Richie Havens — Freedom
Album: WoodstockAvg rating:
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Length: 5:26
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Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
A long way from my home
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Sometime I feel like I'm almost gone
Sometime I feel like I'm almost gone
Sometime I feel like I'm almost gone
A long way form my home
Clap your hands, clap your hands
Clap your hands, clap your hands
Clap your hands, clap your hands
Clap your hands, clap your hands
Hey, ya, ya, ya, ya, ya (ad lib)
I gotta telephone in my pajama, and can call you from my heart
I gotta telephone in my pajama, and I can call you from my heart
When I need my Brother, Father, Mother, Sister
When I need my Brother, Mother, Father, Sister
Freedom...
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
A long way from my home
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Freedom, freedom
Sometime I feel like I'm almost gone
Sometime I feel like I'm almost gone
Sometime I feel like I'm almost gone
A long way form my home
Clap your hands, clap your hands
Clap your hands, clap your hands
Clap your hands, clap your hands
Clap your hands, clap your hands
Hey, ya, ya, ya, ya, ya (ad lib)
I gotta telephone in my pajama, and can call you from my heart
I gotta telephone in my pajama, and I can call you from my heart
When I need my Brother, Father, Mother, Sister
When I need my Brother, Mother, Father, Sister
Freedom...
Comments (265)add comment
Larrygrrl wrote:
No, not necessarily "there". One need just be alive and adult or growing into one at the time of the event.
Out of context? Meaning? This song is total improv. Richie ran out of songs and had to fill stage time. This is an amazing performance completely on the fly. Watch this segment in the documentary, you will see what it means. He is giving 110%. That is not "out of context." That is a fine performer and a fine human being at the peak of his powers. We should all be so out of context.
Guess you had to be there? Out of context this song is a 2 at best.
No, not necessarily "there". One need just be alive and adult or growing into one at the time of the event.
Out of context? Meaning? This song is total improv. Richie ran out of songs and had to fill stage time. This is an amazing performance completely on the fly. Watch this segment in the documentary, you will see what it means. He is giving 110%. That is not "out of context." That is a fine performer and a fine human being at the peak of his powers. We should all be so out of context.
After some 48 years of hearing this song, tonight is the first time I ever realized he sang "I have a telephone in my pajama..."
This movie was one of 3 that I have seen 10 times in the cinemas. The other 2 were The Song Remains the Same and Rust Never Sleeps. The end of school was such a good time in the late 70's.
beautiful. Just beautiful.
"guitar mike please" "guitar mike please"
Steely_D wrote:
Some did. Others grew up to fight for profits and selfish motives.
Wow. What a shining moment.
What happened to all those kids in the audience? Did they grow up to fight for freedom?
What happened to all those kids in the audience? Did they grow up to fight for freedom?
Some did. Others grew up to fight for profits and selfish motives.
Remarakble and eternally full of vibrancy. I hope folks here are catching the reference to "Motherless Child," an African-American spiritual long known in and associated with that phase of the Civil Rights Movement. MLK referenced it on many occasions. Combine that with the 'telephone in my heart' and its a powerful raw religious statement at the "Aquarian Exposition."
Thank you! Dancing around the living room, yeah, yeah, yeah!
Wow. What a shining moment.
What happened to all those kids in the audience? Did they grow up to fight for freedom?
What happened to all those kids in the audience? Did they grow up to fight for freedom?
I can still feel the power!
A seminal performance and unquestionably one of the most powerful performances at Woodstock
Guess you had to be there? Out of context this song is a 2 at best.
TianGongZhong wrote:
Yeah, but he was out of songs. He made this up on the spot. It's improv. Not great music, but in paradox, it was a GREAT PERFORMANCE. The crowd was completely with him. And he rocked it. And Richie was a wonderful, open, happy gent. We should all be so in tune.
Maybe it worked when it was live in Woodstock....now it´s just rubbish.
Yeah, but he was out of songs. He made this up on the spot. It's improv. Not great music, but in paradox, it was a GREAT PERFORMANCE. The crowd was completely with him. And he rocked it. And Richie was a wonderful, open, happy gent. We should all be so in tune.
Maybe it worked when it was live in Woodstock....now it´s just rubbish.
Tedious and uninteresting. I get the whole "But, hey, man — this was WOODSTOCK!" sentiment, but geez, let's put it this way: Some songs never seem to get old, and no matter how many times you hear them, they still sound fresh, energetic, and timeless. In contrast, this song gets old and repetitive even before it ends. Seriously how many times could anyone listen to this in a row and not agree "OK, time for some other music". My maximum bet would be twice.
Still chills...
luv4music wrote:
Whilst I appreciate that statement may indeed be true, the fact remains that this is so bad musically and lyrically that I can barely listen to it without wincing.
You need to deeply understand what was happening in America in the 1964-1972 period to truly appreciate what was happening in Bethel,NY in August 1969.
Whilst I appreciate that statement may indeed be true, the fact remains that this is so bad musically and lyrically that I can barely listen to it without wincing.
bb_matt wrote:
Yes... and PSD doesn't works
Oh not again already ...
Yes... and PSD doesn't works
One of the greatest wing-it ad libs ever. He ran out of material, had to keep playing, and made this up on the spot. Played it like he'd performed it 500 times. Richie was one of a kind.
Sloggydog wrote:
I'm doing this from now on! I also play "Fight the Power"
Seriously people you are not fairly rating this godlike performance. How about some respect for the guy to open Woodstock? Aside from anything else 2 songs get played in my classroom on the last day of the year - School's Out by Alice Cooper for obvious reasons marks the childrens right to leave and Richie Havens Freedom celebrates the start to my hols.
I'm doing this from now on! I also play "Fight the Power"
Alot of the best Woodstock material never made it onto the album or the film while stuff like this got chosen and played and played and played and ......
luv4music wrote:
I wonder what the size of telephones was back then since Mr. Havens seemed to have one in his pajama
You need to deeply understand what was happening in America in the 1964-1972 period to truly appreciate what was happening in Bethel,NY in August 1969.
I wonder what the size of telephones was back then since Mr. Havens seemed to have one in his pajama
Had a boss who still had his ticket for Woodstock. Got there just after they gave up collecting.
Says that anyone who claims being there and has a tone of stories is likely lying, as no one really recalls what happened from too much booze and drugs.
Says that anyone who claims being there and has a tone of stories is likely lying, as no one really recalls what happened from too much booze and drugs.
Oh not again already ...
luv4music wrote:
You need to deeply understand what was happening in America in the 1964-1972 period to truly appreciate what was happening in Bethel,NY in August 1969.
Seriously people you are not fairly rating this godlike performance. How about some respect for the guy to open Woodstock? Aside from anything else 2 songs get played in my classroom on the last day of the year - School's Out by Alice Cooper for obvious reasons marks the childrens right to leave and Richie Havens Freedom celebrates the start to my hols.
luv4music wrote:
Quite true.
You need to deeply understand what was happening in America in the 1964-1972 period to truly appreciate what was happening in Bethel,NY in August 1969.
Quite true.
I gave it a '10' long ago, especially if played after "Handsome Johnny".
I can't believe that this song has only a 6.5 rating (from 795 reviews). It's a 9.4 for me, especially considering that this was almost entirely improvised on the spot... simply amazing.
This is Bad A$$....
Saw Richie Havens many, many years ago at the Sun Valley Arts festival. He closed the show with an acapella version of Joe Cocker's "You are so beautiful".
He certainly was.
He certainly was.
I saw Richie Havens about 5 years ago in Bend, Oregon.....he still has the magic and elegance in his style.....a good example of that special generation ... and yes I too am sorry I never made it to Woodstock ... if it would of only been in Oregon.. This song is one of the reasons I love RP. No words, just one: freedom.
Andy_B wrote:
Sex, drugs and rock & roll. What a wonderful epitath for my generation. I wouldn't have had it any other way. It's been one hell of a ride.
You need to deeply understand what was happening in America in the 1964-1972 period to truly appreciate what was happening in Bethel,NY in August 1969.
Hmm wasn't nearly old enough or in the right continent for Woodstock but it seems like the Lady Diana death moment here in UK, looking back without rose tinted glasses of nostalgia makes you ask, a decade (or five) on 'what was that about?'
johnjconn wrote:
History of Freedom or history of Woodstock?
I'm willing to bet 95% of the kids at Woodstock don't remember 10% of the time they spent there. Burnouts
and I agree, Freedom is great, beats the hell out of bondage
History of Freedom or history of Woodstock?
I'm willing to bet 95% of the kids at Woodstock don't remember 10% of the time they spent there. Burnouts
and I agree, Freedom is great, beats the hell out of bondage
Burnouts?? I've spoken to many a professional who like me, didn't go to Woodstock because we stayed back at school studying for exams. Although successful in our careers, almost to a person we regretted not going and really "expanding" or minds.
Sex, drugs and rock & roll. What a wonderful epitath for my generation. I wouldn't have had it any other way. It's been one hell of a ride.
Freedom
johnjconn wrote:
History of Freedom or history of Woodstock?
I'm willing to bet 95% of the kids at Woodstock don't remember 10% of the time they spent there. Burnouts
and I agree, Freedom is great, beats the hell out of bondage
and you live where, and were born when....you obviously are braindead......
History of Freedom or history of Woodstock?
I'm willing to bet 95% of the kids at Woodstock don't remember 10% of the time they spent there. Burnouts
and I agree, Freedom is great, beats the hell out of bondage
Three strokes and you know who's playing. Even with the crowd clapping out of sync he's a strumming rhythm master.
Bleyfusz wrote:
So that's it. I already feared she had died, judging by some comments, but didn't know until now.
Thanks for letting us know, Bill. And thank you Cynaera for so many an inspiring entry.
Edit:
Almost missed it: Havens also! Holy shit, how come i had not heard or read?
Will somebody tell me what happened to Cynaera, please?
So that's it. I already feared she had died, judging by some comments, but didn't know until now.
Thanks for letting us know, Bill. And thank you Cynaera for so many an inspiring entry.
Edit:
Almost missed it: Havens also! Holy shit, how come i had not heard or read?
Will somebody tell me what happened to Cynaera, please?
Psycho killer! I saw David Burn last week with St Vincent amazing.
Nice to hear Bill read the post on air !
ch83575 wrote:
Bill reading this quote at the end of the song just made me cry.
me too. the song that follows (You Dance) is perfect.
Bill reading this quote at the end of the song just made me cry.
me too. the song that follows (You Dance) is perfect.
Cynaera wrote:
Miss you so much, Cynaera...
I can't and won't critique Richie Havens' work. All I know is that every time I hear one of his songs, the sun comes out, even when it's winter. Stuff grows, even when there's two feet of snow on the ground. I dance, even when I feel like I can't lift my arms or move my fingers.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Miss you so much, Cynaera...
Cynaera wrote:
Nice comment Bill.
I can't and won't critique Richie Havens' work. All I know is that every time I hear one of his songs, the sun comes out, even when it's winter. Stuff grows, even when there's two feet of snow on the ground. I dance, even when I feel like I can't lift my arms or move my fingers.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Nice comment Bill.
Cynaera wrote:
Bill reading this quote at the end of the song just made me cry.
All I know is that every time I hear one of his songs, the sun comes out, even when it's winter. Stuff grows, even when there's two feet of snow on the ground. I dance, even when I feel like I can't lift my arms or move my fingers.
Bill reading this quote at the end of the song just made me cry.
I give this a 10 - there are some performances that transcend the music and become something more.
This is one of those performances.
This is one of those performances.
I played this song for my Lyricism classes when he passed recently. The kids sat spellbound watching this performance and loved his exit. RIP, Richie.
Bill, thanks for reading Cynaera's most eloquent quote.
Bill, thanks for reading Cynaera's most eloquent quote.
Hearing the intro I expected it to break into a live version of Psycho Killer....
Jambo70 wrote:
Great story. I was not at Woodstock but I will always remember that performance of Freedom. Richie Havens will be missed.
I'm from Canada and got to England in July '70 as a 17 year old. I got to the Isle of Wight about a week before the festival started and talked my way into a job and a back stage pass. Richie Havens closed the show, I'd slept about 15 hours in the last 5 days and I was 10 feet from him as he played 'Freedom' to end it. He walked to the side of the stage where he just kept strumming his guitar and singing in a low voice as if in a trance. I approached this big guy and after a few minutes and in true Alberta style reached out my hand and said something like "Man, that was the most amazing thing I've ever seen or heard" He reached out with both arms and enveloped me in a hug that lasted a couple of minutes. Didn't change my life, but it was one of the signposts.
Great story. I was not at Woodstock but I will always remember that performance of Freedom. Richie Havens will be missed.
I'm from Canada and got to England in July '70 as a 17 year old. I got to the Isle of Wight about a week before the festival started and talked my way into a job and a back stage pass. Richie Havens closed the show, I'd slept about 15 hours in the last 5 days and I was 10 feet from him as he played 'Freedom' to end it. He walked to the side of the stage where he just kept strumming his guitar and singing in a low voice as if in a trance. I approached this big guy and after a few minutes and in true Alberta style reached out my hand and said something like "Man, that was the most amazing thing I've ever seen or heard" He reached out with both arms and enveloped me in a hug that lasted a couple of minutes. Didn't change my life, but it was one of the signposts.
An old boss of mine had his ticket for woodstock framed. By the time he got there it had gone free and he just walked in ... that is about all he really remembers of the deal.
Cynaera wrote:
Bump.
I can't and won't critique Richie Havens' work. All I know is that every time I hear one of his songs, the sun comes out, even when it's winter. Stuff grows, even when there's two feet of snow on the ground. I dance, even when I feel like I can't lift my arms or move my fingers.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Bump.
Still gives me shivers.
The first 60 seconds of this are one of the slickest "tuning checks" I've ever heard. FREEDOM, BROTHER!
Is that Freedom Rock Man? Turn it up!
This gets an 11 rating and epitomizes what Woodstock was and stood for.
Richie has so much passion with this song! You must see the video to fully appreciate this performance!
Richie has so much passion with this song! You must see the video to fully appreciate this performance!
pvg44 wrote:
Not that I was there, but yes: the crowd went wild even though Havens had to improvise because the acts scheduled to follow him were stuck in traffic.
From https://woodstock.wikia.com/wiki/Richie_Havens :
Richie Havens' career skyrocketed after Woodstock.
Hope you're enjoying life in my hometown.
I guess you had to be there to appreciate this song.
Not that I was there, but yes: the crowd went wild even though Havens had to improvise because the acts scheduled to follow him were stuck in traffic.
From https://woodstock.wikia.com/wiki/Richie_Havens :
Richie Havens has stated he was told to "kill time" on stage and has claimed (on more than one occasion) that he played a long time at Woodstock...
He did improvise a lot. "Freedom" for instance, was created right on stage as an encore.
Richie Havens' career skyrocketed after Woodstock.
Hope you're enjoying life in my hometown.
A jaw-dropping performance! Inspired me to learn the PSD button.
A jaw-dropping performance! Inspired me to learn the guitar.
I guess you had to be there to appreciate this song.
jhorton wrote:
Hmmm.....love Ritchie, but I thought it was pretty well documented that Dave Mason brought the new Dylan album to a party in London, played it for Hendrix, and they recorded it that same night in London, all on the same day it was released?
Also, just as an aside, Jimi could have figured out those chords in about fifteen seconds, tops.
Dave Mason's version of All Along the Watchtower is a close second to Jimi's (IMHO). Never heard this story before, but I can see how both versions are most excellent.
Hmmm.....love Ritchie, but I thought it was pretty well documented that Dave Mason brought the new Dylan album to a party in London, played it for Hendrix, and they recorded it that same night in London, all on the same day it was released?
Also, just as an aside, Jimi could have figured out those chords in about fifteen seconds, tops.
Dave Mason's version of All Along the Watchtower is a close second to Jimi's (IMHO). Never heard this story before, but I can see how both versions are most excellent.
fitzworld wrote:
What's even more interesting, those qualities do not seem to have come, so much with age, but with a special spirit. He opened Woodstock, right? Came out on stage in front of hundreds of thousands of people, and had to stretch his set because other artists were late (or drunk or stoned or who-knows-what). Did he freak out, as any normal young musician would? Naw, he just performed with poise and grace, and knocked 'em dead. That's a class act, with maturity beyond his years.
It doesn't get any better than this!!
If you haven't seen Richie Havens lately he is truly remarkable. He exudes a Zen-like "wise man" quality that is mesmerizing. What a special, special musician, and a very grounded human being.
If you haven't seen Richie Havens lately he is truly remarkable. He exudes a Zen-like "wise man" quality that is mesmerizing. What a special, special musician, and a very grounded human being.
What's even more interesting, those qualities do not seem to have come, so much with age, but with a special spirit. He opened Woodstock, right? Came out on stage in front of hundreds of thousands of people, and had to stretch his set because other artists were late (or drunk or stoned or who-knows-what). Did he freak out, as any normal young musician would? Naw, he just performed with poise and grace, and knocked 'em dead. That's a class act, with maturity beyond his years.
ch83575 wrote:
yes flashing back to the movie, Richie with his thumb on the fretboard
Holy crap is RP on fire right now!! Thanks Bill!!
yes flashing back to the movie, Richie with his thumb on the fretboard
oh yeah, finally some richie havens! 
Holy crap is RP on fire right now!! Thanks Bill!!
Hmmm, 6 songs after the solo version of "Psycho Killer".
Those acoustic guitar riffs are not that far apart.
The lyrics however . . .
Those acoustic guitar riffs are not that far apart.
The lyrics however . . .
stand down...
fitzworld wrote:
It doesn't get any better than this!!
It doesn't get any better than this!!
If you haven't seen Richie Havens lately he is truly remarkable. He exudes a Zen-like "wise man" quality that is mesmerizing. What a special, special musician, and a very grounded human being.
If you haven't seen Richie Havens lately he is truly remarkable. He exudes a Zen-like "wise man" quality that is mesmerizing. What a special, special musician, and a very grounded human being.
Best musical exit ever, as he danced off the stage. Definitely a piece of musical history.
LowPhreak wrote:
"Advanced physical age"? Doesn't sound like you're 70 or 80 to me.
"Child at heart"? No, I'd say just childish.
(shrug) At least I've got a SOH and a sense of irony. Ah well, never mind, feel free to flame me off-board for my disrespectful comment about yer man singing Free-dahm-ah incessantly, which at the time was no doubt fantastic (and the comments I read on here about him playing for 3 hours make me respect the guy) but 30 years later is just plain irritating to these juvenile ears. The trouble with 'you hadda be there' is that, if you weren't there, you're not likely to like the rough and ready performances.
"Advanced physical age"? Doesn't sound like you're 70 or 80 to me.
"Child at heart"? No, I'd say just childish.
(shrug) At least I've got a SOH and a sense of irony. Ah well, never mind, feel free to flame me off-board for my disrespectful comment about yer man singing Free-dahm-ah incessantly, which at the time was no doubt fantastic (and the comments I read on here about him playing for 3 hours make me respect the guy) but 30 years later is just plain irritating to these juvenile ears. The trouble with 'you hadda be there' is that, if you weren't there, you're not likely to like the rough and ready performances.
This is more than just a song. This is history and needs to be remembered.
FREEDOM is everything!
FREEDOM is everything!
RipperP wrote:
Hmmm.....love Ritchie, but I thought it was pretty well documented that Dave Mason brought the new Dylan album to a party in London, played it for Hendrix, and they recorded it that same night in London, all on the same day it was released?
Also, just as an aside, Jimi could have figured out those chords in about fifteen seconds, tops.
Saw Richie live two summers ago performing outdoors in our little town with the 5 Mile River and Long Island Sound as his backdrop (with two accompanists). Wasn't sure what to expect given the time lapsed since the superb performance at Woodstock, but can say effusively that he did not disappoint. Excellent show including some amazing stories in between numbers, including how he gave Hendrix the chords/lyrics for "All Along the Watchtower" after he performed it during a show in Greenwich Village.
Hmmm.....love Ritchie, but I thought it was pretty well documented that Dave Mason brought the new Dylan album to a party in London, played it for Hendrix, and they recorded it that same night in London, all on the same day it was released?
Also, just as an aside, Jimi could have figured out those chords in about fifteen seconds, tops.
Saw Richie live two summers ago performing outdoors in our little town with the 5 Mile River and Long Island Sound as his backdrop (with two accompanists). Wasn't sure what to expect given the time lapsed since the superb performance at Woodstock, but can say effusively that he did not disappoint. Excellent show including some amazing stories in between numbers, including how he gave Hendrix the chords/lyrics for "All Along the Watchtower" after he performed it during a show in Greenwich Village.
Bosami wrote:
Wasn't he making this up on the spot? I recall thatThe Who's helicopter hadn't arrived yet and they told Richie to keep on playing...
Either way - it's an awesome song.
VicEdee wrote:
That is absolutely CORRECT....!
Bump
I'm renting this movie tonight to keep me going while I catch up on work. So very awesome. Havens really brought it with this. Truly channeling the cosmos
Sasha2001 wrote:
Whoop-de-doo.
This song, and particularly this recording of it, is a historical document of our nation's history. You may find it unlikable to your taste but at least take the time to understand the events that inspired Mr. Haven's to sing this song as the first performer at Woodstock (the 1969 version).
Whoop-de-doo.
Didn't like it then, Don't like it now.
This song, and particularly this recording of it, is a historical document of our nation's history. You may find it unlikable to your taste but at least take the time to understand the events that inspired Mr. Haven's to sing this song as the first performer at Woodstock (the 1969 version).
technohippybiker wrote:
Could it perhaps be because of the simple fact that he improvised the song after running out of things to play after a 3 hour set starting of the woodstock. The reason of the lengthy set was simply because so many bands hadn't yet arrived.
With above in mind, this song can be nothing else than 10. Absolutely amazing.
Except that in this particular song he just keeps repeating the same things over and over and over again. And the style of his voice in this song is a little rough. It's a good example of why I often avoid live versions. I think this is the first time I've heard one of his songs and didn't like it.
Could it perhaps be because of the simple fact that he improvised the song after running out of things to play after a 3 hour set starting of the woodstock. The reason of the lengthy set was simply because so many bands hadn't yet arrived.
With above in mind, this song can be nothing else than 10. Absolutely amazing.
Perfect! I'm just stringing my old guitar!
Richie Havens plays the guitar as if it were a percussion instrument.
raga wrote:
Come on, it is wonderful. Rock Music screaming the most important thing we have, FREEDOM!!!!!!!!!!
worst ever? 
Come on, it is wonderful. Rock Music screaming the most important thing we have, FREEDOM!!!!!!!!!!
If you didn't rate this god-like then I'm sorry but you're wrong. So very, very, wrong. If you haven't watched the video dig this giant bloke barring the entire fretboard with his thumb and leaving himself 4 fingers to play with - Unbe-freakin-lievable! I only wish we were also gettin High flyin bird.
fredriley wrote:
"Kiddies"?! That's the nicest compliment anyone's paid me on here, I think. Considering my advanced physical age (though not old enough to have experienced the 60s as an adult, which many on RP seem to have done) it's nice that some folk think I'm still a child at heart :o)
"Advanced physical age"? Doesn't sound like you're 70 or 80 to me.
"Child at heart"? No, I'd say just childish.
"Kiddies"?! That's the nicest compliment anyone's paid me on here, I think. Considering my advanced physical age (though not old enough to have experienced the 60s as an adult, which many on RP seem to have done) it's nice that some folk think I'm still a child at heart :o)
"Advanced physical age"? Doesn't sound like you're 70 or 80 to me.
"Child at heart"? No, I'd say just childish.
technohippybiker wrote:
I understand that his set was over and they asked him to play some more, since the next act was not ready.
So he went out and made this tune up on the spot!
Except that in this particular song he just keeps repeating the same things over and over and over again. And the style of his voice in this song is a little rough. It's a good example of why I often avoid live versions. I think this is the first time I've heard one of his songs and didn't like it.
I understand that his set was over and they asked him to play some more, since the next act was not ready.
So he went out and made this tune up on the spot!
1wolfy wrote:
Please Don't Touch - I listened to it daily many years ago.
This guy did some great music with Steve Hackett of Genesis.
Please Don't Touch - I listened to it daily many years ago.
Except that in this particular song he just keeps repeating the same things over and over and over again. And the style of his voice in this song is a little rough. It's a good example of why I often avoid live versions. I think this is the first time I've heard one of his songs and didn't like it.
Cynaera wrote:
Thank you.
I can't and won't critique Richie Havens' work. All I know is that every time I hear one of his songs, the sun comes out, even when it's winter. Stuff grows, even when there's two feet of snow on the ground. I dance, even when I feel like I can't lift my arms or move my fingers.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Thank you.
Cynaera wrote:
Wow.
I can't and won't critique Richie Havens' work. All I know is that every time I hear one of his songs, the sun comes out, even when it's winter. Stuff grows, even when there's two feet of snow on the ground. I dance, even when I feel like I can't lift my arms or move my fingers.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Wow.
"This weekend (August 14, 2009) marks 40 years since the Woodstock music and arts festival was held in Upstate New York. It was August 15, 1969 when Richie Havens played the first notes of what would become a three-day celebration. Havens performs for VOA one of his classic hits from the festival - "Freedom" "
I can't and won't critique Richie Havens' work. All I know is that every time I hear one of his songs, the sun comes out, even when it's winter. Stuff grows, even when there's two feet of snow on the ground. I dance, even when I feel like I can't lift my arms or move my fingers.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Richie Havens has this weird life-force that flows into me when I'm at my lowest. I just need to remember to listen to his music when I feel like I simply can't go on anymore. He's rather amazing, no matter what the music.
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
Sometimes I fee like a motherless child
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
Low, Low I know my time ain’t long
Low, Low I know my time ain’t long
Sometimes I feel like a feather in the air
Sometimes I feel like a feather in the air
Sometimes I feel like a feather in the air
Low, Low
I know my time ain’t long
Low, Low
I know my time ain’t long
Sometimes I feel like I haven’t got a friend
Sometimes I feel like I haven’t got a friend
Sometimes I feel like I haven’t got a friend
Low, Low
I know my time ain’t long
Low, Low
I know my time ain’t long
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
Sometimes I fee like a motherless child
Sometimes I feel like a motherless child
Low, Low I know my time ain’t long
Low, Low I know my time ain’t long
https://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/music/2009/07/07/2009-07-07_woodstocks_undercover_lovers_.html
cc_rider wrote:
cc_rider wrote:
Dig. Bit o' trivia: the couple on the album cover? They are still together. At least were a few years ago, when somebody did a little special interest article about them. Tracked 'em down and sure enough, still hippie-ish, still together. Kinda cool. c.
ezzyme wrote:
Well, actually, I always thought this was great. It moves me. Richie Havens voice grabs me. And I never expect a live performance to be perfect. (Much worse gets played from other artists...) The previous person's comment is right on the money.
Each to his own...
Hey, it was good, but never great. I guess we need an interlude of lesser stuff that is ok to heighten our appreciation for the high flying stuff. Or, this is just a poetic flow.
It really suffers from less than rhythmic bongos in the beginning. Like, did the bongo guy have to wake up in the middle of the song. Given Woodstock, probably.
It really suffers from less than rhythmic bongos in the beginning. Like, did the bongo guy have to wake up in the middle of the song. Given Woodstock, probably.
Well, actually, I always thought this was great. It moves me. Richie Havens voice grabs me. And I never expect a live performance to be perfect. (Much worse gets played from other artists...) The previous person's comment is right on the money.
Each to his own...
LowPhreak wrote:
This song can easily be applied today, you didn't have to "be there" to get it. And how you're hearing anything about "Dahmer" is just in your own head.
Ridiculous.
Some of you kiddies should try to get a better grip on how to understand music.
"Kiddies"?! That's the nicest compliment anyone's paid me on here, I think. Considering my advanced physical age (though not old enough to have experienced the 60s as an adult, which many on RP seem to have done) it's nice that some folk think I'm still a child at heart :o)
This song can easily be applied today, you didn't have to "be there" to get it. And how you're hearing anything about "Dahmer" is just in your own head.
Ridiculous.Some of you kiddies should try to get a better grip on how to understand music.
"Kiddies"?! That's the nicest compliment anyone's paid me on here, I think. Considering my advanced physical age (though not old enough to have experienced the 60s as an adult, which many on RP seem to have done) it's nice that some folk think I'm still a child at heart :o)
Bodhisattva wrote:
+1
I'd like to see all those who bash this song be the first to face hundreds of thousands of people at an event, go on early without prior notice, and do anything other than pee themselves.
Save your cowardly cubicle criticism for something else.
Save your cowardly cubicle criticism for something else.
+1
worst ever?
For a show that seemed so disorganized and chaotic, the live audio is tremendous.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fUgfZOP9jg
I'd like to see all those who bash this song be the first to face hundreds of thousands of people at an event, go on early without prior notice, and do anything other than pee themselves.
Save your cowardly cubicle criticism for something else.
Save your cowardly cubicle criticism for something else.
Hey, it was good, but never great. I guess we need an interlude of lesser stuff that is ok to heighten our appreciation for the high flying stuff. Or, this is just a poetic flow.
It really suffers from less than rhythmic bongos in the beginning. Like, did the bongo guy have to wake up in the middle of the song. Given Woodstock, probably.
It really suffers from less than rhythmic bongos in the beginning. Like, did the bongo guy have to wake up in the middle of the song. Given Woodstock, probably.
Bosami wrote:
That is absolutely CORRECT....!
Wasn't he making this up on the spot? I recall thatThe Who's helicopter hadn't arrived yet and they told Richie to keep on playing...
Either way - it's an awesome song.
Either way - it's an awesome song.
That is absolutely CORRECT....!
Wasn't he making this up on the spot? I recall thatThe Who's helicopter hadn't arrived yet and they told Richie to keep on playing...
Either way - it's an awesome song.
Either way - it's an awesome song.
Woodstock was such a seminal piece of videography, and, as I recall it, Havens was first on. Close shots, split screen, a big old guy on conga. It was gripping. That said, this song is probably better enjoyed as part of the movie as opposed to just listening to it. And probably some of the performances were better enjoyed in the movie than actually being there. I don't imagine that Havens' performance was all that overwhelming from a thousand feet out.
That said #2, it is a great performance.
Regarding accent on final m, there weren't many "dismemberment lib" songs in the Age of Aquarius and Dahmer didn't start whacking and hacking until the late 70s and, according to Wikipedia did the majority of his work in the late 80s. Having been born in 1960, Dahmer would have had to have been incarcerated at age 7 for Havens to have felt compelled to ask us to help spring him,.
fredriley wrote:
That said #2, it is a great performance.
Regarding accent on final m, there weren't many "dismemberment lib" songs in the Age of Aquarius and Dahmer didn't start whacking and hacking until the late 70s and, according to Wikipedia did the majority of his work in the late 80s. Having been born in 1960, Dahmer would have had to have been incarcerated at age 7 for Havens to have felt compelled to ask us to help spring him,.
fredriley wrote:
I expect that this is the sort of song that you really had to be there, either in the place or time, to really appreciate, and if you're not of that age you'll just not connect with it. The over-emphasis on the last letter of "freedom" sounds like he's singing "free Dahmer".
I'll get me coat...
I'll get me coat...
fredriley wrote:
This song can easily be applied today, you didn't have to "be there" to get it. And how you're hearing anything about "Dahmer" is just in your own head. Ridiculous.
Some of you kiddies should try to get a better grip on how to understand music.
I expect that this is the sort of song that you really had to be there, either in the place or time, to really appreciate, and if you're not of that age you'll just not connect with it. The over-emphasis on the last letter of "freedom" sounds like he's singing "free Dahmer".
I'll get me coat...
I'll get me coat...
This song can easily be applied today, you didn't have to "be there" to get it. And how you're hearing anything about "Dahmer" is just in your own head.
Ridiculous.Some of you kiddies should try to get a better grip on how to understand music.
| cat·er·waul < káttÉr wàwl > |
intransitive verb (past and past participle cat·er·wauled, present participle cat·er·waul·ing, 3rd person present singular cat·er·wauls) |
| Definition: |
| 1. yowl: to make a loud howling noise |
2. make loud harsh noise: to make a loud noise that offends the ears  a street musician caterwauling in the background while we tried to talk |
I expect that this is the sort of song that you really had to be there, either in the place or time, to really appreciate, and if you're not of that age you'll just not connect with it. The over-emphasis on the last letter of "freedom" sounds like he's singing "free Dahmer".
I'll get me coat...
I'll get me coat...
Get me some Niacin, I'm having a bad trip!! 
Easily a "10'!
I don't know what it is about this cut...... but 8 -> 9
Simple, direct, raw energy...
Simple, direct, raw energy...
"Guitar mike ....... GUITAR MIKE"
love this song, it is ingrained in my brain from when vinyl was the only option
love this song, it is ingrained in my brain from when vinyl was the only option
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnPi1nu8OOE
"Cannes festival its not so fake as hollywood festival but the stars are the same. Rich people with fake smilles. The old legandary man show all those capitalists what passion means. Freedom."
amazing how this dated mediocrity made it into the movie and the album while so many far superior performances (ex, Johnny Winter etc...) wound up on the cutting room floor; off both the album and the movie.
Yeah, I caught that.
Stoned? Those lyrics are really improv.
Jeez, I hope he didn't make any calls.