The background story for this song is almost as amazing as the song itself. The song was originally released in 1980 and became popular again in 1989. I started dating my husband in 1989. I was sixteen and he had just turned twenty-two. This song was about a sixteen year old girl and her two siblings. She was the middle child but had a hard time when her father had hit pay dirt ran off with another woman. Her brother would go to store and pick stuff up for Benny and he would allow the boy to keep the change to help the family out. The sixteen year old would take his dog for a walk before she went to school every morning. I think their older sister cleaned/straightened up his apartment. One morning he was writing the song with Robert Tepper and they hear the door key turning the lock. He asked if they had been playing all night. When she left Robert Tepper asked who the cute girl was, and Mardones say, she’s just sixteen years old, leave her alone. You have to watch the video about it because he tells it way better. They may not have been Benny’s kids but he taught them some valuable lessons about work, earning money, and people that love you don’t leave you! You have a nice singing voice by the way!❤
@wingsofpegasus I would love to see you perform this - your voice is spot on in the imitations you do. Your hairstyle, your eyes and the absorption and joy you clearly take in this...
I met Benny several years ago when he was living in Playa Del Rey. I was a big fan and had played his song the second time around in the late 80's when I was a DJ working at a radio station in Toledo, OH. He was the nicest man, a very gentle person. I'm sad to hear of his passing.
@@trendkill1891 Which is why there is a backstory. Check out the Professor Of Rock channel in which he does an interview with Benny, who explained in that interview that there was no pursuing in any way, shape, or form. This girl and her other sister and also were going through a destitute situation after there 2-bit struggling set designer 'father' left them and their mother in the dust to enjoy his career enhancement with a chorus girl, instead of bringing his family out of this ghetto with him, not giving two $hits about them or how it affected them. I looked into info myself on Benny Mardones and he, too, has experienced his own parents splitting when he was merely an infant. So, I can clearly see that perhaps he could identify with kids and want to lend them a hand, even when he was in the same boat as them. No doubt in my mind he was their sounding board, as well. They must've known them for quite some time during that time frame(my guess), otherwise, why would they turn to this adult figure for consoling. He probably, no doubt knew more about that family situation than what he let on, as well. My guess is that they bonded with him as a neighbor friend who could resonate and relate to them more than their old man(who had a lack of empathy, obviously) could pretend too.
I made some typo errors. I meant to point out, as well, that the two girls had a younger brother, and that the 3 of them must have known Benny for quite some time before their parents have split.
@@pamwhitehouse5961 Thank you thank you thank you for giving the back story. I just watched that same episode of the Professor of Rock where Adam Reader interviewed Benny. Very touching and heart warming story that led to this beautiful song. 💯❤💚💙 Well done @Pam Whitehouse
Benny was my neighbor for a short time when he was staying with his mom in Syracuse. Only really met him once. Seemed like a nice guy. Pretty soft spoken. His mom was a sweetheart. We were loud and rowdy, but she didn't seem to mind. RIP Benny.
That is not the story of this song... Benny talks about it in an interview on Professor of Rock. It's about a girl , and her family, in his apartment complex whose father abandoned them when he got his shot in showbiz, running off with a chorus girl. He gave her and her siblings a job doing banal household chores and helped her fam. He didn't pursue her, and didnt want to. His guitarist almost lost it when she came in one morning to walk the dog, they'd been struggling to write something to this riff, in a miniskirt and he was like Oh Lord. Benny tells him,"She's only 16, leave her alone." Dude suggests it as an opening line. The rest flowed there
@@wilsonmcmahonatgmail sounds like a good story after the fact lol even in the interview they’re like, “How do you work yourself up like that, it must take a lot to muster up that kind of energy to go out cold like that” Benny smiles and looks at the crowd like:😏 The crowd even laughs like, “Yea I bet that 16yr old is back there workin him up before a show haha”
This song has the pop music history distinction of being a THREE time one-hit-wonder...on the Billboard charts in 1980, 1989 and 2019! Benny passed away last year from complications of Parkinson's disease. Rest in peace.
The emotion is what I feel From this song from Benny. The voice control and the range is stellar and one can feel this song in your heart ♥️ rest in peace Benny
I always loved this song. I was 16 when I met my one and only. He was 26. We were happily and faithfully married for 40 years. He passed 10/29/18. Miss you baby. He asked my dad for his blessing and he got it.
Just in case, this song is about a man's neighbors. It was a dysfunftonal family without a strong father figure and a daughter whose acting out was troubling and leading down the wrong path. So the man took it upon himself to build up the daughters self-image and self esteem to help keep her from bring self destructive. I'm not implying it was your situation BTW.
What a beautiful & pure voice. One of the best ever. Man I hear this song now & it gives me shivers. He was an awesome talent. May he rest in peace. The Lord has another great one in His choir to praise Him. 🙏
Benny released this song in 1980, I was 17 and in love with this gorgeous song and that beautiful man. Thank you for featuring this one-of-a-kind songs. Love your voice and your channel. ❤
I was 16 and to this day I feel exactly the way you do! The melody, music, intense lyrics sung by this “beautiful man”, Benny. To this very day, ALL that makes up that mystical song has me mesmerized! ♾️💜
I wish Benny could read these comments. He was truly a master of his craft. The music industry is strange in that the best don't always rise to the top. Clearly, Benny is on a completely different level than many artists who have had great success.
Please Never remove this video. I come back to hear Bennys mesmerizing voice almost daily. He was a special man with such a hypnotically appealing voice and should of had much more exposure. Thank you.
I'll defend this song, man and performance til I die. He's already publicly stated what inspired the song, and he's the good guy here. Yes, the official video is cringey by today's standards, but I was a tween when this came on the air, and as a young girl it totally resonated with my heart. Let's be clear, he says IF he could, and he would wait until the end of time for her. Nowhere does it suggest he is going to harm anyone. People need to understand that just because someone writes, speaks or sings something doesn't mean they are advocating anything. This performance is absolutely flawless. All of the musicians are top notch. If people want to clutch their pearls and freak out over the subject matter, that's up to them. It's a great song, and have you heard what pop music is singing about today? (WAP I'm looking side eye at you).
Right there with you, Benny was a gem of a man. And yes today's music is disgusting in what it portrays to the youth. Just a beautiful song that pulls at my heart.
The original video would say otherwise because he's definitely looking to hook up with the child. I think they came up with that "origin" story only after radio stations refused to air the song.
@@steamdespair9189 it's been corroborated with the people he was talking about and with, so just cause it's what you would probably do, don't let you perverse thoughts effect everyone else.
@@steamdespair9189 Which was when, 2020? In the time that it came out there was no controversy. It was played endlessly. The video is cringy by today's standards, but believe me when I tell you that artists had whole departments that directed them in videos. Anyway, it's only in recent years that the way teenagers are viewed as "children" has become the norm. I have ancestors that married at 15 who had 3 kids by the time they were 20. It's all in whatever the society thinks is normal, but it's up to each parent to teach their kid what they expect of them and how to make good decisions. At this point we'll just have to take the late artist's word for it, as no one has disputed it. BTW, if you google lyrics that include ages being spoken about, there are a lot that talk about 16 and 17 year old male and female subjects. Especially from the 50s, 60s and 70s. When the life expectance was much lower.
I'm crying! Fil, you are always on spot! When I first heard this, I was a victim of horrid child abuse, and I dreamed of someone rescuing me, like 'taking me into the night and showing me love'. The backstory of this masterpiece speaks to me! Beautiful arrangement, Benny was SO talented! Interesting that a man could understand what I (whom, of course he didn't know) could write and arrange, and sing SO soulfully, and perfectly. Crying again.
Sorry, Wendy- You will heal. Your dreams were always your strength. I think I know we’re you’re coming from. And YES- W-of-P has the most amazing taste. Comes from his ♥️.
No child should ever be abused. I’m so sad you lived through such a painful childhood. I hope you are in a good place, and know that you never deserved to be harmed.
One night I binged watched a lot of his videos and songs. I was totally amazed how awesome his voice and music was. I bought his Never Run Never Hide album. The song American Bandstand was about Dick Clark. He was a great singer and is truly missed. The last video he did was the audience singing Into the Night to him because he couldn’t sing anymore.
@@alparslow1156Yes, I watched that video too! And I did start to cry a lot when I saw that he was trying to sing Louder and Powerful as when younger but He could not. He was even crying and his hands shaking a lot ! It made me feel só sad and I got lot of tears in my eyes. He was so a gorgeous man with beautiful and romantic songs and a smooth and powerful voice! Rest in heavenly peace BENNY.🔥🙏🔥💔💐✌
I have always loved the chord patterns in this song. It's also one of the most emotionally charged vocals I have ever heard. I recognized these things when I first heard the song on the radio in July of 1980 after just graduated high school. I've loved the tune ever since. Takes me back as well! Thanks for all your work, Fil!
Oh my gosh, I’ve never heard this performance. This song can freeze women in their tracks, I’ve seen it! A whole room going silent, mesmerised. It’s such a loss that he’s gone, but what a legacy. It’s a perfect love song. Yes there’s age problems with the lyrics, but the funny thing is it really got to all us girls at that time. We ALL had crushes on older guys, brother’s friends, teachers etc. lt was just such a fantasy. Secrets: l was madly in love with my biology teacher. He and l could have gone into territory we shouldn’t, but he was an English gentleman and he just didn’t. He met up with my mother many years later and asked if he could court me…yes, that’s word he used…but at that stage, l’d moved on to other things so it never happened. But these are real situations and l loved Benny’s honesty. It’s not PC nowadays, but it’s an honest exploration of complicated emotions. Texture is a great word for his voice too! It’s very emotive. Thank you for doing this Fil! I’ve missed a lot of your posts through looking after my mother, it’s beautiful to have this today❤️❤️❤️
Omg! I had the same thing with a teacher. In the 60's-80's that wasn't like it is now. Things were different. My situation could have gone off the rails but he was a gentleman and nothing more than a kiss ever happened..he was and is a great guy. Now, one of my family found out and ripped his head off...it was awful. I'm so glad nobody had a gun. Lol..look up the video about the history of this song....it isn't creepy at all. Bennie was talking about protecting a young girl from creepers.
Actually it is not about a fling with a 16-year-old. It was regarding neighbors three children who were orphans who he befriended and loved. A friend was at his house and saw the oldest 16-year-old girl and thought exactly what you were talking about. I get where you're coming from as well. I had my older and younger crushes back in the day. Thanks for the message
This song is so powerful, it’s been giving me goosebumps for years! I just love to watch and listen to your appreciation of music…especially the songs that are so meaningful to me! I know this was two years ago, but thanks Fil 😊
Unmatchable. Springsteen wishes he could've _ever_ sung this well, with this much control. And yeah, Eb-5 is his highest note there, but you _know_ he'd have served up the F-5 if he could've! Rest in peace Benny, and thanks for leaving us so much of yourself in just one song. Good one Fil, and props to you for being able to sing it well too.
I've always loved Benny and specifically this song. I am not ashamed to say I sing this song in the shower frequently lol. The video really made the song seem creepier than it was. Benny helped out the the kids who lived next door to him by paying them to walk his dog, and one day while he and Robert Tepper were sitting around writing the song the teenage girl came in to get the dog and Tepper was like "who is that girl" and Benny said "she's only 16, leave her alone" and bam they had the opening verse. By all accounts Benny really was a great guy.
@@lewasil Fil does a great job of getting all the facts in most of the time. I'm just glad I got to throw Robert Tepper's name out there since we'll probably never see a video on his song lol
The girl actually had a happy ending. She fell in love 💗and married the son of a rich real estate mogul. She now lives in a mansion in Puerto Rico along with her family.👰
That didn't happen. Search UA-cam for "Benny Mardones Farewell Tribute to Angie McCartney", who was the real inspiration of the song which he revealed late in his life.
@@hojo70 Ummm...Benny himself told that story in an interview not invredibly long before he passed. You can watch it on Professor of Rock's youtube channel, but I guess Benny didn't know that you knew better than he did.
Whenever this used to come on the radio, I'd have to stop whatever I was doing and listen. To me, the song was sad to be so in love and not be able to show the person. Of course there was the subject matter, but I tried to not let that bother me. His voice was so intense, urgent and pleading that it brought a tear to my eye. I recently watched an interview with Benny and 'The Professor of Rock'. He was such a lovely man and was suffering from Parkinson's. He had been very disappointed that he hadn't gotten the recognition that he deserved from the powers that be. He brought a lot of enjoyment to the world with his powerful and beautiful voice. RIP Benny. We love you! ❤
After I saw he passed away I looked up to see what he looked like. Even though I knew the song I always thought it was an older man singing never thought it was this hot guy. He was never on MTV. I’m so obsessed now with watching his videos and listening to his songs. I bought his DVD of his life story on eBay.
"Into the Night" de Benny Mardones es una de las canciones mas bellas que existen y Benny la cantó extraordinariamente. Gracias Benny, que goces de la gloria de Dios siempre.
As a gigging singer, this truly is virtuoso level Rock singing. He exhibits such a level of vocal prowess. His tone quality, dynamics, oh man, are so amazing!
Yessir, Brother did you break this song down . BIG TIME!! Yep !this song was a hit 2 or 3 times & if Benny was alive & released it again it definitely would be again R.I.P. Benny
Such an incredible voice. I was in high school when this was released and immediately loved it. I always sang along and never thought of anything untoward about the lyrics. I wonder what people today would think of Abba's 'When I kissed the teacher'? Now I could completely understand this song not being released today. So sad that Benny died so young from Parkinson's disease.
Absolutely Loved Benny and this song. Julio Iglesias jr has redone this song with Benny but changed it up a bit. He also changed the 16 years old lyric. So sad how he passed from Parkinson's disease. Rest in heavenly peace Benny Mardones. Thank you for your beautiful voice.
Awesome vocal. Great review. I was driving late one night and heard an unplugged version from Benny. At that point I knew his voice was real and he could duplicate all that gravel and range at will. I regret he never had more hits of equal play time. I will always recall this song and those crazy notes after the Rachmaninov chords
I was 16 years old in 1980 and I still have my 45 of this song and I use to be able to nail it. Thank you for your insights, Fil, another blast from the past analyzed and appreciated!
This was a song I kind of worshipped as a child and teen. Then I didn’t hear it for more than 25 years - until one day it came on the radio in the car. I had totally forgotten it, and when it came on, the whole world fell away. It made my day, hearing it again. Thank you so much for this video and for confirming what I had always assumed was my irrational love of the song. Turns out it wasn’t irrational after all. I’d love to hear you tackle another song dear to me from my adolescence: “Believe in Love” by Scorpions. It gets no attention on UA-cam, and it may be my favorite rock ballad ever.
Insightful vid, Fil! Benny was a music industry veteran long before his "Into the Night" breakout...another "overnight sensation" that took decades to emerge! Plus, he was eventually beset by unfortunate record company "marriages" that kept him from more consistent success. After his '64 high school graduation, he served in the Navy in the Vietnam War. Following discharge, he moved to NYC, and wrote songs for Brenda Lee and Chubby Checker. Eventual producer and executive, Tommy Mottola, himself a New York-based recording artist (as T.D. Valentine on Columbia Records) in the mid-to-late '60s, met Benny, and suggested he move from songwriter (Benny recorded his own demos for publishers and A&R reps) to recording artist himself, impressed as he was with his singing. Mottola, by the way, would end up being "Mr. Mariah Carey" from '93-'97! In 1977, Mardones met Richie Havens, who was impressed with the singer enough to offer him the opening act spot on his upcoming tour. During the tour, Benny caught the attention of producer Andrew Loog Oldham (mid-'60s manager/producer for the Rolling Stones) and Private Stock Records president, Larry Utall. Benny's debut LP, "Thank God For Girls" (produced by Oldham) was released in 1978 on Private Stock Records. The ink was barely dry on Benny's contract with Private Stock before the label folded, which all but doomed the album to minimal airplay and sales. It's a record worth looking for (or downloading, or looking for YT vids), as it featured Bowie guitarist Mick Ronson, and Humble Pie drummer, Jerry Shirley, as well as Bee Gees cover, "I Started a Joke," and an Alessi Brothers (A&M artists for 4 LPs in the late '70s) tune, "All For a Reason." "Never Run, Never Hide" (on which "Into the Night" made its appearance) was released on Polydor Records. While not exactly a death knell, Polydor was no Columbia or Warner Bros. Illustrating Polydor's weak promo and sales team at the time, the album got no higher than #65 on the album charts, despite the single topping off at #11. Nevertheless, record industry trade pub, Billboard, proclaimed the album as "recalling Bob Seger at his best." By the way, Benny co-wrote "Into the Night" with Robert Tepper, who, a few years later, wrote the "Rocky IV" and "Cobra" film soundtrack mainstay hit, "No Easy Way Out."
Oh my good, gracious, glorified god - I have never seen this version. It is astounding and it is perfection. This song is my teenage dream, haunting the most delicate chasm of my youth, transporting me back to cool, breezy, summer nights, walking the neighborhood, and perching myself on the granite shores of Lake Superior. "Into the Night" is a gift from heaven, and Mr. Mardones was the vessel that delivered. Thanks for this, Pegasus.
Always loved this song. His vocals are effortless, with a great band and backing vocals behind him. The subject is more common than you would expect; "Young Girl",, Gary Puckett and the Union Gap; Rod Stewart's Tonight's the Night," my virgin child.." and Joan Jett singing..He was just 17.." Thank you for this memory- filled demonstration and analysis.
Just came across your utube site and most definitely subscribed!! Seeing this song first, by Benny, as my first intro to your site just got me! So glad you analyzed this beautiful song. Thank you! Looking forward to more! Peace, love and music 🎶
There is a great interview with Benny by the Professor of Rock. He details the inspiration of this song and how it came to be. It’s not what you may think! Love the analysis you provided!
I had the opportunity to see Benny live . He was a great showman. The whole band was awesome. Mighta Been Love, Shes so French, Shiela C, and American Bandstand were all great Benny songs. R.I.p Benny
Yes . dramatic impact of his whispering first words but there is something else very romantic about his singing them. I love this song like so many others.
Such a beautiful song, sung with a beautiful voice. Last year I was doing up a retro song list and of course this definitely made the cut. Thanks Fil, your knowledge on all things musical amazes me. 🥰👏
Very few bands/performers can produce a studio sound live. I've only experienced that a couple times at concerts over the years. What an amazing performance. Spot on as usual sir.
If you have ever heard him talk about the song. Its About the abandonment of his sixteen year old neighbor girl. He gave all the kids jobs so they had money. He had been working with a friend all night the girl comes to get his dog to walk him. The friend was like woo man. He replies she is just 16, lever her alone. The line " its like having it all and watching it fall apart". He is talking about how the girls father now had money and he walked out on his wife and kids. The song is about this girl, her brother and sister and having love who doesn't leave
My friend thanks so much for your professionalism as a musician in analyzing this I really enjoyed listening to you And yes this performance was outstanding for a live show I noticed right away that they slowed down slightly the pace of the tempo for this live performance and it was spectacular The arrangement and the musicianship is second to none And for Benny and is vocal gymnastics Oh my God and without any technical gimmicks to make him sound that way It’s all pure natural ability ❤
You're hair is looking good. I love how you explain how the song is sung. I'm learning a lot about music and songs. I enjoyed this. Thanks for reviewing this. Take care.
_Professor of Rock_ has an interview with the late Benny Mardones in which he talks about the background of the song. Anyway, the vocals are fantastic and he has some resemblance to Steve Perry. You don't hear new artists sing like that anymore on tbe radio. The band is pretty damn awesome too. Top notch musicianship indeed.
Professor of Rock did a great interview with Benny regarding this song. It’s the best interview PoR did and a must watch. You’ll have a much better view of this song meaning
I love that you did this analysis.. Benny’s looks when he was young and this song & that voice make me & most women weak in the knees. Swooooooon!! He was such a nice guy as well. Greatest male voice. Love you Benny, soar with the angels. Hope you’re singing on the other side! 🤍🕊🎵🤍🕊🎵
Ashamed to admit I never heard this song or the artist. I had to pause the video and hop over to iTunes and listened to this album. Bought three songs. Great compositions from this great period of rock. Thanks for sharing!
I absolutely love this song! The back story is not what we have come to think. Thanks for the analysis! I'm not a musician but a singer in my domain.......and a huge music appreciater
TIME STAMPS -
0:38 Performance
3:07 Analysis
4:17 Lyrics!
6:05 Vocal Break Down (Part 1)
10:08 Backing Vocals
12:29 Performance (Part 2)
14:46 Analysis Resumption
14:46 Vocal Break Down (Part 2)
15:54 Range
17:41 Guitar
21:55 Small Solo
He could wail. Absolutely exquisite
The background story for this song is almost as amazing as the song itself. The song was originally released in 1980 and became popular again in 1989. I started dating my husband in 1989. I was sixteen and he had just turned twenty-two.
This song was about a sixteen year old girl and her two siblings. She was the middle child but had a hard time when her father had hit pay dirt ran off with another woman. Her brother would go to store and pick stuff up for Benny and he would allow the boy to keep the change to help the family out. The sixteen year old would take his dog for a walk before she went to school every morning. I think their older sister cleaned/straightened up his apartment.
One morning he was writing the song with Robert Tepper and they hear the door key turning the lock. He asked if they had been playing all night. When she left Robert Tepper asked who the cute girl was, and Mardones say, she’s just sixteen years old, leave her alone. You have to watch the video about it because he tells it way better. They may not have been Benny’s kids but he taught them some valuable lessons about work, earning money, and people that love you don’t leave you!
You have a nice singing voice by the way!❤
This may sound stupid...but his voice reminds me of Janis Joplin. The grit....the soft tones..breathy...
@wingsofpegasus I would love to see you perform this - your voice is spot on in the imitations you do. Your hairstyle, your eyes and the absorption and joy you clearly take in this...
@carolynmaynard3694 Professor of Rock did an incredible interview with Benny, just before he passed 😢 I had the biggest crush on him
I met Benny several years ago when he was living in Playa Del Rey. I was a big fan and had played his song the second time around in the late 80's when I was a DJ working at a radio station in Toledo, OH. He was the nicest man, a very gentle person. I'm sad to hear of his passing.
Living in Toledo then I recall the AirPlay and just how great of a recording by Benny. Great memory. Thanks!!
ONE OF THE GREATEST SONGS OF ALL TIME
truer words were never written
Cursed lyrics but blessed voice
@@trendkill1891 Which is why there is a backstory. Check out the Professor Of Rock channel in which he does an interview with Benny, who explained in that interview that there was no pursuing in any way, shape, or form. This girl and her other sister and also were going through a destitute situation after there 2-bit struggling set designer 'father' left them and their mother in the dust to enjoy his career enhancement with a chorus girl, instead of bringing his family out of this ghetto with him, not giving two $hits about them or how it affected them. I looked into info myself on Benny Mardones and he, too, has experienced his own parents splitting when he was merely an infant. So, I can clearly see that perhaps he could identify with kids and want to lend them a hand, even when he was in the same boat as them. No doubt in my mind he was their sounding board, as well. They must've known them for quite some time during that time frame(my guess), otherwise, why would they turn to this adult figure for consoling. He probably, no doubt knew more about that family situation than what he let on, as well. My guess is that they bonded with him as a neighbor friend who could resonate and relate to them more than their old man(who had a lack of empathy, obviously) could pretend too.
I made some typo errors. I meant to point out, as well, that the two girls had a younger brother, and that the 3 of them must have known Benny for quite some time before their parents have split.
@@pamwhitehouse5961 Thank you thank you thank you for giving the back story. I just watched that same episode of the Professor of Rock where Adam Reader interviewed Benny. Very touching and heart warming story that led to this beautiful song. 💯❤💚💙 Well done @Pam Whitehouse
I want to give this performance a Million likes. No one compares in vocal range.
Benny was my neighbor for a short time when he was staying with his mom in Syracuse. Only really met him once. Seemed like a nice guy. Pretty soft spoken. His mom was a sweetheart. We were loud and rowdy, but she didn't seem to mind. RIP Benny.
Benny? Soft spoken? Not a chance! Benny's Mom lived in Savage, Maryland.
Awesome. Very underated.
See a lot of children running in and out of his place? Lol
That is not the story of this song... Benny talks about it in an interview on Professor of Rock. It's about a girl , and her family, in his apartment complex whose father abandoned them when he got his shot in showbiz, running off with a chorus girl. He gave her and her siblings a job doing banal household chores and helped her fam. He didn't pursue her, and didnt want to. His guitarist almost lost it when she came in one morning to walk the dog, they'd been struggling to write something to this riff, in a miniskirt and he was like Oh Lord. Benny tells him,"She's only 16, leave her alone." Dude suggests it as an opening line. The rest flowed there
@@wilsonmcmahonatgmail sounds like a good story after the fact lol even in the interview they’re like, “How do you work yourself up like that, it must take a lot to muster up that kind of energy to go out cold like that”
Benny smiles and looks at the crowd like:😏
The crowd even laughs like, “Yea I bet that 16yr old is back there workin him up before a show haha”
His control is amazing. It allows him to express an incredible amount of emotion.
You can tell by his face that he feels this so deeply. Amazing vocals.
One of the best rock vocals I’ve ever heard. Beautiful voice.
This song has the pop music history distinction of being a THREE time one-hit-wonder...on the Billboard charts in 1980, 1989 and 2019! Benny passed away last year from complications of Parkinson's disease. Rest in peace.
great research ! thank you
Poor guy.
Thank you, Benny!
You make our hearts sail!
His opus.....
What happened in 2019?
❤❤
The emotion is what I feel
From this song from Benny. The voice control and the range is stellar and one can feel this song in your heart ♥️ rest in peace Benny
One of the great voices to ever sing into a mic!
I was so sad when he passed😢
I can't comprehend how he was just a one hit wonderful. This song charting 3 times is a testament to his immense vocal talent. R.I.P. Mr. Mardones
I always loved this song. I was 16 when I met my one and only. He was 26. We were happily and faithfully married for 40 years. He passed 10/29/18. Miss you baby. He asked my dad for his blessing and he got it.
That’s beautiful. I’m so sorry he passed. Much love x❤️
Just in case, this song is about a man's neighbors. It was a dysfunftonal family without a strong father figure and a daughter whose acting out was troubling and leading down the wrong path. So the man took it upon himself to build up the daughters self-image and self esteem to help keep her from bring self destructive.
I'm not implying it was your situation BTW.
Yes that is beautiful may he RIP and you have a happy life also.
I too met my husband when I was 16 he was 24. I lied and told my mom he was 19. Still married 48 years later.
My one and only passed away in 2008. It is 2024 now and I still miss him!! With all my heart.
This song is a beautifully composed and performed masterpiece. Period.
This guy was talented. His live performances were great. Fantastic voice. 😎
What a beautiful & pure voice. One of the best ever. Man I hear this song now & it gives me shivers. He was an awesome talent. May he rest in peace. The Lord has another great one in His choir to praise Him. 🙏
A beautiful song sung by a beautiful voice. RIP Benny!
Jesus! That vocal control!!! I literally got goosebumps from 13:30 onward
It brings me to tears everytime I hear it....😢❤
Benny released this song in 1980, I was 17 and in love with this gorgeous song and that beautiful man. Thank you for featuring this one-of-a-kind songs. Love your voice and your channel. ❤
Thanks!
Me too 👍..They were great times ..
I was 16 and to this day I feel exactly the way you do! The melody, music, intense lyrics sung by this “beautiful man”, Benny. To this very day, ALL that makes up that mystical song has me mesmerized! ♾️💜
I fell in love with this song as soon as I heard it back in the '80's .
I wish Benny could read these comments.
He was truly a master of his craft.
The music industry is strange in that the best don't always rise to the top.
Clearly, Benny is on a completely different level than many artists who have had great success.
Please Never remove this video. I come back to hear Bennys mesmerizing voice almost daily. He was a special man with such a hypnotically appealing voice and should of had much more exposure. Thank you.
AMEN to this!!! One of the most AMAZING voices and men in music!!! What a beautiful soul!! on a par with Steve Perry!!!
RIP Benny .. WE REMEMBER YOU
I like how Benny just lays it all out there in the end. He gives you everything he’s got.
I'll defend this song, man and performance til I die. He's already publicly stated what inspired the song, and he's the good guy here. Yes, the official video is cringey by today's standards, but I was a tween when this came on the air, and as a young girl it totally resonated with my heart. Let's be clear, he says IF he could, and he would wait until the end of time for her. Nowhere does it suggest he is going to harm anyone. People need to understand that just because someone writes, speaks or sings something doesn't mean they are advocating anything. This performance is absolutely flawless. All of the musicians are top notch. If people want to clutch their pearls and freak out over the subject matter, that's up to them. It's a great song, and have you heard what pop music is singing about today? (WAP I'm looking side eye at you).
Right there with you, Benny was a gem of a man. And yes today's music is disgusting in what it portrays to the youth. Just a beautiful song that pulls at my heart.
The original video would say otherwise because he's definitely looking to hook up with the child. I think they came up with that "origin" story only after radio stations refused to air the song.
@@steamdespair9189 it's been corroborated with the people he was talking about and with, so just cause it's what you would probably do, don't let you perverse thoughts effect everyone else.
@@steamdespair9189 Which was when, 2020? In the time that it came out there was no controversy. It was played endlessly. The video is cringy by today's standards, but believe me when I tell you that artists had whole departments that directed them in videos. Anyway, it's only in recent years that the way teenagers are viewed as "children" has become the norm. I have ancestors that married at 15 who had 3 kids by the time they were 20. It's all in whatever the society thinks is normal, but it's up to each parent to teach their kid what they expect of them and how to make good decisions. At this point we'll just have to take the late artist's word for it, as no one has disputed it. BTW, if you google lyrics that include ages being spoken about, there are a lot that talk about 16 and 17 year old male and female subjects. Especially from the 50s, 60s and 70s. When the life expectance was much lower.
You really should have done your research on the origin of the song.
Thank you for showing this incredible performance by Benny 😘🛼🛼
one of the all time best live performances ever.
He was a great human being. R.I.P. Benny❤. Originally from Savage Maryland
I'm crying! Fil, you are always on spot! When I first heard this, I was a victim of horrid child abuse, and I dreamed of someone rescuing me, like 'taking me into the night and showing me love'. The backstory of this masterpiece speaks to me! Beautiful arrangement, Benny was SO talented! Interesting that a man could understand what I (whom, of course he didn't know) could write and arrange, and sing SO soulfully, and perfectly. Crying again.
When I saw the video about the background of the creation of the song I was just blown away. What an amazing guy..
Sorry, Wendy-
You will heal. Your dreams were always your strength.
I think I know we’re you’re coming from.
And YES- W-of-P has the most amazing taste. Comes from his ♥️.
No child should ever be abused. I’m so sad you lived through such a painful childhood. I hope you are in a good place, and know that you never deserved to be harmed.
One of my all time favorites.
One night I binged watched a lot of his videos and songs. I was totally amazed how awesome his voice and music was. I bought his Never Run Never Hide album. The song American Bandstand was about Dick Clark. He was a great singer and is truly missed. The last video he did was the audience singing Into the Night to him because he couldn’t sing anymore.
Saw that video where the audience sang with him while his hands were shaking. Was hard to watch. RIP Benny
@@alparslow1156Yes, I watched that video too! And I did start to cry a lot when I saw that he was trying to sing Louder and Powerful as when younger but He could not. He was even crying and his hands shaking a lot ! It made me feel só sad and I got lot of tears in my eyes. He was so a gorgeous man with beautiful and romantic songs and a smooth and powerful voice!
Rest in heavenly peace BENNY.🔥🙏🔥💔💐✌
It really impresses me that Benny sounds as great LIVE as he sounded on the recorded version of the song. It's all perfect.
The vocalists during that time could truly sing.
I have always loved the chord patterns in this song. It's also one of the most emotionally charged vocals I have ever heard. I recognized these things when I first heard the song on the radio in July of 1980 after just graduated high school. I've loved the tune ever since. Takes me back as well! Thanks for all your work, Fil!
Hell yeah! I've been waiting for this one. RIP Benny. Fellow US sailor.
Heavens! His voice is beyond incredible!
Oh my gosh, I’ve never heard this performance. This song can freeze women in their tracks, I’ve seen it! A whole room going silent, mesmerised. It’s such a loss that he’s gone, but what a legacy. It’s a perfect love song. Yes there’s age problems with the lyrics, but the funny thing is it really got to all us girls at that time. We ALL had crushes on older guys, brother’s friends, teachers etc. lt was just such a fantasy.
Secrets: l was madly in love with my biology teacher. He and l could have gone into territory we shouldn’t, but he was an English gentleman and he just didn’t. He met up with my mother many years later and asked if he could court me…yes, that’s word he used…but at that stage, l’d moved on to other things so it never happened. But these are real situations and l loved Benny’s honesty. It’s not PC nowadays, but it’s an honest exploration of complicated emotions.
Texture is a great word for his voice too! It’s very emotive.
Thank you for doing this Fil! I’ve missed a lot of your posts through looking after my mother, it’s beautiful to have this today❤️❤️❤️
Thank you...Truth about these relationships...
Here is the story of the song; it's not what it sounds like (i agree with the comment anyway though) ua-cam.com/video/vLgSNZFD9sQ/v-deo.html
Omg! I had the same thing with a teacher. In the 60's-80's that wasn't like it is now. Things were different. My situation could have gone off the rails but he was a gentleman and nothing more than a kiss ever happened..he was and is a great guy. Now, one of my family found out and ripped his head off...it was awful. I'm so glad nobody had a gun. Lol..look up the video about the history of this song....it isn't creepy at all. Bennie was talking about protecting a young girl from creepers.
Actually it is not about a fling with a 16-year-old. It was regarding neighbors three children who were orphans who he befriended and loved. A friend was at his house and saw the oldest 16-year-old girl and thought exactly what you were talking about. I get where you're coming from as well. I had my older and younger crushes back in the day. Thanks for the message
@@claudettecicora1192Yes this is the true story. He was not attracted to that girl, he was trying to help her and her family.
He has that unique X factor to his voice , much like Steve Perry .
Crazy..was just about to comment on that. Did he teach Steve to sing?!
I was thinking the same thing. His voice is a lot like Steve Perry's, but with more grit.
@@jjvladimir6070 IMHO not more talent but same as Steve Perry both amazing
Like if Steve Perry and Todd rundgren had a baby
I love this song with all my heart and I love seeing Fil’s smiles while Benn performs.
This song is so powerful, it’s been giving me goosebumps for years! I just love to watch and listen to your appreciation of music…especially the songs that are so meaningful to me! I know this was two years ago, but thanks Fil 😊
This video gives me the chills every time!!! It never ever gets old. Benny absolutely amazing voice! No one has ever even got close
His range was amazing
Unmatchable. Springsteen wishes he could've _ever_ sung this well, with this much control. And yeah, Eb-5 is his highest note there, but you _know_ he'd have served up the F-5 if he could've!
Rest in peace Benny, and thanks for leaving us so much of yourself in just one song.
Good one Fil, and props to you for being able to sing it well too.
I've always loved Benny and specifically this song. I am not ashamed to say I sing this song in the shower frequently lol. The video really made the song seem creepier than it was. Benny helped out the the kids who lived next door to him by paying them to walk his dog, and one day while he and Robert Tepper were sitting around writing the song the teenage girl came in to get the dog and Tepper was like "who is that girl" and Benny said "she's only 16, leave her alone" and bam they had the opening verse. By all accounts Benny really was a great guy.
I'm surprised that he didn't do his research on that fact. I have always loved this song. Xoxoxo
@@lewasil Fil does a great job of getting all the facts in most of the time. I'm just glad I got to throw Robert Tepper's name out there since we'll probably never see a video on his song lol
The girl actually had a happy ending. She fell in love 💗and married the son of a rich real estate mogul. She now lives in a mansion in Puerto Rico along with her family.👰
That didn't happen. Search UA-cam for "Benny Mardones Farewell Tribute to Angie McCartney", who was the real inspiration of the song which he revealed late in his life.
@@hojo70 Ummm...Benny himself told that story in an interview not invredibly long before he passed. You can watch it on Professor of Rock's youtube channel, but I guess Benny didn't know that you knew better than he did.
Benny would have loved this video! Great explanation of this incredible performance 👏
Omg I've been WAITING FOR THIS!
Awesome!! 😎❤️ Love this song..Vocals!!!..RIP Benny
You were one of the greats
Whenever this used to come on the radio, I'd have to stop whatever I was doing and listen. To me, the song was sad to be so in love and not be able to show the person. Of course there was the subject matter, but I tried to not let that bother me. His voice was so intense, urgent and pleading that it brought a tear to my eye. I recently watched an interview with Benny and 'The Professor of Rock'. He was such a lovely man and was suffering from Parkinson's. He had been very disappointed that he hadn't gotten the recognition that he deserved from the powers that be. He brought a lot of enjoyment to the world with his powerful and beautiful voice. RIP Benny. We love you! ❤
After I saw he passed away I looked up to see what he looked like. Even though I knew the song I always thought it was an older man singing never thought it was this hot guy. He was never on MTV. I’m so obsessed now with watching his videos and listening to his songs. I bought his DVD of his life story on eBay.
You're definitely singing to the angels! This song is a wonder!!!!
Such a great heart felt song and proof why he earned the name Benny the voice Mardones
Thankyou for your video! Back then rock singers had great voices. Bless you for remembering Benny ❤Your voice is amazing too ❤
Thanks!
"Into the Night" de Benny Mardones es una de las canciones mas bellas que existen y Benny la cantó extraordinariamente. Gracias Benny, que goces de la gloria de Dios siempre.
As a gigging singer, this truly is virtuoso level Rock singing. He exhibits such a level of vocal prowess. His tone quality, dynamics, oh man, are so amazing!
Absolutely the same like the recording, Benny a true Master !
Benny was the God of Syracuse, NY. Great song. Great vocal.
Beautiful song. Beautiful backstory. Beautiful soul. RIP Benny, you made a big difference
Yessir, Brother did you break this song down . BIG TIME!! Yep !this song was a hit 2 or 3 times & if Benny was alive & released it again it definitely would be again R.I.P. Benny
Such an incredible voice. I was in high school when this was released and immediately loved it. I always sang along and never thought of anything untoward about the lyrics. I wonder what people today would think of Abba's 'When I kissed the teacher'? Now I could completely understand this song not being released today.
So sad that Benny died so young from Parkinson's disease.
This song and the performance are a Masterpiece! Bravo Benny… RIP - “The Voice”.
A real singer! Nothing but his voice hitting amazing heights and no help from any electronic devices.
He was Amazing with soooo much SOUL IN HIS VOICE!
Benny was absolutely dedicated and very emotional artist. RIP
Rip Benny Mardones we always Love you my friend no more Parkinson illnesses no more emotional pain Benny rest in peace 🥀 💔
Absolutely Loved Benny and this song. Julio Iglesias jr has redone this song with Benny but changed it up a bit. He also changed the 16 years old lyric. So sad how he passed from Parkinson's disease. Rest in heavenly peace Benny Mardones. Thank you for your beautiful voice.
Awesome vocal. Great review. I was driving late one night and heard an unplugged version from Benny. At that point I knew his voice was real and he could duplicate all that gravel and range at will. I regret he never had more hits of equal play time. I will always recall this song and those crazy notes after the Rachmaninov chords
I was 16 years old in 1980 and I still have my 45 of this song and I use to be able to nail it. Thank you for your insights, Fil, another blast from the past analyzed and appreciated!
Me too. I also like the b- side...She's So French
Benny's voice is a rare breed. A+. The background vocals darn good. Very Eagles like.
The emotion is just beyond!!! It brought tears!!! Just pure incredible!!!! I could watch it again and again
This was a song I kind of worshipped as a child and teen. Then I didn’t hear it for more than 25 years - until one day it came on the radio in the car. I had totally forgotten it, and when it came on, the whole world fell away. It made my day, hearing it again. Thank you so much for this video and for confirming what I had always assumed was my irrational love of the song. Turns out it wasn’t irrational after all. I’d love to hear you tackle another song dear to me from my adolescence: “Believe in Love” by Scorpions. It gets no attention on UA-cam, and it may be my favorite rock ballad ever.
Insightful vid, Fil! Benny was a music industry veteran long before his "Into the Night" breakout...another "overnight sensation" that took decades to emerge! Plus, he was eventually beset by unfortunate record company "marriages" that kept him from more consistent success.
After his '64 high school graduation, he served in the Navy in the Vietnam War. Following discharge, he moved to NYC, and wrote songs for Brenda Lee and Chubby Checker.
Eventual producer and executive, Tommy Mottola, himself a New York-based recording artist (as T.D. Valentine on Columbia Records) in the mid-to-late '60s, met Benny, and suggested he move from songwriter (Benny recorded his own demos for publishers and A&R reps) to recording artist himself, impressed as he was with his singing. Mottola, by the way, would end up being "Mr. Mariah Carey" from '93-'97!
In 1977, Mardones met Richie Havens, who was impressed with the singer enough to offer him the opening act spot on his upcoming tour. During the tour, Benny caught the attention of producer Andrew Loog Oldham (mid-'60s manager/producer for the Rolling Stones) and Private Stock Records president, Larry Utall.
Benny's debut LP, "Thank God For Girls" (produced by Oldham) was released in 1978 on Private Stock Records. The ink was barely dry on Benny's contract with Private Stock before the label folded, which all but doomed the album to minimal airplay and sales. It's a record worth looking for (or downloading, or looking for YT vids), as it featured Bowie guitarist Mick Ronson, and Humble Pie drummer, Jerry Shirley, as well as Bee Gees cover, "I Started a Joke," and an Alessi Brothers (A&M artists for 4 LPs in the late '70s) tune, "All For a Reason."
"Never Run, Never Hide" (on which "Into the Night" made its appearance) was released on Polydor Records. While not exactly a death knell, Polydor was no Columbia or Warner Bros. Illustrating Polydor's weak promo and sales team at the time, the album got no higher than #65 on the album charts, despite the single topping off at #11. Nevertheless, record industry trade pub, Billboard, proclaimed the album as "recalling Bob Seger at his best."
By the way, Benny co-wrote "Into the Night" with Robert Tepper, who, a few years later, wrote the "Rocky IV" and "Cobra" film soundtrack mainstay hit, "No Easy Way Out."
Thank you for this informative background on Benny. I appreciate the knowledge you shared. Love this song and love Benny.
@@CherokeeinWyoming Thanks for your kind note, Gail!
I've always loved the vibe of this song. Pretty impressive.
Oh my good, gracious, glorified god - I have never seen this version. It is astounding and it is perfection. This song is my teenage dream, haunting the most delicate chasm of my youth, transporting me back to cool, breezy, summer nights, walking the neighborhood, and perching myself on the granite shores of Lake Superior. "Into the Night" is a gift from heaven, and Mr. Mardones was the vessel that delivered. Thanks for this, Pegasus.
This song simply exudes emotion, Benny's voice is ethereal
Always loved this song. His vocals are effortless, with a great band and backing vocals behind him. The subject is more common than you would expect; "Young Girl",, Gary Puckett and the Union Gap; Rod Stewart's Tonight's the Night," my virgin child.." and Joan Jett singing..He was just 17.." Thank you for this memory- filled demonstration and analysis.
Just came across your utube site and most definitely subscribed!! Seeing this song first, by Benny, as my first intro to your site just got me! So glad you analyzed this beautiful song. Thank you! Looking forward to more! Peace, love and music 🎶
Thanks!
What a great older song. Brings back memories. Fil, you sound like you could do a stand up job covering that tune!
There is a great interview with Benny by the Professor of Rock. He details the inspiration of this song and how it came to be.
It’s not what you may think!
Love the analysis you provided!
I had the opportunity to see Benny live . He was a great showman. The whole band was awesome. Mighta Been Love, Shes so French, Shiela C, and American Bandstand were all great Benny songs. R.I.p Benny
You chose one of my favourite songs of all time. Thank you!
Yes . dramatic impact of his whispering first words but there is something else very romantic about his singing them. I love this song like so many others.
You really have to have the pipes to sing this song. And Benny Mardones just nails it. This is a good video. Thank you for sharing.
Such a beautiful song, sung with a beautiful voice. Last year I was doing up a retro song list and of course this definitely made the cut. Thanks Fil, your knowledge on all things musical amazes me. 🥰👏
What a voice...the passion!!!!
Very few bands/performers can produce a studio sound live. I've only experienced that a couple times at concerts over the years. What an amazing performance. Spot on as usual sir.
Never heard so much emotion in a song. And every gut wrenching note is perfection! Love it.
Love Benny. His songs are like him telling you about his life. Believable.
Great analysis of and fantastic song and vocalist!
This song has always given me chills, thanks for exploring it!
It's always awesome to see someone knock a performance out of the park.
This guy was amazing, really. His vocals just floor me. And Fil, I love it when you sing your examples. You're an amazing singer, as well!
Thanks!
If you have ever heard him talk about the song. Its About the abandonment of his sixteen year old neighbor girl. He gave all the kids jobs so they had money. He had been working with a friend all night the girl comes to get his dog to walk him. The friend was like woo man. He replies she is just 16, lever her alone. The line " its like having it all and watching it fall apart". He is talking about how the girls father now had money and he walked out on his wife and kids. The song is about this girl, her brother and sister and having love who doesn't leave
Search UA-cam for "Benny Mardones Farewell Tribute to Angie McCartney", who was the real inspiration of the song which he revealed late in his life.
@@hojo70 That was tongue and cheek.
@@hojo70That was a joke video for Angie's birthday.
Thank you Fil for sharing. Have to admit that i didn't know this song...but because of you (and your awesome analysis) i do now.
My friend thanks so much for your professionalism as a musician in analyzing this I really enjoyed listening to you And yes this performance was outstanding for a live show I noticed right away that they slowed down slightly the pace of the tempo for this live performance and it was spectacular The arrangement and the musicianship is second to none And for Benny and is vocal gymnastics Oh my God and without any technical gimmicks to make him sound that way It’s all pure natural ability ❤
Great song, great singer, great performance! One of my favorite songs. And excellent analysis Fil!
You're hair is looking good. I love how you explain how the song is sung. I'm learning a lot about music and songs. I enjoyed this. Thanks for reviewing this. Take care.
_Professor of Rock_ has an interview with the late Benny Mardones in which he talks about the background of the song.
Anyway, the vocals are fantastic and he has some resemblance to Steve Perry. You don't hear new artists sing like that anymore on tbe radio.
The band is pretty damn awesome too. Top notch musicianship indeed.
Professor of Rock did a great interview with Benny regarding this song. It’s the best interview PoR did and a must watch. You’ll have a much better view of this song meaning
I love that you did this analysis.. Benny’s looks when he was young and this song & that voice make me & most women weak in the knees. Swooooooon!! He was such a nice guy as well. Greatest male voice. Love you Benny, soar with the angels. Hope you’re singing on the other side! 🤍🕊🎵🤍🕊🎵
Ashamed to admit I never heard this song or the artist. I had to pause the video and hop over to iTunes and listened to this album. Bought three songs. Great compositions from this great period of rock. Thanks for sharing!
This is just plain beautiful
I was 16 and a senior in h.s. and totally crushing on a bass player and this song gives me chills
and great memories
I absolutely love this song! The back story is not what we have come to think. Thanks for the analysis! I'm not a musician but a singer in my domain.......and a huge music appreciater