Big Bad John | Low Bass Singer Cover

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  • čas přidán 4. 03. 2022
  • SUBSCRIBE: gphr3y.me/sbscrbe PATREON: gphr3y.me/ptrn
    At the bottom of this mine lies a big big man... "Big Bad John" was highly requested and I hope I've given Jimmy Dean's tune a little extra love and fresh air with this re-imagining of it. Thanks for watching!
    😃 PATREON: / geoffcastellucci
    🍎 Listen on apple.co/38YdpSb
    🎧 Listen on spoti.fi/2VpMvOr
    🎵 Grab Sheet Music Here: bit.ly/3dDcxo5
    🎤 Karaoke Version: www.geoffcastellucci.com/store
    👕 MERCH: www.geoffcastellucci.com/store
    👇 Grab your picks and shovels and join me below👇
    www.geoffcastellucci.com/
    / geoffcastellucci
    / geophr3y
    / geophr3y
    / geophr3y
    / geophr3y
    www.thevoiceplay.com/
    spoti.fi/2VpMvOr
    apple.co/38YdpSb
    RELEVANT HASHTAGS #Bass #BigJohn #Singer #GeoffCastellucci
    Arranged, Produced, Filmed, Performed, and Edited by Geoff Castellucci
    Production Manager: Kathy Castellucci
    Mix Engineer: Ed Boyer
    Filmed at Pattycake Productions Studio - / pattycakestudiospace
    "Big Bad John" was a grammy winning number 1 hit in 1961. The was song originally performed by Jimmy Dean (yes, the sausage guy) and to date, I've never heard another song quite like it. It really sticks with you. If you haven't heard the original, do yourself a favor and seek it out. I hope you enjoyed this updated version of it. Thanks for watching!
  • Hudba

Komentáře • 3,3K

  • @WyvernYT
    @WyvernYT Před měsícem +145

    The reality behind the legend is Big Bill Murphy, who rests in the cemetery in Tonopah, Nevada. On February 23, 1911 a fire broke out over a thousand feet down, in a mine full of men. Big Bill got out to the surface - and then turned around and went back in to rescue others. He went down three times; he came up again twice.

    • @mystical423
      @mystical423 Před měsícem +6

      Wow never knew that

    • @rosewood9839
      @rosewood9839 Před 22 dny +7

      That is something people need to know. Bill Murphy was a hero.

    • @BobShtearin
      @BobShtearin Před 14 dny +3

      Born in 75. It's one of my favorates

  • @nxyuu
    @nxyuu Před 2 lety +3606

    Every time we think we've gotten over how good a voice he has, he comes back and makes our jaws drop again and again.

  • @RobMacKendrick
    @RobMacKendrick Před 4 měsíci +219

    A lot of commentary here on Geoff's low register, but I'm equally impressed with his resonance at the top of his range. His voice isn't just a gimmick; it's a brilliant instrument.

    • @danielisenberg2360
      @danielisenberg2360 Před 3 měsíci +9

      I know right? Like it's one thing to be able to hit crazy low notes, but he can also hit notes that are pretty high too!

    • @ChazzyWS
      @ChazzyWS Před měsícem +2

      Well said...

    • @Hilppa71
      @Hilppa71 Před měsícem +2

      Absolutely sir, you are so right. I found his voice about 2 months ago and his range is truly amazing.

  • @DavidFailsYT
    @DavidFailsYT Před rokem +755

    You know his voice is gonna get deep when he starts singing with his hands.

    • @DytchWytch
      @DytchWytch Před rokem +41

      well, he's italian, so... talk with the hands... sing with the hands. :D

    • @AK-jt7kh
      @AK-jt7kh Před rokem +18

      Those hands get serious

    • @danielweir67
      @danielweir67 Před rokem +6

      he's an exceptional singing Italian.

  • @kanejones2580
    @kanejones2580 Před rokem +760

    The legend of a man that saved 20 something men from a cave in with sheer brute strength could only ever truly be complimented by being sung by a voice that could have easily matched that of big john

    • @Tendies1910
      @Tendies1910 Před rokem +6

      Yee

    • @GeoffRickly-uu1fo
      @GeoffRickly-uu1fo Před rokem

      Hello why don’t you text me here okay ❤

    • @BlitzTheFoxi
      @BlitzTheFoxi Před 9 měsíci +2

      hes samson but the other way around

    • @WyvernYT
      @WyvernYT Před 6 měsíci +14

      The reality behind the legend is Big Bill Murphy, who rests in the cemetery in Tonopah, Nevada. On February 23, 1911 a fire broke out over a thousand feet down, in a mine full of men. Big Bill got out to the surface - and then turned around and went back in to rescue others. He went down three times; he came up again twice.

    • @Omegatonboom
      @Omegatonboom Před 5 měsíci +4

      Whatever you just said just rolled right off my tongue as I read it.
      Somewhere in there is the makings of a dedication song

  • @GrumpyOldGuyPlaysGames
    @GrumpyOldGuyPlaysGames Před 2 lety +724

    My grandfather used to sing this song to me when I was a kid whenever I was feeling bad, or had hurt myself running around with the other kids, or just when I was scared. It was one of the first "grown-up songs" I ever knew all the words to. He sang bass also, though you've got him beat for depth and range. Anyway, today would have been his 100th birthday. Unfortunately, we lost him when he was barely into his 60s. But this brought back good memories, and now I'm sitting here typing this with tears in my eyes. Thanks, Geoff. This was good. I appreciate it.

    • @tanyagarcia3721
      @tanyagarcia3721 Před 2 lety +27

      Your grandfather was a treasured person in your life and I can tell even though I don't know you

    • @tahwsisiht
      @tahwsisiht Před rokem +6

      My grandma was born 1921. A year or a couple of months earlier than your grandfather.

    • @winterblue5219
      @winterblue5219 Před rokem +13

      I love the fact that Geoff responded to your comment. Just another example of his heart for his fans. His voice is phenomenal, to say the least.
      I remember my parents playing this song. Dean's voice was smooth as silk for his time.
      As for your Grandfather, what an amazing story! Thanks for sharing 🥰

    • @Serge_Jackson
      @Serge_Jackson Před rokem +8

      May he rest in peace knowing you grew into a fine person

  • @crystalpreuett9539
    @crystalpreuett9539 Před rokem +422

    Idk what's more impressive; this guy's lowest notes, or his massive range! WOW! 🤯

  • @HistorytheShortStory
    @HistorytheShortStory Před měsícem +13

    Jimmy Dean, best known for his famous sausage brand, was also a successful country music singer and songwriter. In 1961, needing a fourth song for a recording session, he penned "Big Bad John" on a plane, drawing inspiration from a tall actor named John Minto he'd met previously. Dean's simple lyrics and haunting melody, along with the iconic sound of Floyd Cramer striking steel with a hammer, propelled the song to the top of both the country and pop charts. Its tale of a mysterious, larger-than-life miner struck a chord, establishing "Big Bad John" as a timeless country music classic.
    Primary Source:
    Dean, Jimmy. Big Bad John and Other Fabulous Songs and Tales. New York: Columbia Records, 1961.

  • @mbyerly9680
    @mbyerly9680 Před 2 lety +519

    We older folks nod our heads in recognition and sit back to hear Geoff's perfect handling of a classic, and the younger types get the pleasure of hearing a classic for the first time and enjoying Geoff's voices. And, yes, kids, Jimmy Dean did more than create a sausage empire.

    • @dianthas3498
      @dianthas3498 Před 2 lety +9

      And you got to watch Jim Henson and the muppets on his show before they became famous.

    • @bsmith5970
      @bsmith5970 Před 2 lety +13

      I was wondering who else remembered that Jimmy Dean made this famous long before he made sausage.

    • @iciclecold2991
      @iciclecold2991 Před 2 lety +8

      I am 29, and am familiar with the original due to having a taste for old music. I like this one as well as the old one, but gotta say that the original one appeals to me more due to its more steady rhythm

    • @stifledvoice
      @stifledvoice Před 2 lety +12

      This Jimmy Dean song and the "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" were the two hits that would make my cornball-eared younger self run across the room and turn the radio up. Oh, also Peter, Paul & Mary's Puff the Magic Dragon too. Radio? Is that still a thing?

    • @ericdravenashecorven
      @ericdravenashecorven Před 2 lety +8

      @@stifledvoice I'd pay to have Geoff do Puff The Magic Dragon. I can already hear him singing it in my head.

  • @michaelpogue2032
    @michaelpogue2032 Před 2 lety +667

    When Geoff hits those low notes, you gotta believe there's some seismologist in Japan or the like going: "What was that?" and recording a magnitude 5 on the paper graph. Geoff, thank you so much for covering this. It just goes to show that great music doesn't age.

    • @mats6565
      @mats6565 Před 2 lety +12

      I guess we now know where chinese "alien signal" came from.

    • @ginadisbrow9324
      @ginadisbrow9324 Před rokem +4

      😭😭

    • @LeonaPrime
      @LeonaPrime Před rokem +7

      Nah, but it would be a prank if a seismologist was singing like that close to a seismic station. Sometimes you do see funny weird data from them.

    • @doggonemess1
      @doggonemess1 Před rokem +6

      He must wreak havoc with LIGO.

    • @AK-jt7kh
      @AK-jt7kh Před rokem +2

      🤣 Oh man. Too true

  • @sarahcoleman3125
    @sarahcoleman3125 Před rokem +106

    My favorite part is when the "miners" are softly, tentatively singing the chorus of "Big John". It tells a story of everybody getting to safety and once the panic is over they're starting to call for John's rescue. Makes Me tear up every time. ❤️

  • @moniquenstein
    @moniquenstein Před 3 měsíci +23

    His voice is astounding and MAN! Can he carry a tune perfectly in each of his ranges. You’ve got a GIFT, my friend!

  • @Gretchen_G
    @Gretchen_G Před 2 lety +191

    Geoff, listening to this I suddenly realized what a talented storyteller you are. You brought the story in this song to life, and I can feel the emotions behind each and every line.
    At first there's a real tough-guy energy like Sixteen Tons, and then the mood turns ominous and gossipy with the talk about John's shady past. Suddenly the words come more rapidly with the tenseness and fear of the trapped miners, but then a hopeful new voice breaks in like the light from above; followed by a softer, more somber tone as we learn of John's lonely death. But the song ends triumphantly, as a tribute to that "big big man" who sacrificed himself for the rest.
    All of this is subtle though; there's a solid, measured presence throughout the song, much like John himself.
    I don't have the technical know-how to describe it any better than that, or to notice all the clever little details you've surely used to achieve this. All I can say is that you've brought out the emotion here in a way that's really incredible, and you've told this story better than anyone else I've ever heard.

    • @maeco7
      @maeco7 Před 2 lety +19

      Very well said!!

    • @sibyllolson3237
      @sibyllolson3237 Před 2 lety +19

      Yes, I agree. I found myself crying from the story and I’m old enough to remember this song from my childhood.

    • @GeoffCastellucci
      @GeoffCastellucci  Před 2 lety +36

      Wow. Thank you!

    • @eruannagrace9303
      @eruannagrace9303 Před 2 lety +4

      Wow, well said indeed! I love the word-pictures you give us to go along with the music.

  • @susanfulbright4898
    @susanfulbright4898 Před 2 lety +397

    What a couple of weeks! Dragonborn Come, We Don't Talk about Bruno, and now Big, Bad John! What a run of great music and videos. Loved going to the black and white section and only 1 Geoff. Perfection for that section!

    • @GeoffCastellucci
      @GeoffCastellucci  Před 2 lety +69

      Thanks!!!

    • @JQuallsPhotos
      @JQuallsPhotos Před 2 lety +11

      Is it just me or was there a section in Dragonborn Come that Geoff did a Sub-Harmonic overtone? Much like Avi Kaplan's Harmonic Overtones but in a bass note? I am pretty sure it happened, I just want confirmation that I am hearing it right.

    • @cluelesscat2840
      @cluelesscat2840 Před 2 lety +1

      @@JQuallsPhotos do you have a time stamp?

    • @joyfulyes
      @joyfulyes Před 2 lety +5

      Yes, and Shenandoah...

    • @JQuallsPhotos
      @JQuallsPhotos Před 2 lety +1

      @@cluelesscat2840
      I’ll have to find it and time stamp it.
      I also need to turn on notifications,
      Geez.

  • @carteron248
    @carteron248 Před rokem +35

    His voice registers 8.5 in the Richter scale

  • @audreytate7200
    @audreytate7200 Před 8 měsíci +18

    I didn't think anyone's voice could go that low until I heard Geoff ❤

  • @elvwood
    @elvwood Před 2 lety +613

    Yes, yes, we all know Geoff's a fantastic bass singer (and I'm a sucker for the drop), but what's really come through more and more as time's gone on is the development of his upper register. Listen to the tonal quality of those top lines! Gorgeous. Come for the bass, stay for the whole sound.

  • @docrasey2232
    @docrasey2232 Před 2 lety +167

    Seriously, Geoff, I wish your songs came with a whisk broom so I could brush my jaw off after I pick it up from the floor. Every time you release something, I always think: "That's it. No way he'll EVER top that one!" Thanks for proving me wrong. Again. You, sir, are a planetary treasure!

    • @GeoffCastellucci
      @GeoffCastellucci  Před 2 lety +66

      THANK YOU!

    • @lindathetford3776
      @lindathetford3776 Před 2 lety +9

      @@GeoffCastellucci I agree with every word also this was hands down the most beautiful version of this I've ever heard and it was well timed at least for me I wasn't able to sleep as I was having one of those nights where breathing wakes you up lol and your overlay voice was literally the one thing to calm me down I was listening to this and about halfway through I was finally able to feel like relaxing your voice is just so soothing and you killed it as usual 👍 ❤️ amazing performance

    • @gabi_uhl_music
      @gabi_uhl_music Před 2 lety +8

      @@GeoffCastellucci You already recorded several of my favorite songs in your awesome way - hope you'll do "GHOST RIDERS IN THE SKY" one day!

    • @felicitymcdonald24
      @felicitymcdonald24 Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@gabi_uhl_musicand he did!

    • @gabi_uhl_music
      @gabi_uhl_music Před 3 měsíci

      @@felicitymcdonald24 Yes, and I was very happy about it! 🙂

  • @watcherofyoutube9678
    @watcherofyoutube9678 Před rokem +520

    It’s crazy how Geoff was born into a set of identical quadruplets

  • @anastasiabender2156
    @anastasiabender2156 Před rokem +399

    I remember listening to this song growing up and feeling like it was a ghost story told in song. Listening to Geoff's rendition, it feels like a heroic tale. None of the gravitas or meaning is lost, but I have a new appreciation for the story. Well done.

    • @regsun7947
      @regsun7947 Před rokem +31

      To me it was always the sad end of a brave man, but even so I never once cried when I heard it--until this rendition. His arrangement takes it far and above just a sad song.

    • @arouraborialice6577
      @arouraborialice6577 Před rokem +5

      I absolutely agree with you, thank you for putting it into words

    • @cathyhale7817
      @cathyhale7817 Před rokem +2

      Totally awesome…

    • @sandralamphier9433
      @sandralamphier9433 Před rokem +4

      This was one of my favorite songs as a kid. We had it on a 45 rpm record. I have no idea how many times I listened to it then but I really like this version. ❤️

    • @MizJilly
      @MizJilly Před rokem +2

      Yes!

  • @sarawlindgreen3115
    @sarawlindgreen3115 Před 2 lety +381

    This feels like a bridge between the songs and the narrations previously done by Geoff, and as someone who loves both I'm very happy with the fusion of those two parts, because it feels as relaxing as the narrations, but with the melodic quality of a song. At the same time this version feels lighter to me than the version from Jimmy Dean, which makes this version a lot more approachable and nice to listen to ❤️
    And then the twist in the imagery really brings in the cilling feeling of the story told in the song.

    • @carole1781
      @carole1781 Před 2 lety +14

      I grew up listening to the original version. Geoff’s version brought tears to my eyes. Beautiful rendition.

    • @georgexouryas
      @georgexouryas Před 2 lety +8

      100% agree, thats what i thought. pure gold

    • @deanmarion5477
      @deanmarion5477 Před rokem

      @@georgexouryas : you means real gold like 24k solid gold. Sold on that reply.

  • @clffliese26
    @clffliese26 Před 2 lety +51

    I think Jimmy Dean would have approved of this cover. Great job, Geoff.

  • @misslady1629
    @misslady1629 Před rokem +58

    At first I was afraid of big bad John, then he sounded like a gentle giant. Then he sounded terrifying again with what he did over that Cajun queen. Then I was holding my breath in anticipation of what would become of the other men and him in that mine. Now I'm sitting here crying for big bad John. I'm exhausted but I loved every second of it!

  • @outlawalpha
    @outlawalpha Před rokem +20

    As a 6ft 4 man of 280 pounds named John.... I approve of this message. Lmao. Love this cover my dad and uncle used to sing this saying it was my theme song when I was a little kid.

  • @bellawillis983
    @bellawillis983 Před 2 lety +138

    I only discovered Geoff catsellucci and his A cappella group Voice play a week ago but I am obsessed with all of Geoff’s musical abilities

    • @peliculas9255
      @peliculas9255 Před 2 lety +1

      czcams.com/video/_U3iEbD4F6o/video.html

    • @headfullofdreams6083
      @headfullofdreams6083 Před 2 lety +15

      Yeah that's what happened to me about one and a half year ago lol

    • @antimatterexplodes4014
      @antimatterexplodes4014 Před 2 lety +10

      Welcome to the Fandom!

    • @asemlagnestal282
      @asemlagnestal282 Před 2 lety +13

      This is a very interesting and exciting rabbit hole. 🥰 Welcome! 😊

    • @suzyb1701
      @suzyb1701 Před 2 lety +13

      Haha, same here! Went from ignorance last June to total obsession. I can hardly believe how much joy I've experienced in the last 8 months just because of Geoff and Voiceplay!🥰

  • @jshound1508
    @jshound1508 Před 2 lety +137

    This song was still playing on the radio and every juke box, in every bar and every little Podunk town in America when I was born in '66. By the time I turned six, it was STILL on the radio and in bars. My mom drank and dragged me along to the bar with her. I'd sit at the dark end of the bar w/ my mom drinking virgin Shirley Temples thinkin' I was all that...listening to this song and others like it.
    It was a different time, a different place, a different era and, a different mind set back then. My mom was a single mother in the 60's.
    So please don't judge my mom. She did the best she could w/ what she had... RIP, Mom.
    Geoff, I'm sure that you've more than done justice to this song. I love that you've given new life to some great, old songs. I look forward to your interpretation of it! :)

    • @rdyer8764
      @rdyer8764 Před 2 lety +7

      When I was a kid I remember hearing the original by Jimmy Dean on the radio. I always stopped to listen.

    • @joshwondra9821
      @joshwondra9821 Před 2 lety +8

      I grew up in south Texas in the 90’s and it STILL got radio play when I was a kid.
      Classic.

    • @Hodrad
      @Hodrad Před 2 lety +4

      The original version of this is on my standard Spotify playlist right now.

    • @renpixie
      @renpixie Před 2 lety +11

      No one except you has the right to judge your mom.
      The moms that love us do the best they can.
      ❤️

    • @jshound1508
      @jshound1508 Před 2 lety +2

      @@renpixie ❤

  • @misanthrope541
    @misanthrope541 Před 11 měsíci +94

    You are amazing! I'm 75 and remember when Tennessee Ernie Ford came out with 16 Tons. I played your version expecting to be disappointed but instead was blown away. You have one helluva vocal range. My dad was baritone/bass and he'd sing Old Man River, a 3 octave song to me. Do you think you could record it? It'd be heavenly to hear it well sung again. You are a wonderful addition to my library.

    • @rouxtheday1235
      @rouxtheday1235 Před 10 měsíci +6

      Isn't that the truth? More often than not, covers are disappointing! Not this time!! ❤

    • @karenambrose7060
      @karenambrose7060 Před 8 měsíci +6

      Yes Please do! "Old Man River" would be perfect for your voice Geoff!

    • @jinxbathory
      @jinxbathory Před 7 měsíci +1

      I found another one today by Tennessee Ernie Ford that would be awesome for Geoff - Cry of the Wild Goose

  • @grantnorthcott5112
    @grantnorthcott5112 Před rokem +162

    My Dad, back in the 60s, used to sing "Big John" and "Sixteen tons" to me when I was a little tyke.. Brings tears to my eyes and great memories when I hear that song. You guys rock!

    • @pettytoni1955
      @pettytoni1955 Před rokem +13

      Actually, it's just one guy. INR?

    • @khululyp
      @khululyp Před rokem +2

      @@pettytoni1955 Well there is still the band and production time.

    • @alan30189
      @alan30189 Před rokem +2

      @@pettytoni1955 I was wondering if it was just him, or if he’s a quadruplet. ?

    • @girlgeniusnyc272
      @girlgeniusnyc272 Před rokem +5

      @@alan30189
      Yes I was confused at first too.
      It's ONE GUY who films himself multiple times and then all the pieces are edited together.
      So -- so twins, no body doubles. Just one MASSIVELY talented guy with an excellent video team.

    • @itsmenala9087
      @itsmenala9087 Před rokem +3

      “Tyke” i can tell that was 60s😂

  • @bellawillis983
    @bellawillis983 Před 2 lety +138

    This absolutely did not disappoint, you know exactly how to construct cover music somehow you know exactly what to change, where to add, and where to hold back. Bravo 👏

  • @j.vandenberg3323
    @j.vandenberg3323 Před 2 lety +139

    Ghost Riders Please! your voice was made for that song! lol again you knock it out of the park on this song, fantastic!

    • @queenofpixels5458
      @queenofpixels5458 Před 2 lety +7

      Yes!

    • @janetdw
      @janetdw Před 2 lety +5

      Great idea!!!!

    • @timothystrain8155
      @timothystrain8155 Před 2 lety +9

      Yes! And then image Geoff's version of King of the Road. SSSAAWWEEEEEEETTTT!

    • @joyfulyes
      @joyfulyes Před 2 lety +7

      YES YES YESS GHOST RIDERS! And King of the Road!

    • @sarahereach
      @sarahereach Před 2 lety +4

      My next top request for Geoff is The Highwayman. To me it is reminiscent of Ghost Riders, but I haven't seen as many requests for it. definitely waiting on Ghost Riders too (seems to be the other top request from people so he will likely tackle it at some point) King of the Road is also a favorite song of mine, although I am neutral on Geoff taking that one on.

  • @bugsbycarlin
    @bugsbycarlin Před rokem +40

    It's really nice to see that the guy from my late Grannie's romance novels got a gig singing her all time favorite song. Seriously, thanks for bringing back such a good one.

  • @willworkforyarn4893
    @willworkforyarn4893 Před rokem +19

    My son, who is now 34, use to love that song when he was just a little lad. He would listen to it repeatedly, sing and dance around in his cowboy boots. Thanks for the sweet memory!!

  • @Wraithstrike
    @Wraithstrike Před 2 lety +294

    I know that Valhalla is meant for those who die in combat, but having heard Geoff's rendition of this song, I'm sure that Odin would make an exception for Big John.

    • @metatron76
      @metatron76 Před 2 lety +59

      Actually, Wallhalla is for the brave and valorous souls. So someone like Big John, who sacrificed himsel for 20 friends, would be welcomed with mead and backslaps.

    • @jerrykinnin7941
      @jerrykinnin7941 Před 2 lety +32

      Greater love hath no man than the man who lays down his life for his friends.

    • @techpriestemily
      @techpriestemily Před 2 lety +33

      Big John died fighting the earth itself to save others. His seat is at Odin's side.

    • @anonymousaccordionist3326
      @anonymousaccordionist3326 Před 2 lety +8

      Not quite yet, though. Go have a listen to "Cajun Queen," another song by Jimmy Dean.

    • @dtrix102
      @dtrix102 Před 2 lety +11

      Odin welcomed Big Bad John with open arms and a tankard of mead.

  • @janetdw
    @janetdw Před 2 lety +35

    Another old song I grew up along with 16 Tons. I love the combination of narration and singing. I’m glad I broke down and listened to it. This song always makes me so sad. (My grandfather had to work in the coal mines during the depression and narrowly escaped being trapped in a cave in. He drove the coal train which pulled the coal out and the end of the train was trapped under the rock. The narration at the end (solo) moved me to tears. All I could think of was my tough as nails Grandpa and the devastated look on his face when this song came on the radio. He would just sit there and slowly shake his head. Well, if you will excuse me now, I have to go find my box of tissues 😢

  • @rcsontag
    @rcsontag Před 5 měsíci +20

    Incredible range!

  • @PhilKelley
    @PhilKelley Před 4 měsíci +38

    I can't remember when I last heard this song. It had to have been the late 50's or early 60's. Thank you for reviving the low bass voice. It is the perfect voice for this song that celebrates American heroism -- the sacrifice of oneself for others.

    • @americansfirst1095
      @americansfirst1095 Před 4 měsíci +3

      you must live in a cave if you haven't heard this in that length of time.

    • @SirTrews34
      @SirTrews34 Před 3 měsíci

      Well put, Phil!

  • @AcapellaAddict4Lyfe
    @AcapellaAddict4Lyfe Před 2 lety +1123

    Me: “What’s the lowest note you can hit, Geoff”?
    Geoff: “Yes”.

    • @creeperfusiongaming2670
      @creeperfusiongaming2670 Před 2 lety +4

      So true

    • @ryanlester4698
      @ryanlester4698 Před 2 lety +8

      I think it's a G# in the 5th octave

    • @N9TheNoob
      @N9TheNoob Před 2 lety +10

      ​@@ryanlester4698 LOWEST NOT HIGHEST

    • @johndeeregreen4592
      @johndeeregreen4592 Před 2 lety +18

      Just sucks, because I can match him note for note... until it comes to that low G1... my lowest note in chest is an Ab1... one half-step higher, lol.

    • @creeperfusiongaming2670
      @creeperfusiongaming2670 Před 2 lety +12

      @@johndeeregreen4592 well for me I can hit a bit but I’m not deep yet cuz we’ll I is a teen lol but I do go low just havnt found my range notes yet (don’t comment or like this comment)

  • @pixelbros1280
    @pixelbros1280 Před 2 lety +40

    My dad always played this song for me when I was young, can’t wait to hear Geoffs telling of the 6’6” giant who saved those miners 😮

    • @peliculas9255
      @peliculas9255 Před 2 lety +1

      czcams.com/video/_U3iEbD4F6o/video.html

  • @mohunter68
    @mohunter68 Před rokem +50

    The vocal range of Geoff Castellucci is mind boggling. The Most Amazing vocalisation I've ever heard in my life.

    • @DriveLaken
      @DriveLaken Před 10 měsíci

      Listen to Dimash singing SOS
      czcams.com/video/JEz1qGS0T1Q/video.html
      This was amazing. The most amazing vocalization I've ever heard was Dimash’s cover of SOS.
      Check it out

  • @ceciliagincho6806
    @ceciliagincho6806 Před 2 měsíci +3

    I find song and the performance of it so impressive. In fact, it became one of my favourites sung by G. Castellucci, along with Sixteen Tons and Folsom Prison Blues. Each one of the three is story-telling sung with great skill - and it isn't only because the range of Geoff's remarkable voice, but it is the sort of emotional expression contained in it.

  • @billparrish4385
    @billparrish4385 Před 2 lety +31

    Chills and tears, sir! That's all I've got to say. Chills and tears!
    Now, having said that, _Ghost Riders in the Sky!_ With your ear for arrangement, plus your unearthly range, you could bring those ghosts to life! Chills and tears on steroids!

  • @davepeterschmidt5818
    @davepeterschmidt5818 Před 2 lety +78

    Does anyone else think Geoff has taken his vocals to a new level lately? The lows on Big Bad John sound so powerful, and then add in the absolutely epic bass he adds on the Halo Theme. Just amazing.

    • @joyfulyes
      @joyfulyes Před 2 lety

      Yes, he does seem to have leveled up.

  • @robm.4512
    @robm.4512 Před rokem +37

    Wow! I’m floored by this guy’s unbelievable vocal range, it’s insane.

  • @nitukka2b
    @nitukka2b Před 3 měsíci +11

    THIS is what I call "real" singing"!

    • @jansteini9612
      @jansteini9612 Před měsícem

      I am Fat, i can go lots deeper 😎😎

  • @ana900127
    @ana900127 Před 2 lety +23

    It is amazing how you just have to grin when Geoff sings. His lows, his highs, his super lows his looks... I mean... Thank you, Geoff 🥰

  • @maeco7
    @maeco7 Před 2 lety +64

    Geoff, you are an incredible storyteller. I wasn't over the moon about the original, but you've taken a song I was lukewarm on and made it a real joy to listen to. You've combined two of my favourite things (your narrations and your music) to share this somewhat dark tale in a fascinating way. Well done, sir!

  • @christinenewell2679
    @christinenewell2679 Před 6 měsíci +7

    I’m just a cuddly wee granny living in Belfast NI, and I had this record in my teens…… my grandchildren are going to be amazed , when I play this back to them asap…….. I know ALL THE WORDS. My singing is definitely‘questionable as I had a stroke 4 yrs ago and my speech is still ‘dodgy’ at best….. but I’ll give it a go. Loved this rendition of , Big Bad John. Thanks for the memories of my happy teen days with my lovely Dansette record player.

  • @Mei391
    @Mei391 Před rokem +9

    The G1 after the narration is one of the best G1s I've ever heard🤯

  • @Ken19700
    @Ken19700 Před 2 lety +28

    Everyone thought they had breathed their last, except John. Turns out that everyone was wrong, including John.

  • @alejandrofuentes1360
    @alejandrofuentes1360 Před 2 lety +164

    Lyrics:
    ...
    Every mornin' at the mine you could see him arrive
    He stood six-foot-six weighed two-forty-five
    Kinda broad at the shoulder and narrow at the hip
    And everybody knew ya didn't give no lip to big John
    (Big John, big John)
    Big bad John (big John)
    Well nobody seemed to know where John called home
    He just drifted into the town and stayed all alone
    He didn't say much, kinda quiet and shy
    And if you spoke at all, you just said hi to Big John
    Somebody said he came from New Orleans
    Where he got in a fight over a Cajun Queen
    And a crashin' blow from a huge right hand
    Sent a Louisiana fellow to the promised land, big John, c'mon
    (Big John, big John)
    Big bad John (big John)
    Well, then came the day at the bottom of the mine
    When a timber cracked and men started cryin'
    Miners were prayin' and hearts beat fast
    And everybody thought that they'd breathed their last, 'cept John
    (Big John) Big John yeah (big, big John)
    Big bad John (big John)
    Through the dust and the smoke of this man-made hell
    Walked a giant of a man that the miners knew well
    Grabbed a saggin' timber, gave out with a groan
    And like a giant oak tree he just stood there alone, big John
    (Big John, big John)
    Big bad John
    And with all of his strength he gave a mighty shove
    Then a miner yelled out "there's a light up above!"
    And as twenty men scrambled from a would-be grave
    There was only one left down there to save
    (Big John) (big John) (big John) Big John (big John) big John
    With jacks and timbers they started back down
    Then came that rumble way down in the ground
    And then smoke and gas belched out of that mine
    Everybody knew it was the end of the line, for John
    ...
    Now, they never reopened that worthless pit...
    They just placed a marble slab in front of it...
    And these few words, are written on that stand
    At the bottom of this mine lies a big, big, man
    (Big John, big John)
    Big bad John (big bad) (big John)
    Big John yeah (big John)
    Big bad John
    Big John (big John)
    (Big John)
    Big bad John (John).

    • @steveeldridge7184
      @steveeldridge7184 Před 2 lety +8

      Thank you for posting the lyrics.

    • @esmeraldagreen1992
      @esmeraldagreen1992 Před 2 lety +7

      This song reminds me of the Sicilian legend of Colapesce (Nick the fish) that my grandmother used to tell me. Nicola , Cola for short, lived in Sicily at the time of Charlemagne. He lived by the beach and loved swimming and diving so much that his friends started telling him that he was half fish and gave him the nickname of Colapesce. Nick could dive and stay under water so long that he became famous in all the island. When Charlemagne who was visiting Sicily heard of this young man, he went to the harbor to meet him. Nick was thrilled to meet the emperor who asked him to dive and to tell him about the underwater wonders, Nick did so and came back with coral and pearl for the emperor. Charlemagne asked Nick the fish to dive again and to tell him what was keeping Sicily from sinking in the sea, Nick dove once again and came back telling Charlemagne that Sicily was sitting on top of 3 giant columns and that one looked like it was in bad shape. The emperor asked Colapesce to dive once more to confirm the status of the column, but this time he did not come back, because he is holding the cracked column together and preventing Sicily from sinking into the sea.

    • @Fenthule
      @Fenthule Před 2 lety

      Thanks for posting this, but I must admit this is one of those circumstances where a word gets reused over and over and eventually it looks wierd. By the time I'd sang John 50 times the spelling looked wrong for some reason lmao

    • @alejandrofuentes1360
      @alejandrofuentes1360 Před 2 lety +1

      @@Fenthule Probably, i listened to it like 20 times in a row to correct mistakes and by the end the words made almost no sense lmao

  • @jeremygwjsysdhw798
    @jeremygwjsysdhw798 Před 9 měsíci +12

    I love this song me and my grandfather would sing this in my car before he passed away and I'm in New Orleans rn for the first time and this is on my Playlist on repeat while I'm here❤

  • @thesilversurfer7136
    @thesilversurfer7136 Před rokem +11

    I love the way he retreads these great old songs that only take a voice like his to keep the atmosphere intact with those folktale songs.

  • @firnenfan
    @firnenfan Před 2 lety +43

    What a rendition! And no, I'm not crying. That's just some raindrops that spontaneously appeared on my cheeks.

  • @spencerwray3006
    @spencerwray3006 Před 2 lety +115

    I know you will most likely not see this. But I’m a huge fan. I’m in 9th grade and joined choir because of your voice. I’ve worked so hard to try and make my voice go as low as you. I’m in 9th grade and so far have hit every note you’ve sung for bass. It’s very impressive what you do. So keep on inspiring and singing that very clean low note.

    • @satirical140
      @satirical140 Před rokem +11

      aye keep on workig at it bud, it's worth the sweat and tears for the voice

    • @kit_kat5999
      @kit_kat5999 Před rokem +13

      You hit those notes at 14???! 😱😱😱 Your voice might get even deeper as you get older too!

    • @andreatheriot8940
      @andreatheriot8940 Před rokem +9

      Never quit, no matter what. Even if you take long breaks, always go back to music. It may save your life one day. It did mine.

    • @MiljaHahto
      @MiljaHahto Před rokem +3

      Whether it becomes your profession or not (and getting so low so young it migh indeed!), keep singing. Even if there are times when you only sing alone in your car...

    • @supermajesticman3898
      @supermajesticman3898 Před rokem +1

      @@kit_kat5999 Lots of guys can hit those notes, hitting them and sounding good is another story.

  • @HouseholdDog
    @HouseholdDog Před 11 měsíci +9

    We always hear tenors all the time. A real deep bass voice really is very warming and calming.

  • @dudeitsstephanie
    @dudeitsstephanie Před rokem +15

    When I clicked on the song, I wasn't expecting the story to be so sad. Geoff's voice just multiplied the effects of the story tenfold. There's something about voices like his, that just takes every emotion that a song brings up, and magnifies it. It's amazing, but also now my heart hurts. So thank you 😅
    Great job, as always.

  • @lindanorris2455
    @lindanorris2455 Před 2 lety +46

    I HEARD THIS SONG ALL THROUGH MY CHILDHOOD. NO ONE SINGS THIS ANYMORE. WONDERFUL!

    • @sabrina-ss6bu
      @sabrina-ss6bu Před 2 lety +1

      I have never heard this before.. but now after listening to this version, I don't think I want to know any other.

    • @LordSenile
      @LordSenile Před rokem +1

      @@sabrina-ss6bu You really should check out the original by Jimmy Dean. While this cover is good, the original is much much better!

  • @valdemarsgirl
    @valdemarsgirl Před 2 lety +51

    Decades back, in what was almost another life, my band used this song as a crowd calmer (played in a lot of rough joints). You've transfigured it. I cried when I heard it, missing my old friends - and so glad to have found your wonderful voice and recordings. Thank you.

  • @mr.garfieldman9797
    @mr.garfieldman9797 Před rokem +35

    Geoff's voice goes so deep and rich. When he hits that lowest note. My ears can feel his voice from my earbuds I am wearing in my ears. And they vibration is very strong from him hitting that lowest note he does. And wow I love it.

    • @marypownell-styer2309
      @marypownell-styer2309 Před rokem +1

      When he hits those low notes I get goosebumps and my spine straightens. It’s like it brings something to life inside me.

  • @alchemist3661
    @alchemist3661 Před rokem +20

    I feel like Big Bad John would give the greatest hugs

  • @rtsbass7829
    @rtsbass7829 Před 2 lety +102

    This song is defenition of BASS so here are the best low's from Geoff!
    0:22 - G1 Spoken
    0:27 - C2
    0:30 - *G1*
    0:45 - G1 Spoken
    1:00 - G1 Spoken
    1:08 - D2
    1:33 - *G1*
    1:45 - G1 Spoken
    2:19 - A1 Brief
    2:25 - A1 Brief
    2:42 - G1 Spoken
    3:14 - G1 Spoken
    3:24 - *G1*
    3:31 - A1 Brief
    3:48 - *G1*

  • @richardjones568
    @richardjones568 Před 2 lety +6

    65 years old, and heard the original and always smiled, but like a fine wine this is even better

  • @TinaRN
    @TinaRN Před rokem +54

    This song always made me cry. This is the first time it’s ever been performed so visceral and so real! No way to describe how I’m feeling.

    • @Andrew-io3mv
      @Andrew-io3mv Před rokem +1

      Have you heard the second song about big John being brought back to life? It makes the first one not so sad. Lol

  • @davidthegoliath2599
    @davidthegoliath2599 Před rokem +13

    Moment of silence for Big John 😔

  • @janetq30
    @janetq30 Před 2 lety +45

    I can't tell if it's just that it's cold outside or if his voice just penetrated my soul and gave me goosebumps 😳

  • @jeffreyharville1918
    @jeffreyharville1918 Před 2 lety +40

    WOW JUST WOW!!!!! The original was a very powerful song, that and thought provoking too. BUT, This version brings it all back PLUS way more!! WELL DONE Geoff!!

  • @user-ke3yz6yu3p
    @user-ke3yz6yu3p Před 4 měsíci +15

    В этом видео прекрасно всё: текст, картинка и, конечно, голос. Браво, Джефф🎉👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 ты - лучший!

  • @user-hs8cv2op2u
    @user-hs8cv2op2u Před 7 měsíci +8

    I apologize for the translation from Google, but I think that this is the best male voice of our time, please continue to delight us with your incredibly beautiful voice

  • @hopehewitt2555
    @hopehewitt2555 Před 2 lety +40

    Very reminiscent of his cover of "Sixteen Tons," but with a speaking/ monologue role like in "Headless Horseman." Love both of those covers and this one as well. Can't wait to see what he comes up with next, either solo or with VoicePlay. Both, I'm sure will not fail to impress. You have tremendous God-given and hard-earned talent Geoff...keep it up! 👍 Shout out to your lovely and much talented wife Kathy as well. Quite the power couple. Much love and admiration to you both 💕

  • @paperzing5533
    @paperzing5533 Před 2 lety +12

    Made me cry. The story, Geoff's soothing voice... Very moving.

  • @courtneybermack
    @courtneybermack Před rokem +16

    Oh wow. I just found this channel and I have never cranked the bass on my speakers for a human before.

    • @CJ_536
      @CJ_536 Před rokem +1

      You should check out Voiceplay's channel, too. He's the bass for them. Their newest cover has some seriously low notes!

  • @Caladis
    @Caladis Před rokem +33

    My dad loved this song. I'm so happy to find such a beautiful remake of it. It brings back many fond memories spent with my dad.

  • @ryimscaith1593
    @ryimscaith1593 Před 2 lety +8

    A fitting tribute to Jimmy Dean. Love your personal touch on it, Geoff. Not only your low notes (which are still freakin' awesome), but to the emotion you pull on it. The original always made me tear up, due to my family being miners during the 50's-70's. This didn't bring tears, but made me feel proud of that family history. I can't explain "why" in words, only that it's the emotion your song pulled.
    So please let me say a heart-felt Thank You.

  • @LoriannSmithsanpell
    @LoriannSmithsanpell Před 2 lety +32

    This is first time hearing his voice. When he hit those low notes, singing "Jooohn", I shouted, "OH DAMN!!" I love his voice! This man can sing!

  • @michaeld5268
    @michaeld5268 Před měsícem +2

    This voice will shiver your timbers.

  • @annebartells777
    @annebartells777 Před rokem +10

    I haven't heard this song in over fifty years. I made up for list time and listened to this so many times. What a talent!!!!!!!!

  • @JaredHalleyMusic
    @JaredHalleyMusic Před 2 lety +719

    Love this man! :) We need to collab soon!

    • @wwsciffsww3748
      @wwsciffsww3748 Před 2 lety +8

      Please do!

    • @heathervona7883
      @heathervona7883 Před 2 lety +4

      Totally agree...

    • @afreyno1
      @afreyno1 Před 2 lety +7

      Oh my god yes

    • @kevinwells4986
      @kevinwells4986 Před 2 lety +4

      I just watched some of your videos... and OMG as they say - you are right! Good luck to you also Jared. Though neither of you guys need luck so much, you carry it in your voices.

    • @Amcsae
      @Amcsae Před 2 lety +3

      That would be amazing!!!

  • @DixieRose01
    @DixieRose01 Před 2 lety +5

    My grandfather was a coal miner, so I grew up listening to Big Bad John and Sixteen Tons. Geoff does such a wonderful job re-imagining them.

  • @crazykids2004
    @crazykids2004 Před 4 měsíci +3

    This man's voice is incredible every time I hear it

  • @booksmakeeverythingbetter7526

    I've literally never heard this before but I've been binging your content and I don't know why it's this mad me cry SO HARD.

  • @martiejk169
    @martiejk169 Před 2 lety +5

    THANK YOU, darlin'!!!
    I remember hearing this song on the radio when it first came out in 1962. I was 9 years old. It was special in our home in Georgia, not only because we were Jimmy Dean fans, but also because my father was already known as "Big John". He wasn't quite as big, but he was 6'3" and 225# of muscle. Soon after it came out, my brother came home with the 45rpm vinyl that we played over and over. Daddy would have loved this! He watched Lawrence Welk every Saturday night just to hear Larry Hooper sing. Harold Reid was another of his favorites. I lost him to a heart attack in 1987, the most devastating day of my life. I can't tell you how much I appreciate having these most precious memories brought out for some air when our world is in such a dark place. Bless your heart. 💗

  • @daviddurbin4903
    @daviddurbin4903 Před 2 lety +6

    Geoff……you have absolutely no idea how long I’ve been waiting for you to do “Big Bad John”, I love this, it is amazing

  • @danieldipietro2529
    @danieldipietro2529 Před 3 měsíci +2

    his bass notes hit the earth's core, that deep

  • @ashleessingingsensations7294

    His low notes make my jaw drop! Like, how!? I love your voice, Geoff! It's very amazing!

  • @Gnarley69
    @Gnarley69 Před 2 lety +44

    16 Tons is among the greatest re-imaginings I've ever heard, (up there with the likes of Disturbed's Sound of Silence), so I anticipate more of the same. Gonna make work in the morning much more enjoyable. Cheers.

    • @GeoffCastellucci
      @GeoffCastellucci  Před 2 lety +12

      That's high praise, Thank you!

    • @EarlJohn61
      @EarlJohn61 Před 2 lety

      I prefer Marcel Marceau's cover if Sounds of Silence... It's got a very classical feel to it, I'd go as far as to say Visigothic!

    • @deanmarion5477
      @deanmarion5477 Před rokem

      @@EarlJohn61 : definitely Disturbed version

  • @sephiesinging7734
    @sephiesinging7734 Před 2 lety +11

    I grew up with this song so there arent any words to express how happy this made me

  • @davidburns3480
    @davidburns3480 Před rokem +37

    how lucky he is to have 3 brothers that can sing?

    • @DTA-Music
      @DTA-Music Před rokem +9

      Four! Daryl must've been busy the day this was shot. But Goff, Jeoph and Jeff did a fine job.

  • @MysticWanderer
    @MysticWanderer Před rokem +17

    Now that’s an example of the best reason to do a cover. Something excellent to add to the landscape. Will never replace the original and no need since this one stands on its own merits as an excellent interpretation of a classic.

  • @asemlagnestal282
    @asemlagnestal282 Před 2 lety +13

    This is THE BEST version of this song. I just wish my dad and my father in law had had the opportunity to listen to Geoff’s smooth, deep voice in his rendition of this song. It’s so soothing. 🥰❤️🎶

    • @asemlagnestal282
      @asemlagnestal282 Před 2 lety +3

      The original version of this song is just as old as I am. It was released in September 1961 and I was born in October 1961. It’s a very old song… 🎶❤️

    • @melodyfedoris2308
      @melodyfedoris2308 Před 2 lety +3

      My father just passed and this was one of his favorite songs I'm sure he would have loved this 💗

    • @davidlevins7646
      @davidlevins7646 Před 2 lety

      It sounds better but i feel that it lacks the conviction and power that the original did.

  • @TheBoringBelgian
    @TheBoringBelgian Před 2 lety +71

    I love being a patron of yours, you leave me in awe of the creativity that you possess and I love being able to contribute a small portion of it. Geoff, this one is so fascinating. The original song does not do anything for me, so I was curious how you'd approach this song.
    The moment I hit play, I kept replaying it. There's so much to listen for, you've made this version have a certain drive and musicality which I so appreciate about your music. You build it up so nicely towards the end, and it stays so interesting to listen to, with each replay.
    Though the backlighting on narrator Geoff might be a bit strong for me at times, it completely builds the right atmosphere for this theme and setting. How fun it must be to sing songs about mining AND get to do an obscure lighting of your scene. You can go a long way with a low amount of props and set pieces and you prove that with this one as well.
    I like the lines in the shot you've created for this one, the different singers at different heights, playing around with different angles, and proximity in shots offers a nice variety, gives us something new to look at with each cut. Those edits at the end were so good too, I really liked that little addition.
    Seeing sheet music for this one would be SO interesting, just putting that out there :)
    With each new visit to the mines, you come back and have dig up new gold, and I am just overjoyed you are willing to share with us.
    Thank you for creating music I would otherwise not necessarily seek out myself.

  • @jarrodisringhausen4518
    @jarrodisringhausen4518 Před rokem +15

    this man is one of the most gifted singers......in my book ever!!!!

  • @millenniumbush
    @millenniumbush Před 10 měsíci +2

    At the beginning of my my 7th year of school, as a freshman at Stephen M. White junior high school, I walked in to school ,for my classes, and and for lunch break, wearing a windbreaker. I had scribbled on the back with a black shoe polish applicaitor the words 'Big Bad John' of the back That song had been popular for about 1 1/2 2 yrs prior to that. I then suffered two broken bones in my right forearm because I had an interest and a bond with Pat Scott who was very popular with the young jocks there.
    You do an amazing job on this song. Thank you.!

  • @viking22
    @viking22 Před 2 lety +24

    This guy is UNBELIEVABLE! Get goosebumps every time he does a song. As many before me, I have to pick up my jaw off the floor. Unreal and a pleasure to listen to. Geoff, you just keep on surprising us.

  • @rd6673
    @rd6673 Před 2 lety +7

    My Dad introduced me to this ballad and many others from "his day" when I was a kid. Your rendition really captures the heart and soul of it so well. *Chef's kiss*

  • @ChaosCodex199
    @ChaosCodex199 Před 6 měsíci +8

    HOW DOES HE DO THIS!! HOW DOES HE DROP FROM HIGH TO THAT LOW?!
    edit: This man's voice just cured my headache with that final drop. I can THINK again.

  • @jamesdoanecompositions
    @jamesdoanecompositions Před 3 měsíci +4

    Absolutely amazing!! I am a composer, and I was working on an A Capella intro to a piece and did some searching for ideas. That is how I discovered your amazing talent. Your range is amazing! I look forward to hearing more!

  • @user-ew9sq5iw5w
    @user-ew9sq5iw5w Před 2 lety +4

    Love how genuinely heroic it got when Big Bad John did his thing.

  • @wonderwend1
    @wonderwend1 Před 2 lety +11

    This is a song I thought I knew very well but it turns out I hadn't actually heard the words very well at all. This made the whole thing new to me and it's amazing

  • @nickfree46
    @nickfree46 Před rokem +6

    Forget todays modern music , this man brings out the best of the coolest oldies , what a voice

  • @v1rotait23
    @v1rotait23 Před 21 dnem +2

    Fabulous chords and vocal chords. Those harmonies, syncopation... A superb arrangement!