I knew you were a good guy. This song is an Anthem to so many gay people, it's basically the life story of so many and certainly mine. I was beaten and ridiculed and mocked when I was young. I don't think I was feminine, but I had Polio so had a handicap and I was gay so I was more like a wounded animal and the Wolves went in for the kill. I endured years and years of very violent abuse being beaten with baseball bats Etc. I went to a very tough City school where the students literally used to beat up the teachers, I saw this myself, and they would also physically and sexually abuse the handicapped kids, so there was no help in school at all. My parents were uncaring and in a very bad marriage and there was no help at home nor any love or affection of any kind. I literally had to run away and find a new life, which I did. I want to thank you for your kind and open-minded reaction to this, it means more than you realize.
Wow mate. The meaning of this song was always so clear to me and so powerful. To hear the depth of the song echoed by a gay guy himself is even more powerful. I hope your pain lessened and life got better after you did leave that toxicity. All the best mate. Actually wish I could jump through this screen and give you a hug. I wouldn't be arrogant enough to give you any words of wisdom as I'm sure you would know better than me. All can a do give you my sincere and deepest respect. Cheers brother xx
@@jamesmorgan4121 hey, that is really kind of you and greatly appreciated. Life did eventually get better, though we all have our ups and downs. Even though I went through an exceptionally bad youth, I never hated myself or became self-destructive, never got into drugs or anything like that. I was determined to make myself stronger. I did remain extremely insecure for years and didn't even wear a short-sleeve shirt until I was 26 because I was so self-conscious of my crippled hand. People had really been the ones that crippled me. It took a long time to get over it. I just could never understand the cruelty of man, and I still can't. Again, thanks so much bud, I really appreciate your kind comments.
@@cookingartguy2170 It breaks my heart, what you went through. I've never understood why so many people need to hurt others that way, I can only think that they are damaged in some way. I'm glad you had the inner strength to rise above their shit, it's the only kind of strength that matters at the end of the day. I hope with all my heart that you are surrounded by love.
Jimmy is my kid brother theres 5 years between us ,I am 1 big proud brother and he is still singing although through means of videos ,he teamed up a couple of months ago with Rick Astley to make a song via video to help young musicians struggling through this horrid time it is the streaming tunes.
One of My favourite bands Bronski beat and followed him through the years along with Erasure . I love Heavens gate I played this constantly, would love to watch in concert 😍 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Same. I always get choked up when the dad gives him money. In his way, his dad showed love. I’m glad society is more understanding. People should not have to hurt like this.
Absolutely same- straight but love the song. Sad because it’s pigeonholed as a gay anthem I tend to turn it up when I’m in the Car myself and I really shouldn’t I should be strong enough to think I’m straight and I don’t care it’s a great tune! In the right sound system it’s immense....
One of the most melancholy, yet amazing songs every written. Doesn't matter if you're gay, bi, straight whatever, this song hits hard. A synth pop classic.
Memories come flooding back to me - I was an 80's girl - the MTV (when they actually played videos lol) . . we had some lame songs but this one is a standout !
The lead singer, Jimmy Somerville, co wrote this song and it reflected the challenges he faced when he was growing up and coming out as gay. Absolutely brilliant song.
This was basically an autobiographic song for Jimmy. He ran away from his small town in Scotland to London where he met the two other band members of Bronski Beat and got lucky enough to catch the attention of Elton John who helped to get them signed. Jimmy went on to another band. A duo called the Communards which had several hits before finally going solo. I recommend a song called "For A Friend" which Jimmy wrote in just a few hours after receiving a phone call that another friend of his had died from AIDS. It's stunningly beautiful.
@@johnsomerville8510 you must be so proud of his achievements. I saw the video with Jimmy where he sang with the busker, who was singing his song... Had I been the busker, I would have fainted on the spot... Your brother is an amazing vocalist & writer.. Wishing you & your family all the very best...
Christ though, that's a great track. Every time I hear it I wonder if it is the only song recorded that has the male singing the higher register than the female. Might have to google that right now!
I believe I was 14 when the song came out. I already knew I was gay and I believe a lot of people suspected it as well. I was bullied and teased. I kept to myself as much as possible. My teen years basically played out pretty much like this song. When I was 17 I left that town and never went back. I'm 50 now and to this day it still brings back all those emotions. Thank you so much for reacting to this. You truly are a good man.
Things were starting to change back then but it was early days. Songs like this and artists like Boy George really went a long way to speaking to kids of my generation who were becoming really aware of this stuff. I really dislike bullies and picking on anyone, for whatever reason, just feels so wrong to me. His voice is ethereally beautiful.
Putting a voice behind righting a wrong on the age of consent. Challenging discrimination pushed at gay men treating them as lesser than equal citizens. I was 12 when it came out
Im 52, and i will never forget spinning a borowed vinil of this, and just crying my heart out. But afterrwards feeling the greatest sense of relief. Representation matters.
Spot on with your review. Although we all knew the song was about homophobia at the time, the song became an anthem for anyone who was being bullied, suffering domestic violence or just saw no way out of their situation in the 80s. For the 'working class' much of the 80's was no picnic, it was bloody bleak.
You're on point with the message. Sadly, this song hits home having been a street kid back in early 80's. The group of boys (13-14 yr olds) I ran with we're all gay and were forced out of their homes. Back then being gay wasn't accepted like it is today. I saw what my friends went through, from family and strangers alike.So glad you did this song. ❤️
@@jonnylumberjack6223 I appreciate that. My situation was entirely different from theirs. I am not gay but had no choice but to leave home at 14. Gay or not, we all were persecuted simply for being on the streets not knowing it wasn't due to any of our choices. It's sad to think it's still going on today and especially in these times with the virus, it hurts my heart to think what dinner may be going through 💔. Thanks again, Take care, stay safe!
Yeah, but it's better now. Millenials catch a lot of flack for challenging traditional institutions, but this is a good example, I think, of an outdated ideology.
@@glenjohnson9128 The battle at least in western countries has been won, and rightly so. The problem is the regressive left act like gays in the US or the UK are still being discriminated against on a large scale. What is infinitely worse is the lack of support for gays in developing countries - especially the middle east. Because that would be islamaphobic, wouldn't it?
Sad to think that no matter how much better it gets, so many people insist on acting like they're persecuted even if they're not. Better gays fought the fight. Like the singer in this video. Let's give respect to the actual fighters, not all those spoiled late arrivals. If they want an actual fight, focus on where there is actual persecution of gays, like in most Islamic countries today.
@@zel3888 Here in Latvia it's still quite terrible. There was a small gathering of protestors when a new law was passed which didn't allow maternity leave for same sex parents. Most politicians and civilians do not acknowledge such families as real and say it's not natural. Throughout my 24 year old life here in Latvia, I've seen only 1 gay couple expressing their love in public. They were visibly judged. About 6 months ago a professor at a university got beaten up because he came out as gay. The government and media does pretty much nothing to support LGBTQ+ community and parents keep raising their children telling such lifestyle is not acceptable. At least it's not against the law and you can't get sentenced for living.
I got bullied a lot during my teenager years, until I finally fought back and put my bully into hospital. This was one of my very first songs probably, when I went to a gay club in Berlin in my 16. This is one of the songs I always cherish, cuz my coming out was struggling to my parents. I moved out when I was 19 to escape the abusive ex partner of my mum - so yeah the struggle is real. I am 40 now, and sill proud I came out so early - have it done and be proud.
hope you are happy where you are now, i do not understand parents who can turn their backs on their child that is already fighting for acceptance to be able to live their life as it should be my daughter has told us she is trans gender going into male, we have her back and love this child and cannot imagine her/him not in our lives, she is 30 and i wish she had told us sooner so she could begin her journey, but it is what it is, we know eaxctly that the struggle exactly, she has lost some freinds because of this but they couldnt have wanted what is best for her, i wish i had guessed sooner as all the signs were there, but i would much rather have a son than lose my child our love is unconditional for always and forever, hope you have an amazing life good luck xx
The album was called “Age of Consent “. The album cover featured a pink triangle on the front and on the back was a list of the age of consent for each country.
As a kid i just thought it was a guy who really liked swimming in speedos... And his parents were embarrassed and didn't understand! So he ran away to a nude beach. Problem solved!
I was a kid in the 70s and a teenager in the 80s, I grew up with this music and the tail end of rampant mainstream homophobia, I am straight but music helped shape understanding, my own personal philosophy is that as long as your preferred partner is adult and consenting, I don't care what floats your boat, that's your concern and literally none of my business, love is love.
Such a moving song....... And a moving reaction Jovaughn...... Don't know what you intend to do in the future but you would be a great role model for kids....You have such a big heart❤️ and a deep understanding of life for a young man. ❤️
I actually used to be in highschool I was apart of this scholars program and we had to mentor Troubled middle school kids that we were assigned. I didn’t realize I made an impact until one day when I was working a little boy came up to me and thanked me saying I was his mentor. I had honestly forgotten
@@JayveeTV what a great story. Kindness , compassion and a good heart are qualities you have , they are what counts in life and to help other people, sometimes by not even knowing speaks volumes, you're a star 🌟✨.
I was 9 when I first heard this and broke my heart, I cry every time I hear it. It's so heart wrenching to know parent's "love" for their children is limited and conditional. Thank you for spreading love and respect in your channel.
Damn, Jay. You got it right away. I've seen some reviewers say "what does that mean?" Totally missing the point. It's a heartbreaking song. I'm a straight guy who has had gay friends over the years. I was a teen in the 80's in a "small town". So guess what. I lost gay friends due to Aids. This isn't meant to be some kind of virtue signaling, but I was so proud that they felt comfortable enough around me to share that they were gay, and that their secret was safe with me if that's how they wanted it. So, I guess I empathized with the pain and fear they felt, when they should have enjoyed love and acceptance. Well, they got it from me. they were my friends . Why should it matter? I guess things are better now, but still. Anyway, this song makes me cry.
@guido I agree with your sentiment. First and formost we are all human beings, regardless of ones skin tone, ethnicity, socio-economic past, religion or sexual preferances. I live in Israel, we have Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, Bedouine, Cirgezi and Armenians. Straight, gay, pale skinned Europeans, dark suntanned, Indian, Yemini and Ethiopian. Ultra religious, traditional practicing and ethiests. Everyone has their place, all have a right to search for happieness.
Bronski Beat became The Communards not long after - Jimmy with musical partner Richard Coles. Richard is now a well known broadcaster as well as a vicar in the UK. Check out their stuff, man.
You are my World is great - fantastic piano work by Richard Cole and Jimmy Somervilles voice soaring straight to heaven. Also Dont leave me this way - guaranteed to get you moving.
My mom kicked me out of the house for being a lesbian in 1987. Bronski Beat was one of my favorite albums. It really spoke to me, inspired me. Thank you for you non-judgmental, thoughtful review. You get it! 🙏🏼❤️✝️🏳️🌈
I love Bronski Beat!... This song is sooo catchy and really shows off those New Wave synths and the message of the song as well is pretty darn relevant to the subject at hand. 👍...I remember this song from back in the day and the MTV MV days...Memories! 😎😍😎...I want to jam out sooo much in an 80's nightclub to this song right now, but also the subject matter...the song hits home in a number of ways personally...But I miss going out dancing and we all know why, so! :-P
Jimmy was part of this group until 1985. This song is self-referential. Later he founded The Communards, and it also had his hits. Then he had a solo career and one of the songs that stands out is To love somebody.
I love how you get the message of the song. I never did when I first heard it and not for many years after that as far as I remember. Might be because English is not my native language, but I just love it when you completely understood it was about being gay, bullied and misunderstood and feeling there’s no other way out than to run away.
You're right about the beat making you miss the lyrics. I feel that as a teenager I never really appreciated the lyrics, that's what I love about you I'm seeing music in another light.
For me thats your best reaction ive seen and i think ive nearly seen all your vids. You wasnt stuck for words and you handled the subject matter really well. from your neutral stand point. and very sincere and understanding you were. its made me admire you more hearing your reaction to this vid. I love when you react to english bands also.
I remember when this came out. His voice was so unique. Being young at the time I didn't really pick up on the gay subtext but I did pick up on the worries and emotions
Hey J, I'm a new fan over the pond in Scotland and just wanted to say I love your takes. Such a great dude with a good heart. You're parents have did a fantastic job bringing you up.
"I'm leaving tomorrow" - another song where a happy sound is wrapped around serious lyrics. BB / Communards / Jimmy, solo. So many great songs. I love him/them.
More 80s UK bands ... Style Council, ABC, Thompson Twins, Paul Young, Dexy Midnight Runners, Roxy Music, Pet Shop Boys, Bonnie Tyler, Fine Young Cannibals
Nice reaction as always man... you're just so genuine, i like the fact that you enjoy every type of music. I know i already suggested, but i recommend a band called Muse. The best song to start with are Knights of Cydonia, Uprising, Reapers...keep up the great work, cheers from an italian sub ;)
UK songstress Corrine Bailey Rae....Put Your Records On ....or anything else by her. She is soooooo beautiful with a voice to match....please don't miss out on her
I literally bumped into Jimmy, the lead singer in a gay bar ( the Village soho) in London years ago. He was so sweet, polite and humble. He had deep Scottish accent which contrasts with his high alto voice. Just lovely ❤️
The British are always leading when it comes to club music they're unbeatable they're always on the sword's edge. Sounds like this is what mature 1960s looks like. 1980s were my heaviest influence I was born in the mid-70s
Jimmie has the most soulful incredible voice! I met him and he is down to earth, lovely man! This means so much to me because when I was 19 I was attacked and the fallout of that damaged me. He was supposed to be a friend and I blamed myself for years.I remember having this playing on my walkman , on a bus, in the dark of night travelling to the ferry , the chorus in my head, confused, crying inside! This helped so much. Big thank you to Jimmie and the boys for getting me through and to all souls who suffered at the hands of others! xx
In 1984 I was a DJ at a cool club and only 18 years young, our music was energizing and up beat, there was no judgment of any others everyone was allowed personal expression with hair and cloths and clubbing was king. 1980 - 1990 were cool to witness and lots of love and minimal garbage of hatred like today.
Personally I much prefer the album version which is very different and doesn't have Marc. Instead Jimmy is backed by a male voice choir. It's fantastic. ua-cam.com/video/QGstAJ1hiz0/v-deo.html
Probably one of the most pointless cover versions, ever, in my honest opinion. The original Donna Summer (Giorgio Moroder) version is probably one of the most influential pop records ever recorded.
@@MisAnnThorpe Donna Summers original is fantastic, but Bronski Beat's album version (NOT the Marc Almond one) is very different and brilliant in it's own way. Have you heard it ? If not here's a link if you're interested: ua-cam.com/video/QGstAJ1hiz0/v-deo.html
oh wow, didn't know you reacted to it. Such a milestone, such an important song and video for so many people. Timeless. You can hear his pain. The video got real! Much more real than videos nowadays. It's basicly telling so many peoples every day life story.
I was a teen when this came out, one of my fave artists from back in the day. The lyrics to this song sadly summed up what a lot of young and older gay people faced on a daily basis. The stigma was unbelievable. If you want to watch a series on what it was like in the 1980s and early 90's watch It's A Sin. I am not sure if it's available in the states yet.
One of my all time favorite songs. I loved the dichotomy of an upbeat song having such heavy lyrics. I'm not gay, but I did understand that many people were. Now I was a teen until 87 and the 80's were truly my decade. I have four children. My youngest is the only girl. However it's my youngest boy that is gay. He officially came out his senior year of high school. When he told me, I knew. I said that by him coming out, nothing has changed. He's still my youngest boy. I love him the same as I did the day before. But I told him that the sad thing is that only gay people need to announce, you know, that their gay. I told him a straight person doesn't have the same burden. The gay community will never be on equal footing until they no longer have to come out. Not until all the straight people are the ones standing up to the wrongs bestowed on the gays. It's not the gay voice that needs to be heard. It's the straight voice calling out. The oppressor needs to stand up and say enough. The gays know that it's enough. It's been enough for centuries. It takes the majority to free the minority. Let that be now. Not soon. Now.
Wow... listening to you stop and talk about your appreciation of the lyrics got me quite emotional. This was such an important song for so may of us to hear as teenagers when it came out. It was the very beginning of not having to accept a role of victimhood for being gay. Bronski Beat were one of the very first groups to be an openly gay, mainstream band and this was their first song and how they announced that to the world. Hearing this song at high school dances and having friends and bullies alike dance to it was life changing and signaled that my life as a young gay man would be different than that of the Bronski Beat guys before me. His voice is stunning. Here is an acoustic version he does years later which let's you hear the words and his voice better. His voice is a little gruffer but still s spine-chilling falsetto. ua-cam.com/video/CNhLOfUPHa8/v-deo.html Thank you for doing this one and introducing others to it.
We're so cruel to eachother... to the point that we're killing eachother. Why? Do we ever learn, do we ever grasp the concept of empathy. It's so simple and basic... Cheers!
This is a very soulful song and anyone who grew up in a troubled home will resonate with it. Such desperation. It was played on the "alternative" station where I grew up in NY. I was a young straight girl in Catholic school and felt very alone in many ways, and songs like this helped me understand I wasn't "abnormal" or a "freak," BUT found being considered either often leads to you becoming an interesting and compassionate member of society, far more than the people who abused or made fun of you. Thank you, J, for featuring this song.
If you got into the eighties music already, I recommend "Twist In My Sobriety" from Tanita Tikaram, I loved that song so much(still like it), she has a very unique voice and lyrics too. Her first album, Ancient Heart was a good one.
I love your reaction! I came across your channel and you were reacting to Kate Bush - my favorite female artist. You have so much passion and I love watching your reaction with each song. Thank you!
Great song. At this time, many lgbt+ bands used this kind of song with eletronic music, which emulated joy but accualy talking about struggles of life. ❤️
I cried the first time I heard Jimmy Somerville sing this song. I am not gay I’m just an ordinary old woman who loves this song and loved everything about Bronski Beat. I still have their first album. And I still have a phonograph, so I can play it.
It’s a classic BUT can bring a tear to the eye. When this track was in the charts dating back to May, June, July 1984 I was 16 years old. Back then I didn’t have an easy home life though not all bad. At the same time I was attending school where my face didn’t fit, had nasty roomers spread about me. Indeed I ran away slept rough especially when I was back in care when I was 17 years old I was badly bullied as I’m different as I’ve got mild autism aspergers. Yes a good song but yes makes me think of my own situation then.
Your comments and reactions are truly appreciated by this fabulous fifty year old. Me! Jimmy is a stupendous vocalist and kind man. You sir, are all everything a decent man should be. Thank you 🙏 🏳️🌈 #La!
I knew you were a good guy. This song is an Anthem to so many gay people, it's basically the life story of so many and certainly mine. I was beaten and ridiculed and mocked when I was young. I don't think I was feminine, but I had Polio so had a handicap and I was gay so I was more like a wounded animal and the Wolves went in for the kill. I endured years and years of very violent abuse being beaten with baseball bats Etc. I went to a very tough City school where the students literally used to beat up the teachers, I saw this myself, and they would also physically and sexually abuse the handicapped kids, so there was no help in school at all. My parents were uncaring and in a very bad marriage and there was no help at home nor any love or affection of any kind. I literally had to run away and find a new life, which I did. I want to thank you for your kind and open-minded reaction to this, it means more than you realize.
Wow mate. The meaning of this song was always so clear to me and so powerful. To hear the depth of the song echoed by a gay guy himself is even more powerful. I hope your pain lessened and life got better after you did leave that toxicity. All the best mate. Actually wish I could jump through this screen and give you a hug. I wouldn't be arrogant enough to give you any words of wisdom as I'm sure you would know better than me. All can a do give you my sincere and deepest respect. Cheers brother xx
@@jamesmorgan4121 hey, that is really kind of you and greatly appreciated. Life did eventually get better, though we all have our ups and downs. Even though I went through an exceptionally bad youth, I never hated myself or became self-destructive, never got into drugs or anything like that. I was determined to make myself stronger. I did remain extremely insecure for years and didn't even wear a short-sleeve shirt until I was 26 because I was so self-conscious of my crippled hand. People had really been the ones that crippled me. It took a long time to get over it. I just could never understand the cruelty of man, and I still can't. Again, thanks so much bud, I really appreciate your kind comments.
Glad you're still here Dude!
That was heavy...sorry that happened to you..
Thankfully you found a way 🙏
@@cookingartguy2170 It breaks my heart, what you went through. I've never understood why so many people need to hurt others that way, I can only think that they are damaged in some way. I'm glad you had the inner strength to rise above their shit, it's the only kind of strength that matters at the end of the day. I hope with all my heart that you are surrounded by love.
Jimmy is my kid brother theres 5 years between us ,I am 1 big proud brother and he is still singing although through means of videos ,he teamed up a couple of months ago with Rick Astley to make a song via video to help young musicians struggling through this horrid time it is the streaming tunes.
Greetings from 🇮🇪
Legend
Jimmy is an incredible artist. ❤️
One of My favourite bands Bronski beat and followed him through the years along with Erasure . I love Heavens gate I played this constantly, would love to watch in concert 😍 🥰🥰🥰🥰
So glad he is still singing - he has such an amazing voice. Will look for the video with Rick Ashley. Thanks for sharing!
Straight guy here. But this song still sends chills down my neck for bringing back memories of the UK in the 80's.
Me too. Even now it's not great. Some of my best friends are gay, yet still we have problems with it... Makes me so mad.
Same. I always get choked up when the dad gives him money. In his way, his dad showed love. I’m glad society is more understanding. People should not have to hurt like this.
Totally agree!
Absolutely same- straight but love the song. Sad because it’s pigeonholed as a gay anthem I tend to turn it up when I’m in the Car myself and I really shouldn’t I should be strong enough to think I’m straight and I don’t care it’s a great tune!
In the right sound system it’s immense....
Same here as a straight woman. It always brings a tear to my eye.
The 80s in the UK was amazing musically
My old dad’s name was Alfred. 💖💖💖
Turd Ferguson...Your OLD dad.?!?...You have a new dad?...HAHA, possibly! I'm just way too literal thinking sometimes. :-P
-Belue- Nah. I just call him that. If he was still alive he’d be 94 now. 👍🌸🌹
And they all seemed to have personality , which seems lacking nowadays in bands today.
Wyrd!!
One of the most melancholy, yet amazing songs every written. Doesn't matter if you're gay, bi, straight whatever, this song hits hard. A synth pop classic.
Memories come flooding back to me - I was an 80's girl - the MTV (when they actually played videos lol) . . we had some lame songs but this one is a standout !
The lead singer, Jimmy Somerville, co wrote this song and it reflected the challenges he faced when he was growing up and coming out as gay. Absolutely brilliant song.
This was basically an autobiographic song for Jimmy. He ran away from his small town in Scotland to London where he met the two other band members of Bronski Beat and got lucky enough to catch the attention of Elton John who helped to get them signed.
Jimmy went on to another band. A duo called the Communards which had several hits before finally going solo.
I recommend a song called "For A Friend" which Jimmy wrote in just a few hours after receiving a phone call that another friend of his had died from AIDS. It's stunningly beautiful.
"For a Friend" is such a great song, but so, so sad. It would be great to see a reaction to it.
Glasgow isn't a small town, from Ruchill he ran away aye that he did,I wasn't there to protect my kid bro, I joined the army at 16 .
@@johnsomerville8510 you must be so proud of his achievements. I saw the video with Jimmy where he sang with the busker, who was singing his song...
Had I been the busker, I would have fainted on the spot... Your brother is an amazing vocalist & writer..
Wishing you & your family all the very best...
@@johnsomerville8510 Your brother's story saved my life. You shouldn't feel bad. Stay strong.
@@johnsomerville8510 Cool that you popped up here!
Another great Scottish voice. He also went on to be in a band called The Communards. You'll love Don't Leave Me This Way.
Christ though, that's a great track. Every time I hear it I wonder if it is the only song recorded that has the male singing the higher register than the female. Might have to google that right now!
Omg don't leave me this way ,Communards off the chart .. Check it out Jay.
Definitely was a floor filler back in 1985,
@@jonnylumberjack6223 The original by Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes (and also by Thelma Houston too) was awesome
Billy MacKenzie, Carmel McCourt and Liz Fraser.
I believe I was 14 when the song came out. I already knew I was gay and I believe a lot of people suspected it as well. I was bullied and teased. I kept to myself as much as possible. My teen years basically played out pretty much like this song. When I was 17 I left that town and never went back. I'm 50 now and to this day it still brings back all those emotions. Thank you so much for reacting to this. You truly are a good man.
❤❤❤❤❤❤
Things were starting to change back then but it was early days. Songs like this and artists like Boy George really went a long way to speaking to kids of my generation who were becoming really aware of this stuff. I really dislike bullies and picking on anyone, for whatever reason, just feels so wrong to me. His voice is ethereally beautiful.
💕
Putting a voice behind righting a wrong on the age of consent.
Challenging discrimination pushed at gay men treating them as lesser than equal citizens.
I was 12 when it came out
i here you
Im 52, and i will never forget spinning a borowed vinil of this, and just crying my heart out. But afterrwards feeling the greatest sense of relief. Representation matters.
It was such a great song to dance to, cuz we could all relate! It meant a lot to us!
Spot on with your review. Although we all knew the song was about homophobia at the time, the song became an anthem for anyone who was being bullied, suffering domestic violence or just saw no way out of their situation in the 80s. For the 'working class' much of the 80's was no picnic, it was bloody bleak.
You handle the subject well dude ! Respect ✌️😁🇬🇧👍🙏
🤙
You're on point with the message. Sadly, this song hits home having been a street kid back in early 80's. The group of boys (13-14 yr olds) I ran with we're all gay and were forced out of their homes. Back then being gay wasn't accepted like it is today. I saw what my friends went through, from family and strangers alike.So glad you did this song. ❤️
that's shit pal, sorry you and your pals went through that. still happens today, sadly. baffles my brain.
@@jonnylumberjack6223 I appreciate that. My situation was entirely different from theirs. I am not gay but had no choice but to leave home at 14. Gay or not, we all were persecuted simply for being on the streets not knowing it wasn't due to any of our choices. It's sad to think it's still going on today and especially in these times with the virus, it hurts my heart to think what dinner may be going through 💔. Thanks again, Take care, stay safe!
Glad you came through, my friend. Well Done !
@@Isleofskye Thank you ✌️❤️
Sad to think that after almost 4 decades, so many people still go through the same struggles...
Yeah, but it's better now. Millenials catch a lot of flack for challenging traditional institutions, but this is a good example, I think, of an outdated ideology.
@@glenjohnson9128 The battle at least in western countries has been won, and rightly so. The problem is the regressive left act like gays in the US or the UK are still being discriminated against on a large scale. What is infinitely worse is the lack of support for gays in developing countries - especially the middle east. Because that would be islamaphobic, wouldn't it?
Sad to think that no matter how much better it gets, so many people insist on acting like they're persecuted even if they're not. Better gays fought the fight. Like the singer in this video. Let's give respect to the actual fighters, not all those spoiled late arrivals. If they want an actual fight, focus on where there is actual persecution of gays, like in most Islamic countries today.
@KomodoDragon BS.
@@zel3888 Here in Latvia it's still quite terrible. There was a small gathering of protestors when a new law was passed which didn't allow maternity leave for same sex parents. Most politicians and civilians do not acknowledge such families as real and say it's not natural.
Throughout my 24 year old life here in Latvia, I've seen only 1 gay couple expressing their love in public. They were visibly judged.
About 6 months ago a professor at a university got beaten up because he came out as gay.
The government and media does pretty much nothing to support LGBTQ+ community and parents keep raising their children telling such lifestyle is not acceptable.
At least it's not against the law and you can't get sentenced for living.
I got bullied a lot during my teenager years, until I finally fought back and put my bully into hospital. This was one of my very first songs probably, when I went to a gay club in Berlin in my 16. This is one of the songs I always cherish, cuz my coming out was struggling to my parents. I moved out when I was 19 to escape the abusive ex partner of my mum - so yeah the struggle is real. I am 40 now, and sill proud I came out so early - have it done and be proud.
hope you are happy where you are now, i do not understand parents who can turn their backs on their child that is already fighting for acceptance to be able to live their life as it should be my daughter has told us she is trans gender going into male, we have her back and love this child and cannot imagine her/him not in our lives, she is 30 and i wish she had told us sooner so she could begin her journey, but it is what it is, we know eaxctly that the struggle exactly, she has lost some freinds because of this but they couldnt have wanted what is best for her, i wish i had guessed sooner as all the signs were there, but i would much rather have a son than lose my child our love is unconditional for always and forever, hope you have an amazing life good luck xx
That 80s vibe is unmistakable! The primus of this video was really groundbreaking!
The album was called “Age of Consent “. The album cover featured a pink triangle on the front and on the back was a list of the age of consent for each country.
Pdf files
Hearing 80’s music depresses me. I miss the 80’s so much! 🥺
I love his high pitch.. 💃🏽 Great song too 💖
Me to Rita I also miss the 80s makes 😢
@@arniethomas8521 😢😢
This is one of the most heart breaking songs ever.
yes i like it too and i´m not gay .
As a kid i just thought it was a guy who really liked swimming in speedos... And his parents were embarrassed and didn't understand! So he ran away to a nude beach. Problem solved!
I was a kid in the 70s and a teenager in the 80s, I grew up with this music and the tail end of rampant mainstream homophobia, I am straight but music helped shape understanding, my own personal philosophy is that as long as your preferred partner is adult and consenting, I don't care what floats your boat, that's your concern and literally none of my business, love is love.
Great reaction. Funnily enough, he has a really deep speaking voice so his falsetto is something of a surprise. A true 80s anthem.
Actually it's not falsetto, he's reaching those notes.
He said in an interview it isn't a falsetto he is countertenor.
Such a moving song....... And a moving reaction Jovaughn...... Don't know what you intend to do in the future but you would be a great role model for kids....You have such a big heart❤️ and a deep understanding of life for a young man. ❤️
I actually used to be in highschool I was apart of this scholars program and we had to mentor Troubled middle school kids that we were assigned. I didn’t realize I made an impact until one day when I was working a little boy came up to me and thanked me saying I was his mentor. I had honestly forgotten
JayveeTV 💕 Not surprised!
@@JayveeTV what a great story. Kindness , compassion and a good heart are qualities you have , they are what counts in life and to help other people, sometimes by not even knowing speaks volumes, you're a star 🌟✨.
Jimmy Somerville has such an incredible voice, he's a countertenor 😍😍 one of my favorite songs ever is Here I Am from him, love him so much.
Do you know Billy MacKenzie?
Sadly, Billy died quite a few years ago.
I was 9 when I first heard this and broke my heart, I cry every time I hear it. It's so heart wrenching to know parent's "love" for their children is limited and conditional.
Thank you for spreading love and respect in your channel.
i was 6
Damn, Jay. You got it right away. I've seen some reviewers say "what does that mean?" Totally missing the point. It's a heartbreaking song. I'm a straight guy who has had gay friends over the years. I was a teen in the 80's in a "small town". So guess what. I lost gay friends due to Aids. This isn't meant to be some kind of virtue signaling, but I was so proud that they felt comfortable enough around me to share that they were gay, and that their secret was safe with me if that's how they wanted it. So, I guess I empathized with the pain and fear they felt, when they should have enjoyed love and acceptance. Well, they got it from me. they were my friends . Why should it matter? I guess things are better now, but still. Anyway, this song makes me cry.
@guido I agree with your sentiment. First and formost we are all human beings, regardless of ones skin tone, ethnicity, socio-economic past, religion or sexual preferances. I live in Israel, we have Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, Bedouine, Cirgezi and Armenians. Straight, gay, pale skinned Europeans, dark suntanned, Indian, Yemini and Ethiopian. Ultra religious, traditional practicing and ethiests. Everyone has their place, all have a right to search for happieness.
Bronski Beat became The Communards not long after - Jimmy with musical partner Richard Coles. Richard is now a well known broadcaster as well as a vicar in the UK. Check out their stuff, man.
You are my World is great - fantastic piano work by Richard Cole and Jimmy Somervilles voice soaring straight to heaven. Also Dont leave me this way - guaranteed to get you moving.
Wow! You don't say. God Bless.
"I Feel Love" and "Why?" both by Bronski Beat.
"Disenchanted" by The Communards.
Tomorrow
My mom kicked me out of the house for being a lesbian in 1987. Bronski Beat was one of my favorite albums. It really spoke to me, inspired me. Thank you for you non-judgmental, thoughtful review. You get it! 🙏🏼❤️✝️🏳️🌈
How are your cats doing?
And rightly so
I love this song! Still listening now but had to say, please do “Why?” by them also! My favorite + a major dance club hit from this era!
You are one of the few i've ever known to hit it spot-on, first listen. Good on ya!
I saw Bronski Beat live in 1984. What a voice!
Please listen to 'dont leave me this way' he sings as lead singer as The Communards!
💯% very good song also
Dont leave me this way... amazing
Sorry i hate communistts
That was my favorite song for the longest time.
@@ferriscemila8912 "Communards doesn't mean communists
This helped so many gays leave their hateful environment and start their lives, I was one of them. Gay Icon
I love Bronski Beat!...
This song is sooo catchy and really shows off those New Wave synths and the message of the song as well is pretty darn relevant to the subject at hand. 👍...I remember this song from back in the day and the MTV MV days...Memories! 😎😍😎...I want to jam out sooo much in an 80's nightclub to this song right now, but also the subject matter...the song hits home in a number of ways personally...But I miss going out dancing and we all know why, so! :-P
One of my faves by The Communards is So Cold The Night. Love Jimmy Somerville. He still sounds amazing.
Jimmy was part of this group until 1985. This song is self-referential. Later he founded The Communards, and it also had his hits. Then he had a solo career and one of the songs that stands out is To love somebody.
Aw, wee Jimmy. So much love for this guy, this band, this tune! Scotland punches well above her weight in musical talent. Couldn't be prouder :)
@Jonny Lumberjack Scotland is the powerhouse of the UK in every way ✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿
Hi from the UK, such great music in the 80s and Jimmy Sommerville was a big part of that , 😥😥😊😊😊 .
I love how you get the message of the song. I never did when I first heard it and not for many years after that as far as I remember. Might be because English is not my native language, but I just love it when you completely understood it was about being gay, bullied and misunderstood and feeling there’s no other way out than to run away.
Watch him singing it live more recently. He is still amazing now. Fantastic voice. Very emotive video.
Yes, that version is wonderful.
Biba Kroll absolutely!
You're right about the beat making you miss the lyrics. I feel that as a teenager I never really appreciated the lyrics, that's what I love about you I'm seeing music in another light.
Try "i Feel Love" with Bronski Beat and Marc Almond.
The album version without Marc and using a male voice choir for backing vocals is much better IMO. No offense intended to Marc who'a great singer.
For me thats your best reaction ive seen and i think ive nearly seen all your vids. You wasnt stuck for words and you handled the subject matter really well. from your neutral stand point. and very sincere and understanding you were. its made me admire you more hearing your reaction to this vid. I love when you react to english bands also.
This song from 1984 was real heavy. Great reaction x
I remember when this came out. His voice was so unique. Being young at the time I didn't really pick up on the gay subtext but I did pick up on the worries and emotions
Oh how I love Bronski Beat!! Yeppyepp!! Right on!!
💃💃💃💃💃💃❤❤💃💃🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶💃💃💃💃
Hit that perfect beat boy!
Hey J,
I'm a new fan over the pond in Scotland and just wanted to say I love your takes. Such a great dude with a good heart. You're parents have did a fantastic job bringing you up.
Always loved this song. Jimmy has a superb voice, gives me chills.
I thought the comments you made were really understanding glad you loved the track this song for me is the true sound tracks to the 80s
"I'm leaving tomorrow" - another song where a happy sound is wrapped around serious lyrics. BB / Communards / Jimmy, solo. So many great songs. I love him/them.
More 80s UK bands ... Style Council, ABC, Thompson Twins, Paul Young, Dexy Midnight Runners, Roxy Music, Pet Shop Boys, Bonnie Tyler, Fine Young Cannibals
Style Council - Walls Come Tumbling Down. What a TUNE! Love Dexy's and Roxy too - would love to see what Jay made of Brian Ferry for sure.
@@jonnylumberjack6223 Style Council..Long Hot Summer....or ... My Ever Changing Mood.....
Definitely not enough Roxy Music reactions.. IMO Bryan's "Jealous Guy" surpasses the original
Yes to all of these great suggestions.
Roxy Music had been around since the early 70s. They pioneered this kind of sound.
There's a video of him joining a street musician signing this sound, his voice was exactly the same. Love wee Jimmy
Nice reaction as always man... you're just so genuine, i like the fact that you enjoy every type of music. I know i already suggested, but i recommend a band called Muse. The best song to start with are Knights of Cydonia, Uprising, Reapers...keep up the great work, cheers from an italian sub ;)
My favourite song of the eighties, he has such a voice
I'm so glad I'm seeing people appreciating bronski beat and Jimmy .
Mee too
One of the most honest nicest guys you could wish to meet 80s icon.
UK songstress Corrine Bailey Rae....Put Your Records On ....or anything else by her. She is soooooo beautiful with a voice to match....please don't miss out on her
Alfred Miller - I love her!
she's wonderful
Yes an awesome woman with a fabulous voice
Paris nights is one of the best.
Well remembered. From younger days, when the summer’s lasted forever and the music was decent.
I literally bumped into Jimmy, the lead singer in a gay bar ( the Village soho) in London years ago. He was so sweet, polite and humble. He had deep Scottish accent which contrasts with his high alto voice. Just lovely ❤️
Wow! Thank you for introducing us to this song! That was so powerful!
Look up Jimmy sommerville. He still sings this with his unmistakable falsetto. He also fronted communards and erasure is another band in the genre
The British are always leading when it comes to club music they're unbeatable they're always on the sword's edge. Sounds like this is what mature 1960s looks like. 1980s were my heaviest influence I was born in the mid-70s
I've been a fan of Jimmy Somerville's for many years. You should listen to his covers of 'Don't Leave Me This Way' and 'Never Can Say Goodbye'.
Your choice of British tunes from the 80's is superb. Most your age would find this stuff cheesy now, but you know...a tune is a tune. Forever.
Love how you’re doing British music, also a song that is huge within the lgbt community
Jimmie has the most soulful incredible voice! I met him and he is down to earth, lovely man! This means so much to me because when I was 19 I was attacked and the fallout of that damaged me. He was supposed to be a friend and I blamed myself for years.I remember having this playing on my walkman , on a bus, in the dark of night travelling to the ferry , the chorus in my head, confused, crying inside! This helped so much. Big thank you to Jimmie and the boys for getting me through and to all souls who suffered at the hands of others! xx
Haven't seen this video for a very long time. This song was like a revelation for me, in my youth in Germany in the mid 1980ies. I love it.
In 1984 I was a DJ at a cool club and only 18 years young, our music was energizing and up beat, there was no judgment of any others everyone was allowed personal expression with hair and cloths and clubbing was king. 1980 - 1990 were cool to witness and lots of love and minimal garbage of hatred like today.
Marc Almond and Bronski beat "i feel love " is good
Personally I much prefer the album version which is very different and doesn't have Marc. Instead Jimmy is backed by a male voice choir. It's fantastic.
ua-cam.com/video/QGstAJ1hiz0/v-deo.html
Probably one of the most pointless cover versions, ever, in my honest opinion. The original Donna Summer (Giorgio Moroder) version is probably one of the most influential pop records ever recorded.
@@MisAnnThorpe Donna Summers original is fantastic, but Bronski Beat's album version (NOT the Marc Almond one) is very different and brilliant in it's own way. Have you heard it ? If not here's a link if you're interested:
ua-cam.com/video/QGstAJ1hiz0/v-deo.html
@@speleokeir Thank you. I'll be sure to give you my honest opinion!
@@speleokeir I had the 12" version. Pretty sure there were 3 versions on it but can't remember which I thought was best.
His voice conveys the suffering so many still feel today! We will be free, as humanity, when everyone single person is able to fulfill their essence.
Man you have all these crazy bands tonight! All ‘first wave’ hits. Nice!
oh wow, didn't know you reacted to it. Such a milestone, such an important song and video for so many people. Timeless.
You can hear his pain. The video got real! Much more real than videos nowadays. It's basicly telling so many peoples every day life story.
I was a teen when this came out, one of my fave artists from back in the day. The lyrics to this song sadly summed up what a lot of young and older gay people faced on a daily basis. The stigma was unbelievable.
If you want to watch a series on what it was like in the 1980s and early 90's watch It's A Sin. I am not sure if it's available in the states yet.
I saw them perform live in london in 1983, they were awesome! Jimmy summerville is an amazing singer and i love how you got the angst in that song..
One of my all time favorite songs. I loved the dichotomy of an upbeat song having such heavy lyrics. I'm not gay, but I did understand that many people were. Now I was a teen until 87 and the 80's were truly my decade. I have four children. My youngest is the only girl. However it's my youngest boy that is gay. He officially came out his senior year of high school. When he told me, I knew. I said that by him coming out, nothing has changed. He's still my youngest boy. I love him the same as I did the day before. But I told him that the sad thing is that only gay people need to announce, you know, that their gay. I told him a straight person doesn't have the same burden.
The gay community will never be on equal footing until they no longer have to come out. Not until all the straight people are the ones standing up to the wrongs bestowed on the gays. It's not the gay voice that needs to be heard. It's the straight voice calling out. The oppressor needs to stand up and say enough. The gays know that it's enough. It's been enough for centuries. It takes the majority to free the minority. Let that be now. Not soon. Now.
Rest in Paradise Steve Bronski, 12.9.21. @ 61.
Amazing talent. 🙏❤🌌
Wow... listening to you stop and talk about your appreciation of the lyrics got me quite emotional. This was such an important song for so may of us to hear as teenagers when it came out. It was the very beginning of not having to accept a role of victimhood for being gay. Bronski Beat were one of the very first groups to be an openly gay, mainstream band and this was their first song and how they announced that to the world. Hearing this song at high school dances and having friends and bullies alike dance to it was life changing and signaled that my life as a young gay man would be different than that of the Bronski Beat guys before me.
His voice is stunning. Here is an acoustic version he does years later which let's you hear the words and his voice better. His voice is a little gruffer but still s spine-chilling falsetto.
ua-cam.com/video/CNhLOfUPHa8/v-deo.html
Thank you for doing this one and introducing others to it.
Thank you for reacting to this! It speaks to so much for so many. Excellent choice, thank you again!
We're so cruel to eachother... to the point that we're killing eachother. Why? Do we ever learn, do we ever grasp the concept of empathy. It's so simple and basic...
Cheers!
This is a very soulful song and anyone who grew up in a troubled home will resonate with it. Such desperation. It was played on the "alternative" station where I grew up in NY. I was a young straight girl in Catholic school and felt very alone in many ways, and songs like this helped me understand I wasn't "abnormal" or a "freak," BUT found being considered either often leads to you becoming an interesting and compassionate member of society, far more than the people who abused or made fun of you. Thank you, J, for featuring this song.
If you got into the eighties music already, I recommend "Twist In My Sobriety" from Tanita Tikaram, I loved that song so much(still like it), she has a very unique voice and lyrics too. Her first album, Ancient Heart was a good one.
You are one of the two reactors I watch. I really enjoy hearing your insights into the songs, you're a bright guy!
Another great artist from Scotland 💖 🏴
You should watch the video with the busker singing this and Jimmy happens to be walking by and joins in
I love your reaction! I came across your channel and you were reacting to Kate Bush - my favorite female artist. You have so much passion and I love watching your reaction with each song. Thank you!
Great song. At this time, many lgbt+ bands used this kind of song with eletronic music, which emulated joy but accualy talking about struggles of life. ❤️
Soul music if I ever heard it. Great stuff!
Other songs of theirs i love is Tell Me Why & Don't Leave Me This Way, great songs, Jimmy Somerville great vocals.
Such a deep song, yet so upbeat in the melody as you say. Love this song xx
Great reaction to an anthem of the 80's and I may say timeless problem even today, great vocals by the one and only Jimmy Somerville, ❤️
I cried the first time I heard Jimmy Somerville sing this song. I am not gay I’m just an ordinary old woman who loves this song and loved everything about Bronski Beat. I still have their first album. And I still have a phonograph, so I can play it.
Love this song.
Always try to sing along & fail miserably 😆😆
Im 45 and I remember when this jewel come out..amazing song👍❤
Loved Jimmy Sommervile and the comunards, Dont leave me this way was a school disco memory
Thank you for sharing this and your reaction is so perfect and heartfelt ❤️
Ya it's a great dance tune!
It’s a classic BUT can bring a tear to the eye. When this track was in the charts dating back to May, June, July 1984 I was 16 years old. Back then I didn’t have an easy home life though not all bad. At the same time I was attending school where my face didn’t fit, had nasty roomers spread about me. Indeed I ran away slept rough especially when I was back in care when I was 17 years old I was badly bullied as I’m different as I’ve got mild autism aspergers. Yes a good song but yes makes me think of my own situation then.
Your comments and reactions are truly appreciated by this fabulous fifty year old. Me!
Jimmy is a stupendous vocalist and kind man. You sir, are all everything a decent man should be. Thank you 🙏 🏳️🌈 #La!
Thank you for this beautiful reaction of this beautiful song. Love your personality and opinion!
Wow been a while since I heard this. They also did Why. And I feel love . He has such a good voice great reaction Jay. 😀😀💖💕💖
Thanks for all your reactions Jayvee. I was a young teen when this song came out. Probably the first song that ever dealt with homophobia
The Killing Of Georgie, Pt 1 and 2 by Rod Stewart in 1976 was probably the first hit to deal with homophobia
Brilliant song with a strong message. Essential 80s sound
I love your channel... keeping us gen xers happy 😆