@@chetstevens4583 oh! I get it Chet. You one of those dudes that loves all the hits and the hits only. You don’t dig into albums for deep tracks. How sad.
Wow, hard to believe you haven't heard Styx, good thing about that is you'll be listening to it with fresh ears. Hope people request more Styx. Great songs include Crystal Ball, Suite Madam Blue, Renegade, Pieces of Eight, Blue Collar Man, Queen of Spades, Grand Illusion, Don't Let End, Miss America, Lorelei, and Lady
Tommy Shaw said was motivated when hearing Kansas while they opened for Kansas on tour back in 1976... He wrote this song because of them is why you hear a similarity.... A great song as is the whole album... In my top 5 of all time...
Tommy Shaw's vocals are still amazing. Interesting that this is your first Styx song you have reacted to and that this song was requested. Dennis DeYoung shared vocals with Tommy Shaw until Dennis was "let go" in the great divorce. Dennis has his on band now. Styx still play tons of shows every year. Touring with REO Speedwagon in 2022. You guys can see them live. "Blue Collar Man" is an amazing song. Think you guys would love it.
Love STYX, Tommy Shaw is an amazing vocalist and guitar player. They have maybe 25 or more major, major hits... I have been such a Tommy Shaw fan since the early 70's when I was in grade school. If I'm not mistaken it was released on my tenth birthday on 7/7/77.
LOL, I was 16 and got my first drivers license on that date! My only problem with Tommy Shaw was that my girlfriend at the time thought he was cuter than me!
The lead singer on this song is Tommy Shaw.. one of the main guitarists. Most of their songs are led by Dennis DeYoung. Once you hear them on their bigger hits, you'll say-- Hey I know that song!... Glad you guys found them
Finally!!! Thank you for this reaction!!! Been waiting for someone to get to this great song by Styx!!! It's my favorite song by them. Good choice!!! 👍👍
Nice. This is the first album I bought with my own money back in '79. I love the song "Castle Walls" on this album too. I can still remember the smell of the Co-op Record Store where I bought it.
@@jimled50jl49 I'm looking back at my Box notes and it was "Castle Walls" that I sent to N&L that was my no.1 suggestion, then followed by "Man in the Wilderness" off of Grand Illusion. It will be interesting to see and hear their reaction to Dennis's unique voice. I think they will REALLY love the 5 albums I got them, there is soo much variety in their style of Heavy Rock/AOR.
Spot on with the Kansas reference. He wrote this song after touring as the opening act for Kansas. Great song! More STYX. As much as you can handle. I'm going to seen them this summer in Tampa, FL. REO Speedwagon/STYX. They are still going strong. One of the greatest Rock-n-Roll bands.
If I had only one musical wish, it would be to be able to discover Styx all over again. "Man in the Wilderness" is such a great song! Now go listen to "Crash of the Crown" released 44 years later. Amazing.
My absolute favorite rock band! They can do hard rock, progressive and power ballads. Two lead singers, three songwriters, two great guitarists, and the greatest keyboardist! Now your going to head down the Styx rabbit hole!
Nice reaction guys, this album "The Grand Illusion" is superb and actually came out in 1977. It is very well produced, Styx always reminded me of a sort of mainstream Kansas, the two main writers and lead singers are guitarist Tommy Shaw (who wrote and sang on this song) and keyboardist Dennis De Young. Tommy's songs are more hard rock and folk inspired whereas Dennis leans more to musical theatre and progressive rock with collaboration in the arrangements. The more songs you listen to from the album the more you'll see what I mean, it's a bit like the Supertramp situation with Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson having vastly different writing styles. One of the strong features of Styx is the high quality of the vocals and backing vocals, the other guitarist James Young is also a superb vocalist and sings lead on "Miss America" from this album, for me the two best songs on the album are the title track "The Grand Illusion" written and sung by De Young and "Fooling Yourself" written and sung by Shaw, absolute masterpieces both. Would also recommend "Come Sail away" by De Young, enjoy the Styx Journey, Cheers
My favorite Styx song is Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man) and it's from my favorite Styx album, The Grand Illusion. You guys have really opened a deep rabbit hole with this band. Enjoy!!
Great reaction to such a great band. That was a wonderful request too. Others have mentioned, but "Castle Walls" would be a great follow-up reaction from Styx. Another favorite of mine is "Half-Penny, Two-Penny", but they have so many incredible songs in their catalog.
I'm a huge Styx fan going back to the 70's when I was a teenager, and the Grand Illusion is considered their pinnacle/masterpiece. However, you have to listen to these four albums in order (in my humble opinion). Equinox - 1975 - This one is a precursor to where the were going in the next few years. The songs Lorelei and Suite Madame Blue are outstanding. This is also pre Tommy Shaw, guitar player, lead vocalist, songwriter, and major force that changed the direction of Styx. He was a major force in their development. Crystal Ball - 1976 - Tommy Shaw's debut in the band and he's a force with regard to songwriting, vocals, guitar playing and direction which will lead to their next and arguably greatest album. Standout songs include Mademoiselle, Crystal Ball (my favorite and written and sung by Tommy Shaw), and Claire de Lune/Ballerina. The Grand Illusion - 1977 - As mentioned arguably their pinnacle and where they hit their stride and were firing on all cylinders. Every song on this album is fantastic. There is a theme throughout and they just nail it. There are no loser B side songs here. This is akin to the, dare I say it, the Beatles Sargent Pepper's as far as them being in full creative stride (and just to be clear, I am not comparing Styx to the Beatles as far as impact etc.). I'm just saying that for Styx this was their Pepper's moment. Pieces of Eight - 1978 - A decent follow-up to The Grand Illusion but no where near as close although most of the songs are good with some standouts such as Sing for the Day, Blue Collar Man, and Renegade. This one was a bit more of a rocker and good, solid follow-up to Illusion just not on the same level. After this period, they put out a few decent albums with some iconic songs here and there but they never achieved the same level of creativity and musical force from those four years/albums mentioned above, again in my humble opinion. Do yourself a favor and listen to them when you get the chance. You won't regret it.
Let's not leave out the great "Queen of Spades" from the 1978 Pieces of Eight album, would be a tremendous song for a reaction video. Good summary and descriptions of 1975-1978 Styx, however I found their "Paradise Theatre" album (#1 Album on the Billboard Charts from 1981) to be a highly creative concept album that combined their unique and divergent musical styles beautifully and extremely effectively with a powerful commentary on the state of America at that time. "The Best of Times" has proven to be prophetic to our current times. "Snowblind", "Rockin' The Paradise", "The Best of Times", "Too Much Time On My Hands" from "Paradise Theatre" are great songs for a first time reaction. "Renegade", "Blue Collar Man", "Come Sail Away", "Crystal Ball", "Miss America", "Suite Madame Blue", "Castle Walls" are absolute musts as well. Congratulations on discovering Styx! Truly a great day!
This album came out in 1977. I was in high school at the time. The songs and sounds and the singing was unique to only Styx at that time. It was an extremely high selling album (needless to say).
You _HAVE_ to do "Castle Walls" and/or "Queen of Spades". Speaking of Queen, you should do "It's Late" by Queen. It"s their 2nd best song (behind Bohemian Rhapsody, of course).
@@DonaldMains I should've included the caveat, IMO.😉 TBH, every song, up until the Jazz album, would be on the list. A Queen's greatest hits album, to me, is redundant.
Totally agree. Queen is remarkable in their consistency. Not a big a fan as others are of Queen I, it's a little too hard rock , and a little less melodic, than I tend to enjoy. But everything from Queen II through News of the World is top rate. @@taylortyler1867
First saw Styx at Winterland in SF around this time, and my female roommate and I were literally resting our arms on the stage. Styx knows how to give a show. Keyboardist Dennis DeYoung sang Come Sail Away with a swashbuckling rapier that at one point he put it into the stage floor just inside my friend’s elbow and sang to her. She was a photographic beauty (kinda like Alexia) so it was an understandable choice. Great reaction. You have heard at least a couple of their songs. You’ll get to them eventually. Cheers!
This was my first rock album as well. It was my introduction to rock really as my parents had only let me listen to Christian music and some benign pop music like John Denver etc. Blew my mind. I was also reading Tolkien and LOTR at the time (1978) and now this album is always intertwined with that in my head.
Great rock band from the 70's-80's. They had so many great songs such as "Lady", "Lorelei", "Suite Madame Blue", "Come Sail Away", "Renegade", "Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)", "Babe", "The Best of Times", "Too Much Time On My Hands", "Mr. Roboto", "Show Me The Way", "Don't Let It End" etc.
This whole album is awesome. I still have the original in good shape. Takes me back to my teens. So much more to come with Styx. I hope you are well/.Thanks guys 🤘😎👍🟥🍁🟥🕊🎵🦋🌿
This song goes great playing with Castle Walls .. easy to find both played live back to back. I believe Tommy wrote this song about his brother going through a tough time after he came back from serving in Viet Nam. Thank you for this reaction
You stumbled upon a rock cornerstone. Styx used every bit of the production process at the time to carefully construct this masterpiece. The talent of every member is on bold display.
"Just Remember That, It's A Grand Illusion, and deep inside We're All the Same" I do miss that Concert T Shirt, and the "Point Of Know Return" Kansa T Shirt. Both Great Bands
Great song on a great album. Saw them in concert in Seattle when they were at the top. They sounded every bit as good as good live, as their records. One of the Best Bands of the mid to late 70s.
Once again, I’m happy to see you guys react to the music of my youth!! If you want hear Styx in their beginning success, start with the album Styx II from 1973. Their first hit was “Lady” but other tunes like “ You Need Love”, “A Day”, “You Better Ask” are awesome as well!!
Yeah, nobody that I know of listens or reacts to "A Day" but I really like it and think you two will too. Definitely a deep cut. "Born for Adventure" is another lesser known fun one. And "Castke Walls" is another good one off the album you just listened to, in fact it's the song right before or after "Man..."
My favorite group for several years back in the day. I’d recommend Suite Madame Blue and Come Sail Away as well as The Grand Illusion. It’s a shame the co lead singers split the band years ago but Tommy wanted to Rock and Dennis wanted to put on a Show…..
Great reaction y’all!! I loved STYX!!! I had a big crush on Tommy Shaw back in the 70’s! I played these albums till they were bald!! Person below listed lots of good ones!! Looking forward to some more!! Be well and God bless, y’all… from Texas!!
People say this all the time about lots of albums... but this album is, without question, a front-to-backer... every song has value. Wait til you hear “Fooling Yourself”. Anyway, the whole record is greatness.
This was the one album that no one would lend to anyone, because they would never get it back. I met one of my best friends at a Styx / Aerosmith concert in Philadelphia. It was during the Grand Illusion tour featuring this song. Heart pounding rock extravaganza. Pretty heavy stuff for a 17 yer old.
All keyboards Nick, no Flutes. I just saw Styx in Nashville TN. Sunday night 1/9/22. They blew the roof off the place! This was my 5th Styx concert. Have a great day!!
I was a long haired hippie from Colorado who went to college in Florida. My roommate talked me into seeing Styx for their Grand Illusion Tour. Never heard them before but I was an instant fanboy after that show! They were sooo tight, and man! What a show!
My favorite from the album. You should see this live. Tommy's voice is still incredible and their drummer (now), Todd, is one of the best out there today. Styx was my first concert in 1983.
Styx is still touring and they often do this song. They sound the same. Very energetic band live. A lot of good songs to check out : Renegade, Blue Collar Man, Suite Madame Blue, etc. Plus they have recently put out new music the last couple of years.
Styx has alot of great songs. I would call them just classic rock-n-roll. They have alot of high-energy songs with great guitar solos, and they also have alot of soft ballads. I'm a fan. My favorites are "Blue Collar Man", "Renegade", and "Come Sail Away".
Crystal Ball is a beautiful ballad. Anything off the album “Pieces if Eight” is gold as well. Deep cut “I’m OK” is a fav of mine from PO8 . Nick that flutish mimic Is DeYoung on keys. Also sings leads in songs. Tommy Shaw sang lead on that one. Styx is classic American rock band from the 70s - -present. They still tour as far as I know. Of course 70s so much better than later stuff. Wow guys you need to do a few more of their catalogue.
Styx is a great band for you guys to explore, three'e right up your alley. Their music is complex like Rush and Yes just not as proggy. Come sail away, Blue collar man, Renegade, and Suite Madame Blue are all great songs that you definitely enjoy.
Wow. That's quite a choice for a first dive into Styx (no pun intended). I mean, it's a top 5 Styx song for me, but was never a hit. Usually people start with Come Sail Away, Renegade, or Fooling Yourself. Well done! Styx had three main songwriters and singers. This was Tommy Shaw. The others were Dennis DeYoung and James Young. Have fun with this band! They were my first favorite band as a youth before I got into YES. An awesome and very prolific catalog. In fact, they are still recording and touring (without Dennis). Their new album last year "Crash Of The Crown" is incredible.
Composer: Tommy Shaw Lyricist: Tommy Shaw Lead Vocals: Tommy Shaw Acoustic Guitar: Tommy Shaw 12 String Guitar: Tommy Shaw Bass Guitar: Chuck Panozzo Percussion: John Panozzo Keyboard: Dennis DeYoung Synthesizer: Dennis DeYoung Engineers: Rob Kingsland, Barry Mraz
There is no flute, they are synths played by Dennis De Young who is also the main singer. This song was sung by Tommy Shaw one of the guitarrists. You should react to "Come Sail Away" from this same album. Saludos desde Costa Rica.
The Styx name continues (at least until the 2000’s when I finally saw them - way after their their initial fame). Great reaction. Thanks for the request. ✨🤪
"Castle Walls" by this band is a must. Your connection to "Boston" and "Kansas" is right on. This trio of bands were the soundtrack to countless keg parties for us back in the 70's. But as far as "Styx" goes, their first three albums are so good. All killer, no filler. Start with "Crystal Ball" album.
At last you have found what the rest of the World has known for decades STYX a super group who are still going strong. Saw them for the umpteenth time Nov 2019 just before Covid stopped every thing. They have so many albums, hits, songs it would be impossible to say try this or try that. You will have fun discovering them. Good Luck
Ok, try this song from way back by " Its a Beautiful day " titled " White Bird" The harmonies, the strings, power of the story calls out to be played. You won't regret it.
Shocked you haven't heard any Styx. A great rock group that has been around since the 70's and still fills the house today. IMHO their earlier work including this record was their best. They have had only small changes in the band, particularly bring in Lawrence Gowan on vocals and keyboards giving them an edgier sound. More Styx Please!
My favorite track on my favorite Styx album. The catalogue is deep, you've only just begun! Tommy Shaw (who wrote and sings this song) said they had toured with Kansas prior to writing for this album, and they inspired him to write Rock n' Roll in a more progressive style. That flute was Dennis DeYoung on the keyboard.
a great band from the same area which brought us other great bands like Starship, Journey, Loverboy, REO Speedwagon, Kansas, Rainbow and so many others even female fronted rock bands like heart. These bands had something in common... they're very listenable, they were relatable, they had great lyrics/ messages... heart and soul
This brings back memories. Styx has a lot of good tunes and I remember that they put on a really good concert. Thanks for the walk down memory lane and Lex A+ on the earring game tonight. Have a great weekend everyone!
Well don't disappear Raider Fan! We hope they come back Saturday and Sunday to surprise us with some more tunes ;). Btw - That Raider game with The Chargers was IN-SANE!
I knew of Styx at the time, but only by the bits I'd heard on the radio. When this album came out I had a cousin come to visit and he forced me to stay up really late (when all I wanted was to get some sleep) and listen to this whole album and I went out and bought my own copy the next day. This album was HUGE for forming/modifying my taste in music.
When I was 15 I'd to sit in the basement and crank this through my band's PA. The entire album just reached out and grabbed me. I recently got back into vinyl and this is one of the first albums I bought.
As a Styx fanatic for nearly 50 years, I am confident you'll really enjoy reacting to the sheer diversity (mostly great, some not so) of this band in future posts. Nick, right near the end of the video, you mentioned getting into some "weird stuff." Well, if you can get a hold of their first four Wooden Nickel albums (Styx, Styx II, Serpent is Rising, and Man of Miracles, before they signed with A&M and found their 70's identity) you'll find their weird, almost Prog Rock stuff, which I enjoy to this day ("Lady" from Styx II was their only successful single from those early days). Dennis DeYoung tried to take them into theatrical, bubble-gum pop, and the core of the band revolted, in the mid 80's.
Cool reaction! Thanks again, Nick N Lex. Since I'm "old" now I first had this album on vinyl. I always thought the click at the beginning of this song was a scratch on my record until I bought a CD and it was there, as well. Just part of the song. Styx and Kansas were considered by some to be American "prog-lite." I definitely enjoyed them for their prog elements, making them stand out from other rock groups. Styx was based in Chicago. Tommy Shaw (lead singer on "Man In The Wilderness") joined them for the "Crystal Ball" album in the mid 70's. Their most successful phase soon followed. Most of their lead vocals were divided between Tommy Shaw and Dennis DeYoung, with James Young getting one or two songs an album. Tommy was more of a rocker and Dennis sang most of their huge ballads. James Young rocked out as well.
Been a Styx fan ever since I heard Lady on the radio. They're still sounding good these days. 1st time I got to see them was in 78. Grand Illusion tour. Next time was 2011. Lol, Tommy Shaw didn't look any older, but I did.
What a great band. The backtrack of my youth and my entry band into progressive rock (yes, Styx is a mild or entry prog band). Too many great tracks to list. Have fun discovering them.
![Digital Circus Episode 4 [TRAILER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/abZtsmMUbJo/mqdefault.jpg)
This album doesn't have a bad track on it. Absolute classic.
Pieces Of Eight is the underrated album. Grand Illusion took the spotlight away from that one.
Still a first time listen and they pick like the 34th best song in the band's history?
@@chetstevens4583 Seriously? Easily in top 10 for me.
@@rubicon-oh9km Styx had what 20 top 40 hits? this is not one of those. Even Snowblind is more popular than this and JY sings lead on that.
@@chetstevens4583 oh! I get it Chet. You one of those dudes that loves all the hits and the hits only. You don’t dig into albums for deep tracks. How sad.
Wow, hard to believe you haven't heard Styx, good thing about that is you'll be listening to it with fresh ears. Hope people request more Styx. Great songs include Crystal Ball, Suite Madam Blue, Renegade, Pieces of Eight, Blue Collar Man, Queen of Spades, Grand Illusion, Don't Let End, Miss America, Lorelei, and Lady
Don't forget Blue Collar Man and Too Much Time on My Hands.
@@dennisloveland498 Look again, Blue Collar Man listed, Too Much Time on My Hands not that great, too redundant IMO.
You left out their biggest hit. I'll let you figure it out. But it's from this album.
@@johncalvo1743 Come Sail Away or Fooling Yourself. I just listed my favorites, that's why.
"Castle Walls" is _MY_ personal favorite.
This should be a full album listen
Please, please do more STYX, I will let others give you the hundreds of songs to chose from, but there is not a bad song off that album.
Castle Walls… Crystal Ball.. Suite Madame Blue
Tommy Shaw said was motivated when hearing Kansas while they opened for Kansas on tour back in 1976... He wrote this song because of them is why you hear a similarity.... A great song as is the whole album... In my top 5 of all time...
Tommy Shaw's vocals are still amazing. Interesting that this is your first Styx song you have reacted to and that this song was requested. Dennis DeYoung shared vocals with Tommy Shaw until Dennis was "let go" in the great divorce. Dennis has his on band now. Styx still play tons of shows every year. Touring with REO Speedwagon in 2022. You guys can see them live. "Blue Collar Man" is an amazing song. Think you guys would love it.
Love STYX, Tommy Shaw is an amazing vocalist and guitar player. They have maybe 25 or more major, major hits...
I have been such a Tommy Shaw fan since the early 70's when I was in grade school.
If I'm not mistaken it was released on my tenth birthday on 7/7/77.
It was indeed. I was eight at the time and stealing it out of my older sister's room when she wasn't around.
Yes it was, and it was their 7th album and big commercial breakthrough. Lucky 7(s).
LOL, I was 16 and got my first drivers license on that date!
My only problem with Tommy Shaw was that my girlfriend at the time thought he was cuter than me!
@@jeffp3415 Well, hopefully they didn't run into each other very often.
The entire album is AMAZING !!!
The lead singer on this song is Tommy Shaw.. one of the main guitarists. Most of their songs are led by Dennis DeYoung. Once you hear them on their bigger hits, you'll say-- Hey I know that song!... Glad you guys found them
Tommy Shaw did almost as many of their great tunes back in the day as well as Dennis and now is the driving force of the current version!
Finally!!! Thank you for this reaction!!! Been waiting for someone to get to this great song by Styx!!! It's my favorite song by them. Good choice!!! 👍👍
Styx is the greatest band of all time. Tommy Shaw is a talented genius!!!
Yes, but it took him and Dennis and JY to make it work. Unfortunately, they've all forgotten how good they were together
Nice. This is the first album I bought with my own money back in '79. I love the song "Castle Walls" on this album too. I can still remember the smell of the Co-op Record Store where I bought it.
Castle Walls - Best track on the album ! Love it !!!
@@jimled50jl49 I'm looking back at my Box notes and it was "Castle Walls" that I sent to N&L that was my no.1 suggestion, then followed by "Man in the Wilderness" off of Grand Illusion. It will be interesting to see and hear their reaction to Dennis's unique voice.
I think they will REALLY love the 5 albums I got them, there is soo much variety in their style of Heavy Rock/AOR.
Grand Illusion is a great album. Castle Walls is another great deep cut. You’ll enjoy all of it. And, nice shirt, Nick.
Love watching your reactions as you realize what you have discovered. The Grand Illusion was a monster album for them and pushed them to superstardom.
OMG! My favorite Styx song. Such a sleeper hit. Reminds of back in the day cruisin' for a bag in the winter.
On the Grand Illusion album, this song is followed by Castle Walls. Give that one a go next 😎
Spot on with the Kansas reference. He wrote this song after touring as the opening act for Kansas. Great song! More STYX. As much as you can handle. I'm going to seen them this summer in Tampa, FL. REO Speedwagon/STYX. They are still going strong. One of the greatest Rock-n-Roll bands.
I am as well and Loverboy is playing too
The horn sounds are from the synthesizer/keyboards used by Dennis DeYoung. Awesome band live. Seen them twice in a week one summer.
Another great band you have discovered and will be definitely so happy that you have.
Tommy Shaw wrote this song while Styx were on tour with Kansas.
AUTOMATIC THUMBS UP FOR ME !!! anything styx
They were great in concert too, Kansas warmed up. Try Miss America from same album.
If I had only one musical wish, it would be to be able to discover Styx all over again. "Man in the Wilderness" is such a great song! Now go listen to "Crash of the Crown" released 44 years later. Amazing.
My absolute favorite rock band! They can do hard rock, progressive and power ballads. Two lead singers, three songwriters, two great guitarists, and the greatest keyboardist! Now your going to head down the Styx rabbit hole!
Don't forget James "JY" Young, the 3rd lead singer. "Miss America" from this album is a scorcher!
Nice reaction guys, this album "The Grand Illusion" is superb and actually came out in 1977. It is very well produced, Styx always reminded me of a sort of mainstream Kansas, the two main writers and lead singers are guitarist Tommy Shaw (who wrote and sang on this song) and keyboardist Dennis De Young. Tommy's songs are more hard rock and folk inspired whereas Dennis leans more to musical theatre and progressive rock with collaboration in the arrangements. The more songs you listen to from the album the more you'll see what I mean, it's a bit like the Supertramp situation with Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson having vastly different writing styles. One of the strong features of Styx is the high quality of the vocals and backing vocals, the other guitarist James Young is also a superb vocalist and sings lead on "Miss America" from this album, for me the two best songs on the album are the title track "The Grand Illusion" written and sung by De Young and "Fooling Yourself" written and sung by Shaw, absolute masterpieces both. Would also recommend "Come Sail away" by De Young, enjoy the Styx Journey, Cheers
My favorite Styx song is Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man) and it's from my favorite Styx album, The Grand Illusion. You guys have really opened a deep rabbit hole with this band. Enjoy!!
Great reaction to such a great band. That was a wonderful request too. Others have mentioned, but "Castle Walls" would be a great follow-up reaction from Styx. Another favorite of mine is "Half-Penny, Two-Penny", but they have so many incredible songs in their catalog.
I'm a huge Styx fan going back to the 70's when I was a teenager, and the Grand Illusion is considered their pinnacle/masterpiece. However, you have to listen to these four albums in order (in my humble opinion).
Equinox - 1975 - This one is a precursor to where the were going in the next few years. The songs Lorelei and Suite Madame Blue are outstanding. This is also pre Tommy Shaw, guitar player, lead vocalist, songwriter, and major force that changed the direction of Styx. He was a major force in their development.
Crystal Ball - 1976 - Tommy Shaw's debut in the band and he's a force with regard to songwriting, vocals, guitar playing and direction which will lead to their next and arguably greatest album. Standout songs include Mademoiselle, Crystal Ball (my favorite and written and sung by Tommy Shaw), and Claire de Lune/Ballerina.
The Grand Illusion - 1977 - As mentioned arguably their pinnacle and where they hit their stride and were firing on all cylinders. Every song on this album is fantastic. There is a theme throughout and they just nail it. There are no loser B side songs here. This is akin to the, dare I say it, the Beatles Sargent Pepper's as far as them being in full creative stride (and just to be clear, I am not comparing Styx to the Beatles as far as impact etc.). I'm just saying that for Styx this was their Pepper's moment.
Pieces of Eight - 1978 - A decent follow-up to The Grand Illusion but no where near as close although most of the songs are good with some standouts such as Sing for the Day, Blue Collar Man, and Renegade. This one was a bit more of a rocker and good, solid follow-up to Illusion just not on the same level.
After this period, they put out a few decent albums with some iconic songs here and there but they never achieved the same level of creativity and musical force from those four years/albums mentioned above, again in my humble opinion.
Do yourself a favor and listen to them when you get the chance. You won't regret it.
Let's not leave out the great "Queen of Spades" from the 1978 Pieces of Eight album, would be a tremendous song for a reaction video. Good summary and descriptions of 1975-1978 Styx, however I found their "Paradise Theatre" album (#1 Album on the Billboard Charts from 1981) to be a highly creative concept album that combined their unique and divergent musical styles beautifully and extremely effectively with a powerful commentary on the state of America at that time. "The Best of Times" has proven to be prophetic to our current times. "Snowblind", "Rockin' The Paradise", "The Best of Times", "Too Much Time On My Hands" from "Paradise Theatre" are great songs for a first time reaction. "Renegade", "Blue Collar Man", "Come Sail Away", "Crystal Ball", "Miss America", "Suite Madame Blue", "Castle Walls" are absolute musts as well. Congratulations on discovering Styx! Truly a great day!
Played the crap out of those albums being a 70's teenager. Still have them though the snap crackle and pop have taken its toll.Great post BTW!
Those are the 4 best Styx albums, I agree. I also liked 3 of the 4 Wooden Nickel releases, but the production level wasn't as good.
This album came out in 1977. I was in high school at the time. The songs and sounds and the singing was unique to only Styx at that time.
It was an extremely high selling album (needless to say).
You _HAVE_ to do "Castle Walls" and/or "Queen of Spades". Speaking of Queen, you should do "It's Late" by Queen. It"s their 2nd best song (behind Bohemian Rhapsody, of course).
Not sure if "It's Late" is Queen's second best song, but it is the one song that almost every Queen fan has at the top of their deep cuts list.
@@DonaldMains I should've included the caveat, IMO.😉 TBH, every song, up until the Jazz album, would be on the list. A Queen's greatest hits album, to me, is redundant.
Totally agree. Queen is remarkable in their consistency. Not a big a fan as others are of Queen I, it's a little too hard rock , and a little less melodic, than I tend to enjoy. But everything from Queen II through News of the World is top rate. @@taylortyler1867
First saw Styx at Winterland in SF around this time, and my female roommate and I were literally resting our arms on the stage. Styx knows how to give a show. Keyboardist Dennis DeYoung sang Come Sail Away with a swashbuckling rapier that at one point he put it into the stage floor just inside my friend’s elbow and sang to her. She was a photographic beauty (kinda like Alexia) so it was an understandable choice. Great reaction. You have heard at least a couple of their songs. You’ll get to them eventually. Cheers!
First album I ever bought, way back in 1978. Wow, I’m old…lol. I’m getting goose bumps listening to this. Memories
This was my first rock album as well. It was my introduction to rock really as my parents had only let me listen to Christian music and some benign pop music like John Denver etc.
Blew my mind.
I was also reading Tolkien and LOTR at the time (1978) and now this album is always intertwined with that in my head.
Great rock band from the 70's-80's. They had so many great songs such as "Lady", "Lorelei", "Suite Madame Blue", "Come Sail Away", "Renegade", "Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)", "Babe", "The Best of Times", "Too Much Time On My Hands", "Mr. Roboto", "Show Me The Way", "Don't Let It End" etc.
Mr Roboto? Really?
@@patrickarts9091 I enjoy Mr. Roboto. I know I shouldn't, but I do.
@@patrickarts9091 Yes, I like it. It is quirky.
You lost me at "Mr. Roboto". Even the band hated that one.
They are still touring with new music like "Gone, Gone Gone". They have several albums after the 1980s.
This whole album is awesome. I still have the original in good shape. Takes me back to my teens. So much more to come with Styx. I hope you are well/.Thanks guys 🤘😎👍🟥🍁🟥🕊🎵🦋🌿
This song goes great playing with Castle Walls .. easy to find both played live back to back. I believe Tommy wrote this song about his brother going through a tough time after he came back from serving in Viet Nam. Thank you for this reaction
You have been missing out if you don't know Styx. This band should be in the Rock Hall of Fame.
You stumbled upon a rock cornerstone. Styx used every bit of the production process at the time to carefully construct this masterpiece. The talent of every member is on bold display.
Great suggestion Ray 👏👏👏 great reaction guys THANK YOU so much as always ☺️ we love ya!
"Just Remember That, It's A Grand Illusion, and deep inside We're All the Same" I do miss that Concert T Shirt, and the "Point Of Know Return" Kansa T Shirt. Both Great Bands
Great song on a great album. Saw them in concert in Seattle when they were at the top. They sounded every bit as good as good live, as their records. One of the Best Bands of the mid to late 70s.
Once again, I’m happy to see you guys react to the music of my youth!! If you want hear Styx in their beginning success, start with the album Styx II from 1973. Their first hit was “Lady” but other tunes like “ You Need Love”, “A Day”, “You Better Ask” are awesome as well!!
Styx ll - [2] is a great album and totally different music. A different vocalist as well. The track "A Day" is without doubt the standout track.
Yeah, nobody that I know of listens or reacts to "A Day" but I really like it and think you two will too. Definitely a deep cut. "Born for Adventure" is another lesser known fun one. And "Castke Walls" is another good one off the album you just listened to, in fact it's the song right before or after "Man..."
@@jimled50jl49 I believe John Curulewski wrote and sang “A Day” which happens to be one of my favorite Styx tunes ever.
@@ScottKornfeld Thanks, I thought no one was going to mention Castle Walls. That is one of my favs.
"A Day" is my favorite Styx song. So good. Styx II is such a fantastic album.
My favorite group for several years back in the day. I’d recommend Suite Madame Blue and Come Sail Away as well as The Grand Illusion. It’s a shame the co lead singers split the band years ago but Tommy wanted to Rock and Dennis wanted to put on a Show…..
Great reaction y’all!! I loved STYX!!! I had a big crush on Tommy Shaw back in the 70’s! I played these albums till they were bald!! Person below listed lots of good ones!! Looking forward to some more!! Be well and God bless, y’all… from Texas!!
Miss America on this album rocks!
People say this all the time about lots of albums... but this album is, without question, a front-to-backer... every song has value. Wait til you hear “Fooling Yourself”. Anyway, the whole record is greatness.
Yes, this is a deep cut.
This was the one album that no one would lend to anyone, because they would never get it back. I met one of my best friends at a Styx / Aerosmith concert in Philadelphia. It was during the Grand Illusion tour featuring this song. Heart pounding rock extravaganza. Pretty heavy stuff for a 17 yer old.
Mega virtuosos, exelente banda!!!
All keyboards Nick, no Flutes. I just saw Styx in Nashville TN. Sunday night 1/9/22. They blew the roof off the place! This was my 5th Styx concert. Have a great day!!
I was a long haired hippie from Colorado who went to college in Florida. My roommate talked me into seeing Styx for their Grand Illusion Tour. Never heard them before but I was an instant fanboy after that show! They were sooo tight, and man! What a show!
i am realy glad you like my favoeit band ..now listen to if you have not heard ..styx ..song called ..sweet madam blue ..and lorelie
Jean Luc Ponty, Rush, ELP and a beautiful partner who loves this art
God I'm so envious
The Grand Illusion, You’re Fooling Yourself, Come Sail Away and Miss America were all hits off of this album.
My favorite from the album. You should see this live. Tommy's voice is still incredible and their drummer (now), Todd, is one of the best out there today. Styx was my first concert in 1983.
Styx is still touring and they often do this song. They sound the same. Very energetic band live. A lot of good songs to check out : Renegade, Blue Collar Man, Suite Madame Blue, etc. Plus they have recently put out new music the last couple of years.
Just saw them in concert at The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville last week! Great show. I was a teen in the 70’s, so this was the music I grew up with.
Great “deep cut” from them One of my favs Great band!!! Two great lead singers and vocals
Man in the Wilderness is Solid. Great Styx Classic.
2 song live version man in the wilderness and castle walls. its a must hear,, gotta do it. you will be blown away. please do it
Styx has alot of great songs. I would call them just classic rock-n-roll. They have alot of high-energy songs with great guitar solos, and they also have alot of soft ballads. I'm a fan. My favorites are "Blue Collar Man", "Renegade", and "Come Sail Away".
Crystal Ball is a beautiful ballad. Anything off the album “Pieces if Eight” is gold as well. Deep cut “I’m OK” is a fav of mine from PO8 . Nick that flutish mimic Is DeYoung on keys. Also sings leads in songs. Tommy Shaw sang lead on that one. Styx is classic American rock band from the 70s - -present. They still tour as far as I know. Of course 70s so much better than later stuff. Wow guys you need to do a few more of their catalogue.
Man in the Wilderness is definitely a deep cut. I have this album and I didn't even remember this song until almost halfway through 😱
Shame
Come on, man, it's such a great song! There are no bad songs on the album.
Styx is a great band for you guys to explore, three'e right up your alley. Their music is complex like Rush and Yes just not as proggy. Come sail away, Blue collar man, Renegade, and Suite Madame Blue are all great songs that you definitely enjoy.
Wow. That's quite a choice for a first dive into Styx (no pun intended). I mean, it's a top 5 Styx song for me, but was never a hit. Usually people start with Come Sail Away, Renegade, or Fooling Yourself. Well done!
Styx had three main songwriters and singers. This was Tommy Shaw. The others were Dennis DeYoung and James Young. Have fun with this band! They were my first favorite band as a youth before I got into YES. An awesome and very prolific catalog. In fact, they are still recording and touring (without Dennis). Their new album last year "Crash Of The Crown" is incredible.
The last time I saw Styx in concert, they were with Kansas, and REO Speedwagon. Great show! Great rabbit hole 🕳 🐇 to dive into.
Come sail away is to me the best track on this album
This is the best song by STYX. Loved this album the first time I heard it in '77. Great video! 👍
Composer:
Tommy Shaw
Lyricist:
Tommy Shaw
Lead Vocals:
Tommy Shaw
Acoustic Guitar:
Tommy Shaw
12 String Guitar:
Tommy Shaw
Bass Guitar:
Chuck Panozzo
Percussion:
John Panozzo
Keyboard:
Dennis DeYoung
Synthesizer:
Dennis DeYoung
Engineers:
Rob Kingsland,
Barry Mraz
There is no flute, they are synths played by Dennis De Young who is also the main singer. This song was sung by Tommy Shaw one of the guitarrists. You should react to "Come Sail Away" from this same album. Saludos desde Costa Rica.
You're right, no flute on this. Keyboards by D.DeYoung. Saw them live in the late 70's in Montreal, Canada. Great performance.
Yes, Dennis with the great synth fills in the background!
The Styx name continues (at least until the 2000’s when I finally saw them - way after their their initial fame). Great reaction. Thanks for the request. ✨🤪
They released a new album just last year, as well.
This song was written by singer/guitarplayer Tommy Shaw after having seen Kansas live and the song is clearly modelled after their songs.
Styx toured with Kansas in 1976, and it was during this time Tommy Shaw was inspired to write ‘Man In The Wilderness’.
"Castle Walls" by this band is a must. Your connection to "Boston" and "Kansas" is right on. This trio of bands were the soundtrack to countless keg parties for us back in the 70's. But as far as "Styx" goes, their first three albums are so good. All killer, no filler. Start with "Crystal Ball" album.
Rockin’ the Paradise, Lady, Renegade, Best of times, The Grand illusion…. Styx can be REALLY DEEP rabbit hole
Saw them in indy in 75, so many good songs.
At last you have found what the rest of the World has known for decades STYX a super group who are still going strong. Saw them for the umpteenth time Nov 2019 just before Covid stopped every thing. They have so many albums, hits, songs it would be impossible to say try this or try that. You will have fun discovering them. Good Luck
Ok, try this song from way back by " Its a Beautiful day " titled " White Bird"
The harmonies, the strings, power of the story calls out to be played.
You won't regret it.
My favorite Styx songs are Babe, Lady, Come Sail Away, Best Of Times and Mr. Roboto 🙏🏽✌🏽❤️
Dennis DeYoung one of the best voices of the 70s and 80s. Check out Styx album “Pieces of Eight” songs Renegade and Blue Collar Man.
I wore this album out in my teen years .lol
Me too. Love this.
Shocked you haven't heard any Styx. A great rock group that has been around since the 70's and still fills the house today. IMHO their earlier work including this record was their best. They have had only small changes in the band, particularly bring in Lawrence Gowan on vocals and keyboards giving them an edgier sound. More Styx Please!
My favorite track on my favorite Styx album. The catalogue is deep, you've only just begun!
Tommy Shaw (who wrote and sings this song) said they had toured with Kansas prior to writing for this album, and they inspired him to write Rock n' Roll in a more progressive style. That flute was Dennis DeYoung on the keyboard.
a great band from the same area which brought us other great bands like Starship, Journey, Loverboy, REO Speedwagon, Kansas, Rainbow and so many others even female fronted rock bands like heart. These bands had something in common... they're very listenable, they were relatable, they had great lyrics/ messages... heart and soul
This brings back memories. Styx has a lot of good tunes and I remember that they put on a really good concert. Thanks for the walk down memory lane and Lex A+ on the earring game tonight. Have a great weekend everyone!
Well don't disappear Raider Fan! We hope they come back Saturday and Sunday to surprise us with some more tunes ;).
Btw - That Raider game with The Chargers was IN-SANE!
A time when you could identify a band just by their sound. Each unique in their own way.
“Come Sail Away” was their epic hit from this album……
What a great song to be introduced to Styx!!
Stix ,, eres de los pocos que conozco en mi círculo de amistades q conoce y le late la música de stix,,, i feel proud about it
I knew of Styx at the time, but only by the bits I'd heard on the radio. When this album came out I had a cousin come to visit and he forced me to stay up really late (when all I wanted was to get some sleep) and listen to this whole album and I went out and bought my own copy the next day. This album was HUGE for forming/modifying my taste in music.
Their new album Crash Of The Crown is another essential masterpiece.
When I was 15 I'd to sit in the basement and crank this through my band's PA. The entire album just reached out and grabbed me. I recently got back into vinyl and this is one of the first albums I bought.
As a Styx fanatic for nearly 50 years, I am confident you'll really enjoy reacting to the sheer diversity (mostly great, some not so) of this band in future posts. Nick, right near the end of the video, you mentioned getting into some "weird stuff." Well, if you can get a hold of their first four Wooden Nickel albums (Styx, Styx II, Serpent is Rising, and Man of Miracles, before they signed with A&M and found their 70's identity) you'll find their weird, almost Prog Rock stuff, which I enjoy to this day ("Lady" from Styx II was their only successful single from those early days). Dennis DeYoung tried to take them into theatrical, bubble-gum pop, and the core of the band revolted, in the mid 80's.
Cool reaction! Thanks again, Nick N Lex. Since I'm "old" now I first had this album on vinyl. I always thought the click at the beginning of this song was a scratch on my record until I bought a CD and it was there, as well. Just part of the song. Styx and Kansas were considered by some to be American "prog-lite." I definitely enjoyed them for their prog elements, making them stand out from other rock groups. Styx was based in Chicago. Tommy Shaw (lead singer on "Man In The Wilderness") joined them for the "Crystal Ball" album in the mid 70's. Their most successful phase soon followed. Most of their lead vocals were divided between Tommy Shaw and Dennis DeYoung, with James Young getting one or two songs an album. Tommy was more of a rocker and Dennis sang most of their huge ballads. James Young rocked out as well.
Like Steely Dan, thinking you didn't know any songs then realizing you have heard them, you probably have heard or heard of the Styx song Mr. Roboto
You guys should check out
STRAWBS
Album - recollections
Song- where is this dream of your youth
Early Rick Wakeman (YES) on keyboards
Hero & Heroine - best Strawbs song ever
Been a Styx fan ever since I heard Lady on the radio. They're still sounding good these days. 1st time I got to see them was in 78. Grand Illusion tour. Next time was 2011. Lol, Tommy Shaw didn't look any older, but I did.
What a great band. The backtrack of my youth and my entry band into progressive rock (yes, Styx is a mild or entry prog band). Too many great tracks to list. Have fun discovering them.
The Grand Illusion album came out in 1977; I was lucky to have seen them live about half a dozen times.Check out the title track, very proggy !!!!
I play this track every year on my birthday
This album was our graduation theme 1978. Still one of my favorites.
Another GREAT Chicago band. Very deep rabbit hole, so you better get started.