Watch: Umphrey’s McGee Triumphantly Cover “With a Little Help From My Friends”

Rob Slater on December 22, 2014

Today, news came down of the passing of Joe Cocker, one of the most unique and gifted singers ever, known for his distinct, gritty voice. One of Cocker’s best known accomplishments came in the form of his take on The Beatles’ “With a Little Help From My Friends,” which hit number one on the UK charts in 1968.

On New Year’s Eve in 2008, Umphrey’s McGee debuted a cover of the song–Cocker’s version–with the help of the Chicago Mass Choir and Mad Dog’s Filthy Little Secret filling in on horns. The result is the centerpiece of what many consider to be one of the finest shows in Umphrey’s history. The band only played this song once, and there is a reason for that.

Watch the stirring performance below.