I had the original LP with this on it. It was a gift for a birthday...unusual gift to give a boy for his 12th birthday! I loved the album though, and like the poster I much prefer the original version on the album,;; thanks for posting this up :)
he was born in 1923, so this song reflects the influence of what he had likely grown up listening to. He was 49 when he recorded it , and it was something he'd wanted to do since he was a kid, so there ya go, there's this sort of time warp back to when he was a kid watching Laurel and Hardy and listening to big bands of the thirties and forties.Absolutely beautiful man and song.Recall hearing this in the seventies and being taken back to another era, reminded of something forgotten.
I've always loved this song not only for the catchy old time melody, but for Smith's vocals. I was always surprised by what he looked like since I always pictured a Buddy Hackett type when I heard the song.
First hread this song on the expressway coming home from Phila in my 1970 Chevy Nova going around 90 miles an hour from the old smoken Joes resturate near penn universaty.
I remember when this song hit the charts. Although I was (and still am) a rock music fan, I always though this song was pretty cool. It has a "song of yesteryear" flavor to it. I like this "Dixieland-flavored" version. Doc's orchestra only makes it better.
This was actually written as a demo for someone else to record but the record company liked it enough that they kept it as is & released it. He also produced early Pink Floyd albums. RIP Norman.
Most excellent video. Mr. Carson was a kind booster for many performers just getting into the business (think Leno, Letterman, Bette Midler amongst many others) or foreign talent getting exposure the US audiences. He was a gracious and witty man, who instinctively knew talent, like Mr. Hurricane Smith. Thanks for the memories with this awesome video. Peace.
This song brings me back to my sophomore high school days together with songs like McCartney's Admiral Halsey/Uncle Albert, and Gilbert O'Sullivan's Along Again (Naturally). Seems like a different lifetime both personally, and with the world lifestyle, where then life seemed more laid back and carefree, and music had melody and lovely, catchy middle-eights and Instrumental solos. Where is that music today other than on oldies radio stations. I never realized he was Beatles engineer Norman Smith.
Thanks for a great upload,man! I Love the 20's&30's style music and I loved this song the first time I heard it. Winchester Cathedral by the New Vaudeville Band is another great one. Poo poo bee doop!
I distinctly remember getting to stay up late on a school night to watch this (I was in grade school at the time) The folks let me becaused I loved the song so much and was always singing it around the house! Happily, after nearly 40 years and thanks to the Internet, I finally got to know who the amazing sax player was on here - Mr. Frank Hardcastle. For me, the sax solo was every bit as memorable as the vocals. Never was that much of a Johnny Carson fan, though, I must admit.
From the man who recorded "Twist and Shout" and "Hard Days' Night". Amazing. He had less to do with Pink Floyd than most think, but he DID produce them, and bring out that great first album...
Fantastic, humor as well as a beautiful presentation and class. This is entertainment. Just pure and simple. Good song, good presentation. Makes ma laugh at all the other that try so hard to do what should come naturally.
I've often wondered if this song is what influenced Pink Floyd to use saxaphone on their Dark Side of the Moon album, which they made right after this song was a hit.
I love this song.....wow, the memories it brings to mind. Loved Hurricane Smith's version and performance.....one of a kind. Thanks for uploading this great song and awesome memory filled tribute.
@MichaelHansenFUN Pink Floyd weren't that well known in the US at end of 1972, except on "alternative" and college radio. "Dark Side of the Moon" changed that several months later.
Whoever is impersonating me on here (and I believe it to be someone by the name of Garrick Alden from Laurel, MD), should be arrested for his various comments.... it is not me posting those things, apologies for any confusion, and it pisses me off having my name and youtube name associated in any way with his nasty comments.
I have to admit that I'm picking my chin up off the floor. I'm 51 years old and remember this song from when I was a kid. I had forgotten about it until 2 days ago when I heard it in a grocery store. All my life I had envisioned Hurrican Smith as a large black woman from somewhere down south, maybe Atlanta or Gulfport. Never once did I ever imagine it to be a skinny white guy from England. Great Song, unique voice. Love it.
OK~The song is MAH-velous. But check out the over-sized beige suit WITH shoulder pads, the dark green shirt w/ginormous collar & ruffly cuffs, the high-heeled white boots. The hair! The Mog! The goofy dance moves WOO HOO! Watch Hurricane Smith at the end, when he sticks his index finger into the saxophonist's ear; love it! LMAO~My boyfriend & I were at a rest stop on Rte 95/Mass, and this song came on. We spontaneously started waltzing, much to the delight of a Honey Dew Donuts employee BURBLE~
I used to fantasize in high school about a certain girl i would sing this song to, but of course chicken shit me never did..beautiful girl who i ran into years later..She turned into a drunken, fat, nasty bar fly...ruined 25 yr my fantasy completely and damned was she hot on hot in high school..dodged a bullet I guess. lol
What a hit at the time! He literally came out of nowhere! Huge hit! Fun to hear this after 30 years (Liza Minnelli covered it on one of her LPs)! Helluva good song!
Definitely a live vocal. He's even dropped the key by a tone. In those days they would insist that the bands play live or mime to a re-made backing (often recorded on the same day) unless they could prove that the original musicians were actually the ones on camera.
@jcm330 Sorry, Gilbert did not write this song. Norman wrote and recorded it as a demo and ended up having a number one song with it. Sounds like it could be an O'Sullivan song no doubt!!! Norman recorded every single Beatles song through Rubber Soul as their engineer. Amazing.
wow...i remember when this song came out in late 1973 and thought it was some old NY City singer, and to find out all these years later it's a relatively young English chap....coulda knocked me over with a feather.
Great song - takes me back; heard Kelsey Grammar sing this on a rerun of Frasier today - he did it justice as he was fighting a losing battle with a beautiful girl. Thanks to whoever uploaded this on YouTube. Hurricane wrote this! Thought it was from a person of the 30's 40's.
It is a dear, dear song, music and lyrics. The first time I heard it was in 1977, when I watched Kaye Ballard sing it with the Muppets, but many years later I got to know the original, which is unique. I had never seen this live performance of "Oh Babe What Would You Say?" at the Tonight Show, though.
We miss you Norman.
Please check this out ("A Melody You Never Will Forget").
It is a dear, dear song, music and lyrics. The first time I heard it was in 1977, when I watched Kaye Ballard sing it with the Muppets, but many years later I got to know the original, which is unique. I had never seen this live performance of "Oh Babe What Would You Say?" at the Tonight Show, though.
We miss you Norman.
Please check this out ("A Melody You Never Will Forget").
Thank you soooo much for posting one of the most beautiful songs I have EVER heard! I was a little child when I first heard it and wondered if I would find anyone who would make me feel that way-kinda dreamy, you know..We are married now. Thank you so much Hurricane Smith!!!! "Just to walk with you along the Milky Way"..God bless! Oh I miss the '70's. "Bring you flowers every day, oh babe, anyway, what would you say?". Who cares if it's live or not..! Beautiful.
What a sweet guy! I recall this song from waaaayyy back and at that time it was old!! He's so cute acting and looking! Is this wonderful man still with us?? Anyone out there know??..I truly appreciate this upload! Anytime im feeling a little down i plan to listen to it!
Bantaar I have no idea what you're talking about. I didn't see Johnny being at all condescending towards Mr Smith. And the notion that he must've gotten fired for the way he introduced him is hysterical!!...Johnny Carson was the undisputed king of late night TV and nobody today can hold a candle to him and nobody ever will. I miss him greatly
@baddiarrhea You have no idea why I thought Johnny Carson was condescending to Hurricane Smith? Well, to tell you the truth... neither have I. I look at the video now, and I look at my comment. It just doesn't make any sense. I guess this was just a rash and poorly thought-through comment, and I feel very badly about it now. I suppose I must have been up at a late hour and getting things confused in my mind, as happens in discussions. Apologies to Mr. Carson and the world for this non-sequiteur.
@bantaar Johnny Carson sounds a bit tense, but he was often that way; that was one of the things about him that intrigued people. It probably had nothing to do with his opinion of Hurricane Smith. Over the years a number of people were offended by JC, thinking he disliked them. The truth is that while he could be very engaging on-stage, when off-stage he was known as a lonely introvert who wouldn't socialize with anyone. Maybe he was just born that way.
@lrd9999 Oh... that old comment again. Makes me blush, because, as I said, when I reviewed the video and my original comment, I have no idea what I was on about. I know I first felt that Carson seemed a bit dismissive, but I must have been in a strange mood. Didn't even know who Carson was; he's not as well-known here in Europe as in the U.S. Anyway... Hurricane still made a classic pop song with this. And I recently watched a rerun of "Frasier" where Kelsey Grammar put it to great use.
@bantaar JC was about my father's age, so I'm sure he had to "hold his tongue" at times while introducing "hippie" groups. It's amazing that Smith is 2 years older, though I wouldn't have guessed it, so they probably grew up listening to similar music. This song came out here just before Christmas, so it always makes me think of the trip through what we called the "old face houses" (built in the '20s) to visit retired relatives. Too bad those houses have all gotten hideous makeovers since then.
weeinielongus (sigh): why - given that you have here the ORIGINAL performer of the track a 'lip-synch'!?!? As for the other thing, prior to the MTV era, there were NO outlets for 'music videos.' The only 'videos' prior to the MTV era were either Scopitones, or filmed performances. I don't think this is 'Dixieland' (did you ever hear the record?!?). It's more a throwback to a 20's/30's style band...
What can I say, Uszoninyc, I grew up on Lip-synchs!! I'm a product of 'American Bandstand', 'Hollywood-A-Go-Go', 'Teenarama', 'Where The Action Is', 'Steel Pier', 'The Lloyd Thaxton Show', 'Soul Train', "The Milt Grant Show' and every other program where performers mimicked the same records I could actually go out and buy the next day instead of hearing them trying to do the hit song live, and messing up that 'hit record' sound!! I guess it's just my taste?!?
@uszoninyc (From 3 months ago). Actually the info, about the RAF was in his obit. in The Guardian (English newspaper) - "Smith was born in Edmonton, north London. He trained as a glider pilot in the RAF during the second world war, but did not see combat.".
@uszoninyc ummmmm, he's not lip-syching, Carson didn't allow lip-synching on his show, he said " they came, they deserved to be entertained"............and just listen, first of all, you can hear the whole Doc Severinson orchestra behind(next) to him AND this is not the released version
@uszoninyc Loved this video. I originally thought this song must be a Cole Porter remake. Sort of the same style. Was surprized to find it an original by Hurricane Smith.
This was the guy Lennon called ''Normal''.Amusingly catchy song.Tuning in to N.B.C. that night,a young Leon Redbone nearly choked on his Quisp saying ""WHY HADDEN I THOUGHTA THAT?''
There's no doubt that Hurricane made a classic with this song. What I'm wondering is, who is the no-good, stupid, self-satisfied host introducing Hurricane with a condescending, I'm-so-much-better-than-thee eyerolls? That incompetent presenter must have been sacked right away?
@MadameLil Oh! So that's the legendary Johnny Carson! I'd have imagined that he'd be far to professional to let a dislike shine through of somebody he was presenting... guess he may just have had a bad day, tho :)
Someone (or something) like Hurricane Smith would never happen in today's music business, I am afraid. The closest thing we had to Hurricane in recent history, I suppose, would be Susan Boyle.
Although I always liked the melody of this number, at 19 I never appreciated how beautiful and expressive the lyrics really are. It's too bad youth is wasted on the young.
Here I am again listening to Hurricane Smith. I love this song so much.
It conveys to me a feeling of carefree hapiness that takes me back 40 yeras to when I first heard it driving ariound in the BQE, Brooklyn, NY.. My 10 year old daughter has taken a liking for this song too although she still prefers Myles Cyrus...today's kids preferred one. I will stick with Hurricane Smith any time. He is unforgetable!
What a beautiful man he was. I was only 11 when this song came out and I always have loved it so much. I just love his gravly, raspy tone of voice! Brings a tear to my eye, seeing him here. Rest in Peace Mr. Smith. This song will go on forever!!
@fairportfan2 Sorry but Cass's version ist awful. It isn't her voice but the terrible instrument in the background like a piano from a cheap western. Truly horrendous.
@VIRIATO1942 : when I was a Very Young Child growing up, just hearing it on Radio play, I truly thought it was a Louis Armstrong song, but that is so on point!!
Hi All, Here is a great memory from the post Beatles Era, It's Hurricane Smith Live on Johnny Carson's Tonight Show and Sounds Great and Rarely heard live !
@hidoll22 : funny You should say that, but where I reside in TX, they have a dedicated 70's Radio Station, and they just played Hurricane Smith back-to-back with Redbone.....LoL
JackHauss, 110% agreed! We heard Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Billy Vaughn, Simon & Garfunkel, Stevie Wonder, Canned heat, CCR, Beatles, Elvis...all on the same station. That is what it made those days and those radio stations great. There were many crossovers. I can't see why radio doesn't return to that winning formula. Too many masters in the background manipulating those puppet programmers.
I heard this on Sirius 70's this morning and it brought back a great memory. My mom who was from the big band era, would listen to WMTR out of Morristown NJ on a scratchy old AM radio. When this song came on her eyes would light up and she would sit in her chair and dance from the waist up. I agree, simpler times and simpler music. Not once did I hear Hurricane Smith mention "busting a cap" in someone in this song.
I remember this song when I was a kid (1972). Not that it matters, but I thought this guy was Black. A good song though. Sounds like a junior Louis Armstrong. Also didn't know he was a sound engineer for the Beatles. Just saw he died in 2008, at age 85.
Fabulously talented man,Norman 'Hurricane' Smith was the sound engineer for The Beatles- look him up on google. Saw him in concert in Morecambe Lancashire in the early 70's, brilliant show!
I agree with you both. I remember this song. My late hubby had the album of it. It's a good one. He's pretty cool for an old dude.. Of course I'm now the age he was back then lol. Back then, the music was good and there was more variety.
I agree with you both. I remember this song. My late hubby had the album of it. It's a good one. He's pretty cool for an old dude.. Of course I'm now the age he was back then lol. Back then, the music was good and there was more variety.
Looking at this clip you wouldnt think mr.smith was an r.a.f. glider pilot during the war and actually took part in the D-Day landings they dont make em like that anymore!...
I had the original LP with this on it. It was a gift for a birthday...unusual gift to give a boy for his 12th birthday! I loved the album though, and like the poster I much prefer the original version on the album,;; thanks for posting this up :)
MsPete1963 1 day ago
This song is a true classic.
theodoreking19 5 days ago
he was born in 1923, so this song reflects the influence of what he had likely grown up listening to. He was 49 when he recorded it , and it was something he'd wanted to do since he was a kid, so there ya go, there's this sort of time warp back to when he was a kid watching Laurel and Hardy and listening to big bands of the thirties and forties.Absolutely beautiful man and song.Recall hearing this in the seventies and being taken back to another era, reminded of something forgotten.
Pumpkingilmour 1 week ago
make that Laurel and Hardy, and Bob Hope and Milton Burle etc. That is who he'd have grown up watching.
Pumpkingilmour 1 week ago
I too loved this song growing up in the 70's thank you
tangoitaly 1 week ago
I grew up hearing songs like this on the radio, but never paid any attention to what he looked like. He looks like a porn actor from the 70's.
TheRantingCabbie 3 weeks ago
I've always loved this song not only for the catchy old time melody, but for Smith's vocals. I was always surprised by what he looked like since I always pictured a Buddy Hackett type when I heard the song.
BradCook315 1 month ago 3
@BradCook315 I love this song too. I always thought Smith's voice sounded like a rasping saxophone, which suits the old time melody.
hiyadroogs 3 weeks ago
What Would You Say..Let's Own Them Anyway! Johnny Carson!..Every Comedian!
foxyroxstar 1 month ago
My Mum loved this song :)
rufinoman 1 month ago
Wow! I watched this when it aired and bought the single soon after. This is Norman Smith he worked on many famous albums. Beatles, Pink Floyd...
geofbrit59 1 month ago 3
Last time I heard this, I was a 14 year old in Junior High School !
Rustina61 1 month ago
First hread this song on the expressway coming home from Phila in my 1970 Chevy Nova going around 90 miles an hour from the old smoken Joes resturate near penn universaty.
Kinseydsp 2 months ago
I remember when this song hit the charts. Although I was (and still am) a rock music fan, I always though this song was pretty cool. It has a "song of yesteryear" flavor to it. I like this "Dixieland-flavored" version. Doc's orchestra only makes it better.
CounterCultureLives 2 months ago
This was actually written as a demo for someone else to record but the record company liked it enough that they kept it as is & released it. He also produced early Pink Floyd albums. RIP Norman.
jbolio888 2 months ago
Anyone who would give someone a "wet Willie" on national TV, let alone - on Carson is okay in my book! His Wiki write-up is very interesting!
AMStationEngineer 2 months ago
Most excellent video. Mr. Carson was a kind booster for many performers just getting into the business (think Leno, Letterman, Bette Midler amongst many others) or foreign talent getting exposure the US audiences. He was a gracious and witty man, who instinctively knew talent, like Mr. Hurricane Smith. Thanks for the memories with this awesome video. Peace.
BearyHairy 2 months ago
*tears* What a lovely gift to finally see this. A favorite song from my childhood!
mskayty 2 months ago
great song. great melody.. love it... thumbs up.
robertrjsaa 2 months ago in playlist YouTube Mix for Hurricane Smith
GREAT VID CHECK MY CHANNEL I UPLOADED NEW SONGS UNDERRATED..THANKS
TheEternauta666 2 months ago
Sounds like Carol Channing
rbernie29 2 months ago
Looks like David Walliams!
consul1957 2 months ago
@consul1957 You aint wrong there , I thought so too.
terryperring104 2 months ago
Its graeme souness in a beige suit and bottle green shirt
MrLawman10 2 months ago
I walked my babies and sang this song at 3 in the morning they loved it!!
MoralLives 2 months ago
Fantastic.
75amoeba 3 months ago
i love this song tks a lot h. s. for making me so happy
otefaza 3 months ago in playlist סרטונים נוספים של weenielongus
superb.
royston0712 3 months ago
great song. brings back good memories,thanks big H.S.
old55man1955 3 months ago
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WHAT A CLASS ACT!!!!
gordondelma 4 months ago
This song brings me back to my sophomore high school days together with songs like McCartney's Admiral Halsey/Uncle Albert, and Gilbert O'Sullivan's Along Again (Naturally). Seems like a different lifetime both personally, and with the world lifestyle, where then life seemed more laid back and carefree, and music had melody and lovely, catchy middle-eights and Instrumental solos. Where is that music today other than on oldies radio stations. I never realized he was Beatles engineer Norman Smith.
jeffboka 4 months ago 2
I was fifteen when this song was released. I loved it then and I love it still. Thank you very much Norman.
timothy7994 4 months ago
if i was the sax player id punch him out! lol
wullieready 4 months ago
just to walk along with you to the milky way.......sheer class.
forestgumpaed 4 months ago
this guy produced early pink floyd believe it or not
GriefTourist 5 months ago
I only came to watch because of the hurricane(Irene) bearing down on us here on the east coast!!
PapaKuda 5 months ago
It's Carol Channing in drag!
WarmCuddles 5 months ago
@WarmCuddles ...stupid...just plain stupid
bobbya16 4 months ago
would someone know the name of the saxophone player?
bobworthinton 5 months ago
Great number from my youth, thanks Norman.
Gersroolz 5 months ago in playlist Hurricane Smith Mix
This song sounds great every single time I hear it.
w2npjvve 6 months ago
is the host drunk or do we here just hiccups?
thecoolharry 6 months ago
Thanks for a great upload,man! I Love the 20's&30's style music and I loved this song the first time I heard it. Winchester Cathedral by the New Vaudeville Band is another great one. Poo poo bee doop!
jimmycron 6 months ago
this is friggin brilliant
go "normal"...go
i hope macca sees this...
great song...very bacharach in way...and mccartney-esque too
ChiroQuacker 6 months ago
irving berlinish but sweet
8302967 6 months ago
この曲、大好きです。偉大ならざる一発屋、ハリケーン・スミス。一曲だけでも大ヒットしたからいいよね。
ochihiro 6 months ago
I distinctly remember getting to stay up late on a school night to watch this (I was in grade school at the time) The folks let me becaused I loved the song so much and was always singing it around the house! Happily, after nearly 40 years and thanks to the Internet, I finally got to know who the amazing sax player was on here - Mr. Frank Hardcastle. For me, the sax solo was every bit as memorable as the vocals. Never was that much of a Johnny Carson fan, though, I must admit.
JJRaff18221882 6 months ago
Nostalgia Grande....
navet1953 6 months ago
From the man who recorded "Twist and Shout" and "Hard Days' Night". Amazing. He had less to do with Pink Floyd than most think, but he DID produce them, and bring out that great first album...
OFR 7 months ago 2
Fantastic, humor as well as a beautiful presentation and class. This is entertainment. Just pure and simple. Good song, good presentation. Makes ma laugh at all the other that try so hard to do what should come naturally.
dmanbass 7 months ago
I've often wondered if this song is what influenced Pink Floyd to use saxaphone on their Dark Side of the Moon album, which they made right after this song was a hit.
at90percent 7 months ago
I love this song.....wow, the memories it brings to mind. Loved Hurricane Smith's version and performance.....one of a kind. Thanks for uploading this great song and awesome memory filled tribute.
parzifal40 7 months ago 6
I always loved this song . . I never thought it got enough credit. Too bad Hurricane Smith isn't with us any longer . .
MiditheVeg 7 months ago 5
John Clarke played this on his Jukebox on 2fm in Ireland today. Great that it's still getting airtime nearly 40 years later.
jafeica 8 months ago
Hurricane you were brilliant. Come back.
75amoeba 8 months ago
He sounds like Sonny Bono!
maria3845 8 months ago in playlist MALE
CARSON DONT MENTION PINK FLOYD only beatles
MichaelHansenFUN 8 months ago
@MichaelHansenFUN Pink Floyd weren't that well known in the US at end of 1972, except on "alternative" and college radio. "Dark Side of the Moon" changed that several months later.
lrd9999 3 months ago
Man this guy was awesome.
SIGNALSTAT 8 months ago 3
that ear poke thing was pretty gross.
joehipp16 8 months ago
@joehipp16 could not agree more!! But I love this song!!
toxic335 8 months ago
Whoever is impersonating me on here (and I believe it to be someone by the name of Garrick Alden from Laurel, MD), should be arrested for his various comments.... it is not me posting those things, apologies for any confusion, and it pisses me off having my name and youtube name associated in any way with his nasty comments.
TopshelfTom 8 months ago 2
waar is die tijdmachine ???
rudyvg 8 months ago
I have to admit that I'm picking my chin up off the floor. I'm 51 years old and remember this song from when I was a kid. I had forgotten about it until 2 days ago when I heard it in a grocery store. All my life I had envisioned Hurrican Smith as a large black woman from somewhere down south, maybe Atlanta or Gulfport. Never once did I ever imagine it to be a skinny white guy from England. Great Song, unique voice. Love it.
rattybw 9 months ago 3
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I guess you think the sax player was saxsynching too. Da
skipper8257 9 months ago
Hurricane Smith used to have Gay orgys with Gary Glitter.
JudyKhan500lbSlut 9 months ago
@JudyKhan500lbSlut ....what an ass you are...
bobbya16 8 months ago
one of my favorite cheesy songs!
sweetdi1026 9 months ago
OK~The song is MAH-velous. But check out the over-sized beige suit WITH shoulder pads, the dark green shirt w/ginormous collar & ruffly cuffs, the high-heeled white boots. The hair! The Mog! The goofy dance moves WOO HOO! Watch Hurricane Smith at the end, when he sticks his index finger into the saxophonist's ear; love it! LMAO~My boyfriend & I were at a rest stop on Rte 95/Mass, and this song came on. We spontaneously started waltzing, much to the delight of a Honey Dew Donuts employee BURBLE~
NiktonK 9 months ago
I used to fantasize in high school about a certain girl i would sing this song to, but of course chicken shit me never did..beautiful girl who i ran into years later..She turned into a drunken, fat, nasty bar fly...ruined 25 yr my fantasy completely and damned was she hot on hot in high school..dodged a bullet I guess. lol
DrFeelRotten 10 months ago 2
@DrFeelRotten PMSL.... you've made me laugh my socks off....been there to mate.
daddienon 10 months ago
@DrFeelRotten PMSL.... you've made me laugh my socks off....been there to mate.
daddienon 10 months ago
This is live singing. My brother had the 45 and I stole it and listened to it enough to know it isn't lip synched
IrishHippie 10 months ago
A class act!!!
Mullenaround 10 months ago
The humbleness , the harmony, the lovely , the tenderness , The music of Hurricane penetrate our heart and makes sing and dance with him.. Oh God!!
juan58102 10 months ago
He was my Step grandads brother R.I.P the family miss you :(
ytooSolleH 10 months ago
What a hit at the time! He literally came out of nowhere! Huge hit! Fun to hear this after 30 years (Liza Minnelli covered it on one of her LPs)! Helluva good song!
gordonmary 11 months ago
teamjacob , you hit the nail on the head with that description ,lol . What a great and catchy tune . Sorry to hear he passed on .
1945always 11 months ago
nice little singalong ditty
nabby1874 11 months ago
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If Carol Channing and Dizzy Gillespie mated and had a child who was then raised by Barry Gibb, it would turn out to be THIS guy. :)
teamjacob16714 1 year ago
If Carol Channing and Dizzy Gillespie mated and had a chld who was then raised by Barry Gibb, it would turn out to be THIS guy. :)
teamjacob16714 1 year ago
When this song first came out it was reminiscent of Louis Armstrong. Unusual and different, so characteristic of the 70s.
LeconsdAnalyse 1 year ago
Definitely a live vocal. He's even dropped the key by a tone. In those days they would insist that the bands play live or mime to a re-made backing (often recorded on the same day) unless they could prove that the original musicians were actually the ones on camera.
popitinpete 1 year ago
Hurricane did not write this song...it was written by Gilbert O'Sullivan.
jcm330 1 year ago
@jcm330 Sorry, Gilbert did not write this song. Norman wrote and recorded it as a demo and ended up having a number one song with it. Sounds like it could be an O'Sullivan song no doubt!!! Norman recorded every single Beatles song through Rubber Soul as their engineer. Amazing.
paulbear1 1 year ago 2
@paulbear1 hey...i stand corrected...turns out i'm a bigger fan of his..hats off to Norm (and you).
jcm330 1 year ago
so cute ..... esp the finger in the ear.
btw...he looks younger than 49
jcm330 1 year ago
This was me and my husbands song. My first New Year without him. Thanks for the memories.
miss1949 1 year ago
Hey, folks, this is NOT a lip-synch. Completely different vocal than the record. And sax solo, too, for that matter.
my3snappy 1 year ago
wow...i remember when this song came out in late 1973 and thought it was some old NY City singer, and to find out all these years later it's a relatively young English chap....coulda knocked me over with a feather.
R I P Johnny Carson
rowdymax1 1 year ago 2
@rowdymax1 nice comment,ty
sirwob 1 year ago
@rowdymax1
Great song - takes me back; heard Kelsey Grammar sing this on a rerun of Frasier today - he did it justice as he was fighting a losing battle with a beautiful girl. Thanks to whoever uploaded this on YouTube. Hurricane wrote this! Thought it was from a person of the 30's 40's.
birdie2441 1 year ago
Takes me back to when my Mom was alive... she loved this tune. I love it too, but the lower key he's singing it in takes away...
cherubini 1 year ago
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It is a dear, dear song, music and lyrics. The first time I heard it was in 1977, when I watched Kaye Ballard sing it with the Muppets, but many years later I got to know the original, which is unique. I had never seen this live performance of "Oh Babe What Would You Say?" at the Tonight Show, though.
We miss you Norman.
Please check this out ("A Melody You Never Will Forget").
pmpESAS 1 year ago
It is a dear, dear song, music and lyrics. The first time I heard it was in 1977, when I watched Kaye Ballard sing it with the Muppets, but many years later I got to know the original, which is unique. I had never seen this live performance of "Oh Babe What Would You Say?" at the Tonight Show, though.
We miss you Norman.
Please check this out ("A Melody You Never Will Forget").
pmpESAS 1 year ago
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pmpESAS 1 year ago
Thank you soooo much for posting one of the most beautiful songs I have EVER heard! I was a little child when I first heard it and wondered if I would find anyone who would make me feel that way-kinda dreamy, you know..We are married now. Thank you so much Hurricane Smith!!!! "Just to walk with you along the Milky Way"..God bless! Oh I miss the '70's. "Bring you flowers every day, oh babe, anyway, what would you say?". Who cares if it's live or not..! Beautiful.
pecheleleaw 1 year ago 2
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foxyroxstar 1 year ago
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foxyroxstar 1 year ago
RIP Norman!! You were way ahead of your time. Thank you for the upload !! This is one of my all time favorites.
GTORAYFORD 1 year ago 24
What a sweet guy! I recall this song from waaaayyy back and at that time it was old!! He's so cute acting and looking! Is this wonderful man still with us?? Anyone out there know??..I truly appreciate this upload! Anytime im feeling a little down i plan to listen to it!
Jumpin4Joyful 1 year ago 2
@Jumpin4Joyful Unfortunately Norman "Hurricane" Smith died a couple of years ago.
2001chip 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
one of the best
eidaful 1 year ago
one of the best
eidaful 1 year ago
Bantaar I have no idea what you're talking about. I didn't see Johnny being at all condescending towards Mr Smith. And the notion that he must've gotten fired for the way he introduced him is hysterical!!...Johnny Carson was the undisputed king of late night TV and nobody today can hold a candle to him and nobody ever will. I miss him greatly
baddiarrhea 1 year ago
@baddiarrhea You have no idea why I thought Johnny Carson was condescending to Hurricane Smith? Well, to tell you the truth... neither have I. I look at the video now, and I look at my comment. It just doesn't make any sense. I guess this was just a rash and poorly thought-through comment, and I feel very badly about it now. I suppose I must have been up at a late hour and getting things confused in my mind, as happens in discussions. Apologies to Mr. Carson and the world for this non-sequiteur.
bantaar 1 year ago 2
@bantaar Johnny Carson sounds a bit tense, but he was often that way; that was one of the things about him that intrigued people. It probably had nothing to do with his opinion of Hurricane Smith. Over the years a number of people were offended by JC, thinking he disliked them. The truth is that while he could be very engaging on-stage, when off-stage he was known as a lonely introvert who wouldn't socialize with anyone. Maybe he was just born that way.
lrd9999 3 months ago
@lrd9999 Oh... that old comment again. Makes me blush, because, as I said, when I reviewed the video and my original comment, I have no idea what I was on about. I know I first felt that Carson seemed a bit dismissive, but I must have been in a strange mood. Didn't even know who Carson was; he's not as well-known here in Europe as in the U.S. Anyway... Hurricane still made a classic pop song with this. And I recently watched a rerun of "Frasier" where Kelsey Grammar put it to great use.
bantaar 3 months ago 2
@bantaar JC was about my father's age, so I'm sure he had to "hold his tongue" at times while introducing "hippie" groups. It's amazing that Smith is 2 years older, though I wouldn't have guessed it, so they probably grew up listening to similar music. This song came out here just before Christmas, so it always makes me think of the trip through what we called the "old face houses" (built in the '20s) to visit retired relatives. Too bad those houses have all gotten hideous makeovers since then.
lrd9999 3 months ago
weeinielongus (sigh): why - given that you have here the ORIGINAL performer of the track a 'lip-synch'!?!? As for the other thing, prior to the MTV era, there were NO outlets for 'music videos.' The only 'videos' prior to the MTV era were either Scopitones, or filmed performances. I don't think this is 'Dixieland' (did you ever hear the record?!?). It's more a throwback to a 20's/30's style band...
uszoninyc 1 year ago 3
What can I say, Uszoninyc, I grew up on Lip-synchs!! I'm a product of 'American Bandstand', 'Hollywood-A-Go-Go', 'Teenarama', 'Where The Action Is', 'Steel Pier', 'The Lloyd Thaxton Show', 'Soul Train', "The Milt Grant Show' and every other program where performers mimicked the same records I could actually go out and buy the next day instead of hearing them trying to do the hit song live, and messing up that 'hit record' sound!! I guess it's just my taste?!?
weenielongus 1 year ago 7
@uszoninyc (From 3 months ago). Actually the info, about the RAF was in his obit. in The Guardian (English newspaper) - "Smith was born in Edmonton, north London. He trained as a glider pilot in the RAF during the second world war, but did not see combat.".
my2doggers 1 year ago
@uszoninyc ummmmm, he's not lip-syching, Carson didn't allow lip-synching on his show, he said " they came, they deserved to be entertained"............and just listen, first of all, you can hear the whole Doc Severinson orchestra behind(next) to him AND this is not the released version
sirwob 11 months ago
Smith along w/Geoff Emerick were the Beatles engineers at Abbey Road
sirwob 11 months ago
@uszoninyc Loved this video. I originally thought this song must be a Cole Porter remake. Sort of the same style. Was surprized to find it an original by Hurricane Smith.
fingertappin61 6 months ago
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QuietusMaximus 5 months ago
Awesome, yet underated!! Hurricane Smith was awesome!!!!!!
watchgeek64 1 year ago
there's hope for us all :-|
drlemoncobra 1 year ago
This song is one of the coolest songs ever!!!
CyanChris 1 year ago 4
He would be 86!!!!! OMFreakin' G!!!!!
joni2691 1 year ago
@joni2691 ...Real name was Norman Smith..Record producer..Died in 2008
hosscat1962 1 year ago
OH BABE WHAT WOULD YOU SAY COMES TO MIND
THEBREEZED 1 year ago
This was the guy Lennon called ''Normal''.Amusingly catchy song.Tuning in to N.B.C. that night,a young Leon Redbone nearly choked on his Quisp saying ""WHY HADDEN I THOUGHTA THAT?''
novicethe 1 year ago 2
There's no doubt that Hurricane made a classic with this song. What I'm wondering is, who is the no-good, stupid, self-satisfied host introducing Hurricane with a condescending, I'm-so-much-better-than-thee eyerolls? That incompetent presenter must have been sacked right away?
bantaar 1 year ago
@bantaar That host is Johnny Carson, who's still considered a legend in America. I'm among the people who think he was an overrated jerk.
MadameLil 1 year ago
@MadameLil Oh! So that's the legendary Johnny Carson! I'd have imagined that he'd be far to professional to let a dislike shine through of somebody he was presenting... guess he may just have had a bad day, tho :)
bantaar 1 year ago
Someone (or something) like Hurricane Smith would never happen in today's music business, I am afraid. The closest thing we had to Hurricane in recent history, I suppose, would be Susan Boyle.
rayjr62 1 year ago
this man was impossibly brave for writing this very naked love song even at the time it was hard to be this straight foreward, i know, i remember.
cheers,
radinkins 1 year ago
I love this song. Little known fact - that is a young John Madden jamming on the sax.
rodaimpaler 1 year ago
@rodaimpaler Don't know where you get your facts from but you are wrong. That is my father Frank Hardcastle on alto sax..
altosaxsolo 1 year ago 4
@altosaxsolo
OMG - that's amazing. He's awesome.
my2doggers 1 year ago 2
@altosaxsolo Saw this info. in Billboard dated Dec. 23, 1972 under Album Reviews. Wow! Was he really your Dad???
my2doggers 1 year ago 2
@altosaxsolo The last posts are my posts about the sax player with Hurricane Smith.
my2doggers 1 year ago
@rodaimpaler See above- the sax player was Frank Hardcastle - Billboard Dec. 23, 1972 under album reviews.
my2doggers 1 year ago
Ahhhhhhhhhh! The 100% Celanese Fortrel Polyester Leisure Suit! I HAD MANY! Where are they now?
Fiftiesflashback 1 year ago
Although I always liked the melody of this number, at 19 I never appreciated how beautiful and expressive the lyrics really are. It's too bad youth is wasted on the young.
Fiftiesflashback 1 year ago
Here I am again listening to Hurricane Smith. I love this song so much.
It conveys to me a feeling of carefree hapiness that takes me back 40 yeras to when I first heard it driving ariound in the BQE, Brooklyn, NY.. My 10 year old daughter has taken a liking for this song too although she still prefers Myles Cyrus...today's kids preferred one. I will stick with Hurricane Smith any time. He is unforgetable!
VIRIATO1942 1 year ago 3
In those days you had to have talent to become famous.
rattan6969 1 year ago 2
What a beautiful man he was. I was only 11 when this song came out and I always have loved it so much. I just love his gravly, raspy tone of voice! Brings a tear to my eye, seeing him here. Rest in Peace Mr. Smith. This song will go on forever!!
MoosicandCritters 1 year ago
Your comment sums up my feeling exactly! Those sure were the good times! Days long gone,but never forgotten!
MoosicandCritters 1 year ago
Ok, is it me only?? The voice does NOT fit him!!! hahahaha! I can picture an old perverted man singing this. :D!
soundwavs1961c 1 year ago
ハリケーンスミスってもっとおっさんかと思った。でもやっぱいいね。
hiroyukitakahashix 1 year ago
@hiroyukitakahashix Very true.
scrumsie 1 year ago
You only had to say the word, and you knew I'd dooooo it!
CurlyCale 1 year ago
sounds like a beattles song!
seadawgie 1 year ago
Hurricane looks good for a 49 year old :-) He could pass for a Hudson Brother.
I love the 70s!!!!!!!
trevor40 1 year ago 2
hankaaron1961
You are right !
This would have been also a great song for Louie Armstrong's raspy voice.
However it is Hurricane's and he made it simple unforgetable..
VIRIATO1942 1 year ago
@VIRIATO1942 Check out Cass Elliott's version.
fairportfan2 1 year ago
@fairportfan2 Sorry but Cass's version ist awful. It isn't her voice but the terrible instrument in the background like a piano from a cheap western. Truly horrendous.
Brownalebelly 1 year ago
@VIRIATO1942 : when I was a Very Young Child growing up, just hearing it on Radio play, I truly thought it was a Louis Armstrong song, but that is so on point!!
jrzyboy926 1 year ago
now thats what i call music.
dinah231 1 year ago
Love his music of the early 70's! Thanx
ComaTwin 1 year ago
Amazing!!!!!!!!!!
tommasino1994 1 year ago
Great!
Baseroet75 1 year ago
Hi All, Here is a great memory from the post Beatles Era, It's Hurricane Smith Live on Johnny Carson's Tonight Show and Sounds Great and Rarely heard live !
beatlebobby59 1 year ago
He also produced the Pink Floyd albums - Piper at the Gates of Dawn, A Saucerful of Secrets and Ummagumma.
shutdafup 1 year ago
OH. i remember this song...Splendiiiiid. Witht donald duck's voice. Thanks
thierry03160 1 year ago
He sounds a little like Redbone
hidoll22 1 year ago
@hidoll22 : funny You should say that, but where I reside in TX, they have a dedicated 70's Radio Station, and they just played Hurricane Smith back-to-back with Redbone.....LoL
jrzyboy926 1 year ago
JackHauss, 110% agreed! We heard Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Billy Vaughn, Simon & Garfunkel, Stevie Wonder, Canned heat, CCR, Beatles, Elvis...all on the same station. That is what it made those days and those radio stations great. There were many crossovers. I can't see why radio doesn't return to that winning formula. Too many masters in the background manipulating those puppet programmers.
musicollector1975 1 year ago
TWO treats in one video! WOW! The fabulous Johnny and Norman singing his great song! Thank you so much. I enjoyed it immensely!
musicollector1975 1 year ago
@musicollector1975 Sorry to disappoint you but the sax player is not Johnny Madden.
altosaxsolo 1 year ago
Great Stuff!
dsurdi 1 year ago
great song
danroy100 1 year ago
You guys are so right. What a shame what's it's all become...
doublerl 1 year ago
I heard this on Sirius 70's this morning and it brought back a great memory. My mom who was from the big band era, would listen to WMTR out of Morristown NJ on a scratchy old AM radio. When this song came on her eyes would light up and she would sit in her chair and dance from the waist up. I agree, simpler times and simpler music. Not once did I hear Hurricane Smith mention "busting a cap" in someone in this song.
Finalannsa 1 year ago 2
A unique and memorable voice !
I often came back to U-Tube just to listen to Hurricane Smith sing this tune.
He was a cool , interesting character and the saxophone solo at the end is simply ....great !
This song brings back good memories of lesser hectic life and it still makes me feel happy when I listen to it.. R.I.P. Hurricane.
VIRIATO1942 1 year ago
Who'd imagine this was the producer of SF Sorrow? :)
MrSirMrSirMr 1 year ago
Love His Voice Simply said
michaellovesthecat 1 year ago
Best Louie Armstrong song Louie Armstrong never did!
hankaaron1961 1 year ago
I remember this song when I was a kid (1972). Not that it matters, but I thought this guy was Black. A good song though. Sounds like a junior Louis Armstrong. Also didn't know he was a sound engineer for the Beatles. Just saw he died in 2008, at age 85.
Ohmeibalzich 1 year ago
Fabulously talented man,Norman 'Hurricane' Smith was the sound engineer for The Beatles- look him up on google. Saw him in concert in Morecambe Lancashire in the early 70's, brilliant show!
TheSkaterclare 1 year ago
Havent heard this song in years, and I have the 45, am 49 the same age as he was with this hit...
Blueeyedgirlie78 1 year ago
I loved that whole album. Kinda similar in some ways to Gilbert O'Sullivan. Very unique sound.
shelly10538 1 year ago
@shelly10538 I guess they collaberated in the early 70's
gordondelma 1 year ago
I agree with you both. I remember this song. My late hubby had the album of it. It's a good one. He's pretty cool for an old dude.. Of course I'm now the age he was back then lol. Back then, the music was good and there was more variety.
cherylharrell1961 1 year ago
I agree with you both. I remember this song. My late hubby had the album of it. It's a good one. He's pretty cool for an old dude.. Of course I'm now the age he was back then lol. Back then, the music was good and there was more variety.
cherylharrell1961 1 year ago
Looking at this clip you wouldnt think mr.smith was an r.a.f. glider pilot during the war and actually took part in the D-Day landings they dont make em like that anymore!...
affectionatepunch 1 year ago