He was able to live a life we could only dream of.
How many times in my life I've walked and driven along the Monterey bay coast and thought him so far away. How we need him now to make global warming understandable to people, to sho the earth care and empathize with the nature he spoke of and sang to.
I was in a front row seat at the Durngate Theatre in Northampton U.K. when John sang this song live. It truly stands in my memory as one of the most beautiful times of my life.
There is something amazing about spirit-connected people. They seem to come into our world, drop beautiful gifts and wisdom and then move on. I remember that day when we recorded this. An inspiring place, as is the Maroon Bells, all of Alaska, the fjords of Norway and so many other natural places.
it is such sadness he has passed on it was not till around 2002 that I started to hear his songs and ever since then i got all his Cds and some LP's i truly think he was a true Singer least we got his Music RIP John we sure miss yea
@deborah00934 The song is "The Wings That Fly Us Home". It was released on JD's Spirit Album in '76. It was written by his good friend Joe Henry (who wrote some of JD's other songs as well) and JD would write the music for Joe's lyrics. A great combination!! A true gem of a song that will endure for a long time.
Twelve years ago the world lost a truly amazing man. John Denver's ability of expression, on many levels, brought people together and gave them a greater understanding for each other. Yet, he was determined to do more than just bring people together. He wanted to help change the world and make it a better place. Among many things, he strived to end hunger, endeavored to be a voice for nature, and worked to protect the natural beauty of the world.
Yet, despite his untimely death, his work continues on throughout the world by all of us who still hear his voice and share his vision. He may be gone in the physical sense, but many people (myself included) know that his spirit is still here and guiding us. John still lives on in his songs and more importantly, in our hearts and he will never be forgotten. Rest in peace!
My son & family live in Denver, and I have wanted to go to one of the tributes for John. I don't think I would be able to stop crying, because when I listen to several of his songs, I break down every time. I saw him in his early years in concert. I am so glad I have that to remember him along with his wonderful music. I miss him so.
Unfortunately a major storm will prevent me from going to the site on this 12th anniversary -- but if all goes well, we will swing by later in the week. John was/is a very special person and is still very much missed, always will be.
I was there on that very beach for the memorial gathering back in 1997. Thanks so much for posting this - it brought back many memories, both bitter and sweet. <3
I was there too on Oct. 26, 2 weeks after John passed. That's when it really hit me, they played "I Want To Live" and I just totally lost it, had myself a good cry. Hard to believe it's been 12 years now -- he is still very much missed.
I was sitting in Robata's in Carmel when I turned around & there was John sitting & smiling. I said, "Hi John, how are you?" He just smiled with his hat & round glasses on. His plane crashed in Pacific Grove shortly after that.
"The Wings That Fly Us Home"- originally released on the Spirit Album- mid 70's. A GREAT song- one of my all time favs of JD- words by his close friend Joe Henry- an EXCELLENT writer who helped JD with the words on a number of songs & JD would write the music to them. Thanks Joe for helping JD out when you did!!!!
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS VIDEO! It helps a fan to have closure. There is no one that can compare to JOHN DENVER! The day he was taken from us was the day that a PHENOMINAL VOICE & WONDROUS TALENT was lost. My husband & I have loved him since we were teenagers in the early 70's. Our children grew up listening to him. Our daughter went to 2 of his concerts. One before she was born one after she was born. He was killed the day before our 25th wedding anniversary. JOHN DENVER: THE MUSIC IS YOU!
John, you are still one of the very best - ever. Your bashful manner and natural talent brought out envy and resentment in other artists, but you kept on message. God bless you for ever.
I still miss John so much. During my first trip to Colorado a few years ago, I played John's music driving through Rocky Mountain National Park. I could feel his spirit there. He will always be remembered through his wonderful music, and I hope we all get a chance to meet him in heaven someday.
Happy Birthday, John Denver. He would have been 65 today. I visited this site this past July. The driftwood is still there. There is a rock that looks like there was plaque in it, but now there's nothing.
The music is as beautiful as it was the first time I heard it. We miss you John, the world could use some of your gentle music in these rough times.RIP
every time I see this video and hear the song, I get chills...have been to the airport where he took his final flight, saw where he parked his car that last day..the control tower and the runway where he took off for the last time...it was a VERY strange feeling......
John truly felt life from his heart. He was connected to everything good, right, and true; spirituality at its finest. I miss him but am so thankful of what he gave to us and for many generations to come. Pat
I have the final NTSB report on his accident - and after reading it, there were (as with most accidents like this) 5 or 6 poor decisions that were made that day - like NOT filling the tanks on an airplane that he was not familiar with!! He should have known better - he was a very experienced pilot with +2700 hours of flight time!! I miss the music that was to come!!
We have just returned from Pacific Grove. Every moment was magical. Placed the rock as requested on his Birthday. The magic comes from feeling life from the heart. This is the gift John gave us.
If anyone is going to that beach. Could you please leave a stone for me? Please? I live in eastern Canada. I am too far away to leave one myself. John's songs mean the world to me. I would appreciate it so much.
JD purchased the 9 year old experimental plane for $50K. He was going to have the fuel selector gage placed in its proper location during his next concert tour. Unfortunately, tragedy struck. He's sorely missed! RIP
This is one of my all time favorite beaches, and one of my favorite JD songs. You can actually reach those rocks at low tide. RIP JD, 10 years seems like so little time
JD had a way of expressing himself in a way that was always touching. He could see very clearly things that many of us just take for granted. He was a special gift.Ten years have passed and JD still shines!!
I had a pet deer that I named JD and I took care of him for 19 and a haft years, we were very close and had a strong bond between us,I loved him and he loved me as well you could see it whenever you saw us together.This is my favorite john Denver song and it is also the song the I wrote on my pets casket when he passed a way,so this song means alot to me and cant help but shed tears even time I hear it , I love you JD, and thank you
Hard to believe it has been 10 years. Even harder to believe that this song was recorded in the 1970's (Spirit Album) and it still seems very relevent today!!
I must see this place - I must replace a rock that a dear friend sent to me!
The lyrics of life and death are TIMELESS in this recording- that is the beauty and genius of what Joe Henry wrote and what JD was able to put to music as only he could. It is like the ideas or beliefs of a combination of religions and followings were incorporated into one song as I don't think any other song has ever done.
Thanks for mentioning where this song can be found and as a result,I purchased JD's Spirit CD yesterday. Yes, it's hard to believe 10 years have passed but it's heartwarming to see how many still care!
I love this song...I've had the CD for a while and the first time I listened to it I shed tears, it's so beautiful. Songs like this make one believe that the soul carries on, and gives humanity hope that it doesn't all just end when we die. John had a beautiful spirit, and it lives on in his music.
I grew up in Pacific Grove, I remember the day he died, and yes, we wish him back, but you must go on and listen to his beautiful music. I used to play here as a kid, he died in a beautiful place, he was a beautiful person.
We all know EXACTLY how you feel. It seems like I miss JD more now than in '97- partly seeing all the songs and people's comments on Youtube kind of brings everybody together in their appreciation of JD and how he and his music and life touched us all. Just amazing. JD's spirit grows stronger with the years!
Thank you as today is the tenth anniversary of his passing. We lost one of our generations most caring, creative, and loving souls that day. I will miss attending live performances, yet he lives on forever in his songs.
Thanks JD- I KNOW you see all our messages on this site and everywhere else- and you are "right in the next room". Soar with the eagles- RIP- you touched so many in so many ways big and small. My heart to AD and the kids and all the family on this especially hard day.
This is beautiful!Today it is 10 years since we lost him.I never remember the exact day for some reason,even though it corresponds w/my wedding anniversary.I sent my husband an ecard from yahoo that had Annies Song on it this morning and it triggered the memery and led me here.I'm glad it did.
I had the pleasure of being in Pacific Grove last Sunday when the memorial plaque for John was dedicated at this location. Weather was beautiful. His brother, Ron and sister-in-law Terry (sp?) were there representing the Deutschendorf-Denver families. If you ever get the chance to visit...it is such a spiritual place. And Ronald....I got your stones and sand. Will be sending it this weekend.
Cont.- "Life means all that it ever means.. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I'm waiting for you. Everywhere very near- just around the corner. All is well." Is this not a BEAUTIFUL letter that was written to Annie or what.
I would imagine AD got lots of letters and cards- and probably still corresponds with some- in a way it is probably a sort of therapy for her to share with some of these people like the parents from this letter.
"Death is nothing at all. I have only slipped away to the next room. I am I and you are you. Whatever we were to each other- that we still are. Call me by my old familiar name in your home. Wear no forced air of solmenity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was..."
Here is part of a speech Annie gave in August '98 for the JD Sanctuary in Aspen. This part was from a letter sent to her by a mother of a girl who had been killed in a car accident. The parents had gone to one of JD's last concerts in Texas before he died. I will let the words speak for themselves. Forgive me if they are not exact but I tried to write it as I saw it. I will have to break up the speech because of space limitations.
Ron...I would be honored to leave a stone at the beach for you and to send you a rock and some sand from the beach as well. It is such a wonderful and yet sad place. Please email me your address (my email address is somewhere on here) and I will take care of you. Earthlinked...your envelope is on it's way.
I have found a dear friend. I collect "memory rocks". I have small rocks from around the world: Moscow, Siberia, Paris, Rome, Egypt and many from America -- each rock with its own memory. As a devoted John Denver follower since 1972, I now have a rock from John Denver Beach. It is my centerpiece - on my shelves of my memory rocks - and in my heart. I will always miss him. Sandi, you are my new hero -- I have found a dear friend. Thank you - and may God bless you and keep you safe and warm.
There are only 2 rules for collecting memory rocks: 1) You must pick the rock up yourself. It must be no larger than your fingernail. 2) If you do not pick it up -- if someone gives you a memory rock - you have 5 years to go there and put one back. I live in Atlanta -- but I will go to John Denver Beach and put one back. My John Denver memory rock sits between a rock that was a piece of the iron curtain in Berlin and a rock from the moon that a friend from Houston gave me many years ago.
I think it is appropriate that my JD memory rocks should be between these 2 rocks -- between peace and flying -- the things he love most. Every concert ended with JD saying "Pray for Peace". And YES -- I hope to go to the moon one day and put one back and "to dance across the mountains on the moon".
Sandi, I cannot thank you enough! Last Saturday, with the Georgia Forestry Commission, I planted 10 Cypress seedlings in the Chattahoochee National Forrest, near Atlanta -- in your honor!!
What a wonderful tradition, swapping stones and connect to those that have moved on. I think I'm going to adopt this tradition. I live in the Netherlands so I won't ask you for a PG stone. However, if you would leave a stone in my name for John, I would be very grateful. I love his songs and I think he was truly dedicated to make this world a littlebit friendlier and healthier.
How about everyone in their own way either by money or work do something in the next few months to honor JD after 10 years- whether environmental, hunger, or even adoption issues to carry on JD's passions. He would indeed smile if we each did a little part.
REALLY!?!?!? Don't tease me!;-) I would truly LOVE a small rock - no larger than a quarter - from that beach! How did you know?
I collect "memory rocks"! I have a small piece of the "Iron Curtain", rocks from Moscow, Siberia, Jamaica, Turkey, Rome, Paris, Pyramid of Cheops and a rock from just inside a sign that says "Starwood Colorado" (never found THAT house in 1979!)!!
Each rock has a special memory -- and I would do almost anything for a rock from that beach.
There is a Jewish tradition of leaving rocks/stones on someone's grave to let them know that you were there. When I go places (and I haven't been far) I leave a stone and take one in return. That way Mother Earth knows that I've been there and done no harm. Will be going to PG either this weekend or next. Was just there two weekends ago. Email me at: slmileham@hotmail with your address and I'll take care of you. Will also do the same for anyone else, if you are interested.
You would not believe the bargaining that I had to do to name my twin daughters Jessie Belle and Anna Katie (I call them J-Belle and Cake)!! Maybe JD had an early love named Jessie -- he used that name in several songs. (Lady's Chains, Whispering Jessie) Maybe he just liked the name -- maybe she broke his heart!!
Odd that he was born in Roswell, New Mexico -- in what we now call "Area 51" -- and on New Years Eve!! Hmmmm!! Maybe he was not from around here -- there is not another like him!!
Earthlinked: Far out and congrats on accomplishing your mission and keeping your promise. You know, the journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step and although sometimes I'm sure your task seemed enormous look at what uyou were able to accomplish one step at a time. I'll leave a stone at the beach in your honor.
It was a promise made between he and I, on the day he died - that I kept to myself. I am sure he would have approved!!;-) I just kept humming -- "Inch by inch, row by row, gonna make this garden grow..." (The Garden Song) and seedling number 5,000 was planted on August 1, 2007. I then told the manger why I did this volunteer work. He bought a John Denver CD! Another JD fan was born -- one tiny seedling at a time!!
Thank You and Bless You for the stone! Again, I am sure he would approve!!
Also -- on August 1, 2007 - I completed my promise to John Denver. On the day that he died, I promised to plant 5,000 trees in his name!! Mission accomplished, John!! I planted my 5,000th tree for the Georgia Forestry Commission -- it took a while -- but a promise is a promise!!
I'd love to be there - but - my twin daughters (Jessie Belle and Anna Katie born in 1999) have their birthdays - October 13!! I will always have a day of great sadness followed by a day of great joy!!
I can only hope when my time comes, I am doing something that I really love to do -- just as John did with his flying! If you gotta go -- and we all gotta go -- why not go while doing something that we really love to do?!?!
My fondest memory of John comes from a trip to Tahoe. John saw my daughter (who was 6 at the time) with her Cabbage Patch doll, came over to her, got down on one knee and talked to Macie about how he had tried to get Anna Kate one for Christmas, how lucky my daughter was to have Santa bring her one and he hoped that she told Santa thank you.
I live about a hour's drive from Pacific Grove and saw John perform in the San Francisco Bay Area and up at Lake Tahoe many, many times. Don't remember the last time...I didn't keep track because I always knew that I'd see him again.
There will be another beach clean up and memorial service the second Sunday in October. This is the "official" memorial that is on the calendar of events for Pacific Grove.
CVPS: When in September are you going to MB? The Windstar California Connection is meeting at John Denver Beach on the 23rd for a dedication and beach clean up. Would love to see a huge outpouring of love and support. One of the things John hated most was litter and that is one small thing we can all do to make a meaningful contribution to cleaning up our environment. Can you imagine if everyone picked up just one piece of litter a day...blows me away.
I have had to change my travel plans as to Sept. BUT can someone tell me, I heard there is an additional "memorial" get together somewhere in the PG area besides the one at the beach site where we lost him..is this true??
CVPS: If you are familiar with the Monterey/Pacific Grove area get on Ocean View and follow it out towards the Point Pinos lighthouse and golf course. Between Acropolis and Asilomar streets is a large beach turn out. Pull into that parking lot and you should see the driftwood with John's name carved into it. Hope this helps.
To live in the hearts of those you have left behind - is to never die!
Thanks, John, you are missed!!
I have 14 ticket stubs from 14 different John Denver concerts in Atlanta (one at Red Rocks) and every album, 8 track, cassette and now every CD the he made. His voice aged very well. I cried like a child when I heard of his death. I miss him -- I always will!!
INCREDIBLE!!! WEhat memories!! I have all the DVDs of everything he ever did, including movies,tv specials, concerts, special events, etc. AND all his CDS. His vision continues...he would be so disappointed about the scandals, etc., at NASA now. It just wasn't his time to go from us back in 1986...thank goodness. He had too much to accomplish yet on earth...
I didn't even see a JD concert until I got married. Went to 6 - she went to 19. Not enough, is it? With people and spirits and givers and the gifted and the whole-hearted, it's never enough.
I went to a total of 6 as well. The first one in 1980 that featured George Burns, and then 5 others through the years. The final one was in May 1997 when I and a few other fan friends whom I had just met, got to meet him backstage in the green room. He was very cordial, went to the children first and worked his way up. He was as shy with me as I was with him as I told him how much his music had meant to me and still did. He nodded in apprecation as we shook hands. It was a swee sweet dream.
Oh my gosh- just sooo sad yet so fitting a tribute with the song. JD is gone but his spirit is stronger the more time goes on. RIP JD- just doesn't seem like almost 10 years.
Thanks for posting....lovely tribute....and appropriate song....I have sung this one many times....however, it was penned by Johns friend Joe Henry...
Absolutely beautiful video and music background!! JD sure would have loved all of it. Am headed to MB in Sept. '07. I know his spirit watches over us all...
I go to the beach every year in October & will continue to do so until I am no more. The place is full of life; gulls & cormorants & pelicans fly thru the surf, monarch butterflies flit about, deer & seal & otter show up. From morning until dark I sit there. The sky changes. The tide goes in and out. The waves change too and they sound like the earth breathing. Lately I have been feeling drawn to the place. Perhaps I will make the drive next week. Need to talk with the pelicans..and John.
You drive through Pacific Grove staying on the road that is next to the coast. As you exit Pacific Grove, well past Lover's Point, you will approach some beaches that you can drive and park near. The second to LAST one is where this log is - it is where this tribute was filmed. Across the street and just East of the golf course. Hope this helps.
I think this video is incredibly beautiful, especially with "the wings that fly us home" as the background music. He would have liked this,simple, with the beauty of the ocean and soaring birds that were so much a part of his spirit...
what an awesome tribute to john! the beach is lovely and the driftwood looks like a sculpture of a dragon's head! i sure miss john... just glad we had him here on planet earth for as long as we did! thank you jdenverlover73 for posting this!
Thank you Eve. A very moving memory of any "mothers son" and an excellent choice of song. Diolch yn fawr (Thank you very much) from John's many Welsh friends.
Thank you so much for this. I went there for the memorial in 2000 and my spirit returns every year on Oct 12. The song 'The Wings that Fly me Home' is just perfect. It was the first song I listened to after John passed over and it was so comforting.
He sang from his soul,wrote with his heart and broke a few when he left us. Thanks for remembering him for all who loved him and continue to find comfort and joy in his musical legacy. Kevin
Thank you for a lovely and moving tribute. How I wish I'd seen him when he was in my area (Ashland, OR) a couple of months before he died. I appreciate you, and YouTube, for keeping him alive.
Wonderful video and wonderful song to go with it. It's not as well known as his other more famous ones, which serves to bring his music closer to those who didn't know him very well. John
BTW, I went to Pacific Grove for the 1st Memorial in 1998. It was absolutely beautiful with emotions and heartache supreme. Truly an event that brought out the human spirit in a newer more undiscovered way.
We were there at the one year anniversary and I agree completely. We were there the day after - tears and confusion and utter pain. Now, 11.5 years later, it's the music that still reaches into our heart and rips out the joy and reminds us of the pain his loss has meant.
I went up there with another JD fan and her husband due to not having a serviceable vehicle (sadly she has since passed away herself), and we went to the crash site. At 5:25 a throng of us paid tribute to him as 5 Long EZs went in "missing man formation" over us. It was emotional beyond description. I was wondering if I'd be able to handle it. I did, but it was far from easy. Today I've long since come to terms with it, but my life is forever immersed in JD's memory.
Since then, I have been to Aspen 4 times in October, had the honor of remembering John at the time his plane went down with a group of people in the mountains, and found a host of new friends who value John's music, message and mission. That fly-by must have given you chills.
I've been to that first memorial in 1998 where they did the flyby, and I went to the Aspen Memorial in 2000 once (would like to go back again though). When those Long EZs flew by, it was excruciating. Tears from everyone including myself. I had to comfort a fellow fan by putting my arm around him because he clearly was taking it even harder than I was. That's the power of JD, to evoke emotions within the core of a throng of people, many who had never met prior to that.
He was able to live a life we could only dream of.
How many times in my life I've walked and driven along the Monterey bay coast and thought him so far away. How we need him now to make global warming understandable to people, to sho the earth care and empathize with the nature he spoke of and sang to.
committeesq 6 months ago
I was in a front row seat at the Durngate Theatre in Northampton U.K. when John sang this song live. It truly stands in my memory as one of the most beautiful times of my life.
RAIN12FORD 11 months ago
John died 4 months before my birth. My dad met him several times.
livinglovingkindness 1 year ago
There is something amazing about spirit-connected people. They seem to come into our world, drop beautiful gifts and wisdom and then move on. I remember that day when we recorded this. An inspiring place, as is the Maroon Bells, all of Alaska, the fjords of Norway and so many other natural places.
robertlillo 1 year ago
it is such sadness he has passed on it was not till around 2002 that I started to hear his songs and ever since then i got all his Cds and some LP's i truly think he was a true Singer least we got his Music RIP John we sure miss yea
SFXJohn 1 year ago
Could someone tell me the name of the song that JD is singing in this video!! Thanks
deborah00934 1 year ago
@deborah00934 The song is "The Wings That Fly Us Home". It was released on JD's Spirit Album in '76. It was written by his good friend Joe Henry (who wrote some of JD's other songs as well) and JD would write the music for Joe's lyrics. A great combination!! A true gem of a song that will endure for a long time.
puck57 1 year ago
I'll a;ways miss him...RIP john...xx
urchin32 2 years ago 2
Twelve years ago the world lost a truly amazing man. John Denver's ability of expression, on many levels, brought people together and gave them a greater understanding for each other. Yet, he was determined to do more than just bring people together. He wanted to help change the world and make it a better place. Among many things, he strived to end hunger, endeavored to be a voice for nature, and worked to protect the natural beauty of the world.
jdstillshines 2 years ago 3
Yet, despite his untimely death, his work continues on throughout the world by all of us who still hear his voice and share his vision. He may be gone in the physical sense, but many people (myself included) know that his spirit is still here and guiding us. John still lives on in his songs and more importantly, in our hearts and he will never be forgotten. Rest in peace!
jdstillshines 2 years ago
My son & family live in Denver, and I have wanted to go to one of the tributes for John. I don't think I would be able to stop crying, because when I listen to several of his songs, I break down every time. I saw him in his early years in concert. I am so glad I have that to remember him along with his wonderful music. I miss him so.
BlueiiiedLady 2 years ago
Unfortunately a major storm will prevent me from going to the site on this 12th anniversary -- but if all goes well, we will swing by later in the week. John was/is a very special person and is still very much missed, always will be.
lovejd73 2 years ago
I was there on that very beach for the memorial gathering back in 1997. Thanks so much for posting this - it brought back many memories, both bitter and sweet. <3
elennar 2 years ago
I was there too on Oct. 26, 2 weeks after John passed. That's when it really hit me, they played "I Want To Live" and I just totally lost it, had myself a good cry. Hard to believe it's been 12 years now -- he is still very much missed.
lovejd73 2 years ago
I was sitting in Robata's in Carmel when I turned around & there was John sitting & smiling. I said, "Hi John, how are you?" He just smiled with his hat & round glasses on. His plane crashed in Pacific Grove shortly after that.
justicefx 2 years ago 2
It is so amazing to me the collective good will that so many have for this wonderful man and his music. These posts are amazing!
BobLillo 2 years ago
What is the name of this song? I am a huge fan, and have never heard this one. R.I.P John; your genius is sorely missed.
carroll1956 2 years ago
"The Wings That Fly Us Home"- originally released on the Spirit Album- mid 70's. A GREAT song- one of my all time favs of JD- words by his close friend Joe Henry- an EXCELLENT writer who helped JD with the words on a number of songs & JD would write the music to them. Thanks Joe for helping JD out when you did!!!!
puck57 2 years ago
Thanks, I'll have to look for it. Thank you for replying.
carroll1956 2 years ago
I'm jealous that only the angels in heaven hear you now. Thank you for leaving memories of your kindness, generousity and songs. r.i.p.
hiwaytrucker 2 years ago
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS VIDEO! It helps a fan to have closure. There is no one that can compare to JOHN DENVER! The day he was taken from us was the day that a PHENOMINAL VOICE & WONDROUS TALENT was lost. My husband & I have loved him since we were teenagers in the early 70's. Our children grew up listening to him. Our daughter went to 2 of his concerts. One before she was born one after she was born. He was killed the day before our 25th wedding anniversary. JOHN DENVER: THE MUSIC IS YOU!
cricketandbuddy 2 years ago
John, you are still one of the very best - ever. Your bashful manner and natural talent brought out envy and resentment in other artists, but you kept on message. God bless you for ever.
ScaeanGate 2 years ago
I still miss John so much. During my first trip to Colorado a few years ago, I played John's music driving through Rocky Mountain National Park. I could feel his spirit there. He will always be remembered through his wonderful music, and I hope we all get a chance to meet him in heaven someday.
Glannmore 2 years ago 2
what a talent, your music will live on, as we play these wonderful songs for the younger generations, rest in peace.
55SciFiGuy 3 years ago 3
Happy Birthday, John Denver. He would have been 65 today. I visited this site this past July. The driftwood is still there. There is a rock that looks like there was plaque in it, but now there's nothing.
susandowser 3 years ago 4
The music is as beautiful as it was the first time I heard it. We miss you John, the world could use some of your gentle music in these rough times.RIP
soyousay8990 3 years ago 5
Thak you,i love John Denver and the Country roads song,sorry for my english
Guitarszkly 3 years ago 2
To the love of my life, David, I Love You,
Michelle
molly195957 3 years ago
Thanks John for living in my lifetime.
denver400000 3 years ago 16
i cant wait to see ypu john denver my buddy by freind you made some awsome songs
RSkidDaringRS 3 years ago 3
I miss you and your music john hope to see you in heaven just a fan Roy
opposedroy 3 years ago 3
Thank you.
kdpahl 3 years ago
I saw this many times ...
It´s so sad, i´m very speechless.
Billion thanks from GERMANY,
Mario
MarioBellantone 3 years ago
Go ahead...make me cry...I don't mind.
nixthetiger 3 years ago 2
every time I see this video and hear the song, I get chills...have been to the airport where he took his final flight, saw where he parked his car that last day..the control tower and the runway where he took off for the last time...it was a VERY strange feeling......
cvps 3 years ago 4
awesome...thank you.
68trapr 3 years ago 2
may the sunshine on you in heaven
8592291613 3 years ago 12
John truly felt life from his heart. He was connected to everything good, right, and true; spirituality at its finest. I miss him but am so thankful of what he gave to us and for many generations to come. Pat
technonana 3 years ago 4
I have the final NTSB report on his accident - and after reading it, there were (as with most accidents like this) 5 or 6 poor decisions that were made that day - like NOT filling the tanks on an airplane that he was not familiar with!! He should have known better - he was a very experienced pilot with +2700 hours of flight time!! I miss the music that was to come!!
Earthlinked 4 years ago 4
We have just returned from Pacific Grove. Every moment was magical. Placed the rock as requested on his Birthday. The magic comes from feeling life from the heart. This is the gift John gave us.
drepiz 4 years ago 3
I live within one minute's walk of this place. My neighbor saw his plane go down.
Very sad.
rxn1773 4 years ago 2
This video killed me and I did not expect it to do that to me. If anyone goes there anytime soon, could you please put a rock there for me to?
iluvmore 4 years ago 2
We will do thif for you today before we travel home.
drepiz 4 years ago
I am going to PG this Saturday. Would be my pleasure to do this for you.
babushka62 4 years ago 4
If anyone is going to that beach. Could you please leave a stone for me? Please? I live in eastern Canada. I am too far away to leave one myself. John's songs mean the world to me. I would appreciate it so much.
drummerkid71 4 years ago 2
I am going to PG this Saturday as a matter of fact. Would be my pleasure to do this for you.
babushka62 4 years ago 4
JD purchased the 9 year old experimental plane for $50K. He was going to have the fuel selector gage placed in its proper location during his next concert tour. Unfortunately, tragedy struck. He's sorely missed! RIP
jdstillshines 4 years ago 2
This is one of my all time favorite beaches, and one of my favorite JD songs. You can actually reach those rocks at low tide. RIP JD, 10 years seems like so little time
frankdariano 4 years ago
JD had a way of expressing himself in a way that was always touching. He could see very clearly things that many of us just take for granted. He was a special gift.Ten years have passed and JD still shines!!
jdstillshines 4 years ago 3
I had a pet deer that I named JD and I took care of him for 19 and a haft years, we were very close and had a strong bond between us,I loved him and he loved me as well you could see it whenever you saw us together.This is my favorite john Denver song and it is also the song the I wrote on my pets casket when he passed a way,so this song means alot to me and cant help but shed tears even time I hear it , I love you JD, and thank you
codydeer 4 years ago 3
Hard to believe it has been 10 years. Even harder to believe that this song was recorded in the 1970's (Spirit Album) and it still seems very relevent today!!
I must see this place - I must replace a rock that a dear friend sent to me!
Earthlinked 4 years ago 2
The lyrics of life and death are TIMELESS in this recording- that is the beauty and genius of what Joe Henry wrote and what JD was able to put to music as only he could. It is like the ideas or beliefs of a combination of religions and followings were incorporated into one song as I don't think any other song has ever done.
puck57 4 years ago
Thanks for mentioning where this song can be found and as a result,I purchased JD's Spirit CD yesterday. Yes, it's hard to believe 10 years have passed but it's heartwarming to see how many still care!
jdstillshines 4 years ago 3
I love this song...I've had the CD for a while and the first time I listened to it I shed tears, it's so beautiful. Songs like this make one believe that the soul carries on, and gives humanity hope that it doesn't all just end when we die. John had a beautiful spirit, and it lives on in his music.
bettywhitedog 4 years ago 3
I grew up in Pacific Grove, I remember the day he died, and yes, we wish him back, but you must go on and listen to his beautiful music. I used to play here as a kid, he died in a beautiful place, he was a beautiful person.
wolverinez61 4 years ago 2
I had tears in my eyes toward the end of this.
Even though he's been gone for 10 years,there
are still times when I can't believe hes dead.
R.I.P.-John.We will always miss and love you. patybear
patybear 4 years ago 2
We all know EXACTLY how you feel. It seems like I miss JD more now than in '97- partly seeing all the songs and people's comments on Youtube kind of brings everybody together in their appreciation of JD and how he and his music and life touched us all. Just amazing. JD's spirit grows stronger with the years!
puck57 4 years ago 2
Thank you as today is the tenth anniversary of his passing. We lost one of our generations most caring, creative, and loving souls that day. I will miss attending live performances, yet he lives on forever in his songs.
Jardinami 4 years ago 5
John, we wish you peace.
babushka6225 4 years ago 2
Thanks JD- I KNOW you see all our messages on this site and everywhere else- and you are "right in the next room". Soar with the eagles- RIP- you touched so many in so many ways big and small. My heart to AD and the kids and all the family on this especially hard day.
puck57 4 years ago 3
This is beautiful!Today it is 10 years since we lost him.I never remember the exact day for some reason,even though it corresponds w/my wedding anniversary.I sent my husband an ecard from yahoo that had Annies Song on it this morning and it triggered the memery and led me here.I'm glad it did.
Broadkill 4 years ago 2
Why are we blessed with such a youtube gift? Thank you so much!
robertlillo 4 years ago 2
I had the pleasure of being in Pacific Grove last Sunday when the memorial plaque for John was dedicated at this location. Weather was beautiful. His brother, Ron and sister-in-law Terry (sp?) were there representing the Deutschendorf-Denver families. If you ever get the chance to visit...it is such a spiritual place. And Ronald....I got your stones and sand. Will be sending it this weekend.
babushka6225 4 years ago
Cont.- "Life means all that it ever means.. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I'm waiting for you. Everywhere very near- just around the corner. All is well." Is this not a BEAUTIFUL letter that was written to Annie or what.
puck57 4 years ago
Imagine how it struck her emotionally!! I am SO glad it got through to her, that she actually GOT the letter!!!
cvps 4 years ago 2
I would imagine AD got lots of letters and cards- and probably still corresponds with some- in a way it is probably a sort of therapy for her to share with some of these people like the parents from this letter.
puck57 4 years ago
"Death is nothing at all. I have only slipped away to the next room. I am I and you are you. Whatever we were to each other- that we still are. Call me by my old familiar name in your home. Wear no forced air of solmenity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was..."
puck57 4 years ago
Here is part of a speech Annie gave in August '98 for the JD Sanctuary in Aspen. This part was from a letter sent to her by a mother of a girl who had been killed in a car accident. The parents had gone to one of JD's last concerts in Texas before he died. I will let the words speak for themselves. Forgive me if they are not exact but I tried to write it as I saw it. I will have to break up the speech because of space limitations.
puck57 4 years ago
Ronald, I will be going to Pacific Grove for you this weekend. Would you like your stone left on the beach by the driftwood or in the water?
Sandi
babushka6225 4 years ago
Sandi,
Either will be fine, it's the intention that counts. Thanks!
thinkfree63 4 years ago
Ron...I would be honored to leave a stone at the beach for you and to send you a rock and some sand from the beach as well. It is such a wonderful and yet sad place. Please email me your address (my email address is somewhere on here) and I will take care of you. Earthlinked...your envelope is on it's way.
babushka6225 4 years ago
I have found a dear friend. I collect "memory rocks". I have small rocks from around the world: Moscow, Siberia, Paris, Rome, Egypt and many from America -- each rock with its own memory. As a devoted John Denver follower since 1972, I now have a rock from John Denver Beach. It is my centerpiece - on my shelves of my memory rocks - and in my heart. I will always miss him. Sandi, you are my new hero -- I have found a dear friend. Thank you - and may God bless you and keep you safe and warm.
Earthlinked 4 years ago
There are only 2 rules for collecting memory rocks: 1) You must pick the rock up yourself. It must be no larger than your fingernail. 2) If you do not pick it up -- if someone gives you a memory rock - you have 5 years to go there and put one back. I live in Atlanta -- but I will go to John Denver Beach and put one back. My John Denver memory rock sits between a rock that was a piece of the iron curtain in Berlin and a rock from the moon that a friend from Houston gave me many years ago.
Earthlinked 4 years ago
I think it is appropriate that my JD memory rocks should be between these 2 rocks -- between peace and flying -- the things he love most. Every concert ended with JD saying "Pray for Peace". And YES -- I hope to go to the moon one day and put one back and "to dance across the mountains on the moon".
Sandi, I cannot thank you enough! Last Saturday, with the Georgia Forestry Commission, I planted 10 Cypress seedlings in the Chattahoochee National Forrest, near Atlanta -- in your honor!!
Earthlinked 4 years ago
Hi Babushka,
What a wonderful tradition, swapping stones and connect to those that have moved on. I think I'm going to adopt this tradition. I live in the Netherlands so I won't ask you for a PG stone. However, if you would leave a stone in my name for John, I would be very grateful. I love his songs and I think he was truly dedicated to make this world a littlebit friendlier and healthier.
Thank you,
Ronald
thinkfree63 4 years ago
And you felt it was necessary to share that with us for what reason?
babushka6225 4 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
John Denver was the worst singer in the world.
England57 4 years ago
How about everyone in their own way either by money or work do something in the next few months to honor JD after 10 years- whether environmental, hunger, or even adoption issues to carry on JD's passions. He would indeed smile if we each did a little part.
puck57 4 years ago
Earthlinked: Have you been to the beach? If not...and if you would like me to...I can send you some sand and rocks from near the driftwood.
babushka6225 4 years ago
REALLY!?!?!? Don't tease me!;-) I would truly LOVE a small rock - no larger than a quarter - from that beach! How did you know?
I collect "memory rocks"! I have a small piece of the "Iron Curtain", rocks from Moscow, Siberia, Jamaica, Turkey, Rome, Paris, Pyramid of Cheops and a rock from just inside a sign that says "Starwood Colorado" (never found THAT house in 1979!)!!
Each rock has a special memory -- and I would do almost anything for a rock from that beach.
Earthlinked 4 years ago
There is a Jewish tradition of leaving rocks/stones on someone's grave to let them know that you were there. When I go places (and I haven't been far) I leave a stone and take one in return. That way Mother Earth knows that I've been there and done no harm. Will be going to PG either this weekend or next. Was just there two weekends ago. Email me at: slmileham@hotmail with your address and I'll take care of you. Will also do the same for anyone else, if you are interested.
babushka6225 4 years ago
You would not believe the bargaining that I had to do to name my twin daughters Jessie Belle and Anna Katie (I call them J-Belle and Cake)!! Maybe JD had an early love named Jessie -- he used that name in several songs. (Lady's Chains, Whispering Jessie) Maybe he just liked the name -- maybe she broke his heart!!
Odd that he was born in Roswell, New Mexico -- in what we now call "Area 51" -- and on New Years Eve!! Hmmmm!! Maybe he was not from around here -- there is not another like him!!
Earthlinked 4 years ago
Earthlinked: Far out and congrats on accomplishing your mission and keeping your promise. You know, the journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step and although sometimes I'm sure your task seemed enormous look at what uyou were able to accomplish one step at a time. I'll leave a stone at the beach in your honor.
babushka6225 4 years ago
It was a promise made between he and I, on the day he died - that I kept to myself. I am sure he would have approved!!;-) I just kept humming -- "Inch by inch, row by row, gonna make this garden grow..." (The Garden Song) and seedling number 5,000 was planted on August 1, 2007. I then told the manger why I did this volunteer work. He bought a John Denver CD! Another JD fan was born -- one tiny seedling at a time!!
Thank You and Bless You for the stone! Again, I am sure he would approve!!
Earthlinked 4 years ago
Also -- on August 1, 2007 - I completed my promise to John Denver. On the day that he died, I promised to plant 5,000 trees in his name!! Mission accomplished, John!! I planted my 5,000th tree for the Georgia Forestry Commission -- it took a while -- but a promise is a promise!!
Earthlinked 4 years ago
I'd love to be there - but - my twin daughters (Jessie Belle and Anna Katie born in 1999) have their birthdays - October 13!! I will always have a day of great sadness followed by a day of great joy!!
I can only hope when my time comes, I am doing something that I really love to do -- just as John did with his flying! If you gotta go -- and we all gotta go -- why not go while doing something that we really love to do?!?!
Earthlinked 4 years ago
My fondest memory of John comes from a trip to Tahoe. John saw my daughter (who was 6 at the time) with her Cabbage Patch doll, came over to her, got down on one knee and talked to Macie about how he had tried to get Anna Kate one for Christmas, how lucky my daughter was to have Santa bring her one and he hoped that she told Santa thank you.
babushka6225 4 years ago 2
Such a cute story. I can just see him saying that too- I saw him three times in concert- so GRATEFUL.
puck57 4 years ago
I live about a hour's drive from Pacific Grove and saw John perform in the San Francisco Bay Area and up at Lake Tahoe many, many times. Don't remember the last time...I didn't keep track because I always knew that I'd see him again.
babushka6225 4 years ago
There will be another beach clean up and memorial service the second Sunday in October. This is the "official" memorial that is on the calendar of events for Pacific Grove.
babushka6225 4 years ago
CVPS: When in September are you going to MB? The Windstar California Connection is meeting at John Denver Beach on the 23rd for a dedication and beach clean up. Would love to see a huge outpouring of love and support. One of the things John hated most was litter and that is one small thing we can all do to make a meaningful contribution to cleaning up our environment. Can you imagine if everyone picked up just one piece of litter a day...blows me away.
babushka6225 4 years ago
I have had to change my travel plans as to Sept. BUT can someone tell me, I heard there is an additional "memorial" get together somewhere in the PG area besides the one at the beach site where we lost him..is this true??
cvps 4 years ago
CVPS: If you are familiar with the Monterey/Pacific Grove area get on Ocean View and follow it out towards the Point Pinos lighthouse and golf course. Between Acropolis and Asilomar streets is a large beach turn out. Pull into that parking lot and you should see the driftwood with John's name carved into it. Hope this helps.
babushka6225 4 years ago
It helps me a LOT, Thank you so much!! Look forward to being there and feeling his spirit around me...
cvps 4 years ago
To live in the hearts of those you have left behind - is to never die!
Thanks, John, you are missed!!
I have 14 ticket stubs from 14 different John Denver concerts in Atlanta (one at Red Rocks) and every album, 8 track, cassette and now every CD the he made. His voice aged very well. I cried like a child when I heard of his death. I miss him -- I always will!!
Earthlinked 4 years ago
INCREDIBLE!!! WEhat memories!! I have all the DVDs of everything he ever did, including movies,tv specials, concerts, special events, etc. AND all his CDS. His vision continues...he would be so disappointed about the scandals, etc., at NASA now. It just wasn't his time to go from us back in 1986...thank goodness. He had too much to accomplish yet on earth...
cvps 4 years ago
When did you last see him perform, and where?
cvps 4 years ago
I didn't even see a JD concert until I got married. Went to 6 - she went to 19. Not enough, is it? With people and spirits and givers and the gifted and the whole-hearted, it's never enough.
BobLillo 2 years ago 2
I went to a total of 6 as well. The first one in 1980 that featured George Burns, and then 5 others through the years. The final one was in May 1997 when I and a few other fan friends whom I had just met, got to meet him backstage in the green room. He was very cordial, went to the children first and worked his way up. He was as shy with me as I was with him as I told him how much his music had meant to me and still did. He nodded in apprecation as we shook hands. It was a swee sweet dream.
jrssjdca 2 years ago 3
Oh my gosh- just sooo sad yet so fitting a tribute with the song. JD is gone but his spirit is stronger the more time goes on. RIP JD- just doesn't seem like almost 10 years.
puck57 4 years ago
Thanks for posting....lovely tribute....and appropriate song....I have sung this one many times....however, it was penned by Johns friend Joe Henry...
fuzzflxrs 4 years ago
been searching for this track, so beautiful, and perfect for this tribute. thanks
marieannewhite 4 years ago
He had SO much talent at such a young age. Too bad he died because of the Aussie and what she did to him, would not have had to go to Cal. to see JB.
cvps 4 years ago
Really, really nice. I can't believe how prophetic
his music was. Thanks for posting.
pattykad 4 years ago
Absolutely beautiful video and music background!! JD sure would have loved all of it. Am headed to MB in Sept. '07. I know his spirit watches over us all...
cvps 4 years ago
I go to the beach every year in October & will continue to do so until I am no more. The place is full of life; gulls & cormorants & pelicans fly thru the surf, monarch butterflies flit about, deer & seal & otter show up. From morning until dark I sit there. The sky changes. The tide goes in and out. The waves change too and they sound like the earth breathing. Lately I have been feeling drawn to the place. Perhaps I will make the drive next week. Need to talk with the pelicans..and John.
beacheagles 4 years ago
HOW do I find the exact location?
cvps 4 years ago
"HOW do I find the exact location?"
The corner of Ocean View and Asilomar in Pacific Grove, California. Not hard.
beacheagles 4 years ago
You drive through Pacific Grove staying on the road that is next to the coast. As you exit Pacific Grove, well past Lover's Point, you will approach some beaches that you can drive and park near. The second to LAST one is where this log is - it is where this tribute was filmed. Across the street and just East of the golf course. Hope this helps.
BobLillo 2 years ago
aspen1987 What a nice tribute.... and what a beautiful song. I love John Denver's singing.....
Aspen1987 4 years ago
quanta saudade!!!
brunoufg 4 years ago
I think this video is incredibly beautiful, especially with "the wings that fly us home" as the background music. He would have liked this,simple, with the beauty of the ocean and soaring birds that were so much a part of his spirit...
cvps 4 years ago
i agree with prfctday
ammas01 4 years ago
lol, thats what that shit was at the beach. i thaught it said john doe. lol. shit that thing was gone in 2days
Username03 4 years ago
Best for you to stay quiet until you grow up.
prfctday 4 years ago
what an awesome tribute to john! the beach is lovely and the driftwood looks like a sculpture of a dragon's head! i sure miss john... just glad we had him here on planet earth for as long as we did! thank you jdenverlover73 for posting this!
hotternfyr 4 years ago
simply beautiful! I just love John's voice so much. Thanks for posting this.
tomsnowboo 5 years ago
we miss u john
lgujhf 5 years ago
miss you jhon.
SACATAPA1 5 years ago
is that a pumpkin on the beach with mr denver's name on it?
simonbath 5 years ago
It is indeed. Someone in their thoughtfulness left an icon of Fall. What a treasure this person is. And no - it wasn't me.
robertlillo 4 years ago
He would have liked this.
Thank you.
virago1776 5 years ago
Thank you for this beautiful tribute to a wonderful person. Miss you, John.
obsessong 5 years ago
Thank you Eve. A very moving memory of any "mothers son" and an excellent choice of song. Diolch yn fawr (Thank you very much) from John's many Welsh friends.
kcdpop4076 5 years ago
I can´t believe he is gone. His music helped me a lot in many ways. From Madrid, bye, bye.
mentapoleo 5 years ago
Thank you so much for this. I went there for the memorial in 2000 and my spirit returns every year on Oct 12. The song 'The Wings that Fly me Home' is just perfect. It was the first song I listened to after John passed over and it was so comforting.
Sylvia UK
forestchild23 5 years ago
He sang from his soul,wrote with his heart and broke a few when he left us. Thanks for remembering him for all who loved him and continue to find comfort and joy in his musical legacy. Kevin
keozki 5 years ago
Thanks Eve, I remember the day he died and it is still painful. Thank you for making my memory easier.
BTW...what was this song's title? I havent heard this one before. Just curious.
Crislee Souza
Klamath Falls, Oregon.
cas0239 5 years ago
Crislee,
That song is "The Wings That Fly Us Home" from John's "Spirit" album from 1976, one of his best!
By the way, we lived in Oregon for 5 yrs., a small
town called 'McMinnville'.
jdenverlover73 5 years ago
Hi Eve,
Thanks for the beach on You Tube.... Hope to see you in October... Leslie
beacheagles 4 years ago
Thank you for a lovely and moving tribute. How I wish I'd seen him when he was in my area (Ashland, OR) a couple of months before he died. I appreciate you, and YouTube, for keeping him alive.
60rosa61 4 years ago
I'm not Eve...but the song is "The Wings That Fly Us Home" from the 1976 "Spirit" album.
It's succinct. Nice job.
tcwest 5 years ago
Eve...wonderful job. How beautiful and serene, and oh yes, sad because he is gone.
Purrrs
Bari
barid1 5 years ago
Thank you !! This brings back memories for me. I drove by this five days after John's death. I will never forget it.
dkersch 5 years ago
This is a very moving video that highlights John Denver's music and the beauty of the Pacific Grove Coastline. A TRIUMPH!!!
robertlillo 5 years ago
Wonderful video and wonderful song to go with it. It's not as well known as his other more famous ones, which serves to bring his music closer to those who didn't know him very well. John
BTW, I went to Pacific Grove for the 1st Memorial in 1998. It was absolutely beautiful with emotions and heartache supreme. Truly an event that brought out the human spirit in a newer more undiscovered way.
jrssjdca 5 years ago
We were there at the one year anniversary and I agree completely. We were there the day after - tears and confusion and utter pain. Now, 11.5 years later, it's the music that still reaches into our heart and rips out the joy and reminds us of the pain his loss has meant.
BobLillo 2 years ago 2
I went up there with another JD fan and her husband due to not having a serviceable vehicle (sadly she has since passed away herself), and we went to the crash site. At 5:25 a throng of us paid tribute to him as 5 Long EZs went in "missing man formation" over us. It was emotional beyond description. I was wondering if I'd be able to handle it. I did, but it was far from easy. Today I've long since come to terms with it, but my life is forever immersed in JD's memory.
jrssjdca 2 years ago
Since then, I have been to Aspen 4 times in October, had the honor of remembering John at the time his plane went down with a group of people in the mountains, and found a host of new friends who value John's music, message and mission. That fly-by must have given you chills.
BobLillo 2 years ago
I've been to that first memorial in 1998 where they did the flyby, and I went to the Aspen Memorial in 2000 once (would like to go back again though). When those Long EZs flew by, it was excruciating. Tears from everyone including myself. I had to comfort a fellow fan by putting my arm around him because he clearly was taking it even harder than I was. That's the power of JD, to evoke emotions within the core of a throng of people, many who had never met prior to that.
jrssjdca 2 years ago 2
I've never been to Monterey Bay. It's very sad but still pretty. You paired it with the perfect song. Thanks for sharing.
aspenkate 5 years ago
Very well done. One of my favorite songs of his, as well. I always play it on October 12. Thank you.
March1953 5 years ago
This is truly what I needed to see today. Thank you for sharing this beautiful video. It was sad, and beautiful all at the same time.
Thank you,
Carol S.
Montana
cschupp 5 years ago
Thank you, Eve ... Thanks for taking me there once again. It means alot to me... wish I could have been there with you, in this very special place.
I love the song you picked and the birds flying out across the water. Thanks so much for sharing this with all John's fans.
Sweet Dreams & Peace
Linda
JDsweetdreams 5 years ago
Eve,
Very nice video. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Peace,
Darcey
DarceyAnne 5 years ago