I'm not an Aussie but lived there for 2 years in the mid 90s, when I "found" Cold Chisel. A very special band with a great catalogue and a supreme singer in Jimmy Barnes, who had his own demons, but put 100% og his heart and soul into a song every time.
Don Walker, the piano player, wrote this song after having a conversation with an older brother of a friend of his. The Americans vets who have seen and commented on this song, claims that it hits them deeply, and just like those vet in the USA, our vets were put down aswel.
This song and Redgums "I was only 19" are unofficial ANZAC day songs. ANZAC day is the day when we honour our service men and women from all conflicts, starting with a dawn service on April 25th each year since 1916. Cold Chisel is a classic pub rock band that earned their chops playing pubs in the 70s and 80s. They were incredible live, so much better than in the studio and if you watch their in the round concert 2003, you will see exactly what I mean.
Cold Chisel went to the States but were messed about by the recording company so they came home and released "You Got Nothing I Want" ..which was like flipping the bird to big record company.
They banned this on Australian radio for years, it didn’t matter because it was so good and important that it’s one of our best known songs. This is the truth of war in 3 minutes with a snappy beat, it’s no wonder they wanted it unknown by the general population. Music reaches the heart and soul and stays a lifetime
@tileux that’s the reason stated publicly, but look at the lyrics of other songs released at the same time and you realise that it’s just more gaslighting
Apparently, it was banned because of the drug and sexual references in the song, but composer Don Walker suspected it was more to do with a broader unwillingness to come to grips with the aftermath of a failed war.
There were a few non-traditional radio stations prepared prepared to ignore the ban. 4ZZZ, an early community FM station somewhat affiliated with the University of Queensland student union, made a point of playing it and other 'offensive' songs regularly. In 1981 an organisation called "The Society to Outlaw Pornography" reported them to the Australian Broadcasting Authority. 4ZZZ successfully defended themselves, leading to changes which make it legal to swear on Australian TV and radio under certain circumstances.
Another Australian band Redgum produced a track "I was only 19 (A walk in the light green). More of a ballad than "Khe Sanh" but a hard hitting, sorrowful tragic story from the Vietnam war. I recommend you react to that one, you'll love it.
Lyrics from the Redgum song grace the Vietnam section of the National War Museum in our capital, Canberra. The song was pivotal in highlighting the unfair plight of the Vietnam veterans in Australia to the wider populace.
Cold Chisel are an amazing band. They are really something special. The US missed out. They are great musicians with two amazing singers with contrasting voices and all five members of the band wrote songs. They have a very varied catalogue. This song was written by the keyboardist/piano player Don Walker. I think he was the oldest member of the band and he wrote it after conversations with veterans.
RUclips has recommended your channel and I’m glad it did, I’m about to hear a girl I’ve never heard of perform Black Dog Definitely check out more chisel, particularly Bow River and Wild Thing. We had quite a large involvement with the war in Vietnam and another song you really should hear is “I was only 19” the songwriter does a short introduction in this version, and if you want to hear more from him there’s another version on RUclips with a different introduction. I don’t think there’s a bad version of this song and I doubt there’s an Australian that doesn’t know it word for word (much like Khe Sanh) ruclips.net/video/Zu4GqqWsGj8/видео.htmlsi=I4U5bWozfuhsha0n
The band played Waltzing Matilda is probably THE BEST song written about the futility of war.. At least in Australia. Written by a bloke called Eric Bogle, it is one of the most haunting war songs you will EVER hear. Highly recommend it. Also, thank you for respecting our "folk music".. Ha ha.
Cold Chisel are legends in Australia. Mate you should listen to their song Bow River, it's one of the coolest rock / blues songs ever. The best version is the one from their 2003 Ringside tour, the video quality is pretty rubbish, but the audio is good, I still think this live version is better than the studio version or the Official Video version.
@@stevegraham3817 As others have pointed out to you so many times in the past, the 2003 version IS the best version. They are older, wiser, more experienced and have perfected themselves musically. Lyrics be damned and who damn well cares if he screws up a few words. Another said to you before, just listen to the damn song and stop harping like a fool over a couple wrong words!
@@G.H.O.S.T.254 No. There is a reason why the Official Version is not that one. Everyone is entitled to an informed opinion, others can now make an informed opinion of their own, rather than just listening to the one sided opinions of a few. I am informing others that Cold Chisel don't endorse the 2003 version, and I will back the opinion of the band that created both versions.
I know someone whose father was injured in Nam and had to wait for rescue throughout the night, alone, in excruciating pain, trying not to moan or scream out bc VC were still in the area, propped against a tree, slowly bleeding out, and of-course he still has nightmares about it; BUT these days, he has a backyard full of bambooo he planted himself, mimicking that situation. I think this song, towards the end, really captures that strange psychological contradiction between wishing it never happened at all, and somehow missing it. I suggest listening to Only Nineteen (the original version) by Redgum as another Australian song about Vietnam.
Hio @kcinsti ... At the time when the allied troops pulled out of Viet Nam, the vets had to face so much when they came home. Today, wearing a hat that says "Viet Nam Veteran" or a bumper sticker on the car is a badge of honor. It is sad so many young men and women had to suffer over there. And I am not sure that our coutries learned from that experience and would do it all over again. Peace and take care ....
I love when Americans discover Aussie music. Vietnam was the most expensive and useless war ever. I love Vietnam, I've been there several times and seen all the after effects. Neither side won the war. But the remnants still remain to this day on multiple levels😢
Chisel were huge here & are still revered! Your next logical step is to do Cold Chisels lead singer - Jimmy Barnes, ft Joe Bonamassa with a '93 song written by their('Chisels) keyboardist Don Walker...'Stone Cold'. It is an absolute killer tune!! What other Aussie Artists have you covered? ✌️🇦🇺
"Stone Cold" with Joe Bonamassa and Jimmy Barnes is absolutely brilliant, and is bluesy and unmissable. But to stick with Cold Chisel, the next video you should react to is their live cover of "Wild Thing" (The Troggs). That will showcase Cold Chisel as the fabulous pub band they were. A TRULY wild ride.
Stand Up Australia our unofficial national anthem as every Aussie knows this song... even the younger generations...luvd ur reaction to our greatest Aussie pub music legends Cold Chisel ♥️♥️♥️🦘🦘🦘
Gee Jimmy Barnes the singer is pretty young in that clip. Gee Jimmy’s still singing aged 67, well after he picks up he’ll be touring again 😊. My brother didn’t get drafted but the boy across the road did. Thankfully he came home from Vietnam and settled well after a while. Still happily married now.
Cold Chisel is one of the greatest rock bands of all time, and Jimmy Barnes one of the greatest rock vocalists. Ask any Australian rock fan! It’s criminal that they are virtually unknown outside of Australia and NZ, but there was a contract dispute early on with the US label, and Chisel effectively gave them the finger and decided to focus on the Australian market and forget about the international market. These guys are world class, and I think a lot of their material would have resonated with classic rock fans in North America in particular in the 80s and 90s. I have some song suggestions. Keep in mind that the catalogue is quite varied, so it’s not really a case of hearing one or two songs and having a feel for the band: Bow River (live 2003 Ringside) Flame Trees (official video) When the War is Over (live 2003 Ringside) You Got Nothing I Want (official video - aimed at US record execs) Saturday Night (official video) Wild Thing (live Troggs cover, 1983 I think) Choir Girl (official video) Forever Now (album version - for some reason the audio quality on the video is bad) There’s plenty more, but that’s enough to give you a taste!
The lead singer, Jimmy Barnes, went to high-school a suburb over from where i live. My old English/sociology teacher (may he rest in peace) also went to the same school, but was a couple years younger. He always used to recount the story of the time he was being bullied and Jimmy Barnes stepped in, getting him sort the situation by getting a bit physical with the bullies. In my eyes, that proved Jimmy was destined to be the man of the people that he became. Just an absolute solid bloke
Thanks for your interpretation Todd. Don Walker ( Keyboards) whom wrote the song, Changed the Title from Long Tan ( the Australian forces largest field of action in Viet nam) to Khe Sahn , to get around the Australian sensors , it was band anyway ( which made it even more popular). As the son of an Australian Viet nam veteran (2 tours) , this song means a little to me.
Yes, heaven forbid that the Aussie Govt allow anyone to give any recognition to us members of the ADF from any conflict without the Govt. explicit permission.
Chisel are Aussie rock LEGENDS! I was 8 when this song was released and grew up listening to it and Chisel! This song is a favourite and was heavily played here in Oz during my teen years and 20's. Flame Trees is my all-time Chisel favourite song, another slow one, very relatable and more great lyrics!!
Jimmy Barnes’ voice has aged like fine wine. It’s far better now than when he sung this imo. My favourite performance is his recent remake of his song “Lay Down Your Guns” with The Living End. He is a powerful vocalist
They’ve reformed for the first time in ages and are touring in Oz atm, most probably for the last time. I’m going to the Melbourne concert in a couple of months. Can’t wait!
If you are looking for more Vietnam War nostalgia, there is Russel Morris' song from 1970 called "Rachel" which is about an Australian nurse and her letter home. It is very dated now, but I still like it as much now as when I first heard it as a kid back then.
Mate....great comment. As a lover of classic Aussie music (and anti war songs) I am ashamed to say I hadn't heard "Rachel". I took your advice and checked it out. Great lyrics...not disappointed 👍🏽 Amazing what can be discovered from reading you tube comments. 🙏🏽🙏🏽
The best rock band that ever walked this earth. I don’t care what anyone says, dive deep enough into their collection starting with the 70’s stuff and you’ll agree. Thatsingerreactions considers Jimmy Barnes voice the most powerful male vocal ever. Jimmy has decades of solo hits too.
Thanks heaps for the amazing reaction. Can you please react to Cold Chisel “when the war is over” live Ringside 2003. And yes that’s a harmonica that was being played.
Have you listened to Australian Band..DADDY COOL.. ESPECIALLY their Song ...AT THE ROCK HOUSE. It's a great POP/ ROCK Song. Kathy from Adelaide...Australia ☺️☺️
Back in the day I saw Cold Chisel perform live at pubs many times. Jimmy always jumped onto the piano to sing this song and the audience would go nuts.
My first concert ever! Absolute legends and their music still stands the test of time. I'm going to play the whole album right now. Do yourselves a favour 😊
You were very lucky. I come from a military family. I heard what my cousins went through. (I was listening in when i should not) I am from Australia cold chisel is the best. Another great song is When some thing is wrong with my baby jimmy barnes and john farnham, totally different just as good.
Also consider this was released 5 years after the war ended. Cold Chisel is a wonderful rabbit hole. Try Four Walls, written from the view of a prisoner
My Dad returned from Vietnam in 1971 (He was 21 yrs old). Many years later he went to our local RSL (returned services league) for a beer with a mate, and was snubbed by the WW2 vets. Dad never went back.
Khe Sanh, like most Cold Chisel songs, was written by keyboard player, Don Walker. He maade every single word count. For something different try Flame Trees or Breakfast at Sweethearts. Great reaction, thanks from Australia!!
While Don did write a lot of songs, all the band members wrote songs and some of their biggest hits were written by other band members. But I would agree that Don had the most powerful lyrics. He was a master story teller.
Master vocalist, master guitarist, master keyboardist, very very good rhythm section, God Tier songwriter. Don Walker should be held up there with Elton John and McCartney.
Hi @CLAWCUZBRO ... Thank you for your compliment on my reaction. Yes, I was not sure what to expect but having the lyrics on the screen helped me understand the song and it brought back many a memory from that time period. Take care ...
Always great watching people experience Jimmy and Cold Chisel for the first time!! I grew up listening to them, id love to be able to hear them for tge firat time as an adult!! This is the closest i can get!! Thanks mate from the great southern land!!
you are very sharp - the singer Jimmy Barnes was too young but his big brother John Swanee Swan a good friend of mine went to Vietnam and I don’t think there’s a single Vietnam Vet not affected by the way they were treated on their return home.
Hi @JouJouQuiQui ... What you say bothered me back in the 70's and I still think about it today. These soldiers risked everything only to be called "baby killers" on their return. Very sad ...
Cold Chisel EAST Album is an absolute Classic. Have a listen to You,ve got nothing I want, You've got nothing I need after Chisel left America super disappointed with the Yanks.Powerful Vocals.😊
Great review. Don Walker (Piano Player) wrote this song. He heard someone mention the name Khe Sahn in a bar one night and it stuck with him. He has written a number of anthems for us Aussies so check out “Saturday Night”, “Standing on the Outside”, “Tomorrow”, “Wild Colonial Boy” and in my view his best “Letter to Alan”. Chisel is a great band and worth diving in from your side. Look up their rendition of Wild Thing, 10 minutes of pure energy.
I've always found it amusing that we Australians consider this to be some sort of Vietnam anthem as our ground troops were never anywhere near Khe Sanh, a battle primarily involving US Marines. The RAAF did fly support missions over it but that's it, Khe Sanh was in the far north of South Vietnam near the DMZ in the 1st Corps area, and Phuoc Tuy, where Australian ground forces primarily operated is far to the south in the 3rd Corps zone near Vung Tau. "I was only 19" has always been the more appropriate song to commemorate our troops.
Cold Chisel Midnight Oil who do Gurus.. probably my favourite Aussie bands any is so much more Australia has a rich music history... kaysan would have to be just makes you choke a little bit it really hits home Cold Chisel such a great band really good Aussie music listen to more you will love it Star Hotel another favour of mind
Im a Timor vet . When we marched threw Brisbane in 2001 a Viet vet yelled out , Well done diggers you got the welcome we never had. Its still unbelievable how these young men were drafted , didnt want to go , suffered in the worst possible way and were shunned by their own people when they returned . So unfair.
Australia and New Zealand sent over fifty-thousand troops to Vietnam. Australia lost about 500 killed and New Zealand about 40. As a veteran of more recent wars, this song talks perfectly about how vets are perceived in the community, Some are very damaged, some not so much. But the wider civilian community will never really understand us.
Hey great reaction, mate. You're right. Vets have never been treated adequately. Chisel are the GOAT. Don, the pianist wrote the song after talking to vet friends.
Australian. You were lucky. My dad was lucky to not have his number called, but being a farmer could be exempted. Many of his mates that went died young and leaving a young family behind, many died of cancer. I remember being in hospital in the main city 4hrs from our farm and dad was talking to a bloke next door, ended up being a local from where we lived, he spent nearly 2xlonger over there than the mandatory time. He was a bulldozer operator and when over there they needed someone to man the minesweeper, he only got home because of a russian tank mine that turned the minesweeper on its roof, breaking a few of his bones.
I recently learned that Don Walker’s father was a renowned professional harmonica player. I wonder if this is where the inspiration for its use came from.
Everything about chisel (jimmy barnes) is legendary but the god of Aussie music known by us as THE VOICE John Farnham he could sing anything from Opera to heavy rock
You MUST check out Redgum's 'A Walk In The Greenlight aka. I was Only Nineteen". Another story about the war in Vietnam. Also, Eric Bogle's, 'The Band Played Waltzing Matilda', about WW1. These songs are played especially around ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps ) Day on the 25 th of April. It's a day of remembrance for all military and associated groups who were/are engaged in the wars.
Australia had an Air Force detachment at Khe Sanh during the siege flying bombing missions in the hills around the base, the character in the song is a pilot from the RAAF (Australian Air Force) and so it makes sense he was there for a time Also I just want to add there were no UN forces in Vietnam, besides South Vietnam and the US, Australia and South Korea were the only countries providing significant infantry support
Most songs are verse, chorus, verse, chorus, final verse, chorus. This one is simply narrative until the end and it’s “last plane out of Sydney’s almost gone” to finish. Great, great song.
Great tune - Chisel were legends and you can't go wrong. Have a listen to Redgum and I was Only 19 - much more potent in getting a message across about Vietnam. Other Chisel classics are Bow River and an amazing cover of Wild Thing. Both clips are live. Other great Aussie Bands to dive in to include The Angels, Rose Tattoo, Sherbet, Little River Band, Saints, A personal favourite is Ted Mulry Gang - Jump In My Car, Jamaica Rum and Heart of Stone. So much talent virtually unknown outside of Australia.
Most Australians in Vietnam were stationed in Vung Tau, however, Aussies were in Vietnam unofficially from the mid 60s as advisors to the South Vietnamese, well before the USA declared all out war against the North and the Viet Cong. Cold Chisel's main songwriter, Don Walker (the piano player) is a songwriting genius, although all band members wrote some great songs.
Mate, I’m glad you liked it. In Australia it’s almost our National Anthem. We all know the lyrics. May I also recommend “I was only 19” by Redgum. Another vet song that is heard everywhere in Australia especially on ANZAC Day. To all our past and current serving military personnel from all our countries, thank you. Lest we Forget.
This song was banned from radio play when they released it, but Jimmy said it was the best thing that happeneed because people had to go out and buy it to play it (no copying it from the radio), You said you missed out on Vietnam at the end, well I just happened to be in the last intake in 1959 when I did my "National Service" and it was discontinued in 1960 only to be bought back later and those conscripted boys were sent to Vietnam only to be treated like shite when they returned. The Aussie RSL (Returned Serviceman's League) decided that Vietnam was not a war but a "Police Mission" and it took the Viet Vets many years before they were recognised. I have lost at least two close friends from that WAR, one from PDSC and the other from cancer caused by Agent Orange RIP Pete and Mark. That's why they banned it, it was too close to the truth. We should never have been there. 🥵🥵🥵
It would be interesting to find out if there where any Australian airforce helicopters involved in the support in Khe Sanh.. In the song the vet worked on an oil rig flying choppers when he could.. So the guy being sung about was a pilot..
The song became a big hit in Australia despite being banned for crude language in the '70s.Once the ban was lifted a couple years later it became a hit again.
There was an RAAF detachment at Khe Sanh flying bombing missions in the hills around the base, the character in the song is a pilot and so makes sense he could’ve been at Khe Sanh
Every Australian knows this song , it’s one of our special anthems ❤❤❤
I'm not an Aussie but lived there for 2 years in the mid 90s, when I "found" Cold Chisel. A very special band with a great catalogue and a supreme singer in Jimmy Barnes, who had his own demons, but put 100% og his heart and soul into a song every time.
You will never hear a Chisel song you dont like, they have one of the greatest catalogues of music in history.
It was rated in 2017 MTV awards as they number one Australian song of all time
Don Walker, the piano player, wrote this song after having a conversation with an older brother of a friend of his.
The Americans vets who have seen and commented on this song, claims that it hits them deeply, and just like those vet in the USA, our vets were put down aswel.
If you think this is powerful try listening to another Aussie band Redgum and their song I Was Only Nineteen. Great reaction Todd.
G'day I was only 19, is a must watch follow up to a review of Khe Shan. To do one and not the other would be disrespectfull to both.
Came here to suggest the same thing.
I think he said he already did it
This song and Redgums "I was only 19" are unofficial ANZAC day songs. ANZAC day is the day when we honour our service men and women from all conflicts, starting with a dawn service on April 25th each year since 1916.
Cold Chisel is a classic pub rock band that earned their chops playing pubs in the 70s and 80s. They were incredible live, so much better than in the studio and if you watch their in the round concert 2003, you will see exactly what I mean.
Also and the Band played Waltzing Matilda by Eric Bogle 😢😢😢
@@jacqualynmcatee5074yep along with Eric Bogle’s Willie McBride/Green Fields of France.
And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda.. Sing that to a pensioner and they'll cry
Cold Chisel went to the States but were messed about by the recording company so they came home and released "You Got Nothing I Want" ..which was like flipping the bird to big record company.
They banned this on Australian radio for years, it didn’t matter because it was so good and important that it’s one of our best known songs. This is the truth of war in 3 minutes with a snappy beat, it’s no wonder they wanted it unknown by the general population. Music reaches the heart and soul and stays a lifetime
@tileux that’s the reason stated publicly, but look at the lyrics of other songs released at the same time and you realise that it’s just more gaslighting
Yes it was banned due to the line, "...and their legs were often open...", not due to the reference to Asian prostitutes, as some suggest.
Apparently, it was banned because of the drug and sexual references in the song, but composer Don Walker suspected it was more to do with a broader unwillingness to come to grips with the aftermath of a failed war.
There were a few non-traditional radio stations prepared prepared to ignore the ban. 4ZZZ, an early community FM station somewhat affiliated with the University of Queensland student union, made a point of playing it and other 'offensive' songs regularly. In 1981 an organisation called "The Society to Outlaw Pornography" reported them to the Australian Broadcasting Authority. 4ZZZ successfully defended themselves, leading to changes which make it legal to swear on Australian TV and radio under certain circumstances.
Another Australian band Redgum produced a track "I was only 19 (A walk in the light green). More of a ballad than "Khe Sanh" but a hard hitting, sorrowful tragic story from the Vietnam war. I recommend you react to that one, you'll love it.
I was only 19.... wow brings a tear every time....a must listen
Lyrics from the Redgum song grace the Vietnam section of the National War Museum in our capital, Canberra. The song was pivotal in highlighting the unfair plight of the Vietnam veterans in Australia to the wider populace.
As an Aussie defence force veteran- this song was pretty much our anthem when I served
Cold Chisel are an amazing band. They are really something special. The US missed out. They are great musicians with two amazing singers with contrasting voices and all five members of the band wrote songs. They have a very varied catalogue. This song was written by the keyboardist/piano player Don Walker. I think he was the oldest member of the band and he wrote it after conversations with veterans.
Don Walker and Steve Prestwich RIP, also have great voices. So much talent in one band
@@lynndally9160, true. Sorry I wasn't counting them. I was just thinking of Jimmy and Mossy. But you are definitely right.
RUclips has recommended your channel and I’m glad it did, I’m about to hear a girl I’ve never heard of perform Black Dog
Definitely check out more chisel, particularly Bow River and Wild Thing.
We had quite a large involvement with the war in Vietnam and another song you really should hear is “I was only 19” the songwriter does a short introduction in this version, and if you want to hear more from him there’s another version on RUclips with a different introduction. I don’t think there’s a bad version of this song and I doubt there’s an Australian that doesn’t know it word for word (much like Khe Sanh)
ruclips.net/video/Zu4GqqWsGj8/видео.htmlsi=I4U5bWozfuhsha0n
The band played Waltzing Matilda is probably THE BEST song written about the futility of war.. At least in Australia. Written by a bloke called
Eric Bogle, it is one of the most haunting war songs you will EVER hear. Highly recommend it. Also, thank you for respecting our "folk music"..
Ha ha.
Hi @fluffybunnyslippers2505 ... The Pogues do a wonderful and moving version of "The Band Played Waltzing Matilda". Check it out. Take care ...
@@drivingwithtodd1781 I have heard it and your right. Have a great day and an awesome year.
Cold Chisel are legends in Australia. Mate you should listen to their song Bow River, it's one of the coolest rock / blues songs ever. The best version is the one from their 2003 Ringside tour, the video quality is pretty rubbish, but the audio is good, I still think this live version is better than the studio version or the Official Video version.
The version where Mossy stuffs up the lyrics?
There is a reason it is not on the Official Cold Chisel channel.
@@stevegraham3817 You just had to pipe that in there like always didnt you?
@@G.H.O.S.T.254 Why wouldn't I try and direct people to the better version, the official version that Cold Chisel wants people to see.
@@stevegraham3817 As others have pointed out to you so many times in the past, the 2003 version IS the best version.
They are older, wiser, more experienced and have perfected themselves musically. Lyrics be damned and who damn well cares if he screws up a few words.
Another said to you before, just listen to the damn song and stop harping like a fool over a couple wrong words!
@@G.H.O.S.T.254 No.
There is a reason why the Official Version is not that one.
Everyone is entitled to an informed opinion,
others can now make an informed opinion of their own, rather than just listening to the one sided opinions of a few.
I am informing others that Cold Chisel don't endorse the 2003 version, and I will back the opinion of the band that created both versions.
I know someone whose father was injured in Nam and had to wait for rescue throughout the night, alone, in excruciating pain, trying not to moan or scream out bc VC were still in the area, propped against a tree, slowly bleeding out, and of-course he still has nightmares about it;
BUT these days, he has a backyard full of bambooo he planted himself, mimicking that situation. I think this song, towards the end, really captures that strange psychological contradiction between wishing it never happened at all, and somehow missing it.
I suggest listening to Only Nineteen (the original version) by Redgum as another Australian song about Vietnam.
Hio @kcinsti ... At the time when the allied troops pulled out of Viet Nam, the vets had to face so much when they came home. Today, wearing a hat that says "Viet Nam Veteran" or a bumper sticker on the car is a badge of honor. It is sad so many young men and women had to suffer over there. And I am not sure that our coutries learned from that experience and would do it all over again. Peace and take care ....
I love when Americans discover Aussie music. Vietnam was the most expensive and useless war ever. I love Vietnam, I've been there several times and seen all the after effects. Neither side won the war. But the remnants still remain to this day on multiple levels😢
Chisel were huge here & are still revered!
Your next logical step is to do Cold Chisels lead singer - Jimmy Barnes, ft Joe Bonamassa with a '93 song written by their('Chisels) keyboardist Don Walker...'Stone Cold'. It is an absolute killer tune!!
What other Aussie Artists have you covered?
✌️🇦🇺
"Stone Cold" with Joe Bonamassa and Jimmy Barnes is absolutely brilliant, and is bluesy and unmissable. But to stick with Cold Chisel, the next video you should react to is their live cover of "Wild Thing" (The Troggs). That will showcase Cold Chisel as the fabulous pub band they were. A TRULY wild ride.
Watch Redgums "I was only 19"
Stand Up Australia our unofficial national anthem as every Aussie knows this song... even the younger generations...luvd ur reaction to our greatest Aussie pub music legends Cold Chisel ♥️♥️♥️🦘🦘🦘
When The War Is Over is another impactful Chisel song
Gee Jimmy Barnes the singer is pretty young in that clip. Gee Jimmy’s still singing aged 67, well after he picks up he’ll be touring again 😊. My brother didn’t get drafted but the boy across the road did. Thankfully he came home from Vietnam and settled well after a while. Still happily married now.
Don Walker is a great songwriter. Same as Steve Prestwich (vale).
Cold Chisel is one of the greatest rock bands of all time, and Jimmy Barnes one of the greatest rock vocalists. Ask any Australian rock fan!
It’s criminal that they are virtually unknown outside of Australia and NZ, but there was a contract dispute early on with the US label, and Chisel effectively gave them the finger and decided to focus on the Australian market and forget about the international market.
These guys are world class, and I think a lot of their material would have resonated with classic rock fans in North America in particular in the 80s and 90s.
I have some song suggestions. Keep in mind that the catalogue is quite varied, so it’s not really a case of hearing one or two songs and having a feel for the band:
Bow River (live 2003 Ringside)
Flame Trees (official video)
When the War is Over (live 2003 Ringside)
You Got Nothing I Want (official video - aimed at US record execs)
Saturday Night (official video)
Wild Thing (live Troggs cover, 1983 I think)
Choir Girl (official video)
Forever Now (album version - for some reason the audio quality on the video is bad)
There’s plenty more, but that’s enough to give you a taste!
Australia’s best ever band 👏 So many hits
The lead singer, Jimmy Barnes, went to high-school a suburb over from where i live. My old English/sociology teacher (may he rest in peace) also went to the same school, but was a couple years younger.
He always used to recount the story of the time he was being bullied and Jimmy Barnes stepped in, getting him sort the situation by getting a bit physical with the bullies. In my eyes, that proved Jimmy was destined to be the man of the people that he became. Just an absolute solid bloke
I love Jimmy the legend. Redgum : I was only 19, brings tears to my eyes no matter how many times I hear it. Proud Aussie 🙏🇦🇺
Thanks for your interpretation Todd.
Don Walker ( Keyboards) whom wrote the song, Changed the Title from Long Tan ( the Australian forces largest field of action in Viet nam) to Khe Sahn , to get around the Australian sensors , it was band anyway ( which made it even more popular).
As the son of an Australian Viet nam veteran (2 tours) , this song means a little to me.
Yes, heaven forbid that the Aussie Govt allow anyone to give any recognition to us members of the ADF from any conflict without the Govt. explicit permission.
Chisel are Aussie rock LEGENDS! I was 8 when this song was released and grew up listening to it and Chisel! This song is a favourite and was heavily played here in Oz during my teen years and 20's. Flame Trees is my all-time Chisel favourite song, another slow one, very relatable and more great lyrics!!
This is possibly the most important Australian Rock song, along with Cold Chisel's "Flame Trees"
Jimmy Barnes’ voice has aged like fine wine. It’s far better now than when he sung this imo. My favourite performance is his recent remake of his song “Lay Down Your Guns” with The Living End. He is a powerful vocalist
I love that one also
They’ve reformed for the first time in ages and are touring in Oz atm, most probably for the last time. I’m going to the Melbourne concert in a couple of months. Can’t wait!
If you are looking for more Vietnam War nostalgia, there is Russel Morris' song from 1970 called "Rachel" which is about an Australian nurse and her letter home. It is very dated now, but I still like it as much now as when I first heard it as a kid back then.
Mate....great comment.
As a lover of classic Aussie music (and anti war songs) I am ashamed to say I hadn't heard "Rachel".
I took your advice and checked it out. Great lyrics...not disappointed 👍🏽
Amazing what can be discovered from reading you tube comments.
🙏🏽🙏🏽
The best rock band that ever walked this earth. I don’t care what anyone says, dive deep enough into their collection starting with the 70’s stuff and you’ll agree. Thatsingerreactions considers Jimmy Barnes voice the most powerful male vocal ever. Jimmy has decades of solo hits too.
Preach it brother!
@@jeremykothe2847 brother ? 🤔
@@Dr_KAP or sister? idc! preach it!
@@jeremykothe2847 😂 it’s what I do right?!
@@Dr_KAP and you do it very well. Loving how many reactors you are keeping fed :D
Thanks heaps for the amazing reaction. Can you please react to Cold Chisel “when the war is over” live Ringside 2003. And yes that’s a harmonica that was being played.
He meant the keyboard instrument used in the break..sounded like a synth or organ/harmonium.
And they’re back touring!
Have you listened to Australian Band..DADDY COOL..
ESPECIALLY their Song ...AT THE ROCK HOUSE. It's a great POP/ ROCK Song.
Kathy from Adelaide...Australia ☺️☺️
One of the greatest Aussie bands ever. There are so many good songs by these guys, many of which are now part of Aussie folk lore in their own right.
Yes! Check out Bow River. Great intro to legendary Aussie band ❤❤
Everyone goes on about how great AC/DC are, and yes they are, but give me Cold Chisel any day of the week ❤
You should listen to Cold Chisel When the war is over
Back in the day I saw Cold Chisel perform live at pubs many times. Jimmy always jumped onto the piano to sing this song and the audience would go nuts.
My Uncle was a sergeant in VN, came back a hard man, drinking and multiple relationship failures.
My first concert ever! Absolute legends and their music still stands the test of time. I'm going to play the whole album right now. Do yourselves a favour 😊
You were very lucky. I come from a military family. I heard what my cousins went through. (I was listening in when i should not) I am from Australia cold chisel is the best. Another great song is When some thing is wrong with my baby jimmy barnes and john farnham, totally different just as good.
Gotta love ya Chisel!
Also consider this was released 5 years after the war ended. Cold Chisel is a wonderful rabbit hole. Try Four Walls, written from the view of a prisoner
My Dad returned from Vietnam in 1971 (He was 21 yrs old). Many years later he went to our local RSL (returned services league) for a beer with a mate, and was snubbed by the WW2 vets. Dad never went back.
Khe Sanh, like most Cold Chisel songs, was written by keyboard player, Don Walker. He maade every single word count. For something different try Flame Trees or Breakfast at Sweethearts. Great reaction, thanks from Australia!!
While Don did write a lot of songs, all the band members wrote songs and some of their biggest hits were written by other band members. But I would agree that Don had the most powerful lyrics. He was a master story teller.
Played at every party and every pub across Australia. It's not a party until it is played.
Don Walker has written some of the best songs ever. He's a master songwriter. He's playing the piano in this band.
Master vocalist, master guitarist, master keyboardist, very very good rhythm section, God Tier songwriter. Don Walker should be held up there with Elton John and McCartney.
sir your reaction was genuine and honest im subbing .proud ol skool Aussie
Hi @CLAWCUZBRO ... Thank you for your compliment on my reaction. Yes, I was not sure what to expect but having the lyrics on the screen helped me understand the song and it brought back many a memory from that time period. Take care ...
Don Walker is one of the best song writers.
Great band...so many songs with these guys
I was only 19 by Redgum came up straight regarding Australian involvement in Vietnam.
Always great watching people experience Jimmy and Cold Chisel for the first time!! I grew up listening to them, id love to be able to hear them for tge firat time as an adult!! This is the closest i can get!! Thanks mate from the great southern land!!
you are very sharp - the singer Jimmy Barnes was too young but his big brother John Swanee Swan a good friend of mine went to Vietnam and I don’t think there’s a single Vietnam Vet not affected by the way they were treated on their return home.
Hi @JouJouQuiQui ... What you say bothered me back in the 70's and I still think about it today. These soldiers risked everything only to be called "baby killers" on their return. Very sad ...
That’s our National Anthem. Glad you enjoyed it.
About to go to their 50th anniversary tour. What an Aussie legend of a band!!!!!
Iconic band and song, fantastic reaction.
Hi @jemxs ... Thank you for your wonderful compliment. Take care ...
Excellent reaction thanks Mate!.👍
Cold Chisel EAST Album is an absolute Classic. Have a listen to You,ve got nothing I want, You've got nothing I need after Chisel left America super disappointed with the Yanks.Powerful Vocals.😊
Plz review "Working class man"
"Flame trees"
"Bow river"
"Forever now"
Great review by the way...we love our Cold Chisel
Jimmy Barnes is still going and does show. He has also has solo albums as well
I was only 19 was a very powerful song.
Great review. Don Walker (Piano Player) wrote this song. He heard someone mention the name Khe Sahn in a bar one night and it stuck with him. He has written a number of anthems for us Aussies so check out “Saturday Night”, “Standing on the Outside”, “Tomorrow”, “Wild Colonial Boy” and in my view his best “Letter to Alan”. Chisel is a great band and worth diving in from your side. Look up their rendition of Wild Thing, 10 minutes of pure energy.
I've always found it amusing that we Australians consider this to be some sort of Vietnam anthem as our ground troops were never anywhere near Khe Sanh, a battle primarily involving US Marines. The RAAF did fly support missions over it but that's it, Khe Sanh was in the far north of South Vietnam near the DMZ in the 1st Corps area, and Phuoc Tuy, where Australian ground forces primarily operated is far to the south in the 3rd Corps zone near Vung Tau. "I was only 19" has always been the more appropriate song to commemorate our troops.
Great comments. Check out another great Cold Chisel song 'When the War is Over' - very emotional.
Cold Chisel Midnight Oil who do Gurus.. probably my favourite Aussie bands any is so much more Australia has a rich music history... kaysan would have to be just makes you choke a little bit it really hits home Cold Chisel such a great band really good Aussie music listen to more you will love it Star Hotel another favour of mind
Im a Timor vet . When we marched threw Brisbane in 2001 a Viet vet yelled out , Well done diggers you got the welcome we never had. Its still unbelievable how these young men were drafted , didnt want to go , suffered in the worst possible way and were shunned by their own people when they returned . So unfair.
Australia and New Zealand sent over fifty-thousand troops to Vietnam. Australia lost about 500 killed and New Zealand about 40. As a veteran of more recent wars, this song talks perfectly about how vets are perceived in the community, Some are very damaged, some not so much. But the wider civilian community will never really understand us.
Hey great reaction, mate. You're right. Vets have never been treated adequately.
Chisel are the GOAT. Don, the pianist wrote the song after talking to vet friends.
Australian. You were lucky. My dad was lucky to not have his number called, but being a farmer could be exempted. Many of his mates that went died young and leaving a young family behind, many died of cancer. I remember being in hospital in the main city 4hrs from our farm and dad was talking to a bloke next door, ended up being a local from where we lived, he spent nearly 2xlonger over there than the mandatory time. He was a bulldozer operator and when over there they needed someone to man the minesweeper, he only got home because of a russian tank mine that turned the minesweeper on its roof, breaking a few of his bones.
I remember well when Khe Sahn came out it in 1978 basically only charted in Melbourne ; it failed to make the top 40 nationally peaking at 41
great reaction Todd.................thank you
Jimmy Barnes...usual lead singer. Had a solo career also. You might know Working Class Man. A great Aussie band.
Yes you heard a harmonica and if keep listening to Cold Chisel you’ll hear some more.
I recently learned that Don Walker’s father was a renowned professional harmonica player. I wonder if this is where the inspiration for its use came from.
Even more powerful is their song "When the war is over" ❤
Great reaction. Loved hearing what it did for you. It was banned on radio in the beginning
Hi @liamfahey7836 ... Thank you for the wonderful compliment on my reaction. Banned, sad, people just do not want to hear the truth. Rock on ...
You should try looking at Cold Chisels When The War Is Over - live version from Ringside concert dvd
Everything about chisel (jimmy barnes) is legendary but the god of Aussie music known by us as THE VOICE John Farnham he could sing anything from Opera to heavy rock
If you want a powerful Australian war song then listen to "Red Gum - I was only 19"
Australian legend ..
Now you are at the top of the rabbit hole, keep going.
I really enjoyed your reaction.
Subscribed.
You MUST check out Redgum's 'A Walk In The Greenlight aka. I was Only Nineteen". Another story about the war in Vietnam. Also, Eric Bogle's, 'The Band Played Waltzing Matilda', about WW1. These songs are played especially around ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps ) Day on the 25 th of April. It's a day of remembrance for all military and associated groups who were/are engaged in the wars.
Jumped the gun. I see that you already have !
Great reaction matey, thanks for that. When you said "19" did you mean "I was only 19" by Redgum? If you haven't seen that yet I strongly recommend it
Australia had an Air Force detachment at Khe Sanh during the siege flying bombing missions in the hills around the base, the character in the song is a pilot from the RAAF (Australian Air Force) and so it makes sense he was there for a time
Also I just want to add there were no UN forces in Vietnam, besides South Vietnam and the US, Australia and South Korea were the only countries providing significant infantry support
The best reaction to this song I have come across mate. Thank you…and now subscribed.
Hi @trumpsta4759 ... Wow, what a great compliment. Thank you and thank you for subscribing. More great music to come in 2024. Keep rockin' ...
@@drivingwithtodd1781 👍
Most songs are verse, chorus, verse, chorus, final verse, chorus.
This one is simply narrative until the end and it’s “last plane out of Sydney’s almost gone” to finish. Great, great song.
Hi @colinr1960 ... I was stunned by this song. What a great narrative. The song had true feeling that hit you deep in your psyche. Take care ...
Good Country song!
Great tune - Chisel were legends and you can't go wrong. Have a listen to Redgum and I was Only 19 - much more potent in getting a message across about Vietnam. Other Chisel classics are Bow River and an amazing cover of Wild Thing. Both clips are live. Other great Aussie Bands to dive in to include The Angels, Rose Tattoo, Sherbet, Little River Band, Saints, A personal favourite is Ted Mulry Gang - Jump In My Car, Jamaica Rum and Heart of Stone. So much talent virtually unknown outside of Australia.
Most Australians in Vietnam were stationed in Vung Tau, however, Aussies were in Vietnam unofficially from the mid 60s as advisors to the South Vietnamese, well before the USA declared all out war against the North and the Viet Cong. Cold Chisel's main songwriter, Don Walker (the piano player) is a songwriting genius, although all band members wrote some great songs.
Mate, I’m glad you liked it. In Australia it’s almost our National Anthem. We all know the lyrics.
May I also recommend “I was only 19” by Redgum. Another vet song that is heard everywhere in Australia especially on ANZAC Day.
To all our past and current serving military personnel from all our countries, thank you. Lest we Forget.
Its really got me worried , im going nowhere and I'm in a hurry, loved your commentary and insights , cheers
Play , Cold Chisel ‘When the war is over’ and ‘ the band played Waltzing Matilda’. I’m don’t sure of the artist for this one though😊
This song was banned from radio play when they released it, but Jimmy said it was the best thing that happeneed because people had to go out and buy it to play it (no copying it from the radio), You said you missed out on Vietnam at the end, well I just happened to be in the last intake in 1959 when I did my "National Service" and it was discontinued in 1960 only to be bought back later and those conscripted boys were sent to Vietnam only to be treated like shite when they returned. The Aussie RSL (Returned Serviceman's League) decided that Vietnam was not a war but a "Police Mission" and it took the Viet Vets many years before they were recognised. I have lost at least two close friends from that WAR, one from PDSC and the other from cancer caused by Agent Orange RIP Pete and Mark. That's why they banned it, it was too close to the truth. We should never have been there. 🥵🥵🥵
Skyhooks, now that's a blast from the past
It would be interesting to find out if there where any Australian airforce helicopters involved in the support in Khe Sanh.. In the song the vet worked on an oil rig flying choppers when he could.. So the guy being sung about was a pilot..
Hi @AdstarAPAD ... from what I read, Australia performed air support at Keh Sanh, so Huey gunships may have been used. Take care ...
The song became a big hit in Australia despite being banned for crude language in the '70s.Once the ban was lifted a couple years later it became a hit again.
even though there were no Diggers at Khe Sanh Cold Chisel used Khe Sanh for the title of the song because it was a better fit than Nue Dat or Long Tan
Nui Dat…….
There was an RAAF detachment at Khe Sanh flying bombing missions in the hills around the base, the character in the song is a pilot and so makes sense he could’ve been at Khe Sanh
@@pats3071 100% correct.