The moment when he performed this song in front of the first responders at 9/11 during the Concert for NY is seared in my memory as one of the greatest performances ever. ✌️
@@greygtv6 It's not on YT, but can be found on Dailymotion; title: David Bowie - America & "Heroes" - Concert For New York City 2001. Edit: YT has the entire concert (4 : 56 : 35) to "buy or rent".
This was the song that played as we walked down the aisle to get married, she truly was my queen, sadly cancer took her 7 years later and a fire disappeared in my heart.
Heroes was composed during his Berlin Years... the time of nuclear threat, cold war and the wall... many kids in Berlin were experiencing a dystopian world, drug abuse was extreme and when Christiane F. wrote down her life there was a film made: Christiane F - kid from train station and this was the theme song... The influence of this film and the song on German Teenagers was enormous
@@LostInSweden-cc2zu I feel the same way...I saw it almost 40 years ago in school and havent seen it since, but it still makes me sad when ever I hear it...
I smiled when Amber mentioned that she thought of David Bowie not being of this earth, but an alien visitor. Take time to check out a movie from 1976 in which David Bowie, in the lead role, plays an alien who comes to earth in the hope of finding a solution to his planet's need for water. The title of the movie is The Man Who Fell to Earth.
watch Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence too a japanese/british movie from 1983 directed by Nagisa Oshima. Isn't it strange nobody considers him an actor and he worked with directors like Oshima Roeg Scorzese Tony Scott and C. Nolan?
Yep. That’s a must-watch. And BTW, at the end of his set, he famously introduced a (then-novel) video displayed on the stage-side screens. “Watch the screens! Watch the screens!” He said. And they played a video of the children in Ethiopia actually dying of hunger (which was what Live Aid was for) … to the music of The Cars singing ‘Drive’ (“Who’s gonna drive you home…. Etc” Man, if you heart weren’t broken before, it was then. They say Queen lit up the charity giving at Live Aid. Bowie thenThe Cars absolutely did too.
I remember watching the Live Aid concert in '85. To me the standout performances were Queen, U2, and Bowie. Thanks to UA-cam I can rewatch those whenever I want. You might want to check those out. This song is fantastic. Thanks for listening to it. You really can't go wrong with Bowie.
Back in the day Let's Dance was ripped as David Bowie selling out. I didn't understand that since he did something different nearly on every outting. Plus the songs were some of his best.
YOU HAVE TO GO LISTEN TO THE STUDIO VERSION!!!! It’s a must!! This video is sooooooooooo short, and it’s not even half the song. ITS SUCH A GOOD SONG IN ITS ENTIRETY!!!
This is crazy AF!! WHY the F cut a 5 minute song to ribbons like this?? They should def do the ACTUAL version! Plenty of great live ones out there also--in their full glory!
If my memory is correct, Bowie & Brian Eno decided that every sound put in the backing could not be deleted. It could be changed, distorted or minimised but NOT removed. It made for a great sound imo.
Like many people here, this is my favorite David Bowie song. This is a video of the single-version though, which is only about half of the studio-version. I hope you guys get to go back to listen to the full song with all the lyrics. And he still has a ton more songs that you haven't reacted to, so there is a great journey ahead of you still. Some of my favorites, in no particular order, "Golden Years," "Ashes to Ashes," "Right," "Young Americans," "Diamond Dogs," "Rebel Rebel." Glad you enjoyed this one. This is one that grows on you too.
I didn't even know this version existed. It's missing some entire verses, and it sort of defeats the purpose of the gradual build-up of the song. What a bummer...
Song Reactors are eternally bound by oath to screwing this kind of thing up, or something, idk.....as soon as my new credit card gets here im making a donation request for the real version, im tired of this crap.....except for a handful of rare artists, OFFICIAL STUDIO VERSIONS ONLY, gd it.
I was fortunate enough to see Bowie perform this song at LiveAid in Wembley. The day was so incredible. Heroes was one of them times where I cried. For even though we were all there to witness the greatest concert of the century, we were there to give aid and support to the famine in Ethiopia. For that, Bowie recognized that we all could be "Heroes, just for one day."
And Bowie cut short his set so the video shot in the Ethiopian refugee camp with The Cars “Drive” overlayed could be played, the reaction to which crashed the phone service in both London and Philadelphia. A true hero.
I remember when David Bowie was talking about his inspiration for this song. He was staying in Berlin, Germany when writing for this album. He saw the Berlin wall separating East and West Berlin keeping people apart. Kind of like in Romeo & Juliet when the Montagues and Capulets are fighting each other but their children fell in love with each other however, they were not allowed to be together peacefully except in death. I can't say enough wonderful about David Bowie. I miss him in this world. I know he's at peace and no longer sick though. 🙏🏻
That’s the story I’ve always heard. I think Jay and Amber are too young to know anything about the Berlin Wall or the Cold War. It’s funny how quickly everyone forgot considering how important it all was at the time.
I went to an Army vs Navy rugby match at Twickenham stadium years ago. The stadium was full at around 80,000. Most of the crowd were serving or ex service men and women and their families. Before the game started they played this song and i've never seen so many grown men cry their eyes out. People were thinking about all of those that couldn't be there. Such a powerful song. Bowie is timeless.
This song and Rebel Rebel are hands down my favorite Bowie songs ever. I saw David Bowie in the 80s and the 90s. He put on an amazing performance both times. He was the original glam rock god. RIP to The Thin White Duke. Your absence is noticeable.
Bowie is a legend, a clean example of an artist who changed and developed through time, multicultural, multidisciplinary, fashion icon ... always new and fresh!
The thing with Bowie is you can't just recommend one song cause his discography is SO diverse. There are so many stages of Bowie to check out. Rebel Rebel, Life On Mars?, Changes, Golden Years, Starman, Fame, The Jean Genie, Diamond Dogs, Scary Monsters, Ashes to Ashes, Fashion, China Girl, Let's Dance, Blue Jean,Little Wonder, Dead Man Walking, I'm Afraid of Americans and don't forget the Tin Machine stuff - Heavens in Here, Under the God, Crack City
Absolutely.....and we listened to albums over and over again as they came out. All of my old albums are history. I have all the songs that I love on a digital playlist , but I should just download the whole discography. Because I am constantly remembering another song that is soooo good( his worst song is usually superior to most artist's best). When I saw this reaction I thought of "sons of the silent age" and "joe the lion" and now they are on the playlist.
When Russia invaded Ukraine, Russian state tv quoted Bowie in their coverage saying "Ground control to Major Tom". David Bowie's son, Duncan immediately tweeted in response to them " Wrong song" along with these lyrics from " Heroes": "I can remember, standing by the wall, and the guns shot above our heads. And we kissed as though nothing could fall. And the shame was on the other side." Bowie is a true artist.
Heroes may be one of the greatest songs ever recorded. The story behind the song is awesome. From the meaning to the recording this is a human treasure. Thank you Tony Visconti and David.
David Bowie was ahead of his time. I heard this in the movie Horns with daniel radcliffe. I knew about this song and man before but never really dove into his music until that movie. The way the man spoke with intelligence, smoothness with words, his charisma was unlike any other
There’s a deep layer of passion in the way he delivers this. It’s not supposed to feel comfortable. It all works perfectly from end-to-end. This is one that grows on you.
The greatest version of this song was the live gig Bowie did for a Berlin audience. It was sensational and very emotional for the German audience clearly.
Featured in the German movie Christiane F, a true story of a 14 year old West Berlin girl falling into heroin addiction that really should have won at least Best Foreign Film Oscar and, I’d argue Best Actress for Natja Brunckhorst in the title role.
This is the song that Team GB marched out into the stadium when London hosted the Olympic games back in 2012, the reception they got from the crowd was simply amazing, spine tinglingly so and it made everyone here in the UK who watched that opening ceremony feel even prouder than we were before, I'm sure it gave a big boost to our athletes as well, the organisers couldn't have picked a better, more apt song for that occasion
David's impassioned rendition of his heartfelt lyrics, soaring above a great "wall of sound" (created by Bowie, Brian Eno (Roxy Music), Robert Fripp (King Crimson), Carlos Alomar, George Murray, Dennis Davis and Producer Tony Visconti), still touches the heart and soul nearly 50 years after it's release.
I definitely recommend you guys watching "Labrynth" starring David Bowie on your movie channel. You won't be disappointed. Bowie also sang all the songs on the soundtrack as well. "Heroes" is one of Bowie's best songs.
@spevec726 I don't even think of it as strange as it was part of my childhood and I still watch it now haha! Bowie's tight pants are a bit odd though but didn't even notice them as a kid! 😂
I can't think of anyone as original as David Bowie. You don't hear this kind of music anywhere... then and now. You know your listening to something special.
His music is so varied, he was indeed a musical genius. One song that you probably haven’t heard is the theme for the sci-fi movie CAT PEOPLE, “Putting Out Fire With Gasoline”.
Definitely! The song which made me a fan. Sensual, erotic like the movie. The version from the soundtrack is vastly superior to the version on "Let's Dance".
If you want to hear a song that really showcases his voice try "Wild is the Wind". I think sometimes his compositions are so compelling that people forget he has a beautiful voice. A real crooner in the right song. You will be amazed at his range and voice control. Do the official video, cuz on this one you dont want to hear the crowd. You just want to fall into the sound of him singing this beautiful love song.
David Bowie was the coolest person ever. He was bullied for being weird, and he made being weird his stepping stone to fame. I love him with my whole heart.
This song is one of my all time favorite Bowie songs! 🥰🥰🥰 I still want to put a plug in for Tina Turner and David Bowie’s duet “Tonight”, especially the live version from one of Tina’s concerts…it’s INCREDIBLE! At one point there’s a lady that makes it on stage and grabs him in a hug and has to be pulled off of him by a security guard and Bowie just keeps singing like nothing is happening. 😂 Also, guys, don’t forget to check Bowie out in his film Labyrinth! ❤
This song always takes me back to the London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony. All the nations competitors are parading round the track and taking their places in the center field. The last nation to come out is always the home nation. The GB team come out and Heroes starts playing.
When I saw David Bowie Live in an Amnesty Concert in Chile I was so surprised by his presence on the stage. He was a Master showman and it was so good and so great. Amazing!! My favorites are Blue Jean, Let's Dance, Ashes to Ashes, Rebel Rebel, Modern Love, Under Pressure, Space Oddity and specially the beautiful Starman. Regards!!
Between 1977 and 1979 Bowie recorded three albums in Berlin with musician Brian Eno and American producer Tony Visconti, which many people now regard as the pinnacle of his career. Low came first, then Heroes, followed by Lodger. The studio was right next to the Berlin Wall, and that location and political environment was highly influential on Bowie's songwriting. The trilogy was also hugely influential on bands in the 1980s, especially the post punk movement.
I'll never forget this being played (very loud) in the London Stadium during the 2012 Olympics - alongwith "We are the Champions" by Queen - with the crowd singing their hearts out.
Bowie was one of the best! His Ziggy Stardust tour was mind-blowing! We had just graduated from high school when that tour came through, and it remains one of my favorite concerts ever.
He also recorded a version of this in German, Helden. Most of the German phrases that I know are from this song. He might be my favorite artist of all time, so glad that you two listen to his songs. I haven't been able to bring myself to listen to his final album, recorded when he knew he was terminally ill. Maybe someday.
Incredible song, but I feel like the absolute definitive version was his majestic performance at LiveAid where "We can be heroes, just for one day" proved so resonant given that it was for famine relief. Plus he had Thomas Dolby on keyboards.
I agree. My favorite of the live versions. I kept requesting that version. Never cared for the recorded version. The guitars along with Bowie screaming was a turn-off even though I know why they did that.
@@DanalynTuthill-yl4hd Bowie's studio versions were brilliant, but often a little cold and antiseptic. Then once transformed live he imbued them with more warmth and fire. I feel like the LiveAid version had so much more heart and depth.
This was written during a period when he was living in Berlin. He saw a couple separated by the Berlin Wall. This is my favorite Bowie song! Check out his live performances of this!
My favourite Bowie era was pre 75, and more so when Mick Ronson was his sidekick/arranger/master-guitarist. The last appearance of Ronson before he died of liver cancer was at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert and he joined Bowie for Heroes. He emulated Fripp's guitar sound live and reminded us what a talent he was. A moment.
"Heroes" was my dad's favorite Bowie song. And Bowie was his favorite artist. I have the first verse into chorus of "The Man Who Sold The World" tattooed on my right calf in remembrance of him.
This album was part of his Berlin trilogy, all produced by Brian Eno, probably his best work. The song is about two lovers in Berlin separated by the wall
Cool story on this song: The producer Tony Visconti used a mic set up where certain mics were "gated" and wouldn't open up until David Bowie was basically screaming. That's how he got that wailing/screaming effect on the vocals in the latter parts of the track. And the lead guitar was laid down was Robert Fripp of King Crimson - an absolute guitar genius. You should check out King Crimson sometime too!
Yep, the mics were spaced, too; the furthest mic took the most volume to open the gate so the louder he sang the more room reverb got picked up. Also, I always assumed Fripp used an EBow but apparently it's all feedback with him plotting out where to stand for different notes so they sustained instead of squealing uncontrollably
@@daverice2426 Yes, and I understand they used a very large room, so that Bowie's voice goes from sounding close and intimate at the beginning to distant and hollering at the end. His voice doesn't get louder on the record, but you can still tell he's using more muscle and moving more air later in the song.
"We Can Be Heroes" is inscribed inside our wedding rings. The hub is a HUGE Bowie fan. 37 yrs later this song still gives me a smile. But...the long version would explain the struggle behind the lyrics. Either way, thanks!
I would like to suggest "Putting Out The Fire (Cat People)" from David Bowie. It's from the movie "Cat People" that he wrote the song for. I also loved it in "Atomic Blonde" as well. Amber, when you said you thought he wasn't from this world, you're not alone in that. He predicted so much before it really happened. 1999 David Bowie did an interview with a journalist, Paxman, from the BBC. David Bowie said that the internet was going to allow listeners to have better access to music. That entertainers and their audience will have a closer connection. He knew we would use the internet to obtain music long before most people even had the internet. Paxman didn't believe him and really had no clue what Bowie was talking about. We all know how that worked out LOL. 🤨😂
i have missed seeing many, many incredible artists live, but i'm happy to say i saw Bowie once, in the 90s, as a double bill with Nine Inch Nails. such an incredible double-bill. they blurred the line between their sets by having both bands on stage at the same time. they all performed a Bowie song or two, then a NIN song or two, Bowie and Trent Reznor sharing lyrics, and then Bowie and his band left the stage and the rest of the night was all NIN. so amazing.
Thanks Amber and Jay..I've always loved Bowie... but when Let's Dance came out ( I believe 85'... with SRV on lead guitar ...that really gave a brand new appreciation for Bowie... amazing performer, artist, and human being... RIP Mr Bowie..
Amber, he actually did a movie called "The Man Who Fell To Earth" where he plays an alien...lol. You guys should check it out but i warn you the movie is super weird.
Another interesting fact about Bowie- he almost pursued painting instead of music. Some people are born artistic geniuses and Bowie is certainly one. This song makes me want to go out and conquer the world (in a good way)
I love the fact that even though Heroes wasn't a big hit single, Bowie knew he had something good and kept it in his set... and pretty much made it a classic by just playing it for years until people got it!
Always loved David, my first 45 record was John I’m only dancing. My dad took me to Woolworth’s, I was ten. Life on mars for me is one of his best. My friends never got it, but, I did.
You’ve opened the “box” now. Keep going. Never stop. Such a unique artist. Had the privilege of seeing him many times. Never disappoints. His music educates me. Teaches you things.👨🎤👨🎤
I saw Bowie three times. His final concert tour showed his love for the audience, performing and genuine charisma. Of all the performers I've seen, two stand out for their love of the audience. DAVID BOWIE and TINA TURNER.
Bowie was a genius. Period. Next, I would love for you to do "Wild is the Wind." It's a Nina Simone song (and you should do her version, too!!!). The arrangement, the black and white photography, and his vocal stylings are all amazing.
@@lloyd4301 I have never seen this performance until you made me aware of it, and it IS stunning! That is Mike Garson on piano and my "six degrees of separation" here is that my cello teacher played on Mike Garson's solo album released around 1980-ish. At the time, I didn't appreciate what that actually meant. Now? I'm floored. Edit: The album is "Jazzical" from 1982, if you're interested.
The day that Bowie passed away I was in an airport flying out to another work site. I pulled this video up on my phone, and I was morosely watching it, off in my own lil corner of some airport somewhere. By the end of the song, a crowd had gathered around me and we were all just watching this video on my little phone. It was a communal experience. We all lost him that day
It's so hard to pick just one song to introduce someone to Bowie, because he was constantly changing his styles throughout his career. But if I had to pick just one, it would be Young Americans. It's funky, it's fun and his vocals are incredible.
David starred in a film called The man who fell to earth in 1976 about a human formed alien , and for amber to say she thinks he was from another planet just shows how unique he was as an artist
I like the version of this song when he's singing it on stage in front of a huge crowd with a live band and they start off a little more quiet and then the temple keeps Rising until they all find a kick in and man is it awesome
Saw David Bowie in December 1972 when on a family holiday back to the Manchester England. It was in his Ziggy Stardust period and it was fantastic. It was in an old bowling alley. Amazing!!!
Many years ago, a band called Mott the Hoople, was going to quit as they were not having chart success. When David Bowie found out, he said that they mustn’t quit and he gave them a song called All The Young Dudes and it went straight to number one and was the first of many hits. When Queen had the Freddy Mercury Tribute Concert, Ian hunter, the singer, came on and sang it, and when the singer and guitarist from Def Leppard heard about it they insisted that they must sing the backing vocals and it was just a wonderful moment. So please give the song a listen! Luv ya.
His live version of this at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert is great. Brian May, Roger Taylor, John Deacon of Queen and Mick Ronson backing him. Mick was Bowie's lead guitarist and right hand man during the Spiders From Mars years. What made it great also was that Mick and Bowie split before Bowie recorded this so to see him play it at the show made it special. Mick died of cancer not long after the show.
It took me six times sitting down to watch but today I just finished the 2022 Bowie documentary, Moonage Daydream. If you are a Bowie fan or want to learn more about him, you absolutely MUST watch. An absolute masterpiece.
The moment when he performed this song in front of the first responders at 9/11 during the Concert for NY is seared in my memory as one of the greatest performances ever. ✌️
That was heavy.
I never knew about that. I will have to look for it, the footage should be on the net somewhere.
@@greygtv6 It's not on YT, but can be found on Dailymotion; title: David Bowie - America & "Heroes" - Concert For New York City 2001. Edit: YT has the entire concert (4 : 56 : 35) to "buy or rent".
Best version ever of his song!!!
I agree!!!!!
This was the song that played as we walked down the aisle to get married, she truly was my queen, sadly cancer took her 7 years later and a fire disappeared in my heart.
This played down the aisle? People are not classy anymore
I'm so sorry to hear about the Cancer!😢
😢😢😢
You should treasure those 7 years forever! Stay strong mate!
Bowie is a hero, everyday.
Always. Forever and ever.
Life on Mars or Five years!
Saved my life. Definitely my hero
David did not die, he went home
he was a hero for many who needed him and he still is
Heroes was composed during his Berlin Years... the time of nuclear threat, cold war and the wall... many kids in Berlin were experiencing a dystopian world, drug abuse was extreme and when Christiane F. wrote down her life there was a film made: Christiane F - kid from train station and this was the theme song...
The influence of this film and the song on German Teenagers was enormous
ua-cam.com/video/E9BbXD-wRfA/v-deo.htmlsi=vU8-_Ud2m00D_e39
💞
I remember watching Christiane F as a kid. This song still makes me tear up because of it.
Great , hard ,sad dramàtic movie I Cristina F.
Was young to the cinema just to see Bowie but the entire film cacht me deep.
@@LostInSweden-cc2zu I feel the same way...I saw it almost 40 years ago in school and havent seen it since, but it still makes me sad when ever I hear it...
I smiled when Amber mentioned that she thought of David Bowie not being of this earth, but an alien visitor. Take time to check out a movie from 1976 in which David Bowie, in the lead role, plays an alien who comes to earth in the hope of finding a solution to his planet's need for water. The title of the movie is The Man Who Fell to Earth.
Love that movie
Great movie
Another great movie of his is The Hunger.
watch Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence too a japanese/british movie from 1983 directed by Nagisa Oshima. Isn't it strange nobody considers him an actor and he worked with directors like Oshima Roeg Scorzese Tony Scott and C. Nolan?
The musical Lazarus is the sequel to the movie.
David Bowie sang "Heroes" at Live Aid 1985. That was an amazing performance.
Yep. That’s a must-watch. And BTW, at the end of his set, he famously introduced a (then-novel) video displayed on the stage-side screens. “Watch the screens! Watch the screens!” He said. And they played a video of the children in Ethiopia actually dying of hunger (which was what Live Aid was for) … to the music of The Cars singing ‘Drive’ (“Who’s gonna drive you home…. Etc”
Man, if you heart weren’t broken before, it was then. They say Queen lit up the charity giving at Live Aid. Bowie thenThe Cars absolutely did too.
This is definitely one of my favourite Bowie tunes. This and Space Oddity. He is a musical genius. A true artist and cool as hell!
Same two for me.😊❤️
Me too
Me too. Also (for different reasons) love “Fashion”
What about Lazurus????
I remember watching the Live Aid concert in '85. To me the standout performances were Queen, U2, and Bowie. Thanks to UA-cam I can rewatch those whenever I want. You might want to check those out.
This song is fantastic. Thanks for listening to it. You really can't go wrong with Bowie.
His 1983 album, “Let’s Dance” was his next transformation into new wave/rock. Whole new look, whole new vibe. SRV provides lead guitar on the album.
Back in the day Let's Dance was ripped as David Bowie selling out. I didn't understand that since he did something different nearly on every outting. Plus the songs were some of his best.
They've just reacted to Let's Dance! 😎
YOU HAVE TO GO LISTEN TO THE STUDIO VERSION!!!! It’s a must!! This video is sooooooooooo short, and it’s not even half the song. ITS SUCH A GOOD SONG IN ITS ENTIRETY!!!
Yes, this truncated version drives me crazy. The studio version is stunning and the only way this song should be heard.
I couldn’t agree more with that statement ✌️
This is crazy AF!! WHY the F cut a 5 minute song to ribbons like this?? They should def do the ACTUAL version! Plenty of great live ones out there also--in their full glory!
you mean the album version right? this is a studio version....not live...
Bob Dylan's son, Jacob, has a band called The Wallflowers and they did a cover of this and had a couple of singles on the radio and MTV.🎸😎
He stands there like a perfect beautiful otherworldly being. He was simply a genius and a hero to many.
Jay & Amber, you'll love his "Changes" and "Young Americans" !!!
Agree. Changes definitely 1 of his best.
I think they already did those, didn’t they?
@@danieljohnson2005 no
Young Americans should blow their minds.
I love the "wall of sound" on this song. The producer was excellent in creating that sound, which totally matches the song.
If my memory is correct, Bowie & Brian Eno decided that every sound put in the backing could not be deleted. It could be changed, distorted or minimised but NOT removed. It made for a great sound imo.
And Robert Fripp played so differently to other guitarists at this time.
I love "Let's Dance". Super cool 80s dance song.
Lot of punks, Goths, alternative kids loved David Bowie back then especially this song.
Its like music for the outcast.
New wave.
Like many people here, this is my favorite David Bowie song. This is a video of the single-version though, which is only about half of the studio-version. I hope you guys get to go back to listen to the full song with all the lyrics. And he still has a ton more songs that you haven't reacted to, so there is a great journey ahead of you still. Some of my favorites, in no particular order, "Golden Years," "Ashes to Ashes," "Right," "Young Americans," "Diamond Dogs," "Rebel Rebel." Glad you enjoyed this one. This is one that grows on you too.
I didn't even know this version existed. It's missing some entire verses, and it sort of defeats the purpose of the gradual build-up of the song. What a bummer...
Not a good edit of the song. You can't pay attention to what he says when it is edited out.
I always listen to the album version and when they started, I was all, did... did they start in the middle of the song?
Song Reactors are eternally bound by oath to screwing this kind of thing up, or something, idk.....as soon as my new credit card gets here im making a donation request for the real version, im tired of this crap.....except for a handful of rare artists, OFFICIAL STUDIO VERSIONS ONLY, gd it.
"Golden Years" is my top Bowie track to D.J. with.
I was fortunate enough to see Bowie perform this song at LiveAid in Wembley. The day was so incredible.
Heroes was one of them times where I cried. For even though we were all there to witness the greatest concert of the century, we were there to give aid and support to the famine in Ethiopia. For that, Bowie recognized that we all could be "Heroes, just for one day."
And Bowie cut short his set so the video shot in the Ethiopian refugee camp with The Cars “Drive” overlayed could be played, the reaction to which crashed the phone service in both London and Philadelphia. A true hero.
@@ythomitnellum That was a moment I'll never forget. I think that all 80,000+ in attendance at Wembley were all crying.
I was there too. I totally agree. As a huge Bowie fan he was amazing. As well as Queen, The Who and Macca xxx
I remember when David Bowie was talking about his inspiration for this song. He was staying in Berlin, Germany when writing for this album. He saw the Berlin wall separating East and West Berlin keeping people apart. Kind of like in Romeo & Juliet when the Montagues and Capulets are fighting each other but their children fell in love with each other however, they were not allowed to be together peacefully except in death. I can't say enough wonderful about David Bowie. I miss him in this world. I know he's at peace and no longer sick though. 🙏🏻
That’s the story I’ve always heard. I think Jay and Amber are too young to know anything about the Berlin Wall or the Cold War. It’s funny how quickly everyone forgot considering how important it all was at the time.
There's a German language version, too. They played it at the end of Jo Jo Rabbit (fantastic movie)
I went to an Army vs Navy rugby match at Twickenham stadium years ago. The stadium was full at around 80,000. Most of the crowd were serving or ex service men and women and their families. Before the game started they played this song and i've never seen so many grown men cry their eyes out. People were thinking about all of those that couldn't be there. Such a powerful song. Bowie is timeless.
This song and Rebel Rebel are hands down my favorite Bowie songs ever. I saw David Bowie in the 80s and the 90s. He put on an amazing performance both times. He was the original glam rock god. RIP to The Thin White Duke. Your absence is noticeable.
Bowie is a legend, a clean example of an artist who changed and developed through time, multicultural, multidisciplinary, fashion icon ... always new and fresh!
The thing with Bowie is you can't just recommend one song cause his discography is SO diverse. There are so many stages of Bowie to check out.
Rebel Rebel, Life On Mars?, Changes, Golden Years, Starman, Fame, The Jean Genie, Diamond Dogs, Scary Monsters, Ashes to Ashes, Fashion, China Girl, Let's Dance, Blue Jean,Little Wonder, Dead Man Walking, I'm Afraid of Americans and don't forget the Tin Machine stuff - Heavens in Here, Under the God, Crack City
Absolutely.....and we listened to albums over and over again as they came out. All of my old albums are history. I have all the songs that I love on a digital playlist , but I should just download the whole discography. Because I am constantly remembering another song that is soooo good( his worst song is usually superior to most artist's best). When I saw this reaction I thought of "sons of the silent age" and "joe the lion" and now they are on the playlist.
@@shelbysnyder8109 I just went ahead and added all his album as my Bowie Playlist for that exact reason 🤘
Life on Mars is a masterpiece.
and thats just a fraction of his work!
My favourite Bowie song is Absolute Beginners
he was absolutely amazing live -- Golden Years, Space Oddity, Heroes, Young American, Fame
When Russia invaded Ukraine, Russian state tv quoted Bowie in their coverage saying "Ground control to Major Tom". David Bowie's son, Duncan immediately tweeted in response to them " Wrong song" along with these lyrics from " Heroes": "I can remember, standing by the wall, and the guns shot above our heads. And we kissed as though nothing could fall. And the shame was on the other side." Bowie is a true artist.
"And the shame was on the OTHER side."
@@HemlockRidge thank you. .I'm always skipping words when I type and that was kind of a critical omission
Heroes may be one of the greatest songs ever recorded. The story behind the song is awesome. From the meaning to the recording this is a human treasure. Thank you Tony Visconti and David.
This legendary song is so special to millions of us. I consider this his most important song. I absolutely love this song!
Such incredible depth to this song....doesn't matter how many times I hear it, I always get chills.
David Bowie was ahead of his time. I heard this in the movie Horns with daniel radcliffe. I knew about this song and man before but never really dove into his music until that movie. The way the man spoke with intelligence, smoothness with words, his charisma was unlike any other
The version he did in German is used beautifully at the end of Jojo Rabbit
@@waynecanning4122 I love that version!
I’m not sure what makes this song so awesome and deep, but it is. Such a vibe. I’ve loved this since I was a kid in the 70s.
There’s a deep layer of passion in the way he delivers this. It’s not supposed to feel comfortable. It all works perfectly from end-to-end. This is one that grows on you.
The greatest version of this song was the live gig Bowie did for a Berlin audience. It was sensational and very emotional for the German audience clearly.
Featured in the German movie Christiane F, a true story of a 14 year old West Berlin girl falling into heroin addiction that really should have won at least Best Foreign Film Oscar and, I’d argue Best Actress for Natja Brunckhorst in the title role.
I agree. It’s a great live version
YEEESSS! AMber you got it! Bowie is a visitor to our humble Earth!
This is the song that Team GB marched out into the stadium when London hosted the Olympic games back in 2012, the reception they got from the crowd was simply amazing, spine tinglingly so and it made everyone here in the UK who watched that opening ceremony feel even prouder than we were before, I'm sure it gave a big boost to our athletes as well, the organisers couldn't have picked a better, more apt song for that occasion
You can really tell from this song where new wave bands like “The Psychedelic Furs” got their inspiration.
David's impassioned rendition of his heartfelt lyrics, soaring above a great "wall of sound" (created by Bowie, Brian Eno (Roxy Music), Robert Fripp (King Crimson), Carlos Alomar, George Murray, Dennis Davis and Producer Tony Visconti), still touches the heart and soul nearly 50 years after it's release.
I definitely recommend you guys watching "Labrynth" starring David Bowie on your movie channel. You won't be disappointed. Bowie also sang all the songs on the soundtrack as well. "Heroes" is one of Bowie's best songs.
Yes! It's one of my favourites!!
It’s one of my favorites too! It’s a strange 80’s movie and I think they have to go into it with that in mind but it’s so good and he’s so talented!!!
@spevec726 I don't even think of it as strange as it was part of my childhood and I still watch it now haha! Bowie's tight pants are a bit odd though but didn't even notice them as a kid! 😂
@@garykidson4489 haha same here! But everyone I show it to that’s never seen it always looks at me afterwards like I have 5 heads 😅😅
@spevec726 Haha true, I showed my fiancee, we are no longer engaged, maybe that's the reason! 😂
I can't think of anyone as original as David Bowie. You don't hear this kind of music anywhere... then and now. You know your listening to something special.
His music is so varied, he was indeed a musical genius. One song that you probably haven’t heard is the theme for the sci-fi movie CAT PEOPLE, “Putting Out Fire With Gasoline”.
Excellent song!
Definitely! The song which made me a fan. Sensual, erotic like the movie. The version from the soundtrack is vastly superior to the version on "Let's Dance".
@@DanalynTuthill-yl4hd I agree
Used perfectly in Tarantino's Inglorious Bastards also
Tarantino is a genius at soundtracks. You should do a reaction of the Jim Henson film Labyrinth. David Bowie is the Goblin King.
I heard this song for the first time in my late 20's about 10 years ago and burst out crying. I love this song so much.
If you want to hear a song that really showcases his voice try "Wild is the Wind". I think sometimes his compositions are so compelling that people forget he has a beautiful voice. A real crooner in the right song. You will be amazed at his range and voice control. Do the official video, cuz on this one you dont want to hear the crowd. You just want to fall into the sound of him singing this beautiful love song.
David Bowie was the coolest person ever. He was bullied for being weird, and he made being weird his stepping stone to fame. I love him with my whole heart.
This song is one of my all time favorite Bowie songs! 🥰🥰🥰 I still want to put a plug in for Tina Turner and David Bowie’s duet “Tonight”, especially the live version from one of Tina’s concerts…it’s INCREDIBLE! At one point there’s a lady that makes it on stage and grabs him in a hug and has to be pulled off of him by a security guard and Bowie just keeps singing like nothing is happening. 😂
Also, guys, don’t forget to check Bowie out in his film Labyrinth! ❤
YES!! Also, from the same concert, LET’S DANCE. Fabulous!
They have to do Labyrinth! 🥰
LABYRINTH, YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Another vote for Labyrinth!
The song is about a pair of lovers on opposite sides of the Berlin wall back during the Cold War
This song always takes me back to the London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony. All the nations competitors are parading round the track and taking their places in the center field. The last nation to come out is always the home nation. The GB team come out and Heroes starts playing.
Yes, goosebump moment, I'll never forget that 👌🏻🇬🇧
When I saw David Bowie Live in an Amnesty Concert in Chile I was so surprised by his presence on the stage. He was a Master showman and it was so good and so great. Amazing!!
My favorites are Blue Jean, Let's Dance, Ashes to Ashes, Rebel Rebel, Modern Love, Under Pressure, Space Oddity and specially the beautiful Starman.
Regards!!
At that time the musical community came together and taught a whole generation about amnisty international missions
Love this list of favorites! Perfect Bowie playlist!
I mentioned Live Aid also...2nd best act after Queen, that day.
I keep recommending that they react to "Let's Dance"- which features a young Stevie Ray Vaughn on guitar.
@@joiedevivre2005 Oh nice point!
Bowie was always a few steps ahead of everyone else, a musical genius and a very special person all around. Bowie Forever
Bowie in concert is like theatre
They made a documentary about him called Five years because he went through these metamorphoses every 5 or so years
There's so much passion in his voice . The music is sureal. Totally blows my mind every time I hear this song.
Between 1977 and 1979 Bowie recorded three albums in Berlin with musician Brian Eno and American producer Tony Visconti, which many people now regard as the pinnacle of his career. Low came first, then Heroes, followed by Lodger. The studio was right next to the Berlin Wall, and that location and political environment was highly influential on Bowie's songwriting. The trilogy was also hugely influential on bands in the 1980s, especially the post punk movement.
I think "Life on Mars" (orignal video) would be the best introduction to Bowie
Love that you are reacting to this song, which is a gift from the universe via the conduit that was Bowie
Yeah--the actual song: Not THIS one, lol! THIS gift was half-wrapped and torn to shreds, lol. They cut out tons of parts here...
I'll never forget this being played (very loud) in the London Stadium during the 2012 Olympics - alongwith "We are the Champions" by Queen - with the crowd singing their hearts out.
Bowie was one of the best! His Ziggy Stardust tour was mind-blowing! We had just graduated from high school when that tour came through, and it remains one of my favorite concerts ever.
I would have done anything to have seen that, they sold out on us. Mick Ronson was dope! 🎸
@@vicprovost2561 He was!
He also recorded a version of this in German, Helden. Most of the German phrases that I know are from this song. He might be my favorite artist of all time, so glad that you two listen to his songs. I haven't been able to bring myself to listen to his final album, recorded when he knew he was terminally ill. Maybe someday.
Incredible song, but I feel like the absolute definitive version was his majestic performance at LiveAid where "We can be heroes, just for one day" proved so resonant given that it was for famine relief. Plus he had Thomas Dolby on keyboards.
I agree. My favorite of the live versions. I kept requesting that version. Never cared for the recorded version. The guitars along with Bowie screaming was a turn-off even though I know why they did that.
@@DanalynTuthill-yl4hd Bowie's studio versions were brilliant, but often a little cold and antiseptic. Then once transformed live he imbued them with more warmth and fire. I feel like the LiveAid version had so much more heart and depth.
@God Loves Comics And like all great artists their music evolves over time live.
I can never decide on my favorite Bowie song. I always go back and forth between "Space Oddity" and "Life On Mars"
This was written during a period when he was living in Berlin. He saw a couple separated by the Berlin Wall. This is my favorite Bowie song! Check out his live performances of this!
My favourite Bowie era was pre 75, and more so when Mick Ronson was his sidekick/arranger/master-guitarist. The last appearance of Ronson before he died of liver cancer was at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert and he joined Bowie for Heroes. He emulated Fripp's guitar sound live and reminded us what a talent he was. A moment.
Bowie's music is defined by eras in which he had different personas. He was living in West Berlin at this point, which inspired this song.
To answer your question:
Ashes To Ashes. Thanks for the blessing, made me smile
Big Bowie fan here, wish I could hit like twice. And for all his songs! Amazing artist.
"Heroes" was my dad's favorite Bowie song. And Bowie was his favorite artist. I have the first verse into chorus of "The Man Who Sold The World" tattooed on my right calf in remembrance of him.
Bowie is also in the top 5 artist with the widest vocal range.
"There is Old Wave.
There is New Wave.
And then, there is David Bowie."
Sums it all up, really.
An all-timer great song!
love Mr Bowie . Whether you get his music . Or not . Have fun understanding it . Still brings tears to my eyes not having him around .
This album was part of his Berlin trilogy, all produced by Brian Eno, probably his best work. The song is about two lovers in Berlin separated by the wall
One of my favourite Bowie songs, if not my most favourite. Great song that stays with you.
Cool story on this song: The producer Tony Visconti used a mic set up where certain mics were "gated" and wouldn't open up until David Bowie was basically screaming. That's how he got that wailing/screaming effect on the vocals in the latter parts of the track. And the lead guitar was laid down was Robert Fripp of King Crimson - an absolute guitar genius. You should check out King Crimson sometime too!
And remember, it was recorded in West Berlin in the 70s. Tony was half of the couple kissing by the wall.
Yes. I loved the gated reverb first time I heard it. 10 years later, I'd had enough.
King Crimson is an excellent recommendation. Court of the Crimson King is absolutely epic!
Yep, the mics were spaced, too; the furthest mic took the most volume to open the gate so the louder he sang the more room reverb got picked up. Also, I always assumed Fripp used an EBow but apparently it's all feedback with him plotting out where to stand for different notes so they sustained instead of squealing uncontrollably
@@daverice2426 Yes, and I understand they used a very large room, so that Bowie's voice goes from sounding close and intimate at the beginning to distant and hollering at the end. His voice doesn't get louder on the record, but you can still tell he's using more muscle and moving more air later in the song.
David Bowie was charisma!!! David PUSHED the envelope and took us to places we couldn't imagine....and when we got there....he found ANOTHER envelope!
King Crimson does a banging version of this. Crimson leader Robert Fripp is the guitarist here!
"We Can Be Heroes" is inscribed inside our wedding rings. The hub is a HUGE Bowie fan. 37 yrs later this song still gives me a smile. But...the long version would explain the struggle behind the lyrics. Either way, thanks!
I would like to suggest "Putting Out The Fire (Cat People)" from David Bowie. It's from the movie "Cat People" that he wrote the song for. I also loved it in "Atomic Blonde" as well. Amber, when you said you thought he wasn't from this world, you're not alone in that. He predicted so much before it really happened. 1999 David Bowie did an interview with a journalist, Paxman, from the BBC. David Bowie said that the internet was going to allow listeners to have better access to music. That entertainers and their audience will have a closer connection. He knew we would use the internet to obtain music long before most people even had the internet. Paxman didn't believe him and really had no clue what Bowie was talking about. We all know how that worked out LOL. 🤨😂
One of his best imo. Now once they see this used is "the perks of being a wallflower" . A whole new meaning
i have missed seeing many, many incredible artists live, but i'm happy to say i saw Bowie once, in the 90s, as a double bill with Nine Inch Nails. such an incredible double-bill. they blurred the line between their sets by having both bands on stage at the same time. they all performed a Bowie song or two, then a NIN song or two, Bowie and Trent Reznor sharing lyrics, and then Bowie and his band left the stage and the rest of the night was all NIN. so amazing.
An absolute gem
Bowie was such an amazing artist! My favorite is "Suffragette City"...a banger for sure!
Thanks Amber and Jay..I've always loved Bowie... but when Let's Dance came out ( I believe 85'... with SRV on lead guitar ...that really gave a brand new appreciation for Bowie... amazing performer, artist, and human being... RIP Mr Bowie..
Probably a deep cut but "Scary Monsters and Super Creeps" is my absolute favorite Bowie song.
Have seen him live in 2003. He is such an entertainer. With amazing musicians. A real star.
Amber, he actually did a movie called "The Man Who Fell To Earth" where he plays an alien...lol. You guys should check it out but i warn you the movie is super weird.
Another interesting fact about Bowie- he almost pursued painting instead of music. Some people are born artistic geniuses and Bowie is certainly one. This song makes me want to go out and conquer the world (in a good way)
One of Bowies obscure songs is one of his best. Time.. it really embodies and conveys its story.
ABSOLUTELY! Totally agree!
100%
Love the performance from The Glass Spider Tour.
I love the fact that even though Heroes wasn't a big hit single, Bowie knew he had something good and kept it in his set... and pretty much made it a classic by just playing it for years until people got it!
Always loved David, my first 45 record was John I’m only dancing. My dad took me to Woolworth’s, I was ten. Life on mars for me is one of his best. My friends never got it, but, I did.
The live version he did for the Freddie Mercury tribute concert is the BEST version!
I agree! I love that version with Mick Ronson and Queen.
I was there😀
You’ve opened the “box” now. Keep going. Never stop. Such a unique artist. Had the privilege of seeing him many times. Never disappoints. His music educates me. Teaches you things.👨🎤👨🎤
💜💜💜 I LOVE BOWIE! This is a good song too. Try "Changes", "Rebel, Rebel", "Let's Dance", "Cat People (Putting Out The Fire)" and "China Girl".
I saw Bowie three times. His final concert tour showed his love for the audience, performing and genuine charisma. Of all the performers I've seen, two stand out for their love of the audience. DAVID BOWIE and TINA TURNER.
Bowie was a genius. Period. Next, I would love for you to do "Wild is the Wind." It's a Nina Simone song (and you should do her version, too!!!). The arrangement, the black and white photography, and his vocal stylings are all amazing.
What a truly brilliant cover and video
The live version for the Yahoo Internet Awards 2000 with just the piano is quite simply stunning
@@lloyd4301 I have never seen this performance until you made me aware of it, and it IS stunning! That is Mike Garson on piano and my "six degrees of separation" here is that my cello teacher played on Mike Garson's solo album released around 1980-ish. At the time, I didn't appreciate what that actually meant. Now? I'm floored.
Edit: The album is "Jazzical" from 1982, if you're interested.
@@leovirgo4538 glad you like it. I regularly go back and watch it. Your link to Mike Garson is just ace, love that.
The day that Bowie passed away I was in an airport flying out to another work site. I pulled this video up on my phone, and I was morosely watching it, off in my own lil corner of some airport somewhere. By the end of the song, a crowd had gathered around me and we were all just watching this video on my little phone. It was a communal experience. We all lost him that day
It's so hard to pick just one song to introduce someone to Bowie, because he was constantly changing his styles throughout his career. But if I had to pick just one, it would be Young Americans. It's funky, it's fun and his vocals are incredible.
David starred in a film called The man who fell to earth in 1976 about a human formed alien , and for amber to say she thinks he was from another planet just shows how unique he was as an artist
"Let's Dance" is an unforgettable Bowie song and video.
I like the version of this song when he's singing it on stage in front of a huge crowd with a live band and they start off a little more quiet and then the temple keeps Rising until they all find a kick in and man is it awesome
“Changes” my top Bowie song. Brilliant reaction by the way. You got the lyrics better than I have in 50 years.
The German version of this song - "Helden" - was placed very well at the end of the movie JoJo Rabbit.
Ronson's singing guitar all thru this song is what makes it magical for me.
Saw David Bowie in December 1972 when on a family holiday back to the Manchester England. It was in his Ziggy Stardust period and it was fantastic. It was in an old bowling alley. Amazing!!!
Many years ago, a band called Mott the Hoople, was going to quit as they were not having chart success. When David Bowie found out, he said that they mustn’t quit and he gave them a song called All The Young Dudes and it went straight to number one and was the first of many hits. When Queen had the Freddy Mercury Tribute Concert, Ian hunter, the singer, came on and sang it, and when the singer and guitarist from Def Leppard heard about it they insisted that they must sing the backing vocals and it was just a wonderful moment. So please give the song a listen! Luv ya.
His live version of this at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert is great. Brian May, Roger Taylor, John Deacon of Queen and Mick Ronson backing him. Mick was Bowie's lead guitarist and right hand man during the Spiders From Mars years. What made it great also was that Mick and Bowie split before Bowie recorded this so to see him play it at the show made it special. Mick died of cancer not long after the show.
It took me six times sitting down to watch but today I just finished the 2022 Bowie documentary, Moonage Daydream. If you are a Bowie fan or want to learn more about him, you absolutely MUST watch. An absolute masterpiece.