Godspell Original London Cast Soundtrack Album 1971 - David Essex et al
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- Опубликовано: 31 янв 2025
- The David Essex / Jeremy Irons / Julie Covington / Marti Webb cast recording on Bell Records from 1971.
Jeremy And Company - Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord
David And Company - Save The People
Julie And Company - Day By Day
Verity-Anne - Learn Your Lessons Well
Marti And Company - Bless The Lord
David And Jeremy - All For The Best
Tom And Company - All Good Gifts
Deryk, Jacquie-Ann, Julie And Company - Light Of The World
Gay And Company - Turn Back, O Man
David - Alas For You
Jacquie-Ann, Verity-Anne And Company - By My Side
Neil And Company - We Beseech Thee
Lance Dowen, Mike Ward (3) And Clive Chaplin - On The Willows
David And Company - Finale
Company - Day By Day (Reprise)
Credits
Music By Stephen Schwartz
Directed By - John-Michael Tebelak
Producer - Mike Leander, Tony Macaulay
Design - David Byrd
Musicians:
Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Banjo - Lance Dowen
Bass Guitar - Mike Ward
Percussion - Don Lawson
Piano, Organ - Clive Chaplin
Cast:
David Essex, Deryk Parkin, Gay Soper, Jacquie-Ann Carr, Jeremy Irons, Julie Covington, Marti Webb, Neil Fitzwilliam, Tom Saffery, Verity-Anne Meldrum
This seems never to have had a CD release and is surprisingly difficult to find so, hopefully, Sony (whom I believe now hold the rights) won't object to its being here.
I don't claim to own the rights to audio or video and have no financial interest in this posting.
This should run in perpetuity (forever & always) in London theatres.. srsly how can this not be ?
0:00 Prepare Ye The Way of The Lord
2:05 Save The People?
5:28 Day By Day
8:08 Learn Your Lesson Well
9:00 Bless The Lord
11:40 All For The Best
14:18 All Good Gifts
17:26 Light Of The World
20:00 Turn Back, O Man
24:10 Alas For You
26:22 By My Side
29:42 We Beseech Thee
32:42 On The Willows
35:40 Finale
40:38 Day By Day (Reprise)
Wow! This takes me back (oh man) a few years! Aged 6 I was taken by my parents to see the show with this original cast in London. It blew my mind! Listened to the album every day for months following and learned every word….thank you for uploading! I still know all the words! Probably the single most reason I am a drummer in a rock band! SUCH fond memories. Thank YOU 🙏
I too saw them aged 6, at the Roundhouse! I remember it well. It was real eye candy for a 6 yr old with all their colourful clothes and makeup. They were having fun! Then we got the album! I used to dance around the room imagining I was a cast member ❤️
Brilliant to find this! I saw the show with the original London cast. Meeting them on the stage at the interval and shaking hands with David Essex blew me away. I didn't want to wash my hands afterwards!!
Memories as a child with my father and Godspell are so precious
Me too. My dad brought me to this. So special.
I love this. I remember singing to it when I was about 11years old. I have the vinyl album in the loft but no record player anymore. My older sister went to the show and they invited the audience up on the stage to be with them - David Essex and Jeremy Irons. Good times!!
This is now available on CD
@@sallymowafy5852 Where? It's not on Amazon?
@@Grisostomo06 It is on Amazon because that's where I got my CD. Just check that it says "original London cast" if you want the David Essex and Jeremy Irons recording. Originally I had it on cassette tape that I purchased at the theatre when I saw the show. Check Amazon again.
I heard this years ago, day by day in particular, when it was getting airplay on the radio back in the day in 1973. My mom turned 93 on April 25th, and her condition isn't great. I talked with one of the homecare workers and he said we need to play it day by day, hence the song was in my head and still is since I was her on April 18-April 27th 2023. Makes me quite sad.
Thank you for putting this up; I saw the original in London and it has stayed with me ever since. I went with my Mum who has since passed and lost my copy of the LP many years ago, so this really teared me up! (In a good way!)
Same story as me in every respect...God bless our lovely mothers.
Love this show..I have been in this...when I was in college.
My Dad took me to see this
I was 14
Loved David before for his singing
Had his poster on the wall-as well as David Cassidy and Ben Murphy
Bought the album
Got it signed
Still love listening to it
Yes I still have a record deck
Wish we'd had video in those days
It was amazing
Wonderful to hear how it was your dad who took you to see this production. As to not having an accompanying video may actually be beneficial as I find the listening to the soundtrack is an accompaniment to my everyday living where as a video is more often a distraction IMHO.
Thanks for posting!
The soundtrack to my childhood. We traveled with the original cast to Holland. We used to sit in the lighting box in the Haymarket. I think it was 1971. Gay Soper, David Essex as Jesus, Jeremy Irons as Judas.
Jeremy Irons was John the Baptist... maybe Judas as well? Can't remember.
BIRDS of BRITAIN You're right, it's the same role in Godspell. Hope this helps
As with all the roles but Jesus, the characters played at acting out different roles in the Mathew Gospel.
Wow! How amazing Daragh.
It was at Wyndhams. Saw it twice.
Oh my! I saw a production of Godspell at The Maltings, Farnham Surrey when I was about 9 years old I think. My mother, a music teacher and outstanding pianist conspired with the Drama teacher at a large secondary school comprehensive to put on at least one production every year of a musical, often bible-based. I had to sit through nearly every rehearsal , never got to star in one myself (I was sent to a different school and got dropped off at hers afterwards to save on childminding fees) .
They weren’t too shabby at all by the time they did the three final performances (one in front of the rest of the school and then maybe a Friday and a Saturday evening - something like that) at least I could sing along by the time they were fully rehearsed and performed. There was a lot of talent there. I think “On the Willows there” was one of the most moving duets I’ve heard.
Another one that completely fell off the world’s radar was “Follow the Star” - so much fun for children, not sure if it is even recorded anywhere.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤My favorite musical
Thank you so much for this. Not only memories of sharing wine with the cast on stage at 10 yrs old, but the message of love, of Gods love, of Jesus's love. So beautifully shared.
My favorite musical
I never knew that Jeremy Irons did Godspell!! I love him
I had forgotten that David Essex had done this, had NO idea that Jeremy Irons was in it or that he could sing!!!!
I know, right??
❤❤❤My God do I love this! 😂😂😂
I have loved listening to this ... years rolled away ... so so grateful to find this on RUclips... I remembered it all ...
I saw original cast and remain SPELLBOUND . Uplifts spirit and well-being . Thank you
When I was 16 years old, my family took me to London, where I saw this musical with David Essex. I ended up seeing it twice ( and would have seen it more if I could) because I loved it so much!
Bubert Rose Me too! It was great. Can still see it in my minds eye.
I envy you both. David and Jeremy are my favorite artists of all time.
Me too. Couldn't get enough of the live theater and David Essex!
I saw it with David Essex in London too,it was my 7th birthday treat and my mum let me bring about 6 of my best friends from school to watch it onstage...it was totally magical...I was too young to really realise there was any religious significance to it too which made it even better,it was just really colourful and joyous and innocent and happy...And still is.
Great stuff. Haven't heard this for years. Still the best soundtrack recording for Godspell. The cast sound like their having a blast and you've got to love David Essex and his cockney Jesus.
Overall, I agree. But Colleen Hewett's version of Day by Day on the Original Australian Cast Album is for me by far the best version. To my knowledge it hasn't been uploaded to RUclips, but a commercial release (in medley with 'Prepare ye' is), and is pretty amazing - with a slightly more single release sound... ruclips.net/video/b2pJNw2Im0Y/видео.html
i went to see this in early 70's and although i absolutley reject any religious conoations it has given me a purpose and has remained with me for ever since
What in it has given you a purpose? Just curious.
Thank you for this! I've searched for years for the David Essex version, saw it as a kid & my mum bought the album which she played to death. I still expect a scratch where she had one! Love it.
I saw this more than 300 times, the second act nearly 400. Precious memories. Almost everyone in it in 73/74 number among the nicest people I ever met.
300 TIMES ...! YOU must have been the lady selling ice cream....
@@starshine419 Close. My big sister was, first, so when I stayed with her, at a time it was full houses every night, I could get a standing ticket in the stalls for 50p. If none were available, I was allowed in anyway. Then I moved to London aged 16, hoping to work with my sister and go on a theatre course during the day. Company policy meant I had to work in a different theatre. Godspell was a long show, and different theatre times and matinees saw me running between theatres to catch it (hence the half-viewings) or being sneaked in to shows.
I also saw versions in the Phoenix in London, touring productions in Edinburgh, Sheffield more than once, and Doncaster, as well as amdram productions! Completely addicted.
Still got my autographed album
Never tire of listening
Just wish we'd had videos back then
Thank you! I saw this in London as a teen. It changed my life! I, too let go of my LP several years ago, and had not been able to find London recording in the States. Made my day!
Thank you so much for this. I was taken to see this when I was very young by my grandfather. It was incredible and we all loved it.
Thank you. I sung along remembering every word. I have this album up the loft, and am now too old to retrieve it. I saw this show in 1973. I wish there was a visual recording.
Never knew Jeremy Irons was in this! Didn’t know about David Essex either!
Love it. English cast has the Hurly Burly down.
Went to see it in 1971 in London. My mum and I loved the peck peck gobble gobble song so funny. Never heard it since, shame.
I remember in pre internet days my cousin driving to Tower records in Manhattan to get me this cd, which wasn't sold anywhere near me. I played this constantly. Still the most uplifting music ever next to Keith Green. The ultimate singalong album.
It certainly is nice to remember what clean music sounded like. Yes, I'm an ex-Christian, but I remember Keith Green, too. My mother used to love his records. Especially So You Want To Go Back to Egypt.
My first ever album (aged 10), my mum worked with Marti Webb's mum. Have always loved it this recording
What a treat to savor on a cloudy Montana morning! Sang this in a church rock group back in the 70s.
Lucky!!
I played Gilmer in a local community theater in high school. It was an awesome experience.
This album is hot 😊😊😊😊
I've been listening to Godspell for years and years. Either the Movie soundtrack or Broadway versions. This version's new to me, and I love it.
I saw you lot in the early 70s - you went on stage at half time - thank you David Essex and the first character baddie - KJeremy Irons.
so fun. all I have is the record somewhere ...and no record player...this was the best school outing ever!
3 things I pray- see thee more cleAHly
love thee more deAHly
follow thee more neAHly day by day
Saw the production with Robert Lindsay but bought this LP (lol). Know every note....wonderful memories.
The Crucifixion rock-out on this is superb.
47 years ago in London as a treat for my 12th birthday and feels like yesterday now I’ve found this on You Tube. Even remember my outfit. Holly (?) sat on my dad’s knee during her audience wander.
The character played by Gay Soper?
My favourite soundtrack.Was in this show at the fringe in 1984 second lead,i still remember all the words.Never forgoten.
Thank you so much for putting this up. I was lucky enough to see this at the Roundhouse in Chalk Farm back in the day and it's stayed with me ever since. It was a brilliant show and I don't think it's lost anything all these years later.
💛🌎✨Wwhhhaaaa???t...I didn't know that Jeremy Irons was in GodSpell...totally awesome!!!!!
💛🌎✨I remember seein’ this musical with my folks when I was age 8ight at the Ford National Theatre- Washington DC in 1978.
💛🌎✨My sister & I still have the complete masterpiece & listen to it every year ‘round the Springtime-14th Nissan Of The Lord-Saviour’s Memorial...it brings back so many lovely memories of our parents!!!
💛🌎✨Thank you so much for uploadin’ this recording!!!!!
I remember buying this LP in 1971 and I still have it... loved it then and love it now :) I recall watching clips of the production on the BBC at the time... and they have not been shown since, such a shame. I wonder if they are available to view somewhere?
1971 so brilliant we loved it
Still got this LP!
I saw Godspell when I was in high school. My parents sent me to a modern day Mennonite high school and we had the chance to go see this show in Toronto in 1972. I am not a religious person but was very impressed with this production. So much so I went out and found the album and played it a lot. Have not heard any of these songs for years. Sad how I can't remember what I have done in the past week but can remember all the words to all the songs. Still have the album but my turn table need a new belt.
Easy to replace a turntable drive belt,do it!!
@@mjh5437 I am moving out of the country and can't take the large stereo system with me so the new owner can replace it
Mennonite???
Did you go to Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kansas??
@@thomasoaxaca3379 No I went to Rockway Mennonite High School in Kitchener Ontario Canada
Wow. Evokes so many wonderful memories. Thank you for posting 😀
Went to see Godspell at the Roundhouse fabulous memories
TommyDGNR8: your posting of this exquisite version is nothing less than a mitzvah. Thank you so very much.
Saw this on my 16th birthday (thanks mum). Never seen a better version.
I saw this in London with a group from Dagenham and Witten, just before my 16th birthday!
I saw this production in London and enjoyed it very much, having missed the off-Broadway version starring Victor Garber. I only heard that version on vinyl and CD until now. Thanks for the upload.
Me too. Saw it at the Round House in Chalk Farm. Stellar cast.
This is really nice, but I would love to see it acted out with the performers!! ❤
Thank you! The version I remember, with a young Mr Irons, much appreciated.
Who did Jeremy Irons play?
John the Baptist, plus the recorder!!
The Wyndam's theatre London.
John the Baptist becomes the Judas figure toward the intermission. I found that so strange...
@@DarlaSydneyAndEve
And before that at the Roundhouse.
Wow Jeremy Irons. Can’t unhear Scar
I was lucky enough to see this production when I was 11 years old. Loved it then and still love it. I have the original vinyl recording. Thank you for posting it .It is lovely to hear it again.
Me too!! But I was 12 years old (in 1972). Do you remember going up on stage during intermission? The cast invited the audience to come up for some wine! Jeremy (Irons) came bounding up to me offering me a glass of wine and when I went to take it from him, my mother practically threw herself between us telling him, "She only twelve!"! He surprisingly stepped back, very apologetic, and said, "But she doesn't look like twelve". My mom just looked at me knowing that I was probably up to my usual shenanigans and with a glaring look and a bit of a smile said, "I know".... Ah! Such cool memories!
@@jennydino9735 I was about 10... and it was the first theater I'd ever seen... And I remember the intermission wine thing. And I had the LP forever - it's still somewhere in the garage. But I wore that album out. I went to The American School in London. And everything about living there changed the hell out of me. Love this recording...
@@ERGStump I think we were at ASL together -- not sure the same class year though. Godspell was the first stage production I ever saw as well. Jeremy Irons was unforgettable to me even then. I knew all the words to those songs but my recording is long lost, so hearing it here is a treasure. I feel like I've flown back nearly 50 years in time. I loved my 3 years in London and didn't want to come back to the U.S.
@@ERGStump Was that the American School in South Kensington or St Johns Wood?
@@monareinhardt9955 Was that the American School in South Kensington or St Johns Wood?
Cara! Que delícia de achado. Assisti mais de 100 vezes na minha infância.
Beautiful Marti Webb.
This is one of my favourites and remember seeing it live many years and saw this cast !
Also love 'September 15th' which david wrote about leaving the show... give it a listen
Absolutely love this song
On the willows my favorite song
Thank you for posting this here. I rather like this London cast album. I used to have the Broadway cast CD. One of the male singers had a rather operatic voice that was a bit much.
A more satisfying musical than Jesus Christ, Superstar IMO.
So very different.
I love both but I will always have my heart in Godspell.
Um, this is fantastic
And Mandy More was in the cast...she had an album out soon after that became a classic and was reissued in 2010 with a whole set of additions/mixes etc. Sadly my copy was 'found before I lost it'.
Mandy More was a replacement in the Wyndham's Theatre run.
ruclips.net/video/ggmwyOVllB4/видео.html
The version I heard of “On the Willows there” was sung by two female voices if I remember rightly. It actually blended better I think than the male-female version on this soundtrack. My memory might be faulty though, it was one hell of a long time ago.
Lindo demais
I had no idea that the phrase 'this really slaps' dated back to the 1970's. (All For The Best, just before the 'duet' portion.)
And apparently, even older than that - the phrase actually dates back to the 1800's at least.
The ONLY version IMO
I hate it lol. It sounds so shitty/sloppy/poorly performed compared to what you'd hear today.
I prefer the Broadway version but this is nice too.
Why is it so hard to find the original off Broadway cast of Godspell?
Hi, Winslow!
Jesus Christ super came out before ?? After?? It played off Broadway when it came to USA, where did it play in London!?!!
:)!
Did they speed this up? Seems a little fast.
Still love it ❤
The actor who played John the Baptist here would go on to voice Scar in “The Lion King”!
Awesome! Too bad Mandy More didn't sing in this
This cast had a level of authority of the material that I don't experience with the modern versions. It has something to do with the period or newness of the material perhaps? Perhaps to do with being closer to the craters? Maybe the talent is more classical trained?
People had better and more vivid imaginations back then
19:37
23:50 Play it, honey
So basically this musical was the Andrew Lloyd Webber recruiting center for future stars.
Godspell was created by Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak, not Andrew Lloyd Webber
Good, But faster Tempo Aericn Cast
Pure Secularism loosely based on half-heard Gospel accounts fluffed with contemporary ideals that are now outdated.
You say this like it's a bad thing...
Now make that 2 in the crowd. Such a joyful comment.
julyguynj Don't, darling. They'll think you mean it, and persist. 😉
Written as his final thesis by a Theology student. Brought many people to, or back to, God. Loved by lots of ministers, priests, nuns etc who were not so hypocritical as to judge it before going to see it, as my minister did - I told him I wanted to sing a song from it as my solo at the Harvest Festival and he flat-out refused, saying it was blasphemous. I decided to leave it at that and not sing at all, but my Mum lambasted him for being so judgemental, letting slip that she knew he didn't know the first thing about the show or he'd realise I meant a variation on We Plough the Fields and Scatter - All Good Gifts. He grovelled, I sang it, without letting him hear it first, and it went down really well. Such attitudes within the church are why I lost my Faith at about aged 12; Godspell is how I got it back.
Still got my autographed album
Never tire of listening
Just wish we'd had videos back then