most of us will outlive our parents,as it is the way it's supposed to go. That reality of eventuality doesn't make losing a parent any easier. This song is a kick to the balls,miss you Dad.
My mother has been gone for twenty years. She was my best friend. I miss her and think of her everyday. This song is incredible. James is such an underated artist. His songs are poetry with music. Just stunning. Please react to all of his music.
@Devil doc you'll never stop missing them, but at least for me when I think of my dad I generally smile, and remember all the times he made me laugh. I don't dwell on his last few weeks,I think of the 34 years I had with him.
@bloodsling yeah I did 23 years in navy. She died 2 years after I got out. I missed so much time I thought I could make uo. Life had other plans. But I know she is in a better place out of pain now. That gives me comfort. And sorry for your loss.
Yes, that's his Dad in the video and it was the first time he'd heard his son sing it! Sheesh I'd never have been able to hold it together! Apparently, everyone there (cameramen/lighting/etc) were crying at the end and his father said, "Why is everyone crying?! I'm not dead yet!" 😂😉 A distant cousin saw this video and came forward to be tested and was a match! So, even though things seemed very bleak when this was filmed, his Dad did get the transplant and lived. ❤ You mentioned about his voice breaking in the song... The people in charge of creating the video wanted to auto-tune and tweak those parts and James said "Absolutely not!" He wanted all of the emotions of the moment to come through. I think it was a very smart move to leave it be.
Good ending to tragedy very we explained by your great comment on this great song... Real tears are magnificent... only fake tears are harmful to everyone.
One of the reasons "she's out of my life" by micheal Jackson is one of my favourite songs is because you can hear his voice crack has he starts to cry whilst singing it
I am really into metal as far as I can remember, but James Blunt is one of those singers who I feel real emotions when I hear his voice. I think that is the disctinction of a popstar or a musician to an artist. I guess maybe we all have our own cup of teas but his music transcends genres, at least from my experience or the impact he has on me on a personal level.
These lyrics are such a masterpiece. James Blunt is so underestimated. I went to his concert and it was the best I have ever been. He doesn’t have one bad song. Beth kudos on your great musical taste. And your Wicked Game cover was just flawless ❤. Please do more of that.
It's the emotive "it's my turn, to chase the monsters away". That gets me. Not only makes it a full circle - life and death, but, emphasises the vulnerability of you as a kid, and your dad afraid of death. It's just sad, but a beautiful lyric.
You are so right !! i feel exactly the same that you. The most important sentence in these lyrics is "It's my turn to chase the monsters away" ... so sad words ... make me cry.
James's dad apparently used to say the You're not my son, I'm not your father phrase to James when he was deployed to Kosovo. They weren't father and son of two British Army Officers but we're 2 grown men saying goodbye. My dad died last year and this song gets me every time.
Watched over a hundred reactions to this. Cry every time. So raw. I love that he actually stopped them from using autotune on this. It needs to be this way.
20 years as a psychotherapist helping people over this sort of thing. Nothing prepared me for my own fathers death. This song help more than anything. 6 years later, this song now makes me smile, despite the sadness.
I’m also a therapist and my father’s death affected me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. This song captures the complexity and simplicity that coexists in the father/son relationship.
You and everyone who helps those that need hospice care are heroes. Every bit as much as any "hero" tag we put on people these days. I lost my mother-in-law very recently and the care the hospice team gave her was amazing.
I just learned of this song's existence the other evening. I sobbed like a child. It reminded of the words/message I tried to convey to my father as he was dying. He was so scared, and I felt like a parent trying to comfort their child. This song broke me because it said everything I've been feeling since my father passed that I could not put into words.
Same. I was the last one to speak to my father before he passed. He had an infection that had transitioned into sepsis. He was essentially unconscious for the two weeks that he was in hospital, but roused to coherence for a few hours a few days before his passing. The charge nurse called me and reported that he was pulling out his IV line, NG feeding tube, etc. and that he wanted it to end. I rushed to his bedside and comforted him until he slipped back into unconsciousness. Monsters expresses everything that I wish I had said to him but never really got the chance to say.
@@erivera700 You never stop missing the ones that you love that have passed. That hurt will always be there, but it's balanced by the comfort of knowing that we'll be together again in a few years. The pain is just a reminder that love is a double-edged sword - I'd much rather feel the pain and hurt than not, because it's a testament to the relationship. Make sense?
My father died coming up on two years ago, leaving me as the man of the house. I have been being strong for my family, not letting anyone see a tear, speaking about only trying to remember the good things and not dwell on the loss. Then I heard this song. I couldn't stop crying uncontrollably for over 10 minutes. The line about it's now my turn to chase the monsters from under the bed hit me harder than anything else in my life. I can only say, Dad, I will forever miss you and I can never fill the shoes you left behind.
My church had a Men's Conference and one of the other speakers brought up this song. He played it at the end of his lecture and we had a room full of manly men talking about masculinity just bawling their eyes out. It's such a beautiful song. My dad died from cancer from Dow and Monsanto's Agent Orange he was exposed to in Vietnam. He passed away in 2015. This song gets my eyes flowing every time. I'm chasing the monsters away, dad. I know you're proud of me, dad. Mom's okay. I'm taking care of her. She'll see you soon.
I lost my Dad att 21 I am coming 46 and I had just come out 6 months before he passed. He was the one that chased the monsters away and suddenly I was the one doing the same for him. Just sitting with him in the hospital the months before, I wanted to save him but knew I couldn't so I just made him smile and laugh. Inside I was dying but as long as he didn't see that. ❤
This song reminds me of my father passing. He said one more I love you, then asked me to take care of my mother. An hour after we got off the phone, he was gone. Beautiful.
Brilliant absolutely Brilliant - Ms Roars thank you for taking the time to post this video, James Blunt's music is so very emotional he is an artist in the truest sense.
Yeah definitely weeping like you. I just lost my father last month and discovered this song a few weeks ago and play it every day and cry every time. Such a beautiful song and the emotion is so raw and powerful. Simply stunning.
I just subbed on the strength of this (my first) reaction of yours. You have a beautiful way with words and really seem to have an appreciation of beautiful lyrics. You also don't stop after every line of lyrics, which I enjoy. I can't wait to check out other reactions of yours. Thank you for an honest, heartfelt reaction.
This song was done in one take, James blunt wouldn’t let them alter or use auto-tune. It’s raw, it’s real. His father (who had also been a kidney donor), was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney disease and they had no donee for him. Both Army men. At the end of the take apparently everyone was crying except his dad who said, why are you crying , I haven’t gone yet.. it was the first time he had sung this song to his dad and it was with his heart. Luckily after this aired a distant cousin was found to be a match and he had the operation and was fine. Don’t know how he’s doing now though. Brilliant song.
No it wasn't. Go watch the video of James talking about it. They did about 5 takes.... It was not the first time his dad heard it. The audio you hear is studio recording, not recording from the music video.... There's no microphone, and there is very clearly auto tune, backing vocals, and instrumentals. Where is this idea or claims coming from? He never said that.
This song makes me weep every time. Slightly different circumstances but I went through something kinda similar when my mum was dying from cervical cancer. I was lucky enough to be able to make her wish of dying at home come true so I was her live-in primary carer for the last few months of her life and this song just brings that all back like it was yesterday. I just love how he strips away all of the parent/child 'baggage' so simply with "I'm not your son, you're not my father, we're' just two men saying goodbye", showing that while they're obviously still father and son, they've grown beyond being 'just' that... And yes, that's his dad with him in the clip and he IS still alive, apparently due to this song getting to the ears of a geographically-distant cousin of James' who was able to donate a kidney. Or something along those lines.
Found this video .. killing a day listening to music I haven't heard before.. seeing your reaction and watching the video at the same time .. has tears running down my cheeks. It is touching something deep in me ... you see I am sitting waiting to take a plane 1/2 way across Canada to say good bye to my mom .. she is in at the end of her time with us .... hoping I make it in time .. Thank you for posting all your reaction videos .. I am sure they touch more people then you know !!
Well that unexpectedly hit me like a ton of bricks. My own father passed away over a decade ago and I relive those last awful and beautiful hours regularly. The terror, the sadness, the reassurance made by the inner little boy trying to be brave that everything will be ok. And the father, reaching across and providing comfort even as the sky shatters and the world ends. The line "I'm not your son, you're not my father" felt to me like the tearful post hoc rationalization of the singer to regain his composure. And the touch on the arm.... the father silently says "I am your father, you will always be my son, and I will chase this last monster you face away. My final gift to you will be to show you how a man dies, and I am proud of you. It'll be ok." So much in that moment and so much to think about as I prepare my own children to face the inevitability of my passing.
Well said. I first heard this in August 2021 as I was preparing the eulogy for my father's memorial service. He had passed 18 months earlier at 95 and it took that amount of time for the family to be able to come together (Dad died just days before COVID shut the world down). I came across this song accidentally and was glad to have done so; I was better prepared for the service.
I have never seen you so emotional during a reaction....it shows that not only are you an incredible musician,, you are an incredible person... this song came out shortly after my dad passed away.. I took care of him... the first time I heard this song it destroyed me but in a good way.... I have been subscribed to you for a long time..and this is why.. you are an amazing person and it shows in your reactions..keep it up!!!!!!
Absolutely Beautiful reaction... I've watched this video hundreds of times and reactions hundreds of times... But watching it through your eyes I couldn't help but cry again
By the way, his father was also a military man and had trouble showing emotions. At the very end, after a couple seconds, his Daddy patted his arm to comfort him and I lost it! I just recently lost my Daddy who was also a veteran. It was a surprise as we had no idea he was even sick and in 10 days he was gone! 💔 He had stayed with me to take care of me after my husband died suddenly in 2015 and he used to pat me just like that!
Didn't know this one yet; haven't listened to James Blunt in ages. God, it hit hard. I think you held it together pretty good! Lost my father 30 years ago, he was just 56 when he died of cancer. I was working half a world away, and while I visited three weeks before he died, I couldn't be there when he finally closed his eyes for good. I'm older now than my father was when he had to die. Cried through the entire song ... Still crying while I post this. 🤘🏻🖤
This song kills me every time I hear it!😢 We lost my dad in '01 to cancer. I was just 23 and I watched the light leave his eyes while holding his hand. It'll be 22 years on May 5th, and this time of year always gets me. I hope someone was home to hug 🤗 you when you were done recording this Beth! Thank you for your analysis!
@@daymarie1111 Just saw this, I'm sorry for your loss. My dad's birthday is in three days now, so yeah May and June just suck! Wishing you peace and light during this tough time of year for us both!
Wow, was crying right there with you.. Made me remember seeing my father on the bed in the hospital minutes after he passed away. Couldnt get there in time after receiving the call and never got to say a final goodbye.. This song really hits home and everyone who lost his father will relate to the emotion of this song.. And Kudos to you for allowing yourself to share your emotions with your followers instead of just falling back into a technical analysis
Lost my father when I was 21, going on 10 years now and it hurts just as much today as it did then. This song breaks me every time I hear it, it’s beautiful but heart wrenching. Hug your father if you still have him folks, you’ll miss him when he’s gone.
how the heck can he SING that song and not completely break down, like all of us. How does he keep control with all that emotion flowing thru him?! AMAZING.
Having seen a few live performances of this, the answer is 'with great difficulty'. It's like the very clear rage you see in live performances of No Bravery, the guy feels it every time.
What a beautiful tender heart you have young lady. I love watching people have a deep level of introspection while watching this video. It always amazes me. God Bless!
Thank you Beth (and James) for such a wonderful, heart-felt tribute. My parents and wife have passed from this life and I miss them dearly. Thankfully I will see them again and that's a blessing.
i wasnt looking for a vocal coaches reaction, i wanted a humans reaction, and thats what i got. thankyou for your reaction to this incredible music video. i am obsessed with watching every single reaction i can find and every month or 3 i search out the latest additions to the many, many that are already out there. you reacted as pretty much all of us react either in private or on camera. theres no acting or performing involved or even possible when it comes to reacting to this video (except for the very few inhuman monsters that didnt have a gut reaction). it wrings the reaction out of people by force. it was an honour to share your baptism by tears with you. Edit added later: I clicked the link to your cover of 'Wicked Game' with not particularly high expectations. Boy was i shocked. That was absolutely beautiful. Thankyou.
As a father the "it's my turn to chase the monsters away" line just breaks my heart. That's MY job. It always has been and it feels right now like it always will be. The thought that one day my boy and girl may one day have to protect ME fills me with sadness.
Probably the most honest and fragile reaction on RUclips. I am estranged from my Dad, after watching this video I contacted my dad by email to tell him, despite everything, I still loved him. He got the message but didn't reply (I am 58yo btw) there comes a time for everyone no matter how you might perceive someone, a time to say goodbye.
My dad passed 10yrs ago for the same reason as Mr Blunt senior, he was waiting for a kidney transplant that never happened before he passed, I’m glad James didn’t have to see his dad go through massive weight loss and become so fragile and frail. My dad served in the Army and I served in the Air Force so this hits me in the heart .
I totally agree with you Beth in regard to the vulnerability shown by James. It's very brave to have a British army officer openly showing so much emotion. You can see the pain and despair in his face. It's a beautiful performance, so terribly sad. I don't know how he managed to get through it. But he's a soldier, he can be strong when needed. 😭❤
Thank you for featuring this song and your commentary - My dad passed away about 10 years ago. He was a broken and damaged man and it was at times very difficult being around him - I always kept in touch with him and would see him every few months because on some level I knew that underneath he did want to do the right thing but his addictions were just too strong. Unfortunately, I needed to limit my time with him as it was often just so negative. I’ve come around now to seeing that he just wasn’t able to give what he had never give what he had never received himself. As he is now gone it is easier to focus on his good points as he is no longer unconsciously sabotaging himself - he was capable of being kind and thoughtful and I choose to focus on that and forgive the consequences of his own childhood neglect and abandonment.
I've never heard this song before watching this video! I just wanted to say that I'm right there with you when it comes to tears! This was a certified tear-jerker! Such deep and emotional lyrics. Beautiful!
Such a beautiful song and his vocal was just stunning. And yes, I was crying as well. I think I need to delve into James Blunt's catalog. When You're Beautiful was released, it was ridiculously overplayed and became a bit of a joke. So, I never really took him seriously or took the time to develop an appreciation for his voice, but I suspect that I may have been missing out on some other gems.
I agree, that Back to Bedlam was an amazing album and Im always sadden when people are turned off by overplay but that is the nature of the industry. If you put your first-time listner ears on and really listen to You're beautiful (and hear the back story) it is an amazingly deep song, I also loved Wiseman and Goodbye my lover. A coworker told me about this song (Monster) and I made the mistake of listening to it at work and was a bluburing mess and could not believe how raw and unique this song was. I still cannot make it through this song without crying. I also saw the young man Tongi who chose this song for a very specific reason to audition for Idol and his duet with Blunt is amazing because you can still see and hear the emotion in blunts voice and when Tongi breaks down and misses his vocal cues Blunt lifts him up and fills in. When it comes to singers I am a huge fan of those unique voices and Blunt when I first heard him was one of those, I loved his album and still respect his work today. Here is a link to a live version of Goodbye my lover in oxford and it not only shows his range but it truly displays that even years later the raw emotion is there ruclips.net/video/MfYx2Yg8imw/видео.html
This is one of the many reasons why I've enjoyed your channel so much over the years Beth - the way you experience the tunes never distracts you from making very observant points about the singing, the lyrics, and the construction and delivery of of the song itself. You can see how it effects you, but you always remain focused .. it's quite impressive to say the least. I'm no singer personally - I sound like a cat being run over by the world's slowest lawn mower - however I have written many songs and played the guitar for 35 years, and I greatly admire the professional way in which you analyse things despite being clearly effected by the song. Thank you for making these videos and letting your reaction stay free from emotive restrictions .. it's absolutely genuine, and I appreciate the honesty of it a great deal. Thanks again, and all the best.
This song it's an absolutely wrecking ball... Gut wrenching, it will appeal to the most deep of our souls, so raw, so heartfelt, so beautifully put together. James Blunt MASTERPIECE
Your reaction is a testament to the power of music sung from a place of honesty and pure emotion....your tears reveal the beauty of your caring soul and yes this man was welling up with you...country singer Vince Gill said once that his grandma told him if your eyes leak your head won't swell...sage advice I'd say...Karl from eastern Canada🤗🤗🤗🤗
Your tears are saying that your heart is full of empathy and sweetness, they also sparkle and shine and show what a beautiful person you are, great reaction!
Aww geez. James, you got me good sir. My father passed away just before covid. I live in a different part of the country than my parents so I wasn't there when he died. To have this conversation with him would have been incredible. I miss him a lot. Thanks for this touching tribute to the relationship between fathers and sons.
This song is such a good example of how alike all humans are, no matter where they live... You sit and cry in USA, me in Sweden and all the others in different countries as well... No matter where you're from, you can connect and empathize. We all ARE the same, we're humans :)
I grew up and always got along with my father. In high school he was my basketball coach. After high school we worked together until he passed and he was my best friend. I am so glad we got to spend all that time together. He passed away when I was only 25. The part "I'm not your son and you're not my father" really gets me everytime because of how great our friendship was. Miss you Dad :)
I've seen that three times (including this time) and it leaves me crying each time. I've lost both my parents - my Dad in 1992 when I was much younger and my Mom in 2020. Both after a number of months of pain and illness. Its incredibly hard and oftentimes I feel like I could have done better for them both. I guess that "survivor's guilt" is normal, but still difficult. It changes you - losing parents is something you never totally get over. I'll think I'm fine and then see something like this video and it just opens it right up again like it was 30 years ago or 3 years ago. Still, all you can do is try to move on and live your life the best you can because that's what they would want for you - its all they would want.
Yep, weeping right with you - and it's totally worth it. I hadn't watched this in a good while, but I remember when it came out I was obsessed. And I cried a good deal every time I listened - might've been right at the start of the pandemic. And I don't think I was every much of a fan of his sound, but I absolutely love it in this piece, for all the reasons you described. Thank you so much for doing this tune!
Good comments and an opportunity to learn something about the singing voice. James Blunt is so admirable in many ways. I do appreciate his many talents and his heartfelt touch to his performances. Thank you for reaction and yes, I was weeping, as much. You're a pretty crier! My nose runs, my faces scrunches all up and I become a mess.
📖 Get your signed copy of my album Fable here: www.bethroars.com/shop ☀ Pre-save my first single "Power Of The Wolf" on Spotifu (it really helps me out!): distrokid.com/hyperfollow/bethroars/power-of-the-wolf 🥁 Become a Patreon Supporter: www.patreon.com/bethroars
Beautiful version of wicked game, gorgeous voice, my partner thinks so too,vshe has been a professional singer for over 35 yrs, lead in bands, songwriter, now soloist gigging around, plays most instruments, but can't read music, doesn't have the technical knowledge you have just all natural pick up instrument and sing
Most people do well to even speak discernibly while they are crying, but to be able to push through the emotions and still sing beautifully is truly an amazing feat. Bravo!
i chose to play this song at my dads funeral and it really is a great way of describing what it felt like watching him deteriorate and just trying to be there for him those last few months
Every time I see this/listen to this, I am reminded of my Grandad and Nana. They were my best friends, the people I could rely on emotionally and physically. They passed in 2018 and 2019, respectively. Almost exactly one year apart. She, I firmly believe, died of a broken heart. Sometimes I visit their place in the cemetery and just chat with them, catch them up on everything. I imagine their hugs, their love, their smiles, voices, humor, everything. I miss them every day. I think of them and how they’ve reunited with their dog, Tyson, wherever they are in the universe. I’d like to think of them just laughing together, sitting on their double swing together on their porch. I remember every inch of their house, everything. Even the little candies and things in their pantry/laundry room. They both passed near my birthday; he right before and she right after. My birthday is next month. November to April every year is the worst time of year. “It’s my turn, to chase the monsters away.” I love you, GranNana. I celebrate you every day, every Día de Muertos. I love you, always have and always will. Your grandkid, Jay
This song came out a month after my own Dad died and the first time I heard it was probably the first time I broke down and cried uncontrollably realising what a special person I had lost. It still upsets me to this day but mixed in with it is happy memories of all the good times we had together.
Beth, this is such a beautiful song that could only be sung by James Blunt he has a voice like no other. This video reminds me so much of my own late Father and you are absolutely correct when you say you become close friends with your parents as they age. James’s Dad look so like mine it makes the hairs on my neck stand up whenever I listened to him sing this song and of course I’ve watched other reaction videos of this song but I can see your true emotions, while you listen and comment on this song. Thank you for sharing this with us.
I'm so glad you chose to react to this video. This song just shattered me when I heard it the first time so you're not alone. You're also a beautiful Cryer 💜
Just lost my day last month and this actually brought me to tears 😢. It’s sad coz I never got the opportunity to say those words to him. He left so suddenly.😢. Everyone keeps telling me he’s so fortunate that he didn’t suffer. But I feel I missed out. I never had the opportunity to pay back the kindness. I’m just missing him so much it hurts.😢
That is something I noticed when I heard this for the first time, the language really paints a photo of the role reversal, ("*I'll* read a story to *you*" / "it's *my turn*..." etc) from looking after to being looked after. Like he's a child putting his parent to bed and watching them 'fall asleep', doing the same things his father did that made him feel peaceful when he was a baby (folding clothes, stories, "I hope you sleep well, don't be scared", "Daddy" instead of 'dad'). It's not just him being sad as an adult, he's seeing himself as a child again, almost entirely helpless. And yeah, this is not a 100% flawless vocal performance, technically speaking, and that's the point. Even I, an untrained imbecile, can hear he's struggling to get through it and that more of a story than the lyrics on their own.
It has been almost ten years since my dad passed and most of the time I am okay but there are moments when it is still as raw as it had occurred yesterday. I am not much of a crier but this song always gets me teary-eyed.
This song resonates so strongly for, having been that situation with both my father, and then my mum. Both having has long illnesses, and having done as much as I could to make their limited time, easier, and full of love. I can't listen to this without getting very emotional. Beautiful words, and so powerful. The vulnerability in his voice, just amplifies the emotion. 😪 I'm so glad his dad found a donor, and is doing well.
You should definitely do his song 'Carry you home' as well, the official video tells a slightly different story to the lyrics but both are heartbreaking and deserve more views/reactions. I've listened to this song many times now and seen quite a few reaction videos for it. The raw emotion comes through every time, and whilst you mention that you can hear the tears in his voice, I have to be honest, Im amazed he could sing that well at all. A single close up shot for most of the video is unforgiving of any trickery. Especially given that his father had not found a transplant donor at the time, he really was dying, it would rwally have felt like goodbye when James was singing this. Big respect to him.
I would also recommend Sugarland Stay. Its 3 or 4 years now since I first heard it and was struck by the power of the video. It still gets me every time I watch it, It is a very good song/video combo, I would put it up there with Johnny Cash Hurt, James Blunt Monsters, Sinéad O'Connor Nothing Compares 2 U, and maybe a couple of others, as songs you really need to watch the original video for. Yes its written from the point of view of 'the other woman' but it portrays it in a very sympathetic way, she didnt ask to have to share the man she loves, and indeed by the end of the song she's telling the guy to stay with his wife because shes fed up with his lies. Yes she was going through a divorce at the time but it wasnt because her husband cheated on her. She just really wanted to do something different about betrayal and as you can see in the video, really put her heart and soul into the song.
I am almost 40 years old. Had a few hard times in life...like everybody else. Always have to be the strong in the family. To be there, to support. Everybody counts on me to get things done, when something bad happens. Well. A life of a grown man. But when I need to release, I play this song and just cry in private. And I can have the luxury to be a human being.
I haven't lost my father, and I wish with all my heart that it will happen as late as possible. But still that song bring me to tears each and every time I listen to it. Art is supposed to make you feel something. Anger, lust, sadness, grief, joy, happiness... That song is a masterpiece.
I was crying as much as you do, probably worse. I've listen to it from time to time and I'd repeat over and over once I started listening to it, and I cry every time. You are right, the way he uses "daddy" feels like he was acknowledging himself as the kid he once was who was protected, very beautiful lyrics. Also what I love most is the part where it says "I won't read your wrongs or your rights... I know your mistake and you know mine." I think it shows compassion, because not everyone has a normal relationship with their parents, some mistakes maybe truly unforgivable but some mistakes were only important at that time, and only because each side couldn't see where the other is coming from, and over the years the anger and hatred is still there but you forget what it was about. But I believe when the time comes, you'd see them as a person in pain, and you just hope there is no more darkness in their heart before they leave.
Another great reaction Beth, and all credit to you for analysing this song. I knew nothing about the story of this song when I first heard it so it took a few moments for me to get it. When I did, the tears flowed, as this is something I think everyone can relate to, and I didn't have the pressure of having to comment on it whilst making a video. Respect👍👍
I lost my dad the first week of this year...every time I hear this song, I can't help but think of all the things I wish I could say to him that I'll never have a chance to now. This song always breaks me because it hits so close to home. Thank you for doing a reaction to this.
Met him when i came back from Afghanistan he never shaked our hands he gave us all a hug 🫂 at the time i remember feeling like a spring and still on edge and that hug realised so many emotions 😢
One of the most moving things that I never hear mentioned is how James handles the chorus (I'm not your son, you're not my father...). The first time through it is just him singing it. The second time its two part harmony and the third time we hear a heavenly chorus. That in itself pulled at my heart.
most of us will outlive our parents,as it is the way it's supposed to go. That reality of eventuality doesn't make losing a parent any easier. This song is a kick to the balls,miss you Dad.
My mother has been gone for twenty years. She was my best friend. I miss her and think of her everyday. This song is incredible. James is such an underated artist. His songs are poetry with music. Just stunning. Please react to all of his music.
The hardest part of losing my dad was the fact that I want him to see how far I have come and I know I won't ever be able to. =(
Lost my mom to cancer 3 years ago. They say time makes it easier. My question is how much time is because it's still not easy. Miss her every day
@Devil doc you'll never stop missing them, but at least for me when I think of my dad I generally smile, and remember all the times he made me laugh. I don't dwell on his last few weeks,I think of the 34 years I had with him.
@bloodsling yeah I did 23 years in navy. She died 2 years after I got out. I missed so much time I thought I could make uo. Life had other plans. But I know she is in a better place out of pain now. That gives me comfort. And sorry for your loss.
Yes, that's his Dad in the video and it was the first time he'd heard his son sing it! Sheesh I'd never have been able to hold it together! Apparently, everyone there (cameramen/lighting/etc) were crying at the end and his father said, "Why is everyone crying?! I'm not dead yet!" 😂😉 A distant cousin saw this video and came forward to be tested and was a match! So, even though things seemed very bleak when this was filmed, his Dad did get the transplant and lived. ❤
You mentioned about his voice breaking in the song... The people in charge of creating the video wanted to auto-tune and tweak those parts and James said "Absolutely not!" He wanted all of the emotions of the moment to come through. I think it was a very smart move to leave it be.
I love that reaction from his Dad. Such an "old guy" thing to say.
Good ending to tragedy very we explained by your great comment on this great song... Real tears are magnificent... only fake tears are harmful to everyone.
One of the reasons "she's out of my life" by micheal Jackson is one of my favourite songs is because you can hear his voice crack has he starts to cry whilst singing it
Don’t be a idiot like me and watch this when you’re trying to fall asleep. 🥺
@@tiffinyanderson4403 Agreed 👍. After this song The Great Gig by Pink Floyd is Inspired healing for the heart ❤ and brain 🧠.
He takes a lot of stick, but theres no doubt about it, the man can sing. And is a better writer than what he gets credit for.
Agreed!
Idk why he gets hated on... Hes an amzing singer. He definitely had a one of a kind voice u can tell who it is by him singing one note
Indeed. ❤
I am really into metal as far as I can remember, but James Blunt is one of those singers who I feel real emotions when I hear his voice. I think that is the disctinction of a popstar or a musician to an artist. I guess maybe we all have our own cup of teas but his music transcends genres, at least from my experience or the impact he has on me on a personal level.
Back in the day I probably didn't like his music, but now... I love it
These lyrics are such a masterpiece. James Blunt is so underestimated. I went to his concert and it was the best I have ever been. He doesn’t have one bad song. Beth kudos on your great musical taste. And your Wicked Game cover was just flawless ❤. Please do more of that.
Because he's cack...and a little weasel most likely....
It's the emotive "it's my turn, to chase the monsters away". That gets me.
Not only makes it a full circle - life and death, but, emphasises the vulnerability of you as a kid, and your dad afraid of death. It's just sad, but a beautiful lyric.
You are so right !! i feel exactly the same that you. The most important sentence in these lyrics is "It's my turn to chase the monsters away" ... so sad words ... make me cry.
James's dad apparently used to say the You're not my son, I'm not your father phrase to James when he was deployed to Kosovo. They weren't father and son of two British Army Officers but we're 2 grown men saying goodbye. My dad died last year and this song gets me every time.
And yet, children will always be children. No matter, how old they get.
Watched over a hundred reactions to this. Cry every time. So raw. I love that he actually stopped them from using autotune on this. It needs to be this way.
Every time he sings it’s my turn to chase the monsters away I tear up… magical singer
20 years as a psychotherapist helping people over this sort of thing. Nothing prepared me for my own fathers death. This song help more than anything. 6 years later, this song now makes me smile, despite the sadness.
I’m also a therapist and my father’s death affected me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. This song captures the complexity and simplicity that coexists in the father/son relationship.
You guys are a professional therapist. Imagine a normal guy like me? 😔😭
As a hospice nurse, I loved the song and I loved your reaction. So genuine...
You and everyone who helps those that need hospice care are heroes. Every bit as much as any "hero" tag we put on people these days. I lost my mother-in-law very recently and the care the hospice team gave her was amazing.
As someone who recently lost my last grandparent, I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you for all you do. All the best.
I just learned of this song's existence the other evening. I sobbed like a child. It reminded of the words/message I tried to convey to my father as he was dying. He was so scared, and I felt like a parent trying to comfort their child. This song broke me because it said everything I've been feeling since my father passed that I could not put into words.
Thank you for sharing!
Same. I was the last one to speak to my father before he passed. He had an infection that had transitioned into sepsis. He was essentially unconscious for the two weeks that he was in hospital, but roused to coherence for a few hours a few days before his passing. The charge nurse called me and reported that he was pulling out his IV line, NG feeding tube, etc. and that he wanted it to end. I rushed to his bedside and comforted him until he slipped back into unconsciousness. Monsters expresses everything that I wish I had said to him but never really got the chance to say.
@@RickOSidhe I am very sorry for your loss. I hope you have found some comfort since.
@@erivera700 You never stop missing the ones that you love that have passed. That hurt will always be there, but it's balanced by the comfort of knowing that we'll be together again in a few years. The pain is just a reminder that love is a double-edged sword - I'd much rather feel the pain and hurt than not, because it's a testament to the relationship. Make sense?
My father died coming up on two years ago, leaving me as the man of the house. I have been being strong for my family, not letting anyone see a tear, speaking about only trying to remember the good things and not dwell on the loss. Then I heard this song. I couldn't stop crying uncontrollably for over 10 minutes. The line about it's now my turn to chase the monsters from under the bed hit me harder than anything else in my life. I can only say, Dad, I will forever miss you and I can never fill the shoes you left behind.
My church had a Men's Conference and one of the other speakers brought up this song. He played it at the end of his lecture and we had a room full of manly men talking about masculinity just bawling their eyes out. It's such a beautiful song. My dad died from cancer from Dow and Monsanto's Agent Orange he was exposed to in Vietnam. He passed away in 2015. This song gets my eyes flowing every time. I'm chasing the monsters away, dad. I know you're proud of me, dad. Mom's okay. I'm taking care of her. She'll see you soon.
My dad is dying from pancreatic cancer and this sing is the what unlocked the floodgates.
I lost my Dad att 21 I am coming 46 and I had just come out 6 months before he passed. He was the one that chased the monsters away and suddenly I was the one doing the same for him. Just sitting with him in the hospital the months before, I wanted to save him but knew I couldn't so I just made him smile and laugh. Inside I was dying but as long as he didn't see that. ❤
I lost my dad in 2000 due to agent orange. He was also in Vietnam.
This song reminds me of my father passing. He said one more I love you, then asked me to take care of my mother. An hour after we got off the phone, he was gone. Beautiful.
Brilliant absolutely Brilliant - Ms Roars thank you for taking the time to post this video, James Blunt's music is so very emotional he is an artist in the truest sense.
Yeah definitely weeping like you. I just lost my father last month and discovered this song a few weeks ago and play it every day and cry every time. Such a beautiful song and the emotion is so raw and powerful. Simply stunning.
I just subbed on the strength of this (my first) reaction of yours. You have a beautiful way with words and really seem to have an appreciation of beautiful lyrics. You also don't stop after every line of lyrics, which I enjoy. I can't wait to check out other reactions of yours. Thank you for an honest, heartfelt reaction.
I envy you! You're in for such a rabbit-hole. Beth is one of the best reactors!! ...one of the best human beings too!!!
This song was done in one take, James blunt wouldn’t let them alter or use auto-tune. It’s raw, it’s real. His father (who had also been a kidney donor), was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney disease and they had no donee for him. Both Army men. At the end of the take apparently everyone was crying except his dad who said, why are you crying , I haven’t gone yet.. it was the first time he had sung this song to his dad and it was with his heart. Luckily after this aired a distant cousin was found to be a match and he had the operation and was fine. Don’t know how he’s doing now though. Brilliant song.
@@kmacvlogs5902 he is good but when it comes to the orignal it is really raw that being said tongi is really good i love them both
Is his father still alive?😢
@@Abrilspring yes
No it wasn't. Go watch the video of James talking about it. They did about 5 takes.... It was not the first time his dad heard it. The audio you hear is studio recording, not recording from the music video.... There's no microphone, and there is very clearly auto tune, backing vocals, and instrumentals.
Where is this idea or claims coming from? He never said that.
@@PBMS123 Evidence of auto-tune please? Timestamp?
This song makes me weep every time. Slightly different circumstances but I went through something kinda similar when my mum was dying from cervical cancer. I was lucky enough to be able to make her wish of dying at home come true so I was her live-in primary carer for the last few months of her life and this song just brings that all back like it was yesterday. I just love how he strips away all of the parent/child 'baggage' so simply with "I'm not your son, you're not my father, we're' just two men saying goodbye", showing that while they're obviously still father and son, they've grown beyond being 'just' that...
And yes, that's his dad with him in the clip and he IS still alive, apparently due to this song getting to the ears of a geographically-distant cousin of James' who was able to donate a kidney. Or something along those lines.
O that is really beautiful 🥰 Thanks for sharing that.
His father is sick again, the kidney is failing again
Good on you David for making her wish come true,she would have passed over in peace.A proper son.
Man you NEED to react to The Girl that Never Was by James Blunt. It’s insanely emotional and beautifully written, not to mention his great voice.
Cheers love, thank you for doing this one I know it was a wringer but such a truly beautiful piece of art and life.
Thanks so much from the support!
I'd somehow missed this song, and hearing it now made me an emotional wreck. Such a beautiful song.
Found this video .. killing a day listening to music I haven't heard before.. seeing your reaction and watching the video at the same time .. has tears running down my cheeks. It is touching something deep in me ... you see I am sitting waiting to take a plane 1/2 way across Canada to say good bye to my mom .. she is in at the end of her time with us .... hoping I make it in time .. Thank you for posting all your reaction videos .. I am sure they touch more people then you know !!
Well that unexpectedly hit me like a ton of bricks. My own father passed away over a decade ago and I relive those last awful and beautiful hours regularly. The terror, the sadness, the reassurance made by the inner little boy trying to be brave that everything will be ok. And the father, reaching across and providing comfort even as the sky shatters and the world ends.
The line "I'm not your son, you're not my father" felt to me like the tearful post hoc rationalization of the singer to regain his composure. And the touch on the arm.... the father silently says "I am your father, you will always be my son, and I will chase this last monster you face away. My final gift to you will be to show you how a man dies, and I am proud of you. It'll be ok." So much in that moment and so much to think about as I prepare my own children to face the inevitability of my passing.
Shhh dam, you made me cry! "I will show you how a man dies" 🥺 hopefully someday I can do the same. Genuinely thank you.🤜🏽🤛🏽
Well said. I first heard this in August 2021 as I was preparing the eulogy for my father's memorial service. He had passed 18 months earlier at 95 and it took that amount of time for the family to be able to come together (Dad died just days before COVID shut the world down). I came across this song accidentally and was glad to have done so; I was better prepared for the service.
You made me cry, as much as the video did. So eloquently put.
That's how it hit all of us man
Damn. That was so beautifully worded. I teared up all over again.
I have never seen you so emotional during a reaction....it shows that not only are you an incredible musician,, you are an incredible person... this song came out shortly after my dad passed away.. I took care of him... the first time I heard this song it destroyed me but in a good way.... I have been subscribed to you for a long time..and this is why.. you are an amazing person and it shows in your reactions..keep it up!!!!!!
This is the most honest and heartfelt reaction to this song I have see.
Devastatingly beautiful!! 💔Have watched it too many times to count. Brave reaction and glad you did it.❤.
Absolutely Beautiful reaction... I've watched this video hundreds of times and reactions hundreds of times... But watching it through your eyes I couldn't help but cry again
By the way, his father was also a military man and had trouble showing emotions. At the very end, after a couple seconds, his Daddy patted his arm to comfort him and I lost it! I just recently lost my Daddy who was also a veteran. It was a surprise as we had no idea he was even sick and in 10 days he was gone! 💔 He had stayed with me to take care of me after my husband died suddenly in 2015 and he used to pat me just like that!
Colonel blunt and his son captain blunt
Blunt is just an amazing singer, puts his emotions in each song too.
such a beautiful song, sung with such emotion , I cry evert time I hear or watch teh vid, thank you for reacting to this masterpiece.
Didn't know this one yet; haven't listened to James Blunt in ages. God, it hit hard. I think you held it together pretty good!
Lost my father 30 years ago, he was just 56 when he died of cancer. I was working half a world away, and while I visited three weeks before he died, I couldn't be there when he finally closed his eyes for good. I'm older now than my father was when he had to die. Cried through the entire song ... Still crying while I post this. 🤘🏻🖤
This song kills me every time I hear it!😢 We lost my dad in '01 to cancer. I was just 23 and I watched the light leave his eyes while holding his hand. It'll be 22 years on May 5th, and this time of year always gets me. I hope someone was home to hug 🤗 you when you were done recording this Beth! Thank you for your analysis!
Best wishes on this tough day
Lost my dad in '02 to cancer when I was 14. June 10th. I just related to your comment so much. 🤍 I hope you're doing well.
@@daymarie1111 Just saw this, I'm sorry for your loss. My dad's birthday is in three days now, so yeah May and June just suck! Wishing you peace and light during this tough time of year for us both!
@@jasonstinebaugh8447 you got this 🤍
Wow, was crying right there with you.. Made me remember seeing my father on the bed in the hospital minutes after he passed away. Couldnt get there in time after receiving the call and never got to say a final goodbye.. This song really hits home and everyone who lost his father will relate to the emotion of this song.. And Kudos to you for allowing yourself to share your emotions with your followers instead of just falling back into a technical analysis
Lost my father when I was 21, going on 10 years now and it hurts just as much today as it did then. This song breaks me every time I hear it, it’s beautiful but heart wrenching.
Hug your father if you still have him folks, you’ll miss him when he’s gone.
how the heck can he SING that song and not completely break down, like all of us. How does he keep control with all that emotion flowing thru him?! AMAZING.
Having seen a few live performances of this, the answer is 'with great difficulty'. It's like the very clear rage you see in live performances of No Bravery, the guy feels it every time.
Oh he did, no auto tune, all raw and did it in one take.
The audio was prerecorded; you can tell in a few spots. Still amazing to hold it together like that.
James comes from a military family. He was a Captain and his dad a Colonel in the British army.
What a beautiful tender heart you have young lady. I love watching people have a deep level of introspection while watching this video. It always amazes me. God Bless!
Thank you Beth (and James) for such a wonderful, heart-felt tribute. My parents and wife have passed from this life and I miss them dearly. Thankfully I will see them again and that's a blessing.
i wasnt looking for a vocal coaches reaction, i wanted a humans reaction, and thats what i got. thankyou for your reaction to this incredible music video. i am obsessed with watching every single reaction i can find and every month or 3 i search out the latest additions to the many, many that are already out there. you reacted as pretty much all of us react either in private or on camera. theres no acting or performing involved or even possible when it comes to reacting to this video (except for the very few inhuman monsters that didnt have a gut reaction). it wrings the reaction out of people by force. it was an honour to share your baptism by tears with you.
Edit added later: I clicked the link to your cover of 'Wicked Game' with not particularly high expectations. Boy was i shocked. That was absolutely beautiful. Thankyou.
Love you Beth for sharing and showing your emotions and tears. Big hug 😌
Your reaction to this is why you are so loved. Hugs! This left me in tears. I love James Blunt. But, I haven't listened to him in a while. Thank you!
I cried as much as you did. What an emotional performance! Thank you for sharing, Beth!
As a father the "it's my turn to chase the monsters away" line just breaks my heart. That's MY job. It always has been and it feels right now like it always will be. The thought that one day my boy and girl may one day have to protect ME fills me with sadness.
What the heck? I'm a metalhead sobbing at my computer during my lunch break.
Probably the most honest and fragile reaction on RUclips. I am estranged from my Dad, after watching this video I contacted my dad by email to tell him, despite everything, I still loved him. He got the message but didn't reply (I am 58yo btw) there comes a time for everyone no matter how you might perceive someone, a time to say goodbye.
My dad passed 10yrs ago for the same reason as Mr Blunt senior, he was waiting for a kidney transplant that never happened before he passed, I’m glad James didn’t have to see his dad go through massive weight loss and become so fragile and frail. My dad served in the Army and I served in the Air Force so this hits me in the heart .
I cried my eyes out at this,my own dad passed before I could say goodbye,thank you Beth I loved your heartfelt reaction x
I totally agree with you Beth in regard to the vulnerability shown by James. It's very brave to have a British army officer openly showing so much emotion. You can see the pain and despair in his face. It's a beautiful performance, so terribly sad. I don't know how he managed to get through it. But he's a soldier, he can be strong when needed. 😭❤
My cats have come over to my sofa where I'm bawling. They don't like it when I get upset. Which made me cry even more.
I weep like crazy EVERY TIME I hear this song. It is so good.
Thank you for featuring this song and your commentary - My dad passed away about 10 years ago. He was a broken and damaged man and it was at times very difficult being around him - I always kept in touch with him and would see him every few months because on some level I knew that underneath he did want to do the right thing but his addictions were just too strong.
Unfortunately, I needed to limit my time with him as it was often just so negative. I’ve come around now to seeing that he just wasn’t able to give what he had never give what he had never received himself. As he is now gone it is easier to focus on his good points as he is no longer unconsciously sabotaging himself - he was capable of being kind and thoughtful and I choose to focus on that and forgive the consequences of his own childhood neglect and abandonment.
its oddly comforting that James Blunt can still make me tear up in just seconds
I've never heard this song before watching this video! I just wanted to say that I'm right there with you when it comes to tears! This was a certified tear-jerker! Such deep and emotional lyrics. Beautiful!
Such a beautiful song and his vocal was just stunning. And yes, I was crying as well. I think I need to delve into James Blunt's catalog. When You're Beautiful was released, it was ridiculously overplayed and became a bit of a joke. So, I never really took him seriously or took the time to develop an appreciation for his voice, but I suspect that I may have been missing out on some other gems.
Same here. Once I heard this song, it gave me mad respect for Mr. Blunt.
Honestly, the Back to Bedlam album is brilliant! Imo, there's not a bad song on it.
Check out No Bravery.
I agree, that Back to Bedlam was an amazing album and Im always sadden when people are turned off by overplay but that is the nature of the industry. If you put your first-time listner ears on and really listen to You're beautiful (and hear the back story) it is an amazingly deep song, I also loved Wiseman and Goodbye my lover. A coworker told me about this song (Monster) and I made the mistake of listening to it at work and was a bluburing mess and could not believe how raw and unique this song was. I still cannot make it through this song without crying. I also saw the young man Tongi who chose this song for a very specific reason to audition for Idol and his duet with Blunt is amazing because you can still see and hear the emotion in blunts voice and when Tongi breaks down and misses his vocal cues Blunt lifts him up and fills in. When it comes to singers I am a huge fan of those unique voices and Blunt when I first heard him was one of those, I loved his album and still respect his work today. Here is a link to a live version of Goodbye my lover in oxford and it not only shows his range but it truly displays that even years later the raw emotion is there ruclips.net/video/MfYx2Yg8imw/видео.html
Hope you’ve had time to listen to more of his music. It’s some of the most beautiful, painful, heartbreaking stuff out there. Love James blunt. ❤️
This is one of the many reasons why I've enjoyed your channel so much over the years Beth - the way you experience the tunes never distracts you from making very observant points about the singing, the lyrics, and the construction and delivery of of the song itself. You can see how it effects you, but you always remain focused .. it's quite impressive to say the least. I'm no singer personally - I sound like a cat being run over by the world's slowest lawn mower - however I have written many songs and played the guitar for 35 years, and I greatly admire the professional way in which you analyse things despite being clearly effected by the song. Thank you for making these videos and letting your reaction stay free from emotive restrictions .. it's absolutely genuine, and I appreciate the honesty of it a great deal. Thanks again, and all the best.
This song it's an absolutely wrecking ball... Gut wrenching, it will appeal to the most deep of our souls, so raw, so heartfelt, so beautifully put together. James Blunt MASTERPIECE
I feel so very grateful to James and his family for sharing this. I had a very deep cathartic cry. Thanks Bethx
You cannot mistake James Blunts voice, so unique always genuine and full of emotion. Yes, I cried though this pne too. Thanks for the review. ❤
@@kmacvlogs5902James is better sorry
Your reaction is a testament to the power of music sung from a place of honesty and pure emotion....your tears reveal the beauty of your caring soul and yes this man was welling up with you...country singer Vince Gill said once that his grandma told him if your eyes leak your head won't swell...sage advice I'd say...Karl from eastern Canada🤗🤗🤗🤗
Probably the best song Ive ever heard in my life I love how emotional he is in this its truly heartfelt and genuine!
Beth never apologize for letting the music pull the emotions out of you. I’m glad to see someone else feel the emotions of music like I do.🥲
Your tears are saying that your heart is full of empathy and sweetness, they also sparkle and shine and show what a beautiful person you are, great reaction!
Aww geez. James, you got me good sir. My father passed away just before covid. I live in a different part of the country than my parents so I wasn't there when he died. To have this conversation with him would have been incredible. I miss him a lot. Thanks for this touching tribute to the relationship between fathers and sons.
This song is such a good example of how alike all humans are, no matter where they live... You sit and cry in USA, me in Sweden and all the others in different countries as well... No matter where you're from, you can connect and empathize. We all ARE the same, we're humans :)
We need more music like this. The authenticity is astonishing. You don't find that kind of music very often music that touches EVERYONE.
He deserves more recognition , what a great personality to meet and very polite guy
I grew up and always got along with my father. In high school he was my basketball coach. After high school we worked together until he passed and he was my best friend. I am so glad we got to spend all that time together. He passed away when I was only 25. The part "I'm not your son and you're not my father" really gets me everytime because of how great our friendship was. Miss you Dad :)
I've seen that three times (including this time) and it leaves me crying each time. I've lost both my parents - my Dad in 1992 when I was much younger and my Mom in 2020. Both after a number of months of pain and illness. Its incredibly hard and oftentimes I feel like I could have done better for them both. I guess that "survivor's guilt" is normal, but still difficult. It changes you - losing parents is something you never totally get over. I'll think I'm fine and then see something like this video and it just opens it right up again like it was 30 years ago or 3 years ago. Still, all you can do is try to move on and live your life the best you can because that's what they would want for you - its all they would want.
Yep, weeping right with you - and it's totally worth it. I hadn't watched this in a good while, but I remember when it came out I was obsessed. And I cried a good deal every time I listened - might've been right at the start of the pandemic. And I don't think I was every much of a fan of his sound, but I absolutely love it in this piece, for all the reasons you described. Thank you so much for doing this tune!
The line about trying to make his father proud kills me. We all try to do that
Good comments and an opportunity to learn something about the singing voice. James Blunt is so admirable in many ways. I do appreciate his many talents and his heartfelt touch to his performances. Thank you for reaction and yes, I was weeping, as much. You're a pretty crier! My nose runs, my faces scrunches all up and I become a mess.
📖 Get your signed copy of my album Fable here: www.bethroars.com/shop
☀ Pre-save my first single "Power Of The Wolf" on Spotifu (it really helps me out!): distrokid.com/hyperfollow/bethroars/power-of-the-wolf
🥁 Become a Patreon Supporter: www.patreon.com/bethroars
Already watch this MV more then 300x and stll watering my eyes evertime i watch it 🥲
Great rezction Beth and your voice is beautiful.
Beautiful version of wicked game, gorgeous voice, my partner thinks so too,vshe has been a professional singer for over 35 yrs, lead in bands, songwriter, now soloist gigging around, plays most instruments, but can't read music, doesn't have the technical knowledge you have just all natural pick up instrument and sing
Apologize - One Republic (Live in Sydney) react please.
Your voice and cover was amazing. It matched the sensitivity of this reaction. Thank you so much.
Most people do well to even speak discernibly while they are crying, but to be able to push through the emotions and still sing beautifully is truly an amazing feat. Bravo!
i chose to play this song at my dads funeral and it really is a great way of describing what it felt like watching him deteriorate and just trying to be there for him those last few months
Every time I see this/listen to this, I am reminded of my Grandad and Nana.
They were my best friends, the people I could rely on emotionally and physically.
They passed in 2018 and 2019, respectively. Almost exactly one year apart.
She, I firmly believe, died of a broken heart.
Sometimes I visit their place in the cemetery and just chat with them, catch them up on everything. I imagine their hugs, their love, their smiles, voices, humor, everything.
I miss them every day. I think of them and how they’ve reunited with their dog, Tyson, wherever they are in the universe.
I’d like to think of them just laughing together, sitting on their double swing together on their porch.
I remember every inch of their house, everything. Even the little candies and things in their pantry/laundry room.
They both passed near my birthday; he right before and she right after.
My birthday is next month. November to April every year is the worst time of year.
“It’s my turn, to chase the monsters away.”
I love you, GranNana. I celebrate you every day, every Día de Muertos.
I love you, always have and always will.
Your grandkid,
Jay
This song came out a month after my own Dad died and the first time I heard it was probably the first time I broke down and cried uncontrollably realising what a special person I had lost. It still upsets me to this day but mixed in with it is happy memories of all the good times we had together.
Beth, this is such a beautiful song that could only be sung by James Blunt he has a voice like no other. This video reminds me so much of my own late Father and you are absolutely correct when you say you become close friends with your parents as they age. James’s Dad look so like mine it makes the hairs on my neck stand up whenever I listened to him sing this song and of course I’ve watched other reaction videos of this song but I can see your true emotions, while you listen and comment on this song. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Honestly one of the most beautiful song I never heard
Just a HEARTBREAKING MASTERPIECE! 💔
You’re so lovely and this was such a pure reaction to a beautiful song. Thank you for this
I rewatched this, and have to say your empathy is beautiful
It’s the only song I consistently cry over ! It describes my last interaction with my dad pretty closely 😭
I'm so glad you chose to react to this video. This song just shattered me when I heard it the first time so you're not alone. You're also a beautiful Cryer 💜
Beautiful and extremely sad song. Equally beautiful and honest reaction, subbed 😊
Just lost my day last month and this actually brought me to tears 😢. It’s sad coz I never got the opportunity to say those words to him. He left so suddenly.😢. Everyone keeps telling me he’s so fortunate that he didn’t suffer. But I feel I missed out. I never had the opportunity to pay back the kindness. I’m just missing him so much it hurts.😢
That is something I noticed when I heard this for the first time, the language really paints a photo of the role reversal, ("*I'll* read a story to *you*" / "it's *my turn*..." etc) from looking after to being looked after. Like he's a child putting his parent to bed and watching them 'fall asleep', doing the same things his father did that made him feel peaceful when he was a baby (folding clothes, stories, "I hope you sleep well, don't be scared", "Daddy" instead of 'dad'). It's not just him being sad as an adult, he's seeing himself as a child again, almost entirely helpless.
And yeah, this is not a 100% flawless vocal performance, technically speaking, and that's the point. Even I, an untrained imbecile, can hear he's struggling to get through it and that more of a story than the lyrics on their own.
Absolutely beautiful! I haven't cried like that in a while.
I just watched him and Iam do this and a balled like a little girl, man this song is so emotional especially watching him sing it in this video.
Iam did this song for his American Idol audition after his father passed away.
So powerful. Thank you. Crying myself into this day after this one.
It has been almost ten years since my dad passed and most of the time I am okay but there are moments when it is still as raw as it had occurred yesterday. I am not much of a crier but this song always gets me teary-eyed.
This song resonates so strongly for, having been that situation with both my father, and then my mum. Both having has long illnesses, and having done as much as I could to make their limited time, easier, and full of love. I can't listen to this without getting very emotional. Beautiful words, and so powerful. The vulnerability in his voice, just amplifies the emotion. 😪
I'm so glad his dad found a donor, and is doing well.
You should definitely do his song 'Carry you home' as well, the official video tells a slightly different story to the lyrics but both are heartbreaking and deserve more views/reactions.
I've listened to this song many times now and seen quite a few reaction videos for it. The raw emotion comes through every time, and whilst you mention that you can hear the tears in his voice, I have to be honest, Im amazed he could sing that well at all. A single close up shot for most of the video is unforgiving of any trickery. Especially given that his father had not found a transplant donor at the time, he really was dying, it would rwally have felt like goodbye when James was singing this. Big respect to him.
I would also recommend Sugarland Stay. Its 3 or 4 years now since I first heard it and was struck by the power of the video. It still gets me every time I watch it, It is a very good song/video combo, I would put it up there with Johnny Cash Hurt, James Blunt Monsters, Sinéad O'Connor Nothing Compares 2 U, and maybe a couple of others, as songs you really need to watch the original video for.
Yes its written from the point of view of 'the other woman' but it portrays it in a very sympathetic way, she didnt ask to have to share the man she loves, and indeed by the end of the song she's telling the guy to stay with his wife because shes fed up with his lies.
Yes she was going through a divorce at the time but it wasnt because her husband cheated on her. She just really wanted to do something different about betrayal and as you can see in the video, really put her heart and soul into the song.
I am almost 40 years old. Had a few hard times in life...like everybody else. Always have to be the strong in the family. To be there, to support. Everybody counts on me to get things done, when something bad happens. Well. A life of a grown man. But when I need to release, I play this song and just cry in private. And I can have the luxury to be a human being.
Amen brother - I share your thoughts.
I haven't lost my father, and I wish with all my heart that it will happen as late as possible. But still that song bring me to tears each and every time I listen to it.
Art is supposed to make you feel something. Anger, lust, sadness, grief, joy, happiness... That song is a masterpiece.
I was crying as much as you do, probably worse. I've listen to it from time to time and I'd repeat over and over once I started listening to it, and I cry every time. You are right, the way he uses "daddy" feels like he was acknowledging himself as the kid he once was who was protected, very beautiful lyrics. Also what I love most is the part where it says "I won't read your wrongs or your rights... I know your mistake and you know mine." I think it shows compassion, because not everyone has a normal relationship with their parents, some mistakes maybe truly unforgivable but some mistakes were only important at that time, and only because each side couldn't see where the other is coming from, and over the years the anger and hatred is still there but you forget what it was about.
But I believe when the time comes, you'd see them as a person in pain, and you just hope there is no more darkness in their heart before they leave.
What a genuine, heartfelt reaction. Thank you for being you with us! 😥💚
Another great reaction Beth, and all credit to you for analysing this song. I knew nothing about the story of this song when I first heard it so it took a few moments for me to get it. When I did, the tears flowed, as this is something I think everyone can relate to, and I didn't have the pressure of having to comment on it whilst making a video. Respect👍👍
I lost my dad the first week of this year...every time I hear this song, I can't help but think of all the things I wish I could say to him that I'll never have a chance to now. This song always breaks me because it hits so close to home. Thank you for doing a reaction to this.
I'm so sorry.
Met him when i came back from Afghanistan he never shaked our hands he gave us all a hug 🫂 at the time i remember feeling like a spring and still on edge and that hug realised so many emotions 😢
One of the most moving things that I never hear mentioned is how James handles the chorus (I'm not your son, you're not my father...). The first time through it is just him singing it. The second time its two part harmony and the third time we hear a heavenly chorus. That in itself pulled at my heart.
Just wanted to thank you for the purity and honesty in your emotions while reacting. 👌🏼 💯 Respect.💚