1 of the best version i have ever come across, tasteful and graceful chord changes plus superb melody shortly less than a year Charlie pass the way after this live
37 yrs ago as a young college music student, I played an inpromptu recital of "Classical Gas" in front of Charlie Byrd. Our jazz professor invited Charlie to come play / speak to us. The professor threated us that we had better show up w instrument in hand and be ready to play. He called on me first. Thank God, I was ready and performed it w/out any screw ups. Charlie was very gracious to me.
I used to go to a small jazz bar in Washington, D.C. and catch Charlie back in the late 50s, just about the time he got into Brazilian music. He went to Brazil on some kind of cultural exchange program and came back with Bossa Nova music. Then he introduced Stan Getz to the music. I fell so much in love with Brazilian music that I married a beautiful Brazilian exchange student, who imported me to Brazil. The rest is history!
What a story! My wife is from Brazil, as well, but we met here in the US. And she and her family introduced to me to Brazilian music. Would have been something to have seen Charlie play - especially in those days - a rare privilege! History in the making
Last week Astrud Gilberto, bossa nova singer passed away at the age of 83. She now rests with her husband João Gilberto, a great musician. I'm shore I'll never listen to this beautiful melody without remembering her quiet and comforting remarkable voice. Rest in peace, Astrud. You are now immortal just like the bossa nova.
@@tomterrif8503 Didn't know about that. Just Google and it's quite clear on her profile though. Thank you for the heads up. But let say she rests in eternity in a poetic way 😂
My father had a complete collection of every song Charlie Byrd recorded. Considering my father’s classical and jazz record collection, this put Charlie Byrd in first place. This weekend is Father’s Day. Dad passed 11 years after Charlie. If Charlie is giving concerts in heaven, Dad is on the front row. This made me smile.
My father was friends with Charlie back in the 50's. As well as Roy Clark. Roy and my dad Arthur Murray grew up in SE. DC. Where my dads parents lived until their passing. Charlie use to jam in our basement often in Kensington, Md. with my dad and they're friends as we danced around in our pj's until bedtime. I don't remember if Roy was there. Years later I was in Georgetown DC. and walked into a bar where Charlie was playing not knowing he was there. To my amazement he recognized me after 20 years. And had a waiter make me and my date a table up front. What an honor! Charlie was a gentle kind man. My father was very strict and a WW2 master sergeant veteran that scared us kids at times. It took me years to understand why. But being on the beach in Normandy would affect anyone in those times. Charlie told me not to be afraid and that my father loved me. At 68 years old now I have never forgotten him or what he said to me. I know the angels are singing and dancing to his music. God Bless.
I have played Corcovado for 50 years , the last 25 years professionally . I always give Americans Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd full credit for helping usher in the great sound of the bossa nova . Let us not forget the master ,Tom Jobim, Joao and Astrud Gilberto, Luiz Bonfa and Laurindo Almeida.
Decades ago I had the privilege of seeing Charlie Byrd play in person several times at the West Shore Unitarian Church in Rocky River, Ohio. Consequently I was able to sit in the first row of the church so I could watch his mastery of the guitar up close and personal. At the time I was a guitar teacher but knew that I could never be as good as someone like Charlie Byrd. Then in June of 2011 another great guitarist, Glen Campbell, was diagnosed with a terminal illness, Alzheimer's. I was aware of Glen's proficiency on guitar when I was teaching guitar in the 70's. In May of 2016 I decided to start a new CZcams channel and dedicate it to Glen (Glen Campbell - A Tribute). It currently has 400 GC videos on it and I am amazed every time I see Glen play guitar. TWO great guitarists who have left us with a legacy of great music, Charlie Byrd and Glen Campbell.
And to think that at that time, I was living right next door in Lakewood, Ohio but was unaware of Byrd playing at the UU Church! I could use the excuse, 'I was too young to know about Charlie Byrd', but due to my older brother's superb taste in music, especially jazz, my family owned the "Jazz Samba" album and we all loved it. Plus, one is never too young to hear timeless, ageless, masterful works of music skillfully played.
I remember the first time I heard the opening of "Desafinado" on Jazz Samba. My listening life was transformed forever. So simple, so in tune harmonically and rhythmically, so Brazilian. I can hear it in my head, the soft maracas, everything just right dynamically, a sweet sound, a hip-moving slow sexy sound, a sound that demanded engagement. I liked it. Thank you, Mr. Byrd. Thank you bossa nova.
I met Charlie Byrd on two different occasions in Puerto Rico at Rudy's Tenth Inning lounge in Santurce San Juan. I asked him to sit in and very graciously he said he was observing the band loved the music were playing. He also invited me to Georgetown Washington DC, and when I went he was on tour in the fat east. What a beautiful Person.
I've always enjoyed listening to Charlie Byrd (and Stan Getz) on Jazz Samba since I was a teenager. They were both great together and made the album a unique snapshot of the late 60s.
I saw Charlie at Oregon Ridge in Hunt Valley, MD, back in the early eighties. I called my parents and told them they needed to come visit - that I had a surprise for them. My dad knew Charlie. More specifically, my dad was drinking buddies with Charlie's brother back in the 50's. Turns out, Charlie's brother was playing bass for him. They got to talk backstage. I also saw Charlie at Ethel's Place in Baltimore around 1985 with my girlfriend (now still my wife after 26 years). It was one of the best shows I've ever seen.
Hi Steve, Nice write up. I was wondering if you or your Dad knew rather or not Charlie played the horses back in the day. Let me know I wanted to see if he knew someone very close to me. Thanks Vanda
My father was friends with Charlie back in the 50's. As well as Roy Clark. Roy and my dad Arthur Murray grew up in SE. DC. Where my dads parents lived until their passing. Charlie use to jam in our basement in Kensington, Md. with my dad and they're friends as we danced around in our pj's until bedtime. I don't remember if Roy was there. Years later I was in Georgetown DC. and walked into a bar where Charlie was playing not knowing he was there. To my amazement he recognized me after 20 years. And had a waiter make me and my date a table up front. What an honor! Charlie was a gentle kind man. My father was very strict and a WW2 master sergeant veteran that scared us kids at times. It took me years to understand why. But being on the beach in Normandy would affect anyone in those times. Charlie told me not to be afraid and that my father loved me. At 68 years old now I have never forgotten him or what he said to me. I know the angels are singing to his music. God Bless.
seeing these elderly men, grasping on to life by playing these melodies, seeing they still have the passion to grab and bless their instrument, letting us see their seasoned experience, it's just inspiring
1976, We had dinner at London Steak House on the corner of Wacker and Michigan Avenue in Chicago and listened to 2 hours of Charlie Bryd, he was wonderful. My wife loved shrimp so the ordered "Shrimp de Gabugnae, needless to say she ate my steak. It mattered not as Charlie was great, we loved every tune.
Used to see Charlie at Headquarters, a restaurant bar at 18th and Columbia road in DC. Caught him in Williamsburg a few times and Raleigh NC once. Play his CDs often. Guy’s got IT!
I was visiting Washington DC in 1981 from Australia and my friends dad noticed an ad for a furniture store promotion and they said Charlie Byrd would be playing, well blow me down with a feather, I went to this obscure furniture store and there he was playing on his acoustic just me and two other people watching and listening. chatted briefly to him, quiet sort of guy..weird story but true :)
It is true that with age, a musician's technical ability tends to wear out, but what is known as musical intelligence remains intact. Byrd was a very talented guitarist and despite any "twiggy fingers" he's playing hella good here, if you know what I mean.
Beautiful and age hasn't stopped Charlie Byrd at all. The great musicians that we all enjoyed through the years are leaving and it is truly our loss and these videos keep them alive for us....Thank you so much...
He was a great guitar player and musician as well. His work provided new harmonies for the Bossa nova and Jazz scene at that time. I am grateful for this. God bless him.
Espetacular interpretação de "CORCOVADO "feita por Charlie Byrd, que mostrou que o aprendizado feito aqui no Rio em 1961, não foi em vão. Um crack. Cley Cormack.- Rio, 28/01/2014. OBS:- Thank you, fostexD160. Very excellent video.
I remember Charlie's place on K Street under the bridge. I was in high school and college. Thank you to my dad for dragging me there. It's only now that I realize what a gift you gave me watching this so many nights.
I saw him around this time and a year or so before. During the first show he was absolutely ON IT and it was incredible. By the second time he was still incredible but he was having a hard time, having to stop playing and waving the bassist and drummer on to play longer solos. Sad but still incredible to sit less than ten feet from this master and just let his talent wash over me. Charlie was from Chuckatuck, VA which is now a neighborhood of Suffolk and very small. I'll never forget him saying, "Earlier I was backstage and met a couple who claimed to be from Chuckatuck. Now, I travel the world and have people tell me they are from Chuckatuck all the time, but they are just putting on airs". Met him as well. Gracious and talented man. RIP Charlie.
Muito especial sua apresentação, desde que veio ao Brasil , levou o amor do nosso país , tem nos brindado com excelentes apresentações de Bossa Nova!!! Lhe admiro muito por divulgar nossa musica pelo mundo!!!
I was lucky enough to see this brilliant musician in concert on 4 separate occasions, 3 times in the very intimate "Cellar Door", in the DC area back in the early 70's. One of the most talented guitarists ever.
I grew up in the D.C. area in the 60's and 70's. Charlie's home was in the Maryland suburbs of D.C., and he used to be a regular performer at a tiny, but, at that time, very famous club called the Cellar Door in Georgetown. I had the privilege of hearing Charlie and his trio perform there on several occasions. He has always been one of my favorite guitarists. Just an amazingly gifted performer. Not many people know, but in the very early 60's, Charlie went to Brazil, where he heard Jobim and several of the other artists responsible for the creation of Bossa Nova, and he was captivated. Charlie was the one individual most responsible for introducing Bossa Nova to the US.
I think I would include Stan Getz as well. He and Charlie introduced Bossa Nova to America on the Perry Como show, 'Saturday Night with Mr. C' in 1962.
You got to Love Charlie Byrd and he is such a great player and whats really cool about this video...sitting beside him is the great Tal Farlow & beside him is Herb Ellis ...Major Wow ...could you imagine being in the audience ...Truly amazing men of the guitar ...alot of our inspiration comes from these men. Sadly they are gone ......but never forgotten. They make our lives so sweet . Cheers and thankyou for posting Dave Calgary
I grew up in Chillum Md just over the DC Line. Charlie used play Schools in the area. I saw him a few times in Elementary School and a couple of times in High School when he would perform for Assemblies. A great way to get out of class. I was blown away. Im still playing guitar 50 yrs later
Quase chegou lá , nos acordes peculiares que poucos conseguem fazer na batida do toque de um violão de nossa bossa nova que Jobim nós deixou como herança. Mas que coisa linda essa homenagem ao nosso Tom
What a wonderful playing by ever living Charlie Byrd.My salute to the finest ambassador of Jazz guitar.May I mention that I attended his concert in 1967 when he visited Nepal.His Bossa Nova pieces were new to my ear but the music was captivating as he played the guitar with such flow and finesse.I spoke to him after the concert and sensed at once that he was wonderful also as a person ready to share thoughts and moments with others.Perhaps,any good musics may be the only language of our human kind which can bring people together to care for each other.Thank you for putting it on CZcams. Kris Gurung.
I saw him (might have been the same year) in what was then Madras, India, when he played with his brother on bass and Bill Reichenbach on the drums. During that concert CB played both South American (Villa Lobos) and classical (F. Sor), among other marvelous pieces. He inspired me to learn classical guitar. Another true artist who graced this world and made it all the richer by his presence among us. And yes, thanks for posting this.
Charlie's Ramirez got lost in a plane/luggage mix-up back in the late 70's, and he borrowed my Guild Mark VII to do a concert here in Bradford, Pa. I still have that guitar and it is deeply memorable to me. He gave me a set of guitar strings when he returned the guitar. They consisted of Augustine red-label basses and Savarez trebles. Interesting mixture.
I first heard bossa nova on a black and white tv show called, “Run For Your Life” back in the 60’s. The lead character was in Brazil, and the show opened with the hypnotic song ‘Meditation’, by Jobim. I had no idea what style or type of music I was hearing, but my life was spent looking for someone to teach that to me. Finally, in the ‘70’s, I found a guitar teacher who was a soloist chord/melody type player. Thanks to The Good Lord that I can play that music now whenever I want to.
I saw Charlie Byrd live in Seattle in the fall of 1991, he was still going strong and played his backside off! How he got that sound on nylon strings is amazing.
Wonderful! I first saw Charlie at the Showboat Lounge in Washington, DC in 1958. I was hooked. I became a "regular" at the Showboat and continued as a big fan. I went to Charlie's Funeral Service in Annapolis, MD. What a service it was. Jazz, with Ketter Betts, Joe Byrd and mary of his associates. I will always listen to Charlie Byrd Music. His Brother, Joe, a great bass player just retired last year.
Charlie deserves a great deal of credit for bringing bossa nova to America. He heard it while touring in Brazil and could not wait to come back to tell his friend Stan Getz what he had found. The rest is history.
Truly one of the giants in jazz history! I'm a Maryland native and Charlie loved to play at the King Of France In Annapolis. While I know I'll never be on the same level as his playing, it's always fun to hear him attack a standard song! We lost many great jazz guitarists - Herbie Ellis, Joe Pazz, just to name a few. A delightful video of when music was melody, harmony, and rhythm! Ed Baran - Joppa ,MD
No doubt, Charlie Bird was/is one of the North American (USA) Best/Greatest guitarrists... and most probably, one of the BEST Worldwide EVER. Blues, Jazz, Classical, Latin... Besides : Greatness is VERY Humble.
First heard Charlie when I was about 12. My sister's boyfriend had an album Blues For Night People. Finally tracked down my own copy when I was in my 30s - and on vinyl! He is superb, always loved his stuff.
i saw charlie byrd and his jazz band performed in my hometown davao city philippines when i was still in college. tht's more than 30 yrs ago the memory still lingers on..
I met Charlie in 1993. I was born in 1964 and my Dad loved Charlie so I remember hearing him play since I can remember. In fact, I took up nylon string guitar due to him. RIP Charlie!
Super nice man and very talented. I was lucky to meet him in person at an old place in Fort Lauderdale called Bubba's. I was there with classical guitar great Juan Mercadal and Mario Juan Escandel. And Mr. Bird announced that Mercadal was in the audience and that he considered him the best classical guitar player, Mr Bird then came to our table and sat with us. I will never forget that night. That was around 1979.
+acere58 Apart from the incredible talent, he seems an all right person, unassuming like all the real greats, no airs like, I'm the best, I'm Charlie Byrd and who are you ?
I was there at Bubba' that night.. I'm a drummer because if I had been a Guitar player I would have given up playing. Also saw him in Toronto some time later one of the most Humble Players I ever met. He remembered me from Lauderdale. and was very gracious. I was playing in Miami at "A Place For Steak" on 79th St. Causeway and invited him to stop by if he was in the area. He actually came by and our guitar player FREAKED OUT.
The previous was for Mr. Shaw. Now for dji zzah, how lucky for you. You were most fortunate to have been blessed by such a rare occasion. Theses moments one cherishes until our last breath, whether feather blown or not!
I had the great privilege of seeing him in about this same time frame. He gave a FREE concert in Bethesda - it was awesome. I got to shake his hand and mumble something about how grateful I was for his bringing bossa nova to America
I don't remember how I find this monster but when I first saw him playing... Blows my mind every single time. - John Williams - Paco de Lucía - Agustín Barrios Mangoré - Charlie Byrd The best 4 guitarrists.
Hey Joseph Sims, I went to The Showboat Lounge in DC in the early-mid 1960s. I was a regular at Charlie's "regulars night", on Wednesdays, as I recall. He told us one night he was going to Brazil for USIA on that cultural exchange -- mainly a boondoggle to meet Jobim and the other Bossa Nova artists. On his first album, "The Charlie Byrd trio", he included what may well be the first American Jazz artist's Bossa Nova song, "O Pato" (The Duck). I went to see Charlie Byrd many times. It was one of the most special times of my life and a gift and a privilege to see this incredibly talented Jazz guitarist. I think it was less than a year before Charlie got together a 2-week-plus USIA trip back to Brazil, and it was then he really perfected his Bossa Nova style enough to record a full album. His wife suggested that he invite Stan Getz to join him. They did the recording at All Souls Unitarian Church, just a few blocks from The Showboat Lounge. Stan Getz came down on a train, the recording session couldn't have gone better and he went back to NYC that evening. Later that week, on "regulars night" the remaining members of the recording group played all the songs from the session. We were in heaven. "Jazz Samba" went on to become the best selling Jazz album ever (since surpassed by some Miles Davis recordings), and actually crossed over onto the pop charts. Bossa Nova remains very popular to this day, as well it should. We got a special surprise while Charlie was in Brazil that second time. He told us to be sure to catch his replacement but didn't tell us much more --- and we were in for a very pleasant two weeks. This new on the scene singer/pianist came in and joined the other two members of the trio -- Keeter Betts on bass and Bertell Knox on drums -- and knocked us all out. The singer?? Why it was Mose Allison in his Washington, DC debut! He became a huge local favorite and played regular gigs at Blues Alley for the rest of his life.
+Tony Matthews I saw him on 2 occasions that he visited Jamaica. I had been a fan long before that and wondered whether I'd ever get a chance to hear him in person. One of the times , I was actually in bed with fever but rested up all day so I could go in the evening! I'm sure you took pictures, Tony!
Outstanding. I've been enjoying Charlie's music since I first discovered him in the '60's on the album with Stan Getz. Caught him live in Chapel Hill once. An amazing talent!!! Passed away in '99 at the young age of 74...so sad!
this is amassing , plus he was 74 years old when this is recorded ,who ever said its awful,i would like to see you play like this in your seventies!!! people usually stop playing guitar after 65, if not before,i am classical guitarist and i know how difficult this instrument is , so BRAVO for Charlie!!!
Thank you for your so supportive comment. Actually, you know, I think we're more than a lot of people would admit. In so many idioms, the "old boys" (I say this most affectionately) are by far the most touching. Years of devotion and dedication bear beautiful ripe fruits that are an utter joy to behold. Then there's Mastery; that's a case of the chosen. Viva la Musica!
As I said I saw Charlie in the 60's. He got me into classical style playing and I play his version of Girl From Impanema(?) and A Man And A Woman on classical guitar. I also use my finger nails on my steel string electric and also still play pick style. I am 69 now and I love these guys. It's hard when you get old to play. I have osteoarthritis in my fingers, but nothing stops me from playing.
37 yrs ago as a young college music student, I played an inpromptu recital of "Classical Gas" in front of Charlie Byrd. Our jazz professor invited Charlie to come play / speak to us. The professor threated us that we had better show up w instrument in hand and be ready to play. He called on me first. Thank God, I was ready and performed it w/out any screw ups. Charlie was very gracious to me.
Wow! What a great moment!
I used to go to a small jazz bar in Washington, D.C. and catch Charlie back in the late 50s, just about the time he got into Brazilian music. He went to Brazil on some kind of cultural exchange program and came back with Bossa Nova music. Then he introduced Stan Getz to the music. I fell so much in love with Brazilian music that I married a beautiful Brazilian exchange student, who imported me to Brazil. The rest is history!
Sweet story!
What a story! My wife is from Brazil, as well, but we met here in the US. And she and her family introduced to me to Brazilian music. Would have been something to have seen Charlie play - especially in those days - a rare privilege! History in the making
+Kyle Cravens amazing history's guys. Music unites people.
Indeed!
Charlie's guitar playing takes me to another world altogether...
Last week Astrud Gilberto, bossa nova singer passed away at the age of 83. She now rests with her husband João Gilberto, a great musician. I'm shore I'll never listen to this beautiful melody without remembering her quiet and comforting remarkable voice. Rest in peace, Astrud. You are now immortal just like the bossa nova.
she left her husband in the 60s to live with Stan Getz in the USA 😆
@@tomterrif8503 Didn't know about that. Just Google and it's quite clear on her profile though. Thank you for the heads up. But let say she rests in eternity in a poetic way 😂
Goosebumps! 😊
My father had a complete collection of every song Charlie Byrd recorded. Considering my father’s classical and jazz record collection, this put Charlie Byrd in first place. This weekend is Father’s Day. Dad passed 11 years after Charlie. If Charlie is giving concerts in heaven, Dad is on the front row. This made me smile.
My father was friends with Charlie back in the 50's. As well as Roy Clark. Roy and my dad Arthur Murray grew up in SE. DC. Where my dads parents lived until their passing. Charlie use to jam in our basement often in Kensington, Md. with my dad and they're friends as we danced around in our pj's until bedtime. I don't remember if Roy was there. Years later I was in Georgetown DC. and walked into a bar where Charlie was playing not knowing he was there. To my amazement he recognized me after 20 years. And had a waiter make me and my date a table up front. What an honor! Charlie was a gentle kind man. My father was very strict and a WW2 master sergeant veteran that scared us kids at times. It took me years to understand why. But being on the beach in Normandy would affect anyone in those times. Charlie told me not to be afraid and that my father loved me. At 68 years old now I have never forgotten him or what he said to me. I know the angels are singing and dancing to his music. God Bless.
I have played Corcovado for 50 years , the last 25 years professionally . I always give Americans Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd full credit for helping usher in the great sound of the bossa nova . Let us not forget the master ,Tom Jobim, Joao and Astrud Gilberto, Luiz Bonfa and Laurindo Almeida.
Bossa Nova is just amazing, these musicians are something else.
The one and only, Mr. Charlie Byrd!!!!!May rest in peace....Love it!!!!Thank you for sharing.
OMG, YESss
Decades ago I had the privilege of seeing Charlie Byrd play in person several times at the West Shore Unitarian Church in Rocky River, Ohio. Consequently I was able to sit in the first row of the church so I could watch his mastery of the guitar up close and personal. At the time I was a guitar teacher but knew that I could never be as good as someone like Charlie Byrd.
Then in June of 2011 another great guitarist, Glen Campbell, was diagnosed with a terminal illness, Alzheimer's. I was aware of Glen's proficiency on guitar when I was teaching guitar in the 70's. In May of 2016 I decided to start a new CZcams channel and dedicate it to Glen (Glen Campbell - A Tribute). It currently has 400 GC videos on it and I am amazed every time I see Glen play guitar.
TWO great guitarists who have left us with a legacy of great music, Charlie Byrd and Glen Campbell.
And to think that at that time, I was living right next door in Lakewood, Ohio but was unaware of Byrd playing at the UU Church! I could use the excuse, 'I was too young to know about Charlie Byrd', but due to my older brother's superb taste in music, especially jazz, my family owned the "Jazz Samba" album and we all loved it. Plus, one is never too young to hear timeless, ageless, masterful works of music skillfully played.
I remember the first time I heard the opening of "Desafinado" on Jazz Samba. My listening life was transformed forever. So simple, so in tune harmonically and rhythmically, so Brazilian. I can hear it in my head, the soft maracas, everything just right dynamically, a sweet sound, a hip-moving slow sexy sound, a sound that demanded engagement. I liked it. Thank you, Mr. Byrd. Thank you bossa nova.
Same
I met Charlie Byrd on two different occasions in Puerto Rico at Rudy's Tenth Inning lounge in Santurce San Juan. I asked him to sit in and very graciously he said he was observing the band loved the music were playing. He also invited me to Georgetown Washington DC, and when I went he was on tour in the fat east. What a beautiful Person.
Bossa Nova is such a cool type of jazz, especially when he plays it.
Nossa nova não é jazz, é Samba
Samba*
@@FS-mf5qxSi,pero las progresiones armónicas tienen una innegable influencia netamente jazzista.
Charlie is one of my favourite jazz guitarists... His acoustic instrument is a trademark! ❤
I've always enjoyed listening to Charlie Byrd (and Stan Getz) on Jazz Samba since
I was a teenager. They were both great together and made the album a unique
snapshot of the late 60s.
I saw Charlie at Oregon Ridge in Hunt Valley, MD, back in the early eighties. I called my parents and told them they needed to come visit - that I had a surprise for them. My dad knew Charlie. More specifically, my dad was drinking buddies with Charlie's brother back in the 50's. Turns out, Charlie's brother was playing bass for him. They got to talk backstage. I also saw Charlie at Ethel's Place in Baltimore around 1985 with my girlfriend (now still my wife after 26 years). It was one of the best shows I've ever seen.
+Steve Johnson
He seems - like every great professional - very approchaeable and human. Sorry for the misspelling, but you got the drift.
+Steve Johnson
Thanks Steve for the wonderful memory you wanted to share. Much appreciated
Hi Steve, Nice write up. I was wondering if you or your Dad knew rather or not Charlie played the horses back in the day. Let me know I wanted to see if he knew someone very close to me. Thanks Vanda
My father was friends with Charlie back in the 50's. As well as Roy Clark. Roy and my dad Arthur Murray grew up in SE. DC. Where my dads parents lived until their passing. Charlie use to jam in our basement in Kensington, Md. with my dad and they're friends as we danced around in our pj's until bedtime. I don't remember if Roy was there. Years later I was in Georgetown DC. and walked into a bar where Charlie was playing not knowing he was there. To my amazement he recognized me after 20 years. And had a waiter make me and my date a table up front. What an honor! Charlie was a gentle kind man. My father was very strict and a WW2 master sergeant veteran that scared us kids at times. It took me years to understand why. But being on the beach in Normandy would affect anyone in those times. Charlie told me not to be afraid and that my father loved me. At 68 years old now I have never forgotten him or what he said to me. I know the angels are singing to his music. God Bless.
seeing these elderly men, grasping on to life by playing these melodies, seeing they still have the passion to grab and bless their instrument, letting us see their seasoned experience, it's just inspiring
These old musicians always had a cool vibe to them.. Like they didn't need anything else in the world..
What an incredible guitarist Byrd was,,, I wish I would have listened to him more through the years!!!
Lifelong passion. Pure maturity of an old-school player. That´s it!
Had the honor of hearing live several times. Definitely one of the most talented, yet underrated musicians in my humble opinion.🎼
1976, We had dinner at London Steak House on the corner of Wacker and Michigan Avenue in Chicago and listened to 2 hours of Charlie Bryd, he was wonderful. My wife loved shrimp so the ordered "Shrimp de Gabugnae, needless to say she ate my steak. It mattered not as Charlie was great, we loved every tune.
Charlie Byrd is simply amazing. Especially playing at that age, you figure that he would have lost some of his dexterity, yet he still delivers.
Used to see Charlie at Headquarters, a restaurant bar at 18th and Columbia road in DC.
Caught him in Williamsburg a few times and Raleigh NC once. Play his CDs often. Guy’s
got IT!
Sooo sweet ❤In the 1960’s this is the music my mom would play to get us going & off to school! 🤩
I was visiting Washington DC in 1981 from Australia and my friends dad noticed an ad for a furniture store promotion and they said Charlie Byrd would be playing, well blow me down with a feather, I went to this obscure furniture store and there he was playing on his acoustic just me and two other people watching and listening. chatted briefly to him, quiet sort of guy..weird story but true :)
It is true that with age, a musician's technical ability tends to wear out, but what is known as musical intelligence remains intact. Byrd was a very talented guitarist and despite any "twiggy fingers" he's playing hella good here, if you know what I mean.
Beautiful and age hasn't stopped Charlie Byrd at all. The great musicians that we all enjoyed through the years are leaving and it is truly our loss and these videos keep them alive for us....Thank you so much...
Mary Greenley j
Watching this in September 2021. This song takes me back there Corcovado...Brazil te amo
I HAVE LISTEN TO CHARLIE BYRD FOR OVER 50 YEARS AND HE HAS NEVER DISSAPOINTED ME.
He was a great guitar player and musician as well. His work provided new harmonies for the Bossa nova and Jazz scene at that time. I am grateful for this. God bless him.
I caught Charlie at University of the South in Sewanee TN in a small courtyard fall of 1972. I’ve been smitten ever since.
I bought the record as a child it still moves me!!!
from a brazilian guitar player, fan of jobim´s music: AMAZING
I don't think any guitarist has ever been more pleasing to listen to. R.I.P. great one!
Espetacular interpretação de "CORCOVADO "feita por Charlie Byrd, que mostrou que o aprendizado feito aqui no Rio em 1961, não foi em vão. Um crack.
Cley Cormack.- Rio, 28/01/2014.
OBS:- Thank you, fostexD160. Very excellent video.
I remember Charlie's place on K Street under the bridge. I was in high school and college. Thank you to my dad for dragging me there. It's only now that I realize what a gift you gave me watching this so many nights.
I saw him around this time and a year or so before. During the first show he was absolutely ON IT and it was incredible. By the second time he was still incredible but he was having a hard time, having to stop playing and waving the bassist and drummer on to play longer solos. Sad but still incredible to sit less than ten feet from this master and just let his talent wash over me. Charlie was from Chuckatuck, VA which is now a neighborhood of Suffolk and very small. I'll never forget him saying, "Earlier I was backstage and met a couple who claimed to be from Chuckatuck. Now, I travel the world and have people tell me they are from Chuckatuck all the time, but they are just putting on airs". Met him as well. Gracious and talented man. RIP Charlie.
Muito especial sua apresentação, desde que veio ao Brasil , levou o amor do nosso país , tem nos brindado com excelentes apresentações de Bossa Nova!!! Lhe admiro muito por divulgar nossa musica pelo mundo!!!
I was lucky enough to see this brilliant musician in concert on 4 separate occasions, 3 times in the very intimate "Cellar Door", in the DC area back in the early 70's. One of the most talented guitarists ever.
This Cat was one unique and gifted player.
Rest in peace, Charlie Byrd. Thank you for sharing.
I grew up in the D.C. area in the 60's and 70's. Charlie's home was in the Maryland suburbs of D.C., and he used to be a regular performer at a tiny, but, at that time, very famous club called the Cellar Door in Georgetown. I had the privilege of hearing Charlie and his trio perform there on several occasions. He has always been one of my favorite guitarists. Just an amazingly gifted performer. Not many people know, but in the very early 60's, Charlie went to Brazil, where he heard Jobim and several of the other artists responsible for the creation of Bossa Nova, and he was captivated. Charlie was the one individual most responsible for introducing Bossa Nova to the US.
I think I would include Stan Getz as well. He and Charlie introduced Bossa Nova to America on the Perry Como show, 'Saturday Night with Mr. C' in 1962.
Luiz bonfa helped introduce the bossa nova in the US too.
You got to Love Charlie Byrd and he is such a great player and whats really cool about this video...sitting beside him is the great Tal Farlow & beside him is Herb Ellis ...Major Wow ...could you imagine being in the audience ...Truly amazing men of the guitar ...alot of our inspiration comes from these men.
Sadly they are gone ......but never forgotten. They make our lives so sweet . Cheers and thankyou for posting
Dave
Calgary
Charlie Byrd, meus sinceros e humildes agradecimentos pela poesia de sua obra.
I've only recently gotten into this kind of music and Bryd is my favorite guitarist as we speak.
I grew up in Chillum Md just over the DC Line. Charlie used play Schools in the area. I saw him a few times in Elementary School and a couple of times in High School when he would perform for Assemblies. A great way to get out of class. I was blown away. Im still playing guitar 50 yrs later
Quase chegou lá , nos acordes peculiares que poucos conseguem fazer na batida do toque de um violão de nossa bossa nova que Jobim nós deixou como herança. Mas que coisa linda essa homenagem ao nosso Tom
Very special guitar player, I love this style of playing.
What a wonderful playing by ever living Charlie Byrd.My salute to the finest ambassador of Jazz guitar.May I mention that I attended his concert in 1967 when he visited Nepal.His Bossa Nova pieces were new to my ear but the music was captivating as he played the guitar with such flow and finesse.I spoke to him after the concert and sensed at once that he was wonderful also as a person ready to share thoughts and moments with others.Perhaps,any good musics may be the only language of our human kind which can bring people together to care for each other.Thank you for putting it on CZcams.
Kris Gurung.
I saw him (might have been the same year) in what was then Madras, India, when he played with his brother on bass and Bill Reichenbach on the drums. During that concert CB played both South American (Villa Lobos) and classical (F. Sor), among other marvelous pieces. He inspired me to learn classical guitar. Another true artist who graced this world and made it all the richer by his presence among us.
And yes, thanks for posting this.
@@jthomas7248 you're lucky sir! Have a great life...
Very enjoyable post.
One of our country's treasures. Look at how long he's been around, and playing like no one else could.
Charlie's Ramirez got lost in a plane/luggage mix-up back in the late 70's, and he borrowed my Guild Mark VII to do a concert here in Bradford, Pa. I still have that guitar and it is deeply memorable to me. He gave me a set of guitar strings when he returned the guitar. They consisted of Augustine red-label basses and Savarez trebles. Interesting mixture.
I first heard bossa nova on a black and white tv show called, “Run For Your Life” back in the 60’s. The lead character was in Brazil, and the show opened with the hypnotic song ‘Meditation’, by Jobim. I had no idea what style or type of music I was hearing, but my life was spent looking for someone to teach that to me. Finally, in the ‘70’s, I found a guitar teacher who was a soloist chord/melody type player. Thanks to The Good Lord that I can play that music now whenever I want to.
I.m happy with you
Damn, dat bass player dough! What a cool solo. Just real smooth and laid back.
The greatest! Charlie Byrd, my Guitar Teacher from his recordings at 70's decade when I had only 16 years old. I play all his music yet
(2008).
I saw Charlie in about 1993 in Toronto at the Guitar Bar (Top of the Senator) Small venue with nothing but sofas. Great experience.
so relaxing to listening this song when small rain going down
I saw Charlie Byrd live in Seattle in the fall of 1991, he was still going strong and played his backside off! How he got that sound on nylon strings is amazing.
Superb playing! One of the best performances I have ever heard by Charlie Byrd.
Чарли Бьярд Гений джазорой гитары и блюза...❤❤❤
Really loved this. Charlie epitomizes what one can accomplish with great passion skill and work in a lifetime.
First time I heard this tune when my brother in law wanted me to convert his old LP to digital format and I was in love with this melody.
Wonderful! I first saw Charlie at the Showboat Lounge in Washington, DC in 1958. I was hooked. I became a "regular" at the Showboat and continued as a big fan. I went to Charlie's Funeral Service in Annapolis, MD. What a service it was. Jazz, with Ketter Betts, Joe Byrd and mary of his associates. I will always listen to Charlie Byrd Music. His Brother, Joe, a great bass player just retired last year.
What is it about Brazilian music that so captivating? Byrd is working that fretboard out. Incredible.
Charlie and Bossa Nova ... beautiful combination ...
Brazil thanks
Charlie deserves a great deal of credit for bringing bossa nova to America. He heard it while touring in Brazil and could not wait to come back to tell his friend Stan Getz what he had found. The rest is history.
Truly one of the giants in jazz history!
I'm a Maryland native and Charlie loved to play at the King Of France In Annapolis. While I know I'll never be on the same level as his playing, it's always fun to hear him attack a standard song!
We lost many great jazz guitarists - Herbie Ellis, Joe Pazz, just to name a few.
A delightful video of when music was melody, harmony, and rhythm!
Ed Baran - Joppa ,MD
No doubt, Charlie Bird was/is one of the North American (USA) Best/Greatest guitarrists...
and most probably, one of the BEST Worldwide EVER.
Blues, Jazz, Classical, Latin...
Besides : Greatness is VERY Humble.
He may not have the dexterity of a young man but he makes the guitar sing :)
I also saw this show - at the Adeline Genee Theatre in East Grinstead - superb evening!
Absolutely wonderful Mr Byrd... RIP
First heard Charlie when I was about 12. My sister's boyfriend had an album Blues For Night People. Finally tracked down my own copy when I was in my 30s - and on vinyl! He is superb, always loved his stuff.
such a sweet performance
WOW WOW WOW !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
From a mad keen 73yo Aussie fan.
i saw charlie byrd and his jazz band performed in my hometown davao city philippines when i was still in college. tht's more than 30 yrs ago the memory still lingers on..
I feel like crying,,, such a talent,
I met Charlie in 1993. I was born in 1964 and my Dad loved Charlie so I remember hearing him play since I can remember. In fact, I took up nylon string guitar due to him. RIP Charlie!
My respect to one of the greatest maestro Mr. Charlie Byrd
I absolutely never tire of listening to this great master.
One of my all-time favourite Brazilian songs. Lovely thank YOU Jayne
Super nice man and very talented. I was lucky to meet him in person at an old place in Fort Lauderdale called Bubba's. I was there with classical guitar great Juan Mercadal and Mario Juan Escandel. And Mr. Bird announced that Mercadal was in the audience and that he considered him the best classical guitar player, Mr Bird then came to our table and sat with us. I will never forget that night. That was around 1979.
+acere58
Apart from the incredible talent, he seems an all right person, unassuming like all the real greats, no airs like, I'm the best, I'm Charlie Byrd and who are you ?
+acere58
By the way, thanks for sharing.
+lorenzo magazzeni : You are most welcome.
I was there at Bubba' that night.. I'm a drummer because if I had been a Guitar player I would have given up playing. Also saw him in Toronto some time later one of the most Humble Players I ever met. He remembered me from Lauderdale. and was very gracious. I was playing in Miami at "A Place For Steak" on 79th St. Causeway and invited him to stop by if he was in the area. He actually came by and our guitar player FREAKED OUT.
Bien hecho Charlie! Some innovations I had never heard before.
I saw these Great Guitar guys at Snowbird Utah. A real treat.
The previous was for Mr. Shaw. Now for dji zzah, how lucky for you. You were most fortunate to have been blessed by such a rare occasion. Theses moments one cherishes until our last breath, whether feather blown or not!
I had the great privilege of seeing him in about this same time frame. He gave a FREE concert in Bethesda - it was awesome. I got to shake his hand and mumble something about how grateful I was for his bringing bossa nova to America
I don't remember how I find this monster but when I first saw him playing... Blows my mind every single time.
- John Williams
- Paco de Lucía
- Agustín Barrios Mangoré
- Charlie Byrd
The best 4 guitarrists.
I have been a fan of Charie Byrd since the 1960s when I discovrered Basa Nova.
Charlie Byrd was, and is, incredible! Beautiful.
CB is one of all-time, big-time influences. Saw him in concert in 1978 and came away a different guitar player! Thank you Charlie.
Watch it again and again... thanks for adding!
Magnifique Charlie l'OISEAU de PARADIS !!! Merci Fostex !
Thanks to the uploader and thanks to Charlie Byrd and Tom Jobim for giving us such wonderful tunes.
Hey Joseph Sims, I went to The Showboat Lounge in DC in the early-mid 1960s. I was a regular at Charlie's "regulars night", on Wednesdays, as I recall. He told us one night he was going to Brazil for USIA on that cultural exchange -- mainly a boondoggle to meet Jobim and the other Bossa Nova artists. On his first album, "The Charlie Byrd trio", he included what may well be the first American Jazz artist's Bossa Nova song, "O Pato" (The Duck). I went to see Charlie Byrd many times. It was one of the most special times of my life and a gift and a privilege to see this incredibly talented Jazz guitarist.
I think it was less than a year before Charlie got together a 2-week-plus USIA trip back to Brazil, and it was then he really perfected his Bossa Nova style enough to record a full album. His wife suggested that he invite Stan Getz to join him. They did the recording at All Souls Unitarian Church, just a few blocks from The Showboat Lounge. Stan Getz came down on a train, the recording session couldn't have gone better and he went back to NYC that evening. Later that week, on "regulars night" the remaining members of the recording group played all the songs from the session. We were in heaven. "Jazz Samba" went on to become the best selling Jazz album ever (since surpassed by some Miles Davis recordings), and actually crossed over onto the pop charts. Bossa Nova remains very popular to this day, as well it should.
We got a special surprise while Charlie was in Brazil that second time. He told us to be sure to catch his replacement but didn't tell us much more --- and we were in for a very pleasant two weeks. This new on the scene singer/pianist came in and joined the other two members of the trio -- Keeter Betts on bass and Bertell Knox on drums -- and knocked us all out. The singer?? Why it was Mose Allison in his Washington, DC debut! He became a huge local favorite and played regular gigs at Blues Alley for the rest of his life.
I saw him in Jamaica playing this Jobim medley. He passed shortly after returning to the USA...
+Tony Matthews I saw him on 2 occasions that he visited Jamaica. I had been a fan long before that and wondered whether I'd ever get a chance to hear him in person. One of the times , I was actually in bed with fever but rested up all day so I could go in the evening! I'm sure you took pictures, Tony!
+NormanMac Hey Norman Mac,glad you were able to see and hear this...I did take some pics of him..
Wonderful Charlie!!!
Outstanding. I've been enjoying Charlie's music since I first discovered him in the '60's on the album with Stan Getz. Caught him live in Chapel Hill once. An amazing talent!!! Passed away in '99 at the young age of 74...so sad!
this is amassing , plus he was 74 years old when this is recorded ,who ever said its awful,i would like to see you play like this in your seventies!!! people usually stop playing guitar after 65, if not before,i am classical guitarist and i know how difficult this instrument is , so BRAVO for Charlie!!!
Thank you for your so supportive comment. Actually, you know, I think we're more than a lot of people would admit. In so many idioms, the "old boys" (I say this most affectionately) are by far the most touching. Years of devotion and dedication bear beautiful ripe fruits that are an utter joy to behold. Then there's Mastery; that's a case of the chosen. Viva la Musica!
As I said I saw Charlie in the 60's. He got me into classical style playing and I play his version of Girl From Impanema(?) and A Man And A Woman on classical guitar. I also use my finger nails on my steel string electric and also still play pick style. I am 69 now and I love these guys. It's hard when you get old to play. I have osteoarthritis in my fingers, but nothing stops me from playing.
a great guitar player. I was lucky enough to hear him play live in the 80s
Nice post. Charlie Byrd is a legend.