In 1985, I was 11 years old and obsessed with pop music. I listened to Casey Kasem's Top 40 religiously every Sunday and wrote down the top 10 in my diary. "Shout" was my favorite song that summer as it climbed the charts, so those 3 weeks it spent at #1 were very memorable. I was an only child living in an unhealthy emotional environment, spending yet another long, hot summer with my stereo and stacks of library books. The song's success - especially that August - felt like a personal victory for me. Plus, it's just a banger!
We all went through those Tough times in the 80s… But we had The Best Music streaming from the radio and smoothing things for us … and somehow we managed!
Might be a better summer than you know;books,music, and time to peruse them. I'd take that in a NY minute. Not minimizing your pain, but take some comfort in the positive aspect!
My daughter was 1 1/2 and very precocious! She was already talking. I remember her in her car seat in the back seat as I drove. She loved this song! And she sang along. "Shout, shout, get it all out! These are the things I can do without. Come on I'm kalking to you" I remember her saying kalking instead of talking. Anyhow, she and I had fun bellowing out that song and I loved hearing her singing it
I may have told this story here before but it's worth mentioning in this video. I won a subscription drive signing up new customers for my newspaper route at 15 years old and the grand prize was two tickets to see Tears For Fears at the New Haven coliseum. It was my first concert ever and after all my hard work my father couldn't say no. What a great show and among the last for that venue.... ✌️❤️ Your show rocks!! 🤟😎
Yesterday went to their concert with my 17 year old daughter here in Vancouver … IT WAS A BLAST!! Both of us were literally Head Over Heels..Roland and Kurt made us Shout … and like Everybody in the arena felt we wanted to Rule the World!! THANK YOU TFF!!!
I WAS THERE. It was amazing! I was sad they didn't put their faces on the big screen though so the rest of us could see them. But they sounded PERFECT.
This album has a special place in my heart. My father was an audiophile and music fan who had worked in the industry and owned a vintage high-quality stereo system that I wasn't allowed to touch (Macintosh, Thoren, Teaac). Speakers that were part of the furniture and a vinyl, reel to reel and 8-track music collection that included everything from the Moody blues, to Dave Brubeck, to the Dubliners, and Herbie Hancock. He was also a car guy and had owned several classic and interesting cars throughout the years that I wasn't allowed to drive. I knew my father loved me, but he was a reserved man and so we didn't communicate much. I gave him this album on cassette because I thought he might like it and I hoped it would foster a shared interest despite the generational difference. Years went by and I didn't hear anything about it. He died when I was 32. One night after his passing while visiting my mom I went and sat in his 86 Corvette, fired up the engine, the digital gauges lit up and Songs From the Big Chair was in the tape deck. I broke down immediately. I drove around my childhood stomping grounds listening and crying. This album represents a connection I had with my father that I didn't realize I had until it was too late.
While your father may have been uncomfortable being close and having good communication with you while he was alive, he came through loud and clear from the other side. I'm not being trite--"better late than never" can certainly be true. I don't believe in coincidences so I'm sure he wanted you to know the two of you were still connected, even after death.
That is an awesome story! Music is the Great Communicator. Luckily, one of me and my kid's greatest sources of conversation (trading groups/songs we've discovered)!
I can relate...my father and I had a difficult relationship, but he gave me Songs From the Big Chair on cassette when I was 12 and made me a Tears For Fears fan, which is the greatest source of joy I have in my life.
To me, this song defines the 80s... And TFF is still relevant today! The Tipping Point is excellent and would've charted well back in the day... Amazing, their voices are almost interchangeable!
I was in the military, and traveled all over the world, late 80’s-mid 90’s. No matter where I was, when Shout was played, everyone sang along. Good times.
This was my first concert, Songs From the Big Chair in 1987 at BYU Marriott Center. Everything you’ve said about TFF is spot on for me! Although my fave TFF song is Pale Shelter.
This duo is practically synonymous with the 80s! So many great hits that helped define the decade! Just so much seemed to go great with these songs despite some setbacks.
It was the beginning of the end. Starting with the late 50's/60's to the ninties. The music now sucks, the muses ( so many) have left the planet. Now its style (styless), autotune and no soul or creative grind. People today have no idea what they missed and continue missing. I'm glad i came of age in the 60's and turned off my stereo in the new decade 2000 on. At least i have my records and tapes to augment my memories!
Love love love TFF! Everybody wants to rule the World is my all time favourite song, but so many great songs. Big Chair still sounds amazing today. Great to have them back last year with The Tipping Point which is brilliant. Something magical happens when Curt & Roland get together. ❤
I was in high school during "Songs From The Big Chair" and that tour was one of my first concerts. Unlike Duran Duran (who I also loved) who were pin-up rock stars, TFF was truly appreciated for their talent. The music still holds up today. ❤
I started watching your channel 4 years ago. It always amazed me how the quality and consistency of your videos weren't matched by your subs or views. Didn't know I was at the start of your journey here. Even though I'm subscribed I haven't been served much of your stuff. Came back today and wow - congrats on your graft! Incredible to see how your channel has exploded. Congrats and keep it up!
Great story, and timely for me! Going to see them live tonight (July 24) at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. Should have done this 40 years ago when I first heard them and became a fan. Big plus is I am going tonight with my kids so we can share the musical magic their "old dad" has been raging about for so long - together! Can't wait!
absolutely loved sowing the seeds. it only takes someone mentioning the song and I get goosebumps. Shout is a song I've heard waaaaay to much but strangely enough still love it!
This is why I love your work, Adam. You put so much love and passion into telling the stories of the songs, artists and albums. TFF are one of my favourite bands, and helped me through some dark times. Durdle Door is an amazing place to visit. I found your channel during lockdown. Ironic that an American does the best bloody documentaries on British bands. Keep on rockin' Professor of Rock! Love from England!
Just saw them about 10 days ago in STL! My first time seeing them and their voices still sound AMAZING. Their new album The Tipping Point is up there in my top three TFF albums. Such a great show and this song brought the house down.
The way they redefine their music on every album is remarkable. TFF is the epitome of what makes great musicians. They are in my opinion one of the greatest bands of all time and 100% deserve to be in the Hall.
I love this channel. I love the in depth information about the band, singers, producers, and the making of the songs. With TFF, they were an inaugural part of my teen years and I will forever adore TFF.
I was in college when I first heard TFF. I remember Shout and Head Over Heels being in heavy rotation on MTV, back when they actually played music. They were a big part of the soundtrack of those very formative years as an emerging adult. Love them so much! During the pandemic, Curt Smith and his daughter released some duet videos on UA-cam. Curt sounds as amazing as ever, and it is easy to see with his daughter that the Apple didn’t fall far from the tree. I’ll have to check out TFF’s new album.
TFF embodied everything I liked about modern rock: intelligent lyrics, smart songs with interesting changes, accessible melodies and moody diversity. They’ve always been one of my favorites. I got to see them live for the first time last year and it was simply magical.
TFF Have the ability to write songs that after the first listen I say “This song will be on many of my mix tapes”. Roland has such a huge powerful voice which blends perfectly with Curt’s softer vocals and affords them the ability to write songs to suit each of their talents and when they sing together in unison or harmony they become the perfect voice for each song. Also Roland is a brilliant guitarist. His solo in Everybody Wants To Change The World is by far my favorite of his and I include him with other guitar Gods because he deserves the accolades. You do not need to be a shredder on the guitar to belong to that small club of Guitarist’s that have influenced many players, myself included. Thank you Professor for your insight, your choices to spotlight, and the overall well edited episodes I have seen. Keep doing what you’re doing. Your passion is infectious. Sincerely, Todd Eagle Guitarist/Forklift Driver
I just saw Tears for Fears last week and they were amazing. When they finally busted out "Shout" it was an incredible experience to hear live. It's really interesting to hear the history of this song - and it makes a lot of sense.
I love Tears for Fears. Songs from the Big Chair was my first Tears for Fears album. I had Songs from the Big Chair and The Hurting on cassette tape. And played them over and over again till I wore out the tape. Tears for Fears helped define the 80's. Such great memories. Thank you.
This is one of those albums that I can sing word for word, front to back. Every single song was amazing. All of them evoke memories of pool parties with my friends in the summer before we started high-school. I love all of them but the one that just edges out the rest is The Working Hour. I never get tired of that sax intro😊🎧🎶❤
The Working Hour is simply a marvel of humankind. When they rescued it for that Spotify Landmark live session some years ago it was just mesmerizing...! They absolutely nailed it!
"One of the best albums of all time"- I completely agree with this. To this day, that album is always on my playlist. The depth of the songs and richness of the recording are truly outstanding. SO glad I saw these guys recently because they still sound fantastic! SHOUT out to TFF.
TFF is a band that seldom gets the credit they deserve for their musical mastery AND lyrical genuis...and I do not say that just for this video. Their sense of melody , cool changes and top notch musicianship along with meaningful lyrics just seriously put them way up there in the overall talent dept. Their entire catalog is excellent and STILL holds up to those very moment !!!!
I have always found that when other bands try to cover and reimagine their tunes your points about the makeup of their music gets lost on the other musicians and bands. As nice as the song was it Gary Jules's version of "Mad World" comes across hollow and I always feel frustratingly sorry for the younger folks who prefer that cover over the original. Everyone has their own tastes in music, so who am I to criticize? Still, it seems the potency of what TFF created deserves more respect.
When I was 14 I called my local Fargo radio station to request "Tears for Fears Shout" - the DJ must have stopped listening after 'Tears for Fears' because 30 minutes later he said "This goes out to Matt" and played "Everybody Wants to Rule the World." Also a great song, but it made me want to... shout. Thanks for covering!
@@ProfessorofRock Haha. "Hold Me Now - Thompson Twins?" (I put the song first - going out to Matt in Minneapolis. Not sure if you've done it - love the channel!
They Are a refined explanation for chaos that captured social strife in a means that fully captures the heart of any romantic in personal subterfuge. Loved them when no one knew them. And when they became big they developed so many layered intrinsic chord variations with lyrics that would make Aesop smile. So it's high time for us to sit and listen to the band with incredible wit!!!!!
Tears for Fears made some of the most memorable, singable songs in the 80's and beyond. The chemistry between Roland and Curt is so good, they made (and still make) songs that have a distinct sound heard as Tears for Fears. The fact that Roland and Curt are very good vocalists in their own right, makes it worth, and a pleasure to listen to their albums, especially their earlier albums. I never get tired listening to Songs from the big chair album on CD, (i have 3 copies, one is a remastered version) Spotify etc. It's July 25, 2023 and i (and millions of fans) still love 'em! Long live Curt Smith and Roland Orzabal, and Tears For Fears!
They are definitely in a league of their own! Above & Beyond and my favorite band next to Yes! We just saw them in St. Louis, Mo. for The Tipping Point Tour part two, and last summer at Tinley Park for The Tipping Point Tour part one. They were sensational in Chicago, and even more sensational in St. Louis! This band cannot be touched because they play, write, and sing from their channeled hearts! I love them so much! ♥️♥️♥️ Thank you for the video!!
Songs From The Big Chair is one of my favorite albums and has been since its release. I purchased it on cassette and nearly wore it out. Just an overall phenomenal record which I never skip a song. And I love that you included other LPs, especially The Tipping Point. That is just an incredible album. Very dark but so introspective with incredible writing. I think it is the groups most personal album since The Hurting. You can never go wrong with a Tears for Fears release. An incredibly solid band with so much talent that each release can be different than the previous.
The guy who introduced me to TFF called them "the most mature and functionally adult music ever made." Their songs got me through a divorce and adjustment to single life and, dare I say it, personal healing, that I experienced in the late 80s. Then 30+ years later, Tipping Point got me through recovery from covid. I listen to them frequently and always feel a bit better when I do.
If you lose all that excess weight and become healthy (eat a better diet, exercise, get enough vitamin D), then a cold or flu won’t be such a big deal, lady.
TFF is such a part of my high school memories. Songs that just spoke to my tortured teenaged soul. My boyfriend went to the Air Force Academy after graduation and our hearts were broken to have to be separated. During his boot camp he wrote the lyrics to The Hurting and others and sent them to me in a love letter to express his feelings. Poetry that helped a teenage boy express his love and depression to his girl many miles away.
Thank you for highlighting the magnificent Tears For Fears! They are currently on tour in the US (Summer 2023). They are phenomenal live, coming to an arena near you!
They are probably the best live act I’ve ever seen. I’ve been a fan since I was 12… just saw them on your last year, 38 years after I first saw them, and they were better than ever! True musicians!
You can’t talk about music from the 80s without taking about them… definitely some of my favorite music from that time. So many memories of my teen years revolve around this music and I was a metal head. Awesome music to this day
Just saw these guys perform at the end of june. Truely remarkable and still sound incredible. They signed everything i had for them. Songs from the big chair doesnt have 1 bad note, with arguably one of the best guitar solos ever on everybody rules the world... but whe. I told Roland that Elemental was my personal favourite his reaction was very positive.
Just saw them in concert last week! They sounded as good as in the 80’s. Great concert and so so glad I got to hear all these great songs live again! Your right the new album is a great one! Great that my son has found them and loves them too!
The Beatles with synths is a pretty good way to describe this band. Tears For Fears were fabulous. I was so blown away by their music. I was just a few years into my University studies and this band really molded and matured my music listening and it was cool watching their music evolve much like the Beatles music had. "Sowing The Seeds Of Love" is as you say so very Beatlesque. Clever story behind the lyrics. SFTBC is one of my favorite albums of all time and this band is in my Top 10. I'm so happy they got back together. Cheers from Ottawa, Canada🍁
TFF are massively underrated! Big Chair is a masterpiece but so is the Seeds of Love! The new album is brilliant also. Saw them live last year and they still have it!
@@AF-dn2bz why would you not be supposed to say that? Don’t apologize for your opinion! 👍🏼 I can see it being a low energy album, it was recorded after the death of Roland’s wife to alcoholism. So, I think the fact that they even had the energy to push forward in life and make new art says a lot. Have you listened to their cover songs they did a few years ago? There are some interesting performances. Also, if energy is your thing, check out their first band Graduate. Which is super poppy British rock with ska tinged influences.
Neil Taylor, guitarist who plays iconic solo right at the end of EWTRTW, is producing my album right at this moment. He was around and playing live with TFF during this period. He would be great to interview if you are interested Prof.
They are my life band from the very beginning! They play my life jams that never disappoint. I can’t wait to see their concert this Saturday!! Thanks for the great show, Professor!!!
"Big Chair" has such a high standard of quality. Smooth yet tense. Supremely melodic. And especially lyrics that would resonate with just about everyone in this world.
Don't want to hurt any Curt fans but, I absolutely love Elemental along with Raoul and the Kings of Spain. Both are brilliant albums worthy of the TFF name. Roland really made some great music with those showing himself to be a brilliant stand alone artist.
Both of those albums are amazing and absolutely have a different vibe. Rolando is intense so those albums are intense, Curt brings a calming presence to the duo so Curt brings balance which makes their music amazing together.
When people ask me what my favorite band is TFF is always tied in first. They’re absolutely my favorite 80’s band. They’re songs are timeless, and have been loved by generations of music lovers. Tipping Point has become one of my all time favorite albums. I remember listening to Shout in 6th grade and it was an instant favorite. I can’t listen to their music without tears in my eyes. There are so many memories (good and bad) attached to their music for me.
Man I love this history and story. Explains so well exactly why those of us with the heavy, overwhelming past and growing up why we automatically feel the deepest emotions whenever we hear and listen to the song. Even if we've struggled to hear the lyrics beyond the chorus - its the energy, emotions and projection that brings out our most deep and primal cries of expression and releasing of so much pain we've endured. And for some of us, likely guys, also brings out a really strong, somewhat aggressive power with a little angry determination of either vengeance, or in my personal case, a aggression that shows and proves even through it all, we have and will continue to power through and never waiver of buckle in.
This song! After all these years, and the countless times I've heard Shout, it still ranks up there as one of the very best. There are only a handful of songs I refuse to cut off before they end (if I'm in the car or something like that) and this is always one of them. The guitar solo at the end pushes the song into overdrive (as if it needed it!) and yet, that power chord at the end that just rings out far and wide...it's just like this whole song, really. Perfection. A gem of a song and a gem of an album. A thousand years from now, they will most definitely still be playing this one. @ProfessorofRock you are 100% right about that.
@@ProfessorofRock They played several from the Tipping Point album. They played pretty much all of their big hits. "Shout" was the last song they played at the encore. To be honest, my favorite song during the show was "Woman In Chains". The female singer and Roland were both phenomenal for that song. But I was pleasantly surprised at how good they still sound live.
TFF was part of my teen years as a gen X. They are touring again with a new album, and I’m so excited to see them for the first time in concert on Thursday.
"So sad they had to fade it" Reminds me of this Billy Joel lyric: It was a beautiful song But it ran too long If you're gonna have a hit You gotta make it fit So they cut it down to 3:05
The Hurting is brilliant. I'm a big TFF fan too. This issue falls into the category of those (me included) who say Off The Wall was better than Thriller or Ghost in the Machine was better than Synchronicity. Cheers
You are right, the tipping point is fantastic one of my favorite albums of last year. Really hoping these guys stick together and give us more new music while they still can. every album as a gift..
Tears for Fears was and still is my favorite group. I was a Junior in high school when this album came out and I got it for my 16th birthday. Hearing these songs again brings back great memories.
Back in the day I read they worked on Shout for around 6 weeks straight. The arrangement has some pretty awesome dynamics. The lead guitar is epic and an anthem on its own. Brilliant song.
I perform Everybody Wants to Rule The World 5-6 times a week and have done for the best part of 40 years. The joy that it gives me every time that I sing and play it is reflected by the joyous response of my audience. Thank you TFF
I have seen Don Henley in concert at two different venues near where the video Everybody Wants To Rule the World was filmed. He said, “You cannot have a concert here in the desert without playing this song. Then he played a fantastic version of Everybody Wants To Rule the World.
Just saw them in concert on 7/29! They were amazing!! It was the first time losing my voice at a concert in decades. I knew every single song they sang and was singing right along with them. HIGHLY recommend their new album, The Tipping Point. It's great!!
Probably my second favorite band. Four albums in a row starting with Songs from the Big Chair where I never feel an urge to skip a single song. Curt wasn't involved in part of it, but so glad they got back together and have seen them live twice since.
Shout and Everybody WTRTW are definitely quintessential mid 80s. They take me right back to my college days/nights when they were playing constantly. I always think of my college bestie who loved to change lyrics to fit the situation. Everybody Wants to (fill in the blank). Her favorite was Everybody wants to fool around....
Same, this was on the soundtrack to my college days. In advertising class, I wrote a commercial "Shout, Shout, gets it all out. These are the stains we can do without" 😅
When I was in high school, I wrote a short story for my English class. It had something to do with Roland and Curt asking everyone in a big stadium to name all the things we can do without... After hours and no ceasing of the roar of the crowd, they left the arena shaking their heads. My teacher gave me a C (which - I NEVER got Cs in English - ever.) I went to talk with her about it - and she said "Um, I gave this to the other English teacher. She said she'd have graded it the same..." Now, THAT was something I could have done without :)
I remember when Songs From The Big Chair was released! EVERYONE had that album and it wasn’t just for a specific generation, most people I knew listened and sang along to the whole album. This album deserves to be in the Hall Of Fame for sure ❤
Truly an under appreciated band (EDIT: at least by MY co-workers, church group, close friends, and MY family, lol(I added this edit because apparently no one read my entire comment and decided to read one sentence and go all woke on me, laughable). They were so much more than a 2-3 hit 80s pop duo/band. They are a seriously deep, intelligent and thought provoking force. Real musicians and music buffs appreciate them in a much more cephalic way.
I don’t think they were “under appreciated”, as such, certainly not their first three albums. I remember critics being very enamoured with them, as were the paying punters. I thought Elemental was okay, but a lot of great stuff came out at the same time.
They were never underrated they were rightly very popular. I see many comments like this that state a band was "underrated" that is because many of the people were not around at the time.
Tears For Fears has never been under appreciated. In fact, few music acts leave fans thirsty and wanting more, Tears For Fears is one of them. TFF are perfectionists and only put out records when they feel it is top quality. That explains why their discography is small. The Seeds of Love and Elemental got really good buzz and appreciation.
@@alwaysemployed656 You missed my entire point. We all appreciate them, but the regular public only knows them for a few hits in the 80s. I talk about them a lot to friends, family, and even people I don’t know, and the vast majority think of them as 80s only. In a way, you made my point, but just wanted to be argumentative. They were apart for 20 years, but “we” (music lovers and industry) had tons of music to enjoy during that time, and new stuff when they stopped feuding.
@@TheRoadDawg You are confusing NOT BEING SEEN or HEARD FROM with being UNDDERATED. It's safe to say that not one person has ever said they don't like any of the classic 80's TFF chart songs. The same can be said about Def Leppard's Hysteria. When someone mentions Def Leppard, the first thing we think of are the classic Hysteria songs. When someone mentions Tears For Fears, we think of Songs From The Big Chair. The world around us is too busy with life to dig deep into what Def Leppard and Tears For Fears has been up to. If Def Leppard and TFF don't put out new material, then there is no marketing. No marketing means no public knowledge. It cost money to market. If there is nothing to market, then why spend money to market? Marketing is selling something. You can't sell if there is nothing to sell.
Shout was the first song I ever sang for Karaoke. I was a new sailor in the US. Navy at Pearl Harbor Hawaii in 1997. Shout, Head Over Heels, and Everybody Wants To Rule The World are among my all time favorite songs by anyone. I love the way you emphasize your appreciation for this great music from my favorite bands and musicians from Genesis to Tears For Fears and beyond. Keep on rockin' and I'll keep on watchin'.
The Hurting hit college radio when I was in college and I was hooked then. Incredible band!!! I have to go rediscover them, thanks for the heads up about their new album!!!
I had this album on constant rotation for years! Love their harmonies and the layers in the music and lyrics that leave me finding new little gems at every listen.
I think the track Elemental from the album Elemental was absolutely fantastic. Roland firing on all cylinders, even if Kurt wasn't there at the time. It was a cry from Roland's soul in the way only he can do it.
This song is in that geoup of songs that made The 80's a great time...I have heard both my Parents sing this song at one point or another in my Life...not many songs I've heard that hold that distinction...great video!
1984 was my worst year ever lost someone I really cared for and almost lost my own life in the same accident. Then 1985 came along and this album help me break out of a big depression. All they songs on this album blew me away. Still listen to it all the time.
That line "you shouldn't have to jump for joy" always lands so impactful, it's so few words but in the intended context those few words say so much and become powerful
Can't overstate the impact of this music on our generation. My wife and I are in our 40s now and got to see TFF in Boise a few years back and it was such a dream come true. It was an outdoor venue and it rained on us during some Hurting numbers... absolutely unforgettable. These guys are giants, no doubt about it.
I took my wife, son, and his fiancée to see them in Atlanta last May for the Tipping Point tour. They were brilliant as ever. My son and fiancée said the vocals were iconic ...😊 ... I have been a fan since '85. Love this group
One of the greatest bands/duos of all time - their entire catalogue. Everybody Loves A Happy Ending is one of the greatest albums of the last 25 years! The new album is also amazing. Seeds of Love is in my top 20 albums of all time!
My all time fave musical group...Roland Orzabal is a musical genius in my opinion. I bought the hurting at age 10 in 1983 and have been a huge TFF fan from that day on. KROQ in my hometown of Los Angeles loved TFF Pale Shelter video filmed in Westchester Ca and at LAX where I went to school...walkdd by the Westchester theater almost everyday. Really appreciate your deep dive into my second fave song on Songs from the Big Chair...The Working Hour being my favorite
I remember how much I loved TFF. One of my favourite bands!! I was about 15 and great times. I joined their fan club and I was so excited when they sent a remix of one of their songs. The whole album is a masterpiece. Another track that should have been released was 'The Working Hour.' Such an amazing song. 'The Hurting' was an exquisite and intelligent album that deserved more appreciation.
Thank you so much for the Tears for Fears video professor! My husband and I had the fortune to see them about two weeks ago. They were absolutely fantastic!!!
Thank you professor. Your channel made me remember how much I love this band. I didn't appreciate them enough until I was older, I very much do remember hearing these songs on the radio all the time in the 80s❤❤
These guys clicked with me the first time I heard them. They had rock sensibilities and a groove that was irresistible. I still love listening to these guys. Thanks, professor.
Songs From The Big Chair really encapsulated my preteen and early teen life. The angst and awkwardness was all deacribed. "Head Over Heels" describes a first serious crush so perfectly and all you imagine it could be and then watching someone just throw it away. It's definitely one of those albums I wore out and knew where every single drop out lied.
I absolutely love the fact that you know and name the actual gear used in songs. Being a keyboard player/ gear whore myself, big respect buddy! This is my favorite channel! Being 52, I relate 100% to everything you put out! ❤😉
Not who you are asking, but survival sampler put out by rough trade- it was a cassette tape that came in a can like an army ration- so many great songs and groups- know it is a weird request, but so ‘80’s staple!
Tears for Fears were one of my absolute favorites growing up. When my autistic son was in high school he (through NO influence from mom, mind you) got on this kick of listening to their sons and talking about them to whoever would listen. When my son found two of their CD's at a yard sale it was the highlight of his day to take them home. He and I still enjoy Tears for Fears now!
Poll: What is your pick for the greatest song chorus of the 80s?
Sweet Soul Sister by The Cult
Careless Whisper- Wham
Open Your Eyes - Lords of the New Church
Smokey Mountain Rain- Ronnie Millsap
Lonely Nights - Bryan Adams.
Heat of the Moment.
I'll nominate "Who ya gonna call? ... (Ghostbusters!)".
In 1985, I was 11 years old and obsessed with pop music. I listened to Casey Kasem's Top 40 religiously every Sunday and wrote down the top 10 in my diary. "Shout" was my favorite song that summer as it climbed the charts, so those 3 weeks it spent at #1 were very memorable. I was an only child living in an unhealthy emotional environment, spending yet another long, hot summer with my stereo and stacks of library books. The song's success - especially that August - felt like a personal victory for me. Plus, it's just a banger!
We all went through those Tough times in the 80s… But we had The Best Music streaming from the radio and smoothing things for us … and somehow we managed!
Might be a better summer than you know;books,music, and time to peruse them. I'd take that in a NY minute.
Not minimizing your pain, but take some comfort in the positive aspect!
My daughter was 1 1/2 and very precocious! She was already talking. I remember her in her car seat in the back seat as I drove. She loved this song! And she sang along. "Shout, shout, get it all out! These are the things I can do without. Come on I'm kalking to you" I remember her saying kalking instead of talking. Anyhow, she and I had fun bellowing out that song and I loved hearing her singing it
“Shout” holds up even better in modern times. It’s an incredible song.🖖🏼
I have to agree!
Such a masterpiece.
....and in violent time when people are selling their souls......
I may have told this story here before but it's worth mentioning in this video.
I won a subscription drive signing up new customers for my newspaper route at 15 years old and the grand prize was two tickets to see Tears For Fears at the New Haven coliseum. It was my first concert ever and after all my hard work my father couldn't say no. What a great show and among the last for that venue....
✌️❤️ Your show rocks!! 🤟😎
Yesterday went to their concert with my 17 year old daughter here in Vancouver … IT WAS A BLAST!! Both of us were literally Head Over Heels..Roland and Kurt made us Shout … and like Everybody in the arena felt we wanted to Rule the World!! THANK YOU TFF!!!
Thanks for this comment!! Didn't know they were touring the west coast - just got tickets for my son and I to see them!
I WAS THERE. It was amazing! I was sad they didn't put their faces on the big screen though so the rest of us could see them. But they sounded PERFECT.
We saw them here in Kansas City. They were fantastic.
AHHHHHH! I'm so jelly. I would love to see them live.
I was at that show! They were SO GOOD.
This album has a special place in my heart. My father was an audiophile and music fan who had worked in the industry and owned a vintage high-quality stereo system that I wasn't allowed to touch (Macintosh, Thoren, Teaac). Speakers that were part of the furniture and a vinyl, reel to reel and 8-track music collection that included everything from the Moody blues, to Dave Brubeck, to the Dubliners, and Herbie Hancock.
He was also a car guy and had owned several classic and interesting cars throughout the years that I wasn't allowed to drive.
I knew my father loved me, but he was a reserved man and so we didn't communicate much. I gave him this album on cassette because I thought he might like it and I hoped it would foster a shared interest despite the generational difference. Years went by and I didn't hear anything about it. He died when I was 32. One night after his passing while visiting my mom I went and sat in his 86 Corvette, fired up the engine, the digital gauges lit up and Songs From the Big Chair was in the tape deck. I broke down immediately. I drove around my childhood stomping grounds listening and crying. This album represents a connection I had with my father that I didn't realize I had until it was too late.
While your father may have been uncomfortable being close and having good communication with you while he was alive, he came through loud and clear from the other side. I'm not being trite--"better late than never" can certainly be true. I don't believe in coincidences so I'm sure he wanted you to know the two of you were still connected, even after death.
Lovely story
That is an awesome story! Music is the Great Communicator. Luckily, one of me and my kid's greatest sources of conversation (trading groups/songs we've discovered)!
I can relate...my father and I had a difficult relationship, but he gave me Songs From the Big Chair on cassette when I was 12 and made me a Tears For Fears fan, which is the greatest source of joy I have in my life.
To me, this song defines the 80s... And TFF is still relevant today! The Tipping Point is excellent and would've charted well back in the day... Amazing, their voices are almost interchangeable!
I agree. What your favorite song from the new record?
@@ProfessorofRock I'm liking End of Night right now... Out of the gate I was into The Tipping Point. It just had an ethereal, dark side to it.
Rivers of Mercy
@@ProfessorofRock My Demons is so good.
@@ProfessorofRock Break The Man and Rivers of Mercy initially, but Stay has evolved into the favorite.
Tears for Fears need to be in the HOF and it's sad they aren't yet
They dont need that imho i mean we their supporters can be a testament of how great they are😊
What about Culture Club?
@@gregpeterson9788 Culture Club should definitely be in there
@@joekopel
Ew, just no.
@@gregpeterson9788
Hell to the NO!
I was in the military, and traveled all over the world, late 80’s-mid 90’s. No matter where I was, when Shout was played, everyone sang along. Good times.
This was my first concert, Songs From the Big Chair in 1987 at BYU Marriott Center. Everything you’ve said about TFF is spot on for me! Although my fave TFF song is Pale Shelter.
This duo is practically synonymous with the 80s! So many great hits that helped define the decade! Just so much seemed to go great with these songs despite some setbacks.
They ruled the 80s. Why do you think that is? they are brilliant... Should've translated to more hits in the 90s don't you think?
@@ProfessorofRock Just maybe! They certainly cemented themselves as legends indeed
80s new wave rules, and they’re part of the reason why.
It was the beginning of the end. Starting with the late 50's/60's to the ninties. The music now sucks, the muses ( so many) have left the planet. Now its style (styless), autotune and no soul or creative grind. People today have no idea what they missed and continue missing. I'm glad i came of age in the 60's and turned off my stereo in the new decade 2000 on. At least i have my records and tapes to augment my memories!
Love love love TFF! Everybody wants to rule the World is my all time favourite song, but so many great songs. Big Chair still sounds amazing today. Great to have them back last year with The Tipping Point which is brilliant. Something magical happens when Curt & Roland get together. ❤
I was in high school during "Songs From The Big Chair" and that tour was one of my first concerts. Unlike Duran Duran (who I also loved) who were pin-up rock stars, TFF was truly appreciated for their talent. The music still holds up today. ❤
Very cool!
Awesome! TFF and Duran Duran are part of the reason why new wave is my favorite style of music.
Duran Duran was my first concert. Finally got to see TFF last year... amazing! And just went to see DD recently. Love both TFF and DD!
DD was extremely talented also, but in a much different way. They were the extroversion to TFF's introversion.
Duran Duran may have been pin up stars, but they were/are incredible musicians as well.
I started watching your channel 4 years ago. It always amazed me how the quality and consistency of your videos weren't matched by your subs or views. Didn't know I was at the start of your journey here. Even though I'm subscribed I haven't been served much of your stuff. Came back today and wow - congrats on your graft! Incredible to see how your channel has exploded. Congrats and keep it up!
Great story, and timely for me! Going to see them live tonight (July 24) at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. Should have done this 40 years ago when I first heard them and became a fan. Big plus is I am going tonight with my kids so we can share the musical magic their "old dad" has been raging about for so long - together! Can't wait!
Enjoy the show, and come back to tell us all about it!
absolutely loved sowing the seeds. it only takes someone mentioning the song and I get goosebumps.
Shout is a song I've heard waaaaay to much but strangely enough still love it!
This is why I love your work, Adam. You put so much love and passion into telling the stories of the songs, artists and albums. TFF are one of my favourite bands, and helped me through some dark times. Durdle Door is an amazing place to visit.
I found your channel during lockdown. Ironic that an American does the best bloody documentaries on British bands.
Keep on rockin' Professor of Rock!
Love from England!
Just saw them about 10 days ago in STL! My first time seeing them and their voices still sound AMAZING. Their new album The Tipping Point is up there in my top three TFF albums. Such a great show and this song brought the house down.
It's uncanny how their songs are staples of the modern music lexicon, but their names aren't. No cult of personality
What do you mean? Please elaborate
@@ProfessorofRock The names of the 2 frontmen, not the names of the songs.
Very good point👍🏻
Yeah, i can never think of their personal names, just the band name.
That don't make sense??
The way they redefine their music on every album is remarkable. TFF is the epitome of what makes great musicians. They are in my opinion one of the greatest bands of all time and 100% deserve to be in the Hall.
I love this channel. I love the in depth information about the band, singers, producers, and the making of the songs. With TFF, they were an inaugural part of my teen years and I will forever adore TFF.
Thanks for watching! Any requests?
TFF are great!
@@ProfessorofRock you should do another Huey Lewis song I love him I’d love to meet that guy lol
@@ProfessorofRock Lick The Tins?
I was in college when I first heard TFF. I remember Shout and Head Over Heels being in heavy rotation on MTV, back when they actually played music. They were a big part of the soundtrack of those very formative years as an emerging adult. Love them so much!
During the pandemic, Curt Smith and his daughter released some duet videos on UA-cam. Curt sounds as amazing as ever, and it is easy to see with his daughter that the Apple didn’t fall far from the tree. I’ll have to check out TFF’s new album.
I saw all of those! Awesome stuff!
He and his daughter are very cute together.
TFF embodied everything I liked about modern rock: intelligent lyrics, smart songs with interesting changes, accessible melodies and moody diversity. They’ve always been one of my favorites. I got to see them live for the first time last year and it was simply magical.
TFF Have the ability to write songs that after the first listen I say “This song will be on many of my mix tapes”. Roland has such a huge powerful voice which blends perfectly with Curt’s softer vocals and affords them the ability to write songs to suit each of their talents and when they sing together in unison or harmony they become the perfect voice for each song. Also Roland is a brilliant guitarist. His solo in Everybody Wants To Change The World is by far my favorite of his and I include him with other guitar Gods because he deserves the accolades. You do not need to be a shredder on the guitar to belong to that small club of Guitarist’s that have influenced many players, myself included. Thank you Professor for your insight, your choices to spotlight, and the overall well edited episodes I have seen. Keep doing what you’re doing. Your passion is infectious.
Sincerely, Todd Eagle Guitarist/Forklift Driver
I just saw Tears for Fears last week and they were amazing. When they finally busted out "Shout" it was an incredible experience to hear live. It's really interesting to hear the history of this song - and it makes a lot of sense.
I love Tears for Fears. Songs from the Big Chair was my first Tears for Fears album. I had Songs from the Big Chair and The Hurting on cassette tape. And played them over and over again till I wore out the tape. Tears for Fears helped define the 80's. Such great memories. Thank you.
This is one of those albums that I can sing word for word, front to back. Every single song was amazing. All of them evoke memories of pool parties with my friends in the summer before we started high-school. I love all of them but the one that just edges out the rest is The Working Hour. I never get tired of that sax intro😊🎧🎶❤
Same here! Rock on!
The Working Hour is simply a marvel of humankind. When they rescued it for that Spotify Landmark live session some years ago it was just mesmerizing...! They absolutely nailed it!
The Working Hour is exhilarating.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I 💯 agree! 👏
Yessssss!
"One of the best albums of all time"- I completely agree with this. To this day, that album is always on my playlist. The depth of the songs and richness of the recording are truly outstanding. SO glad I saw these guys recently because they still sound fantastic! SHOUT out to TFF.
TFF is a band that seldom gets the credit they deserve for their musical mastery AND lyrical genuis...and I do not say that just for this video. Their sense of melody , cool changes and top notch musicianship along with meaningful lyrics just seriously put them way up there in the overall talent dept. Their entire catalog is excellent and STILL holds up to those very moment !!!!
I have always found that when other bands try to cover and reimagine their tunes your points about the makeup of their music gets lost on the other musicians and bands. As nice as the song was it Gary Jules's version of "Mad World" comes across hollow and I always feel frustratingly sorry for the younger folks who prefer that cover over the original. Everyone has their own tastes in music, so who am I to criticize? Still, it seems the potency of what TFF created deserves more respect.
what are you talking about? they constantly get credit. everybody recognizes them and their songs and they are always being played
Shout, Head Over Heels, and Advice for the Young at Heart are moooonnnnsters. Love them.
When I was 14 I called my local Fargo radio station to request "Tears for Fears Shout" - the DJ must have stopped listening after 'Tears for Fears' because 30 minutes later he said "This goes out to Matt" and played "Everybody Wants to Rule the World." Also a great song, but it made me want to... shout. Thanks for covering!
Ha! Thanks for sharing. Any requests?
@@ProfessorofRock Haha. "Hold Me Now - Thompson Twins?" (I put the song first - going out to Matt in Minneapolis. Not sure if you've done it - love the channel!
Oof 😅 Rock on 🤘
They Are a refined explanation for chaos that captured social strife in a means that fully captures the heart of any romantic in personal subterfuge.
Loved them when no one knew them.
And when they became big they developed so many layered intrinsic chord variations with lyrics that would make Aesop smile.
So it's high time for us to sit and listen to the band with incredible wit!!!!!
TFF was HUGE in my teenage years! From big sounding stadium rockers to the intimate cries on Woman in Chains, it all sounded amazing!
Tears for Fears made some of the most memorable, singable songs in the 80's and beyond. The chemistry between Roland and Curt is so good, they made (and still make) songs that have a distinct sound heard as Tears for Fears. The fact that Roland and Curt are very good vocalists in their own right, makes it worth, and a pleasure to listen to their albums, especially their earlier albums. I never get tired listening to Songs from the big chair album on CD, (i have 3 copies, one is a remastered version) Spotify etc. It's July 25, 2023 and i (and millions of fans) still love 'em! Long live Curt Smith and Roland Orzabal, and Tears For Fears!
They are definitely in a league of their own! Above & Beyond and my favorite band next to Yes! We just saw them in St. Louis, Mo. for The Tipping Point Tour part two, and last summer at Tinley Park for The Tipping Point Tour part one. They were sensational in Chicago, and even more sensational in St. Louis! This band cannot be touched because they play, write, and sing from their channeled hearts! I love them so much! ♥️♥️♥️
Thank you for the video!!
They played near us a few weeks ago!
Songs From The Big Chair is one of my favorite albums and has been since its release. I purchased it on cassette and nearly wore it out. Just an overall phenomenal record which I never skip a song.
And I love that you included other LPs, especially The Tipping Point. That is just an incredible album. Very dark but so introspective with incredible writing. I think it is the groups most personal album since The Hurting.
You can never go wrong with a Tears for Fears release. An incredibly solid band with so much talent that each release can be different than the previous.
The guy who introduced me to TFF called them "the most mature and functionally adult music ever made." Their songs got me through a divorce and adjustment to single life and, dare I say it, personal healing, that I experienced in the late 80s. Then 30+ years later, Tipping Point got me through recovery from covid. I listen to them frequently and always feel a bit better when I do.
If you lose all that excess weight and become healthy (eat a better diet, exercise, get enough vitamin D), then a cold or flu won’t be such a big deal, lady.
Pursue physical health.
TFF is such a part of my high school memories. Songs that just spoke to my tortured teenaged soul. My boyfriend went to the Air Force Academy after graduation and our hearts were broken to have to be separated. During his boot camp he wrote the lyrics to The Hurting and others and sent them to me in a love letter to express his feelings. Poetry that helped a teenage boy express his love and depression to his girl many miles away.
Thank you for highlighting the magnificent Tears For Fears! They are currently on tour in the US (Summer 2023). They are phenomenal live, coming to an arena near you!
They’ve been near us a few times. I should go see them.
They are probably the best live act I’ve ever seen. I’ve been a fan since I was 12… just saw them on your last year, 38 years after I first saw them, and they were better than ever! True musicians!
You can’t talk about music from the 80s without taking about them… definitely some of my favorite music from that time. So many memories of my teen years revolve around this music and I was a metal head. Awesome music to this day
Just saw these guys perform at the end of june. Truely remarkable and still sound incredible. They signed everything i had for them.
Songs from the big chair doesnt have 1 bad note, with arguably one of the best guitar solos ever on everybody rules the world... but whe. I told Roland that Elemental was my personal favourite his reaction was very positive.
Just saw them in concert last week! They sounded as good as in the 80’s. Great concert and so so glad I got to hear all these great songs live again! Your right the new album is a great one!
Great that my son has found them and loves them too!
The Beatles with synths is a pretty good way to describe this band. Tears For Fears were fabulous. I was so blown away by their music. I was just a few years into my University studies and this band really molded and matured my music listening and it was cool watching their music evolve much like the Beatles music had. "Sowing The Seeds Of Love" is as you say so very Beatlesque. Clever story behind the lyrics. SFTBC is one of my favorite albums of all time and this band is in my Top 10. I'm so happy they got back together. Cheers from Ottawa, Canada🍁
The Beatles did use synths though. But yes I agree with your point. Well made.
Lennon would be so proud of them. Cheers Gio. 🍻
TFF are massively underrated! Big Chair is a masterpiece but so is the Seeds of Love! The new album is brilliant also. Saw them live last year and they still have it!
They are not unrated, I think they have received all the recognition they have garnered and deserve.
the new album has one good song. the rest of it is slow and generic. needed more energy. was I not supposed to say that?
@@AF-dn2bz why would you not be supposed to say that? Don’t apologize for your opinion! 👍🏼 I can see it being a low energy album, it was recorded after the death of Roland’s wife to alcoholism. So, I think the fact that they even had the energy to push forward in life and make new art says a lot.
Have you listened to their cover songs they did a few years ago? There are some interesting performances.
Also, if energy is your thing, check out their first band Graduate. Which is super poppy British rock with ska tinged influences.
@@JeremyPatton Ready to Start was a horrible cover. We dont have much to agree on today mate.
Met them in London in 2005. Great guys. Very gracious. Saw them in concert last year. They're still on top of their game. ❤❤❤
Neil Taylor, guitarist who plays iconic solo right at the end of EWTRTW, is producing my album right at this moment. He was around and playing live with TFF during this period. He would be great to interview if you are interested Prof.
I bet he is interesting to talk to about working with TFF.
Serous? Please hit me up. theprofessor@professorofrock.com
@@eightiesmusic1984 he's a very interesting interviewee and a great guitarist and producer.
That’s cool! We should definitely hear from him.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I've sent the Prof his details and Neil would love to talk to him.
They are my life band from the very beginning! They play my life jams that never disappoint. I can’t wait to see their concert this Saturday!! Thanks for the great show, Professor!!!
"Big Chair" has such a high standard of quality. Smooth yet tense. Supremely melodic. And especially lyrics that would resonate with just about everyone in this world.
Don't want to hurt any Curt fans but, I absolutely love Elemental along with Raoul and the Kings of Spain. Both are brilliant albums worthy of the TFF name. Roland really made some great music with those showing himself to be a brilliant stand alone artist.
Both of those albums are amazing and absolutely have a different vibe. Rolando is intense so those albums are intense, Curt brings a calming presence to the duo so Curt brings balance which makes their music amazing together.
Elemental is my favorite c.d. Classic, timeless, awesome!
Agreed.
Secrets still just floors me.
Agreed. Even his other solo album (Tomcats Screaming Outside) is great
@@SuperCarcher OMG I totally forgot about that one. Thanks 🙏🏽
When people ask me what my favorite band is TFF is always tied in first. They’re absolutely my favorite 80’s band. They’re songs are timeless, and have been loved by generations of music lovers. Tipping Point has become one of my all time favorite albums. I remember listening to Shout in 6th grade and it was an instant favorite. I can’t listen to their music without tears in my eyes. There are so many memories (good and bad) attached to their music for me.
Who are they tied with?
@@jjdillon1207 Pearl Jam 😊
@@sariahut1 good choice!
@@jjdillon1207 thanks! It’s not easy to narrow down for me, but those two are the ones I connect with the most.
I feel the same way. They’re one of my top 10 favorite bands. Just so great.
Man I love this history and story. Explains so well exactly why those of us with the heavy, overwhelming past and growing up why we automatically feel the deepest emotions whenever we hear and listen to the song. Even if we've struggled to hear the lyrics beyond the chorus - its the energy, emotions and projection that brings out our most deep and primal cries of expression and releasing of so much pain we've endured. And for some of us, likely guys, also brings out a really strong, somewhat aggressive power with a little angry determination of either vengeance, or in my personal case, a aggression that shows and proves even through it all, we have and will continue to power through and never waiver of buckle in.
This song! After all these years, and the countless times I've heard Shout, it still ranks up there as one of the very best. There are only a handful of songs I refuse to cut off before they end (if I'm in the car or something like that) and this is always one of them. The guitar solo at the end pushes the song into overdrive (as if it needed it!) and yet, that power chord at the end that just rings out far and wide...it's just like this whole song, really. Perfection. A gem of a song and a gem of an album. A thousand years from now, they will most definitely still be playing this one. @ProfessorofRock you are 100% right about that.
Just saw them in Franklin, TN a couple of weeks ago and they were incredible! One of the best concerts I have attended. Thanks for the video!
Cool! What did they play from this record?
@@ProfessorofRock They played several from the Tipping Point album. They played pretty much all of their big hits. "Shout" was the last song they played at the encore. To be honest, my favorite song during the show was "Woman In Chains". The female singer and Roland were both phenomenal for that song. But I was pleasantly surprised at how good they still sound live.
They’re the best. Rock on 🤘
TFF was part of my teen years as a gen X. They are touring again with a new album, and I’m so excited to see them for the first time in concert on Thursday.
Change and Pale Shelter are amongst my favourite songs of all time. They are amazing 🤩❤
"So sad they had to fade it"
Reminds me of this Billy Joel lyric:
It was a beautiful song
But it ran too long
If you're gonna have a hit
You gotta make it fit
So they cut it down to 3:05
The Entertainer. Luv me some Billy Joel!
Brilliant - I’m a life long Tears for Fears fan & I didn’t know this!
TFF is in my top 5 bands of all time. Easily. I can listen to them all day, everyday.
Someone put up a 10 hour version of Shout on YT, they just pasted the same song 100 times. Try listening to it🤣! My record is an hour and a half.
Same. I’m that way with every single new wave artist.
Shout is one of my favorite 80s songs.
For me The Hurting was their best album (not exactly a popular opinion) and their best song was Pale Shelter.
Both great choices. Should we cover those?
@@ProfessorofRockAbsolutely! The Hurting is a masterpiece and I agree that Pale Shelter is their best song.
I love pale shelter. Great song.
The Hurting might be my favorite album of all time 🙃
The Hurting is brilliant. I'm a big TFF fan too. This issue falls into the category of those (me included) who say Off The Wall was better than Thriller or Ghost in the Machine was better than Synchronicity. Cheers
These songs helped me immensely during the 80s. They both helped me process some of the difficult things I was struggling with.
Great episode PROF!!!
You are right, the tipping point is fantastic one of my favorite albums of last year. Really hoping these guys stick together and give us more new music while they still can. every album as a gift..
I was so pleased when I turned on my TV in February 2022 and instantly saw these guys singing their new songs. Love!
As a huge fan of all the genres of 80s music, I have to say TFF is at the tops of my list of iconic bands with iconic albums! Great episode!
Tears for Fears was and still is my favorite group. I was a Junior in high school when this album came out and I got it for my 16th birthday. Hearing these songs again brings back great memories.
Don’t know if anyone has ever told you but you have the perfect voice for radio
Back in the day I read they worked on Shout for around 6 weeks straight. The arrangement has some pretty awesome dynamics. The lead guitar is epic and an anthem on its own. Brilliant song.
I perform Everybody Wants to Rule The World 5-6 times a week and have done for the best part of 40 years. The joy that it gives me every time that I sing and play it is reflected by the joyous response of my audience. Thank you TFF
I have seen Don Henley in concert at two different venues near where the video Everybody Wants To Rule the World was filmed.
He said, “You cannot have a concert here in the desert without playing this song. Then he played a fantastic version of Everybody Wants To Rule the World.
Is the area still as beautiful as ever?
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I love the Palm Springs area. It’s still wonderful.
@@ec1628 Agreed. They couldn’t have filmed in a better location.
Just saw them in concert on 7/29! They were amazing!! It was the first time losing my voice at a concert in decades. I knew every single song they sang and was singing right along with them. HIGHLY recommend their new album, The Tipping Point. It's great!!
Probably my second favorite band. Four albums in a row starting with Songs from the Big Chair where I never feel an urge to skip a single song. Curt wasn't involved in part of it, but so glad they got back together and have seen them live twice since.
Love your show. Ive been a fan of TFF since I was 10. Finally saw them last Saturday. Amazing live band. Just flawless. I was so so happy.
Shout and Everybody WTRTW are definitely quintessential mid 80s. They take me right back to my college days/nights when they were playing constantly. I always think of my college bestie who loved to change lyrics to fit the situation. Everybody Wants to (fill in the blank). Her favorite was Everybody wants to fool around....
"Real Genius" was the quintessential mid 80s college comedy for teens (along with "Revenge of the Nerds" ) and TFF plays during the closing credits.
Same, this was on the soundtrack to my college days. In advertising class, I wrote a commercial "Shout, Shout, gets it all out. These are the stains we can do without" 😅
@@km2182 😆😆😆
They played it a lot in the clubs I hear.
When I was in high school, I wrote a short story for my English class. It had something to do with Roland and Curt asking everyone in a big stadium to name all the things we can do without... After hours and no ceasing of the roar of the crowd, they left the arena shaking their heads. My teacher gave me a C (which - I NEVER got Cs in English - ever.) I went to talk with her about it - and she said "Um, I gave this to the other English teacher. She said she'd have graded it the same..." Now, THAT was something I could have done without :)
I remember when Songs From The Big Chair was released! EVERYONE had that album and it wasn’t just for a specific generation, most people I knew listened and sang along to the whole album.
This album deserves to be in the Hall Of Fame for sure ❤
Thanks for shouting out a shout out for their newest album, The Tipping Point. It's great, and so are you, Adam.
You bet!
Truly an under appreciated band (EDIT: at least by MY co-workers, church group, close friends, and MY family, lol(I added this edit because apparently no one read my entire comment and decided to read one sentence and go all woke on me, laughable). They were so much more than a 2-3 hit 80s pop duo/band. They are a seriously deep, intelligent and thought provoking force. Real musicians and music buffs appreciate them in a much more cephalic way.
I don’t think they were “under appreciated”, as such, certainly not their first three albums. I remember critics being very enamoured with them, as were the paying punters. I thought Elemental was okay, but a lot of great stuff came out at the same time.
They were never underrated they were rightly very popular. I see many comments like this that state a band was "underrated" that is because many of the people were not around at the time.
Tears For Fears has never been under appreciated. In fact, few music acts leave fans thirsty and wanting more, Tears For Fears is one of them. TFF are perfectionists and only put out records when they feel it is top quality. That explains why their discography is small. The Seeds of Love and Elemental got really good buzz and appreciation.
@@alwaysemployed656 You missed my entire point. We all appreciate them, but the regular public only knows them for a few hits in the 80s. I talk about them a lot to friends, family, and even people I don’t know, and the vast majority think of them as 80s only.
In a way, you made my point, but just wanted to be argumentative. They were apart for 20 years, but “we” (music lovers and industry) had tons of music to enjoy during that time, and new stuff when they stopped feuding.
@@TheRoadDawg You are confusing NOT BEING SEEN or HEARD FROM with being UNDDERATED. It's safe to say that not one person has ever said they don't like any of the classic 80's TFF chart songs. The same can be said about Def Leppard's Hysteria. When someone mentions Def Leppard, the first thing we think of are the classic Hysteria songs. When someone mentions Tears For Fears, we think of Songs From The Big Chair. The world around us is too busy with life to dig deep into what Def Leppard and Tears For Fears has been up to. If Def Leppard and TFF don't put out new material, then there is no marketing. No marketing means no public knowledge. It cost money to market. If there is nothing to market, then why spend money to market? Marketing is selling something. You can't sell if there is nothing to sell.
Shout was the first song I ever sang for Karaoke. I was a new sailor in the US. Navy at Pearl Harbor Hawaii in 1997. Shout, Head Over Heels, and Everybody Wants To Rule The World are among my all time favorite songs by anyone. I love the way you emphasize your appreciation for this great music from my favorite bands and musicians from Genesis to Tears For Fears and beyond. Keep on rockin' and I'll keep on watchin'.
The Hurting hit college radio when I was in college and I was hooked then. Incredible band!!! I have to go rediscover them, thanks for the heads up about their new album!!!
Top notch musicianship.
I had this album on constant rotation for years! Love their harmonies and the layers in the music and lyrics that leave me finding new little gems at every listen.
I think the track Elemental from the album Elemental was absolutely fantastic. Roland firing on all cylinders, even if Kurt wasn't there at the time. It was a cry from Roland's soul in the way only he can do it.
Great one.
This song is in that geoup of songs that made The 80's a great time...I have heard both my Parents sing this song at one point or another in my Life...not many songs I've heard that hold that distinction...great video!
1984 was my worst year ever lost someone I really cared for and almost lost my own life in the same accident. Then 1985 came along and this album help me break out of a big depression. All they songs on this album blew me away. Still listen to it all the time.
1984 was also my worst year. Lost my best friend/cousin. TFF was a big part of a better 1985.
That line "you shouldn't have to jump for joy" always lands so impactful, it's so few words but in the intended context those few words say so much and become powerful
Can't overstate the impact of this music on our generation. My wife and I are in our 40s now and got to see TFF in Boise a few years back and it was such a dream come true. It was an outdoor venue and it rained on us during some Hurting numbers... absolutely unforgettable. These guys are giants, no doubt about it.
I took my wife, son, and his fiancée to see them in Atlanta last May for the Tipping Point tour. They were brilliant as ever. My son and fiancée said the vocals were iconic ...😊 ... I have been a fan since '85. Love this group
One of the greatest bands/duos of all time - their entire catalogue. Everybody Loves A Happy Ending is one of the greatest albums of the last 25 years! The new album is also amazing. Seeds of Love is in my top 20 albums of all time!
Sowing the Seeds of Love is one of my favorite songs of the 80s.
My all time fave musical group...Roland Orzabal is a musical genius in my opinion. I bought the hurting at age 10 in 1983 and have been a huge TFF fan from that day on. KROQ in my hometown of Los Angeles loved TFF Pale Shelter video filmed in Westchester Ca and at LAX where I went to school...walkdd by the Westchester theater almost everyday. Really appreciate your deep dive into my second fave song on Songs from the Big Chair...The Working Hour being my favorite
I remember how much I loved TFF. One of my favourite bands!! I was about 15 and great times. I joined their fan club and I was so excited when they sent a remix of one of their songs.
The whole album is a masterpiece. Another track that should have been released was 'The Working Hour.' Such an amazing song.
'The Hurting' was an exquisite and intelligent album that deserved more appreciation.
I adore Shout... the song just keeps building up in intensity that goes into an amazing yet simple guitar solo, it could go on nearly forever
Thank you so much for the Tears for Fears video professor! My husband and I had the fortune to see them about two weeks ago. They were absolutely fantastic!!!
I’m glad to hear that. Saw them back in 1990. ⭐️
Was that the first time you saw them?
Professor, it was the first time seeing them 🤩
Yes, they are touring and I should go see them!
Thank you professor. Your channel made me remember how much I love this band. I didn't appreciate them enough until I was older, I very much do remember hearing these songs on the radio all the time in the 80s❤❤
These guys clicked with me the first time I heard them. They had rock sensibilities and a groove that was irresistible. I still love listening to these guys. Thanks, professor.
Thanks for watching!
They rock, don’t they?
Songs From The Big Chair really encapsulated my preteen and early teen life. The angst and awkwardness was all deacribed. "Head Over Heels" describes a first serious crush so perfectly and all you imagine it could be and then watching someone just throw it away. It's definitely one of those albums I wore out and knew where every single drop out lied.
Tears For Fears are a remarkable band-Love their songs like "Everybody Wants to Rule The World" & "Shout".
Every time I hear Everybody wants to rule the World I can't help but think of the final scene in Real Genius. 😊
I was in their first Manila concert and everybody was singing along to these classic staples and having a blast. Unforgettable!
I absolutely love the fact that you know and name the actual gear used in songs. Being a keyboard player/ gear whore myself, big respect buddy! This is my favorite channel! Being 52, I relate 100% to everything you put out! ❤😉
Thanks for watching! Any requests?
Not who you are asking, but survival sampler put out by rough trade- it was a cassette tape that came in a can like an army ration- so many great songs and groups- know it is a weird request, but so ‘80’s staple!
TFF changed my life and it's the sounds I hear from my formative years... LOVE thanks for doing this!
TFF is one of the greatest cornerstones of the 80s, probably the greatest decade in music
Agreed. Would't be the 80s without 'em!
Oh, how great the 80s were.
Tears for Fears were one of my absolute favorites growing up. When my autistic son was in high school he (through NO influence from mom, mind you) got on this kick of listening to their sons and talking about them to whoever would listen. When my son found two of their CD's at a yard sale it was the highlight of his day to take them home. He and I still enjoy Tears for Fears now!