''First National Bank'' (a tribute to BradCampbell63)

''First National Bank'' is a good example of what makes Brad Campbell's music so special. I don't think I've ever heard a more passionate performance or a better song than this one. But it's just one of - how many now, Brad? I believe the number is 79 and counting.

http://www.youtube.com/BradCampbell63

Brad: This video is dedicated to you - both then and now. You have that rarest of gifts - the ability to live in the present moment. It shines through in everything you do and everything you say - it permeates your lyrics and your melodies - also your performances. It shines through you! You also have another rare gift - the ability to observe and record the smallest of things that most of us miss. You give significance and meaning to the small things that have meant something big to someone else along the way - and you immortalize those things through your songs and your music. You are a good friend - you are a treasure - and I love you, bro!

There also isn't a better musician around anywhere than you, nor a more pleasant, endearing human being. It's truly an honor to know you. As I have gotten to know you during the past two years, you have become my brother. I would give the world to keep you here forever but that is a selfish wish and is just not to be. I pray for your health and well being, for your family and friends, for all of us. I am in tears as I write this, and I cried the whole time I was making this video. You are the heart of all of us, Brad - such a beautiful spirit and a good friend. You are truly ''the wanderer.'' I hope you like this video. Warning! Warning! There will be others..... :)

''First National Bank'' is a song that has the power of hope and redemption, observation and recording. Is there anything more human than these? It is astounding to know that the Vancouver downtown east side will soon be no more. Where will those people go? Who will have them? The same exact thing happened to poor black families in Atlanta when the 1996 Olympics was held there. God help us all if we cannot care for our weakest members! What's that old adage about the chain only being as strong as its weakest link? Sighs and eye rolls and many shakings of the head.
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Here are Brad's original words that accompanied ''First National Bank'' ... original song #23 which was uploaded to YouTube on April 22, 2007:

(inner city street commentary)

Inspired by some time I spent down on Vancouver's downtown east-side about 17 years ago...

(chorus) Jesus saves his money at the First National Bank.
Jesus saves his money at the First National Bank.

Sign said go west young man-lots of work out that way. Only problem was I took me with me on the bus. Some things never change-same man in a different place...I was hoping to leave my habits behind. (chorus)

Got to town-they said we don't hire longhairs.
Can''t get a check without an address. Just doing the kitchen shuffle from mission to mission. Well weather ain't bad...worse ways to spend the day. I heard the next mission is giving something out for free. (chorus)

Looking at the sun going down over the curb. Maybe time for the big swim...when I spied graffiti across the road. Some artist had put up there...in letters 40 feet square...''Jesus Saves'' on the side of the First National Bank. (chorus)
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[missingremote]

Poor bums. Almost as good as Mr. seasick Steve.

[suuzzee5]

The displaced persons in this video have all my prayers and compassion. There are so many people in this world who have so little. Brad Campbell gives them voices, honors their lives with songs and his gentle presence. Thank you so much for listening and commenting.

[WhenDogsSing]

Now that's my type of song...What a line...Ha! Ha! Ha!  Very well done...a great musician indeed...!!!

[suuzzee5]

:) I couldn't agree with you more! LOVE Brad's music!

[not4nothing1982]

this kind of Guitar-playing and singing reminds me of the movie "The Horse Whisperer", such a quiet and peaceful athmosphere. I really really like it! MAX (-:

[122099]

haha ne so war dat jetz nich gemeint :D :D

[suuzzee5]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the music and the video. Suze

[122099]

wat kann man denn daran gut finden???

[suuzzee5]

Thank you so very much!  Suze

[guitarflamenco77]

Pure awesomeness!