I think its a great song but i really hope they release the full dance video with the song as without it the full genious of it doesnt work. Its becoming iconic but imaging grease lightning without ever seeing the full routine its not really going to be understood the same way
I’m sure they will ones the video is out & I really enjoy this part of the movie 😂 plus I was surprised Ken was the villain. Ryan Gosling is the perfect Ken in my opinion. Ken-enough 💪🏻✌🏻
@@silentwater79 It's a lot easier without the patriarchy. Sharing the economic burden, sharing taking care of the kids (gives the fathers a deeper connection to them) sharing the work load at home in general. Makes men more relaxed, and in touch with themselves. Young men have a very different approach to this than their fathers have, at least where I live. (Sweden)
@@NereaBrecht_rtist Actually, it’s the Millennials who grew up playing with Barbies and are all about the Barbie hype. Gen Z are more likely to spend their day on Tik Tok than watching a Barbie movie.
@@flofee but we are talking about these song and the movie, not about the Barbie doll. This song it's made in 2022-2023, so it's wrong to say that is a Bohemian Rhapsody for Millennials.
@@flofeeokay wrong again, the youngest gen z is 13 years old now. TikTok in its current state has only existed since 2018. And the vast majority of its users have joined after the pandemic kicked into full gear. So no, they did not “grow up” with TikTok
@@flofeehi, uh, gen z here (i was born in 2003). i grew up w barbies, lol. the youngest gen z are like 13 by now, you're thinking of the next generation down. tiktok wasn't a thing til i was 15 lmao.
Hearing it without having seen the film is insanity... it fits SO well into the scene but out of context its like musical whiplash lol There is a touch of Zoolander in it, definitely, but its far deeper than Zoolander was in the end.
I saw the movie and loved this song. You really do need to see the movie to truly appreciate the emotion everyone puts in to the performance. Ryan Gosling's voice was perfect for this song. He was Ken.
Apparently Slash worked on the song. Ken's fur coat is a nod to Stallone. And also, Ken's name is written on his black leather fanny pack in the Metallica font... thats so f*kin cool man. Loved it.
You had to be there! In the movie the dance scene and the song was FABULOUS! I'm 70 and this is the FIRST time I've been to the movies in 10 YEARS - I begged my granddaughter to go again JUST so I could watch that song/dance again. I've watched every clip on You Tube - I want to save the whole scene and watch it again and again.
I watched it the first time with my mom, she loved it, I watched it yesterday with my friend who was blown away by Ryan Gosling's Ken even though she usually can't stand him, and another friend hasn't seen it yet... I guess there will be a third time for me haha
I heard in a Did You Know trivia video that Mark Ronson wrote it as a joke for Greta, who actually liked it and sent it to Ryan, who went NUTS for it and made it the dramatic rock opera interpretation it is now. Which blew Ronson away with surprise 😂
id say the song is all over the place without the accompanying scenes in the movie; in the cinema it didn't seem out of place at all but for the disembodied song they have to chop parts of it together. i found it weird in hindsight too lmao
I saw this movie for the 4th time yesterday, and hearing this song again makes me want to go for a 5th. It drives me nuts that they don't have the full scene online. It's amazing. It makes so much more sense when you see the entire production.
I saw it today. Never wanted to see a dumb "barbie" kids movie. But it was recommended by many people, even thou I'm a guy (I have sons, nope from them) - and I loved the movie. This is the best song (Billie is great of course). Such simple words with important meaning.
@heathertimothy5571 Yeah I was so against seeing it. I was getting tired of seeing all the barbie and pink stuff. But I really like ryan gosling. I was a little obsessed with la la land recently . Just kept playing those songs over and over again. I think i'm going to Have to go see it.. I know for sure my man would not like it. He can't stand Any movie where they start singing...
I cannot recommend enough that you guys watch this scene in the movie, my friends and i were all puzzled when we found out Ken would have a solo but then as we watched the scene my friend let out "this is a fever dream but like an amazing fever dream? I still can't believe they went for it and that i'm liking it" lol Also, little nods to Grease and Singing in the Rain in the movie, if you guys like musicals
I love the bombastic composition of this song and the shifts in musical style. In spirit it reminds me of my favourite Prog Rock bands of the 70s and Queen, too. And Ken is just so relatable. Feeling so badly treated by fate, and craving someone else´s attention, experiencing frustrations of desire. A pinch of comedy is in the vocals, however outshone by a tenfold passion and self-compassion. Marvellous.
[Vocally] "He's pulling out every trick in the book". Interesting to hear you say that, just from the singing. He does the same in the film, giving it his all (acting as well as the singing). You can't fault his dedication to role.
Oh let's just face it! Ryan Gosling was born to play this role! (along with Margot Robbie as Barbie) I think he proved he wasn't too old to play this role. He's multi-talented.
Oh you must see this movie to get even more appreciation for Ryan’s performance in this song. I have become utterly obsessed with it, absolutely rock opera feel. I hope it wins awards.
@@throga Looking forward to seeing Part 2! You guys should pin a comment of your own on this video saying you watched the movie and posted a part 2, and include a link to that vid, so people can funnel from here to there!
Just saw movie for second time. This song is VERY visual. Tons of dancing, loads of campy fun. First time to your channel, as I was searching the song. I’ve liked and subscribed!
Thanks for the comment! After everyone telling us how great the movie was - we decided to do a PART 2 after seeing it: ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
Great analysis. I loved it. I love this song but especially Ryan Gosling's performance. It was excellent. So believable. It surprisingly really tugs at the heartstrings.
I loved this song, I've been listening to it after seeing the movie. I had no idea Ryan Gosling could sing until "City of Stars" was played to me on Spotify. He's a solid vocalist!
Love your thoughts! The musical interlude is a dance sequence in the movie, so I found it less jarring in context. Without the dance in front of me, it definitely feels a bit off--but still pretty in line with all the 80s-rock-opera vibes. I was definitely worried that Ryan Gosling's voice would sound overproduced, maybe the fit the polished, plastic Barbie aesthetic. Instead, I'm thrilled to hear how raw he sounds when he sings. It really does give weight to the song, reflecting Ken's turmoil and growth. (Go watch the Barbie movie. It's a lot of fun!)
Love the fact that you let good portions play before pausing and commenting, sooo many UA-camrs will pause every damn 3 seconds to the point where you lose all track of the music😅 This song is really a lot, and Gosling went really far with it - it does deserve the full context of the movie though, so I’d recommend watching the whole thing✌️
We really appreciate the feedback and will continue to keep that pacing in mind :) And I agree, I'm sure when we see it in the movie it will flow much more!
This was an excellent reaction video. I look forward to more. Ryan gosling did an amazing job. That song was all over the place but makes since in context with the movie.
Can you feel the Kenergy?! Genius. 😂 This is a modern classic and I'm obsessed. Ryan Gosling is killing it 💖 Loved the reaction vid, and the genuine surprise and shock 😊🎉❤
You hadn’t seen the movie and first comment is “I never realized how hard it was to be Ken” - sounds like they captured the story completely in the song! Thanks for doing this!
You guys knocked it out of the park! I fell hard for Ryans singing in a superbly quiet little film called "Lars and the Real Girl" and in that, he was just goofing, in the woods with his ukelele and doing it all in falsetto. I knew he was seriously gifted then. But, back to you two. Keep 'em coming!
I absolutely adored how Johnny -without having seen the movie or heard the song before - just heard seconds and was able to plunk out part of the piano part. I love people who can do that, that's awesome.
This is my first time seeing a songwriter reaction video and im in shock how u listened to the song for a short amount of time and were able to recreate the ‘chord progression’ as u called (i dont do music lol). My mouth dropped.
Thank you for the comment! Yes, Johnny is insane - it helps that he has "perfect pitch", meaning he can hear a note and identify what it is as easily as you or I can recognize a color.
I loved it! (Surprisingly.) He also sings "Push" which I hope they re-release as a single. Barbie has her own turn with "Closer I am to Fine". All in all, a fun movie made even better because of the music. Thanks for the reaction. It's always fun to hear what real musicians think of things like this.
The video for this song convinced me to put aside my cynicism and watch the film. Personally I think this is the highlight of the film. I hadn't made the Meatloaf association, which completely makes sense and also might explain why I like it so much.
I was not expecting mullet rock in Barbie! This song definitely gives me Kansas and Aerosmith vibes , with a cheeky nod to the opening of Aha's "Take On Me" around 5:00 .
This song wasn't supposed to be in the movie, and its Oscar worthy! (wiki) Mark Ronson recorded a demo of "I'm Just Ken" and sent it to director Greta Gerwig, although he wasn't expecting it to be included in the film. Gerwig, however, loved the song and played it for Ryan Gosling, who plays Ken. Gosling stated that it affected him "deeply" and asked if he could perform it in the film. Gerwig had to rewrite an important scene in the film to accommodate the new addition. This song works on so many levels for men. It's simple, and even guy-stereo-type "And I'm great at doing stuff" - Guys do have feelings, and on so many of us keep those inside. Expression of pain, and depression = shame. Crying = weakness. ugh. Crying is a release, and holding that it - hurts us. The song is great, but its too short. The Barbie Movie is NOT about toys... and hopefully Mattel does NOT think the other toy/board game movies will become hits. We do NOT need a movie about UNO or Magic 8 ball. They were lucky to get Greta Gerwig and kept their hands off. The movie is the perfect balance of comedy, silly and serious. That is mad skills.
I'm begging you to go watch the movie while it's still on theatres, not only is the song a lot less jarring with context but it's also an excellent movie
I love this song!!!!! Best lines!!! “Why can’t she see she man behind the tan hand fight for me!!!” AND “I’m just Ken I’m good enough! And I’m great at doin’ STUFF!!!” THE BEST!!!!!! 💯💯💯❤🎀💄💋👠🛍️ CAN YOU FEEL THE KENERGY????????!! Lol - GOOD STUFF GUYS!!! (Oh n SLASH contributes to this fantastic piece of art pie!!!)
the song really gives me Meatloaf on one hand but on the other Queen vibes as well with the whole changes in style in one song almost from ballad to rock to 80s to almost musical theatre again love it😂
In the future I'd suggest reacting to the music video version so you have a visual, which is pretty helpful for understanding all the crazy key changes in this song! And probably for other songs too
Ryan Gosling was a musketeer at the Mickey Mouse Club. His musketeer class did include Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Carrie Russell. You know a musketeer is the entire package. Also, he was on star search as a dancer so he really started out as a child actor.
I saw him do this at the oscars and i was blown away. I never thought i’d be singing “im just ken” when walking my dog. Can you do Farewell Transmission from Jason Molina? The song is pretty epic and the origin story is too
I didn't realize Ryan could sing, so this was a welcome surprise -- he did so well with the song and the role in general. I LOVED the campiness of it in pairing with the scene itself.
Did no one else pick up the Monty Python part of the video? Where they are pretending to be on horses? Lol. The video is just genius. It takes so many different iconic films and pays homage to them!
I didn't catch the first feeling when I've seen the movie few months ago that the song is great, but now after seeing the performance at 2024 Academy Awards I understood it can give just positive vibes and smile, and I've see during your conversation now that both of you had smiles. It is really simple good and pity is it didn't get Oscar, but hey,....it stole the show, definitely. 🥳 It will be remembered as a bright spot in a pile of negative ones!
I’m back because this is the first place I experienced listening to I’m Just Ken. I keep remembering Johnny’s reaction to the line “and so am I” 😂😂😂🎉 love love love this song and your reactions! It keeps modulating!🤣🤣
As a non musician watching Johnny hear something for the first time and then play it perfectly just from hearing it blows my mind. What a gift to have...kuddos. And a fun reaction. Thanks 🙏
I hear a bit of Elvis Costello’s style in Ken/Ryan’s vocal performance, especially in the « blond fragility ». I think you’re on to something when you mentioned that it feels like a montage/pastiche of styles, with different pop icons’ vocals referenced.
Songwriter, you landed quite a few jokes there that had me in stitches!!!!! I’m obsessed with this song and so happy to see this content. It’s hard to follow that with a suggestion OMG! Salad by Blondshell is a current new fav. I’m about to see her in MN. Look Up by Joy Oladokun was a moment where I really felt the love of the universe seeing her live. I’ll think on this. Can’t wait to see more!!!!!
Thank you guys, this was great! I loved the movie and watched the song a few times over but not being musically trained I couldn't tell WHAT it was about it. Your analysis made it clear--I hadn't realised how complex it is musically in terms of how many genres and keys it was going through, and then ofc the raw human emotion and imbalances in his voice make it very real, which is an interesting counterpoint to the visual appearance of Ken who is halfway between plastic doll and vulnerable sensitive new age guy... Liked, subscribed AND rang the bell ;)
The fact that they keep using such quintessentially "masculine" references means that Mark Ronson + co. hit the nail on the head when creating this song. (Meatloaf, Metallica, Rocky, "I just want to hit a slab of meat or something.") Just wait until these guys see the movie! It just fits so perfectly! LOL
I hope yall get to see the actual scene or the full movie! Ryan Gosling was fantastic and this is my favorite scene in the film, and both him and this scene/song have cemented this film as one of my favorite movies of all time! It's an awesome movie and I hope to get to see it!
Having seen the movie, I can't help but smile from the fist 5 seconds of this song. This part of the movie is just pure camp and delight for fans of classic/retro movies and music. Btw do you take reaction suggestions? If yes, please check out One Ok Rock "Take What You Want" live from Ambitions Japan Dome tour 2018. I'm interested in your reaction and analysis as a vocal coach. The band's vocalist is considered as one of the best rock vocalists right now. I'd put him as a spiritual successor of Chester Bennington, who is one of his biggest influences.
You sold me at "Chester Bennington"! I've just added this song and band to our reaction list! Thank you for the comment and suggestion - we look forward to checking it out :)
❤ this movie. It is history of Barbie, a fun and visual time with very deep meaning when audience members take the time to grasp all the concepts Greta was conveying. Kudos to Ryan to is a visual and audio delight!
I really enjoyed the video! I hope you do one about the great Layne Staley, it's really sad that so many ppl never got to know this amazing talent. It was both raw, but from everything that I've read- he also went to the best vocal teachers in Seattle, which in my opinion only makes him better, and makes me respect him more. I feel like if you get a present from nature (like amazing abilities and a beautiful voice)that is a tool, and you need to nurture it and never take it for granted - or you'll lose it
Thank you for the comment and suggestion! Layne was amazing! And the harmonies with Jerry Cantrell just took it to another level. We are both VERY familiar with his work, but perhaps we can dig up a live performance to react to :)
Please watch the version of this movie performance with the ASL interpretation that was uploaded by MAX. The deaf woman who did the interpreting was just amazing and there's am entire version of the Barbie movie on MAX where she stands in the corner doing THE ENTIRE film in ASL.
Meat Loaf! How didn't I realize that sooner? 🤔 Thing is, I saw the movie twice but this is the first time I listen to the song in isolation. It has a very 80s soft rock style, very Meat Loaf indeed. I've been wondering why Ryan sounded so different in "Barbie" compared to "LA LA Land" and you just gave us the answer 😁
I really enjoyed the use of keyboard and guitar to play back what you were hearing. As a very musically ignorant person who is normally processing song lyrics without much other conscious awareness of music, it helped me hear what you were hearing. I'm mentioning this feedback because it is something that might make me interested in watching more of your videos: if you can help me "hear" and deepen my awareness of music despite being untrained and having no technical understanding of music (only liking things for how they make me feel).
THANK YOU for watching! If you enjoy this video, please hit LIKE and SUBSCRIBE or buy us a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/throga
This isn't just a song; its a journey towards self-acceptance
We definitely understood that better after seeing the movie and putting the song in context :)
This took me out 😂
@@ashleesaavedra4740A song took you out of the BARBIE movie 💀
@@areafurrynone1913werent they talking about the comment
Love Ryan singing…very entertaining
I think its a great song but i really hope they release the full dance video with the song as without it the full genious of it doesnt work. Its becoming iconic but imaging grease lightning without ever seeing the full routine its not really going to be understood the same way
We're hearing that from everyone! We definitely need to go see the movie to get the full scope of the song :)
Would've been a massive spoiler to show the fight.
@@throga You absolutely do! This movies honestly unironically quite good, and fun as hell!
We watched the movie and just posted a PART 2 reaction video! ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
I’m sure they will ones the video is out & I really enjoy this part of the movie 😂 plus I was surprised Ken was the villain.
Ryan Gosling is the perfect Ken in my opinion.
Ken-enough 💪🏻✌🏻
They killed it with this song. The 80s vibe to it brings in just the right amount of drama. Ryan was phenomenal. Clearly he’s not just Ken.
He’s Kenough
He IS Ken, because Ken is phenomenal, because he's Kenough.
"Man, I never realized how tough it was to be Ken!"
And now we know, after 60 years.
Ryan Gosling did a good job with this song.
Yeah, he really did an amazing job!
Ask women seeking higher wages or employment. We’ve been in that position for awhile.
@@silentwater79That was actually a significant part of the movie. The patriarchy affects men and women just differently.
@@silentwater79 It's a lot easier without the patriarchy. Sharing the economic burden, sharing taking care of the kids (gives the fathers a deeper connection to them) sharing the work load at home in general.
Makes men more relaxed, and in touch with themselves.
Young men have a very different approach to this than their fathers have, at least where I live. (Sweden)
It’s a rock opera, it’s like a Bohemian Rhapsody for Millennials
Nope, actually kids born after 2000 are called Gen Z. So it's not for Millenials...
@@NereaBrecht_rtist Actually, it’s the Millennials who grew up playing with Barbies and are all about the Barbie hype. Gen Z are more likely to spend their day on Tik Tok than watching a Barbie movie.
@@flofee but we are talking about these song and the movie, not about the Barbie doll. This song it's made in 2022-2023, so it's wrong to say that is a Bohemian Rhapsody for Millennials.
@@flofeeokay wrong again, the youngest gen z is 13 years old now. TikTok in its current state has only existed since 2018. And the vast majority of its users have joined after the pandemic kicked into full gear. So no, they did not “grow up” with TikTok
@@flofeehi, uh, gen z here (i was born in 2003). i grew up w barbies, lol. the youngest gen z are like 13 by now, you're thinking of the next generation down. tiktok wasn't a thing til i was 15 lmao.
Hearing it without having seen the film is insanity... it fits SO well into the scene but out of context its like musical whiplash lol
There is a touch of Zoolander in it, definitely, but its far deeper than Zoolander was in the end.
Musical whiplash is a great term!! Haha yes we definitely need to see this song in context with the film.
So so so good - Ken is my favorite part of the movie and I grew up loving Barbie, Skipper, Allen and Ken
I saw the movie and loved this song. You really do need to see the movie to truly appreciate the emotion everyone puts in to the performance. Ryan Gosling's voice was perfect for this song. He was Ken.
@@cherylesbenshade9331 we just saw it and posted a Part 2 review! Such a great song and movie :)
I'm glad you both saw the movie. Enjoyed your Part 2 review.@@throga
Apparently Slash worked on the song. Ken's fur coat is a nod to Stallone. And also, Ken's name is written on his black leather fanny pack in the Metallica font... thats so f*kin cool man. Loved it.
haha that is awesome!
He also had a headband on 😅
@@lalathestylist Kobra Ken
People seem to be confused on these points lol
Also Wolfgang Van Halen and Josh Freese (new Foos drummer). Thats a pretty stellar collection of musicians
You had to be there! In the movie the dance scene and the song was FABULOUS! I'm 70 and this is the FIRST time I've been to the movies in 10 YEARS - I begged my granddaughter to go again JUST so I could watch that song/dance again. I've watched every clip on You Tube - I want to save the whole scene and watch it again and again.
We are going to watch the movie and post our thoughts - visual context is clearly needed! lol
I’m so happy you enjoyed it so much! I’m 19 and I loved the movie so much, I cried a lot. I’m seeing it again, this time with my mom.
I went twice for the exact same reason 😊
I watched it the first time with my mom, she loved it, I watched it yesterday with my friend who was blown away by Ryan Gosling's Ken even though she usually can't stand him, and another friend hasn't seen it yet... I guess there will be a third time for me haha
I’m 57 and I’m with you. Fabulous
I heard in a Did You Know trivia video that Mark Ronson wrote it as a joke for Greta, who actually liked it and sent it to Ryan, who went NUTS for it and made it the dramatic rock opera interpretation it is now. Which blew Ronson away with surprise 😂
that's awesome!!
They literally rewrote and adjusted parts of the script to accomodate the song 🤣🤣
The difference between an artist who acts and someone who got into acting because they looked good enough 👏👏👏
I think it even won an award. Golden Globe? Oscar? Something. Just hilarious.
Ryan Gosling is beyond great in Barbie. He is just as great in La LA Land.
They better have this song performed at the Oscars. It is epic.
This would be SO GOOD.
So many people would actually wat h the oscars just to see this song performed
ong that has to happens
yay ❤❤
It was glorious
His high note at the end was unexpected and glorious
agreed!
Loved it
It was sublime.
id say the song is all over the place without the accompanying scenes in the movie; in the cinema it didn't seem out of place at all but for the disembodied song they have to chop parts of it together. i found it weird in hindsight too lmao
You bring up a good point! I bet if we saw the choreography and storyline as it was happening it would flow much better :)
@@throga in the cinema I was basically on the floor laughing the entire song :D
@@Phelie315 definitely felt the kenergy
Even when I was watching it during the movie, it felt like it didn’t fit into the movie at all-
@@Phelie315 I loved how the whole musical number just kept escalating in ridiculousness lmao.
Ryan is a musician and plays several instruments. He has a band and he made an album. And I love the retro style it has.
I had no idea he had a band - we will have to check that out!
@@throga yes, it’s called “Dead man’s bones”.
We just watched the film - Push was my favorite song!! Here’s a PART 2 our our reaction: ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
@@throgait's like low-fi goth mashed up with doo-wop, but they add in a kids choir.... Pretty unique. Kind of Tom Waits vibes, as well.
@angyliv8040 Every time I'm reminded that Dead Man's Bones is Ryan Gosling's band I get whiplash and then immediately forget I ever knew that fact. 😂
I saw this movie for the 4th time yesterday, and hearing this song again makes me want to go for a 5th. It drives me nuts that they don't have the full scene online. It's amazing. It makes so much more sense when you see the entire production.
It's sooo good! We went and watched the film afterr doing this reaction video and posted a Part 2 as well at ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
I saw it today. Never wanted to see a dumb "barbie" kids movie. But it was recommended by many people, even thou I'm a guy (I have sons, nope from them) - and I loved the movie. This is the best song (Billie is great of course). Such simple words with important meaning.
You people are making me want to see this movie? I was so against seeing it.
@@Jackiedyk I've now seen it five times, and I'm trying to convince my husband to go. It's really not anything like you think it's going to be.
@heathertimothy5571 Yeah I was so against seeing it. I was getting tired of seeing all the barbie and pink stuff. But I really like ryan gosling. I was a little obsessed with la la land recently . Just kept playing those songs over and over again. I think i'm going to Have to go see it.. I know for sure my man would not like it. He can't stand Any movie where they start singing...
FEEL THE KENERGY
hahaha
"I'm Kenenough" has got to be one of the top movie quotes of the summer.
I cannot recommend enough that you guys watch this scene in the movie, my friends and i were all puzzled when we found out Ken would have a solo but then as we watched the scene my friend let out "this is a fever dream but like an amazing fever dream? I still can't believe they went for it and that i'm liking it" lol
Also, little nods to Grease and Singing in the Rain in the movie, if you guys like musicals
haha that's great! And yes, we both are into musicals as well... perhaps something to react to as well. If we can find something we haven't seen yet!
@@throga oh hell yea, i cant wait to see your next videos!
Total fever dream lol
Glad I wasn't the only one to notice Singing in the Rain.
We followed your advise and watched the film! Here’s a PART 2 of our reaction: ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
This must win best original song in the next Academy Awards!
I love the bombastic composition of this song and the shifts in musical style. In spirit it reminds me of my favourite Prog Rock bands of the 70s and Queen, too. And Ken is just so relatable. Feeling so badly treated by fate, and craving someone else´s attention, experiencing frustrations of desire. A pinch of comedy is in the vocals, however outshone by a tenfold passion and self-compassion. Marvellous.
thank you for the comment - we agree!
[Vocally] "He's pulling out every trick in the book". Interesting to hear you say that, just from the singing. He does the same in the film, giving it his all (acting as well as the singing). You can't fault his dedication to role.
I don’t intend that statement to be in a negative way - simply that he’s utilizing all aspects of his voice. He sang it perfectly!
Oh let's just face it! Ryan Gosling was born to play this role! (along with Margot Robbie as Barbie) I think he proved he wasn't too old to play this role. He's multi-talented.
He was fabulous , his innocence love for Barbie, just crack me up
Oh you must see this movie to get even more appreciation for Ryan’s performance in this song. I have become utterly obsessed with it, absolutely rock opera feel. I hope it wins awards.
we watched it and posted a Part 2 reaction video!! haha its was great!
@@throga Looking forward to seeing Part 2! You guys should pin a comment of your own on this video saying you watched the movie and posted a part 2, and include a link to that vid, so people can funnel from here to there!
Just saw movie for second time. This song is VERY visual. Tons of dancing, loads of campy fun. First time to your channel, as I was searching the song. I’ve liked and subscribed!
Thanks for the comment! After everyone telling us how great the movie was - we decided to do a PART 2 after seeing it: ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
Great analysis. I loved it. I love this song but especially Ryan Gosling's performance. It was excellent. So believable. It surprisingly really tugs at the heartstrings.
Thank you - we agree!
I loved this song, I've been listening to it after seeing the movie. I had no idea Ryan Gosling could sing until "City of Stars" was played to me on Spotify. He's a solid vocalist!
Agreed!!
Everyday I watch the video several times.
It was produced by Mark Ronson, i don’t even know why anyone is surprised this is a masterpiece
He nailed it!
Funny thing was he wrote it as a joke and didn't expect Greta to use it
omg now I get it
He got Josh Freese (drums), Slash (guitar), and Wolfgang Van Halen (guitar)
I'm basically addicted to this song which is why your video appeared in my UA-cam algorithm 😅
Well I’m glad you found us Holly! We are fans of this song now too and seriously need to make time to go and see the movie! Haha
Love your thoughts! The musical interlude is a dance sequence in the movie, so I found it less jarring in context. Without the dance in front of me, it definitely feels a bit off--but still pretty in line with all the 80s-rock-opera vibes.
I was definitely worried that Ryan Gosling's voice would sound overproduced, maybe the fit the polished, plastic Barbie aesthetic. Instead, I'm thrilled to hear how raw he sounds when he sings. It really does give weight to the song, reflecting Ken's turmoil and growth.
(Go watch the Barbie movie. It's a lot of fun!)
Thanks for the comment - we couldn't agree more! And will do :)
Love the fact that you let good portions play before pausing and commenting, sooo many UA-camrs will pause every damn 3 seconds to the point where you lose all track of the music😅
This song is really a lot, and Gosling went really far with it - it does deserve the full context of the movie though, so I’d recommend watching the whole thing✌️
We really appreciate the feedback and will continue to keep that pacing in mind :) And I agree, I'm sure when we see it in the movie it will flow much more!
This was an excellent reaction video. I look forward to more. Ryan gosling did an amazing job. That song was all over the place but makes since in context with the movie.
Thank you!
He is so talented and has numerous musical endeavors. I’ve been jamming this song since it came out.
Can you feel the Kenergy?! Genius. 😂 This is a modern classic and I'm obsessed. Ryan Gosling is killing it 💖 Loved the reaction vid, and the genuine surprise and shock 😊🎉❤
Glad you enjoyed it!
You hadn’t seen the movie and first comment is “I never realized how hard it was to be Ken” - sounds like they captured the story completely in the song! Thanks for doing this!
The song was so good we went out and watched the movie! Part 2 reaction video is out now :) thanks for the comment!
You guys knocked it out of the park! I fell hard for Ryans singing in a superbly quiet little film called "Lars and the Real Girl" and in that, he was just goofing, in the woods with his ukelele and doing it all in falsetto. I knew he was seriously gifted then. But, back to you two. Keep 'em coming!
Thanks so much! We've definitely got more videos coming!
I absolutely adored how Johnny -without having seen the movie or heard the song before - just heard seconds and was able to plunk out part of the piano part. I love people who can do that, that's awesome.
It amazes me EVERY time he does it!! lol
This is my first time seeing a songwriter reaction video and im in shock how u listened to the song for a short amount of time and were able to recreate the ‘chord progression’ as u called (i dont do music lol). My mouth dropped.
Thank you for the comment! Yes, Johnny is insane - it helps that he has "perfect pitch", meaning he can hear a note and identify what it is as easily as you or I can recognize a color.
I love this song! Ryan is an amazing artist!
It's a masterpiece & RG needs an Oscar ✌️
I loved it! (Surprisingly.) He also sings "Push" which I hope they re-release as a single. Barbie has her own turn with "Closer I am to Fine". All in all, a fun movie made even better because of the music. Thanks for the reaction. It's always fun to hear what real musicians think of things like this.
Others have brought up “Push” as well - we may need to check that out!
Just saw the film and I agree that Push should be it’s own release!! Here’s a PART 2 reaction: ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
His cover of Push is on the Best Weekend Ever edition of the album! His "I wanna take you for ghuhraunted" is iconic 😅
thank you :)@@Mulbert
Feels weird to hear it outside of watching the movie. In the movie, it makes sense & is great! It is like a rock opera song.
The video for this song convinced me to put aside my cynicism and watch the film. Personally I think this is the highlight of the film. I hadn't made the Meatloaf association, which completely makes sense and also might explain why I like it so much.
The Christmas version of this is brilliant! ❤
Johnny is so talented. I love that he can play it by ear. This was a great song and a great movie. ❤
Thank be seen him do that for 25 years now and it always amazing me!
those are years of practice
I was not expecting mullet rock in Barbie! This song definitely gives me Kansas and Aerosmith vibes , with a cheeky nod to the opening of Aha's "Take On Me" around 5:00 .
This song wasn't supposed to be in the movie, and its Oscar worthy!
(wiki) Mark Ronson recorded a demo of "I'm Just Ken" and sent it to director Greta Gerwig, although he wasn't expecting it to be included in the film. Gerwig, however, loved the song and played it for Ryan Gosling, who plays Ken. Gosling stated that it affected him "deeply" and asked if he could perform it in the film. Gerwig had to rewrite an important scene in the film to accommodate the new addition.
This song works on so many levels for men. It's simple, and even guy-stereo-type "And I'm great at doing stuff" - Guys do have feelings, and on so many of us keep those inside. Expression of pain, and depression = shame. Crying = weakness. ugh. Crying is a release, and holding that it - hurts us. The song is great, but its too short.
The Barbie Movie is NOT about toys... and hopefully Mattel does NOT think the other toy/board game movies will become hits. We do NOT need a movie about UNO or Magic 8 ball.
They were lucky to get Greta Gerwig and kept their hands off. The movie is the perfect balance of comedy, silly and serious. That is mad skills.
Thanks for the insights! Yeah it's a great song, and they obviously made the right move by adding it to the movie!
This is great, I’m excited to see more reaction from y’all!! 🥰
It's called "KENERGY!" guys.
I so want this song to win an Oscar.
I'm begging you to go watch the movie while it's still on theatres, not only is the song a lot less jarring with context but it's also an excellent movie
So many people are telling us this…. Think we need to make it happen and report back!
Thanks for nudging us to see the film! We just posted our final thoughts after seeing this song in context - ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
You should watch the awards- he sang this song and people were on their feet and singing he was so into that song. It was great!
I love this song!!!!! Best lines!!! “Why can’t she see she man behind the tan hand fight for me!!!” AND “I’m just Ken I’m good enough! And I’m great at doin’ STUFF!!!” THE BEST!!!!!! 💯💯💯❤🎀💄💋👠🛍️ CAN YOU FEEL THE KENERGY????????!! Lol - GOOD STUFF GUYS!!! (Oh n SLASH contributes to this fantastic piece of art pie!!!)
Great comment! Thank you :)
It's my new personal theme song. Since people call me Ken.
the song really gives me Meatloaf on one hand but on the other Queen vibes as well with the whole changes in style in one song almost from ballad to rock to 80s to almost musical theatre again love it😂
In the future I'd suggest reacting to the music video version so you have a visual, which is pretty helpful for understanding all the crazy key changes in this song! And probably for other songs too
Ryan Gosling was a musketeer at the Mickey Mouse Club. His musketeer class did include Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Carrie Russell. You know a musketeer is the entire package. Also, he was on star search as a dancer so he really started out as a child actor.
I saw the movie because of Ryan ❤❤❤ I love both songs he sings in the movie. Good review guys.
thank you!
I saw him do this at the oscars and i was blown away. I never thought i’d be singing “im just ken” when walking my dog. Can you do Farewell Transmission from Jason Molina?
The song is pretty epic and the origin story is too
I didn't realize Ryan could sing, so this was a welcome surprise -- he did so well with the song and the role in general. I LOVED the campiness of it in pairing with the scene itself.
It is a really catchy song and I've had it on my mind for three days since I saw the movie.
Did no one else pick up the Monty Python part of the video? Where they are pretending to be on horses? Lol. The video is just genius. It takes so many different iconic films and pays homage to them!
haha that's great!
Actually thought they were doing Psy's dance from Gangnam Style but either way the having a horse was important to Ken. ❤😝😂
@@citylily Yes it looks like they used Gangnam style intentionally mixed with holding a horse's reigns! haha
The scene with the horses was hysterical!! We just watched the film and posted a Part 2 reaction :)
@@throga lol. Awesome! Just watched! Appreciate ur remembering my little comment. Lol.
I didn't catch the first feeling when I've seen the movie few months ago that the song is great, but now after seeing the performance at 2024 Academy Awards I understood it can give just positive vibes and smile, and I've see during your conversation now that both of you had smiles. It is really simple good and pity is it didn't get Oscar, but hey,....it stole the show, definitely. 🥳 It will be remembered as a bright spot in a pile of negative ones!
I loved watching your reactions ❤ The fact you hadn't seen the movie made it awesome as did the cat's cameo ❤️😸
thank you so much! We actually just went and watched the film and plan to post a Part II as well :)
I’m back because this is the first place I experienced listening to I’m Just Ken. I keep remembering Johnny’s reaction to the line “and so am I” 😂😂😂🎉 love love love this song and your reactions! It keeps modulating!🤣🤣
As a non musician watching Johnny hear something for the first time and then play it perfectly just from hearing it blows my mind. What a gift to have...kuddos. And a fun reaction. Thanks 🙏
You should check out his version of “Push” - it’s quite the Rob Thomas tribute!
interesting!!
I agree - His version of Push was amazing!! I talked about it briefly in our follow up video at ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
CAN
YOU
FEEL
THE
KENERGY
Ngl i got plenty of queen vibes from this song. This is something freddie mercury would create
I can see that!!
He would fucking love it!
It gives me Bohemian Rhapsody vibes!
So AI cover is coming
Shirley Jones was definitely feeling the Ken-ergy. She wanted to go out and hunt!
hahaha for sure!
It's amazing how this song might seems stupid but when you'll analise lyrics and the whole movie, you see how deep meaning all of this has
I hear a bit of Elvis Costello’s style in Ken/Ryan’s vocal performance, especially in the « blond fragility ».
I think you’re on to something when you mentioned that it feels like a montage/pastiche of styles, with different pop icons’ vocals referenced.
cool reference!
Songwriter, you landed quite a few jokes there that had me in stitches!!!!! I’m obsessed with this song and so happy to see this content. It’s hard to follow that with a suggestion OMG! Salad by Blondshell is a current new fav. I’m about to see her in MN. Look Up by Joy Oladokun was a moment where I really felt the love of the universe seeing her live. I’ll think on this. Can’t wait to see more!!!!!
Also Slash played the guitar solo lol
I love Ryan Gosling! Great, funny man& partner & Dad
Thank you guys, this was great! I loved the movie and watched the song a few times over but not being musically trained I couldn't tell WHAT it was about it. Your analysis made it clear--I hadn't realised how complex it is musically in terms of how many genres and keys it was going through, and then ofc the raw human emotion and imbalances in his voice make it very real, which is an interesting counterpoint to the visual appearance of Ken who is halfway between plastic doll and vulnerable sensitive new age guy... Liked, subscribed AND rang the bell ;)
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the song and we’re happy to have you as a new subscriber!!
Happy I got to watch first reactions to this timeless masterpiece, goosebumps everytime.
I think the song is brilliant and Gosling’s depiction is perfect!!
The full dance along with the song is amazing! You guys chose the right song to premiere your show.
The fact that they keep using such quintessentially "masculine" references means that Mark Ronson + co. hit the nail on the head when creating this song. (Meatloaf, Metallica, Rocky, "I just want to hit a slab of meat or something.") Just wait until these guys see the movie! It just fits so perfectly! LOL
They absolutely hit the nail on the head! We watched it and even posted a part 2 react video :)
Loved the cat's reaction-!!!! 🥺💖
It's actually Slash because Top Gun plays influence briefly (pardon the pun) on Ken.
I hope yall get to see the actual scene or the full movie! Ryan Gosling was fantastic and this is my favorite scene in the film, and both him and this scene/song have cemented this film as one of my favorite movies of all time! It's an awesome movie and I hope to get to see it!
That one sequence was the highlight of the film for me. Glorious.
The behind the scenes video was great because you can see parts that were cut from the movie.
Loved the video! The cat appearance is such a plus
Having seen the movie, I can't help but smile from the fist 5 seconds of this song. This part of the movie is just pure camp and delight for fans of classic/retro movies and music. Btw do you take reaction suggestions? If yes, please check out One Ok Rock "Take What You Want" live from Ambitions Japan Dome tour 2018. I'm interested in your reaction and analysis as a vocal coach. The band's vocalist is considered as one of the best rock vocalists right now. I'd put him as a spiritual successor of Chester Bennington, who is one of his biggest influences.
You sold me at "Chester Bennington"! I've just added this song and band to our reaction list! Thank you for the comment and suggestion - we look forward to checking it out :)
@@throga I really appreciate it, man. Looking forward for your reaction!
Yeah. Def a rock opera. And I heard the Journey.
Love this song. I had a blast hearing it for the first time in the cinema. Such a great production
I get the magical chills with this song (musical orgasms) and I dont even understand why
Brilliant that y'all made the Jim Steinman connection!
❤ this movie. It is history of Barbie, a fun and visual time with very deep meaning when audience members take the time to grasp all the concepts Greta was conveying. Kudos to Ryan to is a visual and audio delight!
I think it's important to know that Gosling has a history in music. I didn't even know it was him at the time I fell for "Dead Man's Bones"!
Watching the movie
I laughing so hard in ken song scene
I LOVED your expertise that made me understand the movie so much deeper. Thank you!
You’re welcome! Thanks for the comment.
I really enjoyed the video! I hope you do one about the great Layne Staley, it's really sad that so many ppl never got to know this amazing talent. It was both raw, but from everything that I've read- he also went to the best vocal teachers in Seattle, which in my opinion only makes him better, and makes me respect him more. I feel like if you get a present from nature (like amazing abilities and a beautiful voice)that is a tool, and you need to nurture it and never take it for granted - or you'll lose it
Thank you for the comment and suggestion! Layne was amazing! And the harmonies with Jerry Cantrell just took it to another level. We are both VERY familiar with his work, but perhaps we can dig up a live performance to react to :)
@@throga For me, and I'm sure that for many others, that would be amazing. He really was one of a kind, vocally, artistically, and it seems - humanly
We watched the movie!! Watch PART 2 reaction here: ua-cam.com/video/TyoaemaXW8A/v-deo.html
Me bawling through it 😂
Please watch the version of this movie performance with the ASL interpretation that was uploaded by MAX. The deaf woman who did the interpreting was just amazing and there's am entire version of the Barbie movie on MAX where she stands in the corner doing THE ENTIRE film in ASL.
Great reaction! Gosling killed this song, and Johnny's offhand reference to Wedding Crashers cracked me up!
Meat Loaf! How didn't I realize that sooner? 🤔 Thing is, I saw the movie twice but this is the first time I listen to the song in isolation. It has a very 80s soft rock style, very Meat Loaf indeed. I've been wondering why Ryan sounded so different in "Barbie" compared to "LA LA Land" and you just gave us the answer 😁
Glad you enjoyed the reaction - thanks for the comment :) We just watched the film as well and posted a Part 2 lol
it’s sooo fabulous and funny and a big production ( to me ) I love it 😂😂
The movie is great satire and all the actors completely sell it. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I hope it gets an oscar nomination😅
I really enjoyed the use of keyboard and guitar to play back what you were hearing. As a very musically ignorant person who is normally processing song lyrics without much other conscious awareness of music, it helped me hear what you were hearing. I'm mentioning this feedback because it is something that might make me interested in watching more of your videos: if you can help me "hear" and deepen my awareness of music despite being untrained and having no technical understanding of music (only liking things for how they make me feel).
Thanks for your comment! We will def be utilizing the piano and guitar in all our videos :)