Sorry mate, I love Deep Purple and Ian Gillan is without a doubt one of the greatest singers of the 20th century but there's absolutely no way that he's above Freddie Mercury, Freddy had a wider vocal range than Gillan, and he was more diverse, he could sing Opera, Blues, Rock and Roll, Jazz and Metal. I admit that Gillan is one of the greatest singers of all time(in my taste he'd be third after Mercury and Dickinson) but he's still missing a little to reach Freddie's talent and voice range
I am sure many would agree with you. Freddy had a monumentally fantamabulous voice. Others who have commented on htis thread would say Robert Plant, however, we Gillan fans will always be true to the one we know had the best voice of them all., (*_*)
I love Ian Gillan and have been a DP fan since the early 70s, but if you want to see a truly awesome performance of this song check out Steve Balsamo. There are several of his performances of Gethsemane here on YouTube, but the best one by far is the 2004 performance from the Ahoy festival in Holland. Check it out, I promise you won't be disappointed!
@gotham61 Yep, seen it and watched it many times. (*_*) It's very different to Ian's version, nonetheless it is still very much based on what Ian Gillan started with this song. This song is, without a doubt, Ian Gillans baby. Here's a video you will thoroughly enjoy, if you like Balsamo's version - watch?v=dt-CX3k0PYw
Christ never denied the Old Testament, or his Jewish roots. But we all have to recognise that poetic license is Man's way to express the unexpressable, and the God (Yahway) that I worship understands the human condition and knows that questioning is thew path to wisdom. Yes Jesus with all he knew had questions.
@tes1637 I would doubt that the Lord Jesus Christ had any questions regarding the redemption of His people. It was all planned in detail before the foundation of the world.
@sm1135ster1 Yes, this is MY channel, and I post videos so that people can interact with me, and I with them. Usually, such interactions are cordial and friendly, even though the subject matter might be sensitive.
Did you also know that Goddesses have nifty index fingers, and I have just used mine on you, tigger!
I love this, however I have to say that the later JCST (Ted Neeley) is far better. Ian has clearly understood everything that's required of this vocal and I could cry now as I listen. What a great voice!!
@davebritainsong Well, some people who come to this comment section do prefer Ted Neeley, however most of us die-hards still prefer Ian Gillan. Thank you for your comment. (*_*)
@davebritainsong I seriously think you have to be deaf to be comparing Neeley with Gillan. Neeley is nice, but he will never be comparable to Gillan. This is just a fact of life baby.
His voice range is spectacular, BUT how do you figure that this song is not a Christian song? This song is a prayer... a prayer to God. That guy is supposed to be Christ, so.....Christ is praying to God. What is un-christian about that???
@rockshot100 Yes, and the beauty of the music and the fact that a christ is being portrayed does cause one to wonder, doesn't it. However, the Bible says that Jesus Christ gave His life WILLINGLY - 1 John 3:16 & Matthew 20:28 & Isaiah 53. Jesus Christ never spoke to the Father the way he is portrayed as doing here.
It's like you, so beautifully said: "THAT guy is SUPPOSED to be Christ, so......" Unfortunately he is not the Christ of the Scriptures. But thank you for your enquirey.
@Afrikitty Do not be so down to earth. The scriptures do not portrait Jesus from his human side. This is just perfect with the outcome: willingness. Doubt is human, and so is the fear of death, pain, whatever... And subjecting oneself to greater will is godly. This Jesus is much more likeable than the one of the scriptures. Plus: he can sing well : )
@malvivente1986 Well, I have been accused of being so heavenly minded that I am of no earthly good - whatever that may mean - however, much as you might like this "nicer and more likeable" jesus, he is utterly impotent to save, because he is not the Jesus of the Scriptures.
Speaking of which, the Scriptures most certainly DO speak of the human Jesus. It tells us that there was no beauty to Him that we would desire Him. His own did not receive Him - Isaiah 53:2 and John 1:11. :-)
@Afrikitty I am not an expert on scripture, but I do believe he did question The Father and prayed that night, but did what he was put here to do and that was to save us.
@Afrikitty I am not an expert on scripture, but I do believe he did question The Father and prayed that night, but did what he was put here to do and that was to save us. He was both entirely Human and God and this was meant to show the human side
@dsmallwood2112 Yes, I hear what you are saying - Jesus Christ was FULLY man and FULLY God. He called His Father "HOLY Father". Such a devastating mistake, as to say to the Father: "Show me just a bit of your omnipresent brain" is to fly in the face of Scripture, which says "God is Spirit". This use of poetic license should not even have been contemplated in such a song. It is sheer blasphemy.
Satan does exist- it's called ignorance. by that account, all of the spiritual retards (i.e. the christian zionists schilling on this board), are satan personified
@sm1135ster1 Not all Christians are "zionists", Sir.
And yes, Satan DOES indeed exist, as you say, however not in the WAY you say it, because Scripture says: "For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.” Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?" 1 Corinthians 1:19-20
@Afrikitty didn't say they were dear, -and if you are a Christain why do you quote the Old Testament even Jesus knew that was nonsense written by ancient hillbillies who created a 'god' like them, a violent, misgyoictic, psychopath apparently . lots of things are written but that doesn't make them true. use your common sense. take care lol
i love this this song so much and this version and teds version are the best without a doubt. please take a listen to my version if you get a chance, just type LEON TAGOE GETHSEMANE, would ove to know what people think.
@Neuroneos You are quite right! There is NOTHING Biblical about this song. It is actually blasphemy against a holy God. I have been disappointed at the lack of Biblical understanding regarding this song, EVEN BY THOSE WHO CALL THEMSELVES CHRISTIAN!
You are the FIRST person to pick up the emptiness and despair in the lyrics. Jesus Christ was the Chosen One of God. He was chosen to die for His Elect. He did not have to test the Father in order to do so, as is portrayed in this song.
a great work of musical of art, an incredible gifted voice ...
if ever a man in desperation would be as honest in his anger and not understanding of God's ways and express it as frank as here - I think God would look to his heart and not his words and may-be would look in sympathy at him - and answer his prayer (as he often answered desperate "blasphemous" prayers ...
@mayandholger You are sadly mistaken. God does not look on the wicked and evil hearts of men. In fact, the Bible says that we ARE indeed judged by our words. Jesus Christ said: "Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” and, "But those things which proceed out of the mouth COME FROM THE HEART, and they defile a man." - Matthew 15:11 &18
Blasphemouse "prayers" would never come from the mouth of Christ Jesus! Read John Ch17.
@mayandholger The Jesus that is portrayed in this song IS NOT the Jesus of the Bible. This Jesus is a figment of the imagination of Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Now, having said that - yes, it is a great musical work of art, and the singer is, as far as I am concerned, the greatest voice to come out of the 20th century, however, it needs to be said that the jesus portrayed in this song is NOT the Jesus Christ of the Scriptures. THAT Jesus died WILLINGLY for the Father and for the Elect!
@Neuroneos You are mistaken in thinking Satan does not exist.
The Lord Jesus Christ said: "“I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven." (Luke 10:18)
In the book of Job, we read: "There was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them. And the LORD said to Satan, “From where do you come?” Satan answered the LORD and said, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it.” (Job 1:6-7)
@Neuroneos Yes, and so is "Jack and Jill", yet you learned how to read from it, or a book like it. You learned from BOOKS in school, didn't you? Most people learnd from the written word, be it the Bible or other books. The Bible says:
"Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:" (Acts 2:22)
You have had your say in these comments, and I have had enough of your tripe.
@Neuroneos Indeed; Jesus Christ was 'crazy enough' to pay the penalty for YOUR sins, because He doesn't like to see you ending up in Hell/the lake of fire.
Jesus Christ is YOUR creator, so, you may call Him crazy, stupid, insane or whatever you want, but one day you will be standing in front of Him and I hope that before that time you've changed your mind about Him.
In what way did this song help you to know Jesus? The Jesus protrayed in this song is not the Biblical Jesus. It is another jesus altogether. I pray you have come to know the real Jesus of Scripture since that time. The one who said: "Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. YET NOT WHAT I WILL, BUT WHAT YOU WILL." (Mark 14:36 & Luke 22:42)
Hebrews 5:7 and Psalm 22:24 will also be of great help. I will post them here.
@Afrikitty I was an atheist, so 'this Jesus' of 'Jesus Christ Superstar' was a way to become more interested in the topic, but most of all I was a long time admirer of Ian Gillan, and I still love this song and Ian's voice and personality, because God used Ian's interpretation of this song to lead me toward the real Jesus Christ of Scripture.
Yes, I do know the REAL, Biblical Jesus Christ!
The one who's one with God, and the one who loves sinners like you and me and Ian Gillan and his fans.
"He has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; Nor has He hidden His face from Him; But when He cried to Him, He heard." (Psalm 22:24)
"Who, in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to Him who was able to save Him from death, and was heard because of His godly fear, though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered." (Hebrews 5:7-8)
@ctsbrg "Holes in the ozone layer" - now there's one I haven't heard before. I always thought the gas in aerosol cans and in refrigerators were the cause of the ozone holes. I wonder what Ian would have to say about that comparison? LOL
all the singers who've been trying to perform this song pale into mediocrity when compared to ian gillan's magnificent interpretation. what a heart, what a voice!!!
Ian has always been my choice for this particular song Ted is edgey an raw Steve is emotion and strong they are all very good but hands down it belong to Ian.....his voice is so smooth and strong and his range is very good....thanks for the post...it is lovely...
@Ullbritt That's a good question. If he did, I don't know about it. There would be reasons for my thinkin he never did a cover of this particular song though. Thank you for your comment. Merry Christmas.
Steve Balsamo's version is more theatrical and emotional, it is an incredible moving thing to watch him sing this live. Gillan is a legend, and Balsamo agrees, when i asked him. :) thanks for sharing.
Steve Balsamo's version is more theatrical and emotional, it is an incredible moving thing to watch him sing this live. Gillan is a legend, and Balsamo agrees, when i asked him. :) thanks for sharing.
I have never approved a Steve Balsamo fan's comments before, because they are so rude. However, I found your comment to be fair and constructive. I do enjoy Balsamo's version of this song, and I watch that video every now and then - like you say, it is very emotional. We can see Balsamo performing, so it is easy to get that way about his version. However, Ian Gillan is STILL my choice as favourite. It was my pleasure to share. (*_*)
@Afrikitty Steve can't help being Welsh, ha ha (Joke) but Ian is also a fellow Yorkshireman, so he get's an extra tick , (sorry Steve). Shame they havn't collaborated on anything??, as Balsamo tours with Jon Lord. Both of them singing together would be so awesome..... I never had the pleasure of seeing Gillan live, :(. my mate saw him a few times, and worships the ground he walks on. Wonder what he is up to these days? Bridget. :-) ps i do like the Welsh, my daughter is marrying one.:-))
@telbridget According to his Facebook page, Jon Lord has taken time off because of cancer. Yep, the unfortunate thing is that Gillan apparently never made a video recording of this song. I tell you what, if one was ever found, it would be worth it's greatness in gold. Thank you for your sterling support of my channel and this video, I hope you come and visit me again.
Did you know that I did capitulate a tiny bit and made a video of Robert Plant. watch?v=Gkcrnh1x5c4
@Afrikitty Steve can't help being Welsh, ha ha (Joke) but Ian is also a fellow Yorkshireman, so he get's an extra tick , (sorry Steve). Shame they havn't collaborated on anything??, as Balsamo tours with Jon Lord. Both of them singing together would be so awesome..... I never had the pleasure of seeing Gillan live, :(. my mate saw him a few times, and worships the ground he walks on. Wonder what he is up to these days? Bridget. :-) ps i do like the Welsh, my daughter is marrying one.:-))
@UnaAmore Well, no....ROFLOL...this is not QUITE, the voice of God! However, in the worldly sense, I could agree. Please don't worship him - I don't think he could handle it. (*_*)
However, I do agree that his voice is one of the finest - in fact, THE finest, to come from the 20th century. Your comment made me howl with laughter. LOL
@1Merit1 nooo, please. this has no comparison posible.esta is the original version, is seen to be making fast, direct type. Ted's version, this study manipulated, this check in cuts. nothing to do. besides, this is the original, the rest are copies
people that keep arguing about who is the best performer of this song obviously dont understand art. ok sure someone might hit this or that note better or have a better vibrato but thats missing the point. maybe have a discussion on leonardo da vincis painting technique vs michelangelos while youre at it?
@dirmo77 Well, you would need to define what you mean when you say "was". You do know, that his fans are blind to the imperfections of this 66 year old man's voice. To us, he is IAN GILLAN! End of story! We don't care! (@_@)
@Afrikitty No, i'm talking about the performance. He have a great voice, but there's not the struggle that "momentus" required. There's not performance, only a great voice singing a song. His version, musically, can be the best. But if you see Ted Neeley performance, you will notice how he feel this song. It's a song about a person (God as a person) that is going to die, and have to accept it. There's not this drama in Ian Gillan performance.
The best singer for this song is Ted Neely,for the passion he gives it.He and Steve Balsamo wring it out.Steve tears this song up.Really! They both give it an agonized pain to it that Ian doesnt.He just sings the song. I love Ian's voice,but not here as much as the other two.Sorry if you find my opinion not the same as yours,anyone. :)
@dst257 Neely's voice is week and anemic? Hate me for saying this, but there is no human alive with Mr.Neely's vocal power, ability, and high end. The screams that this guy puts out don't have to power, or accuracy that Mr.Neely has. Whilst Mr.Neely can hit those high screaming wails and hold them with perfect vibrato for about half a minute, this guy just tries with too much vibrato to cheat out of finding the note. Plus he lacks the diaphram power that Mr.Neely has.
@symphonicsage Well, we are all entitled to our opinions regarding this issue, however, I am more than inclined to disagree with you. I don't think Ted Neeley ever had what it takes to do this song. However, thank you for your comment. (^_^)
Oh, just so you know, it was Ian Gillan who actually brought in the "screaming" in this song. It is HIS trademark, and HIS alone. As one commentator said "All the others, are mere attempts".
@anthonyjohnmarshall Bwahahahahahahahaaaaaaa, Yeah, let's see "the Neeley geezer" try to do "Child in Time". Oh my, I couldn't stop laughing at your comment. "Child in Time" is my all time favourite Purple number, followed by "Smoke on the Water" and "Lazy".
I saw the film of Jesus Christ Superstar in 1973 or '74 after hearing Gillan for a a year or so and I have to say I though Neely's voice lacked the warmth and timbre of Gillan's. His voice was a little thin for my taste.
@purpleneil59 Yes, I agree with you. I went and listened to Ted Neeley on video yesterday as somebody challenged me to do so, and I still found I preferred Ian Gillan's version.
@Afrikitty I completely agree with your assessment of Ian Gillan and his remarkable voice. I would give almost anything to go back in time and see him at the height of his popularity and well...make a play to be his girlfriend ^_^ He's not only amazingly talented and one of the best vocalists of all time, but a really damn good-looking guy. He's in my 'male harem' album on fb. :) Thanks for posting and you got it right - Ian's the BEST!
Nobody sings this song like Gillan. It should be noted that on the original recording, Rice and Webber gave the singers the opportunity to interpret the songs according to their style; hence the trademark Gillan screams. All those that followed him basically copied his interpretation
@Afrikitty No problems. I have been a Deep Purple fan since the early seventies. The first version of JCS was the Broadway version, which I quite liked. A friend of my older brother told me the original version featured Ian Gillan so I rushed out and bought it. To my mind no other Jesus (though I have liked them) have had the timbre, rage and emotional intensity as Gillan. In fact, though I'm a huge Purple fan, I've always considered JCS to be Gillan's defining moment.
@purpleneil59 I have been a Deep Purple Fan since then too. I lived in South Africa, so wasn't fortunate enough to see any of the Broadway plays. However, I am not sure that Ian Gillan ever did this song live. If he did and you have a film of that, I would love to see it. (*_*)
@Afrikitty Unfortunately Gillan never sang it live. According to Gillan, he was asked to be in the film, but he was too committed to Purple. The irony here was that just after the film, he was no longer in Purple.
Ian Gillan is really, really one of my top 5 favourite singers but I must say that Ted Neeley, neeled, I mean nailed the emotions in the song. Ted Neeley is more intense emotionally in his song.
@Afrikitty I have to say... ur "star-gazed" I urge u to compare these two masters of singing. I mean geniouses. :-) But when u have listened and compared 110 times u will also understand why Ted Neeley got the part instead of our loved friend Ian Gillan <3
@Mis4el1973 Yep, I sure am star-gazed - OK, so for your sake, I went to look for Ted Neeley and listened to him without visuals. I listened very carefully, and he sounded a bit like Steve Balsamo. I DO know what you are saying about his rendition of this song. But, as you say, the two men are MASTERS - you mean Geniuses (*_~) So, now I must choose between the two geniuses,(or is that genii) aaaaaaaannnnnnddddd - ta-daaaaaa my choice isssssssssssssssss
I dont think anyone is better for Jesus than Ian. If you listen with headphones to "I will drink your cup of poison, Nail me to your cross and break me. Bleed me, beat me; kill me, take me now- before I change my mind." is just heartbreaking. Ian sounds like he is really experiencing the excruciating weight that God had placed on Jesus's shoulders. What I would give to see this live.
@samiam15141 Thank you for your comment. Yes, I listen to EVERYTHING through either Bose Headphones, or AR headphones, so I know what you are talking about. (*_*)
This is the first time I've heard this version, but I must say I like Ted Neeley's version better. In my opinion, Neeley sings with more passion and conviction. Just my opinion though :)
Its apples to oranges. Gillan's voice in its prime had a warmer tone and better vocal support than Freddie's. He may have been able to scream higher, for what that's worth. Freddie had a crystal clear, beautiful tone and was, in my opinion, a technically superior singer in terms of actuallly hitting the notes in concert. They were both great.
Plant, on the other hand, was something completely different: bluesy, folksy, in my opinion more exciting. Not technically better, though.
It really is a tragedy in musical terms, that Ian Gillan never performed this song live. As I think if he had, he'd have given the absolute definitive version of it. To hear him performing the huge final note in the live version would have been a wondrous spectacle to behold. Shame we'll never get the chance to hear that now. :(
Gillan's Gethsemane from the original cast double LP is simply unbeatable in facility and emotional depth. I love Ted Neely's as well, and he looked more the part than anyone, but Gillan is Gillan.
Afrikitty quote; believe Ian Gillan to be the finest voice to ever come out of the 20th century. His vocal range is phenomenal, and I believe it was a full octave over and above anything Freddy Mercury had to offer.
Afrikitty NO WAY Freddie had more voice plus stage presence ,I know I've seen both in their prime
@fredrums1952 Awwww, we're not going to hurt each other, now are we? (^_~)
I made a video on Robert Plant - it's up on Blip.tv - people were giving me a hard time about that. Then somebody gave me a hard time for making the Plant vid. I can't win! LOL
Freddy is second on my list, with Plant third and Farner of Grand Funk Railroad 4th. After that any of them could make my list, HOWEVER, Ian Gillan is my ALL TIME FAVOURITE. You cannot budge me from this position. I will not be moved! (^_^)
@fredrums1952 I saw them both in there prime too and love them both. they are completely different, Freddy the great flambouyant showman and musician with his affected but amazing tenor voice. Vocally, I have never heard a live performance that bettered Gillan (in his prime) He was jaw dropping!!
@Weaponx58 Welcome back to my channel! It's good to see you again.
Thank you for your words on Ian Gillan. I have had many people try to move me from my stance on Gillan being the No 1 rock voice to come out of the 20th century. I cannot be moved. He was by far the best of the best. I saw this specifically when Robert Plant, did a tribute to Freddy Mercury. I will waive my right to comment on that one. (^_~) But it re-inforced my stand that IAN GILLAN had something, a flair, the others did not!
@Afrikitty Keep up the great work Afrikitty. Interestingly everybody has a different opinion and like many of your visitors here I love Plant, Mercury, Rodgers, Hughes, Coverdale etc. etc. But I have yet to hear anyone that could take their voice from a level of sensitivity, to such explosiveness with fantastic consistancy of tone as the young Gillan could. One day we will all appreciate that :o)
@Weaponx58 Thanks for your comment. After 1975, I was too busy raising my kids, so I lost touch with what was going on in the rock scene. The lowly radio was my only source of music information, so I got bogged down in alot of commercial stuff. It was only when they became teens and began to take an interest in music themsleves that I got back into it, but I did miss much of the history. I'm not very familiar with the Purple splinter groups. Yep, with Gillan, nobody could do what you said. (^_^)
@Easleytee Ohhhh boy! I am NOT going to argue with you! Robert Plant could be considered the finest voice in Rock history. Led Zeppelin would have been alot poorer, to my way of thinking, had it not been for Robert Plant.
Personally, I would put Queen's Freddy Mercury way ahead of Plant, with Mark Farner Of Grand Funk Railroad in 4th place.
HOWEVER, to me, there was nobody who could touch Ian Gillan. He was the BEST of the BEST. I know some would disagree, but he is always MY choice. (^_*)
@Easleytee I am uploading a video today sometime, featuring Robert Plant doing "Ship of Fools" from one of his solo albums from 1988 called "Now and Zen." I will send you the link s soon as it is online. (^_^)
Yes, it is a great sounding song and it engenders a lot of passion. However, I will be doing an expose on these lyrics one day. They are actually quite blasphemous.
@jimmyb227 I agree, Steve Balsamo does do a spectacular rendition of this song! However, I am still of the opinion that had Ian Gillan been given a concert hall and all the more modern trappings, including the great room accoustics that went with Balsamo's performance in his video showing on YouTube, Ian Gillan would have creamed Balsamo, who would have paled into obscurity before he even got to finish his rendition of Gethsemane.
Thank you for your comment, You have a great weekend too. (^_^)
@Afrikitty I don't agree with your assumption that Gillan "WOULD HAVE creamed Balsamo, who would have paled into obscurity ..." This is disrespectful to an excellent singer who sang & acted so exceptionally stunning LIVE on the stage with perfect control of voice while burst into tears and deliver emotion successfully to the audience (e.g. in Holland 2004). Gillan MIGHT HAVE or MIGHT NOT crashed SB although IG is one of the best singers at our time but he may not beat SB for this song LIVE.
@jd2011music Thank you for your comment. I appreciate what you said, however I stand by my opinion, ESPECIALLY since I went to your channel and watched Steve Balsamo sing "Child in Time". In that video, it is plain to all who would care to watch and listen, that what I said in my comment was perfectly true. Balsamo lacks Ian Gillan's charisma and the fire Gillan put into "Child in Time" all those years ago. Finally, my review was not based on assumption, it is based on what I see and hear!
@Afrikitty Thank you for your feedback. I WAS NOT comparing overall singing skills btw Balsamo and Gillan. Nor was I referring to Child in Time. Purely on LIVE performances on Gethsemane as a musical number that already been done by many, SB is the best. IG never did LIVE on this as a musical number. To compare them and hypothetically conclude IG would have made SB's performance insignificant is a not fair. IG might have done a better job but that is not to deny SB's stunning LIVE performance.
@jd2011music You're probably right - to each their own. The world would be a strange place if we all agreed on these issues.
However, I don't think I am being unfair, not am I being unrealistic by listeing to Child in Time and using his rendition of that song to make my judgement.
Hey, I'm a diehard Gillan fan and my rose-tinted glasses have been firmly stuck to my nose since I first heard him, way back in the late 1960s. So, have mercy on me, will ya. (^_*)
@Afrikitty Thanks for being reasonable. I had figured that out ...The fact that you stated that Gillan's vocal range is "over and above anything Freddy Mercury had to offer" and that you are a diehard Gillan fan, should have made me realised your positon sooner. No one can replace the mighty Gillan, nor could the radical and splendic Mercury be erased from the history of rock. As for the current pool of younger active singer/muscian, I have faith in Balsamo to colour history of modern music.
@jd2011music Well, thank you very much. I will admit that I did enjoy Freddy Mercury very much. He was as flamboyant as they come. He certainly was entertaining and he could hold up well in non-rock situations, as he did with Monserat Caballe when they did their magnificent rendtion of "Barcelona".
Steve Balsamo did do a lovely version of Gethsemane. I am never taken in by any displayed emotion in this song, as the lyrics are thoroughly unBiblical, and border on blasphemy. I might do an expose.
@Afrikitty Well said. I want to encourage more non-commercially packaged, Independent, true music loving songers/musicians to keep-going. Gillan's achivement is solid secured and he is big enough to see excellent younger singers encouraged. Mercury would've bee the same too. Steve Balsamo is a singer/writer, makes music, forms bands and has unique voice. All for his love for music but he is still somehow struggling - the power of rubbish music and singers shown on TV is just too big.
Ian Gillan è riuscito a mandare meravigliosamente a puttane la possibilità di essere il più grande cantante e interprete Rock (e non solo) degli ultimi 40 anni! Se Dio esistesse lo dovrebbe punire per questo dono che gli dato e che Gillan non ha saputo o voluto sfruttare!.. Salvo poi restituircelo un po' più savio.
Ian Gillan best Jesus christ superstar, this track is stella what a vocal, such emotion, shame Ian was not cast in the movie , Ted was great in the movie but i thin k Ian would have been amazing....
@PARADOXXMUZIC Thank you very much. I agree with all you said. :-) I'm a diehard Gillan fan - always was and always will be. My rose tinted glasses always get in the way. They're kind of stuck to my nose. LOL
Totally agree with you about Ian Gillan being best vocalist, esp. in 70s before his vocal chords somewhat damaged - too bad about that though he's still performing w/Deep Purple in concerts. Incredible voc
The first Jesus Christ Superstar... Amazing!!! Thanks for sharing this with us. Best wishes from Quilmes city, province of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
MarielAnQui73 4 hours ago
Sorry mate, I love Deep Purple and Ian Gillan is without a doubt one of the greatest singers of the 20th century but there's absolutely no way that he's above Freddie Mercury, Freddy had a wider vocal range than Gillan, and he was more diverse, he could sing Opera, Blues, Rock and Roll, Jazz and Metal. I admit that Gillan is one of the greatest singers of all time(in my taste he'd be third after Mercury and Dickinson) but he's still missing a little to reach Freddie's talent and voice range
javiventa666 1 day ago
@javiventa666 Thank you for your comment.
I am sure many would agree with you. Freddy had a monumentally fantamabulous voice. Others who have commented on htis thread would say Robert Plant, however, we Gillan fans will always be true to the one we know had the best voice of them all., (*_*)
Afrikitty 1 day ago
I love Ian Gillan and have been a DP fan since the early 70s, but if you want to see a truly awesome performance of this song check out Steve Balsamo. There are several of his performances of Gethsemane here on YouTube, but the best one by far is the 2004 performance from the Ahoy festival in Holland. Check it out, I promise you won't be disappointed!
watch?v=eVpq9yW9HS8
gotham61 4 days ago
@gotham61 Yep, seen it and watched it many times. (*_*) It's very different to Ian's version, nonetheless it is still very much based on what Ian Gillan started with this song. This song is, without a doubt, Ian Gillans baby. Here's a video you will thoroughly enjoy, if you like Balsamo's version - watch?v=dt-CX3k0PYw
Thank you for your comment.
Afrikitty 4 days ago
@pookerville Well, if you're going to give up our bickering for Lent, then you won't mind if I don't approve your comment!
Afrikitty 6 days ago
Christ never denied the Old Testament, or his Jewish roots. But we all have to recognise that poetic license is Man's way to express the unexpressable, and the God (Yahway) that I worship understands the human condition and knows that questioning is thew path to wisdom. Yes Jesus with all he knew had questions.
tes1637 6 days ago
@tes1637 I would doubt that the Lord Jesus Christ had any questions regarding the redemption of His people. It was all planned in detail before the foundation of the world.
Thank you for your comment.
Afrikitty 1 day ago
you approve of everything and comment on everything! lol someone has a goddess complex
sm1135ster1 1 week ago
@sm1135ster1 Yes, this is MY channel, and I post videos so that people can interact with me, and I with them. Usually, such interactions are cordial and friendly, even though the subject matter might be sensitive.
Did you also know that Goddesses have nifty index fingers, and I have just used mine on you, tigger!
Afrikitty 1 week ago
ian is my favorite.
metledsabbsthica 1 week ago
I love this, however I have to say that the later JCST (Ted Neeley) is far better. Ian has clearly understood everything that's required of this vocal and I could cry now as I listen. What a great voice!!
davebritainsong 2 weeks ago
@davebritainsong Well, some people who come to this comment section do prefer Ted Neeley, however most of us die-hards still prefer Ian Gillan. Thank you for your comment. (*_*)
Afrikitty 2 weeks ago
@davebritainsong I seriously think you have to be deaf to be comparing Neeley with Gillan. Neeley is nice, but he will never be comparable to Gillan. This is just a fact of life baby.
krevedko999 1 week ago
@krevedko999 Well now, I couldn't have said it better myself.....
Thank you for your comment. (*_*)
Afrikitty 1 week ago
His voice range is spectacular, BUT how do you figure that this song is not a Christian song? This song is a prayer... a prayer to God. That guy is supposed to be Christ, so.....Christ is praying to God. What is un-christian about that???
rockshot100 2 weeks ago
@rockshot100 Yes, and the beauty of the music and the fact that a christ is being portrayed does cause one to wonder, doesn't it. However, the Bible says that Jesus Christ gave His life WILLINGLY - 1 John 3:16 & Matthew 20:28 & Isaiah 53. Jesus Christ never spoke to the Father the way he is portrayed as doing here.
It's like you, so beautifully said: "THAT guy is SUPPOSED to be Christ, so......" Unfortunately he is not the Christ of the Scriptures. But thank you for your enquirey.
Afrikitty 2 weeks ago
@Afrikitty Do not be so down to earth. The scriptures do not portrait Jesus from his human side. This is just perfect with the outcome: willingness. Doubt is human, and so is the fear of death, pain, whatever... And subjecting oneself to greater will is godly. This Jesus is much more likeable than the one of the scriptures. Plus: he can sing well : )
malvivente1986 2 weeks ago
@malvivente1986 Well, I have been accused of being so heavenly minded that I am of no earthly good - whatever that may mean - however, much as you might like this "nicer and more likeable" jesus, he is utterly impotent to save, because he is not the Jesus of the Scriptures.
Speaking of which, the Scriptures most certainly DO speak of the human Jesus. It tells us that there was no beauty to Him that we would desire Him. His own did not receive Him - Isaiah 53:2 and John 1:11. :-)
Afrikitty 2 weeks ago
@Afrikitty I am not an expert on scripture, but I do believe he did question The Father and prayed that night, but did what he was put here to do and that was to save us.
dsmallwood2112 1 week ago
@Afrikitty I am not an expert on scripture, but I do believe he did question The Father and prayed that night, but did what he was put here to do and that was to save us. He was both entirely Human and God and this was meant to show the human side
dsmallwood2112 1 week ago
@dsmallwood2112 Yes, I hear what you are saying - Jesus Christ was FULLY man and FULLY God. He called His Father "HOLY Father". Such a devastating mistake, as to say to the Father: "Show me just a bit of your omnipresent brain" is to fly in the face of Scripture, which says "God is Spirit". This use of poetic license should not even have been contemplated in such a song. It is sheer blasphemy.
Afrikitty 1 week ago
Malgré que je connais pas cet artiste. J'adore !! super !!!
SuperMichelllee 2 weeks ago
Satan does exist- it's called ignorance. by that account, all of the spiritual retards (i.e. the christian zionists schilling on this board), are satan personified
sm1135ster1 1 month ago in playlist Why?!!?
@sm1135ster1 Not all Christians are "zionists", Sir.
And yes, Satan DOES indeed exist, as you say, however not in the WAY you say it, because Scripture says: "For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.” Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?" 1 Corinthians 1:19-20
I would take heed of that if I were you!
Afrikitty 1 week ago
@Afrikitty didn't say they were dear, -and if you are a Christain why do you quote the Old Testament even Jesus knew that was nonsense written by ancient hillbillies who created a 'god' like them, a violent, misgyoictic, psychopath apparently . lots of things are written but that doesn't make them true. use your common sense. take care lol
sm1135ster1 1 week ago
@sm1135ster1 Scripture has spoken and you have been found wanting. Deal with it, Chump!
Afrikitty 1 week ago
No-one can do the harmonic yodel like Gillan!
wnesbitt1 1 month ago
i love this this song so much and this version and teds version are the best without a doubt. please take a listen to my version if you get a chance, just type LEON TAGOE GETHSEMANE, would ove to know what people think.
leontagoe1 1 month ago
This is not a christian song. It's a song about despair and emptiness.
Neuroneos 1 month ago
@Neuroneos You are quite right! There is NOTHING Biblical about this song. It is actually blasphemy against a holy God. I have been disappointed at the lack of Biblical understanding regarding this song, EVEN BY THOSE WHO CALL THEMSELVES CHRISTIAN!
You are the FIRST person to pick up the emptiness and despair in the lyrics. Jesus Christ was the Chosen One of God. He was chosen to die for His Elect. He did not have to test the Father in order to do so, as is portrayed in this song.
Afrikitty 1 month ago
@Afrikitty
a great work of musical of art, an incredible gifted voice ...
if ever a man in desperation would be as honest in his anger and not understanding of God's ways and express it as frank as here - I think God would look to his heart and not his words and may-be would look in sympathy at him - and answer his prayer (as he often answered desperate "blasphemous" prayers ...
mayandholger 1 month ago
@mayandholger You are sadly mistaken. God does not look on the wicked and evil hearts of men. In fact, the Bible says that we ARE indeed judged by our words. Jesus Christ said: "Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” and, "But those things which proceed out of the mouth COME FROM THE HEART, and they defile a man." - Matthew 15:11 &18
Blasphemouse "prayers" would never come from the mouth of Christ Jesus! Read John Ch17.
Afrikitty 1 month ago
@mayandholger The Jesus that is portrayed in this song IS NOT the Jesus of the Bible. This Jesus is a figment of the imagination of Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Now, having said that - yes, it is a great musical work of art, and the singer is, as far as I am concerned, the greatest voice to come out of the 20th century, however, it needs to be said that the jesus portrayed in this song is NOT the Jesus Christ of the Scriptures. THAT Jesus died WILLINGLY for the Father and for the Elect!
Afrikitty 1 month ago
@Neuroneos You're right, but this song helped me to know Jesus Christ in a time when I was still in the grip of satan.
xembryo 1 month ago
@xembryo Satan does not exist ;)
Neuroneos 1 month ago
@Neuroneos You are mistaken in thinking Satan does not exist.
The Lord Jesus Christ said: "“I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven." (Luke 10:18)
In the book of Job, we read: "There was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them. And the LORD said to Satan, “From where do you come?” Satan answered the LORD and said, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it.” (Job 1:6-7)
Satan exists!
Afrikitty 1 month ago
@Afrikitty The bible is a book. Jesus Christ was crazy and people at the time were naives.
Neuroneos 1 month ago
@Neuroneos Yes, and so is "Jack and Jill", yet you learned how to read from it, or a book like it. You learned from BOOKS in school, didn't you? Most people learnd from the written word, be it the Bible or other books. The Bible says:
"Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:" (Acts 2:22)
You have had your say in these comments, and I have had enough of your tripe.
Afrikitty 1 month ago
@Neuroneos Indeed; Jesus Christ was 'crazy enough' to pay the penalty for YOUR sins, because He doesn't like to see you ending up in Hell/the lake of fire.
Jesus Christ is YOUR creator, so, you may call Him crazy, stupid, insane or whatever you want, but one day you will be standing in front of Him and I hope that before that time you've changed your mind about Him.
Like it or not; Jesus is GOD!
xembryo 1 month ago
@Neuroneos
And that's satan's greatest feat: deceiving you about his existence
xembryo 1 month ago
@xembryo Hi there (*_*)
In what way did this song help you to know Jesus? The Jesus protrayed in this song is not the Biblical Jesus. It is another jesus altogether. I pray you have come to know the real Jesus of Scripture since that time. The one who said: "Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. YET NOT WHAT I WILL, BUT WHAT YOU WILL." (Mark 14:36 & Luke 22:42)
Hebrews 5:7 and Psalm 22:24 will also be of great help. I will post them here.
Afrikitty 1 month ago
@Afrikitty I was an atheist, so 'this Jesus' of 'Jesus Christ Superstar' was a way to become more interested in the topic, but most of all I was a long time admirer of Ian Gillan, and I still love this song and Ian's voice and personality, because God used Ian's interpretation of this song to lead me toward the real Jesus Christ of Scripture.
Yes, I do know the REAL, Biblical Jesus Christ!
The one who's one with God, and the one who loves sinners like you and me and Ian Gillan and his fans.
xembryo 1 month ago
@xembryo Watch my video 'GILLAN - Mr Universe' and read my testimony: watch?v=z57eHhPbMss
xembryo 1 month ago
@xembryo Those scriptures say:
"He has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; Nor has He hidden His face from Him; But when He cried to Him, He heard." (Psalm 22:24)
"Who, in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to Him who was able to save Him from death, and was heard because of His godly fear, though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered." (Hebrews 5:7-8)
Afrikitty 1 month ago
The falsetto notes in this tune is the reason that we have holes in the ozone layer. Thanks a lot Ian...
ctsbrg 1 month ago
@ctsbrg "Holes in the ozone layer" - now there's one I haven't heard before. I always thought the gas in aerosol cans and in refrigerators were the cause of the ozone holes. I wonder what Ian would have to say about that comparison? LOL
(*_*) Thank you for your comment.
Afrikitty 1 month ago
The best song and voice of ever!!!
3ntoe1 1 month ago
Marvelous!
Olmosten 1 month ago
all the singers who've been trying to perform this song pale into mediocrity when compared to ian gillan's magnificent interpretation. what a heart, what a voice!!!
riosrogerio 1 month ago
GORGEOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Vertgazon 2 months ago
@Vertgazon MMMMmmmmm....
Afrikitty 2 months ago
Ian has always been my choice for this particular song Ted is edgey an raw Steve is emotion and strong they are all very good but hands down it belong to Ian.....his voice is so smooth and strong and his range is very good....thanks for the post...it is lovely...
7BigDC 2 months ago
i wonder if freddie mercury ever sang this?
Ullbritt 2 months ago
@Ullbritt That's a good question. If he did, I don't know about it. There would be reasons for my thinkin he never did a cover of this particular song though. Thank you for your comment. Merry Christmas.
Afrikitty 2 months ago
Steve Balsamo's version is more theatrical and emotional, it is an incredible moving thing to watch him sing this live. Gillan is a legend, and Balsamo agrees, when i asked him. :) thanks for sharing.
telbridget 2 months ago
Steve Balsamo's version is more theatrical and emotional, it is an incredible moving thing to watch him sing this live. Gillan is a legend, and Balsamo agrees, when i asked him. :) thanks for sharing.
telbridget 2 months ago 2
@telbridget Hallo,
I have never approved a Steve Balsamo fan's comments before, because they are so rude. However, I found your comment to be fair and constructive. I do enjoy Balsamo's version of this song, and I watch that video every now and then - like you say, it is very emotional. We can see Balsamo performing, so it is easy to get that way about his version. However, Ian Gillan is STILL my choice as favourite. It was my pleasure to share. (*_*)
Afrikitty 2 months ago
@Afrikitty Steve can't help being Welsh, ha ha (Joke) but Ian is also a fellow Yorkshireman, so he get's an extra tick , (sorry Steve). Shame they havn't collaborated on anything??, as Balsamo tours with Jon Lord. Both of them singing together would be so awesome..... I never had the pleasure of seeing Gillan live, :(. my mate saw him a few times, and worships the ground he walks on. Wonder what he is up to these days? Bridget. :-) ps i do like the Welsh, my daughter is marrying one.:-))
telbridget 2 months ago
@telbridget According to his Facebook page, Jon Lord has taken time off because of cancer. Yep, the unfortunate thing is that Gillan apparently never made a video recording of this song. I tell you what, if one was ever found, it would be worth it's greatness in gold. Thank you for your sterling support of my channel and this video, I hope you come and visit me again.
Did you know that I did capitulate a tiny bit and made a video of Robert Plant. watch?v=Gkcrnh1x5c4
Afrikitty 2 months ago
@Afrikitty Steve can't help being Welsh, ha ha (Joke) but Ian is also a fellow Yorkshireman, so he get's an extra tick , (sorry Steve). Shame they havn't collaborated on anything??, as Balsamo tours with Jon Lord. Both of them singing together would be so awesome..... I never had the pleasure of seeing Gillan live, :(. my mate saw him a few times, and worships the ground he walks on. Wonder what he is up to these days? Bridget. :-) ps i do like the Welsh, my daughter is marrying one.:-))
telbridget 2 months ago
Oh please let this be the VOICE OF GOD! If it is, I will worship him. :) Ian, you are a force of nature!!
UnaAmore 2 months ago
@UnaAmore Well, no....ROFLOL...this is not QUITE, the voice of God! However, in the worldly sense, I could agree. Please don't worship him - I don't think he could handle it. (*_*)
However, I do agree that his voice is one of the finest - in fact, THE finest, to come from the 20th century. Your comment made me howl with laughter. LOL
Afrikitty 2 months ago
I would give anything to hear Ian Gillan perform this live. The first one, the best one.
Methrt3 2 months ago
Это божественно, реально! Поверишь в существование Христа и станешь его апостолом! Готова мыть ноги и вытирать своими волосами..
MegaLatvija 2 months ago
No one has the pasion that Ted Neeley put on his interpretation. Ted forever
1Merit1 3 months ago
@1Merit1 nooo, please. this has no comparison posible.esta is the original version, is seen to be making fast, direct type. Ted's version, this study manipulated, this check in cuts. nothing to do. besides, this is the original, the rest are copies
garlan16 2 months ago
people that keep arguing about who is the best performer of this song obviously dont understand art. ok sure someone might hit this or that note better or have a better vibrato but thats missing the point. maybe have a discussion on leonardo da vincis painting technique vs michelangelos while youre at it?
Ullbritt 3 months ago
@Ullbritt And I think your comment is presumptuous! You have no clue about the art of conversation!
Afrikitty 3 months ago
His vocal range WAS amazing the last purple album was brutal
dirmo77 3 months ago
@dirmo77 Well, you would need to define what you mean when you say "was". You do know, that his fans are blind to the imperfections of this 66 year old man's voice. To us, he is IAN GILLAN! End of story! We don't care! (@_@)
Afrikitty 3 months ago
@dirmo77 probably his vocal range in high notes...but there's a lot more is voice could offer...
nazzare79 2 months ago
Afrikitty-Well said,and agreed with! HeeHee!!
ChimeraAZ 3 months ago
@ChimeraAZ He he he!!! (^_~)
Afrikitty 3 months ago
Pure, but not Mystic.
Metaphor444 3 months ago
@Metaphor444 Are you talking about the lyrics? The lyrics in this song are not Biblically sound at all. But perhaps you are talking about the music?
Afrikitty 3 months ago
@Afrikitty No, i'm talking about the performance. He have a great voice, but there's not the struggle that "momentus" required. There's not performance, only a great voice singing a song. His version, musically, can be the best. But if you see Ted Neeley performance, you will notice how he feel this song. It's a song about a person (God as a person) that is going to die, and have to accept it. There's not this drama in Ian Gillan performance.
Metaphor444 3 months ago
@Metaphor444 Hi there, Well, we're going to have to agree to disagree on that one. (#_#)
Thank you for your comment.
Afrikitty 3 months ago
Afrikitty - Depends on your taste,..as to who is right,..lol.( ^_~ ) :)
ChimeraAZ 3 months ago
@ChimeraAZ *giggle* - where he's concerned, I don't think my taste is in my mouth. (^_~)
Afrikitty 3 months ago
This is the best perform of Gethsemane!
Dinoush 3 months ago
@Dinoush I absolutely agree! Some have tried to sway me from my undisputed love, but have been unable. (+_+)
The Highway Star reigns SUPREME!
Afrikitty 3 months ago
3:05 on gives me chills,...
blondago56 3 months ago
@blondago56 If you watch Ian Gillan on Deep Purple's song: "Child in Time", those chills will amplify. I will get the link for you quickly.
watch?v=oovbKFWf9qU - That is, to my mind, the best early version of "Child in Time" on YouTube. Gillan's voice excels in this one. Enjoy! (*_*)
Thank you for your comment.
Afrikitty 3 months ago
The best singer for this song is Ted Neely,for the passion he gives it.He and Steve Balsamo wring it out.Steve tears this song up.Really! They both give it an agonized pain to it that Ian doesnt.He just sings the song. I love Ian's voice,but not here as much as the other two.Sorry if you find my opinion not the same as yours,anyone. :)
ChimeraAZ 3 months ago
@ChimeraAZ We forgive you! We know different! (^_~)
Afrikitty 3 months ago
i think both gillan and neely have done a fantastic job... but there's no doubt that neely beats ian gillan in this particular song
caueputtinato 3 months ago
@Afrikitty How does Ted Neely not have what it takes for this song exactly?
symphonicsage 3 months ago
@Afrikitty Well, Mr.Neeley may not have came up with the scream,
symphonicsage 3 months ago
@dst257 Neely's voice is week and anemic? Hate me for saying this, but there is no human alive with Mr.Neely's vocal power, ability, and high end. The screams that this guy puts out don't have to power, or accuracy that Mr.Neely has. Whilst Mr.Neely can hit those high screaming wails and hold them with perfect vibrato for about half a minute, this guy just tries with too much vibrato to cheat out of finding the note. Plus he lacks the diaphram power that Mr.Neely has.
symphonicsage 3 months ago
@symphonicsage Well, we are all entitled to our opinions regarding this issue, however, I am more than inclined to disagree with you. I don't think Ted Neeley ever had what it takes to do this song. However, thank you for your comment. (^_^)
Oh, just so you know, it was Ian Gillan who actually brought in the "screaming" in this song. It is HIS trademark, and HIS alone. As one commentator said "All the others, are mere attempts".
Afrikitty 3 months ago 2
It doesn't really matter who sings it the best, Ian Gillan was the original.
Anyway, there is one way to sort this out, once and for all and it's quite simple.
Get this Neeley geezer to record 'Child in Time' and we'll see how he does.
anthonyjohnmarshall 3 months ago
@anthonyjohnmarshall Bwahahahahahahahaaaaaaa, Yeah, let's see "the Neeley geezer" try to do "Child in Time". Oh my, I couldn't stop laughing at your comment. "Child in Time" is my all time favourite Purple number, followed by "Smoke on the Water" and "Lazy".
Thank you for your visit. You made my day!
Afrikitty 3 months ago
gillan is amazing singer but even Coverdale is better, not to mention Neeley or one and only Freddie Mercury
daliborcek1607 4 months ago
@daliborcek1607 Oh lawdie, please help me. NEELEY?
Afrikitty 4 months ago
@daliborcek1607 ....Yeah...Then you woke up, Skippy.
WiseGuy5674 3 months ago
Gorgeous!
MultiDianad 4 months ago
This is the only version that exist, the other ones are just attempts.
jjmora05 4 months ago 17
@jjmora05 I have never heard that put quite so beautifully - and, of course, I absolutely agree with you. (^_~)
Afrikitty 4 months ago
@jjmora05 A-effin-men!
dst257 4 months ago
@jjmora05 spot on, spot on )
BalParuf 3 months ago
@jjmora05 So true. Ian rules and he's so hot!!!!!
kmmangel444 3 weeks ago
Maybe Pablo Villafranca , without wanting to compare, sings it a little more in a spirit close to Ian Gillan... ww.youtube.com/watch?v=rjnBBFnH4CY
zennepiet 4 months ago
I saw the film of Jesus Christ Superstar in 1973 or '74 after hearing Gillan for a a year or so and I have to say I though Neely's voice lacked the warmth and timbre of Gillan's. His voice was a little thin for my taste.
purpleneil59 5 months ago
@purpleneil59 Yes, I agree with you. I went and listened to Ted Neeley on video yesterday as somebody challenged me to do so, and I still found I preferred Ian Gillan's version.
I doubt I will ever be swayed.
Afrikitty 5 months ago 9
@Afrikitty I completely agree with your assessment of Ian Gillan and his remarkable voice. I would give almost anything to go back in time and see him at the height of his popularity and well...make a play to be his girlfriend ^_^ He's not only amazingly talented and one of the best vocalists of all time, but a really damn good-looking guy. He's in my 'male harem' album on fb. :) Thanks for posting and you got it right - Ian's the BEST!
JediMasterCheryl 5 months ago
@JediMasterCheryl ROFLOL - Phew - Male Harem on your Facebook? Does he ever visit? Come and visit me again. (^_~)
Afrikitty 5 months ago
@purpleneil59 Neely's voice is weak & anemic compared to Gillan's.
just 2 notes will convince you beyond a shadow of a doubt.
"[Alright,] I'LL DIE"
I should know, those were the 2 notes I was most dissatisfied with when I played Jesus.
Years later, I realized I could have done it, if I had "gone for it" at full volume, but alas, I was too timid.
dst257 4 months ago
Nobody sings this song like Gillan. It should be noted that on the original recording, Rice and Webber gave the singers the opportunity to interpret the songs according to their style; hence the trademark Gillan screams. All those that followed him basically copied his interpretation
purpleneil59 5 months ago
@purpleneil59 Everything you have said here is correct. Thank you for your comment. (*_*)
Afrikitty 5 months ago
@Afrikitty No problems. I have been a Deep Purple fan since the early seventies. The first version of JCS was the Broadway version, which I quite liked. A friend of my older brother told me the original version featured Ian Gillan so I rushed out and bought it. To my mind no other Jesus (though I have liked them) have had the timbre, rage and emotional intensity as Gillan. In fact, though I'm a huge Purple fan, I've always considered JCS to be Gillan's defining moment.
purpleneil59 5 months ago
@purpleneil59 I have been a Deep Purple Fan since then too. I lived in South Africa, so wasn't fortunate enough to see any of the Broadway plays. However, I am not sure that Ian Gillan ever did this song live. If he did and you have a film of that, I would love to see it. (*_*)
Afrikitty 5 months ago
@Afrikitty Unfortunately Gillan never sang it live. According to Gillan, he was asked to be in the film, but he was too committed to Purple. The irony here was that just after the film, he was no longer in Purple.
purpleneil59 5 months ago
@BabylonWhore666
Hey Chump!
Afrikitty 5 months ago
Ian Gillan is really, really one of my top 5 favourite singers but I must say that Ted Neeley, neeled, I mean nailed the emotions in the song. Ted Neeley is more intense emotionally in his song.
Mis4el1973 5 months ago
@Mis4el1973 Hey there, Many people in this thread would agree with you - except me. (*_*) Take care.
Afrikitty 5 months ago
@Afrikitty I have to say... ur "star-gazed" I urge u to compare these two masters of singing. I mean geniouses. :-) But when u have listened and compared 110 times u will also understand why Ted Neeley got the part instead of our loved friend Ian Gillan <3
Mis4el1973 5 months ago
@Mis4el1973 Yep, I sure am star-gazed - OK, so for your sake, I went to look for Ted Neeley and listened to him without visuals. I listened very carefully, and he sounded a bit like Steve Balsamo. I DO know what you are saying about his rendition of this song. But, as you say, the two men are MASTERS - you mean Geniuses (*_~) So, now I must choose between the two geniuses,(or is that genii) aaaaaaaannnnnnddddd - ta-daaaaaa my choice isssssssssssssssss
Still Ian Gillan! (^_^) He stands alone!
Afrikitty 5 months ago
@Afrikitty It's all good. =)
Mis4el1973 5 months ago
@Mis4el1973 (*_*) Thanks mate!
Afrikitty 5 months ago
@Afrikitty Listen to the finale of the song and u will understand why, my friend. :-)
Mis4el1973 5 months ago
@Mis4el1973 Yes, his end was very.....errrrrr....poignant :-)
Afrikitty 5 months ago
wow!
sm1135ster1 6 months ago
I dont think anyone is better for Jesus than Ian. If you listen with headphones to "I will drink your cup of poison, Nail me to your cross and break me. Bleed me, beat me; kill me, take me now- before I change my mind." is just heartbreaking. Ian sounds like he is really experiencing the excruciating weight that God had placed on Jesus's shoulders. What I would give to see this live.
samiam15141 6 months ago 3
@samiam15141 Thank you for your comment. Yes, I listen to EVERYTHING through either Bose Headphones, or AR headphones, so I know what you are talking about. (*_*)
Afrikitty 6 months ago
This is the first time I've heard this version, but I must say I like Ted Neeley's version better. In my opinion, Neeley sings with more passion and conviction. Just my opinion though :)
phoon74 6 months ago
Its apples to oranges. Gillan's voice in its prime had a warmer tone and better vocal support than Freddie's. He may have been able to scream higher, for what that's worth. Freddie had a crystal clear, beautiful tone and was, in my opinion, a technically superior singer in terms of actuallly hitting the notes in concert. They were both great.
Plant, on the other hand, was something completely different: bluesy, folksy, in my opinion more exciting. Not technically better, though.
badpdx 7 months ago 3
I saw him live in '72-73 when I was 13 yrs old. I still love him :)
elizedwards1 7 months ago
Thank you. The beautiful Ian Gillan.
elizedwards1 7 months ago
Thank you. The beautiful Ian Gillan. :)
elizedwards1 7 months ago
@elizedwards1 Indeed! (*_*)
Afrikitty 7 months ago
@Afrikitty I saw him (with DP) in Brighton '72'-73 when I was 13. Still in love with him. :)
elizedwards1 7 months ago
was this the best performance (the WHOLE SHOW)by a rock singer ever?
I challenge anyone!
Don't bother lookin' you won't find anything that gets close!
bunniman1908 7 months ago
@bunniman1908 You're certainly not going to get an argument from me on that one! (^_^)
Afrikitty 7 months ago
It really is a tragedy in musical terms, that Ian Gillan never performed this song live. As I think if he had, he'd have given the absolute definitive version of it. To hear him performing the huge final note in the live version would have been a wondrous spectacle to behold. Shame we'll never get the chance to hear that now. :(
AngelicStorm1 7 months ago
Gillan's Gethsemane from the original cast double LP is simply unbeatable in facility and emotional depth. I love Ted Neely's as well, and he looked more the part than anyone, but Gillan is Gillan.
SpaceOdyssey56 9 months ago
Gillan's Gethsemene from the original cast double LP is simply unbeatable, both in facility and emotional depth.
SpaceOdyssey56 9 months ago
@Highwaystar28 Your comment still tickles me pink, HOWEVER, we used past tense in our agreement! Sheeeeesh!
How dare we!
Has anything changed? He still has those amazing & awesome blue eyes and, to me, he still has all it takes. (^_~)
Afrikitty 9 months ago 6
Afrikitty quote; believe Ian Gillan to be the finest voice to ever come out of the 20th century. His vocal range is phenomenal, and I believe it was a full octave over and above anything Freddy Mercury had to offer.
Afrikitty NO WAY Freddie had more voice plus stage presence ,I know I've seen both in their prime
fredrums1952 10 months ago
@fredrums1952 Awwww, we're not going to hurt each other, now are we? (^_~)
I made a video on Robert Plant - it's up on Blip.tv - people were giving me a hard time about that. Then somebody gave me a hard time for making the Plant vid. I can't win! LOL
Freddy is second on my list, with Plant third and Farner of Grand Funk Railroad 4th. After that any of them could make my list, HOWEVER, Ian Gillan is my ALL TIME FAVOURITE. You cannot budge me from this position. I will not be moved! (^_^)
Afrikitty 10 months ago
@fredrums1952 I saw them both in there prime too and love them both. they are completely different, Freddy the great flambouyant showman and musician with his affected but amazing tenor voice. Vocally, I have never heard a live performance that bettered Gillan (in his prime) He was jaw dropping!!
Weaponx58 9 months ago
@Weaponx58 Welcome back to my channel! It's good to see you again.
Thank you for your words on Ian Gillan. I have had many people try to move me from my stance on Gillan being the No 1 rock voice to come out of the 20th century. I cannot be moved. He was by far the best of the best. I saw this specifically when Robert Plant, did a tribute to Freddy Mercury. I will waive my right to comment on that one. (^_~) But it re-inforced my stand that IAN GILLAN had something, a flair, the others did not!
Afrikitty 9 months ago
@Afrikitty Keep up the great work Afrikitty. Interestingly everybody has a different opinion and like many of your visitors here I love Plant, Mercury, Rodgers, Hughes, Coverdale etc. etc. But I have yet to hear anyone that could take their voice from a level of sensitivity, to such explosiveness with fantastic consistancy of tone as the young Gillan could. One day we will all appreciate that :o)
Weaponx58 9 months ago
@Weaponx58 Thanks for your comment. After 1975, I was too busy raising my kids, so I lost touch with what was going on in the rock scene. The lowly radio was my only source of music information, so I got bogged down in alot of commercial stuff. It was only when they became teens and began to take an interest in music themsleves that I got back into it, but I did miss much of the history. I'm not very familiar with the Purple splinter groups. Yep, with Gillan, nobody could do what you said. (^_^)
Afrikitty 9 months ago
Love him!!
And the song...
Gallantina65 10 months ago
@Highwaystar28 Yes, he was indeed! (^_*)
Afrikitty 10 months ago
Robert Plant was the finest voice in Rock history.
Easleytee 10 months ago
@Easleytee Ohhhh boy! I am NOT going to argue with you! Robert Plant could be considered the finest voice in Rock history. Led Zeppelin would have been alot poorer, to my way of thinking, had it not been for Robert Plant.
Personally, I would put Queen's Freddy Mercury way ahead of Plant, with Mark Farner Of Grand Funk Railroad in 4th place.
HOWEVER, to me, there was nobody who could touch Ian Gillan. He was the BEST of the BEST. I know some would disagree, but he is always MY choice. (^_*)
Afrikitty 10 months ago 4
@Easleytee I am uploading a video today sometime, featuring Robert Plant doing "Ship of Fools" from one of his solo albums from 1988 called "Now and Zen." I will send you the link s soon as it is online. (^_^)
Afrikitty 10 months ago
Cool video of Ian pics ! Great song as well.
LiveCrueltyFreeNow 10 months ago
@LiveCrueltyFreeNow Thank you very much. (^_^)
Yes, it is a great sounding song and it engenders a lot of passion. However, I will be doing an expose on these lyrics one day. They are actually quite blasphemous.
Afrikitty 10 months ago
TOTALLY agree with you, Afrikitty - and thanks!
Lil1943 10 months ago
One of the best versions of this song I have heard! Steve Balsamo also does a great version. Have a nice evening, everyone!
jimmyb227 11 months ago
@jimmyb227 I agree, Steve Balsamo does do a spectacular rendition of this song! However, I am still of the opinion that had Ian Gillan been given a concert hall and all the more modern trappings, including the great room accoustics that went with Balsamo's performance in his video showing on YouTube, Ian Gillan would have creamed Balsamo, who would have paled into obscurity before he even got to finish his rendition of Gethsemane.
Thank you for your comment, You have a great weekend too. (^_^)
Afrikitty 11 months ago
@Afrikitty I don't agree with your assumption that Gillan "WOULD HAVE creamed Balsamo, who would have paled into obscurity ..." This is disrespectful to an excellent singer who sang & acted so exceptionally stunning LIVE on the stage with perfect control of voice while burst into tears and deliver emotion successfully to the audience (e.g. in Holland 2004). Gillan MIGHT HAVE or MIGHT NOT crashed SB although IG is one of the best singers at our time but he may not beat SB for this song LIVE.
jd2011music 11 months ago
@jd2011music Thank you for your comment. I appreciate what you said, however I stand by my opinion, ESPECIALLY since I went to your channel and watched Steve Balsamo sing "Child in Time". In that video, it is plain to all who would care to watch and listen, that what I said in my comment was perfectly true. Balsamo lacks Ian Gillan's charisma and the fire Gillan put into "Child in Time" all those years ago. Finally, my review was not based on assumption, it is based on what I see and hear!
Afrikitty 11 months ago
@Afrikitty Thank you for your feedback. I WAS NOT comparing overall singing skills btw Balsamo and Gillan. Nor was I referring to Child in Time. Purely on LIVE performances on Gethsemane as a musical number that already been done by many, SB is the best. IG never did LIVE on this as a musical number. To compare them and hypothetically conclude IG would have made SB's performance insignificant is a not fair. IG might have done a better job but that is not to deny SB's stunning LIVE performance.
jd2011music 11 months ago
@jd2011music You're probably right - to each their own. The world would be a strange place if we all agreed on these issues.
However, I don't think I am being unfair, not am I being unrealistic by listeing to Child in Time and using his rendition of that song to make my judgement.
Hey, I'm a diehard Gillan fan and my rose-tinted glasses have been firmly stuck to my nose since I first heard him, way back in the late 1960s. So, have mercy on me, will ya. (^_*)
Afrikitty 11 months ago
@Afrikitty Thanks for being reasonable. I had figured that out ...The fact that you stated that Gillan's vocal range is "over and above anything Freddy Mercury had to offer" and that you are a diehard Gillan fan, should have made me realised your positon sooner. No one can replace the mighty Gillan, nor could the radical and splendic Mercury be erased from the history of rock. As for the current pool of younger active singer/muscian, I have faith in Balsamo to colour history of modern music.
jd2011music 11 months ago
@jd2011music Well, thank you very much. I will admit that I did enjoy Freddy Mercury very much. He was as flamboyant as they come. He certainly was entertaining and he could hold up well in non-rock situations, as he did with Monserat Caballe when they did their magnificent rendtion of "Barcelona".
Steve Balsamo did do a lovely version of Gethsemane. I am never taken in by any displayed emotion in this song, as the lyrics are thoroughly unBiblical, and border on blasphemy. I might do an expose.
Afrikitty 11 months ago
@Afrikitty Well said. I want to encourage more non-commercially packaged, Independent, true music loving songers/musicians to keep-going. Gillan's achivement is solid secured and he is big enough to see excellent younger singers encouraged. Mercury would've bee the same too. Steve Balsamo is a singer/writer, makes music, forms bands and has unique voice. All for his love for music but he is still somehow struggling - the power of rubbish music and singers shown on TV is just too big.
jd2011music 11 months ago
@jd2011music Please excuse my typos - I am struggling with a "voodoo" keyboard.
Afrikitty 11 months ago
Ian Gillan è riuscito a mandare meravigliosamente a puttane la possibilità di essere il più grande cantante e interprete Rock (e non solo) degli ultimi 40 anni! Se Dio esistesse lo dovrebbe punire per questo dono che gli dato e che Gillan non ha saputo o voluto sfruttare!.. Salvo poi restituircelo un po' più savio.
eleonorage65 11 months ago
Ian Gillan best Jesus christ superstar, this track is stella what a vocal, such emotion, shame Ian was not cast in the movie , Ted was great in the movie but i thin k Ian would have been amazing....
PARADOXXMUZIC 1 year ago
@PARADOXXMUZIC Thank you very much. I agree with all you said. :-) I'm a diehard Gillan fan - always was and always will be. My rose tinted glasses always get in the way. They're kind of stuck to my nose. LOL
Afrikitty 1 year ago
@Afrikitty
Totally agree with you about Ian Gillan being best vocalist, esp. in 70s before his vocal chords somewhat damaged - too bad about that though he's still performing w/Deep Purple in concerts. Incredible voc