The song captures the feel of the last few moments of life when you come to a place of peace. All the worldly things are no longer important, and you realize that all is well.
Donald Roeser wrote the lyrics. He has stated that he was contemplating his own mortality, his love for his wife, and had faith that it would continue after death. He was comforted by this thought. Roeser said he was aware the theme was dark but never intended the song to be "an excuse for someone to commit suicide." You are one of the few people that actually gets this song. I'm proud of you.
We saw Blue Oyster Cult in Houston, in 1975, opening for Rod Stewart. Man, they blew Stewart away. My husband and I went the next day and got their album. Loved them ever since.
I was at the Madison Sq Garden version of that show and the crowd went wild.Even Rod said "Won't you cheer for me like you did for your Blue Oyster Cult" LOL I've seen them over 150 times and this was to this day the most exciting set I've ever seen.
One of rock's most perfectly written, executed, and sound recorded masterpieces ever. They just got it all together with this tune. I feel the same about their song "Then Came The Last Days of May" another masterpiece and based on a true story.
Blue Oyster Cult rocks!! Godzilla, Fire of Unknown Origin, Dominance and Submission, Nosferatu, In Thee, Death Valley Nights, Redeemed... All absolute bangers! 👍
Buck Dharma, the songwriter, said the song isn't about suicide, but understands how people would think that due to the Romeo and Juliet reference. Though he believes his songs should be open to interpretation by whoever listens to them, this is what he said about its inspiration: "It was sort of inspired by a personal health scare - I thought I was going to maybe not live that long. I had been diagnosed with a heart condition, and your mind starts running away with you - especially when you're young-ish. So, that's why I wrote the story. It's imagining you can survive death in terms of your spirit. Your spirit will prevail."
@@neillenet291 Remember the stink that went up in this time period about Satanic and suicide songs in rock and roll. Some writers were even brought into court over the lyrics to their songs. Reason enough to lie.
at 5:22 ish do the lyrics say 'She had become like they are'.. Reminds me of what de gaulle said when his daughter , who had Downs Syndrome , died young; " And now, she is like the rest. " Kind of moving. Death is the great equaliser of course, life on earth is wretched in that the tragedy of difference between one human destiny and another, is too wide.
I had the pleasure of seeing them live twice. My favorite BOC song and always will be. It's NOT about encouraging suicide like some think. It's a love song. I will continue to love you even then. The beginning of Stephen King's "The Stand" (1994 and best version) features this at the beginning. Another band with this kind of vibe and depth you need to check out if you haven't already is Kansas.
BOO!!!!! 1950's style I mean. Anyone got a bat? Ya don't whistle Stairway OK? I actually don't Know where to begin. OK I've probably done worse, but not on purpose. Or wait was it? OMG Soever did I invest in? Stewie Family Guy? No idea.
Beyond the great lyrics in this song, they are very smooth in their musical dynamics...just flowing like a river from being very soft to full-on power. It all works to draw out emotions.
When they were prepping for a major tour they tuned up in small clubs as "Soft White Underbelly". I saw them in Sacramento, CA at a club called "The Oasis", maybe 250 people absolutely jam packed and they lifted the roof right off the place. In the top ten shows I ever saw.
i was them in marietta, ohio at the peopes bank they can rock still, its only a 46 year old song, they rocked, oh no theres tokyo, gogo godzilla, that a classic too- im glad they came here for me to see
Worked local crew for them mid-'90s. Great guys! Get in the bus with the family and go on tour. So fun! Also watched them blow the mains in a thousand seater. Twice. In the same show. They ran out of fuses.
Great choice! One of my all time favorite bands. Their music can transport you to different places and times. Black Blade, I Love the Night, Take Me Away and of course Godzilla!
I love BOC! They are a great live band and always have been. This song is a big favorite. Has so much going on. Try next "Then Came the Last Days of May". Thanks for reacting to this Reaper!
First concert I ever saw was BOC and Black Sabbath, Buck Dharma is one of the greatest guitar players of all time. This song is an emotional rollercoaster all in itself, simply amazing.
The contrast between the relative intimacy of the vocal/harmony and the subject of the song is interesting; as is the contrast between the powerful guitar solo and the repeating, jangling, Byrds-like main melody. There is a Romanticism in the lyrics that reminds me of John Keats's poem Ode to a Nightingale. "I have been half in love with easeful Death" is the quotation I'm thinking of.
Please play haunting hard Rock song called THE TWILIGHT ZONE by the group GOLDEN EARING, it came out in 1984. I keep asking everyone to play it they were so underrated. Please give it a listen.
another great tune I grew up listening to as a teenager - Got to say my teenage years late 70s & 80s did have great music - thanks for the tunes and glad you are reacting to them
"Need more cowbell" one of the best songs ever!!! Which is why it became one of the best skits in SNL. You should check that out, Will Ferrel, Jimmy Fallon, and the one and only Christopher Walken!!!
I grew up listening to this, great song, then I got it as an opener to a Grim Reaper concert in 1987, and after that it became the theme song for Stephen King's The Stand. I mostly just have the opening scene of The Stand in my head every time I hear it now.
Reminds me of working at K2 ski corporation Vashon Island,Washington State when alot of us had good boom boxes in the press rooms. Moulding skis and partying.
BOC got their start in the late 60's on Long Island, NY as a Psychedelic Rock band but later moved more towards a Progressive Rock sound.. There's over 40 years of amazing g BOC music to dive into. Enjoy..
In the cover art for this, in the Magicians hand, he is holding Tarot cards. The order is as follows: Death: Signifying an End of things, and new beginnings after. The Empress: Signifying creation of life, romance, art, or new business. The Emperor: Suggestive of stability and security in life and that you are in charge of your life now setting up your own rules and boundaries. The Sun: Portends good fortune, happiness, joy and harmony. It represents the universe coming together and agreeing with your path and aiding forward movement into something greater/Ascension.
THE band I have seen more than any other, primarily due to longevity and their frenetic touring schedule. Oh, and because I dig them LIVE. They wail. The two front men are still with the band, the others have either been replaced or passed on. :( They put out a new album last year, and are already on the road post-COVID. ON TOUR FOREVER is their motto, and they continue to live by it. If you have the opportunity to see the guys, I HIGHLY recommend it.
In an interview the lead singer said it was the Reaper trying to calm a dyeing woman by singing a love song to and explaining he was there to help her.
The song captures the feel of the last few moments of life when you come to a place of peace. All the worldly things are no longer important, and you realize that all is well.
Absolutely.
One of my most FAVOURITE songs of all time - gorgeous and haunting all rolled into one - Beautiful
Well described: "gorgeous and haunting". One of my favorites too.
The ultimate love song
Yeah, a timeless classic song, gorgeous and haunting...
Donald Roeser wrote the lyrics. He has stated that he was contemplating his own mortality, his love for his wife, and had faith that it would continue after death. He was comforted by this thought. Roeser said he was aware the theme was dark but never intended the song to be "an excuse for someone to commit suicide." You are one of the few people that actually gets this song. I'm proud of you.
It's one of the most beautiful songs EVER written. Hauntingly beautiful.
Beautiful love song
But the lyrics are clearly a story of a man persuading the woman who loves him to join him in a double suicide.
More Cowbell!!!!!
We saw Blue Oyster Cult in Houston, in 1975, opening for Rod Stewart. Man, they blew Stewart away. My husband and I went the next day and got their album. Loved them ever since.
Rod was asking for trouble
@@petergray2588 He shouldn't have ditched The Faces. He might have stood a better chance.
I was at the Madison Sq Garden version of that show and the crowd went wild.Even Rod said "Won't you cheer for me like you did for your Blue Oyster Cult" LOL I've seen them over 150 times and this was to this day the most exciting set I've ever seen.
One of rock's most perfectly written, executed, and sound recorded masterpieces ever. They just got it all together with this tune. I feel the same about their song "Then Came The Last Days of May" another masterpiece and based on a true story.
I would add in Astronomy as well
Then Came The Last Days of May is one of the greatest narcocorrido songs ever written. Really good tune
B.O.C - Cities are flamed with rock n roll and veteran of psychic wars ..
Possibly my favorite song of all time
I need more cowbell!
@Ricky Jeffrey I got a fever! #MORECowbell
I thought the same thing!!
beat me to it! :D
High quality cowbell for sure.
I wish I had never seen that SNL skit! Now I can't hear this classic rock masterpiece without thinking of it!
Such an underrated rock band…..
agreed
Tell me about it. One of the tightest bands ever!
Maybe now Not than!!!
Google the Black and Blue concert Lebanon Valley speadway august 8th 1980! What a show!!! I was there!!! ☺️
The new album The Symbol Remains is great.
@@grahamtaylor8912 New album? Really?
one of the great classic opening riffs of all time.
First 2 notes, you know the song.
Blue Oyster Cult rocks!! Godzilla, Fire of Unknown Origin, Dominance and Submission, Nosferatu, In Thee, Death Valley Nights, Redeemed... All absolute bangers! 👍
Showing my age here: I bought this record for 3 dollars, back when all the stores were getting rid of vinyl. Still have it!
Yup
Buck Dharma, the songwriter, said the song isn't about suicide, but understands how people would think that due to the Romeo and Juliet reference. Though he believes his songs should be open to interpretation by whoever listens to them, this is what he said about its inspiration: "It was sort of inspired by a personal health scare - I thought I was going to maybe not live that long. I had been diagnosed with a heart condition, and your mind starts running away with you - especially when you're young-ish. So, that's why I wrote the story. It's imagining you can survive death in terms of your spirit. Your spirit will prevail."
Bullshit! Suicide plain and simple.
Something I just read said it was written by Donald Roeser, the guitarist...
But it did say he didn't intend it to be about suicide...
Cliff, you're really stinking up the place... 🤣
@@neillenet291 And he would not lie,,would he..Lmao.
@@neillenet291 Remember the stink that went up in this time period about Satanic and suicide songs in rock and roll. Some writers were even brought into court over the lyrics to their songs. Reason enough to lie.
Classic rock song 👍👍👍👍
at 5:22 ish do the lyrics say 'She had become like they are'.. Reminds me of what de gaulle said when his daughter , who had Downs Syndrome , died young; " And now, she is like the rest. " Kind of moving. Death is the great equaliser of course, life on earth is wretched in that the tragedy of difference between one human destiny and another, is too wide.
I had the pleasure of seeing them live twice.
My favorite BOC song and always will be.
It's NOT about encouraging suicide like some think. It's a love song. I will continue to love you even then.
The beginning of Stephen King's "The Stand" (1994 and best version) features this at the beginning.
Another band with this kind of vibe and depth you need to check out if you haven't already is Kansas.
It needs more cowbell
.
...""CRAAAAAZY as a FIDDLE-STICK !!"
.
( I steal this !!)
.
More cowbell. Lol
My dear you have opened the door. You have listened to Blue oyster cult. Now you must listen to their song Godzilla it is mandatory.♥️
Yes indeed! I like the vid re-done with actual clips from the original 1970s movie🦖😎🎸🎹🥁🤙
we used to sing “don’t smoke the reefer” 🌳
👍👍yup!
We did though! ☺️
BLASPHEMY!!! ;)
Lol😆 yep
BOO!!!!! 1950's style I mean. Anyone got a bat? Ya don't whistle Stairway OK? I actually don't Know where to begin. OK I've probably done worse, but not on purpose. Or wait was it? OMG Soever did I invest in? Stewie Family Guy? No idea.
Charlie mac I challenge you to a duel. Wait, I forgot what we were talking about. I'll listen again.
YES!! Cowbell Rulz
Beyond the great lyrics in this song, they are very smooth in their musical dynamics...just flowing like a river from being very soft to full-on power. It all works to draw out emotions.
I gotta have more cowbell. One of snl’s greatest skits.
Saw them 3 times when I was a kid in the 70s. Saw them again 2 year's ago at age 57. Still awesome and the new album is excellent.
I saw BOC in Denver Colorado USA....... free show and they were Phenominal..... Rock n Roll at its very Best 🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼
MORE COWBELL!!!
@@shawnbond6676 😂
a classic... she needs to watch that video
Guys, you’re gonna want the cowbell on the track…
Bruce Dickinson puts his pants on one leg at a time. And once his pants is on he makes gold records, baby!
🤣🤣
When they were prepping for a major tour they tuned up in small clubs as "Soft White Underbelly". I saw them in Sacramento, CA at a club called "The Oasis", maybe 250 people absolutely jam packed and they lifted the roof right off the place. In the top ten shows I ever saw.
i was them in marietta, ohio at the peopes bank they can rock still, its only a 46 year old song, they rocked, oh no theres tokyo, gogo godzilla, that a classic too- im glad they came here for me to see
band has been around since the 70's from long island, NY & still playing.
Worked local crew for them mid-'90s. Great guys! Get in the bus with the family and go on tour. So fun! Also watched them blow the mains in a thousand seater. Twice. In the same show. They ran out of fuses.
Hey hey.... can't wait to hear your thoughts on this timeless and AMAZING classic!!
My absolute favourite, first heard it in Halloween 78, great choice so deep x
My wife of 45 years just died, hard to listen to this song.
So sorry for your loss😞
@@HappyValleyDreamin No words can describe it. I can't get past thinking she will walk in at any moment.
I’m so sorry for your loss. May your memories and future days be blessed.🙏
My prayers are heading your way may God bless you and your wife's soul. 🙏
So sorry for your loss 😭
Great choice! One of my all time favorite bands. Their music can transport you to different places and times. Black Blade, I Love the Night, Take Me Away and of course Godzilla!
UNREAL !!! Goosebumps city, baby!!! Damn, I didn't have my cow bell at the ready Mama !?! Exceptional piece of music 😮😊❤
Nobody can agree if this song is about enjoying life, a suicide pact, or vampires.
The breakdown/solo is my favorite of all time. Almost like the reaper grabs your hand himself, and you begin to fly.
It's definitely something about this song....... giving ya chills 👍❤️😂
I got a fever and the only prescription is MORE COWBELL
Love this song, it plays at the beginning of Stephen Kings The Stand miniseries. Didn't even realise there was a cowbell until I watch SNL 🤣🤣🤣
My first concert!!
Mine too. I've seen them at least 20 times.
I listen to this song everyday. It's so amazing, and it's relatable in so many ways it's become saddening.
When I hear this song I think of Laurie Strode and Annie Bracken driving in thr car on their way to babysit in Halloween. (1978). Playing on the radio
I love BOC! They are a great live band and always have been. This song is a big favorite. Has so much going on. Try next "Then Came the Last Days of May". Thanks for reacting to this Reaper!
Wow thank you for listening to this with us 🥰
Your interpetation is pretty much spot on.
I liked this song when it first came out on the radio. This is one of the songs that I don't get tired of
Death, the gift that keeps on giving! You've nailed the meaning, good job!
I saw them in concert back in 1977 great show.
First concert I ever saw was BOC and Black Sabbath, Buck Dharma is one of the greatest guitar players of all time. This song is an emotional rollercoaster all in itself, simply amazing.
The contrast between the relative intimacy of the vocal/harmony and the subject of the song is interesting; as is the contrast between the powerful guitar solo and the repeating, jangling, Byrds-like main melody. There is a Romanticism in the lyrics that reminds me of John Keats's poem Ode to a Nightingale. "I have been half in love with easeful Death" is the quotation I'm thinking of.
Please play haunting hard Rock song called THE TWILIGHT ZONE by the group GOLDEN EARING, it came out in 1984. I keep asking everyone to play it they were so underrated. Please give it a listen.
It's about a woman at the end of her life accepting death.
That spot after the lead break with the sustain - ONE OF THE FINEST MOMENTS IN ROCK HISTORY
saw them in the UK here over 40 yaers ago do this song as a 10 minute version..... AMAZING
I grew up with this music and I'm thrilled you're discovering it now.
another great tune I grew up listening to as a teenager - Got to say my teenage years late 70s & 80s did have great music - thanks for the tunes and glad you are reacting to them
Yes, the story is told by the Reaper, trying to get everyone to just mellow and come with him.
Really explore the studio space. I mean, really.. explore the space. 🐮 🔔
No,not just you.grew up on this and it's one of my favorite songs!
7 Screaming Diz-Busters is another great tune ..again from on your feet or on your knees album
Excellent song and the focus of a famous SNL skit.
This is DEFINITELY a chill worthy song.
Saw them in college back in the '70s. Great concert with a lot of pyrotechnics. Still love this song among others. Thanks
Classic song very good
Love um one of my faves
Positiv hypnotic sounds.
Now you are OBLIGATED to watch SNL “More Cowbell”!!!
No. You are not.
Don't fear the reaper, great song. Love your channel 👍 and song intro 🇦🇺🇦🇺
You might try Veterans of the Psychic wars. This song is on the Heavy Metal sound track.
Then you’re going down the whole Moorcock rabbit hole with Black Blade etc and onto Hawkwind for more of the same,can’t beat Needlegun
Great song and beautiful lady reacting.
Awesome reaction, Jayy!
I'm glad you liked it. The change-ups are AMAZING!
"Need more cowbell" one of the best songs ever!!! Which is why it became one of the best skits in SNL. You should check that out, Will Ferrel, Jimmy Fallon, and the one and only Christopher Walken!!!
th-cam.com/video/cVsQLlk-T0s/w-d-xo.html
Here ya go.
Love this group! More cowbell!!!!!
I grew up listening to this, great song, then I got it as an opener to a Grim Reaper concert in 1987, and after that it became the theme song for Stephen King's The Stand. I mostly just have the opening scene of The Stand in my head every time I hear it now.
The reaper is your guardian angel taking you home as far as I'm concerned. My OPINION!!!!! Great song, great reaction.
Jayy, I wish you grew up with me. We had all the good songs in the 60s and 70s
The lead singer was diagnosed with a heart problem before this song was wrote and he wrote this song thank God he's still among us still going strong
Bruce Springsteen wrote this song. I got to hang out with these guys at a bar once. Great time.
Fantastic song, album, and one of the best live bands ever!
PERFECT understanding and great reaction! 👍🏿
Hi pretty Jayy! Great song here. This was my cousins fav song. RIP Jamie! Thx for sharing with us Jayy.
Reminds me of working at K2 ski corporation Vashon Island,Washington State when alot of us had good boom boxes in the press rooms. Moulding skis and partying.
BOC got their start in the late 60's on Long Island, NY as a Psychedelic Rock band but later moved more towards a Progressive Rock sound..
There's over 40 years of amazing g BOC music to dive into. Enjoy..
Awesome reaction! You should listen to I Love the Night, I'm burning for you and Godzilla, by them. I think you might like those songs.
One of the greatest rock songs of all time. Masterful music, masterful lyrics, masterful mood and artistry.
Loved your reaction to this one, Jayy! Thanks for all you do!
Katy just got slapped by a solo and she loved it. 🎸😲😳😃💖
Check out Go GO Godzilla by Blue Oyster Cult
this is the best reaction of this song.
More cowbell!!!! I used to listen to this over and over until my mother listened to the words closely and thought I was going to jump out the window.
In the cover art for this, in the Magicians hand, he is holding Tarot cards. The order is as follows:
Death: Signifying an End of things, and new beginnings after.
The Empress: Signifying creation of life, romance, art, or new business.
The Emperor: Suggestive of stability and security in life and that you are in charge of your life now setting up your own rules and boundaries.
The Sun: Portends good fortune, happiness, joy and harmony. It represents the universe coming together and agreeing with your path and aiding forward movement into something greater/Ascension.
THE band I have seen more than any other, primarily due to longevity and their frenetic touring schedule. Oh, and because I dig them LIVE. They wail.
The two front men are still with the band, the others have either been replaced or passed on. :( They put out a new album last year, and are already on the road post-COVID. ON TOUR FOREVER is their motto, and they continue to live by it. If you have the opportunity to see the guys, I HIGHLY recommend it.
Killer solo on this one. Check out some more of them. One of the most underrated rock bands ever. I will recommend “Burning for you” next
Love that little guitar explosion after the interlude.
Great choice!!
one of the greatest tracks in history
You got it exactly right on first listen. Thanks, I enjoyed your video.
In an interview the lead singer said it was the Reaper trying to calm a dyeing woman by singing a love song to and explaining he was there to help her.
Yes!!! Godzilla next please 🔥🎵
Great reaction!! 💜