The beginning riff intends to represent airwaves. The constant changes represent changing the stations on our old car radios. It’s an homage to radio and the djs that played Rush when others didn’t. It’s also a commentary on the not so good changes in radio over time but raises hope it will return. Enjoyed your reaction.
Alex Lifeson talking about this song & Commercialization of radio: “That song was really a statement of where radio was going, where it had been. Growing up in the early 70s, FM radio was such a free forum for music; you’d have DJs who would play stuff for an hour. They’d just talk about the songs; there were no commercials or anything. "So free-form, really a platform for expanding music at the time. And then it was moving more towards a format, and away from that freedom, becoming more regulated, more about selling airtime. It just speaks about that, really.” Lifeson also points out where the song’s title came from: “I think that was a common motto for radio stations at the time. Like, you’d hear [speaks in a DJ voice] ‘The Edge, 102!’ There was a station here in Toronto, CFNY, that used "The Spirit of Radio" as their call motto. But it wasn’t really specifically about them - it was more about the idea.” Also included in the song is a tip of the cap to Simon And Garfunkel’s 60s classic The Sound Of Silence: 'The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls, and tenement halls/And whispered in the sounds of silence’ became ‘The words of the profits (not prophets) are written on the studio wall, concert hall/Echoes with the sounds of salesmen.’ Just a play on words - Neil being a little clever,” Lifeson says. By Greg Prato (Classic Rock Magazine) published 29 June 2021
Yes! So much fun watching you rock out! Perfect! That's a great driving song, certainly. Rush has a few of those. At some point, you should check out a song of theirs called "Red Barchetta"! It's a song about a car and it's a perfect driving song (as long as you avoid the long arm of the Law)! There are many, many great Rush songs!
@@michaelbriefs9764 I feel like I have that song on my list from a previous recommendation as it sounds familiar, if not I shall add it now for you, Sir. Thanks again for the comment
At 20+ minutes it's a long one featured in seven parts. There is a comic book style video which would aid a future reaction. This was from the album that launched Rush to stardom.
Yeah, such a feel good song. Can’t help but be smiling halfway through the first verse. The have another great driving song to check out - Red Barchetta. Cheers!
that video got the lyrics wrong. It said "the words of the prophets", which is correct for Simon and Garfunkel's The Sound of Silence, "The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls and tenement halls" But Rush's play on that line actually starts "The words of the profits..." which makes more sense in keeping with the integrity theme
I'm honestly starting to believe that every song ever put on RUclips by people who insert the lyrics, get them wrong, lol. One of my favourite ones to roll my eyes at and cringe, is the dude that did the Ozzy Osbourne Crazy Train lyrics. It's the only one with lyrics I've ever actually seen on RUclips, so it's the same one that every reactor does. The thing is almost a parody or something, starting with: "All abored" instead of "All Aboard", and then just gets worse...
"Fly By Night", not "Drive By Night" 😂 Next track "Xanadu" (live 1981 ideally) or "Red Barchetta" from the same concert. Enjoy watching your reactions...good fun and always makes me smile, good man !
@@MusicForTheSoulReactions Xanadu Is Rush's "Stairway To Heaven" So To Speak. "Exit Stage Left" Is The Live Album That Came Out In 1981. Look For The HD Re- Master by A RUclipsr called "Stickhits". Possibly The Greatest Live Performance In History By ANY Band. They Do NOT Go Straight Out Of The Gate In This Song. But that Doesn't Mean It's Bad, They Just Take Their Time Atmospherically...😉
@@MusicForTheSoulReactions Yeah...if you are thinking it has anything to do with anything that Olivia Newton John EVER did...you are 100 percent safe on that front. Rush's Xanadu is a serious piece of unbelievably incredible music, and the remastered live version made by stick hits is your best gateway to the good stuff...this is most definitely NOT Olivia's disco crap at all. 💯😁
Brilliant song with all the music changes representing different radio stations with a banger solo from Alex Lifeson. Suggestions Between the Wheels from the R30 tour Red Barchetta from Exit Stage Left Xanadu from Exit Stage Left Digital Man from the Snakes and Arrows tour.
Lead vocalist, Geddy Lee was friends with a number of folks at a little independent Toronto area radio station called CFNY 102.1 The Spirit of Radio. FM radio was becoming homogenized with a majority being programmed out of an agency in Chicago, with very little variation in what was being played. CFNY on the other hand was fearless in its programming thanks to a gent by the name of Dave Marsden. CFNY was alternative in the truest sense of the word playing a wide variety of music from the likes of Joy Division, The Clash, Fad Gadget, Sisters of Mercy, Laurie Anderson (all 9 minutes of O Superman), Steve Earle and more, as well as promoting Canadian artists like the Tragically Hip, Strange Advance, kd Lang, Blue Peter, Pukka Orchestra, and Chalk Circle. In the late 80's the station was sold to a corporation and it all went to shit. Almost all the staff quit, and the station became the antithesis of what it had been.
A double espresso shot. Definitely. A fantastic song. It was in the UK charts back in 1980 if I remember right. I went and bought the album Permanent Waves, it comes from. Superb. Liking how they have a snippet of reggae in the song. Genius. Good that they make you throw yourself around lol Come on! 😊
Yeah mate...enjoyed that.....Great band....Great song...man yer gonna have such a good time doing this....and becoming a fan of all these different bands and artists...later our kid
Great reaction! You're never too old to start loving Rush. This one needs to be on everyone's summer drive play list! Also, Rush at the time had a big appreciation for The Police. That's where that little white reggae break comes from. Keep enjoying your journey. US Roadie1 signing off.
🤘Couldn't have picked a better song! This is my all-time favorite Rush song 🎵 but that in no way diminishes my love for the other 166 songs 😂(Neil Peart wrote most of the lyrics from the 2nd album on)
The live 2003 Toronto Rocks (SARS Benefit) version of Spirit of Radio is well worth a reaction at a later date. 400,000 fans and a killer tribute introduction.
If you haven't already reacted to it, check out Rush's live version of 'Between the Wheels', live from the R30 tour in Germany. Rush in concert is amazing!
@@sarastromseth-troy3323 I don't believe that song had been recommended yet, appreciate you doing so, I've added it to the list 🙂. Thanks for the comment
How could this not get you up on your feet man ! Good reaction ,,,, man oh man you seen as many times as I have ? Wooooowe seeing Neal Peart or John Rutsey man the best . It’s the drums and Geddy lee with Jeff Jones
1st, ya gotta hit the 2 amazing instrumental biggies, "YYZ" and "La Villa Strangiato," and once you're fully prepped, take on the whole 1st side of "2112" I'd recommend the newer animated version that has not only the lyrics but some of the story you got back in the day when you opened up the LP and checked out the sleeve. Then, Listen to "Losing It" from Signals for an amazing chill out.
Power trio. A few other great trios: Primus (you have to try them soon, try Here Come The Bastards, this is a bass driven band from the 90' till now), The Police of course, Adrian Belew Power Trio…
It's physically impossible to listen to this song and not grin like an idiot! One of the things I love most about their music is, even when the lyrics are weighty and thought provoking, the music always feels hopeful and optimistic. Like no matter how bad things may seem right now, something better is around the corner.
Julie here, I'm glad you enjoyed the tune! I have a RUSH song for any mood you would like to conjure. I'll keep watching and prescribing. I see good suggestions below for getting hyped-up, especially Red Barchetta. May I also suggest Analog Kid. It'll speed you up and then smooth you out. I appreciate the shout out - subscribed.
G'day from Australia. More recommendations, you ask? Your wish is my command. Rush are my equal favourite artist on the planet, but I'm sure you won't be short of recommendations for many, many more Rush songs in the comments. My Other favourite is the other Canadian musical genius, Mr Devin Townsend. He is as much of a musical wormhole, and as much of a must, as Rush are. Check him out, react to him, thank me later....
@@Roddrummer hey!!! My first commenter from down under! Welcome! Appreciate the recommendation, love getting advice to check out someone new, added to the list my friend. Look forward to it!
Has nobody told him about the animated videos? Has nobody told him about the high definition remastered live performances made by stick hits? How can it be that he has not reacted to Xanadu live from 1981 remastered in HD?
I'm in my sixties and I'm sure there's loads of great rap, country, and hip-hop I've never heard. Be glad he's started his Rush journey, whenever he's started it. 👍🖖
@@MusicForTheSoulReactions you're never in your 40s? I'd put you at least 30. Damn you for looking so young lol Anyway, enjoy the ride you're musically on. And have a good weekend.
Watch them do the same song live: Spirit of the Radio - SARS concert. Music keeps changing in this song as you would change stations on a radio.
@@robertsonsid these guys are so damn creative! I've listened to this a good few times since my reaction, just an epic pick me up!
This is without a doubt the Rushiest of Rush songs. It has every trait and quirk they're known for, all compressed into one tight package.
@@bobcarn it's already becoming a staple song to turn to for a pick me up! I love it. Thanks for the comment
The beginning riff intends to represent airwaves. The constant changes represent changing the stations on our old car radios. It’s an homage to radio and the djs that played Rush when others didn’t. It’s also a commentary on the not so good changes in radio over time but raises hope it will return. Enjoyed your reaction.
@@davidbarker77 appreciate the info behind the song, adds extra meaning for the next time I listen, which will be very soon!
🇨🇦
Deep lyrics talking about changing times in music.
Spirit of Radio became the tagline for a Toronto area radiostation.
Pete and Geets in the morning!
Still moves me every time. 30 yrs on. Check out the fantoons video chock full of Rush Easter Eggs…
Great video reaction !!! Crack me up lolol !! 🤣🤣😎
Alex Lifeson talking about this song & Commercialization of radio:
“That song was really a statement of where radio was going, where it had been. Growing up in the early 70s, FM radio was such a free forum for music; you’d have DJs who would play stuff for an hour. They’d just talk about the songs; there were no commercials or anything. "So free-form, really a platform for expanding music at the time. And then it was moving more towards a format, and away from that freedom, becoming more regulated, more about selling airtime. It just speaks about that, really.”
Lifeson also points out where the song’s title came from: “I think that was a common motto for radio stations at the time. Like, you’d hear [speaks in a DJ voice] ‘The Edge, 102!’ There was a station here in Toronto, CFNY, that used "The Spirit of Radio" as their call motto. But it wasn’t really specifically about them - it was more about the idea.”
Also included in the song is a tip of the cap to Simon And Garfunkel’s 60s classic The Sound Of Silence: 'The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls, and tenement halls/And whispered in the sounds of silence’ became ‘The words of the profits (not prophets) are written on the studio wall, concert hall/Echoes with the sounds of salesmen.’ Just a play on words - Neil being a little clever,” Lifeson says. By Greg Prato (Classic Rock Magazine) published 29 June 2021
@@graciefolden2359 what a brilliant comment, thank you so much for sharing it
Yes! So much fun watching you rock out! Perfect! That's a great driving song, certainly. Rush has a few of those. At some point, you should check out a song of theirs called "Red Barchetta"! It's a song about a car and it's a perfect driving song (as long as you avoid the long arm of the Law)! There are many, many great Rush songs!
@@michaelbriefs9764 I feel like I have that song on my list from a previous recommendation as it sounds familiar, if not I shall add it now for you, Sir. Thanks again for the comment
More musical coffee: YYZ Live In Rio; Working Man Live In Cleveland; Red Barchetta, Exit Stage Left.
🎤 🎹 🎸 🥁 🎸 🐐 🐐 🐐
@@lindaward5376 thanks for the recommendations 🙂
Side 1 of 2112 is a mandatory auditory experience to balance out your catalog.
At 20+ minutes it's a long one featured in seven parts. There is a comic book style video which would aid a future reaction. This was from the album that launched Rush to stardom.
Yeah, such a feel good song. Can’t help but be smiling halfway through the first verse. The have another great driving song to check out - Red Barchetta. Cheers!
Best reaction to this song ever
@@KentBalzer hey, really appreciate the kind comment.
'Tom Sawyer' is GREAT, but THIS IS THEIR BEST SONG!!
that video got the lyrics wrong.
It said "the words of the prophets", which is correct for
Simon and Garfunkel's The Sound of Silence,
"The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls and tenement halls"
But Rush's play on that line actually starts "The words of the profits..."
which makes more sense in keeping with the integrity theme
Yeah, I really hate that lyric video now, "you had one job...." 🙄
I'm honestly starting to believe that every song ever put on RUclips by people who insert the lyrics, get them wrong, lol. One of my favourite ones to roll my eyes at and cringe, is the dude that did the Ozzy Osbourne Crazy Train lyrics. It's the only one with lyrics I've ever actually seen on RUclips, so it's the same one that every reactor does. The thing is almost a parody or something, starting with: "All abored" instead of "All Aboard", and then just gets worse...
My pet peeve as well
Well, for the longest time, the most popular lyric video to react to was titled “Spirit of the Radio”, so I think this is marginally better😂😂
"Fly By Night", not "Drive By Night" 😂
Next track "Xanadu" (live 1981 ideally) or "Red Barchetta" from the same concert.
Enjoy watching your reactions...good fun and always makes me smile, good man !
@@alanwaine4186 hahahaha so close, yet so far with that song name 🤣. Appreciate the comment
@@MusicForTheSoulReactions Xanadu Is Rush's "Stairway To Heaven" So To Speak. "Exit Stage Left" Is The Live Album That Came Out In 1981. Look For The HD Re- Master by A RUclipsr called "Stickhits". Possibly The Greatest Live Performance In History By ANY Band. They Do NOT Go Straight Out Of The Gate In This Song. But that Doesn't Mean It's Bad, They Just Take Their Time Atmospherically...😉
Yes, this the way...this one will ease you into the song for sure! The greatest live performance of a song ever, IMO
@@MusicForTheSoulReactions Yeah...if you are thinking it has anything to do with anything that Olivia Newton John EVER did...you are 100 percent safe on that front. Rush's Xanadu is a serious piece of unbelievably incredible music, and the remastered live version made by stick hits is your best gateway to the good stuff...this is most definitely NOT Olivia's disco crap at all. 💯😁
Another great reaction.
Love RUSH.
Keep Rocking 👍
Ronnie
SCOTLAND.
Brilliant song with all the music changes representing different radio stations with a banger solo from Alex Lifeson.
Suggestions
Between the Wheels from the R30 tour
Red Barchetta from Exit Stage Left
Xanadu from Exit Stage Left
Digital Man from the Snakes and Arrows tour.
Love this song. Really really love RoundAbout. Thx for fun n interesting reactions.✌🏻
Lead vocalist, Geddy Lee was friends with a number of folks at a little independent Toronto area radio station called CFNY 102.1 The Spirit of Radio. FM radio was becoming homogenized with a majority being programmed out of an agency in Chicago, with very little variation in what was being played. CFNY on the other hand was fearless in its programming thanks to a gent by the name of Dave Marsden. CFNY was alternative in the truest sense of the word playing a wide variety of music from the likes of Joy Division, The Clash, Fad Gadget, Sisters of Mercy, Laurie Anderson (all 9 minutes of O Superman), Steve Earle and more, as well as promoting Canadian artists like the Tragically Hip, Strange Advance, kd Lang, Blue Peter, Pukka Orchestra, and Chalk Circle. In the late 80's the station was sold to a corporation and it all went to shit. Almost all the staff quit, and the station became the antithesis of what it had been.
Thank you for sharing the back story, very interesting read 👍
Absolute tune!!! Great vid! Keep em coming
@@taylorosborne3383 thanks for the comment, appreciate it
If that does not put a smile on your face, and a jump in your step.......
Brilliant track
Well done.
A double espresso shot. Definitely. A fantastic song. It was in the UK charts back in 1980 if I remember right. I went and bought the album Permanent Waves, it comes from. Superb. Liking how they have a snippet of reggae in the song. Genius. Good that they make you throw yourself around lol Come on! 😊
Thank you for reaction! Great tune.
Best band...ever.
Yeah mate...enjoyed that.....Great band....Great song...man yer gonna have such a good time doing this....and becoming a fan of all these different bands and artists...later our kid
@@LeeQuinnell appreciate the great comment! Cheers
Rush....Natural Science live Snakes and Arrows tour ❤🇨🇦
There are no bad live versions of NS, The Molson Amphitheatre and Live in Rio versions are both awesome as well. 😊
Great reaction! You're never too old to start loving Rush. This one needs to be on everyone's summer drive play list! Also, Rush at the time had a big appreciation for The Police. That's where that little white reggae break comes from. Keep enjoying your journey. US Roadie1 signing off.
🤘Couldn't have picked a better song! This is my all-time favorite Rush song 🎵 but that in no way diminishes my love for the other 166 songs 😂(Neil Peart wrote most of the lyrics from the 2nd album on)
This song is about a renegade ship off coast of England that played rock n roll illegally till they were stopped. Brave crew and DJs
A couple of jars, perfect. Thankyou. Live version In Toronto benifit concert is also brilliant. Cheers.
The live 2003 Toronto Rocks (SARS Benefit) version of Spirit of Radio is well worth a reaction at a later date. 400,000 fans and a killer tribute introduction.
Great react, buddy! Keep going!
Appreciate the positive vibes mate!
If you haven't already reacted to it, check out Rush's live version of 'Between the Wheels', live from the R30 tour in Germany. Rush in concert is amazing!
@@sarastromseth-troy3323 I don't believe that song had been recommended yet, appreciate you doing so, I've added it to the list 🙂. Thanks for the comment
It's a really good song, one of my favorite. Great guitar (band) solo
How could this not get you up on your feet man ! Good reaction ,,,, man oh man you seen as many times as I have ? Wooooowe seeing Neal Peart or John Rutsey man the best . It’s the drums and Geddy lee with Jeff Jones
To his credit, he moved plenty in his chair.
That was high school music for us.
@@MrThumbs63 wow, how lucky were you!
1st, ya gotta hit the 2 amazing instrumental biggies, "YYZ" and "La Villa Strangiato," and once you're fully prepped, take on the whole 1st side of "2112" I'd recommend the newer animated version that has not only the lyrics but some of the story you got back in the day when you opened up the LP and checked out the sleeve. Then, Listen to "Losing It" from Signals for an amazing chill out.
Power trio. A few other great trios: Primus (you have to try them soon, try Here Come The Bastards, this is a bass driven band from the 90' till now), The Police of course, Adrian Belew Power Trio…
@@Rowenband consider them added to the list
It's physically impossible to listen to this song and not grin like an idiot!
One of the things I love most about their music is, even when the lyrics are weighty and thought provoking, the music always feels hopeful and optimistic. Like no matter how bad things may seem right now, something better is around the corner.
@@clockworkangel4026 couldn't agree more, they have this ability to provide such upbeat energy, absolutely loved this song!
Julie here, I'm glad you enjoyed the tune! I have a RUSH song for any mood you would like to conjure. I'll keep watching and prescribing. I see good suggestions below for getting hyped-up, especially Red Barchetta. May I also suggest Analog Kid. It'll speed you up and then smooth you out. I appreciate the shout out - subscribed.
If you want the other end of the Rush spectrum, give The Garden a listen.... real tugger.
@@mfo5939 added to the list 🙂
I can only recomend the song Ghost of a chance by RUSH..
G'day from Australia. More recommendations, you ask? Your wish is my command. Rush are my equal favourite artist on the planet, but I'm sure you won't be short of recommendations for many, many more Rush songs in the comments. My Other favourite is the other Canadian musical genius, Mr Devin Townsend. He is as much of a musical wormhole, and as much of a must, as Rush are. Check him out, react to him, thank me later....
@@Roddrummer hey!!! My first commenter from down under! Welcome! Appreciate the recommendation, love getting advice to check out someone new, added to the list my friend. Look forward to it!
@@MusicForTheSoulReactions awesome, will watch out for your reactions.
Has nobody told him about the animated videos? Has nobody told him about the high definition remastered live performances made by stick hits? How can it be that he has not reacted to Xanadu live from 1981 remastered in HD?
@@iKvetch558 haha love it. Hint taken 🤣🤣🤣
@MusicForTheSoulReactions lol...I did not see until after I posted, but I think folks had already told you about all the things I mentioned. 😁
Fly By Night, not Drive By Night!
You’re in your 40’s and never heard this song?
@@thatsnice99 nope, never came across Rush at all before starting this journey. Enjoying them now tho, better late than never!
I'm in my sixties and I'm sure there's loads of great rap, country, and hip-hop I've never heard. Be glad he's started his Rush journey, whenever he's started it. 👍🖖
@@randallshaw9609 💯
@@MusicForTheSoulReactions you're never in your 40s? I'd put you at least 30. Damn you for looking so young lol Anyway, enjoy the ride you're musically on. And have a good weekend.
@@michaellomax2 Hahahaha just literally turned 40 earlier this month! Appreciate the compliment! Just call it good lighting 😂