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 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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
The song may have been inspired by Depression era pictures but the reason that it was inspiring to Gabriel at that time was it's resonance with contemporary Britain in the 80s and the mass unemployment that followed in the wake of the then Thatcher's Government policies. The song was very much for the unemployed in the 80s, a message of hope for them.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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!
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.
Interesting thing about this song is the way no matter who is handling the duet, the lyrics are still impactful. I know back in the late 90s there was a version featuring Maire Brennan (sister of Enya) and Michael McDonald where the lyrics were not even changed one iota and the haunted singers were perfect in their duet.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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
I like this song. Don't get me wrong, but I prefer the version from Secret World Live. That one has Paula Cole instead of Kate Bush. Peter discovered Paula and brought her on that tour. After the tour, she made her debut solo album that featured the song, "Where Have All the Cowboys Gone". I think that song made the Billboard Top 40.
I first heard this song when I was about 10 years old, my brother's tape. I badgered him until he made a copy and I loved the album, but mostly this song. It really helped me throughout my teens. Didn't stop me from trying to step off an 8 storey building when I was 20, no, instead my right hand grabbed hold of the rail and would not let go. I remember the fury I felt for my hand, acting against my own mind, I remember pounding on my hand with my left hand, trying to make it let go, prying at my fingers to make them release their grip, wrenching my entire arm to try to rip my hand loose, because I couldn't command it to release, it wouldn't obey my mind. And then, when I finally managed to hurt so much that it just couldn't hold on any more, my left hand latched on. It was then that I realise that I COULD NOT, and still can NOT, kill myself, no matter how much I needed to die. Such is life. But this song, it always touches me, helps me, even when it rips my metaphorical heart out and drenches my face with tears. I love your reactions man, you just listen to the music, no interruptions, just the sheer beauty of the song. Only after, and before, do you talk about it. I really appreciate it man. (It was a VERY long time ago, so don't worry.)
That was an intense story Nevyn; thank you for sharing it. I've been in a position somewhat similar once myself. Appreciate you watching and enjoying the videos, its keeps me going. Glad you're doing better now :)
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.
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.
Superb isn't it. I have been through 30 months of hell (ignoring Covid) including 17 months unemployed with no income from anywhere (no Government support for me as a contract worker). With savings gone and having to sell my house, my ex-wife sent me a youtube link to this (which I have on the album of course). She was giving me the message that she is there to turn to.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Listem “Blood of Heaven” from the album US where Peter Gabriel sings with Sinead O’Connor. I think it’s an amazing evolution of this song. And BTW you should review US 😉
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 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.
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.
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.
The “bass” that you enjoy is called a Chapman Stick, played by Tony Levin (also of King Crimson). He is a true pioneer of bringing this awesome instrument to the mainstream. Check out any video; he’s the tall bald dude. Another Gabriel angle is that he always portrays women in his songs as being strong and confident. Him? Not so much.
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).
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 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.
The video is so beautifully simple. The eclipse is brilliant.
Have you Checked out Blood of Eden? Magical.
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.
Two Legends in one Song great
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
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!
I love your reviews. They are informed, articulate, genuine and smart. Kudos to you.
Tybso much NJ!
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.
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!
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
The video for this song is also one of the best ever music videos.
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
I love Jeux sans Frontiere ,Peter Gabriel
Well done; you captured the essence of this performance.
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!
Oh, you should see the video.....perfection of simplicity
Kate Bush is amazing and Peter is excellent 👌
The song may have been inspired by Depression era pictures but the reason that it was inspiring to Gabriel at that time was it's resonance with contemporary Britain in the 80s and the mass unemployment that followed in the wake of the then Thatcher's Government policies. The song was very much for the unemployed in the 80s, a message of hope for them.
Gr8 review JP. Very well articulated!
Ty!
Would seriously recommend checking out Kate's music. Her voice is the smile you need.
We're going through Hounds of Live on the channel 😃
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.
Very good reaction and interpretation. This song is special.
Very special indeed :D Ty Alan
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!
Don't they just so compliment each other. Wow love this song.
Absolutely stunningly Linda! :)
because peter is a genious
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!
You are a lovely man. Thank you.
Appreciate that John!
@@JustJP I love you Kate support.
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.
they pull it off
because they can both sing from the heart
with feeling
not just singing
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.
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!
Kate Bush's voice is like a gentle touch on your arm that calms you down when you are shaking with rage or fear.
God gave them this trust it ! Don't give up xxx
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.
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.
Best album by far for anyone in the early Genesis lineup, solo or band, post Gabriel leaving Genesis. Pretty much every song on this album is great.
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!
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.
Interesting thing about this song is the way no matter who is handling the duet, the lyrics are still impactful. I know back in the late 90s there was a version featuring Maire Brennan (sister of Enya) and Michael McDonald where the lyrics were not even changed one iota and the haunted singers were perfect in their duet.
Really? Sounds interesting
Interesting also that the woman sings the lead (her perspective) and the male offers the comforting part of the chorus.
Why is this not cheesy? It’s 2 artists who flat out love and respect each other. And who both happen to be geniuses.
Another duet you might wanna take a listen to is Phil Collins and Marilyn Martin in "Separate Lives".
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 :) )
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.
also Kate sings back up on two Pete songs
Games without frontiers
and
no self control( also has Robert Fripp on guitar)
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!
Good analysis. Husband beaten down by hard luck. Feels he is a disappointment to his wife. Depression. No hope.
Powerful song.
Very powerful
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!
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.
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 never fails to make me sob. Two of my favourite voices.
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
I like this song. Don't get me wrong, but I prefer the version from Secret World Live. That one has Paula Cole instead of Kate Bush. Peter discovered Paula and brought her on that tour. After the tour, she made her debut solo album that featured the song, "Where Have All the Cowboys Gone". I think that song made the Billboard Top 40.
I first heard this song when I was about 10 years old, my brother's tape. I badgered him until he made a copy and I loved the album, but mostly this song. It really helped me throughout my teens. Didn't stop me from trying to step off an 8 storey building when I was 20, no, instead my right hand grabbed hold of the rail and would not let go. I remember the fury I felt for my hand, acting against my own mind, I remember pounding on my hand with my left hand, trying to make it let go, prying at my fingers to make them release their grip, wrenching my entire arm to try to rip my hand loose, because I couldn't command it to release, it wouldn't obey my mind. And then, when I finally managed to hurt so much that it just couldn't hold on any more, my left hand latched on. It was then that I realise that I COULD NOT, and still can NOT, kill myself, no matter how much I needed to die. Such is life. But this song, it always touches me, helps me, even when it rips my metaphorical heart out and drenches my face with tears. I love your reactions man, you just listen to the music, no interruptions, just the sheer beauty of the song. Only after, and before, do you talk about it. I really appreciate it man. (It was a VERY long time ago, so don't worry.)
That was an intense story Nevyn; thank you for sharing it. I've been in a position somewhat similar once myself. Appreciate you watching and enjoying the videos, its keeps me going. Glad you're doing better now :)
Now that is a reply!!! Glad you are still with us.
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
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
Anyone else watching this during lockdown. For those thinking of economic tough times ahead, don't give up 🙏
Hope you're doing well also!
Thank you! You understand the Kate Bush's part as I understand it.
Thank you Susanne :)
B.t.w. ... brilliant bassplaying by Tony Levin (King Crimson)
Thanks JP. I needed this one today.
Of course Jay. Hope you have a better day tomorrow
Couple suggestions for future listens:
King Crimson, 21st Century Schizoid Man
Tom Waits, The Piano's Been Drinking
Hapa, Ku'u Lei Awapuhi
Kate's voice in this song is amazing. You did a nice job describing the song.
One of the most powerful, emotional songs ever recorded. I can't listen with dry eyes.
This one is a really good song, and i like Peter Gabriel anyways, so yeah, its a win win absolutely!..
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
The word you need for Kate's voice is: ethereal.
Kate Bush sings in such a soothing way on this song - it's lovely.
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
Don't give up.
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...
And the great Tony Levin's sweet bass rocks us off to slumber....
Timeless classic.
Superb isn't it. I have been through 30 months of hell (ignoring Covid) including 17 months unemployed with no income from anywhere (no Government support for me as a contract worker). With savings gone and having to sell my house, my ex-wife sent me a youtube link to this (which I have on the album of course). She was giving me the message that she is there to turn to.
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.
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!
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.
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 whole album is very worthwhile.
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!
"Angel of light, shining hope on Peter". Spot on!
Thanks Jasper! Appreciate you watching!
I love your reactions and analogies 👌🏻
Thank you :)
Spot on in the vid she does wrap her arms around him beautiful song
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.
I really enjoy you’re little pre start weirdness.
Haha ty!
Listem “Blood of Heaven” from the album US where Peter Gabriel sings with Sinead O’Connor. I think it’s an amazing evolution of this song.
And BTW you should review US 😉
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
I have this song in my night head jukebox these days, maybe this will fix it?
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.
Peter has an AMAZING and unique voice. Kate is just.. Otherworldly. Again, well done
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.
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'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.
The “bass” that you enjoy is called a Chapman Stick, played by Tony Levin (also of King Crimson). He is a true pioneer of bringing this awesome instrument to the mainstream. Check out any video; he’s the tall bald dude. Another Gabriel angle is that he always portrays women in his songs as being strong and confident. Him? Not so much.
Thanks Mike! Yes I've seen videos of him now, love love love his style
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 think 'timid' is not the best word. Perhaps 'calm' would be a better contrast to Peter's angst she is soothing him
Notably, they don't harmonise. Which is unusual for a duet and contributes to reducing the cheezy.
The vidéo is also brillant. Must see.
Please do a video reaction to Peter Gabriel's Sledgehammer. The video and song are amazing!