After you hear Merry Clayton's voice crack after the third verse of MURDER, you can hear Mick Jagger say "Whooa" in the recording studio. He was absolutely blown away by her vocals. She actually wanted to redo the backups because she was embarrassed by that voice crack, and told them she could do better. They told her no, they loved it. They left both the voice crack and Mick's reaction in the finished product. I'm so glad they did. You can feel the pain in this song.
Merry Clayton was 21 years old when her agent called her late one night. He needed a back up singer for a band that was still in the studio. Rolling Stones. She showed up with curlers in her hair, read the lyrics, and belted out what became legendary.
i’m a 58-year-old man who has heard the song well over 100 times and felt foolish that I started tearing up but when I saw you tear up, it connected us in a way you never know. Thank you so much for this connection
I'm 64. I can remember being a small child in the 60s, watching a news report from Highway 19 in Vietnam. I could see soldiers in the background, moving, carrying stuff, going away to battle. As someone else said, eerie times, for which Jagger's voice is a perfect fit
Here name is Merry Clayton, she is now 75. She has worked with Burt Bacharach, Tom Jones, Joe Cocker, Linda Ronstadt, Carole King, Tori Amos , and even Elvis. She did lots of background vocals.
@blindriv3r They were credited on the One More From the Road album as The Merry Clayton Singers. I believe the Honketts were Jo Jo, Lesley, and Cassie. They can be seen in alot of the video footage from the day.
Right. There's something really sweet about how genuine she is with music. Not only does she really listen and analyse songs, but she feels them too. There's nothing wrong with being emotional, it's what music is for.
She is Merry Clayton .Such a powerful voice and probably makes this the Rolling Stones finest moment. Such a great intro that builds to thought provoking lyrics. Loved your response to th8s Stacey ❤.
Merry's solo career never took off, unfortunately. But her cover of Neil Young's "Southern Man" is an absolute heater! It's probably not well known enough to get many views, regrettably, but anybody who is interested owes it to themselves to check it out ASAP.
Never apologize for getting emotional when listening to music. That's what great music does. I've heard this song 100's of times, and I still get emotional everytime I hear Merry's vocals.
1969! Young men were going to War in Vietnam and coming home in a box. Eerie Scarry times for everyone. Everyone was asking about her when we heard it for the first time. I was 17 and was blown away as it was so relavent for it's time. Back when they covered the war live on the ground and got to see the carnage of War on the TV while eating dinner. This song and her bellowing out sent shivers down our spines as us young boys/men knew this was our destiny. War! Screams of the pain and suffering all were going throughand shown on TV Not the sterilized War coverage that is put out... desensitizing the masse to what actual War is. Pray for Peace
Even in a family with many who served, everyone knew Vietnam was different. I remember vividly watching that war on TV. This song continues to ring true today. From battlefields to neighborhoods, one shot can make a huge difference. May more folks strive for peace over division.
Every night, as we ate dinner at 6pm, my father had Walter Cronkite and the evening new on and there was that map of Vietnam behind him. We had cousins there. overseas. My uncle was a Commander in the Navy and his family was 10 years older than my dad. I was fortunate the war ended 5 years before I turned 18.
I was a kid in the '60's. The television was always blaring, every evening, the nightly Vietnam War report. They read off casualty numbers like sports scores. Years and years of this sh💩t. I was lucky not to have lost any friends or relatives to that nightmare, though I did have friend years later, a Vietnam War vet, who was a real sweetheart, but his time in the infantry drove him to drink himself away. So, f*ck war, is what I'm trying to say.
When this song was released in 1969 there was war (Vietnam), civil rights battles, Martin luther King Jr. and Robert Keenedy's assassination, it seemed like the worlds sanity was hanging by a thread. This song encapsulates what was going on at that time.
My understandinig is that Anita Pallenberg who was Keith's girlfriend at the time was the inspiration for this song they got in a fight Keith went to go wherever he was going and it was pouring rain so gimme shelter, from her and the weather and it evolved.
@@clivestainlesssteelwomble7665 Nothing happening today compares to what went on back then. When civil rights leaders start getting slaughtered by bigots, and tens of thousands of American soldiers start coming home in boxes, then it might be getting close. Right now, it's just a bunch of whining poseurs who can't handle the fact that the world changes. Oo! How *horrible*! 🙄
Keith wrote this song. The lyrics had nothing to do with Vietnam or any events that went on in the world. Keith was staying at a friends flat in London and there was a storm with lightning and thunder which is rare in London. Also Anita was filming performance with Mick and Keith wasn’t happy about the sex scenes in the movie. A very dark time in Keith’s life. He wrote the lyrics from that experience.
It never ceases to send shivers down my spine when Merry’s voice cracks during her solo. You can hear Mick in the background shout out. This song is so much more relevant now than ever. We are on the brink of world war but never forget that love is just a kiss away too. ❤️🙏😊
Literally makes me cry every time I hear Mary screaming those lyrics. The desperation and pain in her voice is beyond unbelievably heartbreakingly haunting.
Keith Richards once asked Bob Dylan if the Stones were the best band. Dylan replied that in his opinion The Band was the best musically, but the Stones were the best philosophers. And "Let It Bleed" which starts with "Gimme Shelter" and ends with "You Can't Always Get What You Want", makes a pretty good case for them. The studio versions of those songs and "Sympathy" remain untouched by any other version.
@@Cablev94True. A lot of the casuals overstate Merry’s contribution as if it’s the only element of the song. While she delivers a killer vocal, there were tons of backing vocalists who could have done it.
@@andrewcastillo9558 No one is saying she wasn't great or a perfect fit, but let’s not overstate what she was: a hired backup singer. Many comments act as if the other auditory elements that make the song are non-existent.
The way he brings it back is phenomenal! It’s such a haunting and sad subject matter but then he says “Love, is just a kiss away!” To remind us that it doesn’t have to be that way. Keep going down The Stones rabbit hole! They do not disappoint! Keep up the great reactions!
There’s a documentary on her and this song. Mick and her talk about it, but they isolate ONLY her vocals in the track…it’s even more amazing to hear that way.
The documentary is called "20 Feet From Stardom" about some of these great backup singers from the rock era and focuses on Merry Clayton, Darlene Love and others. Also has input from from Mick Jagger and Bruce Springsteen. It's available for free on the Roku Channel.
The female vocalist is called merry Clayton, she was actually third choice for this song but got the gig and the rest is history, merry sang backings for numerous artists over the years including elvis, tori Amos and Coldplay to name but a few, she also released solo work and had a successful acting career.
In '69 The Rolling Store was the best group to make such a strong statement against Vietnam war. During this period Bands were not interested in getting awards but rather wanted to express a cause they believed in through their music !
I grew up with this song being played in my house on a regular basis. Every time I hear it, suddenly it's summer in the 70s and I'm seven years old again hanging out with my Dad.
Thank you so much for reacting to this great song. The woman vocalist on this track is Merry Clayton. There is a RUclips video available in which she describes how she recorded her vocals. It's very interesting. Mick Jagger performed the harmonica solo during the instrumental break. You mentioned the brilliant guitar work on this song. Keith Richards played all of the guitars, both lead and rhythm on this one..
It's nice to see young people get it when it comes to this classic music. Rock n roll was still in its infancy. Beginning in the 1950s and developing with the Beatles and Bob Dylan in the 60s. Stones fans like myself feel that rock n roll peaked in the late 60s and early 70s, before becoming more commercial over time, ending in today's music. Back in the 60s and 70s, music was very experimental and creative. Different bands and artists were going in all kinds of different directions taking music to new places. There is a reason the Rolling Stones are considered one of the most consequential bands in rock history.
The Stones’ six decade career hit its peak in the late ‘60’s and early ‘70’s when they were truly “the greatest rock and roll band in the world” in my opinion. Sympathy for the Devil You Can’t Always Get What You Want Gimme Shelter Can’t You Hear Me Knockin’ Wild Horses Funky, rhythmic, bluesy, insightful/thought provoking lyrics. Nothing like them.
Tears because of moving music that you realize you have missed, and now have found, is powerful. I wish more people would experience this. Especially younger people like us, I am a guy in my mid 30s. Because to me most of what is made today is lacking purpose. Especially so music that tops charts. It's plastic, formulaic, created by committee to garner clicks on tiktok. Will all be forgotten before long, having no cultural impact. I first heard Dark side of the Moon when I was 15 years old and it forever changed how I consume music. The era where music was both chart-topping pop, and masterful composition and lyric, is long gone. And that is a true shame. But thanks for sharing yourself and these feelings.
This song started from Keith sitting in his apartment window watching as people ran for shelter from a rain storm.Through collaboration it became what you just heard.
You have the best sincere reactions...those tears are from your soul hearing real music finally, instead of today's weak music...they sang with heart back in the day.
Welcome to the fold. I’m crying with you at your reaction. I’ve been listening to this masterpiece for 50 years, I wish I could hear it for the first time like you. I’m envious. Xxoo
I love that music can make us cry. Happy, thrilling, frightening, sadness,….. it doesn’t matter what, or why. I feel music, and it moves me emotionally ❤
Beautiful reaction to this amazing song, Stacey ! It was so relatable seeing you moved to tears. In 2013, the last time I saw the Rolling Stones, I had tears of joy when Keith Richards played his opening riff to Gimme Shelter. The Stones were formed in London in 1962 as an American rhythm and blues cover band. The original members were: • Brian Jones (founder) - guitar, dulcimer, sitar, mellotron, recorder etc. • Mick Jagger - lead vocals, harmonica • Keith Richards - guitars, backing vocals • Charlie Watts - drums, percussion • Bill Wyman - bass __________________________ In 1963, the Beatles had just become world famous at a level no British artists ever had, and they befriended the Stones and gave them a new song of theirs to record. This inspired guitarist Keith Richards and singer Mick Jagger to form their own songwriting partnership, and the two Stones have created many of the greatest songs in rock history, venturing into pop rock, psychedelic rock, hard rock, country rock, soul, reggae and dance music - while never losing their blues roots. Next to the Beatles, the Rolling Stones are the biggest rock and roll band there's ever been, and Mick and Keith are still together ! Stacey, there's so many great Stones songs for you to hear. I recommend that you first continue to focus on their songs from the 1960's. You'll love the incredible versatility of this band ! Here's a few of their best '60s songs that I think you'll like: • RUBY TUESDAY • JUMPIN' JACK FLASH • YOU CAN'T ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU WANT 🔴 Stacey, here's a link to a great live performance of Gimme Shelter from a 1995 club show featuring long time Stones backup singer Lisa Fischer: ruclips.net/video/-pA-i4miT54/видео.htmlsi=qGdSLBAtg59ZDnu8 Since 1969, the Rolling Stones have been called "the greatest rock and roll band in the world". Because they are.
61 year old rocker here. There has been so many times, you have reminded me of how lucky we were to grow up with the music from that time. Please, please, keep it up.
Thanks to my parents, we were a Stones family (as opposed to a Beatles family), hence my love of rock. Mum is also a big Status Quo fan. When dad passed a couple of years ago, at the little crematorium ceremony, the last song was LIttle Red Rooster. Special place in my heart for The Rolling Stones.
Mary Clayton is the backup singer. I watched an interview she gave fairly recently where she said she got the call in the middle of the night from the Stones Producer--in Los Angeles. She initially resisted the call to go in. Clayton's husband persuaded her to go to the studio. He said, "Why don't you protest with this music? Sing it with everything that's in you. Sing it as if you're saying, 'I got your Alabama right here'". Clayton gave in and arrived at the studio in the middle of the night in curlers and pajamas. Clayton was then instructed what they wanted her to do and the rest, as they say, is history. One of the most amazing backup vocals on any record, any genre---EVER!!
My favourite Stones song - it always gives me goosebumps, especially because of Merry Clayton's vocals. Mick said about the album, "Well, it's a very rough, very violent era. The Vietnam War. Violence on the screens, pillage and burning. And Vietnam was not war as we knew it in the conventional sense. The thing about Vietnam was that it wasn't like World War II, and it wasn't like Korea, and it wasn't like the Gulf War. It was a real nasty war, and people didn't like it. People objected, and people didn't want to fight it ... That's a kind of end-of-the-world song, really. It's apocalypse; the whole record's like that."
Amazing classic. Keith Richards came up with the idea of the song one stormy evening when he saw people running for shelter. Both the guitar riff and Merry Claytons voice really give the atmosphere of the song. sure the Rolling Stones have some more simple pop rock songs too but they are lot more deeper understanding than many give them credit. They have so many amazing songs, another great, darker song is Midnight Rambler. Another one I wish you will check I Sweet sounds of heaven from their latest album, it's a diet with Lady Gaga, great song and not as dark. I think it's absolutely amazing that Mick and Keith are still performing. I managed to see them couple of years ago, then with Charlie Watts who sadly passed away 2 years ago. I will always have a special place in my heart for this band.
I first heard this song in 1970 when I was thirteen and with what was going on in the world around me, I've never forgotten that moment. Must mean something. Great reaction video. Good job.
Now you are delving into the real treasure trove of rock music - the Rolling Stones catalogue of all time classics from the late 60’s through the mid-late 70’s. So much to explore in that glorious era - keep ‘em coming please! 🤘
11:17 That is exactly the effect that GOOD music will have on you. It will hit you down to your soul and take you away from your everyday life for just a few minutes. When we heard the work of all these AMAZING songwriters & musicians back in the day, we kind of took it for granted how world changing they would become. Remember also, most of these timeless songs were created by "kids" in their 20's! Here we are still listening and talking about them when some of them are in, or pushing their 80's. BTW there are interviews you can still find where members of the Beatles and the Stones admitted they formed their bands just for a bit of fun. They never expected their careers to go past 4 or 5 years because of how rapidly music was changing. They never thought it would be a life long career.
Thank you for the reaction to this. I'm 55 and probably heard this 55 hundred times. You broke the rust off this song for me. I started crying with you. Thank you for breaking the rust off a calloused heart. Peace & Strength
The best "Make love, not war!" song there is, and that fact is only revealed in the very last lyrics of the song when they switch from the horrors of war to the one and only cure, love.
There is a video called Naked voice from Merry Clayton in Gimme Shelter that you should watch. It has Merry Clayton explaining the whole recording process and the Isolated track of her voice. I'm 65 and heard this song hundreds of times and still get chills every time I hear her voice.
When I hear Merry Clayton on "Gimme Shelter", it always makes me think of Clare Torry's performance on "The Great Gig in the Sky", and vice versa... 2 amazing women with powerhouse voices.
I am 73 years old and was a senior in high school when this was released and to this day I get the same feeling you are experiencing !! You have so much to explore from that era, enjoy the ride !!
While I've never been the biggest Stones fan, there is a reason they are probably on most peoples top 5 rock & roll band list of all time. There is also a reason Mick Jagger would be on most top 5 front man list as well, as he was, is, and will always be one of a kind. Hell, the band damn near needs wheelchairs to tour, but they are out there most years packing in the fans. "Gimme Shelter" is one of their top tunes, if not the #1 on a good amount of list out there. As stated before, they have a way of weaving certain narratives in to songs, while the music takes you completely someplace else, but it all works in the end.
Totally spot on about the sense of fear oozing out of this song! I could never make out the lyrics so densely packed behind that wall of music. So glad u showed them, for I appreciate the song 50% more now, especially the chorus words,
Your emotion about this song touched me so much. I am an older guy, living on Long Island, but was born in Germany. I saw The Rolling Stones the first time in Munich in 1965. I was 14 years old and became a diehard fan. Over the years I saw them many, many times , the last time at the MetLife stadium May/2024. I am so happy that younger people also get their music. My daughter went with me to the last two concerts and was similarly emotional than you. Btw the singer is Marry Clayton, who has truly an amazing voice. All the best, Mathias
I love your reaction and emotion - I have been blessed to see them 12 time and a fan for 50 some years...they bring it like no one else! Thank you for that review...
I could count, on one hand, the number of times I’ve watched a reaction to any song I’ve known my whole life, and found myself wishing I could hear it again for the first time. This is one of those times. I love the way you let music sweep you away and I appreciate you sharing your experiences with us all.
Music is emotion on display for all of us to experience. Let your heart feel all of it. It’s beautiful to share this experience with you. Let your love flow to all living things.
I've been listening to this song for many, many years and have always loved it as one of the Stones best songs, but to be honest with you, your reaction made me see it in a new light. I don't know how you did it, but you did. I have to see what else you can bring to my eyes and ears with your commentary. I want to see what else I have been missing. Subbed.
I'm continually astonished at the incredible timeless music created during my childhood. This is a great example. Music like this poured out of the radio weekly. I wish everyone could have experienced it. Funny, I remember listening to the 'Let it Bleed' album over and over while playing Risk with neighborhood friends. That was growing up for us. Amazing.
“Gimme Shelter” really shows the genius of Keith Richards and producer Jimmy Miller. Keith’s use of the tremolo effect is genius. It helps give the song that eerie apocalyptic feeling, while Miller’s genius was always in his ability to help “buildup” their compositions (hence the brilliant intro). Miller was also a percussion specialist, and you can hear that using the guiro and (before the solo) maracas. I'd also say Bill’s brooding basslines, Charlie’s thudding drum fills, and Mick’s electric blues harp help accentuate the song’s dark undertones.
I grew up in the shadow of the Vietnam War, born of WWII generation parents. The war was brought into our house via TV every evening. One of my cousins was a Marine serving in Vietnam. I think the GIs who served in the WWII Pacific Theater and their children who served in Vietnam shared a baptism of fire in jungle warfare and it's terror/horror that is unlike conventional warfare. The Viet Cong and NVA used many of the tactics which Ho Chi Min and their other leaders learned from the Japanese, while fighting them, during Japan's brutal occupation of the Vietnam in WWII (many which violated the Geneva convention, in which they did not participate, and constituted war crimes). I'm not sure if Mick learned of these horrors of jungle warfare from his father and his mates who served in WWII, but to me this song really conveys the feelings, and yes, right off it sends shivers down my spine. I was an early teenager during the last part of Vietnam and sometimes would reflect on possibly being in it if I was drafted, and what it would be like. I was like 15 when we pulled out and 16 when the thing was finally over, and thus fortunately I was never in it. Even so, it was close enough that this song strikes home with me. Some of the vets I knew came through fairly well, others, you could tell were off, one in particular I can think of at a camp I worked at who would spend seeminly hours sitting by a stump and throwing/stabbing his knife into it over and over again. Watch the movie Apocalypse Now if you want to "experience" and understand the terror of jungle warfare in Vietnam. HBOs miniseries "The Pacific" does a pretty good job at this too with regard to the GIs of our parents' generation in the WWII Pacific Theater. Musically, this song was kind of a turning point for The Stones IMO, as it introduced a new rock form for them of driving beat, droning guitars, with inter-engaging instruments into a single enveloping force with which they soared to new heights in the 1970s, becoming the music of my youth, as I came of age.
This song gives me goosebumps a lump in my throat and sometimes tears. My brother was in the Vietnam War. He was shot down twice and one of the lucky ones who made it back home. Towards the end of his life he did share some things with me only heaven knows all that he went through and saw.
Merry Clayton> Back up singer found in Mississippi. The Stones brought her in the studio like 3:30 am She figured one or two takes. It actually took 5 , she was so upset, she thought she really give them a go. Even though her voice cracked , They loved & kept it 55 years later & here we are
Stacey, I love your emotion to this song. Their songs have blown me away many, many times and their discography goes deep! I love their music so much I used to play some of their songs live at open mic's. This is my favorite song of theirs though, like they were singing about my life. 💙from New Mexico.
Had the same reaction to this song the first I heard it in 1970! Grand Funk Railroad also covered this song on their album "Survival" of 1971. The female vocalist Mary Clayton was orig. a Gospel singer and added to MANY groups and true vocal treasure and still alive at 76 yrs of age.
After you hear Merry Clayton's voice crack after the third verse of MURDER, you can hear Mick Jagger say "Whooa" in the recording studio. He was absolutely blown away by her vocals. She actually wanted to redo the backups because she was embarrassed by that voice crack, and told them she could do better. They told her no, they loved it. They left both the voice crack and Mick's reaction in the finished product. I'm so glad they did. You can feel the pain in this song.
She was also pregnant when they recorded it
You took the words right out of my mouth!
Aaahhh, you beat me to it. It really magnifies and highlights the raw, visceral emotion and passion represented in this song and lyrics
Unfortunately she had a miscarriage after the sessions. Poor girl.
She'll always be remembered for this unbelievable great back up. Amazing voice
Merry Clayton, not Mary
Merry Clayton was 21 years old when her agent called her late one night. He needed a back up singer for a band that was still in the studio. Rolling Stones. She showed up with curlers in her hair, read the lyrics, and belted out what became legendary.
She was also heavily pregnant.
Yeah - this is such a cool story. She is a legend. ❤
and it was in the middle of the night. like 2 or 3 am
She's still alive and kicking, afaik, although she did have her legs amputated below the knee about 10 years ago as a result of a car accident.
She was also 8 months pregnant.
i’m a 58-year-old man who has heard the song well over 100 times and felt foolish that I started tearing up but when I saw you tear up, it connected us in a way you never know. Thank you so much for this connection
Oh FFFFFF! I always tear up. And F those who don't.
Ha! Ok, might as well add me to the list 😂
This song is a classic 👍
I'm 64. I can remember being a small child in the 60s, watching a news report from Highway 19 in Vietnam. I could see soldiers in the background, moving, carrying stuff, going away to battle. As someone else said, eerie times, for which Jagger's voice is a perfect fit
I’m only 50 (“only, haha”), but yeah. Same.
60’s, 70’s and 80’s were the best time for music! It will live on forever!
Yes it will!
100% Dude!
There is a lot of new good music.
There’s great music from every generation
@@DefenestrateYourself Yup as I said 60's 70's and 80's! 90's a few but that's where it ended!
Here name is Merry Clayton, she is now 75. She has worked with Burt Bacharach, Tom Jones, Joe Cocker, Linda Ronstadt, Carole King, Tori Amos , and even Elvis. She did lots of background vocals.
She was pregnant and they called her in the middle of the night to come down to the studio to sing this part.
Merry Clayton singers were on Lynyrd Skynyrd's live album too.
Yes and with Neil Young on 'Old Laughing Lady'...she did a great cover of Neil's Southern Man as well. There is a live version and studio one on here.
@@tyronesharp9205 Studio recordings, with Clydie King, live it was the 'Honkettes'
@blindriv3r They were credited on the One More From the Road album as The Merry Clayton Singers. I believe the Honketts were Jo Jo, Lesley, and Cassie. They can be seen in alot of the video footage from the day.
Be yourself Stacey. Nothing wrong with shedding tears for a beautiful song.
Right. There's something really sweet about how genuine she is with music. Not only does she really listen and analyse songs, but she feels them too. There's nothing wrong with being emotional, it's what music is for.
@SaintPhoenixx She's real, and it's awesome.
She is Merry Clayton .Such a powerful voice and probably makes this the Rolling Stones finest moment. Such a great intro that builds to thought provoking lyrics. Loved your response to th8s Stacey ❤.
And she had a miscarriage the next day because of this.
Merry's solo career never took off, unfortunately. But her cover of Neil Young's "Southern Man" is an absolute heater! It's probably not well known enough to get many views, regrettably, but anybody who is interested owes it to themselves to check it out ASAP.
@@DustinHawke Merry Clayton doesn't subscribe to that opinion though.
Lisa is better ....
Lisa Fischer does Mary justice in her live performances with the band.
Swampy, dark, ragged, rough, intense. A masterpiece, sadly still very relevant.
Story of my life.
Never apologize for getting emotional when listening to music. That's what great music does. I've heard this song 100's of times, and I still get emotional everytime I hear Merry's vocals.
1969!
Young men were going to War in Vietnam and coming home in a box.
Eerie Scarry times for everyone.
Everyone was asking about her when we heard it for the first time.
I was 17 and was blown away as it was so relavent for it's time.
Back when they covered the war live on the ground and got to see the carnage of War on the TV while eating dinner.
This song and her bellowing out sent shivers down our spines as us young boys/men knew this was our destiny.
War!
Screams of the pain and suffering all were going throughand shown on TV
Not the sterilized War coverage that is put out... desensitizing the masse to what actual War is.
Pray for Peace
Even in a family with many who served, everyone knew Vietnam was different. I remember vividly watching that war on TV. This song continues to ring true today. From battlefields to neighborhoods, one shot can make a huge difference. May more folks strive for peace over division.
Every night, as we ate dinner at 6pm, my father had Walter Cronkite and the evening new on and there was that map of Vietnam behind him. We had cousins there. overseas. My uncle was a Commander in the Navy and his family was 10 years older than my dad. I was fortunate the war ended 5 years before I turned 18.
I was a kid in the '60's. The television was always blaring, every evening, the nightly Vietnam War report. They read off casualty numbers like sports scores. Years and years of this sh💩t. I was lucky not to have lost any friends or relatives to that nightmare, though I did have friend years later, a Vietnam War vet, who was a real sweetheart, but his time in the infantry drove him to drink himself away.
So, f*ck war, is what I'm trying to say.
This song is the gateway from the 60s to the 70s. The change that took place from hope to darkness.
Great comment!! Like Woodstock to Altamont.
When this song was released in 1969 there was war (Vietnam), civil rights battles, Martin luther King Jr. and Robert Keenedy's assassination, it seemed like the worlds sanity was hanging by a thread. This song encapsulates what was going on at that time.
Apt for current times again sadly .... 🌎🧙🏼♂️
My understandinig is that Anita Pallenberg who was Keith's girlfriend at the time was the inspiration for this song they got in a fight Keith went to go wherever he was going and it was pouring rain so gimme shelter, from her and the weather and it evolved.
@@clivestainlesssteelwomble7665 Nothing happening today compares to what went on back then.
When civil rights leaders start getting slaughtered by bigots, and tens of thousands of American soldiers start coming home in boxes, then it might be getting close.
Right now, it's just a bunch of whining poseurs who can't handle the fact that the world changes.
Oo! How *horrible*! 🙄
Keith wrote this song. The lyrics had nothing to do with Vietnam or any events that went on in the world. Keith was staying at a friends flat in London and there was a storm with lightning and thunder which is rare in London. Also Anita was filming performance with Mick and Keith wasn’t happy about the sex scenes in the movie. A very dark time in Keith’s life. He wrote the lyrics from that experience.
Stacey your heart so big. If only more people were as gentle and loving as you. Big hearts from your fans.
It never ceases to send shivers down my spine when Merry’s voice cracks during her solo. You can hear Mick in the background shout out. This song is so much more relevant now than ever. We are on the brink of world war but never forget that love is just a kiss away too. ❤️🙏😊
Literally makes me cry every time I hear Mary screaming those lyrics. The desperation and pain in her voice is beyond unbelievably heartbreakingly haunting.
Keith Richards once asked Bob Dylan if the Stones were the best band. Dylan replied that in his opinion The Band was the best musically, but the Stones were the best philosophers. And "Let It Bleed" which starts with "Gimme Shelter" and ends with "You Can't Always Get What You Want", makes a pretty good case for them. The studio versions of those songs and "Sympathy" remain untouched by any other version.
Merry Clayton made this song immortal
The whole band man!
lol its fine, but hundreds of people could have done this. It's nothing special. Period.
@@Cablev94True. A lot of the casuals overstate Merry’s contribution as if it’s the only element of the song. While she delivers a killer vocal, there were tons of backing vocalists who could have done it.
@@fuchsiaswing8545 False. She was the perfect fit.
@@andrewcastillo9558 No one is saying she wasn't great or a perfect fit, but let’s not overstate what she was: a hired backup singer. Many comments act as if the other auditory elements that make the song are non-existent.
The way he brings it back is phenomenal! It’s such a haunting and sad subject matter but then he says “Love, is just a kiss away!” To remind us that it doesn’t have to be that way.
Keep going down The Stones rabbit hole! They do not disappoint! Keep up the great reactions!
There’s a documentary on her and this song. Mick and her talk about it, but they isolate ONLY her vocals in the track…it’s even more amazing to hear that way.
ruclips.net/video/ChONufP0FEs/видео.html This one?
The documentary is called "20 Feet From Stardom" about some of these great backup singers from the rock era and focuses on Merry Clayton, Darlene Love and others. Also has input from from Mick Jagger and Bruce Springsteen. It's available for free on the Roku Channel.
YES!!! We have another beautiful young soul that just fell in love with classic rock!!🤘❤🤘
The female vocalist is called merry Clayton, she was actually third choice for this song but got the gig and the rest is history, merry sang backings for numerous artists over the years including elvis, tori Amos and Coldplay to name but a few, she also released solo work and had a successful acting career.
Put this one in the time capsule. It's perfection.
One of the greatest songs ever written and performed!
THE Rolling Stones! Timeless and forever.
In '69 The Rolling Store was the best group to make such a strong statement against Vietnam war. During this period Bands were not interested in getting awards but rather wanted to express a cause they believed in through their music !
I grew up with this song being played in my house on a regular basis. Every time I hear it, suddenly it's summer in the 70s and I'm seven years old again hanging out with my Dad.
My favorite Rolling Stones song.
Thank you so much for reacting to this great song. The woman vocalist on this track is Merry Clayton. There is a RUclips video available in which she describes how she recorded her vocals. It's very interesting. Mick Jagger performed the harmonica solo during the instrumental break. You mentioned the brilliant guitar work on this song. Keith Richards played all of the guitars, both lead and rhythm on this one..
It's nice to see young people get it when it comes to this classic music. Rock n roll was still in its infancy. Beginning in the 1950s and developing with the Beatles and Bob Dylan in the 60s. Stones fans like myself feel that rock n roll peaked in the late 60s and early 70s, before becoming more commercial over time, ending in today's music. Back in the 60s and 70s, music was very experimental and creative. Different bands and artists were going in all kinds of different directions taking music to new places. There is a reason the Rolling Stones are considered one of the most consequential bands in rock history.
Very well stated. You are so right. It’s great to see these young folks touched by the music we grew up with
My favourite Stones song. Haunting, powerful and beautiful.
Amazing.
The Stones’ six decade career hit its peak in the late ‘60’s and early ‘70’s when they were truly “the greatest rock and roll band in the world” in my opinion.
Sympathy for the Devil
You Can’t Always Get What You Want
Gimme Shelter
Can’t You Hear Me Knockin’
Wild Horses
Funky, rhythmic, bluesy, insightful/thought provoking lyrics. Nothing like them.
Not to forget Moonlight Mile, Sister Morphine, Loving Cup, Tumbling Dice and many more.
Merry Clayton's vocal never EVER fails to give me goosebumps!
Martin Scorsese used this song in a lot of his movies.
Tears because of moving music that you realize you have missed, and now have found, is powerful. I wish more people would experience this. Especially younger people like us, I am a guy in my mid 30s.
Because to me most of what is made today is lacking purpose. Especially so music that tops charts. It's plastic, formulaic, created by committee to garner clicks on tiktok. Will all be forgotten before long, having no cultural impact.
I first heard Dark side of the Moon when I was 15 years old and it forever changed how I consume music.
The era where music was both chart-topping pop, and masterful composition and lyric, is long gone. And that is a true shame.
But thanks for sharing yourself and these feelings.
Now 77, I was loving the Stones in 1964. They have the best lead-ins ever.
This song is incredible. I've heard it thousands of times, and the intro still gives me goosebumps.
This song started from Keith sitting in his apartment window watching as people ran for shelter from a rain storm.Through collaboration it became what you just heard.
You have the best sincere reactions...those tears are from your soul hearing real music finally, instead of today's weak music...they sang with heart back in the day.
Story about Mary Clayton's voice on the documentary: 20 Feet from Stardom. A must see. And I am glad this song touched you in a deep way.
The Ultimate "Make Love Not War" song. Probably the greatest rock song. Timeless. Very relevant in these dark days.
Welcome to the fold.
I’m crying with you at your reaction.
I’ve been listening to this masterpiece for 50 years, I wish I could hear it for the first time like you. I’m envious.
Xxoo
I love that music can make us cry. Happy, thrilling, frightening, sadness,….. it doesn’t matter what, or why.
I feel music, and it moves me emotionally ❤
This might be my favorite song by the Stones. One of their timeless classics containing political lyrics.
Masterpiece…
Keith knows how to write an intro. The key lyric of the whole song is "Love is just a kiss away"
Loved your reaction. It was genuine.
Beautiful reaction to this amazing song, Stacey !
It was so relatable seeing you moved to tears. In 2013, the last time I saw the Rolling Stones, I had tears of joy when Keith Richards played his opening riff to Gimme Shelter.
The Stones were formed in London in 1962 as an American rhythm and blues cover band.
The original members were:
• Brian Jones (founder) - guitar, dulcimer, sitar, mellotron, recorder etc.
• Mick Jagger - lead vocals, harmonica
• Keith Richards - guitars, backing vocals
• Charlie Watts - drums, percussion
• Bill Wyman - bass
__________________________
In 1963, the Beatles had just become world famous at a level no British artists ever had, and they befriended the Stones and gave them a new song of theirs to record. This inspired guitarist Keith Richards and singer Mick Jagger to form their own songwriting partnership, and the two Stones have created many of the greatest songs in rock history, venturing into pop rock, psychedelic rock, hard rock, country rock, soul, reggae and dance music - while never losing their blues roots. Next to the Beatles, the Rolling Stones are the biggest rock and roll band there's ever been, and Mick and Keith are still together !
Stacey, there's so many great Stones songs for you to hear. I recommend that you first continue to focus on their songs from the 1960's. You'll love the incredible versatility of this band !
Here's a few of their best '60s songs that I think you'll like:
• RUBY TUESDAY
• JUMPIN' JACK FLASH
• YOU CAN'T ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU WANT
🔴 Stacey, here's a link to a great live performance of Gimme Shelter from a 1995 club show featuring long time Stones backup singer Lisa Fischer:
ruclips.net/video/-pA-i4miT54/видео.htmlsi=qGdSLBAtg59ZDnu8
Since 1969, the Rolling Stones have been called "the greatest rock and roll band in the world".
Because they are.
One of the most awesome songs ever...and even more relevant today.
61 year old rocker here. There has been so many times, you have reminded me of how lucky we were to grow up with the music from that time. Please, please, keep it up.
Thanks to my parents, we were a Stones family (as opposed to a Beatles family), hence my love of rock. Mum is also a big Status Quo fan. When dad passed a couple of years ago, at the little crematorium ceremony, the last song was LIttle Red Rooster. Special place in my heart for The Rolling Stones.
Mary Clayton is the backup singer. I watched an interview she gave fairly recently where she said she got the call in the middle of the night from the Stones Producer--in Los Angeles. She initially resisted the call to go in. Clayton's husband persuaded her to go to the studio. He said, "Why don't you protest with this music? Sing it with everything that's in you. Sing it as if you're saying, 'I got your Alabama right here'". Clayton gave in and arrived at the studio in the middle of the night in curlers and pajamas. Clayton was then instructed what they wanted her to do and the rest, as they say, is history. One of the most amazing backup vocals on any record, any genre---EVER!!
My favourite Stones song - it always gives me goosebumps, especially because of Merry Clayton's vocals. Mick said about the album, "Well, it's a very rough, very violent era. The Vietnam War. Violence on the screens, pillage and burning. And Vietnam was not war as we knew it in the conventional sense. The thing about Vietnam was that it wasn't like World War II, and it wasn't like Korea, and it wasn't like the Gulf War. It was a real nasty war, and people didn't like it. People objected, and people didn't want to fight it ... That's a kind of end-of-the-world song, really. It's apocalypse; the whole record's like that."
Amazing classic. Keith Richards came up with the idea of the song one stormy evening when he saw people running for shelter. Both the guitar riff and Merry Claytons voice really give the atmosphere of the song. sure the Rolling Stones have some more simple pop rock songs too but they are lot more deeper understanding than many give them credit. They have so many amazing songs, another great, darker song is Midnight Rambler. Another one I wish you will check I Sweet sounds of heaven from their latest album, it's a diet with Lady Gaga, great song and not as dark.
I think it's absolutely amazing that Mick and Keith are still performing. I managed to see them couple of years ago, then with Charlie Watts who sadly passed away 2 years ago. I will always have a special place in my heart for this band.
Wait til you hear this song dozens of time. The mind flows and anticipates the richness of every depth of this masterpiece. It only deepens.
Yeah golden era of music and rolling stones absolutely perfection.
I first heard this song in 1970 when I was thirteen and with what was going on in the world around me, I've never forgotten that moment. Must mean something. Great reaction video. Good job.
If the music brings you tears, that means you're hearing it right 👍😎
Empathy can be activated and heightened listening to great music. This one is like a wave bowling you over.
Now you are delving into the real treasure trove of rock music - the Rolling Stones catalogue of all time classics from the late 60’s through the mid-late 70’s. So much to explore in that glorious era - keep ‘em coming please! 🤘
11:17 That is exactly the effect that GOOD music will have on you. It will hit you down to your soul and take you away from your everyday life for just a few minutes. When we heard the work of all these AMAZING songwriters & musicians back in the day, we kind of took it for granted how world changing they would become. Remember also, most of these timeless songs were created by "kids" in their 20's! Here we are still listening and talking about them when some of them are in, or pushing their 80's.
BTW there are interviews you can still find where members of the Beatles and the Stones admitted they formed their bands just for a bit of fun. They never expected their careers to go past 4 or 5 years because of how rapidly music was changing. They never thought it would be a life long career.
I always thought this song was cool but as I grow older I get more and more meaning from it. This song is a masterpiece.
Thank you for the reaction to this.
I'm 55 and probably heard this 55 hundred times.
You broke the rust off this song for me.
I started crying with you.
Thank you for breaking the rust off a calloused heart.
Peace & Strength
The Stones' best, one of the greatest songs ever recorded, and Merry Clayton's vocal THE greatest all-time rock vocal.
The best "Make love, not war!" song there is, and that fact is only revealed in the very last lyrics of the song when they switch from the horrors of war to the one and only cure, love.
More Stones please 👍
Perhaps the greatest rock song ever recorded. Great review and fun watching a newbie hear it.
A fantastic song. Mary Clayton, what a voice! I love that they kept that crack in her voice! She means what she's singing.
SHATTERED, The Rolling Stones 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 Next Rolling Stones....Song, please Mrs...🎉🎉🎉
Awesome reaction !! The passion the song inspired in you does the song well earned timeless respect.
There is a video called Naked voice from Merry Clayton in Gimme Shelter that you should watch. It has Merry Clayton explaining the whole recording process and the Isolated track of her voice. I'm 65 and heard this song hundreds of times and still get chills every time I hear her voice.
When I hear Merry Clayton on "Gimme Shelter", it always makes me think of Clare Torry's performance on "The Great Gig in the Sky", and vice versa... 2 amazing women with powerhouse voices.
Yeah absolute dead heat between those two vocalists. If there is anyone better out there I am yet to hear them
I am 73 years old and was a senior in high school when this was released and to this day I get the same feeling you are experiencing !! You have so much to explore from that era, enjoy the ride !!
Late 60's to mid 80's was a revolution in music. It was all analog.
While I've never been the biggest Stones fan, there is a reason they are probably on most peoples top 5 rock & roll band list of all time. There is also a reason Mick Jagger would be on most top 5 front man list as well, as he was, is, and will always be one of a kind. Hell, the band damn near needs wheelchairs to tour, but they are out there most years packing in the fans. "Gimme Shelter" is one of their top tunes, if not the #1 on a good amount of list out there. As stated before, they have a way of weaving certain narratives in to songs, while the music takes you completely someplace else, but it all works in the end.
Totally spot on about the sense of fear oozing out of this song! I could never make out the lyrics so densely packed behind that wall of music. So glad u showed them, for I appreciate the song 50% more now, especially the chorus words,
This is my favorite Rolling Stones song. Absolute classic.
Can't you hear me knocking - by these guys - is a must before you are done with them
Your emotion about this song touched me so much. I am an older guy, living on Long Island, but was born in Germany. I saw The Rolling Stones the first time in Munich in 1965. I was 14 years old and became a diehard fan. Over the years I saw them many, many times , the last time at the MetLife stadium May/2024. I am so happy that younger people also get their music. My daughter went with me to the last two concerts and was similarly emotional than you. Btw the singer is Marry Clayton, who has truly an amazing voice. All the best, Mathias
Your empathy is contagious.
I love your reaction and emotion - I have been blessed to see them 12 time and a fan for 50 some years...they bring it like no one else! Thank you for that review...
I could count, on one hand, the number of times I’ve watched a reaction to any song I’ve known my whole life, and found myself wishing I could hear it again for the first time. This is one of those times. I love the way you let music sweep you away and I appreciate you sharing your experiences with us all.
Music is emotion on display for all of us to experience. Let your heart feel all of it. It’s beautiful to share this experience with you. Let your love flow to all living things.
An "S Tier" song that I haven't heard in forever! Thanks for bringing it back.
What an outstanding reaction, a perfect representation of what most people felt on hearing it for the first time. Cheers!
I've been listening to this song for many, many years and have always loved it as one of the Stones best songs, but to be honest with you, your reaction made me see it in a new light. I don't know how you did it, but you did.
I have to see what else you can bring to my eyes and ears with your commentary. I want to see what else I have been missing. Subbed.
Loving your reaction to this outstanding spine chilling tune. Listened to this so many times still makes the hair on the back of my neck stand on end
I'm continually astonished at the incredible timeless music created during my childhood. This is a great example. Music like this poured out of the radio weekly. I wish everyone could have experienced it. Funny, I remember listening to the 'Let it Bleed' album over and over while playing Risk with neighborhood friends. That was growing up for us. Amazing.
“Gimme Shelter” really shows the genius of Keith Richards and producer Jimmy Miller. Keith’s use of the tremolo effect is genius. It helps give the song that eerie apocalyptic feeling, while Miller’s genius was always in his ability to help “buildup” their compositions (hence the brilliant intro). Miller was also a percussion specialist, and you can hear that using the guiro and (before the solo) maracas. I'd also say Bill’s brooding basslines, Charlie’s thudding drum fills, and Mick’s electric blues harp help accentuate the song’s dark undertones.
Her name is, Merry Clayton....born Christmas Day 1948.
Great reaction! This is my favorite Stones song,and I love all of them.
I grew up in the shadow of the Vietnam War, born of WWII generation parents. The war was brought into our house via TV every evening. One of my cousins was a Marine serving in Vietnam. I think the GIs who served in the WWII Pacific Theater and their children who served in Vietnam shared a baptism of fire in jungle warfare and it's terror/horror that is unlike conventional warfare. The Viet Cong and NVA used many of the tactics which Ho Chi Min and their other leaders learned from the Japanese, while fighting them, during Japan's brutal occupation of the Vietnam in WWII (many which violated the Geneva convention, in which they did not participate, and constituted war crimes). I'm not sure if Mick learned of these horrors of jungle warfare from his father and his mates who served in WWII, but to me this song really conveys the feelings, and yes, right off it sends shivers down my spine. I was an early teenager during the last part of Vietnam and sometimes would reflect on possibly being in it if I was drafted, and what it would be like. I was like 15 when we pulled out and 16 when the thing was finally over, and thus fortunately I was never in it. Even so, it was close enough that this song strikes home with me. Some of the vets I knew came through fairly well, others, you could tell were off, one in particular I can think of at a camp I worked at who would spend seeminly hours sitting by a stump and throwing/stabbing his knife into it over and over again. Watch the movie Apocalypse Now if you want to "experience" and understand the terror of jungle warfare in Vietnam. HBOs miniseries "The Pacific" does a pretty good job at this too with regard to the GIs of our parents' generation in the WWII Pacific Theater. Musically, this song was kind of a turning point for The Stones IMO, as it introduced a new rock form for them of driving beat, droning guitars, with inter-engaging instruments into a single enveloping force with which they soared to new heights in the 1970s, becoming the music of my youth, as I came of age.
The actual lyric is, "burns like a red coal carpet.. mad bull lost it's way." (not red "coat")
This song gives me goosebumps a lump in my throat and sometimes tears. My brother was in the Vietnam War. He was shot down twice and one of the lucky ones who made it back home. Towards the end of his life he did share some things with me only heaven knows all that he went through and saw.
Merry Clayton> Back up singer found in Mississippi. The Stones brought her in the studio like 3:30 am She figured one or two takes. It actually took 5 , she was so upset, she thought she really give them a go. Even though her voice cracked , They loved & kept it
55 years later & here we are
Good music speaks to the soul. It can move us in so many ways. There is no shame in crying.
"I felt like I just got shot"
That's exactly how I felt the first time I heard Merry Clayton sing that.
Love your vids. So happy you young folks tuned in to our vibe. Our old music was meant to be listened to. Music and lyrics. Thank you. ❤❤❤❤❤❤
One of my favorite Stones songs. Visceral, haunting and beautiful. Great reaction.
Stacey, I love your emotion to this song. Their songs have blown me away many, many times and their discography goes deep! I love their music so much I used to play some of their songs live at open mic's. This is my favorite song of theirs though, like they were singing about my life. 💙from New Mexico.
Had the same reaction to this song the first I heard it in 1970! Grand Funk Railroad also covered this song on their album "Survival" of 1971. The female vocalist Mary Clayton was orig. a Gospel singer and added to MANY groups and true vocal treasure and still alive at 76 yrs of age.
My all time favorite Stones song