It is too bad that Ms. Battle was banned from the Met for being so demanding. Her voice is truly something special. She has a very childlike quality to her voice that makes her singing ethereal in its quality. Hopefully, she will make an apology to the Met some day so that they will invite her back to perform before she retires.
One problem with this song is context -- The Wizard of Oz. Everyone knows that "Over the Rainbow" expresses an adolescent girl's naive longings.
When a highly-trained adult performs it, the power in the singer's voice tends to work against her or him. The result strikes the listener as incongruous.
An adult can get away with it only by modulating it way, way down. Not impossible. But not easy.
@thechinadesk Actually, I never knew it was about a girl's longings until I read what you wrote above. Whenever I've heard it in the past, I've interpreted it in the context of my own life and wished that I could be "somewhere over the rainbow." So no, I don't agree with you. I think anyone can sing it. The ideas in this song are applicable to anyone at any time.
I like the idea of many people being able to convincingly sing any particular song.
But often within a given culture, songs come with certain baggage. As a result to many peoples' ears, they will sound "wrong" if sung by someone of the wrong age or gender.
Should this be the way it is? Not necessarily. But the fact is many people feel this way. Their subjective attitudes, right or wrong, often affects whether the rendition is "acceptable."
To sing like a pre-madona and to act like a pre-madona are two different things. For singing = 10, for attitude = 2. Her voice can calm the savage beast.
@SatanAteMySocks Not apples and oranges, my friend. Genius and average, my friend. 100 years from now people will still be talking about Callas, as they do today more than thirty years after her death. 100 years from now people will ask Kathleen who?
@markbob120 I'll stay with my comment. Those are simply two voices you can't possibly compare - Battle's lyric and Callas' dramatic voice. Of course, Maria Callas will be remembered as a singular artist - but does this make other singers bad, or average? Callas will always be more famous than, let's see, Barbara Bonney, Dawn Upshaw, Rita Streich, Hilde Güden - all bad singers? Of And besides: As much as I appreciate Callas' artistry, I'd rather hear Battle singing 'Somewhere over the rainbow'.
@SatanAteMySocks Anyone who would rafther hear an opera singer sing a "pop" song is not worth responding too any further. You are obviously an idiot who knows nothing of voice or opera.
@markbob120 Now, there's no reason to be hostile. I think I made myself not quite clear: What I wanted to say is that I'd prefer listening to Battle's rendition of the song rather than Callas'. But of course there can be no discussion that Judy Garland is superior.
@SatanAteMySocks You did not , you pretentious ass, make your self quite clear. Perhaps the written word is not your forte. If you meant to say what you later stated you should have written "I'd rather hear Battle than Callas sing Over...." The only thing that I agree with you on is that Judy Garland is superior, FAR superior, singing rainbow than Battle. Callas fortunately possessed the intelligence not to sing Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Battle's intelligence, as is yours, is suspect.
@markbob120 markbob120, Why all the vitriol? Whether you like her or not, Miss Battle's voice has been acknowledged by musical minds far superior to yours to not be "average." Your opinion is just that, yours. Don't try to pass it off as some objectively informed fact. It is also obvious how little you know about singing. I'm a working professional singer that has performed at the Met and countless other companies in the U.S. and europe and would never try to pass my opinions as absolute fact
@kcsomegaman You are correct, opinion is just opinion. My opinion is that Callas is genius while Battle is average. I also have another opinion-You are a fucking asshole, and a fact-whose commentary on my postings was not solicited.I will also give you direction, again not opinion. Go fuck yourself with the largest dildo you have. I am sure you have a large selection in your nightstand. Sorry, that last sentence was an assumption! LOL!
It is obvious that you dont know what you are talking about, but for readers sake - Callas had many tachnical flaws, not so Battle Her voice was almost a subrette but mature to become one of the best lyric soranos.
Wonderful performance by a great artist, but what's up with the microphone? I thought classical music fans wouldn't tolerate them. Don't they insist that the sound travel from the singer's vocal cords to their eardrums with nothing but air in between?
@keithsmd shes not powerful enough a singer for that no offence to her voice it is beautiful but beauty and power in a single person isnt easy to find.
@cutiealto2 you may be wrote a joke, but in case you didnt...Do you think it could be possible to upload this performance complete? I am not her cousin but I am fan =) Yes I am!!
@iesvideo haha, no I wasn't joking. My mom's maiden name is Battle, and she is Kathleen Battle's cousin, making me also her cousin of a later generation. But I barely get to see her, let alone any of her performance =(
@cutiealto2 That gives you bragging rights for sure. She is a gift to us all. Go and make your life exactly what you want it to be. The only restrictions are the ones you make for yourself.
@Doily131 My apologies, Doily131. That's exactly what I'm trying to do: get attention. Hey, who cares if my mother's last name is Battle and that she is definitely connected by blood? Your youtube comments are what sets reality. As a matter of fact, it's humanly impossible for Kathleen Battle to have any cousins, let alone relatives, because she isn't human; she's a goddess that could never have un-famous relatives. Sorry to burst your bubble, Doily, but she is my cousin. Get.. Over. It.
@cutiealto2 Youre so angry. You need to take some deep breaths and empty your mind. Try seeking professional help maybe? You have some serious anger issues and issues with wanting a lot of attention. Did your mother not hug you enough as a child? Maybe some time away might help. Take a friend to a camp site or charter a boat for a weekend. I really do hope that one day you can get over your problems and be a warm hearted, happy person like the rest of us. I wish you luck on your journey.
@Doily131 Um, last time I checked, Doily, you are the one trolling on innocent people's comments accusing them as a liar even though you've never met them. That is a sure sign of paranoid schizophrenia. So I would be glad to invest my money in you taking a journey to the mental hospital first. If you educate yourself about the works of human psychology, it is totally reasonable to be "angry" if someone calls you a liar with no merit.
@Doily131 But I'm not even "angry" about the situation considering that you are just another anonymous loser who likes to verbally fight with people you don't even know. And nope, my mother, who is the side related to Kathleen, loved me and sacrificed so much for me as a child, but thanks for the concern =)
How is possible that this angel seems to get better each time I return to this post - I guess I just appreciate her exceptional voice - she is truly on of our national treasurers - Thank you for the years of joy - God Bless you
@dougbalt Hmmm, While I enjoyed this version immensely, I could help thinking how much better I found Judy Garland's phrasing to be. Keep in mind Garland was only sixteen when she sang it and had not had the years of training that Miss Battle has no doubt had.
@Jayee123 No problem. I actually really see where you're coming from because I have similar experiences with other works. Judy Garland has become so associated with this song, and rightfully so, that when others attempt it, they're just not going to meet your expectations. Battle, IMHO, does achieve on it--in her own interpretation-- because she has a youthful voice, which is necessary for Dorothy, and she's superbly vocally trained.
I have enjoyed this wonderful talented women for the last many years - her exceptional talent transfers me to a special place where there is peace, joy, happiness and MORE - I find myself going to that special place often..its not hard to find - take hold of God's hand and let him guide you to that special place...its somewhere over the rainbow.
This is the definitve version of this classic song. No one ever has or ever will sing it better than Kathleen Battle. She carries a pure, sensitive lyrical line with no distracting affections (musical ones, anyhow). And those final few notes, perfect and heavenly.
@sailorsteve53 no one EVER sings anything better than Kathleen Battle! To use a very "unclassical" word to describe a very "classy" lady....SHE ROCKS!
Gilgamesh.......Who is this Beyonce everybody seems to be talking about, anyway? Don't know but I would bet my Texas Instruments graphing calculator that she can't carry Kathleen Battle's Gucci loafers. And I really use that calculator a lot!
Despite ups and downs in her career and popularity, this recording of 1995 was perhaps a little over her prime already BUT the artistry still held......My best wishes for the Diva for many years to come.
Do you have her performance of Christmas at the White House (circa 1990's) when she sang O Holy Night? It was exceptionally beautiful. Sadly, it isn't to be found anywhere online.
A sweet voice which really shines when she's singing one of those sprightly arias with lots of highs & pirouettes, singing them so effortlessly as very few can. (She's also got great taste in clothes; I've never seen her looking less than fantastic.)
does anyone know where I can find the rehearsal video of Ariadne auf Naxos with Jessy Norman and Kathleen Battle at the MET ?? it used to be on youtube but I can't find it anymore :[
Thank You for your comment. I'm not quite sure who you are referring too in regards to Price, maybe you mean Leontyne Price who I believe is a national treasure and I'm thinking you mean Patti Labelle who I have listened to since she was with Labelle, sometime if you get a chance to listen to there Chameleon album, try listening to "Goin down to your river." Really stunning delivery. The kind of harmony we will probable never hear again. Thanks Again and Regards.
@myboylollipop09 Beyonce has no talent? Are you serious? I don't get the comparison. Would you expect Kathleen Battle to be able to pull off what Beyonce does? Imagine! They are both damn good and what they do. They are of different musical genres and generations. You don't have to eat our young to acknowledge the veterans. Kathleen's laurels can stand on their own.
@TruthSerum101 Your point is well taken. I was speaking strictly from my own point of view. The styles are of course completely different. Beyonce has never been trained to sing opera and I doubt seriously if Miss Battle would care to sing as Beyonce does. As far as Beyonce's talent I will leave it to the great Etta James who said to Beyonce after seeing her performance "Don't ever let me hear you try to sing At Last again"
@myboylollipop09 I think you need to hear more Beyonce. She has formidable control of her sound - a solid technique ESPECIALLY for a pop singer. Etta's quote which also included a crack at Pres. Obama's ears was more of a testament to Ms. James' bitterness than Ms. Knowles' vocal ability.
@myboylollipop09 She said that shit?! That's awesome, 'cause that's pretty much what I thought when I heard that recording (after throwing up a little bit in my mouth).
@myboylollipop09 yeah etta james may have said that but she was just upset bc she herself knows she can sing worth anythng anymore and if i was judy garland i would tell kathleen battle to shut up and never try to sing my song again to me she did a horrorable job on this song i thnk kathleen battle has a beautiful voice but she sounds like a horror on this song and ive heard beyonce do french opera and she sound wonderful out of this world
@TruthSerum101 u no i dont know why so many ppl hate on beyonce ppl are always hating on black women that have talent and who are new day artist al bc these women of color do not sing songs like whitney houston use to make or dance like tina turner use to dance back in the day doesnt mean they dont have talent u ppl need to watch ppl like beyonce and their live performances to see the beautiful voice watch beyonce's video type in Halo Haiti and listen to her live version of that song its amazing
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
Soon Kathleen will be gone but here we can remember her in her glory, in the majesty of God's hand upon her talent. There has to be a God. how can this talent come from nothing as the atheists purport.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
That's right - Some christians may be meek and mild but not this one. You are going to need people in any case like me to defend against the rising scourge of Islam. A little straight talk from me will be nothing to what the islamic fanatics will do to you. In any case u probably live in your own little world as an atheist. U wouldn't be able to see true religious fanaticsm until it is staring u in the face and its blood curdling scream of " allah O akbar" as they are slitting your throat.
Okay..then..could it be that u might be afflicted with a strong attraction to that condition or perhaps you inherited it naturally from your parents? LOL
this is my favorite song ever and she is one of my favorite sopranoes, so thank you very much for posting this... It's already my favorite version of the song
WildFireAF, you are right on the money. I am a lifelong fan of Miss Battle, but the reason her opera career was cut short is because she was horrible person to deal with. All of her engagements with the Met ended in the 80's. I remember watching PBS television specials from the 80's, and she was all over the place! And then............nothing. Sad to say, but a voice like hers belongs on the stage. Too bad she ruined it for herself by being so nasty to her fellow singers.
I really enjoy her voice, but I find she does some odd things with her facial expression/mouth, like at the high note at 1:46; she keeps her lips covering her teeth. I have seen her do this on high notes in other songs. . . can someone with opera training explain why she's doing this?
It's a trick to guarding one from slipping off pitch. I use it often when advancing higher notes. Many singers do not use it, unless infirm, yet, I find it helpful.
It also helps to discourage an expensive surgeon sitting in the front row from performing a transbuccal colonoscopy. An inflamed uvula can definitely distract one from a beautiful performance .
unfortunately she is a horrible person to work with. new york times has an article about how the met fired her for being too rude to the other cast members and missing rehearsals after they were changed to fit her schedule.
How easy to criticize Ms. Battle from the comfort of your armchair; perhaps if a prerequisite were to require the "critic" to produce just one note as beautifully as she puts a thousand of them together, such casual, mean-spirited potshots would be much less common.
Sorry Mara, she's notorious. So horrible in fact that when she was finally canned by the Met, the cast of The Daughter of the Regiment broke into spontaneous applause.
You are so correct, RHP....she re-defines the word diva. I do think she is very talented and blessed with a perfect voice, but as a decent human being - forget it! I've heard horror stories about her - everything from slapping total strangers for asking for her autograph to pushing an elderly lady out of the way so she could grab the oncoming taxi. But know what? She would do good to remember - everything you do comes back to you - twofold!
well that's good...the stories i've heard...from throwing conductors out of rehearsals, to the Te Kanawa vs. Battle, to pushing people out of the way while trying to get taxi rides....she seems nice but if you catch her on a bad day or cross her wrong....she'll let you know! LOL
I am no opera fan, but this is the most beautiful voice I have ever heard. This woman can sing. I mean WOW she is as beautiful as her voice too. What a pleasure to listen and watch her sing.
As a lifelong fan of Ms. Battle and an opera lover, I hesitate to recommend a non-operatic singer here, but focusing on the song for a moment and not the singer, the late Eva Cassidy sang a version of this that is every bit as beautiful and touching. Having said that, if I wake up after I die and the angels don't sound like Ms. Battle, I'll know I'm not in heaven!
You try singing all italian operas for a couple years then sing in English. English is one of the least beautiful languages to sing in. (And yes, I'm American. I speak English.)
@shadhom so true. she did not have the most textbook technique, but damnit her voice and performance were always THE BEST. i love her still!!! i actually love her gaspy breathing and her chin "antics"! lol
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
KB has a great voice but a great singer of popular song - I don't think so: 'Why oh why can't oh' (at the end)!!! She has just dumped the lyric in order to highlight the beauty of her voice.
She wore the same dress at the 1993 Kennedy Center Honors.
AJS95060 3 days ago in playlist Favorite videos
Angel-like.
nodross7777 3 months ago
Fantastico!
VIOLA703 3 months ago
Thank you so much for sharing this lovely recording! :)))
elegie84 4 months ago
Hermoso
veeerooniicaaa 5 months ago
Beautiful!
Greg7341 6 months ago
It is too bad that Ms. Battle was banned from the Met for being so demanding. Her voice is truly something special. She has a very childlike quality to her voice that makes her singing ethereal in its quality. Hopefully, she will make an apology to the Met some day so that they will invite her back to perform before she retires.
traderwilson77 6 months ago
I'm a big metal head.. but Kathleen battle wins my heart over easy.
KagomexCharmXvintage 7 months ago 2
she transports me above the chimney tops
ForCarolToEnjoy 8 months ago
One problem with this song is context -- The Wizard of Oz. Everyone knows that "Over the Rainbow" expresses an adolescent girl's naive longings.
When a highly-trained adult performs it, the power in the singer's voice tends to work against her or him. The result strikes the listener as incongruous.
An adult can get away with it only by modulating it way, way down. Not impossible. But not easy.
thechinadesk 8 months ago
@thechinadesk Actually, I never knew it was about a girl's longings until I read what you wrote above. Whenever I've heard it in the past, I've interpreted it in the context of my own life and wished that I could be "somewhere over the rainbow." So no, I don't agree with you. I think anyone can sing it. The ideas in this song are applicable to anyone at any time.
syndetic 7 months ago
@syndetic
I like the idea of many people being able to convincingly sing any particular song.
But often within a given culture, songs come with certain baggage. As a result to many peoples' ears, they will sound "wrong" if sung by someone of the wrong age or gender.
Should this be the way it is? Not necessarily. But the fact is many people feel this way. Their subjective attitudes, right or wrong, often affects whether the rendition is "acceptable."
thechinadesk 7 months ago
She always makes me cry ; _ ;
JustReynoard 9 months ago 2
To sing like a pre-madona and to act like a pre-madona are two different things. For singing = 10, for attitude = 2. Her voice can calm the savage beast.
cougardtn 11 months ago
average soprano at best. Listen to Maria Callas if you want to hear genius!
markbob120 11 months ago
@markbob120 Apples and oranges, my friend.
SatanAteMySocks 10 months ago
@SatanAteMySocks Not apples and oranges, my friend. Genius and average, my friend. 100 years from now people will still be talking about Callas, as they do today more than thirty years after her death. 100 years from now people will ask Kathleen who?
markbob120 10 months ago
@markbob120 I'll stay with my comment. Those are simply two voices you can't possibly compare - Battle's lyric and Callas' dramatic voice. Of course, Maria Callas will be remembered as a singular artist - but does this make other singers bad, or average? Callas will always be more famous than, let's see, Barbara Bonney, Dawn Upshaw, Rita Streich, Hilde Güden - all bad singers? Of And besides: As much as I appreciate Callas' artistry, I'd rather hear Battle singing 'Somewhere over the rainbow'.
SatanAteMySocks 10 months ago
@SatanAteMySocks Anyone who would rafther hear an opera singer sing a "pop" song is not worth responding too any further. You are obviously an idiot who knows nothing of voice or opera.
markbob120 10 months ago
@markbob120 Now, there's no reason to be hostile. I think I made myself not quite clear: What I wanted to say is that I'd prefer listening to Battle's rendition of the song rather than Callas'. But of course there can be no discussion that Judy Garland is superior.
SatanAteMySocks 10 months ago
@SatanAteMySocks You did not , you pretentious ass, make your self quite clear. Perhaps the written word is not your forte. If you meant to say what you later stated you should have written "I'd rather hear Battle than Callas sing Over...." The only thing that I agree with you on is that Judy Garland is superior, FAR superior, singing rainbow than Battle. Callas fortunately possessed the intelligence not to sing Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Battle's intelligence, as is yours, is suspect.
markbob120 10 months ago
Maria Callas was another kind of soprano I think. With a incredible range, strong low and middle register, and of course, the high register.
Kathleen has a lighter voice, but she is great indeed
ernest671 9 months ago
@markbob120 markbob120, Why all the vitriol? Whether you like her or not, Miss Battle's voice has been acknowledged by musical minds far superior to yours to not be "average." Your opinion is just that, yours. Don't try to pass it off as some objectively informed fact. It is also obvious how little you know about singing. I'm a working professional singer that has performed at the Met and countless other companies in the U.S. and europe and would never try to pass my opinions as absolute fact
kcsomegaman 2 months ago 2
@kcsomegaman You are correct, opinion is just opinion. My opinion is that Callas is genius while Battle is average. I also have another opinion-You are a fucking asshole, and a fact-whose commentary on my postings was not solicited.I will also give you direction, again not opinion. Go fuck yourself with the largest dildo you have. I am sure you have a large selection in your nightstand. Sorry, that last sentence was an assumption! LOL!
markbob120 2 months ago
@markbob120 "average soprano at best?" Karajan would not agree. But of course, who are you markbob120?
nailycai 9 months ago 3
@markbob120
It is obvious that you dont know what you are talking about, but for readers sake - Callas had many tachnical flaws, not so Battle Her voice was almost a subrette but mature to become one of the best lyric soranos.
bobsopera 6 months ago
Simply B E A U T I F U L !!
07Trin 1 year ago 2
talent is talent no matter where you find it sames goes for class/
stramon1 1 year ago
I THINK SHE IS A BEAUTIFUL BLACK WOMEN WITH A ANGELIC VOICE IM GLAD TO BE APART OF THE FAMILY WE HAVE BEAUTIFUL GENES AND AND ALL SORTS OF TALENTS
mzteemusic 1 year ago
So Beautiful!!!! Angelic!!!
energynlight 1 year ago
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Uppity nigger!!!!!!
biologias3 1 year ago
Comment removed
crazyoldbastard 1 year ago
Absolutely beautiful. Kathleen Battle's vocal talent transcends all levels & resonates pure joy.
b4we2were1 1 year ago
At first I was a bit skeptical about this song being right for her voice... but as always she sang it so beautifully ^_^ I'll never doubt again
MaidenintheHerPool 1 year ago
I love her so
DmichielO 1 year ago
if you ever wanted to know how the mermaids sing?...this is how.
iesvideo 1 year ago
Wonderful performance by a great artist, but what's up with the microphone? I thought classical music fans wouldn't tolerate them. Don't they insist that the sound travel from the singer's vocal cords to their eardrums with nothing but air in between?
keithsmd 1 year ago
@keithsmd shes not powerful enough a singer for that no offence to her voice it is beautiful but beauty and power in a single person isnt easy to find.
FreyaDiamond 1 year ago
Kathleen Battle has a voice that is ethereal but at the same time sounds much human than all the others, I think that's why I like her so much...
Guichotpresident 1 year ago 2
Kathleen Battle is my cousin =) She is so Amazing!
cutiealto2 1 year ago 6
@cutiealto2
my goooood!!!! Wow, tell her she has an enormous fan named Pedro Leandro :p
Guichotpresident 1 year ago
@cutiealto2 you may be wrote a joke, but in case you didnt...Do you think it could be possible to upload this performance complete? I am not her cousin but I am fan =) Yes I am!!
iesvideo 1 year ago
@iesvideo haha, no I wasn't joking. My mom's maiden name is Battle, and she is Kathleen Battle's cousin, making me also her cousin of a later generation. But I barely get to see her, let alone any of her performance =(
cutiealto2 1 year ago
@cutiealto2 That gives you bragging rights for sure. She is a gift to us all. Go and make your life exactly what you want it to be. The only restrictions are the ones you make for yourself.
nailycai 9 months ago
@cutiealto2 she's not your cousin, stop trying to get attention.
Doily131 3 months ago
@Doily131 My apologies, Doily131. That's exactly what I'm trying to do: get attention. Hey, who cares if my mother's last name is Battle and that she is definitely connected by blood? Your youtube comments are what sets reality. As a matter of fact, it's humanly impossible for Kathleen Battle to have any cousins, let alone relatives, because she isn't human; she's a goddess that could never have un-famous relatives. Sorry to burst your bubble, Doily, but she is my cousin. Get.. Over. It.
cutiealto2 3 months ago
@cutiealto2 Youre so angry. You need to take some deep breaths and empty your mind. Try seeking professional help maybe? You have some serious anger issues and issues with wanting a lot of attention. Did your mother not hug you enough as a child? Maybe some time away might help. Take a friend to a camp site or charter a boat for a weekend. I really do hope that one day you can get over your problems and be a warm hearted, happy person like the rest of us. I wish you luck on your journey.
Doily131 3 months ago
@Doily131 Um, last time I checked, Doily, you are the one trolling on innocent people's comments accusing them as a liar even though you've never met them. That is a sure sign of paranoid schizophrenia. So I would be glad to invest my money in you taking a journey to the mental hospital first. If you educate yourself about the works of human psychology, it is totally reasonable to be "angry" if someone calls you a liar with no merit.
cutiealto2 3 months ago
@Doily131 But I'm not even "angry" about the situation considering that you are just another anonymous loser who likes to verbally fight with people you don't even know. And nope, my mother, who is the side related to Kathleen, loved me and sacrificed so much for me as a child, but thanks for the concern =)
cutiealto2 3 months ago
she´s just working so hard when she sings :-(
fludu1 1 year ago
Yo this bitch got some VOCALS!!! for real!!!
AE812 1 year ago
How is possible that this angel seems to get better each time I return to this post - I guess I just appreciate her exceptional voice - she is truly on of our national treasurers - Thank you for the years of joy - God Bless you
Shodansixtyone 1 year ago
Sassy's version is the best one.
buffalmacco76 1 year ago
Kathleen sings this better than Judy Garland -- IMHO.
dougbalt 1 year ago 2
@dougbalt Hmmm, While I enjoyed this version immensely, I could help thinking how much better I found Judy Garland's phrasing to be. Keep in mind Garland was only sixteen when she sang it and had not had the years of training that Miss Battle has no doubt had.
Jayee123 1 year ago
@Jayee123 Sorry, I mean couldn't help thinking.
Jayee123 1 year ago
@Jayee123 No problem. I actually really see where you're coming from because I have similar experiences with other works. Judy Garland has become so associated with this song, and rightfully so, that when others attempt it, they're just not going to meet your expectations. Battle, IMHO, does achieve on it--in her own interpretation-- because she has a youthful voice, which is necessary for Dorothy, and she's superbly vocally trained.
dougbalt 1 year ago 2
I love Kathleen, but the orchestra was garbage compared to the orchestra of OZ.!
majin32547 1 year ago
I have enjoyed this wonderful talented women for the last many years - her exceptional talent transfers me to a special place where there is peace, joy, happiness and MORE - I find myself going to that special place often..its not hard to find - take hold of God's hand and let him guide you to that special place...its somewhere over the rainbow.
Shodansixtyone 1 year ago 2
aw this broke my heart of happiness, PERFECT
KriBlackRoson 1 year ago 2
What a voice, what a singer!
Uruguruh 1 year ago 4
This is the definitve version of this classic song. No one ever has or ever will sing it better than Kathleen Battle. She carries a pure, sensitive lyrical line with no distracting affections (musical ones, anyhow). And those final few notes, perfect and heavenly.
sailorsteve53 1 year ago
@sailorsteve53 no one EVER sings anything better than Kathleen Battle! To use a very "unclassical" word to describe a very "classy" lady....SHE ROCKS!
adamedward1580 1 year ago
Wow
MrTeebone1970 1 year ago
Gilgamesh.......Who is this Beyonce everybody seems to be talking about, anyway? Don't know but I would bet my Texas Instruments graphing calculator that she can't carry Kathleen Battle's Gucci loafers. And I really use that calculator a lot!
mami1998amanda 1 year ago
gorgeous!!!! she makes it look effortless
lngabrie 1 year ago
Bravo....... Kathleen Battle
4099aj 1 year ago
Can You Please Please. I beg you... Please put the full song because there is no one on the Earth who can sing this song as Kathleen Battle.
lilcrack91 1 year ago 3
PERFECt!
KATHLEEN BATTLE IS TRULy EQUIvALENT TO NONE!!!
Timeelah 1 year ago 2
your crazy to say beyonce has no talent you wouldn't know talent if it hit you in the face give it up
thisz isz not a beyonce video so why even bring her up
demantrel 1 year ago
kathleen battle is simply superb!
Beautiful job.
aloedajazzite 1 year ago
Despite ups and downs in her career and popularity, this recording of 1995 was perhaps a little over her prime already BUT the artistry still held......My best wishes for the Diva for many years to come.
tarantellaonline 1 year ago
This is easily the bst performance of this song I've ever heard. Much better than Fleming's, my otherwise favourite soprano.
sailorsteve53 1 year ago
Dear Tony,
I have no words in order to tell you:
how much I appreciate your wonderful and lovely taste of Art-Music and true love.
Thanks so much for sharing this amazing and out-standing performance of Madame
Kathleen Battle
Warmest regards,
Javier
JavierVMaldonado 1 year ago
Nice!
However....
Where or Where was she doing a concert where she was having to hold a mic? That is just not okay...for Battle esp.
Brent
BrentAudi 1 year ago
One of the very few renditions that is better than Judy Garland's, and that's saying something!
JumpStreet1983 1 year ago
@JumpStreet1983 Have you heard Jerry Lee Lewis's version or Gene Vincents's ?
both up there with Judy's and Kathleen's imho
mrfedupable 1 year ago
is there a recording of her and Dame Kiri our there???
alleyjd 1 year ago
My gosh the shire beauty of this performance brings tears to my eyes
happyorganist 2 years ago
Do you have her performance of Christmas at the White House (circa 1990's) when she sang O Holy Night? It was exceptionally beautiful. Sadly, it isn't to be found anywhere online.
woopswrongplanet 2 years ago
Does she have stage presence or what...
musicallyspeakings88 2 years ago
Her voice reminds me of Lea Salonga's but, of course, I'm always comparing people to her! lol.
Akuchan7 2 years ago
sweet voice again and again, u will never
forget
billy672828 2 years ago 4
i'm a kathleen
hillobffe 2 years ago
What a voice. Wish i could sing like that...
musicallyspeakings88 2 years ago 4
ditto.
analyticalchica 2 years ago
lovely thats a good word for it.. cudos to the musicians as well they're playing with all thier souls.
TheMsSidneySidney 2 years ago 2
@TheMsSidneySidney yes...the orchestra is amazing here! wonderful!
couturesixfour 2 years ago
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dattexas 2 years ago
A sweet voice which really shines when she's singing one of those sprightly arias with lots of highs & pirouettes, singing them so effortlessly as very few can. (She's also got great taste in clothes; I've never seen her looking less than fantastic.)
mmedefarge 2 years ago 12
PURE BLISS :)
dlsw23 2 years ago 2
She is always angelic!!! What a beautiful lady she is !!!
SCCMMGT 2 years ago 5
does anyone know where I can find the rehearsal video of Ariadne auf Naxos with Jessy Norman and Kathleen Battle at the MET ?? it used to be on youtube but I can't find it anymore :[
operastar18 2 years ago
More kathleen battle and less beyonce rhianna, and all the rest no talent wannabees..
myboylollipop09 2 years ago 78
couldnt have said it myself.
but hey ppl just like rap with meaningless and repetitive lyrics and no music , wut can ya do.
ahgaming 2 years ago
@myboylollipop09
They are all talented within their respective genres. This is like saying more Price and less Patti!
KushKing99 1 year ago
Thank You for your comment. I'm not quite sure who you are referring too in regards to Price, maybe you mean Leontyne Price who I believe is a national treasure and I'm thinking you mean Patti Labelle who I have listened to since she was with Labelle, sometime if you get a chance to listen to there Chameleon album, try listening to "Goin down to your river." Really stunning delivery. The kind of harmony we will probable never hear again. Thanks Again and Regards.
myboylollipop09 1 year ago
@myboylollipop09
GodzPropertee 1 year ago
@myboylollipop09 I second that
GEF69 1 year ago
@myboylollipop09 I agree wholeheartedly!!!
NordicHealer 1 year ago
@myboylollipop09 THANK YOU !
snjones99 1 year ago
@myboylollipop09 So true...So true! Your comment made a year ago is so right....
Prosperwithin 1 year ago
@Prosperwithin Comparing Battle to Rhianna is right? zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
TruthSerum101 1 year ago
@myboylollipop09 Beyonce has no talent? Are you serious? I don't get the comparison. Would you expect Kathleen Battle to be able to pull off what Beyonce does? Imagine! They are both damn good and what they do. They are of different musical genres and generations. You don't have to eat our young to acknowledge the veterans. Kathleen's laurels can stand on their own.
TruthSerum101 1 year ago
@TruthSerum101 Your point is well taken. I was speaking strictly from my own point of view. The styles are of course completely different. Beyonce has never been trained to sing opera and I doubt seriously if Miss Battle would care to sing as Beyonce does. As far as Beyonce's talent I will leave it to the great Etta James who said to Beyonce after seeing her performance "Don't ever let me hear you try to sing At Last again"
myboylollipop09 1 year ago
@myboylollipop09 I think you need to hear more Beyonce. She has formidable control of her sound - a solid technique ESPECIALLY for a pop singer. Etta's quote which also included a crack at Pres. Obama's ears was more of a testament to Ms. James' bitterness than Ms. Knowles' vocal ability.
TruthSerum101 1 year ago
@myboylollipop09 She said that shit?! That's awesome, 'cause that's pretty much what I thought when I heard that recording (after throwing up a little bit in my mouth).
mkurnat 1 year ago
@myboylollipop09 yeah etta james may have said that but she was just upset bc she herself knows she can sing worth anythng anymore and if i was judy garland i would tell kathleen battle to shut up and never try to sing my song again to me she did a horrorable job on this song i thnk kathleen battle has a beautiful voice but she sounds like a horror on this song and ive heard beyonce do french opera and she sound wonderful out of this world
18plucky 1 year ago
@TruthSerum101 u no i dont know why so many ppl hate on beyonce ppl are always hating on black women that have talent and who are new day artist al bc these women of color do not sing songs like whitney houston use to make or dance like tina turner use to dance back in the day doesnt mean they dont have talent u ppl need to watch ppl like beyonce and their live performances to see the beautiful voice watch beyonce's video type in Halo Haiti and listen to her live version of that song its amazing
18plucky 1 year ago
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@TruthSerum101 Your comment should be the highest rated one on this video...they both ahve amazing voices for different types of music.
maoamgirl5775 11 months ago
@myboylollipop09 ok really beyonce can sing and she is not a wannabee and kathleen battle has a beautiful voice but ive heard better sry i just have
18plucky 1 year ago
Does anyone know if there's a studio version that I can buy in a store instead of this live version?
313AKA 2 years ago 2
I love Kathleen Battle....she is utterly fantastic! I only wish I could sound like her!
juliamorson 2 years ago 24
My choir teacher in 7th-8th grade is a professional opera singer and he showed a recording of her. Great voice! =)
liveforlife2494 2 years ago
secaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
Amo su voz!
^^!
roalgoro 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Soon Kathleen will be gone but here we can remember her in her glory, in the majesty of God's hand upon her talent. There has to be a God. how can this talent come from nothing as the atheists purport.
whiteliketar 2 years ago
Uh...she's only 60 years old. Do you know something that we don't?
Also, you need to meet more atheists.
TruthSerum101 2 years ago 2
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Not thanks.Atheists are a dime a dozen and I would have to go to a barren desert to meet you hopeless depressing losers.
whiteliketar 2 years ago
You are, indeed, an inspiration. You represent your legion well.
TruthSerum101 2 years ago 5
This comment has received too many negative votes show
That's right - Some christians may be meek and mild but not this one. You are going to need people in any case like me to defend against the rising scourge of Islam. A little straight talk from me will be nothing to what the islamic fanatics will do to you. In any case u probably live in your own little world as an atheist. U wouldn't be able to see true religious fanaticsm until it is staring u in the face and its blood curdling scream of " allah O akbar" as they are slitting your throat.
whiteliketar 2 years ago
Really? Ironically, I had no idea if you were muslim, hindu, christian, sorcerer, etc. - I just knew that you were inspired.
TruthSerum101 2 years ago
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Better 'inspired' than deluded. Now go play with a fossil and have a nice day. Invest in a good fire retardant suit. lol
whiteliketar 2 years ago
You're retarded.
singerlad34 2 years ago 2
Perhaps we have something in common. LOL
whiteliketar 2 years ago
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No, we don't. You're just fucking retarded.
singerlad34 2 years ago
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Okay..then..could it be that u might be afflicted with a strong attraction to that condition or perhaps you inherited it naturally from your parents? LOL
whiteliketar 2 years ago
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No. You are just fucking retarded.
singerlad34 2 years ago
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Perhaps your eyes are somewhat crossed then and you have a pointy head. Now go ahead type those six words...LOL
whiteliketar 2 years ago
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Ok.
No, you're just fucking retarded.
singerlad34 2 years ago
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type it and look in a mirror. Lol
whiteliketar 2 years ago
Perfection. This coming from someone who is not a fan.
tenore23 2 years ago 2
this is my favorite song ever and she is one of my favorite sopranoes, so thank you very much for posting this... It's already my favorite version of the song
poragirl93 2 years ago
i didn't know harrison ford played violin!
wildfireaf 2 years ago 3
WildFireAF, you are right on the money. I am a lifelong fan of Miss Battle, but the reason her opera career was cut short is because she was horrible person to deal with. All of her engagements with the Met ended in the 80's. I remember watching PBS television specials from the 80's, and she was all over the place! And then............nothing. Sad to say, but a voice like hers belongs on the stage. Too bad she ruined it for herself by being so nasty to her fellow singers.
BleeTee83 2 years ago
I really enjoy her voice, but I find she does some odd things with her facial expression/mouth, like at the high note at 1:46; she keeps her lips covering her teeth. I have seen her do this on high notes in other songs. . . can someone with opera training explain why she's doing this?
OperaBard 2 years ago
It's a trick to guarding one from slipping off pitch. I use it often when advancing higher notes. Many singers do not use it, unless infirm, yet, I find it helpful.
MinistahB 2 years ago
Really, that's interesting. How does it work to keep you on pitch? How do you do it, exactly?
OperaBard 2 years ago
It also helps to discourage an expensive surgeon sitting in the front row from performing a transbuccal colonoscopy. An inflamed uvula can definitely distract one from a beautiful performance .
omniscope99 2 years ago
True indeed. She covers it well, does she not?
MinistahB 2 years ago
And so soooo gracefully. . . Bravooo . KB
omniscope99 2 years ago
unfortunately she is a horrible person to work with. new york times has an article about how the met fired her for being too rude to the other cast members and missing rehearsals after they were changed to fit her schedule.
wildfireaf 3 years ago
How easy to criticize Ms. Battle from the comfort of your armchair; perhaps if a prerequisite were to require the "critic" to produce just one note as beautifully as she puts a thousand of them together, such casual, mean-spirited potshots would be much less common.
Maratini 2 years ago
Sorry Mara, she's notorious. So horrible in fact that when she was finally canned by the Met, the cast of The Daughter of the Regiment broke into spontaneous applause.
RHP444 2 years ago
Thanks, RHP.
wildfireaf 2 years ago
You are so correct, RHP....she re-defines the word diva. I do think she is very talented and blessed with a perfect voice, but as a decent human being - forget it! I've heard horror stories about her - everything from slapping total strangers for asking for her autograph to pushing an elderly lady out of the way so she could grab the oncoming taxi. But know what? She would do good to remember - everything you do comes back to you - twofold!
Lonestarry 2 years ago
Kathleen Battle has narcissistic personality disorder..
romarius2005 2 years ago 3
Is that the result of being one of the greatest and prettiest singers in the world of opera?
A wonderful performance. Thanks for posting, Coloraturafan.
TruthSerum101 2 years ago 3
sad but true......:(
romarius2005 2 years ago
My one brief encounter with her, was a very pleasant one.
TruthSerum101 2 years ago
well that's good...the stories i've heard...from throwing conductors out of rehearsals, to the Te Kanawa vs. Battle, to pushing people out of the way while trying to get taxi rides....she seems nice but if you catch her on a bad day or cross her wrong....she'll let you know! LOL
romarius2005 2 years ago
she's hot stuff!
wildfireaf 3 years ago
God! She's wonderful!
dattexas 3 years ago
I love u, b/c u r so haunting!
flouraki 3 years ago
She has SUCH a BEAUTIFUL voice 0_0
biffty77 3 years ago
I am no opera fan, but this is the most beautiful voice I have ever heard. This woman can sing. I mean WOW she is as beautiful as her voice too. What a pleasure to listen and watch her sing.
nolaeast 3 years ago
As a lifelong fan of Ms. Battle and an opera lover, I hesitate to recommend a non-operatic singer here, but focusing on the song for a moment and not the singer, the late Eva Cassidy sang a version of this that is every bit as beautiful and touching. Having said that, if I wake up after I die and the angels don't sound like Ms. Battle, I'll know I'm not in heaven!
Maratini 3 years ago
That would be truly hell, awooooo.
omniscope99 3 years ago
Wow - incredible! This lady has some pipes...that's for sure. And she's gorgeous to boot!
Lonestarry 3 years ago
OMG! It touches me! AMAZING vocals!
jpcenet 3 years ago
dis w0man cud sing!!!!..wiish dere was m0re ppl like her.
qbstar83 3 years ago
Omg One of the best version of this song.
bozzkub 3 years ago
beautiful voice, but what's up with her vowels? technique problems i would imagine?
dennisdeem 3 years ago
You try singing all italian operas for a couple years then sing in English. English is one of the least beautiful languages to sing in. (And yes, I'm American. I speak English.)
Kathleen, You did superb!
KiriYukimura 3 years ago 3
MY SCHOOL GETS TO SING WITH HER!!
xnickandjoex 3 years ago
I went to see her at Roy Thompson Hall last weekend. She has a small voice, but she sings with such care and perfection....I LOVE HER!
aldebussy 3 years ago
Right here right now listening to Kathleen is heaven.
disciple4goodmusic 3 years ago 3
Despite the whatevers..she has one of the most beautiful voices of any person that has ever recorded any type of musical composition.
shadhom 3 years ago 21
@shadhom so true. she did not have the most textbook technique, but damnit her voice and performance were always THE BEST. i love her still!!! i actually love her gaspy breathing and her chin "antics"! lol
couturesixfour 1 year ago
If I believed in heaven, I would think that angels sang like ms. battle.
glennis3 3 years ago 7
I agree with you.
Jevezy 3 years ago
Me too.
rescue9peace 3 years ago
If I believed in heaven, I would say that angels sand like that.
glennis3 3 years ago
Somewhere, over the rainbow, there is Kathleen
WindOnMyWings 3 years ago 4
This comment has received too many negative votes show
KB has a great voice but a great singer of popular song - I don't think so: 'Why oh why can't oh' (at the end)!!! She has just dumped the lyric in order to highlight the beauty of her voice.
allynruk 3 years ago
She's not dumping the lyric, she's just singing the vowel "I" operatically.
kingdombread 3 years ago 4
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allynruk 2 years ago