I discovered his version a few years ago and probably listen to it more than any other song in my Spotify playlist. With all respect to the original, which still deserves love, this interpretation draws out an emotive feeling that gives it a richness most covers of any song don’t achieve. I find it deeply moving no matter how many times I listen to it. The vocal styling, tempo, arrangement and impeccable symbiotic relationship between the instruments and voice suit & enhances the lyrics. The message is (sadly) still so very relevant to today’s individual immigrant, no matter their country of origin or where their journey has taken them. For anyone with a heart, for the listener, this makes an immigrant’s experience personal; helping us stop judging, and labeling an entire group of humans as”dangerous,”“threatening,” “them,” or “others.” Elling is brilliant, always nearly flawless in his creative interpretations, vocal skills and musicianship. His is a true “gift.” So grateful (to whomever) that this version is available for anyone to hear. Thank you!
Elling's version of that tune is divine. Most likely, Bach would agree with the way a hymn he has often used in his work is invoked in Paul Simon's composition. Kurt does bring this wonderfully well. And the piano yes is superb indeed.
Kurt Elling’s ability to deliver an amazing story via his voice & inflections is stellar….resulting in my intense respect for his presentation of this composition…An “American Tune.” BRAVO KURT…ANOTHER INCREDIBLE MUSICIAN & STRONGLY INFLUENCED BY CHICAGO’S JAZZ MASTERS. DOOMO ARIGATO GOZIAMATSU ‼️‼️
Wow..LOVE his voice. I lovethis song and Kurt's interpretation. I'm a big fan. (how nice, this was posted on my birthday lol) Love the guy who's playing piano also!!!
I discovered his version a few years ago and probably listen to it more than any other song in my Spotify playlist. With all respect to the original, which still deserves love, this interpretation draws out an emotive feeling that gives it a richness most covers of any song don’t achieve. I find it deeply moving no matter how many times I listen to it. The vocal styling, tempo, arrangement and impeccable symbiotic relationship between the instruments and voice suit & enhances the lyrics. The message is (sadly) still so very relevant to today’s individual immigrant, no matter their country of origin or where their journey has taken them. For anyone with a heart, for the listener, this makes an immigrant’s experience personal; helping us stop judging, and labeling an entire group of humans as”dangerous,”“threatening,” “them,” or “others.” Elling is brilliant, always nearly flawless in his creative interpretations, vocal skills and musicianship. His is a true “gift.” So grateful (to whomever) that this version is available for anyone to hear. Thank you!
One of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard in my life:)
very plain, very true, just direct to the heart. No artifices, the way it should be. Beautiful. Kurt Elling's version is exceptional.
well, I wouldn't call it "plain" ,for a simple truthful version listen to Eva Cassidy
A fantastic interpretation of a truly magnificent song, of one of my absolute favorites of Paul Simon. That voice and that piano!
Great Kurt Elling! And a great pianist ! Wonderful!
There is no better accompanist than Lawrence Hobgood. Brilliant piano player.
Here, here ! KE is just a shell without LH.
Elling's version of that tune is divine. Most likely, Bach would agree with the way a hymn he has often used in his work is invoked in Paul Simon's composition. Kurt does bring this wonderfully well. And the piano yes is superb indeed.
Today that song has much more resonance than in 2012.
Kurt Elling’s ability to deliver an amazing story via his voice & inflections is stellar….resulting in my intense respect for his presentation of this composition…An “American Tune.”
BRAVO KURT…ANOTHER INCREDIBLE MUSICIAN & STRONGLY INFLUENCED BY CHICAGO’S JAZZ MASTERS.
DOOMO ARIGATO GOZIAMATSU ‼️‼️
Thank you, Kurt and Lawrence.
Wow..LOVE his voice. I lovethis song and Kurt's interpretation. I'm a big fan. (how nice, this was posted on my birthday lol) Love the guy who's playing piano also!!!
a fine and moving treatment of Simon's classic.
Wow, What an amazing voice! Great arrangement as well.
AMAZEING PIPES !~!!!!
Fantastisch!
Love
great! always!
A god amongst men
Laurence Hobgood, Kurt's longtime pianist, is the player here. Elling and Hobgood split in 2013.
😢Hobgood was a brilliant collaborator.