Fun Fact: Director of the video asked them how much they needed to shoot the video. Ram Jam responded... 200 dollars. Director thought it was for production. It was for weed to get them in the zone. The video was also shot in the drummers backyard. Also, Black Betty was a song by blues legend Lead Belly, Huddie Ledbetter back in the 1930s. Ram Jam was just covering it with their rocking version.
there’s a group called Spiderbait that covers this and they have a live version that seven minutes long! 🤪 ua-cam.com/video/J7d9fchZeFE/v-deo.htmlsi=s-OnAMtq-VoJ-t4p
Videos back then were normally edited shorter to play on other media outlets (television).. much like longer songs were edited shorter to play on the radio. Good example this was Focus by Hocus Pocus is seven minutes on the album and they got invited to play it live on NBC´s Midnight Special but they were told to shorten it... instead the band sped up the tempo to fit it into the five and a half minutes the show allotted them.
You didn't pause that song one once, Stacey. That said a lot. I've really been enjoying listening to my favorite music with you SO MUCH! You've become a treasure.
@@mikepeters-do3te Another similar band is Thin Lizzy. “The Boys Are Back In Town”, “Jailbreak” (which may be a suitable pairing to this prison song) and my favourite, their cover of a traditional folk song “Whiskey In The Jar”.
When you mentioned replay, you found your solution. Fifty plus years ago, we just put the needle back to the beginning of the track. A song was as long as it was, but it could be repeated forever.
This is how I grew up we had garage bands in my neighborhood of two hundred homes in the middle of farm country in the middle of Michigan. Also had barn parties with my brothers band Had a great childhood! Still friends with all the people I grew up with. ALways something going on! Loved your reaction Stacey!
One of the greatest all out Rockin’ tunes ever recorded. And yes, there’s an unedited album version with a great guitar solo. This video version was a radio edit. Also I need to say, as someone who’s worked in the broadcasting industry most of my life, you have a fantastic voice.
Awesome song to cruise down the highway to,on repeat! Sometimes i wonder why more people haven't heard of this,then i pass by a mirror and say,oh yeah,that's why!😂
"Black Betty"'s OG is '30's 'Leadbelly', born in 1888, inspiring many cover'ing big hit- makers like CCR, Nirvana, & RamJam! Cool reactions to cool '78 hit, Stacey! 👍
This is the great music we had back in the 70s! Great choice! Whenever I hear this sing, remember driving a million miles per hour in my Trans AM! Love it! Check out Never been any Reason by Head East!
This song apparently is an early 20th century prison work song. The first known recording is by James “Iron Head” Baker in 1933 but a more famous version is by Lead Belly in 1939. “Black Betty” can refer to both the large black van that took convicts to prison, but also to the black whip they used to punish prisoners (I am guessing that is the “child” that “went wild”.)
Lead Belly did his recording in 1939. UA-cam also has the first known recording by James “Iron Head” Baker done in 1933. ua-cam.com/video/tiCEVl_9-MM/v-deo.htmlsi=JSNbrv9q0KOjso_K
“Black Betty” has so many meanings going back to Scotland and England. Benjamin Franklin published “The Drinker’s Dictionary” in 1736 in which a phrase for being drunk was “He's kiss'd black Betty,” but that’s just one of the earliest references.
Another reference is to a rifle used in the Civil War in the 1860's. It was tough shooting at its intended target. At least that's what I've read elsewhere.
@@1dkappe yup, lots of meanings. But since it seems to be s prison song I was sticking to prison use. After checking further the black paddy wagon was actually referred to as “Black Maria”.
The first " known " version of this song was recorded in 1939 by Huddie " Ledbelly " Ledbetter , however , ln 1933 , there had been an acapella version .
It's not a great song played by 'great' musicians, but none of that matters when we enjoy a memorable performance. How many bands would love to have just one song that remains relevant over time? Ram Jam's place in history is established forever.
I Love your uplifting enthusiasm for this song! I remember when this came out, as teenagers, we were into the nightly "Roller Skating Rink" thing.... when this song came on, well, we cranked-up our speed and just had a blast with it! You're gonna want to check out "Radar Love" by Golden Earring. And please do not forget "Frankenstein" live by Edgar Winter Group... something you've never seen before, I'm sure!!! Enjoy!
Hi Stacey, Bill Bartlett the lead singer was originally in a late sixties psychedelic band The Lemon Pipers. As others have said you need to listen to the long version with extended guitar solo. Same applies to My Sharona by The Knack. Keep on rockin' beautiful lady!
Ram Jam were pretty much a one hit wonder (to the best of my knowledge) but it's a classic. Check out Larkin Poe's cover if you have not already heard Larkin Poe, they are two sisters originally from Georgia, now out of Nashville and they recently won a Grammy.
From Discogs they released two albums in 1977 and 1978. Ram Jam is a hard rock band from New York, New York, USA, that was formed in 1977. The band was primarily known for its hit single Black Betty from 1977. But actually Black Betty was released two years earlier by Starstruck - a band, Bill Bartlett played in before Ram Jam was formed around him. Actually the Ram Jam version of the song is no new recording of the song, but an edited and re-arranged version of the Starstruck version from 1975.
Great reaction, Stacey. Now it you want to listen/feel a song from that era ,react to "Radar Love" by Golden Earring, or take a "Slow Ride" by Foghat, the long version you'll love both songs
History is made. Such an early video. It is intense, quick and to the point... It has even had a few covers. Check out the "White Stripes".. "Slobberbone" ..
You called this an "upbeat, fun song". I agree. I'm ususally not a huge fan of covers but Australian band Spiderbait have an AMAZING modern rock version of Black Betty. It's worth the watch! Awesome video as well!
Hello Stacy.This song is one of my favourite songs.Thank you for reacting to this song.How about The Eagles"Hotel California" or Carlos Santana live at Woodstock 1969 "Soul Sacrifice". I'm pretty sure you will love it.
Bill Bartlett, the singer, is the only person to be a one hit wonder in two different bands with two different songs. This band and with this song and also with The Lemon Pipers singing Green Tambourine. Just my $0.02
They were a one hit wonder band but people are still jamming to it 50 years later. You need to check out Johnny Cash " The Man in Black " he tells the story why he always wore black very powerful.
Thank you for reacting to classic songs! Consider reacting to "Gimme Shelter" by The Rolling Stones. It's probably one of the best Rock songs of the late 60's and there is quite some history to it
Stacey! Love this reaction. You're hitting some great classics lately and I'm HERE for it! 😅 P.s. You seem like so much fun 😂 your smile is so contagious and intoxicating. I would love to take you out... But I digress 🫠 stay awesome miss Stacey!
Bonjour de France Stacey ❤❤❤!!! Welcome to the 70s !!! i like this song , long live the rock !!! your vidéo is perfect as always , you are perfect !!! Thanks for everything 🥰🥰🥰!!!!
Where's the rest of it??? I was waiting for it to break into the double-time guitar solo and was very disappointed... This is like half the song; and there's so much more to it.
@Lannes03 I think it's the album version, longer version with the middle break and lead solo is awesome! If you're from the UK, or ever saw "Top of the Pops" in the 70's, the cymbal crash at the end was part of the theme tune :-)
As far as one hit wonders go, it’s one of the best. There a more well known band whose influence you can see in Ram Jam’s guitars. May I recommend a dive into Foghat. Start with the long version of Slow Ride, enjoy the journey into Rod “the bottle” Price. His nickname comes his slide guitar technique. You won’t be disappointed.
Very common in the 60's/70's. I can't count the number of times we played field parties, barn parties, yard parties, pool parties - Outdoors is a safe place for wild youth.
Great reaction Stacey. This is the shortened version of the song but I prefer it to the full length one. Please try the Spiderbait cover of Black Betty, I like it even more than the original. Take care, keep reacting!
Loved your reaction...genuine. Note Bill's guitar plugged into the bass drum. This is not live. Ram Jam is lip-syncing to Bill's 1975 band, Starstruck who recorded this in Cleveland, Ohio! No, there was no budget. A British client requested and paid for the video. The music industry is wacky enough and people's opinions make it more loony. Bill's version of this song is inspired by 1950s model Bettie Page! Black refers to her hair, costumes and perhaps her mind. It all led to this gem. You did a stellar job reviewing Black Betty and keep up the good work!
Other things to try: Blue Oyster Cult (Don't Fear the Reaper or maybe the live version of Astronomy), Genesis (old stuff like Firth of Fifth), Uriah Heep (The Wizard, Hold Your Head Up), Rush (Tom Sawyer, Fly by Night) and maybe get into some classics like Lynyrd Skynyrd or Led Zeppelin. Not sure what you are into but it I'm guessing these are all things you've never heard of.
ever do any GFR (Grand Funk Railroad) like "We're an American Band", "She's some Kind of Wonderful", "I'm your Captain". Or would love to see your take on some of the songs by John Cafferty and Beaver Brown Band soundtracks from Eddie & The Cruisers and the sequel Eddie Lives.
Fun Fact: Director of the video asked them how much they needed to shoot the video. Ram Jam responded... 200 dollars. Director thought it was for production. It was for weed to get them in the zone. The video was also shot in the drummers backyard.
Also, Black Betty was a song by blues legend Lead Belly, Huddie Ledbetter back in the 1930s. Ram Jam was just covering it with their rocking version.
Only the last part is accurate.
There's a Longer Version with an EPIC Guitar Solo... TRACK IT DOWN! 💎⚡️♥️🦅🇺🇲
Yes your right. All the reactions of Ram Jam are short versions. Too bad😢😢😢😢😢
there’s a group called Spiderbait that covers this and they have a live version that seven minutes long! 🤪
ua-cam.com/video/J7d9fchZeFE/v-deo.htmlsi=s-OnAMtq-VoJ-t4p
Videos back then were normally edited shorter to play on other media outlets (television).. much like longer songs were edited shorter to play on the radio.
Good example this was Focus by Hocus Pocus is seven minutes on the album and they got invited to play it live on NBC´s Midnight Special but they were told to shorten it... instead the band sped up the tempo to fit it into the five and a half minutes the show allotted them.
Done the research for ya: ua-cam.com/video/-T2tnf23lyc/v-deo.html
The original version is 3.56 minutes long
You didn't pause that song one once, Stacey. That said a lot. I've really been enjoying listening to my favorite music with you SO MUCH! You've become a treasure.
One of the greatest "one hit wonders" of all time... 🤪
Ballroom Blitz by Sweet may be another fast paced song you'll like.
Alright, fellows! Let's goooooooooooo
And the girl in the back said everyone attack
.❤ LOL 😊@giordani64
@@mikepeters-do3te and don’t forget “Fox on the Run” and “Love Is Like Oxygen”
@@mikepeters-do3te Another similar band is Thin Lizzy. “The Boys Are Back In Town”, “Jailbreak” (which may be a suitable pairing to this prison song) and my favourite, their cover of a traditional folk song “Whiskey In The Jar”.
Probably the most kick ass one hit wonder ever!
This is the radio edit... there's a full version with an EPIC guitar solo!!!
Legend has it they were given $700. To shoot a video $650 was spent on weed & booze, $50 was for the location
When you mentioned replay, you found your solution. Fifty plus years ago, we just put the needle back to the beginning of the track. A song was as long as it was, but it could be repeated forever.
This is how I grew up we had garage bands in my neighborhood of two hundred homes in the middle of farm country in the middle of Michigan. Also had barn parties with my brothers band Had a great childhood! Still friends with all the people I grew up with. ALways something going on! Loved your reaction Stacey!
One of the greatest all out Rockin’ tunes ever recorded. And yes, there’s an unedited album version with a great guitar solo. This video version was a radio edit. Also I need to say, as someone who’s worked in the broadcasting industry most of my life, you have a fantastic voice.
It is the iconic ram jam/black Betty! It was always the two minute banger!
Awesome song to cruise down the highway to,on repeat! Sometimes i wonder why more people haven't heard of this,then i pass by a mirror and say,oh yeah,that's why!😂
"Black Betty"'s OG is '30's 'Leadbelly', born in 1888, inspiring many cover'ing big hit- makers like CCR, Nirvana, & RamJam! Cool reactions to cool '78 hit, Stacey! 👍
This is the great music we had back in the 70s! Great choice! Whenever I hear this sing, remember driving a million miles per hour in my Trans AM! Love it! Check out Never been any Reason by Head East!
Making a video at a back yard party was genius! I've always enjoyed how they showed him playing guitar that well.
Such an awesome song, totally timeless, complete perfection and a total vibe
That's Rock & Roll!🤘
SO glad you finally discovered this infectious song! This is indeed timeless, and one that just doesn't get old listening to!
I remember going around singing this song as a kid
Going to be me now!
This is their 1 hit but Ram Jam has a GREAT 2 album set w/ long version of Black Betty. Cheap, on amazon
This song apparently is an early 20th century prison work song. The first known recording is by James “Iron Head” Baker in 1933 but a more famous version is by Lead Belly in 1939.
“Black Betty” can refer to both the large black van that took convicts to prison, but also to the black whip they used to punish prisoners (I am guessing that is the “child” that “went wild”.)
Lead Belly did the first recording of it. You can find it on UA-cam.
Lead Belly did his recording in 1939. UA-cam also has the first known recording by James “Iron Head” Baker done in 1933. ua-cam.com/video/tiCEVl_9-MM/v-deo.htmlsi=JSNbrv9q0KOjso_K
“Black Betty” has so many meanings going back to Scotland and England. Benjamin Franklin published “The Drinker’s Dictionary” in 1736 in which a phrase for being drunk was “He's kiss'd black Betty,” but that’s just one of the earliest references.
Another reference is to a rifle used in the Civil War in the 1860's. It was tough shooting at its intended target. At least that's what I've read elsewhere.
@@1dkappe yup, lots of meanings. But since it seems to be s prison song I was sticking to prison use. After checking further the black paddy wagon was actually referred to as “Black Maria”.
This is just about the ultimate one-hit-wonder band. 😎🤘
The gym that I used to go to back in the early 90s used to play this on the old school hi-fi system a lot :)
The first " known " version of this song was recorded in 1939 by Huddie " Ledbelly " Ledbetter , however , ln 1933 , there had been an acapella version .
You heard the radio edit. The full version takes up valuable radio commercial time.
It's not a great song played by 'great' musicians, but none of that matters when we enjoy a memorable performance. How many bands would love to have just one song that remains relevant over time? Ram Jam's place in history is established forever.
Song actually written in 1939 by Huddie 'Lead Belly' Ledbetter. It's been updated.
Such a great song and it shows what a keg of beer and a back yard can do with band trying to make it.
That was good stuff!
I've heard a longer version but it's a Live version where the band is introduced with solos!
I Love your uplifting enthusiasm for this song! I remember when this came out, as teenagers, we were into the nightly "Roller Skating Rink" thing.... when this song came on, well, we cranked-up our speed and just had a blast with it! You're gonna want to check out "Radar Love" by Golden Earring. And please do not forget "Frankenstein" live by Edgar Winter Group... something you've never seen before, I'm sure!!! Enjoy!
Black Betty is a CLASSIC love song!
This is the SHORT VERSION of the song. There's a longer version (not so much longer) that includes a solo guitar.
Hi Stacey, Bill Bartlett the lead singer was originally in a late sixties psychedelic band The Lemon Pipers. As others have said you need to listen to the long version with extended guitar solo. Same applies to My Sharona by The Knack. Keep on rockin' beautiful lady!
Ram Jam were pretty much a one hit wonder (to the best of my knowledge) but it's a classic. Check out Larkin Poe's cover if you have not already heard Larkin Poe, they are two sisters originally from Georgia, now out of Nashville and they recently won a Grammy.
Larkin Poe are soo good 🤘
I could see you there, sitting on a motorcycle, jamming along... Great reaction.
From Discogs they released two albums in 1977 and 1978.
Ram Jam is a hard rock band from New York, New York, USA, that was formed in 1977.
The band was primarily known for its hit single Black Betty from 1977. But actually Black Betty was released two years earlier by Starstruck - a band, Bill Bartlett played in before Ram Jam was formed around him. Actually the Ram Jam version of the song is no new recording of the song, but an edited and re-arranged version of the Starstruck version from 1975.
Still played regularly at every ice hockey arena and locker room in North America and beyond.
I remember buying this record ❤❤ many many years ago.
Somewhere out there is a longer live version. I saw it but lost it.This was a few years back and it was as amazing as this shorter version.
"One Hit Wonder" at it's best
As great as they guy was playing guitar and singing, it is a surprise he didn't have a long career.
Great reaction, Stacey. Now it you want to listen/feel a song from that era ,react to "Radar Love" by Golden Earring, or take a "Slow Ride" by Foghat, the long version you'll love both songs
Welcome to the world of Southern Rock! The Georgia Satellites must be next, "Keep Your Hands to Yourself".
Yes!!!! The Georgia Satellites, GREAT underrated band!!!!
👍👍👏👏...The "Spiderbait" versión is brutal
This song has always been a vibe and hilarious that it cost so little to make
History is made. Such an early video. It is intense, quick and to the point... It has even had a few covers. Check out the "White Stripes".. "Slobberbone" ..
old school...the way we used to do backyard bbq's! ;-) jammin
You called this an "upbeat, fun song". I agree. I'm ususally not a huge fan of covers but Australian band Spiderbait have an AMAZING modern rock version of Black Betty. It's worth the watch! Awesome video as well!
Hello Stacy.This song is one of my favourite songs.Thank you for reacting to this song.How about The Eagles"Hotel California" or Carlos Santana live at Woodstock 1969 "Soul Sacrifice". I'm pretty sure you will love it.
3:27-The L P. versions' about that long , Stacey and really wild..Check it if you ever get a chance!
It is a really fun song and really enjoyed your reaction to it!
Bill Bartlett, the singer, is the only person to be a one hit wonder in two different bands with two different songs. This band and with this song and also with The Lemon Pipers singing Green Tambourine.
Just my $0.02
Believe it or not it's a cover of a song well over 100 years old
Great reaction, Stacey! Great first impression, but i don't believe they ever had another hit. True one hit wonder!
They were a one hit wonder band but people are still jamming to it 50 years later. You need to check out Johnny Cash " The Man in Black " he tells the story why he always wore black very powerful.
I recommend looking up this song on wikipedia, it's quite old and 'black betty' has referred to many things over the years.
Another band from this time frame is Foghat. Fool for the City or Slow Ride are both hits from the day.
Black Betty - introducing charistmatic, slightly villanous, badass movie charaters since the early 90s.
The video looking like a backyard jam sesh in the marshes of Alabama makes it top tier
They just killed the up beat tempo
black betty was a civil war gun
or a bottle of whiskey. predates civil war. ben franklin used term
Green Grass and High Tides Forever - The Outlaws.
This tune got me at first note a decade ago
Gotta try Godsmack.... There are sooo many songs... Unforgettable--- includes school kids...
I rediscovered this song while watching the movie Blow. Good movie by the way.
The video makes the song THAT much better LOL
Love your reaction, the album version is 3:59
Black Betty = Moonshine meets Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Thank you for reacting to classic songs! Consider reacting to "Gimme Shelter" by The Rolling Stones. It's probably one of the best Rock songs of the late 60's and there is quite some history to it
Stacey! Love this reaction. You're hitting some great classics lately and I'm HERE for it! 😅 P.s. You seem like so much fun 😂 your smile is so contagious and intoxicating. I would love to take you out... But I digress 🫠 stay awesome miss Stacey!
????
Shoot your shot playa!!! 😂
@@rubennigaglioni6118 tell me I'm wrong and I'll tell you you're lyin 😆 Lol she's friggin amazing 😂
@@gasser217 !!!!
Bonjour de France Stacey ❤❤❤!!! Welcome to the 70s !!! i like this song , long live the rock !!! your vidéo is perfect as always , you are perfect !!! Thanks for everything 🥰🥰🥰!!!!
"Always leave them wanting more."
Yeah this is a great song with a really good groove.
An Aussie band called Spiderbait do a great cover it.
Great reaction 👏
Yeah, this is a short version. Long solo section in the long full version.
Where's the rest of it??? I was waiting for it to break into the double-time guitar solo and was very disappointed... This is like half the song; and there's so much more to it.
@Lannes03 I think it's the album version, longer version with the middle break and lead solo is awesome! If you're from the UK, or ever saw "Top of the Pops" in the 70's, the cymbal crash at the end was part of the theme tune :-)
BANGER! The rocking 70s, nothing like it, Enjoy! 🔥🎵🎸🎤🎸🎶🔥
The record company gave them a couple hundred bux to make a video so they bought lots of beer, lots of weed & jammed in the backyard...video made ✌💖☮
such a fun song. Probably one of the cheapest videos ever made 😉
This is one where we really needed to see the video to know what you're reacting to... I doubt there are copyright issues with this particular band
The things you do with your tongue! I freaking love it
That is the edited version. There is a longer version available and it has a nice guitar solo.
Be prepared to have your MIND BLOWN,, Steam Powered Giraffe 🦒 "Honeybee"
(Official Music Video A MUST!!) ❤
This song is held together by the guitarist/singer. The support band is fine, but they’re only support.
the legend goes that the wheed consumed before the making of the video was more expensive then the video itself xD
As far as one hit wonders go, it’s one of the best. There a more well known band whose influence you can see in Ram Jam’s guitars. May I recommend a dive into Foghat. Start with the long version of Slow Ride, enjoy the journey into Rod “the bottle” Price. His nickname comes his slide guitar technique. You won’t be disappointed.
First MTV video "The Buggles - Video Killed The Radio Star (Official Music Video)"
1:55 in and already a great reaction
One of the best one hit wonders ever!
Jammin' in the yard !
Very common in the 60's/70's. I can't count the number of times we played field parties, barn parties, yard parties, pool parties - Outdoors is a safe place for wild youth.
Spiderbait has an excellent version of this song too
Blow is all i can think of hearing this
You had me on your intro. What a voice you have.
Frog Leap Studios version of this is a banger.
You can almost smell the weed through the screen
Boston - Foreplay/Longtime
It's a masterpiece from the 70's.
Watch the movie Blow with Johnny Depp, this song is brilliantly used
Great reaction Stacey. This is the shortened version of the song but I prefer it to the full length one. Please try the Spiderbait cover of Black Betty, I like it even more than the original. Take care, keep reacting!
I don't like the Spiderbait version because it's in a different key.
Loved your reaction...genuine. Note Bill's guitar plugged into the bass drum. This is not live. Ram Jam is lip-syncing to Bill's 1975 band, Starstruck who recorded this in Cleveland, Ohio!
No, there was no budget. A British client requested and paid for the video. The music industry is wacky enough and people's opinions make it more loony. Bill's version of this song is inspired by 1950s model Bettie Page! Black refers to her hair, costumes and perhaps her mind. It all led to this gem.
You did a stellar job reviewing Black Betty and keep up the good work!
Other things to try: Blue Oyster Cult (Don't Fear the Reaper or maybe the live version of Astronomy), Genesis (old stuff like Firth of Fifth), Uriah Heep (The Wizard, Hold Your Head Up), Rush (Tom Sawyer, Fly by Night) and maybe get into some classics like Lynyrd Skynyrd or Led Zeppelin. Not sure what you are into but it I'm guessing these are all things you've never heard of.
ever do any GFR (Grand Funk Railroad) like "We're an American Band", "She's some Kind of Wonderful", "I'm your Captain". Or would love to see your take on some of the songs by John Cafferty and Beaver Brown Band soundtracks from Eddie & The Cruisers and the sequel Eddie Lives.