Absolutely worth watching '20 Feet From Stardom', a great documentary about killer backup performances , hers on this song included. Amazing story, especially since she was woken up in the middle of the night and laid this down in her bathrobe.
Man... On the fourth "rape, murder" when her voice cracks and you can hear Mick just lovin' it in the background... Maybe my favorite part. And goes along with the story that they made her sing it over and over to wear her down a bit. They got just what they wanted the ol' school way. Brilliant.
With the Stones, you're almost always guaranteed to get something cutting, well-written, played, and produced. Why many call them the best band in rock 'n' roll. ;
The solo by Merry Clayton where she sings "Rape, murder! It's just a shot away! It's just a shot away!" with such raw emotion is absolutely incredible. Such a powerful song.
Merry Clayton is an American Gospel and Soul singer. Arguably this is her most recognized performance.......... AND SHE NAILS IT, BIG TIME! 74 years old and still going. TY Merry for your contributions to this epic record. Great reaction guys, thanks.
voice cracks the third time she sings it. It’s like a chord of feedback in Soundgarden song when you’re walking around the track in prison wishin you were dead, “Black Day.” That one chord keeps you wanting to to live 51%/die only 49% and after five years you get out & stop shooting dope & never go back. Amen.
OMG, just had a horrible thought if this epic song had been done today with that result. "Oh, never mind the cracking voice, we'll just auto-tune it out later." Vomit.
Mick’s producer called Merry up at home in the wee hours of the night, still in her pajamas and her hair in curlers (4 months pregnant) had her come down to the studio to record the backing tracks…… on the line “Rape,Murder her voice cracks and you can hear jagger yell whoaaa ! They left that on the album…… Merry Clayton miscarried the very next day 🙏🏻❤️🥲 ……she also was involved in a serious car accident (2014) and had both her legs amputated 🥲 didn’t stop her from singing ! She also sang for Lynyrd Skynyrd & Coldplay. (Legendary) (1969) #Vietnam 🔥❤️🎸
good knowledge... one of my favorite Stones stories.... makes you appreciate what a labor of love this track was... Just like The Beatles and Zep they were all masters of the recording studio!
@@hackdaniels7253 How would you like the story to go….. she falls into a deep depression and commits suicide ?? 🤡 the story is what happened, can’t change it for you !
The opening guitar riff never fails to send shivers down my spine, even after all these years and thousands of listens. And then; "Merry Clayton has entered the Game" Sublime.
This is what recording sounds like when the band stands in a circle facing each other and raising the bar. At 3:56 you can hear a "woo!" which is Mick Jagger reacting to Mary Clayton's voice cracking.
It amazes me, with this song and The Stones in general being such a huge part of my life for decades, that there are people that have never listened to this tune before.
Written at the height of the Vietnam war. Dark and intense, like riding a chopper into a hot LZ back in 'Nam. Singer is Merry Clayton, R&B/gospel singer from back in the day.
Every time I hear the intro to this song, I see Hueys with a gunner sitting with his M 60 machine gun in the open door and a bunch of grunts behind him, heading out into God knows what. I the unofficial anthem of the Vietnam war.
This song was written at a time when the world was really on a knife/edge of existence. A shot or a kiss could thrust the world into two different paths. I remember distinctly the feeling in the air at the time. I'm sure others who were alive then know exactly what I'm talking about.
This song perfectly captures the gravity of that period in history. I grew up in the Vietnam era and was fortunate enough to be only 6 in '69, so I missed it. But I can remember worrying my dad was going to get drafted. I also remember the absolute energy & electricity in the air that you could feel -- even as a kid. There's a reason why the music from this era is so damn good - the best IMO.
If the stories are to be believed, the Stones rang up Merry Clayton and asked her to sing on this. (Did she ever!!!!!) But she went home and had a miscarriage...
Let it Bleed is an absolute monster of an album, so good. The stones run from the late sixties to the mid seventies is amazing. They transitioned from a singles focus to an album focus. Beggars banquet Let it Bleed Sticky Fingers Exile on Mainstreet Goats Head Soup All great albums in a row, killer. Only Zeppelin, Stevie Wonder, David Bowie had runs like that in the 70’s.
Temptations, Deep Purple, Zeppelin, Sabbath, Floyd, The Who, Earth Wind and Fire, Ohio Players, Steely Dan, Trapeze...70's had tons of timeless bands and albums. More than I and others mentioned. But Stones were definitely in their prime in 1970's. I saw them once in concert late 90's, probably when they were at their lowest point (Keith's peak of addiction showed up on stage, Mick's voice shot, and seemed like the bad acoustics were intentional to try to gloss over it. But I know they were top notch all throughout mid 60's to early 80's. Which is impressive by any standards. Same thing with The Who and Clapton. I saw them both way past their primes.
The vinyl album says in large letters: “THIS RECORD SHOULD BE PLAYED LOUD”. When you do, you can hear a background hum or drone that Keith Richards says is produced from the 5-string open tuning he used here. He said it produces “notes that sound doubled when they’re not, notes that are there but aren’t”. Check out “Monkey Man” from the same album. It also uses open tuning and has Nicky Hopkins’ wonderful piano.
Merry Clayton was prominently featured in "20 Feet from Stardom", a documentary about backup singers in rock and roll music. Her story about how her legendary performance on Gimme Shelter came about is fascinating.
This is, IMO, the greatest rock song ever recorded. It's just perfect. It always hits me in all the right places. So gritty, so passionate, so raw and beautiful. The best build-up intro, the most haunting descending riff, the bluesiest verse, the most intensely desperate lyrics, great harmonica, and oh my God those pipes of Merry Clayton. And played by possibly the best band of all time, during their greatest run. 🤘🙏❤
Nobody mentions Nicky Hopkins’ (keyboards) contributions to the Stones music over the years enough. Vastly under appreciated unofficial member of that band in both the studio and in concert.
Interesting bio on Nicky Hopkins. Sad his health issues limited him to being a studio role player. Apparently he was so good he was in demand by most major bands. But he couldn't tour. Very interesting bio, but also sad. He was struggling financially much of his brief life. That's too much talent to have those burdens. His agent(s) used him sounds like.
Why do people write dumb shit like this. Every Stones fan knows about Nick Hopkins. His contributions to the Stones and other bands get a lot of recognition.
When Merry Clayton sings the final line in her hook, you can clearly hear Mick Jagger shout "Yeah" on the track.... She ROCKED the whole band with her vocals!! 🤘😎
If you watch 20 Feet From Stardom about all the female singers singing backup, you'll see and hear the story about how she became the singer on this song. She's the reason why I LOVE this song.
The Stones were known for mixing R&B into their songs. A lot of sixties and seventies groups did .Hats of to Merry Clayton what a voice. She helped make this great song.
The Rolling Stones through about 1978 were always a very soulful culturally conscious band. I’m really happy that you let yourself get immersed into one of the greatest rock songs ever written that has been a part of so many different films and other media for many decades. I think if you looked into them you would find more that you enjoy. Try Monkey Man from the same album. Not quite as socially conscious but a very cool groove and definitely gritty as it gets. Rock on brothers
Have to say it again, Midnight Rambler live early 70's. Keith Richards describes it as a blues opera and feels that while anybody could have written any of their songs only Mick and himself would have thought to write this.
@@darylcliffordFYI call call it what you want . And no need for correction. The blues harp is slang for Monica. It's not a different instrument. The blues harp and the harmonica
@@joeyhuebner10 I stand corrected - no need to repeat @joansavarese2974 - I told him no disrespect - so he offered a concise explanation, which I appreciate more than any blunt and repetitive remark!
Pure Magic.... Keiths haunting guitar, Mick on the harp..and a very pregnant Merry Clayton on backing vocals... Merry showed up to the Detroit session at around 2:00 a.m with curlers in her hair to do this track with some English boys called the Rolling Stones....
THANK YOU guys for rewinding after a pause to the beginning of Merry Clayton singing "Rape, Murder..."! So crucial to get that amazing vocal in its entirety, imo. They say, "rewind if you pause in the middle of guitar solos," etc. But the momentum and fierceness of her vocal solo here blows away a lot fo even great guitar solos, I'd say. So, thanks for being kind with the rewind! We didn't have to go "D'oh! They missed it, man!" LOL.
Great Rolling Stones classic. Terrific driving beat along with brilliant background vocals and lyrics. Thanks guys for reacting to yet another fabulous Stones tune!
If you havnt seen 20 feet from stardom yet its an absolute must! Documentary about backup singers and the part where they talk to Mick and Merry Clayton about this will move you.
One of their best! Got to see them in 1978, my first concert ever. Anaheim stadium over 100,000 people. Stones were 4 hours late. Peter Tosh opened. Still something I'll never ever forget.
If you haven't already seen it, I highly recommend watching the Muscle Shoals documentary, which documents the history of the studio in which Gimme Shelter and many other legendary records were recorded.
Had the pleasure of seeing late drummer Charlie Watts (RIP) at the Blue Note jazz club in NYC about 20 years ago when he played with his jazz/blues band from a front row folding metal seat just a few feet from the drum kit....he was just smiling the whole time as they jammed
The acclaimed film "20 Ft From Stardom" explores the contribution of many back-up singers during this era...Ms. Clayton is among them.. Prime or Sundance channel, I think. ANOTHER era defining contribution from the Stones, easily on the short list of R & R bands/musicians that are synonymous with global development of blues-based 4-on-the-floor...during the 60's & 70's. What a time to be alive...& receptive to all the blending, openness, & unique sounds & powerful social messages offered.
Classic, classic record, which the Stones have made many. I can't say anything about this record that hasn't already been said. This is my favorite era of theirs--Beggars Banquet, Let It Bleed, Sticky Fingers, Exile on Main Street. Thanks for a great choice, and a great reaction.
I'm 73. I've been listening to this song for 54 years. I had a big s#$& eating grin on my face watching you two listen to this CLASSIC! The grin is hanging around.
Honky tonk woman,You can't always get what you want and She's a rainbow are also really good tunes out of the many many wonderful songs this group has And they are very versatile as well Enjoying your rock journey guys!!! You are going to learn so much about so many incredible bands so happy for you
You have no soul if you don't get a chill from the crack in her voice and then she powers right through to a smooth ending. It's haunting ,gritty, soulful and atmospheric. I think that's in the top 5 songs of all time. It reminds of what Vietnam looks like from when I was a kid and they're showing a huey helicopter landing in the middle of a firefight rescuing a wounded soldier. The instrumentation is perfect with the steady drumbeat pushing the guitars that are interweaving through each other and that dramatic piano in the beginning. The whole thing is magic. I don't think they'll ever write songs that good anymore. I n
The Rolling Stones got their name from the title of a classic Muddy Waters blues song entitled Rollin' Stone. Some of their earliest recordings were recorded at the legendary Chess Records recording studio in Chicago.. home of the Blues and legendary blues artists like Howlin Wolf, Bo Diddley, and Muddy Waters. These guys were their idols back in England. So yes, you're going to hear a lot of r&B in the Stones. It is their foundation. It is their first love and introduction into music.
So much gratitude from a 72yr old white gal: for your reactions to MY music…Sticky Fingers is one of the Stones best albums - but watching your faces as you drink in our Classic Rock of the ‘60s - & forward is a real treat…takes me back to when I first heard The Beatles, The Stones, Zeppelin, Pink Floyd & SO many more - TY for letting me watch you experience & enjoy our music…when real instruments were played - I remember you being blown away seeing Jimmy Page’s double-neck guitar & watch his expertise - John Paul Jones - Zeppelin Bass/keyboards - has a Triple neck guitar added to his collection of instruments - talented artist - Much Respect…
@@mrnobody9104 Truly is. She's had some rough times. Then again she went from a small black church gospel singer to globally heard legend. She deserved better luck. She's apparently still alive after losing both legs in a car accident/diabetes complications related to recovery (probably the contusions from the wreck clotted and had to amputate to save her life.). She must be truly tough.
They got Merry Clayton out of bed to come down to the studio and sing on this song. One of the best decisions Mick and Keith ever made. It was a win/win for everybody.
The Stones were masters at creating memorable riffs as well as amazing lyrics. This was released in 1969 at the height of the Vietnam war and still delivers the same punch and portended the great music of the 70s. Jagger's and Merry Clayton's singing and Jagger's harmonica solo and Keith's guitar work give it this iconic sound and why it's one of the great rock masterpieces of all time.
I love this song - For me, it's a shout-out warning that our future is in the balance and that we need to make choices; war, murder, and rape, or love. It's just a kiss or a shot away. Solid reaction. I'm glad you're giving attention to the lyrics in the music of these times. They're not throwaway. They're not just there as a percussive tool, or to create catchy rhymes. They are integral to the creation of these songs. Stones have done their share of war protest music. Please check out Under Cover (of the Night). Thanks - i love what you cats are doing.
That was Merry Clayton on the vocals. Her voice absolutely sends this already great track to EPIC status!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Moving right along.👍👍
There's a video interview with her out there on UA-cam, where she tells the story of recording this. It's worth finding.
She was born on Christmas Day in 1948, thus : Merry Clayton. Born with a stage name set.
Absolutely worth watching '20 Feet From Stardom', a great documentary about killer backup performances , hers on this song included. Amazing story, especially since she was woken up in the middle of the night and laid this down in her bathrobe.
Man... On the fourth "rape, murder" when her voice cracks and you can hear Mick just lovin' it in the background... Maybe my favorite part. And goes along with the story that they made her sing it over and over to wear her down a bit. They got just what they wanted the ol' school way. Brilliant.
With the Stones, you're almost always guaranteed to get something cutting, well-written, played, and produced. Why many call them the best band in rock 'n' roll. ;
That busted note on the "Rape...Murder" chorus is the most famous busted note in music history.
The solo by Merry Clayton where she sings "Rape, murder! It's just a shot away! It's just a shot away!" with such raw emotion is absolutely incredible. Such a powerful song.
Didn’t she have a miscarriage the day after?
I learned they woke her up late at night to come and lay down the vocal and she was well along in her pregnancy
Her voice cracks in an iconic way. She sounded so realistic they left it in.
Yeah, sadly she miscarried.
At the very end of her part, you can hear a “whoop” which is Mick Jagger in the control room. The mics were able to catch it.
By far best beginning of any song awesome
or same lp, monkey man....that piano...etc..
RP, all I have to hear is the intro and the hair on the back of my neck stands straight up!
Merry Clayton is an American Gospel and Soul singer. Arguably this is her most recognized performance.......... AND SHE NAILS IT, BIG TIME! 74 years old and still going. TY Merry for your contributions to this epic record. Great reaction guys, thanks.
She nails it BIIIIIIIG time. Listen closely and you can hear someone give a “Whoo!” After that third “murder” 🤯
I believe she nailed this on the first take, too. Incredible singer.
Fortunately she lost her legs and a horrible car crash few years back.
Became a paraplegic but she still getting along
It’s killer that whoa. They got this girl out of bed in the middle of the night to do this Vocal. I think she was pregnant, too
voice cracks the third time she sings it. It’s like a chord of feedback in Soundgarden song when you’re walking around the track in prison wishin you were dead, “Black Day.” That one chord keeps you wanting to to live 51%/die only 49% and after five years you get out & stop shooting dope & never go back.
Amen.
Her voice cracking is legendary on that track - they left it in - as it should be.
OMG, just had a horrible thought if this epic song had been done today with that result. "Oh, never mind the cracking voice, we'll just auto-tune it out later." Vomit.
@@joescott8877don’t worry we woulda left it in
@@joescott8877 RIGHT?!? Auto-tune is an abomination.
I think her voice cracking was intentional. Exactly an octave. Mick Jagger's "whoop" on hearing it is also on the track.
And Mick going "Whoo" when she does it.
Mick’s producer called Merry up at home in the wee hours of the night, still in her pajamas and her hair in curlers (4 months pregnant) had her come down to the studio to record the backing tracks…… on the line “Rape,Murder her voice cracks and you can hear jagger yell whoaaa ! They left that on the album…… Merry Clayton miscarried the very next day 🙏🏻❤️🥲
……she also was involved in a serious car accident (2014) and had both her legs amputated 🥲 didn’t stop her from singing ! She also sang for Lynyrd Skynyrd & Coldplay. (Legendary)
(1969) #Vietnam 🔥❤️🎸
Legend. Straight up. 👈
good knowledge... one of my favorite Stones stories.... makes you appreciate what a labor of love this track was... Just like The Beatles and Zep they were all masters of the recording studio!
Man... I didn't know that. 😕🥺
I hate the way this story is told as if it's something to celebrate. I really, really hate it.
@@hackdaniels7253 How would you like the story to go….. she falls into a deep depression and commits suicide ?? 🤡 the story is what happened, can’t change it for you !
The opening guitar riff never fails to send shivers down my spine, even after all these years and thousands of listens. And then; "Merry Clayton has entered the Game"
Sublime.
You took the words right out of my mouth, that's exactly how I feel about this song. Goosebumps every time!
This is what recording sounds like when the band stands in a circle facing each other and raising the bar. At 3:56 you can hear a "woo!" which is Mick Jagger reacting to Mary Clayton's voice cracking.
Just heard that for the first time ever.
So classic!
Yep. The isolated track is available on UA-cam. It’s truly amazing. Recorded like 2am in a rain storm. One of the greatest impromptu vocals ever
thats pretty damn cool. yeah she absolutely murdered this track unreal
Imagine hearing this song for the very first time.
It gets even better around the 50th listen.
I know. 😉
And is still great at more than 50 years old.
Or the 5,000th or so, who knows, but I have heard it as much as any other in my lifetime.
It amazes me, with this song and The Stones in general being such a huge part of my life for decades, that there are people that have never listened to this tune before.
I only recently heard this song and absolutely love it. Blew my mind on first listen. Amazing message and vocals.
Written at the height of the Vietnam war. Dark and intense, like riding a chopper into a hot LZ back in 'Nam.
Singer is Merry Clayton, R&B/gospel singer from back in the day.
I was just thinking when I used to hear this song on the radio Vietnam was on the news every day.
Every time I hear the intro to this song, I see Hueys with a gunner sitting with his M 60 machine gun in the open door and a bunch of grunts behind him, heading out into God knows what. I the unofficial anthem of the Vietnam war.
The anthem of pouring agent orange and napalm on unarmed civilians and freedom fighters
This song was written at a time when the world was really on a knife/edge of existence. A shot or a kiss could thrust the world into two different paths. I remember distinctly the feeling in the air at the time. I'm sure others who were alive then know exactly what I'm talking about.
This song perfectly captures the gravity of that period in history. I grew up in the Vietnam era and was fortunate enough to be only 6 in '69, so I missed it. But I can remember worrying my dad was going to get drafted. I also remember the absolute energy & electricity in the air that you could feel -- even as a kid. There's a reason why the music from this era is so damn good - the best IMO.
The harmonica in here is so effective. There's snippets all over the track. Sounds so awesome. Even though it only utilizes TWO NOTES.
I am 70. They are STILL my favorite group. LOVE watching your reactions to their greatness!
If the stories are to be believed, the Stones rang up Merry Clayton and asked her to sing on this. (Did she ever!!!!!) But she went home and had a miscarriage...
Truly one of the greatest songs by any band.
Show stopping vocals by Merry Clayton...one of the Stones' greatest tracks.
Let it Bleed is an absolute monster of an album, so good. The stones run from the late sixties to the mid seventies is amazing. They transitioned from a singles focus to an album focus.
Beggars banquet
Let it Bleed
Sticky Fingers
Exile on Mainstreet
Goats Head Soup
All great albums in a row, killer. Only Zeppelin, Stevie Wonder, David Bowie had runs like that in the 70’s.
Sabbath and Floyd as well.
Don't forget Aftermath with Ruby Tuesday....
@@jordan390a truth
@@justinatest9456 truth again
Temptations, Deep Purple, Zeppelin, Sabbath, Floyd, The Who, Earth Wind and Fire, Ohio Players, Steely Dan, Trapeze...70's had tons of timeless bands and albums. More than I and others mentioned. But Stones were definitely in their prime in 1970's. I saw them once in concert late 90's, probably when they were at their lowest point (Keith's peak of addiction showed up on stage, Mick's voice shot, and seemed like the bad acoustics were intentional to try to gloss over it. But I know they were top notch all throughout mid 60's to early 80's. Which is impressive by any standards. Same thing with The Who and Clapton. I saw them both way past their primes.
The vinyl album says in large letters: “THIS RECORD SHOULD BE PLAYED LOUD”. When you do, you can hear a background hum or drone that Keith Richards says is produced from the 5-string open tuning he used here. He said it produces “notes that sound doubled when they’re not, notes that are there but aren’t”. Check out “Monkey Man” from the same album. It also uses open tuning and has Nicky Hopkins’ wonderful piano.
Monkey Man is awesome..
Well, I admit it, I been tossed around
By every she-rat in this town
Have you, babe?
Yeah, Monkey Man is dope, killer cut, the opening always gives me chills.
One of the best anti-war songs and top rock songs of the 1960s- released in Dec 1969 basically marking the end of the decade...
IMO one of their best. Merry killed it on this song. Sympathy for the Devil should be next. Great reaction!
Sympathy for the Devil from “Get Yer Ya Yas Out” is better than studio imo.
Merry Clayton was prominently featured in "20 Feet from Stardom", a documentary about backup singers in rock and roll music. Her story about how her legendary performance on Gimme Shelter came about is fascinating.
Great documentary
This is, IMO, the greatest rock song ever recorded. It's just perfect. It always hits me in all the right places. So gritty, so passionate, so raw and beautiful. The best build-up intro, the most haunting descending riff, the bluesiest verse, the most intensely desperate lyrics, great harmonica, and oh my God those pipes of Merry Clayton. And played by possibly the best band of all time, during their greatest run. 🤘🙏❤
Nobody mentions Nicky Hopkins’ (keyboards) contributions to the Stones music over the years enough.
Vastly under appreciated unofficial member of that band in both the studio and in concert.
He was only unofficial because the Stones' management thought he wasn't a good visual fit for the band's image.
Interesting bio on Nicky Hopkins. Sad his health issues limited him to being a studio role player. Apparently he was so good he was in demand by most major bands. But he couldn't tour. Very interesting bio, but also sad. He was struggling financially much of his brief life. That's too much talent to have those burdens. His agent(s) used him sounds like.
Why do people write dumb shit like this. Every Stones fan knows about Nick Hopkins. His contributions to the Stones and other bands get a lot of recognition.
Nadie desprecia al gran Nicky, es un gran Stone y todos lo amamos por siempre!
Clare Torry well known for Floyd's Great Gig... Merry Clayton known for Gimme Shelter. their claims to rock and roll fame She had a great voice.
Exactly the comparison I had in mind.
Both give hair raising performances, they both should get a Grammy for their contributions to 2 songs that will be heard forever.
@@vicprovost2561 Well it's estimated Clare Torry got 5 to 10 million from her lawsuit so one can argue that is better than a grammy lol
This song is without doubt the finest of songs. No competition.
With the great Nicky Hopkins on keys. I remember hearing this for the first time when it came out; blew us all away. Great album too.
One of the greatest songs ever to be recorded..
And needed in these time
Not necessarily the greatest ever song, but definitely in the top one.
So glad to see this generation appreciate great music from the 60s 70s & 80s . Gives me hope for the future
Keith has written some of the greatest riffs ever.
Keith famously said on the documentary about his life as a Rolling Stone, “Solos come and go, but a riff lasts forever.”
Yeah he is a great song writer
Damn right legendary.
#1 Rock song for the 20th Century, as far as I'm concerned. Merry Clayton STILL gives me chills after all these years!
I’m an old AFRTS DJ. This, IMHO is the greatest rock song of all time.
Everyone beat me to it. Merry makes the song. Her singing is amazing. Goose pimples every time. Awesome!!!!!!! :)
The Stones have aTON of soul in them. Great band. Excellent reaction.
When Merry Clayton sings the final line in her hook, you can clearly hear Mick Jagger shout "Yeah" on the track.... She ROCKED the whole band with her vocals!! 🤘😎
If you watch 20 Feet From Stardom about all the female singers singing backup, you'll see and hear the story about how she became the singer on this song. She's the reason why I LOVE this song.
One of the best of that time. Mary Clayton’s voice is soulful, beautiful, and haunting.
Merry Clayton on backing vocals. She was a big part of 60s and 70s music. Sang on a ton of songs.
Merry Clayton OWNS this track.
Best Stones song period
Well, considering this may very well be the best rock and roll song ever, this would be true.
The Stones were known for mixing R&B into their songs. A lot of sixties and seventies groups did .Hats of to Merry Clayton what a voice. She helped make this great song.
One of my favorite Stones songs
I just love the way her voice cracks
Without a doubt, the very greatest intro to any song ever. You know in the first 5 seconds that something incredible is coming.
The Rolling Stones through about 1978 were always a very soulful culturally conscious band. I’m really happy that you let yourself get immersed into one of the greatest rock songs ever written that has been a part of so many different films and other media for many decades. I think if you looked into them you would find more that you enjoy. Try Monkey Man from the same album. Not quite as socially conscious but a very cool groove and definitely gritty as it gets. Rock on brothers
Have to say it again, Midnight Rambler live early 70's. Keith Richards describes it as a blues opera and feels that while anybody could have written any of their songs only Mick and himself would have thought to write this.
👍🏻 Midnight Rambler!! It's such a picturesque song. I can see everything they are singing about. Perfect request.
Love Mick on the harmonica on this one. Pretty brutal lyrics, but the draft and the war was causing a lot of strife in those times.
The threat of nuclear war is still with us.
Just gently trying to correct you (please, no disrespect), Mick plays the Blues Harp and not the Harmonica!! I
@@darylcliffordFYI call call it what you want . And no need for correction. The blues harp is slang for Monica. It's not a different instrument. The blues harp and the harmonica
@@darylclifford- Mate, it's the same exact instrument.
@@joeyhuebner10 I stand corrected - no need to repeat @joansavarese2974 - I told him no disrespect - so he offered a concise explanation, which I appreciate more than any blunt and repetitive remark!
Got to see them 2 times the best concerts I've ever seen. 1 in the 80s the 2 one in the 90s thanks for playing the STONES
Pure Magic.... Keiths haunting guitar, Mick on the harp..and a very pregnant Merry Clayton on backing vocals... Merry showed up to the Detroit session at around 2:00 a.m with curlers in her hair to do this track with some English boys called the Rolling Stones....
THANK YOU guys for rewinding after a pause to the beginning of Merry Clayton singing "Rape, Murder..."! So crucial to get that amazing vocal in its entirety, imo. They say, "rewind if you pause in the middle of guitar solos," etc. But the momentum and fierceness of her vocal solo here blows away a lot fo even great guitar solos, I'd say. So, thanks for being kind with the rewind! We didn't have to go "D'oh! They missed it, man!" LOL.
Vietnam era music. Best intro, and Merry vocals!
My favorite Rolling Stones song!
their best song
Read up on the part Mary Clayton, the female singer, had to play in the final cut of this record. That explains part of the soul sound.
This song has such an amazing message. Classic rock and Metal needs to be mainstream again. The messages were profound back then and still are now.
Goosebumps x 10 hearing this again and seeing you hear it for the first time. Thanks guys! 👍God bless Merry Clayton.
This tune in many ways summed up the mid-period Stones - dark, foreboding, apocalyptic. "Gimme Shelter" is a masterpiece.
Another all time top 5 band heard from! The Stones are amazing. Nice reaction as usual. Peace
Great Rolling Stones classic. Terrific driving beat along with brilliant background vocals and lyrics. Thanks guys for reacting to yet another fabulous Stones tune!
Merry Clayton is an ICON!!!!!
If you havnt seen 20 feet from stardom yet its an absolute must! Documentary about backup singers and the part where they talk to Mick and Merry Clayton about this will move you.
Goose bumps E V E R Y T I M E I hear this song. The lyrics are hit home and are so meaningful. ☮️
Some songs never get old. I've heard this song a thousand plus times and it always sounds amazing. One of the greatest songs ever
The Rolling Stones the band that every garage band could play perfectly. I guess the sizzle sounds so good.
The best Stones song and one of the best rock songs ever...hands down. Merry can't be beat!
That crack when that woman is belting her soul always gives me goosebumps
Probably the greatest rock intro ever- Mick and Keith showing the depth if their musical talent and lyrical beauty.
This whole album is absolutely amazing.
They do this so great live. One of there best songs ever.
One of their best! Got to see them in 1978, my first concert ever. Anaheim stadium over 100,000 people. Stones were 4 hours late. Peter Tosh opened. Still something I'll never ever forget.
Great show! I was there too. Saw lots of rocking shows at that stadium.
Just an epic rock song! Great vocals and guitar work! Great choice guys!
Dark side of the moon in vinyl in the background. Makes me feel 16 again. Instead of older than dirt.
If you haven't already seen it, I highly recommend watching the Muscle Shoals documentary, which documents the history of the studio in which Gimme Shelter and many other legendary records were recorded.
Had the pleasure of seeing late drummer Charlie Watts (RIP) at the Blue Note jazz club in NYC about 20 years ago when he played with his jazz/blues band from a front row folding metal seat just a few feet from the drum kit....he was just smiling the whole time as they jammed
top 10 all time rock songs and ultimate best for Stones.
The acclaimed film "20 Ft From Stardom" explores the contribution of many back-up singers during this era...Ms. Clayton is among them.. Prime or Sundance channel, I think.
ANOTHER era defining contribution from the Stones, easily on the short list of R & R bands/musicians that are synonymous with global development of blues-based 4-on-the-floor...during the 60's & 70's.
What a time to be alive...& receptive to all the blending, openness, & unique sounds & powerful social messages offered.
Classic, classic record, which the Stones have made many. I can't say anything about this record that hasn't already been said.
This is my favorite era of theirs--Beggars Banquet, Let It Bleed, Sticky Fingers, Exile on Main Street. Thanks for a great choice, and a great reaction.
That 'bass quake' at the beginning of the vocals gets me every time. That thumbnail is the poster for the movie.....a MUST see.
Mick on harmonica on this album, on this track and Midnight Rambler.
Merry Clayton gives me goose bumps.
Greatest Rock N Roll Band ever 🤘🤘
The Stones always keep some of that blues they loved as youths in their songs.
Whole let bleed album album is fiiire 👍
I'm 73. I've been listening to this song for 54 years. I had a big s#$& eating grin on my face watching you two listen to this CLASSIC! The grin is hanging around.
I love so many of their songs--but I think this is my favourite. Just spectacular! Saw them play it live. Wow!
I love how you can hear Mick Jagger in the background going, “yeah” he’s feeling merry Clayton too!
Honky tonk woman,You can't always get what you want and She's a rainbow are also really good tunes out of the many many wonderful songs this group has
And they are very versatile as well
Enjoying your rock journey guys!!!
You are going to learn so much about so many incredible bands so happy for you
You have no soul if you don't get a chill from the crack in her voice and then she powers right through to a smooth ending. It's haunting ,gritty, soulful and atmospheric. I think that's in the top 5 songs of all time. It reminds of what Vietnam looks like from when I was a kid and they're showing a huey helicopter landing in the middle of a firefight rescuing a wounded soldier. The instrumentation is perfect with the steady drumbeat pushing the guitars that are interweaving through each other and that dramatic piano in the beginning. The whole thing is magic. I don't think they'll ever write songs that good anymore.
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The Rolling Stones got their name from the title of a classic Muddy Waters blues song entitled Rollin' Stone. Some of their earliest recordings were recorded at the legendary Chess Records recording studio in Chicago.. home of the Blues and legendary blues artists like Howlin Wolf, Bo Diddley, and Muddy Waters. These guys were their idols back in England. So yes, you're going to hear a lot of r&B in the Stones. It is their foundation. It is their first love and introduction into music.
One of my favorite Stones songs.👍🎵
So much gratitude from a 72yr old white gal: for your reactions to MY music…Sticky Fingers is one of the Stones best albums - but watching your faces as you drink in our Classic Rock of the ‘60s - & forward is a real treat…takes me back to when I first heard The Beatles, The Stones, Zeppelin, Pink Floyd & SO many more - TY for letting me watch you experience & enjoy our music…when real instruments were played - I remember you being blown away seeing Jimmy Page’s double-neck guitar & watch his expertise - John Paul Jones - Zeppelin Bass/keyboards - has a Triple neck guitar added to his collection of instruments - talented artist - Much Respect…
thats one that needs to be heard over and over again... many layers and things to focus on...
Merry Clayton. Female singer. Can not say enough good things about her.
Middle of the night, pregnant with her hair in curlers and Merry didn't disappoint. True Profesional...man she killed that!
I was reading that she flew home after the studio sessions for Gimme Shelter and lost her child. That's bizarre and sad.
@@Greg-io1ip very sad didn't know that
@@mrnobody9104 Truly is. She's had some rough times. Then again she went from a small black church gospel singer to globally heard legend. She deserved better luck. She's apparently still alive after losing both legs in a car accident/diabetes complications related to recovery (probably the contusions from the wreck clotted and had to amputate to save her life.). She must be truly tough.
This one is on my top #20 of all songs...masterpiece
Merry clayton on backing vocals...if you don't know her...should react to "southern man"
They got Merry Clayton out of bed to come down to the studio and sing on this song. One of the best decisions Mick and Keith ever made. It was a win/win for everybody.
The Stones were masters at creating memorable riffs as well as amazing lyrics. This was released in 1969 at the height of the Vietnam war and still delivers the same punch and portended the great music of the 70s. Jagger's and Merry Clayton's singing and Jagger's harmonica solo and Keith's guitar work give it this iconic sound and why it's one of the great rock masterpieces of all time.
I love this song -
For me, it's a shout-out warning that our future is in the balance and that we need to make choices; war, murder, and rape,
or love. It's just a kiss or a shot away.
Solid reaction.
I'm glad you're giving attention to the lyrics in the music of these times. They're not throwaway. They're not just there as a percussive tool, or to create catchy rhymes. They are integral to the creation of these songs. Stones have done their share of war protest music.
Please check out Under Cover (of the Night).
Thanks - i love what you cats are doing.
They are The Greatest Rock and Roll Band in the World.
As with a lot of songs released during the Vietnam Era, the lyrics to “Gimme Shelter” hit really deep.
The Rolling Stones is the greatest rock n roll band of all time. 😎
Most British bands grew up on old Southern Blues !! You can feel the connection ! Nice review fellas - glad you like the groove