I hate people who see messages that are not there. i',m pretty sure Mr. Hearn was not giving reason for homos to be spreading aids. Nothing to blame but yourselves BTW.
@Pimpsonite I agree! But facts state that it is NOT the gay community that is spreading AIDS! It is those who laugh! Silly people who bury their heads in the sand!
A well deserved Tony for George Hearn for playing this role - what amazing talent this man posesses! His incredible range as an actor coupled with that voice (of God!) makes him one of the best stage performers I have ever experienced (I would love to have said 'seen' but, sadly, I have never seen this man live. One of the many reasons not living in America sucks!)
My will stipulates that the words to I am What I am will be read out as I disappear behind those curtains. It will be a shock to many, but life isn't worth a damn if you kill off your friends and family in the process. The words to this song mean so much to so many.
@theatergeek82 ...except this song is 10x better than Born This Way. It has intelligent lyrics, no false rhymes, and requires a legit voice to pull off.
@someonecalleddean he cant. jean valjean calls for a dramatic tener. george is a baritone. Though if he was a d tener, i would have to agree with you.
@antiblondine Albin is a Drag Queen. His Drag Queen persona is ZAZA. Not all Drag queens wear woman's clothing 24/7. they live as men, and some have normal day jobs. they put on woman's clothing because it's comfortable to them, it's like putting on a whole new skin. They can be a whole different person. I mean, who wouldn't want to be a different person and get away from the boring dull hours when you are not? And you are not offending anyone! :) Watch Rupaul's Drag Race once in a while. :)
@antiblondine no you didn't offend. In the words of Noxeema Jackson, played by Wesley Snipes in To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar,
"When a straight man puts on a dress and gets his sexual kicks, he is a transvestite. When a man is a woman trapped in a man's body and has a little operation, he is a Transsexual. When a gay man has way too much fashion sense for one gender, he is a drag queen." :)
One of the reasons why this IS a gay anthem is the fact that it helped give us a sense of pride in the eighties at a time when thousands and thousands of our friends and lovers were being wiped away by AIDS. Half of the original Broadway cast of La Cage had died before the show ended its run in 1987. And the composer Jerry Herman himself found out that he was infected as well. This is 'lump in the throat' music for me and always will be. Thank you George, thank you Jerry. Thank you so much.
no one will ever top his perfromance simply real and beautiful all these new actors who have done this perfromance could learn a thing or two from him
A Beautiful song! The words here speak the truth! Always, always, always, ALWAYS be who you are meant to be! Don't ever be somebody you are not and dont be ashamed of yourself! Be gay, be straight, be anything you want to be! It's your life and your own happiness. You have that power and nobody can take that away from you. You are your own person and nobody has power over you except you.
I cannot stop watching this song. This is by far my favorite rendition I've ever heard of this. I love his voice on this song... which is funny, because I always hated him as Sweeney Todd. But this is absolutely gorgeous.
I am a straight guy but am profoundly moved by the message in this song: that we must embrace what makes us different--as long as it doesn't hurt anyone. And the passion in this performance is remarkable. Savor this.
Secondly... I'm all for theatrics, but I really felt sorry for the conductor/orchestra trying to keep up with George Hearn's constant tempo changes. Look @2:37onward for a perfect example of this. I much prefer Barrowman's rendition.
But hey, if you like this rendition better, thats you're own taste....no insult meant :)
@ThePirateMD I didn't notice it before you mentioned this but you're right, that must have been a hell of a nightmare for the conductor. Its quite bad really.
@ThePirateMD From my understanding of the song, that is the way the song is meant to be - it is meant to change tempos to add emphasis to the song - but I could be wrong.....
Perfectly correct. Both the original cast recording and subsequent re-workings of the show introduce this change in tempo. It can feel disquieting and that surely was Herman's intention.
I would like to dedicate this to all the Prides taking place in the UK in the next few weeks. Including Manchester, London, Norwich, Brighton etc. Such an inspirational performance! I am what I am! R U?
having been through the Stonewall raids in NYC and knowing how times have changed for Gays through the years I am so touched by this song and would like it song at my funeral. I especially love Mr Hearn's rendition of it. Thank you!
The true meaning of music will depend of how the singer sing's the song with a clear interpretation like this one...i wide meaning or i can say that people are equal in there rights. i love how he sing this song...i even have my own expression.....'EXPRESS YOUR SELF"...soon i will have my Civil Partnership and i love the guy i will be with in my entire life..wish me luck for both us..
listining to this song always make me cry and angry...but whta can i do, i am what i am....the person who wrote this should have get the noble price!!!!
@WikeddTung this song has nothing to do with harvey fierstein (which I love thougth): both music and lyrics of this song are by jerry herman, fierstein just re-wrote the book of the play from the original French version.
This is a great casting and performance. Other younger more hip people sing this now but it loses some of it's message when they do. It's much easier to accept the young, sexy, famous, and talented. But the truth is we get old and have imperfections but we still should be free to be ourselves and find acceptance in the world.
I really don't care if the song is suppose to be about a gay or not. I just like the song and music period! And what a great voice! Thanks for putting this on.
Jack Jones sang the alternate lyrics to this incredible Jerry Herman song, and it is also a quite convincingly straight song as well! Of course, Jack Jones could pull off any song. Also keep in mind that Dame Shirley Bassey has always included this in her act. Jerry Herman always made sure that his songs could be sung by anyone, from any sexual orientation. Ty Jerry Herman for one of the best songs that ever appeared on Broadway!
@DJMattiFLY / Well cuz it was written with a gay character in mind first off, secondly the lyrics speak for themselves "my world I want to have a little pride in (as in gay pride)" and "it's time to open up your closet (as in coming out of the closet)". And I love me some straight drag queens :-). I'd be one myself if'n I could afford to shave everyday. I'd be named Wilma Fingerdo ;-)
It certainly was intended as a gay pride song. That was the story of the play. Jerry Herman the author happens to be openly gay. Intrestingly, George Hearn happens to be straight.
Of course for such a simple song, it resonates deeply for a gay man like myself. It seems to say so much about finally coming to terms with who one is.
I can imagine though, that anyone, choosing to live life out of the mainstream would also identify with the song.
I suspect many people can identify with being outside the mainstream. Probably why it is such a popular song.
I agree, but I also agree with the opinion, that the message could be universal, depending on the interpreter... but that's what good songs are, right? or art in general... it should correspond to your perception.
I loved the song, when I was coming out. though I later realized, that Gloria Gaynor wasn't as homophile as I thought her to be.
I like this version better. the moment when he struggles at the beginning. great.
@mrlawson101 / Bless you as well mrlawson101. Age has nothing to do with being naive. I'm merely a realist. The message is a GAY one. People have skewed it to their own beliefs. It's like white people singing the blues... it's a stolen art. Much like how everyone knows Elvis, but not the black artists who originated a lot of his music. Everyone hears the song and thinks it applies or COULD apply to them. I'm merely saying it's for gays. You can love it all you want. But it's for gays.
To Wychinski: Aww bless you - I don't know your age but the naivety depresses me. I understand in essence what you're saying, but the message remains the same - so I feel that we may need to agree to disagree, which considering that we're, presumably, both on the same side, is a saddening contradiction of the songs intentions..
@cdlaing / Going backwards in your comment... straight people will never have to face the same social acceptance. They already got marriage and other things they'll never have to fight for. When people say it's universal, they are taking a big steaming dump on the hardships and context behind the song. "I am opressed for being MYSELF". You are BORN gay which isn't a choice. If one CHOOSES alternative lifestyles, they should be accepting of the crap thrown at them, or sing some emo garbage.
Good gosh, what's wrong with the song having a universal message. Sure, the song in the show is song by a gay character. The moral of the song is basically, "Who cares what other people think, be yourself." And that works for just about everyone if you ask me.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
Sorry straight folks. It's you people who are withholding from the entire gay community what is just as rightly ours as is yours. This is OUR song, our anthem our souls song. We're not letting you take it and make it any part of your breeder society.
@garyzee07 But, isn't the LGBTcommunity trying to convey the message to the public that the LGBT is equal and apart of the entire community? I just think it is a little ironic to exclude others when the community is trying to end the exclusion it is experiencing. Also, if it wasn't for two breeders breeding you would not be here. Practice what you preach buddy. Great song and a great community.
@wychinski Don't be so ridiculous! I'm a gay guy myself and am quite happy for anyone who wishes to embrace this song to do so. I was written in the context of a drag queen saying that she doesn't give a sh*t, but it equally applies to anyone who is a little different or feels that they don't fit the "norm" - so take your head out your ass, clean the sh*t out your ears and listen to others that might not be gay but are saying the same thing and yearning the same social acceptance that you are..
I think every closeted gay/lesbian should listen to this continuously, really hearing each lyric, until they build up the courage to come out to the world. Then pass it on to friends who haven't heard it, to inspire them to come out.
it is not just for people in the closest i am straight and feel a huge bond to this song because it is not just about being homosexual it is about not being accepted which alot of people my age think is importent. this song si basicly say "Hey we only live once so lety LIVE"
True, Im completely straight and I love this song. So well composed, and the message really strikes a chord even with those who are not a minority, like me
exactly. LGBT people are do not somehow struggle to fit in more than others. Society makes a bigger deal of this issue, but we are ALL insecure and self-conscious. Ths song WAS written with gays in mind, but it is universal all the same
i personnaly know george and have had the opportunity to be in a show with him before. he is the most outstanding man you could ever know. and honestly you would not know he is famous unless you googled him. i like the older version he did better then this however
Great music and lyrics. Great Show. Movingly sung and acted by George Hearn. Emotionally pulling on one's heartstrings. Thank you Jerry Herman for your brilliant work and thank you youtube for letting us have this. Love it!
that's more this song, than the role. and he was younger when he did the role. This song is always done in the lower voice, giving it much of it's emotional power.
I saw this show back in the 80's in NYC. It was awesome. Was a little uncomfortable watching it with my parents because I wasn't out yet. Felt like they were singing this song directly at me. Fortunately for me things have changed over the years and I don't have to hide anything from my parents anymore. After all I am what I am......Love ya all.
Best performance of the song I've heard yet. Shirley Bassey does an awesome rendition too with her orchestra playing with a sound remenisce of Mary Poppin's' song Feed The Birds. But nobody gives it justice like Hearn.
omg, what an awesome song. I've never seen this musical, now I want to. The song is so true and so potent. I'm just surprised that George Hearn did it. I've only ever seen him in Sweeney Todd, I didn't know that he could do happy stuff. Powerful song and powerful singer.
Great song, great performance, great play. I wish people would just hold-off on all the judgments and agenda. It's entertainment people....
irvinemuscle 1 week ago
I hate people who see messages that are not there. i',m pretty sure Mr. Hearn was not giving reason for homos to be spreading aids. Nothing to blame but yourselves BTW.
Pimpsonite 1 month ago
@Pimpsonite I agree! But facts state that it is NOT the gay community that is spreading AIDS! It is those who laugh! Silly people who bury their heads in the sand!
lincsposter 1 month ago
Hey, George? Could you save some perfection for the rest of us?
HighKingTurgon 1 month ago
Goosbumps
drjax1994 2 months ago
Hell yus... oh, hell yus!!!!
SpoonsAtMidnight 2 months ago
A well deserved Tony for George Hearn for playing this role - what amazing talent this man posesses! His incredible range as an actor coupled with that voice (of God!) makes him one of the best stage performers I have ever experienced (I would love to have said 'seen' but, sadly, I have never seen this man live. One of the many reasons not living in America sucks!)
Love this man!
DanishNerdess 2 months ago in playlist Flere videoer fra BestArtsBroadway
Simplesmente, maravilhoso !!!!!
luizalbert2008 3 months ago
when, die i song (not female) imam stoke
rmonrealusa 3 months ago
That voice....that Sweeney Todd voice!
DemonicSymphonic 3 months ago 4
@antiblondine He played King Arthur? When and in what? (P.S. I love him too!)
thykothak 4 months ago
Love love love love!!!!
tigerlilypurple90 5 months ago
My will stipulates that the words to I am What I am will be read out as I disappear behind those curtains. It will be a shock to many, but life isn't worth a damn if you kill off your friends and family in the process. The words to this song mean so much to so many.
lincsposter 5 months ago
This song was the "Born this Way" of its time
theatergeek82 5 months ago 3
@theatergeek82 You know, I was about to say that but you beat me to it! Damn lol!
McGarvinStudios 5 months ago in playlist Wicked and other musical Songs
@McGarvinStudios I don't know what would be more unusual Lady Gaga singing "I am what I am" or George Hearn singing "Born this Way"
theatergeek82 5 months ago 2
@theatergeek82 ...except this song is 10x better than Born This Way. It has intelligent lyrics, no false rhymes, and requires a legit voice to pull off.
amazinggarrett1 1 month ago
Bravo Bravo!!!!!!
sharpteeth17x929yw 6 months ago
They JUST changed the format of the video controls. Or whatever you call them.
YourFaceWillDie468 6 months ago
the beste zaza ever
skywonderettes 6 months ago
You just made my life so much better!
mikeysoulemison1 6 months ago
i bet he would be amazing as jean valjean...
someonecalleddean 7 months ago 2
@someonecalleddean he cant. jean valjean calls for a dramatic tener. george is a baritone. Though if he was a d tener, i would have to agree with you.
horerfandod3 6 months ago
@horerfandod3 of course, good point. i was commenting merely on a physical level but yes your right :)
someonecalleddean 6 months ago
@someonecalleddean Yeah, he does look like a valjean :)
horerfandod3 6 months ago
Here is pure talent of the stage! Especially in Sweeney Todd!
farrelljessica81 7 months ago
BEST SWEENEY TODD EVER!!!
lucasangelo1999 7 months ago
@antiblondine Albin is a Drag Queen. His Drag Queen persona is ZAZA. Not all Drag queens wear woman's clothing 24/7. they live as men, and some have normal day jobs. they put on woman's clothing because it's comfortable to them, it's like putting on a whole new skin. They can be a whole different person. I mean, who wouldn't want to be a different person and get away from the boring dull hours when you are not? And you are not offending anyone! :) Watch Rupaul's Drag Race once in a while. :)
BadRubberDuckie69 7 months ago
@antiblondine no you didn't offend. In the words of Noxeema Jackson, played by Wesley Snipes in To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar,
"When a straight man puts on a dress and gets his sexual kicks, he is a transvestite. When a man is a woman trapped in a man's body and has a little operation, he is a Transsexual. When a gay man has way too much fashion sense for one gender, he is a drag queen." :)
BadRubberDuckie69 7 months ago 2
No one will ever be able to sing that song quite like George Hearn. Bravo, sir.
BassClar 7 months ago 3
@antiblondine just say Drag Queen. There is a difference between Drag Queen and Transvestite.
BadRubberDuckie69 7 months ago
George Hearn singing this song is easily one of the greatest moments in musical theatre history.
dramadork93 7 months ago 4
@Selfsanity No I just want him to sung it
TracyQartermaine 7 months ago
Screw ''Born this way''. All hail ''I am what I am''.
DaCoteBrothers 8 months ago 4
@DaCoteBrothers amen!
McGarvinStudios 8 months ago
THE ORCHESTRA OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
harajukukevin6657 8 months ago 2
Bravo, Bravo!
sharpteeth17x929yw 8 months ago
I remember seeing this on broadway last year. What a great show!
Shikamaru1212 9 months ago
Thumbs Up for Kurt on Glee singing this song!!!!!
TracyQartermaine 9 months ago 9
@TracyQartermaine I'm actually surprised this song wasn't covered on the "Born This Way" episode.
bbSouthstreet 8 months ago 2
Hearn is soooooo D1-ey
NewJCap 10 months ago
I'm dying to sing this for a musical solo spot I got for my advanced theater class! I would give anything to pull it off well
harajukukevin6657 10 months ago
incredible.
digitalpretzel 10 months ago
Looks like 5 people are not what they are.
sphillyguy73 10 months ago 6
@sphillyguy73 If you are not on the highest-rated comments list one year from now, one could say likewise about you too.
YourFaceWillDie468 10 months ago
@antiblondine could not agree more :D
kangfesher 10 months ago
One of the reasons why this IS a gay anthem is the fact that it helped give us a sense of pride in the eighties at a time when thousands and thousands of our friends and lovers were being wiped away by AIDS. Half of the original Broadway cast of La Cage had died before the show ended its run in 1987. And the composer Jerry Herman himself found out that he was infected as well. This is 'lump in the throat' music for me and always will be. Thank you George, thank you Jerry. Thank you so much.
peerkbh 11 months ago 59
@peerkbh Thank you Jean Poiret!...
AuxaneD 7 months ago
Torn between this one and John Barrowman's performance. Both equally good and moving on so many levels.
robynduckworth 11 months ago
Five people aren't what they are.
reedforcongress 11 months ago 5
@antiblondine amen
fanofphantom13 11 months ago
no one will ever top his perfromance simply real and beautiful all these new actors who have done this perfromance could learn a thing or two from him
spiderlily21 11 months ago 3
He can BELT . .amazing performance!
Patti129able 11 months ago 2
Thanks for sharing this! I just shared it with a link on OutMaturity!
Have a super weekend!
Michael
OutMaturity 11 months ago
Absolutely stunnng; I was so moved by it.
sh61288 11 months ago
A Beautiful song! The words here speak the truth! Always, always, always, ALWAYS be who you are meant to be! Don't ever be somebody you are not and dont be ashamed of yourself! Be gay, be straight, be anything you want to be! It's your life and your own happiness. You have that power and nobody can take that away from you. You are your own person and nobody has power over you except you.
taurusgirl65 1 year ago 3
amazing video add me if you agree dis is da shit wow..just downloaded it from downloadmusic.im
amielanquist41 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
smile if you're gay.;-)
TheMitziLove 1 year ago
I would give ANYTHING to be able to sing the hell out of a song like he can.
damechastain 1 year ago 3
Hearn drowns out the orchestra. Great !
alexalex3131 1 year ago
Comment removed
SaverinoMusic 1 year ago
george hearn is a WONDER
me148 1 year ago
He looks like he's about to swallow the mic at the end...
leodiebel 1 year ago
@leodiebel Sign of a good singer ;)
Pandammonia 1 year ago
As much as I love Barrowman, and his version, this is just spectacular. Best version I've heard for sure.
redsteelchair 1 year ago 5
I love how the audience claps when he barely sings two words. They're prepped for the epicness. :)
honorableshadow 1 year ago 8
I cannot stop watching this song. This is by far my favorite rendition I've ever heard of this. I love his voice on this song... which is funny, because I always hated him as Sweeney Todd. But this is absolutely gorgeous.
BaronVonMeggles 1 year ago
Great performance! I want to see the clip of Jerry playing the piano, is it online?
ThePiano1991 1 year ago
I am a straight guy but am profoundly moved by the message in this song: that we must embrace what makes us different--as long as it doesn't hurt anyone. And the passion in this performance is remarkable. Savor this.
mnemko 1 year ago 38
@mnemko thank you for your compassion and intelligent post.
Pisces31660 1 week ago
I am not gay, and really love this song. As codykingo says, it is a message to be yourselff.
fafner44 1 year ago 2
I must say, I loved Douglas Hodge, but George Hearn is my favorite. The emotion he puts behind every word is pure perfection.
Drebin31 1 year ago 2
Wow, he can really crank open his mouth! I love this performance – though I do see a bit of Sweeney coming through.
blahq123 1 year ago
First off, love the song
Secondly... I'm all for theatrics, but I really felt sorry for the conductor/orchestra trying to keep up with George Hearn's constant tempo changes. Look @2:37onward for a perfect example of this. I much prefer Barrowman's rendition.
But hey, if you like this rendition better, thats you're own taste....no insult meant :)
ThePirateMD 1 year ago 2
@ThePirateMD I didn't notice it before you mentioned this but you're right, that must have been a hell of a nightmare for the conductor. Its quite bad really.
aarandir 1 year ago
@ThePirateMD From my understanding of the song, that is the way the song is meant to be - it is meant to change tempos to add emphasis to the song - but I could be wrong.....
fatheranthony4pope 1 year ago 2
@fatheranthony4pope
Perfectly correct. Both the original cast recording and subsequent re-workings of the show introduce this change in tempo. It can feel disquieting and that surely was Herman's intention.
drtoadleg 1 year ago 2
@ThePirateMD John Barrowman changes tempo too.
DylHsu 1 year ago
@ThePirateMD
It says "alternating rhythms" in the original vocal score for this show. That's how it's supposed to be played.
TheDivabeast 1 year ago
wow!!
Dimtres 1 year ago
so much power!!!!! ugggh!!!! this is what a real male singer...
Puppies140 1 year ago
I would like to dedicate this to all the Prides taking place in the UK in the next few weeks. Including Manchester, London, Norwich, Brighton etc. Such an inspirational performance! I am what I am! R U?
lincsposter 1 year ago
the best ever. the one & only george. thanks for posting this.
SUPERALITO 1 year ago
Glee is going to ruin this song and we all know it :(
rootbeeronbroadway 1 year ago 6
@rootbeeronbroadway LMAO you know it.
bannanahamock99 1 year ago
@rootbeeronbroadway I don't think so...
migas28 1 year ago
@rootbeeronbroadway Only in a way that they could :P
fatheranthony4pope 1 year ago
Goosebumps.
friskysquirt 1 year ago 5
Much better sung here than even on the origianl broadway recording. I hope the message gets through to many more people here.
sergioivan09 1 year ago 2
such a strong, strong performance. thank you
migas28 1 year ago
saw this 2x in 83
k9thewonderdog 1 year ago
I think I saw a little Sweeney Todd in there for a second...
bandgeek213 1 year ago
For Gay Pride Day (Month, Year and always)!!!! <3 <3 V3
toetweet 1 year ago
having been through the Stonewall raids in NYC and knowing how times have changed for Gays through the years I am so touched by this song and would like it song at my funeral. I especially love Mr Hearn's rendition of it. Thank you!
gpgabriel 1 year ago
Comment removed
olstar79 1 year ago
Just saw Douglas Hodge do this on Broadway, he was even better than this... Absolutely amazing though ;)
525600minutes1 1 year ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
gay song is gay
xSirFarisx 1 year ago
WOW! One of the best I've heard!
Linda6119 1 year ago 2
@Linda6119 He is the original
deddesirae 1 year ago 2
This performance just leaves me speechless. Love it !!!
SPANISHPARIS 1 year ago
This song is made even better by George Hearn. No one can beat his brilliance. :)
carriewhite410 1 year ago 3
The true meaning of music will depend of how the singer sing's the song with a clear interpretation like this one...i wide meaning or i can say that people are equal in there rights. i love how he sing this song...i even have my own expression.....'EXPRESS YOUR SELF"...soon i will have my Civil Partnership and i love the guy i will be with in my entire life..wish me luck for both us..
davron3772 1 year ago
@davron3772 good luck then guys :P
bex562 1 year ago
@davron3772 good luck then guys :P
bex562 1 year ago
listining to this song always make me cry and angry...but whta can i do, i am what i am....the person who wrote this should have get the noble price!!!!
stefnuel 1 year ago
love harvey firestein
WikeddTung 1 year ago
@WikeddTung this song has nothing to do with harvey fierstein (which I love thougth): both music and lyrics of this song are by jerry herman, fierstein just re-wrote the book of the play from the original French version.
ilfranchi 1 year ago
@ilfranchi you are correct. i sill love harvey though
WikeddTung 1 year ago
@WikeddTung we all do! :D
ilfranchi 1 year ago
:D :D :D
Made of complete epicness.
Lulubellwilley 1 year ago
great voice !
0penminded92 1 year ago
This is a great casting and performance. Other younger more hip people sing this now but it loses some of it's message when they do. It's much easier to accept the young, sexy, famous, and talented. But the truth is we get old and have imperfections but we still should be free to be ourselves and find acceptance in the world.
farmerbobp 1 year ago
BRAVO!! Great song, great show! Thanks for posting.
KenJWC 1 year ago
GO GEORGE! ^_^
RosesNightengales 1 year ago 2
I really don't care if the song is suppose to be about a gay or not. I just like the song and music period! And what a great voice! Thanks for putting this on.
ampsanne 1 year ago
Doesn't matter whether straight or gay, it's a great song with a great message.
I must say, however, that Hearn's version is the one I like best so far (maybe Gloria Gaynor comes close).
Every straight person too has something and before they share it with others, it seems like a biggie.
guitarsquiddy 1 year ago
Jack Jones sang the alternate lyrics to this incredible Jerry Herman song, and it is also a quite convincingly straight song as well! Of course, Jack Jones could pull off any song. Also keep in mind that Dame Shirley Bassey has always included this in her act. Jerry Herman always made sure that his songs could be sung by anyone, from any sexual orientation. Ty Jerry Herman for one of the best songs that ever appeared on Broadway!
damone77 1 year ago
Le créateur de la chanson dans l'oeuvre originale de Jerry Herman. Et le plus émouvant.
Un hymne mondial.
LaFiestaMusicale 1 year ago
great
magicracer1 1 year ago
top song
magicracer1 1 year ago
@DJMattiFLY / Well cuz it was written with a gay character in mind first off, secondly the lyrics speak for themselves "my world I want to have a little pride in (as in gay pride)" and "it's time to open up your closet (as in coming out of the closet)". And I love me some straight drag queens :-). I'd be one myself if'n I could afford to shave everyday. I'd be named Wilma Fingerdo ;-)
wychinski 1 year ago
It certainly was intended as a gay pride song. That was the story of the play. Jerry Herman the author happens to be openly gay. Intrestingly, George Hearn happens to be straight.
markygap 1 year ago
Of course for such a simple song, it resonates deeply for a gay man like myself. It seems to say so much about finally coming to terms with who one is.
I can imagine though, that anyone, choosing to live life out of the mainstream would also identify with the song.
I suspect many people can identify with being outside the mainstream. Probably why it is such a popular song.
markygap 1 year ago
@markygap
I agree, but I also agree with the opinion, that the message could be universal, depending on the interpreter... but that's what good songs are, right? or art in general... it should correspond to your perception.
I loved the song, when I was coming out. though I later realized, that Gloria Gaynor wasn't as homophile as I thought her to be.
I like this version better. the moment when he struggles at the beginning. great.
matze9to5 1 year ago
@mrlawson101 / Bless you as well mrlawson101. Age has nothing to do with being naive. I'm merely a realist. The message is a GAY one. People have skewed it to their own beliefs. It's like white people singing the blues... it's a stolen art. Much like how everyone knows Elvis, but not the black artists who originated a lot of his music. Everyone hears the song and thinks it applies or COULD apply to them. I'm merely saying it's for gays. You can love it all you want. But it's for gays.
wychinski 1 year ago
don't dream it, be it
wsp67326 1 year ago 2
@wychinski How is it for gay's- I wouldn't mind being a drag queen and I am straight!
DJMattiFLY 1 year ago
To Wychinski: Aww bless you - I don't know your age but the naivety depresses me. I understand in essence what you're saying, but the message remains the same - so I feel that we may need to agree to disagree, which considering that we're, presumably, both on the same side, is a saddening contradiction of the songs intentions..
wychinski 1 year ago
@cdlaing / Going backwards in your comment... straight people will never have to face the same social acceptance. They already got marriage and other things they'll never have to fight for. When people say it's universal, they are taking a big steaming dump on the hardships and context behind the song. "I am opressed for being MYSELF". You are BORN gay which isn't a choice. If one CHOOSES alternative lifestyles, they should be accepting of the crap thrown at them, or sing some emo garbage.
wychinski 1 year ago
Comment removed
mrlawson101 1 year ago
just saying, George Hearn said himself that this song can be for anyone who's hiding something. Its Universial.
iLikeMuffins100 1 year ago 4
Good gosh, what's wrong with the song having a universal message. Sure, the song in the show is song by a gay character. The moral of the song is basically, "Who cares what other people think, be yourself." And that works for just about everyone if you ask me.
codykingo 2 years ago 179
I love watching George sing. He is always just lovely.
kristinadiane 2 years ago 4
Brilliant!
lincsposter 2 years ago 3
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Sorry straight folks. It's you people who are withholding from the entire gay community what is just as rightly ours as is yours. This is OUR song, our anthem our souls song. We're not letting you take it and make it any part of your breeder society.
garyzee07 2 years ago
@garyzee07 But, isn't the LGBTcommunity trying to convey the message to the public that the LGBT is equal and apart of the entire community? I just think it is a little ironic to exclude others when the community is trying to end the exclusion it is experiencing. Also, if it wasn't for two breeders breeding you would not be here. Practice what you preach buddy. Great song and a great community.
jyote21 2 years ago 4
Nope... Just for gays. No universal message involved. Stop stealing our pride and trying to make it your own. Thank you.
wychinski 2 years ago
@wychinski Don't be so ridiculous! I'm a gay guy myself and am quite happy for anyone who wishes to embrace this song to do so. I was written in the context of a drag queen saying that she doesn't give a sh*t, but it equally applies to anyone who is a little different or feels that they don't fit the "norm" - so take your head out your ass, clean the sh*t out your ears and listen to others that might not be gay but are saying the same thing and yearning the same social acceptance that you are..
cdlaing 1 year ago 2
It has a more universal message even if the story was meant for gay's. All the best ones are like that.
sorryman105 2 years ago 2
My mom met George Hearn and so did I when we lived near Essex, NY. She also touched his emmy. :D He is real nice and so is his wife and 2 kids. :]
KamikazeKariina 2 years ago 3
I think every closeted gay/lesbian should listen to this continuously, really hearing each lyric, until they build up the courage to come out to the world. Then pass it on to friends who haven't heard it, to inspire them to come out.
wychinski 2 years ago 4
it is not just for people in the closest i am straight and feel a huge bond to this song because it is not just about being homosexual it is about not being accepted which alot of people my age think is importent. this song si basicly say "Hey we only live once so lety LIVE"
phillip1230 2 years ago 7
I have to agree with u
I'm a gay guy but I think this song is for every individual to be proud of his individuality
this song for me is about not caring for my parents acceptance , even though their ashamed of me
I am what I am
moesalim88 2 years ago 4
True, Im completely straight and I love this song. So well composed, and the message really strikes a chord even with those who are not a minority, like me
Sam26100 2 years ago 2
Exactly, We are all unique and no one should be judged because of it.
ScaryTeri101 2 years ago 3
exactly. LGBT people are do not somehow struggle to fit in more than others. Society makes a bigger deal of this issue, but we are ALL insecure and self-conscious. Ths song WAS written with gays in mind, but it is universal all the same
lifeisart37 2 years ago 5
Im bi nd I luuuuvvv this song!!
iluvhopndballet 2 years ago
I'm a spinster and I love this song and how George Hearn performs it!
Ant777uk 2 years ago 2
i personnaly know george and have had the opportunity to be in a show with him before. he is the most outstanding man you could ever know. and honestly you would not know he is famous unless you googled him. i like the older version he did better then this however
phillip1230 2 years ago 2
Im straight, but I love this song soo much
Sam26100 2 years ago 6
I'm bisexual, and this song is my mantra to the haters of the world.
Breeslave 2 years ago 2
Great music and lyrics. Great Show. Movingly sung and acted by George Hearn. Emotionally pulling on one's heartstrings. Thank you Jerry Herman for your brilliant work and thank you youtube for letting us have this. Love it!
grandmamoosie 2 years ago 8
i liked George Hearn in sweeney todd (1982)
yogurtfilmproduction 2 years ago 4
NO ONE can beat George Hearn <3
HellyJellyooo 2 years ago 6
/sign
He´s the best
Tortugaschlampe 2 years ago 2
This comment has received too many negative votes show
A little thick and harsh a voice for a drag roll, no?
CleosAintPeter 2 years ago
that's more this song, than the role. and he was younger when he did the role. This song is always done in the lower voice, giving it much of it's emotional power.
thegaythespian 2 years ago 3
If you don't like Hearn's version, then check out Gary Beach's. It's a key higher, and he has a brighter, lighter tone than Hearn.
But I do love Hearn, too :)
AtLastOnTheGround 2 years ago
thanks for the advice :D
CleosAintPeter 2 years ago
Love Hearn. What a voice.
jcdenton08 2 years ago 3
brilliand !! what a voice !
sylviadran 2 years ago 2
Yes ! You all are still here. I love your videos.
kristinadiane 2 years ago
I saw this show back in the 80's in NYC. It was awesome. Was a little uncomfortable watching it with my parents because I wasn't out yet. Felt like they were singing this song directly at me. Fortunately for me things have changed over the years and I don't have to hide anything from my parents anymore. After all I am what I am......Love ya all.
ncguy207 2 years ago 57
This song and performance is brillanit!
trovontia 2 years ago 2
Love this song. It really does fit the gay community so well, and it is very inspiring to fight for what is right.
jackskellingtonsora 2 years ago 4
watch and learn john barrowman... he better not pretty it up too much, this is sensational
emziieem 2 years ago
I've seen Barrowman. And he really doesn't.
phantomsluva 2 years ago
Best performance of the song I've heard yet. Shirley Bassey does an awesome rendition too with her orchestra playing with a sound remenisce of Mary Poppin's' song Feed The Birds. But nobody gives it justice like Hearn.
wychinski 2 years ago 6
He was also great in Sunset Blvd!
napili00 2 years ago 3
not much to say, but bravo
timothy81 2 years ago 3
does anyone knows in what note does he end, the last part... I Am What IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII AAAAAAAAAAAAAm
armandofarras 2 years ago
The note itself is not very important (in this case the highest not is an E), but the way he sings and expresses the whole song.
I keep coming back to see this video every now and them to search for inspiration :)
Great work George :)
mytubeaccount22 2 years ago 4
I thing George hearn has a good voice
I think people must know who are Jerry herman and Hervey Feirstein when they done this musical was at the 80's
Salesny1 2 years ago 2
George Hearn is probably the only straight man I'll ever trust with this song -- but he's definitely earned it.
MManuRere 2 years ago 7
I love John Barrowman singing this song, but (honestly) no one can sing it like George.
puckhiggins 2 years ago 5
omg, what an awesome song. I've never seen this musical, now I want to. The song is so true and so potent. I'm just surprised that George Hearn did it. I've only ever seen him in Sweeney Todd, I didn't know that he could do happy stuff. Powerful song and powerful singer.
jackskellingtonsora 2 years ago 6