This song is about humanity's inhumanity to itself and using the Devil as a scapegoat. Everything the song mentions we did to ourselves combined with our own sense of superiority. The verses "I watched with glee as your Kings and Queens fought for ten decades for the gods they made" is a reference to the European powers fighting in the 100 years war and the mass genocide of the natives in the Americas, and "I shouted out who killed the Kennedys'? When after all it was you and me!" is a reference to Lee Harvey Oswald and SIrhan Sirhan, two people, at least in Sirhan's case, believed they were doing the right thing, and sealed it for me. People have committed horrific acts in the name of a God who said "Thou shall not murder" believing they were carrying out his will, because they had deluded themselves or some holy man standing in a pulpit deluded them.
I was always taught that the Devil had to act through intermediaries, so without willing accomplices could not act directly. Not sure, primary school scripture class is 40 years behind me now.
I was a kid when this came out. No lyrics to read. I am not any where near any type of historian but always liked the song. I’ll have to look up the song again.✌🏽🎶🥰
Only John Kennedy was dead when they wrote this song. Robert Kennedy was killed around the time they recorded this. They updated the lyrics after his death.
I did a presentation in college, circa 1988, where I presented this song and explained all of the historical references and my interpretation of the overall social meanings. This was wonderful to see your reaction to each of those references. I tip my hat to you, sir!
I was *just* thinking this, that he could really get into Iron Maiden's lyrics. They are still today one of a kind. There are other great metal bands, but only *one* Iron Maiden.
You said you weren't confused and got it early on at one point. You are right mostly. But, your sideways look at the line about who killed the Kennedys being you and me (Lucifer) suggests you may have missed the central point. Just like the kings and queens fought over the gods they made, as humans, we like to blame our own evil deeds on the devil we made. The song was inspired by the novel The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov which is well worth a read. Great reaction!
@@MrLboydReacts He makes it really obvious in the rapping in the end, which I don't think is present (or clear) in this version: "Tell me, baby, what's my name? I'll tell you one time, you're to blame." As others point out, he's obviously the Devil but his game is a bit harder to discern. He's an invented scapegoat. He exists to give us somebody to blame for what we do to others and to ourselves.
Mr. Boyd, I thoroughly enjoy watching your reaction videos. Your are a breath of fresh air in this crowded UA-cam genre. You have musical knowledge as well as a keen intellect with the ability to offer intelligent commentary linked to the songs to which you are reacting. I'm writing this after watching your reaction to Sympathy for the Devil. You nailed every historical reference mentioned in the lyrics. The majority of the other UA-cam reaction videos are mostly head bobbers throwing a few generic comments around with very little insight. You definitely stand head and shoulders above your competition. Excellent work!
You're so right in your interpretation of the lyrics The Devil is saying "I get blamed for all of the world's evils, but I never did any of it, I just cheered it on from the sidelines as YOU did all of it"
I've always interpreted the song as the Devil saying that he was just along for the ride with all the atrocities mentioned. "I rode a tank, held a general's rank," "I watched with glee," "after all, it was you and me." We are the cause of it all.
A bit of trivia about the recording of this track. The line was originally just "Who killed Kennedy?" but while in the studio recording this song the band learned of Bobby Kennedy's death, and had to update the lyrics.
These are definitely some of the best lyrics ever written for a pop song. They are incredibly evocative of the events in question. I mean there is some real power behind “I rode a tank I held a general’s rank, while the Blitzkrieg raged and the bodies stank.” Or the next stanza “I watched with glee hike your kings and queens, fought for ten decades for the gods they made.” So much packed into each.
Always thought the the lines about fighting for 10 decades referred to the Hundred Years' War (mid 1300's to mid 1400's). And RIP to the brilliant Charlie Watts
@@Escapee5931 I always saw that line "for the gods they made" was more to do with the royalty that they kept putting in place - almost like they worshiped the kings and queens.
i really appreciate the fact that you are well versed in history. there is an amazing content creator named Historia Civilis. I would like to see a reaction to any of his Julius Caesar videos but MOST especially, his assassination and the longest year in history. keep up the grind, i'm proud of your success.
Love your reactions! For the moment of doubt and pain I was thinking it was the garden moment where he prayed so hard he bled and asked the lord to not send him through with it. And i live for the references XD
i love, love, love, that you caught and understood all of the historical and biblical references. You even knew who pilot is. Very impressive sir. I now know why i always felt you to be a kindred spirit.
This song is track 1 on the first album, Beggar's Banquet, in the greatest 4 album sequence in Rock history: Beggar's Banquet, Let It Bleed, Sticky Fingers, and Exile on Main Street. (Yeah, it was really controversial.)
It's hard to believe anyone could have heard at least three Rolling Stones songs and not heard this one. It is their best! Driving bass, Woo Woo background vocals driving through most of the song. And their live performances of it are pure energy.
apparently mick jagger wrote these lyrics after marianne faithful recommended he read "the master & margarita" by mikhail bulgakov. I recommend all read this.
Witness the ROLLING STONES. The greatest rock and roll band there ever was, and ever will be. They created a wall of sound and thought in all their massive amount of work.
I guess you would like "Mother's little helpers", "You can't always get what you want" and "Out of time" by them. All three sings have really great lyrics.
I believe the line, ''when Jesus Christ had his moment of doubt and pain'' actually refers to a moment on the cross, when he asked, ''my god, why have you forsaken me?''
There’s a clip of the Stones recording this song and Mick sings “who killed Kennedy.” Either that night or the next day RFK was assassinated hence the change to “who killed the Kennedys.”
Takes you back to American Pie … “Oh, and as I watched him on the stage My hands were clenched in fists of rage No angel born in Hell Could break that Satan's spell”
I've always loved this song. My dad's a preacher and had a cassette of Rolling Stones songs, including those one, which would inevitably be played from time to time esp on long family car trips. My dad being the history buff that he was and being in the line of work that he's still in to this day...irony's never lacked in my family. Nowadays, my mom occasionally watches "Lucifer" w/ him.
I think you missed the point. It wasn't the devil saying "look at all the stuff I did". It was the devil saying "I didn't do any of this stuff that you are blaming on me. YOU did it all yourselves". "Have some sympathy for me, I'm being falsely accused of all of this"
Well I'm blown away by how much you know about history but you're right this is one of the most brilliant songs of all time!!! Thank you for your insightful review I have subscribed to your channel because of this reaction.
I had never thought of a similarity with the historical nature before with this song and "American Pie." The lyrics are well constructed and performed with great emotion...another enjoyable video thank you for a fun time watching your reaction.
The "I lay traps for troubadours who get killed before they reach Bombay" is a reference to the old Bing Crosby / Bob Hope "Road" movies. They've got everything in there...
Hi Bill - it has also been noted - elsewhere - that this is a Beatles reference as they went to India to take part in meditative retreats - I am sure there could be other possible contenders for this reference as well - thanks for the opportunity of reply - Kevin
@@kevindurham7590 Yeah, I could be wrong, Wikipedia says it's a reference to the old "Hippie Trail", where would-be buyers often got robbed or killed by road pirates going through Pakistan or Afghanistan. Could Jagger and Richards have consciously been referencing multiple things? Sure, this is when they were at the very peak of their considerable lyrical skills.
5:21 The funniest story I can think of from that time is that high ranking Nazis were confiscating nice cars as they went through Eastern Europe but they were specifically banned from driving one: Tatra T87. A fast and luxurious car for its time. But it had a rear mounted V8, similar engine placement as the famous Porsche 911 "widow maker", with similar "interesting" handling characteristics. The officers kept offing themselves in car accidents and they lost too many leaders to allow them to keep driving those cars. It was nick named "The Czech secret weapon" for its ability to kill off high ranking Nazi officers.
I remember hearing the song for the first time when I was probably 16 and understanding all the historical references. I think most of it would go over the heads of Malta today's kids because they do such a crappy job of teaching history
First time I heard this song it was a cover , (an EDM type version I heard on a college radio station), & thought it was tight, so I played it for my mom thinking it was this new song. My mom ofc let me know that it was an old song. But I love this song, I think my fav version is one by Jane’s Addiction I found on Spotify off the Son’s of Anarchy soundtrack. The og is good ofc, but the JA version is playlist for me. I haven’t ever done a deep dive into the Stones, I’ve heard their most pop songs, but I think Sympathy 4 the devil is prob 3 after Paint it black & give me shelter. Tho those two songs always make me think of Vietnam movies/shows, but they’re def my fav.
This is my favourite Rolling Stone song. This is the first time hearing the live version. The only thing I missed from the studio version is Keith Richards pic slide at the end of the solo.
I love listening to this song because it makes people wonder about the nature of evil. What is evil, is the Devil a necessary aspect to human existence? This time specifically i remember he mention the Devil is a man of wealth and taste- clear reference to greed and vanity. Gotta listen to Paint It Black if you have not done so yet. Thank you.
I love watching your eyes light up as you delve into your passion of history and music! Never apologize for pausing! This is exactly what we are here for 😊
On this particular song, don’t apologize for stopping so much. There’s a LOT going on lyrically, and I was happy to see you’d done a react to this and was very interested in your take on it.
You got it all fairly accurate. I know that you must be well studied with the history the lyrics speak of. I salute you.🙂 Check out the original studio version. The music just makes me groove. I've seen the RS 7x and this song is always played. It's been used in whole or in part in several movies. Most recently when NBC was advertising Law & Order SVU crossover series. It's also played at the end of the movie Interview With A Vampire by Anne Rice.
Loved when this song was used when introducing Amanda Waller in Suicide Squad. Probably the only one in the theater who got it, since I knew the song and the character. And I'm old.
you were so in to the historical parts of this some that at 6:08 my reaction when you said you were going to try to stop stopping was "Good luck" 😇. Thanks for the vid and keep it coming.
I agree with Don saying Iron Maiden should be in the conversation as a band consistently bringing highly literate lyrics - a lot dealing with historical events. The music of the 60's and 70's is hard to beat for it's content and influence. I'm not one of those "back in my day" kind of guys, but I've always kept an open mind to any music. The Stones were a favorite of my as a kid - and I still love listening to them.
Iron Maiden have done a few historical songs such as The Trooper, Run To The Hills, Aces High. They also reference classical literature in songs like The Rhyme of The Ancient Mariner
First time watcher here! I love your meticulous analysis and you’re right about the song being from the perspective of the devil. He had his hand in all the violence in the world. Doesn’t matter the song was written in 1969 ~ it still applies to events today! Will continue to watch your videos!
OMFG! You are the best! I love with all my heart the references that you can come up with! You are without a doubt one of the best people around! I will look at more videos, please be as awesome as you are in this one?
"I think that there were issues when this song came out," had me CACKLING. I'm only 29 but I've watched plenty of documentaries about rock/metal and heard numerous anecdotes about how rock music was perceived. I feel like you'd enjoy the movie Pirate Radio on your own time, it's a silly little British movie about rock music being illegally broadcast from ships when it was banned in the UK.
Beast of burden, paint it black, you can't always get what you want, gimme shelter, brown sugar, satisfaction, all these songs are amazing!! By the stones
If you want history (and potentially a 50 minute video), check out Billy Joel's 'We didn't start the fire' (40 years of history in 3 minutes) or Dan Bull's Civilization Rap.
This was absolutely wonderful watching your reaction to the song. Sometimes bands definitely say a lot, simple Happy Happy Joy Joy or something. Add most often that is what I find impressive.
this song is a materpiece, how god damned smart do you have to be to write an amazing rock song about the devil throughout history, love it as a history buff - listen to the recording though they have one with the lyric video its a better version.
This song is the main song in the movie “Fallen”. Denzel Washington and John Goodman. Gives the song a meaning! And I cannot listen to this song without remembering this movie. Huge impact. Please watch it!!!
I absolutely love the stones . This song is 10 years older than I am. Not many of my peers know what the stones were really about. Much more intellectual than they get credit for. Loved listening with someone who appreciates history. I've been hearing this since I was born and have changed my view on its meaning a few times. It's a great sound. It's a strange feeling. Gives us much to think about .
I listened to this song when it came and it was at least a decade later before I actually could understand what Mick was saying, I was so into the instrumental. 😂
I absolutely love your reactions, especially when informed by your historical knowledge! I learn much from you. If you haven't done so, please listen to the studio version. Sounds fantastic
I knew you'd break this down in the best way!! I looked for this one. Super interesting. Going to look and see if you've done We Didn't Start the Fire by Billy Joel. Extreme history lesson in that one.
The Waterboys have an amazing historical song called "RED ARMY BLUES" a second world war story told from the perspective of a 17 year old Russian soldier. Amazing lyrics (still one of my favourite beginnings lines to any song) and killer sax parts.
We didn't start the fire - Billy Joel - is probably one of the most famous songs with history in it. It's quite fast so you need to pay attention! But well worth listening to if you havent heard it before.
Your knowledge of history is impressive! I was familiar with a couple of the references but just had a vague notion of the details on others. I know this reaction is a year old but I have a few recos of other Rolling Stones songs for you if you haven't reviewed them already: "Angie", "Fool to Cry", 'Heartbreaker", "Undercover of the Night" and "Waiting on a Lady".
The message, which is somewhat less clear in this epic version than the studio version, is that the devil takes all the blame for the terrible crimes humanity commits against itself. Have some sympathy for the guy who takes all the blame "when after all it was you and me".
Yes, this is a lyrically brilliant song with great sound too. Check out Gimme Shelter, Shine A Light, Doo Doo Doo Heartbreaker, Street Fighting Man, Jigsaw Puzzle, Memo From Turner, Time Waits for No One..... very deep catalog.
There are always issues dear, but the 1960's & 70's were a funky rockin' dream come true! Your parents (or grandparents) were SO much cooler than you will ever be... LOL
I really like Memory Motel a lot. Also, Wild Horses! As far s the lyrics go, I believe Joni Mitchell says something profound in A Case of You, when she says,"i am frightened by the devil and I'm drawn to those ones that ain't afraid", yep, not afraid here. Don't even believe in an ultimate evil being. Like the previous commenter said, it's really nice to have a scapegoat for all of the atrocities human beings commit and SO very many in the name of God. During the inquisitions more people were killed than by Hitler himself. BTW, I would have likely been burned at the stake just for what I have stated in this comment! Great reaction!
Mic Jagger did a funny cameo appearance in the Monty Python movie "The Ruttles" about the Beatles. He of course knew The Beatles and he fondly remembers The Rutles saying he went to Liverpool with his mate Jimmy and he says "If they can do it, we can do it."
This song is about humanity's inhumanity to itself and using the Devil as a scapegoat. Everything the song mentions we did to ourselves combined with our own sense of superiority. The verses "I watched with glee as your Kings and Queens fought for ten decades for the gods they made" is a reference to the European powers fighting in the 100 years war and the mass genocide of the natives in the Americas, and "I shouted out who killed the Kennedys'? When after all it was you and me!" is a reference to Lee Harvey Oswald and SIrhan Sirhan, two people, at least in Sirhan's case, believed they were doing the right thing, and sealed it for me. People have committed horrific acts in the name of a God who said "Thou shall not murder" believing they were carrying out his will, because they had deluded themselves or some holy man standing in a pulpit deluded them.
I was always taught that the Devil had to act through intermediaries, so without willing accomplices could not act directly. Not sure, primary school scripture class is 40 years behind me now.
I was a kid when this came out. No lyrics to read. I am not any where near any type of historian but always liked the song. I’ll have to look up the song again.✌🏽🎶🥰
Nailed it
Only John Kennedy was dead when they wrote this song. Robert Kennedy was killed around the time they recorded this. They updated the lyrics after his death.
We are the devil, and the devil are us...
I have been listening to this song for 50 years and it never gets old. I am so glad to see that it still grabs attention today.
This song could've been released yesterday and still become a legend.
Refreshing to hear a reaction by someone who gets the historical significance of the lyrics. Truly a masterpiece.
So refreshing to listen to a reaction of this song with a history buff. You nailed this. Much appreciation for you MrLboyd :)
I did a presentation in college, circa 1988, where I presented this song and explained all of the historical references and my interpretation of the overall social meanings. This was wonderful to see your reaction to each of those references. I tip my hat to you, sir!
Iron Maiden is a great source of historical metal. "Run for the Hills", "Aces High", and "The Trooper" are good places to start.
Paschendale and Running SIlent Running Deep I'd add.
I second this!
@@TacitaSaturnia and Alexander the Great, probably Sign of the Cross too,The Clansman, Death of the Celts,Darkest Hour...
I was *just* thinking this, that he could really get into Iron Maiden's lyrics. They are still today one of a kind. There are other great metal bands, but only *one* Iron Maiden.
You said you weren't confused and got it early on at one point. You are right mostly. But, your sideways look at the line about who killed the Kennedys being you and me (Lucifer) suggests you may have missed the central point. Just like the kings and queens fought over the gods they made, as humans, we like to blame our own evil deeds on the devil we made. The song was inspired by the novel The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov which is well worth a read. Great reaction!
yea that line was completely lost on me
One of the greatest novels of the 20th century in my opinion.
@@MrLboydReacts He makes it really obvious in the rapping in the end, which I don't think is present (or clear) in this version:
"Tell me, baby, what's my name? I'll tell you one time, you're to blame."
As others point out, he's obviously the Devil but his game is a bit harder to discern. He's an invented scapegoat. He exists to give us somebody to blame for what we do to others and to ourselves.
@@mrupright he isn’t invented. But he is a scapegoat. And we are to blame.
Mr. Boyd, I thoroughly enjoy watching your reaction videos. Your are a breath of fresh air in this crowded UA-cam genre. You have musical knowledge as well as a keen intellect with the ability to offer intelligent commentary linked to the songs to which you are reacting. I'm writing this after watching your reaction to Sympathy for the Devil. You nailed every historical reference mentioned in the lyrics.
The majority of the other UA-cam reaction videos are mostly head bobbers throwing a few generic comments around with very little insight. You definitely stand head and shoulders above your competition. Excellent work!
💯 Agree
You're so right in your interpretation of the lyrics
The Devil is saying "I get blamed for all of the world's evils, but I never did any of it, I just cheered it on from the sidelines as YOU did all of it"
To be honest that’s the way he works. All through influence and none of the first hand culpability
@@Flowku Is this how it works? The devil does not exist, from there and from the song, draw your conclusions.
The Stones were never dull. It’s a clever song.
I've always interpreted the song as the Devil saying that he was just along for the ride with all the atrocities mentioned. "I rode a tank, held a general's rank," "I watched with glee," "after all, it was you and me." We are the cause of it all.
It is very rare to see Mr. Boyd shook like this.
It's the Stones
A bit of trivia about the recording of this track. The line was originally just "Who killed Kennedy?" but while in the studio recording this song the band learned of Bobby Kennedy's death, and had to update the lyrics.
Thanks Bill, it was news to me that "I shouted out, 'Who killed the Kennedys?'" isn't the original line.
I love how at the end of the song where Lucifer effectively says "put some respect on my name!"
That guitar though!! Their instrumental skills are off the chain!
These are definitely some of the best lyrics ever written for a pop song. They are incredibly evocative of the events in question. I mean there is some real power behind “I rode a tank I held a general’s rank, while the Blitzkrieg raged and the bodies stank.” Or the next stanza “I watched with glee hike your kings and queens, fought for ten decades for the gods they made.” So much packed into each.
Pop?
@@ezekiel5687 this was considered pop music at the time of its release
Always thought the the lines about fighting for 10 decades referred to the Hundred Years' War (mid 1300's to mid 1400's).
And RIP to the brilliant Charlie Watts
Makes sense, because England was involved in it...
I always thought that, but "for the gods they made" doesn't really make sense as both England and France were Catholic Christians at the time.
@@Escapee5931 I always saw that line "for the gods they made" was more to do with the royalty that they kept putting in place - almost like they worshiped the kings and queens.
i really appreciate the fact that you are well versed in history. there is an amazing content creator named Historia Civilis. I would like to see a reaction to any of his Julius Caesar videos but MOST especially, his assassination and the longest year in history. keep up the grind, i'm proud of your success.
This song is a lyrical masterpiece. History at its finest
Love your reactions! For the moment of doubt and pain I was thinking it was the garden moment where he prayed so hard he bled and asked the lord to not send him through with it. And i live for the references XD
yes! this is what I think the song is referring to as well. I wanted to see if someone else got it .
Amen
Me, also. Jesus’s emotional torment in Gethsemane.
That was always my interpretation.
i love, love, love, that you caught and understood all of the historical and biblical references. You even knew who pilot is. Very impressive sir. I now know why i always felt you to be a kindred spirit.
Pontius PILATE.
This song is track 1 on the first album, Beggar's Banquet, in the greatest 4 album sequence in Rock history: Beggar's Banquet, Let It Bleed, Sticky Fingers, and Exile on Main Street. (Yeah, it was really controversial.)
It's hard to believe anyone could have heard at least three Rolling Stones songs and not heard this one. It is their best! Driving bass, Woo Woo background vocals driving through most of the song. And their live performances of it are pure energy.
apparently mick jagger wrote these lyrics after marianne faithful recommended he read "the master & margarita" by mikhail bulgakov. I recommend all read this.
Witness the ROLLING STONES. The greatest rock and roll band there ever was, and ever will be.
They created a wall of sound and thought in all their massive amount of work.
I guess you would like "Mother's little helpers", "You can't always get what you want" and "Out of time" by them. All three sings have really great lyrics.
I believe the line, ''when Jesus Christ had his moment of doubt and pain'' actually refers to a moment on the cross, when he asked, ''my god, why have you forsaken me?''
Great rock anthem - so great. Yes brilliant and Mick Jagger at his best. Minds were blown in 1969 for sure
There’s a clip of the Stones recording this song and Mick sings “who killed Kennedy.” Either that night or the next day RFK was assassinated hence the change to “who killed the Kennedys.”
Takes you back to American Pie …
“Oh, and as I watched him on the stage
My hands were clenched in fists of rage
No angel born in Hell
Could break that Satan's spell”
Which is another song full of references, with the song itself being an ode to a sad passing.
"Jack Flash sat on a candle stick" referring to Mick and Sympathy for the Devil..
I've always loved this song. My dad's a preacher and had a cassette of Rolling Stones songs, including those one, which would inevitably be played from time to time esp on long family car trips. My dad being the history buff that he was and being in the line of work that he's still in to this day...irony's never lacked in my family. Nowadays, my mom occasionally watches "Lucifer" w/ him.
as someone who knows history i loved how you broke down each section of this song, i love this song for its lyrical content and perplexity of it all
I think you missed the point. It wasn't the devil saying "look at all the stuff I did". It was the devil saying "I didn't do any of this stuff that you are blaming on me. YOU did it all yourselves". "Have some sympathy for me, I'm being falsely accused of all of this"
Well I'm blown away by how much you know about history but you're right this is one of the most brilliant songs of all time!!! Thank you for your insightful review I have subscribed to your channel because of this reaction.
Amazing to watch your real-time reactions as the profundity of the lyrics set in. This one is a gem. Thanks Mr. Boyd.
I had never thought of a similarity with the historical nature before with this song and "American Pie." The lyrics are well constructed and performed with great emotion...another enjoyable video thank you for a fun time watching your reaction.
This was used in the Film 'Fallen" starring Denzil Washington and John Goodman. You'd reall like it!
A fantastic movie!
Yip! That's where I first heard it and my mind was BLOWN! Another good one is Jeff Buckley's cover of Hallelujah at the end of Lord of War.
The "I lay traps for troubadours who get killed before they reach Bombay" is a reference to the old Bing Crosby / Bob Hope "Road" movies. They've got everything in there...
Hi Bill - it has also been noted - elsewhere - that this is a Beatles reference as they went to India to take part in meditative retreats - I am sure there could be other possible contenders for this reference as well - thanks for the opportunity of reply - Kevin
@@kevindurham7590 Yeah, I could be wrong, Wikipedia says it's a reference to the old "Hippie Trail", where would-be buyers often got robbed or killed by road pirates going through Pakistan or Afghanistan. Could Jagger and Richards have consciously been referencing multiple things? Sure, this is when they were at the very peak of their considerable lyrical skills.
@@billholder1330 Sign of good lyrics with a number of possibilities and interpretations
Cheers Kevin
Live and recorded versions are always different. Love how live performances are always unique!
5:21 The funniest story I can think of from that time is that high ranking Nazis were confiscating nice cars as they went through Eastern Europe but they were specifically banned from driving one: Tatra T87. A fast and luxurious car for its time. But it had a rear mounted V8, similar engine placement as the famous Porsche 911 "widow maker", with similar "interesting" handling characteristics. The officers kept offing themselves in car accidents and they lost too many leaders to allow them to keep driving those cars. It was nick named "The Czech secret weapon" for its ability to kill off high ranking Nazi officers.
I remember hearing the song for the first time when I was probably 16 and understanding all the historical references. I think most of it would go over the heads of Malta today's kids because they do such a crappy job of teaching history
I first heard this song in the movie 'Interview with a Vampire' done by GNR. Loved it and had to listen to the original. Thanks for this
First time I heard this song it was a cover , (an EDM type version I heard on a college radio station), & thought it was tight, so I played it for my mom thinking it was this new song. My mom ofc let me know that it was an old song. But I love this song, I think my fav version is one by Jane’s Addiction I found on Spotify off the Son’s of Anarchy soundtrack. The og is good ofc, but the JA version is playlist for me. I haven’t ever done a deep dive into the Stones, I’ve heard their most pop songs, but I think Sympathy 4 the devil is prob 3 after Paint it black & give me shelter. Tho those two songs always make me think of Vietnam movies/shows, but they’re def my fav.
This is my favourite Rolling Stone song. This is the first time hearing the live version. The only thing I missed from the studio version is Keith Richards pic slide at the end of the solo.
I love listening to this song because it makes people wonder about the nature of evil. What is evil, is the Devil a necessary aspect to human existence? This time specifically i remember he mention the Devil is a man of wealth and taste- clear reference to greed and vanity. Gotta listen to Paint It Black if you have not done so yet. Thank you.
Stones for Life 😝😝😝
I love watching your eyes light up as you delve into your passion of history and music! Never apologize for pausing! This is exactly what we are here for 😊
Jagger's response to Lennons "I am the walrus." Brilliant reaction. Kudos Sir.
Best reaction to this tune I've seen.
On this particular song, don’t apologize for stopping so much. There’s a LOT going on lyrically, and I was happy to see you’d done a react to this and was very interested in your take on it.
…and this song is still a highlight in their current concerts 🎶
You got it all fairly accurate. I know that you must be well studied with the history the lyrics speak of. I salute you.🙂 Check out the original studio version. The music just makes me groove. I've seen the RS 7x and this song is always played. It's been used in whole or in part in several movies. Most recently when NBC was advertising Law & Order SVU crossover series. It's also played at the end of the movie Interview With A Vampire by Anne Rice.
The interview with a vampire version was performed by Guns N' Roses
There's a great lyric video of the studio version with the lyrics being written on a wall in bright colors.
Loved when this song was used when introducing Amanda Waller in Suicide Squad. Probably the only one in the theater who got it, since I knew the song and the character. And I'm old.
@@shawnleaf6566 Thanks Shawn😃 I never noticed that and I've watched the movie many times.
You might already know this, but it wasn't the Rolling Stones version it was Guns N Roses version at the end of the movie.
10 decades should refer to the 100 years war between England and France.
He wants sympathy because Satan gets blamed for man's atrocities. The last lines are "I'll tell you one time, you're to blame."
you were so in to the historical parts of this some that at 6:08 my reaction when you said you were going to try to stop stopping was "Good luck" 😇.
Thanks for the vid and keep it coming.
Oh Gawd, I love your surprised historical references when you catch them. I love that you catch them
I agree with Don saying Iron Maiden should be in the conversation as a band consistently bringing highly literate lyrics - a lot dealing with historical events. The music of the 60's and 70's is hard to beat for it's content and influence. I'm not one of those "back in my day" kind of guys, but I've always kept an open mind to any music. The Stones were a favorite of my as a kid - and I still love listening to them.
I would be hard pressed to name another song by the Stones with the depth of lyrics that Sympathy for the Devil has.
I appreciate an American who knows more than American history
Mr LBoyd...Superb historic breakdown of this song that I have loved for so long... Great work! Pleased to meet you!
I would like to recommend "Monkey Man"... My favorite Rolling Stones song.... Enjoy!
Iron Maiden have done a few historical songs such as The Trooper, Run To The Hills, Aces High. They also reference classical literature in songs like The Rhyme of The Ancient Mariner
Point is that the "Devil" is you and me. "He is us."
First time watcher here! I love your meticulous analysis and you’re right about the song being from the perspective of the devil. He had his hand in all the violence in the world. Doesn’t matter the song was written in 1969 ~ it still applies to events today! Will continue to watch your videos!
OMFG! You are the best! I love with all my heart the references that you can come up with! You are without a doubt one of the best people around! I will look at more videos, please be as awesome as you are in this one?
"I think that there were issues when this song came out," had me CACKLING. I'm only 29 but I've watched plenty of documentaries about rock/metal and heard numerous anecdotes about how rock music was perceived. I feel like you'd enjoy the movie Pirate Radio on your own time, it's a silly little British movie about rock music being illegally broadcast from ships when it was banned in the UK.
Beast of burden, paint it black, you can't always get what you want, gimme shelter, brown sugar, satisfaction, all these songs are amazing!! By the stones
Content like this defines youtube. Really glad i found your channel.
I love any reaction you do. Let that intellect shine.
If you want history (and potentially a 50 minute video), check out Billy Joel's 'We didn't start the fire' (40 years of history in 3 minutes) or Dan Bull's Civilization Rap.
What an articulate and thought provoking reaction! Thank you!
This was absolutely wonderful watching your reaction to the song.
Sometimes bands definitely say a lot, simple Happy Happy Joy Joy or something.
Add most often that is what I find impressive.
OMG…I love how you’re SO SMART and deep dive into this song💜🙏 The Rolling Stones, in my opinion, are THE BEST rock and roll band of all time.
this song is a materpiece, how god damned smart do you have to be to write an amazing rock song about the devil throughout history, love it as a history buff - listen to the recording though they have one with the lyric video its a better version.
Love your objective comments. You seem to really appreciate music. I do wish we knew the artist mindset when they write songs like this.
This song is the main song in the movie “Fallen”. Denzel Washington and John Goodman. Gives the song a meaning! And I cannot listen to this song without remembering this movie. Huge impact. Please watch it!!!
Very underrated Denzel movie but probably my favourite one that he's ever done! Very few reactions on UA-cam too
Not the main one. The end credit song. The main was Time Is On My Side.
I absolutely love the stones . This song is 10 years older than I am. Not many of my peers know what the stones were really about. Much more intellectual than they get credit for. Loved listening with someone who appreciates history. I've been hearing this since I was born and have changed my view on its meaning a few times. It's a great sound. It's a strange feeling. Gives us much to think about .
Who killed the Kennedys? You and me?
Another great reaction. What makes them so is your vast knowledge base. Kudos sir.
One of my favorite Rolling Stones songs!
You figured this out faster than any reactor has. Not even close.
Seen a lot of reactions on this song, but I truly enjoyed this one in particular.... thoroughly!
I listened to this song when it came and it was at least a decade later before I actually could understand what Mick was saying, I was so into the instrumental. 😂
One of my top Stones songs. Thnks for the History ♥️
I absolutely love your reactions, especially when informed by your historical knowledge! I learn much from you. If you haven't done so, please listen to the studio version. Sounds fantastic
I just love your reactions, thank you for posting them.
I knew you'd break this down in the best way!! I looked for this one. Super interesting. Going to look and see if you've done We Didn't Start the Fire by Billy Joel. Extreme history lesson in that one.
The Waterboys have an amazing historical song called "RED ARMY BLUES" a second world war story told from the perspective of a 17 year old Russian soldier.
Amazing lyrics (still one of my favourite beginnings lines to any song) and killer sax parts.
Al Stewart (best known for _Year of the Cat_ has a grim song called _Roads to Moscow_ about a WWII Russian soldier that's very good.
Fellow history buff here. I was so hyped when you paused and explained each historical incident. 😎🙌
This guy should do professsional voice overs etc. what a talented young man!
We didn't start the fire - Billy Joel - is probably one of the most famous songs with history in it. It's quite fast so you need to pay attention! But well worth listening to if you havent heard it before.
For the most part I only listen to music older than my grandparents, but early Rolling Stones is some of the best Rock n' Roll ever recorded.
The way you went close to the mic to speak when the video was playing was a clever way to avoid having to fudge with audio levels in post :D
Gotta say, your channels are fire, and your reactions, solid gold. You're on the short list, my man; keep doin' what you're doin'.
Try listening to the studio version as well. Thank you for analyzing this. In this day/age of ignorance.
Your knowledge of history is impressive! I was familiar with a couple of the references but just had a vague notion of the details on others. I know this reaction is a year old but I have a few recos of other Rolling Stones songs for you if you haven't reviewed them already: "Angie", "Fool to Cry", 'Heartbreaker", "Undercover of the Night" and "Waiting on a Lady".
The message, which is somewhat less clear in this epic version than the studio version, is that the devil takes all the blame for the terrible crimes humanity commits against itself. Have some sympathy for the guy who takes all the blame "when after all it was you and me".
Yes, this is a lyrically brilliant song with great sound too. Check out Gimme Shelter, Shine A Light, Doo Doo Doo Heartbreaker, Street Fighting Man, Jigsaw Puzzle, Memo From Turner, Time Waits for No One..... very deep catalog.
I love your history hat being on my brother! This song has a heap of meaning that many miss
"MISS YOU." It's so different from everything else of theirs.
There are always issues dear, but the 1960's & 70's were a funky rockin' dream come true! Your parents (or grandparents) were SO much cooler than you will ever be... LOL
This song has been on my all time list for years.
I really like Memory Motel a lot. Also, Wild Horses! As far s the lyrics go, I believe Joni Mitchell says something profound in A Case of You, when she says,"i am frightened by the devil and I'm drawn to those ones that ain't afraid", yep, not afraid here. Don't even believe in an ultimate evil being. Like the previous commenter said, it's really nice to have a scapegoat for all of the atrocities human beings commit and SO very many in the name of God. During the inquisitions more people were killed than by Hitler himself. BTW, I would have likely been burned at the stake just for what I have stated in this comment! Great reaction!
Mic Jagger did a funny cameo appearance in the Monty Python movie "The Ruttles" about the Beatles. He of course knew The Beatles and he fondly remembers The Rutles saying he went to Liverpool with his mate Jimmy and he says "If they can do it, we can do it."