This duet is raw and sweet at the same time. The song tells a story of a couple that is so perfect together, in good and bad times these two are close and she's so supportive of him. That's what I imagine when I listen to Peter and Kate. So uplifting.
I think what makes this song avoid the the typical cheesiness of other duets is that the lyrics and emotions expressed are universal, primal, relatable. It’s not some smarmy love song, but you hear and feel the love they have for each other.
@@JustJP you have to put only one of the greatest female and male artist together and you will have one of the greatest song ever... sometimes it is really easy....^^
What I love about Kate's music in particular is even though a lot of it is written from a WOman's point of View, it's still completely relatable to mne as a man.
A great song. Gabriel's voice soars with sincere emotion of a man who is weary of life. I don't see Kate's voice as timid. For me it's a voice of love, concern and support for a person she loves. I can never listen to this without shedding tears of joy and sorrow. It's a song that acknowledges that life is often hard, but that you have to continue the next day if you can. It's a song about being brave. About being a mature adult!
This may be my favorite review from you yet. Great job. When you said you picture the girl holding the guy, you nailed it. The video for this song features Kate and Peter in an embrace for the entire song... one shot... no edits, as an eclipse occurs behind them... the upbeat ending accompanied by the sun. Pete and Kate emote so much passion in the notes they sing and with the vulnerability of their beautiful voices. Your description of Kate's voice was exact. It's that timid, vulnerable voice that adds an extra layer of effectiveness. That's why her original " This Woman's Work" is better than Maxwell's remake, but I digress. Back to Peter, all of his work goes the extra mile for creativity. This song is my #10 favorite Gabriel song. Nice work, Justin.
In the same way that this songs works perfectly, it is the same level of emotion that Peter Gabriel put in the song Biko from 6 years prior about the heroic life and tragic end of Steve Biko (from the movie by the same name). A strong part of that song is also made up by the bass forming the foundation of the song. When listening to the song I automatically get chills to such an extend that I can't watch the movie again, yet the song is in my favourites playlist.
The song was inspired by the Depression-era photographs of Dorothea Lange, showing poverty-stricken Americans in Dust Bowl conditions. Gabriel saw Lange's images in a 1973 book titled In This Proud Land. He felt that a song based on this was wholly appropriate to difficult economic conditions in England under Margaret Thatcher. He composed lyrics about a man whose unemployment causes stress in his domestic relationship. The verses, sung by Gabriel, describe the man's feelings of isolation, loneliness and despair; the choruses, sung by Bush, offer words of hope and encouragement. Gabriel originally wrote the song from a reference point of American roots music and he approached country singer Dolly Parton to sing it with him. However, Parton turned it down, so his friend Kate Bush took her place.
This song never fails to give me goosebumps, particularly the bridge section. I’m a massive Genesis/Gabriel fan and So is just about the best album of the 80s. Great choice.
He is such an incredible songwriter (as is Kate) and both of them are spectacular at maximizing the impact of video. Innovative and original separately and together in this song. Love it!
This song really helped me through my period of unemployment in 2017-2018. Kate Bush whisper-singing "Don't give up, we're proud of who you are" was exactly what I needed to hear at that time.
That “Rest your head...” part gets me every time. Kate’s shimmering voice of comfort, with Richard Tee’s gospel piano voicings, are so warm. And note that this is not the first Peter / Kate collaboration. Check out “No Self Control” from PG 3 / Melt. About 180 degrees from this, but it’s soooo goooood (bonus with one of Phil Collins’ greatest drum parts ever).
I'm catching up with all of your previous posts, and I came across this one. I hesitated to watch, because this song is so intensely personal to me. I loved the entire "So" album back when it was released in 1985, but this song always stuck in my mind. Peter Gabriel is such an emotional singer, and Kate Bush's voice defines vulnerability on this song. I was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 2009, and I'm not exaggerating when I say that during that shellshocked afternoon this song was drifting in & out of my mind. The lyrics and this music, and the interpretation of the voices, especially the lyrics, immediately became my mantra song. I have never given up, and I draw support and comfort, from this song. To this day I always get emotional when I listen to the song. Thank you for the reaction. I really do appreciate your love for all sorts of music, and not just reacting to the "hits". Peace.
A beautiful song that I’ve always loved. When PG was writing this, he had Dolly Parton in mind as a duet partner and approached her to record it. I think that Kate was the perfect choice and a nice throwback to her background vocals on PG’s Games Without Frontiers.
Elton John credits this song for saving his life at one point when he was feeling down. If you dig Kate Bush I highly recommend her double LP Aerial. Also another Artist you may want to give a listen to is Jane Siberry's Album 'When I was a Boy', especially her duet with KD Lang on the song 'Calling All Angels'.
They also dueted in a tv special from 1978 where they were a couple having difficulty relating and sorrowful of it. Gabriel and Bush had a wonderful professional relationship. They had a big respect for each other. In my opinion, Bush's and Gabriel in proggy world are most like each other. It's not a statement of that they are interchangeable, because they have very different subject matter. Gabriel used more African rhythms, whereas Bush used Irish and English folk rhythms. Both however are passionate about their subject matter, and both were concerned with core human issues, and enduring love, and mortality. As for Tony Levin, he has played with Gabriel since the mid 70s.
Loved your reaction to this song. Peter Gabriel wrote the song alone and invited Kate Bush to sing on the recording. The subject matter was way ahead of its time considering all the jobs that have been lost to recession, outsourcing and automation in the past 20 years. This is a timeless song. Beautiful and uplifting for anyone suffering from depression or hopelessness for any reason. I think this duet works better than most modern duets because of the melody, timing, chord progression, lack of harmony and the seriousness of the subject matter. It’s just very genuine, and is not contrived at all. The song is not meant to be a showcase for the singers’ vocal abilities although it does test and show them.
mhlevy Yes, I know, he wrote it about the Great Depression era, but since the 1980s, unemployment has skyrocketed a few times, and a lot of people’s lives were destroyed by the financial crisis of 2008, which we can all relate to. The book by John Steinbeck and film “The Grapes Of Wrath” depicted the starvation and despair of the Oklahoma Dust Bowl during the Great Depression. Horrible.
Great video!! It's great that you listened to this song, it's my favorite duet!! This song always bring me tears and it's so important for me 'cause i've listened a lot in a rough part of my life, and i think that this song is not cheesy by the simple fact that this isn't overwhelmed with a lot of instrumentation, unnecessary string parts, it's all so well composed and balanced. Loved your reaction and comments! :)
I always loved "Don't give up*. And you brought a new aspect for me to it. Kate's timid voice has much more real power than any loud and "strong" voice would have here. Her encouragement comes from deep inside her heart. And it touches you right there. Always brings me to tears.
I've listened to several different people who have reacted to songs, but now I realize I just need you. You analyze the song, you listen to the lyrics and you see the context. Thanks for a perfect analysis.
I would say that what makes this performance engaging (in a way that other celebrity duets fail to match) is that neither artist is attempting to promote themselves, but seem only devoted to serving the song, which gives a kind of integrity to the whole thing. You’re right when you say that this subject matter would be “cheesy” in the hands of other acts, and that Kate is willing to restrict herself to timidity, or a kind of tender encouragement of the other character in the story, and resist the temptation to grandstand in her contribution. Peter’s voice is, of course, great at expressing restrained anguish, and for evoking that aspect of the human condition which is a clash between the modern and the primitive. Overall, I like this song because it comes from someone who was being honest, clever and humble at the same time. That’s a really appealing combination.
This is such an emotional song. Every time I hear the lyric: Drove the night toward my home, The place that I was born, on the lakeside, As daylight broke, I saw the earth, The trees had burned down to the ground. I can't help but tear up.
I love the video. I’d recommend watching it. Kate Bush holds him through the whole song soothing him with her voice and her embrace. Standing on a hill in front of the sun with Peter and Kate rotating as they each sing their verse was a nice touch. He’s depressed and broken and she’s encouraging him. The eclipse behind them follows the song slowly covering the sun and then the sun fully shines again. It’s a song that has comforted a lot of people in dire situations judging by comments I’ve read. It has definitely done that for me.
This song deals with the troubles of the great depression. Peter singing the part of the man who can't find work to provide for his family. The part Kate is singing was originally intended to be sung by Dolly Parton which seems appropriate but when that wasn't going to happen fo reasons I can't remember Kate, who's a great friend of Gabriel was called in and gosh what a great move that was.
This duet works simply because they are both brilliant artists.. PG knows how to not only touch the heart but how to get to the core of a human being with his lyrics. His US album is full of great examples. .. And he is one to always challenge himself with creating interesting sounds, and rhythms. His concerts are an experience!
Sometimes you come across a song that doesn't need any breakdown or explanation. You just have to soak it up and feel it. Incredible. The two voices just work perfectly together.
Amazing... Before you even said one word about this song that is so familiar to me, I had 3 things in mind: 1- Gabriel’s powerful and emotional voice. 2- Bush’s airy and impactful vocals 3- Levin’s amazing bass line. You hit all of these and more in your insightful review! Thanks Justin!
This song captures something so complex it is like lightning in a bottle. For people who have lived life for a while, it conjures something intensely personal. The listener relates personally to either voice. For married people who might also have family, it hoists upon it even greater complexity. Again, with no words that captures it. Not everyone is where these two are, but life touches on experience that is relatable to something in the listener. ( Not sure about real psychopaths etc.) When a person reaches where Gabrial is in the song, the reality is a cascade of friends and family that eventually alienate themselves. She is a lone beacon at this moment. People find despair and the constellation of things that go with it, repulsive, and unattractive. You sense his isolation. They distance themselves. It infuses a preciousness to her voice. She hasn't given up. Her words are more than a pep talk. Perhaps you hear reliance! This translates to a purpose not to give up. She gifts him with value. The album SO was an awesome album in 86. Gabriel infused his art pop with brazilian and African beats and percussion. He wasn't alone. Paul Simon did it in Graceland that year and other artists like David Byrne had ventured in as well in albums from the early 80's like Remain in Light.
They're both very artistic in their approach, they also have very strong performance goals. You can see this in their video's, Kate with her modern dance and Peter with some amazing stagecraft from the Genesis days to the present day. I strongly recommend you watch the Secret World Live video, songs like In Your Eyes are life affirming, you'll know what I mean when you see it.
I would dispute timid really, tender may be the the word you were striving for, her vocal is full of tenderness, this very female, quiet strength, hard for a first reaction, but great analysis!
Agreed. Encouragement without empathy can sound trite, but with Bush's restraint and warmth, she "the still, small voice of calm" that can yet be heard in the midst of a storm.
as teens .... my friends and I were well into PG and after hearing her ... KB ... we all thought how similar they were in the fact that they told stories and musically were some similarities .... and we would have talks about how awesome it would be if they got together .... then this song came out and we were ecstatic .... this was before the internet ..... only to learn that they were friends already for years .... and Peter would be a guest on Kates Christmas specials on the BBC
It sounds corny but this song helped me through a very depressing time in my life. Just to feel connected to humanity in a certain way that seemed relevant was huge because i wasnt getting that in my life as much as i needed and this was a substitute that (with other music) helped to bridge that gap and allow me the opportunity for a proper emotional release despite the fact that i didnt have much in common with the story of the song, it was the heart and spirit of the song that i was connected to. The song takes its time and has a long end. Cant imagine listening to it for the first time in front of an audience.
@@JustJPhavent caught all the videos on genesis but if i could weigh in with some advice. The lamb lays down on broadway should probably be consumed as an entire album as the songs run into each other (if im not mistaken, been a while since ive listened) so you should perhapd consider just having a pad of paper and taking a few notes as you listen but not stopping the album to comment one by one then go back and add a reaction to each one in editing. Or provide 2 seperate reactions, an initial to the entire album and then each individual. I know its more work but some of these albums are more than the sum of thier parts and are intended to be listened to in one straight shot. Selling England by the pound is probably my favorite album over lamb lies down on broadway but theres some great stuff in lamb that you will enjoy.
Great reaction and analysis JP! You should check out the music video for this song - it is so warm and loving and complements the song nicely. I think this song feels really sincere, thus not cheesy at all.
god as a young man I had a huge thing for Kate Bush, she is a treasure for sure! Peter Gabriel needs no accolades,he's earned them all! Keep up the discovery,may I suggest an overlooked group from my era- Rennaisance. Another beautiful talented singer with a great group of classical,prog.,folkrockers.peace-ferretfret from connecticut. by the way they sound sincere because they are!
Thanks James! Haha, dont get me started with Renaissance; theres a video on the channel for them already, and I've since been listening to them a decent amount. They're really good!
When Peter Gabriel recorded this song he actually had Dolly Parton in mind for the female voice, but she couldn't be booked. And to be honest, I doubt Dolly could have done it justice, Kate knocked it out of the park.
@@mairedaly4548 Look up the "Classic albums" episode on "So" which is a making of special. Producer Daniel Lanois said that he thought that choosing Parton for that song was "Inspired"
No idea why I hadn't subscribed to you until now. But you have a deep appreciation of the minutiae AND the certainly more important "macro" aspect, of seeing the big picture of the total package. Making your reaction videos much better than most. Also love this song... she's an aerie faerie. :D I'm already a huge PG Genesis fan.
Well done JP, another awesome reaction video of my 2 favourite artist, saw Peter Gabriel perform this in Birmingham UK Kate Bush came on stage to perform this song with him it was amazing such great memories. It's a song that has helped me out a lot during some difficult times and no doubt will again in the future. I think you are one of if not the best reactors out there you put a lot of effort into the production and presentation of your videos and it shows, well done JP keep up the good work kid.
Thank you Pee, your words mean a lot and I super glad you enjoy the channel so far! I love hearing about how different songs mean so much to different people. Appreciate it PT!
The video is also quite remarkable. The performance here is gorgeous -- every element, as you say. The singing is wonderful, as is the writing. But dig deeper, and every performance: Tony Levin's basslines, the lovely hihats, the backing vocals. Tremendous.
I like everything about this song, the beautiful vocals, the melody, the softness of the voices and instruments. The way the music is playing to support the vocals gives you the sense of being stripped down, naked and vulnerable. Everything about this song just fits so well together. Good choice and great reaction. In regards to other duets, I guess "Endless Love" comes to mind with a couple of Motown's biggest stars (Lionel Richie and Diane Ross).
I hated "Endless Love" growing up because it was so popular and so darn good, but it became the love anthem for my wife and I just 12 years ago. It's a perfect song
I love Marvin Gaye and Tammy Terrell’s 1968 duet “You’re All I Need (To Get By).” If you don’t know it, check it out. Written by Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson, whose own recorded duet called “You’re All I Need” is upbeat and exciting.
@@justintime42000 Hi Cathy, yes I know the MG and TT duet song, very good tune, I love that era of soul singers. In regards to "Reunited", I've heard the song by "Peaches and Herb", is that the song you are referencing? P&H Reunited was the slow song to my grade 8 graduation. It has a huge sentimental value for me. It's like Terry Jacks "Season in the Sun" because my Dad used to sing it to us kids all the time. Make me feel all warm all over.
I hated that song when it was popular, but at my 8th grade graduation I danced to it with a girl (a real girl!). So it has a lot of nostalgic value for me now.
Beautiful song. As well as an amazing vocal performance from Peter, I love the contrast of the bluesy/gospel middle 8 and the outro. Video is very cute, I seem to remember, with Peter and Kate in an embrace all the way through.
Great song, great review! Spot on with your analysis. Musically speaking, this song is all about two beautiful, expressive voices which IMHO is why the music itself is so simple and takes a backseat. Completely intentional. Play this for Natasha, she'll love it. :-)
Inciddentally, if you want to check out other great male-female duets, I strongly recommend Richard and Linda Thompson. Most of the vocals are by Linda, with Richard writing and playing immaculate guitar, but also singing harmony and sometimes lead. I suggest Dimming of the Day and Night Comes In from the album Pour Down Like Silver, and Walking on a Wire and Shoot Out the Lights from the album Shoot Out the Lights. Lead vocals are Linda and Richard respectively for both pairs of songs from those albums. In my opinion, R&L Thompson were the best male-female duo (and certainly the best husband-wife duo) of the last 50 years.
HI Justin, Thank you for doing a video on this beautiful collaboration between Kate Bush & Peter Gabriel. I only recently discovered this was their second collaboration - the first one being Peter's song Games Without Frontiers [which works on so many levels] [well worth a listen]. Great video & wonderful channel. Keep spreading the word.
You're one of the best at recognizing important composition, production, and arrangement moments and remembering how they fit the structure of a piece after just one listen. So is a great work without a bad track and great production throughout.
Excellent analysis. The video for the song is the two embraced the whole video. You should check out the live performance from Secret World Live, along with "In Your Eyes." You'll love the African influence.
A track describing 70 n 80's UK depression with thousands losing their work n security . Dockyards and miners etc. So many men no one needs. Sublime honest from the heart stuff.
Wow, Justin. You have managed to give me the same emotion listening to your analysis as when I first heard this beautiful song back in '86. I recognised my own first reaction to the song. I saw myself back in my bedroom at home, playing the album and especially this song for the first time. Already aware Kate featured on this track, the anxiety was huge. Would she deliver and how? When this album was released I had read an interview with Kate about the recording session and how nervous she was about it at the time. Kate had become used to work alone in the studio when recording her singing for her albums. Now she had to deliver for someone else, although Peter was a friend of hers. And she was being observed while doing it.... I sat there with this in mind. And there she was. The warmth, the comforting tone, her wonderful message and her singing.... the chills! The same chills I experienced now. Wow. And Justin, I especially want to compliment you with the depth you are approaching in your reaction. Good work!
Hi Justin, as you mentioned David Gilmour discovering Kate Bush, here is an interview with him on the subject, that I just came across. th-cam.com/video/3-K3NPR4q5I/w-d-xo.html
Spot on... so glad you liked this. You need to do more ladies! If you like prog rock and Kate Bush, you gotta check out Happy Rhodes... maybe Building the Colossus would be a good track to start with.
Tony Levin plays bass for Gabriel. He's an excellent session player that toured with an incarnation of Yes, called Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman, Howe. He was in Liquid Tension Experiment, and you have to hear their cover of Rhapsody In Blue. Levin also played for King Crimson. You liked his bass on Starless.He and Pat Mastelotto, who was one of the drummers on Starless, have a band called Stick Men. You have to hear their live performance of Stravinsky's Firebird Suite played in Kiev.
I thought Kate and Peter's duet was unbeatable, until I heard the cover version by Feist and Timbre Timbre. Leslie Feist is simply lovely and along with Taylor Kirk its a magical cover. Well worth checking out.
It's not just Kate's voice; her phrasing is unique in the music world. The only other musician with such interesting phrasing is Laurie Anderson, who also collaborated with Peter Gabriel in the mid-80s. "Excellent Birds" has two versions, hers & his. You ought to explore other musicians' songs on which Gabriel sang backing vocals. A great example: "Fallen Angel" on Robbie Robertson's self-titled debut solo album.
peter and kate knew each other for years and yes, they always knew they would work together ….. Kate used to have Christmas specials on the BBC and Peter was always a guest
A song put together in hast, as a reaction to a rapid rise in suicides juring the 80s in the UK as unemployment was at an all time high. Two powerful voices, that are kept gentle and simplistic, to allow the message of hope to stand out, to maximum extent.
The song was inspired by the photographs of Dorothea Lange from the Depression-era of the 1930s. Showing poverty stricken Americans in Dust Bowl conditions. They were featured in a 1973 book called This Proud Land. His feelings were compounded by Margaret Thatcher’s Britain that saw her throwing a whole generation of men into unemployment. By closing down traditional industries that kept families fed
Nothing to add... Except that Peter Gabriel originally thought to sing the song with... Dolly Parton ! Unbelievable. I guess it was because the inspiration for the song was the US depression. Though Tony Levin is credited at the bass, I think I'm not wrong if I say that the main bass line was created by Larry Klein (Joni Mitchell's husband at the time). A masterpiece at every, every, every level. Musically perfect, well balanced, naked instrumentation, the right note at the right place. Huge work from Manu Katché at the charley. Anyway, the entire album is a jewel (except maybe the "This is the picture" track, which I think is a little "cheap" compare to the whole thing). Fortunately I've said in the first place there was nothing to add ! Oh... and of course, shame on me, I almost forget the unforgettable : a great review. I can't wait for the next Gabriel or Genesis first listening...
@@davidanania5618 You are perfectly right. I'm ashamed ... On several levels. Level 1 - I was convinced that I corrected my mistake a long time ago by posting a new message! I was SURE I did! I just checked: no trace! Level 2 - Of course! I don't know what took me at the time to make this confusion. Between Don't Give Up and Mercy Street. It can happen ... but still! Having said that ... there is something about Mercy Street, some slip textures on the strings that can make you think of Tony's subtle fingering. Doesn't it seem at times, when the bass is percussive, that it is Mr. Levin who uses his sticks very gently to strike on the strings? But yes. I knew it. I have seen the Classic Albums dedicated to So for a very long time. So I have to apologize to everyone. Now. And thank you for putting me back in my place! Really, I was sure I had posted something when I realized my mistake ...
Hi Justin. You are the best reactor since Kashiwazaki-Kariwa. Anyway, as I am (until I retire next year, yikes!) an English teacher, I want to suggest an alternative word to 'timid' regarding Kate's voice here. I think 'tender' or even 'compassionate' might be more suitable. Thanks for all you do for music.
The reason I think this duet doesn't come off as cheesy is because it is delivered with a sensitivity relating to mass unemployment that was rife in mid 80s UK, particularly with mining pits being closed. Usually duets end up being "I love you and you love me" types. This is about a wife offering support in a delicate, soothing way to her husband that feels impotent and unable to provide for his family. Initially Dolly Parton was asked to do the duet but she declined. The whole song is centered around Tony Levin's beautiful bass guitar arrangement, which not many popular songs are. I can only think of Wherever I Lay My Hat by Paul Yong that also does that.
In the music video they're holding each other for 6 minutes. I bet Peter enjoyed filming that clip :) Tony Levin has been working with Peter for decades. One of the best bass players in the world. Why does it sound so good? Because Peter and Kate are kindred spirits. They're both very creative and their music is very personal to them. It sounds good because you can tell it's real.
JP, Very good comments about the song. Kate sings also on Games without Frontier from PG (6 years before this song). He influenced her in the use of technology (Fairlight CMI synth.) that will appear on the album The Dreaming and eventually on Hounds of Love. i humbly suggest The Secret World from PG to pursue this trip!
Brilliant choice & brilliant review, Justin. Thanks. I admire Peter Gabriel's work and So is definitely one of his best albums - if not THE best. Although this song may be inspired by a particular historical situation - the so called depression era - the meaning or the story of this song is universally true in a capitalistic world where joblessness always and everywhere is a threat. In my perception back in the 80th when the song was written there was more corporate feeling (in terms of "You're not the only one" or "You still have us" in this song) than nowadays when joblessness is more percieved as an individual than a social problem. Another guest musician on this album was Laurie Anderson - a likewise remarkable artist and musician. Her 1982 debut album "Big Science" is really worth listening to, "O Superman" even became a chart hit those days.
I find it interesting that this works so well in a duet format, although they never harmonize and sing at the same time, which is a big part of duet singing.
I love this song, and you've made me appreciate it even more. Yes, it is sincere and meaningful. And for me, it's also very memorable as a song used in an epic scene from Miami Vice. It also gives new meaning to some of the lyrics (I've changed my name, I've changed my face). I recommend watching the video!
I'm in a bad place in my life, and it felt so good to hear Kate's voice. This song is so important for me, thanks for reviewing it ❤
Thank you for watching. I hope that things start to look up for you soon, truly.
This duet is raw and sweet at the same time. The song tells a story of a couple that is so perfect together, in good and bad times these two are close and she's so supportive of him. That's what I imagine when I listen to Peter and Kate. So uplifting.
So true Teresa! Ty for watching
I think what makes this song avoid the the typical cheesiness of other duets is that the lyrics and emotions expressed are universal, primal, relatable. It’s not some smarmy love song, but you hear and feel the love they have for each other.
Relatable is the perfect word for this.
There’s something so genuine in the way some of the verses don’t rhyme at all.
@@JustJP you have to put only one of the greatest female and male artist together and you will have one of the greatest song ever... sometimes it is really easy....^^
What I love about Kate's music in particular is even though a lot of it is written from a WOman's point of View, it's still completely relatable to mne as a man.
A great song. Gabriel's voice soars with sincere emotion of a man who is weary of life. I don't see Kate's voice as timid. For me it's a voice of love, concern and support for a person she loves. I can never listen to this without shedding tears of joy and sorrow. It's a song that acknowledges that life is often hard, but that you have to continue the next day if you can. It's a song about being brave. About being a mature adult!
Beautiful song. When Gabriel hits that high note and talks about jumping off the bridge I tear up a little.
Its a really good moment
This may be my favorite review from you yet. Great job. When you said you picture the girl holding the guy, you nailed it. The video for this song features Kate and Peter in an embrace for the entire song... one shot... no edits, as an eclipse occurs behind them... the upbeat ending accompanied by the sun. Pete and Kate emote so much passion in the notes they sing and with the vulnerability of their beautiful voices. Your description of Kate's voice was exact. It's that timid, vulnerable voice that adds an extra layer of effectiveness. That's why her original " This Woman's Work" is better than Maxwell's remake, but I digress. Back to Peter, all of his work goes the extra mile for creativity. This song is my #10 favorite Gabriel song. Nice work, Justin.
Man, thank you Rosen. Appreciate your words. I haven't watched the video yet, but it sounds perfect.
In the same way that this songs works perfectly, it is the same level of emotion that Peter Gabriel put in the song Biko from 6 years prior about the heroic life and tragic end of Steve Biko (from the movie by the same name). A strong part of that song is also made up by the bass forming the foundation of the song. When listening to the song I automatically get chills to such an extend that I can't watch the movie again, yet the song is in my favourites playlist.
@@JustJP Watch it...please. Then get back to us.
Loved the reaction.
The song was inspired by the Depression-era photographs of Dorothea Lange, showing poverty-stricken Americans in Dust Bowl conditions. Gabriel saw Lange's images in a 1973 book titled In This Proud Land. He felt that a song based on this was wholly appropriate to difficult economic conditions in England under Margaret Thatcher. He composed lyrics about a man whose unemployment causes stress in his domestic relationship. The verses, sung by Gabriel, describe the man's feelings of isolation, loneliness and despair; the choruses, sung by Bush, offer words of hope and encouragement.
Gabriel originally wrote the song from a reference point of American roots music and he approached country singer Dolly Parton to sing it with him. However, Parton turned it down, so his friend Kate Bush took her place.
Kate Bush's voice is like a gentle touch on your arm that calms you down when you are shaking with rage or fear.
This song never fails to give me goosebumps, particularly the bridge section. I’m a massive Genesis/Gabriel fan and So is just about the best album of the 80s. Great choice.
He is such an incredible songwriter (as is Kate) and both of them are spectacular at maximizing the impact of video. Innovative and original separately and together in this song. Love it!
Peter has an AMAZING and unique voice. Kate is just.. Otherworldly. Again, well done
This song really helped me through my period of unemployment in 2017-2018. Kate Bush whisper-singing "Don't give up, we're proud of who you are" was exactly what I needed to hear at that time.
Thats the kind of power and inspiration it has! Hope you're doing better now!
Love the dreamy bass and percussion, but those voices together are magic. More Kate please
Tony Levin on bass...the entire album is an absolute master class.
That “Rest your head...” part gets me every time. Kate’s shimmering voice of comfort, with Richard Tee’s gospel piano voicings, are so warm.
And note that this is not the first Peter / Kate collaboration. Check out “No Self Control” from PG 3 / Melt. About 180 degrees from this, but it’s soooo goooood (bonus with one of Phil Collins’ greatest drum parts ever).
She’s also backing vocals on Games Without Frontiers!
That's Richard Tee?
And apparently she sings backing on Games Without Frontiers
I'm catching up with all of your previous posts, and I came across this one. I hesitated to watch, because this song is so intensely personal to me. I loved the entire "So" album back when it was released in 1985, but this song always stuck in my mind. Peter Gabriel is such an emotional singer, and Kate Bush's voice defines vulnerability on this song. I was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 2009, and I'm not exaggerating when I say that during that shellshocked afternoon this song was drifting in & out of my mind. The lyrics and this music, and the interpretation of the voices, especially the lyrics, immediately became my mantra song. I have never given up, and I draw support and comfort, from this song. To this day I always get emotional when I listen to the song. Thank you for the reaction. I really do appreciate your love for all sorts of music, and not just reacting to the "hits". Peace.
Thank you so much for watching and sharing your connection with this song Scott. Hope you have a great weekend
A beautiful song that I’ve always loved. When PG was writing this, he had Dolly Parton in mind as a duet partner and approached her to record it. I think that Kate was the perfect choice and a nice throwback to her background vocals on PG’s Games Without Frontiers.
I saw that! I think it would've been an interesting take, but the Kates voice here is perfect.
One of the most powerful, emotional songs ever recorded. I can't listen with dry eyes.
Two of the best voices ever! “So” is The album of the eighties. Every song is wonderful. Good analysis JP.
Elton John credits this song for saving his life at one point when he was feeling down. If you dig Kate Bush I highly recommend her double LP Aerial. Also another Artist you may want to give a listen to is Jane Siberry's Album 'When I was a Boy', especially her duet with KD Lang on the song 'Calling All Angels'.
Yes! Another recommendation for Jane Siberry! I’ve been requesting “The White Tent The Raft” for some time now.
Jane Siberry seems so little known, but is so well worth the exploration.
@@NickBR57 - th-cam.com/video/ExQE2dqbxKg/w-d-xo.html&t
@@jimbricker4982 cheers Jim!
They also dueted in a tv special from 1978 where they were a couple having difficulty relating and sorrowful of it. Gabriel and Bush had a wonderful professional relationship. They had a big respect for each other. In my opinion, Bush's and Gabriel in proggy world are most like each other. It's not a statement of that they are interchangeable, because they have very different subject matter. Gabriel used more African rhythms, whereas Bush used Irish and English folk rhythms. Both however are passionate about their subject matter, and both were concerned with core human issues, and enduring love, and mortality.
As for Tony Levin, he has played with Gabriel since the mid 70s.
Loved your reaction to this song. Peter Gabriel wrote the song alone and invited Kate Bush to sing on the recording. The subject matter was way ahead of its time considering all the jobs that have been lost to recession, outsourcing and automation in the past 20 years. This is a timeless song. Beautiful and uplifting for anyone suffering from depression or hopelessness for any reason. I think this duet works better than most modern duets because of the melody, timing, chord progression, lack of harmony and the seriousness of the subject matter. It’s just very genuine, and is not contrived at all. The song is not meant to be a showcase for the singers’ vocal abilities although it does test and show them.
Thank you as always Cathy. It's definitely timeless in message and music.
JustJP I’m glad you agree! 😊
Actually, one of the influences that led to the song were from a book of depression era photographs he saw.
mhlevy Yes, I know, he wrote it about the Great Depression era, but since the 1980s, unemployment has skyrocketed a few times, and a lot of people’s lives were destroyed by the financial crisis of 2008, which we can all relate to. The book by John Steinbeck and film “The Grapes Of Wrath” depicted the starvation and despair of the Oklahoma Dust Bowl during the Great Depression. Horrible.
@@justintime42000 I thought this was mostly about the miners strike...
Great video!! It's great that you listened to this song, it's my favorite duet!!
This song always bring me tears and it's so important for me 'cause i've listened a lot in a rough part of my life, and i think that this song is not cheesy by the simple fact that this isn't overwhelmed with a lot of instrumentation, unnecessary string parts, it's all so well composed and balanced. Loved your reaction and comments! :)
Thanks Raf! I definitely agree that theres no unnecessary parts in the song, especially string-wise
This song has gotten me through some pretty rough times. It is one of my favorites. I think of it often. What more could you ask for?
Absolutely Patricia. Glad you enjoy it
I always loved "Don't give up*. And you brought a new aspect for me to it. Kate's timid voice has much more real power than any loud and "strong" voice would have here. Her encouragement comes from deep inside her heart. And it touches you right there. Always brings me to tears.
Ty!
I've listened to several different people who have reacted to songs, but now I realize I just need you. You analyze the song, you listen to the lyrics and you see the context. Thanks for a perfect analysis.
Spot on in the vid she does wrap her arms around him beautiful song
Great analysis of a superb song. There are times when we all need a Kate Bush to raise us up from the hole we sometimes find ourselves in.
Thanks lb!
I would say that what makes this performance engaging (in a way that other celebrity duets fail to match) is that neither artist is attempting to promote themselves, but seem only devoted to serving the song, which gives a kind of integrity to the whole thing.
You’re right when you say that this subject matter would be “cheesy” in the hands of other acts, and that Kate is willing to restrict herself to timidity, or a kind of tender encouragement of the other character in the story, and resist the temptation to grandstand in her contribution.
Peter’s voice is, of course, great at expressing restrained anguish, and for evoking that aspect of the human condition which is a clash between the modern and the primitive.
Overall, I like this song because it comes from someone who was being honest, clever and humble at the same time. That’s a really appealing combination.
Totally agreed with you Rob. They work for the song, not each other/outside influences. Which is why it comes across as natural and sincere
This is such an emotional song. Every time I hear the lyric:
Drove the night toward my home,
The place that I was born, on the lakeside,
As daylight broke, I saw the earth,
The trees had burned down to the ground.
I can't help but tear up.
I love the video. I’d recommend watching it. Kate Bush holds him through the whole song soothing him with her voice and her embrace. Standing on a hill in front of the sun with Peter and Kate rotating as they each sing their verse was a nice touch. He’s depressed and broken and she’s encouraging him. The eclipse behind them follows the song slowly covering the sun and then the sun fully shines again. It’s a song that has comforted a lot of people in dire situations judging by comments I’ve read. It has definitely done that for me.
Thanks Katherine!
Don't they just so compliment each other. Wow love this song.
Absolutely stunningly Linda! :)
This song deals with the troubles of the great depression. Peter singing the part of the man who can't find work to provide for his family. The part Kate is singing was originally intended to be sung by Dolly Parton which seems appropriate but when that wasn't going to happen fo reasons I can't remember Kate, who's a great friend of Gabriel was called in and gosh what a great move that was.
This duet works simply because they are both brilliant artists.. PG knows how to not only touch the heart but how to get to the core of a human being with his lyrics. His US album is full of great examples. .. And he is one to always challenge himself with creating interesting sounds, and rhythms. His concerts are an experience!
Very true Kevin!
Sometimes you come across a song that doesn't need any breakdown or explanation. You just have to soak it up and feel it. Incredible. The two voices just work perfectly together.
This song gives me goose bumps on my spine! ❤️👏
The video is so beautifully simple. The eclipse is brilliant.
the music video is the most beautiful 6&1/2 minutes of your life, when you're having a bad day it's like a life boat
I love Jeux sans Frontiere ,Peter Gabriel
The video for this song is also one of the best ever music videos.
This song never fails to make me sob. Two of my favourite voices.
Good analysis. Husband beaten down by hard luck. Feels he is a disappointment to his wife. Depression. No hope.
Powerful song.
Very powerful
Amazing... Before you even said one word about this song that is so familiar to me, I had 3 things in mind: 1- Gabriel’s powerful and emotional voice. 2- Bush’s airy and impactful vocals 3- Levin’s amazing bass line. You hit all of these and more in your insightful review! Thanks Justin!
Thank YOU
This song captures something so complex it is like lightning in a bottle. For people who have lived life for a while, it conjures something intensely personal. The listener relates personally to either voice.
For married people who might also have family, it hoists upon it even greater complexity. Again, with no words that captures it.
Not everyone is where these two are, but life touches on experience that is relatable to something in the listener. ( Not sure about real psychopaths etc.)
When a person reaches where Gabrial is in the song, the reality is a cascade of friends and family that eventually alienate themselves. She is a lone beacon at this moment. People find despair and the constellation of things that go with it, repulsive, and unattractive. You sense his isolation. They distance themselves. It infuses a preciousness to her voice. She hasn't given up. Her words are more than a pep talk. Perhaps you hear reliance! This translates to a purpose not to give up. She gifts him with value.
The album SO was an awesome album in 86. Gabriel infused his art pop with brazilian and African beats and percussion. He wasn't alone. Paul Simon did it in Graceland that year and other artists like David Byrne had ventured in as well in albums from the early 80's like Remain in Light.
They're both very artistic in their approach, they also have very strong performance goals. You can see this in their video's, Kate with her modern dance and Peter with some amazing stagecraft from the Genesis days to the present day. I strongly recommend you watch the Secret World Live video, songs like In Your Eyes are life affirming, you'll know what I mean when you see it.
I would dispute timid really, tender may be the the word you were striving for, her vocal is full of tenderness, this very female, quiet strength, hard for a first reaction, but great analysis!
Perfect word Drees, ty ty
Agreed. Encouragement without empathy can sound trite, but with Bush's restraint and warmth, she "the still, small voice of calm" that can yet be heard in the midst of a storm.
The video is so strong, simple in concept, beautiful.
as teens .... my friends and I were well into PG and after hearing her ... KB ... we all thought how similar they were in the fact that they told stories and musically were some similarities .... and we would have talks about how awesome it would be if they got together .... then this song came out and we were ecstatic .... this was before the internet ..... only to learn that they were friends already for years .... and Peter would be a guest on Kates Christmas specials on the BBC
It sounds corny but this song helped me through a very depressing time in my life. Just to feel connected to humanity in a certain way that seemed relevant was huge because i wasnt getting that in my life as much as i needed and this was a substitute that (with other music) helped to bridge that gap and allow me the opportunity for a proper emotional release despite the fact that i didnt have much in common with the story of the song, it was the heart and spirit of the song that i was connected to. The song takes its time and has a long end. Cant imagine listening to it for the first time in front of an audience.
Nothing cheesy at all about connecting emotionally with a song 🙃
@@JustJPhavent caught all the videos on genesis but if i could weigh in with some advice. The lamb lays down on broadway should probably be consumed as an entire album as the songs run into each other (if im not mistaken, been a while since ive listened) so you should perhapd consider just having a pad of paper and taking a few notes as you listen but not stopping the album to comment one by one then go back and add a reaction to each one in editing. Or provide 2 seperate reactions, an initial to the entire album and then each individual. I know its more work but some of these albums are more than the sum of thier parts and are intended to be listened to in one straight shot.
Selling England by the pound is probably my favorite album over lamb lies down on broadway but theres some great stuff in lamb that you will enjoy.
Great reaction and analysis JP! You should check out the music video for this song - it is so warm and loving and complements the song nicely. I think this song feels really sincere, thus not cheesy at all.
Two Legends in one Song great
god as a young man I had a huge thing for Kate Bush, she is a treasure for sure! Peter Gabriel needs no accolades,he's earned them all! Keep up the discovery,may I suggest an overlooked group from my era- Rennaisance. Another beautiful talented singer with a great group of classical,prog.,folkrockers.peace-ferretfret from connecticut. by the way they sound sincere because they are!
Thanks James! Haha, dont get me started with Renaissance; theres a video on the channel for them already, and I've since been listening to them a decent amount. They're really good!
"Angel of light, shining hope on Peter". Spot on!
Thanks Jasper! Appreciate you watching!
When Peter Gabriel recorded this song he actually had Dolly Parton in mind for the female voice, but she couldn't be booked.
And to be honest, I doubt Dolly could have done it justice, Kate knocked it out of the park.
I can hear Dolly in this song...but Kate is my favourite artist. Again, she had one of the best vocals I've heard.
Dolly Parton??? Wow, I didn't know that. Very interesting info, great first choice, and Kate was equally brilliant....
@@mairedaly4548 Look up the "Classic albums" episode on "So" which is a making of special. Producer Daniel Lanois said that he thought that choosing Parton for that song was "Inspired"
@@RastaSaiyaman Indeed. Up there with Nick Cave & Kylie, or Johnny Cash singing 'Hurt'.
No idea why I hadn't subscribed to you until now. But you have a deep appreciation of the minutiae AND the certainly more important "macro" aspect, of seeing the big picture of the total package. Making your reaction videos much better than most. Also love this song... she's an aerie faerie. :D
I'm already a huge PG Genesis fan.
Thank you Shiga 🙏 Sometimes you need a bit of context into what you're listening to (hence me doing "A Trick of the Tail" currenty :) )
Well done; you captured the essence of this performance.
Well done JP, another awesome reaction video of my 2 favourite artist, saw Peter Gabriel perform this in Birmingham UK Kate Bush came on stage to perform this song with him it was amazing such great memories. It's a song that has helped me out a lot during some difficult times and no doubt will again in the future. I think you are one of if not the best reactors out there you put a lot of effort into the production and presentation of your videos and it shows, well done JP keep up the good work kid.
Thank you Pee, your words mean a lot and I super glad you enjoy the channel so far! I love hearing about how different songs mean so much to different people. Appreciate it PT!
The video is also quite remarkable. The performance here is gorgeous -- every element, as you say. The singing is wonderful, as is the writing. But dig deeper, and every performance: Tony Levin's basslines, the lovely hihats, the backing vocals. Tremendous.
Beautiful song from Peter and Kate. For anyone who has been through hard times, this is inspiring. I wish I’d been listening to this a few years ago.
Its inspiring!
I love your reviews. They are informed, articulate, genuine and smart. Kudos to you.
Tybso much NJ!
I like everything about this song, the beautiful vocals, the melody, the softness of the voices and instruments. The way the music is playing to support the vocals gives you the sense of being stripped down, naked and vulnerable. Everything about this song just fits so well together. Good choice and great reaction. In regards to other duets, I guess "Endless Love" comes to mind with a couple of Motown's biggest stars (Lionel Richie and Diane Ross).
I hated "Endless Love" growing up because it was so popular and so darn good, but it became the love anthem for my wife and I just 12 years ago. It's a perfect song
@@rosenfield10 LOL, Yeah, EL is definately a chick song.
I love Marvin Gaye and Tammy Terrell’s 1968 duet “You’re All I Need (To Get By).” If you don’t know it, check it out. Written by Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson, whose own recorded duet called “You’re All I Need” is upbeat and exciting.
@@justintime42000 Hi Cathy, yes I know the MG and TT duet song, very good tune, I love that era of soul singers. In regards to "Reunited", I've heard the song by "Peaches and Herb", is that the song you are referencing? P&H Reunited was the slow song to my grade 8 graduation. It has a huge sentimental value for me. It's like Terry Jacks "Season in the Sun" because my Dad used to sing it to us kids all the time. Make me feel all warm all over.
I hated that song when it was popular, but at my 8th grade graduation I danced to it with a girl (a real girl!). So it has a lot of nostalgic value for me now.
Beautiful song. As well as an amazing vocal performance from Peter, I love the contrast of the bluesy/gospel middle 8 and the outro. Video is very cute, I seem to remember, with Peter and Kate in an embrace all the way through.
Great song, great review! Spot on with your analysis. Musically speaking, this song is all about two beautiful, expressive voices which IMHO is why the music itself is so simple and takes a backseat. Completely intentional. Play this for Natasha, she'll love it. :-)
Inciddentally, if you want to check out other great male-female duets, I strongly recommend Richard and Linda Thompson. Most of the vocals are by Linda, with Richard writing and playing immaculate guitar, but also singing harmony and sometimes lead. I suggest Dimming of the Day and Night Comes In from the album Pour Down Like Silver, and Walking on a Wire and Shoot Out the Lights from the album Shoot Out the Lights. Lead vocals are Linda and Richard respectively for both pairs of songs from those albums. In my opinion, R&L Thompson were the best male-female duo (and certainly the best husband-wife duo) of the last 50 years.
Thanks JP. I needed this one today.
Of course Jay. Hope you have a better day tomorrow
HI Justin,
Thank you for doing a video on this beautiful collaboration between Kate Bush & Peter Gabriel.
I only recently discovered this was their second collaboration - the first one being Peter's song Games Without Frontiers [which works on so many levels] [well worth a listen].
Great video & wonderful channel.
Keep spreading the word.
Ty Duckula! Yes, Games Without Frontiers is also a great one!
You're one of the best at recognizing important composition, production, and arrangement moments and remembering how they fit the structure of a piece after just one listen. So is a great work without a bad track and great production throughout.
Thanks Scott!
Kate's voice in this song is amazing. You did a nice job describing the song.
Oh, you should see the video.....perfection of simplicity
And the great Tony Levin's sweet bass rocks us off to slumber....
Kate Bush sings in such a soothing way on this song - it's lovely.
Excellent analysis. The video for the song is the two embraced the whole video. You should check out the live performance from Secret World Live, along with "In Your Eyes." You'll love the African influence.
A track describing 70 n 80's UK depression with thousands losing their work n security . Dockyards and miners etc. So many men no one needs. Sublime honest from the heart stuff.
also Kate sings back up on two Pete songs
Games without frontiers
and
no self control( also has Robert Fripp on guitar)
Wow, Justin. You have managed to give me the same emotion listening to your analysis as when I first heard this beautiful song back in '86. I recognised my own first reaction to the song. I saw myself back in my bedroom at home, playing the album and especially this song for the first time. Already aware Kate featured on this track, the anxiety was huge. Would she deliver and how? When this album was released I had read an interview with Kate about the recording session and how nervous she was about it at the time. Kate had become used to work alone in the studio when recording her singing for her albums. Now she had to deliver for someone else, although Peter was a friend of hers. And she was being observed while doing it....
I sat there with this in mind. And there she was. The warmth, the comforting tone, her wonderful message and her singing.... the chills! The same chills I experienced now. Wow.
And Justin, I especially want to compliment you with the depth you are approaching in your reaction. Good work!
Awesome! We felt the same way then :D Thank you JK :)
Hi Justin, as you mentioned David Gilmour discovering Kate Bush, here is an interview with him on the subject, that I just came across.
th-cam.com/video/3-K3NPR4q5I/w-d-xo.html
Spot on... so glad you liked this. You need to do more ladies! If you like prog rock and Kate Bush, you gotta check out Happy Rhodes... maybe Building the Colossus would be a good track to start with.
Thanks Michael!
Very good reaction and interpretation. This song is special.
Very special indeed :D Ty Alan
Have you Checked out Blood of Eden? Magical.
One of the few songs that always drives me to tears. I don't listen to it often because it just destroys me.
JustJP, I sense your wife would also enjoy this song. P.S. the video performance of this song is worth watching.
You're probably right!
Another duet you might wanna take a listen to is Phil Collins and Marilyn Martin in "Separate Lives".
Tony Levin plays bass for Gabriel. He's an excellent session player that toured with an incarnation of Yes, called Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman, Howe. He was in Liquid Tension Experiment, and you have to hear their cover of Rhapsody In Blue. Levin also played for King Crimson. You liked his bass on Starless.He and Pat Mastelotto, who was one of the drummers on Starless, have a band called Stick Men. You have to hear their live performance of Stravinsky's Firebird Suite played in Kiev.
I thought Kate and Peter's duet was unbeatable, until I heard the cover version by Feist and Timbre Timbre. Leslie Feist is simply lovely and along with Taylor Kirk its a magical cover. Well worth checking out.
Well, I had to check you review :) so here I am all teary eyed AGAIN listening to this AMAZING song. You nailed it :)
Aw, ty so much Jaina
It's not just Kate's voice; her phrasing is unique in the music world. The only other musician with such interesting phrasing is Laurie Anderson, who also collaborated with Peter Gabriel in the mid-80s. "Excellent Birds" has two versions, hers & his.
You ought to explore other musicians' songs on which Gabriel sang backing vocals. A great example: "Fallen Angel" on Robbie Robertson's self-titled debut solo album.
peter and kate knew each other for years and yes, they always knew they would work together ….. Kate used to have Christmas specials on the BBC and Peter was always a guest
A song put together in hast, as a reaction to a rapid rise in suicides juring the 80s in the UK as unemployment was at an all time high.
Two powerful voices, that are kept gentle and simplistic, to allow the message of hope to stand out, to maximum extent.
The song was inspired by the photographs of Dorothea Lange from the Depression-era of the 1930s. Showing poverty stricken Americans in Dust Bowl conditions. They were featured in a 1973 book called This Proud Land. His feelings were compounded by Margaret Thatcher’s Britain that saw her throwing a whole generation of men into unemployment. By closing down traditional industries that kept families fed
@@personalcheeses8073* Her feelings lol!
Nothing to add...
Except that Peter Gabriel originally thought to sing the song with... Dolly Parton ! Unbelievable. I guess it was because the inspiration for the song was the US depression.
Though Tony Levin is credited at the bass, I think I'm not wrong if I say that the main bass line was created by Larry Klein (Joni Mitchell's husband at the time).
A masterpiece at every, every, every level. Musically perfect, well balanced, naked instrumentation, the right note at the right place. Huge work from Manu Katché at the charley. Anyway, the entire album is a jewel (except maybe the "This is the picture" track, which I think is a little "cheap" compare to the whole thing).
Fortunately I've said in the first place there was nothing to add !
Oh... and of course, shame on me, I almost forget the unforgettable : a great review. I can't wait for the next Gabriel or Genesis first listening...
So you DID have something to add! I appreciate it🙃
arielquarante Happy accident that he sang it with Kate then
I believe Larry is on “Mercy Street”, but I’m pretty sure this is all Tony. Both bass parts are INCREDIBLE.
@@davidanania5618 You are perfectly right. I'm ashamed ... On several levels.
Level 1 - I was convinced that I corrected my mistake a long time ago by posting a new message! I was SURE I did! I just checked: no trace!
Level 2 - Of course! I don't know what took me at the time to make this confusion. Between Don't Give Up and Mercy Street. It can happen ... but still! Having said that ... there is something about Mercy Street, some slip textures on the strings that can make you think of Tony's subtle fingering. Doesn't it seem at times, when the bass is percussive, that it is Mr. Levin who uses his sticks very gently to strike on the strings?
But yes. I knew it. I have seen the Classic Albums dedicated to So for a very long time.
So I have to apologize to everyone. Now. And thank you for putting me back in my place! Really, I was sure I had posted something when I realized my mistake ...
Hi Justin. You are the best reactor since Kashiwazaki-Kariwa. Anyway, as I am (until I retire next year, yikes!) an English teacher, I want to suggest an alternative word to 'timid' regarding Kate's voice here. I think 'tender' or even 'compassionate' might be more suitable. Thanks for all you do for music.
The reason I think this duet doesn't come off as cheesy is because it is delivered with a sensitivity relating to mass unemployment that was rife in mid 80s UK, particularly with mining pits being closed. Usually duets end up being "I love you and you love me" types. This is about a wife offering support in a delicate, soothing way to her husband that feels impotent and unable to provide for his family.
Initially Dolly Parton was asked to do the duet but she declined.
The whole song is centered around Tony Levin's beautiful bass guitar arrangement, which not many popular songs are. I can only think of Wherever I Lay My Hat by Paul Yong that also does that.
Agreed. The subject matter definitely lends itself to being taken more seriously.
Kate Bush is amazing and Peter is excellent 👌
In the music video they're holding each other for 6 minutes. I bet Peter enjoyed filming that clip :)
Tony Levin has been working with Peter for decades. One of the best bass players in the world.
Why does it sound so good? Because Peter and Kate are kindred spirits. They're both very creative and their music is very personal to them. It sounds good because you can tell it's real.
JP, Very good comments about the song. Kate sings also on Games without Frontier from PG (6 years before this song). He influenced her in the use of technology (Fairlight CMI synth.) that will appear on the album The Dreaming and eventually on Hounds of Love. i humbly suggest The Secret World from PG to pursue this trip!
You're the first reactor to not do the video. I tend to not like most videos but this one is very good. One take.
So I've heard, I'll watch it later!
Brilliant choice & brilliant review, Justin. Thanks. I admire Peter Gabriel's work and So is definitely one of his best albums - if not THE best. Although this song may be inspired by a particular historical situation - the so called depression era - the meaning or the story of this song is universally true in a capitalistic world where joblessness always and everywhere is a threat. In my perception back in the 80th when the song was written there was more corporate feeling (in terms of "You're not the only one" or "You still have us" in this song) than nowadays when joblessness is more percieved as an individual than a social problem.
Another guest musician on this album was Laurie Anderson - a likewise remarkable artist and musician. Her 1982 debut album "Big Science" is really worth listening to, "O Superman" even became a chart hit those days.
Thanks Andre! I agree about the message; it's still very meaningful to this day.
Thank you! You understand the Kate Bush's part as I understand it.
Thank you Susanne :)
I find it interesting that this works so well in a duet format, although they never harmonize and sing at the same time, which is a big part of duet singing.
John Claeys Exactly! It’s totally atypical of most duets because there’s no harmony or unison singing.
Ooo didn't even notice that. So interesting!
The word you need for Kate's voice is: ethereal.
I love this song, and you've made me appreciate it even more. Yes, it is sincere and meaningful. And for me, it's also very memorable as a song used in an epic scene from Miami Vice. It also gives new meaning to some of the lyrics (I've changed my name, I've changed my face). I recommend watching the video!
You have to listen to The Spirit of Man ( War of the Worlds) by Jeff Wayne . The duet between Phil Lynott and Julie Covington is fantastic
Gr8 review JP. Very well articulated!
Ty!