Personally, I think it is one of the most perfectly sung songs around. Pitch perfect, and the instrumentation is on point. Go watch people on RUclips watching this for the first time...shock...lol...on top of that, his voice is crystal clear. Phenomenal song and performance.
Bobby Hatfield made this song his own .
No autotune back then , just live performances , pure talent & amazing vocals. Concerts in heaven must be special with Bobby .R.I.P.Bobby 😇🥰
This is Bobby's masterpiece alone , Phil Spector did not produce it, Bobby did. Was lucky enough to see the brothers, a classic!
Actually Bill produced and arranged it … and played piano on the studio recording. Bobby changed the last verse by adding that high note on ‘I need your love’.🙂
The Grin at the end was "Hey folks, that was damned good, I will never do better".
MrRondonmon Sure was.
There is a story that when Bobby recorded this in the studio he said he could do it better. Bill said no you can’t. He knew it could not be done any better.
YEAH...it's like he might be thinking..."What else...can I do with this?"
You'd think this song and vocals was found with the dead Sea scrolls. Absolutely phenomenal. Thanks from the world you left Bobby. Love and magic!
.....That crazy high note at " I neeeee- eeed your love" every singer aspires to......I can't imagine anyone sitting down in 1955 and saying, "I am going to write unchained melody" for a movie and "it will go down as one of the premier songs of all time."
Lonnie Christopher Terry Reid could of
Lonnie Christopher Yet the movie went nowhere...it was meant to be.
>"I can't imagine anyone sitting down in 1955 and saying, "I am going to write unchained melody" for a movie and "it will go down as one of the premier songs of all time.""
The version for the movie didn't sound like this, and left that way may never have been as successful as it ended up being; the popularity really came about when Bobby Hatfield sang this version. Bobby Hatfield changed the ending, and his rendition became so popular that most covers after his attempted to duplicate his rendition, even quoting that the song is a Righteous Brothers song.
Regarding the original, the lyrics were written by Hy Zaret. The music by Alex North. Both were descendants of Russian immigrants.
The majority of Hy Zaret's work was jingles, short comedies, and some children's songs and books. When Alex North asked him if he could help with some lyrics to the song Alex had composed, Hy was too busy painting his house. He did get some time to write the lyrics, but had no idea they would be his most popular works.
Danced a lot of slow dances to this one in my teens...in the '60's. 😊❤ This song always got everyone on the dance floor! 😉
Bobby Hatfield with this signature song. He owns it and always will. The best ever. A forever fan.
It's Bill Medley not Bobby Hatfield.
@@jeanpreston4142 This is Bobby Hatfield.
Gets me every time . In a World full of amazing performances , this to me , is the Greatest vocal performance of all time . Expression , vocal range , emotion and SOUL .
Innocence is big part of his performance!!!
The single best male vocal in a song ever. My God what a voice but in particular this song.
The widest range of vocals in one song I've ever heard. He is amazing!
Live
No auto-tune
Very controlled singing
Almost the whole register
Singers like this don’t come by very often.
How many couples have been conected , by this version of the song , on the dancefloor , through the decades ? Brilliant stuff. No matter what style of music you like. There’s no denying to it. Fantastic analysis of the song , my good man.
All the Ladies melt when they hear this song" no matter their race culture or background!
Probably played at more proms" than any other slow dance song.
A lot of babies named Bobby...
Panty dropping music
The voice control👏👏👏He is like a musical instrument! One of the most beautiful performances ever-has to be on a 100 best list. Thanks for another great analysis Fil😎(Bill’s voice is deep-don’t think it would have had same impact as Bobby’s performance on this one )
A smart arranger knows where to use the voices and a smart partner will keep silent when it is best for the song. Look at "Bridge over Troubled Water" Paul Simon knew the song would be best served if he let Art do the singing (and only coming in for some harmony in the last verse).
Your smile during this performance was infectious Bro! Great analysis on this masterpiece by the incomparable Bobby Hatfield.
one of, in not the most, famous vocal duos in the history of recordings in the western world.
Everly Brothers, Simon & Garfunkel, The Carpenters, Hall & Oates, Chad & Jeremy, Sonny & Cher, where all good ones as well. Personal taste who you liked the best
@Gerald H Cher was the first to use it
@Gerald H autotune was invented in 1998, the same year that Cher released Believe which was the first. I get that it was about duos but I thought it was a mildly interesting anecdote
@@HamiltonRb not a duo, but bobby darin my favorite, but , you left out Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis :)
ArielView Dean and Jerry were more of a comedy duo, because although Dean Martin had a nice voice, Jerry’s was like nails on a blackboard. Now Jerry’s son Gary had a good voice in Gary Lewis & the Playboys
Not only the sweetest smile you will ever see, but commentary that teaches you something! Bravo!
If anyone out there has not read about Bobby and the sweet soul he was, see if you can find posts from those who knew him. He was beloved.
His kids have a Facebook page dedicated to him. The deep love, admiration, and feelings of loss they express for their dad say it all.
So sweet and tender, yet powerful where he needs to be. One of the greatest singing performances in history.
Timeless and priceless. Some songs just never go out of style, you will always hear them. On the radio, played in weddings, used in advertising, they are just always the type of songs that will always be there forever, and this is one one of them. Thanks Fil. Beautiful song.
What a singer Bobby was. Great vocal range. I use to see both Bobby and Bill at Bill's club called Medley's, in Fountain Valley Ca. Great times. Also, Bobby is related to the Hatfield clan from the Hatfield and McCoy's.
So this Hatfield was the Real McCoy? LOL
@DLAnder a bit off topic, but if you listen to Jewel's interviews she talks about her family's ability to sing, play and write when they were out doing cattle runs.
I have wondered about that, if he was related.
So I guess the Hatfields won?
Timothy Butler I used to go to that club all the time in the 70s! I grew up in Fountain Valley, went to FV High School. Living in HB now and still loving this song.
You’re the one one I don’t mind talking over track. Intelligent, informed and composed
No auto tune. No tribal beat. No bitches and playahs. No studio fakery. A band and a singer. Singing bout love. Welcome to true art.
This is without doubt one of the all time great singers with a great song that will never be topped.
One of the epic vocal performances of all time. This is one of those songs that will be still circulating 100s of years from now. This performance does eclipse the recorded versions. Bobby Hatfield just cannot be beat on this one.
Such a beautiful voice. The control he has over it is so phenomenal, So pure and flowing. I think that voice could cure the ills of the world. I really loved your analyses of this song Fil. It is as wonderful and the song itself.
Apart from the absolute perfection of the entire performance, I love your smile as you analyze this musical journey. Brilliant❣️
I don't know any of that technical analysis stuff . I just know that Bobby Hatfield's performance has NEVER been matched by anyone else , on this song.
I fell in love with him by the time he came to the line “are you still mine?” I’m shouting at the video, “Yes, I’m yours, Bobby!” *sigh* Such a remarkable talent.
Lately, You seem to be analyzing the soundtrack of my life. I appreciate it, since “the unexamined life is not worth living.” Life hasn’t always been great, but the music is exemplary. You bring a deeper understanding of its wonder. Thank You, Dear Fil! ❤️
Bobby was one of the best vocalists ever and this song brings a tear to my eye every time I hear it, thanks for doing it, Fil.
Thanks so much Fil for bringing these guys on here! I played this very song so many times when my hubby was in Vietnam I wore it out! They were two of my generation’s favorites! Gorgeous music!
Best singer ever I never realized how good he was when I was young I'm 89 years old now I took him for granted I guess and now that I've heard the lead singer of Queen I thought he was the best and the lead singer of The Platters but now that I hear Bobby again he's got them all beat he didn't get his credit when it was due I wish he could see it now help people love his range has Melody his everything I could listen to this over and over and now I've heard summer time wow didn't hear that back in the day,. Reaction🤩
It doesn't get any better than this! Pure magic! Tremendous!!!! Bobby Hatfield's vocals were perfection.
Absolutely stunning performer and his ability to traverse up and down the vocal range is simply brilliant. I think if i could sing like just 1 performer, it would have to be Bobby Hatfield. Unfortunately i sound like a cat being strangled to death, although i never let that stop me from joining in whenever the Righteous Brothers, or any other great performers are letting loose, lol. Thanks as always for the analysis Phil.
How tf is this performance even possible? I cannot believe what his voice can do
I miss him so much
I haven’t seen this video before. I rarely like a live version more than the studio cut, but this is spine-tingling good. If you can ever track down Billy Joel’s introduction of the Righteous Brothers when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, do yourself a favor and watch it. Joel gives a vocal lesson on the history of the various versions of this song. TFS.
My mother would cry every single time Bobby Hatfield sang this song. She was so happy.
I was in high school when this song came out, and it was the ULTIMATE slow-dance song. It brings back so many wonderful memories.
As a rule songs don’t make me cry but Bobby Hatfield gets me every time.