Hayward is a very underrated guitarist, because of the very conciseness and musicality of his work. 100% for the tune, 0% ass-wanking, no gratuitous displays of chops to the detriment of the music, for which I am eternally, internally, and externally grateful. All killer, no filler as the saying goes.
He's underrated as a guitarist because no one can believe anyone that good looking can be a triple threat - brilliant singer, brilliant songwriter AND a brilliant guitarist. I watched him intently from front row centre in 2011 and could not decide which of the three he was best at. And considering this was the man who wrote one of the greatest, if not THE greatest, songs of all time, Nights In White Satin, this was no mean feat. As the sole guitarist in the group he had to be good.
Hi! My parents names me Justin Hayward after Justin, as well. Lost my dad 14 years ago. I grew up on the Moodies… nice to meet you. Sorry about your loss.
Although not typically known for his long drawn-out guitar solos, Justin is still my favorite rock guitar player and vocalist of all-time. His solos are very melodic and tucked back into the mix a bit which I think is one reason for him being considered underated. According to all of the interviews I have heard, Justin composes most of his songs on the acoustic guitar first. But, his electric guitar tone is one of the key elements to the classic 1960's-1980's Moody Blues sound. Thanks so much for this deep dive into his lead playing ability. Cheers.
Agreed! Justin's solos always serve the song and never say, "look at me--look how fast I can play!" And his tone is unique--totally his own. No one else sounds like that!
He really is under the radar on the guitar player lists... if you listen to the studio version of Dawning Is The Day on A Question of Balance, you'll hear amazing riffs and runs on his acoustic guitar.
Justin Hayword is close to the top of the list. One of the most underated guitar players. I have seen the Moody Blues many times.He just hits the right notes. And his sound is so clear and full! I was lucky and took a very special of Justin at the Red Rocks. Thank You! For giving Justin some respect!
Ok! Everyone. The photo was taken at the Red Rocks. They where playing with the Denver Symphony. A album and video was made. It was impossible to bring a camera inside. Intense security! I still somehow got my camera in. A women ran up to the stage. Handed Justin a rose. I got the photo! And it is really good. Under the conditions probably the best photo I ever took. The rest of the band also is in the photo. Ray who passed away. Was the only member who has his back turned away from me. I am sure I am the only person in the world who got the photo. The security was trying to find me. I was on my hands and knees trying to hide. Even more to this story!!!! What is important I have the photo.
@@dougpotosky4102 Yes...I got the DVD of that recording. I also the DVD of their appearing on a French stage in 69/1970, as well as the DVD of England's rendition of Woodstock. I can just see you crawly around hiding from the Gestapo!
I have tried my best to find anyone else who sounds like him. There aren't any that I can find. When Justin is gone, we'll lose a wonderfully unique voice.
@@dennis2966 it saddens me to even think about it. Justin, with his poetry of words and the magic of his playing has been with me since 1972 when that heart wrenching voice, as if he was reliving the agony of his heart being broken and put that emotion and lyrucs into Nights in White Satin. In an interview, he once let his guarded past slip through a tightly, closed door. He also said, which he does not talk about much, is that when a heart is broken, one goes through mourning as one goes through dealing with death, and that is so true. After that interview, I saw Nights differently. That voice, coming through the radio in 1972 in the USA singing that song pulled so many people into that sad song of lost love. Through the eyes filled with love saw the world as beautiful where he did not see before. I saw Justin September 22, 2021. He was fabulous. I've seen him each year when he makes his solo tour. He performed to a sellout audience and received many standing ovations. The world will be an empty place when he leaves us. In Maryland, those who got their covid vax do not have to wear a mask. Justin requested everyone to wear a mask, and we all did so. You can catch his 2021 tour on UA-cam, as attendees put their recorded some of his singing. I listen to his/Moodies everyday. There are so many great songs this band has contributed to the world. In 1969, their music was way before our times back then.
I found a video of Justin from just 4 years ago and his voice is just as amazing as it ever was!!!!! There is a more recent video I haven't listened to yet, but I'm planning to.
@@cathrinecolwell3303 There are plenty of videos out there on Justin. I just saw him in September of this year on his solo tour. I see him every time he plays in my state. The best thing is I only have to travel 15 minutes away. His voice has changed. I did not get to see him last year due to pandemic closures. I do not care that his voice has changed somewhat. I will continue to go and see him each time he comes to my fair state. This last time, he had a great show...well organized, etc. One of these days I will go and see John Lodge when he makes it here as well. I saw a video of him singing and he sings more rowdy songs from the Moodys. He is a great entertainer as well.
@@ladyhecate9450 Just saw John's concert a week ago, he was great, even after having a stroke at Christmas. Saw Justin on Sunday, he was absolutely amazing. Both shows were outstanding. I really enjoyed seeing them individually - where you could really see them shine.
The talent and abilities of the Moody Blues really do fly under the radar. They have some of the absolute best vocal harmonies of any band to come out of the 60s. Glad I got a chance to see them in concert while Edge was still alive.
I went to VietNam in July of 69....the Moodies had a few albums out....the last at that time was OTTOAD....those early albums got me through some tough times....when things were going bad I went to the Moodies....they didnt know it of cource but they got me through....and still do.
Moody Blues has always been one of my top favorite bands - but I never realized what a great guitar player Justin is. He never runs out of good ideas for rhythm and lead. I'm always impressed at how well Fil can recreate anything he hears - and explain how it's done.
Great to see Justin get some props for his lead playing. To me the songs he wrote were almost always the best, most timeless of each Moody Blues album. Great writer, singer and player!
Yes, "a great lead player." It doesn't always have to be about speed. A memorable melody that complements the song more than it feeds the guitar player's ego has always been more important to this listener, at least.
Fil, I love your channel. You do great work. You have a fan's love for the music, but also the musician's understanding of what goes into the performance, and the teacher's ability to explain and elaborate on it.
I've always loved the "full" sound of a band with two drummers and even an orchestra behind them. Just seeing them pack a hall that size 30+ years after that song came out is a testament to their appeal and talent for making an old song sound fresh.
I am now 70 and I have been a huge "Moodie" since the 60's. They had/have the full musical sound/orchestral sound that I have always loved to hear. I never got to see them live.
I saw them during the early 1990’s. It was the pre-internet, camping out your place in line the night before then racing to the ticket counter when the doors opened in the morning to get the best seats days. I landed front row seats for myself, my gf, and my roommate. It was an amazing show and the band was on fire that night. To this day, I’ve not seen another band so seamlessly navigate such complex changes of timing and key. And I am a huge fan of prog rock and jazz. They were having as much fun on stage as we were in the audience! During the encore, John, Justin, and Ray each took turns leaning over to high five the audience members in the front row including us. It was truly a magical evening of superb musicianship and class. I’ll never forget it.
Hayward is one of my guitar heros. After much searching, I was fortunate to find a Gibson 335 nearly identical to his. The axe is amazing! Rock on Justin!
335 are a Dream. IMO if a guitarist has a 335 & a Telecaster, they only need an acoustic. I only own 3 guitars, a Tele a 335 & my beater acoustic (which after I lowered 1st fret action to .020, dropped the saddle to get 5/64 on Low E, 4/64 on high E, that beater sounds amazing.)
Glad for this. Long time Moody fan. Huge fan base/not enough critical recognition, I say. But they are among the giants. History shows. Justin plays with ease, and he's tasty in his playing. Carefully fashions his pieces. In and out of style, he maintains that "buzz" sound, which suits their overall sound.
Justin Hayward never gets credit for his guitar playing because he's such a great singer. His solos on "I'm Just a Singer", "Ride My See Saw", "The Story In Your Eyes" and "How Is It We Are Here?" are brilliant.
As a young man growing up in Swindon, UK, Justin had guitar lessons from Mr Smart, who obviously helped him along the way. Many thanks for featuring Justin Hayward.
Re: the double-drummers. There is another reason for this than a fuller live sound. In the early 90's drummer Graeme Edge began to suffer from severe shoulder pain due to bursitis and bone spurs. The band was soon to go on the road supporting a new album, "Keys of the Kingdom", and Edge's playing was effected during rehearsals, but taking approx. 2 months or more off to have surgery and a long recovery to get back in shape was not an option with the tour dates looming. So drummer Gordon Marshall was added, originally intended to just be a temporary sideman until Graeme could fully recover. Graeme had nights where his physical limitations were worse than other nights, so Gordon would handle the bulk of the drumming on those nights so Graeme could take it easy. On Graeme's better nights, Gordon would just back him up. After working this way for almost 2 years, the band decided to keep the 2 drummer format, even after Graeme had his surgery. It sounded great live, and the 2 eventually worked out drum arrangements that featured them both. Graeme talked about this on British radio interview, and has also told this to fans who asked about it.
Great to see the lads getting some recognition from an authority! I saw them several times in the '90s, twice with a symphony orchestra, and what a tight and versatile band they were.
Justin is such an amazing lead guitarist, always having me yearning to hear more but he mostly just stuck note by note to the album recordings when playing live. But this performance is by far the longest solo I’ve heard him play, and such a joy. Such a shame they all rarely stretched out and jammed more.
I have been listening to this song since I was a teen. The Moody Blues spike to people because their lyrics were just so cool. A little like Bob Dylan in that they made you think about the deeper meaning of life. That is why fans showed up at their doors. They thought that the band had all te ansers to the meaning of life. This was just a great time for music. It is the reason we all go back and listen to these songs. Thanks Fil I saw Justin close up in his solo gig back in 2016. He is a great performer and guitar player. Love him dearly!!
The other Justin solo under the radar is the song The Story in Your Eyes……. On of the more interesting solos is the spoken word rock song Higher and Higher…. Also in the song Ride my See Saw Justin plays the guitar solo as if he were playing a sitar running down one string… Also in the Later classic seven albums there is a lot of weaving two songs with different tempos like You Can Never Ho Home and it works.
I saw them c.1990 with the SD Symphony. Phenomenal show from the nosebleed seats. The review the next day from the local critic "Ann Gargoyle" or something similar, dwelt on the facial wrinkles she could see from her golden circle comp seat. I wrote a letter to the editor of her newspaper, but it was not printed. Her replacement told me that her review of that concert got more negative responses than most reviews in years.
Moodies, early 80's, Birmingham uk, NEC arena. Best gig I've ever experienced. The performance that night was so beyond excellent that the audience response made me truly a little fearful that the roof was going to cave in. No kidding: the band were so in sync with each orher that night that they took the audience with them as they beckoned the encore. The floorboards around the sides were shaking to those feet marching in a final round of gloriousness that the whole place started resonating. Never before or since did I genuinely start to worry that the spider-leg struts which hold up the roof just wouldn't be able to take the strain caused by the vibtration of those stamping feet. Sounds like an exaggeration, I know, but you should've been there. Shook me to my shoes; Justin's Nights made me quiver 'til I cried. Talk about a spirtual experience ... (no emojis worthy)
By the 2000s best group had been performing for over 40 years already. I grew up with The Moody Blues. Their mix of rock and classical music always always was wonderful.
Not a musician, would not even contemplate ranking guitarists. But Justin's guitar work is full of beauty and energy. Thanks, fil, for filling in some of the technical details for us outsiders.
Your reactions/analysis are always so good and you have the ability to explain "technical" stuff so that a lay person, such as me, can understand techniques more easily. Always felt that the talents of this group: singers/songwriters/composing were under-rated, especially when it comes to Justin Haywood. I mean, he wrote "Nights in White Satin" at the age of 19, for the concept album "Days of Future Passed" in 1967. Have always enjoyed and can get lost in the orchestral melodies mixing with the progressive rock sounds. Beautiful.
I'd say my entire playing career owes a lot to Justin - I may be a 46 year old jazz/rock/metal dude now, but when I was 14 and had literally just picked up guitar a few weeks earlier, my mum dragged me along to a Moody Blues concert. I really didn't want to be there. By the end of the gig my love of the guitar was absolutely ingrained in me along with a lifelong love of 335s. Do wish he'd drag his old Marshall 2021 fuzz/reverb out again more though!
Justin is a great player and never really gets a mention. He creates superb lines that compliment songs. Knowing what to play and when is key - vomiting notes does not equate to anything memorable.
Moody Blues..class all the way. Seeing them live was an absolute experience! Last time I saw them in concert was at The Polaris Amphitheater, Columbus Ohio with the CSO. I never sat down. Thank you, our Professor of Rock for this analysis.
Justin's leads and rhythms always were written for the songs. They were not lead breaks or jams at all. I love that too. The English guys seemed to do that way more than the Americans back in those days. When you think of Rock n Roll, The Moody's don't come to mind. Rock n Roll means "street sex". The Moody's were a spiritual band that were always writing about searching for the meaning of life and even the meaning of love. Justin is super underrated. Also, the Moody's used the 12 string guitar often as the English bands did back in those days. I miss that a lot.
Yes, Justin is a great guitar player and added so much to this song. However, I do think that John does so much more than normal bass players. If you watch his playing he is doing a lot and keeping right up, and adding a lot, to Justin's playing. That's what made them so good. Playing off each other! I think John has been underrated as just a bass player. He's so much more.
John has been rated by Bass Magazine as one of the top ten bass players in the world. Justin, John and Graeme (RIP) are all World Class in their craft - as was Ray Thomas!
All members of the band had such great talent and together they complimented each other. Back in the day with Mike Pinder they were their very best. Such talent. John is a talented bass player and his high notes are incredible. When he was younger. I was never a fan of the additonal girl singers. Kind of wrecked the Moodies in my opinon.
@@djmcnerney You may be right ! Friend was a fan. Can't recall the album but the line "Let Merlin cast his spell', Are You Sitting Comfortably. ha, he had a water pipe that looked like a dragon named Merlin. Also had a big block Mopar powered Econoline named Medusa but that's another story ;)
@@glenkepic3208 We ARE right ..... You've proved it !! Those lines are from "On the Threshold of a Dream" ..... So rare nowadays for three entirely different people to actually agree on something on social media ..... This might be a first !!!
Great video! Thank you for your in depth analysis of the Moody Blues. I agree, Justin is an incredibly underrated guitarist and the Moodies are underrated as a band and as composers. Thank you for your great work!
Been a fan since Go Now was on my transistor radio as a young kid. Since you are reviewing Justin Hayward's superb underrated play, it is also time for another Justin. Justin Johnson, that is.
I love the way Phil analyzes every song and players. And I can understand every word he says which is a great thing because my English is not very good. He's like an English teacher... teaching music!😍🎶🎸
Great analysis as usual, Fil. Nice to hear Justin getting his due as a lead guitarist and John as a bass guitarist. Their second drummer, Gordon Marshall, is a superb drummer and plays several other instruments as well. I was actually at that concert at the RAH. I’ve met Justin several times over the years; lovely guy. The Moodies always put on one heck of a concert. Professionals all the way.
One of my favorite lead players. He's got that surfy thing going. Love his vibrato and sound. Saw them on their first US tour, (in L.A., my brother's band opened the show). The Moody's were phenomenal.
Graham Edge was a great drummer, on his own back in the day, he is so underrated. Ray had a great voice, RIP Ray! Definitely missed! Would love to hear your analysis of Veteran Cosmic Rocker! So nice you appreciate Justin! Two drummers, because Graham is older now. John Lodge great bass player and excellent on the high notes. Original Moodies with Mike Pinder were at their best. I can tell you really like the Moody Blues Fil, good on you! John and Justin make it look so easy, but seems like it's not.
Veteran Cosmic Rocker is such a great song! I always thought Graeme was like a weird mixture of Ringo and John Bonham. Unfortunately, he was never recorded properly, the drums were usually lost in the mix on Moody Blues albums but if you really listen you can hear he’s doing great stuff.
@@KevyNova Yes, Ray on harmonica too in Veteran Cosmic rocker. So great. I've always paid attention to Graeme's drumming, and now with youtube videos seeing him play rather than just hearing, is always great to watch. He was really into it.
I really appreciate your smile when you recognize and acknowledge the talent you are analyzing. I wish I could say I knew enough to really understand everything you capture. Moody Blues are my favorite.
I've always love the Moody Blues going back to there early rhythm and blues days. Then they release "Days of Future Passed" with the fuller sound. another Fil's signature analysis 👍 thanks
If you want to hear a real tear jerker solo song by Justin, listen to "Broken Dream"....omg, my heart breaks every time I hear it & I start crying....His guitar playing on it is amazing....Would love your review of this song, Fil. Thank you!
If you do decide to do an analysis of "Broken Dream" - you will want to do the live version on his Live from San Juan Capistrano performance. The studio version cuts off the extended acoustic guitar lead at the end of the live version.
Justin Hayward stands front and center for me as being, along with such players as Robbie Robertson and Robert Fripp, players who COULD solo all day, but didn't. Rather, they served the song. That made them more than flash guitar heroes; it made pillars of GREAT bands.
Phil, Thanks for the analysis and chord changes. This is serious stuff and most R&R yanks dont take the Moody Blues as seriously as you do . Thanks again.
Well done mate, Justin has always been an underappreciated lead guitarist, yet interestingly he said once that he started as a rhythm player and just gravitated toward lead. Thanks for realisi g his guitar playing, I'm sure it's appreciated by all of us long time moodie fans🎸👍
Love it when you cover a lead. Great ears and execution as a player. Fil, because of your ability to play and sing so well, you are worthy of analysis and critique. Not to mention your ability to articulate your thoughts with your British accent.
Very underrated, even by myself, as a lead guitarist, to my shame, having seen them many times, and corrected by your excellent break-down of this brilliant musician/song-writer and singer, and most amazing band! Go Justin!
Seventh Sojourn was a great album from start to finish. The Moody Blues were (and still are) one of the great bands of all time. Thanks for the video, Fil. Always interesting to hear your take.
Seen these guys twice, the first time we were on the second row. Super cool. They do a great concert. When I was a runner, I learned that this was a fantastic song to run with when I was pushing myself. Thanks Fil!!!
TIME STAMPS -
0:40 Performance
3:23 Analysis Start
3:43 Double Drumming
5:49 Composition Background
7:36 Justin's Riff
9:53 RemainingSong Chords
10:24 Justin's First Lead
14:37 Performance (Part 2)
19:47 Justin's 2nd Lead
A string dazzler for sure. You're right up there too Fil.
AT LAST , ACKNOWLEDGED, JUSTIN VERATILE BRILLIANT GUITARIST, YEEEEEESSSSS
Hayward is a very underrated guitarist, because of the very conciseness and musicality of his work. 100% for the tune, 0% ass-wanking, no gratuitous displays of chops to the detriment of the music, for which I am eternally, internally, and externally grateful. All killer, no filler as the saying goes.
He's underrated as a guitarist because no one can believe anyone that good looking can be a triple threat - brilliant singer, brilliant songwriter AND a brilliant guitarist. I watched him intently from front row centre in 2011 and could not decide which of the three he was best at. And considering this was the man who wrote one of the greatest, if not THE greatest, songs of all time, Nights In White Satin, this was no mean feat. As the sole guitarist in the group he had to be good.
Everyone loves Justin.
So refreshing to hear a young guy like you giving props to one of the most underestimated guitarists of all time. Top man!!
I agree 👍 ❤
I lost my father one year ago today, The Moody Blues was his favorite band. He named me Justin after Mr. Hayward.
I hade a girlfriend who named her dog Justin. Sorry about you dad.
Hi! My parents names me Justin Hayward after Justin, as well. Lost my dad 14 years ago. I grew up on the Moodies… nice to meet you. Sorry about your loss.
Although not typically known for his long drawn-out guitar solos, Justin is still my favorite rock guitar player and vocalist of all-time. His solos are very melodic and tucked back into the mix a bit which I think is one reason for him being considered underated. According to all of the interviews I have heard, Justin composes most of his songs on the acoustic guitar first. But, his electric guitar tone is one of the key elements to the classic 1960's-1980's Moody Blues sound. Thanks so much for this deep dive into his lead playing ability. Cheers.
Indeed, very musical, with no ass-wanking to be found
Agreed! Justin's solos always serve the song and never say, "look at me--look how fast I can play!" And his tone is unique--totally his own. No one else sounds like that!
At last , Acknowledgement and praise for Justin s amazing guitar skills, Always underrated
He really is under the radar on the guitar player lists... if you listen to the studio version of Dawning Is The Day on A Question of Balance, you'll hear amazing riffs and runs on his acoustic guitar.
Not only does Justin have a gorgeous singing voice, he has a heavenly speaking 🗣️ voice as well...
Yes he certainly does. Makes me just want to listen to him.
Justin Hayword is close to the top of the list. One of the most underated guitar players. I have seen the Moody Blues many times.He just hits the right notes. And his sound is so clear and full! I was lucky and took a very special of Justin at the Red Rocks. Thank You! For giving Justin some respect!
Ok! Everyone. The photo was taken at the Red Rocks. They where playing with the Denver Symphony. A album and video was made. It was impossible to bring a camera inside. Intense security! I still somehow got my camera in. A women ran up to the stage. Handed Justin a rose. I got the photo! And it is really good. Under the conditions probably the best photo I ever took. The rest of the band also is in the photo. Ray who passed away. Was the only member who has his back turned away from me. I am sure I am the only person in the world who got the photo. The security was trying to find me. I was on my hands and knees trying to hide. Even more to this story!!!! What is important I have the photo.
@@dougpotosky4102 Yes...I got the DVD of that recording. I also the DVD of their appearing on a French stage in 69/1970, as well as the DVD of England's rendition of Woodstock. I can just see you crawly around hiding from the Gestapo!
Justin Hayward has never been and never will be"UNDERRATED". So sick of that God damn word.
@@ladyhecate9450 ME TOO. 💖🙏😇
@@garysnow1475 ME TOO...IT'S SO BORING 💖
Omg, Justin Hayward - one of the most under rated singer/songwriters/muscian on the planet & HOT looking, too!!!!
ha ha a dream in his younger years.
@sososo2445
Justin still looks great in 2024
True - Justin Hayward is an excellent guitarist, and his voice is unlike any other!
I have tried my best to find anyone else who sounds like him. There aren't any that I can find. When Justin is gone, we'll lose a wonderfully unique voice.
@@dennis2966 it saddens me to even think about it. Justin, with his poetry of words and the magic of his playing has been with me since 1972 when that heart wrenching voice, as if he was reliving the agony of his heart being broken and put that emotion and lyrucs into Nights in White Satin. In an interview, he once let his guarded past slip through a tightly, closed door. He also said, which he does not talk about much, is that when a heart is broken, one goes through mourning as one goes through dealing with death, and that is so true. After that interview, I saw Nights differently. That voice, coming through the radio in 1972 in the USA singing that song pulled so many people into that sad song of lost love. Through the eyes filled with love saw the world as beautiful where he did not see before. I saw Justin September 22, 2021. He was fabulous. I've seen him each year when he makes his solo tour. He performed to a sellout audience and received many standing ovations. The world will be an empty place when he leaves us. In Maryland, those who got their covid vax do not have to wear a mask. Justin requested everyone to wear a mask, and we all did so. You can catch his 2021 tour on UA-cam, as attendees put their recorded some of his singing. I listen to his/Moodies everyday. There are so many great songs this band has contributed to the world. In 1969, their music was way before our times back then.
I found a video of Justin from just 4 years ago and his voice is just as amazing as it ever was!!!!! There is a more recent video I haven't listened to yet, but I'm planning to.
@@cathrinecolwell3303 There are plenty of videos out there on Justin. I just saw him in September of this year on his solo tour. I see him every time he plays in my state. The best thing is I only have to travel 15 minutes away. His voice has changed. I did not get to see him last year due to pandemic closures. I do not care that his voice has changed somewhat. I will continue to go and see him each time he comes to my fair state. This last time, he had a great show...well organized, etc. One of these days I will go and see John Lodge when he makes it here as well. I saw a video of him singing and he sings more rowdy songs from the Moodys. He is a great entertainer as well.
@@ladyhecate9450 Just saw John's concert a week ago, he was great, even after having a stroke at Christmas. Saw Justin on Sunday, he was absolutely amazing. Both shows were outstanding. I really enjoyed seeing them individually - where you could really see them shine.
The talent and abilities of the Moody Blues really do fly under the radar. They have some of the absolute best vocal harmonies of any band to come out of the 60s. Glad I got a chance to see them in concert while Edge was still alive.
He is marvelous as a guitarist, and the cry in his tone matches the cry in his voice so perfectly.
Justin Hayward singing Nights In White Satin and Forever Autumn just a fantastic vocalist!! 🎸🎤
100% agree. The vocals on those two songs are incredible, and my two favourites 🥰 This is my 3rd favourite though, it's just so fun x
Forever Autumn is epic. Love how Justin sang that on the original.
Justin is a true english gentleman. A great composer and singer and as a bonus he's a master lead guitar player.
I went to VietNam in July of 69....the Moodies had a few albums out....the last at that time was OTTOAD....those early albums got me through some tough times....when things were going bad I went to the Moodies....they didnt know it of cource but they got me through....and still do.
I used to listen to their early albums in my bedroom over and over again. They are still my go to band.
Me too they help me very much when the really bad days occured...
So cool to see Justin Hayward get some due. Fantastic songwriter, singer and one hell of a player.
Justin’s tone is so killer. Doesn’t sound like too many effects, very pure! Cuts to the soul!
Yes! He always has superb tone.
Moody Blues has always been one of my top favorite bands - but I never realized what a great guitar player Justin is. He never runs out of good ideas for rhythm and lead. I'm always impressed at how well Fil can recreate anything he hears - and explain how it's done.
Great to see Justin get some props for his lead playing. To me the songs he wrote were almost always the best, most timeless of each Moody Blues album. Great writer, singer and player!
True triple threat.
Not just a great lead player, but also a very underrated writer of great riffs! Story in your eyes, gypsy, and many others.
Yes, "a great lead player." It doesn't always have to be about speed. A memorable melody that complements the song more than it feeds the guitar player's ego has always been more important to this listener, at least.
I've always felt the same way about Steve Hackett.
Fil, I love your channel. You do great work. You have a fan's love for the music, but also the musician's understanding of what goes into the performance, and the teacher's ability to explain and elaborate on it.
As with the other Moodies, it's easy to forget that Justin is a multi-instrumentalist. He has played many instruments, including sitar, etc.
I've always loved the "full" sound of a band with two drummers and even an orchestra behind them. Just seeing them pack a hall that size 30+ years after that song came out is a testament to their appeal and talent for making an old song sound fresh.
I am now 70 and I have been a huge "Moodie" since the 60's. They had/have the full musical sound/orchestral sound that I have always loved to hear. I never got to see them live.
Justin’s leads are so melodic and complementary…..so much talent!!! Good one!
One of the greatest bands and this video shows why.
Justin Hayword's voice is so distinct. Great guitarist. I never got to see them, but one of my favorite bands, Thanks for giving him the respect.
A criminally underrated band but my personal favorite group. I could listen to every album and every song. I can't say that for many other groups.
Justin Hayward is a great guitar player with a great voice I do miss Mike Pinder Hayward is superly talented
Justin Hayward is a great player.
I saw them during the early 1990’s. It was the pre-internet, camping out your place in line the night before then racing to the ticket counter when the doors opened in the morning to get the best seats days. I landed front row seats for myself, my gf, and my roommate.
It was an amazing show and the band was on fire that night. To this day, I’ve not seen another band so seamlessly navigate such complex changes of timing and key. And I am a huge fan of prog rock and jazz.
They were having as much fun on stage as we were in the audience! During the encore, John, Justin, and Ray each took turns leaning over to high five the audience members in the front row including us. It was truly a magical evening of superb musicianship and class. I’ll never forget it.
Hayward is one of my guitar heros. After much searching, I was fortunate to find a Gibson 335 nearly identical to his. The axe is amazing! Rock on Justin!
335 are a Dream. IMO if a guitarist has a 335 & a Telecaster, they only need an acoustic. I only own 3 guitars, a Tele a 335 & my beater acoustic (which after I lowered 1st fret action to .020, dropped the saddle to get 5/64 on Low E, 4/64 on high E, that beater sounds amazing.)
Glad for this. Long time Moody fan. Huge fan base/not enough critical recognition, I say. But they are among the giants. History shows. Justin plays with ease, and he's tasty in his playing. Carefully fashions his pieces. In and out of style, he maintains that "buzz" sound, which suits their overall sound.
LOVE THE MOODY'S ! thank you Phil
I lived in Fargo 1978. Loved everything except the cold. Great place, great people, (at least back then)
Justin on guitar makes my heart sing
you and me comes to mind
John Lodge and Justin Hayward
oh hell yeah
Love this!! Thank you for appreciating Justin's talent from another generation!!
I always love the joy of music reflecting on your face !
And what a singer/songwriter
Hayward sizzles on Ride My Seesaw!
Hayward's guitar layering and straightforward playing is incredible as well as Lodge' bass playing
Justin Hayward never gets credit for his guitar playing because he's such a great singer. His solos on "I'm Just a Singer", "Ride My See Saw", "The Story In Your Eyes" and "How Is It We Are Here?" are brilliant.
“Higher And Higher”, “Lovely To See You Again”, “It’s Up To You”…
The (WAY TOO BRIEF) solo on Ride My Seesaw is my favorite guitar solo ever!
I’m glad the Moody Blues finally got some recognition in the Hall Of Fame.
As a young man growing up in Swindon, UK, Justin had guitar lessons from Mr Smart, who obviously helped him along the way.
Many thanks for featuring Justin Hayward.
Re: the double-drummers. There is another reason for this than a fuller live sound. In the early 90's drummer Graeme Edge began to suffer from severe shoulder pain due to bursitis and bone spurs. The band was soon to go on the road supporting a new album, "Keys of the Kingdom", and Edge's playing was effected during rehearsals, but taking approx. 2 months or more off to have surgery and a long recovery to get back in shape was not an option with the tour dates looming. So drummer Gordon Marshall was added, originally intended to just be a temporary sideman until Graeme could fully recover. Graeme had nights where his physical limitations were worse than other nights, so Gordon would handle the bulk of the drumming on those nights so Graeme could take it easy. On Graeme's better nights, Gordon would just back him up. After working this way for almost 2 years, the band decided to keep the 2 drummer format, even after Graeme had his surgery. It sounded great live, and the 2 eventually worked out drum arrangements that featured them both. Graeme talked about this on British radio interview, and has also told this to fans who asked about it.
Love me some Moody Blues!
I could listen to them forever and a day
Take me to another plane
Great to see the lads getting some recognition from an authority! I saw them several times in the '90s, twice with a symphony orchestra, and what a tight and versatile band they were.
I like watching you watching the artist....your smile tells me when the playing is exceptional
He played beautifully and very cool.
Justin is my favorite singer/guitarist. I love this recording. Thank you Wings of Pegasus🎶❣️
Always loved his guitar tone. Unmistakable. Great voice and song writer too
He is the total package for sure.
Justin is such an amazing lead guitarist, always having me yearning to hear more but he mostly just stuck note by note to the album recordings when playing live. But this performance is by far the longest solo I’ve heard him play, and such a joy. Such a shame they all rarely stretched out and jammed more.
I have been a Moody Blues fan since the 1970`s. Thanks for featuring them.
I love the studio version of Question. Justin kills it in every way.
I wonder what it feels like to be THAT talented like Justin ?!!!!!
I have been listening to this song since I was a teen. The Moody Blues spike to people because their lyrics were just so cool. A little like Bob Dylan in that they made you think about the deeper meaning of life. That is why fans showed up at their doors. They thought that the band had all te ansers to the meaning of life. This was just a great time for music. It is the reason we all go back and listen to these songs. Thanks Fil I saw Justin close up in his solo gig back in 2016. He is a great performer and guitar player. Love him dearly!!
The first time I saw the Moody Blues, outdoors and a full moon,I was surprised at how rocking , Justin Hayward was live!
The other Justin solo under the radar is the song The Story in Your Eyes……. On of the more interesting solos is the spoken word rock song Higher and Higher…. Also in the song Ride my See Saw Justin plays the guitar solo as if he were playing a sitar running down one string…
Also in the Later classic seven albums there is a lot of weaving two songs with different tempos like You Can Never Ho Home and it works.
Yeah those are all great.
I saw them c.1990 with the SD Symphony. Phenomenal show from the nosebleed seats. The review the next day from the local critic "Ann Gargoyle" or something similar, dwelt on the facial wrinkles she could see from her golden circle comp seat. I wrote a letter to the editor of her newspaper, but it was not printed. Her replacement told me that her review of that concert got more negative responses than most reviews in years.
Moodies, early 80's, Birmingham uk, NEC arena. Best gig I've ever experienced. The performance that night was so beyond excellent that the audience response made me truly a little fearful that the roof was going to cave in. No kidding: the band were so in sync with each orher that night that they took the audience with them as they beckoned the encore. The floorboards around the sides were shaking to those feet marching in a final round of gloriousness that the whole place started resonating.
Never before or since did I genuinely start to worry that the spider-leg struts which hold up the roof just wouldn't be able to take the strain caused by the vibtration of those stamping feet.
Sounds like an exaggeration, I know, but you should've been there.
Shook me to my shoes; Justin's Nights made me quiver 'til I cried.
Talk about a spirtual experience ... (no emojis worthy)
Oh my! Only just found this one! One of my favourite bands when I was a teenager- still love them!
By the 2000s best group had been performing for over 40 years already. I grew up with The Moody Blues. Their mix of rock and classical music always always was wonderful.
Aways have loved Moody Blues. Thanks Fil for sharing...greatly appreciated.
Not a musician, would not even contemplate ranking guitarists. But Justin's guitar work is full of beauty and energy. Thanks, fil, for filling in some of the technical details for us outsiders.
Your reactions/analysis are always so good and you have the ability to explain "technical" stuff so that a lay person, such as me, can understand techniques more easily. Always felt that the talents of this group: singers/songwriters/composing were under-rated, especially when it comes to Justin Haywood. I mean, he wrote "Nights in White Satin" at the age of 19, for the concept album "Days of Future Passed" in 1967. Have always enjoyed and can get lost in the orchestral melodies mixing with the progressive rock sounds. Beautiful.
I'd say my entire playing career owes a lot to Justin - I may be a 46 year old jazz/rock/metal dude now, but when I was 14 and had literally just picked up guitar a few weeks earlier, my mum dragged me along to a Moody Blues concert. I really didn't want to be there. By the end of the gig my love of the guitar was absolutely ingrained in me along with a lifelong love of 335s. Do wish he'd drag his old Marshall 2021 fuzz/reverb out again more though!
Justin is a great player and never really gets a mention. He creates superb lines that compliment songs. Knowing what to play and when is key - vomiting notes does not equate to anything memorable.
Moody Blues..class all the way. Seeing them live was an absolute experience! Last time I saw them in concert was at The Polaris Amphitheater, Columbus Ohio with the CSO. I never sat down. Thank you, our Professor of Rock for this analysis.
My band of choice to unwind to. Thought provoking lyrics. Intricately composed. One of their many master pieces.
Justin Hayward is amazing. The Moody Blues are my favorite band from way back. 💐✌
Justin's leads and rhythms always were written for the songs. They were not lead breaks or jams at all. I love that too. The English guys seemed to do that way more than the Americans back in those days. When you think of Rock n Roll, The Moody's don't come to mind. Rock n Roll means "street sex". The Moody's were a spiritual band that were always writing about searching for the meaning of life and even the meaning of love. Justin is super underrated. Also, the Moody's used the 12 string guitar often as the English bands did back in those days. I miss that a lot.
Yes, Justin is a great guitar player and added so much to this song. However, I do think that John does so much more than normal bass players. If you watch his playing he is doing a lot and keeping right up, and adding a lot, to Justin's playing. That's what made them so good. Playing off each other! I think John has been underrated as just a bass player. He's so much more.
John has been rated by Bass Magazine as one of the top ten bass players in the world. Justin, John and Graeme (RIP) are all World Class in their craft - as was Ray Thomas!
All members of the band had such great talent and together they complimented each other. Back in the day with Mike Pinder they were their very best. Such talent. John is a talented bass player and his high notes are incredible. When he was younger. I was never a fan of the additonal girl singers. Kind of wrecked the Moodies in my opinon.
I really appreciate your attention to the Moody Blues Fil. Good job. Thank you.
I saw then at Red Rocks with the Colorado Orchestra, fantastic venue fantastic group, fantastic night 🎉🎉🎉🎉
Seventh Sojourn was a gift,
Fave for me is "Oh The Threshold Of A Dream".
That's because "Oh The Threshold Of A Dream".was their best album .....
Those 2 albums are their best. Agreed.
@@djmcnerney You may be right !
Friend was a fan. Can't recall the album but the line "Let Merlin cast his spell', Are You Sitting Comfortably.
ha, he had a water pipe that looked like a dragon named Merlin.
Also had a big block Mopar powered Econoline named Medusa but that's another story ;)
@@glenkepic3208 We ARE right .....
You've proved it !!
Those lines are from "On the Threshold of a Dream" .....
So rare nowadays for three entirely different people to actually agree on something on social media .....
This might be a first !!!
@@stevenattanasso2003 Been awhile.
Right you are. Great album and track !
Well done, Fil, great breakdown of a MB classic. Justin Hayward is a brilliant musician… Happy New Year!
Great video! Thank you for your in depth analysis of the Moody Blues. I agree, Justin is an incredibly underrated guitarist and the Moodies are underrated as a band and as composers. Thank you for your great work!
Been a fan since Go Now was on my transistor radio as a young kid. Since you are reviewing Justin Hayward's superb underrated play, it is also time for another Justin. Justin Johnson, that is.
Fil did an analysis of the amazing Justin Johnson about 2 years ago. You can search british guitarist Justin Johnson to find the video.
I love the way Phil analyzes every song and players. And I can understand every word he says which is a great thing because my English is not very good. He's like an English teacher... teaching music!😍🎶🎸
Great analysis as usual, Fil. Nice to hear Justin getting his due as a lead guitarist and John as a bass guitarist. Their second drummer, Gordon Marshall, is a superb drummer and plays several other instruments as well. I was actually at that concert at the RAH. I’ve met Justin several times over the years; lovely guy. The Moodies always put on one heck of a concert. Professionals all the way.
One of my favorite lead players. He's got that surfy thing going. Love his vibrato and sound. Saw them on their first US tour, (in L.A., my brother's band opened the show). The Moody's were phenomenal.
Graham Edge was a great drummer, on his own back in the day, he is so underrated. Ray had a great voice, RIP Ray! Definitely missed! Would love to hear your analysis of Veteran Cosmic Rocker! So nice you appreciate Justin! Two drummers, because Graham is older now. John Lodge great bass player and excellent on the high notes. Original Moodies with Mike Pinder were at their best. I can tell you really like the Moody Blues Fil, good on you! John and Justin make it look so easy, but seems like it's not.
Veteran Cosmic Rocker is such a great song! I always thought Graeme was like a weird mixture of Ringo and John Bonham. Unfortunately, he was never recorded properly, the drums were usually lost in the mix on Moody Blues albums but if you really listen you can hear he’s doing great stuff.
@@KevyNova Yes, Ray on harmonica too in Veteran Cosmic rocker. So great.
I've always paid attention to Graeme's drumming, and now with youtube videos seeing him play rather than just hearing, is always great to watch. He was really into it.
Ray and Mike did played on 2 Beatles songs ...
I really appreciate your smile when you recognize and acknowledge the talent you are analyzing. I wish I could say I knew enough to really understand everything you capture. Moody Blues are my favorite.
I've always love the Moody Blues going back to there early rhythm and blues days. Then they release "Days of Future Passed" with the fuller sound. another Fil's signature analysis 👍 thanks
Hello my friend long time hope all is well with you.🙂🎸
@@maideninchains8988 Thanks for brightening up my night with your thoughts 😊🌜⭐💛
@@maideninchains8988 May your weekend be a delightful one! 😊
@@drewpall2598 many thanks 😀
justin has this wonderfull clean tone .Love his ES
If you want to hear a real tear jerker solo song by Justin, listen to "Broken Dream"....omg, my heart breaks every time I hear it & I start crying....His guitar playing on it is amazing....Would love your review of this song, Fil. Thank you!
If you do decide to do an analysis of "Broken Dream" - you will want to do the live version on his Live from San Juan Capistrano performance. The studio version cuts off the extended acoustic guitar lead at the end of the live version.
@@matthewcrowley9204 Agree, the live version has the extended wonderful solo.
Justin Hayward is one of my main guitar heroes. Truly underrated guitars. Sad to see Ray Thomas and Graham Edge gone.
Absolutely love the Moody Blues, and I love that you made this video
Justin Hayward stands front and center for me as being, along with such players as Robbie Robertson and Robert Fripp, players who COULD solo all day, but didn't. Rather, they served the song. That made them more than flash guitar heroes; it made pillars of GREAT bands.
Phil, Thanks for the analysis and chord changes. This is serious stuff and most R&R yanks dont take the Moody Blues as seriously as you do . Thanks again.
Great! Justin Hayward has always been one of my favorites. You’ve done a great job teaching us sir.
Well done mate, Justin has always been an underappreciated lead guitarist, yet interestingly he said once that he started as a rhythm player and just gravitated toward lead. Thanks for realisi g his guitar playing, I'm sure it's appreciated by all of us long time moodie fans🎸👍
I really appreciate your skilled analysis of my favorite guitar lead and artist
Love it when you cover a lead. Great ears and execution as a player.
Fil, because of your ability to play and sing so well, you are worthy of analysis and critique. Not to mention your ability to articulate your thoughts with your British accent.
Very underrated, even by myself, as a lead guitarist, to my shame, having seen them many times, and corrected by your excellent break-down of this brilliant musician/song-writer and singer, and most amazing band! Go Justin!
Seventh Sojourn was a great album from start to finish. The Moody Blues were (and still are) one of the great bands of all time. Thanks for the video, Fil. Always interesting to hear your take.
Thanks!
Seen these guys twice, the first time we were on the second row. Super cool. They do a great concert. When I was a runner, I learned that this was a fantastic song to run with when I was pushing myself. Thanks Fil!!!
My nephew was a studio musician for there 2006 album