Oh, since no one has mentioned it yet, Brian May's guitar on this is STUPID GREAT! The throaty, attention-grabbing sound of a REED instrument, perhaps like the shenai. SOOO perfect for the song. Brian's versatility is on full display here, and it raises the hair on my arms, it's so good. He and his guitar are ONE-OFFs. No other way to say it.
Lots of Queen's music is tongue in cheek. One reason why many critics didn't like Queen was that they took everything too serious and didn't get that at all.
It's just great energy - always - with Queen. And that energy emanated from Freddie, like the borderline out-of-control core of a nuclear reactor. What a talent; what a soul. And you are so right: what fun!
maybe its not the biggest hit, but for me it has special flavour - i consider it as some kind of voice excercise - in which it succeeds and once again shows their versatility - most out of them ofcourse Freddies...
To me the best thing about this song are the changes in loudness. Especially as it's the first song on the album, so when you listen to it for the first time and set the volume accordingly then it's a nice surprise when it suddenly gets extra loud.
One of the things that always impressed me most about Queen was not just the many styles of music they did - it was also the authenticity of their music when doing these varied styles. It never came off like a parody or overreaching beyond their ability.
Oh my word, I'd totally forgotten this song, it must be at least two decades since I heard this song and yet- half way thru the first verse and I'm singing along as if I only heard it a couple of hours ago. Time to dig out the album I think. I may need to warm up the record player again... :)
I just love it. Freddie's ethnicity is Persian/Parsee born in Africa, went to school in India, then in late teens went to England, he was exposed to so many cultures which gave him a multitude of creativeness. Great reaction
Those little ‘burps’ are little bass slides..❤bass is heavy in this song..❤John is a genius❤I love Freddie’s playfulness here..Love your great reaction❤
I can’t wait for this reaction! I think y’all are one of the few music channels that have the bravery and ability to cover this song. I always picture Freddie as a young boy taking in all the sounds in Bombay, India as he got off the boat from Zanzibar and headed to boarding school in a crowded, eclectic city full of new sounds. He must have used those impressions to help create this song and his band mates helped so much make it a rock song unlike any other. It’s so unique! Thanks for commenting on this song!
@@bluebell3720It's not help in the sense of his being incompetent and incapable so they had to do help him compose the song because he couldn't do it himself, but rather help in the sense of doing their part and sharing in the process of composing the song and helping (there's that word) to make it the song that it is. There is no sense in the OP's comment of criticising or detracting from Freddie's talents or contributions, and thus no need to defend him, nor to scold, admonish, or chastise the OP. EDIT: *had to help him, NOT had to do help him.
My dad had only 2 Queen albums. "Night at the Opera" and "Day at the Races". Then I got "Innuendo" when it came out, as a birthday gift. "Jazz" was the first album I bought when I finally decided: It's time to expand my Queen knowledge. When this song came up, I knew I was going to be in good hands.
You are so correct, the beginning of this song almost sounds like the call to prayer ( which I have only heard in movies and television shows) so I don’t really know for sure sure.
This is going be good. Every Queen album is a surprise. Like The Beatles, Queen took inspiration from so many genres and made it Queen Music. So talented those 4 guys were.
Probably my favorite Queen album. We had the 8-track tape of this when I was in high school, and it grew on me over time. I was by then really into prog rock, but this was something else for sure.
This is the perfect song to start with from this album. I have loved this song since I first got the album when it came out. So many great songs on Jazz, but this one really cuts through. I never knew what he was saying of course, but I always loved this song. Who am I kidding, I love every Queen song. I too have always really loved the fun of this song, but the composition feels complex to me at the same time.
i just recently heard some excerpts from a freddie mercury interview where he said he recorded this song to tap into the arab listeners market in london
This was great reaction, as someone who had lots of experience with middle eastern music and Iranian/Persian too, everything about this song for me is great, it is eclectic mix of different styles, but Freddie idea was simple I think, make a middle eastern rock song, and since he is Persian/Iranian himself, why not? BTW before Iranian revolution and before fall of most of secular Arabic states (don’t want to go in to politics too much) there were very popular musicians in that part of world, who modernized, and introduced jazz, rock and western influences in popular music of that area, so Freddie making this piece of music is logical to me. Greetings for you Amy, Vlad and little star!
The group as a whole would involve the audience in whatever way they could, they had invited fans for some of their music videos, and at live concerts would come up with something in the native tongue, just a few lyrics, or old folk song from the part of the world they were playing, so quite possibly this came from Freddie background mixing with all people from different backgrounds at his school in India, and then moving to London in the 60's. They have always been extremely inclusive
Amy, when you're finished with the Jazz album, you must read Dave Marsh's review of it in Rolling Stone magazine. Getting your reaction to that would be priceless!
To be honest most music critics are pretentious idiots riddled with jealousy due to their own lack of any musical talent whatsoever (now how's that for a review) 😄
Don't get me started on Dave Marsh. This "critic" is pretentious, pedantic and dismissive. I can't listen to his SiriusXM show without screaming at the radio. His "conservative" music sensibility is an insult to the liberal/progressive politics he professes to believe in. Disco as a pinnacle of rock? Give me an effing break!! 😂 21:42
They recorded this in Montreux, Switzerland. One of the crews daughters went to school there and they were from Turkey and she helped Freddie with the Arabic. The name Jazz came from the Montreux Jazz Festival and also the other meaning of jazz such as: don't give me any of that jazz. Roger's song More of That Jazz closes the album off. I hope you listen to it. I love it. Great reaction, Amy!
When I used to see Queen live in the US back in the 70's and 80's their sellers of programs and t-shirts were all of Middle Eastern descent. Queen were, and may still be, the most popular Western rock band in Iran. Although they could never go there.
I'm glad this one got selected to react to. It's so off-the-wall, but not off-the-wall for Queen to want to attempt something like this. Freddie, of course, with his background being what it was, felt perfectly comfortable with the lyrical side of things. We, the listener, have to trust him in that what he's singing, (at least initially), is actually quite serious! Almost sounding like a devote follower calling the faithful to prayer in the opening part. But then, you soon realise that this isn't quite all it's meant to be. The use of language strays more into a dramatic sense with various expressive ways of making statements that, once you look into them, don't really make any cognitive sense, in that they're not only individualistic, but also in a number of different languages. Not only that, but some don't actually mean anything. They just sound right for the song. Then, once you've recovered from jumping out of your skin when the instrumentation kicks in, you realise that there's not anything wrong with your stereo system sounding mono, and that it's all done for effect. And, what an effect it is! A rocking Arabesque song, no less. But then, they go back to mono again, (which, the first time I heard it and realised what they were doing, kind of disappointed me, a bit), but I knew they'd try the same thing again, later on. Except, the second time, they catch you off guard by coming in early! The instrumentation on the second part always interested me in that Brian's guitar is made to sound like a typical Arabic/South Asian flute type instrument, (I don't know the name of), that's more akin to what snake charmers would use. And, it's done to magnificent effect, is has to be said. The only thing wrong with this song is it's length, of course. But, it's definitely a good one to open the album with. One which has many iconic songs, much like the last one, that will cement Queen's legacy for all time.
HEY !! Love it 😂🤣 Freddie was hysterically funny and I love him for it 😂 He also liked WORDS and had his own language LOL 😊❤️😊💛🥰 ❤️ I bet many people thought Freddie’s ‘ special language ‘ was genuine 😂 Thank you Amy You are fabulous 🌷
Je suis français et fan de Queen et je n'aurais jamais imaginé vous entendre citer Louis deFunès même si je comprends la comparaison, c'était inattendu. Merci pour ça.
One of their most THRILLING songs. Amazingly recorded, and fantastic live (yes, I was lucky enough...) The first time, silly or weird (to a westerner), and then once you accept the different world music idiom, you begin to see beneath the SALIENT "humor". Therefore, while I truly LOVE you and your channel... I disagree. This isn't the light-hearted Bicycle Race - nor a background score to a slapstick black & white film. This is ANGRY. Really, really ANGRY. As far as I can tell, when you say "Allah will pray for you", you are essentially damning the person. I perceive that this is Freddie exorcising an old demon. The heavy bits don't make any sense, otherwise. One of Queen's top tracks. SOOO GOOD LIVE. (Chicago 1980). A favorite of mine. Keep on, Amy! Love you and your channel!
well, i like this song.. i think that, toghetr with 'Dreamer's Ball' those are the most beautiful songs of the entire album. In this album you can find a miscellaneous between the old Queen and the growing up of the new Queen fase. The drums is goin to develope a more likely funk-style as the bass indeed. Guitar is going to be more clear and rockable, with less effect like the 'mosquito effect' typical of the firsts Queen albums (News of the World included), and, in general, we can find what we will find at their best 'musical research styles ages' of 'The Game' album.. infact, in the next album, the old fashion Queen will be completely lost and will appear a new style, the Funk-Black style. It's impressive their dynamical changes in styles in those years (1978-1982)..
Years ago I had a professor trace the influence of Dervish music on John Philips Sousa. Long story short, elements of Dervish music entered into Ottoman military music, including marching bands/music. Ottoman military successes in Europe introduced that music to European militaries who adapted elements of it into their marching music, and you eventually get to Sousa. The professor's point was any form of music played today will have strands going back hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Many of those strands will jump from one ethnic group to another, one religion to another, one continent to another. I for one enjoy when you point out some musical elements in rock which came from some other musical form. It makes it more fun when you, or some other person with a reaction channel, point out some rock song's French plainsong melody, or a section of a song mimicking Gregorian chant, or a Japanese pentatonic scale, or how Pink Floyd's emphasis of the "ck" in Comfortably Numb's line, "You may feel a little siCK," is more of a jazz style enunciation. So please, keep pointing out whatever roots and influences you hear in any of these songs. I sure do enjoy learning about them.
These reaction / analysis videos are so great. I’m now listening the Queen songs that I know so well is a different “musical “ light. Really enjoying the journey Amy is going on . Can’t wait to see her listen to 80’s Queen to the last albums. I think it’ll get emotional Hopefully get to see her reaction to more live Queen and of course Live Aid ‘concert.
It was always a joy and adventure to get a new Queen album and listen to it all the way through. They never took themselves to seriously and it really shows here! I think it just a mix of Parsi, Hindu and made up words all together. Thanks for your perspective on this song that is pure fun, in my take on it.
I enjoyed watching the level jump approaching on the waveform and knowing it was going to give a startle. They went for an extreme dynamic on this one.
Thanks Amy et al, for another dynamic and enjoyable review. This song grew with me over a 40 year period, to be one of my favourites. The arrangement, mood changes and playfulness are simply wonderful. This is a song that doesn't reveal as quick as I once thought. An underrated gem, if we give her the time to reveal her clever, funny, beauty. Haha, I've inadvertently described my wife😄. PS; We love your philosophising - It's just another outcome of being open to music's mysteries.
This was a lot of fun to watch, especially for Amy's reactions during her first time listening to this gem 😁💚🎵 And when she said, "I almost feel it should've gone on for a bit longer!", I had to think of the unison guitar-and-bass riff in Rush's epic song 'Xanadu' and its descent at the end, after the several repetitions 😊
Your mentioning about the car running the the street is perfect. When I heard it first I it made me think of the scene in the Disney movie Aladdin where he is being chased through the streets.
This album blew me sideways when I got it, and when I got it I didn't know anything about its existence! Here I was a member of the fan club and I knew nothing about the album JAZZ. My parents were kind enough to buy it for me when I found it on that shopping trip. When we got home I found my quarterly fan club magazine had been delivered in the post, the whole front cover was the cover of the new album, JAZZ. This opening track was again a hard 90 degree turn from NEWS OF THE WORLD and the last new track I'd heard, "My Melancholy Blues". That diversity and random hat quality that QUEEN had throughout all their albums, something which seemed to draw a lot of ire from some, is partly what drew me to listening to them so much.
Hi 👋 Mrs. Amy, Once again we’re in front of crazy eclectic artists;we have an exploration, an explosion of Arabic culture, colors, sounds, places. It seems to walk or run within a maze of narrow streets and noisy markets interrupted by daily rituals. All in the glam and even progressive rock sauce that the incomparable genius Brian May freshly prepares. We find that peculiar and cadenced accompaniment typical of Arab music as a systematic contamination in the chromatic progressions of traditional Neapolitan song. If you're curious, I think I'd be happy to point out a relatively similar atmosphere in Renato Carosone's song "O' Sarracino" (in Neapolitan dialect, Saracen, in fact). I remember another very tiny dissertation that jumps into this sonorities at the end of the guitar solo of the song “one way ticket to hell (and back) from “the darkness” who coincidentally were Queen's protégés. So, you are a great catcher of small and beautiful details and I like these reactions so much.
Great choice for showing their stylistic variety. I really enjoyed your take on this fun and fascinating middle eastern sounding rock song. Although the "hey" reminds me of a Greek festival with the shouts during the traditional dances (or at least the Americanized ones I've attended). Similar in other cultures too, so maybe in festive Arabic celebrations also. The burping sound is Brian's creative use of doing a single string slide on his guitar. A very tongue in cheek comical song. I loved your philosophical thought at the end, on the willingness and openness to exploring any kind of music (and culture), which can enrich our experience, and which we can apply this to our own lives. Which is what your personal journey here is all about.
I feel this is more than a gratuitous fun song. I think it's a satire, taking certain things to the point of unbridled ridicule so we can better observe them. The ridiculousness and comedic aspects of the piece bring me to mind the ultimate silliness of humankind presuming it somehow matters in the grand scheme of things, that it is "special". In fact, we can only address what is within our range, what we experience, what we were taught, our thoughts, our feelings, and then we cleverly say that is what it is all about, that it is the most important, elevated thing in the universe, the very thing that gives it meaning. It's all humankind, but I don't think Mustapha and Ibrahim were random choices. And if the thing I believe being alluded to here is far from being fun, it is certainly idiotic. Maybe it needs to be brought to our attention so we can better observe it.
@@Pedro_MVS_Lima Hey Pedro, good to hear from you. Wow, you went deep philosophically on this one. I didn't even really consider that there might be a deeper philosophical meanings here. But now that you mention the satirical aspect of it, I probably should have looked deeper. You have probably heard me talk in our prior conversations about the power of satire in exposing the absurdities in our society and lives. I was drawn more by the interesting musical and vocal delivery choices they made, and didn't pay that much attention to the actual lyrics. It sounds to me like Brian is using a harmonic minor type of scale to achieve the middle eastern sound (not sure if it actually is harmonic minor, or if it just has similar interval combinations). You can also hear this in John Deacon's bass in parts, although not as prominent in the mix. (Edit: I just realized I wrote melodic minor when I meant harmonic minor so I corrected that)
@@LeeKennison Hi Lee, yes, I've been silent for a while, sorry about that, I've been here regularly lurking in the shadows. I don't know about deep or philosophical, sometimes I just go for what I feel like saying or doing (or playing), this time I felt there was more about this piece than what was being talked about, especially considering the presence of some specific cultural traits in the piece. I may be wrong, of course, but that's irrelevant. I haven't checked out the scales being used, I do seem to recall hearing some minor seconds there, so possibly the fifth mode of harmonic minor (phrygian dominant, is that it?). I would choose that or similar for a "middle eastern" mood, mostly because of that minor second.
@@Pedro_MVS_Lima That's the beauty of good music, it can trigger thoughts and ideas that hit people differently. I looked at a Guitar Pro version of the score that sounded fairly accurate. I am assuming this is being played over an F# (or Gb) since the bass only plays F# alternating the octave, and that feels like home to me on the guitar. The guitar sequence I am referring to has this note sequence: F# G# A F# G# A C C# D# C# C A G# A G# F# C F# D (when using only sharps the C probably should be the enharmonic B# to avoid the C C# repeat). The harmonic minor would be: F# G# A B C# D E# (F) F# (1 2 b3 4 5 b6 7 1). If you tried to write the guitar part as a scale it would be F# G# A B# (C) C# D# (1 2 b3 #4 5 6). So no major 7 in there to give it that characteristic b6 7 1 sound I associate with the harmonic minor, so it is the b3 #4 5 intervals that are giving me that middle eastern vibe (along with the tone of Brian's guitar). You can see there isn't a b2 in there either, so not the Phrygian dominant mode of the harmonic minor either (1 b2 3 4 5 b6 b7 1). I'm guessing for both of us it is probably the unexpected half step (in terms of the tonality of the major and natural minor scales/modes) that gives us this vibe. In my case it is also the combination of the 3 half step interval followed by the unexpected half step (b6 7 1 in the harmonic and b3 #4 5 in this one). I have heard Brian say in interviews that he thinks more in terms of chord tones than scales anyway, so this sequence doesn't necessarily fit any particular scale. Although there may be some exotic six note scale out there that fits, perhaps called the Brian scale or mode. ;)
@@LeeKennison I couldn't find where that guitar note sequence happens in the song, could I trouble you in telling me the timecode (minute:second) in the video where it begins? The structure 1 2 b3 #4 5 6 might hint at an incomplete fourth mode of the harmonic minor (Dorian #11: 1 2 b3 #4 5 6 b7). The remaining heptatonic alternative would be the fourth mode of the major harmonic scale (Lydian b3: 1 2 b3 #4 5 6 7), but it is seldom used. In any case, you'd have that harmonic (major or minor) scale "characteristic" sound b6 7 1 shifted to b3 #4 5. The scale names I used here are just an option out of multiple alternate names these scales may carry, for instance Melodic Minor #4 would be an alternate name for Lydian b3.
I think this song is yet another to highlight John's ability to understand what is needed. I mean, yes, everybody is on point, there are no weak links, but John is clearly shining here. Oh, and I asked a few Arabic people what Mustapha means, they basically said it's like Steve, but Steve doesn't sound quite as exotic!
Music industry hated Queen because they did do as they were told by the power and money that runs it. So of course the music press hated them more. Queen sure showed them
This will be awesome! I would set up camp on the Illinois River (in Southern Oregon), next to a cliff, overlooking the deep river below. I’d find a good spot and, at full volume, chant EEEEEEEEE, EBRAH, EEEEEEEL,(and so on!). It would echo through the mountains/canyon/forest! Love this whole album!!! (Jazz)
The song that follows this one on the album is just such an interesting juxtaposition of styles and content from this one. Can't wait to see your analysis of that one (especially the lyrics).
Great review Amy. You're dead right about Freddie using the opening verse to start early live performance of Bohemian Rhapsody. Luckily saw them I'm Liverpool in December 79 at the Empire and that is exactly what happened 👍
If Vlad really wanted Amy to experience as much stylistic variety as possible, he would have included "Sheer Heart Attack" before moving on to the Jazz album, Queen's only punk song.
HURRAYYYY…. I. LOVE. THIS SONG IN THEIR LIVE PERFORMANCES! (I’ll have to try to find a live Bohemian Rhapsody intro where Freddie’s using the Mustapha bit.)
John Deacon is responsible for the best Queen moments Probably the best bass player in rock Elton John is quoted as saying he was the best bass player he ever worked with (Deacy guested on an Elton album)
"i feel im watching a comedy movie!" Yhat comment gave me the biggest laugh, out of all the queen reactions Loved it! And really ejoy all the queen Reaction videos 😅😅
I totally get what you're saying about the humorous movie thing. To me, it's always felt reminiscent of a funny children's tale. Perhaps this is super niche but you know those cartoon-ified versions of classic literature or religious stories you could find in the discount movie bin? That's what this evokes the feeling of. Just instead of a kid-friendly Tom Sawyer, this tells a silly story of a Persian prince's misadventures or an arabic jester's day or something.
I love your vids and a band i am surprised you haven’t covered yet is Dream Theater, some of the most technically amazing musicians to ever join together in a band. I would recommend a couple songs: Octavarium, Metropolis part 1, Dance of Eternity (from the concept album metropolis part 2 - scenes from a memory/ this album is a masterpiece), the count of Tuscany and Breaking all illusions.
The last great Queen album. If you'd wanted to see some stylistic variety from the band you really should have done 2 of their greatest songs March of the Black Queen, and especially The Prophet's Song - hopefully you can go back to them someday.
@@GarrettEulett I was talking from my own personal music tastes. If you love Hot Space or any other album that's great (and I wouldn't expect / want an apology for that). We all have differing tastes and it would be boring if they were all the same - unless that is everyone agreed with me 🤣. Take care and keep on enjoying the music.
I can visualize Freddie as a muezzin in a minaret, in a kind of Marx brothers' film. 🤣It's a surprise, that Freddie wrote this song, knowing, that he almost never spoke about his childhood and the life he left behind. It could have been a joke only, in Freddie's style. 🤣
You should listen to Om “State of Non-Return”. Middle Eastern tinged heavy rock. Check out the live version recorded for the BBC. It was used as a part of the soundtrack for a hit wildlife series.
Freddie could be a very good muezzin! But hearing the rest of this number, I get the impression that he chose not to. The title already suggests what I hear - a mix-up of Arabic and 'western' music. As if Freddie doesn't give a shit about the cultural messages. The result is hilarious of course. It all makes sense, since Fredie grew up under both influences and didn't fit in both.
Oh, since no one has mentioned it yet, Brian May's guitar on this is STUPID GREAT! The throaty, attention-grabbing sound of a REED instrument, perhaps like the shenai. SOOO perfect for the song. Brian's versatility is on full display here, and it raises the hair on my arms, it's so good. He and his guitar are ONE-OFFs. No other way to say it.
Proof if it were needed that Freddie could sing the phone book accompanied by Queen.
Lots of Queen's music is tongue in cheek. One reason why many critics didn't like Queen was that they took everything too serious and didn't get that at all.
John’s bass in this is amazing. AND Brian manages to make his guitar go oriental. Also amazing. Plus perfect percussion.
It's just great energy - always - with Queen. And that energy emanated from Freddie, like the borderline out-of-control core of a nuclear reactor.
What a talent; what a soul. And you are so right: what fun!
iv'e heard this song probably a thousand times and the first 15 seconds still gives me chills.
Only Queen could create a song like this and show just how diverse and versatile they were with Freddie.
maybe its not the biggest hit, but for me it has special flavour - i consider it as some kind of voice excercise - in which it succeeds and once again shows their versatility - most out of them ofcourse Freddies...
Jelousy and seven days are gems from Jazz.
Leaving Home Ain't Easy, too
To me the best thing about this song are the changes in loudness. Especially as it's the first song on the album, so when you listen to it for the first time and set the volume accordingly then it's a nice surprise when it suddenly gets extra loud.
One of the things that always impressed me most about Queen was not just the many styles of music they did - it was also the authenticity of their music when doing these varied styles. It never came off like a parody or overreaching beyond their ability.
Oh my word, I'd totally forgotten this song, it must be at least two decades since I heard this song and yet- half way thru the first verse and I'm singing along as if I only heard it a couple of hours ago.
Time to dig out the album I think. I may need to warm up the record player again... :)
I'm eager to watch and listen to you talking about "Teo Terriatte"... i just discovered it and I'm in love with it... Freddie singing in Japanese...
Great song. Japanese audience loved it.
Check out La Japonaise with Monserrat Caballe then ☺️
Amazing ❤. Also I kindly suggest you listen to 'My Fairy King', another epic masterpice.
I just love it. Freddie's ethnicity is Persian/Parsee born in Africa, went to school in India, then in late teens went to England, he was exposed to so many cultures which gave him a multitude of creativeness. Great reaction
Yeah, I've always loved this song since my first time hearing it, too 😊 Which is now 43 years! 😀
The rest of the 'Jazz' album is also pretty good 🙂
@@mightyV444 hello fellow long time Queen fan. 🌹
@@deboraclark5791 - 👋😁
I love the whole Jazz album. Probably my favorite Queen offering
Those little ‘burps’ are little bass slides..❤bass is heavy in this song..❤John is a genius❤I love Freddie’s playfulness here..Love your great reaction❤
I can’t wait for this reaction! I think y’all are one of the few music channels that have the bravery and ability to cover this song. I always picture Freddie as a young boy taking in all the sounds in Bombay, India as he got off the boat from Zanzibar and headed to boarding school in a crowded, eclectic city full of new sounds. He must have used those impressions to help create this song and his band mates helped so much make it a rock song unlike any other. It’s so unique! Thanks for commenting on this song!
The movement from mono to stereo is wonderful in this song! Wall of sound.
Probably more influenced by zanzibar prodiminatly muslim and Governed by Arabs
I know you meant it in a nice way
But he was a pretty good composer not sure if he needed help!
Zanzibar was prodominatly muslim and ruled by Arab Sultan
So maybe more influenced by Zanzibar
@@bluebell3720It's not help in the sense of his being incompetent and incapable so they had to do help him compose the song because he couldn't do it himself, but rather help in the sense of doing their part and sharing in the process of composing the song and helping (there's that word) to make it the song that it is. There is no sense in the OP's comment of criticising or detracting from Freddie's talents or contributions, and thus no need to defend him, nor to scold, admonish, or chastise the OP.
EDIT:
*had to help him, NOT had to do help him.
My dad had only 2 Queen albums. "Night at the Opera" and "Day at the Races". Then I got "Innuendo" when it came out, as a birthday gift. "Jazz" was the first album I bought when I finally decided: It's time to expand my Queen knowledge. When this song came up, I knew I was going to be in good hands.
You are so correct, the beginning of this song almost sounds like the call to prayer ( which I have only heard in movies and television shows) so I don’t really know for sure sure.
This is going be good.
Every Queen album is a surprise.
Like The Beatles, Queen took inspiration from so many genres and made it Queen Music.
So talented those 4 guys were.
Mustapha, Bicycle race and most of all, Don't stop me now are genius Queen.
Freddie was very inclusive, for obvious reasons. No one with a backbone was offended.
Probably my favorite Queen album. We had the 8-track tape of this when I was in high school, and it grew on me over time. I was by then really into prog rock, but this was something else for sure.
The very beginning sounds like the morning call to prayer you always hear in the movies.
Yes, like he's standing atop the tower of a mosque, calling out to the worshippers 😄
This is the perfect song to start with from this album. I have loved this song since I first got the album when it came out. So many great songs on Jazz, but this one really cuts through. I never knew what he was saying of course, but I always loved this song. Who am I kidding, I love every Queen song. I too have always really loved the fun of this song, but the composition feels complex to me at the same time.
i just recently heard some excerpts from a freddie mercury interview where he said he recorded this song to tap into the arab listeners market in london
This was great reaction, as someone who had lots of experience with middle eastern music and Iranian/Persian too, everything about this song for me is great, it is eclectic mix of different styles, but Freddie idea was simple I think, make a middle eastern rock song, and since he is Persian/Iranian himself, why not? BTW before Iranian revolution and before fall of most of secular Arabic states (don’t want to go in to politics too much) there were very popular musicians in that part of world, who modernized, and introduced jazz, rock and western influences in popular music of that area, so Freddie making this piece of music is logical to me.
Greetings for you Amy, Vlad and little star!
The group as a whole would involve the audience in whatever way they could, they had invited fans for some of their music videos, and at live concerts would come up with something in the native tongue, just a few lyrics, or old folk song from the part of the world they were playing, so quite possibly this came from Freddie background mixing with all people from different backgrounds at his school in India, and then moving to London in the 60's. They have always been extremely inclusive
Jazz is a great album, I hope you react to Leaving Home Ain't Easy by Brian, very touching.
Amy, when you're finished with the Jazz album, you must read Dave Marsh's review of it in Rolling Stone magazine. Getting your reaction to that would be priceless!
100% this, and that he's never backed down ;)
To be honest most music critics are pretentious idiots riddled with jealousy due to their own lack of any musical talent whatsoever (now how's that for a review) 😄
Don't get me started on Dave Marsh. This "critic" is pretentious, pedantic and dismissive. I can't listen to his SiriusXM show without screaming at the radio. His "conservative" music sensibility is an insult to the liberal/progressive politics he professes to believe in.
Disco as a pinnacle of rock? Give me an effing break!! 😂 21:42
They recorded this in Montreux, Switzerland. One of the crews daughters went to school there and they were from Turkey and she helped Freddie with the Arabic. The name Jazz came from the Montreux Jazz Festival and also the other meaning of jazz such as: don't give me any of that jazz. Roger's song More of That Jazz closes the album off. I hope you listen to it. I love it. Great reaction, Amy!
Best song on the album. Cheers Amy ✌
They don't speak Arabic in turkey, they speak Turkish
When I used to see Queen live in the US back in the 70's and 80's their sellers of programs and t-shirts were all of Middle Eastern descent. Queen were, and may still be, the most popular Western rock band in Iran. Although they could never go there.
I'm glad this one got selected to react to. It's so off-the-wall, but not off-the-wall for Queen to want to attempt something like this. Freddie, of course, with his background being what it was, felt perfectly comfortable with the lyrical side of things. We, the listener, have to trust him in that what he's singing, (at least initially), is actually quite serious! Almost sounding like a devote follower calling the faithful to prayer in the opening part. But then, you soon realise that this isn't quite all it's meant to be. The use of language strays more into a dramatic sense with various expressive ways of making statements that, once you look into them, don't really make any cognitive sense, in that they're not only individualistic, but also in a number of different languages. Not only that, but some don't actually mean anything. They just sound right for the song.
Then, once you've recovered from jumping out of your skin when the instrumentation kicks in, you realise that there's not anything wrong with your stereo system sounding mono, and that it's all done for effect. And, what an effect it is! A rocking Arabesque song, no less. But then, they go back to mono again, (which, the first time I heard it and realised what they were doing, kind of disappointed me, a bit), but I knew they'd try the same thing again, later on. Except, the second time, they catch you off guard by coming in early! The instrumentation on the second part always interested me in that Brian's guitar is made to sound like a typical Arabic/South Asian flute type instrument, (I don't know the name of), that's more akin to what snake charmers would use. And, it's done to magnificent effect, is has to be said.
The only thing wrong with this song is it's length, of course. But, it's definitely a good one to open the album with. One which has many iconic songs, much like the last one, that will cement Queen's legacy for all time.
Wow ❤ beautiful sweet Freddie 😍 love this crazy song 🤩 although my favorite of this album is jealousy 💖🤩 let's hope Vlad will choose it 😁🎉
HEY !! Love it 😂🤣 Freddie was hysterically funny and I love him for it 😂 He also liked WORDS and had his own language LOL 😊❤️😊💛🥰 ❤️ I bet many people thought Freddie’s ‘ special language ‘ was genuine 😂 Thank you Amy You are fabulous 🌷
One of my absolute favouties since the day I bought the album when it first came out, long, long ago.
The whole album is a lot of fun!
This song is the most meaninglessly fun three minutes ever recorded.
😆😆😆
Yes! lol
IDK, I don't speak Arabic, do you? All I could understand was "Salam Aleicum" in the end! So I can't judge.
Great album!
Je suis français et fan de Queen et je n'aurais jamais imaginé vous entendre citer Louis deFunès même si je comprends la comparaison, c'était inattendu. Merci pour ça.
One of their most THRILLING songs. Amazingly recorded, and fantastic live (yes, I was lucky enough...) The first time, silly or weird (to a westerner), and then once you accept the different world music idiom, you begin to see beneath the SALIENT "humor". Therefore, while I truly LOVE you and your channel... I disagree. This isn't the light-hearted Bicycle Race - nor a background score to a slapstick black & white film. This is ANGRY. Really, really ANGRY. As far as I can tell, when you say "Allah will pray for you", you are essentially damning the person. I perceive that this is Freddie exorcising an old demon. The heavy bits don't make any sense, otherwise. One of Queen's top tracks. SOOO GOOD LIVE. (Chicago 1980). A favorite of mine. Keep on, Amy! Love you and your channel!
well, i like this song.. i think that, toghetr with 'Dreamer's Ball' those are the most beautiful songs of the entire album. In this album you can find a miscellaneous between the old Queen and the growing up of the new Queen fase. The drums is goin to develope a more likely funk-style as the bass indeed. Guitar is going to be more clear and rockable, with less effect like the 'mosquito effect' typical of the firsts Queen albums (News of the World included), and, in general, we can find what we will find at their best 'musical research styles ages' of 'The Game' album.. infact, in the next album, the old fashion Queen will be completely lost and will appear a new style, the Funk-Black style. It's impressive their dynamical changes in styles in those years (1978-1982)..
Years ago I had a professor trace the influence of Dervish music on John Philips Sousa. Long story short, elements of Dervish music entered into Ottoman military music, including marching bands/music. Ottoman military successes in Europe introduced that music to European militaries who adapted elements of it into their marching music, and you eventually get to Sousa. The professor's point was any form of music played today will have strands going back hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Many of those strands will jump from one ethnic group to another, one religion to another, one continent to another.
I for one enjoy when you point out some musical elements in rock which came from some other musical form. It makes it more fun when you, or some other person with a reaction channel, point out some rock song's French plainsong melody, or a section of a song mimicking Gregorian chant, or a Japanese pentatonic scale, or how Pink Floyd's emphasis of the "ck" in Comfortably Numb's line, "You may feel a little siCK," is more of a jazz style enunciation. So please, keep pointing out whatever roots and influences you hear in any of these songs. I sure do enjoy learning about them.
These reaction / analysis videos are so great. I’m now listening the Queen songs that I know so well is a different “musical “ light. Really enjoying the journey Amy is going on . Can’t wait to see her listen to 80’s Queen to the last albums. I think it’ll get emotional Hopefully get to see her reaction to more live Queen and of course Live Aid ‘concert.
Firstly, even before you played the song I was so grateful to Vlad for suggesting this track. I was also glad you picked up on the bass.
It was always a joy and adventure to get a new Queen album and listen to it all the way through. They never took themselves to seriously and it really shows here! I think it just a mix of Parsi, Hindu and made up words all together. Thanks for your perspective on this song that is pure fun, in my take on it.
I enjoyed watching the level jump approaching on the waveform and knowing it was going to give a startle. They went for an extreme dynamic on this one.
Another great opening track!
Thanks Amy et al, for another dynamic and enjoyable review. This song grew with me over a 40 year period, to be one of my favourites. The arrangement, mood changes and playfulness are simply wonderful. This is a song that doesn't reveal as quick as I once thought. An underrated gem, if we give her the time to reveal her clever, funny, beauty. Haha, I've inadvertently described my wife😄. PS; We love your philosophising - It's just another outcome of being open to music's mysteries.
This was a lot of fun to watch, especially for Amy's reactions during her first time listening to this gem 😁💚🎵
And when she said, "I almost feel it should've gone on for a bit longer!", I had to think of the unison guitar-and-bass riff in Rush's epic song 'Xanadu' and its descent at the end, after the several repetitions 😊
Your mentioning about the car running the the street is perfect. When I heard it first I it made me think of the scene in the Disney movie Aladdin where he is being chased through the streets.
The "Hey!" at the end reminds me of some of those Russian dances.
This album blew me sideways when I got it, and when I got it I didn't know anything about its existence! Here I was a member of the fan club and I knew nothing about the album JAZZ. My parents were kind enough to buy it for me when I found it on that shopping trip. When we got home I found my quarterly fan club magazine had been delivered in the post, the whole front cover was the cover of the new album, JAZZ. This opening track was again a hard 90 degree turn from NEWS OF THE WORLD and the last new track I'd heard, "My Melancholy Blues". That diversity and random hat quality that QUEEN had throughout all their albums, something which seemed to draw a lot of ire from some, is partly what drew me to listening to them so much.
Thank you for reacting to this, so thrilled!
I loved her reaction when it shifted from the mono mix to the full band with Brian's guitar kicking in, so fun!
Hi 👋 Mrs. Amy,
Once again we’re in front of crazy eclectic artists;we have an exploration, an explosion of Arabic culture, colors, sounds, places. It seems to walk or run within a maze of narrow streets and noisy markets interrupted by daily rituals. All in the glam and even progressive rock sauce that the incomparable genius Brian May freshly prepares.
We find that peculiar and cadenced accompaniment typical of Arab music as a systematic contamination in the chromatic progressions of traditional Neapolitan song. If you're curious, I think I'd be happy to point out a relatively similar atmosphere in Renato Carosone's song "O' Sarracino" (in Neapolitan dialect, Saracen, in fact).
I remember another very tiny dissertation that jumps into this sonorities at the end of the guitar solo of the song “one way ticket to hell (and back) from “the darkness” who coincidentally were Queen's protégés.
So, you are a great catcher of small and beautiful details and I like these reactions so much.
What about the chord progression? Apart of the Am-G-F-E sequences, I think there's a lot to analyze.
Harmonically as well as melodically
Just an absolute treat here for your fans cannot wait to watch Love you
Great choice for showing their stylistic variety. I really enjoyed your take on this fun and fascinating middle eastern sounding rock song. Although the "hey" reminds me of a Greek festival with the shouts during the traditional dances (or at least the Americanized ones I've attended). Similar in other cultures too, so maybe in festive Arabic celebrations also. The burping sound is Brian's creative use of doing a single string slide on his guitar. A very tongue in cheek comical song. I loved your philosophical thought at the end, on the willingness and openness to exploring any kind of music (and culture), which can enrich our experience, and which we can apply this to our own lives. Which is what your personal journey here is all about.
I feel this is more than a gratuitous fun song. I think it's a satire, taking certain things to the point of unbridled ridicule so we can better observe them. The ridiculousness and comedic aspects of the piece bring me to mind the ultimate silliness of humankind presuming it somehow matters in the grand scheme of things, that it is "special". In fact, we can only address what is within our range, what we experience, what we were taught, our thoughts, our feelings, and then we cleverly say that is what it is all about, that it is the most important, elevated thing in the universe, the very thing that gives it meaning. It's all humankind, but I don't think Mustapha and Ibrahim were random choices. And if the thing I believe being alluded to here is far from being fun, it is certainly idiotic. Maybe it needs to be brought to our attention so we can better observe it.
@@Pedro_MVS_Lima Hey Pedro, good to hear from you. Wow, you went deep philosophically on this one. I didn't even really consider that there might be a deeper philosophical meanings here. But now that you mention the satirical aspect of it, I probably should have looked deeper. You have probably heard me talk in our prior conversations about the power of satire in exposing the absurdities in our society and lives. I was drawn more by the interesting musical and vocal delivery choices they made, and didn't pay that much attention to the actual lyrics. It sounds to me like Brian is using a harmonic minor type of scale to achieve the middle eastern sound (not sure if it actually is harmonic minor, or if it just has similar interval combinations). You can also hear this in John Deacon's bass in parts, although not as prominent in the mix. (Edit: I just realized I wrote melodic minor when I meant harmonic minor so I corrected that)
@@LeeKennison Hi Lee, yes, I've been silent for a while, sorry about that, I've been here regularly lurking in the shadows.
I don't know about deep or philosophical, sometimes I just go for what I feel like saying or doing (or playing), this time I felt there was more about this piece than what was being talked about, especially considering the presence of some specific cultural traits in the piece. I may be wrong, of course, but that's irrelevant.
I haven't checked out the scales being used, I do seem to recall hearing some minor seconds there, so possibly the fifth mode of harmonic minor (phrygian dominant, is that it?). I would choose that or similar for a "middle eastern" mood, mostly because of that minor second.
@@Pedro_MVS_Lima That's the beauty of good music, it can trigger thoughts and ideas that hit people differently. I looked at a Guitar Pro version of the score that sounded fairly accurate. I am assuming this is being played over an F# (or Gb) since the bass only plays F# alternating the octave, and that feels like home to me on the guitar. The guitar sequence I am referring to has this note sequence: F# G# A F# G# A C C# D# C# C A G# A G# F# C F# D (when using only sharps the C probably should be the enharmonic B# to avoid the C C# repeat). The harmonic minor would be: F# G# A B C# D E# (F) F# (1 2 b3 4 5 b6 7 1). If you tried to write the guitar part as a scale it would be F# G# A B# (C) C# D# (1 2 b3 #4 5 6). So no major 7 in there to give it that characteristic b6 7 1 sound I associate with the harmonic minor, so it is the b3 #4 5 intervals that are giving me that middle eastern vibe (along with the tone of Brian's guitar). You can see there isn't a b2 in there either, so not the Phrygian dominant mode of the harmonic minor either (1 b2 3 4 5 b6 b7 1). I'm guessing for both of us it is probably the unexpected half step (in terms of the tonality of the major and natural minor scales/modes) that gives us this vibe. In my case it is also the combination of the 3 half step interval followed by the unexpected half step (b6 7 1 in the harmonic and b3 #4 5 in this one). I have heard Brian say in interviews that he thinks more in terms of chord tones than scales anyway, so this sequence doesn't necessarily fit any particular scale. Although there may be some exotic six note scale out there that fits, perhaps called the Brian scale or mode. ;)
@@LeeKennison I couldn't find where that guitar note sequence happens in the song, could I trouble you in telling me the timecode (minute:second) in the video where it begins?
The structure 1 2 b3 #4 5 6 might hint at an incomplete fourth mode of the harmonic minor (Dorian #11: 1 2 b3 #4 5 6 b7). The remaining heptatonic alternative would be the fourth mode of the major harmonic scale (Lydian b3: 1 2 b3 #4 5 6 7), but it is seldom used. In any case, you'd have that harmonic (major or minor) scale "characteristic" sound b6 7 1 shifted to b3 #4 5.
The scale names I used here are just an option out of multiple alternate names these scales may carry, for instance Melodic Minor #4 would be an alternate name for Lydian b3.
I think this song is yet another to highlight John's ability to understand what is needed. I mean, yes, everybody is on point, there are no weak links, but John is clearly shining here. Oh, and I asked a few Arabic people what Mustapha means, they basically said it's like Steve, but Steve doesn't sound quite as exotic!
I cant find any significance for Mustafa Ibrahim
Only both are names of important prophets
@@bluebell3720 Exactly.
Music industry hated Queen because they did do as they were told by the power and money that runs it. So of course the music press hated them more.
Queen sure showed them
This will be awesome! I would set up camp on the Illinois River (in Southern Oregon), next to a cliff, overlooking the deep river below. I’d find a good spot and, at full volume, chant EEEEEEEEE, EBRAH, EEEEEEEL,(and so on!). It would echo through the mountains/canyon/forest! Love this whole album!!! (Jazz)
It's "Ibrahim", not "Ebra Eel", roflmao :DDD
Yay! Was so hoping for this!❤❤
His family were Zorioastrians apparently a lot of people believe the three wise men were Zorioastrian
Deacy is often mentioned as the quiet one in Queen but without him, the band would be just another ordinary rock group
You rock Vlad! Great taste in music.
The combination is pure genious
The bass is like a sound effect for a salacious eyebrow raise.
Clever description 😂
The song that follows this one on the album is just such an interesting juxtaposition of styles and content from this one. Can't wait to see your analysis of that one (especially the lyrics).
I doubt Vlad will suggest FBG...
I've only just discovered your channel (Here mostly for Queen). You're very enjoyable to watch.
Jazz is a great album recorded in Montreux its quite eclectic and Outrageous its not JAZZ at all its a Mad record
Great review Amy. You're dead right about Freddie using the opening verse to start early live performance of Bohemian Rhapsody. Luckily saw them I'm Liverpool in December 79 at the Empire and that is exactly what happened 👍
There are many good live versions of this i.e. Hammersmith 1979, or Rosemont 1980
Ah, you are so right... Rosemont (Chicago) 1980 - so, soooo good! (I was there, yes, I'm old). Peace. :)
Wow, you caught Freddy and the others in top form, good for you@@DRRwine
The pacing of the song is reminiscent of the silent film era soundtrack. Think the Arabian Keystone Cops.
If Vlad really wanted Amy to experience as much stylistic variety as possible, he would have included "Sheer Heart Attack" before moving on to the Jazz album, Queen's only punk song.
I requested Dead On Time, but I was debating that or this one
HURRAYYYY….
I. LOVE. THIS SONG IN THEIR LIVE PERFORMANCES!
(I’ll have to try to find a live Bohemian Rhapsody intro where Freddie’s using the Mustapha bit.)
On the "Queen Live Killers" recording. Have fun!
@@DRRwine Hey, THANK YOU 🙏🏻
This is a little surprising, but I certainly approve - perhaps only because Amy will arrive without baggage, as always!
Call to prayer - people shouting for Mustapha - chase scene 1 - chase scene 2 (insert sleigh bells) - can't find Mustapha - where is he? - The end
That's fun.
Again 10cc came to my mind, so I just listened to "Sheet Music", the whole album, to have the fun for this week!
Большое спасибо
What nakes it still be Rock is the attitude...
Absolutely 👍🏻…the attitude….
John Deacon is responsible for the best Queen moments
Probably the best bass player in rock
Elton John is quoted as saying he was the best bass player he ever worked with (Deacy guested on an Elton album)
"i feel im watching a comedy movie!"
Yhat comment gave me the biggest laugh, out of all the queen reactions
Loved it! And really ejoy all the queen
Reaction videos 😅😅
Been a Queen fan since day one, have all the original releases, on vinyl, and this it the only song I do not love. Lol.
A song like this could never have been released these days. Freddie Mercury would probably have received death threats...
There is nothing comic in this song, this is an arabic-spanish hard rock! Respect this gem!
I hope you manage to do the title track later on, just so you will get where the title comes from. 🙂
Why is this not on your patreon Channel
I totally get what you're saying about the humorous movie thing. To me, it's always felt reminiscent of a funny children's tale. Perhaps this is super niche but you know those cartoon-ified versions of classic literature or religious stories you could find in the discount movie bin? That's what this evokes the feeling of. Just instead of a kid-friendly Tom Sawyer, this tells a silly story of a Persian prince's misadventures or an arabic jester's day or something.
The colors of the video are now like Cyber Punk 😹👍
I love your vids and a band i am surprised you haven’t covered yet is Dream Theater, some of the most technically amazing musicians to ever join together in a band. I would recommend a couple songs: Octavarium, Metropolis part 1, Dance of Eternity (from the concept album metropolis part 2 - scenes from a memory/ this album is a masterpiece), the count of Tuscany and Breaking all illusions.
The last great Queen album. If you'd wanted to see some stylistic variety from the band you really should have done 2 of their greatest songs March of the Black Queen, and especially The Prophet's Song - hopefully you can go back to them someday.
Unpopular opinion: Hot Space is a great album. Sorry not sorry, it's an album full of bangers and I don't care what anyone says
@@GarrettEulett I was talking from my own personal music tastes. If you love Hot Space or any other album that's great (and I wouldn't expect / want an apology for that). We all have differing tastes and it would be boring if they were all the same - unless that is everyone agreed with me 🤣. Take care and keep on enjoying the music.
@@soundsfromthewestcoast9939
Did you like Innuendo?
@@EliteAstro_OfficialChannel To be perfectly honest it's not an album I know too well. I did think The Works album had it's moments though.
@@soundsfromthewestcoast9939
We all have our favorites, check out the song Innuendo, it's 70's style Queen...
I can visualize Freddie as a muezzin in a minaret, in a kind of Marx brothers' film. 🤣It's a surprise, that Freddie wrote this song, knowing, that he almost never spoke about his childhood and the life he left behind. It could have been a joke only, in Freddie's style. 🤣
You need to show her the Prophet Song. With all of the round style singing and stereo panning in it. She’d like that.
You should listen to Om “State of Non-Return”. Middle Eastern tinged heavy rock. Check out the live version recorded for the BBC. It was used as a part of the soundtrack for a hit wildlife series.
Freddie could be a very good muezzin! But hearing the rest of this number, I get the impression that he chose not to. The title already suggests what I hear - a mix-up of Arabic and 'western' music. As if Freddie doesn't give a shit about the cultural messages. The result is hilarious of course. It all makes sense, since Fredie grew up under both influences and didn't fit in both.
Sons of The Desert. Bob Hope and Bing Crosby Road to Morocco.
Vlad: Will you introduce Amy to "Rock'n'Roll Wolf"? I think she would LOVE it!
Youy seem to be walking on eggshells. Freddie would have said....."Oh, it's just a fucking song, darling."