About the song
Roy Buchanan was a guitarist like no other. His mastery of the electric guitar earned him a reputation as one of the greatest and most soulful players in the world. Buchanan’s ability to express deep emotions through his instrument set him apart, and nowhere is this more evident than in his live performance of “The Messiah Will Come Again” from 1976.
This song is often considered Buchanan’s signature piece. It is a haunting, instrumental track that showcases his remarkable skill and emotional depth. “The Messiah Will Come Again” is more than just a song; it is an experience. Buchanan’s guitar speaks, weeps, and sings with a voice that is uniquely his own. He takes the listener on a journey through sorrow, hope, and ultimately, redemption.
The 1976 live performance of this piece is particularly significant. Buchanan’s live shows were known for their intensity, and this performance captures that intensity in its purest form. The way he plays the guitar is almost like a conversation between the instrument and the soul. His use of volume swells, bends, and harmonics creates a sound that is both ethereal and deeply moving.
As you listen to this live version, you can hear the raw emotion in every note. Buchanan plays with a sense of urgency, as if he is pouring out his heart through the strings of his guitar. The audience is captivated, and you can feel the connection between the performer and his listeners. This is a moment of pure musical expression, where the artist and his instrument become one.
“The Messiah Will Come Again” is a testament to Roy Buchanan’s genius. It is a piece that transcends time and continues to resonate with listeners today. Buchanan’s ability to convey profound emotion through his guitar makes this live performance a truly unforgettable experience. For those who appreciate the power of music to touch the soul, this performance is a must-hear.
Video
Lyrics
Just a smile, just a glance
The prince of darkness
He just walked past
There’s been a lot of evil
There’ve been a lot of sayin’
But this time I’m gonna tell it my way
There was a town
There’s this strange, little town, they called ‘The World’
It’s a lovely, lovely little town
‘Til one day a stranger appeared
And their hearts rejoiced
And the sad little town was happy again
But there were some that doubted
They disbelieved, so they mocked him
And the stranger, he went away
Now the sad little town that was sad yesterday
Is a lot sadder today
I walked in a lot of places that I’ve never should have been
But I know that the Messiah, He will come again