I remember it being on in a nightclub whilst I was at uni and my mind was blown. roughly 2005-6 . A few manc lads was there and they obviously knew it well.
I remember the catchy high beat baseline and painful lyrics of Ian's Curtis's voice fantastic quick druming and great guitar . It was a song that hooked you once you heard it on the first time. I was I freshman in college when I first heard it. What a introduction to college life and clubs ! I am fond of those days of 44 years ago. The Music was as relevant and ahead of it's time then as it is today. Still inspiring and influencing people now as timeless Music does. I figured out the baseline riff by ear and played it over and over again on my acoustic guitar tonight in Joy Division's honor to Ian. Rest in peace Ian ! Thank you for this inspiring video on U-tube !
Two enduring memories from my teenage years; my brother dancing in his bedroom to JD prior to going to their concert, then not long after, his closed bedroom door and silence behind it learning of Ian's passing.
When I bought this in 1980, I said it was the greatest song I'd ever heard. 40 years on I still stand by that remark. Glorious, beautiful and emotional.
I discovered New Order way before I realized how awesome Joy Division was. So I really appreciate talking about the high notes on the bass, which I distinctively know from New Order. Ex: Age of Consent, Ceremony, Bizarre Love Triangle, etc. It just gives that dreamy, blissful sound that makes me smile and recall my youth. The older I get, the harder it is to find things like that.
Saw him live, the man is an absolute beast and puts his all in the whole time, I would wholeheartedly believe that the temperature of the o2 that night probably rose by 10 degrees exclusively because of the heat coming of that man
I think a song's intro is one of the most important aspects for a band to consider when making music. It's the first thing you hear and when you have a killer intro to a great song, you have a winner cos it can make a song instantly recognisable before you hear the rest. The intro to this song is a classic!
As a young music fan during the era, I wasn't overly enamoured with Joy Division. An early single, Transmission, had bent my ear a little, but to me they came across as a bit doom-laden. So, when a friend's girlfriend pulled out of going to a gig, and a ticket to see the band at Birmingham University student union, became available, I wasn't particularly keen. But, my friend convinced me to go, and reluctantly, I went. The same gig later appeared as 'Still', a recorded document of the last ever gig of Joy Division. But, after I heard it, it wasn't anywhere near as powerful, as energised, as dramatic, as wonderful as the gig on the night. What I'd heard on record prior, with the slight exeption on Transmission, hadn't prepared me for the devastating emotional blast the band had delivered 'live'. I thought, 'I've found a band, that mean something'. Just over two weeks later, it had all gone and Love Will Tear Us Apart, hadn't even been released, yet
Thanks ever so much my friend! I loved that story! So many of us come to learn about our favourite bands in random ways and our preconceived ideas can get blown out of the water!
@Luke I think, I really only began to feel it was something special, as time moved on. Back then, not many people were aware of Joy Division, and had 'Love Will Tear Us Apart' not been such a stunning single, their memory would probably have faded. Luckily, for the fans back then, not only did that single have impact, but the second LP, Closer, was also a terrific legacy.
I can still remember the announcement of Ian Curtis death, being a huge JD fan I was so gutted. Such a huge talent and icon. The late 70s to early 80s were an amazing time to be a young Brit. Arguably the most iconic influential era ever.
It certainly was a great time to be alive, but i believe the onset of the counterculture to the first two years of Punk just pip it to the post, ie 66/77! The existence of prime Beatles, Hendrix, The Doors, Zappa, Floyd, etc, etc make it a more iconic time! My humble opinion of course. ✌
I'm glad they kept the second, slower version. The faster one makes the song more happy and pop, without the "gravitas" that makes it hauntingly beautiful...
I was in an 80's cover band over 15 years ago and this was one of the songs we covered, along with the Cure's "Just Like Heaven," and "Love Song." I was the band's bass player and those songs were so much fun for me to play because of their iconic bass lines. I have a greater appreciation for those songs now thanks to videos like this! Keep up the good work!
Awesome video, Warren! Thank you for the detailed breakdown and explanations. I'm a big fan too! For those interested in the keyboard high string sound, Joy Division used the "Violin" setting on a keyboard called "ARP Omni-2" which was a souped-up Solina String Ensemble that besides strings also had synth and synth bass sounds. It had separate outs and so it could be treated separately with the studio effects that Martin Hannett used
@@Producelikeapro Very welcome, Warren and Ryan!! Thank you!! I'm a bit of "anorak" - like you guys say in the UK - about Joy Division, and have been researching Martin Hannett's / JD gear for a long time...
This video may be two years old, but thank you so much for such a wonderful production surrounding one of the most beautifully haunting tracks of the past 50 years!
Ian curtis was from my hometown, macclesfield. still the best thing to come from us and he is still very much spoken about to the extent that a mural was just painted on the side of a building in town.
I saw Joy Division with Ian Curtis at Erics in Liverpool not long before he died. They had a wirey intense sound and his performance and presence was quite startling. Great Video Dude 😎
@@N.Narwhal Ah there’s your model conservative. A boomer with complete disregard to others and has no clue what the word “Consequences” means. All that, and he has to drag politics into everything. You’re miserable dude.
@@brendancronin3796 rather than saying suicided, or committed suicide. Died by suicide takes the fault away from the person, and puts their death down to the circumstances they were going through. It's more humane.
Thank you!! Excellent commentary!! This is an absolute GEM of new wave/post punk at its very best - it guts me, every time, to listen to the gorgeous soaring synths combined with Curtis’s baritone voice and dark, biting lyrics and realize that he *was going through it* as the kids say. At least four massive waves crashing in on him - the band breaking through, new fatherhood with such bewildering emotions and responsibilities, a deeply unhappy new and first young marriage - yes Debbie and Ian loved each other but they weren’t meant for each other so to say, and of course the absolute crush of his recent epilepsy diagnosis. In the NHS of the 70s, with the (limited) medications that were available, Ian was facing an incredibly brutal life path of dealing with his crushing depression and epilepsy plus trying to front a rock band on the verge of international stardom. And he’d written “She’s lost control” BEFORE his own diagnosis - after witnessing a girl with severe epilepsy fall to the ground in a massive seizure at his place of employment. Yikes. Thank the gods/goddesses of music that we have this musical gem to light our path.
This was the first Joy Division song I listened to, and by the time I was in my early 20s I started to listen to more of their songs! R.I.P. Ian Curtis, gone but NEVER forgotten! Love Will Tear Us Apart!
you should really do this charming man or there is a light that never goes out, this charming man has one of the most iconic guitar riffs and has beautiful lyrics and an amazing vocal performance by morrissey, there is a light that never goes out is just so iconic in every way, everything from the pretty high pitched guitar and absolutely fantastic lyrics about love and his amazing vocal performance as always.
Definitely Light that never goes out, I love The smiths, they have a song for whatever mood I am in like the cure and the beatles. That's my definition of a great band. Having said that, Love will tear us apart is my equal number one song ever.
Been my favorite song for decades now. Funny how my top three songs are all from the same era... Such an era it was. 1. Love will tear us apart by Joy Division 2. The Killing Moon by Echo and the Bunnymen 3. Just like Honey by The Jesus and Mary Chain
When I discovered joy Division I was very young (I was 15, now I am 22) and the band had such an impact on me since that first day I listened to them that I don't think I'll ever get tired of it. The lyrics and melodies are so haunting that haven't been able to forget that first time I listen to them, I always keep coming back to their music. It's brilliant.
I live at an address that Ian passed by regularly during his school years. I have learnt Peter's bassline and can almost feel Ian's presence on the road outside as I play it.
Now I begin to understand, they combined the mood of Velvet Underground and Nico with the raw energy of The Stooges and Sex Pistols and the elegant sound of Kraftwerk, listen to the drum sound of " Mensch Maschine, 1978, plus singing influence of David Bowie creating their unique new sound and the genre of New Wave and Gothic along with The Cure and Siouxsie and the Banshees and others....The Gothic and new wave genre was also heavily influenced by German bands like Amon Düül, Can, Neu, Nina Hagen etc. today Rammstein, but that's another story.
I was into Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, Dave Edmunds, and many Punk bands at the time. I knew about Joy Division and didn't dismiss them, I merely wasn't in the loop. Now, decades later, the intrigue of the band hit me when I saw the movie "Control". I'm thinking, "Damn! I missed the present role of J.D. when it emerged and thrived". Now I eat up as much J.D. info as possible and this video goes into a depth of their music that I appreciate. Thank you for what you have compiled here. 63 yo Yank. 👍🗣🎸
David, you sound like a lost best friend I had in N. Virginia in the early seventies with the same name. Be great to connect. Besides the bands you listed as faves, I fortunately was in London that summer of 1980, learning of Joy Division right as they were becoming huge. Such good music we had. Drop a line if you are the correct Mr. Hunt, though I think you're 2 years older than my friend would now be. Eric
Absolutely loving this new series! You're so insightful, and entirely genuine, you can tell you have a deep love for these songs. Please please please keep it going, you've gained a loyal fan! This song along absolutely changed my life
There are few songs that ever left a mark in my life like this one. At first when I heard it, I just tossed it aside as just another alt-rock love song. But it just grew on me without me even realising it. It's so simple and yet so profound in it's composition, that it just stood the test of time somehow. While other songs that came with a bang and went away with the change in my music tastes, whenever I listen to this song,...I get transported to an another world in an instant. It's been the hardest one to shake off even after all these years. Ian and the boys pulled off something brilliant in every sense of the word and utterly unforgettable.
Fantastic video series Much respect. Of interest maybe.....My father-in-law worked with Ian Curtis and He said that he very kind, caring, thoughtful and intelligent, but sometimes too intense and serious about certain things. The black & white film "Control" about his life is 100% accurate in the opening scene, where he leaves his house in Barton Street for the very short journey to the place of work in South Park Road(also the road where my wife to be lived with her dad, and later myself lived). They worked in some small council offices in Macclesfield, Cheshire. One of Ian's jobs was something to do with helping disabled people and adults with learning difficulties. When they filmed it all they had to do was to change the cars parked in the road to the correct period! We moved from Macclesfield twenty years ago but those roads still look the same, and a couple of the pubs are still there....but only just.
I formed my first band after hearing this song in July 1980. It’s been downhill ever since. Later I moved to Manchester for unrelated reasons and found Hooky was one of my neighbours. Used to see him in the corner shop. Ain’t life strange?
Definitely one of the most beautiful songs ever, as well as one of the saddest. "Why is the bedroom so cold?" Just a devastating line. And the title is one of the greatest of all time.
SOOOO happy to see you break this one down Warren, one of the all time best songs of the post punk era, and also loved the Just Like Heaven episode, another of the top songs of the later 80s, both influenced so many bands.
What an absolutely brilliant analysis, putting quite a technical breakdown into simplistic terminology that anyone can understand, yet at the same time, still making the same points. Bravo.
Released May 18th, 1980? On that day I was in Portland, Oregon, standing on the back deck, listening to the great new music coming out in '79 and '80, like this song, and Talking Heads, XTC, The Cars, while watching the immense eruption of Mt St Helens. You could say that the '80s came in with a bang. I hadn't been that excited about new music since the '60s British Invasion. About that same period of time, I was recording a theme for a local TV talk show in a Portland 24 track studio. We recorded the drums one piece at a time, but not because of any production considerations, but because I'm not a drummer, and the client didn't want to pay for hiring one. 🙂
What impresses me, is that you can't judge a book by its cover. When you observe the footage of them playing it live, they look like a garage band of amateurs that don't know what they're doing. But in reality, they had it goin' on. Maybe that was the appeal.
You are literally doing a series on my biggest influences! This is amazing, and it really reconnects me with my awkward teenage self in the 90's in Texas who loved playing in bands, but just wanted to do something different than the hard rock and metal sound that permeated the area. Not that I dislike those things! Thank you for this series and reminding me of the joy I had when I first listened to these artists!
Really love this series! Even if I don't care for the song that you're talking about, it's still interesting to hear everything that went into writing and recording it, along with the reception from critics.
I first watched this video when you originally uploaded it 2 years ago. I loved it then. I re-watched it last night and once again I was struck by the quality of the script and your presentation, it was like listening to a BBC documentary back in the day when the BBC used to make quality programmes. Thanks
Britain was so lucky as far as music. While this brilliant song was a chart-topper in the UK, it was only played on college radio in the US. In the early 80s, if you wanted to hear the Cure, Buzzcocks, New Order, or even DM and the Jam, college radio was your only option. The major stations were still playing 70s dinosaur bands. Most of the songs I loved in the early and mid-80s barely charted here.
Stumbled across this channel just the other day. These films are *exceptional*, and none more so than this one. Accessible for non-musicians like me, but still with a fan’s passion and love for the music involved. Great to see a peek under the bonnet in ways us non-musos can grasp, but still able to convey the skills and technique involved. Subscribed, an instant fave. Huge thanks, looking forward to more. RIP IC x
Peter Hook's tone is so unique because he plays so high. I was working at Tower Records in 2005. Gwen Stefani's solo debut was on the in-store stereo system. I was listening to the song "The Real Thing" and knew the bass line. It was Hooky! I could tell by the tone. I went to the CD's liner notes and, yup, Hooky!
Another brilliant vid, thank you. I was living in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan at the time, going to art school and DJ-ing in one of a very few clubs there at the time this came out. I can almost see the moment I had became aware Ian Curtis had died. It was a rainy, post dusk time and I was on my way to the club (very Norwegian in feel). As with many, many people, this song has resonated long since then for me. As you say, it goes beyond the sonic quality and is a symbiotic relationship to the lyrical intent and the production. It's literally 40 years later and I still cannot stop thinking about this song. Thanks for the insight. Much appreciated.
Warren. Again another fantastic insight to the music industry. I remember this song and the Band very well growing up in the UK. These insights just go to show how delicate the band members can be and the unseen stresses in an industry that the general public think is all Champagne, money and easy life.....How wrong.
The bass line and the drums are the obvious stars on this record, however the keyboards especially in the verses are often overlooked. Create an incredible bed of atmospherics that allows the rest of the song to soar.
I have only just recently discovered your channel and right now watched it. Back then I worked at Straight Music, the biggest/best promotors in Britain and we worked with pretty much every band described as punk, post punk of new wave and I had first seen Joy Division as some scuzzy pub in Manchester when I was taken there by Richard Boon who managed The Buzzcocks. I spoke to Ian the weekend before he hung himself. Hannett was a genius at least in his early years and (in my opinion) turned the song into the iconic RECORD we all know.
I don't know how I stumbled upon your channel but absolutely love it. The passion can be easily seen. Also, love the fact that you literally reply to all who comment. Now, that's commitment.
"...the myth that bass players have to do what they're told..." [Geddy Lee winking and giving a thumb's up] Speaking of...I think Rush's "Tom Sawyer" was a HUGE game-changer, from influencing rock fans like my brother to new wave "freaks" like myself. And now I'm still a new wave freak and listen to Rush at least weekly.
Wonderful video. Joy Division has always been one of my favorite bands. Joy Division as well as New Order have been a huge influence on me musically. I can sit and listen to either band for hours. Thanks Warren!
So well made video. All the research that has been made, the editing, the played parts and the love of music shared is insane. I absolute love these series! Can't wait for the content to come. All the best!
I had a Yamaha BB-1200 back in '83. While I was travelling in India in '82 my Wal and my Rickenbacker (fretless) were stolen from muy house back in Blighty. When I got back, I had no bass ... I sold my Korg MS-20 and bought the 1200 to gig with. Lovely bass, very Precision like but with a Through Neck and a wider tone range. Slapped like a Mofo too. I gigged it for a good few years. Eventually I found another Wal, that I could afford, and moved the 1200 on.
Hi Warren, Your entire take on this song and the history behind the song was amazing! Thank you for the details and how your broke the song and group down. This was very interesting for me especially because I have never heard the song or the group before. Sorry about that. Not many people know that I was raised in a very restricted household which only allowed certain genre of music to be heard in it. So born in 1959, I never got to listen to radio play of Rock n Roll, Pop or Punk or any other styles of my until 1975, when I drove my first car and had radio, cassettes, 8-track and LP's to begin listening to what I had missed!! I missed the entire British Invasion and so much great music, which happens to be my favorite music now. It's difficult being 61 and explaining why I'm so excited about the music of the 60's 70's and your Joy Division '80's. I already went to my Spotify and added "Love will Tear Us Apart to it." I will also listen to other Joy Division music to get familiar.
Joy Division are my favorite band of all time and this is the best breakdown I've ever seen of this song. Subscribed and looking forward to checking out all your other videos!
Wow astonishing. I love my music and always loved Joy Division from the moment I heard this song on the radio in 1980 as a child. It was unusual sad but uplifting. I could never put my finger on why I liked it so much over the years apart from the whole Ian Curtis suicide tragedy which made the song, him and the band legendary. Until today and your excellent video. I get it now. I love how you took the song apart. It's like someone pulling back the curtain and showing us the magic hidden. Clearly a lot of what makes this song so striking and good musically is in the bass and the studio production recording attention to sound detail. And the brilliance of Ian's lyrics and emotionless delivery. Ian was a very well read capable lyricist and poet who drew on a lot of influences including William Borroughs. What astonished me is the drums percussion there. It's the distinctive and modern New Order electronic sound the band soon went onto become. And the distinctive Blue Monday rapid beat dat dat dat dat beat line is right there hidden in Love Will Tear Us Apart.. like a rapid mono heart beat!
Which other songs do you think changed music?
Absolute begginers
How about Helen Reddy's "Angie Baby" I heard that aged 5 years old in 1974 on the radio and it has stuck with me forever. Also RIP Helen Reddy
Talking Heads "Once In A Lifetime" etc
would love to hear you depict any Zeppelin material!!!
@@Bodyknowledge77 MASTERPIECE!!
This is one of the songs I will never get tired of hearing.
Agreed! Such an amazing song!
Totally with you there Kate...😊👍
It never gets dated,as fresh today as 30 years ago. I love it.
I remember it being on in a nightclub whilst I was at uni and my mind was blown. roughly 2005-6 . A few manc lads was there and they obviously knew it well.
I remember the catchy high beat baseline and painful lyrics of Ian's Curtis's voice fantastic quick druming and great guitar . It was a song that hooked you once you heard it on the first time. I was I freshman in college when I first heard it. What a introduction to college life and clubs ! I am fond of those days of 44 years ago. The Music was as relevant and ahead of it's time then as it is today. Still inspiring and influencing people now as timeless Music does. I figured out the baseline riff by ear and played it over and over again on my acoustic guitar tonight in Joy Division's honor to Ian. Rest in peace Ian ! Thank you for this inspiring video on U-tube !
Two enduring memories from my teenage years; my brother dancing in his bedroom to JD prior to going to their concert, then not long after, his closed bedroom door and silence behind it learning of Ian's passing.
Thanks ever so much for sharing. I really appreciate it
The most beautiful and dark song of all time....All these years later, and it still gives me goosebumps.....
Agreed 100%!
To me is “New dawns fades.”
I love how, by itself, the bass line sounds so sweet and uplifting
It carries the track so well!
Fun fact: I had a tribute band in high school called “Joy Multiplication”. Early purveyors of Math Rock.
Haha very cool!
That is simultaneously the best and worst band name of all time
Awesome 😂
@@bonethirsty I love you too!
Very good.
I believe at one time there was an Elbow tribute band called "Arse", I so wish I'd thought of that.
The more I listen to Joy Division, the more I appreciate the talent and ground breaking nature of the band.
Wonderful
When I bought this in 1980, I said it was the greatest song I'd ever heard. 40 years on I still stand by that remark. Glorious, beautiful and emotional.
Fantastic Philip!
The Cure, followed by Joy Division? Stop trying so hard to make this my fav channel!
Aw shucks! Thanks ever so much my friend!!
I discovered New Order way before I realized how awesome Joy Division was. So I really appreciate talking about the high notes on the bass, which I distinctively know from New Order. Ex: Age of Consent, Ceremony, Bizarre Love Triangle, etc. It just gives that dreamy, blissful sound that makes me smile and recall my youth. The older I get, the harder it is to find things like that.
Stephen Morris was an absolute powerhouse drummer
Absolutely
Same for Mike Joyce. I feel those two desserves much more praise. They fit so well into their bands.
Saw him live, the man is an absolute beast and puts his all in the whole time, I would wholeheartedly believe that the temperature of the o2 that night probably rose by 10 degrees exclusively because of the heat coming of that man
He still is
Possibly the most beautiful bittersweet song ever recorded.
Agreed 100%!
I think a song's intro is one of the most important aspects for a band to consider when making music. It's the first thing you hear and when you have a killer intro to a great song, you have a winner cos it can make a song instantly recognisable before you hear the rest. The intro to this song is a classic!
Thanks ever so much! Agreed 199%!
Yes!!
As a young music fan during the era, I wasn't overly enamoured with Joy Division. An early single, Transmission, had bent my ear a little, but to me they came across as a bit doom-laden. So, when a friend's girlfriend pulled out of going to a gig, and a ticket to see the band at Birmingham University student union, became available, I wasn't particularly keen. But, my friend convinced me to go, and reluctantly, I went. The same gig later appeared as 'Still', a recorded document of the last ever gig of Joy Division. But, after I heard it, it wasn't anywhere near as powerful, as energised, as dramatic, as wonderful as the gig on the night. What I'd heard on record prior, with the slight exeption on Transmission, hadn't prepared me for the devastating emotional blast the band had delivered 'live'. I thought, 'I've found a band, that mean something'. Just over two weeks later, it had all gone and Love Will Tear Us Apart, hadn't even been released, yet
Thanks ever so much my friend! I loved that story! So many of us come to learn about our favourite bands in random ways and our preconceived ideas can get blown out of the water!
Luke yes! Agreed 100%!
@Luke I think, I really only began to feel it was something special, as time moved on. Back then, not many people were aware of Joy Division, and had 'Love Will Tear Us Apart' not been such a stunning single, their memory would probably have faded. Luckily, for the fans back then, not only did that single have impact, but the second LP, Closer, was also a terrific legacy.
Then Ian died and the highly influential and seminal band Joy Division turned into ANOTHER highly influential and seminal band New Order. Amazing!!!
Absolutely!! Thanks ever so much
Yeah, it's exactly like 'Wings' rising, phoenix-like, from the ashes of 'The Beatles'.
New Order killed him cuz he was holding them back. You know it's true.
And Blue Monday is another history music moment.
@@jessed682 comedy
I can still remember the announcement of Ian Curtis death, being a huge JD fan I was so gutted. Such a huge talent and icon. The late 70s to early 80s were an amazing time to be a young Brit. Arguably the most iconic influential era ever.
Hi Karl, yes, such an amazing period of music!!
“Gutted” love the British word choice
You're not alone. I was over here in Seattle waiting to finally see them live. Crushed.
Same,John peel...
It certainly was a great time to be alive, but i believe the onset of the counterculture to the first two years of Punk just pip it to the post, ie 66/77! The existence of prime Beatles, Hendrix, The Doors, Zappa, Floyd, etc, etc make it a more iconic time! My humble opinion of course. ✌
I'm glad they kept the second, slower version. The faster one makes the song more happy and pop, without the "gravitas" that makes it hauntingly beautiful...
'Bizarre Love Triangle' and 'Blue Monday' by New Order got me through the 80's.
Both great songs!!
Milli vanilli and mc hammer got me through the 90's.
that’s sad
(New Order > Joy Division) Oh, no, what am I sayin...
Uh..yeah.
After The Cure, here comes Joy Division! I feel my teenage years... 80's kids thank you again sir! 😉
Haha thanks ever so much my friend!!
My preteens but it was still the era in which my taste developed.
@@arcanics1971 agreed!
I think WIRE was just as significant. Also Magazine.
lenpey huge fan!! Stay tuned
I was in an 80's cover band over 15 years ago and this was one of the songs we covered, along with the Cure's "Just Like Heaven," and "Love Song." I was the band's bass player and those songs were so much fun for me to play because of their iconic bass lines. I have a greater appreciation for those songs now thanks to videos like this! Keep up the good work!
Thanks ever so much for sharing!!
Hooky’s bass in this song is just infectious.
Agreed 109%!
Hooky will always be the most underrated bassist of all time. In my opinion he's the 4 String King
Awesome video, Warren! Thank you for the detailed breakdown and explanations. I'm a big fan too! For those interested in the keyboard high string sound, Joy Division used the "Violin" setting on a keyboard called "ARP Omni-2" which was a souped-up Solina String Ensemble that besides strings also had synth and synth bass sounds. It had separate outs and so it could be treated separately with the studio effects that Martin Hannett used
Love you, Paolo!
Thanks ever so much SynthMania for that amazing information!!
@@r4x2 yes, great information!!
@@Producelikeapro Very welcome, Warren and Ryan!! Thank you!! I'm a bit of "anorak" - like you guys say in the UK - about Joy Division, and have been researching Martin Hannett's / JD gear for a long time...
@@SynthManiaDotCom thanks ever so much for the great info! Yes, I love ANORAKs! Lets get together and change the world!
Unknown Pleasures is one of my favourite albums ever. Martin Hannetts drum sound is amazing
Agreed! I'm such a HUGE fan of this song and this band!!
5:14 my word... Nailed my soul.
If this isn't played at my funeral, I'm not going.
Great comment!!!
“The Eternal” for me.
This video may be two years old, but thank you so much for such a wonderful production surrounding one of the most beautifully haunting tracks of the past 50 years!
Been listening to "Isolation" on repeat these past 8 months...
Yes, such a masterpiece!!
Produce Like A Pro insight
Hi @@Reprodestruxion thanks ever so much!!
@@Producelikeapro - Ah, the fine art of sarcasm lost in text form once again... ; )
Can't stop listening to "Disorder".
Ian curtis was from my hometown, macclesfield. still the best thing to come from us and he is still very much spoken about to the extent that a mural was just painted on the side of a building in town.
Actually for me at least one of the best songs ever written!!
Next one should be „Where is my mind“ by The Pixies
Amazing song!
Yes, a marvellous song Jo!
@@timbrown7652 yes, agreed!
Luke yes, great song and great scene!
@@timbrown7652 I know it's over
The Smiths
I saw Joy Division with Ian Curtis at Erics in Liverpool not long before he died. They had a wirey intense sound and his performance and presence was quite startling. Great Video Dude 😎
Wow! Amazing! Would have loved to see that show!
One of the greatest songs ever played by the best band ever!
Thanks ever so much for the great comment!
@@Producelikeapro You're welcome. Thanks you too for doing great job.
Thank you for saying, "died by suicide," it's a little thing, but it matters.
Yes, agreed 100%!
He commited suicide liberal
@@N.Narwhal Ah there’s your model conservative. A boomer with complete disregard to others and has no clue what the word “Consequences” means. All that, and he has to drag politics into everything. You’re miserable dude.
Rather than saying what ?
@@brendancronin3796 rather than saying suicided, or committed suicide.
Died by suicide takes the fault away from the person, and puts their death down to the circumstances they were going through.
It's more humane.
Thank you!! Excellent commentary!! This is an absolute GEM of new wave/post punk at its very best - it guts me, every time, to listen to the gorgeous soaring synths combined with Curtis’s baritone voice and dark, biting lyrics and realize that he *was going through it* as the kids say. At least four massive waves crashing in on him - the band breaking through, new fatherhood with such bewildering emotions and responsibilities, a deeply unhappy new and first young marriage - yes Debbie and Ian loved each other but they weren’t meant for each other so to say, and of course the absolute crush of his recent epilepsy diagnosis. In the NHS of the 70s, with the (limited) medications that were available, Ian was facing an incredibly brutal life path of dealing with his crushing depression and epilepsy plus trying to front a rock band on the verge of international stardom. And he’d written “She’s lost control” BEFORE his own diagnosis - after witnessing a girl with severe epilepsy fall to the ground in a massive seizure at his place of employment. Yikes. Thank the gods/goddesses of music that we have this musical gem to light our path.
This was the first Joy Division song I listened to, and by the time I was in my early 20s I started to listen to more of their songs! R.I.P. Ian Curtis, gone but NEVER forgotten! Love Will Tear Us Apart!
Thanks ever so much for sharing!
Indeed! That bass line played on its own is pure delight! Almost begs for a slowed, stripped version!
Yes, it's amazing!
fantastic. I could talk about how much I love Martin and his production techniques for days.
you should really do this charming man or there is a light that never goes out, this charming man has one of the most iconic guitar riffs and has beautiful lyrics and an amazing vocal performance by morrissey, there is a light that never goes out is just so iconic in every way, everything from the pretty high pitched guitar and absolutely fantastic lyrics about love and his amazing vocal performance as always.
Definitely Light that never goes out, I love The smiths, they have a song for whatever mood I am in like the cure and the beatles. That's my definition of a great band. Having said that, Love will tear us apart is my equal number one song ever.
One of the greatest base lines and a great song.
Yes and yes! Agreed 100%!
Been my favorite song for decades now. Funny how my top three songs are all from the same era...
Such an era it was.
1. Love will tear us apart by Joy Division
2. The Killing Moon by Echo and the Bunnymen
3. Just like Honey by The Jesus and Mary Chain
All amazing songs!
Incredible channel! Thank you for finding me!
You’re very welcome! Thanks ever so much
The song that always makes me cry
Me too. Thanks ever so much for sharing
When I discovered joy Division I was very young (I was 15, now I am 22) and the band had such an impact on me since that first day I listened to them that I don't think I'll ever get tired of it. The lyrics and melodies are so haunting that haven't been able to forget that first time I listen to them, I always keep coming back to their music. It's brilliant.
Thanks ever so much for sharing!
I found them at 15, now 17. Still listen to unknown pleasures and closer on repeat every couple of days.
Finally someone gives Joy Division some recognition on TH-cam!
EDIT: This is the best video so far
Thanks ever so much Sam! I LOVE Joy Division!
@@Producelikeapro my previous band was called Live Transmission - named after their song Transmission
Sam Hepworth that’s amazing! Yes, Joy Division were Britain’s Velvet Underground
I live at an address that Ian passed by regularly during his school years. I have learnt Peter's bassline and can almost feel Ian's presence on the road outside as I play it.
Thanks ever so much for sharing
Now I begin to understand, they combined the mood of Velvet Underground and Nico with the raw energy of The Stooges and Sex Pistols and the elegant sound of Kraftwerk, listen to the drum sound of " Mensch Maschine, 1978, plus singing influence of David Bowie creating their unique new sound and the genre of New Wave and Gothic along with The Cure and Siouxsie and the Banshees and others....The Gothic and new wave genre was also heavily influenced by German bands like Amon Düül, Can, Neu, Nina Hagen etc. today Rammstein, but that's another story.
Wow! So well said my friend!! Great insight
I was into Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, Dave Edmunds, and many
Punk bands at the time. I knew about Joy Division and didn't
dismiss them, I merely wasn't in the loop. Now, decades later,
the intrigue of the band hit me when I saw the movie "Control".
I'm thinking, "Damn! I missed the present role of J.D. when it
emerged and thrived".
Now I eat up as much J.D. info as possible and this video
goes into a depth of their music that I appreciate.
Thank you for what you have compiled here.
63 yo Yank. 👍🗣🎸
David, you sound like a lost best friend I had in N. Virginia in the early seventies
with the same name. Be great to connect. Besides the bands you listed as faves, I fortunately was in London
that summer of 1980, learning of Joy Division right as they were becoming huge. Such good music we had.
Drop a line if you are the correct Mr. Hunt, though I think you're 2 years older than my friend would now be.
Eric
Absolutely loving this new series! You're so insightful, and entirely genuine, you can tell you have a deep love for these songs. Please please please keep it going, you've gained a loyal fan! This song along absolutely changed my life
Thanks ever so much Kevin!
There are few songs that ever left a mark in my life like this one. At first when I heard it, I just tossed it aside as just another alt-rock love song. But it just grew on me without me even realising it. It's so simple and yet so profound in it's composition, that it just stood the test of time somehow. While other songs that came with a bang and went away with the change in my music tastes, whenever I listen to this song,...I get transported to an another world in an instant. It's been the hardest one to shake off even after all these years. Ian and the boys pulled off something brilliant in every sense of the word and utterly unforgettable.
This was absolutely fascinating, and man that bass sounds sweet!
Hi Rob! Thanks ever so much!
Fantastic video series
Much respect.
Of interest maybe.....My father-in-law worked with Ian Curtis and He said that he very kind, caring, thoughtful and intelligent, but sometimes too intense and serious about certain things.
The black & white film "Control" about his life is 100% accurate in the opening scene, where he leaves his house in Barton Street for the very short journey to the place of work in South Park Road(also the road where my wife to be lived with her dad, and later myself lived). They worked in some small council offices in Macclesfield, Cheshire. One of Ian's jobs was something to do with helping disabled people and adults with learning difficulties.
When they filmed it all they had to do was to change the cars parked in the road to the correct period!
We moved from Macclesfield twenty years ago but those roads still look the same, and a couple of the pubs are still there....but only just.
I formed my first band after hearing this song in July 1980. It’s been downhill ever since. Later I moved to Manchester for unrelated reasons and found Hooky was one of my neighbours. Used to see him in the corner shop. Ain’t life strange?
Wow! Thanks for sharing that Jeff! Yes, so many people started bands after hearing Joy Division! I did!!
Definitely one of the most beautiful songs ever, as well as one of the saddest. "Why is the bedroom so cold?" Just a devastating line. And the title is one of the greatest of all time.
Thanks ever so much! Agreed
These first three episodes of Songs That Changed Music have been FANTASTIC. Please don't ever stop producing these insightful videos!
Thanks ever so much John!!
Man this is arguably the greatest channel on TH-cam. Love it.
Thanks ever so much
YES!!
SOOOO happy to see you break this one down Warren, one of the all time best songs of the post punk era, and also loved the Just Like Heaven episode, another of the top songs of the later 80s, both influenced so many bands.
Thanks ever so much!!
What an absolutely brilliant analysis, putting quite a technical breakdown into simplistic terminology that anyone can understand, yet at the same time, still making the same points.
Bravo.
Thanks ever so much Nik!!
Released May 18th, 1980? On that day I was in Portland, Oregon, standing on the back deck, listening to the great new music coming out in '79 and '80, like this song, and Talking Heads, XTC, The Cars, while watching the immense eruption of Mt St Helens. You could say that the '80s came in with a bang. I hadn't been that excited about new music since the '60s British Invasion.
About that same period of time, I was recording a theme for a local TV talk show in a Portland 24 track studio. We recorded the drums one piece at a time, but not because of any production considerations, but because I'm not a drummer, and the client didn't want to pay for hiring one. 🙂
What impresses me, is that you can't judge a book by its cover. When you observe the footage of them playing it live, they look like a garage band of amateurs that don't know what they're doing. But in reality, they had it goin' on. Maybe that was the appeal.
Yes, A=an amazingly influential band!
They were 'a garage band that doesnt know what its doing' but they kept 'doing' until they knew! And therein lies the appeal!
You are literally doing a series on my biggest influences! This is amazing, and it really reconnects me with my awkward teenage self in the 90's in Texas who loved playing in bands, but just wanted to do something different than the hard rock and metal sound that permeated the area. Not that I dislike those things! Thank you for this series and reminding me of the joy I had when I first listened to these artists!
That is awesome Adam! Thank you so much for sharing. Any other artists you would like to see featured?
@@plapclips6799 My Bloody Valentine!
Its strange , you didn't mention hauntingly synth , that is so iconic for me , yet so simple but immediately recognizable , love it
The fact that they were so musically intermediate is why they were so good. It was simple. Emotional. Direct. Expressive and to the point.
Unknown Pleasure was possibly my most listened to LP in the early 80s. Echo & The Bunnymen "Killing Moon" should be on the list, Enjoying the series.
ABSOLUTELY
This video essay totally captures the tragedy and absolutely cutting magic of both the band and track. Great job.
Great choice Warren
Thanks ever so much!
100% agreement
@@prdichvostbuben7525 thanks ever so much!
Really love this series! Even if I don't care for the song that you're talking about, it's still interesting to hear everything that went into writing and recording it, along with the reception from critics.
Great job contextualizing this
masterpiece.
Thanks ever so much!
I first watched this video when you originally uploaded it 2 years ago. I loved it then. I re-watched it last night and once again I was struck by the quality of the script and your presentation, it was like listening to a BBC documentary back in the day when the BBC used to make quality programmes. Thanks
Britain was so lucky as far as music. While this brilliant song was a chart-topper in the UK, it was only played on college radio in the US. In the early 80s, if you wanted to hear the Cure, Buzzcocks, New Order, or even DM and the Jam, college radio was your only option. The major stations were still playing 70s dinosaur bands. Most of the songs I loved in the early and mid-80s barely charted here.
Stumbled across this channel just the other day. These films are *exceptional*, and none more so than this one. Accessible for non-musicians like me, but still with a fan’s passion and love for the music involved. Great to see a peek under the bonnet in ways us non-musos can grasp, but still able to convey the skills and technique involved. Subscribed, an instant fave. Huge thanks, looking forward to more. RIP IC x
Wow! Thanks ever so much! I really appreciate it! That means a lot!
Wow! Thanks ever so much! I really appreciate it! That means a lot!
Peter Hook's tone is so unique because he plays so high. I was working at Tower Records in 2005. Gwen Stefani's solo debut was on the in-store stereo system. I was listening to the song "The Real Thing" and knew the bass line. It was Hooky! I could tell by the tone.
I went to the CD's liner notes and, yup, Hooky!
Another brilliant vid, thank you. I was living in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan at the time, going to art school and DJ-ing in one of a very few clubs there at the time this came out. I can almost see the moment I had became aware Ian Curtis had died. It was a rainy, post dusk time and I was on my way to the club (very Norwegian in feel). As with many, many people, this song has resonated long since then for me. As you say, it goes beyond the sonic quality and is a symbiotic relationship to the lyrical intent and the production. It's literally 40 years later and I still cannot stop thinking about this song. Thanks for the insight. Much appreciated.
Warren. Again another fantastic insight to the music industry. I remember this song and the Band very well growing up in the UK. These insights just go to show how delicate the band members can be and the unseen stresses in an industry that the general public think is all Champagne, money and easy life.....How wrong.
Thanks ever so much Trevor!
I loved this song as much as a 5 year old child as i love it today. Thx youtube for making me rediscover it.
Thanks ever so much
The bass line and the drums are the obvious stars on this record, however the keyboards especially in the verses are often overlooked. Create an incredible bed of atmospherics that allows the rest of the song to soar.
I love this song. Thank you ever so much for featuring it here in this awesome Songs that Changed Music episode, Warren.
Thanks ever so much Marc!! You Rock!
I prefer the Strawberry Studios version! Love this coverage. This band changed my life. Thank you!
Thanks for sharing
I have only just recently discovered your channel and right now watched it.
Back then I worked at Straight Music, the biggest/best promotors in Britain and we worked with pretty much every band described as punk, post punk of new wave and I had first seen Joy Division as some scuzzy pub in Manchester when I was taken there by Richard Boon who managed The Buzzcocks.
I spoke to Ian the weekend before he hung himself.
Hannett was a genius at least in his early years and (in my opinion) turned the song into the iconic RECORD we all know.
The film Control is a wonderful work and helped me to get to know Curt's life and the Joy Division story.
Yes! Amazing
It was very empathic production by Anton Corbyin
I don't know how I stumbled upon your channel but absolutely love it. The passion can be easily seen. Also, love the fact that you literally reply to all who comment. Now, that's commitment.
Wow! Thanks ever so much! Happy to respond to people who love great music
"...the myth that bass players have to do what they're told..." [Geddy Lee winking and giving a thumb's up] Speaking of...I think Rush's "Tom Sawyer" was a HUGE game-changer, from influencing rock fans like my brother to new wave "freaks" like myself. And now I'm still a new wave freak and listen to Rush at least weekly.
Haha yes! Indeed! My hats off to amazingly creative bass players!!
I’m so glad I just found this channel; this was a wonderful analysis of a song that means so much to me and so many.
Thanks ever so much!!
This song is just wonderful ! What a incredible series Warren ✌
Thanks ever so much Ady!!
Was first introduced to this song back in 2007 as a 5th grader when I watched the movie Donnie Darko, immediately fell in love with it
Beautifully crafted documentary here. Really interesting hearing about the recording process!
Thanks ever so much!!
Wonderful video. Joy Division has always been one of my favorite bands. Joy Division as well as New Order have been a huge influence on me musically. I can sit and listen to either band for hours. Thanks Warren!
Thanks for the detailed video.
I hope it wins some new fans for the music and your channel.
Thanks ever so much Jason!
I just found this channel, after watching the videos about 'Brass in pocket' and 'Love will tear us apart' I subscribed.
So well made video. All the research that has been made, the editing, the played parts and the love of music shared is insane. I absolute love these series! Can't wait for the content to come. All the best!
Thank you ever so much my friend! That means so much!
His vocal style always remind me of the walker brothers
Great comparison
Love this! Makes me proud to be a Manc! Love the breakdown of the tracks so far! Rock On!
just recieved my 2020 12" remaster of this single! had to learn more about the details of the story of the song before spinning it! great video!!
Marvellous!! That’s very cool to hear!!
I had a Yamaha BB-1200 back in '83.
While I was travelling in India in '82 my Wal and my Rickenbacker (fretless) were stolen from muy house back in Blighty.
When I got back, I had no bass ...
I sold my Korg MS-20 and bought the 1200 to gig with.
Lovely bass, very Precision like but with a Through Neck and a wider tone range.
Slapped like a Mofo too.
I gigged it for a good few years.
Eventually I found another Wal, that I could afford, and moved the 1200 on.
Brilliant! - when I watched your first one I thought I'd like him to do this track and here it is. Thanks much appreciated
Thanks ever so much!!
Such a wonderful song and amazing video!
Absolutely brilliant video, well presented. Tragic but what a legacy
I agree Craig, such a tragedy
Hi Warren, Your entire take on this song and the history behind the song was amazing! Thank you for the details and how your broke the song and group down. This was very interesting for me especially because I have never heard the song or the group before. Sorry about that. Not many people know that I was raised in a very restricted household which only allowed certain genre of music to be heard in it. So born in 1959, I never got to listen to radio play of Rock n Roll, Pop or Punk or any other styles of my until 1975, when I drove my first car and had radio, cassettes, 8-track and LP's to begin listening to what I had missed!! I missed the entire British Invasion and so much great music, which happens to be my favorite music now. It's difficult being 61 and explaining why I'm so excited about the music of the 60's 70's and your Joy Division '80's. I already went to my Spotify and added "Love will Tear Us Apart to it." I will also listen to other Joy Division music to get familiar.
Great video! So much wonderful info on what is one of the greatest songs ever!
Thanks so much! You Rock!
OK, this channel is amazing.
Wow! Thanks ever so much
I remember dancing in the clubs when this came out. It was melancholy with a good beat. A great song
Thanks ever so much James!
Joy Division are my favorite band of all time and this is the best breakdown I've ever seen of this song. Subscribed and looking forward to checking out all your other videos!
Wow!! Thanks ever so much my friend!!
Wow astonishing. I love my music and always loved Joy Division from the moment I heard this song on the radio in 1980 as a child. It was unusual sad but uplifting. I could never put my finger on why I liked it so much over the years apart from the whole Ian Curtis suicide tragedy which made the song, him and the band legendary.
Until today and your excellent video. I get it now. I love how you took the song apart. It's like someone pulling back the curtain and showing us the magic hidden. Clearly a lot of what makes this song so striking and good musically is in the bass and the studio production recording attention to sound detail. And the brilliance of Ian's lyrics and emotionless delivery. Ian was a very well read capable lyricist and poet who drew on a lot of influences including William Borroughs.
What astonished me is the drums percussion there. It's the distinctive and modern New Order electronic sound the band soon went onto become. And the distinctive Blue Monday rapid beat dat dat dat dat beat line is right there hidden in Love Will Tear Us Apart.. like a rapid mono heart beat!
Speaking of Hannett... Happy Mondays? Particularly the John Cale produced first LP. Now that's a game changer my friend! Great video, cheers!
Agreed Rocky! Thanks ever so much!