Edwin Reuben Hawkins (August 19, 1943 – January 15, 2018) was an American g… Read Full Bio ↴Edwin Reuben Hawkins (August 19, 1943 – January 15, 2018) was an American gospel musician, pianist, choir master, composer, and arranger. He was one of the originators of the urban contemporary gospel sound. He (as leader of the Edwin Hawkins Singers) was probably best known for his arrangement of "Oh Happy Day" (1968–69), which was included on the Songs of the Century list. The Edwin Hawkins Singers made a second foray into the charts exactly one year later, backing folk singer Melanie on "Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)".

At the age of seven Hawkins was already the keyboardist to accompany the family's gospel choir. Together with Betty Watson, he was the co-founder of the Northern California State Youth Choir of the Church of God in Christ, which included almost fifty members. This ensemble recorded its first album Let Us Go into the House of the Lord at the Ephesian Church of God in Christ in Berkeley, California privately (on the Century 70 custom label), hoping to sell 500 copies. "Oh Happy Day" was just one of the eight songs on the album. (The soloists in the album were Elaine Kelly, Margarette Branch, Dorothy Combs Morrison, Tramaine Davis (Hawkins), Reuben Franklin, Donald Cashmere, Betty Watson, and Ruth Lyons.)

When radio stations of the San Francisco Bay area started playing "Oh Happy Day", it became very popular. Featuring the lead vocal of Dorothy Combs Morrison, the subsequently released single (on the newly created Pavilion label distributed by Buddah) rocketed to sales of over a million copies within two months. It crossed over to the pop charts making U.S. No. 4, UK No. 2, No. 2 on the Irish Singles Chart, and No. 1 on the German Singles Charts in 1969. It then became an international success, selling more than 7 million copies worldwide, and Hawkins was awarded his first Grammy for it. Hawkins' arrangement of the song was eventually covered by The Four Seasons on their 1970 album Half & Half.

Their second Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 charts was the 1970 Melanie single "Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)," on which the label listed the performers as Melanie with The Edwin Hawkins Singers. The song peaked at No. 6 in the U.S. In the 1992 movie Leap of Faith, Hawkins is the choir master for the gospel songs.

Hawkins died on January 15, 2018, at the age of 74.

LAY DOWN
The Edwin Hawkins Singers Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown

We were so close, there was no room
We bled inside each others wounds
We all had caught the same disease

And we all sang the songs of peace

Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown

So raise the candles high
'Cause if you don't we could stay black against the night
Oh, raise them higher again
And if you do we could stay dry against the rain

Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown

We were so close there was no room
We bled inside each others wounds
We all had caught the same disease
And we all sang the songs of peace
Some came to sing, some came to pray
Some came to keep the dark away

So raise the candles high
'Cause if you don't we could stay black against the sky
Oh, oh, raise them higher again
And if you do we could stay dry against the rain

Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
You gotta lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
You gotta lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
You gotta lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown

Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh

Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh

Oh lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh

Let it all down, let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown

Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds oh oh oh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh

Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh

Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh

Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh

Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh
Uh uh uh uh

Uh uh uh uh lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown

Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown

Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Let your white birds smile up at the ones

Overall Meaning

who stand and frown

The lyrics to "Lay Down" by The Edwin Hawkins Singers speak to the need for people to come together and let go of their differences in pursuit of peace. The opening verses describe the shared pain and suffering experienced by those who have been affected by some form of strife or conflict, with the desire to find a way to heal these wounds and move forward in unity. The chorus, "Lay down, lay down, let it all down, let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown," encourages listeners to transcend their pain and anger and find hope in the beauty and innocence of nature, symbolized by the image of white birds.

The second verse touches on the idea that we are all connected in our struggles and that we share a common goal of peace. "We all had caught the same disease, and we all sang the songs of peace" reminds us that despite our differences, we are all human and have the capacity for compassion and empathy. The bridge of the song, "So raise the candles high, 'cause if you don't we could stay black against the night" serves as a call to action for listeners to come together and work towards a brighter future.

Overall, "Lay Down" is a powerful anthem for peace that speaks to the importance of unity and hope in the face of adversity. Its message of hope and perseverance is as relevant today as it was when it was first released over 50 years ago.

Line by Line Meaning

Lay down, lay down, let it all down
Take a break, let go of everything holding you back

Let your white birds smile up at the ones who stand and frown
Let your happiness shine despite those who judge and criticize

We were so close, there was no room
We were in intimacy, almost unable to be away from each other

We bled inside each others wounds
Our internal pain and wounds were shared and understood by one another

We all had caught the same disease
We all faced the same issues and struggles

And we all sang the songs of peace
We sought comfort and resolution through our music

So raise the candles high
Signify hope and light up the darkness with your candle flame

'Cause if you don't we could stay black against the night
If we do not encourage the light, we could remain in the darkness

Oh, raise them higher again
Keep raising the candles high for more light and hope

And if you do we could stay dry against the rain
If we raise the candles high, we can stay protected from the storm and its impact

Some came to sing, some came to pray
Everyone came to the same place with different intentions

Some came to keep the dark away
Some came to spread light and positivity to ward off negative energy

Uh uh uh uh
Vocalization with no specific meaning

Oh lay down, lay down, let it all down
Repeated emphasis on taking a break and letting everything go

Let your white birds oh oh oh
More emphasis on letting happiness and positivity shine through

Lyrics © CARLIN AMERICA INC
Written by: MELANIE SAFKA

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

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01Lay Down7:50

PT7M50S

The Edwin Hawkins Singers

02Blowin' In The Wind

03Oh Happy Day5:08

04I don't know how to love Him3:50

05To My Father's House5:40

06Jubilation

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Most interesting comment from YouTube:

@Morganasnotarobot0

4y↑17

Ur A Blessing! 💜♀️♂️
🔅 🌔🌕🌖🔆

Keep On Rockkn! Beautiful!....

Abrazós! 🎤 🎸 ☄
💚💖💚💖
Beautiful Blessings!
To U Bonita! 🕊️🌼🌼🌼🕊️
Amo!🕊️🌹🥀🌹🥀🌹.x.x..
May U All have All the beautiful love in the world!
Paź Amo Respect
🌾 🌬️⭐FoREVer⭐🌬️🌾⭐stay blessed⭐🥀....

All comments from YouTube:

@MelaniesafkaTheRealMelanie

6y↑1.3K

"One Night in the Netherlands: Melanie Safka, 1970, and a Performance of a Lifetime" (Jeff Suwak, September 24): https://medium.com/yawp/one-night-in-the-netherlands-melanie-safka-1970-and-a-performance-of-a-lifetime-b4d2632f9cc1

@donaldsmith3926

4y↑24

Thanks so much for the link; I'm still following bread crumbs from that article. He has great taste in music.

@kinaleybas1761

4y↑90

Never forget this song, love her voice

@Morganasnotarobot0

4y↑17

@bobnan9815

4y↑70

Powerful and beautiful voice. Thank you Melanie for the memories.

@veronamartin5285

4y↑54

Wow! Amazing! Love & Peace. 💖 Love this song! Your voice is incredible.

124 More Replies...

@nancydemello2974

12w↑556

I'm listening in 2024! RIP Melanie! Thank you for this beautiful song to remember you by!!😢

@A1exS

12w↑7

hello from Russia ^-)

@nancydemello2974

12w↑11

Hello Russia! Is it Das ver Donna! Sorry for the misspelling! Im so happy that you love Melanie's music! So profounding! What a sad day for us here in America!

@nancydemello2974

12w↑3

Donha, again, sorry for this misspelling!

@sheepsfoot2

12w↑15

Another great artist from the 1960s passes' the unsurpassed decade of music ! R.I.P Melanie !

@richardeckes509

11w↑8

One of the best

11 More Replies...

@beathiswon

12w↑528

Just saw Melanie has just passed away at 76 years old. Terrible news. I'm old enough at 65 to remember her songs in the 1960's and 70's. What a great singer/songwriter and this vid is my favorite. My heart goes out to her family and those who know her.

@USMoxi

12w↑27

Oh no. So young. This was just the best music of two decades

@abbyinokc

12w↑30

We loved the song Brand New Key. We all had skates and key. RIP

@terrywilliams8779

12w↑37

68 years young here! Loved her! Fly high beautiful lady! 🦋

@billyarnold3145

12w↑26

RIP 🙏🏻 Melanie 🕊 ✌🏻

@bertwitteveen5449

12w↑11

😢

25 More Replies...

@jodi10704

12w↑280

She sang the hell out of that. The Edwin Hawkins Singers took it to church. Even the old geezers were caught up in it. Goosebumps, a lump in the throat and a smile. She's gone but not forgotten.

@wildrover9650

12w↑5

Those old geezers went through World War two. If we live long enough we will go through World War three.

@philiphatfield5666

12w↑8

One of the great works of art in pop music.

@Themanwhocameback2

11w↑11

"Goosebumps, a lump in the throat, and a smile." Perfect description of my reaction, too.

@KittyGrizGriz

11w↑7

Definitely!! ❤❤❤

@clumpybrown

11w↑6

Well said.

6 More Replies...

@user-hu7en6ur9g

11w↑129

Few days ago we lost the baby of woodstock Melanie. She was the voice of a generation that is slowly passing.
Rest in Peace.

@bobkushell4031

12w↑252

If you’d only given the world one song, you couldn’t have given it a better one. Thank you, Melanie. RIP.

@HeartWorX.Creations

12w↑7

Well said sir…well said!!! What a hell of a voice…
just saw of her passing yesterday, another great has left us, I was about 11 when “Brand New Key” hit the air waves—but this one here, hits me in my core-DEEP DOWN INSIDE…..❤️😓🌈🙏🌞

@jennifermarlow.

11w↑4

@@HeartWorX.Creations Yes, I just came her to feel inspired, and hearing the news tears are flowing. She was one of the bestest. Take care friend! xx

@donaldleider7382

19w↑312

I’m 67 now but at 13 years old I went to Woodstock with my two older brothers ( I still have the tickets ). I Was totally transformed by the experience. Then this song came out and I was blown away by Melanie, I still have a crush on her till this day, this was the real anthem for Woodstock!

@56nickrich

13w↑21

Same here Donald ... born in 56 but I never got to Woodstock. 🎶🎸 Enjoying it still today with historical films!👍🏼

@cengeb

12w↑26

Yup, I remember that like it was yesterday. She went on stage as an unknown, local girl, next day a star is born..it was great

@rickrose5377

12w↑28

I am 70 (born 1953) and I feel exactly the same. I played this record relentlessly -- it almost never left my turntable for all of 1970. How I adored it and her.

@user-ys9zm9ge4h

12w↑29

RiP Melanie 🙏

@lhlharrison18

12w↑15

“I had never performed in front of so many people in my life. I was just thrown into it, and I had my first out-of-body experience. I was terrified, I had to leave. I started walking across that bridge to the stage, and I just left my body, going to a side, higher view. I watched myself walk onto the stage, sit down and sing a couple of lines. And when I felt it was safe, I came back,” Melanie told Rolling Stone

13 More Replies...

@toniatchison3678

12w↑202

Today, 1/24/24, they announced this lovely lady left this world. This is my favorite song of hers. Thank you, Melanie, for the love and music you gave us over the years.

@amir4r803

12w↑10

Amen

@jennifermarlow.

11w↑3

Yes, oh my heart, yes! xx

@martinharris4148

8w↑1

And I discovered that she married a Ukranian man, so very appropriate we should sing along with her! Thank you Melanie for your gifts. ❤

@candidasmith9623

7w↑2

❤Rip Melanie

@quaich14

12w↑138

Still listening in 2024 as I hear of her passing. Everyone is singing with the beautiful talented Melanie RIP

@LuckyLarue-ij3vn

What wonderful comments from all Melanie and this anthem have always touched me so deeply

@scribblerjohn1

43w↑152

"We bled inside each other's wounds." Possibly the most powerful line in the history of American music.

@neillore

12w↑12

You’re not kidding!

@Jett7182

12w↑6

❤❤❤❤❤

@0001nika

12w↑2

Amen

@redspice55

12w↑5

RIP Melanie 😢💔

@michaelhoffman5486

10w↑1

yup it was the times man quite a peak

1 More Replies...

@sixspeedsuzy

12w↑231

Thank you Melanie for giving us this beautiful song. And in 2024 we need it more than ever. Sad to learn of her passing.

@birdsfan57

12w

Well, AT LEAST we still have Taylor Swift...😆😏🤮😞😥

@GilGettes-ki5jh

12w↑4

She was Loved by All!

@connienavarette1948

12w

Thank you Melanie for giving us this beautiful song. In 2024 we need it more than ever. Sad to learn of her death at 76.

@freddexta3363

12w↑1

@@birdsfan57 Hmm yeah a bit like comparing instant coffee to the real thing

@KittyGrizGriz

11w↑1

@@birdsfan57Leave, Taylor. Alone., 😂
We can appreciate all forms-genres of music w/o putting each other down.
Melanie was able to articulate her Woodstock experience with lyrics-song. And that Voice, ❤, Chills inducing.
“Some came to sing, some came to pray,
Some came to keep the dark away”🎶🕯️🕯️🕯️🕊️

7 More Replies...

@851Sharon

12w↑146

I am listening to this song with tears rolling down my face after reading that you are gone. The face of an angel. The voice of an angel. Now you are an angel. Thank you Melanie for the joy your music brought to the world. I raise my candle high in your honor.

@nia-zq8oe

12w↑11

🕯🌧😢 such a beautiful people

@johnegli1308

12w↑12

Same here. Tears streaming. RIP Melanie

@tinalilly7167

12w↑5

DITTO 🙏🏽😭🫶🏼🥰🦋🕊️💫❤️‍🩹💔♥️☮️

@jennifermarlow.

11w↑4

Me, too. Goddess, you will be missed! xx

@KittyGrizGriz

11w↑4

Melanies music-song “Touched” all of us, such a powerful voice and message. PEACE. ❤❤❤

2 More Replies...

@77sprglde

12w↑107

67 and here in '24, great song!
RIP Melanie.

@amir4r803

12w↑8

Amen

@kevind7422

12w↑106

Glorious voice, heavenly spirit!
True story: she had the graciousness to pick me up hitchhiking to high-school c '71, fame already in her pocket (I lived 20m away & missed my bus). Her family lived in the area. Couldn't take my eyes off her angelic face. Don't remember much of the chit-chat but that it was friendly and kind.

@chrisdevalcourt648

12w↑16

What a precious memory! Thank you for sharing it.

@freddfezzo8524

12w↑6

Technically, that is hitchhiking. But Kev, really, you could have taken a later bus!! Intercity hitching is fun, but cross-country is more formidable. Glad she picked you up. You have a story you shared. Nice

@FrankStewart-go7zr

12w↑5

Cool!

@Hatbox948

10w↑2

Awesome!

@cocoaorange1

10w↑3

Lucky for you, she was a decent person, there are nutty people out there, then and now.

1 More Replies...

@ttgyuioo

2y↑1.6K

23 years old and she is a superstar! Awesome! Who's still listening in 2022?

@jasonlynn1017

2y↑65

Anyone of any age with a soul.

@jamesslick4790

2y↑24

@@jasonlynn1017 I can't even REMEMBER being 23! Let alone laying down a TIMELESS track!

@juliegoulart8416

2y↑38

Grew up on this Song that my older sisters played on the record player....still gives me Goosebumps!

@jamesewanchook2276

2y↑36

i am I'm going to do a cover of this btw. Democracies: Send brave Ukrainians everything they need pronto; let them put an end to Putin's folly. Slava Ukraine 🇺🇦🇨🇦!!

@jamesslick4790

2y↑29

@@jamesewanchook2276 FROM USA with love and hope for Ukraine 👍👍👍👍

242 More Replies...

@patriciabecker2062

12w↑69

At 68 years young, I consider this the very best music era
I loved Melanie and was so sad to hear of her passing. I listened /watched this video every week for several years. I will miss all of the contributions to music that Melanie gave us. Rest in peace. Love always ❤

@jlbaker2000

11w↑3

Same age here. I'm in total agreement.

@Watson1

11w↑67

Today is the 2nd of February 2024. And I have just heard that this angel has passed away. God I loved her. Always have. Such a joy to watch and listen to.
You will be missed. Bye my angel.

@leighbennington9457

39w↑249

I'm 63 and still listening to this in 2023, it still sounds brilliant.

@karenmurray3682

33w↑4

Me too❤

@cynthiadavis3749

32w↑2

64. ❤

@leighbennington9457

32w↑5

@cynthiadavis3749 Melanie has such a powerful voice and sings with so much feeling.

@aliceinwonderland887

31w↑7

1970 peace and love. There was no better time to be alive.

@rodgerhoneycutt4154

29w↑2

8 More Replies...

@rustyking8783

1y↑288

This isn't just a song. It's a force of nature.

@bethbeyer8441

39w↑18

Perfect description

@lichtloper

12w↑54

In memory of Melanie Safka:
Let us light a candle for this beautiful singer.

@levalpat

14w↑143

At the age of 71 and with decades of listening to music, this song is in my lifetime’s top 20

@williamjackson8719

12w↑6

im 71 ...fall qtr 71 ....this was my favorite son ....and brand new key ...im in a funk over this news

@williamjackson8719

12w↑1

song

@kevinmahoney5923

12w↑6

I am six years your junior and I while I missed out on participating in the songs of love and peace with you, I still felt them deeply, unlike most kids my age. Much of the angst, rage we saw as a result of the war, MLK, RFK and other things was expressed so eloquently in song by you and your friends, and I dare say there has not been a generation before or since who have so dared to take on the world as they saw it in this way and none other who got it so right .

@JatikaManigault-qu7uc

12w↑1

Right there with chew...

@peterschancel7223

12w↑2

My first crush

3 More Replies...

@atlantisnewman1722

39w↑322

She sings her guts out. The epic Edwin Hawkins Singers elevate this masterpiece.

@billbailey7302

35w↑15

Edwin's keyboards and her voice WOW !!!!!

@davidrosenbaum226

34w↑13

She’s got a set of pipes as well as a whole lot of poise.

@davidrosenbaum226

34w↑10

I went to Woodstock (1969), but when I heard this song in 1970, I really didn’t get that it was about the festival! I was 20 years old; I’m in my early 70’s now and love this performance!!!

@johnhargis4566

28w↑4

I was 12 when this song was played on radio looked forward to hearing it all day

@KittyGrizGriz

25w↑3

Isn’t this fantastic?!! LOVE! 🫶🫶🫶

5 More Replies...

@BigTexan59

1y↑57

Anyone else listen to this 20-15 times in a row like I did?

@PHL76Music

12w↑4

I did that from the time the record first came out.

@leemehan

12w

U know it!!!

@AnnLippert1

12w↑2

i searched for the lyrics so i could appreciate it even more.

@soulheartdiva

12w

Yep! I used to watch this performance on “ Now Explosion “ pop show on television in the 70s

@mayasilliman1465

12w↑33

Can't believe I have to write this today. Melanie has passed this plane. The world has an empty space. RIP Sweet Lady.

@Ms_Nightshade

12w↑42

When I was a little girl I would listen to my parents records and lived to sing along. They were part of the US peace movement in the 1960’s-70’s and had a small selection of their favorite artists. I found Melanie’s record among them and can still sing every word. I’m 46 now and share her voice with my own kids.
THANKS FOR THE MUSIC & LIGHT!!! RIP, beautiful Melanie~
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

@MrZootalores

12w

Melanie is like a fine Madeira wine to the ears:sweet,dark and powerful!💌

@lucylennon533

22w↑58

My mother was friends w/Melanie's father. One day he was at our house in N.J. Mom said show my friend what you got today. I ran in my room and grabbed Melanie's debut album. He saw that and a big smile came on his face.

@Hatbox948

10w↑2

So cool!

@lucylennon533

10w↑2

@@Hatbox948 actually, at that time (1970) we just assumed we just bought Melanie's "1st" album, but now I know "Candles In the Rain" was her 3rd. The first 2 weren't very popular.

@debbieschmidling8158

9w↑2

❤❤❤

@lucylennon533

@@debbieschmidling8158Hi 🙋‍♀️ a half century later at that day seems like yesterday.

@billw1266

27w↑70

Don’t forget the power of the Edwin Hawkins Singers. Beautiful song. So inspiring. 👏👏

@nadiaddis1145

12w↑1

I heard this version/performance with a fare first time today on K LOS Sunday January 28th in LA! And now we know where Bono and U2 got the idea from ( for Still Haven't Found)

@KittyGrizGriz

11w

That’s so Right! 🥰 Correct!

@MWLUCKY

12w↑44

I miss you already Melanie. Thank you for lighting up our hearts. This song is the antidote to what we’re all going through right now.

@Kim-yy8kl

12w↑3

So true

@Internutt2023

12w↑39

One of the most beautiful songs from someone who IMO could be considered as the best of human beings ever. No controversies, no drama, just a person sharing her joy and talent with the world. This version is amazing in the fact that the production and performance are truly astounding, the choice of The Edwin Hawkins singers for accompaniment is wonderful, and considering that no modern artist would even think of not lip syncing to a pre-recorded auto tuned performance like this is even more amazing. I consider Grace Slick to have one of the best female vocalist voices from that time, but Melanie is a direct competitor as a toss up, she can sing clear pitched notes at a great projection, or a soft whisper that draws you in as well. R.I.P. and thank you for sharing your joy with us.

@Roy-mw5js

11w

Yesterday's Aurora Asknes❤

@MeleskiwMaryLeskiw

1y↑510

68 years old and this song still gives me the chills.

@timhunt1482

1y↑14

She was just very gorgeous and talented I wish it was the 70s again time stand still!

@nerkfumgogi798

1y↑5

@@timhunt1482 nooo time should keep going into the next 70s so i can tell my grandkids how much better it was 100 years ago.

@robertbell2225

? Hey girl I'm sexy 82 that's comical as just reading your post

@susanhughes4890

1y↑5

Queen of cool! Love her.

@robertthacher2660

@@timhunt1482 Time just won't do that!

32 More Replies...

@lesleymorgan01

39w↑145

What would the world be like today if we'd carried this kind of energy forward? Melanie, you are amazing.

@ZenarchersLair

12w↑23

Transcendental performance. She had so much of that youthful exuberance of the times. Condolences to her family and friends.

@user-nv4mj5rb4n

12w↑50

Hitchhiking across country in '71 - returning to my hometown after being re-classified 4D - stumbled into Chicago and heard about an outdoor concert happening that night at one of the universities. The war was still raging, but Melanie singing about peace gave us some hope. So thank you for that Melanie. Thank you so much!

@sandburgmartin7947

11w↑1

Bless you brother. 4A, proud, but enlisted, served, and found a lot of guys that loved America but hated the war. (Just look who is a trading partner for big business now).
Anyway THANKS for not claiming bone spurs, shin splints, or "wealth"deferment.

@ricardoduran2293

25w↑115

I'm 81 yrs old I still love her voice! She is wonderful.

@malcolmwhite6588

13w↑7

look up some songs she sings with Miley Cyrus! Miley is respectful and does great justice to both the song and Melanie-and Melanie still has a great voice

@redspice55

12w↑2

RIP Melanie 😢💔

@malcolmwhite3567

12w↑2

@@redspice55 how sad I was just going to reply. What do you mean RIP? She is still alive and then I saw she passed away just a day or two ago😞

@redspice55

12w↑2

@@malcolmwhite3567 Yes,, on the 23rd. Very sad. You just imagine your favourite singers will live forever, and then they don't. 😢 She had such a powerful voice.

@gordonmanley9377

12w↑3

Some things just hit you and stay with you.This was Melanie for me.Onward sister

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@raisedbywolves100

16w↑72

When Melanie sings that verse "So raise the candles high..." you can just feel it all the way to your toes.

@patriciabecker2062

12w↑1

It still gives me goosebumps, literally ❤ beautiful song 🎵 😍 ♥️

@connorduke4619

12w↑2

Yes, because that mirror raising the inner light within you - your kundalini - which is the main reason you came to Earth to do.

@12thDecember

12w↑27

I have always adored Melanie. Bought her first two albums and wore them out. I did not know the back story of this song. Watching and listening to her sing gives me chills. No autotune, no pitch correction, just a pure and powerful voice. RIP, sweet Melanie. You made the world a better place.

@sheilajohnson1616

12w↑72

What happened to a world that wanted t o include everyone. To embrace everyone. To feel everything. To move forward. So sad tonight. RIP Melanie. Thank you for wanting to even try.

@babskaz74

11w

May my children see peace in their lifetime 🙏

@williamburns4088

11w

God bless!

@quietjohn5523

11w

Yes you're right. I thought we would have progressed so much more as a species in my lifetime. And we haven't. Hopefully my children will see it. They are so much more enlightened than I was.

@sandburgmartin7947

11w

Most who are septaugenarians now felt and feel as you do about acceptance and peaceful co-existence on a clean decent planet. Unfortunately it was the other self centered smaller group that did not. Then they passed it to their next generation. Combined that was the start of the fouled up polarization that exists today. Peace✌️

@americanman4746

10w

Human nature will never let you have that utopian dream.

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@nja3224

3y↑1.6K

If I knew I only had 7 minutes of life left, I might queue this song up and have it take me out. I feel like I can ride to heaven on it, with no fear. There is something remarkable about this song.

@sosylvie

3y↑35

Beautiful sentiment :)

@Nan-59

3y↑29

I soo agree!!! Soo agree!

@jpollardbookseller

3y↑24

I share your sentiments.

@TheUrfster

3y↑27

Beautifully said

@blandcrowder

3y↑26

Well put. Was she ahead of her time? I think she is hugely talented. This song shows it best.

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@ttgyuioo

25w↑29

Now this is music....real music...there will never be music like this ever again. Glad i was there 😀😀🌿🌿.…Class of 78

@chrisdevalcourt648

12w↑1

Class of 68!

@infinitecontent8001

12w

Wait, you were THERE LIVE??!

@chrisdevalcourt648

12w↑1

Well, he sure wasn't there dead! Haha 😂!

@KittyGrizGriz

11w

‘77 here!! ❤☮️🕯️

@GLD-hopeful

12w↑17

RIP Melanie. You left so much beautiful music for the world. Thank you for touching my heart even as a 14 year old when I saw you in concert, about 1970. I still love your music. God bless your family.

@JD-eg6wb

12w↑15

RIP, beautiful Melanie. ❤️ A beautiful mantra for 1970 and still a perfect mantra for 2024.❤️

@KittyGrizGriz

11w

A Mantra for, Forever!! ☮️☮️☮️

@Cheesus4jesus

1y↑363

This is real singing! I still get chills every time I hear this song. No auto tuning and production maneuvers. Pure talent emanating from every voice.

@hermanblume275

1y↑4

Ain't it sumpin?

@wbertie2604

52w↑1

She starts off a bit flat (nerves?) but soon gets over it and gets back in tune

@firebird6522

48w

Yeah, real singing by the Hawkins Singers. But Melanie Safka is just screaming. Melanie, Janis Joplin and Bob Dylan couldn't hold a tune to save their lives. The host could have just grabbed a random person out of the crowd and I'd bet real money that person could come in cold and perform better than Melanie.

@lionhead123

47w

@@firebird6522 aw, poor you. you know nothing about singing.

@jgunther3398

40w↑4

@@wbertie2604 🤡

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@triode8239

4y↑628

I was at DaNang during 1970 and I loved this song. I'm 70 years old now and have maybe another 3-5 years left. I wish the young would listen.

@stevious7278

4y↑28

You and me both. brother. I wish they would too. Where are the singers with messages like this today? Sad.

@mathmusic1490

4y↑41

I'm 70 too....they were about to draft me, maybe to Nam, but my vision was horrible. Let's pray you have more than 3-5 left, Pentode!

@marynatani5119

4y↑17

We 70 year olds have to share our experience, strength and hope with them. They can learn a lot from us and we from them. Hang in there and share the love, brother.

@gocirf3433

4y↑6

Amen just missed the draft 57 now and I thank you ,my grandfather was killed in ww2

@irishpatti2736

4y↑19

@Pentode
THANK YOU KINDLY for YOUR SERVICE! My Brother did 3 Tours of VIETNAM ~ Was Never the Same! Died at 50 from The DRAGON in the BOTTLE ! PEACE be With You
🍀😇🍀

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@kevind4850

12w↑7

Be a candle and a light for others. Thank you Melanie for the memories.

@ejames3396

12w↑16

What a monumental tribute to love and brotherhood thank you Melanie. You were one of a kind and will be missed greatly.

@patnewman1

2y↑521

This song still gives me goose bumps. She is an incredible talent.

@PompetusDad

2y↑12

Whoa, I'm feeling you, so many memories, i saw her album today digging in a pile of thrift shop mantovanis. What a voice, gonna clean it and blast it thru the night scratches and all.

@ellaweaver4187

2y↑8

Me tooo!✌️

@mafia2mom

2y↑4

Me too!

@gregorydiatchenko8464

1y↑5

She is awesome!

@donnamauro5117

1y↑2

70s music always told story's you can relate to

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@thewatcher1120

2y↑300

As I approach my 70th birthday, I still reflect on the first time I heard this song and the pure dynamic energy it radiates, even today. Melanie, you are absolutely where it’s at darling! ❤

@jaycorby

1y↑16

I turned 77 in September. This music has been my rock & sanity for 50+ years. CSN & Y, Joni Mitchell, Pure Prarie League, Poco and many, many others are still above and beyond anything produced before or after them. I know we can't go back or stay back, but if the multiverse theory is correct, perhaps this era is still 'going on' in some universe or dimension, and someday humans will figure out how to check in to any of them. The best we have now are visual and auditory recordings of the past. The smells? Well, I guess you had to 'be there' in person.

@russelsellick316

1y↑13

I'm 69...so...I feel this in my bones!

@johnblecker4206

1y↑11

@@russelsellick316 She was a Foxy Lady at Woodstock with a voice that I will never ever forget and it was worth my time to walk through that huge crowd and get to the second row from the stage to see her play that first evening.

@gerardwashack7097

1y↑4

Me too brother, I am 69 also.

@arnoldnordrum4892

1y↑1

After All the tunes I've listened to she still bring back some things I haven't seen.and old feelings.03/03/2023

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@BenLapke

12w↑11

R.I.P. Melanie. Thank you for all the great songs. You brought so much joy to so many people.

@g.y.u3649

11w↑20

RIP Melanie...."Lay Down" was our anthem of the 60s and 70s....a religious experience

@tjvanpopta

4y↑672

The days when you could sit and listing to a natural singer. No flashing lights, no effects, no suggestive moves, no gimmicks. When music was music. Pure and simpel. Glad i grew up then.

@GlennYoung0427

4y↑11

No background dancers to deflect the no-talent star.

@bgm1236

4y↑9

I was 8 yrs. old when this song came out. It was a great time for sure.

@lynncalderaro2739

4y↑3

God thank you for the Truth 🙏🙌 of the simplicity of Life

@lynncalderaro2739

4y↑5

Sing it and sing it loud sister 😂...

@lynncalderaro2739

4y↑6

Love love ❤️

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@theoe2879

1y↑54

In '71 I was in a talent show in my Grammer school. I sang this song wearing bell-bottoms and a leather vest with tassels.
I had 3 girls sing back up and my teacher, Mrs. DeMay played piano.
We took 2nd place to a CCR lip-sync. I was 10 ✌️peace and love to all us old hippies.
This song never gets played anywhere, so whenever I get a chance to walk into a bar I put this song on the CD jukebox and watch who looks up. All my love to Melanie 💘

@antoniodelrio1292

1y↑5

Boy, wouldn't that be a great video to see!! Thanks for sharing!

@C_Dana

12w↑8

I remember when she burst upon the scene after Woodstock. May she rest in peace. So sad to hear today that she had passed.

@bentleyjohnson7123

12w↑13

Wow. What a voice!!! Had no idea she would sound better live!! Didn’t think it was possible!!! This song was one of my all-time favorite anthems ever, since I was a little kid!! Thank you Melanie!! So sad to hear of her passing!! RIP💙💙

@spacep0d

1y↑157

Man the song 'Lay Down' with the Edwin Hawkins Singers is incredible! Goosebumps here too. Listening in 2022.

@seanseoltoir

Nawh, the chorus singers ruined what would have been a good song...

@samuelgates5935

1y↑3

@@seanseoltoir 😈😈😈😈👿👿👿👿👿

@jackieguccione94

1y↑1

@@seanseoltoir you must be nuts

@bynch

33w

@@seanseoltoir😂

@sandraschmidt4200

4y↑841

Still get choked up listening to her, today's female singers can't hold a candle to Melanie.🎸🎶

@tonymason1395

4y↑8

Sandra Schmidt what singer these could perform like this with brilliant backing singers

@MrRWager56

4y↑5

They had to... Lay down their candles, in the rain! LOL

@philipweidenborner1302

4y↑11

Joni Mitchell same category

@donaldfrazier5508

4y↑3

Yup. Singing to the chord.

@ffjsb

4y↑11

I really get tired of all this whining about how singers "today" (same whine has been going on for 50 damn years or more...), it's just NOT TRUE.
Adele
Lauren Daigle
etc., etc.

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@lt6577

12w↑11

RIP Melanie Safka. No other singer surpassed you when I was a teenager IMO.

@MarkTulsa2024

12w↑14

Such an angelic voice. She's singing with the angels now 😢

@garyfricke7618

3y↑187

AT 66, I HAVE TEARS HEARING THIS SONG, IT BRINGS ME WAY BACK TO VERY SPECIAL, PRECIOUS DAYS & TIMES LONG SINCE GONE.

@tonibenedict5751

3y↑5

Me too...67 here!

@georgepowers9213

3y↑7

I am with ya bought the 45 wore it out brings me back to the old days

@mieczyslawpytel6481

3y↑4

Alnost 70 and I too have tears in my eyes

@dleet86

3y↑1

66 and I got tears and goosebumps. LBJ's tape to Dirkson about Nixon going behind his back to get South Vietnam to cancel the ceasefire aka peace treaty to hurt Humphry is out on PBS radio. The death toll was 37,500 and 3,750,000 dead Asians. The pro-life party sentenced 22,000 Americans and 2,200,000 Asians to death for a campaign tactic...and 4 SCOTUS seats. Nixon signed it in 1973.

@s.breedlove701

3y↑2

@@dleet86 61 years and this song also makes me cry. Such an awesome song

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@bohemiasb281

29w↑29

So much passion and talent and soul—this is one of the most moving recordings I’ve ever seen…

@levalpat

14w↑1

Yes, we were optimistic and very naive… and i wish i still felt that way!

@johnleblanc3552

12w↑12

RIP Melanie. Thank you for all the music! 😭😭

@sherrirodriguez3547

12w↑13

Just got the notification she’s passed. RIP, you were an amazing singer/songwriter ❤️

@antarcticorb9197

19w↑20

I'm in tears from the powerful memories this evokes.

@tarabird7392

1y↑152

She is so underrated! One of the most beautiful artists! ❤️

@howie9751

1y↑3

Many good songs on her albums as well as her singles.

@djk0811

48w↑2

always one of my favs - she has an undescribable edge I can't get enough of

@CarlosMesa-mk1vp

32w↑1

Hi good day " jua.jua.jua "??? Demas que nos les tramo el original suena mejor " ji.ji.ji "???" The charly"??? El master cuando tienes la mano ho dedos en el se siente "??? Dice el liche"???

@bennettjoseph1481

12w↑13

So sorry to hear of Melanie's passing. This song and this performance is magic.

@CLord-gs7nj

12w↑7

RIP dear sweet talented Melanie.Your music lives on forever.

@perryjohnson6248

1y↑175

I was 10 years old Back in 1970 when I first heard that song and I'm 62 years old now and I'm still listening to it and it never gets old with me I hope Melanie is alive and well and doing good for yourself thank you for listening to me y'all have a blessed and wonderful life and everything thank you very much

@bobansiel

1y↑10

62 and enjoyed her as a kid, beautiful soul.

@trishcooley5810

1y↑11

I’m 62 & this song moved me when I was just 10/11 years old also! It moves me even more today!!

@timhunt1482

1y↑10

I know brother I remember this back in the seventies too and I'm starting to cry right now I can't help it she's beautiful

@philmullins136

1y↑9

I'm also 62. Last month. I remember this song from childhood. It made an emotional memory for me that I still have today. Best wishes to you.

@annecyle

1y↑9

Same 63 and this song this choir ❤

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@tammyandersonparker3068

4y↑1.8K

This made me weep. We who grew up in the 60's and 70's had such high hopes of total World Peace and Brotherly Love by now 😥

@michaelmccurry9947

4y↑10

Yes, $$$ is god.

@gdub999tube

4y↑26

I am 100% with you on this one.

@tdotjazzberryram61

4y↑71

I too thought we as a planet were on an upward trajectory , but we forgot, there are always snakes in the grass lying in wait, praising darkness as their God ,mammon and hatred, bigotry . IMPERFECT AS WE ARE, WE ARE STILL HERE 😚✌✌🖐👍💜💜💜 . Never give up the fight For LIGHT !

@ChildOfThe1970s

4y↑59

There will be peace when Jesus returns and only then because we as humans often cannot control our selfish and warlike nature. It will take something much higher than us to fix this mess and it can only be Christ.

@hueydoc

4y↑29

Yet "Equality" turned into Affirmative Action racism

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@emilynrory

12w↑5

RIP, Melanie. This song will live forever - thank you ❤️❤️❤️❤️

@lightlyone

7w↑3

This always chokes me up. At 76, I remember the hope and music of the time so well.

@CapinCooke

This song always brought a tear when I played it in the 70s. At 72 today, I am wiping away many just finding out that this beautiful light has gone out. RIP dear lady.

@temeculajoe

4y↑2.1K

Who is watching this classic 60s song in 2020

@donandlorikowalchuk4840

4y↑72

We who grew up in this period will always remember the music that shaped our lives. 60's and 70's were unparalleled for music. I only wish I could have been around when the likes of Patsy Cline and Buddy Holly were taking the world by storm (born in '59). Thank goodness for Youtube and keeping the music alive!

@Soul63DBH

4y↑39

Love the music we grew up with☮😅💘
Touches my core!!
Still listening, and will until leaving to the next life 🥰

@gwarlow

4y↑6

temeculajoe You are.

@Beckala67

4y↑17

And belting it out in the bathroom!

@davidgibbs381

4y↑39

Still digging it 50 years later !!

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@MichaelandCathy1999

3y↑606

My younger wife asked me why I’m crying, how could I explain it, I’m 64 and this is my music
P.S. Worst news ever…..this voice has passed on to R&R Valhalla, January 26,2024 at 76 years old. Was still recording up to last year 2023

@richardcobey9415

3y↑14

I hear ya

@fixedshelf

3y↑10

exactly.

@jackieblue787

3y↑7

Damn. My husband doesn't get it, I'm born in 65. He's born in 70.

@corvairkid63

3y↑14

read you comment and burst out crying.

@jimmycarson2955

3y↑10

I was 5 when this song was released and I couldn't understand why I liked it. I'm 56 now and now I understand...

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@johnmccormick8159

12w↑8

😥 Melanie, you brought such beauty into this world. You'll live forever in our hearts.

@delmadehoyos1946

12w↑7

I am 65 and have known the words by heart since it first came out. Lovely lady, awesome voice; such true, succinct, words and message. Edwin Hawkins singers were perfect for this song.

@GeorgePaquette

47w↑56

She was so awesome in time! Beautiful, beautiful voice, beautiful song.😊😊😊

@zelphx

3y↑180

50 years later, and I STILL cry when I hear this. So powerful.

@zelphx

3y↑5

I was FLOORED to have gotten your attention; I considered these channels to be on "auto-pilot", or fan-hosted. Your "heart" meant a LOT to me... my wife can testify, having emotionally shared it with her. All these years later, you will NEVER be defined as ANYTHING less than the anthem you fronted with the Edwin Hawkins Singers. I taught HS History for 30 years... my students got to see and/or hear this and were moved, as well.

@rhondaeverett8284

2y↑6

Because its pure truth.

@rogerdeschenes6749

2y↑3

It is just that beautiful

@jameshajjar9040

2y↑3

I'm 68, and this still chokes me up. We had plenty of problems back then, but mass shootings by crazed teenagers wasn't one of them.

@rogerdeschenes6749

Yup

@johnnie135

12w↑8

This woman died today. How wonderful you left us with your message in this song. Peace out.

@freddfezzo8524

12w↑9

Giving myself a little Melanie concert as a memorial. She belted this OUT of the park. I wait for certain notes with eyes closed. The audience clapped, but that was the only body part which moved. Probably arthritis.

@altafadam7345

3y↑217

And even today, at age 67, 52 years after hearing it, it moves my soul and makes me cry..especially when I hear "some came to keep the dark away.." Look, what they have down to my world, Ma?

@HarryCHAMBZ

3y↑9

My mother turned 67 yesterday. Today we listened to this song in the car on the way to visit my father. It came on and she said "Aw Melanie!" And started talking about her '69 Woodstock album.

What a time in history to have been youthful during, and still with us today seeing how far/down everything has come.

@spyros96

2y↑5

68 and I feek the same!!!

@dawnjohnson3263

2y↑1

@@HarryCHAMBZ word

@jasonlynn1017

Our World, the world for the high in love fully living thinking feeling. Maybe by 1984 all so many who turn coated against the 60s should have fought the phony choices of Master/Slave, Woman vs Man, Compassion vs Victory, Pleasure vs Power, Republican vs Democrat, the whole world bifurcated to a lie. Yes. But maybe in 1984, there was one fork that, however, had signified the healthy from the pathological: Melanie, Beautiful People, or, Madonna, Material Girl. Well guess what.

@michaeljames2400

1y↑1

I was there August 1969.

@stevevalkos6308

4y↑357

Melanie, please get a big choir and do a huge flash mob of this song. AMERICA NEEDS YOU MORE THAN EVER.

@NatandGeorge

3y↑5

Maybe after covid is beaten?

@Mike-yg8ig

3y↑9

Yeah, I hear you brother. But America doesn't deserve the likes of Melanie Safka anymore. We let it get away...sorry to say.

@Mike-yg8ig

3y↑8

Covid is the flu.

@Mike-yg8ig

3y↑1

@@joemarks5985 Yes brother.

@sandrakemkers3158

3y↑1

the world! Steve.

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@marthahubbard9463

11w↑7

As a 15 year old trying to figure out who I was in 1971, Melanie’s songs were something I would get lost in. I dreamed about what I imagined Woodstock was like and thought it romantic to be able to be surrounded by music of my generation. Throughout the years I would listen to her music and go back in time for a little while of youth and big dreams of peace and love and beautiful music.

@BrianCarnevaleB26

12w↑9

Melanie, Singer Who Performed at Woodstock and Topped Charts With ‘Brand New Key,’ Dies at 76
The singer, who wrote 'Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)' based on her experience at Woodstock, had been at work this month on a covers album.

RIP
THANK YOU FOR THE INSPIRING MUSIC.

you had so much heart!

@user-se7vt5ow4e

2y↑107

I was in the Army way back then this song helped through some dark and trying times.

@elizabethreid9448

2y↑6

Thank you for your service. I mean it.

@TheSandra48

1y↑5

TY for your service.

@gregoryalt9366

1y↑5

Thank you brother...

@frankingenito

2y↑310

What a beautiful performance! The Edwin Hawkins singers sound blessed by God. Melanie has such a unique and wonderful voice. She can sing with fragile beauty and then unleash real power. She has kept putting out great music over the years (in her seventies and still singing today) but has been sadly overlooked by most people. I'm now starting to purchase more of her music and plan to buy her whole catalog. She is a truly underrated gem in music.

@rodneymiller5926

😂😂🤣

@dawnjohnson3263

@@rodneymiller5926 are you backward

@richardkougasian7866

2y↑5

I'm 65. When I feel hopeless I listen to Melanie and other like minded musicians of my youth. It may not solve my overwhelming depression but it sure does help.

@rodneymiller5926

2y↑9

@@richardkougasian7866 No Jesus, No Peace.
Know Jesus, Know Peace.

@SDeanP

2y↑4

While I cannot prove it, I suspect Melanie's voice is what Stevie Nicks studied and emulated and rose to stardom behind.

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@cherricoleman2319

12w↑16

Rest in peace, Melanie! Your music has brought me such joy from the time I was a child. I'm 62 now and the joy is still there. So sad to see you go. Thank you for all you gave. ❤😢

@rachelrachel3146

12w↑6

There will never be another Woodstock..I was way too young to go but my tent went with my cousin. It came back in pieces ..glorious beautiful pieces. Melanie paints an intimate portrait of this beautiful event, May she rest in Forever Paradise 🎶💫✨♥️

@howielong2835

6y↑320

Melanie poured everything she had into this song. It turned out to be one of the greatest songs of it's era!

@IPAddy-yi3cv

4y↑10

@MOTORCYCLE GUITAR { WE CAN WORK IT OUT }
"THEY" do? Um, correct me if i'm wrong ( for I was only six at the time of this song's release) but here on planet Earth wasn't there was a song called "Brand New Key"...oh, wait and also another called "Look What they've Done to my Song"? Yes...yes indeed there was. Both written by the one and only Melanie who also penned the above "Candles in the Rain". All three massive hits...(should I mention #1 hits?). So, "THEY" should know that Miss Melanie couldn't be a one hit wonder even if one desired it to be so.
P.S- Hey, this wouldn't be the same "They" as the They Melanie referred to in her hit song"Look What they've Done to My Song", now would it?
Je pense que oui, peut-être ; )

@cherylalt101

4y↑2

I.P Addy And Beautiful People, one of my favorite Melanie songs! She was an authentic hippie chick!

@garypeatling7927

3y↑2

Melanie always pours everything into her songs

@birdzilla106

3y↑459

This still gives me chills. I've had a 50 year crush on Melanie Safka and there's no evidence of it abating any time soon. It's church and Woodstock all in one beautiful package!

@uralbob1

3y↑18

Sorry buddy, I called first dibs! Seriously, she was and still is beautiful in all ways.

@danlandavazo1506

3y↑8

I so agree! Our time.

@sallyperkins8376

P hi

@gypsydavefreeman

3y↑9

I was 8 years old when this song came on the radio while I was in the barn milking cows & running the farm equipment.
That voice is so heartfelt!
A lifelong crush has ensued with Melanie!

@mikededo9455

3y↑8

You too huh? I was the only guy that graduated in 1985 with Melanie posters all over his bedroom.

9 More Replies...

@Josef12056

12w↑6

Melanie Safka, what a voice and beautiful personality. May she rest in peace. Condolences to her family.

@stu3700

12w↑15

I just cried watching this. I mean really cried. It hits me hard. For what is happening in Ukraine. For what is happening in Israel. For what is happening to the U.S. And for the passing today of a beautiful, powerful, soulful singer from my long departed youth. Your songs, your words, your voice will live forever, Melanie Safka.

@Find-Your-Bliss-

What is happening in Gaza.
Palestinians have been martyred by the thousands.

@louispelletteriii6095

6y↑14

There will never again be music like we had in the 60's and 70's

@ericskivers6643

6y↑39

Some came to sing , some came to pray , some came to keep the dark away.

Indeed . Goosebumps

@sharonrwilson2727

14w

Indeed. Some came to do it all at once.❤️

@terrywillis1446

12w↑7

May the lord hold you close. I remember hearing her song "Candles in the Rain"...I was AWE struck! What a voice! She put SO MUCH HEART AND SOUL into her songs. I told my mother how much she needed to hear this little lady sing...so we sat down and I played that song for her...she cried...she felt the emotion that was being put out by that song!! This world lost an angel...but she left us her voice. God Bless you Melanie. 😢😢

@slightlycrafty

12w↑5

77 in November of 2023 and this song has always been one of my all time favorites... Still listening in 2024!

@jackfarquahard6933

19w↑32

Music is a conduit from soul to soul that resonates like a tuning fork. God's hand was definitely on this enterprise. Imagine being just twenty three years old and having the depth of consciousness to write a song like this. Her voice is so pleasing and yet POWERFUL enough to convey the emotion of the shared experience. The backing group is magnificent and adds a dimension of the sacred to the whole.

@sharonrwilson2727

14w

Yes

@chrisdevalcourt648

12w

Amen!

@KittyGrizGriz

11w

🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️

@gw3705

4y↑281

Beauty of people gathered in harmony, will not be forgotten.

@nathanialputnam521

4y↑6

And rhythm

@rileymcintosh4852

3y↑3

You are so right

@gw3705

@@rileymcintosh4852 maybe?

@nolanpolansky

3y↑4

2021 and still beloved by a generation z 🖤 and shall not be in vain!!

@tombaum5506

3y↑5

Agree, one hundred per cent! But my thing is seeing how She enjoys performing, compared to these wannabes of today. Baumer

4 More Replies...

@FENicholson

12w↑8

Thank you Melanie. Sing with the angels.

@debmauritson5016

11w↑4

I just heard (watching the Grammy's) that this passionate singer of my youth had passed on January 24th. I did not know. This is her best work in my opinion and as fresh and relevant today as it was in 1970...."We were so close, there was no room
We bled inside each other's wounds
We all had caught the same disease
And we all sang the songs of peace
Some came to sing, some came to pray
Some came to keep the dark away." Truer words.

@357HFC

4y↑332

50 years later still end shivers up my spine.

@bruceblackburn9423

4y↑6

U got good music taste🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

@laurapowell4445

4y↑10

And brings me to tears

@e1ochai

4y↑1

There has to be a good screenplay in the works about trying to truck all them black folks thru the sky into Europe at that time.

@davidburke2697

me too.

@357HFC

@@bruceblackburn9423 Thank You.

4 More Replies...

@pete4693

4y↑275

I have never seen a site with so many positive comments that no one has responded negatively to. This young women voiced a sentiment that deep down past our fears we all can understand...And what a choir.!

@slack6621

3y↑12

I do wonder though, about the 921 lost souls who gave this a thumbs down. They must be miserable.

@cjregister2032

3y↑1

Pete👍

@LeahMarie61

12w↑2

Music was (still is) my life as a little girl in the 70s who played guitar. Even at 9 yrs old in 1970 I recognized great music. I loved Melanie & this was my favorite of her songs. Thank you for the wonderful music & memories. What voice! RIP

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