Gil Scott Heron "Winter In America" (1974) HIGH QUALITY

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  • čas přidán 30. 05. 2011
  • Gil Scott-Heron (born April 1, 1949 -- May 27, 2011) was an American poet, musician, and author known primarily for his late 1960s and early 1970s work as a spoken word soul performer and his collaborative work with musician Brian Jackson. His collaborative efforts with Jackson featured a musical fusion of jazz, blues and soul music, as well as lyrical content concerning social and political issues of the time, delivered in both rapping and melismatic vocal styles by Scott-Heron. The music of these albums, most notably Pieces of a Man and Winter in America in the early 1970s, influenced and helped engender later African-American music genres such as hip hop and neo soul. Scott-Heron's recording work is often associated with black militant activism and has received much critical acclaim for one of his most well-known compositions "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised". On his influence, a music writer later noted that "Scott-Heron's unique proto-rap style influenced a generation of hip-hop artists".
    Winter in America is a studio album by American soul musician and poet Gil Scott-Heron and musician Brian Jackson, released in May 1974 on Strata-East Records. Recording sessions for the album took place on three recording dates in September and October of 1973 at D&B Sound Studio in Silver Springs, Maryland. The album served as the third collaboration effort by Scott-Heron and Jackson following the latter's contributions on Pieces of a Man and Free Will. As the first record produced by the two musicians, it was also the first of their work together to have Jackson receive co-billing for a release. The album features introspective and socially-conscious lyrical content by Scott-Heron and mellow instrumentation and soundscape stylistically rooted in jazz and the blues, which produced a fusion of bluesy jazz-based vocals and Jackson's free jazz arrangements. The album is also one of the earliest known studio releases to contain proto-rap elements such as a stripped-down production style and spoken word-vocalization.
    Heron's father Gil Heron (1922 - 27 November, 2008) was a Jamaican footballer/soccer player. He was the first black player to play for Scottish club Celtic FC after being invited on a trial in 1951. Heron went on to score on his debut, on August 18, 1951 in a League Cup tie against Morton that Celtic won 2-0.
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Komentáře • 2K

  • @macsenstockton5781
    @macsenstockton5781 Před 3 lety +454

    I’m a 16 year old boy who listens heavily to rap but my dad showed me Gil and I’ve been listening ever since. One of the greatest.

  • @southerncross3638
    @southerncross3638 Před 10 měsíci +200

    I identified with this song as an 18 yr old in 74, and now as a 67 yr old, this song fits even better in 2023.

    • @user-qh8ik9sr9z
      @user-qh8ik9sr9z Před 8 měsíci +5

      I'm 25 and this song has me in tears. Hoping I survive the night to make it through to another day. Have the slave hounds on my trail. "Human trafficking" is just a watered down way of saying slavery.

    • @judygedmistergaines7578
      @judygedmistergaines7578 Před 8 měsíci +4

      @southerncross3638 💙💙💙👍🏼

    • @judygedmistergaines7578
      @judygedmistergaines7578 Před 8 měsíci

      @@user-qh8ik9sr9zstay strong baby I'm so serious !!! 🙏🏼🫵🏼💪🏼

    • @stuartmannefeld783
      @stuartmannefeld783 Před 8 měsíci +5

      Might have been his best song

    • @symptomoftheuniverse4149
      @symptomoftheuniverse4149 Před 7 měsíci +6

      That is because history will continue to repeat, until we all wake up!

  • @illtakethebox
    @illtakethebox Před rokem +108

    this song is almost 50 years old.. and it's still winter in america

  • @patrickc2411
    @patrickc2411 Před 10 měsíci +107

    I’m a 65 year-old white, Irish guy, grew up in Birmingham,England and I’ve lived in northern Spain for the last 30 years. I only mention this to highlight the reach that Gil has. I’ve been listening to this man for 50 years and his intelligence,poetry,melody,politics have had an immense impact on my life. Thank you Gil, thank you Brian

    • @barryholt488
      @barryholt488 Před 9 měsíci +7

      Thank you ❤️

    • @tombsower6926
      @tombsower6926 Před 7 měsíci

      Many of thèse black activists held quite radical views on anything white. Those who didn't were betrayed and brutally murdered

    • @mrsplanetmaster9
      @mrsplanetmaster9 Před 6 měsíci +4

      and Thank U again🌹🌞💚

    • @Uncle_Neil
      @Uncle_Neil Před 6 měsíci +8

      65 yr old here in Missouri, had this on 8-track, wore it out. Such great times.

    • @johndconqueror555
      @johndconqueror555 Před 4 měsíci +2

      G.O.A.T

  • @jyotirvakyananda
    @jyotirvakyananda Před 7 měsíci +17

    Who is here at the dawning of 2024 because it really is Winter in America, AGAIN, amazed that people ARE fighting, people do know what to say…and it may not make a difference?

    • @rtoriq
      @rtoriq Před 4 měsíci +2

      I always thought he said “don’t know what to say”, but it’s actually “don’t know what to save” (nobody’s fighting, bc nobody knows what to save…to which he later says “save your souls”)

    • @jyotirvakyananda
      @jyotirvakyananda Před 4 měsíci

      @@rtoriq Thank you for that correction. It doesn’t change my observation; but, it does deepen my understanding of the song. A definition of a poet is: a person who can dive into the Neptunian depths of his or her soul using themselves as bait; and draw The Leviathan of Art to the surface of their minds where it can - perhaps - be captured. The trick is to do this without being eaten by The Leviathan. R.I.P. Gil - often you drew The Leviathan; and sometimes The Leviathan ate you. And I don’t know what to say; but, I don’t know what I want to save.

  • @Anglagard1
    @Anglagard1 Před 8 lety +1745

    There are two problems with growing old: the first is all the things you have loved and thought would be around forever changing, the other is all the things you hated and couldn’t wait to see pass stick around. It's so sad to see Gil leave us and the issues he sang about still here.

    • @christopherhill1652
      @christopherhill1652 Před 8 lety +21

      +James Rozoff so true.

    • @simoneblackwell9491
      @simoneblackwell9491 Před 8 lety +20

      +James Rozoff Well said James Rozoff. Exactly my brother.

    • @starrysky2942
      @starrysky2942 Před 8 lety +13

      +James Rozoff Amen

    • @cdjblue52
      @cdjblue52 Před 8 lety +38

      You said in 3 short sentences what has been churning in my gut for the last few years.

    • @AriaElan
      @AriaElan Před 8 lety +33

      Dear brother James, you are indeed a poet. I love the way you express what so many of us are thinking about. The level of bitter hatred and fear amongst tribes in America is overwhelmingly sad. Peace and One Love...

  • @anthonypappas3877
    @anthonypappas3877 Před 5 lety +742

    And let's not overlook Brian 'Stick' Jackson...flute work is superb.

    • @roscoeward6761
      @roscoeward6761 Před 4 lety +16

      Also Kim Jordan on keys

    • @kingcake54
      @kingcake54 Před 4 lety +10

      @@roscoeward6761 hunh? The keys are played by both Gil and Jackson - Kim Jordan is not in the credits - I saw this band multiple times and most of the time both Gil and Brian were playing keys - a third keyboard player would have been ridiculous

    • @kingcake54
      @kingcake54 Před 4 lety +16

      @@roscoeward6761 Musicians
      Gil Scott-Heron - vocals, electric piano
      Brian Jackson - electric piano, acoustic piano, flute, vocals
      Danny Bowens - fender bass
      Bob Adams - drums (traps)

    • @gusgarcia4461
      @gusgarcia4461 Před 4 lety +9

      Saw Gil Scott and the Band perform this song here in London at the Commonwealth Institute.
      So glad I got to see the great man and his band.
      Gil that Winter has come to America and soon it will be the American Spring.
      I

    • @lydiaboyd7629
      @lydiaboyd7629 Před 4 lety +1

      Does anyone know where Brian Jackson was or was doing during the time of Gil Scott-Heron’s health challenges?

  • @35boxes
    @35boxes Před 5 měsíci +35

    1974-2024 and this song still holds up today

  • @peterhudgens8817
    @peterhudgens8817 Před 4 lety +453

    Gil Scott Heron was a pure genius.

  • @sayaq
    @sayaq Před 4 lety +392

    Anyone else here listening August 2020?

    • @loremalone9643
      @loremalone9643 Před 4 lety +6

      yes, I am , so real

    • @neenanoir1983
      @neenanoir1983 Před 4 lety +9

      Yup, thanks F is for family

    • @TheCosmaddict
      @TheCosmaddict Před 4 lety +6

      I’m here...learning...that not much has changed.

    • @hueybrown3238
      @hueybrown3238 Před 4 lety +5

      Long hot Winter

    • @dizzyd243
      @dizzyd243 Před 4 lety +6

      Yes -- trying to listen, really listen. After all that's happened, it's Winter in my heart. Now it's up to us to be the healers again.

  • @tlanerobinson5246
    @tlanerobinson5246 Před 3 lety +270

    Written almost 50 years ago. Ain’t nothing really changed.

  • @glenninskeep7523
    @glenninskeep7523 Před 6 lety +29

    I just realized something that hurts. This song was first done in 1974 and the lyrics ring loud and clear today.

    • @Lyndanet
      @Lyndanet Před 7 měsíci

      America is forever changing . Best we can do is vote or even peacefully protest It’s a young country with various concepts of freedom and democracy and because of those ideals we are able to hear a song like this today. I appreciate that.

    • @ramonrios3811
      @ramonrios3811 Před 2 měsíci

      Indubitably!

  • @turdferguson8704
    @turdferguson8704 Před 3 lety +51

    To me this is Gil and Brian’s crowning achievement. Absolute masterpiece that will stand the test if time. RIP Gil Scott Heron you are dearly missed.

  • @edwardglass5358
    @edwardglass5358 Před 3 lety +49

    The winter never leaves America. Genius of the poet laureate 😎

    • @Burt472
      @Burt472 Před rokem +1

      Sad ain't it....America and the so called most developed countries.....Hmmmmm

  • @amd77j
    @amd77j Před 4 lety +80

    It's "Winter in America" here in July 2020. For real......

    • @GS-kj6ur
      @GS-kj6ur Před 4 lety +7

      It's only getting worse my friend

    • @amd77j
      @amd77j Před 2 lety

      @@GS-kj6ur Here we are a year later and it's still "Winter in America". And Gil, the Griot, is still telling Da' TRUTH......

  • @dopeymark
    @dopeymark Před 8 lety +298

    I am just glad someone still listens....

    • @johnarena9339
      @johnarena9339 Před 8 lety +8

      +dopeymark thows of us that can truly see still love this guy and others that opened our minds &hearts and still give us the power to fight the monster

    • @luvs2cover
      @luvs2cover Před 8 lety +5

      Always cuz👍

    • @elaynesikelianos2878
      @elaynesikelianos2878 Před 8 lety +3

      +dopeymark ~~ Each One, Teach One!

    • @christopherhill1652
      @christopherhill1652 Před 8 lety +7

      +dopeymark I have been listening to him for over forty years. His message is as pertinent today as it was then.

    • @johnarena9339
      @johnarena9339 Před 8 lety +3

      same here funny how history repeats it self

  • @AFaceintheCrowd01
    @AFaceintheCrowd01 Před 2 lety +5

    When Denver’s all-night jazz DJ played this track in 1974 I bought it the next day.

  • @oldgeezer5861
    @oldgeezer5861 Před 7 lety +85

    I'm a 55 year old English white boy and absolutely love Gil along with Curtis.

    • @jazzbirdbecky
      @jazzbirdbecky Před 5 lety +1

      Old Geezer Curtis?

    • @Richard_Jones
      @Richard_Jones Před 5 lety +6

      @@jazzbirdbecky Hey becky, as an equally old English white boy I'm guessing he meant Curtis Mayfield, both those guys knew what was going on.

    • @AmadeoZeller
      @AmadeoZeller Před 4 lety +7

      @@Richard_Jones
      Yeah, and if they were both here today, Richard, think of all the canon fodder this current Trump's Administration would feed Gil's and Curtis's creative ire?

    • @geegod9122
      @geegod9122 Před 3 lety

      Dnt u mean Brian jackson

    • @ronjackson9895
      @ronjackson9895 Před 2 dny

      Don't forget Terry C​@@Richard_Jones

  • @raylarkin5004
    @raylarkin5004 Před 2 lety +88

    The greatest piece of inspirational artistry of 1974. And to this day, i am still moved by its calm yet stirring power. Gil Scott Heron, I thank you ❤

    • @viccarter2149
      @viccarter2149 Před 2 lety +6

      His music is true and calming. I love this singer.

    • @dineeshakidd7357
      @dineeshakidd7357 Před 7 měsíci +2

      He hit so different with this. I’m 41 and this has been played all day since i came up on it yesterday. Reminds me of my mom. She been gone 2 years. She was 14 when this came out

    • @mrsplanetmaster9
      @mrsplanetmaster9 Před 6 měsíci +1

      @@dineeshakidd7357 And I was 20 yrs young , and now it's been "Winter in America" forever...and now it's freezing ❤💛🌿

  • @AriaElan
    @AriaElan Před 8 lety +529

    Ancestor Gil was one of the most sensitive, gifted poets/artists that Mama Earth ever birthed. I sang "Winter in America" for my term project in a constitutional law class. My professor used to be a DA. He gave me an A for performance and D for content and rounded it off to a B. :-) Peace and One Love...

    • @shawnarainer6849
      @shawnarainer6849 Před 8 lety +14

      that's amazing congrats

    • @AriaElan
      @AriaElan Před 8 lety +6

      Thank you Shawna. :-)

    • @shawnarainer6849
      @shawnarainer6849 Před 8 lety +3

      +Aria Elan welcs and lucks to you hope u succeed make ya parents around

    • @joannedevine14
      @joannedevine14 Před 7 lety +4

      Brilliant!

    • @AriaElan
      @AriaElan Před 7 lety +4

      Hello Joanne, I just uploaded my new social justice song "Hotter." When you get a chance, please check it out on my channel Aria Elan
      Thanks!

  • @philipvernot5619
    @philipvernot5619 Před 10 lety +189

    Frightening and depressing that this song is so god dammed relevant today.

    • @hueybrown3238
      @hueybrown3238 Před 4 lety +9

      How about now?

    • @RaptorJesus81
      @RaptorJesus81 Před 4 lety +2

      Fuck off

    • @hueybrown3238
      @hueybrown3238 Před 3 lety +8

      @@RaptorJesus81 damn, your persuasion is pretty obvious. How you like shit now MAGAT?

    • @imshaunnurse
      @imshaunnurse Před 3 lety +1

      @UCTob3ydRC_QJynJWzq-bKLg you sound stupid. The winter is all white people invading America not just Trump so stop before you make yourself look stupid as fuck

    • @Rey-Nolds
      @Rey-Nolds Před 2 lety

      AND MORE SO NOW...

  • @brenekildare
    @brenekildare Před 10 lety +57

    I can't believe how relevant to todays issues this 40 year old song is! Thank Gil.

  • @jagirinawa61
    @jagirinawa61 Před 6 lety +298

    From the Indians who welcomed the pilgrims
    And to the buffalo who once ruled the plains
    Like the vultures circling beneath the dark clouds
    Looking for the rain
    Looking for the rain
    Just like the cities staggered on the coastline
    Living in a nation that just can't stand much more
    Like the forest buried beneath the highway
    Never had a chance to grow
    Never had a chance to grow
    And now it's winter
    Winter in America
    Yes and all of the healers have been killed
    Or sent away, yeah
    But the people know, the people know
    It's winter
    Winter in America
    And ain't nobody fighting
    Cause nobody knows what to say
    Save your soul, Lord knows
    From Winter in America
    The Constitution
    A noble piece of paper
    With free society
    Struggled but it died in vain
    And now Democracy is ragtime on the corner
    Hoping for some rain
    Looks like it's hoping
    Hoping for some rain
    And I see the robins
    Perched in barren treetops
    Watching last-ditch racists marching across the floor
    But just like the peace sign that vanished in our dreams
    Never had a chance to grow
    Never had a chance to grow
    And now it's winter
    It's winter in America
    And all of the healers have been killed
    Or been betrayed
    Yeah, but the people know, people know
    It's winter, Lord knows
    It's winter in America
    And ain't nobody fighting
    Cause nobody knows what to save
    Save your souls
    From Winter in America
    And now it's winter
    Winter in America
    And all of the healers done been killed or sent away
    Yeah, and the people know, people know
    It's winter
    Winter in America
    And ain't nobody fighting
    Cause nobody knows what to save
    And ain't nobody fighting
    Cause nobody knows, nobody knows
    And ain't nobody fighting
    Cause nobody knows what to save

    • @Burt472
      @Burt472 Před 5 lety +4

      Thank you from Italy....Best

    • @josenieto2832
      @josenieto2832 Před 5 lety +4

      Wow! , Muchísimas
      Gracias!!! 👍🍀🍀🍀

    • @bamadla
      @bamadla Před 5 lety +3

      Thank you for posting 👌🏾👌🏾🤚🏾🤚🏾🤚🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

    • @timmccarthy3034
      @timmccarthy3034 Před 4 lety +2

      thanks ...GREAT SONG....

    • @evetunsil9273
      @evetunsil9273 Před 4 lety +2

      Great Music

  • @ramondobrown1162
    @ramondobrown1162 Před 3 lety +124

    Listening in 2021.......as Winter in America is still relevant!

    • @DrDebTheHow2LoveMaster
      @DrDebTheHow2LoveMaster Před 2 lety +5

      Certain truths will always be relevant.

    • @Savantskd
      @Savantskd Před 2 lety +2

      For me “Winter In America Is More Relevant because I am 70 years old and I’ve lived too many winters in this America. Missing the 70’s and 80’s and wanting my granddaughter to live in those years.

    • @MidnightSwinger
      @MidnightSwinger Před 2 lety +3

      God, the amount of wear I put on this track in the days after January 6. Oh God…

    • @MidnightSwinger
      @MidnightSwinger Před 2 lety +1

      @@DrDebTheHow2LoveMaster we hold these, in particular, to be self-evident…

    • @erico888
      @erico888 Před 2 lety +3

      and on July 1, 2022, even more so with this supreme court.

  • @deaconpeters2994
    @deaconpeters2994 Před 6 lety +71

    Gil Scott Heron was a man wise years and years before his time. R.I.P.

  • @MrDallman
    @MrDallman Před 4 lety +146

    Sitting here listening ,with tear filled eyes, to this masterpiece and I am thinking ...can music get any better than this ?
    IMHO I really do not think it can.
    As a 60 year old guy I have been a fan of this wonderful man for 40 years ...the poetry and lyrics , the music, the ambiance and soul.
    May God bless you and keep you GIL ....my love to you always. Sleep well my brother.

    • @jondcarson52
      @jondcarson52 Před 4 lety +9

      If you think this one is hard to keep your eyes dry, try "Pieces of a Man"

    • @mikkalinka9781
      @mikkalinka9781 Před 2 lety +3

      Today is the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attack on America. This incredible piece of music & poetry SAYS It ALL.
      R.I.P..........

    • @MrDallman
      @MrDallman Před 2 lety +3

      @@mikkalinka9781 you’re so right my friend….stay safe.

    • @howardkoor2796
      @howardkoor2796 Před 2 lety +1

      Well said!

    • @truefunksoul8638
      @truefunksoul8638 Před 2 lety

      @@jondcarson52 Yeah because a 40 year fan of Gil has not heard 'Pieces Of A Man' .. which album can it be found on do you know? I have been looking everywhere for it.

  • @marceldrew9894
    @marceldrew9894 Před 3 lety +211

    Gil's music NEVER went out of style. That passionate, empathetic, conscience Aries ✊🖤

    • @sharifhassan7742
      @sharifhassan7742 Před 3 lety +6

      I think it has a lot to do with the issues he speaks on, unfortunately, never changing

    • @grrkerson
      @grrkerson Před 2 lety +1

      Astrology has nothing to do with anything you fuckwit

    • @HeavenOrHell74
      @HeavenOrHell74 Před 2 lety +4

      @@grrkerson being an Aries myself I believe in fact I know it does have a lot to do with it, so for you to call the guy a f--kwit is uncalled for. Merry Xmas and Salute to one of if not the Greatest musical artist and poet of All time

    • @grrkerson
      @grrkerson Před 2 lety +1

      @@HeavenOrHell74 astrology is fake psuedo-science, ding bat

    • @minalove6582
      @minalove6582 Před rokem

      Yes sir ✌️

  • @ricksegal3065
    @ricksegal3065 Před 4 lety +63

    It's a shame we don't hear the flute in music for a long time now. I am 67 years old and remember listening to him in the late 60's and early 70's. Told about the truth in society and hate to say it, but it's not much better 50 years later. Thanks GSH for the great music!

    • @jayruperot6952
      @jayruperot6952 Před rokem +4

      The flute frequency raises consciousness. Thats why its absent from the last 30yrs of music...

    • @ricksegal3065
      @ricksegal3065 Před rokem +1

      ​@@jayruperot6952 spot on

    • @arthurswanson3285
      @arthurswanson3285 Před 5 měsíci +1

      @@jayruperot6952 Brother Andre 3000 brought it back. Might check out his album now.

  • @ryanmartin73
    @ryanmartin73 Před 4 lety +70

    Props to the writers at F is For Family for picking this song.

    • @blackmon8719
      @blackmon8719 Před 3 lety +4

      Bill Burr has amazing taste in music

    • @289rory
      @289rory Před 3 lety +2

      @@blackmon8719 He chose it? Well, damn. He really does.

    • @jond007
      @jond007 Před 3 lety

      Is this something I can find on CZcams? Sounds very interesting.

    • @289rory
      @289rory Před 3 lety

      @@jond007 It's a netflix show, but there are various clips on here. Probably some sites to watch it bootleg.

    • @blackmon8719
      @blackmon8719 Před 3 lety

      Godly He probably did..he’s a musician and he plays a wide range of jazz on his podcast during the breaks

  • @terryross4199
    @terryross4199 Před 9 lety +375

    40 years later and still very much on point; the people; the environment; the nation!

    • @home-boiew1673
      @home-boiew1673 Před 9 lety +7

      I remember then and I can see it now..... SMH!

    • @yjadalyn1
      @yjadalyn1 Před 9 lety +12

      Sign of a true poet.

    • @caroleann1314
      @caroleann1314 Před 9 lety +12

      On of the high lights of my life. I feel blessed not only that I got to live with his amazing songs, music, and poetry but I also got to see him perform live (in a small venue) in the UK. I wish more people had that blessing

    • @sherryshabazz
      @sherryshabazz Před 8 lety +3

      the more things change. the more they stay the same

    • @sherryshabazz
      @sherryshabazz Před 8 lety +5

      Yes awesome truly powerful

  • @OGtruble
    @OGtruble Před 5 lety +143

    I'm here in 2019, who else wit me?

  • @fahali54
    @fahali54 Před 4 lety +30

    Gil Scott-Heron and his music is timeless. I miss that brother. Yes, I still listen, always have, alway will.

  • @diegowakefield
    @diegowakefield Před 3 lety +45

    50 years young, white woman hearing this song for the first time. What a beautiful, sad song that so moves me....and yes decades and decades and decades of perpetual winter here.... I'm going to check out Gil Scott Heron's other songs....such an incredible voice and message...

    • @viccarter2149
      @viccarter2149 Před rokem +8

      Grab a glass of wine and sit back and enjoy.

    • @timmccarthy3034
      @timmccarthy3034 Před rokem +6

      you will find that every thing he did , was a work of true genius......and be sad, too, to know that he died from the very thing he sang about......I know he never got the real star recognition that he so deserved....He played at small little venues, etc, and he got depressed, and he died from crack.. an .overdose......

    • @eddiefigueroa6888
      @eddiefigueroa6888 Před rokem

      Winter in America it's always been went to in America a nation run by those that are barely human if you know what I mean United never was divided always been aspirations in broken dreams yes the is always been nothing but a piece of paper and how I heroes have died in vain kickbacks and run outs Statue of libertie only what she could have been with the wind will the sun shine anymore in America

    • @ayidonno
      @ayidonno Před rokem +1

      @@timmccarthy3034 oh damn, that makes me sad that he died from crack, I'm 21 just discovered Gil Scott, he's been all I've been listening to, totally adore this man, do you by any chance have any recommendations of artists who make similar music?

    • @gidgethrobowski3860
      @gidgethrobowski3860 Před rokem +3

      ​@@timmccarthy3034
      You don't know what the heck you are talking about. Firstly, he was well-known and he had played big venues, and he went overseas to play various concerts. Also, he didn't die from the crack, he died from Aids although this may have contributed to his deadly condition.

  • @patreeziasf
    @patreeziasf Před 4 lety +150

    I am so blessed to have seen him play many times in 80s. He was a legend in the UK. And then a final concert maybe 5 yrs ago?at Yoshi's San Francisco. 5 of us lined up on the curb after his " church," of a gig, speechless. We just bowed to him and he furled his long legs into a beaten up Toyota Corolla drive by a very old dear friend. Goodnight Mr Gill

    • @jessenunez1706
      @jessenunez1706 Před 4 lety +4

      That's an amazing experience! Glad you and many others got to enjoy that.

    • @RichardWestberg
      @RichardWestberg Před 4 lety +3

      He passed in 2011. Saw him in Portland Oregon in 2010. A peak moment in my life. Happy Birthday, Gil!

    • @GS-kj6ur
      @GS-kj6ur Před 4 lety

      wow really? i thought he would have died with money, thats sad

    • @alwaysastudent
      @alwaysastudent Před 4 lety +7

      @@RichardWestberg i was at that same show. The man was hilarious, and i noticed most people (from where i and my friend were sitting) did not get his comedic timing. it was very sad. i love the man (and seeing him had been on my bucket list for yeeeeeeeears), but the audience's lack of response ruined it for me. i have no regrets seeing him though. i'm glad i did, for he met the ancestors not too long after that appearance.

    • @odnkill1
      @odnkill1 Před 4 lety +6

      Gil was a friend always was backstage @ the Bottom Line So was stick.

  • @francescobonifazi2359
    @francescobonifazi2359 Před 8 lety +47

    Still sounds great today as he did back in the 70s. He was singer/songwriter, poet, social commentary genius... what more could you want in an artist? I hope young folk will discover him and keep his spirit alive.

  • @novembertalespinner
    @novembertalespinner Před 7 lety +177

    truth in a song never dies.

  • @blehbleheh
    @blehbleheh Před 4 lety +14

    2:06
    "The Constitution....a noble piece of paper....struggled but it died in vain."
    Man that rings after what we saw on Monday.
    Every song he's made is relevant. Especially now, more than ever.

  • @jskill908ify
    @jskill908ify Před 10 lety +149

    We need this brother more then ever today.

  • @marcusudeh614
    @marcusudeh614 Před 3 lety +25

    Best revolutionary music ever, played the heck out of it, the first time I heard it

  • @felipevelez2535
    @felipevelez2535 Před 7 lety +20

    One of the greatest singing revolutionaries of all time! Brother Gil, you are gone but never shall you be forgotten.

  • @hplovehandle
    @hplovehandle Před 9 lety +341

    Miss you Gil. Your voice is needed now more than ever. :(

    • @m5pilot397
      @m5pilot397 Před 8 lety +12

      +Big Dave You got that right. Just as appropriate today as in the 1970s!

    • @mizpahboy7513
      @mizpahboy7513 Před 8 lety +15

      +Big Dave Given the political climate of today, the unbridled violence of police
      toward our civilians, the economy, the total lack of empathy toward our
      gay/lesbian brothers and sister. As well as ISIS or a whole litany of
      other problems that seem to plague or world today, Gil Scott's "Winter
      in America" is as apropos today as ever....there our still vultures
      circling beneath dark clouds in America.

    • @hplovehandle
      @hplovehandle Před 8 lety +12

      ***** Not just America my friend,the vultures wings are broad and their shadow falls wide.

    • @mizpahboy7513
      @mizpahboy7513 Před 8 lety +6

      +Big Dave So true!...peace go with you my brother

    • @abortretryfail9350
      @abortretryfail9350 Před 8 lety +4

      +mizpahboy +M5pilot my first thoughts exactly, after not hearing this in like 35+ yrs. I was thinking it's almost *_MORE_* apropos than *_EVER_*, things have gotten _much_ worse since 75 _see above post_ (i.e. IMHO *_freedom_* is little more than a cruel _irony_ these days) and +Big Dave , yeah, you got that right, it's global (but then, it always _has_ been). On the upside, having been _plugged in_ for the better part of the last 30 years, I _am_ seeing some signs (in various and sundry forums/networks) that a good portion of the _current_ generation is starting to wake up to the fact that *_IT_* is _all_ just one colossal _snow-job_, by an _elite minority_ from top to bottom, designed for one thing only, to keep _them_ *elite*, but _"the great American hallucination"_ is not _unique_ to America, it's _everywhere_, it's just more _obvious_ (and _odious_ ? ;-) )here....
      ...but then again, the _sheep_ have been multiplying too.....
      So there's that. It's a long road either way.

  • @cyrusdandridge2096
    @cyrusdandridge2096 Před 10 lety +101

    The Constitution a noble piece of paper with free society struggled but died in vain and now democracy is rag time on the corner hoping for some rain

  • @stephanomarr6829
    @stephanomarr6829 Před 4 lety +36

    Hopefully the history of the greatest humanitarian talent poets will mention SIR Gil....ONE of our greatest talents ever.....his words are TIMELESS......Ripower,GREAT ONE......ASE

  • @gementertainment5606
    @gementertainment5606 Před 2 lety +18

    Gill Scott Heron is considered by the rap artists to be the Godfather of Rap... but he wanted no part of that title, he considered himself a jazzologist, and before he died he wrote the rap reply to rappers ... Message to The Messengers, calling them out for what "some" of them were doing to the black community... and he did it in a respectful manner.
    In my opinion Gil Scott Heron should be the most important black artist of the last 50 years, if people in the black community were fully aware of the depth of his contributions. Too many young people on the black community don't even know who he is. And that my friends, whatever color you are is very sad.
    But his music will live on.
    I predict they will write a bio-pic about him if it's done right, whoever stars in it, will win an academy award, because of his life was that deep and important.
    God bless you Gil Scott-Heron I'm glad I discovered you, late in life, better late than never. Godspeed you're on to bigger and better things.
    I'm a Christian who believes in reincarnation and you probably were on your final carnation however if not wherever you're at today, I'm sure you're contributing in major major ways.
    JL

    • @cyndip5445
      @cyndip5445 Před 2 lety +2

      I grew up in DC in the 70’s. We All knew who Gil Scott Heron was, not only bc of his prolific and profound music, but he was ours, a native Washingtonian! Problem is, if we paid attention, the world would know him, because he was an innovator, and especially relevant today! RIPower❤️

  • @williamjenkins5700
    @williamjenkins5700 Před 9 lety +265

    After coming from Vietnam, I see no changes for me it will always be winter in america. Kill there hero,kill here and you go to jail. True that Gil ain,t nobody fighting cause nobody knows what to say. I wish I could have met you.Roll on my brother.

    • @JohnFEden-gs5se
      @JohnFEden-gs5se Před 8 lety +10

      +william Jenkins true words, my man.

    • @philipscoggins9827
      @philipscoggins9827 Před 8 lety +16

      Gil is the man😎god bless all you vets POW MIA 💜 🔷🇺🇸♦angelgrip⚡ West Philly Heyoka⚡

    • @leonardhenderson3537
      @leonardhenderson3537 Před 5 lety +5

      THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE WE LOST A LOT OF GOOD BROTHERS FROM COMPTON , CALIFORNIA DURING THOSE YEARS

    • @isaiahkettles6701
      @isaiahkettles6701 Před 4 lety +3

      william Jenkins right on brother. One Vet to another. Thank you for
      Your service. God bless!

  • @Samantha-qp9wf
    @Samantha-qp9wf Před 9 lety +173

    The flute is magnificent!

  • @MississippiDave
    @MississippiDave Před 8 lety +506

    Some artists like Gil Scott Heron almost blur the lines between poetry and prophecy.

    • @sherryshabazz
      @sherryshabazz Před 8 lety +18

      modern day seers

    • @terencesmith3853
      @terencesmith3853 Před 8 lety +8

      I agree :-D!

    • @Sakazhua
      @Sakazhua Před 6 lety +17

      its called vision, maybe we have to be high to see beyond the veil. perhaps that's why people who get high stay high, reality is too ugly like winter in america

    • @rodrigocuri6206
      @rodrigocuri6206 Před 6 lety +5

      thanks for this coment

    • @itkapatanka
      @itkapatanka Před 5 lety +2

      I thought that's what the goal of poetry is!

  • @webbgems67
    @webbgems67 Před 5 lety +29

    Maybe the greatest poet of our time his brilliance is unparalleled.

    • @Burt472
      @Burt472 Před 2 lety +1

      I'd tend to concur on that

  • @theflyent7106
    @theflyent7106 Před 5 lety +22

    Beautiful so poetic so urban yet so jazzy n masterful... Simply, a masterpiece of America's joy and pain, long live Gil Scott Heron, thank you sir 👏👏👏👏🙏🙏🙏🙏💯💯💯💯

  • @Olsen65
    @Olsen65 Před rokem +11

    A true poet. And a visionary. And a damn good musician.

  • @latanyatankersley466
    @latanyatankersley466 Před 4 lety +27

    Who’s here in 2020? ❤️❤️❤️

  • @seansmith3058
    @seansmith3058 Před 7 lety +252

    our new national anthem.

  • @ClaudeChaney
    @ClaudeChaney Před 9 lety +63

    And in 2014 ain't nobody fighting because nobody knows what to save.

  • @shottashabazz6721
    @shottashabazz6721 Před 3 lety +13

    After listening to this masterpiece I guess it’s safe to say somethings never change

  • @wygakyl
    @wygakyl Před 4 lety +30

    It's winter again, Gil...they always bring it back to their winter..not for them, but for us. We could use you here...but I'll never forget.

  • @duanebrown5264
    @duanebrown5264 Před 2 lety +3

    Can not let this song get you down life is still good over all the badenss and madness god willing yes yes yes!!!

  • @jameshamill571
    @jameshamill571 Před 4 lety +10

    Guy is irreplaceable. Genius

  • @standingbeark2290
    @standingbeark2290 Před 4 lety +37

    Gil brings back sooo many memories. I met him sitting at the counter of the Florida Avenue grill in D.C. around 1979 when I was a student at Howard. He was cool and cordial as I always figured him to be. Tremendous talent and I've been a fan for many decades...

    • @kevinwoodson1646
      @kevinwoodson1646 Před rokem

      Sat at the grille many days and wish I had your experience

    • @kevinwoodson1646
      @kevinwoodson1646 Před rokem

      I was at Howard 1976 to 1983

    • @standingbeark2290
      @standingbeark2290 Před rokem +1

      You and I share the same names. Weren't you in the dental school?

    • @kevinwoodson1646
      @kevinwoodson1646 Před rokem

      @@standingbeark2290 I was in the medical school; finished hucm 1983

    • @standingbeark2290
      @standingbeark2290 Před rokem

      Yes, actually use to get some of your mail, and I'd send it back. Lol we need to at least talk

  • @SidewaysBurnouts
    @SidewaysBurnouts Před 4 lety +10

    if we ever have a revolution, i think this is the national anthem.

  • @alimajeed7144
    @alimajeed7144 Před 5 lety +29

    Lyrics:
    From the Indians who welcomed the pilgrims
    And to the buffalo who once ruled the plains
    Like the vultures circling beneath the dark clouds
    Looking for the rain
    Looking for the rain
    Just like the cities staggered on the coastline
    Living in a nation that just can't stand much more
    Like the forest buried beneath the highway
    Never had a chance to grow
    Never had a chance to grow
    And now it's winter
    Winter in America
    Yes and all of the healers have been killed
    Or sent away, yeah
    But the people know, the people know
    It's winter
    Winter in America
    And ain't nobody fighting
    'Cause nobody knows what to save
    Save your soul, Lord knows
    From Winter in America
    The Constitution
    A noble piece of paper
    With free society
    Struggled but it died in vain
    And now Democracy is ragtime on the corner
    Hoping for some rain
    Looks like it's hoping
    Hoping for some rain
    And I see the robins
    Perched in barren treetops
    Watching last-ditch racists marching across the floor
    But just like the peace sign that vanished in our dreams
    Never had a chance to grow
    Never had a chance to grow
    And now it's winter
    It's winter in America
    And all of the healers have been killed
    Or been betrayed
    Yeah, but the people know, people know
    It's winter, Lord knows
    It's winter in America
    And ain't nobody fighting
    'Cause nobody knows what to save
    Save your souls
    From Winter in America
    And now it's winter
    Winter in America
    And all of the healers done been killed or sent away
    Yeah, and the people know, people know
    It's winter
    Winter in America
    And ain't nobody fighting
    'Cause nobody knows what to save
    And ain't nobody fighting
    Cause nobody knows, nobody knows
    And ain't nobody fighting
    'Cause nobody knows what to save

    • @cyndip5445
      @cyndip5445 Před 2 lety +1

      Thx for those profound lyrics. Unbelievable that they are possibly more relevant today than when he first spoke them. I grew up in the 70’s in DC, and although Gil was from Chicago, we claimed him, and he accepted☺️Love this man, I grew so much politically listening to him and many others during that period. He left us a legacy of truth and consciousness, and we feel the void of this ancestor😞

  • @Babygirl61868
    @Babygirl61868 Před 10 lety +21

    This song leaves me feeling so sad.

  • @LUCPROUDHON
    @LUCPROUDHON Před 4 lety +32

    Summer in all America 2020.

  • @cyndip5445
    @cyndip5445 Před 2 lety +10

    Pure genius. The arrangements are classic Gil! STILL relevant today😞

  • @patnq
    @patnq Před 7 lety +34

    Such a beautiful song in these dark times....

    • @katagostic166
      @katagostic166 Před 7 lety +1

      what dark times? USA is in dark times for too long, the whole world is. Dark forces just shift theirs focus from Europe to USA in the last 100 years. And no elections can change that. Unfortunately there will be no revolution even it will not be televised. Revolution has never been, they are just too strong. You can only sit, watch and lough.

  • @simonlj1
    @simonlj1 Před 8 lety +22

    One hell of a human being, who let many know how it really is. Not many in his league, need many more like him.

  • @henryhoneybadger2947
    @henryhoneybadger2947 Před 4 lety +81

    It is still Winter in America in 2019

  • @blueoctgal
    @blueoctgal Před 3 lety +5

    Who the hell thumbs this down?
    This classic is more valid on this early winter day in 2020
    RIP GSH you are sorely missed

  • @sheilapalmer224
    @sheilapalmer224 Před 2 lety +4

    He was so sososo sosossoo gifted

  • @BroTee5
    @BroTee5 Před 9 lety +32

    Gil Scott Heron was, and still is because His music lives on after Him, a North American Treasure, A North American and An African Icon who helped reshape progressive rap and laid the ground work for People like Common and other Progressive and even Radical rap artists. His work came through His Spirit, even though He spent much of His life as a Black man racked with illegal drug dependency and illegal drug problems. As we change from being in North America to being in the United States of Native America and prepare to give this precious land back to its rightful owners, there is no man more appropriate to listen to than Gil Scott Heron.
    Brother Tracy Gibson,
    Philanthropist, Businessman, Poet, LOVer of Humanity and Proud Great Uncle.

    • @caroleann1314
      @caroleann1314 Před 9 lety +1

      Woah Tracy. I am so fortunate that i came across Gil in my youth in England ( been in the US for the last 9 years) but I feel so blessed that I got to see him perform live in England in 1985. There were technical issues so he only performed for 50 minutes. The crowd who had waited years and traveled hundreds of miles were upset but I remember so clearly Gil saving the moment by saying ok we cant perfrom but I can recite for you. One of the absolute highlights of my life

    • @BroTee5
      @BroTee5 Před 9 lety +1

      Carole Ann i never got to see Gil that I can remember. But I know He was a superior talent that cared about Black Peole even though He had an addiction problem. GOD Bless You,
      Brother Tracy Gibson...

    • @caroleann1314
      @caroleann1314 Před 9 lety +1

      Thank you Tracy. Btw my maiden name is Gibson!

  • @ramoncforman
    @ramoncforman Před 10 lety +45

    I remember the first time I heard this song my old head let me hear it and I been a Gil Scott Heron fan ever since R.I.P. brother.

    • @Uncle_Neil
      @Uncle_Neil Před 9 lety +9

      Same here...forty years later and here we are, still waiting for the spring.

    • @kimberlewagner2355
      @kimberlewagner2355 Před 9 lety +1

      Loving the Brother always Preaching the Father .. love the confused looks in the young ones faces Now they know

  • @HBnFellow
    @HBnFellow Před 8 lety +23

    I'm 17 and love this song man

    • @eugenelaczynski1031
      @eugenelaczynski1031 Před 8 lety +3

      +Roderick Griffin Good for you young man. Lots of quality music for you to discover thoughtful music with messages music that makes you think and feel and groove. you're on your way. Enjoy.

    • @Theasinthe
      @Theasinthe Před 8 lety

      +Roderick Griffin look up fela kuti. I would start with 'water no get enemy' and just keep listening.

    • @anthonylee5982
      @anthonylee5982 Před 3 lety

      Also check out Bob Marley, Get up, Stand-up... No woman no cry... Redemption song... No more trouble.. Them belly full (But we hungry).. Slave driver... Crazy Baldhead... Exodus.. Could you be love.. Three little birds.. War...

  • @JazzMaven
    @JazzMaven Před 3 lety +3

    He woke me up in "72 and I have been grateful ever scince...

  • @ramonrios3811
    @ramonrios3811 Před 7 lety +6

    First was turn on to Bro.GSH during military duty, Vietnam era. 1975. " Winter in America was the jam. It bought tears to my eyes. The more I heard from this " Messenger " the more my consciousness awakened. His voice resounded as a man's man lyrically teaching, expressing what his unfiltered eyes saw and his wordsmith skills constructed. His partner in most of his musical journey, Brian Jackson " Stick", together they were a catalyst for my growth which continues to this very day. This is more relevant now than ever before. Please continue to be hypervigilent. Never stop paying attention or you might lose yourself. " Peace go with you brother."

  • @gregreardigan8944
    @gregreardigan8944 Před 5 lety +5

    I wish I could tell this man how much i love him and miss him .take this message to Sir Gil Scott!

  • @dwaynerose9315
    @dwaynerose9315 Před 4 lety +9

    His music will live on in the conscious mind of those who know the struggle to be free in this America

  • @haroldhastings8545
    @haroldhastings8545 Před 2 lety +6

    Back in 1974. This album brought me peace every day

  • @mickeyblueyes
    @mickeyblueyes Před 8 lety +32

    damn. these lyrics are so spot on and sad.

    • @sherryshabazz
      @sherryshabazz Před 8 lety +5

      Gil. 40 years. ago... we are still going thru the change..

    • @Burt472
      @Burt472 Před 8 lety +3

      I know....FWIW....Solidarity from Italy....

    • @AmadeoZeller
      @AmadeoZeller Před 4 lety

      @ Michael McCullough
      ...and considering America's current White house Administration, Gil's lyrics are downright "PROPHETICALLY" scary!

  • @sheilapalmer224
    @sheilapalmer224 Před 2 lety +4

    He was amazing

  • @fishcrabmusic
    @fishcrabmusic Před 26 dny +5

    Anyone in 2024?

  • @umojaselassie6649
    @umojaselassie6649 Před 7 lety +20

    Yes one...Beloved Brother:Gil Scott Heron...your words live on forevermore with out no ending!..so true!

    • @theresebarbee2392
      @theresebarbee2392 Před 7 lety +1

      Gil Scott was the man a voice of reason oh my gosh the words to his music hit every thing on the nail back then war racist problem drugs,sounds like today.gil scott was the best po

    • @theresebarbee2392
      @theresebarbee2392 Před 7 lety +1

      Poet singers of all time no one will ever put words like that together again ever.

  • @vanessa4u4evr
    @vanessa4u4evr Před 9 lety +22

    Lord I miss my artists from back in the day! They kept us strong. Now, we're on our own.

    • @sherryshabazz
      @sherryshabazz Před 8 lety

      Gil. said we got to do something to save. the children. soon it will be their turn to try to save. the world

    • @marieclark1224
      @marieclark1224 Před 8 dny

      I listened to his music as a teenager. This is REAL music, with meaning. Not like the vulgar sex/drug/violence-filled rap "music" out there in the last few generations. Lord help us!😢

  • @voicegirl555
    @voicegirl555 Před 3 lety +3

    Happy Birthday Gil! Wish you were still here.

  • @gregreardigan8944
    @gregreardigan8944 Před 5 lety +7

    I love and miss this man .nothing but musical bliss

  • @lenorabradley8141
    @lenorabradley8141 Před 4 lety +8

    "2019" Today " Rest in Paradise " 💘

  • @OregonMinuteman
    @OregonMinuteman Před 4 lety +7

    So beautiful

  • @mickyfloyd
    @mickyfloyd Před 5 lety +13

    omg I just can't get enough of this tune...and it brings tears to my eyes all the time

  • @cprkallenberg8154
    @cprkallenberg8154 Před 4 lety +14

    A great song, both lyrically and in performance.
    And so so sadly even more appropriate now than ever..

    • @kevinstewart3029
      @kevinstewart3029 Před rokem

      He was able to shed light on the American dilemma ...America was born defective / and as a result it suffers from the mental illness of hypocrisy...

  • @joeycolbert3244
    @joeycolbert3244 Před měsícem +2

    I was an 18 year old when I first started listening to Gil as a solo artist and it was The First Minute’s Of A New Day for me as it changed my perspective totally!✌🏽😎

  • @scarlettmoore3263
    @scarlettmoore3263 Před 9 lety +8

    Went to see The Man twice at the Bijou Club in Philly. He spoke a hidden truth. He set this generation on its ear. We were home listening. This was 1970. We couldnt always afford a ticket but we were alway listening.

    • @scarlettmoore3263
      @scarlettmoore3263 Před 9 lety +5

      Maybe I didnt word it right. He spoke truth and a truth that was sometimes hidden. He didnt hide anything. He was like salt to food, water to a dry mouth. Iloved and respected him alot.

  • @jessicataylor9382
    @jessicataylor9382 Před 5 lety +13

    A new era is emerging and recruitment is needed ✊🏽 I am a revolutionary!

    • @kevinstewart3029
      @kevinstewart3029 Před rokem

      The revolution needs some evolution...get your spirit right/ it the only medicine for this mental illness called America

  • @jeannie20001
    @jeannie20001 Před 6 lety +5

    You are truly miss my brother your music will speak to us forever. All our brothers and sisters has to do is listen closely to the messages in all your music. We will love ya forever we carry you in or hearts for those who know and understand what you are saying. ✊✊✊✊✊✊✊✊✊✊✊

  • @TheObscureTimewarp
    @TheObscureTimewarp Před 3 lety +2

    Who's listening to this watching what's happening in 2021 and thinking brother Gil must've had a time machine?

  • @lisabullock7461
    @lisabullock7461 Před 7 lety +3

    I was 21 when this song came out, I will be 64 at the end of this month. this song is relevant as it was in 1974. I get chills when I hear it. I listen to it almost daily. Rip Gil.

  • @elps84
    @elps84 Před 9 lety +17

    sad sad sad song which takes me back..... what a prophet gil was.....absolutely one of the very best and brightest of his generation........played this one a lot in 1975...... and then came Reagan...and the rest of them.....and the plastic people just went on and on and on...... It's ALWAYS winter in America, all of the heroes got killed or betrayed...or like gil snuffed themselves slowly.......and ain't nobody fighting because everyone's got their heads clogged by the brain control machine

  • @melodyhudson5973
    @melodyhudson5973 Před 7 lety +13

    I'm trying to cling to the strength of my mothers that surely endured much more. It's in our DNA not only to survive but to thrive. After the last nadir came the Renaissance. We will rise stronger, bigger together.

  • @TheBeeski
    @TheBeeski Před 2 lety +8

    He definitely had his finger on the pulse of this nation

    • @kevinstewart3029
      @kevinstewart3029 Před rokem +1

      He knew the history and he called them out on it! The beautiful thing about Gil is understood America's birth defect but he allowed us to lapel it! Genocide fratricide and chattel = mental illness/ just look around you.

  • @M31eighty
    @M31eighty Před 3 lety +6

    One thing that will always make me smile is witnessing how vast his reach is, how varied his fan base is - Men and Women of awareness that he touched with his Art... Reinvigorates my Faith in Us All. 💛

  • @brianshevory1598
    @brianshevory1598 Před 7 lety +9

    This whole album is relevant today, 42 years later. How did we not change?

    • @kevinstewart3029
      @kevinstewart3029 Před rokem

      We thought pharmaceuticals could fix us... but America's mentally ill/ it was born that way... genocide fratricide and chattel

  • @danjv
    @danjv Před 3 lety +7

    Gil and his words are forever relevant. Artists such as he are timeless. Young folks should get hip to this and carry his message into time.

    • @kevinstewart3029
      @kevinstewart3029 Před rokem

      If you really want to get hip study the history of this country that what Gil did/ in it he found all the work he'd ever need!

  • @mauriceboyd2560
    @mauriceboyd2560 Před 7 lety +67

    1 of the greatest musician ever

    • @WeBoogie28
      @WeBoogie28 Před 4 lety

      Maurice Boyd this song is a call to war, but “nobody knows what to say”