I found her and lost her and now still looking. He was so great, i saw him live and will never forget. I cried the day he died, 30 years on and the tears are not dry
One of the Greatest horror stories I have ever heard1 There is this THING that lives in a freight car that is shuttled fro one obscure yard to the next , Feeding on the switchman at each place and feeding him fantasies of far locals. when John Joseph dies it hows up at his grave to seduce and secure the replacement.
To me, this a lovely, old-fashioned, romantic ghost story. An old man who still cherishes a kind of timeless magic, even against the ravages of this modern, soulless, industrial wasteland. And before old John Joseph passes, he manages to open the eyes of the young man and pass the secret of the sacred trust in the power of human tenderness from one believer to another. I'm an atheist. I don't believe in an afterlife of any kind. But I believe in COREY. A fella explained it to me once.
I sadly never got to see Harry in person infact he died a little bit less then 4 years before I was born. However as the soon of a "old folkie" I was exposed to his music from a young age. He is indeed oneo f my fav folk singers a title he shares with Tom Russell. This happens to be my 2nd fav song (my first being What Made America Famous). I admit to being a hopeless romantic and I have always liked to believe that Cory was real. The beauty of Cory is she is real in our minds. RIP Harry
I am in my 60"s and am so glad I got to see Harry several times over the years. He is up there with Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger as far as being creative writers. But his songs seem to touch the heart so much deeper. Even now his songs bring back so many great memories. A few years ago I saw the Chapin Family and Friends" tribute concert to him. I believed in spirits that night as Harry was enjoying his music with us. He was a great human being.
@myangell02 The beauty of the song is that she is whatever you want her to be. I always like to think that she was real, however I am a hopeless romantic.
@carsonsheir You're right... I started out thinking she was real, but as the glory of Harry's songs go, sometimes when I listened I was swayed back and forth between the two prospects, real or imaginary, then combined em into real in his imagination... In a way I'm glad he left it a mystery...
Listen closely to the song again. Corey is a metaphor for death. (Corey - Corpus - Corpse) The song is about death but instead of death being something to fear, it is presented as something beautiful. Death is a beautiful woman.
What a touching and poignant song that touches you deeply in your soul! I always loved Harry's live performances, and he would have you laughing like the dickens at his concerts! Peace and Love, BobbyK
Saw him perform in Dublin, Ireland, many years ago. A great night. Loved this song, just because of it's narrative, it's story. I turned to my girlfriend and said " If I had a daughter, I'd call her Cory." And 33 years later my youngest daughter is called Cory. My Girlfriend is still my wife, and my daughter is one kick-ass kid.
Harry always did this live so much better than the studio version. The studio version is overproduced and doesn't have the background vocal harmony. It adds so much to this song.
I dated a woman named Corey and I would sing this to her, and she would cry every time...she passed ..and I still think and cry for her when I hear this RIP Harry RIP My sweet Corey
harry was the first live artist i seen back when i was 13 in the 70,s someone dropped out and my brother took me to newcastle city hall i was blown away and loved him ever since still listen to him all the time . i was so lucky to have the privelage michelle
hey snowstorm, it isnt sad, just melancholy. it is a song about hope, future and something better waiting for us at the end. you should learn all you can about what an incredible person harry chapin was and the legacy he left behind. try to feel what your father felt when after hearing this song, he welcomed you into this world and you were his hope for the future. god bless you.
Hope is a powerful thing. Stronger and more real than what most call reality. John Joseph lived his life knowing that he would see Corey one day. He never doubted it. Would that I could have that hope.
Listen closely, granted all music is open to private interpretation however that said this a song of hope, endurance and a young man's discovery of a truth no one else believed and in turn became his own hope, solace and even joy
everyone takes away there own meaning from Harry's songs ... a fan since I can remember, lucky enough to have seen him perform live several times starting at age six (my parents allowed us to hang after the show - I got a kiss as well as an autograph - I thought all performers did this!) - this song has always been a beautiful happy song - "...no more sad stories coming!" A love for the ages.
I saw Harry live in Belfast many moons ago his band refused to travel to N Ireland and he and his brother Tom did the gig.That was one memorable night.
He must be among the greatest singer song writers of all time.
i was named after this song. it always makes me think... "why? its so sad. why name your daughter after this song, then play it for her so she knows she was named after a sad, sad song." i cried the first time my dad played it for me. i was expecting something else. i'm not saying its a bad song; just sad.
@snowstormsii I can see why you would think that, but I think Corey is a beautiful spirit that brought joy and comfort to a lonely man. She must have been wonderful, because the young man is so enamoured by her that he takes John Joseph's place. I think it is a beautiful song of someone who is less lonely because of Corey.
| found an old LP in my mom collection and when i put it on the turntable i couldn't stop listening to it, and now here it is one in the morning and i cant get over his music, it just touches the soul, i would give anything to see him in concert one time... i can't help but think i missed out, RIP Harry, no one deserves it more than you, you amazing, amazing man
Harry was so fantastic and just a great humanitarian. One of the times we saw him perform was in the old Hartford (CT) Civic Center. After the show he came out to the center court and talked and signed autographs for all the people who stuck around. Just a great experience for all of us! He's sorely missed!
With all the hoopla about Michael Jackson we tend to forget the real people who mattered. Harry cared about things that mattered. He truly was one great human being.
Harrys greatest contribution was to his most of his concerts benefited the charity World Hunger Year. He sang for charity before it was the popular thing to do. I wonder what he would think about us and the state of the world today if he was still with us. We miss his work and his talent.
He played more charity shows than regular concerts. In fact, he was on his way to a charity show (just him and his guitar, in his beatup car) when he died.
As for what he'd think about the world? Well, Reagan had just been elected, and Harry was NOT pleased. (A scum like Reagan survives getting shot, but a beautiful person like Harry dies, both within 4 months? Messed up!)
So, I can only imagine what he'd have thought of someone (George W. Bush) who was far worse than even Reagan.
Reagan would've blacklisted Harry, that much humanity was anatema to Hollywood's McCarthyite. If a place exists after this one for people like Harry, Ronnie won't be there that much is certain
Harry told everyman, everyday stories. They were about all of us and none of us. He was an original and never got the respect he deserved. Many rode his coatails and took credit for what he did for free. He was a liberal in the very best sense of the word.
I had a chance to see Harry in Toronto in the early 80's at convocation hall at U of T and I have to say is was the best concert I have ever seen. Harry, Tom and Steve played from 10pm till 2am. Absolutely incredible. I wish he was still with us as he will always be my favorite.
@knrose10 it's sad that no one gets the true meaning of this story. " Old John Joseph" had spent his life travelling the rails and while doing that he had fell in love, but his love for traveling was greater than his love for this woman and although he truly loved her, he also loved his job. and his way of dealing with this was to substitute the train for his love that he had lost but not really cause what they shared was always in there harts. Which is why she came back at the end.
@knrose10 it's sad that no one gets the true meaning of this story. " Old John Joseph" had spent his life travelling the rails and while doing that he had fell in love, but his love for traveling was greater than his love for this woman and although he truly loved her, he also loved his job. and his way of dealing with this was to substitute the train for his love that he had lost but not really cause what they shared was always in there harts. Which is why she came back at the end. thanks
I agree with lufisis, Pretty Please set up a video of Stranger with the melodies!!!!!!!!!!!thank-you so much for including the lyrics when you post a video!!!! dragonlover1955
Nobody told stories like Harry and no summer was complete without seeing him at the Wollman Rink in Central Park. Corey, Mr. Tanner, Better Place to Be, and the list goes on. I saw him get an honorary degree at CW Post. That was the last time. His music brings me joy and sadness.
Other than 'A Better Place To Be', this is Harry's best tear-jerker. I saw him about 1 month before he died. I still have not recovered the missing piece of my heart.
He was taken from us to early. He had so much more to do.
Whatever the qualifications for 'Saint' may be, Harry should be next on line.
Not being a very religious person, Harry makes e believe there is more to this world than meet (my) eye.
I saw him about the same time. Really unusual show. The band was cussing and he came into the crowd playing harmonica on 'Mail Order Annie'. I had seen him many times before, but never like this! But I would love to see him again!
The Chapin family are still doing shows that keep this music alive. The shows usually consist of Tom, Steve, Big John Wallace and the children of Tom, Harry and Steve. The shows are awesome. You can find the schedule at Tom Chapin's web site.
I love this song. Harry is the best. I can't begin to count the number of times his songs have helped me. How can I get access to his less known works?
I can't believe it took me this long to search on Harry! I saw him twice in the 70's in Milwaukee. Sat in the cheap seats both times. I still remember this song, and how I gasped when he sang "my name is Corey....you can say I'm just a friend". Here I am, crying my eyes out 30 years later!! Thank you so much for posting this. God bless.....JK
I found out I was pregnant with my daughter the day Harry died. Her name was already picked out if she was a girl. With my second child my husband said I could do the nameing. Loved this song so I named him Corey.
We named our first daughter Corey way back in 1981. My wife saw Haryy live several times. He was such a great story teller. The 70's had several great story tellers, Harry, Gordon Lightfoot and Cat Stevens. All memorable.
i know many great songs but this one is up there with the best of them i cant believe that most people havent even heard of harry just love it thanks for postin it coreys comin what an amazin song
Like many Chapin songs this is best heard recorded live. Harry had the ability to paint such vivid pictures in each of his songs. In this song you can see yourself sitting next to the old man as he tells his tales. What a gift.
They don't make songs or men like Harry Chapin anymore.
Love Harry Chapin ! I saw him many years ago in Pennsylvania at the Paramount Theater, many know that place now as the KIRBY. I believe I was only around age 13 then and after 30 more years I STILL love his music !
. I saw him, MANY , years ago at Ga. State Univeristy . He just didn't want to stop singing, he (Harry) was having such a good time. He was GREAT!! I'm so gld I got to see him. I wrote him a letter, pre computors here, I'm an old one, LOL, telling him how much I loved his music. and it came back undeliverabl. I kept the letter. When he died, I found an address for Sandy, his wife, and sent it to her. I got the sweetest letter back from her. His music has always meant so much to me.
I have long been a Harry fan, although I never saw him in person. I have his entire collection and list to him often. He was and still is the best singer song writer EVER! All we need now is a forum where us Harry Fan(atics) to get together talk of what Harry meant to us and share some secrets of our own. I could sit and talk the ears off of everyone that mentions Harry or any of his songs. Can we come together and make a place where all can come together and talk some "Harry"?
That's really takin it somewhere, but an interesting idea. My take on it, was that the ol' guy at the train station really did have a lady out there, and some fond memories, and ya don't have to be young, rich and wealthy to get the lady n the love. Another lesson.....
No, not mentally Ill...probably more tuned in to the emotions of life, and was able to put them to words we could all relate to. He had many happy songs, but we tended to relate more to the sad ones, cos those moments in our lives seem easier to make a permanent dent in our souls. Harry just found them for us...and released our pain...
Hmm. Remember how the others in the town swore he'd not had a woman, much less a wife or sweetheart. And nobody named Corey had lived there. But reality is just a word. However death can charm, entice, wait, and be kind. I stick by my thoughts (she said "you could say_ I'm a friend") And death comes at any age. Many of us wait for it for release.
I can see and feel your a true Harry fan. Yes he is all that and much much more. Can we get a group forum going so we can sit, talk and listen to HARRY?
@proinsiaspad ...No not Sad, melancholy maybe but definitely not sad. You are obviously not familiar with his music. Before you you make ANY statements about mental illness, maybe you listen and learn...
I saw him at the Tivoli Theatre in Chattanooga, TN in the late '70's...I NEVER met anyone so full of LIFE! You are missed and remembered with fond regard!
Thanks. Was Chapin from Mass. then? Thought I recognized an accent in some songs from the NE of the USA, though I've seen him and his brothers play with Joni Anderson (Mitchell) in 1966 in a tape here, in Saskatoon, so I had no idea where he's from.
My parents named me Courtney (in '81) so they could call me Corey. What a wonderful gift to have given me, a love for Harry and this song as a story behind my name.
I will always remember Harry. I met him as I worked for a radio station in Chicago, and I saw him many times at Ravinia. In fact in an erie coincidnce I bought tickets to his show at the Ravinia Box Office for a show later in the summer, and it was the day he died that I bought them...I gave the money to World Hunger..We Miss ya in The Cheap Seats harry!
He was a truly great man! I was privileged to meet and "hang" with him and the band one steamy hot Massachusetts evening. Prophetically, no one in the band wanted to ride back to New York with him...they teased him about being a lousy driver. That has lived with me ever since. Three years later...well you know what happened. RIP my friend!
How bittersweet to watch this ! Yea, I have a midnight moonlight morning glory daughter named Corey. I love her, and the song, and Harry. And she has learned to love the song and the Bard who gave her her name. Thanks Harry, we both miss you.
i was privliged to see harry chapin about a month before his death. but even before that when i 1st heard this song i said that if i ever have a daughter she will be named corey & in 84 we did & she was.& shes the best thing in my life
Thank you for posting this - it has always been my favorite Harry song...always makes me cry. I never had the chance to see him in concert, but I always gravitated to his concert albums. The best.
Thank you for keeping Harry alive. Only his fans know how we've been touched by Harry's words. He made us laugh and made us cry. Where's are he song writers of today?
Thank you so much for posting this video. It is my favorite Harry Chapin song. I saw Harry in concert about 15 times. In July 1976, saw Harry perform this song live; the extended version would come later. Our daughter is named for this song; at her wedding in May 2006, she and I danced to this song. I cried buckets; and like jabl5, I am just a big romantic sap.
Oh bless you...I have so missed my old friend Harry. I guess it is true...you are never really gone as long as those who love you remember----oh wait---I hear Harry's coming!
Best version of this great song, thank you so much for posting it! I still cry when I sing along and get to the "My name is Corey" part. Kills me every time. So, thanks for the good cry! :-)
how can you dislike this? just don't watch it
jak41497 2 days ago
how can you dislike this? just don't watch it
jak41497 2 days ago
What a talent and inspiration to us all!
jimbohenderson 2 weeks ago
One of his best songs. I think "On the Road to Kingdom Come" is an awesome album. To bad more people know about it.
uberaudioexperience 2 weeks ago
And I absolutely love how he changed the lyrics around!!!!!!!!!! :)
Heyheyheyabby 1 month ago
@beckasherman um, how exactly is this a horror story??????
Heyheyheyabby 1 month ago
The song is a masterpiece...what a talented person he was...
MrJimwinder 1 month ago
@MrJimwinder - Loved this song, but I never could figure it if " Corey " was originally kind of made - up, or what.
knoxvilleguy2 1 month ago
Harry was this country's best story teller. Period.
rigamarrow 1 month ago
I'm 45 and still looking for my Corey. And Harry's song gives me hope that she's out there....somewhere.
Thanks Harry!
Ilikegargoyles 2 months ago
@Ilikegargoyles
I found her and lost her and now still looking. He was so great, i saw him live and will never forget. I cried the day he died, 30 years on and the tears are not dry
MrIant52 1 month ago
A lot of kids were named Corey after this song. I named by son Corey in 1991 after Harrys song.
Rastafari6 2 months ago in playlist Favorite videos
@Rastafari6
Hate to say I named my cat in 1989. she was so special
MrIant52 1 month ago
Corey is the girl we all wanted to meet.......and some did!
see you Harry.
Eamonngee 4 months ago
My coach is Kory Chapin, the cousin of Harry. This song was wrote for him, not the person below me.
KGBoffical 4 months ago
I was actually named after this song. Only I spell it Cori. And yes I'm a girl.
corioberteuffer 4 months ago
One of the Greatest horror stories I have ever heard1 There is this THING that lives in a freight car that is shuttled fro one obscure yard to the next , Feeding on the switchman at each place and feeding him fantasies of far locals. when John Joseph dies it hows up at his grave to seduce and secure the replacement.
beckasherman 8 months ago
To me, this a lovely, old-fashioned, romantic ghost story. An old man who still cherishes a kind of timeless magic, even against the ravages of this modern, soulless, industrial wasteland. And before old John Joseph passes, he manages to open the eyes of the young man and pass the secret of the sacred trust in the power of human tenderness from one believer to another. I'm an atheist. I don't believe in an afterlife of any kind. But I believe in COREY. A fella explained it to me once.
blindichi 8 months ago
I sadly never got to see Harry in person infact he died a little bit less then 4 years before I was born. However as the soon of a "old folkie" I was exposed to his music from a young age. He is indeed oneo f my fav folk singers a title he shares with Tom Russell. This happens to be my 2nd fav song (my first being What Made America Famous). I admit to being a hopeless romantic and I have always liked to believe that Cory was real. The beauty of Cory is she is real in our minds. RIP Harry
carsonsheir 8 months ago
"This is a song about an old man with a dream and a young boy who buys it". -- Harry Chapin from Legends of the Lost and Found recording.
cloudwaters 8 months ago
I am in my 60"s and am so glad I got to see Harry several times over the years. He is up there with Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger as far as being creative writers. But his songs seem to touch the heart so much deeper. Even now his songs bring back so many great memories. A few years ago I saw the Chapin Family and Friends" tribute concert to him. I believed in spirits that night as Harry was enjoying his music with us. He was a great human being.
lbcharlie05 8 months ago
I've always wondered if Corey was real or imaginary.... I think I've finally come to the conclusion that she was real in his imagination...
I wish I could have seen him perform.. He died 8 months before I was born, the world lost a great one that day.
myangell02 9 months ago
@myangell02 The beauty of the song is that she is whatever you want her to be. I always like to think that she was real, however I am a hopeless romantic.
carsonsheir 8 months ago
Comment removed
myangell02 7 months ago
@carsonsheir You're right... I started out thinking she was real, but as the glory of Harry's songs go, sometimes when I listened I was swayed back and forth between the two prospects, real or imaginary, then combined em into real in his imagination... In a way I'm glad he left it a mystery...
myangell02 7 months ago
Listen closely to the song again. Corey is a metaphor for death. (Corey - Corpus - Corpse) The song is about death but instead of death being something to fear, it is presented as something beautiful. Death is a beautiful woman.
martinwschwartz 9 months ago
What a touching and poignant song that touches you deeply in your soul! I always loved Harry's live performances, and he would have you laughing like the dickens at his concerts! Peace and Love, BobbyK
bobby7771117 9 months ago
SPELLED IT DIFFERENT BUT I NAMED MY DAUGHTER AFTER THIS SONG...
worm60 9 months ago
Saw him perform in Dublin, Ireland, many years ago. A great night. Loved this song, just because of it's narrative, it's story. I turned to my girlfriend and said " If I had a daughter, I'd call her Cory." And 33 years later my youngest daughter is called Cory. My Girlfriend is still my wife, and my daughter is one kick-ass kid.
Tphilpott1 10 months ago 2
I love this version although I wish Harry had been in better voice that day. I had tickets to see him when he passed and I still miss him.
Racquetballplayer76 11 months ago
Harry always did this live so much better than the studio version. The studio version is overproduced and doesn't have the background vocal harmony. It adds so much to this song.
sonofjabba 1 year ago
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udareperera 1 year ago
A song about meeeeeeeeeeee :D I am probably like the 40,000th Cory to say that though.. -.-
MonsterCoryX 1 year ago
I dated a woman named Corey and I would sing this to her, and she would cry every time...she passed ..and I still think and cry for her when I hear this RIP Harry RIP My sweet Corey
DrakeGrad 1 year ago 4
harry was the first live artist i seen back when i was 13 in the 70,s someone dropped out and my brother took me to newcastle city hall i was blown away and loved him ever since still listen to him all the time . i was so lucky to have the privelage michelle
brianstretchycable 1 year ago
its funny..i listen to harry s songs at different times in my life...and i always get a different message ..a personal one..you know..amazing man
emtbianco 1 year ago
me, too!
coreymarie 1 year ago
I was named after this track too!!!
coreymcgowan 1 year ago
:) I was named after this song
funnywordtummy 1 year ago
hey snowstorm, it isnt sad, just melancholy. it is a song about hope, future and something better waiting for us at the end. you should learn all you can about what an incredible person harry chapin was and the legacy he left behind. try to feel what your father felt when after hearing this song, he welcomed you into this world and you were his hope for the future. god bless you.
diecargal 1 year ago
Hope is a powerful thing. Stronger and more real than what most call reality. John Joseph lived his life knowing that he would see Corey one day. He never doubted it. Would that I could have that hope.
geoftbone 1 year ago
Listen closely, granted all music is open to private interpretation however that said this a song of hope, endurance and a young man's discovery of a truth no one else believed and in turn became his own hope, solace and even joy
krysteane 1 year ago
This my favorite ..... We miss you so much....
choochoojman 1 year ago
everyone takes away there own meaning from Harry's songs ... a fan since I can remember, lucky enough to have seen him perform live several times starting at age six (my parents allowed us to hang after the show - I got a kiss as well as an autograph - I thought all performers did this!) - this song has always been a beautiful happy song - "...no more sad stories coming!" A love for the ages.
clawcat 1 year ago
I saw Harry live in Belfast many moons ago his band refused to travel to N Ireland and he and his brother Tom did the gig.That was one memorable night.
He must be among the greatest singer song writers of all time.
Flokeable 1 year ago
i was named after this song. it always makes me think... "why? its so sad. why name your daughter after this song, then play it for her so she knows she was named after a sad, sad song." i cried the first time my dad played it for me. i was expecting something else. i'm not saying its a bad song; just sad.
snowstormsii 1 year ago
@snowstormsii I can see why you would think that, but I think Corey is a beautiful spirit that brought joy and comfort to a lonely man. She must have been wonderful, because the young man is so enamoured by her that he takes John Joseph's place. I think it is a beautiful song of someone who is less lonely because of Corey.
booknplays 1 year ago
@snowstormsii
corey was his angel that was his strength to succed.
superstazable 1 year ago
My favourite song of all time.
What a tragedy that the world had to lose such an amazing man.
In this day and age, the world needs individuals as giving and loving as Harry
Long live his memory
pjsquidy 1 year ago 3
one of the finest singer song writers ever
pluto57055 1 year ago
Corey is lady death. such a depressing song
araven07 1 year ago
One of my very favorite songs. He writes the most incredible lyrics. Each song a story.
barball63 1 year ago
One o My Fav's Fer Sure'.....My Corie's Coming.
424werter 1 year ago
Thank you. Your efforts have made me smile and helped me reconnect to me.....
docreiss 1 year ago
This is a different version.
mowque 1 year ago
Thanks so much. My two fave Harry Chapin songs, this and Stranger With The Melodies.
marvnave 1 year ago
| found an old LP in my mom collection and when i put it on the turntable i couldn't stop listening to it, and now here it is one in the morning and i cant get over his music, it just touches the soul, i would give anything to see him in concert one time... i can't help but think i missed out, RIP Harry, no one deserves it more than you, you amazing, amazing man
eralfnoez 1 year ago 3
Harry was so fantastic and just a great humanitarian. One of the times we saw him perform was in the old Hartford (CT) Civic Center. After the show he came out to the center court and talked and signed autographs for all the people who stuck around. Just a great experience for all of us! He's sorely missed!
Chippy777Jake 2 years ago 15
im called Corey YAAAAAAAAY
coreyKAPOW 2 years ago
110% agree
chrisdolby 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
this is the best song ever.
88musicrox 2 years ago
This is a completely different song than what I know. But it's still awesome!
insight994 2 years ago
First time for me to see or hear of Harry and i want to say "thank you for sharing this". Wonderful song with such true feelings.
StarzPlyrz 2 years ago
The best name ever!
CorreyHope 2 years ago
Just the best. Went to soooo many concerts. Still miss him. I did name my daughter Corey after this song, born in 1981
sharioxman 2 years ago
With all the hoopla about Michael Jackson we tend to forget the real people who mattered. Harry cared about things that mattered. He truly was one great human being.
om92555 2 years ago 33
I second that
Sprucegrove123 2 years ago
@om92555 Sorry, but what does this have to do with Michael Jackson? Both Chapin and Jackson told stories for their generation and both were great.
sspoopship 1 year ago
i was named after this song :)
xCoreyNx 2 years ago 2
Harrys greatest contribution was to his most of his concerts benefited the charity World Hunger Year. He sang for charity before it was the popular thing to do. I wonder what he would think about us and the state of the world today if he was still with us. We miss his work and his talent.
MW277j 2 years ago 2
He played more charity shows than regular concerts. In fact, he was on his way to a charity show (just him and his guitar, in his beatup car) when he died.
As for what he'd think about the world? Well, Reagan had just been elected, and Harry was NOT pleased. (A scum like Reagan survives getting shot, but a beautiful person like Harry dies, both within 4 months? Messed up!)
So, I can only imagine what he'd have thought of someone (George W. Bush) who was far worse than even Reagan.
ratmach 2 years ago
I am sure Reagan and Chapin are great friends in Heaven Both loved a good story and both cared greatly for people in their own ways.
onepoker 2 years ago
Reagan would've blacklisted Harry, that much humanity was anatema to Hollywood's McCarthyite. If a place exists after this one for people like Harry, Ronnie won't be there that much is certain
quinbrady 2 years ago
What a bitter person you are. If you ever met Harry, you'd know that he had no animosity towards anyone.
Homer48088 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Thank God for Reagan and Bush.....cleaning up Democrat shitstorms....
You assholes need to crack a book....
Harry was a liberal that Republicans had great respect for. He put his money where his mouth was.
Harry Chapin was suspect of all politicians.......
Harry Chapin would not recognize the Dem Party today. Hell---Pres. Kennedy would be a Republican today. Freakin' wingbat dems today.....
You folks need a Newspaper smuggled behind that Iron Curtain you reside in.
matt75hooper 2 years ago
@matt75hooper
onceprodical 2 years ago
@matt75hooper
Matt yes just give time people will see look to 2010 and vote to make the change I do like your thoughts
onceprodical 2 years ago
Harry told everyman, everyday stories. They were about all of us and none of us. He was an original and never got the respect he deserved. Many rode his coatails and took credit for what he did for free. He was a liberal in the very best sense of the word.
warrenproject1 2 years ago
I had a chance to see Harry in Toronto in the early 80's at convocation hall at U of T and I have to say is was the best concert I have ever seen. Harry, Tom and Steve played from 10pm till 2am. Absolutely incredible. I wish he was still with us as he will always be my favorite.
ZOOSHA3 2 years ago
me to. i just discovered him a year after he died. such a great song writer
tansyroad 2 years ago
i wish i could have seen Harry before he died.
shypo 2 years ago
bearznorthCATHY
i disagree with you on what this story is about
i think its abot an old man who no one every beleaved then after he dies it tunes out at lest on of this stories wear true
knrose10 2 years ago 2
I didn't write the intro,..Harry did...tell him...
bearznorthCATHY 2 years ago
lol...Sorry to laugh, but that was pretty funny...
cpossberg 2 years ago
@knrose10 it's sad that no one gets the true meaning of this story. " Old John Joseph" had spent his life travelling the rails and while doing that he had fell in love, but his love for traveling was greater than his love for this woman and although he truly loved her, he also loved his job. and his way of dealing with this was to substitute the train for his love that he had lost but not really cause what they shared was always in there harts. Which is why she came back at the end.
karaokekidd28 9 months ago
@knrose10 it's sad that no one gets the true meaning of this story. " Old John Joseph" had spent his life travelling the rails and while doing that he had fell in love, but his love for traveling was greater than his love for this woman and although he truly loved her, he also loved his job. and his way of dealing with this was to substitute the train for his love that he had lost but not really cause what they shared was always in there harts. Which is why she came back at the end. thanks
karaokekidd28 9 months ago
@knrose10
I disagree with you because I don't think any of his stories were false.
jak41497 8 months ago
This is one of the damndest horror stories I know. Creepy as Hell!
beckasherman 7 months ago
I miss him
pizza1960man 2 years ago
god i love this song
knrose10 2 years ago
Harry had so many great stories... This is one of his best... Thank you... Thank you Thank You for posting these...
TheWhoQuad 2 years ago
I agree with lufisis, Pretty Please set up a video of Stranger with the melodies!!!!!!!!!!!thank-you so much for including the lyrics when you post a video!!!! dragonlover1955
teresamustain 2 years ago
dude! DO ME A FAVOR PLZ "a stranger with his medolies" if you have it plz post it
plz plz plz plz plz
lufisis 2 years ago
I named my daughter after this song...it really means alot to see this video, thank you
jessiandcorey 2 years ago
i also named my daughter after this song
worm60 2 years ago
same here :)
xCoreyNx 2 years ago
My parents named me after this song. If only I mean as much to someone someday as this Corey did to old john joseph!
Love,
Corey
joshuademala 3 years ago
he has so many incredible songs..
CyclonexxxIce 3 years ago
i saw harry about a month before he died..i named my daughter Corrie ( spelled diff ) after this song...R.I.P.HARRY LOVE YA..FROM THE CHEAP SEATS
worm60 3 years ago
My parents went to a concert just before I was born. My name is Corey!
joshuademala 3 years ago
That's my name too...spelled the same way too!
phonographgirl 2 years ago
I really wish I could have seen Harry in concert.
coreybwalk 3 years ago
this is one of my favorite harry chapin songs. I really like this extended version, to bad I only have the shortend version on cd.
mandaloriancommander 3 years ago
Late 70's.....Okimo Mt in Vermont, Harry Chapin concert.....seems not so long ago.
matt75hooper 3 years ago
my parents named me after this song : )
koukla3300 3 years ago
Mine too!
CKQShannon 3 years ago
Mine too! Amazing. In college, two of us on the floor were named after this song. I love it and plan to dance with my father to it at my wedding.
coreybwalk 3 years ago
me too....this is the first time ive listened to the song
xcoreox 3 years ago
me too!
joshuademala 3 years ago
I let time go lightly...
tecwolfen 3 years ago
love it
kimbuckley1986 3 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
22/f/single/cam! ne1 want to see? G
PLAYBOYFREE 3 years ago
My father is a singer and we have our annual harry chapin night this month where we sing his songs. I wish I had a chance to see him in concert!
Jezibelle10 3 years ago
entesapa? farcer imp
mekran12 3 years ago
My Name Is Corey Does That Mean I Am Named After This Guy Please Replay???????
CoreyBennett777 3 years ago
Yes, you are. R.I.P. Harry.
sonnyboy39 3 years ago
corey is a woman so no it dont unless u are a guy...but still dont ..R.I.P harry
doug7827 3 years ago
Great video, thanks.
viscig60 3 years ago
You are so missed Mr Harry Chapin.
matt75hooper 3 years ago 2
I've listened to Harry since I was a teenager. Saw him twice in concert.. I'll never foret the man... part of my life.
You are the only song.
dumdogdum 3 years ago 2
Nobody told stories like Harry and no summer was complete without seeing him at the Wollman Rink in Central Park. Corey, Mr. Tanner, Better Place to Be, and the list goes on. I saw him get an honorary degree at CW Post. That was the last time. His music brings me joy and sadness.
IMBerky 3 years ago 2
Other than 'A Better Place To Be', this is Harry's best tear-jerker. I saw him about 1 month before he died. I still have not recovered the missing piece of my heart.
He was taken from us to early. He had so much more to do.
Whatever the qualifications for 'Saint' may be, Harry should be next on line.
Not being a very religious person, Harry makes e believe there is more to this world than meet (my) eye.
Peace and love. That was Harry was all about.
dtordahl 3 years ago 2
I saw him about the same time. Really unusual show. The band was cussing and he came into the crowd playing harmonica on 'Mail Order Annie'. I had seen him many times before, but never like this! But I would love to see him again!
fanoguitar 3 years ago
I was named after this song too!
cmd6bc 3 years ago
The Chapin family are still doing shows that keep this music alive. The shows usually consist of Tom, Steve, Big John Wallace and the children of Tom, Harry and Steve. The shows are awesome. You can find the schedule at Tom Chapin's web site.
daddiov 3 years ago
my dad used to sing this whole song to me sometimes when i went to bed as a kid.
interesting to listen to it now and understand the ending... huh.
theradpotato 3 years ago
One of my favourite songs from Harry.
His music is alive and much appreciated.
b28c 3 years ago
One of my favourite songs from Harry.
His music is alive and much appreciated.
b28c 3 years ago
I love this song. Harry is the best. I can't begin to count the number of times his songs have helped me. How can I get access to his less known works?
pjsquidy 3 years ago
Check out "The Gold Medal Collection". It is now one of my prized possessions. It is a 2 disc set, and has a lot of great stuff on it.
gowallygo 3 years ago
Check out "The Gold Medal Collection". It is now one of my prized possessions. It is a 2 disc set, and has a lot of great stuff on it.
gowallygo 3 years ago
I can't believe it took me this long to search on Harry! I saw him twice in the 70's in Milwaukee. Sat in the cheap seats both times. I still remember this song, and how I gasped when he sang "my name is Corey....you can say I'm just a friend". Here I am, crying my eyes out 30 years later!! Thank you so much for posting this. God bless.....JK
jackkpts 4 years ago 2
I found out I was pregnant with my daughter the day Harry died. Her name was already picked out if she was a girl. With my second child my husband said I could do the nameing. Loved this song so I named him Corey.
anniecor 4 years ago 2
We named our first daughter Corey way back in 1981. My wife saw Haryy live several times. He was such a great story teller. The 70's had several great story tellers, Harry, Gordon Lightfoot and Cat Stevens. All memorable.
nightman6x2 4 years ago
i was named after that song.
daisyfayy 4 years ago
i know many great songs but this one is up there with the best of them i cant believe that most people havent even heard of harry just love it thanks for postin it coreys comin what an amazin song
hrrchapin 4 years ago
Is this an alternate set of lyrics he uses when he plays the song live?
thrapsen 4 years ago
yes this is an extended version just lovin it listenin to it all all night strummin on my guitar
hrrchapin 4 years ago
Like many Chapin songs this is best heard recorded live. Harry had the ability to paint such vivid pictures in each of his songs. In this song you can see yourself sitting next to the old man as he tells his tales. What a gift.
They don't make songs or men like Harry Chapin anymore.
bittertim 4 years ago 2
Also never heard this set of lyrics. Thanks again!
pacatrue 4 years ago
Love Harry Chapin ! I saw him many years ago in Pennsylvania at the Paramount Theater, many know that place now as the KIRBY. I believe I was only around age 13 then and after 30 more years I STILL love his music !
magjkl 4 years ago 2
. I saw him, MANY , years ago at Ga. State Univeristy . He just didn't want to stop singing, he (Harry) was having such a good time. He was GREAT!! I'm so gld I got to see him. I wrote him a letter, pre computors here, I'm an old one, LOL, telling him how much I loved his music. and it came back undeliverabl. I kept the letter. When he died, I found an address for Sandy, his wife, and sent it to her. I got the sweetest letter back from her. His music has always meant so much to me.
olagran 4 years ago 2
Wow...what an epic. Brought back some memories indeed. Thanks alot for uploading it.
LeilaniRocks 4 years ago
I have long been a Harry fan, although I never saw him in person. I have his entire collection and list to him often. He was and still is the best singer song writer EVER! All we need now is a forum where us Harry Fan(atics) to get together talk of what Harry meant to us and share some secrets of our own. I could sit and talk the ears off of everyone that mentions Harry or any of his songs. Can we come together and make a place where all can come together and talk some "Harry"?
HarryFan81A7 4 years ago 3
Harry, so many years and you still make me cry....
Howard07747 4 years ago
You could say my name is Corey....no really, this is the song I'm named for.
7791eerpud 4 years ago
that is AWESOME.
kbball21 4 years ago
we named our daughter after this song
worm60 4 years ago
Q: is Corey then an image for a kind death? One that is loving? Perhaps the Angel? I'm perplexed..
2rainbowed 4 years ago
That's really takin it somewhere, but an interesting idea. My take on it, was that the ol' guy at the train station really did have a lady out there, and some fond memories, and ya don't have to be young, rich and wealthy to get the lady n the love. Another lesson.....
bearznorthCATHY 4 years ago
Thank you so much 'bearznorthCATHY' for putting these up on youtube. I saw Harry in concert in Ireland in 1979 - it was a very memorable experience.
Why were most of his songs so sad?
Was he mentally ill?
proinsiaspad 4 years ago
No, not mentally Ill...probably more tuned in to the emotions of life, and was able to put them to words we could all relate to. He had many happy songs, but we tended to relate more to the sad ones, cos those moments in our lives seem easier to make a permanent dent in our souls. Harry just found them for us...and released our pain...
bearznorthCATHY 4 years ago
Hmm. Remember how the others in the town swore he'd not had a woman, much less a wife or sweetheart. And nobody named Corey had lived there. But reality is just a word. However death can charm, entice, wait, and be kind. I stick by my thoughts (she said "you could say_ I'm a friend") And death comes at any age. Many of us wait for it for release.
2rainbowed 4 years ago
I can see and feel your a true Harry fan. Yes he is all that and much much more. Can we get a group forum going so we can sit, talk and listen to HARRY?
HarryFan81A7 4 years ago
@proinsiaspad ...No not Sad, melancholy maybe but definitely not sad. You are obviously not familiar with his music. Before you you make ANY statements about mental illness, maybe you listen and learn...
I saw him at the Tivoli Theatre in Chattanooga, TN in the late '70's...I NEVER met anyone so full of LIFE! You are missed and remembered with fond regard!
browndog2233 1 year ago
Thanks. Was Chapin from Mass. then? Thought I recognized an accent in some songs from the NE of the USA, though I've seen him and his brothers play with Joni Anderson (Mitchell) in 1966 in a tape here, in Saskatoon, so I had no idea where he's from.
2rainbowed 4 years ago
Great song. I named my SON Core because of this song. He never realized that the song was about a girl!
Rastafari6 4 years ago
I'll definitely be naming my first daughter Corey. I just hope my wife understands.
Thank you Harry; your music is beautiful.
Shaka141 4 years ago 2
PURE MAGIC!
sparkybennett 4 years ago 2
My parents named me Courtney (in '81) so they could call me Corey. What a wonderful gift to have given me, a love for Harry and this song as a story behind my name.
chicdeac 4 years ago
I was named for this song! I love it so much... it makes me think of my parents!
Thank you for poting this!
CKQShannon 4 years ago
awesome song awesome singer
phar1706 4 years ago 2
I will always remember Harry. I met him as I worked for a radio station in Chicago, and I saw him many times at Ravinia. In fact in an erie coincidnce I bought tickets to his show at the Ravinia Box Office for a show later in the summer, and it was the day he died that I bought them...I gave the money to World Hunger..We Miss ya in The Cheap Seats harry!
DrakeGrad 4 years ago 2
Thank-you, thank-you thank-you, from the bottom of my heart1 I loved this man so much and this was always my favourite song!
wenchie1 4 years ago 2
He was a truly great man! I was privileged to meet and "hang" with him and the band one steamy hot Massachusetts evening. Prophetically, no one in the band wanted to ride back to New York with him...they teased him about being a lousy driver. That has lived with me ever since. Three years later...well you know what happened. RIP my friend!
raspy52 4 years ago 2
How bittersweet to watch this ! Yea, I have a midnight moonlight morning glory daughter named Corey. I love her, and the song, and Harry. And she has learned to love the song and the Bard who gave her her name. Thanks Harry, we both miss you.
vidbone 4 years ago 2
i was privliged to see harry chapin about a month before his death. but even before that when i 1st heard this song i said that if i ever have a daughter she will be named corey & in 84 we did & she was.& shes the best thing in my life
worm60 4 years ago
So did I but she was born in 86' and we spell it Korie
qbbvtb 4 years ago
i bet shes a great daughter our daughters is really spelt corrie ty 4 the comment
worm60 4 years ago
Thank you for posting this - it has always been my favorite Harry song...always makes me cry. I never had the chance to see him in concert, but I always gravitated to his concert albums. The best.
sewenchanting 4 years ago 2
Never heard this version before, a couple of extra lines, great!
LuchieBar 4 years ago
A guiter, a cello, and a voice silence an audience. Try that today
Howard07747 4 years ago
Thank you for keeping Harry alive. Only his fans know how we've been touched by Harry's words. He made us laugh and made us cry. Where's are he song writers of today?
Howard07747 4 years ago 2
Thank you so much for posting this video. It is my favorite Harry Chapin song. I saw Harry in concert about 15 times. In July 1976, saw Harry perform this song live; the extended version would come later. Our daughter is named for this song; at her wedding in May 2006, she and I danced to this song. I cried buckets; and like jabl5, I am just a big romantic sap.
Again, thank you.
64gazelle66 4 years ago 2
thanks for sharing that wonderful story
dabluz1125 4 years ago 2
Oh bless you...I have so missed my old friend Harry. I guess it is true...you are never really gone as long as those who love you remember----oh wait---I hear Harry's coming!
Marte1618 4 years ago 2
Any guy who loves this song must be a romantic sap. That's me, I guess.
jabel5 4 years ago 2
Best version of this great song, thank you so much for posting it! I still cry when I sing along and get to the "My name is Corey" part. Kills me every time. So, thanks for the good cry! :-)
TinyDancer500 4 years ago 2