Van Halen, Mean Street- A Classical Musician’s In-Depth Analysis

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  • Опубликовано: 5 окт 2022
  • I learned a lot with this project! I guess it’s my first exposure to “Hard Rock” and I didn’t really know what it was during the first listen, but I began to get a better understanding as I prepared for this In-Depth video. Plus I discovered some interesting details about the Van Halen band and family as well. Check it out, and let me know what you think!
    Link to the original song by Van Halen:
    • Mean Street (2015 Rema...
    Link to Bela Bartok playing his own 6 Bulgarian Dances from Mikrokosmos”:
    • Bartók plays Bartók Si...
    _________________________
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    Yakov Rakhamimov, corepuncher, Brian Benny, Doug O’Neill, Roger P, Callum Leggat, Chad from Canada, Jeremy P, Jack, Bounds Cruise, Richard H, Ury Liv, Jason W, eljimi, Riffraff, Michael Ettner, Yuri, Steven, Christoff, Kristina M., Yaron, magicjackatx, B Allen, Chris, Andrew Barnard, Rick, Kadath, thagotaberry, Bruce, Harold Barrel, Bounds Cruise, John Press, Merriwinkle, DaDa Doom, ArneJonnyKjernsli, John, Frank Hochmann, LokisMinions, William Scott, Toni Young, Andy La Rubin, Michael Rhine, Susan Ziegler, Ted in Calgary, Lee Kennison, Adrian Villalobos, Garth Bedard, Joe, Helene Spaulding, Miller Beer, Anne-Maria, Agathorion, Divedown25, Gary D, EricBittner, Yuri, Richard H, Nick, Arh Ceigh, AshTopaz, Desert Racer, Jordan Türk, Lohisoturi, Bounds Cruise, Randy Hammill, Blessen Mathew, Josiah, Bill P, D Boss, Merriwinkle, Josh Goldstein, Mark, Joe C, Jason Murray, Dreepa, Leonard Hannaby, Sapphyr, Albedo, Konrad Tomala, Kadath, Kurt in Iowa, TC, Kevin1958, Martin Moeckel, Jeff, John Who, Steve Price, HalfEatenSandwich, aeinst45, NicholasConnolly, Paul Woodward, DarKor, Dwarner301, Tilman Bergt, David Schecter, Gary DPatrick N, Reyer, Susan Ziegler, Paul Bissette, Josiah, Paul_B, Adaddinsane, oddvon, Miller Beer
    _________________________
    Amy Shafer, LRSM, FRSM, RYC, is a classical harpist, pianist, and music teacher, Director of Piano Studies and Assistant Director of Harp Studies for The Harp School, Inc., holds multiple degrees in harp and piano performance and teaching, and is active as a solo and collaborative performer. With nearly two decades of teaching experience, she teaches privately, presents masterclasses and coaching sessions, and has performed and taught in Europe and USA.
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Комментарии • 855

  • @VirginRock
    @VirginRock  Год назад +43

    Please drop your QUESTIONS ONLY as a reply to this message! Thank you!

    • @outsidethewall8488
      @outsidethewall8488 Год назад +4

      Do you have any plans to listen to the Red Hot Chilli Peppers? They do some really interesting work with rhythm and have a very distinct sound that's quite different from a lot of what you've heard thus far. Probably the most universally loved song by them is Under the Bridge, but their song Dreams of a Samurai from memory has some really interesting time signature changes, where at times the drums/ bass are playing in a different time to the guitar/ vocals.

    • @digitalblues01
      @digitalblues01 Год назад +4

      Nothing to do with this song but I listened to Yes - Yours is No Disgrace just a while ago and when you get to something like this I am wondering if there is anything in classical like the way the guitar very aggressively shifts between the right and left speakers. Can and is this done in classical? Would recommend this Yes song later for this and many other reasons. Thanks.

    • @SteveOostdyk
      @SteveOostdyk Год назад +6

      Curious your thoughts on the slow fade-out at the end rather than an actual song ending. Do fade-outs sort of musically imply that the song continues to play on indefinitely? Are there any examples in classical music where perhaps like a round, it's implied that the music continues on even after the piece is finished? Thanks!

    • @luisnunes3863
      @luisnunes3863 Год назад +1

      Amy, do you feel an added aesthetic pleasure from watching an excellent small ensemble do their thing, being able to watch each of the musicians play, or is it all about the sound? I very much prefer to watch a superb classical ensemble like Jupiter or a really excellent band like Unleash the Archers.

    • @chetzar
      @chetzar Год назад +2

      Your in-depth analysis videos are so interesting and informative. Do you script your analysis videos or just go off the cuff?

  • @tjsogmc
    @tjsogmc Год назад +54

    It's not an understatement to say that Eddie inspired thousands of guitar players. He was an innovator and his techniques are now a part of the rock genre. His loss to the world of music is hard to measure. RIP Eddie, and thanks for the music....

    • @mikal
      @mikal Год назад +10

      *millions

    • @oliviermalhomme9923
      @oliviermalhomme9923 Год назад +4

      But many of these millions think solo guitar. The focus here is how an amazing rhythm player he was. Years later, it is anyway what focuses my awe.

    • @DavidMartinez-gs7sb
      @DavidMartinez-gs7sb Год назад +4

      Some think Solos, others rhythm, i think both but mostly eddies sense of melody

    • @tjsogmc
      @tjsogmc Год назад +3

      @@oliviermalhomme9923 he was versatile. Whatever he did, he did well.

    • @jjk8417
      @jjk8417 Год назад +1

      @@oliviermalhomme9923 His rhythm work is absolutely brilliant. Micro-tonal and overtones perfection on every chord and an impeccable timing that rivals with Bernard Purdie and Jeff Porcaro. Add all the virtuoso soloing, songwriting, tapping, perfect pinch harmonics, etc., etc., and you get what he was: The GOAT.

  • @markhamstra1083
    @markhamstra1083 Год назад +130

    On pronunciation: When speaking with other Dutch speakers (as in some recorded interviews), the brothers definitely retained the Dutch pronunciation of their name, but they didn’t try to force non-Dutch speakers to use that pronunciation.

    • @terrylandess6072
      @terrylandess6072 Год назад +4

      When I first lived in Florida I was speaking to a 'native' about a city and butchered the pronunciation which he quickly corrected "damn Yankee...." Kiss a me - NOT! Kuh sim me - got it.

    • @DerEchteBold
      @DerEchteBold Год назад +2

      Did they actually pronounce it Dutch or did they pronounce it like she did, with the 'V' in the English way?

    • @markhamstra1083
      @markhamstra1083 Год назад

      @@DerEchteBold ruclips.net/video/vg9WFskPV4Y/видео.html

    • @Swanlord05
      @Swanlord05 Год назад +4

      @@DerEchteBold with each other Dutch way......Roth came up.with the American way

    • @TonyM-STLTV
      @TonyM-STLTV Год назад +3

      Cairo, Illinois is pronounced KAY-ROE, not KYE-ROE like the city in Egypt.

  • @toddvanwinkle7777
    @toddvanwinkle7777 Год назад +65

    Imagine her reviewing Edwards guitar work in “I’m The One” 😂

    • @zerooneonetwothree1872
      @zerooneonetwothree1872 Год назад +2

      And now imagine her reviewing the Loss of control 😆
      ruclips.net/video/sYZwtmiN9Kk/видео.html

    • @toddvanwinkle7777
      @toddvanwinkle7777 Год назад +1

      @@zerooneonetwothree1872 🎸🎸👍👍👍😂😂I wish she would 😄😄

    • @mikeeckert6147
      @mikeeckert6147 Год назад +2

      I love the sensible blouse🤓👍

    • @carlbates8381
      @carlbates8381 7 месяцев назад +2

      Or eruption. Her head would explode. So many notes.

    • @toddvanwinkle7777
      @toddvanwinkle7777 7 месяцев назад +1

      @@carlbates8381 😂😂 I wonder if she has already?

  • @SteveOostdyk
    @SteveOostdyk Год назад +83

    I'm really impressed that you are able to break down the rhythmic pattern of that intro and can explain it so well. Thank you! So fascinating.

    • @Hartlor_Tayley
      @Hartlor_Tayley Год назад +7

      That impressed me too.

    • @danielmiddleman8613
      @danielmiddleman8613 Год назад +3

      If you slow it down to half-speed you can
      hear exactly what she is talking about.

  • @donaldcummings8407
    @donaldcummings8407 Год назад +53

    I can just imagine Eddie looking down, scratching his head saying" Is that what I did?" Loved this by the way!!

    • @MaggaraMarine
      @MaggaraMarine Год назад +8

      Eddie had a great sense of rhythm, so I doubt he would have found this analysis surprising in any way. He was likely fully aware of what he was doing rhythmically.

  • @mpwiedemann
    @mpwiedemann Год назад +30

    I've been a musician my whole life and have had many music teachers. Your explanation of the timing in the song intro was some of the best stuff I've heard. Bravo!

  • @michaellueneburg2261
    @michaellueneburg2261 Год назад +12

    Metaphorically you have huge ears and a big music brain! The further you get along this journey you could be a hot commodity when it comes to rock music production! So grateful to be a part of this community!

  • @agent00Sally
    @agent00Sally Год назад +15

    Thank you for your analysis and opinions. Being a Van Halen fan most of my life, I love when others can completely appreciate them as I do. I must say however, I am impressed by your admitting you are not a Van Halen fan from your initial experience. Most reaction videos I’ve seen seem to cater to the audience and it’s difficult to tell if the listener really liked the band/song or not. Your willingness to express your actual feelings while being ultimately respectful is refreshing and admirable. Thank you for being candid and honest. I don’t have any questions for you, only respect - and I wanted you to know that. Thank you again.

  • @jimb1283
    @jimb1283 Год назад +49

    I am positive that there is no other reaction/review to Van Halen that have been done with a harp. Pretty damn awesome. Time for Rush....just go straight to La Villa Strangiato. You are welcome.

    • @markhamstra1083
      @markhamstra1083 Год назад +6

      +1 for _La Villa Strangiato_

    • @JimK03.
      @JimK03. Год назад +5

      I'd be all in for Rush's La Villa Strangiato! Can you imagine how long an in depth dive into that song would be?

    • @mikedellinger872
      @mikedellinger872 Год назад +5

      +1 more for La Villa Strangiato

    • @TheOriginalFILIBUSTA
      @TheOriginalFILIBUSTA Год назад +3

      Are you kidding? She took this long just for fricken Mean Street! Villa would be at least 4 hours long. She'll take something as simple as 4/4 timing and break it down so as to teach children (which is AMAZING!), however, children have to take breaks between lessons.

    • @jimb1283
      @jimb1283 Год назад

      @@TheOriginalFILIBUSTA lol

  • @choppingpenguin
    @choppingpenguin Год назад +36

    Eddie was an award winning concert pianist as a young teen, so yes, he was exposed to a lot of classical music growing up.

    • @drobichaud1000
      @drobichaud1000 Год назад +1

      you just made that shit up

    • @choppingpenguin
      @choppingpenguin Год назад +14

      @@drobichaud1000 read a book Chachi. "When Van Halen was born in 1955 in the Netherlands, his musically minded parents (father Jan Van Halen was a clarinetist, saxophonist and pianist) named him Edward Lodewijk Van Halen in honor of Ludwig Van Beethoven. (Lodewijk is the Dutch equivalent of the German name Ludwig.) But that was just the start of his classical childhood.
      After the family moved to Pasadena, Calif., in the early 1960s - with "$50 and a piano," he said during a talk at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History - his parents enrolled Van Halen in formal lessons for that piano at 6.
      But he never learned to read the sheet music, he later explained. Instead, he would mimic the instructor's hand movements and play by ear to realize works by Beethoven and Mozart. During recitals and competitions, he would use memory recall and improvise, earning praise from judges for his stylizations."

    • @BradGouldEsq
      @BradGouldEsq Год назад +2

      @@drobichaud1000 it’s a fact

    • @IwearSneakers
      @IwearSneakers Год назад

      He wasn't a teen though. He had dropped it before his teen years.

    • @drobichaud1000
      @drobichaud1000 Год назад

      @@choppingpenguin ok ok whatever... just stop

  • @steveo6631
    @steveo6631 Год назад +28

    It is so refreshing to stumble upon your channel... Its rare to find a serious and intellectual reaction channel on YT... Your in-depth and honest analysis is truly unique... Entertaining and at the same time I learn a little about your world of music, and I always increase my vocabulary with each video... Keep them coming, and thanks for your work...

    • @philf4086
      @philf4086 Год назад +2

      Well said!

    • @dennisweaver2954
      @dennisweaver2954 6 месяцев назад

      I suppose I’m a little late to the party, but steveo6631 pretty much nailed it. The only thing I’d add is this: anybody who finds the sound of an electric guitar displeasing should listen to Cathedral. It’s a short EVH instrumental on the Diver Down album.

  • @rogerdat7807
    @rogerdat7807 Год назад +17

    As one of many who picked up an electric guitar because of EVH influence, I thoroughly enjoyed your critique of one of my favorites. The lesson in qtr notes was a big bonus! Thank you.

    • @nellgwenn
      @nellgwenn Год назад +7

      Ha. I actually put down the guitar because of Van Halen. I saw them live I believe it was their first tour in the states. I stood in front of him and said to myself, is that what I have to do now? I can't do that. I can draw. I know how to draw. I'll do that.

  • @dwreed9100
    @dwreed9100 Год назад +15

    A lot of us out here play guitar and have a slight understanding of music theory. Thank you, this is fantastic. Very few classical musicians will listen to the music, let alone break it down and explain it so clearly. It's great to rediscover these tunes in a different way. Oh, and learn a little music theory while we're at it. Thank you,

  • @friotaiocht101
    @friotaiocht101 Год назад +25

    She is very gifted at holding the attention of the viewer at least in my opinion anyway... she has a very easy & enjoyable way of being able to hold your attention & focus when explaining things throughout the entire video I never get bored or tired of her videos... which was the case with so many other reaction videos....

  • @brianr3763
    @brianr3763 Год назад +27

    It's refreshing to hear an expert's well-thought out opinion. I especially like the concept of creating a second video revisiting the song after you've had time to sit with it for a while.

  • @richardremick1639
    @richardremick1639 Год назад +12

    The Dutch way to say it is right the first time. The Americanized way to say it is the second pronunciation. Either way I’m still crying Eddie’s gone. Best party and music all in one. They changed our lives forever ❤

  • @sergiojacas8268
    @sergiojacas8268 Год назад +17

    Enjoyed your dive into Eddie's music and this song. This song was a something that he had written many years early before they were signed and was released on their 4th album. But it evolved from its original version called Voodoo Queen that they played live on the stage. The uneasy darkness vibe really fully developed in this version, and as Eddie explained it, it was a dark time for him and the future of the band because he felt that he couldn't fully express his creative self with the pressure of the singer who wanted more pop sounding rock songs, as well as the the record label. So he explains that after full day of recording when everyone left, he would work on rewriting and recording these darker parts of this song and others on that album, including all the interesting and flourishes of the riffs. At the time, besides it being a great song, that intro left lifetime guitarist puzzled as they couldn't imagine or figure out how he played it, or if it was even a guitar. Imagine you as a harpsichordist if you heard a song that loved and did even know how it was played on a harpsichord. There was no RUclips back then, and there was no existing proper way to transcribe it, so it took a while for people to realize how he did it. If you did into did more into his music you will see he is a perfect mix of jazz/swing and classical, but from someone that learned by ear rather than theory. Interestingly you will see how he applies jazz improvisation to classical styled music, and came out with something uniquely his own. Keep up the great work, look forward to hear more music through your ears.

  • @paulsmashupchannel1442
    @paulsmashupchannel1442 Год назад +27

    Eddie was also a piano prodigy- playing by ear.

  • @fonsecorona
    @fonsecorona Год назад +7

    26:30 This is the statement that Eddie would've seen as probably the most rewarding and acknowledgeable word of recognition as the guitar player he was..coming from you, Amy...As a long listener and admirer of his craft, hearing this, as simple as it sounds, truly feels this video as conveyor of a heartfelt tribute on your part... Thank you for this...🙏🏻

  • @Plowguitarist
    @Plowguitarist Год назад +20

    David Lee Roth was/is very adolescent in nature. Also, this was Van Halen’s 4th album, and there were serious animosities between the Van Halen’s and David Lee Roth on the direction they wanted to go. Thus this record was a bit darker than the 3 prior records. So again, you’ve psychologically nailed them again. 🙏🏼

    • @MAG-li5jo
      @MAG-li5jo Год назад +3

      The Fair Warning album had Eddie assuming control of the musical direction of the band more than ever before. It did not do all that well commercially so David Lee Roth and producer Ted Templemen chose a lot of cover songs that they thought radio would like when they did their next record Diver Down.

    • @cristobalnoyola1521
      @cristobalnoyola1521 9 месяцев назад +1

      Never noticed that. But that is true for a deep Van Halen fan . Great album though . Different but another great album , right on : )

  • @EddieReischl
    @EddieReischl Год назад +13

    Absolutely wonderful analysis, especially with regards to the tapping. I'm reminded of having my first guitar teacher, my dad, who played in rock and roll bands from 1959-64, listen to the beginning section of this song, both of us dumbfounded that we were hearing a guitar. So, Edward became my second guitar teacher. It's also mostly because of Ed that I became a listener of orchestral music, after reading an interview of him explaining how much he loved Debussy's music. Ed, in a lot of his music, has a similar style, mood changes, switching from major keys to relative minors and back, and heavy use of suspended chords. He was also the first guitarist I'd heard that actually used the vibrato bar to bend notes to related harmony notes, as opposed to guitarists before mostly using it to make some chaotic noise.
    Cool that you mentioned "The Marriage of Figaro". I like to play along with that along with the "Spring" season from Vivaldi, "Badinerie" from Bach, and "La Fille aux Cheveux de Lin" from Debussy, as sort of the classical section of a 2-3 hour session of playing guitar, which also includes lots of Edward's music. It works really well for left hand finger discipline, giving me an idea of how well this session is going to go, and I've found these very memorable melodies I can keep wrapped in my brain so that I'm not confused about what's coming next.

  • @actiondork
    @actiondork Год назад +5

    Once again, I'm watching the analysis before the listen. 😆

  • @demianseale501
    @demianseale501 Год назад +16

    Love your analyses. As I"ve said before, I hope we eventually hear Yes' "Close to the Edge"

  • @itzfast
    @itzfast Год назад +11

    Percussively, Eddie described his intro as kind of a variant of a paradiddle.

  • @gideonhammond6347
    @gideonhammond6347 Год назад +17

    Please don’t ignore the Bass line in this song, it’s right in there :)

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Год назад +1

      I think when she says "guitars", she actually also means the bass!? But yes, I agree: Definitely needs to be mentioned!

  • @rae2071
    @rae2071 Год назад +3

    This made me aware of a lot of things I never noticed or paid attention to the dozens of times I have listened to Mean Street.

  • @markp2085
    @markp2085 Год назад +12

    I consider myself a metal head but you taught me some history of Van Halen that I did not know. Thank you. Having a music background (nowhere at your level) I really enjoy listening to your in-depth analysis of all these songs you are experiencing for the first time.

    • @DVincentW
      @DVincentW Год назад

      She used incorrect sources, as in Wolfgang be named after Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Eds son, Wolfgang is named after Edwards father.

  • @tallantj
    @tallantj Год назад +10

    Really enjoying your reactions as well as the analysis. You're a breath of fresh air :)

  • @InnerLightDimension
    @InnerLightDimension Год назад +37

    I would really enjoy seeing you dissect Close To The Edge by Yes.This is the 50 year anniversary of that song...

    • @GManWrites
      @GManWrites Год назад +3

      I second that👍

    • @mihailmihaylov988
      @mihailmihaylov988 Год назад

      I'd rather prefer "And you and I"...

    • @GManWrites
      @GManWrites Год назад

      @@mihailmihaylov988 If only for the fact it's a much shorter track and easier to cover in a RUclips video, I also happen to think it's awesome song.

    • @warpig4942
      @warpig4942 Год назад +2

      I do not understand why, no matter the genre, people want to suggest the most extreme songs they can think of to introduce a new listener to the music. I want her to do progressive rock and Yes would be a great band to do but suggesting one of the longest, most complicated, most progressive songs for a first time listener is not the way to do it. She should do some of the hits like "Roundabout" or "I've Seen All Good People" as introductions. It takes time to gain an ear for the different styles of music. Give her the time to gain the ear.

    • @InnerLightDimension
      @InnerLightDimension Год назад +1

      @@warpig4942 Haha,I think she can handle it,you seem to underestimate her...

  • @jrl4645
    @jrl4645 Год назад +4

    Oh how I wish Eddie was here to watch this analysis and share his thoughts. This is my new favorite channel. Cheers!

  • @lucasmoraes3787
    @lucasmoraes3787 Год назад +4

    I love your videos, so awesome seeing someone who deeply understands music reacting to more guitar based music for the first time.

  • @karenmcdermott8585
    @karenmcdermott8585 Год назад +4

    Thank you! I'm 74 years old and I'm finally learning how the music I love actually does its work. I'm a good listener...but I have no musical training.

  • @matthewschiavi7353
    @matthewschiavi7353 Год назад +6

    I am throughly impressed with the way you explained the intro, especially coming from a non-guitar player. I think I actually got a better grasp on it from your perspective than from guitar players.

  • @falconeaterf15
    @falconeaterf15 7 месяцев назад +2

    You are an excellent example as to the benefits of higher education on one’s life.
    You understand, and appreciate so much more in life.
    One headbangers opinion.

  • @66gtb
    @66gtb Год назад +2

    I really appreciate the effort to be exact/correct in your language.

  • @tmage23
    @tmage23 Год назад +20

    Many rock fans are familiar with Bela Bartok due to his influence on a musician named Frank Zappa who dabbled in classical music but was primarily an avant garde rock composer and bandleader (and also someone you might enjoy listening to

    • @slothkng
      @slothkng Год назад +7

      musically i'd love to hear her take on zappa

    • @Hartlor_Tayley
      @Hartlor_Tayley Год назад +2

      I think she will do Zappa eventually.

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Год назад +1

      Frank Who?! 😲 ... just kidding! 😄😉

    • @rccola5167
      @rccola5167 Год назад +2

      Yeah, Frank was mental,
      but in a good way.

    • @DVincentW
      @DVincentW Год назад +1

      Excuse you, he was a composer. He released several classical albums after his death in 1993.

  • @banditgrovmalet
    @banditgrovmalet Год назад +2

    Just a quick note to send some appreciation for your heartwarming take on analyzing rock songs. It is fascinating to hear somebody reacting to classic rock songs for the first time. Sooo very refreshing in every way. Looking forward to everything your channel has to offer. Much love and appreciation from Sweden! 🇸🇪

  • @davidheagneyjr6181
    @davidheagneyjr6181 Год назад +5

    That was a fascinating analysis! As others have mentioned, Van Halen is in a category of their own, as they have aspects of Heavy Metal and Hard Rock without being either. I recall an interview where David Lee Roth called their sound "Big Rock". I would also echo others in the comments and say you should watch the video of him playing Eruption from the Live Without A Net show.

  • @josephbecker9435
    @josephbecker9435 Год назад +2

    Fascinating just fascinating, intelligent and captivating

  • @Coccothegreat
    @Coccothegreat Год назад +2

    Thank you for these videos. It is so refreshing to hear someone go into this analysis and give understanding where no one goes, or at least in such a way that is so inviting and pure.

  • @damonwatts66
    @damonwatts66 Год назад +1

    When I think of this song it's always been along the lines of "Probably my favorite intro in music ever and a solid song from one of my favorite rock bands." Thank you for showing me that there is so much more to this song. This is absolutely, with no doubts whatsoever, my favorite RUclips channel ever. 😊

  • @TheSteveBoyd
    @TheSteveBoyd Год назад +22

    Van Halen absolutely WAS a heavy metal band in 1981. The definition has just changed since then.

    • @terrylandess6072
      @terrylandess6072 Год назад +1

      Odd since Metallica was already releasing Metal in 1981 but less known at that time and one mustn't forget Judas Priest. I'll agree to disagree. I was 20 when VH hit the streets running in 1978. At that time compared to everything else we were used to they seemed on the edge of Punk Rock.

    • @Incomudro1963
      @Incomudro1963 Год назад +4

      They were, and they weren't.

    • @arloroan3168
      @arloroan3168 Год назад +4

      It's a metal song if Sabbath is metal. Killer simple riff repeated, heavy back beat. Bass is playing in unison. Dave is singing about Mean Streets. Face melting solo! All the stuff that goes into a metal song.
      Van Halen wasn't a metal band but they rode the line now and then. They also did blues, and New Orleans style jazz, and acapella music. That doesn't make em a blues band, jazz band, or vocal group, even thought those songs were spot on. Just a great band. If I had to poke em in a genre, Hard Rock would be it.

    • @ericgerhardt1127
      @ericgerhardt1127 Год назад +4

      Yes, the definition has changed since then, but metal was more like Judas Preist, Metallica, and the like. I recall Van Halen being labeled as "Heavy Guitar Rock".

    • @DVincentW
      @DVincentW Год назад

      No they were not heavy metal. But since the mainstream must categorize everything, it matters not.

  • @661cmm
    @661cmm Год назад

    Fascinating description and breakdown. I love how you explain the whole process of the introduction. Please do more. Love your channel ❤

  • @kelleychilton2524
    @kelleychilton2524 6 месяцев назад +1

    Your first-time perceptions are phenomenal, spot on. it's amazing how quickly you pick up on certain details, especially the connection between the drums and the guitar, without even knowing that they're brothers.
    It's my understanding that they had to develop a new method to compose sheet music in order to reflect Eddie Van Halen's playing style. I don't know of any other guitarists who can make such a claim.

  • @johnafagerquist8235
    @johnafagerquist8235 Год назад +4

    I love learning about music from you. I feel a growing desire to study music more deeply. Since I was young, I've been held captive by this, "Music comes from within, and learning all the theory stuff will kill your love for it, and stifle the 'you' in your music." mindset. While I'm not there yet, I am starting to see the potential value of theory; although, I want to reiterate the word 'theory', and juxtapose it with laws and rules.

  • @lloydhollebeke
    @lloydhollebeke Год назад +1

    Never again will I be able to say the word 'riff' with nonchalance. And it's great that you are honest about whether or not a song makes it to your play list. In-depth and entertaining. Super. Your occasional southern accent is epic.🙂

  • @things-in-waves2053
    @things-in-waves2053 Год назад +8

    Thanks to Vlad behind the camera for making this happen. I know you certainly have a huge list of songs prepared but please do add Rush, Jethro Tull, Frank Zappa, Nirvana, Bjork, Rage Against the Machine.... among the many many names.

  • @stevekirkby5041
    @stevekirkby5041 Год назад +3

    I am so glad you brought up the difference between hard rock and metal. Thank you.

  • @andreimansan
    @andreimansan Год назад +1

    Amazing explanation! Thank you for this video!

  • @icfrac8481
    @icfrac8481 Год назад +2

    realizing you help me alot, this is great im a guitarist listeneing to other guitarists all the time but this is rhythmic and awesome breakdown of whats happening i love it

  • @Onemoretake01
    @Onemoretake01 Год назад

    You're such a joy to watch! Love this channel😁

  • @alanbarry3598
    @alanbarry3598 Год назад +1

    This is a thoughtful, honest, interesting discussion! Thank you!

  • @dfusit
    @dfusit Год назад +6

    Excellent breakdown of this classic Van Halen song. Eddie and Alex were very much in sync while playing, especially in live performances. I cannot wait for you to get to prog rock, I feel that you will be thoroughly impressed. You have a very unique reaction channel that I’m enjoying a lot.

    • @markhamstra1083
      @markhamstra1083 Год назад +3

      Try not to get too invested in your expectation for how she will react to prog rock. I have seen several classical musicians who were thoroughly unimpressed by it, seeing it as shallow pretense and neither good rock nor good classical music. You have to realize that most classical musicians have witnessed many musical virtuosi, so they are not easily impressed by just technique.

  • @clarkstokes7080
    @clarkstokes7080 Год назад +1

    I love this perspective! What a great concept!

  • @ralphvalkenhoff2887
    @ralphvalkenhoff2887 8 месяцев назад +2

    Wonderful breakdown of a tune that I never thought was possible to be described by a master classical musician. ❤️

  • @johnbanzali3278
    @johnbanzali3278 Год назад

    I love your commentaries about the music.Thanks!

  • @sippingandsketching2157
    @sippingandsketching2157 Год назад +1

    This was awesome! 🤘

  • @Fog640
    @Fog640 Год назад +1

    Enjoyed a fresh perspective. Courteous, polite, educated, humorous. Thank you mam.

  • @crsantin
    @crsantin Год назад

    This is the best explanation for the opening of the song that I’ve ever heard. Thank you. It makes sense now. I’ve always struggled to play this on my guitar.

  • @23skidoo46
    @23skidoo46 Год назад +4

    on this song for me "that something" , is Ed's guitar playing. Nothing more, nothing less. not their most catchy tunes, but, Ed's guitar work is phenomenal on this one as with most of their songs. His guitar playing is some of the best rhythm playing i've ever heard.

  • @BillyE5150
    @BillyE5150 Год назад +1

    This is so cool! I really appreciate you doing these videos. “Mean Street” is one of the greatest rock songs of all time (it’s at the top of my personal list), & Eddie was a special, special human… a wizard. Much like Jimi Hendrix, in the way that guitar playing changed forever when he did his thing. I appreciate all your perspective on art & artists… & how you picked up on the magic & the brothers connection, before you got into the details of how he did it. Rest In Peace, Eddie. =VH= FOREVER

  • @Hartlor_Tayley
    @Hartlor_Tayley Год назад +3

    Amazing analysis. Looking forward to playing the Bartok pieces you linked to. I especially liked that you zeroed in on how altering the way rhythm patterns are played can change the feeling or meaning in many different ways. This is another key to rock music, the well seasoned bands were able to do for great effect .( AC/DC) Great insights and analysis. Thank you

    • @LeeKennison
      @LeeKennison Год назад +1

      I went through a period in the early 90s where I became a classical music fantastic. It was probably 80% of what I listened to at the time. I remember Bartok being one of my favorite composers from the 20th Century. This coincided with the period when CDs were starting to proliferate. Back then you could get really good quality performances from eastern European orchestras really cheap. I think Bartok was on one of the Budapest orchestras CDs. Of course I eventually came out of my stupor and returned to the true classics of the 1960s and 70s rock. 😉

    • @Hartlor_Tayley
      @Hartlor_Tayley Год назад +1

      @@LeeKennison I have a few of those. My favorite is a set of cds with Beethoven’s Cello Concertos recorded in Budapest. I can’t pronounce the name of the soloist but it’s excellent.

  • @23skidoo46
    @23skidoo46 Год назад +1

    your analysis is surprisingly interesting coming from your perspective. keep on the rock n' roll trail.

  • @00sinders
    @00sinders Год назад

    Absolutely loved listening you talk about this tune! Subscribed!

  • @digibirder
    @digibirder Год назад

    Interesting and educational as always Amy! Thank you.

  • @jenniferfoster1692
    @jenniferfoster1692 Год назад +1

    This breakdown is really interesting! Thank you

  • @davidfinnell1660
    @davidfinnell1660 Год назад +1

    Very interesting! Looking forward to your next song. I don't think anyone expects you to become a fan but it's validating to hear that the music we cherish isn't just a bunch of noise but a well thought out creation.

  • @philf4086
    @philf4086 Год назад +1

    Great closing comments, important to remember the artist and the art lovers!

  • @jeffgagawood3741
    @jeffgagawood3741 Год назад +1

    I have found the best thing for sleep and it’s amazing!! Outstanding

  • @fhpr68
    @fhpr68 Год назад +5

    Great analysis. If you found the electric guitar making the 'horn' sounds attractive you may enjoy Van Halen's song "Cathedral", which he uses the same technique (volume swells) but in the song Cathedral the guitar ends up sounding like an cello/violin instead of a horn.

  • @klistarf
    @klistarf Год назад

    I am loving so much how you are working here. I am absolutely enthralled. And yes, i have subbed to your channel, and look forward to further posts. Please keep up the great work. Kind regards 😎🎸

  • @dondebomm6329
    @dondebomm6329 Год назад +4

    After listening to Bartok I agree it's hard not to recognize the similarities. It's obvious to me as a musical layman that Bartok was an inspiration to the opening part.

  • @douglasblaydes7801
    @douglasblaydes7801 Год назад +1

    This is such a cool series of reviews. I listened to Van Halen as a teenager and it was just great rock and roll to me. Never gave much thought to what is actually "in" each song or how much thought probably went into the song.

  • @andrewmartin4644
    @andrewmartin4644 Год назад +1

    Wow! Who knew you could so eloquently analyze Van "freaking" Halen man!

  • @MarRecusable
    @MarRecusable 7 месяцев назад

    This is the channel I was looking for since I started in guitar!!!! TY

  • @johnwesch5926
    @johnwesch5926 Год назад +27

    Nailed it. The reaction and analysis were spot on. For your edification, some bands are their own sound. As apposed to categorizing as metal, hard rock, grunge, speed metal, industrial and then there's Jinjer and Slaughter to Prevail. You may find Pink Floyd to be as mesmerizing as I do. Eruption has to be listened to while watching the video. Trust me. Without seeing what hes doing you'll get lost, quick. ❤

    • @davidheagneyjr6181
      @davidheagneyjr6181 Год назад +2

      I agree with this. Van Halen has roots in both hard rock and heavy metal without being properly categorized as either. If I recall correctly David Lee Roth called their sound "big rock".

    • @GuyNarnarian
      @GuyNarnarian Год назад +1

      VH is its own thing. I've always said this. Not really metal, more hard rock, but certainly not the whole catalog, they cover a gambit of styles. Maybe "hard swing" certainly on the earlier albums.

    • @charleskletter8974
      @charleskletter8974 Год назад +1

      It’s just hard rock man… have a bottle of whiskey there ..my friend. Any one have Mother Nature on them.? DLR

    • @jaernihiltheus7817
      @jaernihiltheus7817 Год назад +1

      I had my own comment about it but i agree. Not only did metal spawn out of rock + a bunch of extra stuff, but many rock bands - including van halen - incorporate a variety of styles in their music, most notably metal.
      It's why people debate on whether or not bands like soundgarden and alice in chains can be classified as metal even though they're grunge rock. Depending on the band, sometimes the answer is "both". Not one or the other.

  • @mattblatchley2061
    @mattblatchley2061 Год назад +1

    absolutely right about the genre differences hard rock/ heavy metal... Van Halen is definitely borderline on many occasions... many folks on the internet discuss which Van Halen songs are 'most heavy metal" like... LOVE your presentations...just fantastic

  • @mrpappa4105
    @mrpappa4105 Год назад +3

    Awesome & thanks from Sweden

  • @teresab1341
    @teresab1341 Год назад

    You are an incredibly interesting person/teacher to listen to!
    What a joy!
    I don't know this song but you made it s-o-o interesting!!
    Thank you for the lesson! And thank you for your time!

  • @hauntedmilk8540
    @hauntedmilk8540 Год назад

    Truly fascinating break down. What a great teacher!

  • @brogan71
    @brogan71 Год назад +44

    If you like the horn part which is also known as a' volume swell' I think you would really enjoy listening to Van Halen's 'Cathedral'.
    It's only a minute and a half long and quite beautiful.
    I'm new to your channel and loving it!
    Thank you.

    • @markhamstra1083
      @markhamstra1083 Год назад +3

      She’d probably also appreciate some of Jeff Beck’s work, such as _Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers_ .

    • @felderup
      @felderup Год назад +1

      @@markhamstra1083 also tubular bells.

    • @markhamstra1083
      @markhamstra1083 Год назад

      @@felderup She won't get that recommendation from me. I've never understood the acclaim that many heap on that piece.

    • @felderup
      @felderup Год назад

      @@markhamstra1083 generational differences perhaps?

    • @markhamstra1083
      @markhamstra1083 Год назад +1

      @@felderup I don't think so. I'm old enough to have heard it as a child, but I don't think I actually gave it my full attention until much later. At any rate, there is plenty of music from the early 70s and before that I find much more appealing than _Tubular Bells_ .

  • @kylekelson8533
    @kylekelson8533 Год назад +1

    Loved these videos and analysis of one of my personal favorite VH songs!
    In regards to the whole what is heavy metal vs hard rock and where Van Halen fits in that, one of the best descriptions of them is it’s “Heavy Metal with a Smile” 😀

  • @BudTristano
    @BudTristano Год назад +5

    Funny thing that I have been listening to both Van Halen and Bartok for years and never made this connection. Thank you so much for this!
    Eddie had said in interviews that the intro was inspired by slap bass, which makes sense too.
    For anyone reading this, here's a time stamp for dance no. 2: ruclips.net/video/Cj306a_qTPk/видео.html

  • @mondavou9408
    @mondavou9408 Год назад +1

    that was great - thank you.

  • @digitalblues01
    @digitalblues01 Год назад +6

    You will find many rock/metal musicians are very interested and influenced by classical or even have some formal training in classical, especially with some of those considered the greats.

  • @321drum
    @321drum Год назад

    This was great Amy I’m glad I found your channel

  • @rvk5150
    @rvk5150 Год назад

    Very interesting; I hope you can do more Van Halen in the future. Really appreciated the closing statements.

  • @rickreynolds7255
    @rickreynolds7255 Год назад +1

    Very interesting and fascinating outlook and insight you present - helping us understand our heroes a little more - thanks

  • @stephenhall8249
    @stephenhall8249 Год назад +3

    wonderful breakdown of mean street....

  • @Chaunceylola
    @Chaunceylola Год назад +1

    Ah yes, Eddie’s tone… it is magic. One of the things that really attracted me to Van Halen all those years ago. My best friend in middle school bought me that album for my birthday. My life changed from that point forward. Such a huge influence on my tastes, attitude and life path.

  • @davidsamueld2015
    @davidsamueld2015 Год назад +1

    Luv listening to her. Reminds me of my childhood music teachers

  • @danallshaw1131
    @danallshaw1131 Год назад +9

    A side note, David Lee Roth mentioned the perfect time of 128 alligators per minutes was the perfect time for people to dance to a song..

    • @terrylandess6072
      @terrylandess6072 Год назад

      Interesting how that is also one of the common values found in computing. 1 2 4 8 16 32 64 _128_ 256 etc.

    • @annatraustadottir4387
      @annatraustadottir4387 Год назад

      Well, the tempo hear is just over 100 I think, so quite slower.

    • @2204JCM
      @2204JCM Год назад

      120-124bpm is dance tempo range- common knowledge

  • @DustyRhodes426
    @DustyRhodes426 Год назад +2

    Rock n role ! Wow your interpretation is well thought and considered.

  • @traesetzer3180
    @traesetzer3180 Год назад

    You are a treasure. I appreciate your professionalism and your openness to alternative styles of music.

  • @michalvojtek7378
    @michalvojtek7378 Год назад +2

    Easily the very best, most interesting and most informative reaction channel, thank you

  • @raahinton
    @raahinton Год назад

    Thank you for your analysis. I enjoyed this so much.

  • @rognroll2786
    @rognroll2786 Год назад

    Your breakdown is IMPRESSIVE!

  • @Gregory7518
    @Gregory7518 Год назад +1

    In some cases, I enjoy your analysis more than your reaction. I wish my music teachers had been more like you. Not stuck in the rote of the lesson, but actually making it interesting and easy to follow. Please continue the good and interesting work.

  • @stevengarrett6229
    @stevengarrett6229 Год назад

    You offer deep and incredibly perceptive observations only an intellectual, classical musician could see. THANK YOU. So interesting to listen to you. I am subscribed!