The Quo are British rock royalty. Check out their beginnings with "Pictures of Matchstick Men", their most famous song "Rocking all over the World" and their softer side with "Rock'n' Roll". Much love from England 🏴
Matchstick men, absolutely one of the greatest rock and roll songs of ever. And Rockin All Over The World, doesn't get much better than that. I'm old enough to remember this band from the 60's. Great stuff.
"Rock'n'Roll" is such a beautiful song...As is a lot of their stuff from the mid 1970s...It just shows how they, as a band (And a couple of writing partners), could and did write and perform such a wide array of music from the Heads Down, No Nonsense Boogie through to the more delicate and thoughtful stuff they shared with us all.
@paulmargett9360 ~ I first heard "In the Army Now" nearly 40 years ago on the radio and I've loved it ever since. I am in the US and it was my very first exposure to Status Quo. After that I became a huge fan of all their music. All the best to you from Florida
True history, and life of Army guys. Im member of Spanish Army and this song is reality of Military life. Sorry for my english. Good bless all Soldiers.
This was such a shift from the Quo at the time that I think it caught everyone by surprise, so this was massive in the UK. It was short-lived though as they reverted to type. The later discovered fact that this was a cover of a Dutch band's original helps to explain it, but the fact they even wanted to cover it is fascinating.
Original synth driven version written & done by (Rob) Bolland & (Ferdi) Bolland. It was a big hit in European continent 1982, four years earlier. The Bolland version became sort of anthem for the demonstrations against nuclear missiles and generally anti war around that time particularly in the then West Germany. Bolland & Bolland also wrote & produced the hit "Rock Me Amadeus" for Falco.
And also Falco's worldwide hit song Jeannie. Of course, Bolland and Bolland had their first hit songs (acoustic guitars) around 1971, during the Vietnam wars.
This song caught a lot of people off guard when it came out as it was so very different from the normal Quo song. I was never a Quo fan but it was fitting that they opened the huge Live Aid concert with Rocking All Over The World. This song i have always loved.
SUCH a GREAT BAND!!! THANKS, YA'LL!!! ❤ Don't know if ya'll have listened to Pictures Of Matchstick Men by Status Quo....it will COMPLETELY get stuck in your head!! You guys want to hear something that will BLOW YOUR MIND: Check out King Crimson: 21st Century Schizoid Man! The musicianship is NEXT LEVEL and is shocking how talented those guys were!! HUGS!!!
I really wonder why you never touched KC (also Epitaph, Islands, Red, and especially Starless were so far ahead of their time and and experience). Also please try out Marillion, who saved Prog into the 80s and are still very very strong and good. For a starter: Script for a Jester's Tear. Also Easter or Neverland would be great introductions to the band.
@@Jayjayuk12345 Yes - to each their own....but, I remember being at a party and no one could remember the song...and, a bunch of buzzed people were calling everyone they knew and SINGING the guitar riff to their friends over the phone (that WILL get stuck in your head) to see if ANYONE could remember the name....no on e could. Left the party - went to the grocery store, and heard the song playing on the GROCERY STORE sound system...it was freaky.... FINALLY remembered what song it was about 3 days later....won't ever forget the name, now!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Status Quo were well known in the 70's as a British boogie rock band w/ the original line-up of: Francis Rossi (vocals/ lead guitar), Rick Parfitt (vocals/ rhythm guitar), Alan Lancaster (bass/ vocals) and John Coghlan (drums)... they were known as the 'Frantic Four'... Andy Bown (keyboards) joined by 1976. But after years of drug abuse and infighting... John Coghlan was out by 1981... Francis Rossi wanted out by 1983 and Status Quo did a 'farewell' tour into '84... However, Status Quo was asked to open Live Aid 1985, so they obliged w/ a tremendous opening set. Guitarist Rick Parfitt was so energized by the Live Aid response that he reached out to Francis Rossi about reuniting Status Quo in '85 and working on new music... Rossi agreed to return only if Alan Lancaster was fired. So, Parfitt brought in John 'Rhino' Edwards (bass) and Jeff Rich (drums) w/ Francis Rossi and Andy Bown returning... They released a new album 'In the army now' in 1986 and they were rejuvenated w/ a new, modern sound. This line-up carried on for years until drummer Jeff Rich quit by 2001... The original Status Quo (Rossi/ Parfitt/ Lancaster/ Coghlan) reunited in 2013/ '14 for the last time playing a few shows only. Sadly, Rick Parfitt passed away in late 2016 after years of alcohol abuse (R.I.P.) Original Quo bassist Alan Lancaster passed away in 2021 (R.I.P.) Francis Rossi is the only original member of Status Quo today w/ Andy Bown (keyboards), John 'Rhino' Edwards (bass), Richie Malone (guitar) and Leon Cave (drums).
Back in 1985-7 I was in Essex,England training to be a nurse and my friend and her sister and I went to the London Hippodrome to see Status Quo live on their 'In the Army' tour and they were fantastic. Great memories especially as my friend Nikki passed away a few years after.
For me, my first gig ever was Staus Quo on their Rocking All Over the World tour in December 1977. They played the Granby Halls in my home town. I was 16 years old, and snuck down there with a couple of friends while my parents thought I was at youth club. Exciting times!
When I hear "You're in the Army Now," I think of the older song that starts "You'll never get rich by digging a ditch, you're in the army now." Different wars and different generations. They are both good and express the feelings of the soldier.
Status Quo were an awesome band live, I highly recommend you check out Rocking All Over the World which opened the whole Live Aid show, or a live version of Caroline, the opening riff just gets the whole crowd going!
Thank you for doing my favorite Status Quo song. If you want more unexpected great music you really should check out "Brothers in arms" by Dire Straits as well. You have simply don`t done them enough either, and "Brothers in arms" is one of my favorite songs of all time and a masterpiece I believe will be loved by the both of you!
I was not so much in the Status Quo basically, but this song was so awesome, the music, harmonies but also the great lyrics. This quote like "Is it illusion or reality....". Well done Status Quo.
I really want to thank you guys, after all the bad news I watched this morning I had to switch to your channel. You never fail to put me in a great mood. Love you guys !!!
Pictures of matchstick men is my favorite song by them. Especially the old b&w live video. (1968) They were so young.❤ Psychedelic and some aqua net.😊😂
They are (incredible)! Many knock Status Quo as being this simplistic 12 bar blues band - they are way more complicated than they first appear to be! Their music is well thought out, hooks you in and often deeper than you first realise. As a guitarist I say say quite honestly that their music is easy to pick up but hard to play properly! I loved Status Quo from being a little kid - in fact if they came on "Top of the Pops" I would always get up and dance! I still loved them as a teenager and they just went up a gear in the 80's. Please can you review "What You're Proposing" (and like many have suggested here) "Pictures of Matchstick Men" (which is VERY early Quo!). "Marguerita Time" + "The Wanderer" are good fun and I ❤"Living on an Island" (totally different!).
When I was a kid, I remember my friends' big brothers returning from Vietnam. They were all without exeption broken young men. The worst case I remember was one of my friend's brother fighting drug addiction and PTSD and the family's grief. Another guy had to leave home after he almost killed his mother one morning when she woke him up; his refex was to kill or be killed. I saw soldiers return from Northern Ireland totally destroyed by what they had been ordered to do. I have had so many experiences with war veterans throughout my life and it is heartbreaking. My Dad served during the Korean war. I asked him once what war was like. He said " Imagine slamming your hand hard in a door, War is doing it and it is not an option to not do it. It's not something you imagine anymore." This song always brings everything back to me.
So glad someone had decided to review our beloved Quo ! They only ever had 1 US hit, and that was back in 1968 !! 🤣 Over here in the UK they have had more hits than anyone else in history - and they're still going !!
Hello, I am French, I am 47 years old and I loved this song that my father listened to with his turntable ... I often listen to it; it gives me energy, a fighting spirit; and the guitar: it’s too good. for a year this song has had an even greater impact on me since my father passed away: this song reminds me of him: sadness and pride mix.
The biggest anti-war song of the 80s was probably '19' by Paul Hardcastle. Specifically, it's about Vietnam. It was massive in the UK at least (1985). And...on a lighter note, if you want to see a completely different side to Status Quo, you should take a listen to their first hit, 'Pictures of Matchstick Men (1968). Groovy Baby - as Austin Powers would say! (If you go for the 1968 black and white - pick a copy that goes immediately into the song).
Applies very much to today [troubled times] in the near future! We had the 'inner city riots' in the 80's [England] and I was in the Royal Navy at the time. Things got really bad and our DO said we may be deployed to the streets to keep order. He asked us if we were prepared to shoot civilians if necessary. The "Finger on the trigger, but it doesn't seem right" brought that back.
This was a massive hit for Quo all over Europe. No’1 in 6 countries. 4 million single sales worldwide (inc 700k in France, 550k in Germany & 395k in the UK) Never released in the States, like a lot of their back catalogue it should’ve been. Over the years poor management & the lack of airplay cost Quo stateside. Worldwide sales 130m 👍
This is actually a cover song from the group Bolland and Bolland from the Netherlands. Their original version is almost the same. This song was a Continental European hit before the cover from Status Quo. In fact it was such a big hit that when later Status Quo sung it they did not have much success in Europe since the song was identical. They did however have had success with it everywhere else, UK, USA, Australia etc.
You Guys have covered status quo three times but have skipped over their best song "Pictures of Matchstick Men" I purchased this single the day after it came out. I am one of the biggest fans of you guys and you have not yet played a request of mine. Please play "Pictures of Matchstick Men" when you get a chance. You will not regret it.
The sergeant screaming "STAND UP AND FIGHT" is Windsor Davies, a great comedian actor. He was actually in the British army in the 50s, reaching the rank of Sergeant. Serving in Libya and Egypt.
This is one of my all time faves, i could listen to this one all day. Another band to check are called Slade and the song Called "Come Feel The Noise", a great song too. 😎🎵🎸👌
a fantastic song. i heard it first in 1986 when it was first released. this is one of the songs that made me fall in love in english songs alongside other songs like (the lady in red, the glory of love, i wanna wake up with you, papa don't preach, you can call me al, let's go all the way, sing our own song, amanda and stuck with you). i recently knew that this was a cover. this song was re released in the 210's i think and it reached number one in the uk. they have more than 40 albums. they have many other amazing songs like (margaretta time, ain't miss behaving, burning bridges, dreaming and rocking all over the world).
I remember hearing this song all the time on Bayern 3 or Antennae Bayern while I was in Schweinfurt in the early 90s. I had never heard of the band before that but I see them everywhere now. The other song I heard all the time on those radio stations was "Always look on the bright side of life."
If you like this song’s themes, then you’ll love “Brothers in Arms” by Dire Straits… so much meaning to so many service men and often played at funerals as a result. The video is awesome as well although the album version has the extended guitar solo (love the duet between the guitar and the vocals… feels like the guitar is almost the sounds of battle and the vocals articulate a soldier in battle’s thoughts)
I was between 6 and 7 when this came out, we were still in the cold war era, and in Europe, fear of a nuclear war was in everybody's head at the time. This video clip shook me back then, cause i knew maybe it was gonna be me one day.
Hard to believe that Staus Quo was huge in England, but only had one hit, "Pictures of Matchstick Men", in the states. How about reacting to the Electric Prunes "I Had Too Much To Dream". Thanks.😎
As mentioned in other comments the original 1981 version with a slightly different title: "You're in the Army Now" is by bolland & bolland, It is a true synthpop clasic and even better than the Status Quo version.
If you get the chance, have a look at level 42 "children say" vastly underrated group back in the day, originally started out as a jazz funk band, changed to pop and was successful in the USA as well as the UK worth a listen, if i rightly, i think that this was there last music , because of musical differences
December 1, 1969, was the first draft lottery held since 1942, during World War II. This drawing determined the order of induction for men born between January 1, 1944 and December 31, 1950. My brother was born in August, 1950, which made him eligible by just 4 months for that first draft. Luckily for him, his draw ended up being 245. But one of his best friends wasn't so fortunately at number 6. Less than a year later he was sent to Vietnam and was killed in action...
Thanks for revisiting this great band. This was the song that kind of reinvented Status Quo after their break-up in the mid 80's. At least, for this one song! It did exceedingly well chart-wise reaching No.2 in 1986. Only kept off the top spot by a soppy song by a soap opera star, no less! Unsurprisingly, the difference of this song compared to what went before wasn't to everyone's liking, particularly by the old school fans of the 70's, who they'd changed to such a degree that they were no longer the same band. Having 2 new replacement members might have also had something to do with that, also. Particularly with the bass player, who took a few years before the fans in general took to him. But, as time waits for no man, I think it was inevitable that the band had to change in order to try and remain relevant into the 80's. Ironically, all the other songs that produced at this time sounded more like the traditional sounding Quo. The 2 other singles, 'Rolling Home', and, 'Dreamin', being instantly recognisible. Of course they had an 80's sound to them, but then what would you expect from a band producing music in the 80's? The synthesizers becoming a little more prominent. Sometimes, a little too prominent, it has to be said, but there you go...
Went to see them live in Edinburgh on the day I joined the Army on the "In The Army Now" Tour as a young 17 year old, 8th December 1986, quite appropriate!!!
Status Quo did an 'unplugged' session, on the bbc, a couple of years ago, before Rick Parfitt passed away, & imho, it was the best music show I think I've ever seen on tv! It was brilliant to hear how they could strip away all the 'volume' from their back catalogue, and just present all the songs we know & love, but in acoustic form. I'm not a particularly big fan of Quo, but just like every Brit, we have a soft spot for the guys cos they've always been there, to get us on our feet when they start rocking, even acoustically!!
In my youth, this was on the radio at the beginning of every quarter, when the recruits were self-enrolled into the German army. So even the day when it was my turn.
They started as a psychedelic outfit that went more bluesy and then in the 70s got their big success with their hard rocking boogie sound. In the 80s they became much softer with a touch of contemporary hair metal like this one. But they are still around and rocking a lot of stages around the world.
Hi Jay and Amber, This was released in 1986 and is the Title track of the album of the same name, Love this song 😂😂 The lineup here was : Francis Rossi on guitar and vocals Rick Parfitt on rhythm guitar Andy Bown on guitar John " Rhino " Edwards on bass guitar 😂😂😂
This used to be a full-on anti-war song and they turned it into an army commercial. Musically, this version is amazing, but knowing where this came from, it leaves a bitter taste.
Another quality and intelligent review - Thank You! This was a bit of a breakwater song / album for the Mighty Quo....It was at a time when the Band had been somewhat written off from their glory years, a mere ten years earlier, their Drummer and Bassist had left and this was their Mid Eighties effort. The album...I LOVE IT!!! It's easily up there with the best of the "Frantic Four" era albums; Different - Yes. Still Quo - Yes.
This is a cover from the Dutch band (of brothers) ‘Bolland and Bolland’, also famous for their cooperation with Austrian Artist Falco (Rock me Amadeus, Jeanny)
1988, my schoolmates joined the army. Another joined the marines. 16 years old. Served in northern Ireland and then the Gulf War. One survived the Deal IRA bombing. One came back from operation desert Storm with photos I braced myself to look at. One came back injured. 2 went on the Bosnia and 1 to Afghanistan. This song reminds me of them, as it looked like it inspired them.
@@Iainrankingtheobscure I didn’t say I was a fan of theirs. I don’t know any of their other songs. I said I loved this song. It offers nostalgia from when I was a little girl. I’m sorry you find that so offensive. P.S. I just checked out a list of their songs and I know two others. I still prefer this one. Take care
I recently found another artist who kinda' has that nice Roxy Music sound on his solo LP/CD's.. The guy's name is Midge Ure. His best songs to check out are: 1) If I Was 2) Dear God. (NOTE: Midge was also the lead singer in the '80's band Ultravox who had that techno sound. Their best songs to look for are: 1) Dancing With Tears In My Eyes 2) White China 3) A Friend I Call Desire). Enjoy!
A watershed song for some Quo fans I'm afraid - new (at the time that was, now the longest serving) Bass player and a distinct move away from the 12 bar boogie format they had become so (in)famous for. Singles after this seemed to lack the crunchy bass of Down Down and Whatever You Want but became less formulaic as well. Since their loyal fans were named the Quo Army I'm sure many appreciated the tongue in cheek humour of being reassured they were In The (Quo) Army now.
Search Status Quo Live Aid. Then watch it. They are one of the great live bands, which is why they were chosen to open the entire Live Aid concert. Not only them at their best, but also their best song.
The Quo are British rock royalty. Check out their beginnings with "Pictures of Matchstick Men", their most famous song "Rocking all over the World" and their softer side with "Rock'n' Roll". Much love from England 🏴
Matchstick men, absolutely one of the greatest rock and roll songs of ever. And Rockin All Over The World, doesn't get much better than that. I'm old enough to remember this band from the 60's. Great stuff.
"their most famous..." happens to be a John Fogerty song! A cover, just like this "In The Army...."
I saw Quo with Queen at Wembley. That was a fun day! I'll never forget it.
"Rock'n'Roll" is such a beautiful song...As is a lot of their stuff from the mid 1970s...It just shows how they, as a band (And a couple of writing partners), could and did write and perform such a wide array of music from the Heads Down, No Nonsense Boogie through to the more delicate and thoughtful stuff they shared with us all.
@paulmargett9360 ~ I first heard "In the Army Now" nearly 40 years ago on the radio and I've loved it ever since. I am in the US and it was my very first exposure to Status Quo. After that I became a huge fan of all their music. All the best to you from Florida
I will never forget seeing them in concert, the audience jumped up from the first guitar chord and never sat down again!!
True history, and life of Army guys.
Im member of Spanish Army and this song is reality of Military life.
Sorry for my english.
Good bless all Soldiers.
Your English is very good Bro… I salute you you sir 🫡
This was such a shift from the Quo at the time that I think it caught everyone by surprise, so this was massive in the UK. It was short-lived though as they reverted to type. The later discovered fact that this was a cover of a Dutch band's original helps to explain it, but the fact they even wanted to cover it is fascinating.
You're right! Such an unusual move! I guess they'd simply wanted to mix things up a little 🙂
Bolland & Bolland was the Duch Band
@@user-xk9zi7mm1r Yeah and Bolland & Bolland stinks. Just like this song. One of the worst songs they did. Bollocks & Bollocks is more like it.
Status Quo was the 1st band on the stage at Live Aid in 1985... Gotta check it out..❤❤
Original synth driven version written & done by (Rob) Bolland & (Ferdi) Bolland. It was a big hit in European continent 1982, four years earlier. The Bolland version became sort of anthem for the demonstrations against nuclear missiles and generally anti war around that time particularly in the then West Germany.
Bolland & Bolland also wrote & produced the hit "Rock Me Amadeus" for Falco.
And also Falco's worldwide hit song Jeannie. Of course, Bolland and Bolland had their first hit songs (acoustic guitars) around 1971, during the Vietnam wars.
i saw it today :D epic song
The opener on their live shows is always, Caroline.
The crowd goes always crazy.
Their absolute banger!
This song caught a lot of people off guard when it came out as it was so very different from the normal Quo song. I was never a Quo fan but it was fitting that they opened the huge Live Aid concert with Rocking All Over The World. This song i have always loved.
It was Noddy Holder from Slade who shouted "Stand up and fight"
SUCH a GREAT BAND!!! THANKS, YA'LL!!! ❤ Don't know if ya'll have listened to Pictures Of Matchstick Men by Status Quo....it will COMPLETELY get stuck in your head!! You guys want to hear something that will BLOW YOUR MIND: Check out King Crimson: 21st Century Schizoid Man! The musicianship is NEXT LEVEL and is shocking how talented those guys were!! HUGS!!!
I really wonder why you never touched KC (also Epitaph, Islands, Red, and especially Starless were so far ahead of their time and and experience). Also please try out Marillion, who saved Prog into the 80s and are still very very strong and good. For a starter: Script for a Jester's Tear. Also Easter or Neverland would be great introductions to the band.
Pictures Of Matchstick Men is bloody awful.... each to their own
@@Jayjayuk12345 Yes - to each their own....but, I remember being at a party and no one could remember the song...and, a bunch of buzzed people were calling everyone they knew and SINGING the guitar riff to their friends over the phone (that WILL get stuck in your head) to see if ANYONE could remember the name....no on e could. Left the party - went to the grocery store, and heard the song playing on the GROCERY STORE sound system...it was freaky.... FINALLY remembered what song it was about 3 days later....won't ever forget the name, now!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Status Quo were well known in the 70's as a British boogie rock band w/ the original line-up of: Francis Rossi (vocals/ lead guitar), Rick Parfitt (vocals/ rhythm guitar), Alan Lancaster (bass/ vocals) and John Coghlan (drums)... they were known as the 'Frantic Four'... Andy Bown (keyboards) joined by 1976.
But after years of drug abuse and infighting... John Coghlan was out by 1981... Francis Rossi wanted out by 1983 and Status Quo did a 'farewell' tour into '84... However, Status Quo was asked to open Live Aid 1985, so they obliged w/ a tremendous opening set.
Guitarist Rick Parfitt was so energized by the Live Aid response that he reached out to Francis Rossi about reuniting Status Quo in '85 and working on new music... Rossi agreed to return only if Alan Lancaster was fired. So, Parfitt brought in John 'Rhino' Edwards (bass) and Jeff Rich (drums) w/ Francis Rossi and Andy Bown returning... They released a new album 'In the army now' in 1986 and they were rejuvenated w/ a new, modern sound.
This line-up carried on for years until drummer Jeff Rich quit by 2001... The original Status Quo (Rossi/ Parfitt/ Lancaster/ Coghlan) reunited in 2013/ '14 for the last time playing a few shows only.
Sadly, Rick Parfitt passed away in late 2016 after years of alcohol abuse (R.I.P.)
Original Quo bassist Alan Lancaster passed away in 2021 (R.I.P.)
Francis Rossi is the only original member of Status Quo today w/ Andy Bown (keyboards), John 'Rhino' Edwards (bass), Richie Malone (guitar) and Leon Cave (drums).
I remember this song so well because I joined the British army two weeks later great memories
Back in 1985-7 I was in Essex,England training to be a nurse and my friend and her sister and I went to the London Hippodrome to see Status Quo live on their 'In the Army' tour and they were fantastic. Great memories especially as my friend Nikki passed away a few years after.
For me, my first gig ever was Staus Quo on their Rocking All Over the World tour in December 1977. They played the Granby Halls in my home town. I was 16 years old, and snuck down there with a couple of friends while my parents thought I was at youth club. Exciting times!
When I hear "You're in the Army Now," I think of the older song that starts "You'll never get rich by digging a ditch, you're in the army now." Different wars and different generations. They are both good and express the feelings of the soldier.
Status Quo were an awesome band live, I highly recommend you check out Rocking All Over the World which opened the whole Live Aid show, or a live version of Caroline, the opening riff just gets the whole crowd going!
Still are! Original members down to one though.
@@alistairmilton6007😢😢😢
I’ve been asking for live Caroline for ages. Hopefully it will come soon.
@@The_Yokshireman_In_The_HatEspecially at the NEC 1982.
@@clivenewman4810 not seen that one. Download and Glastonbury festivals are both epic.
Thank you for doing my favorite Status Quo song. If you want more unexpected great music you really should check out "Brothers in arms" by Dire Straits as well. You have simply don`t done them enough either, and "Brothers in arms" is one of my favorite songs of all time and a masterpiece I believe will be loved by the both of you!
What he said!
The whole album is brilliant, I just went back and listened to it now, I love the remastered version from '96, just gives me chills.
Not a proper Quo Fan then if this is your favourite song
@@utha2665 One of the worst Quo Albums
@@Iainrankingtheobscure not a proper Quo fan if you make comments like that...
Have you heard 'Caroline'? That one's a real rocker!
"Pictures of Matchstick Men" is their psychedelic hit from 1968, and you'll both love it!
I love that one too.
I was not so much in the Status Quo basically, but this song was so awesome, the music, harmonies but also the great lyrics. This quote like "Is it illusion or reality....". Well done Status Quo.
I always loved Quo. I don't see people reacting to this one. Nicely done.
I really want to thank you guys, after all the bad news I watched this morning I had to switch to your channel. You never fail to put me in a great mood. Love you guys !!!
This song always played in my head on repeat when I was serving in the finnish defence forces my conscription 😂
Thank you for serving from a retired US soldier.
They played it the first morning. I remember it well.
Pictures of matchstick men is my favorite song by them. Especially the old b&w live video. (1968) They were so young.❤ Psychedelic and some aqua net.😊😂
My favourite by the Quo too.
@sarahross5399 they were so cute back then especially the cute grin on the singer.
My favourite too.
lies, what your proposing, rockin all over the world. loads of hits over loads of years.
I've not heard this song for a long time, a very moving and kind of dark song. Great, thanks for the reaction.
i've seen the Quo live twice back in the early 90's they are a brilliant band to see live. 👍👍
As a Dutch person I have to say that this song is a cover of the Dutch Duo Bolland and Bolland. By the way, they produced this song by Status Quo
I am Swedish, from Stockholm, and for me, Bolland’s original is also the ”real” version. It was a big radio hit in Sweden in the early 80’s.
They also altered the lyrics in some places. IMO the Bolland & Bolland original from 1983 is way better.
So a win-win for both groups.
You say they produced this song, obviously you meant wrote it, 2 totally different things.
@@andreasekart3853 The Dutch version stinks.
They were my first ever concert back in the late 80’s
They are (incredible)! Many knock Status Quo as being this simplistic 12 bar blues band - they are way more complicated than they first appear to be! Their music is well thought out, hooks you in and often deeper than you first realise. As a guitarist I say say quite honestly that their music is easy to pick up but hard to play properly! I loved Status Quo from being a little kid - in fact if they came on "Top of the Pops" I would always get up and dance! I still loved them as a teenager and they just went up a gear in the 80's. Please can you review "What You're Proposing" (and like many have suggested here) "Pictures of Matchstick Men" (which is VERY early Quo!). "Marguerita Time" + "The Wanderer" are good fun and I ❤"Living on an Island" (totally different!).
A personal favourite, 'Living On An Island'. I would love your reaction to that.
status quo have had so many good songs they opened the live aid concert in 1985 with rockin all over the world
It does have a Genesis sound!!1 Great band!!!
Rocking all over the world is my favourite 👍
Happy Sunday...this is a great song.
every morning at 5am I woke up to this song in basic training over and over and over again 😅
Formed in 1962, they had their first hit in 1967 ‘Pictures of Matchstick Men’ worth a play.
When I was a kid, I remember my friends' big brothers returning from Vietnam. They were all without exeption broken young men. The worst case I remember was one of my friend's brother fighting drug addiction and PTSD and the family's grief. Another guy had to leave home after he almost killed his mother one morning when she woke him up; his refex was to kill or be killed.
I saw soldiers return from Northern Ireland totally destroyed by what they had been ordered to do. I have had so many experiences with war veterans throughout my life and it is heartbreaking. My Dad served during the Korean war. I asked him once what war was like. He said " Imagine slamming your hand hard in a door, War is doing it and it is not an option to not do it. It's not something you imagine anymore."
This song always brings everything back to me.
So glad someone had decided to review our beloved Quo ! They only ever had 1 US hit, and that was back in 1968 !! 🤣
Over here in the UK they have had more hits than anyone else in history - and they're still going !!
na m8 the beatles have had more hits me thinks
It was about the Falkland Islands conflict. And a great tribute to British army at that time.
When it refers to Vietnam? Think you're assuming a lot there. It's a cover of a Dutch bands single.
This song is very popular in Russia, My father introduced me to this song.
Hello, I am French, I am 47 years old and I loved this song that my father listened to with his turntable ... I often listen to it; it gives me energy, a fighting spirit; and the guitar: it’s too good. for a year this song has had an even greater impact on me since my father passed away: this song reminds me of him: sadness and pride mix.
Love this song and my favorite song from them Ol Rag Blues
The biggest anti-war song of the 80s was probably '19' by Paul Hardcastle. Specifically, it's about Vietnam. It was massive in the UK at least (1985). And...on a lighter note, if you want to see a completely different side to Status Quo, you should take a listen to their first hit, 'Pictures of Matchstick Men (1968). Groovy Baby - as Austin Powers would say! (If you go for the 1968 black and white - pick a copy that goes immediately into the song).
They were very proud of this song.
Applies very much to today [troubled times] in the near future!
We had the 'inner city riots' in the 80's [England] and I was in the Royal Navy at the time.
Things got really bad and our DO said we may be deployed to the streets to keep order. He asked us if we were prepared to shoot civilians if necessary.
The "Finger on the trigger, but it doesn't seem right" brought that back.
This was a massive hit for Quo all over Europe. No’1 in 6 countries. 4 million single sales worldwide (inc 700k in France, 550k in Germany & 395k in the UK) Never released in the States, like a lot of their back catalogue it should’ve been. Over the years poor management & the lack of airplay cost Quo stateside. Worldwide sales 130m 👍
This Band sells more than 118 Million Records worldwide. British Icons.❤
Alan Lancaster always claimed they sold between 35-40 million records, think he was right about that.
Pictures of Matchstick men 1968 will always be my fav by Status Quo.
This is actually a cover song from the group Bolland and Bolland from the Netherlands. Their original version is almost the same. This song was a Continental European hit before the cover from Status Quo. In fact it was such a big hit that when later Status Quo sung it they did not have much success in Europe since the song was identical. They did however have had success with it everywhere else, UK, USA, Australia etc.
You Guys have covered status quo three times but have skipped over their best song "Pictures of Matchstick Men" I purchased this single the day after it came out. I am one of the biggest
fans of you guys and you have not yet played a request of mine. Please play "Pictures of Matchstick Men" when you get a chance. You will not regret it.
The sergeant screaming "STAND UP AND FIGHT" is Windsor Davies, a great comedian actor. He was actually in the British army in the 50s, reaching the rank of Sergeant. Serving in Libya and Egypt.
I was in the Army when this song came out, was pretty popular with me and my fellow servicemen
back then, good song and good memories.
Cool reaction team 🔥
This is one of my all time faves, i could listen to this one all day.
Another band to check are called Slade and the song Called "Come Feel The Noise", a great song too. 😎🎵🎸👌
Love that song
@@amyoneil3544yeah me too😎👌
Quiet Riot Covered that song in the states and was a big hit in 1983. Also a hit in 1983 was a Slade song Run Runaway. Good song. 😎
@@richardkint6531 yeah I love and have Quiet Riots version too, both really good. Yeah that is a good song too.😎👌
This song is very dark and deep,don’t get me wrong I like it, very moving ✌️
A masterpiece of a song from the Quo!
Yes, a great cover from my favourite band, and an improvement on the original.
You're absolutely right there, Love this song myself, I'm a huge Quo fan 😃😃
Huge Quo fan but this is a pile of junk
@@Iainrankingtheobscure Not a pile of junk, this is a great song by the Quo!!😄😄
@@TerryWeir-d4g Its not one of theirs for a start and compared to songs like Don't Waste My Time Forty Five Hundred Times and Slow Train this is 💩💩💩💩💩
a fantastic song.
i heard it first in 1986 when it was first released.
this is one of the songs that made me fall in love in english songs alongside other songs like (the lady in red, the glory of love, i wanna wake up with you, papa don't preach, you can call me al, let's go all the way, sing our own song, amanda and stuck with you).
i recently knew that this was a cover.
this song was re released in the 210's i think and it reached number one in the uk.
they have more than 40 albums.
they have many other amazing songs like (margaretta time, ain't miss behaving, burning bridges, dreaming and rocking all over the world).
I remember hearing this song all the time on Bayern 3 or Antennae Bayern while I was in Schweinfurt in the early 90s. I had never heard of the band before that but I see them everywhere now. The other song I heard all the time on those radio stations was "Always look on the bright side of life."
If you like this song’s themes, then you’ll love “Brothers in Arms” by Dire Straits… so much meaning to so many service men and often played at funerals as a result. The video is awesome as well although the album version has the extended guitar solo (love the duet between the guitar and the vocals… feels like the guitar is almost the sounds of battle and the vocals articulate a soldier in battle’s thoughts)
One for Veteran’s Day
I was between 6 and 7 when this came out, we were still in the cold war era, and in Europe, fear of a nuclear war was in everybody's head at the time.
This video clip shook me back then, cause i knew maybe it was gonna be me one day.
Hard to believe that Staus Quo was huge in England, but only had one hit, "Pictures of Matchstick Men", in the states. How about reacting to the Electric Prunes "I Had Too Much To Dream". Thanks.😎
As mentioned in other comments the original 1981 version with a slightly different title: "You're in the Army Now" is by bolland & bolland, It is a true synthpop clasic and even better than the Status Quo version.
If you get the chance, have a look at level 42 "children say" vastly underrated group back in the day, originally started out as a jazz funk band, changed to pop and was successful in the USA as well as the UK worth a listen, if i rightly, i think that this was there last music , because of musical differences
Damn right.
Love Quo, I must have seen them about 30 times live, but I'm afraid this is my bathroom break song when I'm at one of their gigs 😄
December 1, 1969, was the first draft lottery held since 1942, during World War II. This drawing determined the order of induction for men born between January 1, 1944 and December 31, 1950.
My brother was born in August, 1950, which made him eligible by just 4 months for that first draft. Luckily for him, his draw ended up being 245. But one of his best friends wasn't so fortunately at number 6. Less than a year later he was sent to Vietnam and was killed in action...
Great song by The Quo. So glad you both loved it. Please check out their classic rocker from 1973 ‘Caroline’ 🙏
Yes, I second that. Caroline is my favourite Quo song
Underrated band
Thanks for revisiting this great band.
This was the song that kind of reinvented Status Quo after their break-up in the mid 80's. At least, for this one song! It did exceedingly well chart-wise reaching No.2 in 1986. Only kept off the top spot by a soppy song by a soap opera star, no less! Unsurprisingly, the difference of this song compared to what went before wasn't to everyone's liking, particularly by the old school fans of the 70's, who they'd changed to such a degree that they were no longer the same band. Having 2 new replacement members might have also had something to do with that, also. Particularly with the bass player, who took a few years before the fans in general took to him. But, as time waits for no man, I think it was inevitable that the band had to change in order to try and remain relevant into the 80's. Ironically, all the other songs that produced at this time sounded more like the traditional sounding Quo. The 2 other singles, 'Rolling Home', and, 'Dreamin', being instantly recognisible. Of course they had an 80's sound to them, but then what would you expect from a band producing music in the 80's? The synthesizers becoming a little more prominent. Sometimes, a little too prominent, it has to be said, but there you go...
The original version is by Bolland & Bolland.
Bolland & Bolland - You're In The Army Now
- Album: The Domino Theory
Out in the Fields by Gary Moore and Phil Lynott is another great track with a military theme from the same era.
They absolutely kill Roll over Beethoven ! Best cover by far
OMG E.L.O.'s version blows Quo's version out of the Water
You'll be the hero of your neighbourhood. Nobody knows that you've left for good.
Chills.
Great song.
They did so many.
Much love from a fan of you both from England.
Went to see them live in Edinburgh on the day I joined the Army on the "In The Army Now" Tour as a young 17 year old, 8th December 1986, quite appropriate!!!
Status Quo did an 'unplugged' session, on the bbc, a couple of years ago, before Rick Parfitt passed away, & imho, it was the best music show I think I've ever seen on tv!
It was brilliant to hear how they could strip away all the 'volume' from their back catalogue, and just present all the songs we know & love, but in acoustic form.
I'm not a particularly big fan of Quo, but just like every Brit, we have a soft spot for the guys cos they've always been there, to get us on our feet when they start rocking, even acoustically!!
Pronounced Staytus Quo in the UK, I saw them in 1974 and they were great, always been a brilliant live band.
In my youth, this was on the radio at the beginning of every quarter, when the recruits were self-enrolled into the German army.
So even the day when it was my turn.
Man, you guys chose a masterpiece I had forgotten about. Nice.
This song was written bij Bolland & Bolland who also has written "Jeanny" from Falco. Both songs are very dark
They played this (B&B original) for us rookies even in Finland back in the days when I started my service. : )
Speaking of Genesis, have you reacted to any Peter Gabriel era-Genesis? Maybe you could check out The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway or Carpet Crawlers.
I saw Status Quo about 4 years ago, and they sing this, and it sounded even better live, in fact there whole performance was better live.
I think you should check out “rocking all over the world” next. It’s a banger.
They started as a psychedelic outfit that went more bluesy and then in the 70s got their big success with their hard rocking boogie sound. In the 80s they became much softer with a touch of contemporary hair metal like this one. But they are still around and rocking a lot of stages around the world.
Hi Jay and Amber, This was released in 1986 and is the Title track of the album of the same name, Love this song 😂😂
The lineup here was :
Francis Rossi on guitar and vocals
Rick Parfitt on rhythm guitar
Andy Bown on guitar
John " Rhino " Edwards on bass guitar
😂😂😂
"Rockin' all over the world" is a Status Quo song that you'll love for your next reaction
“ The draft was scary to live through “. … & too think I volunteered 😂😂….i must have been mental …. LOVED EVERY MINUTE…BIGGEST REGRET WAS LEAVING ❤❤
This used to be a full-on anti-war song and they turned it into an army commercial. Musically, this version is amazing, but knowing where this came from, it leaves a bitter taste.
Quo does a wicked Roadhouse Blues....!!!!
Another quality and intelligent review - Thank You!
This was a bit of a breakwater song / album for the Mighty Quo....It was at a time when the Band had been somewhat written off from their glory years, a mere ten years earlier, their Drummer and Bassist had left and this was their Mid Eighties effort.
The album...I LOVE IT!!! It's easily up there with the best of the "Frantic Four" era albums; Different - Yes. Still Quo - Yes.
This is a cover from the Dutch band (of brothers) ‘Bolland and Bolland’, also famous for their cooperation with Austrian Artist Falco (Rock me Amadeus, Jeanny)
Live Aid 13th July 1985.
Opening band at Wembley Stadium, Status Quo.
Opening song, Rockin' All Over The World.
Give the world what it wants!
1988, my schoolmates joined the army. Another joined the marines. 16 years old. Served in northern Ireland and then the Gulf War. One survived the Deal IRA bombing. One came back from operation desert Storm with photos I braced myself to look at. One came back injured. 2 went on the Bosnia and 1 to Afghanistan. This song reminds me of them, as it looked like it inspired them.
Oh my goodness! I love this song! Finally someone reacts to it! I hope you love it! ❤
Reaction from proper Quo Fans 🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮
@@Iainrankingtheobscure I didn’t say I was a fan of theirs. I don’t know any of their other songs. I said I loved this song. It offers nostalgia from when I was a little girl. I’m sorry you find that so offensive.
P.S. I just checked out a list of their songs and I know two others. I still prefer this one. Take care
Status Quo was very popular in Dubai in the 1980s and were regular performers there. I've been to all their concerts whenever they came over to Dubai
In Russia Too
I recently found another artist who kinda' has that nice Roxy Music sound on his solo LP/CD's.. The guy's name is Midge Ure. His best songs to check
out are: 1) If I Was 2) Dear God. (NOTE: Midge was also the lead singer in the '80's band Ultravox who had that techno sound. Their best songs to look
for are: 1) Dancing With Tears In My Eyes 2) White China 3) A Friend I Call Desire). Enjoy!
A watershed song for some Quo fans I'm afraid - new (at the time that was, now the longest serving) Bass player and a distinct move away from the 12 bar boogie format they had become so (in)famous for.
Singles after this seemed to lack the crunchy bass of Down Down and Whatever You Want but became less formulaic as well.
Since their loyal fans were named the Quo Army I'm sure many appreciated the tongue in cheek humour of being reassured they were In The (Quo) Army now.
The best song The Quo ever performed was Pictures of Matchstalk Men from their hippy days in the 1960's.
This was the first song I ever bought myself. Forgot how much I like it. Thank you.
Search Status Quo Live Aid. Then watch it. They are one of the great live bands, which is why they were chosen to open the entire Live Aid concert. Not only them at their best, but also their best song.