I saw Stephen last week in Amsterdam. One of the best concerts I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been to a lot of shows big and small. He was fantastic. Met him after the show, he was incredibly genuine.
Just heard Stephen Wilson for the first time the other day when his live at the print shop concert dropped. I can’t remember the last time I was left in complete awe but this was one of those times. The live performance of ‘Holler in the Holler’ is unreal. And that distorted dropped classical guitar tone is so cool
To call yourself your father’s disciple might be the best thing I’ve ever heard. Also “I wear his blue jean jacket and his name like a badge of honor” hits so hard.
Turns out he was born in 79. I was born in 78. To say that "year to be young 1994" was identifiable would be an understatement. Incredible musician. He said John cougar mellencamp and Nirvana were an influence. My dad took me to my first concert 1987 to see mellencamp. And Nirvana was my teenage soundtrack.
I love that you break down the lyrics at the end to relate to your own personal experiences and share your personal thoughts on human nature. Been a fan of yours for a long time because of your guitar virtuosity but it’s nice to hear you analyze the lyrics and emotion of the song and hear your view as you feel them. Different from other commentary and analysis. Props to you and always enjoy the videos
From what I’ve read, it seems like Stephen wrote the album this song is a part of as a tribute to his late father. As someone who recently lost their old man, this album came at a good time. Music can be so therapeutic. Much love!
My name is Kenny and I just want to let you know.I've never subscribed and liked anybody's channel.In all the years, I've been.I'm watching guitar videos and believe me.I watch them all the time. I'm fifty three years old soon to be fifty four. I've been playing guitars since I was fifteen years old. And I'm still probably considered intermediate. But your soul and compassion and love for real genuine music came out very deeply in this segment of yours. Thankyou I can relate to you in some ways it seems. You're just better at guitar lol
Awesome, I just discovered Stephen Wilson Jr a few days ago and I’m absolutely loving him… this is one amazing artist with an amazing back story! I can’t stop listening to him
I don’t get how Stephen Wilson jr doesn’t have at leaste 1 million listeners on Spotify, he should be known worldwide as an incredible artist,musician and songwriter. He’s astonishingly talented it’s mind blowing really🤯
Michael, You’ve got to double down on Stephen and react to his Stand by Me cover. Also, side note. If anyone is trying to figure out why the melody sounds so familiar, it’s the exact same melody from the dueling guitar scene in August Rush, when Louis and August (unbeknownst father and son) meet for the first time.
Stephen's music is laden with musical Easter eggs -- your ear recognizes them even if you don't realize it. He was a true mad scientist in a former life, and I think he brought that into his music, mixing melodies like they're chemical compounds.
Big fan of Stephen Wilson jr and of your videos. What I love most is your honesty...the way you spoke at the end of this video and of the 'round here' cover you previously did really hit me. Keep up the great work. Big love x
I was recommended Stephen on Spotify a few months ago. I fell in love immediately. American Gothic was the first track i heard, and i was hooked. Twisted is another great one. Thanks for doing this one, Michael!
Great reaction again Michael! Always enjoy your "new to" vids. I was also one of the Stephen Wilson Jr requesters not on Guitargate but some of his other stuff is stellar. Appreciate you my brother.
Really appreciate your analysis at the end. This song is the difference between art and entertainment. Art catches us and forces us to reflect on who we are the world around us. It was cool watching your genuine reaction. ❤
So happy to see Stephen Wilson Jr getting the recognition he deserves. Seen him at King Tut's in Glasgow last month, truly exceptional talent. son of dad has got to be one of greatest debut albums of all times.
Beautiful reflections Michael, get that pretty deeply as a father reflecting on struggles with parenting, having to battle unconscious reactions that I learnt from my father. Bitter sweet.
In the over 4 decades I've been alive, This song is the only song that chokes me up every time I hear it and I've heard that many years worth of different artists in different genres do their thing. Amazing🙏 Watch his cover of "Something in the way." Never thought you could make that jam more wild and unique, but here we are with SWJ.
I think he sounds a lot like Travis Meadows and I love them both! My father has always been my hero and he succeeded in spite of his. He promised to not repeat his father's mistakes. I'm trying to parent in his foot steps.
Beautiful song, stumbled across SWJ last week. I had to purchase a classic guitar and learn it asap. I de tuned half set down and bottom E string in Dflat. Hope this helps anyone trying to learn it. ❤
Thank you so much for the comments. You opened my eyes to some things that have been on my mind and I didn’t realize it until hearing your thoughts. You have a fan! And btw Stephen Wilson Jr is amazing.
He's so good. Saw him live and it's killer. His entire album is SO SO good. Can't wait to catch him Dec 4th in Nashville. I heard he may be doing a rig rundown.
I heard Steven Wilson Jr. "Stand by me" last night at 3am when I couldn't sleep. I haven't stopped playing his music since and it's 3 in the afternoon!
I was just commenting on his video the tone from this guitar is absolutely breathing fire and now I understand why; the drop C# open, of course. I’ve only seen metal guys and Tool use this.
Obsessed with SWJ since first finding him last week 👍🏻 His singing reminds me of Springsteen/Chris Stapleton/Nathanial Rateliff = it is arresting, familiar, heartfelt 👏🏻👏🏻
Growing up without a dad has its disadvantages, but I will say that the only gift my father ever gave me was leaving and staying gone. I didn't have his horrible example of how to be a human being as my standard. Great song great performance.
I was there too. I first saw him in Louisville in September '23 before his album released and have been waiting to see him in a full set all year. Hell of a show. Vocally, I think he is up there with Staley and Cornel.
His beat up '70s guitar is gut string and goes with him everywhere. Including in the studio for such an incredible sound. If you haven't watched it, check out his appearance on The Print Shop. Great interview, deep and personal....plus a fantastic performance. Welcome to the fan club!
Cool. Channel and therapy .... But curious what type of gear is Stephen Wilson Jr. Using besides an acoustic and nylon strings ? Amp , mic , guitar effects . Thanks man
From his website - "Stephen Wilson Jr. is a singer/songwriter from rural Southern Indiana. Self-described as “Death Cab For Country,” Stephen Wilson Jr. draws upon indie rock, grunge and country to create a distinct sound that is influenced by artists as diverse as The National, Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp and Nirvana." To me he sounds a bit like Eddie Vedder.
U need to listen to" Stephen Wilson's - Stand By Me"!
yup
💯
Agreed
Exactly what I came to say!!!!
100% 💥
"I'm a song" is another unreal track from Wilson Jnr
th-cam.com/video/jFMJat9OJOw/w-d-xo.html&si=NVPhwSPtzVg4B4l_
Love that song too.
His best so far…
DEEP DIVE on Stephen Wilson Jr!! His whole album is FIRE!!!!
Stephen Wilson Jr deserves the explosive popularity hes soon to receive. His music doesnt just sound good. It touches the soul
Yeah just found him today telling anyone who will listen
I saw Stephen last week in Amsterdam. One of the best concerts I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been to a lot of shows big and small. He was fantastic. Met him after the show, he was incredibly genuine.
Fancy seeing you here 😮It’s a very small world. Was a great gig that night.
Just heard Stephen Wilson for the first time the other day when his live at the print shop concert dropped. I can’t remember the last time I was left in complete awe but this was one of those times. The live performance of ‘Holler in the Holler’ is unreal. And that distorted dropped classical guitar tone is so cool
His vocal projection is killer
His tone is fucking insane. I wish I knew enough to understand what elements there are to it.
To call yourself your father’s disciple might be the best thing I’ve ever heard. Also “I wear his blue jean jacket and his name like a badge of honor” hits so hard.
Stephen is great! Check out his live performances of his song Year To Be Young 1994.
Right on!!
Turns out he was born in 79. I was born in 78. To say that "year to be young 1994" was identifiable would be an understatement. Incredible musician. He said John cougar mellencamp and Nirvana were an influence. My dad took me to my first concert 1987 to see mellencamp. And Nirvana was my teenage soundtrack.
Absolutely loved this video! Real dude with real feelings. Peace and love to your family from Ireland 🇮🇪
So stoked to see Stephen Wilson on your channel!! this guy is fire!!!
When I saw I’m a song the other day by Stephen jr, really blew my mind.
Put me into tears and was completely shocked by it.
I love that you break down the lyrics at the end to relate to your own personal experiences and share your personal thoughts on human nature. Been a fan of yours for a long time because of your guitar virtuosity but it’s nice to hear you analyze the lyrics and emotion of the song and hear your view as you feel them. Different from other commentary and analysis. Props to you and always enjoy the videos
From what I’ve read, it seems like Stephen wrote the album this song is a part of as a tribute to his late father. As someone who recently lost their old man, this album came at a good time. Music can be so therapeutic. Much love!
Watch the full podcast Live at the Printshop, great story
My name is Kenny and I just want to let you know.I've never subscribed and liked anybody's channel.In all the years, I've been.I'm watching guitar videos and believe me.I watch them all the time. I'm fifty three years old soon to be fifty four. I've been playing guitars since I was fifteen years old. And I'm still probably considered intermediate. But your soul and compassion and love for real genuine music came out very deeply in this segment of yours. Thankyou I can relate to you in some ways it seems. You're just better at guitar lol
Awesome, I just discovered Stephen Wilson Jr a few days ago and I’m absolutely loving him… this is one amazing artist with an amazing back story! I can’t stop listening to him
We took our family 10/6 year olds to his show. It will blow you away. Amazing show. The sounds he gets out of the guitar is a work of art 😊
I don’t get how Stephen Wilson jr doesn’t have at leaste 1 million listeners on Spotify, he should be known worldwide as an incredible artist,musician and songwriter. He’s astonishingly talented it’s mind blowing really🤯
And I know that listeners on Spotify doesn’t matter or define one as an artist but still he should have millions of monthly listeners
Unbelievable , raw emotions , I love this track, been on repeat , great channel , great review
Michael, You’ve got to double down on Stephen and react to his Stand by Me cover.
Also, side note. If anyone is trying to figure out why the melody sounds so familiar, it’s the exact same melody from the dueling guitar scene in August Rush, when Louis and August (unbeknownst father and son) meet for the first time.
Stephen's music is laden with musical Easter eggs -- your ear recognizes them even if you don't realize it. He was a true mad scientist in a former life, and I think he brought that into his music, mixing melodies like they're chemical compounds.
That's awesome thanks for pointing that out I love that movie!
I totally meant to put Stephen Wilson's version of Stand by me and copied the wrong link. BUT... I do love this song too, its a close second.
1000%
Haha good news is that he'll definitely have to do the other sometime soon
He's the real deal.. I saw him in Cleveland earlier this year.. Spectacular show
Where was it? The Agora?
Jacob's Pavillion
@stevegatesrealtor
If you're in Cleveland, he's playing in Lansng, MI, in March..
Wow, that was so good. Another one I would have never heard without this channel. Thanks Michael
Big fan of Stephen Wilson jr and of your videos. What I love most is your honesty...the way you spoke at the end of this video and of the 'round here' cover you previously did really hit me. Keep up the great work. Big love x
Recently discovered Stephen…best new music I’ve heard in years! So awesome!
I was recommended Stephen on Spotify a few months ago. I fell in love immediately. American Gothic was the first track i heard, and i was hooked. Twisted is another great one.
Thanks for doing this one, Michael!
Great reaction again Michael! Always enjoy your "new to" vids. I was also one of the Stephen Wilson Jr requesters not on Guitargate but some of his other stuff is stellar. Appreciate you my brother.
Travis Meadows mentioned Stephen Wilson Jr. when you interviewed him 2 years ago. Been listening ever since.
This!
Thats cool because I was thinking this guy is giving of serious Travis Meadows vibes....
Really appreciate your analysis at the end. This song is the difference between art and entertainment. Art catches us and forces us to reflect on who we are the world around us. It was cool watching your genuine reaction. ❤
Seen him twice this year. Have tickets to a show in the spring as well. So good live.
So happy to see Stephen Wilson Jr getting the recognition he deserves. Seen him at King Tut's in Glasgow last month, truly exceptional talent. son of dad has got to be one of greatest debut albums of all times.
He’s an amazing guitar player and storyteller
i wasnt expecting a life lesson from you. Well said, and you got the song, like many of us have.
This was an insightful look into the song and everything it touches upon. Thanks
I would love to see you go over his song “I’m A Song” which he played live at the print shop. Really special song!
Absolutely.. I've been bawling for over an hour on the rabbit hole!
Tnx,to you....Mr. Palmisano,.......I'd never would have seen/heard this without your post,,,,,,,,,,,,pat& family,,,,land o' lakes,wi.
Stephen is my absolute favorite artist I’ve discovered this year. He’s on repeat in my house.
I'm 50yo and been playing guitar for 40 years and watched hundreds of artists during and this is simply special - unique, solid and profound.
Beautiful reflections Michael, get that pretty deeply as a father reflecting on struggles with parenting, having to battle unconscious reactions that I learnt from my father. Bitter sweet.
You gottta do his stand by me cover. Such a fresh and beautiful take on a timeless classic.
In the over 4 decades I've been alive, This song is the only song that chokes me up every time I hear it and I've heard that many years worth of different artists in different genres do their thing.
Amazing🙏
Watch his cover of "Something in the way." Never thought you could make that jam more wild and unique, but here we are with SWJ.
I think he sounds a lot like Travis Meadows and I love them both! My father has always been my hero and he succeeded in spite of his. He promised to not repeat his father's mistakes. I'm trying to parent in his foot steps.
This!
I saw him live in June and was probably one of the best shows I have ever seen. It was him and his pedal steel player. Unbelieveable!!!!
I recommended this the day it came out. So glad you ended up shining a spotlight on this songwriter masterpiece!
Thanks, for picking this one, Michael! I've listed to this song a dozen times this week. So good. 🙏
the second i heard this song i knew you were gonna love it. i had never heard stephen wilson jr. before, but holy smokes that voice.
This is one of my favorite songs ive reacted to in a long time. This and Stand by Me cover
Wow got right into this one, goose bumps all over thanks man I needed this today.
I was lucky enough to see him at Mercury Lounge in NYC earlier this year. So powerful and amazing live and def my album of the year.
Beautiful song, stumbled across SWJ last week. I had to purchase a classic guitar and learn it asap. I de tuned half set down and bottom E string in Dflat. Hope this helps anyone trying to learn it. ❤
Thank you so much for the comments. You opened my eyes to some things that have been on my mind and I didn’t realize it until hearing your thoughts. You have a fan! And btw Stephen Wilson Jr is amazing.
He's so good. Saw him live and it's killer. His entire album is SO SO good. Can't wait to catch him Dec 4th in Nashville. I heard he may be doing a rig rundown.
"Every tree doesn't fall far from the apple..." I love that switch up to be more poignantand match the rhyme
‘I am a song’ is my favorite SWJ song❤️😎
I heard Steven Wilson Jr. "Stand by me" last night at 3am when I couldn't sleep. I haven't stopped playing his music since and it's 3 in the afternoon!
Haha! Exactly how I found him and doing the same. Can't get enough of his music right now.
Nylon strings with reverb - my god that intro is beautiful
Thanks for bringing this to my attention. This is deep roots music.
Thank you...Thank you...Thank you
Great message at the end of this video, thanks. 🥲
Stephen Wilson Junior is developing into a Phenomenal Artist. 🙏❤️💯
Once again amazed. Love the channel
I was just commenting on his video the tone from this guitar is absolutely breathing fire and now I understand why; the drop C# open, of course. I’ve only seen metal guys and Tool use this.
Springsteen meets Cornell?
Nelson Meets Vedder
@@LifeOfKirbs when I heard the Stand by Me cover I thought it was Lukas Nelson at first
Cornell and vedder 10:06
@@LifeOfKirbsI’d say Chris Stapleton and Eddie vedder
First time hearing this and really loved it
Obsessed with SWJ since first finding him last week 👍🏻
His singing reminds me of Springsteen/Chris Stapleton/Nathanial Rateliff = it is arresting, familiar, heartfelt 👏🏻👏🏻
Growing up without a dad has its disadvantages, but I will say that the only gift my father ever gave me was leaving and staying gone. I didn't have his horrible example of how to be a human being as my standard. Great song great performance.
DUUUUUUDEEEE! I just discoverd this song last night! NO WAY!!! YESSSSS!!!!
Honestly those boys play that thing so damn well, it's unreal
This track hooked me into him too!
That stand by me cover is phenomenal
The whole album is brilliant.
Just saw him live in Atlanta and it was an emotional experience. SWJ is the real fucking deal.
I was there too. I first saw him in Louisville in September '23 before his album released and have been waiting to see him in a full set all year. Hell of a show. Vocally, I think he is up there with Staley and Cornel.
It sounds like they added a bit of overdrive when they play the power chord rake section along that deep C note he's playing
Love this! To answer your question about who he sounds like, it’s Eddie Vedder in the 90s :)
5:22 I don’t think I’ve ever seen the professor go awestruck on us
Your reaction when he started singing is priceless
stand by me is one of his incredible covers
Came here to tell you about this guy. Already beat me to it!
i think his closed-mouthedness is reminding you of Chris Cornell
Definitely
Hits me more like Springsteen’s vibe…
@@iancolelear 100% NAILED IT
He's also from Indiana. Same town as John cougar mellencamp. Who he says is an influence along with nirvana. Definitely some Springsteen in there too
@@iancolelearI think so too which is weird because I don’t enjoy Bruce nearly this much
His album son of dad is incredible, 22 songs and they are all so good. The song Werewolf gives me chills, honestly every song is just so good. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Fun fact... SWJ is from Seymour, Indiana. The same hometown of one John Cougar Mellencamp.
This album was the album of the year in 2023 IMO.
He sounds like Travis Meadows...he actually wrote Cuckoo with Travis..the whole album is amazing
Yup
His beat up '70s guitar is gut string and goes with him everywhere. Including in the studio for such an incredible sound. If you haven't watched it, check out his appearance on The Print Shop. Great interview, deep and personal....plus a fantastic performance. Welcome to the fan club!
And this...mind blowing th-cam.com/video/cBfslu166Zo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=EA3-oX4pHuHb7881
Lost my old dad this year. 🥀
This song just hits home.
Just heard his stand by me cover, damn. Dude is good
The first guy singing sounds like Bruce Springsteen as far as not opening his mouth. Love his voice as well.
His voice reminds me of Eddie Vedder and Chris Stapleton blended up. Sounds amazing. He's a lyrical genius and a Once in a lifetime artist.
Eddie Vedder sucks dude he cant articulate words f that clown
Comes from the jaw. And the heart.
Cool. Channel and therapy .... But curious what type of gear is Stephen Wilson Jr. Using besides an acoustic and nylon strings ? Amp , mic , guitar effects . Thanks man
Well said at the end of the video! We are who we are.
Listen to his cover! Stand by me
Also, the rolling classical guit and the syncopations bring flavors of Willie too...
There are parts of his voice that remind me of David Ramirez. Love it!
From his website -
"Stephen Wilson Jr. is a singer/songwriter from rural Southern Indiana. Self-described as “Death Cab For Country,” Stephen Wilson Jr. draws upon indie rock, grunge and country to create a distinct sound that is influenced by artists as diverse as The National, Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp and Nirvana."
To me he sounds a bit like Eddie Vedder.
Unique, great timbre, I can't understand a lot of his words....and it's still great! Beautiful guitar work.
A year to be young 1994, Kid, and The devil are my favorites
bro that orange PRS is beautiful
Noah Rinker "Save my soul" Best song I've heard in years
Damn...this song hit me hard... Stephen Dear Jr and proud of it...
Stephen Wilson Jr.s entire album is fire! Such a great new musican and writer.
This version w Hardy is hopefully expanding SWJs exposure.
Fantastic musician indeed. New to some but not all. He was in a successful band named autovaughn. They used to tour with cage the elephant.
Kid by Stephen Wilson Jr is probably his best song. Hits deep
The way Stephen gates his voice, it reminds me of vedder at times