Serenity needs to be the next Godsmack song... he wrote the song about RUSH' drummer Neil Peart. Peart lost his daughter in a terrible accident and then his wife a year later. He then wrote a book called The Ghost Rider and after Sully read it it inspired the lyrics to Serenity. Amazingly haunting song and Sullys voice is ridiculously amazing in it. I strongly recommend it.
This reaction struck me all over again that you just have such a child like wonder and joy. Not in a derogatory way, but a "the world is new, and amazing, and what other new and amazing things can I experience"
To hear yet another side of sullys voice I can recommend „serenity“. When I heard it for the first time, it blew my mind: he sound so soft and smooth and almost intimate.
voodoo is one of my favorite songs of all time !!!!! it's sound and feel is unreal, I used to listen to it on loop on halloween when I was in high school 🤣🎃 (still do) also when she compares sully to serj I completely hear it, same with maynard in a perfect circle, especially with the song 'by and down' same vibes!
Sully Erna, the singer, decided to write this song after watching the movie "The Serpent and the Rainbow" (1988), a film involving Voodoo and Witchcraft. Many believe the song is about drugs, specifically a heroin addiction ("The snakebite enter my veins"). Also, I love the whole ritual-sounding tribal vibe. I love the hypnotic drumming! Like it can truly entrance the listener with its groove.
@@thehorriblebrighty'know I can't remember what I had been talking about but I got to use the actual word in conversation with proper context and felt so happy. I felt like such a fucking nerd for being happy about being able to use a word I know from the dictionary in context without it sounding pretentious, but I still am each time.
This song literally exploded into my life as a teen. It set off bombs in my brain. There was something in here that I knew I needed to seek out. It started a whole ass journey for me. Thank goodness for Godsmack, getting me on this road.
"Undulating" is the adjective I'd choose for his voice in this song. Metal meets snake charming. Love seeing your reactions to the music I grew up with!
Growing up around Salem, Ma. I knew Laurie Cabot, the older woman waving the sword at the alter. She used to run a witch shop called “crow haven corner” in Salem and is well known as the “official” Witch of Salem. Some of the people in this video are actually Salem witches. She appeared in the video because Sully was friends with her.
Sully isn't just friends with her, he studied under her. She's the High Priestess of his coven. Godsmack singlehandedly thrust Wicca back into the spotlight in the mid -late 90's with this video, despite Sully being the only witch in the band.
@@Zfrk Interesting. I had heard that Sully was a witch/wiccan and seen pictures of him with Laurie, but I didn't know he studied under her. I knew her because I studied under her way back in the early 1980s.
If you truly want to experience Sully's voice, Until then from his solo album Avalon is the song. Just Sully on the piano and Irina Chirkova on chello. Such an amazing song!
I love that you've finally gotten to Godsmack and Sully. They are responsible for some of the best songs written in the modern era. They do not get the credit they deserve as musicians from most metal listeners. However, they truly are an amazing band led by an even more amazing front man. I can't wait for more. I knew you would be a fan!!! PLEASE DO 7 YEARS by Sully Erna!! It is a masterpiece that everyone should hear. Thank you!!
Also amazing in concert. Saw em in Ohio a couple months ago and watching Sully jam out on the drums when he's not even the drummer was pretty wild on top. So talented in general.
This is the song that drew me to Godsmack in my 40’s. Holy cow what a voice! I finally was able to see them in concert this year and they sound just as good in person! ❤
"Mystical" is how I describe his voice in this song. It always legitimately felt like there was some kind of magic in the song. Even now I have a hard time believing this song hit so mainstream, despite having lived through it. It was on the radio constantly for a long time. If you feel like going back to an aggressive sound, I'll still pitch "Awake". That one and this one are my two favorites of their songs.
Most people love the ritualistic/tribal groove being laid down by drummer, Tommy Stewart, as do I, but there is a little nuance in there that many non-drummers miss. During transition periods and as a replacement for the crash, he uses the china cymbal to portray a "hiss" type sound which goes along with the message of the song and video. Very cool little nuance in there using percussive elements to enhance the feel.
The drummer is Shannon Larkin. He is amazing and puts the spiritual sounds in at the right moments to give the whole band a total baseline for getting the message across.
@@aprillusk8099 Shannon is the current drummer and he's amazing! Tommy Stewart, though, was the original drummer in Godsmack, so that is Stewart rocking the drums.
@aprillusk8099 shannon larkin didnt join godsmack till 2002...there were 3 drummers prior to larkin entering...and Tommy Stewart was the drummer at the beginning or establishment of the band.
My dad used to hum the chorus melody to me as a baby and it would put me to sleep. This is such a childhood memory! Thank you for doing an analysis of this
I used to sing this and other Godsmack songs to my oldest daughter...she's 29 now. By the time she was five, she had every Godsmack song, up to that time, memorized lol. I'm a huge fan. We brought her to a couple of concerts when she was younger.
Your next video needs to be, Sully Erna - 7 years. This was part of his solo projects and Avalon album with Lisa Guyer. Sully is by far the most underrated and unappreciated musical artist in the business today. Sooo many different talents and not enough credit is given to him or his band Godsmack. He’s not just a vocalist, he plays multiple instruments. I saw Godsmack back when they toured with System of a Down. This song has amazing lyrics and is a perfect example of showing the world the many many talents Sully has. This song has everything you’d ever want in a song. Guitars solos, bongos, keyboards, even a Cello solo!!! The style and rhythm of Sully is absolutely astonishing. He plays with such passion and conviction. Please please please. As a musician yourself, You need to review this song. I promise you will not be disappointed….
His solo projects are incredible. The talent that surrounds him makes the whole experience other worldly. I agree, those projects are overlooked and underappreciated.
My son was a toddler when I discovered Godsmack and "Voodoo" was the first song I heard. I absolutely loved it, but my toddler loved it even more. Any time we were driving in the car, he would ask to hear "Voodoo" and as soon as it ended would say, "Again, Voodoo again!". Something about this song is just so soothing to both of us.
My oldest was also into music from the time he was a toddler. He would always ask me to put my Tom Petty CD in, when he was 2. 😂 Now we go to shows together.
With hearing Sully's gritty intensity in I Stand Alone, and now hearing his "entrancing" spell-casting-like low end in Voodoo, I highly recommend 7 Years from his solo project. This will introduce you into his clean melodic chest, mid range, and belts. On top of that, the song features Lisa Guyer who is completely self-taught and was(maybe still is) an associate professor at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Sully describes her as having a "phenomenal voice" and their voices harmonize perfectly. To top it off, it is a live performance and the band/composition(including a cello!) is amazing and a straight up masterclass!
"7 years" is simply the best peace of art from Sully's side project. Vocally and composition wise, it's an epic journey. A must-have on this channel ;)
👆 THIS!! The video of 7 Years melts me. Elizabeth will love the way he sings with such an open mouth! In his 'Different Kind of Tears' video (on Hometown Life album), I love how his neck veins pop while singing. So passionate!
Gotta be my favorite reaction to date. Amazing. Non stop smiles, cringes and creeps. And the word is use for Sully’s voice is seductive. He has a way of drawing you in, every time.
I've long since had a thought on my mind in the form of a feeling without words about your videos, and from this video, words have been found. I really enjoy watching your videos, because the vibrance and powerfully energetic emotions you display from finding new music to experience reminds me that the world isn't as jaded and cold as it seems in a more localized locus, always with new connections to be made and new experiences to be had. It brightens my day each time I see you enjoy the details of amazing works of art and passion... and your smile is contagious in all the best ways. Thank you for what you do. 🙂
Sully is Wiccan, the video was filmed in Salam, MA and the church part was an actual coven performing a ritual for the video. Which is perfect for this song. This song is so entrancing, it makes you feel so in tuned with a side of us we have forgotten as we've evolved as a society.
No longer Wiccan. I got into a dispute over this on another channel. I checked Wikipedia and had to humble myself. I also thought he was Wiccan but in an interview he said he didn't want to be the posterboy for witchcraft so he no longer identifies with any religion.
Godsmack have been so underrated so far, in my opinion, that makes me happy to finally hear a charismatic voice doing justice to their greatness. I'm even more curious to watch a rection of yours to Sully's solo album. *Avalon*
@@jeffhylton4722 The lyrics of Voodoo paint a picture of a mystical woman with alluring powers that can aid the singer in his time of need. I'm not the one who's so far away When I feel the snake bite enter my veins Never did I wanna be here again And I don't remember why I came. The first verse describes the woman's hair as "the color of the sun" and mentions her "deep insecurities" that seem to attract the singer towards her. The second verse, however, is darker and introduces the theme of possession: I'm not the one who's so far away When I lie awake and see the sun No matter what, we ain't gonna die You and me, we're going to touch the sky. From these lyrics, we can see that the song tells a story of a man who falls under the spell of a powerful woman who is intimately connected with the supernatural world. Voodoo, as practiced in the Caribbean and Latin America, is a complex spiritual belief system that combines beliefs from African and European religions, particularly Catholicism. The religion centers on the belief in a supreme being and deities or spirits known as lwas. One of the central beliefs in Voodoo is that spirits can enter and possess people in ceremonies that are accompanied by music and dance. These ceremonies are known as “Voodoo rituals” and are always led by a priest or priestess who is considered to have special powers to communicate with the spiritual world. In this context, the lyrics of Voodoo can be interpreted as an allegory of a man who is seeking spiritual enlightenment or guidance from a Voodoo priestess. The snake could also be seen as a symbol of the serpent Loa, a powerful and respected deity in Voodoo.
Who could have foretold that our favorite opera singer would have become the one to explain to us why our music is so good! Talent transcends genres, preferences, race, background, prejudices and everything else. Music is truly a unifying force. Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing the underlying beauty of music with us.
I’ve been a fan of Sully since the beginning. Love his vocals and lyrics. Plus, he’s pretty easy on the eyes. 🔥 Great reaction! Primal is a great word to describe him and his music!
I remember when I first heard Godsmack. They were the opening band, and I had no idea who they were. But it was magical. I went to the music shop that weekend and bought Godsmack and Awake, which was all they had back then. It was so good. Music has always been such a intimate thing for me.
So excited for this one. This is the 1st Godsmack song I heard and having my girlfriend try to sing the "Voodoo" part to introduce me to them cracks me up to this day.
As an avid supported and fan of Godsmack and Sully's voice I am so happy. I've been recommending for years haha. Glad you are enjoying his voice so much and the band!
As a recreational bassist, I was attracted to this song from the rich bass sound. The drums add a great layer as well. Just a great song to groove to on a long road trip or a long day at work.
I remember playing this bass line in high school. Junior and Senior year I brought my bass to school and would get there early enough that I could hijack the amp in the band room. I'd start playing this riff and the metal heads would start creeping in 😂
I can't tell you just how thoroughly I always enjoy your analysis! Your knowledge, passion, and enthusiasm are infectious! Every exploration is a journey, I swear! Thank you for serving up such delicious content! ❤❤❤
I absolutely love Sully! Godsmack live is such an unbelievable experience! And you asked about drummers~I highly recommend you watch Sully & Shannon do their drum battle 🤯 Sully has so many talents.
Absolutely agreeing the claim about how AWESOME Godsmack are live ... Their show performed outdoors at Parc Jean-Drapeau on Ile Ste=Hélène in Montreal, remains in my memory as one of the 4 best shows ever and all genres combined.
I'm curious if I'm the only person who thinks Sully sounds a 'little' like Brent Smith (Shinedown) in Under Your Scars.. at least during the intro. Such a beautiful song! I love that all proceeds from their Scars merch go to programs that address mental health.
Is that the one that has "Running Blind?". That was my first ever Godsmack song as I found it in a rollercoaster tycoon video of all things back when TH-cam didn't really enforce copyright on Audio.
I've listened to this song hundreds of times and experiencing it as you break it all down is giving me goosebumps. You've changed the way I'll hear this song forever.
I'll start singing this song to myself at work when I know I'm about to have a bad day. Don't know why but it's very therapeutic and makes things a little easier. One of the best songs in modern history.
Happy that you are finally getting into Godsmack and Sully. Everyone is making great suggestions for the next song but I would love to see a reaction Until Then. It definitely shows the softer side of Sully but also makes you realize just how talented he is.
"Ma-Dudesa"! yes that will live rent free in my head every time I listen to Godsmack! And I thank you for it. I thouroghly love how Elizabeth gets so into every one of these. You cant help walk away with such an appreciation for the performers and just her love and enjoyment of the craft
"Voodoo" was the first song from Godsmack that i've heard, and that make me fall in love for the band. The "Top hat" guy in the Organ (and the other three in the bycicle) is the representation of "Baron Samedi", a famous legend of the Voodoo, in Louisiana. Please, Elizabeth now you have to analyse Godsmack's Song "Keep Away".
That High Priestess did a wonderful job. After learning about how Sully is deeply spiritual practitioner of Witchcraft this video makes more and more sense every time I watch it. Also, it was adorable how you squealed like a little girl hearing your favorite band for the first time when Sully started singing.
Elizabeth, I loved your reaction and analysis of this, thank you for doing it. How I view Sully is I believe that he's ultimately a story teller, he adapts himself to the message he wants to convey, he doesn't really have one sound and like a good actor he is what is required for the particular piece. Other tracks which I recommend are, "Awake", "Serenity", "Re-Align".
I love how she is so wrapped up in these videos. Like a kid on Christmas, her enthusiasm blows my mind. Then she like follows through with ok, let me break it all down and school ya on how it's done. Simply an amazing teacher! Like she really gets all forms of music and brings it to heavy metal and hard rock like chopping one finely pristine music salad
I first heard this song on Much Music (Canada's version of MTV). They typically had shows from MTV on it, and they aired a show called "MTV's Fear" that was young people investigating haunted places alone at night. Voodoo was the theme song for that show, and I was immediately captivated by the sound and the mood that the song created in the opening. PERFECT theme for a show that was designed to be creepy and scary. I had already heard "I Stand Alone" by Godsmack, so when i researched who did this song I was surprised like Elizabeth and I am sure a lot of other people about the contrast in style from that song. It's one of my favorite Godsmack songs, it still gives me goosebumps when i hear certain parts in the song, and I want to also commend the drums/percussion on this track. It adds SO much to the song in it's placement, making it a very memorable groove!
I love how this song brings people together. Metal heads like it, but also older people like it too. My grandma usually preferred big band, jazz, blues, etc. But she also adored this song.
I don't go to church or affiliated with any religion, but can you imagine if this song was played in a church service....😂😂😂...somehow, I don't think it would be bringing people together.
Yay! So glad you are covering this! For future coverage I highly recommend anything off of Sully's solo album Avalon. Vocally it is way more impressive than any Godsmack.
Elizabeth this analysis was really good as usual. I listen to a lot of different music genres. Metal and hard rock from the mid-60's to present time is my foundational music preference. When Godsmack and many bands that are similar came on to the music scene it didn't resonate with me. I tuned out of nearly all of these bands 99% after just a couple sample of their songs. However you sold me with this particular song, and I will give Godsmack another listen with a much more open ear. I will say that in this song I can hear old and very strong vestiges of Jim Morrison (The Doors) and hints of Glenn Danzig in Sully's vocals on this track. It is a really good song with a serious "earworm" because i was singing it all day. Thank you for your effort and channel.
If you're looking for more variety in Sully's voice, give a listen to Under My Scars and Whatever. They are both Amazing and Intense. Love your channel and your reactions are always so educational yet entertaining and funny.
I couldn't click on this fast enough as soon as I saw the thumbnail. How did I miss this one. Love this song and it was my introduction to Godsmack. MTV used it as the theme song to their ghosthunting/challenge reality show FEAR back in the late 90's/early 00's. Still gives me chills with the imagery used there too. Good stuff!
His voice in serenity is amazing and my favorite song is under your scars this is a song that brings the emotion out in me to the point my wife knows this is the song I want played in event of my passing it just hit me hard the lyrics hit hard!!!!!! Listen to both love seeing your reactions
I just found your piece on one of my favorite tracks of all time. You're absolutely amazing - bringing me back to things I learned when I was young. You're brilliant. And I have to agree with other posters, Serenity is absolutely stunning. I trade off with that and Voodoo as favorites, depending where I am in life.
I saw them live recently, and this was my favorite song from the whole show. That bass line and drum beat, combined with his voice, was mesmorizing. As others have suggested, you should try "Serenity" next for yet another aspect of Sully's voice.
There's a a brilliant live performance on here of Sully's solo work 'until then'. Which more shows what he's capable of. Fantastic musician and vocalist
one of my favorite sets Godsmack ever did was live acoustic & it was incredible. some bands/singers kill it in the studio buck suck live and Godsmack is an absolutely incredible live band. Sully's voice in the acoustic set is incredible
During the pandemic one of the few concerts I went to was Sully and Aaron Lewis on acoustic guitars singing some of their favorite and most popular tunes, it was incredible.
On your point to clarify about Sully and the band being bitten by a snake and reborn. Alter to the thought of the song being written about opioids or heroin. The moments throughout the video showing Medusa and the lyrical lines of "feel the snake bite enter my vanes" and "freezing feeling" and the voodoo of the sort of drug that hooks and wreaks havoc on one's life. Give it another listen and see what you think
thank you, so glad you did this song, this is the song that sold me on godsmack. and you mention raw and primal a few times. yes. this was back when sully was still becoming a lead singer. he's developed tons since this. more great (more mellowish) songs, scars, hallow, serenity. but wait there's more, lol. so many great songs to choose from. please explore them more.
Hell yeahhhh!!!! I was just thinking about this song and how cool it would be to see Elizabeth do her thing. HOLLOW, Serenity or Living In Sin would be another great choice if she decides to do another Godsmack song. Would also really like to hear her thoughts on Meg Myers Desire! Make it happen please
In the early 2000's my shop teacher told the class to come up with a playlist for class and he'd burn a CD for the class to listen to in the shop. This was the first song I heard each day that year, and never got tired of it.
I use to be a stage manager/ Lighting director for a production company. We had a show in my area, just when Sulley and Godsmack were starting out playing clubs and small venues, where they (Godsmack) were an opener. They arrived in their van and loaded their own gear without Sulley, who at the time was drunk and passed out in the van. Their start time came up and the crew, with the band, literally "poured" Sulley onto the stage, but as soon as he had the mic in his hand you would have never known he was out drunk. Thankfully he's now sober.
The song that introduced me to godsmack! Was all over the radio in the mid 90s or maybe early 90s...I forget.metallica has taken this band out with them on countless tours.i absolutely love the tribal drumming in this.great rocker song!
I hadn't listened to Godsmack in a long time before your last reaction to them. The Live recording of Moon Baby from Fox Theatre is amazing, it's so rare to find someone as good live as they are in studio.
So grateful to have two Godsmack songs evaluated by you. I heard this song when it came on the radio in the early 2000’s and have been a fan ever since. ‘Voodoo Too’ is another song made in a similar style to the original, and it’s a great song. Not nearly as well known either
This song was definitely a giant surprise when I heard it for the first time. I was so enchanted by it's tribalistic vibe I've been listening to it over and over like it was a chant
I love seeing your absolute joy in exploring this wonderful music :) and yes, to reiterate what a previous commenter stated the priestess in the video is Laurie Cabot, she is a real high priestess and collaborated with members of her coven to shoot scenes of this for Goodsmack.
Posting before premiere, so take my comments with a grain of salt, lol. This is not the song I would have chosen for a vocal coach to review, he's got other songs that are a far better showcase of his singing skills. This is very monotone. But that being said, there is an interesting resonance to his voice for a nearly spoken-word track. Rather than using scale to convey emotion, it's more in his cadence, with the shortening and elongation of words. All singers do that, but it is interesting to hear that in isolation, absent more conventional singing techniques. I don't think the track itself will blow her mind, but it may quickly become a favored example of some techniques because of how stripped down and minimalist it is, with all the nuances laid bare with nothing really competing with them. It's an awesome song, and fun to see a singer play with time more than notes. Definitely unique in the genre.
I heard this song back in the early 2000's and fell in love enough that the band so much I went to see them with metallica, and I walked out on metallica. I'd see them again any time.
You recently asked two questions : one for a drummer and another for a guitarist . Well these two questions can have one answer: MESHUGGAH. They literally invented a metal genre that influenced hundreds di bands in the lady 20 years. Their trademark is polyrhythms, polymetered riff cycles, rhythmic syncopation, rapid key and tempo changes.
Serenity needs to be the next Godsmack song... he wrote the song about RUSH' drummer Neil Peart. Peart lost his daughter in a terrible accident and then his wife a year later. He then wrote a book called The Ghost Rider and after Sully read it it inspired the lyrics to Serenity. Amazingly haunting song and Sullys voice is ridiculously amazing in it. I strongly recommend it.
I was about to suggest serenity. you beat me to it. it's an amazing song.
The acoustic version of "Spiral" is a good one.
I had no clue!😁 **The More You Know meme**
Studio version is instrumentally more interesting.
I didn't know. Thank you. I love and live Rush
This reaction struck me all over again that you just have such a child like wonder and joy. Not in a derogatory way, but a "the world is new, and amazing, and what other new and amazing things can I experience"
I love your reactions too!
To hear yet another side of sullys voice I can recommend „serenity“. When I heard it for the first time, it blew my mind: he sound so soft and smooth and almost intimate.
That's the one she should have done over this
@@raytruhn602 Why not both? 😁
Agreed
I would say "Under your scars" or "Running Blind" would be great ones too. Hell their whole catalog is.
Hollow is another great song. Very underrated
voodoo is one of my favorite songs of all time !!!!! it's sound and feel is unreal, I used to listen to it on loop on halloween when I was in high school 🤣🎃 (still do)
also when she compares sully to serj I completely hear it, same with maynard in a perfect circle, especially with the song 'by and down' same vibes!
Love this song, even tho I'm not a huge GodSmack fan. I do Iike I Stand Alone too.
@@metalmamasue3680 yeah both solid songs!!!
Then follow up with Voodoo Too 8)
Sully Erna, the singer, decided to write this song after watching the movie "The Serpent and the Rainbow" (1988), a film involving Voodoo and Witchcraft. Many believe the song is about drugs, specifically a heroin addiction ("The snakebite enter my veins").
Also, I love the whole ritual-sounding tribal vibe. I love the hypnotic drumming! Like it can truly entrance the listener with its groove.
Also the name Godsmack is kind of pointing in the direction of heroin.
@@thehorriblebrighty'know I can't remember what I had been talking about but I got to use the actual word in conversation with proper context and felt so happy. I felt like such a fucking nerd for being happy about being able to use a word I know from the dictionary in context without it sounding pretentious, but I still am each time.
The movie itself is one of the best in its genre imho
it's what i've gathered too, sounds like someone got away from H usage.
I always got the feel of addiction from the lyrics too... "never did I want to be here again..." etc
This song literally exploded into my life as a teen. It set off bombs in my brain. There was something in here that I knew I needed to seek out. It started a whole ass journey for me. Thank goodness for Godsmack, getting me on this road.
Wow, what a trip down memory lane,it is always awesome to re-discover songs I heard a million times through your analysis
Yeah!! I was hoping to see someone mention that Sully is wiccan and a lot of this video is wiccan inspired 🥰
"Undulating" is the adjective I'd choose for his voice in this song. Metal meets snake charming. Love seeing your reactions to the music I grew up with!
Sully sounds just as amazing live… he deserves a lot more respect than he gets.
Growing up around Salem, Ma. I knew Laurie Cabot, the older woman waving the sword at the alter. She used to run a witch shop called “crow haven corner” in Salem and is well known as the “official” Witch of Salem. Some of the people in this video are actually Salem witches. She appeared in the video because Sully was friends with her.
Sully isn't just friends with her, he studied under her. She's the High Priestess of his coven.
Godsmack singlehandedly thrust Wicca back into the spotlight in the mid -late 90's with this video, despite Sully being the only witch in the band.
@@Zfrk Interesting. I had heard that Sully was a witch/wiccan and seen pictures of him with Laurie, but I didn't know he studied under her. I knew her because I studied under her way back in the early 1980s.
If you truly want to experience Sully's voice, Until then from his solo album Avalon is the song. Just Sully on the piano and Irina Chirkova on chello. Such an amazing song!
Is it the sinners prayer you talking about🤔
@@coryhermiller5912 I think Patrick is referring to the song "Until Then" which I agree is an amazing song as well as "7 Years"
I love that you've finally gotten to Godsmack and Sully. They are responsible for some of the best songs written in the modern era. They do not get the credit they deserve as musicians from most metal listeners. However, they truly are an amazing band led by an even more amazing front man. I can't wait for more. I knew you would be a fan!!! PLEASE DO 7 YEARS by Sully Erna!! It is a masterpiece that everyone should hear. Thank you!!
Heck yeah, 7 Years is AWESOME.
That whole album is a slept on masterpiece.
Also amazing in concert. Saw em in Ohio a couple months ago and watching Sully jam out on the drums when he's not even the drummer was pretty wild on top. So talented in general.
This is the song that drew me to Godsmack in my 40’s. Holy cow what a voice! I finally was able to see them in concert this year and they sound just as good in person! ❤
"Mystical" is how I describe his voice in this song. It always legitimately felt like there was some kind of magic in the song. Even now I have a hard time believing this song hit so mainstream, despite having lived through it. It was on the radio constantly for a long time.
If you feel like going back to an aggressive sound, I'll still pitch "Awake". That one and this one are my two favorites of their songs.
Most people love the ritualistic/tribal groove being laid down by drummer, Tommy Stewart, as do I, but there is a little nuance in there that many non-drummers miss. During transition periods and as a replacement for the crash, he uses the china cymbal to portray a "hiss" type sound which goes along with the message of the song and video. Very cool little nuance in there using percussive elements to enhance the feel.
The drummer is Shannon Larkin. He is amazing and puts the spiritual sounds in at the right moments to give the whole band a total baseline for getting the message across.
@@aprillusk8099 Shannon is the current drummer and he's amazing! Tommy Stewart, though, was the original drummer in Godsmack, so that is Stewart rocking the drums.
@@Legolas25079 i thought Sully wrote it and tommy recorded it?
There is also a cabasa being used which gives a hiss sound during the main tribal beat.
@aprillusk8099 shannon larkin didnt join godsmack till 2002...there were 3 drummers prior to larkin entering...and Tommy Stewart was the drummer at the beginning or establishment of the band.
Serenity, Unbreakable and 7 years ( live from his solo project) are a great next step into Sully. The message in the last 2 will steal your heart
My dad used to hum the chorus melody to me as a baby and it would put me to sleep. This is such a childhood memory! Thank you for doing an analysis of this
I used to sing this and other Godsmack songs to my oldest daughter...she's 29 now. By the time she was five, she had every Godsmack song, up to that time, memorized lol. I'm a huge fan. We brought her to a couple of concerts when she was younger.
Your next video needs to be,
Sully Erna - 7 years.
This was part of his solo projects and Avalon album with Lisa Guyer.
Sully is by far the most underrated and unappreciated musical artist in the business today. Sooo many different talents and not enough credit is given to him or his band Godsmack.
He’s not just a vocalist, he plays multiple instruments. I saw Godsmack back when they toured with System of a Down.
This song has amazing lyrics and is a perfect example of showing the world the many many talents Sully has. This song has everything you’d ever want in a song. Guitars solos, bongos, keyboards, even a Cello solo!!! The style and rhythm of Sully is absolutely astonishing. He plays with such passion and conviction. Please please please. As a musician yourself, You need to review this song. I promise you will not be disappointed….
His solo projects are incredible. The talent that surrounds him makes the whole experience other worldly. I agree, those projects are overlooked and underappreciated.
Lisa Guyer is also amazing on the avalon album
Avalon album is amazing. The vocals, setting and instruments…
Until then!
This is so true. 7 years is beautiful
My son was a toddler when I discovered Godsmack and "Voodoo" was the first song I heard. I absolutely loved it, but my toddler loved it even more. Any time we were driving in the car, he would ask to hear "Voodoo" and as soon as it ended would say, "Again, Voodoo again!". Something about this song is just so soothing to both of us.
My oldest was also into music from the time he was a toddler. He would always ask me to put my Tom Petty CD in, when he was 2. 😂 Now we go to shows together.
With hearing Sully's gritty intensity in I Stand Alone, and now hearing his "entrancing" spell-casting-like low end in Voodoo, I highly recommend 7 Years from his solo project. This will introduce you into his clean melodic chest, mid range, and belts. On top of that, the song features Lisa Guyer who is completely self-taught and was(maybe still is) an associate professor at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Sully describes her as having a "phenomenal voice" and their voices harmonize perfectly. To top it off, it is a live performance and the band/composition(including a cello!) is amazing and a straight up masterclass!
Thanks for the info on his solo work. Excited to hear it.
100% agree with this. I would absolutely love to see Elizabeth's take on this one!!
"7 years" is simply the best peace of art from Sully's side project. Vocally and composition wise, it's an epic journey. A must-have on this channel ;)
👆 THIS!! The video of 7 Years melts me. Elizabeth will love the way he sings with such an open mouth!
In his 'Different Kind of Tears' video (on Hometown Life album), I love how his neck veins pop while singing. So passionate!
Rock mountain is good one
Gotta be my favorite reaction to date. Amazing. Non stop smiles, cringes and creeps. And the word is use for Sully’s voice is seductive. He has a way of drawing you in, every time.
I've long since had a thought on my mind in the form of a feeling without words about your videos, and from this video, words have been found.
I really enjoy watching your videos, because the vibrance and powerfully energetic emotions you display from finding new music to experience reminds me that the world isn't as jaded and cold as it seems in a more localized locus, always with new connections to be made and new experiences to be had. It brightens my day each time I see you enjoy the details of amazing works of art and passion... and your smile is contagious in all the best ways.
Thank you for what you do. 🙂
Sully is Wiccan, the video was filmed in Salam, MA and the church part was an actual coven performing a ritual for the video. Which is perfect for this song. This song is so entrancing, it makes you feel so in tuned with a side of us we have forgotten as we've evolved as a society.
And Laurie Cabot agreed to in it 😊
Ex-Wiccan
No longer Wiccan. I got into a dispute over this on another channel. I checked Wikipedia and had to humble myself. I also thought he was Wiccan but in an interview he said he didn't want to be the posterboy for witchcraft so he no longer identifies with any religion.
@@class5bodyworks How interesting... I've been Wiccan for 21 years and it never once occurred to me that someone even COULD be a posterchild.
I wonder if there was more to it than that, or if he was already separating himself.
Godsmack have been so underrated so far, in my opinion, that makes me happy to finally hear a charismatic voice doing justice to their greatness.
I'm even more curious to watch a rection of yours to Sully's solo album. *Avalon*
Please make Sully your next tea time guest! I'd love to see that
The song's about drug use, the snake bite entering your veins is the drug entering your veins
@@jeffhylton4722thanks for stating the absolute obvious bud.
@@jeffhylton4722
The lyrics of Voodoo paint a picture of a mystical woman with alluring powers that can aid the singer in his time of need.
I'm not the one who's so far away
When I feel the snake bite enter my veins
Never did I wanna be here again And I don't remember why I came.
The first verse describes the woman's hair as "the color of the sun" and mentions her "deep insecurities" that seem to attract the singer towards her. The second verse, however, is darker and introduces the theme of possession:
I'm not the one who's so far away
When I lie awake and see the sun
No matter what, we ain't gonna die You and me, we're going to touch the sky.
From these lyrics, we can see that the song tells a story of a man who falls under the spell of a powerful woman who is intimately connected with the supernatural world.
Voodoo, as practiced in the Caribbean and Latin America, is a complex spiritual belief system that combines beliefs from African and European religions, particularly Catholicism. The religion centers on the belief in a supreme being and deities or spirits known as lwas.
One of the central beliefs in Voodoo is that spirits can enter and possess people in ceremonies that are accompanied by music and dance. These ceremonies are known as “Voodoo rituals” and are always led by a priest or priestess who is considered to have special powers to communicate with the spiritual world.
In this context, the lyrics of Voodoo can be interpreted as an allegory of a man who is seeking spiritual enlightenment or guidance from a Voodoo priestess. The snake could also be seen as a symbol of the serpent Loa, a powerful and respected deity in Voodoo.
@@thefaceoffuzzI love that Sully runs his fingers up his outstretched arm to really drive the point home
Definitely!
Who could have foretold that our favorite opera singer would have become the one to explain to us why our music is so good! Talent transcends genres, preferences, race, background, prejudices and everything else. Music is truly a unifying force. Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing the underlying beauty of music with us.
I’ve been a fan of Sully since the beginning. Love his vocals and lyrics. Plus, he’s pretty easy on the eyes. 🔥 Great reaction! Primal is a great word to describe him and his music!
I remember when I first heard Godsmack. They were the opening band, and I had no idea who they were. But it was magical. I went to the music shop that weekend and bought Godsmack and Awake, which was all they had back then. It was so good. Music has always been such a intimate thing for me.
So excited for this one. This is the 1st Godsmack song I heard and having my girlfriend try to sing the "Voodoo" part to introduce me to them cracks me up to this day.
As an avid supported and fan of Godsmack and Sully's voice I am so happy. I've been recommending for years haha. Glad you are enjoying his voice so much and the band!
As a recreational bassist, I was attracted to this song from the rich bass sound. The drums add a great layer as well. Just a great song to groove to on a long road trip or a long day at work.
I remember playing this bass line in high school. Junior and Senior year I brought my bass to school and would get there early enough that I could hijack the amp in the band room. I'd start playing this riff and the metal heads would start creeping in 😂
I can't tell you just how thoroughly I always enjoy your analysis! Your knowledge, passion, and enthusiasm are infectious! Every exploration is a journey, I swear! Thank you for serving up such delicious content! ❤❤❤
I absolutely love Sully! Godsmack live is such an unbelievable experience! And you asked about drummers~I highly recommend you watch Sully & Shannon do their drum battle 🤯 Sully has so many talents.
Absolutely agreeing the claim about how AWESOME Godsmack are live ... Their show performed outdoors at Parc Jean-Drapeau on Ile Ste=Hélène in Montreal, remains in my memory as one of the 4 best shows ever and all genres combined.
Unforgettable
Great song and I promise the video will make you feel so good.
These guys are the real deal and they absolutely rock!
Under your scars, unforgettable, my light, and different kind of tears are all really good and meaningful songs that I like.
I'm curious if I'm the only person who thinks Sully sounds a 'little' like Brent Smith (Shinedown) in Under Your Scars.. at least during the intro. Such a beautiful song! I love that all proceeds from their Scars merch go to programs that address mental health.
@@techiegirl1331 never really thought about it, will have to listen to it again to see.
They really highlight Under my Scars in their live shows. It seems like an important cause for them. Great song!
Their acoustic album is incredible
Is that the one that has "Running Blind?". That was my first ever Godsmack song as I found it in a rollercoaster tycoon video of all things back when TH-cam didn't really enforce copyright on Audio.
@@diagonaltripod3713 yes. That’s the one
This is one of those songs that gets more addictive the more you listen to it.
smack be like that.
I've listened to this song hundreds of times and experiencing it as you break it all down is giving me goosebumps. You've changed the way I'll hear this song forever.
I believe that Sully's singing here fits the definition of "legato"; the lyrics flow smoothly from one note to the next, with little separation.
You hit describing Sullys voice pretty damn well if you ask me. He is sultry in ways I wish I knew how to be.
I'll start singing this song to myself at work when I know I'm about to have a bad day. Don't know why but it's very therapeutic and makes things a little easier. One of the best songs in modern history.
When I’ve had a rough day at work I jam “Serenity” on repeat for 45 minutes while I drive home
Happy that you are finally getting into Godsmack and Sully. Everyone is making great suggestions for the next song but I would love to see a reaction Until Then. It definitely shows the softer side of Sully but also makes you realize just how talented he is.
"Ma-Dudesa"! yes that will live rent free in my head every time I listen to Godsmack! And I thank you for it. I thouroghly love how Elizabeth gets so into every one of these. You cant help walk away with such an appreciation for the performers and just her love and enjoyment of the craft
"Voodoo" was the first song from Godsmack that i've heard, and that make me fall in love for the band. The "Top hat" guy in the Organ (and the other three in the bycicle) is the representation of "Baron Samedi", a famous legend of the Voodoo, in Louisiana. Please, Elizabeth now you have to analyse Godsmack's Song "Keep Away".
Baron Samedi was in a Bond movie, I beIieve and is also mentioned in Lamb Of God's Resurrection Man which is a great metal song.
That High Priestess did a wonderful job. After learning about how Sully is deeply spiritual practitioner of Witchcraft this video makes more and more sense every time I watch it. Also, it was adorable how you squealed like a little girl hearing your favorite band for the first time when Sully started singing.
Elizabeth, I loved your reaction and analysis of this, thank you for doing it. How I view Sully is I believe that he's ultimately a story teller, he adapts himself to the message he wants to convey, he doesn't really have one sound and like a good actor he is what is required for the particular piece. Other tracks which I recommend are, "Awake", "Serenity", "Re-Align".
I love how she is so wrapped up in these videos. Like a kid on Christmas, her enthusiasm blows my mind. Then she like follows through with ok, let me break it all down and school ya on how it's done. Simply an amazing teacher! Like she really gets all forms of music and brings it to heavy metal and hard rock like chopping one finely pristine music salad
I first heard this song on Much Music (Canada's version of MTV). They typically had shows from MTV on it, and they aired a show called "MTV's Fear" that was young people investigating haunted places alone at night. Voodoo was the theme song for that show, and I was immediately captivated by the sound and the mood that the song created in the opening. PERFECT theme for a show that was designed to be creepy and scary. I had already heard "I Stand Alone" by Godsmack, so when i researched who did this song I was surprised like Elizabeth and I am sure a lot of other people about the contrast in style from that song. It's one of my favorite Godsmack songs, it still gives me goosebumps when i hear certain parts in the song, and I want to also commend the drums/percussion on this track. It adds SO much to the song in it's placement, making it a very memorable groove!
As a lover of MTVs Fear, it's all on TH-cam, I'm surprised more people aren't mentioning it!
That was an awesome show, gonna have to go back and look up some episodes.
Sully Erna and Godsmack have been my favorite band for 20 years!! Thank you for this 🙏😊
I love how this song brings people together. Metal heads like it, but also older people like it too.
My grandma usually preferred big band, jazz, blues, etc.
But she also adored this song.
It's also super popular in strip clubs. Really brings everyone together.
I don't go to church or affiliated with any religion, but can you imagine if this song was played in a church service....😂😂😂...somehow, I don't think it would be bringing people together.
My wife and I saw Godsmack earlier this year. He still sounds amazing live. The longevity in that man's voice is astonishing.
Bulletproof and Under your Scars are good examples of Sully's voice as well
YES bulletproof is too good 👏
Under Your Scars may be one of the most beautiful songs ever written, in my humble opinion anyway.
Yep that album probably is the best to hear Sullys full range.
Gotta see the live version it gave me chills. It took my breath away!!!
Yay! So glad you are covering this! For future coverage I highly recommend anything off of Sully's solo album Avalon. Vocally it is way more impressive than any Godsmack.
Elizabeth this analysis was really good as usual. I listen to a lot of different music genres. Metal and hard rock from the mid-60's to present time is my foundational music preference. When Godsmack and many bands that are similar came on to the music scene it didn't resonate with me. I tuned out of nearly all of these bands 99% after just a couple sample of their songs. However you sold me with this particular song, and I will give Godsmack another listen with a much more open ear. I will say that in this song I can hear old and very strong vestiges of Jim Morrison (The Doors) and hints of Glenn Danzig in Sully's vocals on this track. It is a really good song with a serious "earworm" because i was singing it all day. Thank you for your effort and channel.
If you're looking for more variety in Sully's voice, give a listen to Under My Scars and Whatever. They are both Amazing and Intense. Love your channel and your reactions are always so educational yet entertaining and funny.
How did I miss this?? I love your “rabbit hole” dive into metal and rock. I can’t believe this slipped under my radar. Doh
Godsmack are down right awesome in concert.ive seen them many times and have never been disappointed
one of the best metal shows ive ever seen
This Album is so good and the fact that Sully is a drummer always shows up in how cool their percussion is.
This particular song I find very hypnotic, and was my introduction to the band years ago. Made me want to listen to more of their music.
I absolutely love watching these videos! And I love how you get all fangirl about different voices!
Under your scars is one of my favorites
0:50
I 100% believe I just shared in the shiver you got there, and all I can say is I am so happy for how you truly appreciate music.
Godsmack is great to see live.
I've seen them twice and couldn't agree more, Godsmack is my favorite band live. They never disappoint!
By far and away my favorite Godsmack song. Glad to see you react to this one
Sully is super talented. You need to see his drum battle with Shannon. They do it every concert and it's magical.
Magical and boooooring
Just got to experience this last in May. It was freaking awesome.
he did the drums on this album and the next one to
I couldn't click on this fast enough as soon as I saw the thumbnail. How did I miss this one. Love this song and it was my introduction to Godsmack. MTV used it as the theme song to their ghosthunting/challenge reality show FEAR back in the late 90's/early 00's. Still gives me chills with the imagery used there too. Good stuff!
You must hear Sully Erna solo album "Avalon". 7 years is amazing song !
His voice in serenity is amazing and my favorite song is under your scars this is a song that brings the emotion out in me to the point my wife knows this is the song I want played in event of my passing it just hit me hard the lyrics hit hard!!!!!! Listen to both love seeing your reactions
The music video is incredible. I honestly forgot how good it was.Haven’t heard this song in a long time. Good stuff.
I just found your piece on one of my favorite tracks of all time. You're absolutely amazing - bringing me back to things I learned when I was young. You're brilliant. And I have to agree with other posters, Serenity is absolutely stunning. I trade off with that and Voodoo as favorites, depending where I am in life.
I saw them live recently, and this was my favorite song from the whole show. That bass line and drum beat, combined with his voice, was mesmorizing. As others have suggested, you should try "Serenity" next for yet another aspect of Sully's voice.
I love sullys voice! I was hooked years ago when their debut album came out! It’s still one of my favorite albums!
The 2 Godsmack/ Sully Erna videos that are an absolute must are "Unforgettable" and "My Light"
There's a a brilliant live performance on here of Sully's solo work 'until then'. Which more shows what he's capable of. Fantastic musician and vocalist
one of my favorite sets Godsmack ever did was live acoustic & it was incredible. some bands/singers kill it in the studio buck suck live and Godsmack is an absolutely incredible live band. Sully's voice in the acoustic set is incredible
During the pandemic one of the few concerts I went to was Sully and Aaron Lewis on acoustic guitars singing some of their favorite and most popular tunes, it was incredible.
YES!!! This is a fantastic choice. Can't wait to watch
On your point to clarify about Sully and the band being bitten by a snake and reborn. Alter to the thought of the song being written about opioids or heroin. The moments throughout the video showing Medusa and the lyrical lines of "feel the snake bite enter my vanes" and "freezing feeling" and the voodoo of the sort of drug that hooks and wreaks havoc on one's life. Give it another listen and see what you think
One of my favourite songs ever!!!! In 46 years of seriously listening to music.
This song Sully wrote based on watching a movie called " The Serpent and the rainbow" which is about the belief and practice of Voodoo.
thank you, so glad you did this song, this is the song that sold me on godsmack. and you mention raw and primal a few times. yes. this was back when sully was still becoming a lead singer. he's developed tons since this. more great (more mellowish) songs, scars, hallow, serenity. but wait there's more, lol. so many great songs to choose from. please explore them more.
Hell yeahhhh!!!! I was just thinking about this song and how cool it would be to see Elizabeth do her thing. HOLLOW, Serenity or Living In Sin would be another great choice if she decides to do another Godsmack song. Would also really like to hear her thoughts on Meg Myers Desire! Make it happen please
OOO, I love Meg Myers! I like her "Running Up That Hill" better than the original! "Desire" is a great suggestion!
In the early 2000's my shop teacher told the class to come up with a playlist for class and he'd burn a CD for the class to listen to in the shop.
This was the first song I heard each day that year, and never got tired of it.
I have always felt Sully was also a very underrated lyricist as well. and they as a band do a lot of work with kids which is amazing.
I use to be a stage manager/ Lighting director for a production company. We had a show in my area, just when Sulley and Godsmack were starting out playing clubs and small venues, where they (Godsmack) were an opener. They arrived in their van and loaded their own gear without Sulley, who at the time was drunk and passed out in the van. Their start time came up and the crew, with the band, literally "poured" Sulley onto the stage, but as soon as he had the mic in his hand you would have never known he was out drunk. Thankfully he's now sober.
The song that introduced me to godsmack! Was all over the radio in the mid 90s or maybe early 90s...I forget.metallica has taken this band out with them on countless tours.i absolutely love the tribal drumming in this.great rocker song!
listened to this song so many times back in the day, but that intro gave me goosebumps still
sees Godsmack's Voodoo thumbnail, knows: "girl is gonna need an after-cigarette"
Love this song. I'm glad you're finally reviewing this song.
Would love to see you do Serenity by Godsmack!
Studio version please.
@@EricT3769idk, the live version of Serenity is frkn Amazing
I hadn't listened to Godsmack in a long time before your last reaction to them. The Live recording of Moon Baby from Fox Theatre is amazing, it's so rare to find someone as good live as they are in studio.
Tea Time with Sully! Please make it happen. Very interesting/talented guy.
So grateful to have two Godsmack songs evaluated by you. I heard this song when it came on the radio in the early 2000’s and have been a fan ever since. ‘Voodoo Too’ is another song made in a similar style to the original, and it’s a great song. Not nearly as well known either
One of my favorite songs from the 90's! I can still recall the lyrics of the chorus after all this time.
This song was definitely a giant surprise when I heard it for the first time. I was so enchanted by it's tribalistic vibe I've been listening to it over and over like it was a chant
It's gotta be Serenity next. I also recommend Hollow or One Rainy Day from Godsmack IV (that was the album in my car through college!)
Serenity and One Rainy Day both are underrated songs from those albums. I thought I was the only one who liked them. Spiral is awesome as well.
I love seeing your absolute joy in exploring this wonderful music :) and yes, to reiterate what a previous commenter stated the priestess in the video is Laurie Cabot, she is a real high priestess and collaborated with members of her coven to shoot scenes of this for Goodsmack.
Posting before premiere, so take my comments with a grain of salt, lol.
This is not the song I would have chosen for a vocal coach to review, he's got other songs that are a far better showcase of his singing skills. This is very monotone. But that being said, there is an interesting resonance to his voice for a nearly spoken-word track. Rather than using scale to convey emotion, it's more in his cadence, with the shortening and elongation of words. All singers do that, but it is interesting to hear that in isolation, absent more conventional singing techniques.
I don't think the track itself will blow her mind, but it may quickly become a favored example of some techniques because of how stripped down and minimalist it is, with all the nuances laid bare with nothing really competing with them.
It's an awesome song, and fun to see a singer play with time more than notes. Definitely unique in the genre.
I heard this song back in the early 2000's and fell in love enough that the band so much I went to see them with metallica, and I walked out on metallica. I'd see them again any time.
You recently asked two questions : one for a drummer and another for a guitarist . Well these two questions can have one answer: MESHUGGAH. They literally invented a metal genre that influenced hundreds di bands in the lady 20 years. Their trademark is polyrhythms, polymetered riff cycles, rhythmic syncopation, rapid key and tempo changes.