Very clever idea, to react to the two songs side by side! I'm here for it. Ren always pays homage to the original material with his retakes, but then goes completely in his own direction. Please, more double reactions!! 😄❤
The Verve's 'Bittersweet Symphony' is one of Lead vocalist Richard Ashcroft's finest compositions, along with 'The Drugs Don't Work' 'Lucky Man' and 'Sonnet' he's an immensely talented songwriter, and storyteller from the North of England.
I’m British and the Verve are one of our greatest bands ever . I used to work for Liam Gallagher at Pretty Green and meet Richard a good few times , lovely bloke . This song brings back so many memories 😊🙏 🇬🇧.
*Correct. THE VERVE added strings, guitar, percussion and vocals. They obtained rights to use the "Last Time" sample from the copyright holder, Decca Records, but were denied permission from THE ROLLING STONES' former manager, Allen Klein. Following a lawsuit, THE VERVE relinquished all royalties and THE ROLLING STONES members Mick Jagger and Keith Richards were added to the songwriting credits. In 2019, ten years after Klein's death, Jagger, Richards, and Klein's son ceded the rights to THE VERVE's songwriter Richard Ashcroft.* 🎵💿🔊
I can’t think of a video I wash of yours that you are more beautiful than in this. And please, I do you want to explain, I am not talking about a physical beauty, (which, yes, you are kind beautiful) but more so in the sense of your understanding, your appreciation, and you take-away of your understanding/love of both of these tracks
Great reaction, fair play to Ren's version but The Verve's original version is in a different league in my opinion, the anthemic quality raises it, but that maybe a generation thing. I would recommend checking out more Verve/Richard Ashcroft (lead singer of The Verve) songs. The Drugs Dont Work, Lucky Man, Sonnet, History, This Thing Called Life, Check The Meaning. Richard Ashcroft is one of the most underrated singer/songwriters
Oh my, I do love this concept of multiple versions of a song. I'd love to see you do something similar for A-ha's "Take on me" since their MTV unplugged version is so radically different (but hauntingly beautiful) compared to the pop version. Having said that, The Verve's "Bittersweet Symphony" is a classic in my book. I enjoyed Ren's take on it as well.
True Story My daughter took her first breath 13 years ago to the Verve bittersweet symphony The intro was playing It was a playlist of my wife’s with a bunch of our favorite songs. I’m a 2 year Ren fan & this was a perfect years later retake of a song that was omnipresent in a perfect moment of my life & Ren done gone & made it relevant in a different way.
Richard Ashcroft was given the rights to this song back and is now credited as the sole songwriter,he took an unknown instrumental piece and turned it into a masterpiece,loved and appreciated all over the world.
Tbh I think this song has aged really well, I was a teen when this came out and relistening to it now and understanding the lyrics now it is what life feels like these days for sure
You might recognize this song from the movie Cruel Intentions, with Ryan Phillipe, Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Selma Blair. This was the song they played during the final scenes. Not sure if you've seen it, but if not, i HIGHLY recommend it!
Hi Stacey from England! You must listen to the Verve album 'Urban Hymns' which this track is from. So many late 90's anthems on it. You are right. All the band members join Richard Ashcroft at the end (who lives not far from me, although originally from Wigan, in NW England). I love your facial expressions during the reactions. Oh, and your beautiful eyes.......and cats! ❤
Great selection. Very much like the approach you took here with the two versions. Grew up listening to the Verve original, so I shall always be partial to that one. Would call it a masterpiece. Arguably the song of the 90's, raw, visceral lyrics & all. As an aside, you should see the 1996 movie 'Cruel Intentions' if you have not already. The end of the movie has 'Bittersweet Symphony.' A great use of the song in accordance with the story.
Great idea, Stacey. You should do this with all of Rens retakes.!! I can't believe no one else has even thought about it.!!! Get on it before the others do.!! And don't forget getting your sister in on it as well.!! ❤❤🇬🇧🏴🇬🇧👌👍✌️😁😁🇬🇧🏴🇬🇧
If you've ever seen Cruel Intentions then that could very well be why the music sounds so familiar, the ending of the movie makes great use of the song.
Absolutely love both versions, and owe Ren for reminding me of the Verve's song. I hadn't really forgotten it, but couldn't remember who did it. Both deserve billions of views. Great reaction
This song or the musical part is familiar because it was used in countless different movies and t.v shows. It was originally in the movie soundtrack for the movie called cruel intentions. It's an iconic song that it's been called one of the greatest rock songs ever created by the billboard music charts.
Yes I was going to mention Cruel Intentions, was a big fan of this band when they first appeared, amazing songs. However, I’m not sure who died as Richard Ashcroft is still here?! His father died suddenly but don’t know who else did. 🙁
Congrats on the 50K Stacey. The Verve album "Urban Hymns", from which this song is taken was originally being recorded as a solo project for Richard Ashcroft (the singer). He got cold feet part way through the making of the album and called the rest of the band in to help him finish it. The rest, as they say, is history. You should check out other songs from this album, as it has a few very good ones. I think perhaps "The Drugs Don't Work", or "Lucky Man" would be to your taste.
You would never guess that when "Bittersweet Symphony" was released back in 1997 people said it sounded nothing like a Verve song, yet today it is more or less the only song they are remembered for.
You really should hear the full album version from The Verve, it’s got a longer buildup and packs more of a punch. The live rendition from Glastonbury 2008 is also great
Bittersweet Symphony is one of my all time Faves! It is so simple musically but so monumental emotionally. In '97, The Verve's leader, main composer & singer Richard Ashcroft took a small sample from an orchestral version of a Rolling Stones' song, "The Last Time", as the foundation of the song. The usage rights were obtained from Decca Records, but were blocked by Allen Klein, who owned the rights to the original song. Klein was a former manager/lawyer for the Stones. Long story short, the songwriting credits & royalties were taken from Ashcroft & given to Mick Jagger & Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones. The song became a big hit & generated millions of dollars for the Rolling Stones camp. In 2019, Jagger, Richards & Klein's son Jody, who had become head of his now-deceased father's company ABKCO, returned the royalties & songwriting credits to Richard Ashcroft. Jagger & Richards never thought they should own the rights to the song, they simply let the lawyers fight it out. They happily gave the song back to Ashcroft, understanding what it's like for someone to take ownership of their songs away from them. Truly a Bittersweet story. The Verve & Ashcroft solo have fantastic songs & albums. 2 Verve songs I can recommend are "The Drugs Don't Work" & "Lucky Man". This is the first time I'm hearing Ren. I know alot of people have been raving about him, but I've been putting off listening to him. HIs rendition of Bittersweet Symphony was ok, I suppose. Oh Stacey, comparison reactions are always interesting, as long as the originals are respected! 😃👍🏻
Thanks for that added information! I was unfamiliar with the Verve. Only aware that Si sent a rare guitar to Ren and some books in appreciation if hus take on the song. He has also taken a bit of mentorship of Ren with supportive phone calls and advice on the journey Ren will face. I really love that coming together of creatives.
deepermind, Ren has done a few retakes of classic songs and they have their merits but it is his own original music that makes him something special. He covers a wide range of musical genres and is genuinely brilliant. I don't like every song he has done but the number of songs I love is ridiculous. He is one of a kind
It is criminal that Richard Ashcroft is not known more. I had a couple of his solo albums that were really good. He also performed on "Live Aid", if memory serves. I once spent about 12 hours in the car with this song on repeat. A very loud, cranky toddler, whom I contemplated leaving beside the road, was only happy when this song was playing.
One of the better songs coming out after grunge. It was produced by Youth of Killing Joke and The Firemen (with Paul McCartney). You could do some darker/gothic songs I think you would like, like The Killing Joke's Love Like Blood, This Corrosion by Sisters of Mercy, The Cure's Lullaby, or anything by the Cocteau Twins (I wonder what you would think of Liz Frazer's voice :)). Depeche Mode (then you will hear where Rammstein got their ideas from) would also be something you could like and get into, especially their Black Celebration album. But what I recommend you should do next: the whole Animals LP by... clear, Pink Floyd. For a lot of people one of the best albums ever made - like Supertramp's Crime of the Century or The Beatles' Revolver.
I like the approach you took here, makes sense to listen to the original so you can get a true sense of what another artist has done with it in their work.
Really like the formula of the original followed by the retake. The Verve seemed to like his retake as well as their bass player, sent Ren one of his guitars. Another Ren retake that this would work really well for is 'Back on 74' by Jungle, followed by Rens Back on 74/Message in a bottle retake.
You might have heard it via a NIKE commercial. Until recently the Verve didn't get any of royalties for the song. It went to the Rolling Stones instead. The part you heard in the beginning was from a Stones song (the strings part)...they were supposed to get permission to use it but they ended up not getting it. A few years ago the Stones gave the Verve back the song---and the new royalties. If I remember correctly---they even had to put the Stones as writers on the CD. Great Band!!
Oh my Gosh there's 2 kitties!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love how you went to the original and brought them together. That was interesting and fun! He's released an updated Live version of this you might wanna check out :)
i know im late to the party but i thought id give you some context about the verve as im a huge fan and actually from where there from The Verve was formed in Wigan, England, in 1990. The original lineup consisted of Richard Ashcroft (vocals, guitar), Nick McCabe (guitar), Simon Jones (bass), and Peter Salisbury (drums). The band initially struggled with lineup changes and had difficulty gaining traction in the music industry. Their first single, "All in the Mind," was released in 1992 and showed early signs of their potential. Their debut album, A Storm in Heaven (1993), was praised for its psychedelic and shoegaze influences. Despite its critical acclaim, the album did not achieve significant commercial success at the time. The Verve’s breakthrough came with their third studio album, Urban Hymns (1997). This album featured a more polished sound, combining alternative rock with orchestral elements. The lead single, "Bitter Sweet Symphony," became a massive hit and is arguably their most famous song. The track's orchestral sample, which was a reworking of a Rolling Stones track(mabie where you heard it), led to legal issues but also brought the band considerable fame. Urban Hymns was a commercial and critical success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and achieving multi-platinum status. The album also included other successful singles like "The Drugs Don’t Work" and "Lucky Man." Despite their success, internal tensions within the band led to disagreements and eventually the band’s breakup in 1999. Richard Ashcroft, in particular, had a tumultuous relationship with the rest of the band members, and the strain of fame contributed to the split. After the breakup, Richard Ashcroft pursued a solo career, releasing several albums that were met with varying degrees of success. The other members also worked on different projects, with Nick McCabe and Simon Jones forming the band The Black Ships. The Verve reunited in 2007 and released their fourth studio album, Forth (2008). The album received mixed reviews and did not replicate the success of their previous work, but it was well-received by some fans and critics. The band’s second breakup occurred in 2009. Since then, Richard Ashcroft has continued his solo career, while the other members have pursued various projects. Despite occasional rumors of a reunion, the band has remained largely inactive since then. The Verve’s music continues to be influential, particularly their work from the late 1990s. "Bitter Sweet Symphony" remains a defining track of the era, often cited for its innovative use of orchestral samples in rock music. The band is remembered for their atmospheric sound and the emotional depth of their lyrics. The Verve’s journey reflects the highs and lows of the music industry, marked by significant success and personal conflicts. Their contributions to alternative rock and their impact on the genre are still recognized and celebrated today. and outside of music Richard Ashcroft, in particular, became a fashion icon due to his distinctive style. His look often included long overcoats, sleek trousers, and sunglasses, which became signature elements of his public persona. This look was emulated by fans and other artists, contributing to the popularization of a more refined, yet relaxed fashion aesthetic within the alternative music scene. (how i still dress to this day a mix of Liam Gallagher and Richard Ashcroft) So to summarise the band saw varied levels of success were highly influential on not just music but fashion and personality and i wouldn't be who i am today without Richard Ashcroft
They are both talking about life from different times but it doesn't change "you're a slave to money then you die" Good thing Ren changed the lyrics which made it his own
this song was catapulted into the limelight as prominent in the soundtrack to the movie Cruel Intentions, which was the epitome of the teen movie surge of the late 90's. Check out this cast: Ryan Philippe (Crash) Sarah Michelle Geller (Buffy) Reese Witherspoon (Legally Blonde) Selma Blaire (Legally Blonde) Joshua Jackson (Dawson's Creek) Sean Patrick Thomas (Save the Last Dance) Tara Reid (American Pie)
Cruel intensions is an Adaptation of the 18th century letter novel Liaisons Dangereux written by Laclos... There are many movies made, the closet to the ancient subject might be with John Malkovich, Glenn Close, Michelle Pfeiffer, Uma Thurman and Keanu Reeves.
Such an amazing reaction thank you I would love to see you react to REN big push ‘Precious’ it’s different from most songs he does but very meaningful and beautiful
"Bitter Sweet Symphony" is based on a sample from a 1965 version of the Rolling Stones song "The Last Time" by the Andrew Oldham Orchestra. The Verve added strings, guitar, percussion and vocals. They obtained rights to use the "Last Time" sample from the copyright holder, Decca Records, but were denied permission from the Rolling Stones' former manager, Allen Klein. Following a lawsuit, the Verve relinquished all royalties and the Rolling Stones members Mick Jagger and Keith Richards were added to the songwriting credits. In 2019, ten years after Klein's death, Jagger, Richards, and Klein's son ceded the rights to the Verve songwriter Richard Ashcroft.
Love your vids. You should react to more of the Verve they were one of the best bands of the 90's. The drugs don't work. Sonnet. That's just a couple that came to my head instantly, there are so many.
The violins are actually a sample of an orchestral version Andrew Oldham Orchestra, former manager of the Rolling Stones, created from a Rolling Stones song. There was quite a heavy controversy about the song writer credits and finally The Verve lost it and the song was credited to Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of the Rolling stones. Alan Kleine, a former Rolling Stones manager claimed it, as he was the rights owner of the Rolling Stones back catalogue. Some years after he passed away his son, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards ceded it to The Verve again. So the biggest hit The Verve ever had did not pay off for them money wise for quite some years. The story behind this dispute th-cam.com/video/I_s90-Hi2ZY/w-d-xo.htmlsi=mJicvJnG-eaYHp4V
Super reaction, Stacey of two great versions of the same song! It's very British and as you say human, it's life. I'm pretty sure that backing track has been sampled many times, hence your familiarisation with it. I love The Verve and Richard Ashcroft's voice, I was at Live 8 at Hyde Park and Richard appeared with Coldplay and they did this song. Ren, as always, pays homage to tracks and artists he loves, always sprinkling a bit of magic over it to make it (or The Big Push's) own.
You have to do the Ren Chapters. He put out the first one on Thursday and is releasing one everyday leading up to his new song's video. Today, Saturday was Chapeter 3. But he's telling his WHOLE life and what he's went through. It's so eye opening. Alot of us thought we already knew Ren and his story, but we didn't know anything really. And it's so different seeing Ren nervous and vulnerable as he tells the different stories of his life and his battle with his illness for 8 long years. ALSO if you watch his video for the song "It's Alright" you'll see him walking out of the apartment that he stopped infront of at the end of this video. But that song "It's Alright" is so absolutely beautiful. Both the lyrics and video. Such an amazing message.
Great format idea, and I think you're the first I've seen do this to a "retake". You could do ones like "All My Life" or "Halftime" this way, but it makes me smile to think of trying to do "Fred Again" or "Back on 74/Message in a Bottle". :D
As many times, probably hundreds by now, I've heard the Verve version, don't think I've ever seen the video. Had no idea Ren even retook the walk down the high street! I shouldn't be surprised tho, it's Ren 😂 Love this format tho! Please do all his retakes with the original first! My other 2 fave retakes are losing it (fisher) and back on 74 (jungle). I reeeally wanna see u do both pls 😆 x
Richard ❤. I’ve seen him perform live over 10 times and he’s amazing. The verve were great but prefer Richard as a solo, singer..He is headlining a local festival this August and I can’t wait to see him perform again. Listening to him for over 30 years now 💕. Although I do like what REN have done with the song Richard has a coolness that can’t be beat…. Love that you have listened to Iron maiden, one of guitarists lives near me and is such a lovely down to earth guy! Have you listened to Paolo Nutini, One of the best vocalists ever xxx
There’s more to The Verve than this song that everyone seems to react to. Should check out some of their other amazing stuff. Maybe you might like Sonnet.
From the absolute classic album Urban Hymns believe me it is a BANGER. The drugs don't work will get you in floods of tears and Velvet Morning will too please check out this album it is one of the Greatest albums ever made full stop.The Verve
That walk is his walk through life, and all the people he has "bumped into" during his life, the walk would actually be however long his life has been so far.
“Stolen” is a bit of a stretch. The Verve used part of a Rolling Stones song, who had taken it from a song that had been around long before they created their own. So everyone “stole” that part in the end.
Isn’t this true of all good music though ? The contrasts are what brings a dynamic. It stirs thoughts. Completely random, but I was listening to George Harrison’s “My Guitar Gently Weeps” and this is another one of those contrasts. George’s vocals are like a gentle commentary but the music is very dark and foreboding.
I like this song and the music video are different from most songs. The music is upbeat but once you pay attention to the lyrics it's dark. Glad the Rolling Stones eventually gave the rights back after he credited them (abet years later after Allen died).
Irrelevant side fact: „Bitter Sweet Symphony“ is written in the Mixolydian Mode, characterized by a flat 7. It has a more mellow tone than the classic Ionian („major“) Sound (using only the white keys on a keyboard when you are in the key of C) but is still brighter than Aeolian („natural minor“) (using the white keys starting with A).
Volleyball! One of my favourite-to-play sports! (Almost up there with 7 rugged years playing full-contact Canadian 3-down injurious football.) ... And, this is a great tune! 🤗
Trying to narrow down Ren recommendations is almost impossible but I’d love to see you react to ‘How to be Me(Live)’ (with Chinchilla), ‘Dominoes’, ‘Suic*de’ and ‘For Joe’, and then (cos you’ll need cheering up) ‘Humble’, the ‘Love Music’ series and maybe a Big Push performance or two… (war pigs my favourite 😜)
Different kind of music to this but the song title reminds me of an album title by an English band called Thunder, The record title was Backstreet Symphony. Thunder were at their biggest in the late 80s and early 90s but still together doing their thing these days, or they will be once their singer, Danny Bowes, recovers from a pretty bad accident he had, well worth checking out, one of my favourite bands of my teenage years.
the movie Cruel Intentions is pretty much where everyone heard this one before. strange song. somehow it has the ability to pull my heart right out of my chest and wring the emotions out
Very clever idea, to react to the two songs side by side! I'm here for it.
Ren always pays homage to the original material with his retakes, but then goes completely in his own direction.
Please, more double reactions!! 😄❤
The Verve's 'Bittersweet Symphony' is one of Lead vocalist Richard Ashcroft's finest compositions, along with 'The Drugs Don't Work' 'Lucky Man' and 'Sonnet' he's an immensely talented songwriter, and storyteller from the North of England.
Stolen from The Stones
I wouldn’t put any of those songs in the Verve’s top twenty best tracks.
@@stephenharmer1669 *WRONG!!!* 🙄
@@lonelyboy1977 OK
@@stephenharmer1669 Bingo!!!
I’m British and the Verve are one of our greatest bands ever . I used to work for Liam Gallagher at Pretty Green and meet Richard a good few times , lovely bloke . This song brings back so many memories 😊🙏 🇬🇧.
@penderyn8794oh ok mate 😆 thanks for that 👍🏼
@@Finny14754 🤣😂🤣
"Bitter Sweet Symphony" is based on a sample of a 1965 orchestral version of the Rolling Stones song "The Last Time" by the Andrew Oldham Orchestra
Yes you’re correct. Beat me to it
*Correct. THE VERVE added strings, guitar, percussion and vocals. They obtained rights to use the "Last Time" sample from the copyright holder, Decca Records, but were denied permission from THE ROLLING STONES' former manager, Allen Klein. Following a lawsuit, THE VERVE relinquished all royalties and THE ROLLING STONES members Mick Jagger and Keith Richards were added to the songwriting credits. In 2019, ten years after Klein's death, Jagger, Richards, and Klein's son ceded the rights to THE VERVE's songwriter Richard Ashcroft.* 🎵💿🔊
@@NicholasCorvin thanks wikipedia
@@NicholasCorvin Following the legal decision, Ashcroft nailed it: “This is the best song Jagger and Richards have written in 20 years"
I can’t think of a video I wash of yours that you are more beautiful than in this. And please, I do you want to explain, I am not talking about a physical beauty, (which, yes, you are kind beautiful) but more so in the sense of your understanding, your appreciation, and you take-away of your understanding/love of both of these tracks
Great reaction, fair play to Ren's version but The Verve's original version is in a different league in my opinion, the anthemic quality raises it, but that maybe a generation thing. I would recommend checking out more Verve/Richard Ashcroft (lead singer of The Verve) songs. The Drugs Dont Work, Lucky Man, Sonnet, History, This Thing Called Life, Check The Meaning. Richard Ashcroft is one of the most underrated singer/songwriters
Lucky Man by The Verve is a good song.
You're wrong, it's a great song ✌️
And the drugs don't work aswell
And Sonnet also for sure 😊
Velvet morning is my favourite.
The woman who gets out of the car and starts yelling at him is his wife
Looks kind of like Kate but I don’t think it’s her.
ruined her panda!i would be livid too!
The video itself is inspired by Massive Attack's "Unfinished Sympathy", which is most definitely worth a check out.
Oh yeah! I had completely forgotten that. Well remembered.
This is why you're the best. Love that you did both reactions together. Keep it up!
the guitar player from the verve like Ren retake so much that he sent him one of his guitar autograph
Indeed, he did.!! The biggest nod you can get.!!👌👍✌️🇬🇧🏴🇬🇧
Yes, but, it was the bassist though. The bass guitarist sent him his bass.
@@drum253for further clarification, the Verve bassist, Simon Jones, sent Ren a 6-string electric guitar.
@@ChrisLawton66 Ah, OK, I thought it was a bass he sent.
Yes, there’s a really cool video of him and un-boxing that guitar
Please don’t apologize for your tears your genuine emotions are beautiful
Oh my, I do love this concept of multiple versions of a song. I'd love to see you do something similar for A-ha's "Take on me" since their MTV unplugged version is so radically different (but hauntingly beautiful) compared to the pop version.
Having said that, The Verve's "Bittersweet Symphony" is a classic in my book. I enjoyed Ren's take on it as well.
True Story
My daughter took her first breath 13 years ago to the Verve bittersweet symphony
The intro was playing
It was a playlist of my wife’s with a bunch of our favorite songs.
I’m a 2 year Ren fan & this was a perfect years later retake of a song that was omnipresent in a perfect moment of my life & Ren done gone & made it relevant in a different way.
The number is from the album "Urban Hymns" which is in the top 100 albums of all time. Very much worth a listen.
Richard Ashcroft was given the rights to this song back and is now credited as the sole songwriter,he took an unknown instrumental piece and turned it into a masterpiece,loved and appreciated all over the world.
The Verve - Lucky Man (Official Music Video)! 👌🏼✌🏼
th-cam.com/video/MH6TJU0qWoY/w-d-xo.htmlsi=nhkJ2mUtP31oZ5hA
Tbh I think this song has aged really well, I was a teen when this came out and relistening to it now and understanding the lyrics now it is what life feels like these days for sure
The Verve were a very good band, The Lead singer Richard Ashcroft had a very good solo career, well worth a listen
Movie: Cruel Intentions
Oh man, I want to listen to this song while driving a 56 Jag Roadster
You might recognize this song from the movie Cruel Intentions, with Ryan Phillipe, Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Selma Blair. This was the song they played during the final scenes. Not sure if you've seen it, but if not, i HIGHLY recommend it!
Hi Stacey from England! You must listen to the Verve album 'Urban Hymns' which this track is from. So many late 90's anthems on it. You are right. All the band members join Richard Ashcroft at the end (who lives not far from me, although originally from Wigan, in NW England). I love your facial expressions during the reactions. Oh, and your beautiful eyes.......and cats! ❤
Great selection. Very much like the approach you took here with the two versions. Grew up listening to the Verve original, so I shall always be partial to that one. Would call it a masterpiece. Arguably the song of the 90's, raw, visceral lyrics & all. As an aside, you should see the 1996 movie 'Cruel Intentions' if you have not already. The end of the movie has 'Bittersweet Symphony.' A great use of the song in accordance with the story.
The Verve’s Northern Soul album is outstanding. Richard Ashcroft the singer has some great solo work too.
Great idea, Stacey. You should do this with all of Rens retakes.!! I can't believe no one else has even thought about it.!!!
Get on it before the others do.!!
And don't forget getting your sister in on it as well.!!
❤❤🇬🇧🏴🇬🇧👌👍✌️😁😁🇬🇧🏴🇬🇧
If you've ever seen Cruel Intentions then that could very well be why the music sounds so familiar, the ending of the movie makes great use of the song.
I was wondering how nobody mentioned this at all? Its a great movie and a fire soundtrack indeed.
Me too
I searched till I found this comment 😊
Absolutely love both versions, and owe Ren for reminding me of the Verve's song.
I hadn't really forgotten it, but couldn't remember who did it. Both deserve billions of views.
Great reaction
This song or the musical part is familiar because it was used in countless different movies and t.v shows. It was originally in the movie soundtrack for the movie called cruel intentions. It's an iconic song that it's been called one of the greatest rock songs ever created by the billboard music charts.
Still very much alive buddy
Yes I was going to mention Cruel Intentions, was a big fan of this band when they first appeared, amazing songs. However, I’m not sure who died as Richard Ashcroft is still here?! His father died suddenly but don’t know who else did. 🙁
@@SarahWashbourn I was mistaken. Someone told me that the lead singer was dead.
Nice reaction..I bought The Verve album in 1997 and I still love it 🥰❤
Congrats on the 50K Stacey. The Verve album "Urban Hymns", from which this song is taken was originally being recorded as a solo project for Richard Ashcroft (the singer). He got cold feet part way through the making of the album and called the rest of the band in to help him finish it. The rest, as they say, is history. You should check out other songs from this album, as it has a few very good ones. I think perhaps "The Drugs Don't Work", or "Lucky Man" would be to your taste.
You would never guess that when "Bittersweet Symphony" was released back in 1997 people said it sounded nothing like a Verve song, yet today it is more or less the only song they are remembered for.
My favorite track off this album is Neon Wilderness. That gets me closer to Northern Soul and A Storm in Heaven.
You really should hear the full album version from The Verve, it’s got a longer buildup and packs more of a punch. The live rendition from Glastonbury 2008 is also great
The verve. Considered one of the best written songs. Richard Ashcroft
Bittersweet Symphony is one of my all time Faves! It is so simple musically but so monumental emotionally. In '97, The Verve's leader, main composer & singer Richard Ashcroft took a small sample from an orchestral version of a Rolling Stones' song, "The Last Time", as the foundation of the song. The usage rights were obtained from Decca Records, but were blocked by Allen Klein, who owned the rights to the original song. Klein was a former manager/lawyer for the Stones. Long story short, the songwriting credits & royalties were taken from Ashcroft & given to Mick Jagger & Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones. The song became a big hit & generated millions of dollars for the Rolling Stones camp. In 2019, Jagger, Richards & Klein's son Jody, who had become head of his now-deceased father's company ABKCO, returned the royalties & songwriting credits to Richard Ashcroft. Jagger & Richards never thought they should own the rights to the song, they simply let the lawyers fight it out. They happily gave the song back to Ashcroft, understanding what it's like for someone to take ownership of their songs away from them. Truly a Bittersweet story.
The Verve & Ashcroft solo have fantastic songs & albums. 2 Verve songs I can recommend are "The Drugs Don't Work" & "Lucky Man".
This is the first time I'm hearing Ren. I know alot of people have been raving about him, but I've been putting off listening to him. HIs rendition of Bittersweet Symphony was ok, I suppose.
Oh Stacey, comparison reactions are always interesting, as long as the originals are respected! 😃👍🏻
Thanks for that added information! I was unfamiliar with the Verve. Only aware that Si sent a rare guitar to Ren and some books in appreciation if hus take on the song. He has also taken a bit of mentorship of Ren with supportive phone calls and advice on the journey Ren will face. I really love that coming together of creatives.
@@francesdoll4039 Si?? 🤷🏻♂️
@@deepermind4884 either Simon Tong or Simon Jones from the Verve. Ren just called him Si.
deepermind, Ren has done a few retakes of classic songs and they have their merits but it is his own original music that makes him something special. He covers a wide range of musical genres and is genuinely brilliant. I don't like every song he has done but the number of songs I love is ridiculous. He is one of a kind
It is criminal that Richard Ashcroft is not known more. I had a couple of his solo albums that were really good. He also performed on "Live Aid", if memory serves. I once spent about 12 hours in the car with this song on repeat. A very loud, cranky toddler, whom I contemplated leaving beside the road, was only happy when this song was playing.
One of the better songs coming out after grunge. It was produced by Youth of Killing Joke and The Firemen (with Paul McCartney). You could do some darker/gothic songs I think you would like, like The Killing Joke's Love Like Blood, This Corrosion by Sisters of Mercy, The Cure's Lullaby, or anything by the Cocteau Twins (I wonder what you would think of Liz Frazer's voice :)). Depeche Mode (then you will hear where Rammstein got their ideas from) would also be something you could like and get into, especially their Black Celebration album.
But what I recommend you should do next: the whole Animals LP by... clear, Pink Floyd. For a lot of people one of the best albums ever made - like Supertramp's Crime of the Century or The Beatles' Revolver.
Cat in the background just Staceyflix and Chilling 😂 great analysis.
It's a love song to gritty British city life (careful how you say that). My affection for London reignites every time I hear Rens' version.
Yes, although I'd imagine this one is more to Brighton than London.
Ren’s retake is a love letter to Britain and the city. It reminds we of Waterloo Sunset.
I love that Rens retake is in Brighton City ❤
This idea for the video comes from the video of Massive Attacks 'Unfinished sympathy', another amazing track. keep these amazing posts coming😀
I like the approach you took here, makes sense to listen to the original so you can get a true sense of what another artist has done with it in their work.
Really like the formula of the original followed by the retake. The Verve seemed to like his retake as well as their bass player, sent Ren one of his guitars.
Another Ren retake that this would work really well for is 'Back on 74' by Jungle, followed by Rens Back on 74/Message in a bottle retake.
2 other suggestions: Hurt by nine inch nails covered by Johnny cash. And zombie by the cranberries with a tribute by bad wolves
You might have heard it via a NIKE commercial. Until recently the Verve didn't get any of royalties for the song. It went to the Rolling Stones instead. The part you heard in the beginning was from a Stones song (the strings part)...they were supposed to get permission to use it but they ended up not getting it. A few years ago the Stones gave the Verve back the song---and the new royalties. If I remember correctly---they even had to put the Stones as writers on the CD. Great Band!!
The whole of The Verve's Urban Hymns album is a must listen, and it's great.
Oh my Gosh there's 2 kitties!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love how you went to the original and brought them together. That was interesting and fun!
He's released an updated Live version of this you might wanna check out :)
i know im late to the party but i thought id give you some context about the verve as im a huge fan and actually from where there from
The Verve was formed in Wigan, England, in 1990. The original lineup consisted of Richard Ashcroft (vocals, guitar), Nick McCabe (guitar), Simon Jones (bass), and Peter Salisbury (drums). The band initially struggled with lineup changes and had difficulty gaining traction in the music industry. Their first single, "All in the Mind," was released in 1992 and showed early signs of their potential. Their debut album, A Storm in Heaven (1993), was praised for its psychedelic and shoegaze influences. Despite its critical acclaim, the album did not achieve significant commercial success at the time.
The Verve’s breakthrough came with their third studio album, Urban Hymns (1997). This album featured a more polished sound, combining alternative rock with orchestral elements. The lead single, "Bitter Sweet Symphony," became a massive hit and is arguably their most famous song. The track's orchestral sample, which was a reworking of a Rolling Stones track(mabie where you heard it), led to legal issues but also brought the band considerable fame. Urban Hymns was a commercial and critical success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and achieving multi-platinum status. The album also included other successful singles like "The Drugs Don’t Work" and "Lucky Man."
Despite their success, internal tensions within the band led to disagreements and eventually the band’s breakup in 1999. Richard Ashcroft, in particular, had a tumultuous relationship with the rest of the band members, and the strain of fame contributed to the split. After the breakup, Richard Ashcroft pursued a solo career, releasing several albums that were met with varying degrees of success. The other members also worked on different projects, with Nick McCabe and Simon Jones forming the band The Black Ships.
The Verve reunited in 2007 and released their fourth studio album, Forth (2008). The album received mixed reviews and did not replicate the success of their previous work, but it was well-received by some fans and critics.
The band’s second breakup occurred in 2009. Since then, Richard Ashcroft has continued his solo career, while the other members have pursued various projects. Despite occasional rumors of a reunion, the band has remained largely inactive since then.
The Verve’s music continues to be influential, particularly their work from the late 1990s. "Bitter Sweet Symphony" remains a defining track of the era, often cited for its innovative use of orchestral samples in rock music. The band is remembered for their atmospheric sound and the emotional depth of their lyrics.
The Verve’s journey reflects the highs and lows of the music industry, marked by significant success and personal conflicts. Their contributions to alternative rock and their impact on the genre are still recognized and celebrated today.
and outside of music Richard Ashcroft, in particular, became a fashion icon due to his distinctive style. His look often included long overcoats, sleek trousers, and sunglasses, which became signature elements of his public persona. This look was emulated by fans and other artists, contributing to the popularization of a more refined, yet relaxed fashion aesthetic within the alternative music scene. (how i still dress to this day a mix of Liam Gallagher and Richard Ashcroft)
So to summarise the band saw varied levels of success were highly influential on not just music but fashion and personality and i wouldn't be who i am today without Richard Ashcroft
They are both talking about life from different times but it doesn't change "you're a slave to money then you die" Good thing Ren changed the lyrics which made it his own
He's not happy but he doesn't let the bastard's grind him down.❤
this song was catapulted into the limelight as prominent in the soundtrack to the movie Cruel Intentions, which was the epitome of the teen movie surge of the late 90's.
Check out this cast:
Ryan Philippe (Crash)
Sarah Michelle Geller (Buffy)
Reese Witherspoon (Legally Blonde)
Selma Blaire (Legally Blonde)
Joshua Jackson (Dawson's Creek)
Sean Patrick Thomas (Save the Last Dance)
Tara Reid (American Pie)
Cruel intensions is an Adaptation of the 18th century letter novel Liaisons Dangereux written by Laclos... There are many movies made, the closet to the ancient subject might be with John Malkovich, Glenn Close, Michelle Pfeiffer, Uma Thurman and Keanu Reeves.
Amazing song and the verve one of the best bands ever period !
The drugs don't work by
the verve is a beautiful song
Such an amazing reaction thank you I would love to see you react to REN big push ‘Precious’ it’s different from most songs he does but very meaningful and beautiful
Again I loved your music videos, again I love your reaction, again I love your personalit... 🙂
the verves 1st 2 albums were mindblowing and DEEP their guitarist is a legend in creating fantastic "soundscapes" heavenly vibes!
the composition for this piecwe was an unconscious copy of a Rolling Stones song.
If you haven't done Power, you should.
I like the dual video reaction. I absolutely loved when you reacted to both Great Gig in the Sky versions in one video.
"Bitter Sweet Symphony" is based on a sample from a 1965 version of the Rolling Stones song "The Last Time" by the Andrew Oldham Orchestra. The Verve added strings, guitar, percussion and vocals. They obtained rights to use the "Last Time" sample from the copyright holder, Decca Records, but were denied permission from the Rolling Stones' former manager, Allen Klein. Following a lawsuit, the Verve relinquished all royalties and the Rolling Stones members Mick Jagger and Keith Richards were added to the songwriting credits. In 2019, ten years after Klein's death, Jagger, Richards, and Klein's son ceded the rights to the Verve songwriter Richard Ashcroft.
This song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones
The violin section has been used in about a thousand ads. So that's probably where you've heard it before.
Stacey, great way to view this cover song. Super job you're doing!
The contrast between lyrical disharmony + musical harmony is precisely a "Bitter + Sweet" Symphony.
This is the only way you should walk in London 🎸😃😂
Love your vids.
You should react to more of the Verve they were one of the best bands of the 90's.
The drugs don't work.
Sonnet.
That's just a couple that came to my head instantly, there are so many.
The violins are actually a sample of an orchestral version Andrew Oldham Orchestra, former manager of the Rolling Stones, created from a Rolling Stones song. There was quite a heavy controversy about the song writer credits and finally The Verve lost it and the song was credited to Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of the Rolling stones. Alan Kleine, a former Rolling Stones manager claimed it, as he was the rights owner of the Rolling Stones back catalogue. Some years after he passed away his son, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards ceded it to The Verve again. So the biggest hit The Verve ever had did not pay off for them money wise for quite some years.
The story behind this dispute
th-cam.com/video/I_s90-Hi2ZY/w-d-xo.htmlsi=mJicvJnG-eaYHp4V
Not on the Ren cover though. Ren remade the soundtrack himself.
Super reaction, Stacey of two great versions of the same song! It's very British and as you say human, it's life. I'm pretty sure that backing track has been sampled many times, hence your familiarisation with it. I love The Verve and Richard Ashcroft's voice, I was at Live 8 at Hyde Park and Richard appeared with Coldplay and they did this song. Ren, as always, pays homage to tracks and artists he loves, always sprinkling a bit of magic over it to make it (or The Big Push's) own.
The Stone Roses, Happy Mondays, Stereophonics, Supergrass, The Bluestones, Kasabian, Ian Brown.
Hello Stacey, beautiful to say the least, ye the verve are from my neck of the woods, here in Manchester/Wigan, UK. Love this tune.
The Verve - everyone from the North as soon as they reach London 😊
Video is tribute to Massive Attack - Unfinished Sympathy!
You have to do the Ren Chapters. He put out the first one on Thursday and is releasing one everyday leading up to his new song's video. Today, Saturday was Chapeter 3. But he's telling his WHOLE life and what he's went through. It's so eye opening. Alot of us thought we already knew Ren and his story, but we didn't know anything really. And it's so different seeing Ren nervous and vulnerable as he tells the different stories of his life and his battle with his illness for 8 long years.
ALSO if you watch his video for the song "It's Alright" you'll see him walking out of the apartment that he stopped infront of at the end of this video. But that song "It's Alright" is so absolutely beautiful. Both the lyrics and video. Such an amazing message.
Great format idea, and I think you're the first I've seen do this to a "retake". You could do ones like "All My Life" or "Halftime" this way, but it makes me smile to think of trying to do "Fred Again" or "Back on 74/Message in a Bottle". :D
As many times, probably hundreds by now, I've heard the Verve version, don't think I've ever seen the video. Had no idea Ren even retook the walk down the high street! I shouldn't be surprised tho, it's Ren 😂
Love this format tho! Please do all his retakes with the original first! My other 2 fave retakes are losing it (fisher) and back on 74 (jungle). I reeeally wanna see u do both pls 😆 x
I do love the lyrics in this song, pretty much sums up my life.
Another double play that you might really love is "Hey You" by Pink Floyd, and the new cover by Anti-Nowhere League..
Richard ❤. I’ve seen him perform live over 10 times and he’s amazing. The verve were great but prefer Richard as a solo, singer..He is headlining a local festival this August and I can’t wait to see him perform again. Listening to him for over 30 years now 💕. Although I do like what REN have done with the song Richard has a coolness that can’t be beat….
Love that you have listened to Iron maiden, one of guitarists lives near me and is such a lovely down to earth guy!
Have you listened to Paolo Nutini, One of the best vocalists ever xxx
Loved the back to back take! Well dun! I love Ren too. This one finally made me a subscriber. Ty and slainte ☘️ 😊 🙏
Love the side by side reaction, both amazing track, great videos... Great reaction 👏😘👍
Yuhuuu!..viva la Ashcroft!..Let's brake the night with color!😊
There’s more to The Verve than this song that everyone seems to react to. Should check out some of their other amazing stuff. Maybe you might like Sonnet.
From the absolute classic album Urban Hymns believe me it is a BANGER. The drugs don't work will get you in floods of tears and Velvet Morning will too please check out this album it is one of the Greatest albums ever made full stop.The Verve
Brilliant combination to react to, both classics! Ren and Molly McKinna " Penitence " is beautiful and touching.
That walk is his walk through life, and all the people he has "bumped into" during his life, the walk would actually be however long his life has been so far.
A reactor who reacts to REN & Pink Floyd, are you serious? I’m in heaven with Stacey ❤️🏴🇬🇧
Never heard the Ren version, loved it too!
Love this song. I don’t even care that the music itself was stolen😂
Love your reactions, love your channel ❤
The Verve stole it from The Rolling Stones and they boyh gave Ren their blessing on this "Retake"
“Stolen” is a bit of a stretch. The Verve used part of a Rolling Stones song, who had taken it from a song that had been around long before they created their own. So everyone “stole” that part in the end.
@@dalemurray1318the rolling stone said something about Ren's version?
@@BrunoBarata78 Not the Rolling Stone, (magazine>, The Rolling Stones (bandD.
@@dalemurray1318 I misspelled it. Do you have a link? I'd love to know what they had to say.
Isn’t this true of all good music though ? The contrasts are what brings a dynamic. It stirs thoughts. Completely random, but I was listening to George Harrison’s “My Guitar Gently Weeps” and this is another one of those contrasts. George’s vocals are like a gentle commentary but the music is very dark and foreboding.
I like this song and the music video are different from most songs. The music is upbeat but once you pay attention to the lyrics it's dark. Glad the Rolling Stones eventually gave the rights back after he credited them (abet years later after Allen died).
Irrelevant side fact: „Bitter Sweet Symphony“ is written in the Mixolydian Mode, characterized by a flat 7. It has a more mellow tone than the classic Ionian („major“) Sound (using only the white keys on a keyboard when you are in the key of C) but is still brighter than Aeolian („natural minor“) (using the white keys starting with A).
Mixolydian is a major mode so of course it will sound brighter that Aeolian.
Volleyball! One of my favourite-to-play sports! (Almost up there with 7 rugged years playing full-contact Canadian 3-down injurious football.) ... And, this is a great tune! 🤗
Trying to narrow down Ren recommendations is almost impossible but I’d love to see you react to ‘How to be Me(Live)’ (with Chinchilla), ‘Dominoes’, ‘Suic*de’ and ‘For Joe’, and then (cos you’ll need cheering up) ‘Humble’, the ‘Love Music’ series and maybe a Big Push performance or two… (war pigs my favourite 😜)
Stacey, please react to "Telegraph Road - Alchemy Live" by Dire Straits.
so now you should do unfinished sympathy by massive attack,the holy trinity of songs with these two
Different kind of music to this but the song title reminds me of an album title by an English band called Thunder, The record title was Backstreet Symphony. Thunder were at their biggest in the late 80s and early 90s but still together doing their thing these days, or they will be once their singer, Danny Bowes, recovers from a pretty bad accident he had, well worth checking out, one of my favourite bands of my teenage years.
She can listen to a song that's so grounded to reality and still listen past it to her money making content it's impressive
I didn't think I would like that ren fellas one.. but I did
the movie Cruel Intentions is pretty much where everyone heard this one before. strange song. somehow it has the ability to pull my heart right out of my chest and wring the emotions out
Cruel Intentions....the movie, they play it at the end .....best part of the movie 🙂🙂🙂
Great reaction, you should also check out Unfinished Sympathy by Massive Attack.
"Definitely his own.. RENdition" - I saw what you did there :P
Since I'm not familiar with The Verve I liked you showing both versions.