Songs that Changed Music: Peter Gabriel - Sledgehammer

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  • Опубликовано: 10 ноя 2020
  • ➡️➡️Learn more about Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel: producelikeapro.com/blog/stop...
    ➡️➡️ Watch Artists That Changed Music: Peter Gabriel: • Peter Gabriel: Artists...
    Certainly, the next decade became a time of discovery for Gabriel - personal and musical. On the musical side, he began releasing a series of four self-titled albums , which his fans have since provided with their own nicknames (“Car” (1977), “Scratch” (1977), “Melt” (1979) and “Security” (1982)). While several of the solo albums include charting singles, it was Gabriel’s fifth album, So (1986), that gave him his first and only number one hit - “Sledgehammer.” With an irresistible groove, a horn part straight from Stax, and brilliant production, “Sledgehammer” transformed Gabriel from an edgy seventies rocker into a eighties pop superstar.
    Although “Sledgehammer” would turn out to be a massive success, appealing to a large and diverse audience, Gabriel did not have such grand intentions with the track when he began.. Gabriel reflected on the song’s success in 2012 explaining:
    “With “Sledgehammer,” everyone thinks, “Oh, he must have created that to get a hit.” And it wasn’t done that way. In fact, Tony Levin reminded me that he was packing his bags to go home, and I called him back into the studio, saying “I’ve got this one idea that maybe we can fool around with for the next record - but I like the feel.” That was “Sledgehammer.” It was late in the day and we just fell into the groove, landed a beautiful drum track on it, a great bass line and it all came together.”
    The song certainly does come together, bringing innovative sounds and diverse influences into one incredible track. It opens with a synthesized Japanese shakuhachi flute sample, played on Gabriel’s Fairlight CMI. Pulling from his progressive rock roots, the free flowing flute sound draws the listener quietly in before the horn section dramatically announces the onset of the song’s magnetic groove. Drummer Manu Katche captures a funk influence with an eighties pop of the gated reverb snare. Tony Levin’s bass line is exciting and catchy, while also sounding impossibly smooth. The classic fretless tone is paired with the attack of a pic, giving it that bright and rhythmic edge. He runs this through an octave pedal, giving it that modern sound. The guitars provide the funky yet stable core that allow the active bassline to take center stage.
    Undeniably critical to this entire mix is the soul influence and energy of the horn section. Expressing his excitement about having Wayne Jackson - who had played in the house band at Stax records and toured with Otis Redding - play trumpet for the track, Gabriel told WMMR Radio in 1986:
    “as a teenager, soul music was one of the things that made me want to be a musician. It was really passionate and exciting… Wayne Jackson, who plays on that track, was also with Otis Redding and was touring with him when I saw them in London. So that was a thrill for me, just to get a whole lot of fan stories. But I think the song was more influenced by many of those Stax and Atlantic tracks rather than Otis particularly.”
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Комментарии • 1,6 тыс.

  • @Producelikeapro
    @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +86

    What songs would you like us to cover in this series?

    • @joevendors243
      @joevendors243 3 года назад +27

      My Sharona- the Knack

    • @rb-kd4ry
      @rb-kd4ry 3 года назад +14

      Jimi Hendrix.... Song--Bold as love!!!!

    • @Boobypoppop
      @Boobypoppop 3 года назад +4

      TTD-Holding on to You. A rare diamond and, seemingly a different recording method to rest of the album. Maybe it was recorded separately in another studio? However, it's a stand out track (in production terms ) on a great, great album. I would love to hear your take on it . Keep up the good work!
      From a big fan in Leicester England.

    • @rborawski
      @rborawski 3 года назад +14

      If you haven't done a Beatles tune yet, might I suggest Sgt. Peppers? 4 tracks of wonderfulness!

    • @SvexTheDragon
      @SvexTheDragon 3 года назад +40

      Enjoy The Silence by Depeche Mode

  • @mrnelsonius5631
    @mrnelsonius5631 3 года назад +79

    When I was a little kid, pre-school, I was obsessed with Sledgehammer. First song I ever LOVED. Flash-forward to age 12-13, I wanted a bass. I hadn’t listened to Gabriel in years (listening to 90s grunge) but the first thing that came out of me with that bass, that I had to figure out, was this song. It was a part of my DNA. I’ve been playing bass for a living since :)

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +8

      Thanks ever so much for sharing! Amazing story! Tony Levin is truly inspirational

  • @schlaackmusic
    @schlaackmusic 3 года назад +134

    Tony Levin playing a fretless with a pick like an absolute S A V A G E.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +9

      Yes! Incredible

    • @liamb8624
      @liamb8624 3 года назад +10

      I became obsessed with trying to emulate the tight percussive ghost notes sitting in amongst the main riff. Phenomenal bass playing and production from an incredible album.

    • @iamfantastic.iamgreat3649
      @iamfantastic.iamgreat3649 3 года назад +1

      @@Producelikeapro When was that.?

    • @thechristianbernal1108
      @thechristianbernal1108 3 года назад +1

      It’s not a bass- it’s a stick

    • @schlaackmusic
      @schlaackmusic 3 года назад +1

      @@thechristianbernal1108 Oh really? For whatever reason I thought he only played the stick live. That's cool to know!

  • @barcellos61
    @barcellos61 3 года назад +82

    Saw Peter Gabriel in Rio de Janeiro, 1993. Tony Levin on bass, David Rhodes on guitar, Manu Katché on drums and David Sancious on keyboards. Just picture that. What a band! What a show!

    • @jluther1755
      @jluther1755 Год назад +2

      Saw that same show at The LA Coliseum. Shankar on Violin and Paula Cole singing 🔥

    • @garymcdonnell5791
      @garymcdonnell5791 2 месяца назад

      Wow man' fair play!! Ya lucky sod haha😊 so cool is right man.. All my best mate from Gary Liverpool UK...

  • @SlowhandGreg
    @SlowhandGreg 3 года назад +166

    "Don't give up" makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up every time, the whole album is a masterpiece building on his previous work

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +12

      Agreed 100%!!

    • @rickanderson1683
      @rickanderson1683 3 года назад +15

      As much as I love the studio version, and Kate Bush in general (owning several of her cds), the live version with Paula Cole is one of most amazing things I've ever heard. She was a star of that tour.

    • @alaricgoldkuhl155
      @alaricgoldkuhl155 3 года назад +7

      I can't hear it without crying like a girlyman. I wish Kate and Peter got married and had hundreds of song-children together.

    • @javascript6948
      @javascript6948 3 года назад +2

      Such a great song even Willie Nelson covered it.!!!!

    • @DavidLazarus
      @DavidLazarus 3 года назад +1

      Yes, love that song too! I sang it earlier today; albeit in my car with the windows rolled down in an empty part of a shopping center parking lot. :^D

  • @jalabi99
    @jalabi99 3 года назад +90

    Thanks to Rick Beato and the RUclips algorithm for making me aware of this channel. Subscribed!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +4

      Thanks ever so much! I really appreciate it

    • @allenmontrasio8962
      @allenmontrasio8962 2 года назад +2

      me too

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  2 года назад +1

      @@allenmontrasio8962 thanks ever so much

    • @cwalters7399
      @cwalters7399 Год назад

      The professor of Rock following brought me here. Brilliant channel

    • @adriendecroy7254
      @adriendecroy7254 Месяц назад

      Warren is next level compared to Rick Beato. Legit stuff which can come only from years in the industry (not that Rick doesn't have that, but I find Rick less profound).

  • @Noone-of-your-Business
    @Noone-of-your-Business 3 года назад +100

    Woah! 40% of the entire video's length dedicated to the fretless bass!
    I *approve!!* 👍😁

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +6

      Hahahaha Thanks ever so much!

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 3 года назад +3

      Makes sense, though: It's the song's most important ingredient, next to Peter's vocals, and also its foundation. And yeah, being also a bassist I loved that, too :-))

    • @MrJpbmusic2005
      @MrJpbmusic2005 2 года назад

      "Fretless Bass +Otave pedal =Marriage made in heaven ..the Fretless Bass never got the respect it truly deserved despite being common among 80s British pop music..

  • @budgreenwood9359
    @budgreenwood9359 3 года назад +104

    I had the incredible honour of meeting the man himself at Real World Studios in 1992 when we were mixing some of our album there, he was an absolute gentleman !
    I also got to play all his keyboards !

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +5

      Wow! Amazing! Thanks ever so much!

    • @keykrazy
      @keykrazy 3 года назад +4

      What all did you see there? Care to share manufacture & model #'s you remember seeing there? Any notable modules spotted in the racks?

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      @@keykrazy yes, enquiring minds want to know! Haha

    • @TelecasterLPGTop
      @TelecasterLPGTop 3 года назад

      Cool, he's one of my musical heroes. Must have been a real buzz to meet him.

    • @robmanueb.
      @robmanueb. 3 года назад +10

      I worked with an Iranian refugee who told me he was his biggest fan, he showed me a picture of him and Peter together. I asked him how he got the picture, he told me he kept asking people where he lived until someone gave him his address, went and knocked on his door. Peter came out and was happy to be photographed with his no 1 fan. Pretty cool and humble.

  • @georgesgauthier
    @georgesgauthier 3 года назад +55

    This is not meant as a slight, but having watched Rick Beato "What makes this song so great" videos for years and always feeling him fall short of what I wanted in a video essay, is is such a pleasure to have discovered your "Songs that Changed music" series. This focus on production, arrangement and influences as well as context is so much more illuminating than simply breaking down chord progression. What an absolute delight! Thank you and keep up the good work.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +15

      You’re very kind, I like to feature songs that were really important and do the best I can to cover all aspects of the writing, recording and production! Rick does great work and I’m honoured to be included in a discussion with him.

    • @MetteC5
      @MetteC5 9 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks George, I've been wanting to write a similar comment but thought that I was alone in noting Rick falling short in numerous ways. So, as you, I'm absolutely delighted to have discovered this series!

    • @Unbiasedlistener
      @Unbiasedlistener 8 месяцев назад +1

      I am in complete agreement.

    • @williamthomas2278
      @williamthomas2278 6 месяцев назад +2

      Please note that Rick Beato is teaching about music as a writer and composition more than as a cultural influence. I love both shows for different reasons

    • @MetteC5
      @MetteC5 6 месяцев назад +1

      @@williamthomas2278 That's a fair point and I see what you mean, but the problem with Rick is that he's teaching _through_ a very American cultural prism, which often leads to toe-curling inaccuracies as regards music outside of the US. Those of us that have a broader horizon are weary of his US-centric misrepresentations and have stopped watching his videos.

  • @SingaporeSkaterSam
    @SingaporeSkaterSam 3 года назад +48

    Don’t forget Games Without Frontiers, that did quite well too, 1980 - a magical time to be growing up music wise.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      It’s not forgotten my friend! Masterpiece

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +4

      Just one of many videos to come! Thanks ever so much for watching

    • @pungarehu
      @pungarehu 3 года назад +1

      79 to 81 was THE golden age

    • @kobayashiMaroo
      @kobayashiMaroo 3 года назад

      and "Family Snapshot" . . . no song gets the hairs on my neck sparking like "and I let the bullet flyyyyyyyyyyy......"

  • @russellbutterfield1419
    @russellbutterfield1419 3 года назад +68

    So.......One of the best albums ever produced.

  • @thelasthourgetready
    @thelasthourgetready 3 года назад +15

    I always knew Peter Gabriel was special as a child Solbury Hill always moved me in a way I cant explain but I never realised how much detail went into sledgehammer amazing.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +1

      Agreed! Gabriel is one of the greats! Only a couple left!

  • @toomanyjstoomanyrs1705
    @toomanyjstoomanyrs1705 6 месяцев назад +3

    Peter Gabriel not only has my all time favorite video with "Sledgehammer" but my all time favorite romantic song in "in your eyes."

  • @silviopuertas
    @silviopuertas 3 года назад +47

    This song was a huge hit here in Brazil in the late 80s, because it was the theme song of the TV series Sledge Hammer, which was broadcasted by Rede Globo, the largest Brazilian TV network.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +5

      Hi Silvio!! Thanks ever so much!

    • @TogonzoMedia
      @TogonzoMedia 3 года назад +2

      Interesting irony: when ABC promoted the show here in the states, all the adverts featured Peter Gabriel's "Sledgehammer". But when the show actually premiered, we get this iconic Danny Elfman, over-the-top, 007/Untouchables sounding theme with a horn section and a operatic bridge!

    • @sophieschollsreinkarnation5078
      @sophieschollsreinkarnation5078 2 года назад

      @@TogonzoMedia Yeah, it confused me a lot as a kid ... I was a big fan of the series and thought the song was about it. They came out in the same year also.

    • @pu5epx
      @pu5epx 2 года назад

      I saw the clip at 'Fantástico', is one of the strongest memories I have from childhood, so good it was

  • @paniccleo
    @paniccleo 3 года назад +52

    That bass sound is so iconic. So intensely deep and liquid.

  • @mattcambrian1215
    @mattcambrian1215 3 года назад +15

    When the horns come rising in on verse two, this song becomes something special. Probably the best pop song ever.

  • @stereoroid
    @stereoroid 3 года назад +36

    Another vote for Owner Of A Lonely Heart by Yes. The whole dynamic with producer Trevor Horn - whose stint in the band just a few years earlier led him to switch to production - is fascinating. The story I heard is that he literally got on his knees to beg the band to finish it, that's how big he (correctly) thought it would be.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      Marvellous idea Dirk!!

    • @stereoroid
      @stereoroid 3 года назад +1

      @@Producelikeapro Not to mention that bizarre music video, and the presence of most of the Art Of Noise on there.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +1

      @@stereoroid yes, wonderful!

    • @joefry22
      @joefry22 2 года назад +2

      Yeah, I remember “Owner of a Lonely Heart” sounded so distinctive when it came out. It just jumped out of the speakers. Cool, melodic songwriting combined with Trevor Horn's crisp, modern production.

    • @cowboixxxl
      @cowboixxxl 2 года назад

      Hell Yes to Yes

  • @johantibbelin417
    @johantibbelin417 3 года назад +40

    The amazing horns is what really does this song for me. But then I'm a saxophone player.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      Love the horns! Thanks ever so much!

    • @TheOnlineBusker
      @TheOnlineBusker 3 года назад +1

      Sax is one of the coolest instruments, and I'd bet it's one of those that so many people say they would "love to learn" but never even think about it! Off to check out your channel dude to see if there's any cool sax there!!

    • @TheOnlineBusker
      @TheOnlineBusker 3 года назад

      Ha! it's about coding! Didn't expect that! Cool too!

  • @budgetguitaristcom
    @budgetguitaristcom 3 года назад +28

    I've seen Peter Gabriel twice. He was AMAZING. What an artist.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +1

      Agreed 100%! Thanks ever so much!

    • @DavidLazarus
      @DavidLazarus 3 года назад

      I only saw Peter on the US tour. Great show though! Darn sure wish I had been old enough to see him with Genesis!

    • @realdocloco
      @realdocloco Год назад

      Same, saw him twice in the early to mid eighties - incredible showman and music quality that still impress me today. Some of the best concerts in my life.

  • @lynette599
    @lynette599 2 года назад +16

    As a non-producer and non-musician, I have just subscribed...LOL..the musicality of these musicians is just mind-blowing.. Greetings from South Africa.

  • @timcent7199
    @timcent7199 3 года назад +47

    I'm blown away by the technical details presented, and how clearly you speak. Too bad I don't understand a single word of it. I just watched because I love this song. I'm tempted to watch another one now. Thanks!

  • @youraccount7003
    @youraccount7003 3 года назад +9

    Peter must have had the overall sounds in his mind and worked on creating them in reality. What musical genius.

  • @davidzachmeyer1957
    @davidzachmeyer1957 3 года назад +10

    The album was beautifully engineered, with a wonderful clean, crisp sound. The opening high hats on "Red Rain" set the tone for the rest of the album.

  • @iengineer_247
    @iengineer_247 3 года назад +25

    This is a crazy song but I lovvvvvvveeeee the production. I thought the bass was a synth bass at first!!!! I love the horns and the drums my goooddddnnneeessssssss!!!!!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +3

      Me too! Amazing Production!! Thanks ever so much!

  • @brandoncrow3741
    @brandoncrow3741 3 года назад +7

    This entire album, So, is a MASTERPIECE. Peter Gabriel is a musical genius. 🔥

  • @lisajohnson521
    @lisajohnson521 3 года назад +29

    I LOVE me some PG. He has one of the best voices ever.

  • @GrexKhusan
    @GrexKhusan 3 года назад +19

    When you got Levin&Katché, you can be pretty sure that the rhythm section is nothing less than brilliant.

  • @Tibbon
    @Tibbon 3 года назад +7

    I had the opportunity to do some sessions with Tony Levin about 15 years ago, and it was so fun to spend time with him and learn how he works.

  • @jeffbridges6110
    @jeffbridges6110 3 года назад +10

    I was 8 when this came out. But i'll never forget it. It's one of the songs that got me into drums. Such a great song.

  • @lastdaysguitar
    @lastdaysguitar 3 года назад +12

    So cool to see Tony Franklin on this, hes one of my very favorite rock bassists!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +3

      Yes! Amazing to be able to work with Tony!

  • @delphinbringsby6768
    @delphinbringsby6768 3 года назад +18

    I never realized how much the Seinfeld bass theme was inspired by this tune.

    • @GarethGras
      @GarethGras 3 года назад +1

      That "bass" theme is played on a synth so maybe even more than you think

  • @hobbyknight546
    @hobbyknight546 3 года назад +33

    I remember when this song came out. OH CRAP I must be old now

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +4

      Haha me too! I hear you!

    • @toonertik
      @toonertik 3 года назад +2

      @@Producelikeapro Yeah... but some of us were in our LONG pants by then>> :P

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      @degrande707 haha indeed!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +3

      @@toonertik haha very true!

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 3 года назад +1

      Not as old as the artist himself, though ;-) I was 16 then, turning 51 next month. Still have great memories of '86 :-)

  • @lorenzoguarn
    @lorenzoguarn 3 года назад +24

    Having just bought a Boss Octaver I was playing this bass line all day... One of my all time favourite, I’m going to watch the video and I hope to hear more about the bass sound! Love the series Warren!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +3

      Thanks ever so much Lorenzo! Yes, it was combination of the Boss Octaver and chorusing!

    • @tonygonzales6961
      @tonygonzales6961 3 года назад

      @@Producelikeapro
      ./hh"it

  • @teslatravels4197
    @teslatravels4197 3 года назад +11

    One of my favorites. Still have the record I bought back in the day. I always feel 20% happier after I listen to it. Actually, it's more like 23%.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +1

      Haha Couldn't agree more! Love this song!!

  • @randallfrank5682
    @randallfrank5682 3 года назад +6

    Yes "So" was a great album, however my favorite song on it is "Big Time." The play on words is what really grabbed me. "I've been stretching my mouth to let those big words come right out".

  • @trevornokesmusicltd5357
    @trevornokesmusicltd5357 3 года назад +18

    The Album 'So' is Fantastic, when i got Married our first Dance song was 'In Your Eyes' Stunning Song in all ways.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      Thanks ever so much Trevor!

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 3 года назад

      I remember reading an interview with Osbourne's Ozzy in the mid 90's in which he was talking about his then brandnew album 'Ozzmosis': He said he was blown away when hearing Peter Gabriel's 'So', that it was an absolute masterpiece, and that it also was his inspiration to create his own masterpiece with his latest album; And he reckoned he'd gotten pretty close, too :-) I then bought that album out of sheer curiosity, and I actually did like it a lot! :-))

  • @chriscuthbertson
    @chriscuthbertson 3 года назад +10

    One of the best basslines ever.

    • @DavidLazarus
      @DavidLazarus 3 года назад

      Nah. Great, but far from best. Both Tony and others have played better.

    • @janbures5203
      @janbures5203 3 года назад

      Best bassline imho is Normans Watts Roy’s Hit me with your rhytm stick.

    • @DavidLazarus
      @DavidLazarus 3 года назад

      @@janbures5203 - There's really no such thing as "best". There will always be others who have done it better. Besides, this is largely subjective anyway.

    • @janbures5203
      @janbures5203 3 года назад +1

      @@DavidLazarus I know its very subjective, thats why I said IMHO ;)

  • @Adam-hs1ft
    @Adam-hs1ft 3 года назад +57

    0:59 Haha, Genesis Exodus

  • @kickbiker7920
    @kickbiker7920 3 года назад +8

    I really love this series. The fact that its coming from a producer/musician's perspective really adds to it. It bounces along with your links and isolated tracks. It's clear you LOVE what you're doing. Music history at its finest! These are good enough to be seen by a wider audience BBC etc ...

  • @TheMichaelBeck
    @TheMichaelBeck Год назад +1

    I graduated HS in '86. What an amazing experience growing up listening to such great musicians. We were spoiled.

  • @Texicus_Reddicus
    @Texicus_Reddicus 3 года назад +6

    Seinfeld bass + fresh prince drums + peter gabriel = sledghammer

  • @gavindont
    @gavindont 2 года назад +4

    Man, between you, Rick Beato and David Bennett my head is exploding with all this music theory and studio know how and I'm all the richer for it. So thank you, it's so very much appreciated!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  2 года назад +2

      You’re very kind! Thanks ever so much! Humbled to be included with such greats!

  • @peterldelong
    @peterldelong 3 года назад +4

    Peter and Paula Cole on Secret World Live. You’ll never hear a better vocal duet, the gold standard.

  • @Ricketik65
    @Ricketik65 3 года назад +2

    I still recall the very first time I heard this song on the radio, back in 1986. It immediately sounded as if it had always been there and it would always be there. An instant classic!

  • @nickcarter4006
    @nickcarter4006 3 года назад +1

    I’m a simple man... I see someone praising this classic banger, I ring the bell

  • @HiVoltish
    @HiVoltish 3 года назад +22

    I LOVE these, good onya mate!
    Gated reverb, I froze my butt off in an unheated garage driving my self crazy trying to get that snare sound in the early 80's.

  • @mikemorecroft3220
    @mikemorecroft3220 3 года назад +23

    I am not a great social media commentator but I have to say your youtube channel is epic. Educational for me as a home based songwriter/producer but also fascinating and of general interest when you do episodes like this which cover both bases for me. Brilliant stuff.

  • @paulstinebiser2459
    @paulstinebiser2459 3 года назад +1

    I’m not that musical. I never “heard” the baseline of this song before until this video. Thanks for opening my eyes...er...ears.

  • @fernandoferrero699
    @fernandoferrero699 3 года назад +1

    I got to meet Ian Cooper at metropoly long time ago ,,incredible experience,, the nicest and so much knoledge.

  • @bluefen
    @bluefen 3 года назад +3

    Surely the 'icing on the cake' is Peter's incredible vocal...

  • @terminalbliss
    @terminalbliss 3 года назад +6

    The Up album by Peter Gabriel is so under rated... the production on it is insane. Of his earlier work, I love the song intruder from "melt".

    • @MKPiatkowski
      @MKPiatkowski 7 месяцев назад

      I love it more than So. That album is a true masterpiece.

  • @abelincoln95
    @abelincoln95 3 года назад +20

    Another "slam dunk" Warren! A song on the City Of Angels soundtrack that gets under the radar "I Grieve" is one that really sticks in my brain.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +1

      Thanks ever so much Abe!

    • @mrufino1
      @mrufino1 3 года назад +1

      I grieve is amazing. The Up tour was one of the best shows I’ve ever seen, and he ended with that if I remember correctly.I didn’t realize that was on the city of angels soundtrack.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +1

      @@mrufino1 fantastic! Thanks for sharing

  • @humphreygobo6576
    @humphreygobo6576 3 года назад +2

    Great song! Especially as a gateway to more Peter Gabriel.

  • @jurgenschuler8389
    @jurgenschuler8389 3 года назад +3

    I remember buying the record and playing it until it was virtually scratched to death. Then I bought the CD... And I was just a teenager with no money to fool around.
    And, please, let me repeat my comment above: "Word Up!" Perhaps including the cover versions.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +3

      Thanks ever so much Jürgen!

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 3 года назад

      Cameo's 'Word Up!' had popped into my mind also, when watching one of the previous episodes! I still 'see' the red undies over skin-tight black pants on the singer, in the original video clip x-)) From '86 too, like 'Sledgehammer' :-)

  • @rockostiffredi4276
    @rockostiffredi4276 3 года назад +3

    I'll never forget Tony Levin playing this song live at the Roskilde Music Festival in the mid 90's, with Peter and the band. Also quite impressed with his percussive bass playing style using 'drum' type sticks as an extension to the fingers of his right hand. Really different approach to the bass.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      Amazing!! Roskilde is such an incredible festival!! That would have been wonderful to see him there!

  • @OracleFP
    @OracleFP 3 года назад +2

    One of my all-time favourite artists, I was fortunate to see him live at Newcastle City Hall UK on the Melt tour. I will never for get his entrance in total darkness to the drum beat of Intruder, he appeared through a side door in the upper gallery with a massive search light and made his way through the audience, down the stairs and up to the front of the stage, amazing memories and an amazing musician!

  • @IvanLendl87
    @IvanLendl87 3 года назад +6

    Thanks so much for this video, Warren! You break songs down so beautifully and this one is no exception. Peter Gabriel along with great players such as Tony Levin, Manu Katche, David Rhodes, Wayne Jackson, and Daniel Lanois' masterful production resulted in a brilliant track. I have never tired of listening to this classic song (or anything off of SO for that matter).

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 3 года назад +1

      @Ivan Lendl - I also used to watch tennis on the TV a lot back then, with you and your mates Becker, Agassi, McEnroe, Graf, Navratilova... ;-))

  • @marksiebenaler3250
    @marksiebenaler3250 3 года назад +55

    You just pick bangers every single time. These videos are the highlight of every day they are released. Could I request you do XTC's "Making Plans for Nigel"?

  • @Guitargate
    @Guitargate 3 года назад +107

    Yes! Now you’re talking!!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +6

      Thanks Michael!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      @Cashew Gesundheit yes! Amazing

    • @hopetea7670
      @hopetea7670 3 года назад +4

      @Cashew Gesundheit Its a fantastic vocal. Across all his work I love how PG also has more than one type of voice but all disinctly PG.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      @@hopetea7670 agreed 100%!

    • @lazstan
      @lazstan 3 года назад +2

      I politely just don’t get how this guy has a career. I hate everything of his. To me it all sucks. To each their own.

  • @J-DUB-F1
    @J-DUB-F1 3 года назад +1

    SO I broke my Walkman Pro listening to that song!!......had it in sitting on my lap while I air drum'd along, and the walkman sliped, hit the floor, the end!.....bollocks Gabrial !! :-(
    Definitely one of my favorites of the era. Just out of high school, every party cover band was playing it. The perfect blend of shiny eighties'ness and funky soul groove. The video was a huge step forward, and raised the creative bar for every other band ;:-)

  • @NightBazaar
    @NightBazaar 3 года назад +1

    No two ways about it. Sledgehammer is a foot stomping classic.

  • @30Irwin
    @30Irwin 3 года назад +6

    Gabriel has said that his gorgeous Real World studios was paid for from the success of this song and album.

  • @nicolasjoan6515
    @nicolasjoan6515 3 года назад +3

    1986 the year I was born 🤣👍 Still Peter became such a big influence on me later on. There is just something about that voice and his songwriting/arrangements that almost always grab your attention right away. And don't get me started about all the amazing theatrical stuff he does live, it's so overwhelming ❤🤩 Maybe growing up or skyblue next?

  • @briancoyne6700
    @briancoyne6700 2 года назад +1

    I remember listening the So album on my walkman when I was 10 years old in 1986. I was hypnotized by those songs. I played that tape over and over again. It's amazing to hear the isolated tracks 35 years later. Still sounds amazing! Thank you, Warren!!

  • @mxcrec
    @mxcrec 3 года назад +2

    This is one of the main melodies in my life. Perfect, powerful, enchanting.

  • @_McFly_
    @_McFly_ 3 года назад +4

    Just heard it yesterday because I felt the need for a perfectly produced song! Headphones on and enjoy! Love it!

  • @jeremyholcombe3202
    @jeremyholcombe3202 3 года назад +3

    I've always loved this song. And it's not my usual fare. Just now I found out why. Daniel Lanois!!! He is THE man when it comes to record production vision as far as I can tell...everything from Dylan, to Willie and Emmylou. And his own albums are amongst my favourites of all time. Never knew he did Sledgehammer. Cheers Warren. Made my day!

  • @pthaynes
    @pthaynes 2 года назад

    Peter Gabriel's Genesis era vocals can be entrancing at times.

  • @IgnorancEnArrogance
    @IgnorancEnArrogance 3 года назад +1

    I have a co-worker who just about hates any kind of prog rock or pop music, especially when they have flutes or synthesizers. He is an old-school down home country rock and roll kind of guy, but boy oh boy does he love the hell out of Sledgehammer whenever it comes on our radio!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      That’s why this is such an important song! It’s a gateway in the genius of everything that Peter Gabriel has done!

  • @MarcBecker_Music
    @MarcBecker_Music 3 года назад +4

    Awesome, thank you, Warren.. I love this song and the music video blew me away when it come out back in 1986 ... when I was 16 years old! Time flies.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +3

      Hi Marc! Thanks ever so much! Yes, time flies!!

  • @TMS5100
    @TMS5100 3 года назад +4

    On the topic of great songwriters, i'm amazed how often Jeff Lynne is overlooked! Very distinctive vocals and every song of his is an insidious earworm.

  • @simonrooney7942
    @simonrooney7942 3 года назад

    Incredible man - saw him
    In concert and the thought and love for his craft is self evident- unique

  • @davidherbert9601
    @davidherbert9601 3 года назад +2

    It’s simply one of the best sounding songs I’ve ever listen to. Every time I hear it it just picks me up. Such a brilliant groove element to it. That bass is just so amazing.

  • @tonyrapa-tonyrapa
    @tonyrapa-tonyrapa 3 года назад +38

    Tony Levin - 'nuf sed!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +1

      Yes, incredible player! Thanks ever so much!

    • @augmentedkeys5971
      @augmentedkeys5971 3 года назад +2

      That's 'enough said.'

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      @@augmentedkeys5971 hahaha I think we know what they meant haha

    • @augmentedkeys5971
      @augmentedkeys5971 3 года назад +1

      @@Producelikeapro A slight. My son now wants to learn how to make "Beats". NO! "They're called drum patterns!" Kids these days... I've been waiting for this day and this scary day that my son (12) would say that he wants to make Rap beats. No!!! I tell him - no, you only get to listen to the Beatles. Those types of Beats. I said. Okay, if you want to hear some cool "rap" stuff. Then listen to M A S S I V E A T T A C K. Done. :)

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 3 года назад +1

      @@augmentedkeys5971 - I was briefly playing in a covers band here in NZ last year called 'Nuff Zed' x-))

  • @1MBStudios
    @1MBStudios 3 года назад +19

    Anyone else get shown this song by their parents because the "weird music video" made such an impression they had to show their kids?

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +5

      Haha no, however that’s cool to hear! It’s wonderful to see just how successful it is (it’s Peter Gabriel’s second biggest song) however only those old enough even remember the video! Just goes to show how amazing the song is!

  • @sixahem
    @sixahem 3 года назад

    That video is forever etched in my mind.
    I remembered where I was,even what chair I was sitting in the house I grew up in.
    The adverts had it on heavy rotation too.
    The song that defined 1986 and a decade Iam so glad to have grown up in.😎🙌🏿

  • @RickerbyMusic
    @RickerbyMusic 3 года назад +1

    Love this song, one of the best bass lines ever!! And an incredible production all round

  • @mcclure1977
    @mcclure1977 3 года назад +7

    These are fascinating videos. It's amazing to hear how disparate influences - motown in this case, chant, reggae, etc, in the Message in a Bottle videos - are all combined to make something that comes to sound absolutely new, and eventually, totally familiar. Hope you keep making these!

  • @IrnBruNYC
    @IrnBruNYC 3 года назад +3

    I am really enjoying this series. So far every song you have chosen is a 10/10 stunner.

  • @user-jg6vi4cd7v
    @user-jg6vi4cd7v 3 года назад +1

    Beautifully dissected! disarranging all the component parts, and then reintroducing them as played recorded, and performed! it's a fantastic timeless track I remember saying to so many people when this came out in the 80S listen to this brilliance it's just pure genius! The Angel Gabriel at his best

  • @vanman757
    @vanman757 2 года назад

    Peter Gabriel, Ian Brown & Paul Weller 3 of my most favourite singers/musicians/artists of all time... I had So when it was out in 86 & still listen & love it now... Absolute timeless classic....

  • @tunemxr480
    @tunemxr480 3 года назад +5

    Wow Warren! PG has probably been my single favorite artist since "The Lamb...", and "So" is without a doubt within my top5 favorite albums of all time. Thanks for demystifying the track! Killen's mic'ing technique was a revelation. As always, YOU ROCK BRUH!!!

  • @JoakimKanon
    @JoakimKanon 3 года назад +4

    Favorite verse, all time.

  • @stratofever1
    @stratofever1 3 года назад +1

    Sledgehammer is an amazing piece of music, but it was a game changer in terms of Music Videos more than music itself

  • @songlove7777
    @songlove7777 3 месяца назад

    You can tell that Sledgehammer wasn't contrived to be a hit. It's one of them classics that were a hit because they were brilliant. That's the holy grail. It combines all of Gabrielle's experimentation and innovation with spontaneous and powerful melody. It's also produced to hit the speakers big and relentless like a juggernaut, or, dare I say... sledgehammer.

  • @buddyalbert5808
    @buddyalbert5808 3 года назад +5

    I just watched his Secret World Tour Concert. Brilliant. I can’t find the right adjectives to describe his voice. Warren, you are bringing a smile to my face with these videos.
    Thank you
    PS Tony Franklin! Wow
    Also I worked with Wayne Jackson in Memphis Tn in the 90s.

    • @guitboxgeek
      @guitboxgeek 3 года назад +2

      Must be nice to ring up oh, let's say Tony Freakin' Franklin to talk about one of the coolest fretless bass lines by one of the best fretless bass players!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +2

      @@guitboxgeek haha yes, truly blessed!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +1

      Thanks Buddy! So glad you enjoy them!

  • @naturalrestingface4909
    @naturalrestingface4909 3 года назад +19

    What a great song and album. Loved Kate's voice on Don't Give Up. I think Tony Levin was on tour with Pink Floyd at some point near this period? Didn't the MTV video to this get awards? What a great vocal Peter had. Takes me back to being 15 years old and trying to convince pretty girls to like this and not WHAM!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  3 года назад +4

      Such an unbelievable album and yes, Kate Bush, so incredible

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 3 года назад +1

      Tony Levin did play bass and Chapman Stick on their '87 album 'Momentary Lapse Of Reason', so it's definitely possible he'd been on tour with Pink Floyd prior to that, and he'd already left Kink Rimson by that time, too :-)

    • @peteytwofinger
      @peteytwofinger 3 года назад +1

      @@mightyV444 tony played on the album but guy prat was the touring bassist for davig gilmours "pnk fld"

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 3 года назад

      @@peteytwofinger - Let's go with that then. Thank you for the info! :-)

  • @oolongoolong789
    @oolongoolong789 3 года назад

    Yep, it was the video that made this song so memorable. The tune was catchy but without all that extraordinary award-winning animation by Aardman and the Quay Brothers the song would never have become such a massive hit.

  • @federicovicente8116
    @federicovicente8116 Год назад

    I just love this series of "Songs that Changed Music". One of the best things you can find on RUclips about stainless classics.

  • @bruceh92
    @bruceh92 3 года назад +4

    Daniel Lanois produced it. That's why it's so good.

  • @SonicTrinityStudios
    @SonicTrinityStudios 3 года назад +3

    I remember when this song was first released and the first time I saw the video on MTV. I remember the animation for the video was cutting edge at the time not to mention a kick-ass song! This had so many awesome elements in it and you said it correctly, it was "Gabrielized"! Great video Warren! I look forward to these videos as it's so nostalgic for me - these were songs from my teenage years! A suggestion for a future video: Deep Purple - "Hush", "Highway Star", "Perfect Strangers" or the ever popular "Smoke on the Water" - we all learned to play that riff on guitar at one time or another!

  • @Theconsciousoutkast
    @Theconsciousoutkast Год назад +1

    I love that video this is how I found your channel I still listen to sledgehammer and watch the video in 2022...one of my best memories being a baby in the 80's

  • @ArcadeMusicTribute
    @ArcadeMusicTribute 3 года назад +1

    One of my alltime favorite songs EVER!

  • @jennw6809
    @jennw6809 3 года назад +6

    I remember so well hearing Shock the Monkey on the radio in high school and obsessing over So in college. Great analysis. I think the whole album is actually timeless music!

  • @AlexeySolovievMusic
    @AlexeySolovievMusic 3 года назад +11

    Really awesome series! Thank you so much Warren for making this series 😀👍

  • @michiellombaers3198
    @michiellombaers3198 3 года назад

    Nice that you mention Colin Broad. One of the unsung heroes of the engineering industry. And a super nice guy too.

  • @dzezikus
    @dzezikus 3 года назад +1

    I just listen to it one hour ago. And then I found Your video. Nice. Tomorrow I will listen again in my living room with much bigger loudspeakers. I missed the power of the bass. Now it is to late to listen loud enough.

  • @BrencoGuitars
    @BrencoGuitars 3 года назад +3

    Another amazing episode, this series gets better and better. Hearing the stems is so cool

  • @robertpettersen3577
    @robertpettersen3577 3 года назад +3

    Along with Big time and Digging in the dirt, these are great PG songs.
    Like PLAP says, might´ve been labeled mainstream pop but still xceptionell music!

  • @arcanics1971
    @arcanics1971 3 года назад +1

    I loved Sledgehammer so I went to buy a Peter Gabriel album. There were three and I was in a rush and didn't know which had Sledge on it so I grabbed all 3 and spent my pocket money right there. None of them had it on, and they were a million miles from Sledgehammer- and I loved them. If that song hadn't come along, I would never have discovered this amazing cache of brilliance!