True with the racists we have in office now! They continue to divide us into racial, sexual, gender tribes to wage war against each other to keep them in power.
The repetition of the lyrics is also part of the message. You see the same things over and over in the news and nothing changes, that's the purpose of the repetition
especially with this song. returning to that after every verse sets up a timeline. we wake up to something, know how fucked it is, and then return to just falling in line. then we find out about more shit, and then fall in line. and it just keeps going and going.
and this came out in '92! I heard someone once say "The best thing about RATM is they are always relevant. The saddest thing about RATM is that they are always relevant."
I read the lyrics to this song in a high school during the poetry unit and when I was done, the teacher did not look happy. It was one of the best days in high school.
I had to give an oral report in a business class on Sony or whoever their label is/was. We had to to use props, so I made a cd with different portions of RATM songs and I ended it right before the Fuck you I won’t do what you tell me part. Other students were getting excited to hear that in class right before it ended. They were disappointed not to hear it. 😂
It’s crazy to think so many of their “fans” missed the messages in their music that were always in plain sight, thinking “fuck you, I won’t do what you tell me” was a line about their parents telling them to tidy their room.
Seeing everyone's realization how deep this song is....... epic!!! Will admit it does hit deeper for all people of color. Together we can rise up against racism and hate tomake the world a better place ✊🏽✊🏿✊
@@hunglikeahorse---fly RATM speak to oppressed people from all walks of life. Saying it hits deeper for people of certain skin tones is completely not what they are about. Anyone who has been beat down by the man has an equal right to dig this shit regardless of skin colour.
Not nearly as funny as right wingers yeeling that they should "stay out of politics" this shit was 1991 as a reaction to rodney king. What machine did folks think they were raging against?
RAtM should be basic education for every black person and marginalized group. Sedating all these groups is how the fuckheads keep power. The Rage is the only way to make change.
This song is exactly what it says. They wrote it and were inspired by what was going on with Rodney King as they’re from Los Angeles and were living through it. This is the same band that went on stage at Lollapalooza in 1993 in Philadelphia completely nude to protest censorship.
Ah yes. Saw both Rage and Tool during that 93 Lollapalooza tour (but in St. Louis and not naked) and have been hooked on both since. I think Rage was the first in the lineup and Tool was relatively unknown and on the side stage. Both never cease to amaze.
Ahband the lyrics of this song are not better to racial discrimination. It is discriminating because of a percentage in the forces, that ate distant monority but get unequal media exposure.
@@innosanto but you have to admit that Forces take an awful long time to admit there is a minority of hateful personell, and then do something about it. If you just let it run like this and not weed out those, you´re complicit. period.
That's exactly what it was about. Burning crosses in yards were done to one minority group. They were pointing out the horrible atrocity, and the people that basically said what happened to Rodney King was justified. Which it was not. He was hand cuffed on the ground, and those officers beat him with night sticks, and kicked him. It was all on video for everyone to see. They tried to justify it by saying Rodney was a bad person. Horrible!
“We are one literal race.” Absolutely! Skin color is no bigger difference than eye color. We’re one people and should act like it and not let them divide us.
Eventually, in the US everyone will have the same skin color ... Only difference will be whether you're in the north or south, but we'll all look the same one day. No different than how any other nationality formed unique physical traits.
Race isn't about the color of your skin, it's about cultural heritage, what kind of stuff do you preserve for the future. If you ignore race, and claim we are all one race, what you are really saying is that Black culture isn't something worth preserving, but it needs to be amalgamated into some homogenous culture. This song is a BLM anthem, it's not for Republicans.
@@annaclarafenyo8185 That is nonsense. "Black culture" isn't a thing anywhere but in the US. There are wildly different cultures throughout Africa just like there are wildly different cultures throughout Europe. Your skin color does not determine your culture. The environment you grow up in does.
@@jbird4478 Black culture indeed means US Black culture, which is recognized all over the world. So much so that you can ask for "Black music" in some countries, and they'll play you American R&B and Hip Hop! I find that funny. If you want West African music you have to say "Kora music" or "Bali Music please", not "Black music".
"and now you do what they told ya" There's a live version of this song where Zach starts by repeating "They use force to make you do, what the deciders have decided you will do"
This one of the most iconic protest songs ever written. The lyrics are still just as pertinent today as they were nearly 30 years ago. Love your reactions man ❤️
One of my favorite things about this song is that he repeats every lyric several times and it's impossible to miss the message if you're listening for it... and the message is an important one.
He also repeats it like a parent teaching a toddler, slow and deliberate, influxed, and meant to drill in, then enraged in the last repeat to drive the point home.
I feel like the delivery of these lyrics and in particular the repetition and pace of the song is sort of a clever commentary on this and also sort of a deliberate counter-programming. They teach police to speak to citizens or suspects a certain way to sort of overwhelm or deactivate critical thinking and easily gain your compliance, and part of that training is to give commands loudly, with a sense of urgency, and repeat them. “Get on the ground! Get on the ground! Get on the ground!” The way vocals are delivered here reminds me of that tactic, and I wonder if that’s not intentional.
I am an Indian guy from mumbai and i never got the “burning crosses” lyric until i started to watch these reaction videos done by brothers. I have a whole new level of appreciation and never thought my love for this song could grow more! Stay blessed bro thanks🤟🏼🤟🏼
@@joezuu Yea thats really the sad thing. It has been relevant forever... and looking at the way things go this song might still be relevant in 50 or 100 years. I hope it wont, I really do. But I´m not too optimistic
always relevant. The only difference is how aware people are about it. Its just harder to see when you have the status quo and no one that shakes the establishment. In a way Trump "era" being so divisive made the seems of the shit system more visible while Obama, most people were snoozing along. Its always the same, just less obvious at times and framed in different way. If your routine isn't disturbed, you are less inclined to look at the wrong shit that is going on.
Not only are you well-versed in a sense of vocabulary, you are level-headed and analytical as well as tactful and to-the-point. Idk if you have kids, man, but if you do, they will grow up in an environment that is peak for learning both academically and emotionally. Easiest subscribe button I've ever pressed.
I agree. I was just browsing one video abd I couldn’t leave. I find myself to be an intellectual but until another is in the room you can’t back Snd forth to deeper understanding of a subject. I’ve been watching for an hour and I’ve learned so much from s brilliant thoughtful man who has listened to my music I’ve held dear forever for a few moments.
fun fact: this song was Christmas No1 in the charts (Uk) back in the early 2000's. The British public had had enough of X factor winners being Christmas no1 so turned to the ultimate protest song to sort things out. Rage being the legends that they are put on a few free shows in the UK to say thanks. They don't do bands like this anymore.
Another fun fact. When it went to number one, the BBC had them live on the radio and they promised not to do the F you ending but guess what the boys did! lol
Johnny Cash, The Man In Black. Black Sabbath, War Pigs. Metallica, just about everything they did before 1994. Iron Maiden, Rammstein, Disturbed. Rage has never been alone. Most people just don't pay attention.
Best tweet ever. After someone complained about him being political. "One does not have to be an honours grad in political science from Harvard University to recognise the unethical and inhumane nature of this administration but well, I happen to be an honours grad in political science from Harvard University, so I can confirm that for you"
I don't know if anyone said this yet, but there is a live version where he adds a line to the chorus. "Some of those who hold office, Are the same that burns crosses."
Yep and the current POTUS in 2024 that the down troden masses clamor to as a hero also worshiped and and looked up to Sheets Byrd as a hero.....but hey lets ignore that side note since he has a big D next to his name.
Theres a hilarious performance of them playing this on BBC. Zack "fuck you i wont do what you tell me". Then it cuts off back to the anchors "we told him not to say it" lol (like no shit listen to the lyrics hahahaha)
It's even funnier when you know that they were not going to perform that section, out of courtesy, knowing it would be broadcast during the day on the UK's biggest radio station but when one of the radio station executives made the decision to tell them that were expressly forbidden to swear.... well........ you know how well that was going to go down.
I sobbed and threw up watching the video of George Floyd. I wasn’t old enough to clearly remember the Rodney King riots. The Asian hate videos send me into a panic. My husband is Asian and my kid is mixed. We want to move back to the states. I get fetishized here for being white, weirdly enough, and also get racist treatment. He has always dreamed of attaining that American Dream and it’s just a weird spot to be in.
“That thin blue line”. As a white woman I grew up painfully, embarrassingly sheltered until I got out on my own in college, started listening to radio stations that played older songs like this in this genre, and then newer ones in the same genre. This is the first time I’ve hear it called the thin blue line, and wow, it makes a lot of sense. Thank you. I’ve been learning a lot today watching reaction videos to this brilliant af song. I’ve loved RATM and knew what this song was about for a long time, but this just goes to show you can never stop learning. Ever.
It’s probably already mentioned in the comments, but the original lyrics was «Some of those that HOLD OFFICE Are the same that burn crosses» But the record label reportedly refused to let them publish it.
There's not a single bad or irrelevant song in their whole catalog. Especially the first two albums. Just pick any song at random and it'll be a mind-blowing banger.
I really appreciate that you take the time and effort to analyze the lyrics of the music you listen to. It gives a deeper understanding to those watching your videos, and makes you stand out from so many other reaction channels. Keep up the great work!
PLEASE ALL REMEMBER: That in 2009 this song became the UK's Christmas No. 1 breaking the yearly tradition of Simon Cowell's power grab at this spot. What's better, is that the band played the song live, streamed from Los Angeles, on the BBC's Radio 5 Live show - a rather PC and placid show. It's possibly the best live performance on air ever for the simple reason that the band knew they would get cut for using the f-bomb in the outro lyrics "F*!? you, I won't do as you tell me" and were asked not to use it. The band obliged during the quiet build-up to the outro, luring the BBC producers into a false sense of security, but then dropped said bad word together when the instruments explode, beautifully re-delivering the message it was written to send. The full cut BBC studio version can be found here: th-cam.com/video/n6njrf_zHfw/w-d-xo.html and the uncut LA studio version here: th-cam.com/video/SfZGUdcBBLc/w-d-xo.html . True artists. True passion. True revolutionaries. PS: Love and Respect to MrLboyd
A good cop is very quickly no longer either a cop or no longer good. Either they get fired, killed, or otherwise silenced if they are good and try to stand up against injustice - or they become complicit in the injustice
Imagine being a parent to a young teenage RATM fan during the early 90’s, blasting the end of this song in their room when being told to do the dishes 😂
My sister called me a “bad mother” for letting my son listen to Rage and NWA, WHATEVER he wanted to listen to. No censorship. He grew up to be a kind, very smart, and VERY well rounded. RAGE is one of my favorites, I’m 62.
Headphones = I listened to so much music, I went through so many Walkmans and headphones, I think the owner of the shop where I bought them could probably have bought a holiday villa somewhere with the profits hahaha..... I don't know how I have perfect hearing the damage I have inflicted on my poor ears over the years, so no my parents didn't know exactly what I was listening to.
I like the later installment of the song too. Second verse is, “Some of those that burn crosses, are the same that hold office.” RATM is probably the best show I’ve ever been able to see. It was 9/3/08 during the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis MN which was located across the street from the venue. Riot police were ready but frontman, Zach, urged everyone to leave peacefully as to not portray what was depicted of the following. Amazing show. Everyone left peacefully and it wasn’t until hours after the show that mild interactions occurred.
Another aspect of the "Now you do what they told you" comes through in the live performance. The crowd will sing along, essentially under the control of Zach. The trick is to answer back with "Now you're under control" before he does.
Hard to find other content like this, Rage Against the Machine is amazingly unique. Someone once asked me about this song "Killing in the Name of.... what?" I could only reply with "Exactly. What are they killing for? For WHAT?" Excellent commentary my man, as usual you are a gentlemen and a scholar. I think RAtM would be nodding their heads listening to you explain their song.
My goodness this brings back so many memories. I was just a young teen when the song came out but I remember loving it when I’d hear snippets of it. I was super sheltered so that meant hating the “chosen music” I’m so glad u got and explained this song. It’s so simple in lyrics but my god it’s a deep song with the message it conveys.
@@allysonsmith1087 Nah, arguably slightly less so. We've just got more video to highlight it and hold the parties responsible (hopefully). Don't get me wrong - there's A LOT to be done, but things were worse in the 90s when everyone didn't have cell phone cameras and high speed internet
It's been relevant as long as police departments existed. Originally, they were organizations for catching escaped slaves, and they never stopped being organizations that exist for the purpose of reinforcing racial hierarchies.
No, it is not sad. 30 years ago i refused to visit the U.S..... today it is much easier to explain to people i don't want to visit the U.S..... don't get me wrong, i am dying to see many things out there.... i just don't want to help/pay the shitty economics installed
I always just thought “and now you do what they toldja “ was just “you (citizen ) are compliant and the loop continues”. The loop is not broken until it meets resistance.
Agree. I also think that "!" between "They/you justify" and "those that died" in the previous parts really messed up his interpretation. THEY (forces) justify internally, as in "internal affairs ruled the death justifiable homicide", then YOU (society) justify it externally, by letting the cycle continue "shielded" behind badges of authority.
I absolutely love your videos! And I love that you've discovered RaTM. Their music is absolutely timeless, and is more needed now than ever before. And for you to be sharing it with your audience does our nation a whole lot of good! Hopefully you are part of opening someones eyes to the truth. Thank you for what you do, sir.
Basically you're gonna need to go through the entire rage discography cuz there's not a bad song in there. This is the shit i crank up when i see trump bumper sticker
this is such a good review man appreciate this alot Zach expressed himself is such rage that it was expressed through lyrics instaed of voilence and this just shows that the power of voice cannot be overtaken
I was 22 when this song first came out. If you're not of similar age, you have no idea just how radical this song and this band was when this album first dropped. The truly sad and depressing thing is that this song is *just* as relevant *NOW* as it was then.
Actually the saddest part is that Tom Morello forgot that it's relevant, and has completely lowered the impact of this song by 100% supporting the sociopathic killers today.
Yup, you got it. I’ll never forget when this album was released and this song was played and when i saw them play it live. It grabbed me and a generation never let go, that was 30 years ago. I played this intentionally to my children since the day they were born.
Remember when they were banned from playing? Wasn't it at the Democratic Convention? That's why I love it when my younger friends say, "Oh the nineties seem to be such a wonderful time..." The music was AMAZING, true, but there was a reason for that--People were PISSED OFF!!
The censorship was heavy. I think it's one of the reasons for the massage at the end, to continue the shock value for those that would be clutching their pearls.
This is really well-done. Really good ideas you're spitting. With facts. As many times as I've heard this song, you made me re-think it. Thank you. Subscribed immediately.
I first heard this song in 1993 (in Ireland, where back then things took a little longer to get to us) when I was 14/15, and have screamed that song so many times since, it was before it's time and is timeless. Who knew that when they wrote the song that it would be still so relevant just shy of 30 years later. Seeing comments from different people from different countries and backgrounds where it is still the cry of protest against regime's and governments who still profit from the poor and oppressed. This song doesn't have many words to remember and yes they are repeated, but those words are decisive in their message, bringing people together against injustice. And yes MrLBoyd, RATM are not a conventional metal band, they cross genre's in such a way it sounds pleasing to a lot of people's ears.
I love this guy, very analytical in his analysis of the songs and clearly demonstrates he may not be completely right in his interpretation in regards to the artist. Good reviews all around as far as I've heard.
I believe there is an alternate lyric from a live show in the second verse that changes to "some of those that burn crosses. Are the same that hold office" Also "know your enemy" or "sleep now in the fire" would be great for your next RATM song
This song is the best example of Zack implementing the technique of BRANDING , another example: at the end of know your enemy when he repeats ALL OF WHICH ARE AMERICAN DREAMS 8 times. Branding is more commonly associated with politics “yes we can” but in this case zack’s use lyrically is brilliant as usual. Now you do what they told ya is Zack pointing out the mindless compliance we all have and usually display to those forces, some of whom burn crosses...if this is who we are okay complying to, no wonder the same issues continue to happen. Zack is a poet.
@@restojon1 no worries! I’m happy to share. Zack is the brilliant one to use the technique as he did. I’m glad someone else who knew told me about it too.
Thank you bringing awareness to the direct relationships between wealth inequality, social class, and the problems that result, like much worse health outcomes even while controlling for things like behavior. Great perspectives as always and enjoy the genuine conversations that can bridge many different experiences into our common struggles rather than passing blame towards each other. It's not that the issues aren't present horizontally, they certainly are; it's that the cause of that dysfunction is vertical relative to our shared position. Sorry for the novel, these are the things I study and they're all very interesting. Tldr: dope reaction like always.
Ah man, the class issue. THANK YOU. I appreciate your point of view. It’s always been about race,first and foremost But it’s never affected white people the same way. But class systems are damaging to populations as well. The reason minoritized populations don’t always see it is because they have always been forced to be there. I also appreciate your history of MF. I wish more people knew. Thank you for the knowledge you bring.
I'd love for you to break down some System of a Down songs. The lyrics are heavy with sociopolitical commentary, and the music is a mix of alt rock/metal + Armenian cultural influence. Beautiful harmonies juxtaposed with intense rock/metal riffs. And Serj got bars.
My favourite band, bringing out the truth about The Armenian Genocide, the documentary was (I don't have one word, it just brings up so many emotions), Serj's grandfather going back to where he was from which is now in East Turkey, explaining that he was the only one of his family that survived the killings, so very sad.
Serj got pipes, too. I love SOAD. The 1990’s were the days when we could talk about, shine light on, step up for, and call out all the “little” injustices of the world.
I was coming to comment similarly. It makes logical sense as slaves were viewed similar to livestock. Humans are horrible. The ages prove it over and over.
Might well be! I'm a big fan of RATM and it's definitely in my RATM mix but I do find myself not gravitating to it as much as some of the more bombastic ones. That opening guitar riff though... Ooh that one's a killer
Oh man I'm really loving your pauses to analyze way further into the verses. So so good. Also, I did NOT knew that thing about the mf word. Now I feel weird at how commonly used that is. Because there is literally an equivalent expression in spanish holy shit
That short solo near the end is probably one of the most iconic guitar solos in rock history, just grabbing it by the hairs and YANKING till that Telecaster is SCREAMING.
Best RATM reactions by a landslide, something I can actually share with my daughter the history buff that not only helps her see what my generation was about but find common ground in views on a platform that interests her gen. Even learn a few things by the commentary! Excellent, thank you !
This is one of my favorite all time songs since it first came out. I got a killer stereo system in my truck with a couple 12's some mid bass woofers mid range speakers and tweeters running on 4 amps and dsp and I crank this song to the max and it jams I Love It!
Just a little more information about this song for you MrLboyd Reacts. In 2009 there was a movement to get this song to beat the X Factors hold on the number one song list. The fans voted and they won. Then they traveled to the UK and preformed an unedited version live on BBc Radio.
They also put all of the profits from those Xmas Number 1 sales to charity and put on a free gig in Finsbury Park, where they took the piss out of Simon Cowell some more. Gallows was one of the supporting bands (support bands were voted by fans, really cool) - Gallows put out Grey Britain in 2009, a concept album based on post-credit crunch Britain that's worth a listen.
I've always interpreted the phrase "Now you do what they told you" as a reference to the phrase "if you just obey the cops then nothing bad will happen" But even those who obey get shot and the killing is "justified" as the song says
If you are new to RATM you have to understand that this song is the climax to a concert of anti establishment songs that would be performed and bring the energy to a point at the concert that you didn't need many lyrics... the songs energy and simple lyrics was the finale to the night and closure of the energy of the set... and usually the establishment as the energy in this song would usually literally tear the house down.
Rage against the machine is one of my favorite bands from the 90"s I seen them open for U2 at Clemson's death valley stadium and I seen Woo Tang clan open for them. Just a great hip hop rock band. I'm glad so many people are taking an interest in their music once again
Sometimes live he'd sing "Some of those that burn crosses, are the same that hold office"
I'm not totally fluent in english, could you (or anybody) please explain what this "that hold office" means? It doesn't make much sense to my ears
@@karenalves1156 government officials, such as mayors, presidents, prime ministers, anyone that holds a political position essentially.
Those are the original lyrics! They had to change them because their label forced them to, but they still often sing them live.
True with the racists we have in office now! They continue to divide us into racial, sexual, gender tribes to wage war against each other to keep them in power.
@@BRDNYT thank you!!
The repetition of the lyrics is also part of the message. You see the same things over and over in the news and nothing changes, that's the purpose of the repetition
THIS exactly.
100% the message is so important to RATM they did not want to water the message down by even a drop. We mean this and nothing else.
Well said.
Because propaganda is based around repetition.
especially with this song. returning to that after every verse sets up a timeline. we wake up to something, know how fucked it is, and then return to just falling in line. then we find out about more shit, and then fall in line. and it just keeps going and going.
and this came out in '92! I heard someone once say "The best thing about RATM is they are always relevant. The saddest thing about RATM is that they are always relevant."
From Rodney King to Mr. Floyd
Is that the best thing about RATM or the worst thing about our society?
I was born in '92. I'm almost thirty now and it's still goddamn relevant.
I would say the worst thing is that they now stand with those in power despite this all being still true.
@@vanessastuller8121 yep. They are now SHEEP. But at least no one seems to care 🤔😂
"Failing in their hiring practices" was a very generous way of putting it.
The laws are systematically bad. They lock people in prison cells and then give them a criminal record for non-violent acts.
I read the lyrics to this song in a high school during the poetry unit and when I was done, the teacher did not look happy. It was one of the best days in high school.
God forbid we express free thought or interests in a controlled environment.
I had to give an oral report in a business class on Sony or whoever their label is/was. We had to to use props, so I made a cd with different portions of RATM songs and I ended it right before the Fuck you I won’t do what you tell me part. Other students were getting excited to hear that in class right before it ended. They were disappointed not to hear it. 😂
I love RATM but I would fuckin cringe if someone read their songs for an English class lmao. I don't blame your teacher, you sound like an edgelord.
I teach school and you would've gotten an automatic A.
@@cm9241 I'm not sure what an edgelord is but I'm sure you're a troll.
Rage awakened a thirst for justice in me when I was a teen. The older I get, the more I understand their music and the more I agree with them.
Some people have no idea what this song is about and just bang their head. This dude gets it in under 30 seconds!
There's only like 5 lines in the whole song lmao.
@@trev6783 you just made his point, completely ignored what the song is about
Looking at you, Paul Ryan.....
It’s crazy to think so many of their “fans” missed the messages in their music that were always in plain sight, thinking “fuck you, I won’t do what you tell me” was a line about their parents telling them to tidy their room.
@@DJ563 Exactly!!! Go to hell mom and dad!!! I’m not making my bed!! 🤣🤣🤣
As a black man, it's always funny seeing the brothas go- "whaaa" when they listen to RATM lyrics.
Seeing everyone's realization how deep this song is....... epic!!!
Will admit it does hit deeper for all people of color.
Together we can rise up against racism and hate tomake the world a better place ✊🏽✊🏿✊
Totally true.
@@hunglikeahorse---fly RATM speak to oppressed people from all walks of life. Saying it hits deeper for people of certain skin tones is completely not what they are about. Anyone who has been beat down by the man has an equal right to dig this shit regardless of skin colour.
Not nearly as funny as right wingers yeeling that they should "stay out of politics" this shit was 1991 as a reaction to rodney king. What machine did folks think they were raging against?
RAtM should be basic education for every black person and marginalized group. Sedating all these groups is how the fuckheads keep power. The Rage is the only way to make change.
This song is exactly what it says. They wrote it and were inspired by what was going on with Rodney King as they’re from Los Angeles and were living through it. This is the same band that went on stage at Lollapalooza in 1993 in Philadelphia completely nude to protest censorship.
like the tool video where they neked
Ah yes. Saw both Rage and Tool during that 93 Lollapalooza tour (but in St. Louis and not naked) and have been hooked on both since. I think Rage was the first in the lineup and Tool was relatively unknown and on the side stage. Both never cease to amaze.
Ahband the lyrics of this song are not better to racial discrimination. It is discriminating because of a percentage in the forces, that ate distant monority but get unequal media exposure.
@@innosanto but you have to admit that Forces take an awful long time to admit there is a minority of hateful personell, and then do something about it. If you just let it run like this and not weed out those, you´re complicit. period.
That's exactly what it was about. Burning crosses in yards were done to one minority group. They were pointing out the horrible atrocity, and the people that basically said what happened to Rodney King was justified. Which it was not. He was hand cuffed on the ground, and those officers beat him with night sticks, and kicked him. It was all on video for everyone to see. They tried to justify it by saying Rodney was a bad person. Horrible!
“We are one literal race.” Absolutely! Skin color is no bigger difference than eye color. We’re one people and should act like it and not let them divide us.
Eventually, in the US everyone will have the same skin color ... Only difference will be whether you're in the north or south, but we'll all look the same one day. No different than how any other nationality formed unique physical traits.
I agree if races were treated the same !!! But in America black peoples are targeted!!! That’s what this song is about!!
Race isn't about the color of your skin, it's about cultural heritage, what kind of stuff do you preserve for the future. If you ignore race, and claim we are all one race, what you are really saying is that Black culture isn't something worth preserving, but it needs to be amalgamated into some homogenous culture. This song is a BLM anthem, it's not for Republicans.
@@annaclarafenyo8185 That is nonsense. "Black culture" isn't a thing anywhere but in the US. There are wildly different cultures throughout Africa just like there are wildly different cultures throughout Europe. Your skin color does not determine your culture. The environment you grow up in does.
@@jbird4478 Black culture indeed means US Black culture, which is recognized all over the world. So much so that you can ask for "Black music" in some countries, and they'll play you American R&B and Hip Hop! I find that funny. If you want West African music you have to say "Kora music" or "Bali Music please", not "Black music".
This song is played now in Colombia 🇨🇴 during protest 🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻
It's unreal what's going on there. And by unreal i mean way too real.
🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Solidarity with you.
Fuerza Colombia!
About time. America has had its fingers in theColombian pie since the 90’s...
I have cherished this as my favorite protest song for 30 years. And I STILL keep getting more revelations from it. It's so simple and deep.
If you haven’t done it yet, you may like their song “Know Your Enemy”.
I say this, or the official "Sleep Now in the Fire" music video.
Yes. This... Both of these
def this has Maynard in it amazing
... I sure like it!!!
Yes, I know my enemy... they're the teachers that taught me to fight me.
"and now you do what they told ya"
There's a live version of this song where Zach starts by repeating "They use force to make you do, what the deciders have decided you will do"
And that version is just incredible. Arguably better than the studio.
Must
He was 24 (I think) during that performance. It was incredible.
This one of the most iconic protest songs ever written. The lyrics are still just as pertinent today as they were nearly 30 years ago. Love your reactions man ❤️
and isn't that the sad thing this song came out nearly 30 ago, and it could be written today with zero change needed
One of my favorite things about this song is that he repeats every lyric several times and it's impossible to miss the message if you're listening for it... and the message is an important one.
He also repeats it like a parent teaching a toddler, slow and deliberate, influxed, and meant to drill in, then enraged in the last repeat to drive the point home.
"now you do what they told ya" refers to the teaching of of compliance even when you know your rights are being broken.
I feel like the delivery of these lyrics and in particular the repetition and pace of the song is sort of a clever commentary on this and also sort of a deliberate counter-programming. They teach police to speak to citizens or suspects a certain way to sort of overwhelm or deactivate critical thinking and easily gain your compliance, and part of that training is to give commands loudly, with a sense of urgency, and repeat them. “Get on the ground! Get on the ground! Get on the ground!” The way vocals are delivered here reminds me of that tactic, and I wonder if that’s not intentional.
Yes especially BLACK PEOPLE in this instance…. This isn’t some tee party call to action bullshit
I am an Indian guy from mumbai and i never got the “burning crosses” lyric until i started to watch these reaction videos done by brothers. I have a whole new level of appreciation and never thought my love for this song could grow more! Stay blessed bro thanks🤟🏼🤟🏼
it's haunting how RATM's album from almost 30 yrs ago is so relevant right now.
Thats because the same thing happening now was happening then but 10 fold.
It would have been relevant 1000 years in the past.
@@joezuu Yea thats really the sad thing. It has been relevant forever... and looking at the way things go this song might still be relevant in 50 or 100 years. I hope it wont, I really do. But I´m not too optimistic
always relevant. The only difference is how aware people are about it. Its just harder to see when you have the status quo and no one that shakes the establishment. In a way Trump "era" being so divisive made the seems of the shit system more visible while Obama, most people were snoozing along. Its always the same, just less obvious at times and framed in different way. If your routine isn't disturbed, you are less inclined to look at the wrong shit that is going on.
It's astounding how it's _always_ been relevant...
Not only are you well-versed in a sense of vocabulary, you are level-headed and analytical as well as tactful and to-the-point. Idk if you have kids, man, but if you do, they will grow up in an environment that is peak for learning both academically and emotionally. Easiest subscribe button I've ever pressed.
I agree. I was just browsing one video abd I couldn’t leave. I find myself to be an intellectual but until another is in the room you can’t back Snd forth to deeper understanding of a subject. I’ve been watching for an hour and I’ve learned so much from s brilliant thoughtful man who has listened to my music I’ve held dear forever for a few moments.
fun fact: this song was Christmas No1 in the charts (Uk) back in the early 2000's. The British public had had enough of X factor winners being Christmas no1 so turned to the ultimate protest song to sort things out. Rage being the legends that they are put on a few free shows in the UK to say thanks. They don't do bands like this anymore.
Glorious moment in uk music history
1 free show at Finsbury Park...
It was actually in 2010, and it was one hell of a show! Absolute mayhem from beginning to end.
Extra fun fact: right wing political group UKIP were using this song at their conferences and RATM had to tell them to cease and desist
Another fun fact. When it went to number one, the BBC had them live on the radio and they promised not to do the F you ending but guess what the boys did! lol
I love that this song will forever be a Christmas number 1 in the UK.
I salute your general knowledge and ability to reflect. Mad respect man! Please keep doing what you do.
Tom Morello is still speaking out to this day. The first band that I know of who was truly awake.
Johnny Cash, The Man In Black. Black Sabbath, War Pigs. Metallica, just about everything they did before 1994. Iron Maiden, Rammstein, Disturbed. Rage has never been alone. Most people just don't pay attention.
Best tweet ever. After someone complained about him being political. "One does not have to be an honours grad in political science from Harvard University to recognise the unethical and inhumane nature of this administration but well, I happen to be an honours grad in political science from Harvard University, so I can confirm that for you"
@@youngrutiger5343
I was about to comment this exact same quote when I saw this too. Tom is amazing.
@@mitchhaelann9215 RATM made it very obvious and they were a specific political band who’s purpose was just that
In the U.K. there's Billy Brag, The Levellers, Chumbawamba (ignore the one you know), Credit To The Nation and many many others.
That brings so much nostalgia. Unfortunatly the song is still relevant.
Startlingly, amazingly, sadly relevant.
Always will be.
I don't know if anyone said this yet, but there is a live version where he adds a line to the chorus. "Some of those who hold office, Are the same that burns crosses."
Yep and the current POTUS in 2024 that the down troden masses clamor to as a hero also worshiped and and looked up to Sheets Byrd as a hero.....but hey lets ignore that side note since he has a big D next to his name.
Theres a hilarious performance of them playing this on BBC. Zack "fuck you i wont do what you tell me".
Then it cuts off back to the anchors "we told him not to say it" lol (like no shit listen to the lyrics hahahaha)
It's even funnier when you know that they were not going to perform that section, out of courtesy, knowing it would be broadcast during the day on the UK's biggest radio station but when one of the radio station executives made the decision to tell them that were expressly forbidden to swear.... well........ you know how well that was going to go down.
I love reaction videos. I feel like I'm hearing my favorite songs for the first time again.
This was written in response to Rodney King.
All these years later, when the murder of George Floyd happened, this song was the first thing I went to.
I went to Pistol Grip Pump.
I went to April 29, 1992 by Sublime
100%
I sobbed and threw up watching the video of George Floyd. I wasn’t old enough to clearly remember the Rodney King riots. The Asian hate videos send me into a panic. My husband is Asian and my kid is mixed. We want to move back to the states. I get fetishized here for being white, weirdly enough, and also get racist treatment. He has always dreamed of attaining that American Dream and it’s just a weird spot to be in.
has nothing to do with Rodney king
“That thin blue line”. As a white woman I grew up painfully, embarrassingly sheltered until I got out on my own in college, started listening to radio stations that played older songs like this in this genre, and then newer ones in the same genre. This is the first time I’ve hear it called the thin blue line, and wow, it makes a lot of sense. Thank you. I’ve been learning a lot today watching reaction videos to this brilliant af song. I’ve loved RATM and knew what this song was about for a long time, but this just goes to show you can never stop learning. Ever.
Look up the movie, "The Thin Blue Line" from 1988.
It’s probably already mentioned in the comments, but the original lyrics was
«Some of those that HOLD OFFICE
Are the same that burn crosses»
But the record label reportedly refused to let them publish it.
Damn, I didn’t know that. But it makes sense, it rhymes better
And instead of 'they're the chosen whites', Zach often sang 'they're cloaked in white'
He still sings this on the second verse when playing live
I was about to say he didn't mean police. he meant political bosses!!!
Its not true, they sing an alternate version live with these lyrics.
Bro! you brought class into the discussion!? well done. “the chosen whites” is also a class commentary.
There's not a single bad or irrelevant song in their whole catalog. Especially the first two albums. Just pick any song at random and it'll be a mind-blowing banger.
The only thing I disagree with you on is leaving Battle for Los Angeles out of the bangers list.
Ehhh. I love Rage, but you’re romanticizing them.
@@BenJohnson0531 name one song on those first two records that isn’t on point/relevant (with explanation)
Please continue your exploration into this genre and decade of music in general. You will not be disappointed.
I really appreciate that you take the time and effort to analyze the lyrics of the music you listen to. It gives a deeper understanding to those watching your videos, and makes you stand out from so many other reaction channels. Keep up the great work!
Your ability to pull context and meaning out of these songs in the time frame in which you do is nothing short of impressive.
PLEASE ALL REMEMBER: That in 2009 this song became the UK's Christmas No. 1 breaking the yearly tradition of Simon Cowell's power grab at this spot. What's better, is that the band played the song live, streamed from Los Angeles, on the BBC's Radio 5 Live show - a rather PC and placid show. It's possibly the best live performance on air ever for the simple reason that the band knew they would get cut for using the f-bomb in the outro lyrics "F*!? you, I won't do as you tell me" and were asked not to use it. The band obliged during the quiet build-up to the outro, luring the BBC producers into a false sense of security, but then dropped said bad word together when the instruments explode, beautifully re-delivering the message it was written to send. The full cut BBC studio version can be found here: th-cam.com/video/n6njrf_zHfw/w-d-xo.html and the uncut LA studio version here: th-cam.com/video/SfZGUdcBBLc/w-d-xo.html . True artists. True passion. True revolutionaries. PS: Love and Respect to MrLboyd
I've always seen "and now you do what they told ya" as a call out on the old standard "I'm just following orders"
The issue with 'good cops' is that they're part of a system, and when push comes to shove they'll do what they're told by that system.
And if they don't they lose their jobs.
They turn to be bad people instantly as they agree to work as a law enforcer.
@@millahnna if that was the worst thing they had to worry about I think more of them would disobey the system
A good cop is very quickly no longer either a cop or no longer good.
Either they get fired, killed, or otherwise silenced if they are good and try to stand up against injustice - or they become complicit in the injustice
@@millahnna A system of law enforcement that punishes its own for holding its own to the bounds of the same laws is broken.
I love the way you explain things! It’s nice when reaction videos actually understand the song
Imagine being a parent to a young teenage RATM fan during the early 90’s, blasting the end of this song in their room when being told to do the dishes 😂
my late mom was that parent, she was the best
I definitely got strange, worried looks. Lol
My sister called me a “bad mother” for letting my son listen to Rage and NWA, WHATEVER he wanted to listen to. No censorship. He grew up to be a kind, very smart, and VERY well rounded. RAGE is one of my favorites, I’m 62.
Headphones = I listened to so much music, I went through so many Walkmans and headphones, I think the owner of the shop where I bought them could probably have bought a holiday villa somewhere with the profits hahaha..... I don't know how I have perfect hearing the damage I have inflicted on my poor ears over the years, so no my parents didn't know exactly what I was listening to.
Yep, I was that kid.
Smartest reviewer on TH-cam. Love your thoughtful reactions!
"Testify" by Rage Against the Machine live in London! You need to experience watching them live. The energy!
Been listening to Rage since I was 16 and you're spin is pretty awesome.
I like the later installment of the song too. Second verse is, “Some of those that burn crosses, are the same that hold office.” RATM is probably the best show I’ve ever been able to see. It was 9/3/08 during the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis MN which was located across the street from the venue. Riot police were ready but frontman, Zach, urged everyone to leave peacefully as to not portray what was depicted of the following. Amazing show. Everyone left peacefully and it wasn’t until hours after the show that mild interactions occurred.
Another aspect of the "Now you do what they told you" comes through in the live performance. The crowd will sing along, essentially under the control of Zach. The trick is to answer back with "Now you're under control" before he does.
Hard to find other content like this, Rage Against the Machine is amazingly unique.
Someone once asked me about this song "Killing in the Name of.... what?" I could only reply with "Exactly. What are they killing for? For WHAT?"
Excellent commentary my man, as usual you are a gentlemen and a scholar. I think RAtM would be nodding their heads listening to you explain their song.
My goodness this brings back so many memories. I was just a young teen when the song came out but I remember loving it when I’d hear snippets of it. I was super sheltered so that meant hating the “chosen music”
I’m so glad u got and explained this song. It’s so simple in lyrics but my god it’s a deep song with the message it conveys.
Isn't it sad that a song like this is still relevant almost 30 years after it's release?
Maybe more relevant in 2021
@@allysonsmith1087 Nah, arguably slightly less so. We've just got more video to highlight it and hold the parties responsible (hopefully). Don't get me wrong - there's A LOT to be done, but things were worse in the 90s when everyone didn't have cell phone cameras and high speed internet
It's been relevant as long as police departments existed. Originally, they were organizations for catching escaped slaves, and they never stopped being organizations that exist for the purpose of reinforcing racial hierarchies.
Facts
No, it is not sad. 30 years ago i refused to visit the U.S..... today it is much easier to explain to people i don't want to visit the U.S..... don't get me wrong, i am dying to see many things out there.... i just don't want to help/pay the shitty economics installed
I love that you actually comment on the lyrics. Most people who react to these songs don't even understand what they are singing about. Subscribed!
I always just thought “and now you do what they toldja “ was just “you (citizen ) are compliant and the loop continues”. The loop is not broken until it meets resistance.
this is exactly it
My interpretation as well.
Agree. I also think that "!" between "They/you justify" and "those that died" in the previous parts really messed up his interpretation.
THEY (forces) justify internally, as in "internal affairs ruled the death justifiable homicide", then
YOU (society) justify it externally, by letting the cycle continue "shielded" behind badges of authority.
@@ju4408 yeah. I can see that being a call and response. Call from the pulpit and response mirrored from the complicit.
Also that the police training teaches the police to be this way.
I absolutely love your videos! And I love that you've discovered RaTM. Their music is absolutely timeless, and is more needed now than ever before. And for you to be sharing it with your audience does our nation a whole lot of good! Hopefully you are part of opening someones eyes to the truth. Thank you for what you do, sir.
Basically you're gonna need to go through the entire rage discography cuz there's not a bad song in there. This is the shit i crank up when i see trump bumper sticker
me too [el'sda2]
Yup!!!!! Any Rage song, loud with a lot of bass.
Same!!
The best part is that they genuinely never understand the music. Apparently, to a Trump Republican, the Machine is a washer-dryer.....
Coincidentally, RATM is the best workout music ever.
I heard the live version of this song and Zack said “Some of those that burn crosses, are the same that hold office” still true to this day
This song still played at protests around the world today!
this is such a good review man appreciate this alot Zach expressed himself is such rage that it was expressed through lyrics instaed of voilence and this just shows that the power of voice cannot be overtaken
I was 22 when this song first came out. If you're not of similar age, you have no idea just how radical this song and this band was when this album first dropped. The truly sad and depressing thing is that this song is *just* as relevant *NOW* as it was then.
I was a kid but I grew up in Oakland as a half black person…… I know EXACTLY what this song means fam…….
Actually the saddest part is that Tom Morello forgot that it's relevant, and has completely lowered the impact of this song by 100% supporting the sociopathic killers today.
I was 16 and you are are correct.
@@Rayvn7 he turned pro-cop? since when?
Dude, I like listening to your take. Keep going man
I hope one day this will be a history lesson and not a current commentary.
Amen brother
Best reaction I’ve seen!!! You got it super quickly! Incredible band!
Yup, you got it. I’ll never forget when this album was released and this song was played and when i saw them play it live. It grabbed me and a generation never let go, that was 30 years ago. I played this intentionally to my children since the day they were born.
I spent the 90s listening to the best alternative stuff ever.....through all 4 of my boys.....what a life....in music
While the message is obvious and discussed today, this song really shook shit up when it was released almost 30 years ago...
Remember when they were banned from playing? Wasn't it at the Democratic Convention?
That's why I love it when my younger friends say, "Oh the nineties seem to be such a wonderful time..."
The music was AMAZING, true, but there was a reason for that--People were PISSED OFF!!
The censorship was heavy. I think it's one of the reasons for the massage at the end, to continue the shock value for those that would be clutching their pearls.
This is really well-done. Really good ideas you're spitting. With facts.
As many times as I've heard this song, you made me re-think it. Thank you.
Subscribed immediately.
I first heard this song in 1993 (in Ireland, where back then things took a little longer to get to us) when I was 14/15, and have screamed that song so many times since, it was before it's time and is timeless. Who knew that when they wrote the song that it would be still so relevant just shy of 30 years later. Seeing comments from different people from different countries and backgrounds where it is still the cry of protest against regime's and governments who still profit from the poor and oppressed. This song doesn't have many words to remember and yes they are repeated, but those words are decisive in their message, bringing people together against injustice. And yes MrLBoyd, RATM are not a conventional metal band, they cross genre's in such a way it sounds pleasing to a lot of people's ears.
Wish I could subscribe to you twice man, keep doing what you're doing.
I love this guy, very analytical in his analysis of the songs and clearly demonstrates he may not be completely right in his interpretation in regards to the artist. Good reviews all around as far as I've heard.
my god your good .. now i have to see all of your content .. really like the way you do it .. and now comedy thanks man
I believe there is an alternate lyric from a live show in the second verse that changes to "some of those that burn crosses. Are the same that hold office"
Also "know your enemy" or "sleep now in the fire" would be great for your next RATM song
Yup that alternate lyric for the second half of the song is epic!
Yes, those were supposed to be the original lyrics, but apparently the record label wouldn't let them do it....
I love your breakdown! So knowledgeable on a multitude of subjects! ✊🏿👍
This song is the best example of Zack implementing the technique of BRANDING , another example: at the end of know your enemy when he repeats ALL OF WHICH ARE AMERICAN DREAMS 8 times. Branding is more commonly associated with politics “yes we can” but in this case zack’s use lyrically is brilliant as usual. Now you do what they told ya is Zack pointing out the mindless compliance we all have and usually display to those forces, some of whom burn crosses...if this is who we are okay complying to, no wonder the same issues continue to happen. Zack is a poet.
A poet, a rapper, an activist, a freaking genius
I never knew this method had a name, thank you for enriching my musical knowledge 🙂
@@restojon1 no worries! I’m happy to share. Zack is the brilliant one to use the technique as he did. I’m glad someone else who knew told me about it too.
Your amazing dude. Keep breaking down the worlds music and helping people understand.
Thank you bringing awareness to the direct relationships between wealth inequality, social class, and the problems that result, like much worse health outcomes even while controlling for things like behavior. Great perspectives as always and enjoy the genuine conversations that can bridge many different experiences into our common struggles rather than passing blame towards each other. It's not that the issues aren't present horizontally, they certainly are; it's that the cause of that dysfunction is vertical relative to our shared position. Sorry for the novel, these are the things I study and they're all very interesting.
Tldr: dope reaction like always.
This reaction is why I am hitting the subscribe button, perfect reaction
I feel like I say this on all your Rage reactions, but I love this song so much
🖤🔥 I wash it wasn’t still so damn relevant 😞
*wish 🙄
Ah man, the class issue. THANK YOU. I appreciate your point of view. It’s always been about race,first and foremost But it’s never affected white people the same way. But class systems are damaging to populations as well. The reason minoritized populations don’t always see it is because they have always been forced to be there. I also appreciate your history of MF. I wish more people knew. Thank you for the knowledge you bring.
I'd love for you to break down some System of a Down songs. The lyrics are heavy with sociopolitical commentary, and the music is a mix of alt rock/metal + Armenian cultural influence. Beautiful harmonies juxtaposed with intense rock/metal riffs. And Serj got bars.
My favourite band, bringing out the truth about The Armenian Genocide, the documentary was (I don't have one word, it just brings up so many emotions), Serj's grandfather going back to where he was from which is now in East Turkey, explaining that he was the only one of his family that survived the killings, so very sad.
Serj got pipes, too. I love SOAD. The 1990’s were the days when we could talk about, shine light on, step up for, and call out all the “little” injustices of the world.
Incredibly honest review. Insta-subbed!
I had no idea about the slave farms and the connotation of MF. Thank you for educating!!
I was coming to comment similarly. It makes logical sense as slaves were viewed similar to livestock.
Humans are horrible. The ages prove it over and over.
Alot of humans are, but not all.
Right? First time I've ever heard that
Probably the best reaction I’ve heard of any song on YT…. Very Well assessed bit by bit.
“Ashes In The Fall” is RATM’s most underrated track, in my opinion. The lyrics on that one are mind blowing.
Might well be! I'm a big fan of RATM and it's definitely in my RATM mix but I do find myself not gravitating to it as much as some of the more bombastic ones. That opening guitar riff though... Ooh that one's a killer
Agreed !! “A hundred thousand jail cells open up to greet you, like a Reaper.” Genius and truth
"Like the priest that fucked you as you whispered holy things" that shit hits hard. Definitely my favourite rage tune.
Oh man I'm really loving your pauses to analyze way further into the verses. So so good. Also, I did NOT knew that thing about the mf word. Now I feel weird at how commonly used that is. Because there is literally an equivalent expression in spanish holy shit
Cult Of Personality... Loving Colour
That short solo near the end is probably one of the most iconic guitar solos in rock history, just grabbing it by the hairs and YANKING till that Telecaster is SCREAMING.
Best RATM reactions by a landslide, something I can actually share with my daughter the history buff that not only helps her see what my generation was about but find common ground in views on a platform that interests her gen. Even learn a few things by the commentary! Excellent, thank you !
This is one of my favorite all time songs since it first came out. I got a killer stereo system in my truck with a couple 12's some mid bass woofers mid range speakers and tweeters running on 4 amps and dsp and I crank this song to the max and it jams I Love It!
Just a little more information about this song for you MrLboyd Reacts. In 2009 there was a movement to get this song to beat the X Factors hold on the number one song list. The fans voted and they won. Then they traveled to the UK and preformed an unedited version live on BBc Radio.
They also put all of the profits from those Xmas Number 1 sales to charity and put on a free gig in Finsbury Park, where they took the piss out of Simon Cowell some more. Gallows was one of the supporting bands (support bands were voted by fans, really cool) - Gallows put out Grey Britain in 2009, a concept album based on post-credit crunch Britain that's worth a listen.
The fact that you said that you'd need to don a wig to appreciate this song awarded you my subscription. Gladly.
I've always interpreted the phrase "Now you do what they told you" as a reference to the phrase "if you just obey the cops then nothing bad will happen"
But even those who obey get shot and the killing is "justified" as the song says
There’s a 50yr old woman in doc martens walking down the street right now who moshed to this song at a rage concert 30 yrs ago!
If you are new to RATM you have to understand that this song is the climax to a concert of anti establishment songs that would be performed and bring the energy to a point at the concert that you didn't need many lyrics... the songs energy and simple lyrics was the finale to the night and closure of the energy of the set... and usually the establishment as the energy in this song would usually literally tear the house down.
I want to say that it was this kind of insightful reaction/commentary that really got me to enjoy the channel.
My favourite fact about this song is that its a Christmas song in the UK
better than those god-awful charity singles
Best reaction video! You are freaking amazing
You should react to Know Your Enemy next. 🖤🤘
Rage against the machine is one of my favorite bands from the 90"s I seen them open for U2 at Clemson's death valley stadium and I seen Woo Tang clan open for them. Just a great hip hop rock band. I'm glad so many people are taking an interest in their music once again
“That sounds like a gang.” Yup.
"Failing on their hiring practices" is now my favorite summary of that verse
Never forget why this was written.... still valid today!!!! Sad sad sad
When I first heard these on TV in the 90's it was the first thing since punk to make me feel so visceral...amazing song.