Bill Fay - Salt of the Earth (Official Video)

"Salt of the Earth" by Bill Fay, from his album 'Countless Branches,' out January 17, 2020 on Dead Oceans.

Edited by Miles Johnson

[dawnviolet]

One of the most painfully overlooked artists & songwriters! God bless you Bill Fay

[scottpierce]

So much love for Mr. Fay. Shamefully his records sat in the purgatory of albums that didn't sell. Over the years I have discovered so much great music that just wasn't played on radio. Warren Zevon, Townes Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, Can, Suicide, the Flying Burrito Bros and Gram Parsons, All music I never heard growing up in the 70's and 80's. Hearing Bill Fay for the first time was a revelation. The first song I heard from him was "I hear you calling" and I have celebrated his entire catalog ever since. What an amazing singer, songwriter, artist and human being. I thank Wilco and specifically Jeff Tweedy for introducing me to this artist.

[francishickory]

This is one of the absolute most beautiful songs of all-time. Two years ago when my father was dying, this song played constantly in my head since he was one that Bill was singing about. I'm happy to have lived in the same time as Bill Fay.

[timball]

Bill Fay is my greatest musical discovery of 2024. I literally can’t stop playing his music. Such a tonic for my ears. Delicate, heartfelt, poignant, human. Thank you!

[anandrv]

This song reminds me of my mother. A small woman who has given so much to everyone except herself. Constantly striving, moving, worrying for the rest of us. I know there are many like her in this world and this song reminds me that such people are a great gift to all of us. Thank you Bill.

[joshuabloodsworth]

Bill's voice is like something deep from within the Earth's heart that speaks deeper than just ordinary words. It comes from a place of love, wisdom & understanding.

[RichardKoning]

An honor well-deserved
That phrase reserved
For the salt of the earth
That only Lord knows

They, ain't in magazines
They, ain't all Cinema screens
They're hidden from view
An honor well-deserved

Known by their deeds
In every race or creed
To a child or elderly
Known by their deeds

The salt of the earth
The salt of the earth
Hidden from view

The salt of the earth
The salt of the earth
Hidden from view

[Y]

I was in the same class at school as Bill for 4 years and also knew him at University. He hid his light at that time under a ton of bushels, although I did bump into him once playing and singing in one of College's music rooms, and was blown away! It was only years later that I learned of his prolific song writing talent and moving piano playing

[senseblossomxxx]

Bill Fay, you are a great musician and a great poet

[DreamingInTechnicolor]

His voice, the music, the lyrics... are so hauntingly beautiful!

[robertpowell]

I have only a few artists I listen to that make me weep and move me so deeply, Mr Fay is one of those, can’t wait for the album. God bless you

[chrisaberk]

Great song, great artist, great man.

[dianalauraroblesdeanda]

Es un excelente músico, no entiendo por qué no lo había escuchado antes. Es sabiduría pura, esta canción es pilar de la vida.

[jxazaiobx]

Bill we really like you and your great music ❤️ thanks

[mformiscellaneous]

This man's song touches the deepest part of my heart, and I thought I don't have one.

[nightspore]

Thank you Bill, your music is such a gift.

[AshMar-sb]

I've been brought to tears by this song many times. & I needed it. Thanks Mr Fay

[margroningen]

Tears in my eyes... What a stunning song :)

[Blakeano]

Qué pieza más frágil y sublime.
No conocía a Bill Fay.
Gracias por compartirlo!!

[lphil]

Today I'm discovering these sung poems. I particularly like the sobriety, the piano, the fragility, everything is stronger I like. Thank you for this beautiful interpretation. Deafening