Sure Ian Gillan can sing good, but this versions comes off limp when compared to Ted Neeley's movie version. Just check out Ted's jugular veins towards the end of the song (from the movie). Ian, and others have sung this song, Ted owns it. The rest come off castrated in comparison.
Again,check out Neeley's jugulars, and then listen to Ian.. In baseball parlance, Ian gets a solid double, Ted hits it out of the park!
Andrew Lloyd Webber about Ian Gillan: He’s got to be incredibly charismatic, that is obviously clear, he has also got to have a fantastic singing voice..."The original role was played by Ian Gillan of Deep Purple 42 years ago...he was amazing and he was one of the great rock tenor voices of all l time, and an extraordinary falsetto cry, and we’re going to have to go a long way to find somebody who can match him" Now you know there will be ever only a second place for te good Teddy...
Jesus Christ Superstar is one of my all time favorite albums, of all time. The tears flow when I listen to Ian Gillan singing "I only want to say" he is superb. I saw the play in 2004 in Orange County with Ted Neely and he was awesome, and so nice I got to take pictures with him and his son. I am always spiritually moved when I listen to this album, poor Jesus how he suffered. Thank you Jesus! Love you!
the Broadway cut of every song of this album is by far superior to Ted Neely's. I saw him do it in 2006 and my wife and I got dirty looks as we laughed uncontrollably by the awful performance he did the entire play. His voice left him 20 years ago! the only thing that saved the play at all was Judas Every song sung in the album excels over the movie version. Ian Gillian rocks so much more. I've seen him in concert numerous times and I think he is one of the most under-rated voices.
John Farnham's version is way better then this. I believe his beautiful voice as more sadness and feeling in it than this. It makes me cry with the pain, this version makes me cringe.
This guy just can't wail like Neeley. While I appreciate some of the small differences, Neeley puts more soul and rock into this, at least for me, and I don't hear it in this guys voice.
Especially hearing Neeley doing this song back in 2006, he still does it damn good, better than this or his original version, he was made for it.
His version seems too much like a cleaned up sound,ewthout the break of passion in it..As if he is just singing another old song,...Ted Neely is for me! Oh,m..and,..that bit about: "was the known face of this Jesus, but that was his only achievement." You cant be more wrong.He is still touring and selling out venues at this very moment.Tickets going for over $500.00.I wasnt able to be the funds to go,but I heard it was great.
This is great but Ted Neely could just do so much more with his voice and really puts so much more variation and harmony in the melody. They're both great performances, but when it REALLY counts, Neely nailed it harder.
@Khayman8888 In my honest opinion, you are completely wrong. Yes, Neely puts more variation on the song, but that is an unfair thing to say considering Gillan had no basis for comparison, being the first to interpret the piece. Furthermore, Neely vibrates through every. single. note, and it distracts from the beautiful melody. There is also a sizable break in Neely's voice, whereas Gillan's voice is seamless from top to bottom.
I think it's near impossible to compare Ian's version with any other. This was the first version - without the time needed to 'grow' the character. Neely had the benefit of several years to hear and mold the character to what he wanted. Other's have had even more time. If Ian still had his voice from 1970, then I'd love to see what his take on Jesus would be today. I enjoy them all.
Dude, my mom used to have this album in the 70s in her record collection, but I had no idea the lead singer of Deep Purple was on there. I would have swiped the record for sure.
Sorry about this. But to me, the best version of this song (and many others) is in the tribute concert for Andrew Lloyd Webber's birthday. I listened to that first and this sounds so wrong to me. And I usually like rock opera type things.
Gillan enters the third dimension when he hits the word "Why" when he says, "Why should I die" at 2:28. My favorite thing ever sang in history. Struck a chord when I first heard it as a kid and it still does the same thing nearly every time I hear it, especially when listening to the actual album on good equipment.
I'm kinda surprised that people are evn comparing Neeleys version to Gillans. from a purely vocal performance point of view, Gillan is way superior. When you want an actor to sing or vice versa, there is always a compromise, but for the recording of the song Gillan was awesome!
Ian Gillan should have taken the role for the movie and there would be no arguing as to whose version is better, not that there is a valid argument against Gillan having done the best performance. He missed the opportunity to star in a classic movie which would have made him famous with the other half of the world that didn't know him as a rock star. And what did he get for his loyalty to Deep Purple? THE BOOT from Ritchie Blackmore. I bet he regretted turning down the film after that.
I still think ya'll are missing the point. I'm 47 & grew up with both versions...yeah, they're both great. Have you listened to Steve Balsamo? He's got a better voice that the original singer and better communication of passion than the original actor. Folks, the next generation of Broadway performer has done us all proud...and taken the role and the song to a new high. You owe it, for the sake of the art of vocal performance, to give it a listen.
Ian Gillan turned down the role in the movie cos he was offered $1000 a week for the 6 weeks to make the film.he put more up his nose at that time so couldnt do it echonomicaly wise!oh and by the way he knocks the tits off of ted heely!
hurrey head also knocks the tits off of the black guy whos dead
@serial162 I don't think that Hurrey was better than Anderson. Personally I think Anderson was amazing. Hurrey was the first one i ever heard. I really can't decide who's better. They both portray so much emotion with great voices.
Comparing the movie version to Gillan's version, you could maybe say that Neely acts the role of Jesus better, but it's hard to compare since you actually get to see Neely singing the song in costume. But as far as pure vocal performance goes, Gillan blows Neely away.
@ASoundofThunderBand forgive me and try to understand what i try to say to you...(i'm not a english mother language man so... it's quite difficult to me explain what i thought..) Ian is one of the best singer of the last 40 years but when he start singing " i'd want to know...." part i see the pentagram and not a soffering praying man... but maybe it's only my point of view.... cheers
Both versions are quite excellent. The movie version is really quite more emotional in the way that you feel like he really REALLY wants to stop it. In the 1970 album, it's more like a struggle - they are different in different ways. Now stop arguing!
@WhoWatchesVideos I like what you said. Personally, I like Neely's version just a bit better. It is more vibrant and expressive. They both possess an incredible vocal range. I am only an observer, but I think Neely's version is just a tad bit more touching. I should be arguing the opposing view, since I grew up with "Deep Purple," but I remain resolute. lol
@christopherm2k I think most people think that Neely's version is better beacuse they watched the movie and grow up with that version...but I think this one is better...if Gillan hadn't refused the role and Neely had sang the soundtrack before Ian, people surely would have said that Gillan's version was the best...Gillan is the "real" Jesus, no one else...
I've watched many versions of this song on youtube and i gotta say, this version is the best. Ted Neeley was trying, but his voice doesn't match up to the instruments as well as Ian does.
Ted Neely's timing is incredible...cause is interpreting....is acting and singing at the same time...Jan Gillan is singing...stop....Ted Neeley rides the song...listen to the final part..."Why then am I scared to finish"....his sense of the rythm is perfect....
Neeley was completely oblivious to the timing for most of the production. He had a good voice but his timing was awful. He also kept dropping into spoken word in an opera like William Shatner.
in 1987 my parents were involved in a Black Rock production of this show. I was 12. This was my whole life for over 6 months..at that age it was EVERYTHING! the musicians..WOW the actors..WOW! the music..WOW WOW!!! and the Drummer...oh whatta crush... I love every beat of this, every word and every emotion it invokes. I sing and have been in many musicals...my ONLY goal left is to be JUDAS.. Its time I played the role.
I only want to say... that even if I'm a huge fan of Ian and Deep purple and I consider this an AMAZING performance, I think that while he makes me feel like: "Ok he is amazingly singing Jesus's part in the musical", Ted really makes me feel "Ok...I'm hearing Jesus talking and screaming to God" and the only one who expresses the sense of sacrifice and suffering and heartbreaking humanity this part is about...even if I'm not a believer
Always loved Ian Gillan with Deep Purple,but never realized he sang this until today.....bought the album way back in the 70's.Can't be touched,as a musical!!
from a rock standpoint, he is pretty damn good...but he's lacking the passion that Neely has....sorry, I like Neely more :)....take that part at 3:22...where the hell is the passion in the singing, the screaming, and yelling? The whole songs emotion is rising higher and higher, why is he getting flatter and softer?? I don't get it!
@MDkid1 Because he's playing it reflectively after already building up the anger and frenzy...what part of that do you not understand. Teds version is great but one dimensional compared to this...
@MDkid1 Ted ( IMO) Plays up the whole thing, he is after all an actor. Gethsemene, IS an anguished filled song as you rightly point out, but there is the element of acceptence, inevitability at the end that Ted doesn't convey. He alsocopied Gillans phrasing and dynamics through most of the song. Most of you Ted fans forget that Ian put the screams into this, not Ted.
@Weaponx58 well perhaps Ted was just keeping what was good about the song and what worked. The scream was an excellent addition. There is a sense of inevitability at the end of Ted's rendition, right after the orchestral frenzy interlude. He brings it around to a very dynamic and dramatic close...I just felt that there was more energy in Ted's rendition that for a song of this caliber, it must have. Its been great discussing this song haha...no one else cares! lol
@MDkid1 Hi, there is a huge discussion going on with one of the other uploads of this (much bigger hit rate:o) Thanks for your chat, it is such an overlooked classic song isn't it? Also, Check out the John Farnham version just for vocal ability alone...it's stunning
@MDkid1 Just type "Ian Gillan Gethsemane" in to the search bar and or "John Farnham Gethsemane". You should also check out Gillans "In the temple" and whats the buzz :o)
@Weaponx58 it really works to have the heavy rock feel for this song, it brings out the energy....crazy drumming sequences, piano thumping, strings rising! amazing stuff!
40 years on, and this album is still stirring emotions and dialogue, and isn't that the litmus test of how great this music is ? Gilan is the original (and my personal fave), and Ted is fine in the movie, and Balsemo and.............and that is the point: This has touched all of us, in our own unique and yet similar ways. We all find reasons to love this opera, and its' story and message. I believe that JCS has expanded knowledge of the last days of Christ beyond anyone's imagination. Peace:-)
Jeff Fenholt was "Jesus" on Broadway when it was in New York. Ted Neely was in 'the chorus' (I have the playbill and the original cast album). Jeff had health issues and couldn't do the movie. Ted Neely went on to do. I saw him here in Reno, Nevada in ''07. AWESOME!! Ian Gillan does a GREAT job.
@ULCRev62 Sorry to contradict you my friend, but Gillan was the first and original version (read wikipedia and Tim Rice's book) Gillan was offered the London, broadway and movie roles but turned them down because he had a hugely succesful career of his own as the lead singer of Deep Purple :o)
I was lucky to hear the pre-sell records, the labels where white. Our elementary school priest got hold on/was given the pre-sell copies plus transscripts and used it for bible study. He translated it from english into dutch.
On my following birthday I bought the record.
I never saw the movie, because I was afraid of dissappointment, because Ian Gillan wasn't singing in it.
One of the best rock singers ever, if not the best. When Gilan hits those high notes, his voice has this rich quality that I've never heard anyone else come close to - Child in Time for example, he's an anomaly. I prefer Neeley's interpretation just based on the gritty, raw emotion that comes through. But Gilan's simply a legendary vocalist if ever there was one.
@Frieza079: Sorry guys, I'll have to say it's still Neeley for me. Gillian and Balsamo are one of the best, of course, but it's Ted Neeley who's got that grittiness one needs to portray Jesus. It's JESUS, man, the guy who willingly went to crucifixion. Gethsemane is the Agony in the Garden, where he literally sweated blood from the stress. The "bleeding" needs to be felt in the voice. "Scream-y" Neeley's the only one who seems to have understood this.
This is THE version against which all other versions must be judged, the original and the best undoubtedly. Gillan sang this in ONE take! His voice touches the soul, simply an awesome performance..... untouchable
Love this, also love Micheal Ball and Colm Wilkinson's versions. Both worth listening to if you haven't heard before. Ball's version has immense power and Wilkinson's shows off he massive range.
If this is the evil version of listening to music. It's the best music when you could accu hear. I listen to it since 1970 and now 2010, you understand?
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this is the worst version ever, wow, i sing it better than this. except the really high part, which is still bad on this version. no feeling whatsoever. its almost like he didnt practice and just read it off.
You are so right!!!! I couldn't stand the the version by Ted Neely compared to this one. He played a good part in the movie, but this is the song that really carries the soundtrack. It's when Jesus questions whether he is human or messiah and Gillian pumps this bitch out!
@BillyBocksfuss I think most people think that Neely's version is better beacuse they watched the movie and grow up with that version...but I think this one is better...if Gillan hadn't refused the role and Neely had sang the soundtrack before Ian, people surely would have said that Gillan's version was the best...Gillan is the "real" Jesus, no one else...
This original version is hands down, THE best! Ian Gillan's voice is phenomenal. He is definitely a rock god and doesn't get the recognition he deserves when I read the comments on the Neely movie version videos on youtube. Ted Neely is good, but he can't touch Gillan as JC. I don't think alot of the people commenting on the Neely movie version have any clue that Ian Gillan was the original JC.
Unpretentious phrasing and his ability to project both power and sensitivity with a piece of music that required extreme emotion. Mr. Gillan had one of those perfect moments, no one else has come close. At best the others are laughable.
What a FAB track!! Just excellent, and I LOVE it hands down over Ted Neely's version, it would have been awesome if Ian could have played Jesus in the rock opera itself, that scream of "WHY should I die?" gives you chills....
I'm little stirred...it's the first time i listen this song sung by the great Ian Gillan (i'm a Deep Purple's fan)..So, many many thankx, paulodomic!....
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Sure Ian Gillan can sing good, but this versions comes off limp when compared to Ted Neeley's movie version. Just check out Ted's jugular veins towards the end of the song (from the movie). Ian, and others have sung this song, Ted owns it. The rest come off castrated in comparison.
Again,check out Neeley's jugulars, and then listen to Ian.. In baseball parlance, Ian gets a solid double, Ted hits it out of the park!
RussOtis 1 week ago
Speechless... Gillan gives glory to the fact that we're created, not evolved!
TheHenkka65 1 week ago
I don't have this album! And I should! :3
RosesNightengales 1 week ago
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Andrew Lloyd Webber about Ian Gillan: He’s got to be incredibly charismatic, that is obviously clear, he has also got to have a fantastic singing voice..."The original role was played by Ian Gillan of Deep Purple 42 years ago...he was amazing and he was one of the great rock tenor voices of all l time, and an extraordinary falsetto cry, and we’re going to have to go a long way to find somebody who can match him" Now you know there will be ever only a second place for te good Teddy...
nazzare79 2 weeks ago
Jesus Christ Superstar is one of my all time favorite albums, of all time. The tears flow when I listen to Ian Gillan singing "I only want to say" he is superb. I saw the play in 2004 in Orange County with Ted Neely and he was awesome, and so nice I got to take pictures with him and his son. I am always spiritually moved when I listen to this album, poor Jesus how he suffered. Thank you Jesus! Love you!
pattifari 2 weeks ago
there is no version but this one, is there? :) Gillan- wish you well
2111rainbow 3 weeks ago
The singer from cult of Personality plated Judas and he out sung Neely 10 X over!
jamerz67 3 weeks ago
the Broadway cut of every song of this album is by far superior to Ted Neely's. I saw him do it in 2006 and my wife and I got dirty looks as we laughed uncontrollably by the awful performance he did the entire play. His voice left him 20 years ago! the only thing that saved the play at all was Judas Every song sung in the album excels over the movie version. Ian Gillian rocks so much more. I've seen him in concert numerous times and I think he is one of the most under-rated voices.
jamerz67 3 weeks ago 2
Gillian is fantastic.....but i think Farnham version is a tad better
FreddieMercury1994 1 month ago
John Farnham's version is way better then this. I believe his beautiful voice as more sadness and feeling in it than this. It makes me cry with the pain, this version makes me cringe.
monty2228 1 month ago
Nobody beats Ian Gillian at this rock opera-nobody-I only listen to the '70 version-tried the others =fuhgeddaboudid
2patrock 2 months ago in playlist Favorite videos 5
Sorry, Neeley fans.. I grew up up with this version. It's been about 40 years now, but...
when he says, "God, Thy Will is Hard".. I still, at the age of 47, get chills up my spine.
Ian just - no pun intended - nails it.
MrJest2 2 months ago 7
This guy just can't wail like Neeley. While I appreciate some of the small differences, Neeley puts more soul and rock into this, at least for me, and I don't hear it in this guys voice.
Especially hearing Neeley doing this song back in 2006, he still does it damn good, better than this or his original version, he was made for it.
CyborgJediNinja313 2 months ago
His version seems too much like a cleaned up sound,ewthout the break of passion in it..As if he is just singing another old song,...Ted Neely is for me! Oh,m..and,..that bit about: "was the known face of this Jesus, but that was his only achievement." You cant be more wrong.He is still touring and selling out venues at this very moment.Tickets going for over $500.00.I wasnt able to be the funds to go,but I heard it was great.
ChimeraAZ 3 months ago
This is great but Ted Neely could just do so much more with his voice and really puts so much more variation and harmony in the melody. They're both great performances, but when it REALLY counts, Neely nailed it harder.
Khayman8888 3 months ago
@Khayman8888 In my honest opinion, you are completely wrong. Yes, Neely puts more variation on the song, but that is an unfair thing to say considering Gillan had no basis for comparison, being the first to interpret the piece. Furthermore, Neely vibrates through every. single. note, and it distracts from the beautiful melody. There is also a sizable break in Neely's voice, whereas Gillan's voice is seamless from top to bottom.
flicfan416 3 months ago
@flicfan416 Neely and Gillan are both world class musicians. Enough said.
mlmr11 3 months ago 3
His voice reminds me of an Electric Guitar, GOD he is amazing
thestar13 3 months ago
I think it's near impossible to compare Ian's version with any other. This was the first version - without the time needed to 'grow' the character. Neely had the benefit of several years to hear and mold the character to what he wanted. Other's have had even more time. If Ian still had his voice from 1970, then I'd love to see what his take on Jesus would be today. I enjoy them all.
knightflyte 4 months ago
I can't stop listening to this. It's so awesome. Google "Born Again" by Black Sabbath, when Ian Gillian was singing for them.
mikedonn71 4 months ago
Dude, my mom used to have this album in the 70s in her record collection, but I had no idea the lead singer of Deep Purple was on there. I would have swiped the record for sure.
mikedonn71 4 months ago
One of the architects of heavy metal singing in Jesus Christ Superstar as Jesus Christ. How kick ass can you get?
mikedonn71 4 months ago
Very beautiful. Thank you for posting this.
postusinterruptus 4 months ago
You are right! I am heavy Ian Gillan fan, but Ted Neely is better when talk dramatics.
dickensbg 5 months ago
steve balsamo blows both of them away!
1701bigdaddy 5 months ago 2
Sorry about this. But to me, the best version of this song (and many others) is in the tribute concert for Andrew Lloyd Webber's birthday. I listened to that first and this sounds so wrong to me. And I usually like rock opera type things.
theluckyfr0g 5 months ago
Simply one of the best voices ever in rock and roll...
myklj999 5 months ago
I don't care what anyone says, that is one of the best vocal performances in the history of recorded music.
pr9301 6 months ago 9
@pr9301
Absolutely !
Peterd5331 4 months ago
Gillan enters the third dimension when he hits the word "Why" when he says, "Why should I die" at 2:28. My favorite thing ever sang in history. Struck a chord when I first heard it as a kid and it still does the same thing nearly every time I hear it, especially when listening to the actual album on good equipment.
GregMiller07 7 months ago 10
IAN..I Love You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
akrapovic3 7 months ago
Ted neely did a good job; however he can't sing in Ian Gillians league. Thats that and nothing more to say
stevecorio 8 months ago 3
@stevecorio in my opinion about this performance, ted beats ian 2-0.
Anyway for sure ian gillan is one of the most impotant voice of rock.
whitedemai 5 months ago
I'm kinda surprised that people are evn comparing Neeleys version to Gillans. from a purely vocal performance point of view, Gillan is way superior. When you want an actor to sing or vice versa, there is always a compromise, but for the recording of the song Gillan was awesome!
bruffie 8 months ago 5
@bruffie Bingo!!
oriskany 6 months ago
Great voice.
DemonLDR 8 months ago
the song much influenced my life.....bless Glillian, Weber, and Rice!
anthonyvoneckstein18 8 months ago
Does anyone know if and where i can get a copy of the album of Ian Gillan Jesus Christ Superstar (1970 album)?
TheMitchken 9 months ago
This is the best version of the song! Ian Gillan is the greatest!
DeepPurpleOL 9 months ago 4
IMHO...Josh Groban would make an AWESOME JCS...Either him &/or Nathan Parsons from GH...
jerzeefranky3475 9 months ago
IMHO...Josh Groban would make an AWESOME...Either him &/or Nathan Parsons from GH...
jerzeefranky3475 9 months ago
"You're far too keen on where and how and not so much on why."
Yep don't we all ask that at some point in our lives?!
mjg032 9 months ago
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mjg032 9 months ago
Ian Gillan should have taken the role for the movie and there would be no arguing as to whose version is better, not that there is a valid argument against Gillan having done the best performance. He missed the opportunity to star in a classic movie which would have made him famous with the other half of the world that didn't know him as a rock star. And what did he get for his loyalty to Deep Purple? THE BOOT from Ritchie Blackmore. I bet he regretted turning down the film after that.
leshoc 10 months ago 2
@leshoc No
Gillian immortalised his version because he was a genius in that field.
He didnt "NEED" to nail a film...(hmm 1970 wotsit comedy film..no thanks).
Fact is The songe sare the better for the fact differnt singers do them different..
Hence we havbe a debate.
I own 4 ciopes of the original 1970'x vinyl (offers please) an di love it.
I also love Rik MAylls Pontious Pilote.... fucking genius casting.
There is no BETTER..there just versiojns.
GG Webber.
Genius
BabylonWhore666 9 months ago
I' LOVE Ian Gillan , but Ted Neeley is better , very better .
TheCrimson75 10 months ago
i love ted neeley, but i love this man too! both have aspects of their vocal performances that make them amazing
koreanbeauty00 10 months ago
I agree 100% ! I've heard and seen many others sing this song but none compare to the original!
daidycat1 10 months ago
Wonderful! I like Neeley, but, then again, both performences are very similar!!!
TheAlysheba 10 months ago
Amen Paulo,Amen!!
savj777 10 months ago
Im home!
ezeke49 10 months ago
Ted Neely was superb, higher though... But, I still love Ian's version.
aviguesi 10 months ago
How can there be two 'Dislikes'?? Must be Neeley fans...
Moinkerfunk 10 months ago 2
best scream ever at 3:09
rwhauk 10 months ago
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best scream ever at 3:09
rwhauk 10 months ago
best scream ever at 3:09
rwhauk 10 months ago
dmreichman 100: Not to diminish your point, but, whom do you think all subsequent singers were emulating, and striving to equal?
oriskany 11 months ago
I still think ya'll are missing the point. I'm 47 & grew up with both versions...yeah, they're both great. Have you listened to Steve Balsamo? He's got a better voice that the original singer and better communication of passion than the original actor. Folks, the next generation of Broadway performer has done us all proud...and taken the role and the song to a new high. You owe it, for the sake of the art of vocal performance, to give it a listen.
dmreichman100 11 months ago
In this case, the original version is the best! Ted Neeley does a great job, but Ian Gillian is the definitive Jesus!
pookerville 11 months ago
Ian Gillan turned down the role in the movie cos he was offered $1000 a week for the 6 weeks to make the film.he put more up his nose at that time so couldnt do it echonomicaly wise!oh and by the way he knocks the tits off of ted heely!
hurrey head also knocks the tits off of the black guy whos dead
serial162 11 months ago
@serial162 I don't think that Hurrey was better than Anderson. Personally I think Anderson was amazing. Hurrey was the first one i ever heard. I really can't decide who's better. They both portray so much emotion with great voices.
Anulik96 10 months ago
gillan turned down the role in the movie because he was only offered £60000 for 6 weeks work.
hood work if you can get it!
serial162 11 months ago
ian gillan is the best......
iansammy 11 months ago 2
when watching the play, Neely is better at this song. When listening to the soundtrack, Ian Gillian is better.
brendina94 1 year ago 15
Comparing the movie version to Gillan's version, you could maybe say that Neely acts the role of Jesus better, but it's hard to compare since you actually get to see Neely singing the song in costume. But as far as pure vocal performance goes, Gillan blows Neely away.
ASoundofThunderBand 1 year ago
@ASoundofThunderBand forgive me and try to understand what i try to say to you...(i'm not a english mother language man so... it's quite difficult to me explain what i thought..) Ian is one of the best singer of the last 40 years but when he start singing " i'd want to know...." part i see the pentagram and not a soffering praying man... but maybe it's only my point of view.... cheers
paolopitto 1 year ago
Both versions are quite excellent. The movie version is really quite more emotional in the way that you feel like he really REALLY wants to stop it. In the 1970 album, it's more like a struggle - they are different in different ways. Now stop arguing!
WhoWatchesVideos 1 year ago
@WhoWatchesVideos I like what you said. Personally, I like Neely's version just a bit better. It is more vibrant and expressive. They both possess an incredible vocal range. I am only an observer, but I think Neely's version is just a tad bit more touching. I should be arguing the opposing view, since I grew up with "Deep Purple," but I remain resolute. lol
christopherm2k 1 year ago
@christopherm2k I think most people think that Neely's version is better beacuse they watched the movie and grow up with that version...but I think this one is better...if Gillan hadn't refused the role and Neely had sang the soundtrack before Ian, people surely would have said that Gillan's version was the best...Gillan is the "real" Jesus, no one else...
nazzare79 11 months ago
I've watched many versions of this song on youtube and i gotta say, this version is the best. Ted Neeley was trying, but his voice doesn't match up to the instruments as well as Ian does.
ez1337ze 1 year ago
Perfect**2
JohnJWinnicki 1 year ago
TED NEELEY is THE BEST
FeloMateo 1 year ago
@FeloMateo yes, in your mind...
nazzare79 11 months ago
Ted Neely's timing is incredible...cause is interpreting....is acting and singing at the same time...Jan Gillan is singing...stop....Ted Neeley rides the song...listen to the final part..."Why then am I scared to finish"....his sense of the rythm is perfect....
ALBE0Q 1 year ago
Just wonder who this "one" is... I hope he is NOT a justin bieber fan (at least)...
Marselenok 1 year ago
I really like this one but It really bugs me when he's flat at the start when he sings "cup"
FutureLovett 1 year ago
This is the absolute best version of JCS. I love his voice! Nobody comes close to this.
KnitNurse1 1 year ago
This is the absolute best version of JCS. I love his voice!
KnitNurse1 1 year ago
always will love this version.
jrynds 1 year ago
Neeley was completely oblivious to the timing for most of the production. He had a good voice but his timing was awful. He also kept dropping into spoken word in an opera like William Shatner.
TheNeonRabbit 1 year ago
Call me crazy but I think Ted Neely's highs sound better.
Still a good version though.
I like these highs too.
MarilynFanMansonMan 1 year ago
Браво!!!!! Bravo!!!! 555*****!!!!
AMMAGA1 1 year ago
I love the movie, but Ted Neely can't sing! That's gotta be my only complaint about the movie. This is great!
SweeneyTodd98 1 year ago
Hace poco me enteré de esta versión. ¿Cómo habría sido la historia si Gillan hubiera protagonizado la película? Je...
Saludos.
274367 1 year ago
in 1987 my parents were involved in a Black Rock production of this show. I was 12. This was my whole life for over 6 months..at that age it was EVERYTHING! the musicians..WOW the actors..WOW! the music..WOW WOW!!! and the Drummer...oh whatta crush... I love every beat of this, every word and every emotion it invokes. I sing and have been in many musicals...my ONLY goal left is to be JUDAS.. Its time I played the role.
blueleathers 1 year ago
Certainly the absolut best version of this song!
dezember45 1 year ago
excelente versión
manu5852 1 year ago
@manu5852 This isn't a version. Its the original one!
After this project, the Jesus Christ Superstar was released whit other cast.
0liveirahug0 1 year ago
@0liveirahug0 Bingo! After all is said, this is the one, the only one.
oriskany 1 year ago
ecxelente version
manu5852 1 year ago
I only want to say... that even if I'm a huge fan of Ian and Deep purple and I consider this an AMAZING performance, I think that while he makes me feel like: "Ok he is amazingly singing Jesus's part in the musical", Ted really makes me feel "Ok...I'm hearing Jesus talking and screaming to God" and the only one who expresses the sense of sacrifice and suffering and heartbreaking humanity this part is about...even if I'm not a believer
Oisselapathos 1 year ago
@Oisselapathos If you feel and understand the sacrifice, suffering, and heartbreaking humanity you're more a believer than most
jtc3452 1 year ago
This is Gillan's magnum opus, right here.
radiopirate3 1 year ago
Always loved Ian Gillan with Deep Purple,but never realized he sang this until today.....bought the album way back in the 70's.Can't be touched,as a musical!!
oldskoolbrawler 1 year ago
from a rock standpoint, he is pretty damn good...but he's lacking the passion that Neely has....sorry, I like Neely more :)....take that part at 3:22...where the hell is the passion in the singing, the screaming, and yelling? The whole songs emotion is rising higher and higher, why is he getting flatter and softer?? I don't get it!
MDkid1 1 year ago
@MDkid1 Because he's playing it reflectively after already building up the anger and frenzy...what part of that do you not understand. Teds version is great but one dimensional compared to this...
Weaponx58 1 year ago
@Weaponx58 one dimensional? seriously? theres nothing to "play up"....gethsemane is an anguish filled song from start to finish! period!
MDkid1 1 year ago
@MDkid1 Ted ( IMO) Plays up the whole thing, he is after all an actor. Gethsemene, IS an anguished filled song as you rightly point out, but there is the element of acceptence, inevitability at the end that Ted doesn't convey. He alsocopied Gillans phrasing and dynamics through most of the song. Most of you Ted fans forget that Ian put the screams into this, not Ted.
Weaponx58 1 year ago
@Weaponx58 well perhaps Ted was just keeping what was good about the song and what worked. The scream was an excellent addition. There is a sense of inevitability at the end of Ted's rendition, right after the orchestral frenzy interlude. He brings it around to a very dynamic and dramatic close...I just felt that there was more energy in Ted's rendition that for a song of this caliber, it must have. Its been great discussing this song haha...no one else cares! lol
MDkid1 1 year ago
@MDkid1 Hi, there is a huge discussion going on with one of the other uploads of this (much bigger hit rate:o) Thanks for your chat, it is such an overlooked classic song isn't it? Also, Check out the John Farnham version just for vocal ability alone...it's stunning
Weaponx58 1 year ago
@Weaponx58 which upload is that? do you have a link? yes it is an overlooked song and besides the overture, this is my fav!
MDkid1 1 year ago
@MDkid1 Just type "Ian Gillan Gethsemane" in to the search bar and or "John Farnham Gethsemane". You should also check out Gillans "In the temple" and whats the buzz :o)
Weaponx58 1 year ago
@Weaponx58 ok thanks. I listened to the John Farnham one, pretty impressive voice. I also really liked the music in that version.
MDkid1 1 year ago
@MDkid1 Yeah, the score has bee re-interpreted and is much heavier...I like that too :)
Weaponx58 1 year ago
@Weaponx58 it really works to have the heavy rock feel for this song, it brings out the energy....crazy drumming sequences, piano thumping, strings rising! amazing stuff!
MDkid1 1 year ago
40 years on, and this album is still stirring emotions and dialogue, and isn't that the litmus test of how great this music is ? Gilan is the original (and my personal fave), and Ted is fine in the movie, and Balsemo and.............and that is the point: This has touched all of us, in our own unique and yet similar ways. We all find reasons to love this opera, and its' story and message. I believe that JCS has expanded knowledge of the last days of Christ beyond anyone's imagination. Peace:-)
binnyman 1 year ago
Jeff Fenholt was "Jesus" on Broadway when it was in New York. Ted Neely was in 'the chorus' (I have the playbill and the original cast album). Jeff had health issues and couldn't do the movie. Ted Neely went on to do. I saw him here in Reno, Nevada in ''07. AWESOME!! Ian Gillan does a GREAT job.
ULCRev62 1 year ago
@ULCRev62 Sorry to contradict you my friend, but Gillan was the first and original version (read wikipedia and Tim Rice's book) Gillan was offered the London, broadway and movie roles but turned them down because he had a hugely succesful career of his own as the lead singer of Deep Purple :o)
Weaponx58 1 year ago
@Weaponx58 just because hes the original, doesn't make it the best...sorry...but Ted rules!
MDkid1 1 year ago
@MDkid1 Didn't say he was the best - although I do think it. If Ted floats your boat, that's alright by me....
Weaponx58 1 year ago
Ian Gillan and Murray Head are the best combo of Jesus and Judas by far.
rkelly62 1 year ago
check out Glenn Carter...moving ...and lovely vocals and great acting. ILOVE his version
Peppita1000 1 year ago
check out Glenn Carter...moving ...and lovely vocals and great acting
Peppita1000 1 year ago
wow
urbart 1 year ago
Ian Gillan, a hard act to follow.
I was lucky to hear the pre-sell records, the labels where white. Our elementary school priest got hold on/was given the pre-sell copies plus transscripts and used it for bible study. He translated it from english into dutch.
On my following birthday I bought the record.
I never saw the movie, because I was afraid of dissappointment, because Ian Gillan wasn't singing in it.
Still, a big fan of Deep Purple.
Rene, Holland(and japan)
renechanse 1 year ago
Beautiful!
cfmuh 1 year ago
One of the best rock singers ever, if not the best. When Gilan hits those high notes, his voice has this rich quality that I've never heard anyone else come close to - Child in Time for example, he's an anomaly. I prefer Neeley's interpretation just based on the gritty, raw emotion that comes through. But Gilan's simply a legendary vocalist if ever there was one.
socksandpistols 1 year ago
А Ян Гиллан всё равно the best!!!!!
TheSenechka 1 year ago
Ian Gillan is one of my most favourite rock vocalists, Ted Neeley is not.
But in this song I prefer Ted. He is simply great!
I'm not religious, but I believe Ted as Jesus. Ian can't convince me.
Moreover I know Ian can do much better than this!
sprh60 1 year ago
Comment removed
sprh60 1 year ago
@Frieza079: Sorry guys, I'll have to say it's still Neeley for me. Gillian and Balsamo are one of the best, of course, but it's Ted Neeley who's got that grittiness one needs to portray Jesus. It's JESUS, man, the guy who willingly went to crucifixion. Gethsemane is the Agony in the Garden, where he literally sweated blood from the stress. The "bleeding" needs to be felt in the voice. "Scream-y" Neeley's the only one who seems to have understood this.
TachieBillano 1 year ago
It's a fantastic version for me, mainly because of the nostalgia.
I see, however, why people would call Steve Balsamo's performance (look it up) better..
Not Carters' though.. It's totally devoid of feeling..
jeppe1208 1 year ago
I'm sorry, I have clicked the one that I did not evaluate by mistake.
I like this song very much.
akatumekusa11 1 year ago
This is THE version against which all other versions must be judged, the original and the best undoubtedly. Gillan sang this in ONE take! His voice touches the soul, simply an awesome performance..... untouchable
rushy548 1 year ago 2
sorry but u like ted neely's version better than this. its just a little more dramatic, powerful, and emotional.
Frieza079 1 year ago
The original and the best!
fartonme7 1 year ago
The original and the best!
fartonme7 1 year ago
greatest vocal evah!
DrunkenAristocrat 1 year ago
I love this version but I also love Neeley's version. In my opinion, they are both amazing!
xOxLexyBabexOx 1 year ago 2
@xOxLexyBabexOx yes but this passes all versions ..... its the original
DTV0 1 year ago 2
@DTV0 yes i understand :) Ian is really great.
xOxLexyBabexOx 1 year ago
Great Gillan
palteonato 1 year ago
Love this, also love Micheal Ball and Colm Wilkinson's versions. Both worth listening to if you haven't heard before. Ball's version has immense power and Wilkinson's shows off he massive range.
dellis80 1 year ago
2:28 ... ohhh my god !!
ebbriske 1 year ago
2:28 ... OOOOH GOD!!
ebbriske 1 year ago
5:00 - wow
tymill 1 year ago
Totaly awsome, saw him last summer live.
ThePannKaka1 2 years ago
If this is the evil version of listening to music. It's the best music when you could accu hear. I listen to it since 1970 and now 2010, you understand?
JLpalmer50 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
this is the worst version ever, wow, i sing it better than this. except the really high part, which is still bad on this version. no feeling whatsoever. its almost like he didnt practice and just read it off.
thepettythief 2 years ago
Comment removed
h3ikki 2 years ago
@h3ikki
adrianviasumihai 1 year ago
No question, Gillan was the voice.
But, you absolutely MUST listen to this album from front to back, without interruption. Puts everything into context.
Go somewhere where you know you will not be interrupted; no cellphones, no flyovers, no nothing, just you and this album, period.
oriskany 2 years ago 20
this Gillan can sing man!
the best Jesus ever...
felipetordek 2 years ago 11
yeah when you hear him sing this you can feel the emotion coming through. . .
GregERobertson 2 years ago 10
This comment has received too many negative votes show
i miss the emtion. like the way steve balsamo sings it better. although this one is better than neely's one.
bbpetertje 2 years ago
You are so right!!!! I couldn't stand the the version by Ted Neely compared to this one. He played a good part in the movie, but this is the song that really carries the soundtrack. It's when Jesus questions whether he is human or messiah and Gillian pumps this bitch out!
Mpen65 2 years ago 39
@Mpen65 wat bitch
brancool88 1 year ago
@Mpen65 omg, i couldnt disagree more--neely gives me chills
BillyBocksfuss 1 year ago
@BillyBocksfuss I think most people think that Neely's version is better beacuse they watched the movie and grow up with that version...but I think this one is better...if Gillan hadn't refused the role and Neely had sang the soundtrack before Ian, people surely would have said that Gillan's version was the best...Gillan is the "real" Jesus, no one else...
nazzare79 11 months ago 42
@nazzare79 me too this version is ALWAYS better than the movie i absolutly love Ian's voice and i like the way judas song on record much better too.
Brizakillachic 7 months ago
@nazzare79 Ian Gillan is by far the best. He set the bar that no other has reached. PERIOD.
iGetFit 4 months ago
@nazzare79 Well-stated.
St1998c180 1 month ago
holy shit 2:27 3:06
uc7mr4km 2 years ago 13
This original version is hands down, THE best! Ian Gillan's voice is phenomenal. He is definitely a rock god and doesn't get the recognition he deserves when I read the comments on the Neely movie version videos on youtube. Ted Neely is good, but he can't touch Gillan as JC. I don't think alot of the people commenting on the Neely movie version have any clue that Ian Gillan was the original JC.
artemisthehuntress 2 years ago 12
Unpretentious phrasing and his ability to project both power and sensitivity with a piece of music that required extreme emotion. Mr. Gillan had one of those perfect moments, no one else has come close. At best the others are laughable.
will80533 2 years ago 12
This version has everything: Passion, sensitivity, phrasing and sublime power!
leostrater 2 years ago 6
Riveting. ..."I will drink your cup of poison"...
That one kills me every time.
oriskany 2 years ago 5
NO ONE sings this better than Ian!!
What a FAB track!! Just excellent, and I LOVE it hands down over Ted Neely's version, it would have been awesome if Ian could have played Jesus in the rock opera itself, that scream of "WHY should I die?" gives you chills....
greygal2008 2 years ago 9
awesome.
claretea 2 years ago 3
just beautiful
MightySaturn5 2 years ago 4
Ian's voice is supernatural. Who else could possibly sing this. I'm a Deep Purple fan going back to the early 70's. Ian's voice is amazing.
ANewDayForAll 2 years ago 4
This album confirms the blood in our veins and the salt in our bodies.
oriskany 2 years ago
oh my gosh, yes, THANKYOU! i have this original album, and no one ever really gives credit to ian gillan as a great jesus, haha, so thankyou :)
erinlovesyou102 2 years ago 3
I have still the LP,and bought another "collector".
great song.
tariksba 2 years ago
This album was a big thing back in the early 70s. You couldnt get away from it.
mattojorojo 3 years ago
I'm little stirred...it's the first time i listen this song sung by the great Ian Gillan (i'm a Deep Purple's fan)..So, many many thankx, paulodomic!....
shivabel 3 years ago
Who just once heard this version of Jesus Christ, wont settle for any other....never, ever.
kykulienka 3 years ago 4
Never ever!! Ian Gillain is the best, only Jesus could do it better!!
Db60Dc19 3 years ago 4
Agreed. best jesus ever..
erinlovesyou102 2 years ago 2