It wasn’t what I expected the day it came out. I was in a dark dark head space the day it came out and it saved my life. I don’t say that as any symbolism or anything other than absolute truth. Tom has done some personal music before talking about his struggles but this was something so different & exactly what I needed that day. This has been the hardest year of my life & I was just ready to be done. I was writing instructions for family when I got a ding and it was Tom’s video. So as I got to the chorus about the second time I was sobbing. Tom’s music is always going to be one to start a conversation and it’s never about what me, you, or anyone else likes or doesn’t. His music always has a message. I have so much respect for what he does 100% independent & with 2 middle fingers up to labels. So this, for me, was more than just a Tom song. The chorus was something I closed my eyes and saw my daughter telling me, that I am a fighter. My favorite songs by Tom are still probably This House & I Don’t Care because it shows his real talent as a rapper and lyricist. Then maybe Dont Look Down. Any artist who starts conversations especially tough ones I admire. I don’t like the label controlled mainstream regurgitated music. Any way yeah this song saved me maybe long term but for sure that day.
You are a fighter! I'm a HOG Family member and understand pain. Addiction, abuse, fear and loathing. YOU keep fighting please! We are here for a reason. I really believe this. God Bless you and keep you in his heart. ❤✌
I’m happy this song came to you in the way it did on that day… I’ve been there too but a long time ago, and I understand what it’s like. I was of the mind that my family would be better without me for a number of reasons, but it is the opposite… and I had family and a mentor that helped pulled me out of that type of thought process. And that is true for you too… if I may, please keep the other people in your life at the front of your mind in those rough those moments, because they need you and want you, even if it doesn’t seem like it in the moment (I only say this to you because I’ve been through it, and I don’t think I need to know the specifics to understand what worked for me can work for you too). I had a realization after talking it out with a good friend that the way I was thinking was self-centered and I could only process what I was going through, not others… and as soon as put myself in my mom’s shoes and thought of what she would feel if I removed myself I immediately cast out those thoughts of suicide. So please, understand that you are NOT alone in what you deal with and it will always be better to bear the heavy weight and move forward, even in the smallest ways, with one or even a couple people for support. If you don’t have someone, find someone, any one… that you can trust. If you were at the point of writing instructions, I’m speaking from experience here, I highly recommend finding a counselor or someone you can speak to, even at a church (if you don’t believe, that’s okay, you don’t have to to ask for help :) ) there’s nothing wrong with processing those thoughts out loud. Regardless of what you believe, know that I pray the best for you 🙏🏻 With care, A stranger in a RUclips comment section :)
A lot of people are struggling right now. Coming out of two years of dealing with rona, struggling to just make ends meet and this song is just inspirational. If a person is going through a hard time, no matter the reason; it could be cancer, it could be anything, then I think this song can lift you up. You basically nailed it Van; the world needs a little more hope and positivity and I 'believe' Tom brought it in this one. Anybody hating on this song is just a hater imo. #HOG
Tom does his choruses as if they will be an anthem at a concert. Nova talked Tom into leaping about in the church at the end to lighten the mood of the song. Tom has done a few uplifting songs like this, Castles, Sober, Angels which you've reacted to and more on his CDs, but people only remember the 'controversial' ones. Been watching your personal journey for a few years now, all the best to you. #HOG UK here for it
I have watched your Tom Macdonald list back in May when I found your channel. You have come a long way of becoming a free thinker over the last year. I have enjoyed watching how much you have changed and became informed and done your own research. I believe if you would just now start watching and listening to Tom you would have a different initial response. Much Love #HOG
I watched him grow up as well. He use to worry about getting kicked out of the cook out for watching fox news. He's come a long way. Glad to have been a part of that.
I love Tom's choruses. He has a pop/rock sensibility that infuses his hooks. They're like ear candy to me. And he's proven time and again that he doesn't have to stay in one lane with his sound or messages. He's raw and real, and has a way of connecting with people that other mainstream artists can even come close to. #HOG
Quite a few people don't like his hooks. I like them. That slow down and pause of the hooks give a moment for folks to catch up, absorb, reflect, and apply the hook messages to themselves or a friend or loved one, if applicable. One of my favs (there are many) is Castles. Play it through a couple of times if you haven't already. .
I would love to see you react to yourself reacting to an old Tom song. One from back before your journey to see if you feel different now! It would fun!!!!
Yes, I was thinking the exact same thing today, just to see if there's possibly something that he agrees with since he's seen something now, maybe he didn't then. I love watching your reactions to everything in the past and present. There's definitely things I didn't know or even catch when it was going on. I gotta get some of your merch.. #HOG
I get where you're coming from. Here's what I think about the hooks and why I appreciate them... they are anthem-like and easy to learn and sing. I imagine it would be great singing them with the crowd at a concert and it would sound really good. Thousands if people trying to rap the verses probably would not lol. But his choruses would be a good way to bring the crowd together.
When this song dropped, I was in a bad place with teaching. Asking myself what to do, should I stay, pursue other things. When I thought about the other things, I felt like again....really...I am going to reinvent myself again at almost 50. I have fought all my life, whether that is surviving childhood and healing that, a bad marriage, etc.... I felt like teaching had brought stability in my life and it was falling apart. The day this song dropped, I was like do I leave teaching because to be honest teaching right now is not just hard; it is crushing my spirit. This song reminded me that I was a fighter and that I did not have to stay in a place that hurts. There are so many things that I have wanted to do through creativity...this song reminded me how I have fought and will once again fight for myself.
Yas lawd ..He is Frolicking in da church...made my day to see someone expressing their excitement No Matter Where u are or who is around. Go on witchur goofy ass, hun. Still listening to the VanMan...u never let me down, dude.🤘🤯
Tom MacDonald is the epitome of growing in his music and his life. His early stuff seemed forced and trying to figure out who he was. He seemed like he was following the crowd at a distance but doing his best to be different. Then you can see his growth and separation from the crowd becoming his own person and finding a way to be better and positively impactful on his followers. I pray he continues to grow and that he finds God in his journey. He’s amazing now but with God he can truly change the world.
I'm a 60something year old and have never been a rap fan, but I listen to lyrics of all genres. Recently found this artist and his songs have inspired soooo many, in a positive way, from the younger generations. And that, in my book, makes me respect any artist.
I really love this song and the uplifting feeling it gives me. It gives me hope that I can keep the monkeys off my back and continue to work towards a better future. Van, Tom Macdonald, and Reaction Therapy have helped to shape my mind for the better. I've been in recovery for 6 years now and outworking my yesterdays even more so now than ever b/c of people like you doing what you do. Much love to Van and the whole LFR Family!🙂
@@why-now Gotta keep hope, keep your head up, and keep outworking those yesterdays. Even tho there are bad times in our lives we have to analyze that knowledge to create a better future. I'm glad for my scars b/c it shows me where I was in my life and can see how much better I am doing in the present. Much love
We all feel inadequate sometimes, not good enough, not smart enough, not attractive enough, not talented enough, whatever, but we are perfect as we are.
" best rapper ever" is my favorite, all aspects of it! " The System" another good one. He has so many good ones. Nova is a cut above the rest indeed. Take great care Van 😊✌️
There's a difference between a person telling themselves I'm perfect I don't need to grow or strive to be better and what Tom is doing. Tom is taking a position of a friend trying to lift up a friend when they are down and motivate them to keep going. There's nothing wrong with telling a person their base model of themselves are perfect. That doesn't take away growth. Maybe someone is insecure about the freckles on their face, maybe no matter how hard they try they're always going to be clumsy, or socially awkward etc.
I liked it. I think his chorus was meant to be motivation. (Officer Tatum had him on and was talking to him about chorus and Tom was like ok but I like it) Thanks Van
I am a Recovering Addict. I have been sober since 9/10/06. In the 12 step program of AA we are taught that we can't keep our sobriety is we do help another Addict/ Alcoholic to get sober. Most addicts I know and myself included, we think we are not worthy of love. We are broken people inside. But there is a better way of life. People need to hear that they are worthy of God's love. To me that's what this song is about. I also appreciate how he keeps his fans on their toes.. We never know what he is going to put out next. I think this was a great change of pace. Thank you for your content Van. Keep up the great work. ❤✌❤
Thank you for reacting to his songs.. Tom wanted to keep this video serious, but Nova wanted him to do the jumping and stuff. I think him referring to "you're perfect the way you are:" is someone who's gotten clean to keep fighting bc the way they are now, they feel differently than before they're perfect but my perception could be completely wrong. I like the way he goes into the chorus, but that's my opinion, and to respectively have different opinions the way everyone should feel, maybe we'll get back there again one day. 🙏🙏 #HOG 4-EVA 🤙 ♥️
Lord, I lift Tom McDonald up to you. I feel the Holy Spirit is dealing with him personally. We pray for the Hope you sent us…Jesus Christ. Thank you for using him. I also lift up this country. For YOU alone are worthy to be praised. In all things allow truth to be revealed, and allow truth to heal. I pray this in the name of Jesus. We love you Tom.
My gf is over 3 years sober (heroin), and I'm her biggest fan and cheerleader this song is perfect for people that struggle with addiction of any type. Much love HOG
I have been watching your shorts! I loved the one about the woman talking about Transgender women not being a woman! Everyone has their own views. No need for Hate! This song is for ANYONE going through ANYTHING! My sister is 33 years old, never been married, or had children, and found out she had ovarian cancer. she had to have a FULL hysterectomy, and then do 10 months of chemo after she had surgery. She loved this song!
Tom is awesome not only because he's talented and forthright but if you ever listen to his interviews and video chats, he is super intelligent, amazingly open and seriously kind. I'm a huge fan.
I can see how it can be confusing, I kinda thought the same thing at first but then realized it's probably meant that you don't need drugs, alcohol, instagram, etc because you're perfect the way you are without all that stuff. (FYI: the word "you" is meant in a general term, not a one person.)
My favorite songs from Tom MacDonald are the songs that aren't politically charged even though I usually like those songs too. He has great songs of encouragement whether it is about addiction, illness or plain struggles of life. Also Tom MacDonald's songs led me to your music reactions and now all of your reactions. Makes my life better.
OK when he says you’re perfect the way you are he’s not saying you’re legit perfect but more saying that where you are in life, as long as you fought tooth and nail to be where you are then your doing fine and keep pushing. that line speaks to people who don’t feel that their anywhere close to perfect or they feel like their garbage or don’t feel like their worth anything. To this day I still struggle with finding my self worth but I know it’s there due to the actions and words of those closest to me so I thank both Tom and god for making this song. #HOG4life
It's on my repeat 3 times, but when your struggling with your mind it is so strong, you do fight with it and it is good to hear someone seeing and noticing that they need HELP even in a song 🎵 ♥️ ❤️ lyrics are an amazing thing.......hog forever❤️🩹 your perfect just the way you ARE VAN ❤️
The first verse got me. Same steps. Now I'm sober. But it costed me everything. I'm now homeless sleeping in my truck. If gods giving me a sign then I missed it. It's been 2 years.
@@lindabaker4817 I appreciate the words. But the fact is nobody actually cares about another homeless person. It's just the way it is. There's been no progress. Probably won't. This is my prison without commiting a crime. It probably carries a death sentence.
I love this song. It's one of the very few that has brought me to tears and made me laugh at the same time. "I think your perfect the way that you are" is a great line -- yes, even for those that are drunk or do drugs, because that is NOT who you are. People need to find who they truly are inside, and to learn to love who you are. For some, they need to fight for their own lives, as Tom has done. For me, I never struggled with addiction, never suffered from depression, but last year I lost my brother and my mom within a few months of each other. My whole world was turned upside down, and I am still struggling to get through it. This song reminds me to be strong, and that I will get through it. I think we all struggle at times in our lives. It helps to hear words like the ones in this song, because it helps you feel strong to face whatever challenges you are going through.
Actually think you are right. His music has different meanings for different people. When this song came out I was in a low spot. It has inspired me to search for the answers I seek. Doing it my way instead of everyone else's way. I liked your take on this song and thankyou.
My sister turned me on to Tom McDonald. I am not a big fan of his music, but I love his attempt at messaging. In my faith, Orthodox Christianity, we have a story of the Drunken Monk. This monk was always given the responsibility of greeting worshipers to Liturgy at the Monastery. He was always so happy to greet everyone coming into the monastery and he was much loved by everyone. This monk knew his drinking was a problem for him so he gave up two drinks a year during Holy Week. I think this Monks drinking dwindled to nine drinks a day and at his last Pascha he passed away. One of the monks at the monastery saw this happen and ran to the Abbot to tell him about it. The Abbot said, he saw the angels taking the drunken monk to heaven and may his memory be eternal.
With "I think you are perfect the way that you are" is probably meant as a encouragement not to look down on yourself because you are addicted to something, I can only guess people maybe do.
2 albums dropped on 11-18. Tom does a lot of inspirational songs... Angels, Castles, Cancer ... You should check out some of Tom's Spoken Word series as well. Tom writes about whatever is on his mind. #HangoverGangFam4ever 💕💕💕
I actually found you because of Tom. And true HOG FAM don't judge others opinions. Tom has said before he doesn't need ev1 to agree with everything, he just wants to start conversations. As for "perfect the way you are" line... Well we know holiday season is the time when suicide rates spike. I think Tom just wants people to hold on. He speaks about working on his own issues , so I doubt he would tell anyone they have nothing to work on. But right now he just needs them to survive. All love.
The line about being "perfect the way that you are" has to do with something along the lines of: everything you need to overcome was created inside of you before you were born, you just need to reach inside to find it. You were created perfect, then life covers your perfection with trauma, hardships, etc. As an adult, it's our job to whittle away the "world" covering ourselves to find the God given perfection within. Maybe. Something.
We💕TMacD and Nova art in lyrical and visual format.🎨🖌 we feel you...Get sone rest T. You deserve it. Thanks for all y'all gettn it done in thesehere utube'streets! #Salute to our'LFRFam!💓
I feel like the hard break with the chorus blends well with the way he starts and finishes fast. Makes it easier to process without changing the actual sections for me.
He always drops on a Friday it's what he does..And what he does with his music is 100 % intentional. HE IS SPEAKING TRUTHS !!!! THEY ARE GREAT TOGETHER.!!!
Very Encouraging! Absolutely Love and needed this one! Thanks ❤️ Much Love! #Hangovergang #Nova Rockafeller #Brandon Hart #Evan Morgan #Creeksquad #Tom MacDonald #Fighter
Van I love his hooks and I think they sound and flow just find. So we agree to disagree. 2 albums are out Renegade and The Revolution. His political songs are only a very small part of his catalog. Have you done If I Change ? It is extremely deep and it was when he changing from trying to mainstream music to all the stuff he is doing now. Toms music is not just about the beat but its about his message. Tom songs have saved peoples lives for real. I have never ever seen another artist care about his fans the way he does except maybe Upchurch. This song was made not only to help Tom but to whoever needed to hear this message. I know I needed it. Anyway, maybe someday we can agree on the chorus thing but I still love ya♥️ Hope you are having a great day. Much love. #HOG4LIFE
Dang. I thought you quit Tom MacDonald reactions a long long time ago, but I just stumbled on you reacting to this and Ghost. I don't remember seeing either of these in my subscriptions area.
"I think your perfect the way that you are" reminds me of Come as you are to God. You don't have to get yourself perfect first, you can be just who and the way you are with the flaws (God made you perfect) and believe in yourself and take yourself to God. I don't know if he means that, that's just what I think of. I love all Tom's music and I love how different his songs are. He has a way of bringing out some emotion negative or positive inside you and I love that. That's talent to me and the fact that he uses his talent to wake up the world and to try and help people find their way is just super special. #HOG4Ever ✌️❤️ If you ever feel alone just listen to Tom's music and you'll know you're NOT the only one!
"You don't think that you're worth it, but I think that you are, and I think you're perfect, the way that you are"... The way I heard it- most people take drugs or drink because they aren't happy with who they are, him saying you're perfect isn't keep doing what you're doing, but instead he's saying - You are perfect, you don't need ..........
I think the main thing about him saying "You're perfect the way you are" is that you don't need drugs or alcohol to make you cool. I mostly like more complicated music, but I appreciate that he's independent and that he puts so much heart into what he does. I would adore if Nova could do like Within Temptation so that they eventually have something a little like that song she did featuring Xzibit And We Run. ( which you should react to sometime if you can. You may have to bleep out the one instance of him using mf er for youtube.) He has 2 albums out, actually. I'm super proud of him. Will you also do Timcast's song Genocide (Losing My Mind) ? It's not gory. He's mostly poking fun at the Legacy media. I thought he imitated Tucker and some other pundits really well and the chiron scrolling at the bottom is funny. Thanks, love ya :)
Even though I love this song, I agree with your take on the "you're perfect the way that you are" line. The moment I first heard it, my thought was "um...no, we're not perfect. Not even close" The only perfect being is Christ, our Lord and Savior. Everyone else needs to strive everyday to be the perfection that is Christ. No one will ever achieve that perfection, but He wants you to keep trying to. And the closer you get, THAT is when your life becomes the beautiful life He wants for you. But you all are FIGHTERS, and you can fight successfully to overcome whatever is holding you down.
Van, please check out a young man named Latham Warlick. I was introduced to him by Granger Smith (Country artist) on the song called “That’s Why I Love Dirt Roads” They did a remix to include Latham. The video including Latham is beautiful! How the world should be all the time not just when we are kids.
"Perfect the way you are" is in the eye of the beholder. If one wants to stay in a cess pit, this is not a good theme. But I think this is building from the self depradation described. Not elegant but it works.
Take the song in context LFR....don't single out a line and make it negative. The whole message is of the song is to remember each person has value and is worth the skin God has given them. He makes it clear that the road of drug abuse and alcohol didn't do anything good for him, thats what he's saying. God loves us just the way we are BUT He also loves us so much that He won't leave us that way. He's gentle and patient working with us in our infirmities but He's not gonna just sit down on the sidewalk wallow with us in self pity that's leading to our destruction. God's love is a perfecting love, not a pampering love! I think this song is well done!
One of the last things you talked about, was awesome to hear. Let's have conversations and be able to agree to disagree on some issues. I have never hated another Human Amearican for their opinion or belief. I know what I have been through, I love to learn what others have gone thourgh, we all have more similarities than oppositions. Great reaction, see you on the next one.
In this video TMcDonald is playing two parts: 1) Himself and his life struggles 2) A Preacher holding the gospel "Jesus Believes you are Perfect" for we were made in the image of GOD and God hand is always there for us to grab hold of. I love the story and lyrics in this video. Only difference 'We are not to believe in one's self" rather the LORD JESUS CHRIST Amen
Van, that's not was he's saying, bro. He still fights feeling not being worthy. He doesn't feel he is special inside. He's saying don't give up and change who you really are. Be yourself. He's talking about you being strong enough to fight to be better. You're a winner. Not a loser. Keep trying. He has faith in us. We are the ones who understand his message. #hangovergang
As a fan of Tom I appreciate the honest critique. My personal take on the whole "being perfect the way you are" is preceeded by the verse saying "i know you're a fighter." It's a song about not judging yourself too harshly for your present while taking steps forward. But no hate if we disagree. I still love your content and value your take on things. Peace brother.
Tom's hooks are very anthem-like and catchy.... not everyones cup of tea, but at the very least not a bad marketing tool for an independent artist. They also offer some pretty good one liners when used in the right conversations (all credit given obviously)
Hi Van. Been through it myself! The frolicking in the church I used to go to, you didn't dare do much more than sit up and you didn't do anything-hard shell so. Baptist. :) Even though I am not white, I'm neon, I always enjoyed going to black churches, they 'feel it'!!
It wasn’t what I expected the day it came out. I was in a dark dark head space the day it came out and it saved my life. I don’t say that as any symbolism or anything other than absolute truth. Tom has done some personal music before talking about his struggles but this was something so different & exactly what I needed that day. This has been the hardest year of my life & I was just ready to be done. I was writing instructions for family when I got a ding and it was Tom’s video. So as I got to the chorus about the second time I was sobbing. Tom’s music is always going to be one to start a conversation and it’s never about what me, you, or anyone else likes or doesn’t. His music always has a message. I have so much respect for what he does 100% independent & with 2 middle
fingers up to labels. So this, for me, was more than just a Tom song. The chorus was something I closed my eyes and saw my daughter telling me, that I am a fighter.
My favorite songs by Tom are still probably This House & I Don’t Care because it shows his real talent as a rapper and lyricist. Then maybe Dont Look Down. Any artist who starts conversations especially tough ones I admire. I don’t like the label controlled mainstream regurgitated music.
Any way yeah this song saved me maybe long term but for sure that day.
Keep up the fight. ❤
You are a fighter! I'm a HOG Family member and understand pain. Addiction, abuse, fear and loathing. YOU keep fighting please! We are here for a reason. I really believe this. God Bless you and keep you in his heart. ❤✌
Glad you are still with us. Keep pushing.
I’m happy this song came to you in the way it did on that day… I’ve been there too but a long time ago, and I understand what it’s like. I was of the mind that my family would be better without me for a number of reasons, but it is the opposite… and I had family and a mentor that helped pulled me out of that type of thought process.
And that is true for you too… if I may, please keep the other people in your life at the front of your mind in those rough those moments, because they need you and want you, even if it doesn’t seem like it in the moment (I only say this to you because I’ve been through it, and I don’t think I need to know the specifics to understand what worked for me can work for you too).
I had a realization after talking it out with a good friend that the way I was thinking was self-centered and I could only process what I was going through, not others… and as soon as put myself in my mom’s shoes and thought of what she would feel if I removed myself I immediately cast out those thoughts of suicide. So please, understand that you are NOT alone in what you deal with and it will always be better to bear the heavy weight and move forward, even in the smallest ways, with one or even a couple people for support.
If you don’t have someone, find someone, any one… that you can trust. If you were at the point of writing instructions, I’m speaking from experience here, I highly recommend finding a counselor or someone you can speak to, even at a church (if you don’t believe, that’s okay, you don’t have to to ask for help :) ) there’s nothing wrong with processing those thoughts out loud. Regardless of what you believe, know that I pray the best for you 🙏🏻
With care,
A stranger in a RUclips comment section :)
Not trying to sell you on buying the physical albums but he has a song on the new album renegade called save a life which is a whole level above this.
A lot of people are struggling right now. Coming out of two years of dealing with rona, struggling to just make ends meet and this song is just inspirational. If a person is going through a hard time, no matter the reason; it could be cancer, it could be anything, then I think this song can lift you up.
You basically nailed it Van; the world needs a little more hope and positivity and I 'believe' Tom brought it in this one. Anybody hating on this song is just a hater imo.
#HOG
Tom has fans all over the world.. supporting him from 🇫🇮
❤✌
Wow... that's awesome
Tom does his choruses as if they will be an anthem at a concert. Nova talked Tom into leaping about in the church at the end to lighten the mood of the song.
Tom has done a few uplifting songs like this, Castles, Sober, Angels which you've reacted to and more on his CDs, but people only remember the 'controversial' ones.
Been watching your personal journey for a few years now, all the best to you. #HOG UK here for it
I have watched your Tom Macdonald list back in May when I found your channel. You have come a long way of becoming a free thinker over the last year. I have enjoyed watching how much you have changed and became informed and done your own research. I believe if you would just now start watching and listening to Tom you would have a different initial response. Much Love #HOG
I watched him grow up as well. He use to worry about getting kicked out of the cook out for watching fox news. He's come a long way. Glad to have been a part of that.
I love Tom's choruses. He has a pop/rock sensibility that infuses his hooks. They're like ear candy to me. And he's proven time and again that he doesn't have to stay in one lane with his sound or messages. He's raw and real, and has a way of connecting with people that other mainstream artists can even come close to. #HOG
I also love them. Even the ones I do not like at first.... After 2 or 3 times they always end up getting me and become really catchy for me.
I agree.
Quite a few people don't like his hooks. I like them. That slow down and pause of the hooks give a moment for folks to catch up, absorb, reflect, and apply the hook messages to themselves or a friend or loved one, if applicable. One of my favs (there are many) is Castles. Play it through a couple of times if you haven't already. .
Castles is my favorite
I would love to see you react to yourself reacting to an old Tom song. One from back before your journey to see if you feel different now! It would fun!!!!
Great idea!
Yes, I was thinking the exact same thing today, just to see if there's possibly something that he agrees with since he's seen something now, maybe he didn't then. I love watching your reactions to everything in the past and present. There's definitely things I didn't know or even catch when it was going on. I gotta get some of your merch.. #HOG
Yall stans are hilarious lol
He has gone thru all these things in this song. I guess the song is about him.
I love Tom's Music. He always has a strong message.
Yeh you have no idea
Tom's song "Cancer" is the most heart felt song I've listened to in years
I get where you're coming from. Here's what I think about the hooks and why I appreciate them... they are anthem-like and easy to learn and sing. I imagine it would be great singing them with the crowd at a concert and it would sound really good. Thousands if people trying to rap the verses probably would not lol. But his choruses would be a good way to bring the crowd together.
Agreed! He's obviously doing it right!
When this song dropped, I was in a bad place with teaching. Asking myself what to do, should I stay, pursue other things. When I thought about the other things, I felt like again....really...I am going to reinvent myself again at almost 50. I have fought all my life, whether that is surviving childhood and healing that, a bad marriage, etc.... I felt like teaching had brought stability in my life and it was falling apart. The day this song dropped, I was like do I leave teaching because to be honest teaching right now is not just hard; it is crushing my spirit. This song reminded me that I was a fighter and that I did not have to stay in a place that hurts. There are so many things that I have wanted to do through creativity...this song reminded me how I have fought and will once again fight for myself.
This one pulled at the heart strings.
Yas lawd ..He is Frolicking in da church...made my day to see someone expressing their excitement No Matter Where u are or who is around. Go on witchur goofy ass, hun. Still listening to the VanMan...u never let me down, dude.🤘🤯
Tom MacDonald is the epitome of growing in his music and his life. His early stuff seemed forced and trying to figure out who he was. He seemed like he was following the crowd at a distance but doing his best to be different. Then you can see his growth and separation from the crowd becoming his own person and finding a way to be better and positively impactful on his followers. I pray he continues to grow and that he finds God in his journey. He’s amazing now but with God he can truly change the world.
I'm a 60something year old and have never been a rap fan, but I listen to lyrics of all genres. Recently found this artist and his songs have inspired soooo many, in a positive way, from the younger generations. And that, in my book, makes me respect any artist.
Thats awesome. 99% of rap is garbage, but there are a few artists like Tom who actually speak truth and helps people. Have a good one!
I really love this song and the uplifting feeling it gives me. It gives me hope that I can keep the monkeys off my back and continue to work towards a better future. Van, Tom Macdonald, and Reaction Therapy have helped to shape my mind for the better. I've been in recovery for 6 years now and outworking my yesterdays even more so now than ever b/c of people like you doing what you do. Much love to Van and the whole LFR Family!🙂
I agree! Hope is what we need.
Tom's song was full of Musical hope for us and for himself.
I'm hopeful ❤✌
@@why-now Gotta keep hope, keep your head up, and keep outworking those yesterdays. Even tho there are bad times in our lives we have to analyze that knowledge to create a better future. I'm glad for my scars b/c it shows me where I was in my life and can see how much better I am doing in the present. Much love
Love Tom and Nova and the whole HOG family. I can't rap for beans, but I can join in the hook.
You a bot or dumb
Inspirational. There are many people who need encouragement.
This song revealed a beauty so many ppl just don't have eyes to see.
We all feel inadequate sometimes, not good enough, not smart enough, not attractive enough, not talented enough, whatever, but we are perfect as we are.
" best rapper ever" is my favorite, all aspects of it! " The System" another good one. He has so many good ones. Nova is a cut above the rest indeed. Take great care Van 😊✌️
I think his songs are genious. Great rap to catch the rappers. Choruses to catch the ”poppers”.🤔 The crowd can sing along on everyone of them.
There's a difference between a person telling themselves I'm perfect I don't need to grow or strive to be better and what Tom is doing. Tom is taking a position of a friend trying to lift up a friend when they are down and motivate them to keep going. There's nothing wrong with telling a person their base model of themselves are perfect. That doesn't take away growth. Maybe someone is insecure about the freckles on their face, maybe no matter how hard they try they're always going to be clumsy, or socially awkward etc.
I felt he was talking to us
But also thought he is talking to himself, sitting in the pew. Loved the song
❤✌
I liked it. I think his chorus was meant to be motivation. (Officer Tatum had him on and was talking to him about chorus and Tom was like ok but I like it) Thanks Van
I love this song for it’s very uplifting message!
I am a Recovering Addict. I have been sober since 9/10/06. In the 12 step program of AA we are taught that we can't keep our sobriety is we do help another Addict/ Alcoholic to get sober. Most addicts I know and myself included, we think we are not worthy of love. We are broken people inside. But there is a better way of life. People need to hear that they are worthy of God's love. To me that's what this song is about. I also appreciate how he keeps his fans on their toes.. We never know what he is going to put out next. I think this was a great change of pace.
Thank you for your content Van. Keep up the great work. ❤✌❤
Nice reaction. When Tom says you're perfect the way you are he means that he sees you. The real you. The one worth fighting for.
Perfect in God's eyes. Everyone has worth. That is the meaning.
I LOVE Tom's music!
Your a bot
I believe he's telling others that he's finding his way out, and that they can too...Struggles lead to strengths ... Everyone needs to be saved...
Thank you for reacting to his songs.. Tom wanted to keep this video serious, but Nova wanted him to do the jumping and stuff. I think him referring to "you're perfect the way you are:" is someone who's gotten clean to keep fighting bc the way they are now, they feel differently than before they're perfect but my perception could be completely wrong. I like the way he goes into the chorus, but that's my opinion, and to respectively have different opinions the way everyone should feel, maybe we'll get back there again one day. 🙏🙏 #HOG 4-EVA 🤙 ♥️
Truth and accountability is who Tom is!!!! Love this guy!!!!
Lord, I lift Tom McDonald up to you. I feel the Holy Spirit is dealing with him personally. We pray for the Hope you sent us…Jesus Christ. Thank you for using him. I also lift up this country. For YOU alone are worthy to be praised. In all things allow truth to be revealed, and allow truth to heal. I pray this in the name of Jesus.
We love you Tom.
My gf is over 3 years sober (heroin), and I'm her biggest fan and cheerleader this song is perfect for people that struggle with addiction of any type. Much love HOG
I have been watching your shorts! I loved the one about the woman talking about Transgender women not being a woman! Everyone has their own views. No need for Hate! This song is for ANYONE going through ANYTHING! My sister is 33 years old, never been married, or had children, and found out she had ovarian cancer. she had to have a FULL hysterectomy, and then do 10 months of chemo after she had surgery. She loved this song!
Tom is awesome not only because he's talented and forthright but if you ever listen to his interviews and video chats, he is super intelligent, amazingly open and seriously kind. I'm a huge fan.
I can see how it can be confusing, I kinda thought the same thing at first but then realized it's probably meant that you don't need drugs, alcohol, instagram, etc because you're perfect the way you are without all that stuff. (FYI: the word "you" is meant in a general term, not a one person.)
One of my favorites! Also love “ Best Rapper Ever”
My favorite songs from Tom MacDonald are the songs that aren't politically charged even though I usually like those songs too. He has great songs of encouragement whether it is about addiction, illness or plain struggles of life. Also Tom MacDonald's songs led me to your music reactions and now all of your reactions. Makes my life better.
One of his bests everyone can relate to♥️
Bot or stupid, prob a bot...
His hooks are like anthems a crowd can chant/sing along with at a concert.
True motivational song and one of the best
This is one of my favorite songs by Tom. It's like a pep talk. 🎶🔥😎💖🙏🏼
OK when he says you’re perfect the way you are he’s not saying you’re legit perfect but more saying that where you are in life, as long as you fought tooth and nail to be where you are then your doing fine and keep pushing. that line speaks to people who don’t feel that their anywhere close to perfect or they feel like their garbage or don’t feel like their worth anything. To this day I still struggle with finding my self worth but I know it’s there due to the actions and words of those closest to me so I thank both Tom and god for making this song. #HOG4life
It's on my repeat 3 times, but when your struggling with your mind it is so strong, you do fight with it and it is good to hear someone seeing and noticing that they need HELP even in a song 🎵 ♥️ ❤️ lyrics are an amazing thing.......hog forever❤️🩹 your perfect just the way you ARE VAN ❤️
Love your honest review...well said.
"That didn't land the way I wanted it to"....love your humility.
H.O.G family here … love n respects for the reaction. .. happy thanksgiving.. LFR is freaking awesome too ..
The first verse got me. Same steps. Now I'm sober. But it costed me everything. I'm now homeless sleeping in my truck. If gods giving me a sign then I missed it. It's been 2 years.
Please let the HOG know of your progress. We care about you.
@@lindabaker4817 I appreciate the words. But the fact is nobody actually cares about another homeless person. It's just the way it is. There's been no progress. Probably won't. This is my prison without commiting a crime. It probably carries a death sentence.
I love this song. It's one of the very few that has brought me to tears and made me laugh at the same time. "I think your perfect the way that you are" is a great line -- yes, even for those that are drunk or do drugs, because that is NOT who you are. People need to find who they truly are inside, and to learn to love who you are. For some, they need to fight for their own lives, as Tom has done. For me, I never struggled with addiction, never suffered from depression, but last year I lost my brother and my mom within a few months of each other. My whole world was turned upside down, and I am still struggling to get through it. This song reminds me to be strong, and that I will get through it. I think we all struggle at times in our lives. It helps to hear words like the ones in this song, because it helps you feel strong to face whatever challenges you are going through.
I’ve never found any problems with Toms hooks. I love them.
Actually think you are right. His music has different meanings for different people. When this song came out I was in a low spot. It has inspired me to search for the answers I seek. Doing it my way instead of everyone else's way. I liked your take on this song and thankyou.
My sister turned me on to Tom McDonald. I am not a big fan of his music, but I love his attempt at messaging.
In my faith, Orthodox Christianity, we have a story of the Drunken Monk. This monk was always given the responsibility of greeting worshipers to Liturgy at the Monastery. He was always so happy to greet everyone coming into the monastery and he was much loved by everyone. This monk knew his drinking was a problem for him so he gave up two drinks a year during Holy Week. I think this Monks drinking dwindled to nine drinks a day and at his last Pascha he passed away. One of the monks at the monastery saw this happen and ran to the Abbot to tell him about it. The Abbot said, he saw the angels taking the drunken monk to heaven and may his memory be eternal.
With "I think you are perfect the way that you are" is probably meant as a encouragement not to look down on yourself because you are addicted to something, I can only guess people maybe do.
Fighter and Never Gonna Come Down give me hope. HOG fam I LOVE YALL, and TOM, your music has saved my life more than once. Keep preaching and pushing
2 albums dropped on 11-18. Tom does a lot of inspirational songs... Angels, Castles, Cancer ... You should check out some of Tom's Spoken Word series as well. Tom writes about whatever is on his mind.
#HangoverGangFam4ever 💕💕💕
Tom doesn't swing and miss very often. Another great song from him!
I actually found you because of Tom. And true HOG FAM don't judge others opinions. Tom has said before he doesn't need ev1 to agree with everything, he just wants to start conversations. As for "perfect the way you are" line... Well we know holiday season is the time when suicide rates spike. I think Tom just wants people to hold on. He speaks about working on his own issues , so I doubt he would tell anyone they have nothing to work on. But right now he just needs them to survive. All love.
It is a great hype song, definitely something to listen to and get the mood up, like a morning anthem
The line about being "perfect the way that you are" has to do with something along the lines of: everything you need to overcome was created inside of you before you were born, you just need to reach inside to find it. You were created perfect, then life covers your perfection with trauma, hardships, etc. As an adult, it's our job to whittle away the "world" covering ourselves to find the God given perfection within. Maybe. Something.
You just worded that perfectly🎯💯
We💕TMacD and Nova art in lyrical and visual format.🎨🖌 we feel you...Get sone rest T. You deserve it. Thanks for all y'all gettn it done in thesehere utube'streets! #Salute to our'LFRFam!💓
Love you Brother. Thanks I've Learned a new word frolicking in church 😂 blessed New Year 🥰🙏✌️
I feel like the hard break with the chorus blends well with the way he starts and finishes fast. Makes it easier to process without changing the actual sections for me.
He always drops on a Friday it's what he does..And what he does with his music is 100 % intentional. HE IS SPEAKING TRUTHS !!!! THEY ARE GREAT TOGETHER.!!!
This makes me feel better and better every time I hear it.
Very Encouraging! Absolutely Love and needed this one! Thanks ❤️ Much Love! #Hangovergang #Nova Rockafeller #Brandon Hart #Evan Morgan #Creeksquad #Tom MacDonald #Fighter
Love your video, this is one of his most BEAUTIFUL songs!! 🌹🌹🌹🥊🥊🥊
It takes a real man to put aside biases and continue to grow and developed in ways we don't even expect.
Hang Over Gang is with LFR family trust
Van I love his hooks and I think they sound and flow just find. So we agree to disagree. 2 albums are out Renegade and The Revolution. His political songs are only a very small part of his catalog. Have you done If I Change ? It is extremely deep and it was when he changing from trying to mainstream music to all the stuff he is doing now. Toms music is not just about the beat but its about his message. Tom songs have saved peoples lives for real. I have never ever seen another artist care about his fans the way he does except maybe Upchurch. This song was made not only to help Tom but to whoever needed to hear this message. I know I needed it. Anyway, maybe someday we can agree on the chorus thing but I still love ya♥️ Hope you are having a great day. Much love. #HOG4LIFE
Dang. I thought you quit Tom MacDonald reactions a long long time ago, but I just stumbled on you reacting to this and Ghost. I don't remember seeing either of these in my subscriptions area.
"I think your perfect the way that you are" reminds me of Come as you are to God. You don't have to get yourself perfect first, you can be just who and the way you are with the flaws (God made you perfect) and believe in yourself and take yourself to God. I don't know if he means that, that's just what I think of. I love all Tom's music and I love how different his songs are. He has a way of bringing out some emotion negative or positive inside you and I love that. That's talent to me and the fact that he uses his talent to wake up the world and to try and help people find their way is just super special. #HOG4Ever ✌️❤️
If you ever feel alone just listen to Tom's music and you'll know you're NOT the only one!
"You don't think that you're worth it, but I think that you are, and I think you're perfect, the way that you are"...
The way I heard it- most people take drugs or drink because they aren't happy with who they are, him saying you're perfect isn't keep doing what you're doing, but instead he's saying - You are perfect, you don't need ..........
In church frolicking, huh? LMAO Van!
I think the main thing about him saying "You're perfect the way you are" is that you don't need drugs or alcohol to make you cool. I mostly like more complicated music, but I appreciate that he's independent and that he puts so much heart into what he does. I would adore if Nova could do like Within Temptation so that they eventually have something a little like that song she did featuring Xzibit And We Run. ( which you should react to sometime if you can. You may have to bleep out the one instance of him using mf er for youtube.) He has 2 albums out, actually. I'm super proud of him. Will you also do Timcast's song Genocide (Losing My Mind) ? It's not gory. He's mostly poking fun at the Legacy media. I thought he imitated Tucker and some other pundits really well and the chiron scrolling at the bottom is funny. Thanks, love ya :)
Everybody loves a redemption story even better When it's True n comes from the heart.
How many artists can make you cry and laugh at the same time.
I found you because of TM reactions. Now you're awake! And I watch all of your other videos.
This was my favorite or close to when it dropped. Ive read about it helping a lot of people. Then Ghost dropped, and it even surpassed it for me.
Even though I love this song, I agree with your take on the "you're perfect the way that you are" line. The moment I first heard it, my thought was "um...no, we're not perfect. Not even close" The only perfect being is Christ, our Lord and Savior. Everyone else needs to strive everyday to be the perfection that is Christ. No one will ever achieve that perfection, but He wants you to keep trying to. And the closer you get, THAT is when your life becomes the beautiful life He wants for you.
But you all are FIGHTERS, and you can fight successfully to overcome whatever is holding you down.
This is the song the world is needing right now.
Van, please check out a young man named Latham Warlick. I was introduced to him by Granger Smith (Country artist) on the song called “That’s Why I Love Dirt Roads” They did a remix to include Latham. The video including Latham is beautiful! How the world should be all the time not just when we are kids.
"Perfect the way you are" is in the eye of the beholder. If one wants to stay in a cess pit, this is not a good theme. But I think this is building from the self depradation described. Not elegant but it works.
Thank you for your honest opinion always.
Great reaction lfr has grown so much it's good to see
How can you not Beleive in Tom and his nessage🤞💜🙏😌
I found you watching Tom reactions, Van...still love lfr!
I love your music reactions bro! Please keep it goin!
🥊🥊🥊🥊I'm a believer such a beautiful inspirational song thank you tom. Love this and Tom's hooks. We can disagree.
Lol they called him racist! As he crack the fck up. I love this man, I really do. Van is the absolute best.
I love it. It's uplifting & inspiring. ❤🙏🏻
Who are you praying to, your blind
I like Tom McDonald my son loves him and sent me this one and it made me cry cause it totally hit home for me
Take the song in context LFR....don't single out a line and make it negative. The whole message is of the song is to remember each person has value and is worth the skin God has given them. He makes it clear that the road of drug abuse and alcohol didn't do anything good for him, thats what he's saying.
God loves us just the way we are BUT He also loves us so much that He won't leave us that way. He's gentle and patient working with us in our infirmities but He's not gonna just sit down on the sidewalk wallow with us in self pity that's leading to our destruction. God's love is a perfecting love, not a pampering love!
I think this song is well done!
One of the last things you talked about, was awesome to hear. Let's have conversations and be able to agree to disagree on some issues. I have never hated another Human Amearican for their opinion or belief. I know what I have been through, I love to learn what others have gone thourgh, we all have more similarities than oppositions. Great reaction, see you on the next one.
In this video TMcDonald is playing two parts: 1) Himself and his life struggles 2) A Preacher holding the gospel "Jesus Believes you are Perfect" for we were made in the image of GOD and God hand is always there for us to grab hold of. I love the story and lyrics in this video. Only difference 'We are not to believe in one's self" rather the LORD JESUS CHRIST Amen
Van, that's not was he's saying, bro. He still fights feeling not being worthy. He doesn't feel he is special inside. He's saying don't give up and change who you really are. Be yourself. He's talking about you being strong enough to fight to be better. You're a winner. Not a loser. Keep trying. He has faith in us. We are the ones who understand his message. #hangovergang
As a fan of Tom I appreciate the honest critique. My personal take on the whole "being perfect the way you are" is preceeded by the verse saying "i know you're a fighter." It's a song about not judging yourself too harshly for your present while taking steps forward. But no hate if we disagree. I still love your content and value your take on things. Peace brother.
Tom's hooks are very anthem-like and catchy.... not everyones cup of tea, but at the very least not a bad marketing tool for an independent artist.
They also offer some pretty good one liners when used in the right conversations (all credit given obviously)
Hi Van. Been through it myself! The frolicking in the church I used to go to, you didn't dare do much more than sit up and you didn't do anything-hard shell so. Baptist. :) Even though I am not white, I'm neon, I always enjoyed going to black churches, they 'feel it'!!