If you're in the UK, Australia or New Zealand and fancy coming to see me live, all the dates we're playing are here: www.thedarknesslive.com/tour-dates/
I remember seeing Tom from Keane in an interview, and he had warned them not to ask anything about you, or his time in the priory, lo and behold they asked him about you and the priory and he walked out. Class👌
I think this is something that takes time to be honest with you. Dare I say an age thing? Like the older I've gotten the less shitty I feel about myself and the more empathetic I feel, it will happen.
This has to be my all time favorite channel. I’ve caught myself singing along with your opening lol. I hate talking about my mental health issues as well. It’s just hard to open up to anyone actually. When others like you admit having it as well kinda makes me feel like I’m not alone
The thing that always brings me back to this channel, other than love of very Partridge style comedy and Justin's musical prowess, is how kind he is. He comes across as just the nicest person, which I figure has been moulded out of the life he's lead. A real lovely and considerate bloke
Thanks so much, Justin! I love all your positivity, and everything you do! If you ever want a video idea, I think a closet tour would be cool. I can only imagine all your fabulous outfits. #styleicon
Hey Justin, I've been sober 4 years and I started playing guitar again, I love you man you're such a gem, your band rocks hard and your songs are fun to play, and your channel is great. Brilliant 🤓
Love the channel and amazing job with the Taylor Hawkins tribute show. In a previous video on guitar solos you mention your admiration for Nuno Bettencourt’s playing. Would love to hear you talk about that a bit more whether it’s an Extreme/Nuno dedicated video or in a comments day video. Cheers!
Just saw your name added to the L.A. Taylor Hawkins concert and I am so excited! I couldn’t imagine them pulling it off without you, you were so integral to the U.K. concert.
Everybody keeps saying how "kind" Justin seems, and I'm not saying he's NOT because I'm sure he is, but it's just funny to me because I've watched dozens of these videos and he literally doesn't interact with even ONE other human being in any of them 😂 WHO is he being kind to? He's just relaxed and affable and has a great personality. What exactly do y'all think kindness IS?
Hi Justin. I have bullemia and to hear you speak about it and to relate with you has been a nice source of comfort to know others have struggled with this too. I hope you are keeping well yourself 👏
Yeah hearing about Justin's bulimia back in the day helped me a lot too. Fortunately I worked through some problems in therapy and that's mostly in my past now. Sounds like you're still suffering though, so I hope you're coping okay and find a way to recover soon.
@@saucers4eyes695 thanks mate, its something I have improved upon with therapy but I cannot say I am fully recovered as of yet. All a process and conversations like this help a lot. Thank you 😁
@@CallMehXiLe Yeah it's all a process, nothing is permanent so you'll get through it eventually :) And you're right, conversation and communication is very important, good not to button it all up. Take care!
What a gorgeous room, love that fireplace. The stuffed cockerel, was that your favourite bird? Please do not ever feel that you have to make things in your life public. Speaking for myself only, it is none of my business. I'm here because I have a passion for music and learning about music. Thank you for your videos, Jus 💖
Justin, I have to say I quite adore the way you break matters down and banter about them. Being music, interviews or general life situations...its brilliant, thank you!
I love what you bring to this channel, Justin. It's real, frank and entertaining. It sounds self serving, but that you for getting sober - it inspires me.
I really love your channel, easily one of my favorite! Each video is a feelgood moment. Not only i am a fan of your music but i have a lot of respect for your point of views that you share threw your videos. Greetings from France 🤘
I don't even want to comment on this program it's brilliant & perfect already like a fine wine. I will kick back & enjoy the show. Good day to you sir.
Hi Justin, I had never heard of the Darkness until 2016 when my UK boss introduced me to you. My 2 favorite songs are Get your hands off of my woman and Black Shuck. You have made a fan for life from Texas!
I discovered your channel recently, and listening to you, responding to comments and giving your opinions, with such honesty and good heart and humour, it's like meditation. It feels so good listening to you. Keep up the good work.
Awesome channel Justin, loving the content. Can I ask as a lover of the more usual and authentic side of music, have you ever come across the you tube sensation that is Dan Dubuque? He takes a weissenborn slide guitar, a pedal board and an amp into the Montana countryside and then just rocks the fuck out. It's quite unlike anything else! Start with the Rage against the machine cover and move onto the pixies, AC/DC, Nirvana etc.... worth an episode of critique from your good self.
Hi Justin, I just wanted to say thank you to you! Finding these awesome videos has inspired me to play guitar again! I have struggled with my mental health over the past few years and have found playing The Darkness’ songs on guitar really lifts my mood and helps! So again, Thank you so so much! 😊
“So Long” is the first song I learned on guitar! 😁 only basic chords, as I’ve not been playing long, but I bloody love that song! It’s powerful and sorrowful and incredibly beautiful and the pause in the second verse before “or maybe her eyes were blue” makes me laugh every single time! Your “stupid double entendres” absolutely do not ruin anything, Justin! I keep finding new ones in Darkness songs and wondering if they’re intended or not, so its nice to know they’re deliberate! Absolutely love them! Your lyrics are the best! 💖🥰🥰🥰
@@richiep3520 I haven’t heard that song yet, it’s on one of the 3 albums I’m missing, but I just looked up the lyrics and now I know I’ve got to get Pinewood Smile next based solely on “We are all but a bubble and squeak! In the frying pan, the frying pan of life”. 🤦🏻♀️😂😂😂 Damn it, Justin! I was trying not to buy more CD’s until October but Amazon, here I come…
Yano, im surprised more genuine stars haven't followed this format. You didnt reinvent the wheel here, but in another way... you did. Take care my dude :D
It is important that men do talk about mental health issues. It is not always easy and I would rather suppress any issues hoping they will simply go away. I have learned they simply resurface somewhere else. I love what you do here. Phil
Hey Justin, recently discovered your channel, can’t stop watching - brilliant! You recently did a video about Metallica appearing in Stranger Things, I love Metallica and it’s great that ST has exposed their brilliance to a wider audience, but I feel like the absolutely legendary Extreme whose song Play With Me also featured in the show, are such an underrated band and sadly doubt that the show gained them anywhere near the recognition that Metallica have received. Nuno also posted recently about it being the 30th anniversary of III Sides to Every Story. I’d love to see you do a video covering Extreme, it’d have to be the Pornograffitti album though if you do take me up on it 😉 fun fact - my band played earlier on the same bill as The Darkness at Festival Too in Kings Lynn a few years back, stuck around to watch you guys after, I’ve always been a fan so that wasn’t a tall order anyway, but was class to see you doing your thing!
Sooo many guys learned More Than Words to woo a girl. You know how Aerosmith had that run of similar songs, that Adam Sandler made fun of how fungible they were? I kinda feel Extreme had one of those runs, too. But even I could play More Than Words. Couldn't sing it worth a shit, tho...
Play With Me first time I heard that was Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure when I heard it on the recent Stranger Things 4 it made me happy, agreed would love to hear that take. It’s wild too as someone who has all the Kate Bush LPs (first pressings) it blew my mind when she went back on the charts with her Hounds of Love classic “..(A Deal With God)” so wild how the power of a popular show or social media rip like that can provide millions upon millions of new fans.
@@GizzyDillespee I had zero interest in More Than Words until I saw Extreme live on the Saudades De Rock tour. Seeing and hearing Cherone and Bettencourt doing their thing on that tune was a beautiful thing though. If Justin does make a video about Pornograffitti album though, as much as I do like MTW now, I’d rather hear his analysis of something like Get The Funk Out, Li’l Jack Horny, etc. I’ve seen some of the big boys like Metallica and Maiden bringing down the o2 and Wembley live, as well as some of the guitar virtuosos like Satriani and Vai, but nothing compares to my experience watching Extreme.
Have you ever had a song blow up in popularity that you didn't expect? Vice versa, have you ever had a song that you thought was going to be a hit but had a more mild reception that you were expecting? Absolutely love the channel and "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" is my go to karaoke song!
Just started watching this channel a day or so ago and so glad I came across it (thank you oh wise and glorious algorithm) . Was a big fan of The Darkness when they first came out and was grateful to see you managed to rejoin the band and I look forward to catching up on your catalogue.
Justin here is a question for the next Q & A: for your upcoming solo album will you feel less genre-bound than you are with the Darkness? With your versatile voice and obvious appreciation of a wide range of musical styles, I wonder if you have a wheelhouse that you haven’t discovered yet.
th-cam.com/video/FOLthJnrdEY/w-d-xo.html Bit of JHawks legendarily great Darkness hiatus band Hot Leg.. for those who want something a bit different...
Never a major fan but recently I have realised how many good memories come flooding back when hear the darkness tunes and its haunting lol....thanks for the emotional satnav Mr Hawkins
So Long is a beautiful song Justin. I have to say I love every track on Motorheart theres's not a bad one on there!! Eastbound feels special for me. My daughter and I always sing along when were driving east to visit family and friends out in the darkest depths of Lincolnshire! :D
You are truly amazing dude, I could sit and listen to you on here for hours, how about doing a Q & A and play your guitar and show us a few riffs n solos. Love watching you play x
I've often wondered about the "cosplay" question myself, but from the other perspective. I've found as a casual musician it's still possible for me to enjoy playing other people's songs that may speak to an experience I haven't lived, just because of empathy. I think if you genuinely feel the feeling you're trying to convey while making your art then people will pick up on it and feel the same way while engaging with it, even if they haven't lived the same experience. By that same token, I appreciate when people try to empathise with my life, even if they haven't lived it. As long as it's done in good faith and not just to pander to an audience (Kid Rock), then it's fine.
I would like to see Justin Hawkins and Nick Cave interview each other, and then do some sort of musical improvisation together. It would be two enlightened and self aware, but deeply contrasting minds meeting each other. Yet I still think they have a lot in common. Contrasting struggles that they work through. Just putting a worm in your ear, boys.
You're very generous Justin 😊 As someone who has also experienced mental illness over the years, your interview with JR felt incredibly voyeuristic,. Of course open conversations about mental health should be taking place but I just wish there wasn't such a seemingly fine line in the media between raising awareness and satisfying a mawkish curiosity about those in the public eye for 'our' entertainment/ consumption... Big love to you, your channel is amazing and manages to keep me sane-ish 😂
Every middle-aged American knows the children's television presenter Mr Rogers from when they were a kid. I still need a Mr Rogers and you're him. Thank you
Hi Justin, quiet subscriber here! Silent and creepy? Lol! So I am commenting now just to thank you cause I enjoy your videos oh and Melbourne! I have tickets. I cannot wait. Thank you ❤ \m/ Rock on
You are also very obviously an incredibly professional Musician, please don't take my words wrong. Your knowledge of Music, your Natural understanding of different structures, etc, is as impressive as anything I've heard any other Musicians talk about. You are a brilliant Musician, I just don't personally choose to listen to The Darkness. It's a matter of taste. You either like something or you don't 🙂
Hi Justin, I first saw the Darkness at a Virgin Megastore gig in Glasgow and loved it. Some time later I was lucky enough to be one of the pipers that played with you at T in the Park the year the Darkness headlined. Amazing experience!
I like to think of Hotleg's album as being Justin's solo work .. maybe that's rough on the other band members who likely contributed in places ... would love to have a new JH solo album 💖
I agree with this as a general rule, but it’s definitely one with lots of exceptions. Example - and I don’t think I am definitively right or wrong on this - I find it totally disingenuous for Oasis to continue talking about the plight of the working-class 4 or 5 albums down the line as they made it big at a very young age. They didn’t experience the working class life much at all. However, I am happy for Sleaford Mods to continue to talk about the working class experience, as they lived that life until they were pushing 50. They’ve got years of real world experience to draw from. I guess it’s really down to context and circumstance
I have 5 questions for you and I don't expect you to answer them all! A friend said I need to learn about middle 8s and instructed me to listen to Brian Adams as he reckons he's really good at them and his songs (though not quite to his taste - he's more into Ultravox) are examples of really good song structure. This friend defines a middle 8 as something that is usually musically different that typically comes right before the solo which basically provides some sort of lyrical "revelation" or makes you see the song in a new light. I thought it would be good to ask you for your take on this. 1. How do you define a middle 8? 2. What are your favourite middle 8s in your songs? 3. What are your favourite middle 8s in other people's songs? 4. Who should someone wanting to write songs with good song structure listen to? 5. When did you learn song structure and who and/or what do you have to thank for it?
I love your audience Justin. What an eclectic bunch of intelligent, humorous, musically inspired, kind spirited humans. Your have a boomerang effect...cheers Melbourne Australia. 🙏🌏💙
ok in one of my many all night vid binges watched one of your vids .... moved on , came back watched another , watched a few more , over the days has watched a lot , has now subscribed , your either a very good actor or your a genuinely nice bloke . either way you are very entertaining , thanks
Any plans to rock out across the pond? Come ON! Indianapolis, Chicago, St. Louis, Louisville, Columbus….I’ll happily drive to any of these locations!! ❤️🇬🇧✌🏼
Damn, that guitar sounds great ! Your playing has inspired me into learning your intro and I almost have it . Keep doing what you do .By the way I loved your talk with Luke Spiller .
I DIDN'T KNOW YOU HAD A TH-cam CHANNEL!! Apologies for CAPSLOCKING. I discovered The Darkness's music late, but was quick to rectify this fault. And quick to appreciate your work. Then the other day TH-cam's algorithm suggests this video, and I was pleasantly flabbergasted. Instasubscribed! Cheers! //Rick
One for another comments day: Recently started watching some of your videos, I love the openness and honesty. You smashed it when you played with Queen at the Taylor Hawkins tribute concert. Back in the early noughties The Darkness were compared by many to Queen and even touted as being the new Queen, a mantle later heavily lauded upon Mika as 'the new Freddie'. How did you feel about being compared to Queen at the time, and how do you feel about it now? It must've added a layer of being 'Under Pressure' back then? Please tell us how you feel/felt about the comparison and any pressure it adds to a performer. Separately as a side-note, I saw you mention in a recent comments day vid about not always giving your all if attendance was low, something which you'd since rethought about. As an ex stage manager and community radio host (before I became disabled). It made me think of advice I always gave (still do) to performers I worked with. ALWAYS play like you are playing to a festival crowd even if there is only one person in the audience who paid to come in, because it only takes one person/one conversation to change your life and direction. Is that not the same sage advice even if you've once done sell out stadiums but in later times play smaller venues? An audience of one could still be the most life-changing audience you play to. Keep up the honesty and openness buddy, it's great seeing you looking so well & healthy
I was never a fan of The Darkness so after listening to a few of your podcasts I gave them another listen. I still don't like The Darkness. But... I love this channel and your humour and your take on music, life and all the rest of it. Wonderful stuff!
Justin, loving the channel. I have a question for you which might appear uncouth so apologies! I had an amusing chat recently with a guy who managed the tax affairs for a certain successful West Midlands band from the 80s who were "clueless" about cash. How do you manage the Croesusesque sums of cash you get? Do you get a lump dropped in to your account or do you get pocket-money from an army of accountants? If Wiki is to be believed and you're in Switzerland which must be hellishly expensive. How do musos plan for retirement; new material, royalties, TH-cam stardom or does the rock & roll lifestyle mean people don't worry about it! I only ask as you seem comfortable answering any question and I'm certain I'm not the only one curious about it! #lifesbeengood!
You are such a good sport Justin all my cool friends in real cool bands think so also you bridge the gap between cool friends in cool bands and me god bless you brother!!
On songs that choke you up ,Iove don’t give up Peter Gabriel and Kate bush it’s a song that sticks with me I tried to sing it on stage recently and stopped midway crying.My mum recently passed didn’t help but even listening to it gees.
Ahhh Justin! I absolutely love your channel !! you are such a tonic! So as you say you are touring again next year but why oh why oh why oh why oh why oh why are your only going as far north as Glasgow??? The Hydro is RUBBISH!!!! (its not, its very lovely indeed) We have a beautiful shiny new venue here in the Granite City, AKA Aberdeen and I would love to see y'all rocking out here!! Pencil us in for next time yeah?? Or add a cheeky extra date in your 2023 tour maybes???? love you Justin!! 😍🤩🤟😎
Thanks for answering my question Justin (and the producer for putting it forward). I appreciate your honesty and way with words. Ironically, Permission to land came out just after a bout of mental health issues I was having. Your songs were uplifting and catchy. Thanks again. You're a top bloke.
Hi Justin, I was just whistling your theme tune and tried to place that melody line and it reminded me of the piano piece in the Hitchcock film, Rope - so I looked that up, and the composer is Francis Poulenc - MovementsPerpétuels (1918)”….again…” Spooky!
No questions, just we got married on the day you posted this video and our entrance music during the wedding breakfast was 'I believe in a thing called love'. all her idea, of course, but it was immensely well received. So thanks for making such a banger.
I definitely appreciate the deeper aspects of the darkness… many layers to the songs. Humor, grammatical acumen (I’ve learned how to speak “American “ a lot more gooder) and some serious lines expressing genuine heartbreak and triumph. The fact that they still exist and make music is a real blessing in my life…
You mentioned that you like to write and produce music quickly, but have you ever had a song(s) that have taken years to work out? What is the longest amount of time it has taken to realise your vision for a song and why do you think it took longer than most? Love the channel.
In my best Jagger/mockney accent "ere what do you make of the latest ginger Wildheart project (ginger and the sinners) foot prints in the sand??" Ps love the channel and the positivity you bring to this world.
A few weeks ago Justin did an episode on some singer/songwriter who died young (Bob something?). He sang a small bit of one of the songs and I went all gooey. Justin, throw in some of those songs on the solo album!
Just spent my saturday evening looking for that episode and boy was I wrong about basically all the facts!! It was Secret heart by Ron Sexsmith. And Justins version was still frickin' awesome!!
If you're in the UK, Australia or New Zealand and fancy coming to see me live, all the dates we're playing are here: www.thedarknesslive.com/tour-dates/
Justin! When are you going on Beato? He said in one of his videos he's all ready to do it! DOOOOO IT!
Already have tickets. NEC Jan 31
Yes!!! 🤘🤘🤘
Isn't it all just a boring excercise of nothing?
Good times
I remember seeing Tom from Keane in an interview, and he had warned them not to ask anything about you, or his time in the priory, lo and behold they asked him about you and the priory and he walked out. Class👌
What a witty, warm, smart, musician person Justin is. An utter delight.
That sound you made to simulate the defective tape was fabulous, there is a career there somewhere.
That is PRECISELY what it sounds like when your interview tape is blown out! In the pre-digital days, that is.
Justin would make a great collaborator for a talk night show. I ended up laughing my ass off a few times with his bits.
I loved that too! Haha
Yes look at those pictures on the mantlepiece..
"I BELIEVE IN A THING CALLED LOO-OOOOVE, GGLLLGGHHHprrrrHSSS-VVVVUUUUU!"
Justin being so well rounded and comfortable in his own skin gives me hope
I think this is something that takes time to be honest with you. Dare I say an age thing? Like the older I've gotten the less shitty I feel about myself and the more empathetic I feel, it will happen.
This has to be my all time favorite channel. I’ve caught myself singing along with your opening lol. I hate talking about my mental health issues as well. It’s just hard to open up to anyone actually. When others like you admit having it as well kinda makes me feel like I’m not alone
always singing it !
You’re not alone…I sing it while playing it on the acoustic all the time
Ya nailed it. This is “our” help per se. He’s like a therapy session haha! He’s a good dude seems like
Mine too
I'm teaching my toddler how to sing it and it's actually hilarious
The thing that always brings me back to this channel, other than love of very Partridge style comedy and Justin's musical prowess, is how kind he is. He comes across as just the nicest person, which I figure has been moulded out of the life he's lead. A real lovely and considerate bloke
I get the same impression! It’s wonderful to see someone so talented and down to earth!
I only just noticed the Coogan angle after 25 odd video views. I wonder if he likes him? It’s only very slight
This is the first video of him i have seen and tought of Coogan almost immedietally.
Did you just compare him to Alan partridge? That’s hilarious. I hope Justin sees this comment and mentions it. Also I kind of know what you mean😂
@@Grungebobsquarepantz ah ha! 😁😉
Thanks so much, Justin! I love all your positivity, and everything you do!
If you ever want a video idea, I think a closet tour would be cool. I can only imagine all your fabulous outfits. #styleicon
Thanks so much Kimberly! :D
I second that closet tour
Will he ever come out of it?
Hey Justin, I've been sober 4 years and I started playing guitar again, I love you man you're such a gem, your band rocks hard and your songs are fun to play, and your channel is great. Brilliant 🤓
Congratulations on 4 years of sobriety! I’m proud of you!
Well done! 🎉
Love the channel and amazing job with the Taylor Hawkins tribute show. In a previous video on guitar solos you mention your admiration for Nuno Bettencourt’s playing. Would love to hear you talk about that a bit more whether it’s an Extreme/Nuno dedicated video or in a comments day video. Cheers!
Seconded
100%
Thanks so much Brian! I'll see what I can do!
You paid $50 for this?!
@@racelox you can donate whatever amount of money you want if you want to. It’s up to them
Show me on the doll where Justin Hawkins touched you with his music.
Justin Hawkins is my favorite person on the planet. How can you not love this guy ?
He is a Gem 💎!
I think Grumpy Cat would have been like, maaaayybee.... grrrr
The intentional loud slurping of a drink at the start of a video a few weeks back did a bit a fair bit to erode my affection toward him.
@@lxxl8156 you know that you can turn volume down, love? 😊
Every video I get a laugh out loud moment. Great stuff.
Thanks again for the great updates, bub. Keep struttin' ur stuff!
Thanks so much Tim!
Just saw your name added to the L.A. Taylor Hawkins concert and I am so excited! I couldn’t imagine them pulling it off without you, you were so integral to the U.K. concert.
Agreed!!!!
Booked to see the Darkness at the Enmore Sydney on the 16th. Can't wait!
Your wit, humour and kindness is exactly what we need in these strange times...thank you Justin for bringing sunshine to our souls. Love ya!
Better pay and lower costs would be nice too.
@@mansnotbot4160 hahahahaha, yes sir
@@mansnotbot4160 ha ha very good! That's why I love this channel!
❤
Everybody keeps saying how "kind" Justin seems, and I'm not saying he's NOT because I'm sure he is, but it's just funny to me because I've watched dozens of these videos and he literally doesn't interact with even ONE other human being in any of them 😂
WHO is he being kind to? He's just relaxed and affable and has a great personality. What exactly do y'all think kindness IS?
Easily my favourite TH-cam channel. Thanks Justin!
Thanks for watching Tom!
@@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain I think he's watching you
@@casuallabour665 ,
@@Peacefrogg I know. I was just poking some fun.
@@casuallabour665 i hate fun. Never do that again. The audacity to have fun in this world. How dare you.
Hi Justin. I have bullemia and to hear you speak about it and to relate with you has been a nice source of comfort to know others have struggled with this too. I hope you are keeping well yourself 👏
Yeah hearing about Justin's bulimia back in the day helped me a lot too. Fortunately I worked through some problems in therapy and that's mostly in my past now. Sounds like you're still suffering though, so I hope you're coping okay and find a way to recover soon.
Also sik profile pic! haha love blond
@@saucers4eyes695 thanks mate, its something I have improved upon with therapy but I cannot say I am fully recovered as of yet. All a process and conversations like this help a lot. Thank you 😁
@@CallMehXiLe Yeah it's all a process, nothing is permanent so you'll get through it eventually :) And you're right, conversation and communication is very important, good not to button it all up. Take care!
@@saucers4eyes695 glad to hear!
What a gorgeous room, love that fireplace. The stuffed cockerel, was that your favourite bird? Please do not ever feel that you have to make things in your life public. Speaking for myself only, it is none of my business. I'm here because I have a passion for music and learning about music. Thank you for your videos, Jus 💖
Justin, I have to say I quite adore the way you break matters down and banter about them. Being music, interviews or general life situations...its brilliant, thank you!
I love what you bring to this channel, Justin. It's real, frank and entertaining. It sounds self serving, but that you for getting sober - it inspires me.
I played winger and right mid for those same reasons. Lol
I really love your channel, easily one of my favorite! Each video is a feelgood moment. Not only i am a fan of your music but i have a lot of respect for your point of views that you share threw your videos.
Greetings from France 🤘
I don't even want to comment on this program it's brilliant & perfect already like a fine wine. I will kick back & enjoy the show. Good day to you sir.
Hi Justin, I had never heard of the Darkness until 2016 when my UK boss introduced me to you. My 2 favorite songs are Get your hands off of my woman and Black Shuck. You have made a fan for life from Texas!
Thanks
Thanks Martin!
I discovered your channel recently, and listening to you, responding to comments and giving your opinions, with such honesty and good heart and humour, it's like meditation. It feels so good listening to you. Keep up the good work.
Awesome channel Justin, loving the content. Can I ask as a lover of the more usual and authentic side of music, have you ever come across the you tube sensation that is Dan Dubuque? He takes a weissenborn slide guitar, a pedal board and an amp into the Montana countryside and then just rocks the fuck out. It's quite unlike anything else! Start with the Rage against the machine cover and move onto the pixies, AC/DC, Nirvana etc.... worth an episode of critique from your good self.
Cheers Andy!
I love this channel ☺I hope it keeps going again and again
Thxs Sir Justin from AZ
Hi Justin, I just wanted to say thank you to you! Finding these awesome videos has inspired me to play guitar again! I have struggled with my mental health over the past few years and have found playing The Darkness’ songs on guitar really lifts my mood and helps! So again, Thank you so so much! 😊
Don't stop sir, your doing a stirling job🤘
“So Long” is the first song I learned on guitar! 😁 only basic chords, as I’ve not been playing long, but I bloody love that song! It’s powerful and sorrowful and incredibly beautiful and the pause in the second verse before “or maybe her eyes were blue” makes me laugh every single time! Your “stupid double entendres” absolutely do not ruin anything, Justin! I keep finding new ones in Darkness songs and wondering if they’re intended or not, so its nice to know they’re deliberate! Absolutely love them! Your lyrics are the best! 💖🥰🥰🥰
So beautiful! I cry every time I hear, "she's like an angel, threw a little light upon my path, and flew away"
@@sierrasample8632 IKR? It’s such a happy-sad song though that I just find it soothing. It’s like a cuddle in song form. 🥰
I love singing along to this song. It's classic the darkness humor. 'Why don't the beautiful cry' is up there for me too 😁
@@richiep3520 I haven’t heard that song yet, it’s on one of the 3 albums I’m missing, but I just looked up the lyrics and now I know I’ve got to get Pinewood Smile next based solely on “We are all but a bubble and squeak! In the frying pan, the frying pan of life”. 🤦🏻♀️😂😂😂 Damn it, Justin! I was trying not to buy more CD’s until October but Amazon, here I come…
@@NinStardust my favourite song on the album. Love the composition and the backing vocals with rufus.
Yano, im surprised more genuine stars haven't followed this format. You didnt reinvent the wheel here, but in another way... you did. Take care my dude :D
Witty, heartfelt and brilliant from the Hawkmeister as ever. Every day a video treat in my inbox. Love you man.
Amazing how you always look for a positive view on the things you talk about. Well done! Cheers, Dave J
Thanks!
Thanks Turbo!!
It is important that men do talk about mental health issues. It is not always easy and I would rather suppress any issues hoping they will simply go away. I have learned they simply resurface somewhere else. I love what you do here. Phil
Hey Justin, recently discovered your channel, can’t stop watching - brilliant! You recently did a video about Metallica appearing in Stranger Things, I love Metallica and it’s great that ST has exposed their brilliance to a wider audience, but I feel like the absolutely legendary Extreme whose song Play With Me also featured in the show, are such an underrated band and sadly doubt that the show gained them anywhere near the recognition that Metallica have received. Nuno also posted recently about it being the 30th anniversary of III Sides to Every Story. I’d love to see you do a video covering Extreme, it’d have to be the Pornograffitti album though if you do take me up on it 😉 fun fact - my band played earlier on the same bill as The Darkness at Festival Too in Kings Lynn a few years back, stuck around to watch you guys after, I’ve always been a fan so that wasn’t a tall order anyway, but was class to see you doing your thing!
Sooo many guys learned More Than Words to woo a girl. You know how Aerosmith had that run of similar songs, that Adam Sandler made fun of how fungible they were? I kinda feel Extreme had one of those runs, too. But even I could play More Than Words. Couldn't sing it worth a shit, tho...
Play With Me first time I heard that was Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure when I heard it on the recent Stranger Things 4 it made me happy, agreed would love to hear that take. It’s wild too as someone who has all the Kate Bush LPs (first pressings) it blew my mind when she went back on the charts with her Hounds of Love classic “..(A Deal With God)” so wild how the power of a popular show or social media rip like that can provide millions upon millions of new fans.
@@GizzyDillespee I had zero interest in More Than Words until I saw Extreme live on the Saudades De Rock tour. Seeing and hearing Cherone and Bettencourt doing their thing on that tune was a beautiful thing though. If Justin does make a video about Pornograffitti album though, as much as I do like MTW now, I’d rather hear his analysis of something like Get The Funk Out, Li’l Jack Horny, etc. I’ve seen some of the big boys like Metallica and Maiden bringing down the o2 and Wembley live, as well as some of the guitar virtuosos like Satriani and Vai, but nothing compares to my experience watching Extreme.
Have you ever had a song blow up in popularity that you didn't expect? Vice versa, have you ever had a song that you thought was going to be a hit but had a more mild reception that you were expecting?
Absolutely love the channel and "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" is my go to karaoke song!
Just started watching this channel a day or so ago and so glad I came across it (thank you oh wise and glorious algorithm) . Was a big fan of The Darkness when they first came out and was grateful to see you managed to rejoin the band and I look forward to catching up on your catalogue.
Justin here is a question for the next Q & A: for your upcoming solo album will you feel less genre-bound than you are with the Darkness? With your versatile voice and obvious appreciation of a wide range of musical styles, I wonder if you have a wheelhouse that you haven’t discovered yet.
@Jonontoast thanks for your productive contribution
th-cam.com/video/FOLthJnrdEY/w-d-xo.html Bit of JHawks legendarily great Darkness hiatus band Hot Leg.. for those who want something a bit different...
I do enjoy listening to what you have to say, but even more so I enjoy looking at your elastic face when you speak. It’s a pleasure!
Never a major fan but recently I have realised how many good memories come flooding back when hear the darkness tunes and its haunting lol....thanks for the emotional satnav Mr Hawkins
So Long is a beautiful song Justin. I have to say I love every track on Motorheart theres's not a bad one on there!! Eastbound feels special for me. My daughter and I always sing along when were driving east to visit family and friends out in the darkest depths of Lincolnshire! :D
You are truly amazing dude, I could sit and listen to you on here for hours, how about doing a Q & A and play your guitar and show us a few riffs n solos. Love watching you play x
I liked, subscribed, and hit the bell. My life is now complete. Now what?
You doing the broken interview sound recording had me spitting out my coffee with laughter 😂😂😂😂
I've often wondered about the "cosplay" question myself, but from the other perspective. I've found as a casual musician it's still possible for me to enjoy playing other people's songs that may speak to an experience I haven't lived, just because of empathy. I think if you genuinely feel the feeling you're trying to convey while making your art then people will pick up on it and feel the same way while engaging with it, even if they haven't lived the same experience. By that same token, I appreciate when people try to empathise with my life, even if they haven't lived it. As long as it's done in good faith and not just to pander to an audience (Kid Rock), then it's fine.
Exactly.
I just watched the end of the DJ Khalid video and this popped up straight away. Woohoo!!
See you soon in Canberra Australia!!!
I would like to see Justin Hawkins and Nick Cave interview each other, and then do some sort of musical improvisation together. It would be two enlightened and self aware, but deeply contrasting minds meeting each other. Yet I still think they have a lot in common. Contrasting struggles that they work through. Just putting a worm in your ear, boys.
I love So Long. The violin arrangement is great. Great choice of notes.
You're very generous Justin 😊 As someone who has also experienced mental illness over the years, your interview with JR felt incredibly voyeuristic,. Of course open conversations about mental health should be taking place but I just wish there wasn't such a seemingly fine line in the media between raising awareness and satisfying a mawkish curiosity about those in the public eye for 'our' entertainment/ consumption...
Big love to you, your channel is amazing and manages to keep me sane-ish 😂
I'm quiet new to your channel Justin, but whatever the subject you always cheer me up, the fact that you don't slag people off is quite refreshing.
JRoss and You was my favourite interview Lord of the Darkness 💜👑✨
Every middle-aged American knows the children's television presenter Mr Rogers from when they were a kid. I still need a Mr Rogers and you're him. Thank you
The stuffed chicken...a beloved departed pet, a muse? Your channel is refreshing and the most recent album is on heavy rotation. Cheers.
What i was wondering: does the chicken have a head?
A solo record of 12 "Holding my Own" style tracks would be wicked.
I"ve seen them all, but this really has to be the best "Comments Day" vid you've done.. Bravo.
Your videos inspire me to pick up the guitar and learn more. Thanks for the vids, keep up the awesome work 🤘
Justin your the man . Worda cant explain . cannot wait too see ya soon here from naptown Indiana.
Weird but we have tickets for the UK tour and the main reason for buying them was this channel. Love rock, but this channel experience gave us the in
Amazing! I hope you enjoy the show :)
Concerning interviews, the Darkness Rig Rundown was one of the most hilarious things I've ever seen.
Awesome .... you ..... Im in my 60's & you give m that 70's feel .... keep this fab menagerie going.
I love your humbleness
Just in time for more Justin Hawkins !
Again...
Lmao on the tape recorder story. Also a terrific impression of a broken cassette tape. Truly a good ear for sound.
Hi Justin, quiet subscriber here! Silent and creepy? Lol! So I am commenting now just to thank you cause I enjoy your videos oh and Melbourne! I have tickets. I cannot wait. Thank you ❤ \m/ Rock on
See you there!
Grado are fantastic headphones. Love the channel. Wonderfully executed.
You are also very obviously an incredibly professional Musician, please don't take my words wrong. Your knowledge of Music, your Natural understanding of different structures, etc, is as impressive as anything I've heard any other Musicians talk about. You are a brilliant Musician, I just don't personally choose to listen to The Darkness. It's a matter of taste. You either like something or you don't 🙂
Hi Justin, I first saw the Darkness at a Virgin Megastore gig in Glasgow and loved it. Some time later I was lucky enough to be one of the pipers that played with you at T in the Park the year the Darkness headlined. Amazing experience!
I'm late to this video, but wow, your Dalek impression is immense. Kudos!
Do you come to South Florida? I’d love to see you again, it’s been awhile, saw you in LA several times, but I need some Darkness…
I would love to hear a solo record from you, especially material that is outside The Darkness genre
I like to think of Hotleg's album as being Justin's solo work .. maybe that's rough on the other band members who likely contributed in places ... would love to have a new JH solo album 💖
The truth of what is said is sometimes more important than who is saying it.
I used to think so…not anymore.🤷🏻♀️
I agree with this as a general rule, but it’s definitely one with lots of exceptions.
Example - and I don’t think I am definitively right or wrong on this - I find it totally disingenuous for Oasis to continue talking about the plight of the working-class 4 or 5 albums down the line as they made it big at a very young age. They didn’t experience the working class life much at all.
However, I am happy for Sleaford Mods to continue to talk about the working class experience, as they lived that life until they were pushing 50. They’ve got years of real world experience to draw from.
I guess it’s really down to context and circumstance
I have 5 questions for you and I don't expect you to answer them all!
A friend said I need to learn about middle 8s and instructed me to listen to Brian Adams as he reckons he's really good at them and his songs (though not quite to his taste - he's more into Ultravox) are examples of really good song structure.
This friend defines a middle 8 as something that is usually musically different that typically comes right before the solo which basically provides some sort of lyrical "revelation" or makes you see the song in a new light.
I thought it would be good to ask you for your take on this.
1. How do you define a middle 8?
2. What are your favourite middle 8s in your songs?
3. What are your favourite middle 8s in other people's songs?
4. Who should someone wanting to write songs with good song structure listen to?
5. When did you learn song structure and who and/or what do you have to thank for it?
I love your audience Justin. What an eclectic bunch of intelligent, humorous, musically inspired, kind spirited humans. Your have a boomerang effect...cheers Melbourne Australia. 🙏🌏💙
I love them too!
ok in one of my many all night vid binges watched one of your vids .... moved on , came back watched another , watched a few more , over the days has watched a lot , has now subscribed , your either a very good actor or your a genuinely nice bloke . either way you are very entertaining , thanks
Just a new watcher but very much enjoying your insights.
Any plans to rock out across the pond? Come ON! Indianapolis, Chicago, St. Louis, Louisville, Columbus….I’ll happily drive to any of these locations!! ❤️🇬🇧✌🏼
Damn, that guitar sounds great ! Your playing has inspired me into learning your intro and I almost have it . Keep doing what you do .By the way I loved your talk with Luke Spiller .
I DIDN'T KNOW YOU HAD A TH-cam CHANNEL!! Apologies for CAPSLOCKING. I discovered The Darkness's music late, but was quick to rectify this fault. And quick to appreciate your work. Then the other day TH-cam's algorithm suggests this video, and I was pleasantly flabbergasted. Instasubscribed! Cheers! //Rick
One for another comments day: Recently started watching some of your videos, I love the openness and honesty. You smashed it when you played with Queen at the Taylor Hawkins tribute concert. Back in the early noughties The Darkness were compared by many to Queen and even touted as being the new Queen, a mantle later heavily lauded upon Mika as 'the new Freddie'. How did you feel about being compared to Queen at the time, and how do you feel about it now? It must've added a layer of being 'Under Pressure' back then? Please tell us how you feel/felt about the comparison and any pressure it adds to a performer.
Separately as a side-note, I saw you mention in a recent comments day vid about not always giving your all if attendance was low, something which you'd since rethought about. As an ex stage manager and community radio host (before I became disabled). It made me think of advice I always gave (still do) to performers I worked with. ALWAYS play like you are playing to a festival crowd even if there is only one person in the audience who paid to come in, because it only takes one person/one conversation to change your life and direction. Is that not the same sage advice even if you've once done sell out stadiums but in later times play smaller venues? An audience of one could still be the most life-changing audience you play to.
Keep up the honesty and openness buddy, it's great seeing you looking so well & healthy
I was never a fan of The Darkness so after listening to a few of your podcasts I gave them another listen. I still don't like The Darkness.
But...
I love this channel and your humour and your take on music, life and all the rest of it. Wonderful stuff!
Hi, Justin
I watch you everyday.
Thank you for being real.
All the best.
Justin, loving the channel. I have a question for you which might appear uncouth so apologies!
I had an amusing chat recently with a guy who managed the tax affairs for a certain successful West Midlands band from the 80s who were "clueless" about cash. How do you manage the Croesusesque sums of cash you get? Do you get a lump dropped in to your account or do you get pocket-money from an army of accountants? If Wiki is to be believed and you're in Switzerland which must be hellishly expensive. How do musos plan for retirement; new material, royalties, TH-cam stardom or does the rock & roll lifestyle mean people don't worry about it! I only ask as you seem comfortable answering any question and I'm certain I'm not the only one curious about it! #lifesbeengood!
Cheers Ed!
You are such a good sport Justin all my cool friends in real cool bands think so also you bridge the gap between cool friends in cool bands and me god bless you brother!!
Can't wait for the Brisbane concert - absolutely pumped!
On songs that choke you up ,Iove don’t give up Peter Gabriel and Kate bush it’s a song that sticks with me I tried to sing it on stage recently and stopped midway crying.My mum recently passed didn’t help but even listening to it gees.
Ahhh Justin! I absolutely love your channel !! you are such a tonic! So as you say you are touring again next year but why oh why oh why oh why oh why oh why are your only going as far north as Glasgow??? The Hydro is RUBBISH!!!! (its not, its very lovely indeed) We have a beautiful shiny new venue here in the Granite City, AKA Aberdeen and I would love to see y'all rocking out here!! Pencil us in for next time yeah?? Or add a cheeky extra date in your 2023 tour maybes????
love you Justin!! 😍🤩🤟😎
HEY J! I love ya ❤
Grado Labs has a killer set of cans for about $100. Great way to get started on an audiophile journey
That's a pretty lyric - you always make me want to paint better pictures with my words, to layer meanings. I think you're super talented.
Hey dude, I just recently found your pod cast. I saw you live last year on the Isle of man TT Big stage event...love this show
Thanks for answering my question Justin (and the producer for putting it forward). I appreciate your honesty and way with words. Ironically, Permission to land came out just after a bout of mental health issues I was having. Your songs were uplifting and catchy. Thanks again. You're a top bloke.
Love this channel. Love your message. Loved you with Wolfie, Dave and Josh.
Hi Justin, I was just whistling your theme tune and tried to place that melody line and it reminded me of the piano piece in the Hitchcock film, Rope - so I looked that up, and the composer is Francis Poulenc - MovementsPerpétuels (1918)”….again…” Spooky!
No questions, just we got married on the day you posted this video and our entrance music during the wedding breakfast was 'I believe in a thing called love'. all her idea, of course, but it was immensely well received. So thanks for making such a banger.
I definitely appreciate the deeper aspects of the darkness… many layers to the songs. Humor, grammatical acumen (I’ve learned how to speak “American “ a lot more gooder) and some serious lines expressing genuine heartbreak and triumph.
The fact that they still exist and make music is a real blessing in my life…
You mentioned that you like to write and produce music quickly, but have you ever had a song(s) that have taken years to work out? What is the longest amount of time it has taken to realise your vision for a song and why do you think it took longer than most? Love the channel.
In my best Jagger/mockney accent "ere what do you make of the latest ginger Wildheart project (ginger and the sinners) foot prints in the sand??" Ps love the channel and the positivity you bring to this world.
I for one would love a J Hawkins Solo effort. I'd really like to hear some acoustic-based gems from you.
A few weeks ago Justin did an episode on some singer/songwriter who died young (Bob something?). He sang a small bit of one of the songs and I went all gooey. Justin, throw in some of those songs on the solo album!
@@leilak978 Was it Jeff Buckley? Hallelujah, the classic Leonard Cohen song?
Just spent my saturday evening looking for that episode and boy was I wrong about basically all the facts!!
It was Secret heart by Ron Sexsmith.
And Justins version was still frickin' awesome!!