Reviews from the era describe Morrison as being in "fine fettle," delivering a faultless performance that makes the audience forget his reputation for being "grumpy" on stage. Why It Still Resonates
Porchester Hall provided a "raucous, rootsy vibe" that contrasted with his more formal appearances at venues like the Royal Albert Hall. Reviews from the era describe Morrison as being
Though Jeff Beck played the blistering solo on the studio album, Van carries the live performance with a "solid" vocal delivery, often supplemented by his own "functional noodling" on the saxophone and harmonica. While Cooke’s 1962 original is a smooth, pleading
While Cooke’s 1962 original is a smooth, pleading ballad, Morrison’s 2017 live rendition is a "riveting," soaring powerhouse. Critics have noted that Van doesn't just sing the song; he inhabits it, adding his signature "Celtic R&B" growl and a "passion for the material" that proves his voice remains vital well into his 70s. This particular performance captured on YouTube serves as
Whether you're a lifelong "Van the Man" devotee or a soul music enthusiast, this 2017 clip is a "must-watch," showcasing a master at work in an environment that feels both historic and immediate.
This particular performance captured on YouTube serves as a reminder that Morrison is one of the few living artists who can "grab a cover by the neck and really make it his own". Fans and critics alike from Rolling Stone to AllMusic praised the performance for expanding his legacy rather than simply resting on it.
In the summer of 2017, the legendary Van Morrison took the stage at London’s intimate Porchester Hall to film a series of live videos for his 37th studio album, Roll with the Punches . Among the setlist’s heavy hitters—including Bo Diddley covers and his own "Transformation"—his performance of Sam Cooke’s stands out as a masterclass in blue-eyed soul . The Performance: Raw and Riveting
Reviews from the era describe Morrison as being in "fine fettle," delivering a faultless performance that makes the audience forget his reputation for being "grumpy" on stage. Why It Still Resonates
Porchester Hall provided a "raucous, rootsy vibe" that contrasted with his more formal appearances at venues like the Royal Albert Hall.
Though Jeff Beck played the blistering solo on the studio album, Van carries the live performance with a "solid" vocal delivery, often supplemented by his own "functional noodling" on the saxophone and harmonica.
While Cooke’s 1962 original is a smooth, pleading ballad, Morrison’s 2017 live rendition is a "riveting," soaring powerhouse. Critics have noted that Van doesn't just sing the song; he inhabits it, adding his signature "Celtic R&B" growl and a "passion for the material" that proves his voice remains vital well into his 70s.
Whether you're a lifelong "Van the Man" devotee or a soul music enthusiast, this 2017 clip is a "must-watch," showcasing a master at work in an environment that feels both historic and immediate.
This particular performance captured on YouTube serves as a reminder that Morrison is one of the few living artists who can "grab a cover by the neck and really make it his own". Fans and critics alike from Rolling Stone to AllMusic praised the performance for expanding his legacy rather than simply resting on it.
In the summer of 2017, the legendary Van Morrison took the stage at London’s intimate Porchester Hall to film a series of live videos for his 37th studio album, Roll with the Punches . Among the setlist’s heavy hitters—including Bo Diddley covers and his own "Transformation"—his performance of Sam Cooke’s stands out as a masterclass in blue-eyed soul . The Performance: Raw and Riveting