In a Psychiatric Ward at Age 20..Legend TURNED a DESPERATE PRAYER Into 70s CLASSIC-Professor of Rock
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- Опубликовано: 24 апр 2023
- Coming up it’s one of the most heart-wrenching stories of a classic song from real life… Fire and Rain by legendary singer-songwriter James Taylor...It's a song we all sing today. James Taylor (JT) was dealing with serious mental illness, and he had voluntarily checked himself into an institution at 18. He dropped out of school and formed a band. That band failed…. He began to sink further into darkness trapped by a vicious heroin addiction. Then he found out a good friend Suzanne had taken their own life. It left this 20-year-old future superstar homeless, destitute, and at the end of his rope… again checking himself into an institution to get clean where he wrote a desperate 'cry for help… a solitary prayer called Fire and Rain. It became a breakout smash that started a hall-of-fame career...The story is…. NEXT on Professor of Rock.
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The death of a friend, serious mental illness, and a vicious heroin addiction, had a 20-year-old future superstar homeless, destitute, and at the end of his rope. A desperate 'cry for help’ that became a breakout smash for the artist affectionately called JT…. NEXT on Professor of Rock."
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One of my favorite quotes, that I champion any chance I get- is this one from Albert Einstein: “The human spirit must prevail over technology.”**One of the most intelligent individuals that ever lived- profoundly & incisively concluded, that the invisible and un-scientific human element is the key substance for our survival. As world technology advances, and continues to dominate our daily lives, the human spirit is more critically vital than ever for our emotional & physical well-being.
For me, there is nothing better to fortify the soul than the human spirit evoked by music. That’s what this channel is all about. It’s what my mission in life is. A song or even a profound melody is what I go to for spiritual nourishment every day. And there are songs on my most cherished playlists that give me a variety of inner strength to help me prevail over anything. One of those songs is “Fire and Rain,” the breakthrough composition that forged the legacy of James Taylor.
I experience an exhilarating range of emotions when I listen to JT’s “Fire and Rain.” Because to me it’s is more than a song. It’s a prayer. I’m not talking about religion here, I’m talking about when the soul reaches outside of the body, yearning for something greater than human understanding, stretching beyond our limits. I feel the longing of a beloved friendship… devotion to faith and to the people that I love… I am moved by a sense of survival to overcome life’s biggest challenges and perseverance to build strength and achievement. Few things give us that capacity. In my estimation music does. 
Развлечения
Poll: Who is your pick for the greatest singer-songwriter of the 70s?
John Denver.
Eric Carmen
Nick Drake
Todd Rundgren
Van Morrison
David Gates
Pete Ham
Jackson Browne
James Taylor is a great one but my personal preference is Jim Croce. Carol King had the best album with Tapestry.
It's hard to argue against Joni Mitchell when you look at her output from '70-'76.
Kris Kristofferson
Willie Nelson
Neil Diamond
James Taylor
A few years ago, my friend Preston, lost his wife of 30 years. Preston was a black man in his late 50s and I was a white dude in my early 30s, at the time. We were friends because we worked at the same restaurant. I was his manager and he was my assistant. We spent lots of hours together (obviously) and found we had a love for a TON of the same music. :) Just looking at the two of us together, you'd never know we had so much in common. The day his wife died, Preston took the day off. But, my boss Andrew ( a white guy in his early 20s at the time) and I, went over to his house that evening, and we indulged in some sweet green and brandy, and Preston let me DJ some songs that would reflect what we all were feeling. Because we knew ALL ABOUT Preston's love for his wife. She was his everything. "Fire and Rain", was the first song I played. We cried and hugged each other. But, it set the tone for a good night of lifting up the spirit of his beloved wife. "Fire and Rain" will forever be remembered by me that way. I would imagine Preston and Andrew would feel the same. We were such a random trio of friends, being there for each other, when one of us had just experienced a terrible loss. James Taylor was with us that night...and he'll never know it. But, I'm glad he was. :)
Amazing. Thanks for sharing.
You just made me cry 😢
I am a old lady now, but that has always been one of my very favorite depression, crying songs. I never knew any of that story about James Taylor. Thank you for the information. Some days I just need to have a good cry, usually alone with good old music.
That’s what it’s all about… we just forget to connect…
What a beautiful story. It’s so good that he had friend like you .
My marriage fell apart, I had to sell the home I loved, six months later I was diagnosed with cancer, chemo, came back, had bone marrow transplant, son also had cancer at the same time, two bone marrow transplants for him, was let go from my job and then my son lost his battle with cancer and died at 28. I have been a fan of JT since I was a teenager and you bet that song resonated with me and still gets me through some days when I am missing my son so terribly. “ I always thought that I’d see you again”. But, God got me through,and continues to get me through, and I KNOW I will see him again!
Don’t kid yourself. That human spirit was knitted together by God. Anything positive that comes through music comes from Him!
Sure, and Charlie Manson's spirit came from where, under the Creator's Universe? Oh, that's right, that is why he gives the "Devil" free reign, right?? To take the heat for all the bad stuff, mental illness, mosquitoes and viruses. I give credit to James and to the individual who perseveres life's crappy stuff, you can throw honors at the sky, as you please, but stop trying to feed us your dogma
When my dad died in 1977, I was 14 and I listened to James' Handyman and cried .
I sang this song every night to my daughter while she was recovering from open-heart surgery at 3 months age…22 years later, even after her passing just 2 weeks after surgery, this song still inspires the same hope I felt then…I still sing it to her twin when I get the chance.
@Todd Geller What a time for you all. And how wondrous that your battling baby girl could hear this prayerful music, and your voice crooning your hopes and fears to her. Cocooned in the song, as the professor says here. Thank you for telling us about your daughters, and your loss, and your Song.
☮️
I’m so sorry ! Life can be so sad. Making it through is the trick. And these songs are a godsend! Keep your head up!
I'm so sorry for your loss. No parent should ever have to bury their child.
I sang this song while my daughter was her mama’s belly and everytime I was doing fatherly duties of changing diapers or playtime or just holding her. Somewhere around 15-18 months old, my wife video taped me sing the phrases and my daughter would sing the last couple words of each line. I’ve always remembered doing it but forgot it was taped. During Covid shut ins, we watched all the VHS tapes we hadn’t seen for some nostalgia and lo and behold there it was. She was so young she had no recollection of doing that duet with me. It is such a great moment for both of us! Thank you for your story Todd, music brings us all together!
I’m glad he made it through his struggles and is 75 years old now. Thank you James Taylor for all that you have given to us.
You know it’s a tremendous talent when they can sit on a stage with just a guitar and sound exactly like the recording. No production tricks, only their voice, lyrics and musical talent. James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot and Nancy Griffith are three of the very best and a gift to all.
years ago, i caught a show on tv (probably a PBS production) of his, just him sitting on a stool with his guitar and a footpedal to control a reel to reel sitting nearby..... he had his backing tracks on that, and tapped that pedal when needed to cue it on/off...... sounded perfect... amazing talent
I had Fire and Rain on a 45 when I was a teenager and played it to death because of one line “Won’t you look down upon me JESUS, you gotta help me make a stand…” when I needed direction that no one else could give. Those words made Fire and Rain one of my all time favorite songs. Thanks Prof for this video. I cried through a good bit of it - especially the story about your dad. May he RIP in Jesus’ arms…
Ahhhh, so wonderful to hear.
Same here.
My first husband and I were huge James Taylor fans back in the 70s and early 80s. We eventually ended up separated because of his drug addiction. I turned to fire and rain when I heard my ex had passed away in a rehab center. The verse that he states, “but I always thought that I’d see you again”…to this day, still brings tears to my eyes….
Won't you look down upon me Jesus.....the best way to beat depression
@Professor_Of_Rock3 hi I'm not quite sure how to email you. I can leave my email if you like. Thank you
In 1956, Doc Taylor was the doctor at McMurdo Bay in Antartica for Operation Deep Freeze. My uncle was a 19 year old Seabee who helped build the facilities at McMurdo Bay and at the geographic South Pole and got to know Doc Taylor. About 5 years ago, James took my uncle and his family out to dinner and treated them as VIPs at his concert that night. I've always loved JT's music. He is a treasure.
Thanks for sharing!
That’s cool!
We build WE FIGHT!!! I was Sea Bee in NMCB 17!!! I'm very proud of all the work we've done around the world from 42' to present!!!! "CAN DO SINCE 42'"!!!
Cool! My kids are studying the Antarctic now reading about Shackleton’s journey. I’m glad to know this fun fact!
@@suebrown7358 The Shackleton story might be my all time favorite. I read a book about it, long before the internet. What an amazing story and incredible person! As was the ship's captain, Frank Hurley I think, who was invaluable to Shackleton, and just as strong willed.
Depression, anxiety, relationships, soul sucking jobs, it's not easy being human but thankfully we have music
James appeals to the homeless inner city addict as well as the east coast wealthy elite, and everyone in between, because he lived with his feet in both worlds and they both seemed equally dark to him
I recall opening the sheet music to this song. First thing I saw was the Jesus verse. Instantly I thought heroin withdrawal.
My common law wife ODed on purpose a number of months ago. She didn't want to deal with breast cancer.
Now I can't sing the chorus without breaking up.
I've lost a lot of friends these last few years to ODs. None tore out a piece of my soul like my lady passing.
Robert Deen I’m so sorry…
OOF! I’m so sorry Robert. Sending love 💗
Sending Love and Light Robert!❤️✨❤️
So very sorry for your great loss. 😢
Whether it is Emily Dickenson, Francisco Goya, or James Taylor, thank goodness for the artists who experience existance at it's most intense and find the ability to turn themselvs inside out and express emotions in terms we all can feel and understand.
This song helped me when i was getting off heroin... i never thought of it as a song about addiction necessarily, but years later, i learned he wrote it coming from a similar place that i was feeling.
It’s a tough one.
The Professor of Rock Needs his own TV Show.
If someone has a way of making that happen the world would be grateful for that!"
Let's hope! I would love that.
@@ProfessorofRock There's not a single good music show on TV these days,
Adam, I feel that you're a true Modern Day Casey Kasem. You present the facts and ask the artist the right questions. Music is so important to everyone. I also believe the greats should be honored on TV.
And I also feel none would be more qualified for a show like that than you. I wish you the best. May God look down upon you and bless you with a show like that. Peace.. Joe
A podcast or radio station too!
@80's here's a little known fact for ya.. MTV was inspired by a New Zealand TV show titled 'Radio with pictures'. True story.
@@ProfessorofRock Maybe you can bring the Music back to MTV. Wouldn't that be wonderful, I believe your show would make the world a better place.
I always think of my youngest sister who suffered depression and committed suicide in 1998. This song resonates the deeply intense feelings from her death so many years later. We were really good friends as well as sisters but, I could never talk her out of killing herself. My eyes burn with tears writing this.
May all the gods grant you peace. You were a loving and involved sister, and you tried. Stay strong for her and yourself.
Thank you so very much! I really needed to hear this; her 34 year old daughter (my niece) gave me a scare today as she’s been battling depression as well. She’s a very troubled young woman and I try to do what I believe her mother would want me to do-be a stand in mother to her. She lives across the country from me and I hate that. I just want to take her under my wing and encourage her and show her how beautiful life can be. Thank you again for your timely and kind response to me! ❤️
Four months after your posting, but I’m familiar enough with your pain to know that this reply will always be relevant. That wave of pain really has no timeline for ending: over time the peace between those waves is just longer. My son died by suicide 12 years ago and although I get through the grief I never get over it. May those memories of your sister being you peace.
Losing my son who was 26 and being 55 Fire and Rain has all new meaning to me
Sorry for your loss. I lost my little brother a few months ago.
@@demetriuscooksey7147 thank you and I'm sorry
@Lee Shaver I have two boys, 13 and 14. I can't even imagine what you've been through. My heart goes out to you man.
@@demetriuscooksey7147
thank you sir
Hugs 🫂
I have a strong connection to this song. My Father passed away when I was 21 or so. I had lived with him when I was in the 2nd grade and again when I was 12 and, he was the love of my mother's life but, although he didn't have a mean bone in his 6'6 280 lb body he was an alcoholic and, couldn't hold a job . My mom had to leave him having never even had an argument because of it and reconnected with an old flame she'd known at 17 and we went to live with him when I was 4.
They'd argue and we'd move. 3 months would pass and we'd go back. For 10 years we'd repeat that, moving from Philly to Florida and back again until my stepdad passed when I was 14.
Save living with my dad who was sober and a gentle giant those couple of times I hadn't spoken to him since I was 12 until 1 night I mustered up the courage to call him ; courage I needed to break the ice and tell him I'd always loved him .
I hadn't done anything with my life in particular and was was drinking alcoholically myself by then but, I did reach him and we talked for a while and made plans to talk again. I called him 3 months later at his gun shop where we'd lived when I was 12. He'd established himself as a very well respected member of the community on Florida's panhandle and I'd grown up tall and well liked. I was playing guitar and had graduated with a degree in computer programming and thought I'd go up from Miami to see him .
Just after that I received a call from his common law wife who'm I'd lived with at 12 telling me he'd been recovering from the flu, and was almost done with it when he stood up and had a massive heart attack and died.
I thanked her, holding back tears, for telling me and said I'd call her back and then told my mom who took it hard herself.
I'd just lost my dog and now my Dad and, at some point I turned on the radio and it was the beginning of Fire and Rain.
Those lyrics "I'd always thought that I'd see you again" and just everything I'd dreamt of, "The plans (I'd) made " to go and "See (him ) again" and I wept until I couldn't cry anymore.
I'm 51 and I still have difficulty listening to the song but, it always reminds of how I'd at least gotten a chance to tell my dad I loved him and, I'd always loved him regardless of what he might have thought having not heard from me for all those years. That he'd always had a place of reverence and love in my heart. I'd never forgotten the few years before we'd left him , the few months of living with him and how I'd always thought of him as my father.
I cried a little bit during this video and, I'll always have a strong connection to Fire and Rain.
Shame really that I never called him earlier but, we can't go back to change anything so , at least we talked. I don't think it was a coincidence that I felt so strongly about calling him when I did. I think that was God letting me say goodbye so, at least there's that. R.I.P Dad, I'll be seeing you ♥️🙏
Thanks for sharing your story Stan. I'm similarly going through the same thing, but instead of alcohol, it's a wicked stepmother that I utterly despise. I've shamefully let my displeasure of her git in the way of spending time or talking to my Dad as often as I would like. We only gather about twice a year and only talk every 2-3 months. But thanks to your powerful story, all of that's about to change. God bless you man and be safe out there in this crazy world.
Stan- you brought me to tears… bless you as you walk on in life 💝
@@corablue5569 Hi Cora, I received your notification but, I couldn't imagine what it was pertaining to, until of course I read what I'd written. I'm in tears myself now but, that's okay... tears make me feel human and; tears should be shed over the people we've lost and, remember how much we loved them and miss them still I think.
The song started playing in my head the way they do and, everything came flooding back as it always does with Fire and Rain and, it's alright I think. My Dad's sort of owed at least that if that makes sense.
You never know if anyone will be bothered reading what you write if it's more than a few lines so I'm glad you had the patience and attention span to have _really_ read it.
Thank you Cora and, God bless you as well as you walk in your life ✌️❤️🙏
I often read the comments thanks 4 sharing with us all. It brought tears to my eyes as well. Real written emotions do that to me. Lots of love and happiness to u. Stay strong.
@@hillbillyslim Hey, HillbillySlim, I was never notified that you commented about my story about 3 weeks ago but, because of a different person's comment where I was notified I'm just now seeing yours. I hope that made sense to you man.
So you've decided not to let your "Wicked Stepmother" get in the way of your relationship with your Dad anymore. Man I think that's absolutely one of the best responses to a comment I've ever had. I mean that sincerely. (I'm always sincere, I just thought I'd throw that in)
To think something I wrote about my life could cause you to make a decision to not let the wicked stepmom has you only talkin' to your one and only dad who ain't gonna' be here forever right? Just like any of us right? We only get this one time around and that's it until we die.
I believe we'll see each other again, my dad and me (my mom passed away at 87 in 2017 and, I'll see her again up there but, I still think of her every day)I miss her and all these years later I regret not seeing my dad. I could have gotten up to where he was. It was my ego, my pride and he would have _LOVED_ to have seen how I'd grown into a man! I've had to live with that so you makin' up your mind like that? Cause o something I wrote?
That just touches my heart in a bigger way than you can imagine man. I'm touched and blown away. Thank you Slim.
I read the comments and the negative ones that are filled with hate maybe anger you for a minute or half an hour but, it's just a stranger hiding behind their anonymity. They don't know you so it doesn't carry any weight. You shrug it off and move on right?
It's the kind-hearted ones that come from the heart like yours that leave a lasting impression so I'm never gonna' forget this little back and forth between 2 strangers who have a few things in common like all people right? We're all dealing with our own personal human experiences but, we have more in common than the things that divide us.
I have a wicked half brother and you have a wicked stepmother, we both caught the Professor's Fire and Rain video and on and on. We all feel love and pain and everything that makes us uniquely human and, what an absolute pleasure when we can touch each other's hearts like you touched mine.
Thanks man and God bless you too. Be safe in this crazier than ever world and, one last thing.
Take action please! Go see your Dad if there's a way. Try to make one if there ain't and don't let anything git in the way because, man things can happen in a blink of an eye.
James Taylor has that other one "Shower the people you love with love... show them the way that you feel " (it just hit me now I swear I haven't thought of that one in year's man)
I wish you all the best in doing something like that with your dad man, all the best to you and your family, God bless you all, with love, Stan in Miami ✌️❤️🎸🎶🙏
You’ll also hear James Taylor singing background vocals for his good friend, Carole King, on the recording of her song (which I think she wrote for him), ‘You’ve Got a Friend’ only a few months after ‘Fire and Rain’ was released. For me, these two songs belong together - in time and theme. Taylor also recorded this song himself, and it became his second solo hit (and his first No. 1 hit).
Carole King is a legend
Totally agree...they go together
James did a version of that song as well.
Carly Simon said that he never talked to her again after their divorce. It hurt her, and I had a bad view of him for that. But knowing he struggled with some mental health issues explains some of it. He may have been too overwhelmed by her insightfulness. Her songs are incredible. She is able to see right into the heart of things. I hope they were able to talk again.
Wow! Your comment goes deep. Many may not see it. Unfortunately, divorced is... divorced. It is not "let's occasionally get together." His pain, anger, hurt, or hate may be greater than we can ever feel, or imagine.
I’ve come to like Carly better myself
@@robertlang4292 Divorced doesn’t always mean no contact. This is particularly true if there are children involved. Also, divorced couples sometimes do come to an understanding and can communicate even though they know they can’t ever live with each other again.
I avoid my ex-wife like the plague.
@@robertlang4292 , it doesn't have to be that way. My ex and I had a good marriage and an equally good divorce. It just didn't work out to stay married, doesnt mean we didnt still love each other. I still measure all men by him, 35 years later, and few measure up.
Adam, have love this song forever. After my mom passed in 2014, while looking through some of her belongings, I came across a notepad she would write in to remember things... While flipping through written on a page was the name "James Taylor ." I thought to myself boy, that's random as hell. Several days later I was in line at Circle k when Fire and Rain came on the radio... I felt my face go flush and I started shaking... Never had an experience like that before or since but whenever I hear the song I can't help think of Mom!!! Thank you for another wonderful video!!!
The very first song I played when my Father passed 5 years ago was Release by Pearl Jam. I then played Fire and Rain and I felt a warmth like a blanket wrap me and sooth me. I love you, Dad and thank you so very much for this one, Professor. Much love, brother
I danced at my wedding with my mother to this song. She and I went through so much. When she died it was what I listend to when I had to deal with the loss.
No mistaking the trademark voice of James Taylor. As soon as he opens his mouth you instantly know who’s singing. Musical talent runs deep in the Taylor family-his brother Livingston sounds a lot like him. Since those very dark times, James has enjoyed a legendary career spanning six decades and is still going strong, and he's one of the few cases who not only survived a terrible heroin addiction, but went on to bigger and better things. Thanks for sharing your deep personal connection to this classic song, Adam.
He had such a distinct and heart lifting voice. Thanks Robster. Always a pleasure my friend.
53 years on and still going strong! I admire that.
True about Livingston Taylor. Another amazing artist.
It’s amazing to think this intro describes James Taylor especially the JT we love and know today. If you ever get to see him in Lenox MA where he also happens to live, do it. The show has a different vibe than seeing him anywhere else.
Powerful Testimony in his Song.
Thank You Professor and
*"Thank You James Taylor!♡¡"*
I met James Taylor's brother, Livingston on my college campus in MD in 1970.. He said that he was a pre-law student but was a musician at heart. He was really a nice guy with long blonde-ish hair and I had a terrible crush on him.
im a christian and youve got a friend always reminds me of the Lord i remember going through a traumatized situation and on the radio played jt youve got a friend i started crying fire an rain is beautiful song too my 37 yr old daughter love jt singing he is an underated singer 😊❤🙏🧔♀💐🎶🎼🎵🎚🎹
As a resident of southern New England. I Have had the opportunity to attend many of JT's concerts. Most recently less than a year ago at the Providence Dunkin Center. Yes there were many folks like me in their 70s. But want I was surprised to observe that perhaps 50% of the attendees were 20/30 something. All fully participating singing and dancing. Great music is ageless.
Thanks for video. I had no idea about the history.
I had a friend names Suzanne and she was murdered by her estranged husband and since then this song has reminded me of her and her tragic death by getting a frantic call from a mutual friend. I still miss her so very much
Wow, that’s awful.
J.T doesn't sing from the heart or the head.....he sings from the soul and his voice and music touches the soul every time you hear his music!
“Fire and Rain” was one of my first favorite songs - and it has remained so all these decades later. It hits me squarely in the feels every single time.
Same!
It’s so strong.
Me too, every time! I would just give anything for 1 of those old K Tel compilation albums, with the classic singer/songwriters of the 70s. Unfortunately I doubt they made that one, or that it would be available in playable condition, on vinyl or CD. Such a shame.
Jesus is the light, and the way. 🙏
As most JT fans, we know most of his history but with your passion for digging deep we discover even more to make us cherish him and his body of work. Thanks Adam!
My grandfather died in 1970 - I was a young kid. He had a portable AM/FM/tape recorder (reel-to-real). He wasn't exactly a rock 'n roll / pop kind'a guy. But what I found recorded on there I'll never forget: James Taylor's Fire and Rain. Perhaps I'd heard it a bit before that, but it was from playing that taped recording that I first remember hearing it ... and will never forget.
When that song came out EVERYONE understood Flying Machine referred to the failed band he and Danny Kortchmar formed that only produced one LP.
God not only answered his prayer, but gave JT more than he ever could have hoped for or imagined. JT's talent helped you, me and countless others. Thanks, Professor, for this tribute to this legend of rock as I was unaware of the man's early and prfound misery.
I love James Taylor. I often sit on my porch overlooking the bay and put JT's music on. It gives me peace of mind and the voice is soothing. I saw him about 5 years ago and he sounded just as wonderful now as the first time I heard him over 50 years ago.
He still sings perfectly. His voice has aged so well.
I saw a video of him doing a concert back in 2019 and he still sounded youthful.
Me too! In Pensacola with Bonnie Raitt. You?
@@Teavinylgod In Tampa. I am pretty sure he was the only act that night.
My Dad died on Christmas Day 1986. I finally came back from 4 yrs in Germany (ARMY) .We had 3 days together before he died suddenly from an 'aneurism' and the base of the brain. Music helps me a lot. Thanks Adam.
I graduated from college in 1973, and went to the military. James Taylor - and John Denver - showed me there was still music.
I'm a long time fan of yours, and I've always put you in the "star" category as you've been teaching me facts for years. But to hear you talk about your family and pain in the losses of, makes me realize that you're just one of us. You are one of us. I think that, that may be the real reason I'm a fan. You're just a guy with a great gift, and I want to thank you for sharing it with us. Thanks Professor. Please keep'em coming.
As someone who hasn’t experienced any recent losses and therefore does not have much experience with comforting grieving loved ones, I have to say Adam’s story of his dad has really opened my eyes.
Well said!!
This song always touched me at the deepest levels... so many of us have been at that desperate make or break moment. The line that really resonates with me is: "won't you look down upon me Jesus, you gotta help me a stand, you just got to see me through another day." Sitting on a park bench one night, trying to decide if I wanted to continue to live or not, I can relate to this moment. Glad I stayed, and grateful that today I am living in the result of everything that I prayed for. Beautiful, hopeful song. Thanks for sharing the story. ❤
This song hit me like a ton of bricks when i heard it after my son's suicide. I felt plead to God yo help me get through another day, when i didn't want to keep on living. I always thought that id see him again, and it broke my soul to know I'd never see him again in this lifetime. This song got me through the hardest time of my life, and ill always be grateful for James Taylor making this song and for knowing what i was going through...even though he had no clue who I was.
This was the second song I sang to myself to comfort myself the day my father passed away from unexpected prostate cancer; it was discovered far too late and he only lived for 2 weeks after that. He was 80, and he opted to go into Hospice rather than have treatments only to live a few more months. It was the beginning of my healing too. The first song I heard in my head when I was told he was gone was "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." It was my sister who told me "Daddy's gone." Five years later we would lose her as well to cancer. It's been a rough 5 years, but music has helped me heal. Both hearing it, and playing it. My dad was a musician, and he made me promise I would write and sing, if only for myself. I have kept that promise.
I rarely hear this song these days, and never seek it out...this song needs to be heard spontaneously, because it WILL come on when you need it...I don't even like James Taylor, but this song is magic...
It's so true. Music has a way of doing that!
A lot of people think it’s too emotional, but it’s a very important song.
i agree, the song is special, magic even.
How is it possible to not like James Taylor? At least his music… dude may be a jerk, I don’t know, but he is one of the world’s all-time greatest singer-songwriters.
I am just crying right now. 😭 Your story, these lyrics of JT and Sir Elton John combined with memories of those I have lost and my own dark moments have got me crying. I hope everyone finds comfort in this song. God bless you, Professor of Rock. ✌🏼💖
It’s very, very sad.
Love the line…Won’t you look down upon me Jesus…because of His promise of hope, during the most difficult times in our lives.
After I heard the explanation of this song, I felt depressed. His ability to write something so beautiful is a victory.
James Taylor evolved as he aged. They way he perfectly crafts a lyric with a melody is masterful. "Never Die Young" was one of my favorite albums of the 80s.
I love that album too! Especially the title track.
He’s a masterful songwriter.
And so many great lyrics and subtle meaning in that album that I still discover. It has aged well.
Thank you for sharing your story. Fire and Rain seriously helped me through my youth and it was a genuine prayer for my survival and I made it. Thank you, James Taylor. Thank you for sharing, Adam Reader.
Being a recovering opiate addict, I can fully understand what JT was going through. Getting clean was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, even after 30 years there’s still always that fear and desperation.
When I was 24 and pregnant with my first daughter, my best friend Suzanne and her 8month old daughter was killed in a car accident. This song has STRONG meaning to me. I always wondered who James’ Suzanne was. I can not not think about my Suzanne when I hear it. We met in 6th grade. I am going to be 54 in two months. I still mourn for her all of these years later. She was the first of countless tragic losses in my life. 😢😢😢💔💔💔
There has been so much greatness come from depression and mental illness. Beethoven, Mahler, Edgar Allen Poe, Picasso, James Taylor are just a few. These and more can be such an inspiration to those suffering, it's a tragedy that so many others can't find an avenue for healing. Thanks Prof
Thanks for watching Marcus!
I heard the tragic story of Beethoven and it was very profound. Just shows music is one of humanity’s natural remedies.
I think this might be a good topic for a video. The amazing number of people who have come through (or not, maybe a second video).
Great Art comes from pain
@@emom358 like Robin Williams, such a great talent, but couldn't overcome the demons of depression. It is so sad.
I didn't know he had such struggles. I never listened to the words to his songs. I only listened to his music which sounded soft and melodic. No one would ever think think there was so much pain and sorrow behind the music. ❤
I think what makes a song like great, is that it is universally relatable.
Music affects me in the same way. I was making a big change in my life awhile back, and I was both excited and very anxious. For weeks I waited for the call of opportunity to come. And when it did, I was so scared to move forward with it. Then I listened to "We are the Champions" by Queen. I felt like God was speaking to me through Freddie's lyrics to trust in this change of opportunity I was given. It was the best thing I did for myself.
Music is such a beautiful form of medicine from the bad. It shows light in the tunnel of darkness. A great and expressive song indeed. Cheers
It hits you right in the gut...Thanks RC32!
@@ProfessorofRock Absolutely!
Music saves our soul. Cheers 🍻
James Taylor should be known as the King of folk music. The only true contender against that tittle would be Jim Croce..
True that!
Serious competition here.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 true.
#1 folk for me is Gordon Lightfoot! He is pure genius!
@@trailerparkcryptoking5213 You must have broke out Old Dan's Records..
"Fire & Rain" usually brings tears to my eyes. Some songs do that to me like "Time After Time" by Cyndi Lauper, "Against All Odds" by Phil Collins to name a few.
🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
James Taylor overcame a lot to succeed. Depression, drugs, family problems......... but he DID overcome. Triumph of the human spirit as you referred to.
Hard to believe this was the song that introduced James to us all. He was an integral part of 70s music.
Thanks for this Professor.
Always learn something from you.
Thanks Roger! Love seeing your comments. Such a positive guy.
Through his songs you can feel what he was going through.
Triumph of the will.
Less than 4 miles from my childhood home and my current home for the past 12 years, lies Maclean Hospital where I have been many times to address many of the same
issues and I can tell 💯 %,
when you need him, Jesus will look down upon you and help you make that
stand.....he will help you make any stand, if you set your ego aside, and let him! ❤🙏
Im 66 years old and I grew up listening to JT Carol King and others I miss the old days .
James is a legend! Not for His music, but His victory over addiction. He’s a great Guy and friend
Professor, you said, you weren’t talking Religion. God and Jesus aren’t religion. They are a so much more. They are a relationship and when you know God is real, there is nothing anyone can say or do that can change your mind. God Bless.
That’s why I pray every day.
Amen!
Sorry to burst your bubble sunshine, but that's the exact definition of "religion"; Christianity to be specific, which, as it follows the God of Abraham, is classified as an Abrahamic religion, along with Judaism, and Islam.
The word "religion" originates in Latin 'religio' meaning "rite / bond" / 'religare' meaning "to fasten/to bind".
So, yes, when you are talking about Jesus, or Allah, or Ganesh, or Freya, you are literally talking about "a religious figure" in your "religion".
As a Sumerian pantheon Wiccan myself, I've studied the Bible extensively. For instance, the reason for the extensive shared imagery between the Hymns of Inanna and The Psalms, is because David was in fact following the Canaanite religion, and so, encoded in the so-called "Biblical" text, is religious imagery of the Canaanites. Look up sheepfold and shepherd in that context. I bet you'll never refer to yourself as a "Lamb of God" ever again lol.
The text of Noah and the Flood also has a lot of overlap with the flood story told in the Epic of Gilgamesh, as does the tale of David (yes David of the Psalms) and his lover Jonathan.
All in all, religion is quite fascinating...
Honestly, if god is all that, god doesn't need proselytizing. You can let god handle everything. Isn't that the point?
YOU ARE SPOT ON, THANK YOU.
From the time I was a teenager whenever I heard the line, "Suzanne, the plans they made put an end to you" I've cried. Why that line in particular, I don't know. I still cry from that line sometimes. It's a beautiful, haunting song
Same with me. I have seen him in concert many times and he sometimes sings that line as "the plans you made" and sometimes even "the plans we made". I always wonder why he changes it up. And does he have different meanings...
@@craigdouglas9780 Probably there are different meanings and all of them are relevant
I LOVE YOU, PROFESSOR. I worked at a nice Hotel where JTaylor and Keith Flint (Prodigy) both stayed at the same time for a week, separately obviously. I was shocked at how insane Keith Flint was a warm fuzzy gentleman with a presence that invited all strangers. Surely JT would be even more so given his "loveable" sound. All I can say is, NEVER assume. I'll never forget the unexpected contrast.
Keith Flint sure is eccentric too.
This song reminds me of the day my grandma died. She went for surgery and I thought I would see her again and everything would be normal again. She unfortunately never woke up after surgery. It still makes me emotional every time I hear it.
I can feel that. No one even told me my dad was sick… at least, not that sick. He went to the hospital but they never suggested I might want to hop on a plane. Couple weeks later I got a call saying he was dead.
@@BeeWhistler So sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you.
Sorry for your loss.
I've known for a while about the death of his friend inspiring this song, but I never realised how young they were at the time. It's always intrigued me how music can make something beautiful out of something so tragic.
I've also known for some time that the line "sweet dreams and flying machines in pieces on the ground" is a reference to the failure of his band "The Flying Machine", but it can so easily be perceived as something darker in these post 9/11 days
Music and Jesus are a gift , immerse yourself in Them!
My love and prayers go out to James Taylor. His songs, especially, Fire & Rain, has helped me through some really tough times. My dear friend who was like a brother to me committed suicide around the time of that songs release. Upon hearing the news when I came through the door from school, I dropped my books and ran out of the house into the pouring rain. I walked until the evening hours, soaked by the Spring rain. It seemed fitting to me that all of heaven felt my pain that day and cried down upon me for hours. I’ll never forget how that song helped me realize that no matter what life throws at you, life is so short, and meant to be lived.
GENIUS is actually the brink of😢 MADNESS.
JT is one of my all time favorites!!!!
Same! Thanks for watching!
He’s a great performer.
I had no idea about his sordid history and as usual you dealt with this sensitive subject beautifully! Thanks Professor !
Depression and mental illness can really ruin one's life if not treated. Having support from friends and family can also be the best remedy.
Fire and Rain has a special place in my heart as it pulled me out of a very dark place back in 1975 when my husband was killed by a drunk driver leaving me with three small children ages three years two years and 11 days old I was 23yrs old at the time
Always loved his voice but,never knew this tragic side of it ! How inspirational and heartfelt. Thanks for the vid.
James Taylor got me through high school and college. I saw him in concert more times than any other rock group or pop artist.
“Fire and Rain” was just one of many JT songs that got me through those tough teen years of angst, love desired and love lost. I particularly loved “Lighthouse” from the Gorilla album, and “Shower the People” from his In the Pocket” album, but he has so many great songs, it’s hard to single out any single one.
Hope you get that interview, Professor. You’ve earned the shot!
James Taylor will go down in my book as one of the top 10 greats of songwriter performers. Love him in concert!
The first time I saw James Taylor was in Pittsburgh in 1976. The show sold out so a local radio station broadcast the show... they used to do that back then. So I was there watching the show live while my old open-reel deck was home taping it off the radio. I had that tape clear through college and listened to it often, but somehow it went missing when I moved back home. About a year ago I'm looking at James' RUclips channel and what do I see: "Steel City Serenade".... I hear that show for the first time in decades. I feel unbelievably fortunate to have grow up in the "Singer/Songwriter" 1970s, and to me the king of that genre will always be James Taylor.
Professor, I feel like you’ve got your arms around my heart.
Have you written a book? No? Get on that, brother. The world needs it. The scripting on your channel is so beautifully written. Even if you just have all of your shows transcribed into a coffee table book.
Peace and love, and good happiness stuff :)
Somebody did write a great book, some time previous to 2000. It might be called The Encyclopedia of Rock. The only criticisms are that it that it doesn't show much feeling or personality. It's a compilation of facts. And it uses the word eponymous over and over and over! It is very complete though.
Pain is cleansing when we turn turn to God for guidance. James showed us and at such an early age♥️
Right. He can truly heal if we pray to Him in our deepest moments.
Think I kinda met James Taylor at a picnic. Mid 70s was invited to a friends house. His wife was on maternity leave with his new son named Jim Jr. After being introduced to her, she said now we have 4 Jims (also my name) and she waved to a tall guy having a drink, hanging back by the trees. He raised his beer as an acknowledgement and faded into the back. Found out later that she was a backup singer and had invited him.
Certainly guided me through a terrible addiction, and like James i didn’t become clean until the age of 42. Having money and suffering mental health issues is never a great combo to have.
Saw him and Carole King at the ACC in Toronto during their Troubadour Reunion tour. It was nothing short of mesmerizing; that concert was the catalyst to my recovery. Please to say im going on 13 years of 100% sobriety!
For all those still trying to get the monkey off their backs, i wish them all the best, and just know that life becomes far more enjoyable on the other end, keep up the good fight!
Adam, this episode is perhaps one of your most heartfelt, emotional presentations to date.
I was with you all the way. When Fire And Rain came out I was about 20-years old. And the first time I heard it, time stood still while it played.
Thank you for this episode Professor!❤
Gianni
So happy we have James Taylor’s music.
Im celebrating 12 years on May 14 and I know the pain, the sorrow, and the SHAME. Normal people have no idea how difficult'ife can be when the world is crashing on you and your best idea is to dull the pain. Thank God for the grace.
@ProfessorofRock , thank you for sharing the deeply personal story about your dad and how this song helped you have the peace and strength through such a sorrowful time in your life.
I’m a new subscriber to your channel and you have become an instant favorite of mine! I really enjoy listening to stories about the bond between you and your dad. I know that bond was a strong one. I can relate 1000% as me and my dad shared that strong bond as well. See, he wasn’t just my dad, the strongest influence who made me the man I am today, my Superman; he was my best buddy, too.
My dad lost his battle to Parkinson’s Disease a couple years ago and my whole world came crashing down. You really never get over it totally, but the memories of the good times and the music we shared helps get me through. You had mentioned in another video how your dad was the coolest of all your friends’ dads because of the great classic rock music he listened to, like Zeppelin. It was the same thing with my dad, too. Listening to you reminisce about your dad’s favorite music makes me think that both of our dads probably would have been good buddies had they known one another (I believe we’re the same age).
One thing is for sure: our dads are most definitely looking upon us from Heaven and smiling as they play their favorite albums, waiting for us to one day join them. Thanks for all you do, Professor!
James Taylor has created a body of work that is still outstanding-He's a true music legend.
I had no idea about the heartbreaking tragedy which inspired this track. It brings the waterworks every single time! 💔😢
It's a beautiful song. Thanks Trina!
It’s very emotional.
This song was playing when I was on the to my friend's funeral years ago. He died by suicide. I think of him every time I hear this song. I knew this song was about loss but not the story behind it. I had no idea this man that has given so much has struggled so much. Thank you for the background on this.
James Taylor... an American TREASURE. 🙏🏼
What a compelling story! I wasn't aware of James' struggles. It's so great that he was able to overcome his demons and not only achieve success in the music business but reach legendary status.
I went through several years of debilitating depression and anxiety. This song pulled me through dark desperate moments several times. I still listen to this everytime I feel like i might be slipping back into it, also, when i need a cathartic cry.
🥃🍺 *Been playing a drinking game. Every time Adam says "SOUL" or talks about his dad, I drink. And, I am on the floor today!!* 🍷🍸
Oh, just remember to be respectful and not turn this into exploitation for entertainment. Just saying.
James Taylor was a great story teller .
Intense pain so often leads to the most amazing art. James Taylor's pain led to a prayer, which led to his success, and inspiration for millions. It speaks a lot to the power of music and prayer. That doesn't necessarily have to mean religion. It's FAITH, and belief in _something,_ whether it's a deity, the universe, or just your own voices. That's power.
One of the best concerts I've seen was JT's autobiographical one man band back in 2007. He explained this song, along with many others, and had a slideshow to add more detail. He also shared his connection with the Beatles... Epic!
Epic for sure!
I saw the same tour! Loved it.
I wish I saw that.
Wow. I'm jelly.
JT didn't survive by his strength alone. He survived because he surrendered to win. Ty JT.
This really blessed me today. You preached it from the pulpit of your orange chair today. James Taylor has an unmistakable voice and so simply melodic that sung out powerful words. I had no idea of his struggles but beautiful music came out of his pain. A true on going lesson that our challenge is to allow God to bring forth music out of our pain. I pray the Lord heals him. Help me sweet Jesus make it through another day. I’m 73. 5 years ago I lost my husband of 42 years and I only have gotten through each day because of Jesus. Sorry for the loss of your dad, Professor. I pray you feel that warm blanket of the Lord’s love and strength surround you. Thank for your great history of the backstory of each artist. Blessings ❤
I never read the description of the video until I guess the song or group and I knew within seconds it was going to be "Fire and Rain". Could have been "Brain Damage" or "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" for a moment but no...had to be this one. I wonder how many of your viewers play this little game. James Taylor takes me right back to the 70's which has to be the greatest decade ever, not only for music but for just being alive. That is the emotion I get when I hear it. Cheers from Ottawa, Canada🍁
Your response proves how music has the power to unite people from all over the world. I am thousands of miles away from you but nearly, if not every word you said, fully describes how I feel.
Thanks Gio! Great post!
It took me a minute to get this one today, but then I remembered.
Always! I always try to guess by title what he's going to talk about before I click in. AND ... I usually am spot on. Boomer2 here - a teen in the 70's.
Agreed, Gio! The 70’s really rocked!!!🎶❤️🎶