Yes I am so lucky to still have both parents, mum 90 dad 92 Dad is amazing he does all the shopping cooking running the house, he has just relinquished letting my sis who lives there do his lawn, he is too independent ❤
Some Dad's are basically good people, but push their kids tooo Hard and NEVER let up or compliments or cry in the attempt to appear strong and tough. Some dad's need to learn patience as their children gow up. Being to Strict is NOT good and Represses young people
My dad died in 2006 and my sister rang me to give me the news. i dropped everything, jumped into the car to make the 100mile journey to support my mother. Just 10 minutes into the journey this came on the radio. I was in floods of tears driving, even though i had had a brilliant and loving relationship with my father. Every time I hear this I am back in my car in 2006!
I’m 63 years old and my Father passed away 24 years ago. Every time I hear this song or watch a reaction video I want to call my Dad. So everyone take time and call a love one because one day they aren’t going to be here. Do it before it’s to late.
You don't understand what your parents went through until you become a parent.Then to tell them you get it now is the greatest gift to give them.Do it in the Living years while you have time.
"i wasn't there that morning when my father passed away" is the one line that gets me because i never got to say goodbye, that was two years ago and i am teary eyed as i write this
The same for me. I got to my mother's house 10 mins too late😢 I miss my father more now than ever. I'm in my 70s now and this song resonates so strongly.
As a boy, this really hit home that my parents wouldn't be there forever. As a man, I WAS there when my father passed away (2021). This always makes me think of him.
I can barely watch through my tears. My dad and I butted heads while he was a career US Navy fighter pilot, but when he retired, and was more available, I began to admire him more and more. I am grateful that he became my hero and I got to tell him before he died in 2009. Now, I have a great relationship with my son (who was also born in 1987), and he has so much of my dad in him that it makes me proud.
This song was released in 1988 the day before my father died of cancer in hospital after 10 years fighting what they had told him would take him in 4/5 years, I was 16. I've never been able to listen to it without crying buckets.😥😥
I never resented my Dad. He showed me the way and the whys. He's gone now, I miss him everyday and his down to earth wisdom. This song brings a tear every time I hear it!
"Mike" is Mike Rutherford, who played guitar in Genesis. He is the guy with the beard. The singer is actually Paul Carrack. His voice is wonderful and he has done loads of great songs, without ever getting the solo recognition he deserves.
Paul Carrack has had hits with the bands Ace, Squeeze, and of course, Mike & The Mechanics. He has also hit the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart as a solo artists. As a songwriter, his songs have been covered by artists such as Linda Ronstadt and the Eagles.
I agree, I saw Paul Carrack last night at Leicester DeMontford Hall. He, and his band, was outstanding. Amazing musicianship! I agree, he never received the recognition he deserved. He's superb!
This was played at my sons funeral after he died on his 39 birthday. 9 years of hard grief. He also loved Baggy Trousers by Madnes. God Bless you my son. Not be long to go to see you again. xxx
Man this song. 😢 I lost my dad when I was 21, I am now 51 and this still brings a tear or two to my eyes. I was there the morning my dad passed away, and yet still did not have time to say all the things I wanted to say. So… do not wait, live and love in your life, because you may not have the chance.
Thank you, for noticing & appreciating that line, “You can listen as well as you hear”. So many people seem to not notice that, to me it’s integral to the whole meaning of the song.
What a beautiful, intelligent couple. Incredible wisdom. May you both live long, healthy, happy lives together with your children, and may you all prosper.
Just lost my Mum to cancer two days ago...., this song hit's sooo much harder now.... 😢 Still trying not to think, so i doesn't hurt..., but failing misally...
Dear friend, I'm so sorry. My Mum left us last 3rd of July after four very difficult years. I do believe our Mothers are in Peace now. Do not be afraid of thinking and speaking about your Mum, as we must accept what can not be undone. I wish my Father didn't left so soon. There are so many things I never told him. But I trust they are together now. Share with all those you trust, it is still too early, try to live a day at a time. God bless you.
I was adopted by my grandparents, I never met my father and was abandoned by my mother. In 1985 I was serving in the army in Germany, I was called to the regimental HQ and handed a telegram. Before digital comms existed telegrams were too expensive for most people so were always treated seriously. My father/grandfather had died earlier that day. I was given compassionate leave within 5 minutes and later that day I was driving home from Germany to the UK to go to his funeral. There was a radio station in Germany for the British Forces call BFBS, British Forces Broadcasting Service. They played this song, it had just been released and it was the first time I'd ever heard it. I was driving foot to the floor to get home as quickly as I could, but I had to pull over because listening to the words made me cry my eyes out. My father/grandfather served in the military during WW2, I don't think he could have been prouder of me than when I left home at 16 to join the army. Whenever I had leave I spent some time at home and we talked for hours about things that had been important to him. We didn't see eye to eye on everything, but I've come to realize over the almost 40 years since he died, how much I value the things he believed were important: integrity, truth, honour, doing the right thing, for no other reason than it is the right thing to do. I immigrated 6 years ago and live a life I couldn't have imagined living 10 years ago, he would have amazed at how I live today. I still miss him and still sometimes find myself wishing he was still alive so I could talk to him about things. It took 25 years before I could hear this song without thinking of my father/grandfather, remembering my drive to the UK and not cry. Even now listening to this, I have a lump in my throat and my wife is wondering what's wrong with me. Some songs say something that we all know is a truth we can't deny this I think is perhaps the best example of that.
Wow what a lovely story. My dad died back in 2001 at the age of 93. He was a holocaust survivor from wartime Warsaw, Poland although soon after the war broke out, he made it across to the UK, got his British citizenship and joined our army. Sadly, we were never a 'touchy feely' kind of family and hardly ever spoke about things deeply personal, even though us kids always felt the love of our parents, but when passed away, there were so many things I just wish I'd said to him and it still cuts deep to this very day, even though I'm now 72 years old and am a father, a grandfather and soon to be a great grandfather. God bless you dad. I still miss you. 💔 🙋♂
Thank you all for sharing your stories and opening up conversations with one another. We may not know each other in real life, but it makes us feel more connected. We enjoy reading and connecting with everyone. Much Love friends💜💚
My mum bought me this single not long after it came out. It has stuck with me for 30 years. I got to tell my dad I loved him on many occasions because of this song & because of mums foresight. He died in 2015 with dementia, I was lucky enough to tell him one last time during a lucid episode. Oof. I'm gonna ring my mum now. Love to you all.
I was blessed to be my dad's caregiver for the last 5 years of his life. It is hard to watch an active parent become inactive Today weve lost a lot of family spending time with each other Work will be there always but people wont
It's such a brilliant and powerful song, it always hits you no matter how many times you hear it. This is one of those great songs where a backing choir is really the icing on the cake.
I was 25 years old when this first came out , thought oooh quite good , then bang 2 years later my old man passed suddenly at 49 ! It seemed to be played everywhere i went, always chokes me up . By the way I'm 61 now and believe me them years have flown by in the blink of an eye! So everyone don't wait, tell them you love them xxx
Mike, I watched you and can honestly say that I knew the emotional rollercoaster you went through. My Dad passed away in the late 90's and I didn't get to say the things I wanted to, due to his Alzheimer's condition. I'm now 71 and I speak to my daughter almost every day and we have a great bond. Hope your memories of your Dad are great. THANKS guys.
Been playing this a lot recently. My dad passed away a couple of months ago. As he was passing I couldn’t get all the words out that I wanted to say to him but I know he knew what I was trying to say.
This is one of the finest songs every made. My oldest Son is about to become a father and he will soon be the "older" generation. This song is important!
The part that really hits me hard is, "I wasn't there that morning, when my Father passed away. Didn't get to tell him, all things I had to say." In 1963 (a month before my 13th birthday) my dad was out of town to help one of his brothers and died of a heart attack. I'm 74 now an not ashamed to admit that this song still gets me teary eyed.
I think the role of the older "choir" is a reminder that parents were once children themselves and that they need to listen and hear to their own children as only they can benefit from hindsight. Children do not have the benefit of hindsight by definition and could only understand until it's too late. The message goes both ways. Parents need to say what they need to tell their children before it's too late for them.
I am 74 years old, part of the '60s generation. I was a hippie, a flower child...lol. My dad was a WWII vet. There was quite a bit we did not agree upon, and though I still loved him with all my heart, we did not see eye to eye on a lot of stuff. He passed away from Colon Cancer in 1984 and that was probably the first time in my life that I truly cried my heart out. This song was released in December of 1988 and listening to it for the first time I remember, tore my heart out. Now, 36 years later, and probably close to a thousand times listening to it over the years, I still cry like a baby, every single time I hear it. Powerful song.
guitarman.......How small this world is.I too am 74 & my father died if cancer in 1984. I hear this song & fall apart every time. I have been seen numerous times just sitting in the car weeping uncontrollably when it has played on the radio. Treasure your memories.
The best line ever written regarding the sentiment is ' Im sure I heard the echos in my new born babies tears' is stunning. I'm 64 and have been a Genesis fan for most of my life and have seen Mike & the Mechanics perform a few times over the last 25 years - always phenomenal.
Have you ever heard of the English band 'Genesis'? Mike [Rutherford] was the original bass player, and as the band progressed became the guitar player in the studio. While on the road, they still employed a specialist lead guitar player. Apart from the band itself, other Genesis alumni you may have heard of are Peter Gabriel, and Phil Collins. Steve Hackett & Tony Banks are probably just too far out of your zone. The band have retired now [ basically age ], but Mike and Tony Banks were there from beginning to end. Venturing too far into the world of Genesis takes you into that dark territory called 'Progressive rock' - long, complicated songs & instrumentals, in weird time signatures, with exotic and deep lyrics, strange instruments, but also played by competent musicians, without 'autotune'. Paul Carrack is just a great vocalist.
I'm 61 and this song came out seven years after my father passed away! The song hit home instantly the first time I heard it and it still brings me to tears now.
The song was written by B. A. Robertson and Mike Rutherford and was inspired by Rutherford and Robertson realising their fathers had died around the same time. It went on to It win the Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically in 1989. It reached no 2 in the charts here in the UK. Mike Rutherford was a founding member of Genesis and B.A. Robertson had both solo chart success as a singer but also as a composer and songwriter. The music video features Mike Rutherford with his then 8 year-old son, Tom.
I am one of the lucky ones who was able to tell my dad how valuable, appreciated and loved he was. I thrived to be more like him growing up...I still do. I miss him. See you when I get there dad!
I was in my 30s when this song came out. Still love it after all these years. The lead singer Paul Carrack comes from Northern England like me. He still tours with his own band and still has that amazing voice!!!
My parents had 3 generations of kids I was in the middle by myself and to watch the differences happen between the years is Awesome My oldest brother and dad didn't see eye to eye but after mom died they reconnected I was blessed
This song hit hard for me when I first heard it at 16, I'd lost my grandfather a few years it before it was released. I lost mum in 2022, and it hits even harder now. My mum was a Christian, and I'm an atheist, but she was always my ally. Even though it's sometimes annoying, I talk tot dad every day now, and we end with "I love you". Dad was authoritarian and a bully during my childhood, and we don't see eye to eye on a lot of things, and those years still resonate and affect me to this day, but he's still dad, and once he's gone, I'll have no one.
Regardless of the song , So glad I got to kiss my ole man on the forehead and say I love you 2 days before he past .And my Mum seeing me crying my eyes out and bending forward after a stroke and hugging me with her working arm .5 days later she left us ...I'm 60 now and so glad I got the opportunity to do this ❤. Never leave it to late people..please 🙏
This song brings back memories. I was not there the day my dad died. We had a very good relationship. I got the call and had to pick up my mom and take her to the hospital. It is a day that will be etched in my memory. January 15, 1989. RIP Dad! Love your reaction.
What a song! Luckily my Mum is still here and going strong but I make sure to always tell her how much I love and appreciate her because you never know how long you've got with them
I never knew or met my father. In fact, I learned my last name recently at the age of 64. This song tugs at my heart because it makes me think about what we both missed in life. On the bright side, I have met my sisters, and have a brother in waiting to meet.
Mike Rutherford came from Dover, Kent (Which for your information is in the U.K.). the same county as me! (Great melody and lyrics!). (I'm glad that you both enjoyed it).
Paul Carrack is a super singer who is still creating and performing today. I'm lucky enough to be going to see him, again, at the Royal Albert Hall in London in October. Thoroughly recommend looking him up, you won't be disappointed!
This is late, because I really had to gear myself up to watch this video. I miss my daddy so much. I was blessed to be by his side when he passed. It really hit when I returned to my own family after every other aspect of his passing was 'dealt' with. And on the Sunday as per usual. I went to the phone. picked up the receiver.. My husband came and asked who are you calling? I said "Dad".. he gently removed the receiver from my hand and put is back in its cradle. I crumpled. the realization of never seeing my daddy again. No words. He passed in 2002 and it still hurts like it was yesterday. Take heart Mike.. you father is watching over you, always.
Mike's the Guitarist and Bassist from Genesis. This was his side project. Vocals was Paul Carrack, who had number ones on vocals with 3 different bands (this included)
Im so pleased you both got something from this song, its so powerful in its message and the musical delivery. Great reaction, great song, thanks for sharing them both.
This one makes me tear up every time it gets to the part about not being there when his father died, Awesome song. BTW, You are correct in that a young person would not get this song. It's only after years and life experience that you realize it's meanings.
Love this song, and am experiencing it myself with a son who won't talk with me. Mike (Rutherford), the man in the video, was the guitarist with Genesis (think Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel). He argued a lot with his Dad about going into music 😢
Not too long after this song came out, my Dad and I patched up a multi-year quarrel; a nasty one which had led me to narcissistically move several provinces (🇨🇦) away and stop taking calls from my parents. After I came to my senses I moved back 1,000 miles to be nearer to them, when, purely coincidentally, my Mom was admitted to the hospital unexpectedly for a life-threatening condition that developed rapidly. Thankfully, she recovered from that dire situation and lived almost another 30 years. My Dad? Once my Mom was out of the hospital, I sat him down and said, "Dad, I'm so sorry for being so obstinate these past several years. I want to play something so we can both listen to it together", and I pushed PLAY on the cassette deck. Of course, it was this deeply stirring song. After it ended my Dad looked at me with an expression on his face I will always treasure. I don't think we'd ever felt closer. All too sadly, I lost my Dad about 15 years later, but my soul is somewhat salved because of that memory. 🥲 I thoroughly enjoyed your reactions to the song! Thank you, and take care. 🤗
" I wasn't there that morning when my father passed away, I didn't get to tell him all the things I had to say", What a line, I think a lot of people can relate to that. Very sad.
I was 15 years old when this song came out and it hit me then the same way it does now. It has always had the same impact in me. However, now I think of my dad every time I hear it. He passed in 2009. I can’t believe it’s been 15 years. It feels like yesterday.
I was in tge waiting room in the hospital in 2006, waiting for visiting hours to start when a nurse ran out, grabbed me, and told me he passed. I was devastated, still to this day. I heard this song on the way home from the hospital, and I lost it. I played this at hos funeral. Every time I hear this song, I tear up. I miss him so much.
I was lucky enough to write down dad's memories from the army. They are now going to be published through a military book publishers and be recorded forever. I feel so honoured.
I can relate to this. I was in another city when my Dad passed away. And sadly it was the day of my best friends wedding. The friends parents were a comfort that night. But the whole thing resonates, and songs like this are why I make sure I see my daughter who works in the city on a regular basis.
This song is so pertinent to a lot of people, but back in the day when you were young nothing really mattered, its only when your parents are gone that you realise the sacrifices they did to keep you happy and bring you up, WOW what a beautiful song ❤💙🧡💚
Im sitting here listening to this song and its hitting me the same way it always hits. Im ok for 2 verses, then when "I wasnt there that morning when my father passed away" starts it just breaks me. I was there. In 2007. My brother wasnt though. He missed the end by 20 minutes. When we called, he was in the shower so was delayed. I feel this for him. Breaks me every time.
When I hear this song, I can barely keep myself from crying with a straight face. I can feel every word of this song because of the sheer weight of it rings true but it's not just one parent; but both parents, I love and appreciate them even though I'll butt heads with them.
Mike (Rutherford) and the Mechanics was a side project from his time as part of Genesis, while Phil Collins was also doing solo stuff. Singer Paul Carrack also sang hits with Squeeze, Ace, and solo as well.
Very good job you guys! Smart intelligent honest reaction and commentary! To one of our best timeless and beloved songs ever written and performed. Thank you both!
![Mike + The Mechanics - The Living Years | Music Reaction | Lyrics [1989]](/img/n.gif)
The singer, Paul Carrack is a one of those truly great British rock singers who has never really recieved the recognition he deserves.
you said it!!
Amen..
I rate Paul Carrack along with Freddie Mercury and Paul Rogers
Yes this!
Yes indeed.
All you lucky people who still have a dad...... go see him today and tell him you love him!
Yes I am so lucky to still have both parents, mum 90 dad 92
Dad is amazing he does all the shopping cooking running the house, he has just relinquished letting my sis who lives there do his lawn, he is too independent ❤
Some Dad's are basically good people, but push their kids tooo Hard and NEVER let up or compliments or cry in the attempt to appear strong and tough.
Some dad's need to learn patience as their children gow up.
Being to Strict is NOT good and Represses young people
Or mom too! I sure miss mine.
Paul Carrack is the singer. Checkout the Squeeze. Tempted would be a good one.
Yes. Once your parents are gone you are too late.
My dad died in 2006 and my sister rang me to give me the news. i dropped everything, jumped into the car to make the 100mile journey to support my mother. Just 10 minutes into the journey this came on the radio. I was in floods of tears driving, even though i had had a brilliant and loving relationship with my father. Every time I hear this I am back in my car in 2006!
I had the same experience with Dust In The Wind.
My dad passed away in 2007, after watching him pass over, i got into the car and this was playing on the radio and I had a complete meltdown 😢
Mine too 😢 this was released the week my mom died.
Bc there is always something you want to say no matter what
Mine was fields of barley driving to the hospital trying to get there before my wife died . I didn't make it
I've grown up listening to this song. Yet 40 years on, it still has me in tears.
Me, too - have listened to this song loads of times over the years and always makes me cry!
me too
If you don't shed a tear while listening to this you are either not listening or don't have a heart.
I sob every time and I'm 62yrs old 😢
@@dianemuldowney1308
Same here....same age. ❤
When it came out I didn't and border line hated it. But now decades have passed it's F'N sad with many tears
Or had a horribly abusive Narcissistic Father. They love to target the baby of the family. It gets passed on just like genes!!
This!
I’m 63 years old and my Father passed away 24 years ago. Every time I hear this song or watch a reaction video I want to call my Dad. So everyone take time and call a love one because one day they aren’t going to be here. Do it before it’s to late.
67 and my Dad died in 2007. I still want to call him from time to time, and same with my Mom. She died in 2001.
😊 4:25
My father fought ww 2
Harold Hobson
We're the same age but I had mine until I was just short of 50 - not bad as I was born the year both my parents turned 38.
Never fails. I cry every time I hear this song.
So do I.
Me too. Never fails to move me to tears.
I try hard not to cry, but I fail every time. It's not only your father's death, it's yours too. I think of my kids.
Love Mike & The Mechanics, bloody song always makes me cry and I'm in my 70s.
Same. And it's not because I relate to it personally. It's such a beautiful song.
Me too Derek.
Me too....and the damn reaction videos don't help.😭
Same here
Same. Here.
You don't understand what your parents went through until you become a parent.Then to tell them you get it now is the greatest gift to give them.Do it in the Living years while you have time.
"i wasn't there that morning when my father passed away" is the one line that gets me because i never got to say goodbye, that was two years ago and i am teary eyed as i write this
The same for me. I got to my mother's house 10 mins too late😢
I miss my father more now than ever. I'm in my 70s now and this song resonates so strongly.
Thank God for people who can write songs like this and sing them.
What god?
yes! amen
As a boy, this really hit home that my parents wouldn't be there forever.
As a man, I WAS there when my father passed away (2021).
This always makes me think of him.
I can barely watch through my tears. My dad and I butted heads while he was a career US Navy fighter pilot, but when he retired, and was more available, I began to admire him more and more. I am grateful that he became my hero and I got to tell him before he died in 2009. Now, I have a great relationship with my son (who was also born in 1987), and he has so much of my dad in him that it makes me proud.
This song came out the year my Dad Died and my daughter was born. I cry every time I hear it.I feel it was written for me.
It reminds me of my dad too who died a few years back. It's too much. Stunning song but breaks my heart. I hope you had a lovely Christmas day. :)
This song was released in 1988 the day before my father died of cancer in hospital after 10 years fighting what they had told him would take him in 4/5 years, I was 16. I've never been able to listen to it without crying buckets.😥😥
"I'm sure I heard his echo in my baby's new born tear" 😭 this line always kills me and finishes the song with goosebumps
I never resented my Dad. He showed me the way and the whys. He's gone now, I miss him everyday and his down to earth wisdom. This song brings a tear every time I hear it!
"Mike" is Mike Rutherford, who played guitar in Genesis. He is the guy with the beard. The singer is actually Paul Carrack. His voice is wonderful and he has done loads of great songs, without ever getting the solo recognition he deserves.
Paul Carrack has had hits with the bands Ace, Squeeze, and of course, Mike & The Mechanics. He has also hit the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart as a solo artists. As a songwriter, his songs have been covered by artists such as Linda Ronstadt and the Eagles.
@@ematcion I always liked his solo stuff like "Don't shed a tear"
Not forgetting 'Behind blue eyes '
I agree, I saw Paul Carrack last night at Leicester DeMontford Hall. He, and his band, was outstanding. Amazing musicianship! I agree, he never received the recognition he deserved. He's superb!
The amazing vocals of the wonderful Paul Carrack. Bless him.
This was played at my sons funeral after he died on his 39 birthday. 9 years of hard grief. He also loved Baggy Trousers by Madnes. God Bless you my son. Not be long to go to see you again. xxx
Sorry buddy.
My sympathy.
🙏🕊️
❤ sorry for your loss,love to your son
That is the truth you will see him again. I have said goodbye for now, till we meet again to all my family that have past over.
😢
Man this song. 😢 I lost my dad when I was 21, I am now 51 and this still brings a tear or two to my eyes. I was there the morning my dad passed away, and yet still did not have time to say all the things I wanted to say. So… do not wait, live and love in your life, because you may not have the chance.
Right there with you, man. Lost my dad when I was 18, now 50. This song still moves me even after hearing it for 40 years.
Every single time I hear this song I cry for the lost conversations I needed with Daddy, but he died at age 46 serving in Korea after the Vietnam War.
You got the wars the wrong way around, you on the level or what?
Thank you, for noticing & appreciating that line, “You can listen as well as you hear”. So many people seem to not notice that, to me it’s integral to the whole meaning of the song.
What a beautiful, intelligent couple. Incredible wisdom. May you both live long, healthy, happy lives together with your children, and may you all prosper.
Just lost my Mum to cancer two days ago...., this song hit's sooo much harder now.... 😢
Still trying not to think, so i doesn't hurt..., but failing misally...
Dear friend, I'm so sorry. My Mum left us last 3rd of July after four very difficult years. I do believe our Mothers are in Peace now. Do not be afraid of thinking and speaking about your Mum, as we must accept what can not be undone. I wish my Father didn't left so soon. There are so many things I never told him. But I trust they are together now. Share with all those you trust, it is still too early, try to live a day at a time. God bless you.
My heart breaks for you 💔 🫂🙋♀️❤
Sending hugs at this sad time ❤❤
I was adopted by my grandparents, I never met my father and was abandoned by my mother. In 1985 I was serving in the army in Germany, I was called to the regimental HQ and handed a telegram. Before digital comms existed telegrams were too expensive for most people so were always treated seriously. My father/grandfather had died earlier that day. I was given compassionate leave within 5 minutes and later that day I was driving home from Germany to the UK to go to his funeral.
There was a radio station in Germany for the British Forces call BFBS, British Forces Broadcasting Service. They played this song, it had just been released and it was the first time I'd ever heard it. I was driving foot to the floor to get home as quickly as I could, but I had to pull over because listening to the words made me cry my eyes out.
My father/grandfather served in the military during WW2, I don't think he could have been prouder of me than when I left home at 16 to join the army. Whenever I had leave I spent some time at home and we talked for hours about things that had been important to him. We didn't see eye to eye on everything, but I've come to realize over the almost 40 years since he died, how much I value the things he believed were important: integrity, truth, honour, doing the right thing, for no other reason than it is the right thing to do.
I immigrated 6 years ago and live a life I couldn't have imagined living 10 years ago, he would have amazed at how I live today. I still miss him and still sometimes find myself wishing he was still alive so I could talk to him about things.
It took 25 years before I could hear this song without thinking of my father/grandfather, remembering my drive to the UK and not cry. Even now listening to this, I have a lump in my throat and my wife is wondering what's wrong with me. Some songs say something that we all know is a truth we can't deny this I think is perhaps the best example of that.
Wow what a lovely story. My dad died back in 2001 at the age of 93. He was a holocaust survivor from wartime Warsaw, Poland although soon after the war broke out, he made it across to the UK, got his British citizenship and joined our army. Sadly, we were never a 'touchy feely' kind of family and hardly ever spoke about things deeply personal, even though us kids always felt the love of our parents, but when passed away, there were so many things I just wish I'd said to him and it still cuts deep to this very day, even though I'm now 72 years old and am a father, a grandfather and soon to be a great grandfather. God bless you dad. I still miss you. 💔 🙋♂
@@jeffstevens4262 all the best to you bro...am sure your dad and granddad are very proud of their boy....all the best from NZ Kia Kaha bro
@@donaldduck2139 Thanks. Very much appreciated.
Thank you all for sharing your stories and opening up conversations with one another. We may not know each other in real life, but it makes us feel more connected. We enjoy reading and connecting with everyone. Much Love friends💜💚
Tugs at the heart everytime you hear it. Brilliant music & lyrics.
I love the two choirs one young one older choir
My mum bought me this single not long after it came out. It has stuck with me for 30 years. I got to tell my dad I loved him on many occasions because of this song & because of mums foresight. He died in 2015 with dementia, I was lucky enough to tell him one last time during a lucid episode. Oof. I'm gonna ring my mum now. Love to you all.
When I was 14 my dad didn’t know a lot, by the time I was 24 it’s amazing how much he had learned.
I was blessed to be my dad's caregiver for the last 5 years of his life. It is hard to watch an active parent become inactive
Today weve lost a lot of family spending time with each other
Work will be there always but people wont
It's such a brilliant and powerful song, it always hits you no matter how many times you hear it. This is one of those great songs where a backing choir is really the icing on the cake.
I was 25 years old when this first came out , thought oooh quite good , then bang 2 years later my old man passed suddenly at 49 ! It seemed to be played everywhere i went, always chokes me up . By the way I'm 61 now and believe me them years have flown by in the blink of an eye! So everyone don't wait, tell them you love them xxx
Mike, I watched you and can honestly say that I knew the emotional rollercoaster you went through. My Dad passed away in the late 90's and I didn't get to say the things I wanted to, due to his Alzheimer's condition. I'm now 71 and I speak to my daughter almost every day and we have a great bond. Hope your memories of your Dad are great. THANKS guys.
Been playing this a lot recently. My dad passed away a couple of months ago. As he was passing I couldn’t get all the words out that I wanted to say to him but I know he knew what I was trying to say.
This is one of the finest songs every made. My oldest Son is about to become a father and he will soon be the "older" generation. This song is important!
The part that really hits me hard is, "I wasn't there that morning, when my Father passed away. Didn't get to tell him, all things I had to say."
In 1963 (a month before my 13th birthday) my dad was out of town to help one of his brothers and died of a heart attack. I'm 74 now an not ashamed to admit that this song still gets me teary eyed.
Absolutely positively one of my favorite songs ever! I believe this song is one of the most well-written and intelligent songs I've ever heard.
In tears watching this video. My mum and dad have passed away. So much still to say. Missing them both so much. 😊
I think the role of the older "choir" is a reminder that parents were once children themselves and that they need to listen and hear to their own children as only they can benefit from hindsight. Children do not have the benefit of hindsight by definition and could only understand until it's too late. The message goes both ways. Parents need to say what they need to tell their children before it's too late for them.
The different age groups are their to show that we have Common traits as humans and life is just a PROCESS!....
This is one of those songs that touches the heart in a meaningful way. Beautiful.
Music is what feelings sounds like.
Paul Carrack is an incredible vocalist, still performing limited amount in England
I am 74 years old, part of the '60s generation. I was a hippie, a flower child...lol. My dad was a WWII vet. There was quite a bit we did not agree upon, and though I still loved him with all my heart, we did not see eye to eye on a lot of stuff. He passed away from Colon Cancer in 1984 and that was probably the first time in my life that I truly cried my heart out. This song was released in December of 1988 and listening to it for the first time I remember, tore my heart out. Now, 36 years later, and probably close to a thousand times listening to it over the years, I still cry like a baby, every single time I hear it. Powerful song.
❤
guitarman.......How small this world is.I too am 74 & my father died if cancer in 1984. I hear this song & fall apart every time. I have been seen numerous times just sitting in the car weeping uncontrollably when it has played on the radio. Treasure your memories.
My Dad died in 80, we’re the same age… that pain never goes away, best wishes.
❤
The best line ever written regarding the sentiment is ' Im sure I heard the echos in my new born babies tears' is stunning.
I'm 64 and have been a Genesis fan for most of my life and have seen Mike & the Mechanics perform a few times over the last 25 years - always phenomenal.
We had such talent in the "Golden" years of music... 60's70's, 8o's .
Have you ever heard of the English band 'Genesis'? Mike [Rutherford] was the original bass player, and as the band progressed became the guitar player in the studio. While on the road, they still employed a specialist lead guitar player.
Apart from the band itself, other Genesis alumni you may have heard of are Peter Gabriel, and Phil Collins. Steve Hackett & Tony Banks are probably just too far out of your zone.
The band have retired now [ basically age ], but Mike and Tony Banks were there from beginning to end.
Venturing too far into the world of Genesis takes you into that dark territory called 'Progressive rock' - long, complicated songs & instrumentals, in weird time signatures, with exotic and deep lyrics, strange instruments, but also played by competent musicians, without 'autotune'.
Paul Carrack is just a great vocalist.
One of my favourite songs .I was with my husband when he died ten years ago and this song always reminds me of him and sooo makes me cry.
I'm 61 and this song came out seven years after my father passed away! The song hit home instantly the first time I heard it and it still brings me to tears now.
This is one of those Timeless songs just beautiful. 🇬🇧
I cannot believe you have NEVER heard of Mike &the Mechanics. OMG 😊
The song was written by B. A. Robertson and Mike Rutherford and was inspired by Rutherford and Robertson realising their fathers had died around the same time. It went on to It win the Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically in 1989. It reached no 2 in the charts here in the UK. Mike Rutherford was a founding member of Genesis and B.A. Robertson had both solo chart success as a singer but also as a composer and songwriter. The music video features Mike Rutherford with his then 8 year-old son, Tom.
Thanks, Tim.. appreciate the background...
It's amazing how the older I get, the smarter my dad gets.
This is a beautiful song and a box of big tissues
This music is a masterpiece!
I am one of the lucky ones who was able to tell my dad how valuable, appreciated and loved he was. I thrived to be more like him growing up...I still do. I miss him. See you when I get there dad!
This is a great song, I have loved it for ever. It's aged well.
Such a powerful song. Beautiful to see you two reach out to each other.
I was in my 30s when this song came out. Still love it after all these years. The lead singer Paul Carrack comes from Northern England like me. He still tours with his own band and still has that amazing voice!!!
That song makes me cry every time ❤
My parents had 3 generations of kids I was in the middle by myself and to watch the differences happen between the years is Awesome
My oldest brother and dad didn't see eye to eye but after mom died they reconnected
I was blessed
This song hit hard for me when I first heard it at 16, I'd lost my grandfather a few years it before it was released. I lost mum in 2022, and it hits even harder now. My mum was a Christian, and I'm an atheist, but she was always my ally. Even though it's sometimes annoying, I talk tot dad every day now, and we end with "I love you". Dad was authoritarian and a bully during my childhood, and we don't see eye to eye on a lot of things, and those years still resonate and affect me to this day, but he's still dad, and once he's gone, I'll have no one.
About sums up the relationship with my father, so chokes when I listen to it, what a song..
Regardless of the song , So glad I got to kiss my ole man on the forehead and say I love you 2 days before he past .And my Mum seeing me crying my eyes out and bending forward after a stroke and hugging me with her working arm .5 days later she left us ...I'm 60 now and so glad I got the opportunity to do this ❤. Never leave it to late people..please 🙏
Silent Running by this group also carries a powerful timeless message
I love when you said we have so much to learn from each other, beautiful comment.
Love the transition from the children choir to the adults to both.
This song brings back memories. I was not there the day my dad died. We had a very good relationship. I got the call and had to pick up my mom and take her to the hospital. It is a day that will be etched in my memory. January 15, 1989. RIP Dad! Love your reaction.
every one who said they cried...me too.song hits the nail on the head.
What a song! Luckily my Mum is still here and going strong but I make sure to always tell her how much I love and appreciate her because you never know how long you've got with them
I never knew or met my father. In fact, I learned my last name recently at the age of 64. This song tugs at my heart because it makes me think about what we both missed in life. On the bright side, I have met my sisters, and have a brother in waiting to meet.
Love Is Forever❤
Mike Rutherford came from Dover, Kent (Which for your information is in the U.K.). the same county as me! (Great melody and lyrics!). (I'm glad that you both enjoyed it).
Paul Carrack is a super singer who is still creating and performing today. I'm lucky enough to be going to see him, again, at the Royal Albert Hall in London in October. Thoroughly recommend looking him up, you won't be disappointed!
I still cry everyone to this. My Dad passed away in 86 and this released in 88. Love your family no matter what. ❤️❤️
This is late, because I really had to gear myself up to watch this video. I miss my daddy so much. I was blessed to be by his side when he passed. It really hit when I returned to my own family after every other aspect of his passing was 'dealt' with. And on the Sunday as per usual. I went to the phone. picked up the receiver.. My husband came and asked who are you calling? I said "Dad".. he gently removed the receiver from my hand and put is back in its cradle. I crumpled. the realization of never seeing my daddy again. No words. He passed in 2002 and it still hurts like it was yesterday. Take heart Mike.. you father is watching over you, always.
Mike's the Guitarist and Bassist from Genesis. This was his side project.
Vocals was Paul Carrack, who had number ones on vocals with 3 different bands (this included)
Im so pleased you both got something from this song, its so powerful in its message and the musical delivery. Great reaction, great song, thanks for sharing them both.
This song is so beautiful. It was a big hit in the late 80...This song comes with healing for sure. Great reaction. Cheers from a finn in Sweden.
Maybe the greatest lyrics ever written. I could listen to this song 24/7
I am 38, grew up in the UK and this was a song of my childhood car journeys. Still feel emotional listening to this.
This one makes me tear up every time it gets to the part about not being there when his father died, Awesome song. BTW, You are correct in that a young person would not get this song. It's only after years and life experience that you realize it's meanings.
Love this song, and am experiencing it myself with a son who won't talk with me. Mike (Rutherford), the man in the video, was the guitarist with Genesis (think Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel). He argued a lot with his Dad about going into music 😢
Not too long after this song came out, my Dad and I patched up a multi-year quarrel; a nasty one which had led me to narcissistically move several provinces (🇨🇦) away and stop taking calls from my parents. After I came to my senses I moved back 1,000 miles to be nearer to them, when, purely coincidentally, my Mom was admitted to the hospital unexpectedly for a life-threatening condition that developed rapidly. Thankfully, she recovered from that dire situation and lived almost another 30 years.
My Dad? Once my Mom was out of the hospital, I sat him down and said, "Dad, I'm so sorry for being so obstinate these past several years. I want to play something so we can both listen to it together", and I pushed PLAY on the cassette deck. Of course, it was this deeply stirring song. After it ended my Dad looked at me with an expression on his face I will always treasure. I don't think we'd ever felt closer. All too sadly, I lost my Dad about 15 years later, but my soul is somewhat salved because of that memory. 🥲
I thoroughly enjoyed your reactions to the song! Thank you, and take care. 🤗
" I wasn't there that morning when my father passed away, I didn't get to tell him all the things I had to say",
What a line, I think a lot of people can relate to that. Very sad.
That part always gets me
Always cry so hard😢
Lost my dad 10 years ago, this song hits very emotionally.
That song gets me every time. My own personal regrets. You two seem like lovely people. Love from Scotland 🏴❤️
I was 15 years old when this song came out and it hit me then the same way it does now. It has always had the same impact in me. However, now I think of my dad every time I hear it. He passed in 2009. I can’t believe it’s been 15 years. It feels like yesterday.
I was in tge waiting room in the hospital in 2006, waiting for visiting hours to start when a nurse ran out, grabbed me, and told me he passed. I was devastated, still to this day. I heard this song on the way home from the hospital, and I lost it. I played this at hos funeral. Every time I hear this song, I tear up. I miss him so much.
"You can listen as well as you hear" is a lyric that has stayed with me since childhood.
You are the only Americans that really get this group, glad you got it
Not the only ones, loved this since it came out
I was lucky enough to write down dad's memories from the army. They are now going to be published through a military book publishers and be recorded forever. I feel so honoured.
I can relate to this. I was in another city when my Dad passed away. And sadly it was the day of my best friends wedding. The friends parents were a comfort that night. But the whole thing resonates, and songs like this are why I make sure I see my daughter who works in the city on a regular basis.
Paul carrack vocals are just outstanding
This song is so pertinent to a lot of people, but back in the day when you were young nothing really mattered, its only when your parents are gone that you realise the sacrifices they did to keep you happy and bring you up, WOW what a beautiful song ❤💙🧡💚
Im sitting here listening to this song and its hitting me the same way it always hits. Im ok for 2 verses, then when "I wasnt there that morning when my father passed away" starts it just breaks me. I was there. In 2007. My brother wasnt though. He missed the end by 20 minutes. When we called, he was in the shower so was delayed. I feel this for him.
Breaks me every time.
When I hear this song, I can barely keep myself from crying with a straight face. I can feel every word of this song because of the sheer weight of it rings true but it's not just one parent; but both parents, I love and appreciate them even though I'll butt heads with them.
Heartbreaking and stunning at the same time
Mike (Rutherford) and the Mechanics was a side project from his time as part of Genesis, while Phil Collins was also doing solo stuff. Singer Paul Carrack also sang hits with Squeeze, Ace, and solo as well.
Very good job you guys! Smart intelligent honest reaction and commentary! To one of our best timeless and beloved songs ever written and performed.
Thank you both!