I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
How does a man sit down on a chair with just a guitar and his voice and sound this good AND create music like this? You do if you are Steve Winwood, one of the most talented men who ever walked on this planet
He was a child prodigy at 15, he is no less amazing at 70. Real genius persists. He was an amazing organist, never seemed to get the credit he deserved as a great guitarist.
And that's not even mentioning his voice! He's quite unfairly talented. I saw him at Hyde Park a few years ago and couldn't understand why they werren't showing the bass player on the big screen - and then I realised that he was playing bass on the organ pedals, as well as singing and playing brilliantly at the same time. And then he came to the front and tore off a superb guitar solo as well!
RickTransit They don’t or can’t make people or music in today’s society to even dare I say compare? Technology has advanced as man has seemed to de evolve, When this world brings me down I watch this or other great songs from the late 60’s and very early 70’s!
Sir Steve I'm 65yrs old, recently retired nurse, now i still enjoy your songs, your voice since teenager. You're an amazing singer🙌🙌🙌🙌All my Blessings from Cape Town ❤South Africa ❤❤❤❤
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
Sure they do, they just use it differently. Older guitar music usually had a message of some sort, newer guitar music is usually to show off how loud and fast they can go. Rock and Roll went from having fun to being a competitive sport in the early 80s and may never recover. I would much rather sip a beer and listen to Fire and Rain by James Taylor than have nervous convulsions listening to Steve Vai playing crossroads, but that's just me. Though as obnoxious as newer music is to the ears of us elders, it is still talent.
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
@@flxdcatbruce9416 LOL. Research what exactly? No way can Winwood be described as a 'Celtic bard'! He's English! Or are you saying Winwood is not English? Or that the song which, granted, takes us back to the oral tradition, is not most famously associated with Britain (Scotland and England)? If so, show me your evidence. Lol!!
Have you heard any traditional versions of the song? I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
For those of us that have reached a certain age there is an almost overwhelming time arc in this performance. Also, the Martin acoustic sound is in our DNA so much that when you hear it in this type of context it just seems so perfect. No tinkly Taylors for our Stevie.
I remember first hearing this on WNEW in New York back in the 60's when they had good radio stations. I fell in love with this song. Winwood sings it so beautifully!!!
Aah - WNEW- just talking w/someone the other day about then - Jonathan; Alison; Roscoe - it was the best - none since then - I remember hearing it on there too - and then getting the album as part of my introductory pkg. from Capital records. "Those were the days my friend..."
When FM radio was great!I grew up in the 60's&70's in Long Island , NY. The music we got to hear will NEVER happen again sadly.I just turned 66years old, we were lucky in that way but the Vietnam War what is a real bummer to say the least. I was too young for Woodstock but went to a big concert in Watkins Glen New York if you don't know what it was look it up it was pretty big.
So many years have past but the truth still rings clear and bright. We miss those days of peace, love and a sense of belonging with a purpose, that we failed to bring to fruition in the future. Blind Faith lives on in our memory.
Aye,Traffic's 'tis my favourite version of this song, oft recorded. Might I suggest a listen to Steeleyespan's songs. "Bedlam Boys," & "Fighting For Strangers."I'm pretty much a purist when it comes to British, Gaelic, Scottish & Breton folk music, but I also love a bit of psychedelia when it works. I, a proper Goth before that word was in usage, used to sing this song, doing a pretty fair approximation of Mr Winwood's voice & phrasing, along with "Bedlam Boys" & 3 songs I wrote the lyrics for & worked out the melodies with a mate - who can play any stringed & fretted instrument & sing his heart out, as well as clarinet, penny whistles and recorders- at San Francisco's "Dickens Fair," an X-Mess themed enterprise (a strange place to perform for an ethnically Jewish Atheist, but give me a soapbox & I'll gladly take it).& any Dame should appreciate The Silly Sister's (Steeleye's Maddy Prior & the great June Tabor) "My Husband's Got No Courage In Him." Cheers !
This is one of the most popular folk songs,and deservedly so.I used to attend a folk club,and Steve Winwood would be able to go to a club like that as a floor singer,as Ralph McTell used to,in Kings Heath,Birmingham.Yet this man led one of the most influential bands of the 60's and 70's.That is a true legend.Long may he run
Brings back memories from the US ARMY....THANK YOU STEVE WINWOOD. HAVENT HEARD THIS SONG OR FREEDOM RIDER IN GENERATIONS... WE NAMED OUR TANK, FREEDOM RIDER, AFTER YOUR SONG! That was a GREAT ALBUM! LOVED EVERY SONG.
I first heard this as a teenager, tripping on acid. It freaked me right out. I wept. And later I perked up and looked at the stars. Never forget it. Changed my world forever.
Boviss1 hello there,get your comment,it never changed you,it made it all clear for you,well done there,it was just waiting for you to know, and appreciate,the light bulb went on,....
Have you heard any traditional versions of the song? I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
A voice i never get tired of is Mr winwoods, from the 1965 cover of keep on running, through `can`t find my way home, here comes a man, awesome ,what a guy !! 👌
Steve was and still is such a talented artist. I have loved Traffic's music and have followed Steve Winwood through his entire music career and he has "never ever" disappointed me. Thank you Steve Winwood!
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
Mr Winwood,you are amazing.From the past years me and my friends around fireplace used to drink and play with our guitars that beautiful song.Greetings from Greece!
Dear Mr. Winwood. Thank you for your 2 uploads. I'm 51, stop playing for a long time. I have felt so guilty not playing. I've struggled with depression and a therapist tried to get me to play again. i just couldn't. Radio Woodstock got the music juices flowing again. Finally picked up my guitar. I remembered youtube had every song i could think of, so i went there for inspiration. Back when i was in a cover band, I had some decent keyboard parts together for Low Spark, and was working on John Barleycorn when we broke up. I never could understand why I couldn't get my version to sound like your's. So one of the first songs i searched for was John BarleyCorn. I have the album, but no turntable. lol Expecting to see the studio version. Instead, I found you on a stool playing it. Only took 2 seconds to see why I could never get it perfect. Capo 7th. You sneaky devil. lol Awesome. I was so bummed I missed you in Bethel with Steeley Dan. Seen them and many of my hero's. I still never had a chance to see you. I was living in Texas and missed the Garden shows with Eric. I would give up a lot for a chance to see you two together. I subscribed to your channel and there you are again, stool, fireplace. Can't Find My Way Home. Awesome. I wished i could have entered your contest. I knew before the violin why Brenna Fitzgerald won. Birds of a feather. No one else stood a chance. lol Thanks again. The guilt is gone, and I feel so much better. I have you to thank.
P.S. Mr. Winwood, if it isn't to much to ask.... An arrangenent for Had to Cry Today. Voice and 12 string. There would seem to be a very large hole with no Eric. Such an amazing song needs to be passed on to these poor children of today, and I am your messenger. Any chance one day, maybe, after a nice walk, you might want to pull up a stool cozy up next to the fireplace and.. maybe hit record while playing that one?
Kevin Primm play Again i hope you see the light depression is a illness i have had it for years, music wont cure it but it will help you i send you my wishes. Dont Give Up.
The Legendary Steve Winwood singing this great classic song solo is priceless. I saw Traffic at the Fillmore East on June 10, 1970 and remember him and Jim Capaldi standing up front singing this song together, still gives me goose bumps.
When I was a little girl me and my friends would cycle to the cottage in Aston Tirrold to get a glimpse of Traffic. it was very muddy and we got told off when we got home. But later Traffic were a big inspiration for me when i became a singer x
Patricia, I lived in Blewbury at that time and I tried to find their cottage but never succeeded. Never mind the cycle ride probably did me good and I still have the music to enjoy.
That, is how it’s done. That is why we were in the second row center at the Hollywood Bowl a few years back to witness greatness and why we have our tickets for 2021 at the same venue. Timeless
... I remember listening to folk music on FM Stations, late at night in the 60-70's ... and Traffic ... was one of the best ... and I do have this in my vinyl album collection ...
I never get tired of hearing this, Steve, and you playing it solo is just inspirational. As a side note, my 16 year old grandson asked me the other day whether I'd heard of Traffic! His fave? John Barleycorn, of course!
Same here, been that way since i heard it so very long ago, Traffic's LP John Barleycorn must die ( that entire album is just superb) This is one of many that you buy as vinyl, then later make sure ya get it on CD)
I am genuinely curious about the 572 people who have given this the thumbs down treatment. what were they expecting when they came here to listen to it? Justin Bieber, Tupac Shakur, Madonna, the massed pipe bands of the Scottish infantry battalions?
It's my favorite Traffic song because it's about life not alcohol, people who had given that response either don't understand what the song means or should not have bothered to listen
Sowing & reaping, chopping down, the grinding between wheels of stone, the solemn vow: “John Barleycorn must die” , necessary steps leading to fermentation and then distillation, and inebriation, and your telling us this isn’t about the alcohol? Really Billy? Ok then, is it a metaphorical description of a sociological process of people as corn, of grinding them down to a distilled purity, parallel to as another great lyric “we’re just an old lump of coal, but we’ll be a diamond someday”? (I’ve been wondering about this mesmerizing song’s meaning for quite a long spell of time:)))
@@jolbereyou have to understand this was written many many years before the “drank the koolaide“ analogy came to light following the Jonestown fiasco. Or - the old “what goes around, comes around.”
I have been steeped in music since around 8 years old; I’m now in my 70s. I’ve been very fortunate to see in concert most of my favorite singers and bands. ( Not the Beatles sadly). This man, Steve, once Stevie Winwood, in my humble opinion is the greatest artist of my lifetime. He does everything, sings like no other white man, writes and produces his music, plays the electric guitar and Hammond organ like few others and plays basically plays all instruments, as needed. He has a marvelous catalogue of songs, writing since age 15 for his first group, Spencer Davis group, Gimme Some Lovin’ and I’m a Man, two of rock’s enduring songs still played and covered by many. A genius comes along very rarely, but Mr. Winwood is my generation’s consummate music genius.
Have you heard any traditional versions of the song? I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
Could Stevie Winwood just mite be greatest musician to come out of the sixties! The voice! The songwriting! The guitar playing! The keyboards! Thank you! STEVIE!!!
Folk music has a way of doing that. Passed down over generations, improved a tiny bit at a time, evolving in different directions, so you get different versions suited to different times, tastes... Think how great *YOU'd* be if you could work on improving yourself over a 500-year span.
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
I never get tired or board of listening to Steve Winwood. You most definitely have a unique musical talent that no one can duplicate. Thank you Stevie. Rock on brother!
It is impossible to say how many takes this took but it sounds like a pure cut from the album minus flutes, just a perfect, timeless sound, one consummate musician, able to turn in a pitch- perfect performance.
I love these acoustic versions. It reminds me of the way we sat around and played your songs. In 1970 I saw Traffic in concert at a Knightsbridge auditorium in London and I remember during the encore Johnny Winter stumbled on stage to play a song with you (dunno which) prompting jokes about the tomorrow's headlines: "Johnny Winter in Traffic Jam."
There exist only a few songs that make a chill run down my spine. This one of of those few. I have enjoyed listing to this song for over 35 years and will always be a favorite.
The simplicity of this approach shows us all the power of talent and quality meeting. 12 years this has awaited my presence. Or so it would seem. The algorithm works in mysterious ways.
I still remember seeing Traffic during the Low Spark of High Heeled Boys tour in Cleveland Oct 1971. They were opened by Glass Harp and Fairport convention. I had listened to Traffic prior to this show loving Mr Fantasy but after that show I was a lifetime fan of Traffic and Steve. I am trying to learn this acoustic version and honestly as a 65 yo memorizing the lyrics are a bit of a challenge but practice...practice...practice. One nice thing about retirement is now having the time to play a lot.
Traffic, one of the first rock bands I started listening to. I was immediately hooked. Amazing Steve Windwood. Amazing that only an acoustic guitar can achieve such an unparalleled performance!
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
One of my all-time favorites. The influence of traditional English folk songs on 60's and 70's folk/pop/rock writers was always fascinating to me, from Traffic to Led Zeppelin. Thank you, again!
This is so true - in Liverpool in the late 1960s, the folk music clubs were all thriving along with the Cavern. Reciprocal relationship between the Tavern and the Cavern!!
Steve Winwood is SO great!!! So soulful, so heartfelt, so faithfully and beautifully performed! He could have been a classical performer. Fortunately, so many more have had the pleasure of hearing him because he chose to remain within the folk/rock/popular domain!
Got to see Traffic in Durham NC just before Low Spark was released. They did the whole album, plus 40,000 and others, including Barleycorn. Steve in all white suit, Jim and Chris in the zone. Timeless....
The very humble musical genius Stevie Winwood. You are a big part of why am trying to learn to play guitar and play and sing some of your beautiful music at 57 years old. I hope you put some more of these videos up, they are very inspirational.
I remember seeing Traffic about ‘71 or ‘72 at the Spectrum in Philadelphia. They were opening for Free. Free canceled at the last minute because the lead singer was injured and couldn’t perform. So Traffic played an extended set which they all seemed to enjoy. Turned out wonderful. Steve Winwood is a master musician songwriter and vocalist.
I marvel at how he plays the guitar, with hardly any movement of his right hand how he is able to get so many notes out of it. It is a pleasure to see a musical genius, his compositions, his art with the guitar and his delicious singing. Bravo Steve!
He's still got it! How many çlokas of the Mahabharata did I translate late at night before class? How much of my Folklore & Mythology thesis did I write to JBMD album? Impossible to count. Transports me back to Cambridge, clove cigs, and the happiest days of my life when nearly anything was still possible.
Have you heard any traditional versions of the song? I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908! ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
![Cody Johnson - I'm Gonna Love You (with Carrie Underwood) [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yy9PuYMU29g/mqdefault.jpg)
Is there anyone who doesn't think this is one of the greatest folk songs you have ever heard?
Outstanding!
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
It is! Did you ever hear “Benjamin Bowmanere”?!?
Exquisite!! R
For sure!
Very old song...... dating back to the 17C ....As old as Shakespeare
Reminds me of my early teens. Lots of stuff you can't put in print.
Fabulous! Always loved Steve Winwood. I'm 68 now, and never tire of listening to him or marvelling at his skill.
How does a man sit down on a chair with just a guitar and his voice and sound this good AND create music like this? You do if you are Steve Winwood, one of the most talented men who ever walked on this planet
Ask bruxe springsteen
Totally agree👏👏👏
Greatest voice and personality ❤
Once upon a time I was twenty years old and loved listen to this man and his music... now I’m 73 and still love listen
Me, too.
I am not far behind you and I concur most heartily, the man is a Master...
My age too
68
Ditto 71 and still rocking"
He was a child prodigy at 15, he is no less amazing at 70. Real genius persists. He was an amazing organist, never seemed to get the credit he deserved as a great guitarist.
And that's not even mentioning his voice! He's quite unfairly talented. I saw him at Hyde Park a few years ago and couldn't understand why they werren't showing the bass player on the big screen - and then I realised that he was playing bass on the organ pedals, as well as singing and playing brilliantly at the same time. And then he came to the front and tore off a superb guitar solo as well!
@@RickTransit must have been incredible.
I'm sure he was only17 wen he recorded Traffic's masterpiece,No Face,No Name and No Number,my favourite Traffic song.
RickTransit They don’t or can’t make people or music in today’s society to even dare I say compare? Technology has advanced as man has seemed to de evolve, When this world brings me down I watch this or other great songs from the late 60’s and very early 70’s!
@@esque1954 yes. that's my era too!
They don't grow talent like this gentleman anymore. Holy moly...
Sir Steve I'm 65yrs old, recently retired nurse, now i still enjoy your songs, your voice since teenager. You're an amazing singer🙌🙌🙌🙌All my Blessings from Cape Town ❤South Africa ❤❤❤❤
Greetings to Cape Town, from Newport, Oregon, USA!
@@ThomasG-- Thanks greetings and my blessings to you🌺💐♥️
❤
Hello Capetown and Newport from Sydney, Australia.
Hello Capetown, Newport and Sydney from Warren, R.I. (the smallest town in the smallest county of the smallest state in U.S.A.
One of the greatest musicians of our generation. Consummate is a word that comes to mind.
Yes indeed
yes and his music and lyrical leanings have propelled so many other artists on their own paths....
Always one of my absolutely favourite performers. Thank you for uploading this.
He was incredible live. A true musical mind who was never in it for the fame but for the art.
I'd have done anything to consumate him 😍😃😃😃😃😃
Wow. Fifty years ago I sat in my room playing this over and over. Words fail me. Pure joy.
30 years ago I did the same.. His music is timeless. Hopefully someone is hearing this for the first time and playing it over and over,
I knew a Tim Tracy .
I can't imagine him listening to this when he was ten.
Me too. 😉
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
No one these days has the talent of these older artists, no one. Just a man and his guitar, just beautiful.
The Spirit of Old Souls is hard to find
Sure they do, they just use it differently. Older guitar music usually had a message of some sort, newer guitar music is usually to show off how loud and fast they can go. Rock and Roll went from having fun to being a competitive sport in the early 80s and may never recover. I would much rather sip a beer and listen to Fire and Rain by James Taylor than have nervous convulsions listening to Steve Vai playing crossroads, but that's just me. Though as obnoxious as newer music is to the ears of us elders, it is still talent.
@@flxdcatbruce9416 I completely agree with you!
Kids these days just aren't writing music as good as they did 300 years ago.
@@mattagnew206 yeah ! I so did love the great plague folk songs ! what a time it was.
The best version of this I've ever heard. Made my hair stand on end.
Me too. Look up can't find my way home , also amazing.
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
You bet!
Can you recommend any other "covers" of old/ancient folk songs?
This is perfect
Incredible performance...
Still so brilliant he is.
The late 60's - early 70's.
What a time in to grow up. Music was so real and deep.
you are so right on ! there will never be a time like that in music again !
Imagine, if you will, a person that will be heard and touch masses yet again. Soonish, I pray.
Sincerely,
Me.
Lived it and drank deep of the day
Now just a memory who pops up periodically but still grips my soul tight..
I am 65 years old and listened to this classic album 45 years ago as good as ever,
I'm 68 now Polly and I saw him twice with Traffic and later Blind Faith. He was special then, and still is
me too. i love this.
65 here. how nice to know it doesn't get old. what a great amazing discovery! there is a God, you can find him in the music.
Yes, I am your age and my dad owned the Traffick album, so I heard it many times. I love this acoustic version.
I'm 68 and saw Traffic while in college - still love this music!
I swear Steve Winwood is an ancient Celtic bard. His unbelievable talent and this song (with its beautiful deep pagan origins) just prove it for me.
And so it is - Blessed Be!!!!!
He is Irish?
Why is he a 'Celtic Bard'? Winwood is English and the song is British! So, a true 'British Minstrel' would be a far more fitting description!
@@mick1406 Lol, maybe you should do a little research.
@@flxdcatbruce9416 LOL. Research what exactly? No way can Winwood be described as a 'Celtic bard'! He's English! Or are you saying Winwood is not English? Or that the song which, granted, takes us back to the oral tradition, is not most famously associated with Britain (Scotland and England)? If so, show me your evidence. Lol!!
I keep coming back to this version. I wish I could keep giving likes to this outstanding performance!
Have you heard any traditional versions of the song? I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
For those of us that have reached a certain age there is an almost overwhelming time arc in this performance. Also, the Martin acoustic sound is in our DNA so much that when you hear it in this type of context it just seems so perfect. No tinkly Taylors for our Stevie.
As much as i loved Traffics version...there is something about Steve Winwood doing this as a solo piece that amazes me.
Steve Winwood and the acoustic guitar - Perfect Match for this song. The extra instruments sometimes cover the true depth of a song./Joe Engman
yes
Steve Winwood is a jem.
And so amazed us all.
NICE
There’s precious guys like Steve Winwood and Mark Knopfler then there’s every one else.
So gifted and such gifts to us!
I remember first hearing this on WNEW in New York back in the 60's when they had good radio stations. I fell in love with this song. Winwood sings it so beautifully!!!
Aah - WNEW- just talking w/someone the other day about then - Jonathan; Alison; Roscoe - it was the best - none since then - I remember hearing it on there too - and then getting the album as part of my introductory pkg. from Capital records. "Those were the days my friend..."
Vince and Scott were top notch, too.
When FM radio was great!I grew up in the 60's&70's in Long Island , NY. The music we got to hear will NEVER happen again sadly.I just turned 66years old, we were lucky in that way but the Vietnam War what is a real bummer to say the least. I was too young for Woodstock but went to a big concert in Watkins Glen New York if you don't know what it was look it up it was pretty big.
@@dixonjazzy56 I'm turning 66 - grew up in Stamford Connecticut. Was a great time for music! I'm glad we could experience it.
@@80neptune I'm glad too! Have a nice day it's spring time and that's means a new beginning. Great to share memories, Have a birthday!
Dear Mr Winwood, play us a tune. Something to make us all happy.
... he's doing it, look at the top, it's amazing.
This is eppic!
He already played his tune for us, many years ago and kept on doing that, over and over again. A true ceative musician.
He IS the man,,,none better,,even clapton is 2 nd best and its not even Steves chosen instrument.
Well said! Thank you.
So many years have past but the truth still rings clear and bright. We miss those days of peace, love and a sense of belonging with a purpose, that we failed to bring to fruition in the future. Blind Faith lives on in our memory.
Better now than ever Steve. Folk is brilliant and true to your spirit. Thanks for you.
Agreed-and it's pretty obvious years later that he was the brains and the brawn behind this Traffic original.
Aye,Traffic's 'tis my favourite version of this song, oft recorded. Might I suggest a listen to Steeleyespan's songs. "Bedlam Boys," & "Fighting For Strangers."I'm pretty much a purist when it comes to British, Gaelic, Scottish & Breton folk music, but I also love a bit of psychedelia when it works. I, a proper Goth before that word was in usage, used to sing this song, doing a pretty fair approximation of Mr Winwood's voice & phrasing, along with "Bedlam Boys" & 3 songs I wrote the lyrics for & worked out the melodies with a mate - who can play any stringed & fretted instrument & sing his heart out, as well as clarinet, penny whistles and recorders- at San Francisco's "Dickens Fair," an X-Mess themed enterprise (a strange place to perform for an ethnically Jewish Atheist, but give me a soapbox & I'll gladly take it).& any Dame should appreciate The Silly Sister's (Steeleye's Maddy Prior & the great June Tabor) "My Husband's Got No Courage In Him." Cheers !
This is one of the most popular folk songs,and deservedly so.I used to attend a folk club,and Steve Winwood would be able to go to a club like that as a floor singer,as Ralph McTell used to,in Kings Heath,Birmingham.Yet this man led one of the most influential bands of the 60's and 70's.That is a true legend.Long may he run
Last waltz
Mysti Kissler well said.
A man and an acoustic guitar! No electronic bs! Mesmerizing!
Brings back memories from the US ARMY....THANK YOU STEVE WINWOOD.
HAVENT HEARD THIS SONG OR FREEDOM RIDER IN GENERATIONS...
WE NAMED OUR TANK, FREEDOM RIDER, AFTER YOUR SONG!
That was a GREAT ALBUM! LOVED EVERY SONG.
I'm sixty one years old and have always been a Steve Winwood / Traffic fan since the first album. Thanks to Steve for great music over all the years.
I first heard this as a teenager, tripping on acid. It freaked me right out. I wept. And later I perked up and looked at the stars. Never forget it. Changed my world forever.
Boviss1 hello there,get your comment,it never changed you,it made it all clear for you,well done there,it was just waiting for you to know, and appreciate,the light bulb went on,....
Yep
Those were the good old days.
Have you heard any traditional versions of the song? I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
A voice i never get tired of is Mr winwoods, from the
1965 cover of keep on running, through `can`t find my way home,
here comes a man, awesome ,what a guy !! 👌
OMG!!!!! Absolute genius. A legend of
Rock and Roll and a musician's musician.
This is absolutely fantastic!! I bought the Traffic album in 1970, and loved the song then, but love it even more now. This version is just sublime!!
+Sara Pinsky I so agree with you.. even better now that we are older and know the value of his music :)
I love the use of "sublime"; it is so fitting.
Steve was and still is such a talented artist. I have loved Traffic's music and have followed Steve Winwood through his entire music career and he has "never ever" disappointed me. Thank you Steve Winwood!
Great English folk song, superb solo version here. The sound of that guitar is fabulous!
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
Still gives me chills... Absolutely brilliant.
Mr Winwood,you are amazing.From the past years me and my friends around fireplace used to drink and play with our guitars that beautiful song.Greetings from Greece!
This is the best version I've heard❤
Dear Mr. Winwood. Thank you for your 2 uploads. I'm 51, stop playing for a long time. I have felt so guilty not playing. I've struggled with depression and a therapist tried to get me to play again. i just couldn't. Radio Woodstock got the music juices flowing again. Finally picked up my guitar. I remembered youtube had every song i could think of, so i went there for inspiration. Back when i was in a cover band, I had some decent keyboard parts together for Low Spark, and was working on John Barleycorn when we broke up. I never could understand why I couldn't get my version to sound like your's. So one of the first songs i searched for was John BarleyCorn. I have the album, but no turntable. lol Expecting to see the studio version. Instead, I found you on a stool playing it. Only took 2 seconds to see why I could never get it perfect. Capo 7th. You sneaky devil. lol Awesome.
I was so bummed I missed you in Bethel with Steeley Dan. Seen them and many of my hero's. I still never had a chance to see you. I was living in Texas and missed the Garden shows with Eric. I would give up a lot for a chance to see you two together.
I subscribed to your channel and there you are again, stool, fireplace. Can't Find My Way Home. Awesome. I wished i could have entered your contest. I knew before the violin why Brenna Fitzgerald won. Birds of a feather. No one else stood a chance. lol
Thanks again. The guilt is gone, and I feel so much better. I have you to thank.
P.S. Mr. Winwood, if it isn't to much to ask.... An arrangenent for Had to Cry Today. Voice and 12 string. There would seem to be a very large hole with no Eric. Such an amazing song needs to be passed on to these poor children of today, and I am your messenger. Any chance one day, maybe, after a nice walk, you might want to pull up a stool cozy up next to the fireplace and.. maybe hit record while playing that one?
Osho readings may help, Sir...and music too, of course. Praying for your health :)
Hey, I'm praying for your health too. I know what it's like :( Jesus bless you!
Kevin Primm
play Again i hope you see the light depression is a illness i have had it for years, music wont cure it but it will help you i send you my wishes.
Dont Give Up.
Kevin Primm hello Kevin. keep going don't stop .time is short ()
John Barlycorn gives me a desire to learn guitar. I love this video best in all Steve Winwood's spectacular musical career. I love you Steve Winwood
My Husband's favorite song . He has passed now .... I miss him .
I'm so sorry for your loss.
Beautiful man. Beautiful soul. Beautiful music. Just...beauty. 70? He's still so handsome.
how lucky we are to live during the same time as someone so gifted.....
The Legendary Steve Winwood singing this great classic song solo is priceless. I saw Traffic at the Fillmore East on June 10, 1970 and remember him and Jim Capaldi standing up front singing this song together, still gives me goose bumps.
I was at that show also. What great musicians writers and vocalists.
When I was a little girl me and my friends would cycle to the cottage in Aston Tirrold to get a glimpse of Traffic. it was very muddy and we got told off when we got home. But later Traffic were a big inspiration for me when i became a singer x
Patricia Brennan, good for you. Winwood the best, I have very old Traffic album.
Patricia, I lived in Blewbury at that time and I tried to find their cottage but never succeeded. Never mind the cycle ride probably did me good and I still have the music to enjoy.
@@davidwelch6796 I can tell you where it is...
@@toomuchrose Do tell. The cottage is close to where I live..
When something works you stick with it. Apparently load of people (myself too) continue to listen to this and won't stop either.
Such a musical genius. So glad to live in a time where I've been able to hear his music.
That, is how it’s done. That is why we were in the second row center at the Hollywood Bowl a few years back to witness greatness and why we have our tickets for 2021 at the same venue. Timeless
... I remember listening to folk music on FM Stations, late at night in the 60-70's ... and Traffic ... was one of the best ... and I do have this in my vinyl album collection ...
Love it, Steve! Thanks for all the music you've given us! Please don't ever stop!
Edwin Logan q
I love this song and can listen to it over & over. Its actually an old British folk song.
Dear mr Winwood your music and your voice are a great emotion for me, I can fly in the skies...thank you❣️❣️❣️
Beautiful a work of art
Great Music is for Ever . I had the luck to attend a Traffic concert in London 1971 . Johnny Winter was there and played a couple of songs with them
I never get tired of hearing this, Steve, and you playing it solo is just inspirational. As a side note, my 16 year old grandson asked me the other day whether I'd heard of Traffic! His fave? John Barleycorn, of course!
Thanks Stevie
A total
musician on guitar or keyboards with a voice which was its own precious instrument. Stevie!
Young man was raised right.
I can not get this song out of my head
Same here, been that way since i heard it so very long ago, Traffic's LP John Barleycorn must die ( that entire album is just superb) This is one of many that you buy as vinyl, then later make sure ya get it on CD)
Have a glass of Brandy and just let it flow.
Nor I, Miss Linda❗
"There's a candle burning" my favourite track of Stevie winwood ❤
Sounds as good now as it did back when i was a teen. Steve Winwood you are truly wonderful, Thanks for the post.
I am genuinely curious about the 572 people who have given this the thumbs down treatment. what were they expecting when they came here to listen to it? Justin Bieber, Tupac Shakur, Madonna, the massed pipe bands of the Scottish infantry battalions?
Just know, it’s enough.
It's my favorite Traffic song because it's about life not alcohol, people who had given that response either don't understand what the song means or should not have bothered to listen
Sowing & reaping, chopping down, the grinding between wheels of stone, the solemn vow: “John Barleycorn must die” , necessary steps leading to fermentation and then distillation, and inebriation, and your telling us this isn’t about the alcohol? Really Billy? Ok then, is it a metaphorical description of a sociological process of people as corn, of grinding them down to a distilled purity, parallel to as another great lyric “we’re just an old lump of coal, but we’ll be a diamond someday”?
(I’ve been wondering about this mesmerizing song’s meaning for quite a long spell of time:)))
@@jolbereyou have to understand this was written many many years before the “drank the koolaide“ analogy came to light following the Jonestown fiasco.
Or - the old “what goes around, comes around.”
They lack the knowledge and education to discern a jewel from a piece of glass
A great musician and am glad we grew old together .
Oh lord, hearing you sing this today...December 23, 2019 is the sweetest echo calling me back to 18 and you on the LP going round and round anew.
I also thought the title of the Traffic album was bizarre,at first.Now that I know why it was titled this,it makes sense now.
I have been steeped in music since around 8 years old; I’m now in my 70s. I’ve been very fortunate to see in concert most of my favorite singers and bands. ( Not the Beatles sadly). This man, Steve, once Stevie Winwood, in my humble opinion is the greatest artist of my lifetime. He does everything, sings like no other white man, writes and produces his music, plays the electric guitar and Hammond organ like few others and plays basically plays all instruments, as needed. He has a marvelous catalogue of songs, writing since age 15 for his first group, Spencer Davis group, Gimme Some Lovin’ and I’m a Man, two of rock’s enduring songs still played and covered by many.
A genius comes along very rarely, but Mr. Winwood is my generation’s consummate music genius.
I read he played all the instruments on "arc of a diver"
Gorgeous interpretation of this old English tune. I could listen all night........
Have you heard any traditional versions of the song? I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
Steve
Familiarity of an old song brings comfort to an old man .
Best regards
Almost from another planet, so beautifull.
From one of the best musicians on the face of the Earth.
YES....Maestro....YOU have soul....i nearly love everything with >Steve Winwood
Stevie Winwood....decades of greatness.
A master class in voice and guitar. Beautiful work Steve.
what a beautiful solo version. Thanks Steve. So long ago in a dream once lived.
Could Stevie Winwood just mite be greatest musician to come out of the sixties! The voice! The songwriting! The guitar playing! The keyboards! Thank you! STEVIE!!!
Probably the most versatile musician. And of course a fabulous keyboard player.
i think God has sent you on this earth to make us all better through your music..thank you. :-)
Steve to me you are one of God's elect. You are one of the best musicians that ever walked his earth. Love you forever
Just beautiful....makes me recall hearing it for the first time 1/2 a century ago.
How can any song be this beautiful? It's a mystery.
Folk music has a way of doing that.
Passed down over generations, improved a tiny bit at a time, evolving in different directions, so you get different versions suited to different times, tastes...
Think how great *YOU'd* be if you could work on improving yourself over a 500-year span.
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
I never get tired or board of listening to Steve Winwood. You most definitely have a unique musical talent that no one can duplicate. Thank you Stevie. Rock on brother!
It is impossible to say how many takes this took but it sounds like a pure cut from the album minus flutes, just a perfect, timeless sound, one consummate musician, able to turn in a pitch- perfect performance.
My guess is that he just picked up that Martin and started singing. One take.
winwoods tunes and himself have aged like wine
Yes I agree, fine and sophisticated, and from very good stock!!
I love these acoustic versions. It reminds me of the way we sat around and played your songs.
In 1970 I saw Traffic in concert at a Knightsbridge auditorium in London and I remember during the encore Johnny Winter stumbled on stage to play a song with you (dunno which) prompting jokes about the tomorrow's headlines: "Johnny Winter in Traffic Jam."
Beatrix Phocas ì
Ha! Nice one
still play this album!! Great traveling music!!
There exist only a few songs that make a chill run down my spine. This one of of those few.
I have enjoyed listing to this song for over 35 years and will always be a favorite.
The simplicity of this approach shows us all the power of talent and quality meeting. 12 years this has awaited my presence. Or so it would seem. The algorithm works in mysterious ways.
I still remember seeing Traffic during the Low Spark of High Heeled Boys tour in Cleveland Oct 1971. They were opened by Glass Harp and Fairport convention. I had listened to Traffic prior to this show loving Mr Fantasy but after that show I was a lifetime fan of Traffic and Steve. I am trying to learn this acoustic version and honestly as a 65 yo memorizing the lyrics are a bit of a challenge but practice...practice...practice. One nice thing about retirement is now having the time to play a lot.
Wow that had to be a great concert, Glass Harp! I'm going to have to dig that album out!
It is because of songs like this , ones that I first heard done by Steve that I was exposed initially to English folk music .
Thank you Steve sir' !
Traffic, one of the first rock bands I started listening to. I was immediately hooked. Amazing Steve Windwood. Amazing that only an acoustic guitar can achieve such an unparalleled performance!
ALWAYS beautiful. Some of the most beautiful music composed.
I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
One of my all-time favorites. The influence of traditional English folk songs on 60's and 70's folk/pop/rock writers was always fascinating to me, from Traffic to Led Zeppelin. Thank you, again!
good point - and through even to The Jam (English Rose) and The Stranglers (Peaches)
Cameron Leuthy Wait isn't it the other way around?The 20th century folk revival started in America.
This is so true - in Liverpool in the late 1960s, the folk music clubs were all thriving along with the Cavern. Reciprocal relationship between the Tavern and the Cavern!!
Jethro Tull made a lot of great music based on English folk music.
This tune was even included in the "English Folk Song Suite"by Vaughn Williams.
Steve Winwood is SO great!!! So soulful, so heartfelt, so faithfully and beautifully performed! He could have been a classical performer. Fortunately, so many more have had the pleasure of hearing him because he chose to remain within the folk/rock/popular domain!
He sounds just the same! Unbelievable! Fabulous!
Superb performance. Saw Traffic so many times, wonderful band making beautiful music. Thanks for the song Steve.
Got to see Traffic in Durham NC just before Low Spark was released. They did the whole album, plus 40,000 and others, including Barleycorn. Steve in all white suit, Jim and Chris in the zone. Timeless....
The very humble musical genius Stevie Winwood. You are a big part of why am trying to learn to play guitar and play and sing some of your beautiful music at 57 years old. I hope you put some more of these videos up, they are very inspirational.
I remember seeing Traffic about ‘71 or ‘72 at the Spectrum in Philadelphia. They were opening for Free. Free canceled at the last minute because the lead singer was injured and couldn’t perform. So Traffic played an extended set which they all seemed to enjoy.
Turned out wonderful.
Steve Winwood is a master musician songwriter and vocalist.
He would have been about 20 or 21 in 71. Imagine having that talent and passion at such an age.
One of the Greatest of ROCK...maybe the best VOICE...!!!...Antonello Gentile...
Awesome, what a surprise. so close to the original version after so many years... Thanks
👍
So glad I found this version of J.B.M.D. Mr. Winwood. You made my day. Thanks
I always loved Traffic's 70's version, but, this one.... this is just awesome!!
Appreciation to Robert Burns for his 1782 version of these lyrics. Many thanks to Mr. Winwood for the fabulous performance.
I marvel at how he plays the guitar, with hardly any movement of his right hand how he is able to get so many notes out of it. It is a pleasure to see a musical genius, his compositions, his art with the guitar and his delicious singing. Bravo Steve!
Steve an immortal spirit!
He's still got it! How many çlokas of the Mahabharata did I translate late at night before class? How much of my Folklore & Mythology thesis did I write to JBMD album? Impossible to count. Transports me back to Cambridge, clove cigs, and the happiest days of my life when nearly anything was still possible.
one of my top ten songs of all time
Just superb!
Awesome.
Just a guitar, a truly great voice and an ancient folk song; wonderful stuff.
Have you heard any traditional versions of the song? I just uploaded a video about John Barleycorn on my channel which includes several historical recordings of the song, including one from 1908!
ruclips.net/video/H-i3IDMdrb0/видео.html
Love the voice, love the guitar, love the music and the lyrics. And I especially loved the smile at the end. Thank you so very much, Steve Winwood!
How about when Sir Winwood looks straight into the camera as he sings, "And SO amazed them ALL"❓
The great Steve, a musical, immortal hero. Forever a place in my heart as a reminder of my youth 😎👍❤