When you know that this song was NOT written from personal experience, it just makes the creativity of it all the more amazing. Gilbert O'Sullivan is a songwriter of the highest order and massively underrated.
So true. Saw an interview where he said that he wrote this song Cold.. He just wanted a Melancholy Lyric to a Peppy Melody. Such Commanding Creative Contrast !!!
@@barrynichols9316 Kurt Cobain the copycat 😂 Aye he really just said he didn't believe you had to experience something to have the ability to rationalize, understand or feel it. People could do with that level of thought in these times...😏
When I was five years old my dad had passed away. I saw how it broke my mother and my older brother and sister. When the song came out I was five or six and this was my favorite song for a very long time because even as a little tiny child, I could relate to these words. There's a depth of sadness that this song touches. It is truly beautiful.
Hey Susan I just wanted to share some scriptures with you that helped me get through my sister's death in 2022.😓💔 And they are as follows: Isaiah 26:19. Acts 24:15. John 5:28, 29. The very best to you and thank you for acknowledging these scriptures and looking them up, they can give you some nice comfort, and hope for you to see you're brother again.❤ John 11:11 - 44. Psalm 37 9~11, 22, 29, 34.
Have you ever checked to see the ages of the people who follow you . I'm 70.Found you 3 years ago nice to see someone enjoying our music keep up the good work Dude
I’m 57, about to be 58, but I’ve always had an old soul. I grew up on my momma’s albums from the 50s and 60s but mostly love the 70s and 80s (heavy emphasis on the 70s).
Great choice Jamal....this song is an absolute classic in the UK....everyone knows and loves it...can only imagine the amount of tears that have been shed listening to it. 😢...Gilbert O'Sullivan has written some fantastic songs ..but I think this is his masterpiece ❤
Thank you for your respectful, intelligent and more analysis of this classic song. Hope that the younger generations listen to and enjoy this classic as much as I have for decades!
Oh Jamal, so glad you did this. One of the most sincere & haunting songs I've ever heard. The lyrics are deep, meaningful while the music seems light for such a profound, heavy journey.
It's a harsh song but also beautiful. Life is a wonderful thing but if you are not prepared for all that comes it can literally take life back from you. Keep up the joy my man. Peace
Ok. The reason I like your music reactions, I just felt, is that this was just a pop song when I was 14. To see the emotion on your face when you heard this for the first time and hear your reaction allowed me to see the contrast in what I knew and thought then about this song, and with your appreciation, shows me how relates to me now, and how much I've changed. Your reviews are a positive analysis of us oldsters' lives.
The craftsmanship demonstrated in this song is astounding. It's a song about suicide, a broken heart, questioning faith, the death of parents, all wrapped around the theme of being alone in a jaunty little pop song. It's an amazing song, made even better by the wretched disaster of today's pop "music." The character in this song would do well to have a friend like you to talk to.
This song definitely hits home for me. When you think about it, there are billions of people in the world and yet loneliness is a huge problem for a lot of people, myself included. It's sad.
Gilbert O’Sullivan had several big hits in the 70s. My Mum very much liked his unconventional songs. I think we watched this specific performance together. I was probably too young to fully understand what it meant (though I got the bit about the tower), but I'm sure she got it. Thanks for that trip back, and the simple pleasure of a kid sharing in his Mum music. Now she's gone I understand it better. Best Wishes, Sir, for a Healthy, Happy, Peaceful 2024. ☮
I know people that have heard this song for 40 plus years and didn’t realize it was a song about someone contemplating suicide. They were fooled by the kind of upbeat sounding melody.
Gilbert O’Sullivan was a great composer that touched a lot of people’s hearts back then. This is one of those timeless songs you never forget. Check out “Clair” from 1972 also.
I remember when this topped the charts back in 72. I think it stayed at number one for a while, telling me it touched a lot of hearts. I don’t think I know anyone who hasn’t felt shattered at least once in their lives. I’m so glad this man’s music was part of my teenage years.
Another great song along these lines is “All By Myself” by Eric Carmen. Eric wrote the song, he puts so much feeling into it. Thanks for this song, one of my favourites, love your reaction.
Saddest song ever. But I saw an interview with him here on TH-cam that was eye opening. He was really young when he wrote it. Neither of his parents were gone yet, and no one left him at the alter! He was just a very expressive songwriter!
Yeah, this one and Roberta Flack's Killing me softly were the 2 I remember most around that time. Preferred Badfinger songs, but these were great, sad songs.
This song was on the radio constantly when I was 10. Right after my parents divorced and my father moved away. It is forever emotionally connected to that time in my life.
Despite the soothing music, this was one of the darkest songs released in the 1970s. Having survived my share of gut-punches (one a really close call), including having a pending marriage break up, this song STILL hits hard. As a twentysomething, I couldn't understand how someone could get to such a low place. But real life taught me exactly how. Thanks for the look back!
This song always makes me tear up. 61 yo here. I love that you not only give the music a fair listen but that you appreciate it and aren't afraid to share how you feel about it.
What is SO sad is that so many people think they are so alone and think that the ONLY way is to leave the world behind. TALK to people, check your friends, check the person on a bridge on their own, show people that we care ❤❤❤❤
I'm another of the ones who tears up every time I hear this song. It was a hit when I was a young girl and the sentiment it carries was over my head at the time. My late mum loved it too. I saw Gilbert at Gatwick airport a few years ago. (He wasn't alone, thankfully😊)
I'm so glad you are still doing music reactions. I'm a 66 year old white guy who would like to sit down with you and just talk about music and what it means to each other
When I listen to this song, I can see each scenario....the tower, the church, broken hearts and death of two parents. It's like seeing a movie of what he is feeling. Such a soft and beautiful voice. Pure genius.
This song 𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 me. Silly, but it just does. Kind of like "Eleanor Rigby," you know? "Talk about God and His mercy/If He really does exist/Why did He desert me?"
Thanks Jamel. Good to see you doing a music reaction. I went to see Gilbert o Sullivan in Concert last year. He still sounds as good as ever. I love his music and this is my favourite by him. I listened to it the day my own Mother died. You will have to listen to more of him. Thanks again.
I've always liked the song but this is the first time I actually payed attention to the words, I had no idea what it was about until today. mind blown.
I was 9 years old when this came out in 1972 (I am 60 now!). I remember it being on the radio and TOTP. O'Sullivan was a very talented singer and songwriter and had several big hits in the 70s. By the time you get to be our age, it hits home even more!
I’ve always loved this song. Beautiful melody and a great arrangement with the strings, guitars, and flutes. The lyrics are so poignant and heartbreaking. I guess I was about 13 when this song came out, it was a difficult time in my life but this is the kind of song that makes you realize the need to keep your perspective. There truly is deep sadness in this world and we need to be able to exercise empathy and compassion.
This song makes me want to cry! Gilbert O’Sullivan was very popular when I was a kid. My brother bought the 45, “Get Down,” which is a much more upbeat song!
Its a deceptively catchy tune. I remember singing along to it in the 70s, mouthing the words, but because there was no internet, no easy way to actually read the lyrics and get the full impact of what he was singing. I remember saying, "oh its the sad sang", but at 65 like his mom in the song, I've now had my share of being "alone naturally". Sadly enough I lost my mother not too long after my father passed, and she was inconsolable. She died in my arms, and now I must carry on ... naturally. This song is a leading cause of "blurry screen", but a classic.
This song kills me. He’s a great artist, incredible voice and songwriter. For something lighter, have a listen to Get Down, so cool! Love to you and your family Jamel.
Jamel you are a man of substance! I thought I would revisit this great song, written and performed by the equally great Irishman Gilbert O'Sullivan on this here New Years Night 2025. Then I saw this link for your "reaction" and I thank you for your depth of understanding brother! I have been humming it since 1971 so I thank you again.
When I was a kid there was not internet and TV stations would go off the air around midnight (and play the national anthem). So I used to leave the radio on as if fell asleep. This song was popular at the time and I thought it was one of the greatest song I ever heard even though it wasn't rock, rock N roll, blues, R&B... It was the lyrics.
We seen this lovely man 3 weeks ago he's still brilliant warm friendly, he smashed it out the park. We loved it n life long dream to see him. Tick tick tick. Tick tick. Excellent. Never forget how funny he was too. Just like you see him on tv there he was right in front of us. I couldn't believe it best night.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃👌👍👌👍👌🩵👍👌👍👍👍👍
I remember this song as a kid back in the summer of 72 down in Cape Cod with family that are now gone ,,one if my favorites as well as best time of my life,now it really hits home
I was 10 when this track was released, and I remember feeling sad, listening to the lyrics - even though the melody was beautiful and soothing. As the years fly by, and Life brings love and loss more into focus, every word in this song hits so much harder...
This song never fails to bring a tear to my eyes. I think we all can relate to the sadness he is feeling.
Been there done that...the Lord never deserts us...thank God.😢
Amen to that. 🙏
Every time! Thank goodness for real music
Oh man, I'm sobbing. Great song.
That’s ok !😢
When you know that this song was NOT written from personal experience, it just makes the creativity of it all the more amazing. Gilbert O'Sullivan is a songwriter of the highest order and massively underrated.
So true. Saw an interview where he said that he wrote this song Cold.. He just wanted a Melancholy Lyric to a Peppy Melody. Such Commanding Creative Contrast !!!
Is that why it sounds so cheerful till you listen to the lyrics?
Those experiences are universal !!!❤❤❤❤❤❤
@GaryWayneHill64 I agree.
@@barrynichols9316 Kurt Cobain the copycat 😂 Aye he really just said he didn't believe you had to experience something to have the ability to rationalize, understand or feel it. People could do with that level of thought in these times...😏
When I was five years old my dad had passed away. I saw how it broke my mother and my older brother and sister. When the song came out I was five or six and this was my favorite song for a very long time because even as a little tiny child, I could relate to these words. There's a depth of sadness that this song touches. It is truly beautiful.
Now you found another 70s jewel! Congrats. An expression from the soul of a deeply broken heart. The tune is as perfect as the lyric is poignant.
My brother loved this man's music. RIP my brother Gary. I miss you....
Hey Susan I just wanted to share some scriptures with you that helped me get through my sister's death in 2022.😓💔 And they are as follows: Isaiah 26:19. Acts 24:15.
John 5:28, 29.
The very best to you and thank you for acknowledging these scriptures and looking them up, they can give you some nice comfort, and hope for you to see you're brother again.❤
John 11:11 - 44.
Psalm 37 9~11, 22, 29, 34.
I've lost 2 of my 3 brothers. We'll all be together again. I've always love this song.
Have you ever checked to see the ages of the people who follow you . I'm 70.Found you 3 years ago nice to see someone enjoying our music keep up the good work Dude
I'm a senior citizen too! I like watching his videos too.
Me too..my favorite song after my dad died when I was 13yrs old
65 here. I’ve following Jamal for about seven years now.
I’m 57, about to be 58, but I’ve always had an old soul. I grew up on my momma’s albums from the 50s and 60s but mostly love the 70s and 80s (heavy emphasis on the 70s).
The melody felt uplifting while the lyrics hid pain. I have always liked this song and never paid attention to the lyrics.
In 1972 led by this record, (which was number one for multiple weeks) he was actually the top selling artist in the world.
I'm 69 years old and I grew up listening to this song it's a tearjerker. It truly tugs at the hart.
4 minutes ago?! this song was YUUUUGE in the 70's
Great choice Jamal....this song is an absolute classic in the UK....everyone knows and loves it...can only imagine the amount of tears that have been shed listening to it. 😢...Gilbert O'Sullivan has written some fantastic songs ..but I think this is his masterpiece ❤
Thank you for your respectful, intelligent and more analysis of this classic song. Hope that the younger generations listen to and enjoy this classic as much as I have for decades!
Oh Jamal, so glad you did this. One of the most sincere & haunting songs I've ever heard. The lyrics are deep, meaningful while the music seems light for such a profound, heavy journey.
Well said friend.
I love how you really listen and analyze the meaning of lyrics, keep it coming.
I loved this song since I was a kid.
Me too 💕💕I’m 60 now 🤣💕💕
Me three ! @@colettefoy5961
Never really understood the lyrics until now. Thanks everyone, and Jamel.
@@colettefoy5961 Me too and i am also 60 🙂
Same here Cherry! Happy New Year!
Gilbert O'Sullivan is a lyrical genius. Ireland's finest export .
Seriously? Finest?
Most talented export. Definitely.
@@kevinryan7669Van Morrison is leagues ahead, but Gilbert is a legend
@@bid84 he's not Irish?
@@kevinryan7669 he comes from the same tiny rock I call home, he’s northern Irish technically if you are pedantic
It's a harsh song but also beautiful. Life is a wonderful thing but if you are not prepared for all that comes it can literally take life back from you. Keep up the joy my man. Peace
This song is a masterpiece. And your reactions are as always awesome.
Ok. The reason I like your music reactions, I just felt, is that this was just a pop song when I was 14. To see the emotion on your face when you heard this for the first time and hear your reaction allowed me to see the contrast in what I knew and thought then about this song, and with your appreciation, shows me how relates to me now, and how much I've changed. Your reviews are a positive analysis of us oldsters' lives.
The craftsmanship demonstrated in this song is astounding. It's a song about suicide, a broken heart, questioning faith, the death of parents, all wrapped around the theme of being alone in a jaunty little pop song. It's an amazing song, made even better by the wretched disaster of today's pop "music." The character in this song would do well to have a friend like you to talk to.
This song definitely hits home for me. When you think about it, there are billions of people in the world and yet loneliness is a huge problem for a lot of people, myself included. It's sad.
I cried and cried all day, just a killer line.
Back in the day,this song always made me cry. 😭
Fun fact: Rick Davies, from Supertramp, taught him to play drums and piano when they were in a college band together, called "Rick's Blues".
Eeh, never knew that!! Supertramp were my favourites, and I still have an incredible crush on Roger Hodgson..
@@KC-gy5xw Yeah, I'm a Supertramp fan myself.
Rick let it slip recently that a band needed an organist which, as a youngster, he didn't know how to play. So, he faked it.
Saddest song ever, but so good!
Such a sad yet beautiful song from Gilbert O'Sullivan. He was an amazing person & still is fortunately. His songs are really incredible. xx
I cry every time to this song... so deep.. relatable.. just beautiful.
Gilbert O’Sullivan had several big hits in the 70s. My Mum very much liked his unconventional songs. I think we watched this specific performance together. I was probably too young to fully understand what it meant (though I got the bit about the tower), but I'm sure she got it. Thanks for that trip back, and the simple pleasure of a kid sharing in his Mum music. Now she's gone I understand it better.
Best Wishes, Sir, for a Healthy, Happy, Peaceful 2024. ☮
I am 71, been listening to you for four years. Keep up the great work. Glad you like our generation's music.
I know people that have heard this song for 40 plus years and didn’t realize it was a song about someone contemplating suicide. They were fooled by the kind of upbeat sounding melody.
I love Gilbert O'Sullivans songs, they all tell a tale of life.
Gilbert O’Sullivan was a great composer that touched a lot of people’s hearts back then. This is one of those timeless songs you never forget.
Check out “Clair” from 1972 also.
“Claire” was just the opposite of “Alone Again (Naturally)”. It was a song about how enthralled and in love he was with his infant daughter.
Is....He is still with us🙏
@@melwhite4662 Claire is not his child but his then manager. They have a special bond not in a bad way
I'm just wondering, how old claire is today
@ebster5219 Clair was 3 in 1972. So she is the same age as me. 55 i'am 57
I remember when this topped the charts back in 72. I think it stayed at number one for a while, telling me it touched a lot of hearts. I don’t think I know anyone who hasn’t felt shattered at least once in their lives. I’m so glad this man’s music was part of my teenage years.
Lived in London when this came out…I was 11 …a classic! Musical arrangement and the simplest of piercing lyrics❤
Another great song along these lines is “All By Myself” by Eric Carmen. Eric wrote the song, he puts so much feeling into it. Thanks for this song, one of my favourites, love your reaction.
As a moody youngster, I adopted these two songs as my personal soundtrack. They summed up how I almost always felt.
Thank you for knowing it's Eric's song. So sad the top search results are for that other version.
This song is magnificent and Gilberts voice is completely adorable.
It’s a beautiful sad song that says so much. Thank you for promoting. I lost a friend who died too young.
Saddest song ever. But I saw an interview with him here on TH-cam that was eye opening. He was really young when he wrote it. Neither of his parents were gone yet, and no one left him at the alter! He was just a very expressive songwriter!
Yeah, this one and Roberta Flack's Killing me softly were the 2 I remember most around that time. Preferred Badfinger songs, but these were great, sad songs.
I so remember when this came out. Such a sad song.Broke my heart. It just did. Still does.
It’s so good you young folk are listening to our old music that was raw and pure
Man, this song always makes me cry like a little baby. I can never hold back the tears.
You’re not the only one brother.
This song was on the radio constantly when I was 10. Right after my parents divorced and my father moved away. It is forever emotionally connected to that time in my life.
I hope you came through it ok, Jim as it couldn't have been easy..
@Isleofskye thanks! Yes doing well 50 years later. But the song is still an emotional time machine
@@jimralston7562Well Done.
My Dad, actually died on the 11th April,1971 and I still miss him,nearly,53 years later..
This was such a big hit in its time. The jaunty melody belies its sad lyrics. Never get tired of hearing it.
Ive never heard that song in my life, what a lyrical masterpiece ❤
Despite the soothing music, this was one of the darkest songs released in the 1970s. Having survived my share of gut-punches (one a really close call), including having a pending marriage break up, this song STILL hits hard. As a twentysomething, I couldn't understand how someone could get to such a low place. But real life taught me exactly how. Thanks for the look back!
HUGS, JAMEL!!! :) Thanks for bein' a GOOD HUMAN!!
My mother loved this song... then she learned English. Her second fav song? Season In The Sun.
Oh cmon, seasons in the sun, ughhh.... one of the MOST beautiful songs when written
My mom loved both of those songs as well!
Just how I feel.fabulous song ❤❤❤
This song always makes me tear up.
61 yo here. I love that you not only give the music a fair listen but that you appreciate it and aren't afraid to share how you feel about it.
If always loved this song I remember buying the single. Can't listen to it without crying
What is SO sad is that so many people think they are so alone and think that the ONLY way is to leave the world behind. TALK to people, check your friends, check the person on a bridge on their own, show people that we care ❤❤❤❤
I'm another of the ones who tears up every time I hear this song. It was a hit when I was a young girl and the sentiment it carries was over my head at the time. My late mum loved it too.
I saw Gilbert at Gatwick airport a few years ago. (He wasn't alone, thankfully😊)
I'm so glad you are still doing music reactions. I'm a 66 year old white guy who would like to sit down with you and just talk about music and what it means to each other
I love this song ❤
Such a sad fantastically crafted song by Gilbert. Always brings a tear to my eyes , powerful piece of music
When I listen to this song, I can see each scenario....the tower, the church, broken hearts and death of two parents. It's like seeing a movie of what he is feeling. Such a soft and beautiful voice. Pure genius.
I am crying again as I hear the long time favorite . Beautiful song.
Remember this song from my childhood. When my dad did die, my memory came back to this song. Lyrical and expressive song.
Always know Jamel you and your lovely wife are deeply loved. Peace and Love from across the great water.
Very nice song to remember, takes me back to my home in Chile…..
This song 𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 me. Silly, but it just does. Kind of like "Eleanor Rigby," you know? "Talk about God and His mercy/If He really does exist/Why did He desert me?"
😭😭😭
Late to the party been busy , WOW ! Gilbert an old soul , again my childhood x
Thanks Jamel. Good to see you doing a music reaction. I went to see Gilbert o Sullivan in Concert last year. He still sounds as good as ever. I love his music and this is my favourite by him. I listened to it the day my own Mother died. You will have to listen to more of him. Thanks again.
Gosh I haven't heard this song in years. Thank you.
Sad as it is, it's one of my all-time favorites. Gut wrenching
This is the kind of song that snatches your soul on deep level
I've always liked the song but this is the first time I actually payed attention to the words, I had no idea what it was about until today. mind blown.
This song is filled with so much emotion can't help but feeling sad for him
I was 9 years old when this came out in 1972 (I am 60 now!). I remember it being on the radio and TOTP. O'Sullivan was a very talented singer and songwriter and had several big hits in the 70s. By the time you get to be our age, it hits home even more!
“Just be a good human” Amen my brother!👏🏽👏🏽👍🏽👍🏽
Gilbert O' Sullivan... one of the greatest!
I’ve always loved this song. Beautiful melody and a great arrangement with the strings, guitars, and flutes. The lyrics are so poignant and heartbreaking. I guess I was about 13 when this song came out, it was a difficult time in my life but this is the kind of song that makes you realize the need to keep your perspective. There truly is deep sadness in this world and we need to be able to exercise empathy and compassion.
This song makes me want to cry! Gilbert O’Sullivan was very popular when I was a kid. My brother bought the 45, “Get Down,” which is a much more upbeat song!
"Your a bad dog baby, but I still want you around" Love it!
That's Life all right... great song.
Its a deceptively catchy tune. I remember singing along to it in the 70s, mouthing the words, but because there was no internet, no easy way to actually read the lyrics and get the full impact of what he was singing. I remember saying, "oh its the sad sang", but at 65 like his mom in the song, I've now had my share of being "alone naturally". Sadly enough I lost my mother not too long after my father passed, and she was inconsolable. She died in my arms, and now I must carry on ... naturally. This song is a leading cause of "blurry screen", but a classic.
Beautiful choice, Good for you! gave me chills, and I am old. I'm cryimg.
This song kills me. He’s a great artist, incredible voice and songwriter. For something lighter, have a listen to Get Down, so cool! Love to you and your family Jamel.
I’m 57 years old and my eyes leak every time I hear this.
I think it also has the saddest guitar lick ever
Shout out to Big Jim Sullivan's guitar solo RIP.
This was massive back in the day. Different times.
Jamel you are a man of substance! I thought I would revisit this great song, written and performed by the equally great Irishman Gilbert O'Sullivan on this here New Years Night 2025. Then I saw this link for your "reaction" and I thank you for your depth of understanding brother! I have been humming it since 1971 so I thank you again.
A thing of beauty.
Gilbert O'Sullivan is an irish singer from County Waterford. Love it, thank you.
It was a huge hit when it came out, remember that every time I heard it on the radio I cried.
Heartbreakingly Beautiful...always have loved this one
Hadn't heard this song in so long. Beautiful ❤😢 Thank you
One of the most beautiful bridges ever written...so much emotionalism.
Truer today than when I was 10years old the song came out. Life is beautiful People and Brief. Love each other!
great, great song!!! so timeless...
Not sure the year this came out but I was in my later teens and I loved it so much and still do Onto my playlist forever
It’s a beautiful beautiful song I have always enjoyed it.
This is a wonderful song... another golden oldie!
When I was a kid there was not internet and TV stations would go off the air around midnight (and play the national anthem). So I used to leave the radio on as if fell asleep. This song was popular at the time and I thought it was one of the greatest song I ever heard even though it wasn't rock, rock N roll, blues, R&B... It was the lyrics.
Another one heard often. Doesn't get old. Meaningful.
Gilbert O'Sullivan is a fantastic songwriter who wrote many great songs, and he is brilliant live.
We seen this lovely man 3 weeks ago he's still brilliant warm friendly, he smashed it out the park. We loved it n life long dream to see him. Tick tick tick. Tick tick. Excellent. Never forget how funny he was too. Just like you see him on tv there he was right in front of us. I couldn't believe it best night.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃👌👍👌👍👌🩵👍👌👍👍👍👍
I remember this song as a kid back in the summer of 72 down in Cape Cod with family that are now gone ,,one if my favorites as well as best time of my life,now it really hits home
I was 10 when this track was released, and I remember feeling sad, listening to the lyrics - even though the melody was beautiful and soothing.
As the years fly by, and Life brings love and loss more into focus, every word in this song hits so much harder...
Poignant and poetic. A complete masterpiece. Always chokes me up a bit. Thanks for the reaction.
One of my all time favourite artists, seen him live twice he is amazing. ( I am 72 years old )
I so loved that song ..