Hi Jamel..... Loving your reactions they are the best I've found!! I have just one thing to say though.... For crying out loud react to for crying out loud!! 😁😁 Meatloaf- For crying out loud..... PLEASE!!!!!
Hey Jamel, here's a one hit wonder for you of the same era. 'Angel of the Morning" by Merilee Rush. If you listen to it, you'll stop and say "Wait just a damn minute, what the hell is this?! Is this what I think it is?!" Yes, it is.
I was waiting for you to cover this song. From a 6'4" 200lbs white male with blonde hair and blue green eyes who has been happily married to a beautiful black woman for over 19 years. And today we still get looks, some bad and some good. The ones who smile approvingly act like seeing us together makes them think there is still hope for this divided world.
I am in the same relationship as well. I see virtuous self righteous smiles, not of approval, but self serving automatic don't know how to act smiles... I prefer to be ignored actually.
@@karenpitts710 We have come a long long way. The issue now is the division caused by Corporate interjection, sports exploitation, media manipulation and entertainment industry exploitation. The whole thing has gone for profit. It is the same problem cleverly disguised as Al Sharpton.
Such a deep statement. Same holds true for gay love. Whose business is it who you love and whatever religious or other beliefs you might have are irrelevant and ignorant if you condemn.
Also know that The Smothers Brothers show was constantly fighting pressure from CBS to tone down its political humor and not feature controversial performances.
Their show was taken off the air because the brothers refused to stop criticizing the Vietnam war on the show. The network was pretty naive in some ways and did let lots of other things on the show that were outrageous for the time. For instance, one very popular segment on the show was called “Tea Time With Goldie” and Goldie was a hippie chick who was very open about using drugs, although the writers cleverly got around the older and naive censors. In one episode Goldie said lots of people had sent her their “roaches” and she really enjoyed that. The network assumed she meant cockroaches because they weren’t cool enough to know that a “roach” was hippie slang for what was left of a mostly smoked joint.
She took heat for this song.They wouldn't play it on the radio,she got death threats.She was 15 years old in this video. I remember all the controversy from this.Such talent she is.
@@diceportz7107 It was played after Lenard Bernstein played it and gave praise to Janis. It was not played before and she had so much backlash on it.Leonard Bernstein saved it and her
It was a hit right away in New York and several cities, but not nationally until Leonard Bernstein featured her on his special about popular music and accused the radio stations of cowardice for not playing it.
I'm white, and 77 years old and "back then" was yesterday to me. In college I dated a beautiful lady named Naoye Yamamoto - half Japanese and half Swedish. My father offered to buy me a car if I would stop dating her. I could have used the car, but I married her instead. Dad came around eventually when our son was born - 5 years later. Life wasn't easy in those days.
This song was banned by many radio stations, not because of jealousy but because of the message. Despite that, it still got to #14 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.
That brave girl should go down in history! She was spat on and booed from people, crowds from all over she stuck with it. The hit went on to the number 14 on the national charts. She paved the way for groups that were once looked down upon by Society.😢👏🏻
As a closeted gay teen in the 60’s, this for me was also about “the love that dare not speak it’s name”, and I heard a dual meaning in the lyrics. The battle for acceptance can take on many colors.
The great pianist, composer, conductor Leonard Bernstein once had a musical appreciation show on tv and he had Janis on to sing this song. He was really excited to tell us about how great the lyrics were especially meaningful from one so young but also for how advanced her writing of the music was.
@@nuwavedave Thank you very much for the link. I have found the video before and that is why I mentioned it here. It is so great you provided the link for so many more of us to enjoy.
This song had such an impact on me. She was brave to record it---some places in the South didn't want to seat her in restaurants. She was excoriated by a lot of people. The Smothers Brothers were well-known for having musicians on their show who were controversial.
i remember their movie montage of In A Godda Da Vida-that were scenes of carnage s of war here in the U.S.and Viet Nam---they were taken off cause it was OUR Conscience just bein true and Honest and the establishment had to follow Richoff Nixoler LONG LIVE THE KINGS of the A M E R I C A N protest movement M X MLK C.C.
This wasn't a song to me, it was my life. At 16 I sang it in an all-black church although I was white. It wasn't just a difficult time, it was dangerous. Those who weren't there have no idea.
I introduced my granddaughter to this song when she was a teen. She put it on her playlist. And played it when she was on the hospital. She said that all the older nurses were crying and singing this song. It has such an impact on everyone who's heard it. I cant believe that she wrote this at such a young age.
Janice Ian has been known to show up and comment on her own behalf on you tube channels like this... Don't be surprised if she doesn't magically appear out of nowhere to say thank you to everyone. I have seen her comment before out of the blue... That would be an honor.
She wrote this song at an insanely young age, something like 15. The classical music conductor, Leonard Bernstein, loved this song and invited Janis to sing it on one of his videos available on youtube.
This one used a technique in the '60s where the singers sang live, but also backed up by the record. You definitely hear Janis' live voice here, but you can also hear her from the record at a lower level behind her, and the instruments are from the record.
To Deirdre and Rose, Spencer Tracy's monologue at the end of the movie is classic. I recently watched a youtube video containing just that monologue, which is several minutes long...very rich and emotional.
Jamel, thank you for playing this. I reconnected with a high school person. He was a great basketball star. He was black, I am white. When our friendship turned more his sister was like oh that white girl. Friendship turned to love, sadly he had moved to another state so we had phone convos all the time. With covid I couldn't go see him, which we planned. A week before my birthday he was killed by a hit and run driver.Still grieving 8 months later. I have to tell you, I watch you cause you remind me of how we used to talk about music. We even would listen to you and react to your reactions. God bless you for helping me thru a hard time and for keeping good music alive.
I am so happy to see younger people of today listening to songs such as this from 50+ years ago. While we all agree we have a long way to go, so few younger people appreciate how far things have come. This song is a wonderful measuring stick.
I was 12 in Atlanta, Georgia when this song was released. I could only hear it on the college stations. Thank you for your reactions to this beautiful song and giving us all food for thought! Thank you for the love and keep on keeping on!👍
I was 12 also, but in Detroit, Michigan when this song was released. It was very popular and was considered a breakthrough because it so openly stated the prevalence of racial bigotry. Her song said it exactly the way it was.
Janis Ian talked about how the girl made the decision to end the relationship, that she wasn't ready to fight society yet, even though she knew it was wrong. So she wasn't a hero, she felt. I am going to let Janis know you are reacting to her song. She has enjoyed the reactions in the past. So glad you came back to this song so quickly. Thank you!
I think that last verse elevated the song to an even higher level than it would have achieved by simply protesting. It illuminated not only the injustice of the attitudes but also the power of the status quo.
She was a hero to me and many others, by putting this song out into the world! It touched a Truth deep inside of me then. I was 11 years old when I heard it ~ it was food for my soul! Thank Janis for me ~ XOXO
Great Reaction Jamel! I remember when this song came out and the controversy it caused. I was only 13, as a white kid, and just trying to figure out life. And it dawned on me that most of the adults I knew felt this way, but even at 13 I felt it was wrong. That the majority of the mentors in my life, whom I admired and respected, were somehow wrong. This song made a tremendous impact on my life and put everything into a different perspective. I realized that people are people, and that I should just look at each person for the kind of person they were, not what they look like. I truly believe things are much better now, although it's not perfect. It was horrible back then, and scary to a 13 year old back. But unlike my father and other adults at the time, I raised my 2 boys to appreciate the person for who they are. Several years one of my boys found and married the perfect girl for him, and she happened to be black. They are absolutely great together together and am so happy for them! They are both college professors. I know to this day she hears racial comments on occasion, and it hurts, but both of them handle it together. They love each other, and that's all that matters. Sorry for the long post but this song brings back so many memories. I couldn't believe back then that a young girl could write such a song. And I am still in awe! An underappreciated and amazing song. Thank you Janis Ian!! And thank you Jamel.
You took the words right out of my mouth Rick. I was 14 when this song came out. Up until I was about 12/13 I wasn't really aware that my Asian, Black and east Indian friends were any "different" than me, then confusion came when I was told "They can be your friends, but you shouldn't marry one". Omg....I still shake my head when I think of that. Hearing this song helped me open my eyes even more to prejudice and become defiant towards society's "norms" at that time. Thank you for reacting to this amazing song Jamel!
you and me both Rick. back in grade school and jr high, i was surrounded by racist and bigots and i just thought that was the way i was supposed to think. it's so easy to just go with the flow. but slowly as i matured i realized that what didn't feel right back then just was so wrong. i was raised around all white people, but when i got into the working world i realized how terribly wrong it was to be prejudiced, and i just started acting correctly and doing the right thing.it costed friends and relationships, but i had to be true to myself. peace brother.
Don't mind the long post your story is excellent and why should it not be ? Fact is building bridges is a perfectly good and moral way 2 bring people 2gether ? There's no satisfaction 4 any fool 2 blow them up ! Very well said ATB from England 🤚🤚✊️✌️👍
After all these years, I still cannot listen to this song without totally breaking down, and the quality of her voice literally gives me goosebumps. This rips a hole into my heart!!
Thank you Sir. You are not just entertaining us, because this song's important message hasn't traveled far enough yet. I have been trying to explain to my daughter and her husband (29 & 32) just how important the music of my day was in shaping my worldview. The difference you keep trying to describe in the music of this era, is exactly this kind of worldview. Even network TV had the message. The message is "we are all here; with value, with feelings, with hope."
She wrote that song at the age of 14. Also, Bill Cosby attempted to blacklist her from Television because he thought she was a lesbian. She was also the very first musical guest on Saturday Night Live. All this according to her Wikipedia page.
Turns out she is. She came out and is now married to a woman, after having been married to an abusive man for several years. Amazing talent.❤ I'm glad she's still around.
I'd say she got the lucky end of that deal! She's still going strong apparently. Being in my late 50's & music nut since 10 years old, there are almost no songs Jamal reacts to that I don't know. But this one, I've never heard this song before. What a wise girl she was, at that age! I knew At 17, but somehow this song has escape me all these years. Thanks for all you do Jamal, you are also wise beyond your years!
I understand completely.my parents are interracial and were married when it was still illegal for them to do so and I always admired them for that. Sometimes we would get looks but it didn't matter. You have the right to love who you want to love. ✌️
I just read that Janis was 13 when she started writing this and finished it at 14. Getting to the heart of an issue like this would be difficult at any age, but tackling it at 13-14 and capturing it in a a short song is a brilliant accomplishment.
Yes, such talent and so young. I remember this on the radio when I was 10 and I loved the tune. That's what draws me to a song first is the tune and melody and musicality and the way the voice sounds with the music. This is a great song. It reminds me of what happened to Richie Valens. He had to stop seeing his girlfriend, Donna, cause her father didn't want her to go out with a Mexican. So while he was on the road at 17 years old, he wrote the song "Oh Donna" for her and sang it to her over the payphone in a phone booth. That really happened and they put that into the movie La Bamba. It happened to me too.
@@C.M.30337 Yes, what a great film. I wish so much Little Richie Valens had lived a long life. He had such talent. And Buddy Holly will always hold a very special place in my heart. Their music has endured all these decades. I was a little kid when they died. The music of those days was the best! And don't forget the Everly Brothers.
@@C.M.30337 People really need to get over racism. It's caused untold grief and hurt forever, and the H of it is that it is learned, not something we're born with.
Janis Ian is a very brave person. She addressed this topic thoughtfully and ended it the only way a fifteen year old girl in 1966 could. At that time she lived in a predominantly African American neighborhood and school were there very few whites. She saw this issue from both sides. I have loved this song from this first time I heard it.
I was 13 when this came out. All the parents (both races) hated it. We loved that anyone had to guts to call out BS. Plus it’s just a beautiful melody and voice.
I was 12 when this song was released. It made cry then and still does every time I hear it. I have most of her albums and everyone of them are gems. I love you Janis Ian!
I was young when this came out. Living under your parent's roof, well, they make the rules. Fortunately, my parents, while white, taught us to always accept/greet people on an individual basis. This song still chokes me up. I most certainly hope that we can reconcile ourselves as a nation and stop coddling white supremacists, it's dangerous .
I am not sure whom they are. Do you have any names? Some inspirational history lessons, would be about Governor Galvez, during the Revolutionary war. I hope his History is all there still, for you to read. Galveston LA and Texas, are named for him . I do know this . In my ninth grade class which goes all the way back to 1970, I can still remember my friends Ronny and Gina-black and white, dating. It was more a norm, than today’s youth has been taught. Our real so-called race war is being cashed in on by very unethical people. Checkout ABL on utube. There are others also that will help you in researching in this situation we have been placed in today.
@@buckjohnson1119 Thank you for the info. Today's climate is quite horrifying. I hope that due to the lack of hiding within white supremist groups, we can begin to weed them out. Our country may have a history full of flaws yet it's never too late to become better. We must be better. I'm so tired of being sad and mad at our injustices.
@@christinawoolley6206 Your welcome. I think you will like Anthony. It is a sad world than we were once used to. I hope it gets better also. There are Black supremists, also, It’s a very complicated time, and we could use MLK to (His famous “I have a Dream,” which had become reality, after we lost him) teach those that have worked to hide all his, history. They are not white, and they have an agenda.
@@buckjohnson1119 I concur, there is danger to extreme ideologies, regardless of origin, left or right. Hopefully, those in the middle, leaning in either direction, can and will create necessary changes.
I picked up a The Best of Janis Ian cassette tape back in the 90s and I remember quite enjoying it, and this song was the first track in side A. And then I lost the tape. So thank you Jamel for reacting to this and reminding me of this amazing song that I haven't listened to in about 15 years.
I was so young when this song came out and it made me so sad and angry. I understood. I was 15. There is still so much hate in this world. It still makes me sad.
Thanks for covering this song. It was banned from AM in the south (yep ,I'm that old) shortly after it came out, but the great thing was the Smothers Brothers who gave voice to a lot of 'alternative' artists during the short reign of their show. They were bounced off TV because of their 'liberal anti war and equality' beliefs. And they wore that like a badge of honor.
As a woman who was raised by a racist dad and whose last words to her, as she left home to live in the big city, were "Don't you be bringing any n babies home", this song has always cut deep. I am proud to say that he had changed by the time he died in 2016. My sister had his first grandson, a little brown baby, and no one had better say shit about his grandson. Now, he would still start in with his "jokes" and we all would stop him as soon as the racist thing came out of his mouth. But, one day, while he and my mother were visiting at the donut shop I managed, he got to spend several hours talking to men of color who worked at the local auto factories. My mind was blown when, as we were headed to my place, he said, "Ya know, those colored fellas aren't so bad. They're just trying to make a living and take care of their families like me." I was speechless and I cried. Was it perfect? Hell no. But, it was a step- one huge step. He never had a more proud moment than when my nephew, an enlisted Marine, surprised him coming home after his first tour of duty in Afghanistan, and presented his grandpa with a flag that he had flown over the Pentagon for him. I had only ever seen my dad cry when his mom died but he cried that day, to see his grandson in uniform and alive, right there in front of him. The flag was the cherry on top. People can change!
I was a white High School teenager in a rural town not too far out from Los Angeles. This song was on the radio all the time. We were post WW2 children, and Viet Nam was full on...it was the time of questioning everything: other songs like "The Times They Are a-Changin'" (Bob Dylan) were very popular. "Societies Child" was big, and impacted everyone. I gotta hand it to my mixed race High School, we had excellent discussions about EVERYTHING. I remember when our English teacher asked the question in our mixed race class "is there racism in our community?" I was shocked and hurt to hear from my black friend Freddy Mae that there was ...how Realtors would keep black people from buying in town, and that Sunny Acres was not the ONLY place where black people wanted to live! I didn't know.I was in grade 9. Now I could not "un-know it" So grateful. Another positive result of this great classroom conversation is that Freddy Mae's big brother, a Viet Nam Vet home fresh from the war, was invited to come and speak to us kids. HOW impressed we were with Johnny in his uniform. An instant hero who told the truth. Truth was searched for, craved for, in those days, from the Baby Boomers. Smothers Brothers was part of all that, lets get real, people movement. "Hippies" began showing out their "Make Love Not War" and acceptance of mixed race society with other songs like "C'mon People Smile on Your Brother, We Gotta Love One Another Right Now" were very popular. Thanks J/J for your TEACH PEACE mission. Bless you, Bless you.
As Leonard Cohen once said “love’s the only engine of survival”. Love is, like the musical and theatre arts something that unfolds thru the passage of time. My parents grew, because of their opened hearts (often thru pain) to accept my black man- a Virginia farm boy, being with me, a white farm boy from Nebraska. When confronted with honest communication, and with time, prejudices can be disabled, disassembled, with love.
I read in the mega record producer's autobiography that Jerry Wexler of Atlantic Records paid for the recording session but passed the rights and credits on to Verve/Forecast label because of its controversy and in hindsight regretted having made that decision. In Janis Ian's autobiography she tells of the frustration she was having to suffer because all of the musicians were professional and because of her youth and inability to read music they were so dismissive of her that at one point she began to cry. I can't remember which musician felt sorry for her and finally spoke up by saying, "Look. Let's get it together because she has something important to say," and they finally produced this classic and historic piece of American music.
I went to Canada way back in 1972 and was shocked to see so many mixed race couples....everywhere. It was a true wake up call......I was only 12. (This song still breaks my heart).
Leonard Bernstein (famous for being a classical music star, but also the composer of most of the music for "West Side Story") had a television special about modern music, and he featured this song, primarily for the music - I know, I know, almost everyone just thinks about the words, but go back and listen to the music. What Ian did that was so remarkable for so-called "popular" music was have a change of key in the middle of each verse. Also, that closing riff is fantastic!
Young greatness is a great description. I can see them being threatened by someone so young and talented challenging the status quo. I've never heard of her, wasn't what I listened to growing up, but that's what great about react channels. Amazing voice
God I love this song,,"why don't you stick to your own kind" this was common to hear back then. It was the times but it was so closed minded and ignorant
Speaking as a sixtysomething white guy who was engaged to a beautiful black woman back in the '90s (who sadly died much too young), I am so glad you did a reaction to this song. When I saw the other day that you'd done Janis Ian's "At Seventeen" from 1975, I almost posted the suggestion that you check out this song from 1967. "Society's Child" was released the same year as the Supreme Court's landmark ruling in the "Loving v. Virginia" case, which made interracial marriage legal in the US. There's another song from this era that tackles this subject that I think you'd enjoy, and that would make you the first reactor to do a reaction to it. Bill Medley (the tall, deep-voiced Righteous Brother) released a song solo called "Brown Eyed Woman" in 1968. There's an excellent video of him performing it on the Playboy Channel with The Blossoms. Definitely worth a look. ua-cam.com/video/oJ1VwfedfAY/v-deo.html
Ohhh thank you, you did do a reaction to this song. I grew up in the 60's and 70's, I remember when they were integrating black kids into public schools, we kids didn't have a problem, we were just happy to have more kids to play with at school, but, these poor kids went through hell and back just to get an education it was the adults that had the problem. Inter-racial couples really had it hard. My 3 younger brothers and I were raised by our grandparents on our reservation. We were taught not to look at the color of someone's skin, we all bleed red, treat everyone the same, get to know the person inside and that's what we did and still do. My best friend is like a sister to me, I'm Native American and she's black, she spent so many summers with us on the reservation, we've known each other since kindergarten, we'll be 65 this year, so our friendship and sisterhood has lasted 60 years.
This was a huge hit and all over the radio at the time. There may have been some stations in some places that did NOT play it. But, in Western Pa., where I grew up, it was huge. Same for New York, Cleveland, Chicago, Detroit, and all of the AM Top 40 stations that were receiveable after dark. Back then, a song didn't make the top 40, this one charted at #14 nationally, without a lot of airplay. Even then, at age 14, I knew, perfectly well, what the song was trying to say.
I’m nearly 67 and still wondering if the day will ever come when the only thing that matters is what sort of person you are inside. As a youngster growing up in the 60s I had the hope this was going to happen but now I really wonder if humanity is actually capable of living without prejudice. I hope I’m wrong. Listening to people like you Jamal does give me hope
Mad respect and thanks to you, Jamel, for choosing this performance to react to, and taking the time and care to speak your feelings. And to Janis Ian, who was 16? I think? in 1967. And to the Smothers Brothers who were one of the very few to put this and other similar stuff on TV at the time.
She was surely wise for her years. Not heard this before but the wisdom pours out. The heart follows its own lath, not much you can do about it. Nice job Jamel
This is another one of Janis's that brings a tear to the eye. No only did Janis take a lot of flack for this song, so did the Smothers Brothers for having her on, as did just about every one else who had her on their show performing it. 😭 Another song of Janis's that deals with the inequities of society is The Great Divide.
I am white, had a black boyfriend in high school. He and I are still close, still talk several times a week. But back then, it wasn't easy. My mom was great, my father was a racist and he abused me every way he could think of. I had to run away to see my man, and I did, many times. Other kids at school looked at us like we were circus freaks, to stare at and make fun of. Other kids, white boys mostly, called us both horrible names. As if it were any of their business. It was 50 years and more ago, and in some ways, some people just have hate inside them, still.
Thanks for doing this song. I came across your reaction of Janis Ian's "At Seventeen" and was going to post a link to her incredible song "Societies Child." I was 11-years-old in 1966 (and watched the premiere of the "Star Trek" TV series that fall) and Janis was 15-years-old in 1966 when "Societies Child" was released.. It was an incredible song. Janis is an incredible song writer. Check out her song "Water Colors" about a moment in a relationship. You'll find it here, but it's a track on her 1975 album "Between the Lines," featuring her hit song "At Seventeen."
Music production by *"The Shadow"* (emulating Phil *_Spector)_* trying to fit her music into the girl group sound of the time. It's a tribute to her artistry and sincerity that all the production didn't move attention one inch from her meaning. A great song from a great artist. And to think she was just 15!...
I was just a year younger than Janis when she wrote this at 14. She taught us all a lifetime lesson. Too bad that the people who really need this lesson don't listen to this type of music
This exactly happened to me in 1967. I had a really cute, smart, popular great athlete black guy at school senior year that we really liked each other...but it just couldn't happen. I am of a diff race than he. This song was there....more to the story as he played baseball on the same team as the guy who I eventually married. I never got to go out with the guy that I really truly liked on a soul level. It became a weird twist of fate for sure. Never forgot him.
I'm glad you mentioned that it came from both sides. A truly remarkable song - especially for the times it was written in. The miracle is that she was allowed a platform to sing it from instead of it being banned. People are so often their own worst enemy; if it's not racial prejudice it's class or religion that divides. What a wonderful world it would be if we just saw kindness, love and care. Thank you for playing this song. 💞
Janis Ian's lyrics spoke the societal truth. She was an influence that came along at a good time. I was in junior high at the time and I cried when I first heard this song, yet I was determined to help make the needed changes.
Jamel, you gotta check out Laura Nyro. She was an accomplished singer/songwriter/pianist at a young age. She didn't sell tons of records but was highly influential. Many of her songs became hits for other artists most notably the 5th Dimension. She's in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Most recommended songs are "Eli's Comin'", "Save The Country", "Stoned Soul Picnic", "And When I Die", "Stoney End". All hits for other artists. She died in 1997. She went to the same high school as Janis Ian.
Jamel, I’m 72 and grew up in the 60’s. These were the times back then. Janis was way ahead of her time. Janis was an inspiration to me in the sixties. Always inspirational, poignant, controversial, beautiful and sexy. At 72, I appreciate her now more than ever. I appreciate you for featuring her on your station. Thank you. Joe.
It's been almost 50 years since I first faced this reality, and it still breaks me. I have blue eyes and blond hair, which was unacceptable for my Apache girlfriend's dad. He had her brothers inform me, very politely, that their sister couldn't spend time with "people like me". Then they gave me a brief history lesson of oppression that led up to and included that day in 1972.
Thanks for reacting to this one. Beautiful song, took her 22 record companies to find one that was willing to release it. Verve was the only one with the courage to do it.
I'm 68 and remember when this came out. Loved it but couldn't listen to it around family unfortunately. She's so gifted and courageous, she would have me in tears back then. Thank you
Had the privilege to see Janis live in Dublin in the 80s. She was the support act! I can tell you that in the crowd of 20,000 people +, you could hear a pin drop.
Bro , I was in 5th grade when this song came out, had the record, it spoke to the times, now 66 and this is still one of my favorite songs, beautiful song, woman and a strong message that she braved for the times, peace and love!👍✌🏼
Surprisingly, the song reached #14 on the Pop chart in 1967. I remember hearing it on the radio growing up in Seattle, WA (I was 11 years old). Yes, it was courageous of her to record it, and also for the Smothers Brothers to invite her on their show to perform it. It was a true reflection of the times. Seattle was an extremely segregated city back then, and we had absolutely no black families in our neighborhood. Only interacted with black students during junior high school when the school district bused them in from another part of town. My parents' attitudes were in sync with the parents in the song, too. They would have had an absolute fit had my sister ever brought home a black man. She dated a Samoan guy for a while - a really great guy, too - but she called it off because she knew how much our parents would disapprove.
1976, senior year of high school. Our basketball team was playing in a neighboring town. I (a white girl who played sousaphone in the marching band) needed a ride. My friend (a black guy who played bass drum in marching band) offered me a ride with his Mom driving and dropping us off. She would be back to pick us up after the game. I never gave it a thought. I was grateful for the ride. I sat in the front seat between them (they insisted). Again, it didn't matter to me. I was just happy to be there. We stopped for gas. The attendant gave us a strange look (yes, men still came out and pumped your gas then). I didn't know what the look was about and didn't worry about it. We got to the school and thanked his Mom, said we'd see her after the game. We walked into the gym. A huge gasp went up from everyone already seated in the gym. We looked at each other. Okay, I'm starting to get a clue about what's going on. We had to walk all the way around the gym to get to our school's side. I went to sit with my friends, he went to sit with his. After the game we met for the ride home and compared experiences. He was a wrestler so everyone knew him. My friends kept asking me, "Are you going out with 'name' now?" His friends wanted to know if he was dating "that white girl?" We thought the whole thing was ridiculous. Even if we had been dating we thought it was ridiculous. Clearly, not everyone was ready for it. But we had a mixed race kid in our class. He would have been born in 1958. He was not the oldest sibling. My heart breaks to think what his parents must have gone through... 😢 It still goes on today...the disapproval of mixed race couples and now same sex couples. I asked my (then) 70 year old Mother what she thought of homosexuality (I already knew she was fine with mixed race couples). She said, "I think love is so rare and so precious that it must be honored and held on to wherever it is found." Yay, Mom!❤
The man in the middle was jimmy Durante.. An actor and musician react to one of his songs... unusual style worth a listen too???? 🤔👍💞✌ Young at heart great lyrics My favorite from him
Went through this at 17. Lived in CA. Had a Mexican girlfriend until college parted us. My Mother was Hispanic, but not Mexican. My girlfriend heard it from her side. I heard it from mine, especially my Grandmother. Being half Hispanic is just who I am, but even Hispanics have prejudices. I have known many South Americans with little regard for Central Americans. Many times in my life I have thought we might make better decisions if we were all blind.
Thank you for giving this song and message some attention. She could have easily changed a few words and made it a "wrong side of the tracks" song, which her label wanted. But she boldly put it out there and it's still relevant 50+ years later.
Janis Ian made this in 1967, she was 16 years old, and nailed society's racism and hatred. What's much too sad is we seem to have not learned a thing since then and this song is still pertinent.
‘JUST BE A GOOD HUMAN’ Shirts and More, Enter Promo Code ‘Jamel’ jamel-aka-jamal-youtube-store.creator-spring.com
Hi Jamel..... Loving your reactions they are the best I've found!! I have just one thing to say though.... For crying out loud react to for crying out loud!! 😁😁 Meatloaf- For crying out loud..... PLEASE!!!!!
Hey Jamel, here's a one hit wonder for you of the same era.
'Angel of the Morning" by Merilee Rush. If you listen to it, you'll stop and say "Wait just a damn minute, what the hell is this?! Is this what I think it is?!" Yes, it is.
I'd love for you to check out "Stars" which I believe was the b-side to "At Seventeen", pure poetry.
Thanks for reacting to Janis Ian
Never heard this beautiful song
Janis Ian is still going strong at 70, still beautiful, still speaking her mind through her music, and still touring as much as the pandemic allows.
And living her best life with her wife! 🥰
She has voice problem’s now cancel the 2nd half of her tour for 2022
I was waiting for you to cover this song. From a 6'4" 200lbs white male with blonde hair and blue green eyes who has been happily married to a beautiful black woman for over 19 years. And today we still get looks, some bad and some good. The ones who smile approvingly act like seeing us together makes them think there is still hope for this divided world.
I am in the same relationship as well. I see virtuous self righteous smiles, not of approval, but self serving automatic don't know how to act smiles... I prefer to be ignored actually.
I was 13 when this came out. Made me cry then and sadly still does. Minimal progress? Sadly yes.
@@karenpitts710 We have come a long long way. The issue now is the division caused by Corporate interjection, sports exploitation, media manipulation and entertainment industry exploitation. The whole thing has gone for profit. It is the same problem cleverly disguised as Al Sharpton.
This made me think. That woman has/had BALLS!! Trail Blazer,for damn sure!
Married my black husband in 1967. He just died 2020. Never cared if people approved or disapproved. My high school sweetheart.
"You love who the hell you want to love." --Jamel Griffin, wise old soul
Abso-freaking-lutely!
Love is limitless.
The heart doesn’t see a color. Love is love.
And Jamel is love. We are truly blessed to have him as our spirit guide.
Such a deep statement. Same holds true for gay love. Whose business is it who you love and whatever religious or other beliefs you might have are irrelevant and ignorant if you condemn.
Also know that The Smothers Brothers show was constantly fighting pressure from CBS to tone down its political humor and not feature controversial performances.
Their show was taken off the air because the brothers refused to stop criticizing the Vietnam war on the show. The network was pretty naive in some ways and did let lots of other things on the show that were outrageous for the time. For instance, one very popular segment on the show was called “Tea Time With Goldie” and Goldie was a hippie chick who was very open about using drugs, although the writers cleverly got around the older and naive censors. In one episode Goldie said lots of people had sent her their “roaches” and she really enjoyed that. The network assumed she meant cockroaches because they weren’t cool enough to know that a “roach” was hippie slang for what was left of a mostly smoked joint.
They replaced it with Hee Haw and it’s been Hee Haw every since.
It definitely wasn't the Ed Sullivan show
The older gentleman at the beginning was Jimmy Durante, and I saw him when I was about 8yo walking down the street...
So true ! They had many “controversial “ bands/singers”. Thank goodness!!!!❤️
She took heat for this song.They wouldn't play it on the radio,she got death threats.She was 15 years old in this video. I remember all the controversy from this.Such talent she is.
I heard it on the radio all the time.
They played it in NY all the time
@@diceportz7107 It was played after Lenard Bernstein played it and gave praise to Janis. It was not played before and she had so much backlash on it.Leonard Bernstein saved it and her
It was a hit right away in New York and several cities, but not nationally until Leonard Bernstein featured her on his special about popular music and accused the radio stations of cowardice for not playing it.
The Smothers Brothers were such risk takers , they got yanked off the air for their anti war views
I'm white, and 77 years old and "back then" was yesterday to me. In college I dated a beautiful lady named Naoye Yamamoto - half Japanese and half Swedish. My father offered to buy me a car if I would stop dating her. I could have used the car, but I married her instead. Dad came around eventually when our son was born - 5 years later. Life wasn't easy in those days.
This song was banned by many radio stations, not because of jealousy but because of the message. Despite that, it still got to #14 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.
That brave girl should go down in history! She was spat on and booed from people, crowds from all over she stuck with it. The hit went on to the number 14 on the national charts. She paved the way for groups that were once looked down upon by Society.😢👏🏻
As a closeted gay teen in the 60’s, this for me was also about “the love that dare not speak it’s name”, and I heard a dual meaning in the lyrics. The battle for acceptance can take on many colors.
The great pianist, composer, conductor Leonard Bernstein once had a musical appreciation show on tv and he had Janis on to sing this song. He was really excited to tell us about how great the lyrics were especially meaningful from one so young but also for how advanced her writing of the music was.
A video of that is somewhere on UA-cam. It was amazing and well worth looking for...
@@tracerloenan8020 Here's a link to Janis and Leonard Bernstein. ua-cam.com/video/300LiZtuDPw/v-deo.html
@@nuwavedave Thank you very much for the link. I have found the video before and that is why I mentioned it here. It is so great you provided the link for so many more of us to enjoy.
This song had such an impact on me. She was brave to record it---some places in the South didn't want to seat her in restaurants. She was excoriated by a lot of people. The Smothers Brothers were well-known for having musicians on their show who were controversial.
Yes. Jamel should react to some Smothers Brothers.
i remember their movie montage of In A Godda Da Vida-that were scenes of carnage s of war here in the U.S.and Viet Nam---they were taken off cause it was OUR Conscience just bein true and Honest and the establishment had to follow Richoff Nixoler LONG LIVE THE KINGS of the A M E R I C A N
protest movement M X MLK C.C.
This wasn't a song to me, it was my life. At 16 I sang it in an all-black church although I was white. It wasn't just a difficult time, it was dangerous. Those who weren't there have no idea.
Man, such a meaningful song from one so young.
An old soul, for sure.❤
I introduced my granddaughter to this song when she was a teen. She put it on her playlist. And played it when she was on the hospital. She said that all the older nurses were crying and singing this song. It has such an impact on everyone who's heard it. I cant believe that she wrote this at such a young age.
After 35 years of marriage and three kids, she IS my kind. She always was..
Good for you. I've been a rebel all my life. My family is totally integrated. I'm Irish-Italian; none of my three kids are white.
Janice Ian has been known to show up and comment on her own behalf on you tube channels like this... Don't be surprised if she doesn't magically appear out of nowhere to say thank you to everyone. I have seen her comment before out of the blue... That would be an honor.
She wrote this song at an insanely young age, something like 15. The classical music conductor, Leonard Bernstein, loved this song and invited Janis to sing it on one of his videos available on youtube.
I commented on that performance on Jamals at 17 reaction its is so live and i think this is dubbed!
This one used a technique in the '60s where the singers sang live, but also backed up by the record. You definitely hear Janis' live voice here, but you can also hear her from the record at a lower level behind her, and the instruments are from the record.
Janis was 14 when she wrote the song, and was receiving death threats for it.
The Smothers Brothers always pushed the envelope on their show and eventually were forced off the air
I belive it was the displaying an anti war poster that said “ War is not healthy for children & other living things .” that got the show canceled .
Jamel should check out the movie, Guess Who's coming to Dinner, starring Spencer Tracy, Sidney Poitier, and Katharine Hepburn
Great movie
Excellent movie
To Deirdre and Rose, Spencer Tracy's monologue at the end of the movie is classic. I recently watched a youtube video containing just that monologue, which is several minutes long...very rich and emotional.
And also 'In the Heat of the Night'. One of the most important films of the time, to my mind. Sidney Poitier slapping the sheriff, unforgettable.
Spencer Tracy is one of my favorite actors. I named my son Spencer after him.
Jamel, thank you for playing this. I reconnected with a high school person. He was a great basketball star. He was black, I am white. When our friendship turned more his sister was like oh that white girl. Friendship turned to love, sadly he had moved to another state so we had phone convos all the time. With covid I couldn't go see him, which we planned. A week before my birthday he was killed by a hit and run driver.Still grieving 8 months later. I have to tell you, I watch you cause you remind me of how we used to talk about music. We even would listen to you and react to your reactions. God bless you for helping me thru a hard time and for keeping good music alive.
The song brings tears to my eyes the humanity of it
I am so happy to see younger people of today listening to songs such as this from 50+ years ago. While we all agree we have a long way to go, so few younger people appreciate how far things have come. This song is a wonderful measuring stick.
I was 12 in Atlanta, Georgia when this song was released. I could only hear it on the college stations. Thank you for your reactions to this beautiful song and giving us all food for thought! Thank you for the love and keep on keeping on!👍
I was 12 also. I remember the song very well. As powerful today as it was then! Peace and Love to all
I was 12 also, but in Detroit, Michigan when this song was released. It was very popular and was considered a breakthrough because it so openly stated the prevalence of racial bigotry. Her song said it exactly the way it was.
@@itsme-rt7nz ABSOLUTELY!
Janis Ian talked about how the girl made the decision to end the relationship, that she wasn't ready to fight society yet, even though she knew it was wrong. So she wasn't a hero, she felt. I am going to let Janis know you are reacting to her song. She has enjoyed the reactions in the past. So glad you came back to this song so quickly. Thank you!
I think that last verse elevated the song to an even higher level than it would have achieved by simply protesting. It illuminated not only the injustice of the attitudes but also the power of the status quo.
She was a hero to me and many others, by putting this song out into the world! It touched a Truth deep inside of me then. I was 11 years old when I heard it ~ it was food for my soul! Thank Janis for me ~ XOXO
When I read "The Color of Water" I thought of this song.
"Society's Child" and Bob Dylan's "Blowing In The Wind" were perhaps the two most socially significant songs of the '60s.
Great Reaction Jamel! I remember when this song came out and the controversy it caused. I was only 13, as a white kid, and just trying to figure out life. And it dawned on me that most of the adults I knew felt this way, but even at 13 I felt it was wrong. That the majority of the mentors in my life, whom I admired and respected, were somehow wrong. This song made a tremendous impact on my life and put everything into a different perspective. I realized that people are people, and that I should just look at each person for the kind of person they were, not what they look like. I truly believe things are much better now, although it's not perfect. It was horrible back then, and scary to a 13 year old back. But unlike my father and other adults at the time, I raised my 2 boys to appreciate the person for who they are. Several years one of my boys found and married the perfect girl for him, and she happened to be black. They are absolutely great together together and am so happy for them! They are both college professors. I know to this day she hears racial comments on occasion, and it hurts, but both of them handle it together. They love each other, and that's all that matters.
Sorry for the long post but this song brings back so many memories. I couldn't believe back then that a young girl could write such a song. And I am still in awe! An underappreciated and amazing song. Thank you Janis Ian!!
And thank you Jamel.
You took the words right out of my mouth Rick. I was 14 when this song came out. Up until I was about 12/13 I wasn't really aware that my Asian, Black and east Indian friends were any "different" than me, then confusion came when I was told "They can be your friends, but you shouldn't marry one". Omg....I still shake my head when I think of that. Hearing this song helped me open my eyes even more to prejudice and become defiant towards society's "norms" at that time. Thank you for reacting to this amazing song Jamel!
you and me both Rick. back in grade school and jr high, i was surrounded by racist and bigots and i just thought that was the way i was supposed to think. it's so easy to just go with the flow. but slowly as i matured i realized that what didn't feel right back then just was so wrong. i was raised around all white people, but when i got into the working world i realized how terribly wrong it was to be prejudiced, and i just started acting correctly and doing the right thing.it costed friends and relationships, but i had to be true to myself. peace brother.
Thank you for a beautiful story. Right on!
Don't mind the long post your story is excellent and why should it not be ? Fact is building bridges is a perfectly good and moral way 2 bring people 2gether ? There's no satisfaction 4 any fool 2 blow them up ! Very well said ATB from England 🤚🤚✊️✌️👍
As I see it, there is only one race on this planet. The Human race! The sooner we learn that we are all the same, the better we're all gonna be!
After all these years, I still cannot listen to this song without totally breaking down, and the quality of her voice literally gives me goosebumps. This rips a hole into my heart!!
She was one of the best story teller artist of the 60s and 70s. My era growing up being 70 now.
Thank you Sir. You are not just entertaining us, because this song's important message hasn't traveled far enough yet. I have been trying to explain to my daughter and her husband (29 & 32) just how important the music of my day was in shaping my worldview. The difference you keep trying to describe in the music of this era, is exactly this kind of worldview. Even network TV had the message. The message is "we are all here; with value, with feelings, with hope."
She wrote that song at the age of 14. Also, Bill Cosby attempted to blacklist her from Television because he thought she was a lesbian. She was also the very first musical guest on Saturday Night Live. All this according to her Wikipedia page.
Turns out she is. She came out and is now married to a woman, after having been married to an abusive man for several years.
Amazing talent.❤
I'm glad she's still around.
@@elysehfm8797 Maybe she turned him down!
@@j.h.3777 yup. He was creepy to her, she resisted and he accused her of being a lesbian. Typical reaction!
I'd say she got the lucky end of that deal! She's still going strong apparently.
Being in my late 50's & music nut since 10 years old, there are almost no songs Jamal reacts to that I don't know. But this one, I've never heard this song before. What a wise girl she was, at that age! I knew At 17, but somehow this song has escape me all these years. Thanks for all you do Jamal, you are also wise beyond your years!
America's dad ladies and gentlemen.
I understand completely.my parents are interracial and were married when it was still illegal for them to do so and I always admired them for that. Sometimes we would get looks but it didn't matter. You have the right to love who you want to love. ✌️
I've been a Janis Ian fan since the 70s and have always wondered why she wasn't more successful and popular
Growing up in Detroit and listened on CKLW. This was /is a song still rings true in 2021. She was way before her time!
I just read that Janis was 13 when she started writing this and finished it at 14. Getting to the heart of an issue like this would be difficult at any age, but tackling it at 13-14 and capturing it in a a short song is a brilliant accomplishment.
Yes, such talent and so young. I remember this on the radio when I was 10 and I loved the tune. That's what draws me to a song first is the tune and melody and musicality and the way the voice sounds with the music. This is a great song. It reminds me of what happened to Richie Valens. He had to stop seeing his girlfriend, Donna, cause her father didn't want her to go out with a Mexican. So while he was on the road at 17 years old, he wrote the song "Oh Donna" for her and sang it to her over the payphone in a phone booth. That really happened and they put that into the movie La Bamba. It happened to me too.
Thanks for sharing; I did not know.
@@C.M.30337 Yes, what a great film. I wish so much Little Richie Valens had lived a long life. He had such talent. And Buddy Holly will always hold a very special place in my heart. Their music has endured all these decades. I was a little kid when they died. The music of those days was the best! And don't forget the Everly Brothers.
@@C.M.30337 People really need to get over racism. It's caused untold grief and hurt forever, and the H of it is that it is learned, not something we're born with.
I just told Janis about your reactions on her FB page. I hope you hear from her. She’s a wonderful person.
My feeling is that this is perhaps your most important reaction so far! Fabulous job on one of the best songs to come out of the 1960's!
Janis Ian is a very brave person. She addressed this topic thoughtfully and ended it the only way a fifteen year old girl in 1966 could. At that time she lived in a predominantly African American neighborhood and school were there very few whites. She saw this issue from both sides. I have loved this song from this first time I heard it.
I was 13 when this came out. All the parents (both races) hated it. We loved that anyone had to guts to call out BS. Plus it’s just a beautiful melody and voice.
I was 12 when this song was released. It made cry then and still does every time I hear it. I have most of her albums and everyone of them are gems. I love you Janis Ian!
I was young when this came out. Living under your parent's roof, well, they make the rules. Fortunately, my parents, while white, taught us to always accept/greet people on an individual basis. This song still chokes me up. I most certainly hope that we can reconcile ourselves as a nation and stop coddling white supremacists, it's dangerous .
I am not sure whom they are. Do you have any names? Some inspirational history lessons, would be about
Governor Galvez, during the Revolutionary war.
I hope his History is all there still, for you to read. Galveston LA and Texas, are named for him .
I do know this . In my ninth grade class which goes all the way back to 1970, I can still remember my friends Ronny and Gina-black and white, dating. It was more a norm, than today’s youth has been taught. Our real so-called race war is being cashed in on by very unethical people. Checkout ABL on utube.
There are others also that will help you in researching in this situation we have been placed in today.
@@buckjohnson1119 Thank you for the info. Today's climate is quite horrifying. I hope that due to the lack of hiding within white supremist groups, we can begin to weed them out. Our country may have a history full of flaws yet it's never too late to become better. We must be better. I'm so tired of being sad and mad at our injustices.
@@christinawoolley6206 Your welcome. I think you will like Anthony. It is a sad world than we were once used to. I hope it gets better also. There are Black supremists, also, It’s a very complicated time, and we could use MLK to (His famous “I have a Dream,” which had become reality, after we lost him) teach those that have worked to hide all his, history. They are not white, and they have an agenda.
@@buckjohnson1119 I concur, there is danger to extreme ideologies, regardless of origin, left or right. Hopefully, those in the middle, leaning in either direction, can and will create necessary changes.
I picked up a The Best of Janis Ian cassette tape back in the 90s and I remember quite enjoying it, and this song was the first track in side A. And then I lost the tape. So thank you Jamel for reacting to this and reminding me of this amazing song that I haven't listened to in about 15 years.
I was so young when this song came out and it made me so sad and angry. I understood. I was 15. There is still so much hate in this world. It still makes me sad.
My father got me out of bed to watch this. I was 11. He loved her. So did I.
It was a disc jockey named Murray the K that got this song on the air!!! He deserves his footnote in history for that!!
The Fifth Beatle!
Thanks for covering this song. It was banned from AM in the south (yep ,I'm that old) shortly after it came out, but the great thing was the Smothers Brothers who gave voice to a lot of 'alternative' artists during the short reign of their show. They were bounced off TV because of their 'liberal anti war and equality' beliefs. And they wore that like a badge of honor.
As a woman who was raised by a racist dad and whose last words to her, as she left home to live in the big city, were "Don't you be bringing any n babies home", this song has always cut deep. I am proud to say that he had changed by the time he died in 2016. My sister had his first grandson, a little brown baby, and no one had better say shit about his grandson. Now, he would still start in with his "jokes" and we all would stop him as soon as the racist thing came out of his mouth. But, one day, while he and my mother were visiting at the donut shop I managed, he got to spend several hours talking to men of color who worked at the local auto factories. My mind was blown when, as we were headed to my place, he said, "Ya know, those colored fellas aren't so bad. They're just trying to make a living and take care of their families like me." I was speechless and I cried. Was it perfect? Hell no. But, it was a step- one huge step. He never had a more proud moment than when my nephew, an enlisted Marine, surprised him coming home after his first tour of duty in Afghanistan, and presented his grandpa with a flag that he had flown over the Pentagon for him. I had only ever seen my dad cry when his mom died but he cried that day, to see his grandson in uniform and alive, right there in front of him. The flag was the cherry on top.
People can change!
I remember hearing this on that show. I was 12. It was like a punch in the gut. It burned into my brain, the message. And it never went away.
I was a white High School teenager in a rural town not too far out from Los Angeles. This song was on the radio all the time. We were post WW2 children, and Viet Nam was full on...it was the time of questioning everything: other songs like "The Times They Are a-Changin'" (Bob Dylan) were very popular. "Societies Child" was big, and impacted everyone. I gotta hand it to my mixed race High School, we had excellent discussions about EVERYTHING. I remember when our English teacher asked the question in our mixed race class "is there racism in our community?" I was shocked and hurt to hear from my black friend Freddy Mae that there was ...how Realtors would keep black people from buying in town, and that Sunny Acres was not the ONLY place where black people wanted to live! I didn't know.I was in grade 9. Now I could not "un-know it" So grateful. Another positive result of this great classroom conversation is that Freddy Mae's big brother, a Viet Nam Vet home fresh from the war, was invited to come and speak to us kids. HOW impressed we were with Johnny in his uniform. An instant hero who told the truth. Truth was searched for, craved for, in those days, from the Baby Boomers. Smothers Brothers was part of all that, lets get real, people movement. "Hippies" began showing out their "Make Love Not War" and acceptance of mixed race society with other songs like "C'mon People Smile on Your Brother, We Gotta Love One Another Right Now" were very popular. Thanks J/J for your TEACH PEACE mission. Bless you, Bless you.
As Leonard Cohen once said “love’s the only engine of survival”. Love is, like the musical and theatre arts something that unfolds thru the passage of time. My parents grew, because of their opened hearts (often thru pain) to accept my black man- a Virginia farm boy, being with me, a white farm boy from Nebraska. When confronted with honest communication, and with time, prejudices can be disabled, disassembled, with love.
Love Is Love Is Love
This reminded me that the female duetting with Leonard Cohen on Who By Fire was none other than Janis Ian. . .
I read in the mega record producer's autobiography that Jerry Wexler of Atlantic Records paid for the recording session but passed the rights and credits on to Verve/Forecast label because of its controversy and in hindsight regretted having made that decision. In Janis Ian's autobiography she tells of the frustration she was having to suffer because all of the musicians were professional and because of her youth and inability to read music they were so dismissive of her that at one point she began to cry. I can't remember which musician felt sorry for her and finally spoke up by saying, "Look. Let's get it together because she has something important to say," and they finally produced this classic and historic piece of American music.
I went to Canada way back in 1972 and was shocked to see so many mixed race couples....everywhere. It was a true wake up call......I was only 12. (This song still breaks my heart).
Janice has a video about getting married in London. (actually it is Canada.) great story and song. Search youtube Married in London
Leonard Bernstein (famous for being a classical music star, but also the composer of most of the music for "West Side Story") had a television special about modern music, and he featured this song, primarily for the music - I know, I know, almost everyone just thinks about the words, but go back and listen to the music. What Ian did that was so remarkable for so-called "popular" music was have a change of key in the middle of each verse. Also, that closing riff is fantastic!
Young greatness is a great description. I can see them being threatened by someone so young and talented challenging the status quo. I've never heard of her, wasn't what I listened to growing up, but that's what great about react channels. Amazing voice
God I love this song,,"why don't you stick to your own kind" this was common to hear back then. It was the times but it was so closed minded and ignorant
I’m 67 yrs old and I cry every time I hear this. Such a rough time for us all.
So do I. I’m 66
@@cliffhodge6167 68 and tearing up.
Speaking as a sixtysomething white guy who was engaged to a beautiful black woman back in the '90s (who sadly died much too young), I am so glad you did a reaction to this song. When I saw the other day that you'd done Janis Ian's "At Seventeen" from 1975, I almost posted the suggestion that you check out this song from 1967. "Society's Child" was released the same year as the Supreme Court's landmark ruling in the "Loving v. Virginia" case, which made interracial marriage legal in the US. There's another song from this era that tackles this subject that I think you'd enjoy, and that would make you the first reactor to do a reaction to it. Bill Medley (the tall, deep-voiced Righteous Brother) released a song solo called "Brown Eyed Woman" in 1968. There's an excellent video of him performing it on the Playboy Channel with The Blossoms. Definitely worth a look. ua-cam.com/video/oJ1VwfedfAY/v-deo.html
Ohhh thank you, you did do a reaction to this song. I grew up in the 60's and 70's, I remember when they were integrating black kids into public schools, we kids didn't have a problem, we were just happy to have more kids to play with at school, but, these poor kids went through hell and back just to get an education it was the adults that had the problem. Inter-racial couples really had it hard. My 3 younger brothers and I were raised by our grandparents on our reservation. We were taught not to look at the color of someone's skin, we all bleed red, treat everyone the same, get to know the person inside and that's what we did and still do. My best friend is like a sister to me, I'm Native American and she's black, she spent so many summers with us on the reservation, we've known each other since kindergarten, we'll be 65 this year, so our friendship and sisterhood has lasted 60 years.
This was a huge hit and all over the radio at the time. There may have been some stations in some places that did NOT play it. But, in Western Pa., where I grew up, it was huge. Same for New York, Cleveland, Chicago, Detroit, and all of the AM Top 40 stations that were receiveable after dark. Back then, a song didn't make the top 40, this one charted at #14 nationally, without a lot of airplay. Even then, at age 14, I knew, perfectly well, what the song was trying to say.
Janis Ian was and, still is, a beautiful soul who enriches the world by her presence. Her music is like no one else's.
I’m nearly 67 and still wondering if the day will ever come when the only thing that matters is what sort of person you are inside. As a youngster growing up in the 60s I had the hope this was going to happen but now I really wonder if humanity is actually capable of living without prejudice. I hope I’m wrong. Listening to people like you Jamal does give me hope
Even in 1990 Linda Ronstadt caught heat for kissing Aaron Neville at the Grammy Award performance of their duet!
Mad respect and thanks to you, Jamel, for choosing this performance to react to, and taking the time and care to speak your feelings. And to Janis Ian, who was 16? I think? in 1967. And to the Smothers Brothers who were one of the very few to put this and other similar stuff on TV at the time.
She was surely wise for her years. Not heard this before but the wisdom pours out. The heart follows its own lath, not much you can do about it. Nice job Jamel
She's an amazing singer and songwriter to this day. Thankfully, the threats she received didn't deter her from sharing herself with the rest of us.
This is another one of Janis's that brings a tear to the eye.
No only did Janis take a lot of flack for this song, so did the Smothers Brothers for having her on, as did just about every one else who had her on their show performing it. 😭
Another song of Janis's that deals with the inequities of society is The Great Divide.
I am white, had a black boyfriend in high school. He and I are still close, still talk several times a week. But back then, it wasn't easy. My mom was great, my father was a racist and he abused me every way he could think of. I had to run away to see my man, and I did, many times. Other kids at school looked at us like we were circus freaks, to stare at and make fun of. Other kids, white boys mostly, called us both horrible names. As if it were any of their business. It was 50 years and more ago, and in some ways, some people just have hate inside them, still.
"They don't come at me"...one would suppose not, what with your being six and a half feet in every direction and all...😁
Thanks for doing this song. I came across your reaction of Janis Ian's "At Seventeen" and was going to post a link to her incredible song "Societies Child." I was 11-years-old in 1966 (and watched the premiere of the "Star Trek" TV series that fall) and Janis was 15-years-old in 1966 when "Societies Child" was released.. It was an incredible song. Janis is an incredible song writer. Check out her song "Water Colors" about a moment in a relationship. You'll find it here, but it's a track on her 1975 album "Between the Lines," featuring her hit song "At Seventeen."
What a beautiful ballad, so precious, and what a brave young girl to perform this feat!
She really is something. Wore that album out...Light a Light my favorite, followed by Bright Lights and Promises....That VOICE. Those MESSAGES.
Music production by *"The Shadow"* (emulating Phil *_Spector)_* trying to fit her music into the girl group sound of the time. It's a tribute to her artistry and sincerity that all the production didn't move attention one inch from her meaning. A great song from a great artist. And to think she was just 15!...
I was just a year younger than Janis when she wrote this at 14. She taught us all a lifetime lesson. Too bad that the people who really need this lesson don't listen to this type of music
This exactly happened to me in 1967. I had a really cute, smart, popular great athlete black guy at school senior year that we really liked each other...but it just couldn't happen. I am of a diff race than he. This song was there....more to the story as he played baseball on the same team as the guy who I eventually married. I never got to go out with the guy that I really truly liked on a soul level. It became a weird twist of fate for sure. Never forgot him.
I'm glad you mentioned that it came from both sides. A truly remarkable song - especially for the times it was written in. The miracle is that she was allowed a platform to sing it from instead of it being banned. People are so often their own worst enemy; if it's not racial prejudice it's class or religion that divides. What a wonderful world it would be if we just saw kindness, love and care. Thank you for playing this song. 💞
Janis Ian's lyrics spoke the societal truth. She was an influence that came along at a good time. I was in junior high at the time and I cried when I first heard this song, yet I was determined to help make the needed changes.
Jamel, you gotta check out Laura Nyro. She was an accomplished singer/songwriter/pianist at a young age. She didn't sell tons of records but was highly influential. Many of her songs became hits for other artists most notably the 5th Dimension. She's in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Most recommended songs are "Eli's Comin'", "Save The Country", "Stoned Soul Picnic", "And When I Die", "Stoney End". All hits for other artists. She died in 1997. She went to the same high school as Janis Ian.
Roger Dodger, oh yes!! Laura Nyro was one of the most incredible musicians to have ever lived.
Jamel, I’m 72 and grew up in the 60’s. These were the times back then. Janis was way ahead of her time. Janis was an inspiration to me in the sixties. Always inspirational, poignant, controversial, beautiful and sexy. At 72, I appreciate her now more than ever. I appreciate you for featuring her on your station. Thank you. Joe.
It's been almost 50 years since I first faced this reality, and it still breaks me. I have blue eyes and blond hair, which was unacceptable for my Apache girlfriend's dad. He had her brothers inform me, very politely, that their sister couldn't spend time with "people like me". Then they gave me a brief history lesson of oppression that led up to and included that day in 1972.
Thanks for reacting to this one. Beautiful song, took her 22 record companies to find one that was willing to release it. Verve was the only one with the courage to do it.
I'm 68 and remember when this came out. Loved it but couldn't listen to it around family unfortunately. She's so gifted and courageous, she would have me in tears back then. Thank you
Had the privilege to see Janis live in Dublin in the 80s. She was the support act! I can tell you that in the crowd of 20,000 people +, you could hear a pin drop.
“Love who you wanna love”. Amen Jamel. Thanks. And Janice Ian is a treasure.
Another BRILLIANT song from Janis! I remember buying this record as an 11 year old boy way back then. Love it!♥️🎼🎶🎵🇨🇦
Bro , I was in 5th grade when this song came out, had the record, it spoke to the times, now 66 and this is still one of my favorite songs, beautiful song, woman and a strong message that she braved for the times, peace and love!👍✌🏼
So glad you reacted to this one. I follow Janis Ian on Facebook (where she is very active) and my admiration for her continues to grow and grow.
Surprisingly, the song reached #14 on the Pop chart in 1967. I remember hearing it on the radio growing up in Seattle, WA (I was 11 years old). Yes, it was courageous of her to record it, and also for the Smothers Brothers to invite her on their show to perform it. It was a true reflection of the times. Seattle was an extremely segregated city back then, and we had absolutely no black families in our neighborhood. Only interacted with black students during junior high school when the school district bused them in from another part of town. My parents' attitudes were in sync with the parents in the song, too. They would have had an absolute fit had my sister ever brought home a black man. She dated a Samoan guy for a while - a really great guy, too - but she called it off because she knew how much our parents would disapprove.
I have always loved this song. It is beautifully sung, and far ahead of the time it was written.
1976, senior year of high school. Our basketball team was playing in a neighboring town. I (a white girl who played sousaphone in the marching band) needed a ride. My friend (a black guy who played bass drum in marching band) offered me a ride with his Mom driving and dropping us off. She would be back to pick us up after the game.
I never gave it a thought. I was grateful for the ride.
I sat in the front seat between them (they insisted). Again, it didn't matter to me. I was just happy to be there.
We stopped for gas.
The attendant gave us a strange look (yes, men still came out and pumped your gas then). I didn't know what the look was about and didn't worry about it.
We got to the school and thanked his Mom, said we'd see her after the game. We walked into the gym.
A huge gasp went up from everyone already seated in the gym.
We looked at each other. Okay, I'm starting to get a clue about what's going on. We had to walk all the way around the gym to get to our school's side. I went to sit with my friends, he went to sit with his.
After the game we met for the ride home and compared experiences. He was a wrestler so everyone knew him. My friends kept asking me, "Are you going out with 'name' now?"
His friends wanted to know if he was dating "that white girl?"
We thought the whole thing was ridiculous.
Even if we had been dating we thought it was ridiculous. Clearly, not everyone was ready for it.
But we had a mixed race kid in our class. He would have been born in 1958.
He was not the oldest sibling.
My heart breaks to think what his parents must have gone through... 😢
It still goes on today...the disapproval of mixed race couples and now same sex couples. I asked my (then) 70 year old Mother what she thought of homosexuality (I already knew she was fine with mixed race couples). She said, "I think love is so rare and so precious that it must be honored and held on to wherever it is found."
Yay, Mom!❤
My late mom, LOVED Janis Ian. Lots of memories for me.🥰
I just wish I could upvote it more than once. Bless you sir, for doing this song
Heavy HEAVY stuff man...I'm "Biracial" (whatever) and I got it from both sides as a child - now THAT was messed up.
The man in the middle was jimmy Durante.. An actor and musician react to one of his songs... unusual style worth a listen too???? 🤔👍💞✌
Young at heart great lyrics
My favorite from him
Went through this at 17. Lived in CA. Had a Mexican girlfriend until college parted us. My Mother was Hispanic, but not Mexican. My girlfriend heard it from her side. I heard it from mine, especially my Grandmother. Being half Hispanic is just who I am, but even Hispanics have prejudices. I have known many South Americans with little regard for Central Americans. Many times in my life I have thought we might make better decisions if we were all blind.
Thank You for another great reaction to Janis Ian.The Smothers Brothers were ahead of their time .
Many radio stations in primarily in the South would not play this. Janis wrote this at age 14..
I was 17 when this came out on Top Forty Radio. I saw her in San Francisco in concert about 10 yrs. ago. She was so great.
Thank you for giving this song and message some attention. She could have easily changed a few words and made it a "wrong side of the tracks" song, which her label wanted. But she boldly put it out there and it's still relevant 50+ years later.
I was 15 when this song came out. In my area (NW) it was on the radio constantly. I never heard a bad word about it. I loved it.😊❤
Janis Ian made this in 1967, she was 16 years old, and nailed society's racism and hatred. What's much too sad is we seem to have not learned a thing since then and this song is still pertinent.