@@The1RealSlimShadythey keep associating it with brother where art thou. A klansman sings it before they try and kill a black man. Think they just assumed it was a racist song.
This song really helped my grandpa to accept his imminent death (he found it himself). the last thing he listened to before he passed in the evening of the 28/05/21 was this. thank you man
I'm a cashier. My district manager let's me choose my music. I play this all the time. Many new fans writing down your name. Amazing music universally interesting
@@CliftonHicksbanjo Your song haunts me. This coming February 2022 we would have been married 40 years.............modern medicine failed us. Sometimes I play along on the harmonica and think of her. It's a true song of remorse. Thank you.
It's a minor thing, but I respect this guy for playing a fretted instrument with gloves on. He's adding an additional level of difficulty just to keep with the costume/ motif.
*My almost 4 year old Grandson can not stop singing this song and "Death and the Lady."* *He has my love of the macabre.* *Much love to you from my family here in Traverse City Michigan.*
absolutely killer. Between the somber nature of the song, and the skull mask, that rich voice, and how expressive his eyes are this truly is a haunting performance.
Clifton, i know you probably wont see this but for years now ive come to listen to this rendition of yours whenever im in a tough place. Im a 🇬🇧 veteran diagnosed Severe complex combat specific PTSD...im waiting for and am ready for death, but im always going to want another year... From one Vet to another....thank you brother
I’m a Brit and spreading the word in the UK . Just ordered my first banjo and am starting to learn. I’m 62 and never learned to play anything before. Thankyou man , I appreciate what your music finally do . A promise to myself to learn to play an instrument. I used to say ‘that to go through life and not learning to play an instrument, was a waste. Thankyou again,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Fucking weird that I tune in as my wife died yesterday. We don't know when it's time but as in the olden days death was the great friend. Thanks for making the video.
Thank you! Thank you for opening eyes. I referred a friend of mine to your channel. He told me today.."I'll never hear these songs the same way again. Thank you." I said "Don't thank me, thank the man who is preaching with a banjo."
Thanks for the kind words and the insight. My great-grandfather was a Baptist preacher, as were his grandfather and great-grandfathers going all the way back to 1700s Yorkshire.
@@CliftonHicksbanjo I just feel that the music and songs you're playing are opening eyes to a dark part of American history. A part that should be learned so we stop living it. It is time we see one another as human. It is time we come together, and I truly hope your rendition of these songs helps with that. I thank you again,Sir.
When I clicked on this, I wasn't sure what to expect. What a delightful surprise! This is the music of my Mom's people; mountain music, and murder ballads! I LOVE THIS!!! I subscribed so fast!
"The skull is appropriating the living impaired! " It's always some suburban white woman whining about how something offends other people... But most other people don't care at all. This man is culture, anyone that doesn't understand that is sad.
Death ain't an unfair twist in the game, it is the game. Always has been, an' always will. Blink a few times, smile a couple, then you' out. No crime, no foul, just game...
And I sit here struggling with depression & desire to end my own life. Obviously you don't know my struggles, but I could only imagine how frustrated I would be for someone to willingly take their own life when I am fighting for every day I have. I am sorry that you are going through this, but thank you for making me think about how I would feel if the situation was reversed. It is just so hard to sit here & fight against my illnesses while failing to provide financially or emotionally for my wife & kids.
Two time cancer survivor. Death (Odin) came into my room for me. Wife got me to ER full on septic shock. Death is real deal shit. If your not ready don't go with him!!!
Clifton makes most "death metal" bands look about as dark and hard as Alvin and The Chipmunks... Even Death is going, "Wow...Do I really seem that grim to you? A lot of people are actually happy to see me...I'm kind of hurt..."
So what do you listen to - hardcore gangsta rap, street stories about killing and dealing (crowd ooo's) - viking death metal, tales of battle and raiding and hel (crowd ooo's louder) - cowboy gunfighter ballads (crowd reaches pitch) ... ole leather starts pickin (crowd goes quiet)
Thank you Clifton for preserving and promoting this beautiful part of our history. I’m retired and trying to get a motorcycle on the road but I will try to send you something when I can $ wise. Always lifts my spirit when I listen.
@@CliftonHicksbanjo Holy Canoli! No WONDER that instrument sounds so nice! (And here I thought I owned a few vintage instruments) I have to commend you for playing it with Nitrile 'mechanics' gloves. I can't even wash dishes with them because I can't see well and have to feel the bits of food left behind to get them clean! You sir, amaze me!
This is my 5-year-old's favorite song. He has asked for me to play "the skeleton song" for at least a year now. He's finally memorized "Old Leather Stocking" and is starting to remember the lyrics to this one. We're out visiting houses that signed up on the Halloween decoration map provided by a local news station and he just asked if we can listen to all of Old Leather Stocking's songs. Thank you for sharing your wonderful music.
My Father was a mortician for close to 50 years, unfortunately he's no longer with us God rest his soul, but I know for a fact he would've loved this song Love you pops, Thanks for the help for keeping death spare me over till another year
This is the song I listen to before I give my soul to the ocean to do with me whatever it will. Take me away from my family to make me rich or poor take me away from my family but please bring me back. Here comes another crab season on the ocean 2021 watch over me and my family. To go where few have ever seen.
I have listened to and sung along to this a zillion times or thereabouts. This needs to be played and sung at my funeral... if there is one. Ab-so-lutely.
I am from the mountains of Eastern Tennessee, I come from a large extended family of Bluegrass musicians, and I love hearing the music of my mountain ancestors.
Oh Death oh Death, Please spare me over 'til another year! What is this that I can't see with icy hands taking hold of me? I am Death none can excel I open the door to Heaven or Hell, Oh Death someone would pray could you call some other day? The children prayed the preacher preached but time & mercy is out of your reach... I'll fix your feet so you can't walk I'll lock your jaw so you can't talk, I'll close your eyes so you can't see this very hour come go with me, Death I come to take the soul I leave the body and leave it cold, I drop the flesh off of the frame the earth and worms both have a claim... O Death consider my age please don 't take me at this stage My wealth is all at your command if you will move your icy hand, The young the old the rich or poor all alike with me you know No wealth, no land, no silver, no gold nothing satisfies me but your soul... Mother come to my bed place a cold towel upon my head, My head is warm my feet is cold Death is moving upon my soul, Oh Death how you treating me you close my eyes so I can 't see, You hurt my body you make me cold you run my life right out of my soul...
It's not my intention.to sound like a Fanboy, but your versions, of these songs, are amazing. I love listening to you speak of history when you are in your skin. Anyway, thank you Mr. Hicks.
Makes me think straight away of Brother where art thou. Well done Clifton. Sooooo good, I can't stop watching it - it's the eyes, they tell a story of their own.
Not sure why this showed up in my suggested videos. but for some reason it was exactly what I needed to hear today. Thanks for sharing this. Also had a Hillary Klug fiddling and dancing video show up today too. I have an Appalachia vibe going on now.
Banjo picking and singing are top notch, but what's truly amazing are the range of emotions he's able to express while wearing the skull mask using only his eyes!!
I had a Massive heart attack a few months ago, technically died twice. The doctors call it the widow maker, most dont survive. This song is very comforting to me now. Creeps my friends out.
Good sense of humor and additude to life, keep going. Keep breathing and going, life is too short but worth living. Its too full of amazing things even if we have the downs. Without the down we couldn't appreciate the high. - A Search and Rescue ground pounder. Take care in life and hope things go better for you. (Also i feel that, i technicaly died seven times, thanks asthma...im a cyclist now.)
Traditional Mexican music (corridos / rancheras) have similar themes and tropes ties to death or fatalism. Given all that, I’d be honored to have this played at my funeral. Beautiful as it is haunting. Respect ✊🏽
Greetings from Michigan. I cannot stop listening to this rendition, and I really dig "Old Leatherstocking" Wearing the mask let's you become something of an avatar of Death itself. By doing more then playing and singing, I would say that makes you akin to a troubadour... a singer of stories and keeper of traditions.
My boyfriend played this song every single day. Three days back he made a bad choice and is gone forever. Love yours hard because each day is a new battle. So much left to see and do. So young and brilliant. Rest In Paradise, my Stargazer. I will always love you Henry Lee. Waiting to see you again.
May he rest in peace, I'm sure he was a good man, and he shall smile down from heaven onto you everyday until the day Death comes for you, and you both reunite beside the lord.
I soooooo wish there was a way to post multiple thumbs-ups. This music is soul-deep wonderful. Thank you... .and thanks to whoever you are channeling from beyond.
I have listened to and sung along to this a zillion times or thereabouts. This needs to be played and sung at my funeral... if there is one. Ab-so-lutely.
Years ago (summer of 2005, I think) I helped install a septic system for John Chandler, who was a cousin of Lloyd and Dillard Chandler. I spent a lot of time talking to the Chandlers, and playing John's banjo, and at the end of it all, they gave me a "pirate" copy of High Atmosphere (which, apparently, they have the legal right to distribute, so it's not a real pirate copy, I guess) and told me all about how they feel somewhat defrauded by Folkways Records. John said that "God gave him [Lloyd Chandler] that song [Conversation with Death/O Death] to win souls for God," and was angry that Ralph Stanley claimed to have written it. They were also offended at the song's use in Songcatcher, a movie which they found to be in conflict with their Christian beliefs. They also felt that they never got the full royalties that were owed to them. I think the larger issue is that they felt that their culture was mined for its riches, and they weren't even given the credit. Anyway, this is a long-winded way of saying thanks for not just saying that the song was written by Ralph Stanley like so many people do.
@@shaneharrison4775 Well AP Carter didn't 'write', in our way of thinking today, much of anything he put his name on but originality was valued differently. A clever re working of a pre existing melody or lyrical theme was highly valued
I don't know what is leaving the bigger impression ....the soul punch of a song, playing in gloves, or how scary he looks when his eyes get big behind that mask. Performance art that I appreciate, but kinda wish I could unsee lol. Well done
Clifton can watch this one a million x Glad you didn't get swept away from the Crazy Missisipi Tornado..was really worried for yal.x O death o death please spare me over to another year......❤😊❤😊
Obviously the banjo playing is utterly gorgeous, but I've just realised exactly how stunning this dude's voice is: like someone swilling auditory Belgian chocolate round your eardrum. Wow, he's made me so happy, Old Leatherstocking. Yaaay
My Brother died the day before last, and these songs all provide a great comfort. Thank you, Clifton Hicks. These are very valuable pieces in your Old Leatherstocking series.
I am touched by the power and bareness the way Old Leatherstocking plays these ancient folk songs. The three Old Leatherstocking songs I found on RUclips are at the top of my list of best songs ever.
It's a classic already. Originally written in 1927 it is quite the old folk song. But this artist perfectly brought the intent and feeling of having old man death be at your feet. I got to say it I am in love with this song.
The more I listen to your work the more I appreciate what you're doing. The authenticity, the deep love of the music, instrument, and history/heritage. Your work doesn't just bear the trappings of it's roots, it's a new root from a great and wonderful old chestnut tree at the edge of a holler most people forgot was there. Thank you again.
My co-workers are very perplexed by my music picks..it's mixed with black metal, old school rap, rock n roll and Old Leather straps and dead south and Steven Seagulls 🤘 music speaks volumes
Man, I've been totally captivated by this song and your playing. I've been playing guitar for over a decade, but after moving from the prairie to the western North Carolina something ancient is telling me to get my hands on a banjo. Thank you for the inspiration and sharing all of the history that you do! Blessings brother! 🙏❤
Haha buy my first one today, now it's time to practice !Thanks for sharing this passion for this art, all this memories and history of you're country 👍
This is outstanding and emotional and true in equal measure. Clearly performed by a master right here. What a performance indeed.
3 года назад+6
The way you sing "O Death" low then little Higher the 2nd time in the chorus part, that is a nice touch, It evokes more emotion and it gets me every time, Thank you for taking the initiative to learn and perform this song, It is much appreciated
Thank You For Sharing Your Talent Sir, I can Dig it sure sounds like what I am going trough now serving over seas, I cant stop listening to your song .......love it.... cant wait to back home.......... .
bruh if you've been playing guitar for 10 years you can probably play a banjo just fine i say probably for unless you somehow still suck after 10 years. they're really similar instruments except banjo is more fingerpicking
I haven't played banjo but this song is about me l can feel something growing inside l just hope its hyperchondria and not the big C or cychosis or what not. No cash to pay docs and around here they're all bandits anyway so not much help love from Morocco.
"I'll drop the flesh off of the frame. The earth and worms both have a claim" STUPENDOUSLY CHILLING LYRICS ! (Modern technology allowed me to discover you. I am not a fan of the Internet but it is an amazing tool for music lovers. It enabled me to discover another "old school" banjo player whose music i also fell in love with. "Olla belle reed")
I run a work crew doing hard labour in northern British Columbia. I taight them this song, and it's our chant when it gets really ugly.
Who cares if it’s racist..
@@yonahshifren1161 Good thing that race wasn't mentioned once throughout the entire song. (Seriously though, what point are you trying to make?)
@The1RealSlimShady some people can't help but show off their ignorance. Its a cry for help.
@@yonahshifren1161 How is it racist?
@@The1RealSlimShadythey keep associating it with brother where art thou. A klansman sings it before they try and kill a black man. Think they just assumed it was a racist song.
We need a full Old Leatherstocking album
Hell, I'd buy it and I'm a dyed in the wool Cockney.
I'd buy one for all my friends.
@@LonelyAssassin96 it's out
@@HenryFarfenuggen where?// nevermind, bought it lol
And tour. Cliff would tear it up!
This song really helped my grandpa to accept his imminent death (he found it himself). the last thing he listened to before he passed in the evening of the 28/05/21 was this. thank you man
Sorry for your loss. We all get there in the end. May your grandpa rest in peace.
Sorry for your loss
I'm a cashier. My district manager let's me choose my music. I play this all the time. Many new fans writing down your name. Amazing music universally interesting
Cool! Thanks a lot. 🍻
You should play it in the store
your district manager has a monster dong
@@CliftonHicksbanjo Your song haunts me.
This coming February 2022 we would have been married 40 years.............modern medicine failed us. Sometimes I play along on the harmonica and think of her.
It's a true song of remorse.
Thank you.
My shops play Bob Marley ECT is love to walk into a shop and hear this good on you love from Australia xxxx
My grand father use to say that a man born to hang will never drown .
That's a good one I've never heard. Sounds OLD.
But a child born on the winter solstice can neither be hung nor drowned. (West Virginia dad, Alabama mom)
Was your grandfather Russian?
@@Viriatus1 Perhaps the russian president?
@@williamshivers7173 I bet he knew how to party though.
It's a minor thing, but I respect this guy for playing a fretted instrument with gloves on. He's adding an additional level of difficulty just to keep with the costume/ motif.
I was thinking the same thing. Ive tried playing guitar with gloves in the cold and i just couldnt get it.
so badass. touches my roooots ❤
I’m from Russia and I don’t know what I’m doing here. But it’s fire 🔥
Привет
I'm from Serbia брат and this Appalachian Американец is rocking it hard!
Appalachian mountains!! We some tough son of bitches over here
Оооо Землякам привет 😄
"From Murica with love."
I am impressed not only with Leatherstocking's playing and singing but with the extremely masterful exploitation of the mask by his eyes.
*My almost 4 year old Grandson can not stop singing this song and "Death and the Lady."*
*He has my love of the macabre.* *Much love to you from my family here in Traverse City Michigan.*
Yes. Great music. An Oregon transplant from Grayling MI.
This song was the nail in the coffin for me to actually get a banjo. Its been a fun year
absolutely killer. Between the somber nature of the song, and the skull mask, that rich voice, and how expressive his eyes are this truly is a haunting performance.
Then you should definitely check out his other video for Death and the Lady: ruclips.net/video/cceCw_1pVK8/видео.html
Haunting melody
His voice resonating off the mask is definitely a cool effect! 😎
Clifton goes!!!!
Cannibal Corpse should cover this one
“Death smiles at us all; all we can do is smile back.”
Marcus Aurelius
Truth
everybody needs to read meditations by Marcus Aurelius, the man was a legend.
@@jaegerwoods6685 Jesus was the legend, king of jews, invisible God manifest in the flesh.
@@amanda.collaud I agree.
Marcus was a boss tho..
Wake each day prepared for death. Be right with your God, yourself and everyone you love.
Sleep soundly and arise with confidence. God is the best of planners.
I can’t get enough of Ole Leather Stockings, the playing, singing, theatrics of it all is outstanding.
He has to wear gloves cuz his fingers are bones 🦴. It would buzz somethin awful!...😄
Fn funny
He could probably play some sweet slide guitar though.
🤣🤣🤣
🎃..
And all this time I thought the grim reaper carried a scythe. Who knew he carries a 5 string banjo...Great job Clif! 💀🤣👍
them licks cut deeper thn the scythe cn slice
@@mattthatsme8799 Amen Brother! 💀🪕
I've joined the ranks of others who have suddenly fallen in love with the banjo thanks to Clifton!!!
Clifton, i know you probably wont see this but for years now ive come to listen to this rendition of yours whenever im in a tough place.
Im a 🇬🇧 veteran diagnosed Severe complex combat specific PTSD...im waiting for and am ready for death, but im always going to want another year...
From one Vet to another....thank you brother
I’m a Brit and spreading the word in the UK .
Just ordered my first banjo and am starting to learn.
I’m 62 and never learned to play anything before.
Thankyou man , I appreciate what your music finally do .
A promise to myself to learn to play an instrument.
I used to say ‘that to go through life and not learning to play an instrument, was a waste.
Thankyou again,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Fucking weird that I tune in as my wife died yesterday. We don't know when it's time but as in the olden days death was the great friend. Thanks for making the video.
I'm sorry to hear it.
Damn sorry for your loss.
She's on to a better place... My condolences.
I know all too well how that feels. It's hard to continue on after that, but you can do it.
So sorry for your loss brother. They say it gets better with time. It’s doesn’t really, just gets a little more comfortable.
Thank you! Thank you for opening eyes. I referred a friend of mine to your channel. He told me today.."I'll never hear these songs the same way again. Thank you." I said "Don't thank me, thank the man who is preaching with a banjo."
Thanks for the kind words and the insight. My great-grandfather was a Baptist preacher, as were his grandfather and great-grandfathers going all the way back to 1700s Yorkshire.
Ah must be true blood of English White rose, Greetings from The the white rose
@@CliftonHicksbanjo I just feel that the music and songs you're playing are opening eyes to a dark part of American history. A part that should be learned so we stop living it. It is time we see one another as human. It is time we come together, and I truly hope your rendition of these songs helps with that. I thank you again,Sir.
@@CliftonHicksbanjo you have Yorkshire heritage? Good lad, best part of the UK lol
When I clicked on this, I wasn't sure what to expect. What a delightful surprise! This is the music of my Mom's people; mountain music, and murder ballads!
I LOVE THIS!!!
I subscribed so fast!
Its not blackface it’s adding to the eerie character he is portraying. As a BLACK man i love it lol keep jamin brother.
It is good stuff, ain't it?😊
"The skull is appropriating the living impaired! "
It's always some suburban white woman whining about how something offends other people... But most other people don't care at all.
This man is culture, anyone that doesn't understand that is sad.
He's portraying death how do you not see that
@@robertklebe9236 obviously. Whomever reported my comment clearly doesn't understand sarcasm.
Who is saying it's blackface?
G’day from Australia
The world needs more “old leatherstocking” .........please
My grandpa and I listen to this video over and over, it’s so good!! Want to learn banjo one day
You should! I can teach you at BanjoHeritage.com
The most chilling words you will hear today:
(Death speaking) “No wealth, no land, no silver, no gold-nothing satisfies me like your soul.” 💀
so The Devil plays fiddle and Death plays banjo? makes sense. i bet they make a killer combo.
Who's on drums?
Is it us?
@@jonnybrello4360 Time.
@@nondescriptcat5620 So time is on drums, what about the washboard and cowbell?
Listening to this with stage five renal failure, it just hits different.
Death ain't an unfair twist in the game, it is the game. Always has been, an' always will. Blink a few times, smile a couple, then you' out. No crime, no foul, just game...
And I sit here struggling with depression & desire to end my own life. Obviously you don't know my struggles, but I could only imagine how frustrated I would be for someone to willingly take their own life when I am fighting for every day I have. I am sorry that you are going through this, but thank you for making me think about how I would feel if the situation was reversed. It is just so hard to sit here & fight against my illnesses while failing to provide financially or emotionally for my wife & kids.
@@harvestblades
May God Almighty wrap u in his Loving arms and give you his Precious Peace please ! In Yeshua mighty name.
♡
Two time cancer survivor. Death (Odin) came into my room for me. Wife got me to ER full on septic shock. Death is real deal shit. If your not ready don't go with him!!!
Clifton makes most "death metal" bands look about as dark and hard as Alvin and The Chipmunks...
Even Death is going, "Wow...Do I really seem that grim to you? A lot of people are actually happy to see me...I'm kind of hurt..."
So what do you listen to
- hardcore gangsta rap, street stories about killing and dealing (crowd ooo's)
- viking death metal, tales of battle and raiding and hel (crowd ooo's louder)
- cowboy gunfighter ballads (crowd reaches pitch)
... ole leather starts pickin
(crowd goes quiet)
Sounds like mine
-cholo Mexican rap
-natsoc black metal
-gunfighter ballads and trail songs
-old leather stocking
-lotr soundtracks
@@jimmykanuk9092 forgot stoner doom
@@jimmykanuk9092
nigga tf natsoc black metal???? link me some of that shit
Yes
@@DeezNuts-vj4ws pest noire, burzum, Graveland to name a few lots of underground groups as well when you look hard enough
Thank you Clifton for preserving and promoting this beautiful part of our history. I’m retired and trying to get a motorcycle on the road but I will try to send you something when I can $ wise. Always lifts my spirit when I listen.
You always put real life into these.
You let the notes sing from your soul, become one with the music.
Stuff keeps the working man going.
Thank you.
That is one of the cleanest sounds and the cleanest instruments I have ever seen
That's an 1888 Luscomb banjo I've played for almost 20 years. It does have a brand new head on it, though.
@@CliftonHicksbanjo Holy Canoli! No WONDER that instrument sounds so nice! (And here I thought I owned a few vintage instruments)
I have to commend you for playing it with Nitrile 'mechanics' gloves. I can't even wash dishes with them because I can't see well and have to feel the bits of food left behind to get them clean! You sir, amaze me!
@@jazzcatt So, when invited over your place for supper, I best bring my own plate, yeah?
This is my 5-year-old's favorite song. He has asked for me to play "the skeleton song" for at least a year now. He's finally memorized "Old Leather Stocking" and is starting to remember the lyrics to this one. We're out visiting houses that signed up on the Halloween decoration map provided by a local news station and he just asked if we can listen to all of Old Leather Stocking's songs. Thank you for sharing your wonderful music.
My Father was a mortician for close to 50 years, unfortunately he's no longer with us God rest his soul, but I know for a fact he would've loved this song
Love you pops, Thanks for the help for keeping death spare me over till another year
With 2024 looming we'll need more Old Leatherstocking for the Apocalypse Bingo 2024 OST
Playing this rendition every week.
Keeps me motivated and stepping.
Keep doing what you do, brother.
Of all the covers of this profound gem, Brother Clifton sir this is a haunting captivating solo. WOW.
I love how this song goes through the throws of death, from the beginning to the end. You can almost feel the person in the song dying
Absolutely NO DISRESPECT to the LEGEND Ralph Stanley...
But...
...this is my favorite version of this song.
The fact you be doin this with gloves on is dope as f#&$, too.
There ya go!!
This is the song I listen to before I give my soul to the ocean to do with me whatever it will. Take me away from my family to make me rich or poor take me away from my family but please bring me back. Here comes another crab season on the ocean 2021 watch over me and my family. To go where few have ever seen.
Stay safe brother
Thank you rock
Give your BODY to the ocean, you ARE a soul that will live on for eternity! !
I shall raise a horn to Aegir and Njord to ye
@@fraserrisk1836 98mchevy
I have listened to and sung along to this a zillion times or thereabouts.
This needs to be played and sung at my funeral... if there is one.
Ab-so-lutely.
I am from the mountains of Eastern Tennessee, I come from a large extended family of Bluegrass musicians, and I love hearing the music of my mountain ancestors.
Oh Death oh Death, Please spare me over 'til another year!
What is this that I can't see with icy hands taking hold of me?
I am Death none can excel I open the door to Heaven or Hell,
Oh Death someone would pray could you call some other day?
The children prayed the preacher preached but time & mercy is out of your reach...
I'll fix your feet so you can't walk I'll lock your jaw so you can't talk,
I'll close your eyes so you can't see this very hour come go with me,
Death I come to take the soul I leave the body and leave it cold,
I drop the flesh off of the frame the earth and worms both have a claim...
O Death consider my age please don 't take me at this stage
My wealth is all at your command if you will move your icy hand,
The young the old the rich or poor all alike with me you know
No wealth, no land, no silver, no gold nothing satisfies me but your soul...
Mother come to my bed place a cold towel upon my head,
My head is warm my feet is cold Death is moving upon my soul,
Oh Death how you treating me you close my eyes so I can 't see,
You hurt my body you make me cold you run my life right out of my soul...
Oh death please spare the good and start with the rotten ELITES!
Great stuff brother👏👏👏👏
Qqqqqqqq+
The best. Thank you so much!
Toe stomping tip Tappy branger.. .
Damn fine pickin n a great voice too mate 💀👌🪕
It’s like this man went straight into my brain to find what I have been yearning to listen to. 🖤🔥
I love how good that costume looks for how simple it. Is.
As a Yankee boy. This song rings true as the elders start to pass, you realize your own mortality.
You know, if Death sings this sweetly when my time comes, i think I'll walk hand in hand with him.
Your presentation is wild. I'm going to put it in my will to hire you to play on my funeral
It's not my intention.to sound like a Fanboy, but your versions, of these songs, are amazing.
I love listening to you speak of history when you are in your skin.
Anyway, thank you Mr. Hicks.
Makes me think straight away of Brother where art thou. Well done Clifton. Sooooo good, I can't stop watching it - it's the eyes, they tell a story of their own.
Not sure why this showed up in my suggested videos. but for some reason it was exactly what I needed to hear today. Thanks for sharing this. Also had a Hillary Klug fiddling and dancing video show up today too. I have an Appalachia vibe going on now.
Banjo picking and singing are top notch, but what's truly amazing are the range of emotions he's able to express while wearing the skull mask using only his eyes!!
Unfortunately for my neighbors, you've convinced me to learn the banjo and American traditional music!
I had a Massive heart attack a few months ago, technically died twice. The doctors call it the widow maker, most dont survive. This song is very comforting to me now. Creeps my friends out.
Good sense of humor and additude to life, keep going. Keep breathing and going, life is too short but worth living. Its too full of amazing things even if we have the downs. Without the down we couldn't appreciate the high. - A Search and Rescue ground pounder. Take care in life and hope things go better for you. (Also i feel that, i technicaly died seven times, thanks asthma...im a cyclist now.)
Cheers.from another widowmaker survivor.
Wow, I trust yre feelin good now dude, rock on
@@KilerkRazorclaw I come back and read your comment every now and then. im still alive, and thank you for all you do
I hope your as full of life as me!@@gordonyork6638
Traditional Mexican music (corridos / rancheras) have similar themes and tropes ties to death or fatalism. Given all that, I’d be honored to have this played at my funeral. Beautiful as it is haunting. Respect ✊🏽
Greetings from Michigan. I cannot stop listening to this rendition, and I really dig "Old Leatherstocking" Wearing the mask let's you become something of an avatar of Death itself. By doing more then playing and singing, I would say that makes you akin to a troubadour... a singer of stories and keeper of traditions.
this feels like i took Benadryl while watching primus
😂
Great idea Primus and Leatherstocking.
My boyfriend played this song every single day. Three days back he made a bad choice and is gone forever. Love yours hard because each day is a new battle. So much left to see and do. So young and brilliant. Rest In Paradise, my Stargazer. I will always love you Henry Lee. Waiting to see you again.
May he rest in peace, I'm sure he was a good man, and he shall smile down from heaven onto you everyday until the day Death comes for you, and you both reunite beside the lord.
I'm sorry for your loss and sadness
You gave him your love that's all you could do
R1P
I soooooo wish there was a way to post multiple thumbs-ups.
This music is soul-deep wonderful.
Thank you... .and thanks to whoever you are channeling from beyond.
I have listened to and sung along to this a zillion times or thereabouts.
This needs to be played and sung at my funeral... if there is one.
Ab-so-lutely.
Years ago (summer of 2005, I think) I helped install a septic system for John Chandler, who was a cousin of Lloyd and Dillard Chandler. I spent a lot of time talking to the Chandlers, and playing John's banjo, and at the end of it all, they gave me a "pirate" copy of High Atmosphere (which, apparently, they have the legal right to distribute, so it's not a real pirate copy, I guess) and told me all about how they feel somewhat defrauded by Folkways Records. John said that "God gave him [Lloyd Chandler] that song [Conversation with Death/O Death] to win souls for God," and was angry that Ralph Stanley claimed to have written it. They were also offended at the song's use in Songcatcher, a movie which they found to be in conflict with their Christian beliefs. They also felt that they never got the full royalties that were owed to them. I think the larger issue is that they felt that their culture was mined for its riches, and they weren't even given the credit.
Anyway, this is a long-winded way of saying thanks for not just saying that the song was written by Ralph Stanley like so many people do.
❤️
It is a bible story, basically
Unfortunatly , the music business has many stories such as this one .
@@shaneharrison4775 Well AP Carter didn't 'write', in our way of thinking today, much of anything he put his name on but originality was valued differently. A clever re working of a pre existing melody or lyrical theme was highly valued
I've got a doc bogs record with that song, and I bet it's older than the 1930s
I don't know what is leaving the bigger impression ....the soul punch of a song, playing in gloves, or how scary he looks when his eyes get big behind that mask. Performance art that I appreciate, but kinda wish I could unsee lol. Well done
I was listening to this song a couple years when life was horrible, popped up out of no where. Cant feel like it was recommended again for a reason.
Ralph Stanley’s rendition has always been my favorite. My great grandpa had a similar voice, after he passed I replayed it over and over on my Walkman
As anyone on this planet has dealt with close family death, this song definitely strikes the deepest nerve. This fella is no joke.
Finding fantastic footage like this makes all the crap on the internet worthwhile.THANKS.
One of those nuggets ⛅
Yassssssss!
To me this is like the Dock Boggs version. It seems personal if that makes any sense at all? Great rendition Mr Hicks
Clifton can watch this one a million x
Glad you didn't get swept away from the Crazy Missisipi Tornado..was really worried for yal.x
O death o death please spare me over to another year......❤😊❤😊
Banjos are coming in strong this year just watch
Obviously the banjo playing is utterly gorgeous, but I've just realised exactly how stunning this dude's voice is: like someone swilling auditory Belgian chocolate round your eardrum. Wow, he's made me so happy, Old Leatherstocking. Yaaay
❤🎉❤🎉❤
surprised gems on vhs has not contacted you to film a video with you...you are a folk king Clifton.
We might be too country for Gems.
@@PermacultureAppalachia Yeah, too authentic and not hipster enough.
I don't think it's death people fear but instead not knowing time or manner. Well done performance here.
Ralph Stanley is smiling down from above. Amazing
My Brother died the day before last, and these songs all provide a great comfort. Thank you, Clifton Hicks. These are very valuable pieces in your Old Leatherstocking series.
this video has motivated me to learn the banjo and carry on a family tradition of playing folk music!!
This was creepy as fuck. I like it.
HAHAHAHAHA
@@kratomseeker5258 green maeng da is the best
This video is at the Wilkes County NC Visitors Center. 🤣🤣🔥🔥
I am touched by the power and bareness the way Old Leatherstocking plays these ancient folk songs.
The three Old Leatherstocking songs I found on RUclips are at the top of my list of best songs ever.
You are not incorrect. i really think that Clifford Hicks is a genius! Not only for his talent but his Love of history. We need more of this!
I'd love to hear Old Leatherstocking's version of Mother by Danzig !
Love ole Leatherstocking. This is how I first discovered you....
This is saved to my favorites---- to be a classic for sure
It's a classic already. Originally written in 1927 it is quite the old folk song. But this artist perfectly brought the intent and feeling of having old man death be at your feet. I got to say it I am in love with this song.
RUclips algorithms finally did something right. So rad!
🖤💀
I love this rendition. Can’t stop watching it. Awesome performance!
The more I listen to your work the more I appreciate what you're doing. The authenticity, the deep love of the music, instrument, and history/heritage.
Your work doesn't just bear the trappings of it's roots, it's a new root from a great and wonderful old chestnut tree at the edge of a holler most people forgot was there.
Thank you again.
My co-workers are very perplexed by my music picks..it's mixed with black metal, old school rap, rock n roll and Old Leather straps and dead south and Steven Seagulls 🤘 music speaks volumes
Man, I've been totally captivated by this song and your playing. I've been playing guitar for over a decade, but after moving from the prairie to the western North Carolina something ancient is telling me to get my hands on a banjo. Thank you for the inspiration and sharing all of the history that you do! Blessings brother! 🙏❤
Incredibly well performed. Loved it! Clifton, your work is very much appreciated.
It give me chills. I'm seriously considering playin banjo now
Haha buy my first one today, now it's time to practice !Thanks for sharing this passion for this art, all this memories and history of you're country 👍
This is outstanding and emotional and true in equal measure. Clearly performed by a master right here. What a performance indeed.
The way you sing "O Death" low then little Higher the 2nd time in the chorus part, that is a nice touch, It evokes more emotion and it gets me every time, Thank you for taking the initiative to learn and perform this song, It is much appreciated
This is one of the best song I've heard in a while. And I'm a hardcore metalhead
Listen to "a conversation with death" by Khemmis, it's a metal version of this song and its awesome.
Tonight I'll have nightmares. But also be humming along
Thank You For Sharing Your Talent Sir, I can Dig it sure sounds like what I am going trough now serving over seas, I cant stop listening to your song .......love it.... cant wait to back home..........
.
Is this particularly hard to play for someone who’s only picked up a banjo a couple of times (have been playing guitar for about 10 yrs)
This one is relatively simple. Tablature and lesson video available here: www.patreon.com/posts/o-death-lesson-42794014
bruh if you've been playing guitar for 10 years you can probably play a banjo just fine
i say probably for unless you somehow still suck after 10 years. they're really similar instruments except banjo is more fingerpicking
@@CliftonHicksbanjo I imagine it's rather tricky to pick with disposable gloves on though. Kudos!
I haven't played banjo but this song is about me l can feel something growing inside l just hope its hyperchondria and not the big C or cychosis or what not. No cash to pay docs and around here they're all bandits anyway so not much help love from Morocco.
@@SofaKingShit greetings from southern California... i hope to visit Morocco one day
Dying's easy, its living that's hard and sometimes scary. When death dares knock on my door, I'll say, " you're late "
We need alot more music from you..
"I'll drop the flesh off of the frame. The earth and worms both have a claim"
STUPENDOUSLY CHILLING LYRICS !
(Modern technology allowed me to discover you. I am not a fan of the Internet but it is an amazing tool for music lovers. It enabled me to discover another "old school" banjo player whose music i also fell in love with.
"Olla belle reed")
Thank you Clifton, from the UK! Sir you are awesome!! I love these old songs from all over the world!
I'm listening to this while recovering from a horrible sinus infection. Very fitting. LOL
You are very talented sir. Thanks
love this guy, and triple props for wearing gloves while playing the banjo.