Exactly the intent. Or more specifically how trees would act if they were people. Too many have altered and added too much of a political perspective over the years
Xanadu has been one of my absolute favorite Rush songs, they create a soundscape and lead you into Xanadu.... it's just... so good. Each of them are so fucking talented it has me buzzing in my skin every time I listen.
If he thought the instrumental part in the middle, technically called “the bridge” , was “extremely long” as he put it, he’ll never be patient enough to sit through Xanadu or Cygnus X-1 or Natural Science and many early Rush tunes, when they had long instrumental break and bridges. If someone is really into great mastery of instruments, none of the break in Rush’s song seem long if they’re paying attention to the musicianship, because it’s on a whole other level than most music. I know you get it because you’re obviously a Rush fan, probably a musician or at least someone that understands music and musicianship,
I clicked on this as soon as I saw the title! I haven’t heard this in so very long! My brother was a huge rush fan in the 70s and I heard it all the time! These guys are amazing!
Much of Rush's music has some kind of meaning or commentary on life, as they are mostly written by Neil Peart, the groups drummer. Neil was well read and naturally poetic. In addition to the groups masterful musical talent, Neil's lyrics are some of the best around. Keep digging into Rush, there is much to experience.
Would love to hear see your reaction to Vital Signs. Or Bastille Day. Or Subdivisions. Or the 2112 Overture. Or anything really, but please do more Rush!
🤔 Everytime I hear any explanation about this song , I always think about Neil Peart saying "It's a song about Trees". 🤗 I had so much fun when ESL Tour hit NYC! 😏 All the way up to the R40 Tour. 🤯 And to think I only got to see Rush open for KISS because, 😒 I left out the KISS part when asking mom 🥺if I could go. 🤦🏿♀️ You have no idea how long it took me to convince her to let me see all these Iconic Madison Square Garden concerts I see folks reacting to. 🤩 Finally used babysitting $ to go see Led Zeppelin in 77? 78? 🤦🏿♀️ #ImOldAF 😊🐰
I have been waiting fo you to discover RUSH. You just opened Pandora’s box to musical genius. Please, please please react to Tom Sawyer and YYZ. See the absolute magic 3 musical masters can create. RIP to the GOAT Neil Peart. The greatest drummer ever. This is the man that the greatest drummers refer to as their favorite drummer. Love your work, Tom Sawyer next. Please.
This was one of the greatest groups. There are great performers some never heard of, except for the one and soon she will own the world! One heart at a time! Your reactions too her are great!
There are so many I could recommend from this insanely talented band and any album is worth giving a good listen to. But my personal favourite song of theirs is ‘The Pass’ - incredibly emotional and reflective lyrically.
I think you'd love Anesthetize by Porcupine Tree. As far as Rush go, if you're looking for subject matter, I highly suggest 2112, Fountain of Lamneth, or Cygnus X-1 Book 1 & 2. FYI, I think any of these would be your longest listen to date.
You a true lover of music. I was taught by my music teacher to never close your mind to any music genre. Another quality of music lovers is that they hear the whole composition of the music piece. Many people only hear the lead singer and not the blend of each component of the instrumentation.
Oh boy did you ever find gold with this one.Rush has a chest full.Neil Peart RIP!tops the list as best rock drummer off all time.Every song is great. Rush reactions will bring tons of people to this channel
The song has many interpretations. One of my favorites has always been the relationship between Canada (The Maples) and England (The Oaks) within the British Commonwealth (The Union).
Pentatonic Is the perfect song for you to listen to I don’t know if it’s 64 million views or 164 million years but hallelujah please this is exactly the kind of music you love
Rush is equal in next level musicianship and deep lyrical meaning. For incredible lyrics I'd suggest Subdivisions, Freewill, Anthem, Cygnus X-1 Book II: Hemispheres
For me it's a song about class, or race, or any other form of dividing people where one group is advantaged over others -- and the conundrum is that to eliminate that advantage you have to bring everyone "down" to the lower standard, often violently (in the song you can't make the maples bigger so you have to cut the Oaks down to their size). It's pointing out that while making everyone equal helps some people, it also necessarily harms others and in the end the solution may be worse than the problem. As with most good philosophical discussions, there is no right answer (and the song doesn't provide one, it doesn't say that their "noble law" is the right thing to do, just that it is what was done). It's the discussion that's important.
So funny in the 80's I always thought it was about trees. My kids and daycare kids I use to tell the kids we had to save them the hatchet ax and saw they loved it. As we listened back then radio then album..... great 40 yr rabbit hole.... Alex Lifeson guitar, The professor lyricist drummer Neil Peart, Geddy Lee bass , keys vocals. La Villa Strangiato is a epic piece Cheers
Disguised as a "banger" of a song, an early Rush tune called "Bastille Day" is yet another good lyrical take by these guys on class struggle, with a backdrop of the French Revolution instead of a forest metaphor. A great line from it describes the French king and queen at their executions, epitomizing the tone of the whole song: "See them bow their heads to DIE, as we would bow when they RODE BY." Daaaamn! Definitely a good one to react to in the future, among many, many other lyrical treasures by Rush. Enjoy the ride.
I think you might be interested in Witch Hunt by Rush. It is part 3 of their "Fear Trilogy" which, interestingly, was recorded in descending order. Anyway the lyrics are pretty intense.
Rush drummer and lyricist Neil Peart was asked in the April/May 1980 issue of the magazine Modern Drummer if there was a message in the lyrics, to which he replied, "No. It was just a flash. I was working on an entirely different thing when I saw a cartoon picture of these trees carrying on like fools. I thought, 'What if trees acted like people?' So I saw it as a cartoon really, and wrote it that way. I think that's the image that it conjures up to a listener or a reader. A very simple statement."
Really enjoyed your thoughtful breakdown. Rushes lyricist, Neil Peart was a fierce intellectual. Remarkably well read and thoughtful as well as just an amazing human being. If you want some really deep, philosophical fare (as well as just a next level jam), try Natural Science from Permanent Waves. Cheers!
Great commentary. I really respect your ability to break down lyrics and what you said about the instrumental telling a story is spot on. Rush have used their instrumentals to tell many fascinating stories. Please react to The Pass. Not a huge hit for Rush, but a huge message. One of my favorites.
Rush is a very deep rabbit hole, enjoy the ride. Interesting side note: the stand that his classical guitar is on was invented by that guitarist, he holds the patent for it. Regarding this song's meaning, all the years of debates about whether it's political or social or whatever, Neil (drummer and lyricist) always said "It's just a song about trees." If this is indeed your first listen to Rush, I suggest listening to Tom Sawyer, Limelight, The Spirit Of Radio before getting into the longer heavier pieces. The three I mention will give you a better understanding of the band and their style. Great reaction, thanks!!
From what I understand, the song is about workers and unions. The maples are the workers and the Oaks are the unions not providing enough support and money.
In an April/May 1980 Modern Drummer magazine article, lyricist and drummer Neil Peart was asked if the song has a deeper meaning. “No.” he said, “It was just a flash. I was working on an entirely different thing when I saw a cartoon picture of these trees carrying on like fools. I thought, ‘What if trees acted like people?’ So I saw it as a cartoon really, and wrote it that way. I think that’s the image that it conjures up to a listener or a reader. A very simple statement
Here was Neil Peart on The Trees. April/May 1980 Modern Drummer magazine about whether there is a message to this song, Peart said, "No. It was just a flash. I was working on an entirely different thing when I saw a cartoon picture of these trees carrying on like fools. I thought, 'What if trees acted like people?' So I saw it as a cartoon really, and wrote it that way. I think that's the image that it conjures up to a listener or a reader. A very simple statement. I used to hear it was about the labor unions and saws etc where the government with all of the power. It almost seems as though Peart isnt really saying what its really about because it sounds like a lot more thought about a message than his explanation.
One thing this song does very well--it promotes discussion. And I think it does it better than it would if the lyrics were more specific. But I'm willing to go with the drummer's explanation that it's just a song about trees.
I see you did *some* Rush. You need to check out the live version of YYZ from Rio - there are literally no words to the tune yet the crowd is so excited to see them that they SING the song! It's amazing! Also, since you like to dig deep into the lyrics, tunes like Roll The Bones, Hold Your Fire (anything off this album is amazing), Closer To The Heart, Second Nature...
you are somewhat right it is a song about different classes but it is also about everyone should be given the the right to to equal opportunity know matter your color creed or race
Been catching up with your videos over the past week or so. Was wondering what you would think about the cover of Kiss From a Rose by Dan Avidan and Super Guitar Bros?
Rush is an interesting band I will admit, however I would like to point out that what seems off to you is attributed to their fascination with Ayn Rand's Objectivism.
There is one song that I have not yet seen done on any reaction videos. It is a bit long, but you did ask for other songs with depth. With that in mind, I would like to recommend Cygnus X1 - Book II. This is from the Hemispheres album and on the record, this song constituted all of side 1.
To me it shows the trees fighting amongst themselves blind to the real threat which would be the lumber jacks coming in with hatchet axe and saw. But hey "It's just a song about trees":) That is the beauty of music and lyrics. Sometimes it is very direct and to the point and other times the artist lets you draw your own conclusion. Great reaction!!
You nailed it the maples formed a union and demanded equal rights. *purely only the sound of 3 guys on stage. No backup hidden piano or guitar 3 men Hope you’ll do time minchin 9 life lessons! Sometime get the tommy Lee cruecifix drum roller coaster or The greatest of all time-Neal peart
On a few videos back you said you would want to know some female bands, so I came to your newer video to request the band "The Warning" 3 sisters from Mexico, They are the best, I would recommend their newest song "Evolve" or almost any song or cover by them. Their first North American tour was canceled when covid broke out. They are in their teens now but started out when they were really young and ended up on the "Ellen Show" because of one of their covers.
"It is just a song about trees." - Neil Peart
Right because trees normally form unions.
Exactly the intent. Or more specifically how trees would act if they were people. Too many have altered and added too much of a political perspective over the years
@@generoberts9151 i think Neil probably got a kick out of what people came up with. he'd just say: anybody is welcome to what they think and believe.
@@cecillegravelle2590 always the philosopher
Neil and his cohorts are very sarcastically imbued and they were always pushing the buttons of those who didn’t know that.
Your idea about the music telling part of the story, to me, is so right on!!
Bastille Day - Rush
just wait until he gets into 2112 😁
@@Kevin_Fiol Man that would take over an hour the way he interprets, lol.
Neil's lyrics make you think. I would suggest for the next song Natural Science and make sure you have the lyrics pulled for that one. Cheers 🇨🇦
Subdivisions is another song on social groups and society.
LA VILLA STRANGIATO LIVE 1979 SHOWCASES THEIR MUSICIANSHIP LONG BEFORE THEY WERE PLAYED ON THE RADIO.
Xanadu has been one of my absolute favorite Rush songs, they create a soundscape and lead you into Xanadu.... it's just... so good. Each of them are so fucking talented it has me buzzing in my skin every time I listen.
If he thought the instrumental part in the middle, technically called “the bridge” , was “extremely long” as he put it, he’ll never be patient enough to sit through Xanadu or Cygnus X-1 or Natural Science and many early Rush tunes, when they had long instrumental break and bridges.
If someone is really into great mastery of instruments, none of the break in Rush’s song seem long if they’re paying attention to the musicianship, because it’s on a whole other level than most music.
I know you get it because you’re obviously a Rush fan, probably a musician or at least someone that understands music and musicianship,
Rush are all about instrumental breaks, that is their thing. Interesting analysis.
I've seen Rush multiple times. The 70's and 80's was a glorious time to be a music fan, especially live music.
I clicked on this as soon as I saw the title! I haven’t heard this in so very long! My brother was a huge rush fan in the 70s and I heard it all the time! These guys are amazing!
Much of Rush's music has some kind of meaning or commentary on life, as they are mostly written by Neil Peart, the groups drummer. Neil was well read and naturally poetic. In addition to the groups masterful musical talent, Neil's lyrics are some of the best around. Keep digging into Rush, there is much to experience.
More RUSH, please!
La Villa Strangiato
Red Barchetta
Natural Science
Free Will
e x c e l l e n t c h o i s e s
Subdivisions, Limelight, Working Man, Spirit of the Radio, Tom Sawyer, YYZ , 2112, Red Barchetta
Vital Signs, New World Man, La Villa Strangiato, Bastille Day, Distant Early Warning, Show Don't Tell, I could go on ...
RUSH is a band you would enjoy. Their technicality is beyond measure. Stay safe, stay healthy
Would love to hear see your reaction to Vital Signs.
Or Bastille Day.
Or Subdivisions.
Or the 2112 Overture.
Or anything really, but please do more Rush!
🤔 Everytime I hear any explanation about this song , I always think about Neil Peart saying "It's a song about Trees". 🤗 I had so much fun when ESL Tour hit NYC! 😏 All the way up to the R40 Tour. 🤯 And to think I only got to see Rush open for KISS because, 😒 I left out the KISS part when asking mom 🥺if I could go. 🤦🏿♀️ You have no idea how long it took me to convince her to let me see all these Iconic Madison Square Garden concerts I see folks reacting to. 🤩 Finally used babysitting $ to go see Led Zeppelin in 77? 78? 🤦🏿♀️ #ImOldAF 😊🐰
One of my favourite bands of all time, Geddy Lee is my biggest bassing influence.
I have been waiting fo you to discover RUSH. You just opened Pandora’s box to musical genius. Please, please please react to Tom Sawyer and YYZ. See the absolute magic 3 musical masters can create. RIP to the GOAT Neil Peart. The greatest drummer ever. This is the man that the greatest drummers refer to as their favorite drummer. Love your work, Tom Sawyer next. Please.
This was one of the greatest groups. There are great performers some never heard of, except for the one and soon she will own the world! One heart at a time! Your reactions too her are great!
There are so many I could recommend from this insanely talented band and any album is worth giving a good listen to. But my personal favourite song of theirs is ‘The Pass’ - incredibly emotional and reflective lyrically.
I think you'd love Anesthetize by Porcupine Tree. As far as Rush go, if you're looking for subject matter, I highly suggest 2112, Fountain of Lamneth, or Cygnus X-1 Book 1 & 2. FYI, I think any of these would be your longest listen to date.
Finally!! My favorite Rush song in a reaction. Yes it isn't there best song, but the meaning make it my favorite.
Wonderful song. Lyrically, it is a parable. Human nature being what it is, it is as relevant today as it was when written.
funny how 40 plus years later Neils' lyrics are still relevant
You a true lover of music. I was taught by my music teacher to never close your mind to any music genre. Another quality of music lovers is that they hear the whole composition of the music piece. Many people only hear the lead singer and not the blend of each component of the instrumentation.
People should treat people like people. great quote and so true.
My All Time Fav !!!
Check "Freewill" and "Xanadu", from the same channel.
Oh boy did you ever find gold with this one.Rush has a chest full.Neil Peart RIP!tops the list as best rock drummer off all time.Every song is great. Rush reactions will bring tons of people to this channel
This was one of the better analysis of a Rush song that I have heard. I really enjoyed your commentary so you now have a new subscriber!
Sir, I am now a fan of you. The ability to deduce and follow a human thought through by asking your soul the questions. Fucking beautiful.
Hatchett Axe and Saw....
Wow is right.
Still to this day gives me chills.
They wrote this to be interpreted in many ways. Also in mind that Rush is from Canada (Maples)...kind of subtle thing there.
Your breakdown of the music telling a story is so spot on. You're a joy to watch and listen to. Well done. Thank you
The song has many interpretations. One of my favorites has always been the relationship between Canada (The Maples) and England (The Oaks) within the British Commonwealth (The Union).
🤘😎👍
RUSH - Roll the Bones 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Pentatonic Is the perfect song for you to listen to I don’t know if it’s 64 million views or 164 million years but hallelujah please this is exactly the kind of music you love
Rush is equal in next level musicianship and deep lyrical meaning. For incredible lyrics I'd suggest Subdivisions, Freewill, Anthem, Cygnus X-1 Book II: Hemispheres
Sorry for the second comment, but you are spot on! This is why you're the best man on the TUBES. Stay safe, stay healthy
For me it's a song about class, or race, or any other form of dividing people where one group is advantaged over others -- and the conundrum is that to eliminate that advantage you have to bring everyone "down" to the lower standard, often violently (in the song you can't make the maples bigger so you have to cut the Oaks down to their size). It's pointing out that while making everyone equal helps some people, it also necessarily harms others and in the end the solution may be worse than the problem.
As with most good philosophical discussions, there is no right answer (and the song doesn't provide one, it doesn't say that their "noble law" is the right thing to do, just that it is what was done). It's the discussion that's important.
Smartest, most intricate, talented, power Trio ever to form
It was very clear. I hadn't thought of the music telling the story of the issue with the trees, even though I've heard it many times.
That's a great thing about rock and roll, everyone can hear a different message in the same song
Their album 2112 was the first record I ever bought. This trio gave us amazing music for decades. RIP Neil Peart (The Professor)
I LOVE that this is the first Rush song you threw out there. This here is a TIMELESS song for our society.
For you specifically I would recommend the song Freewill.
Think of it as taxes, laws, equal rights.
You get it my bro…. you get it.
Rush forever!
So funny in the 80's I always thought it was about trees. My kids and daycare kids I use to tell the kids we had to save them the hatchet ax and saw they loved it. As we listened back then radio then album..... great 40 yr rabbit hole.... Alex Lifeson guitar, The professor lyricist drummer Neil Peart, Geddy Lee bass , keys vocals. La Villa Strangiato is a epic piece Cheers
Disguised as a "banger" of a song, an early Rush tune called "Bastille Day" is yet another good lyrical take by these guys on class struggle, with a backdrop of the French Revolution instead of a forest metaphor. A great line from it describes the French king and queen at their executions, epitomizing the tone of the whole song: "See them bow their heads to DIE, as we would bow when they RODE BY." Daaaamn! Definitely a good one to react to in the future, among many, many other lyrical treasures by Rush. Enjoy the ride.
Pretty awesome for a three man band eh? My suggestion for your next Rush reaction is "Closer to the Heart" or "YYZ".
I think you might be interested in Witch Hunt by Rush. It is part 3 of their "Fear Trilogy" which, interestingly, was recorded in descending order. Anyway the lyrics are pretty intense.
Ahhhh I have been waiting for you to listen to our three Canadian Masters!!!!!!
Maples represents Canada.
Oaks are U.S.
🌲🌲🌲
by doing this you've hit both my favorite artists, Rush and Aesop Rock.
Rush drummer and lyricist Neil Peart was asked in the April/May 1980 issue of the magazine Modern Drummer if there was a message in the lyrics, to which he replied, "No. It was just a flash. I was working on an entirely different thing when I saw a cartoon picture of these trees carrying on like fools. I thought, 'What if trees acted like people?' So I saw it as a cartoon really, and wrote it that way. I think that's the image that it conjures up to a listener or a reader. A very simple statement."
This is an exercise in "be careful what you wish for" and unforseen consequences.
RUSH is art.
They are great story tellers both lyrically and emotional music. Try Red Barchetta or Limelight for music that is emotional.
Based on your analysis, would suggest Limelight, Red Sector A, Closer to the Heart, Entre Nous, Losing It, Time Stand Still
I think thats the whole popuplation of Canada for their concert.
My favorite Rush song. :)
Really enjoyed your thoughtful breakdown. Rushes lyricist, Neil Peart was a fierce intellectual. Remarkably well read and thoughtful as well as just an amazing human being. If you want some really deep, philosophical fare (as well as just a next level jam), try Natural Science from Permanent Waves. Cheers!
The necromancer by rush . Next please
Great commentary. I really respect your ability to break down lyrics and what you said about the instrumental telling a story is spot on. Rush have used their instrumentals to tell many fascinating stories.
Please react to The Pass. Not a huge hit for Rush, but a huge message. One of my favorites.
Bastille day or a farewell to kings would be my suggestions
Rush is a very deep rabbit hole, enjoy the ride. Interesting side note: the stand that his classical guitar is on was invented by that guitarist, he holds the patent for it. Regarding this song's meaning, all the years of debates about whether it's political or social or whatever, Neil (drummer and lyricist) always said "It's just a song about trees."
If this is indeed your first listen to Rush, I suggest listening to Tom Sawyer, Limelight, The Spirit Of Radio before getting into the longer heavier pieces. The three I mention will give you a better understanding of the band and their style. Great reaction, thanks!!
From what I understand, the song is about workers and unions. The maples are the workers and the Oaks are the unions not providing enough support and money.
Gotta check out Freewill by Rush
In an April/May 1980 Modern Drummer magazine article, lyricist and drummer Neil Peart was asked if the song has a deeper meaning. “No.” he said, “It was just a flash. I was working on an entirely different thing when I saw a cartoon picture of these trees carrying on like fools. I thought, ‘What if trees acted like people?’ So I saw it as a cartoon really, and wrote it that way. I think that’s the image that it conjures up to a listener or a reader. A very simple statement
Here was Neil Peart on The Trees. April/May 1980 Modern Drummer magazine about whether there is a message to this song, Peart said, "No. It was just a flash. I was working on an entirely different thing when I saw a cartoon picture of these trees carrying on like fools. I thought, 'What if trees acted like people?' So I saw it as a cartoon really, and wrote it that way. I think that's the image that it conjures up to a listener or a reader. A very simple statement.
I used to hear it was about the labor unions and saws etc where the government with all of the power. It almost seems as though Peart isnt really saying what its really about because it sounds like a lot more thought about a message than his explanation.
Rush is really on another level... Like Tom is.... but they were 30-40 years ago.
One thing this song does very well--it promotes discussion. And I think it does it better than it would if the lyrics were more specific. But I'm willing to go with the drummer's explanation that it's just a song about trees.
I see you did *some* Rush. You need to check out the live version of YYZ from Rio - there are literally no words to the tune yet the crowd is so excited to see them that they SING the song! It's amazing! Also, since you like to dig deep into the lyrics, tunes like Roll The Bones, Hold Your Fire (anything off this album is amazing), Closer To The Heart, Second Nature...
The song lyrics really apply to any conflict between "haves" and "have-nots" Compromise can achieve some consensus but always at a cost ......
I find a lot of social meaning in the song a farewell to kings. He pretty much fits almost any Era in history
If sunlight is currency, it's a little more obvious.
you are somewhat right it is a song about different classes but it is also about everyone should be given the the right to to equal opportunity know matter your color creed or race
Xanadu, La Villa Strangiato, Working Man (Live in Cleveland), YYZ (Live in Rio)
Spot on dude... spot on!!!
Oaks are oaks, maples are maples. Grow to whatever height you want.
Been catching up with your videos over the past week or so. Was wondering what you would think about the cover of Kiss From a Rose by Dan Avidan and Super Guitar Bros?
I recommend Freewill next. Thanks.
Rush is an interesting band I will admit, however I would like to point out that what seems off to you is attributed to their fascination with Ayn Rand's Objectivism.
Listen to "Witch Hunt". It was from the 80s but it just as relevant now.
There is one song that I have not yet seen done on any reaction videos. It is a bit long, but you did ask for other songs with depth. With that in mind, I would like to recommend Cygnus X1 - Book II. This is from the Hemispheres album and on the record, this song constituted all of side 1.
I'd love to see your reaction to "Sixteen Tons - Low Bass Singer cover" sometime
Bruh for me, please do Freewill from the same concert video. The instrumentals, vocals & lyrics are INSANE!!!
"YYZ" next, followed by "La Villa Strangiato" please. I'll check back after your ears and mind recover.
I would love to see what you think of RUSH - Spirit of The Radio.
99 percent. We are the trees.
To me it shows the trees fighting amongst themselves blind to the real threat which would be the lumber jacks coming in with hatchet axe and saw. But hey "It's just a song about trees":) That is the beauty of music and lyrics. Sometimes it is very direct and to the point and other times the artist lets you draw your own conclusion. Great reaction!!
intellectual rock
Rush is a Canadian band.
Maples are Canada, Oaks are England.
You nailed it the maples formed a union and demanded equal rights.
*purely only the sound of 3 guys on stage. No backup hidden piano or guitar
3 men
Hope you’ll do time minchin 9 life lessons!
Sometime get the tommy Lee cruecifix drum roller coaster or
The greatest of all time-Neal peart
Keep in mind, not all Rush stories are an expression of their beliefs
On a few videos back you said you would want to know some female bands, so I came to your newer video to request the band "The Warning" 3 sisters from Mexico, They are the best, I would recommend their newest song "Evolve" or almost any song or cover by them. Their first North American tour was canceled when covid broke out. They are in their teens now but started out when they were really young and ended up on the "Ellen Show" because of one of their covers.
Neils thought was deep and wide
By-Tor and the Snow Dog
More live RUSH!!!
Will you look at Zeal & Ardor-You ain’t coming back? I caught your brother Ali video by chance and loved it. You're an intelligent dude ✌️🏽
rush between the wheels