One of my favorite albums of his. And the cover art is gorgeous. I have zero tattoos, no interest in getting any really, but I want that album cover turned into a sleeve somehow lol
I have never heard this song before. I can not believe the impact that this song has instantly had on me. After two combat tours and 19 years in law enforcement I am down to only 23 months left before retirement. Lately I have been reflecting a lot on my life and how many close calls I have survived. My wife and I watched a documentary several weeks ago about climbing Mount Everest. I made the comment that I thought it would be cool to do that. Her reply back was "you've already, almost done it it". I was like what? She said "the day you retire you will have survived more and have seen more than most people alive. Enjoy the rest of your life in peace and know you did a good job." This to me drives that home. Now if you will excuses me I got something in my eye.
@@navy004 agreed on covered in rain. That solo on the any given Thursday album is amazing and I have listened to it a thousand times and it still makes my hair stand on end.
This song dragged me out of the darkest place I had ever been in my life. I remember crying in the shower listening to this song on Spotify for the first time. What a great tune. Much love 💕❤️
Pretty sure the CA to Tokyo aspect of the song is a nod to John's trips to Japan when he was supposedly going through some things during the "Battle Studies" days. He also has more than a few Japanese tattoos from that phase when he was really into Japan and their culture. Additionally this song is from his Born and Raised album (right after Battle Studies), which was largely shaped by the time he was holed up in his home in Montana escaping troubles in the limelight and recovering from a serious vocal/throat surgery (he wasn't supposed to speak/sing for ~6 months). Naturally, he was into Bob Dylan, Neil Young, CSN&Y, and etc. during that time and it's pretty apparent given the simple compositions and simple song-writing/story-telling on the album. Great song. Great video, MP!
Actually he bought the house in montana when born and raised was almost done it was mostly cut in electrical lady studios in manhattan (long hair days and whisky whiskey whiskey) these are the shadow days. paridise valley I think is more indicative of montana (he actually lives in paridise valley on the yosemite river near livingston) Undoubtedly the biggest shift in jm music from battle studies to burn and raised and like you said what he listened to heavaly influenced his writing
he also wrote this in a period where he got slapped in the face by his own ego & words in the media & interviews. That period was his wake up call, and the shift from the douchebag-excessive talking Mayer to a more mature & zen Mayer began here in Montana, where he reflects on a lot of things. The Born And Raised album is very honest and reflective
I never hear people talk about this track not even Mayer. It is one of my favourite songs of his. And no one seems to know about it. Hopefully it gets some love now
This is my favorite JMayer song, so underrated and “undercovered” :) - like that entire album. What a treat seeing you covering harmony and songwriting skills of this particular song. Made my day.
Yes! not only are you doing John Mayer, but one of my personal favourite's too! I'm early for once, so I just wanted to say that finding your course has honestly been life changing. I'm a 19 year old self-taught guitarist of 6 years - I had about 5 lessons this year, but they didn't really cause any change like I was hoping them to do. I've been kind of stuck in the beginner-intermediate rut that everyone gets and I've tried so many different youtuber courses and videos to get out. Nothing has motivated, and excited me whilst at the same time filled in all of the gaps and showed me the next steps as effectively as yours. I am so glad I stumbled upon your react videos and it brought me to Guitar Gate. seriously, thanks a million for these videos and the course - I'm definitely a life long fan now
@@codieplaysguitar5585 it truly is! The folksy picking and the story he tells, honestly makes me so emotional everytime! God so underrated! He created a full world in one song!
@@charleysmith5849 I remember the first time I heard this song I did a DEEP dive trying to find the inspiration for this and trying to solve the mystery I created in my brain. Underrated is the only way to describe it. I want it to be a movie or at least a short film
Michael, I love how you break down not only the musicality and the framework of a song but also the "feelicality" of the tone that the song is trying to set. If you haven't already done it I would love to see your take of "Stop this train" by Mayer Live in LA. That one really hit me in a different way this week than all the other times I've heard it before.
For years I've been a HUGE John Mayer fan. He's one of the few artists that make me pick up the guitar every single day. When I first heard that song on the Born and Raised album I literally started crying. The story, pictures, melody... still gives me a huge lump in my throat everytime. It's just perfect, as you said.
You misquoted the third verse: it says, "Now his friends bring him up when they're drinking , at the bar with his name on the side." I'd always taken it to mean that Walt died in his adventure , and that John is describing a plaque in Walt's memory. He didn't make it, but they were giving him a cheers for having had the guts to try.
See i have always thought of it as Walt had the guts to go on and live his dream and his friends are still living the same mundane lives and just speak on his accomplishments as a way to distract themselves from their boring day to day routines, but thats just my 2 cents 😄
This video popped up on my suggestion page. I’m not a musician but I am a long time massive John Mayer fan. I’ve always adored this song. The story telling and what is means has always got me but watching this video makes me love this song even more. Thank you for this. I’m definitely going to watch more of your videos now.
You absolutely deserve all the good that's come your way Michael. Seriously, these videos are so captivating, it's rare to see someone so passionate about what they're doing as you. Congrats on 200k, and I'll see you at a million because we know you're going all the way
Michael, Thank you for telling us your story through this John Mayer masterpiece. This video made me reflect on my goals and how I want to be remembered by my dear ones. Cheers, from Portugal
Respect for really focusing on the story versus the guitar part. You really nailed the point of this song. I look forward to playing and singing this song to my daughter.
This song is fantastic. If you haven't heard it yet, check out the album version. The instrumentation on it is absolutely beautiful, it opens with a mellow muted trumpet line and the background harmonies really elevate it in my opinion. You also mention how he succeeded but to me it seems like it's left rather ambiguous whether he actually made it alive or not, yet all the people who doubted him still admire him for trying it. "They smile when they can, as they speak of the man" has a melancholy tinge to it that makes me think that his friends are sad that he's gone but respect his dedication to something he believed in.
Thanks so much for doing this. Not many people understand how good of a songwriter JM is. And I appreciate how touching it is for you (and should be for anyone who can relate to it).
Modern day Walt Grace right here. Long time lurker recent subscriber I’m realizing the passion and dedication you commit to this channel is as inspiring as anything. Goes to show that anything one feels strongly enough about in this world is worth a full measured pursuit. Congrats on 200k and thank you for the content.
Another brilliant video! You perfectly described how beautifully John Mayer paints the life of a man and his dream and how it is relatable to anyone who has an individual goal to pursue. His lyrics are always small stories of life and this is one of his best!
This has always been one my favourite songs ever. I saw a video where John said it's one of his only songs that he wrote in the third person and it just shows how great he is at not only song writing but story telling. So articulate.
This has quickly become one of my favorite John Mayer songs; fantastic! And of course I love your analysis man! One thing I love of this song is everyone’s interpretation of the story. Some say he died, some say he lived and came back and is running the bar. I personally believe he lived, and is living a new small life in Japan, and his friends made a mural on the bar in honor of him. Fantastic song in any way!
This one of my top 5 John Mayer songs. It speaks to me every time I hear it. Michael, thank you for your commentary tonight. Your words resonate perfectly with my life in the exact moment. Be well!
I just joined your online program! and its awesome to see you have the exact same acoustic as me. Love that guitar and became very attached to it. trying to save up for a PRS electric now to match for our gigs. Love your content. love mayer.
I knew Mayer was a great songwriter, as I’d listened to other hits like Vultures, Slow Dancing in a Burning Room, and all those, but this was the song that convinced me that he’s not just a great songwriter, but a transcendent one, at that. I’m sure you’ve already listened to Edge of Desire if you’re reading this, whoever it is, but if you haven’t, now’s the time
Love your interpretation and commentary not only on the guitar part, but also on how to learn by ear. Also like your interpretation of the lyrics! You really add a level of meaning to the song that is accurate (it feels like that’s what he’s saying in disguise) but maybe not explicit to an average listener like me. Well said!
I think it is fantastic that you connected with this song, as I did. At 40 years old, I found myself in a place where I needed to get some air, get my own space, make my own way, and do something that made my life better. I heard this song and immediately connected with the idea of it. Brilliant. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on it.
Hey Michael, just wanted to take a minute to thank you for sharing your joy, passion and insights with these songs. I was watching this video asking myself why I watch them, and I realized it's because you take songs that I already love, and take them to new depths of appreciation that I likely never could on my own. I'm able to enjoy these songs in new and more developed way even after having listened to many of them hundreds of times over the years. And for that, I thank you. And more JM, please.
I love this song because it feels like an example of magical realism. But as a song rather than a short story or something. And the guitar really adds to that floaty, surreal feeling and ties the whole thing together.
I am 23 and have been listening to John for years, way before dead and co. I am not a guitar player but I do have to say sonically I love his work, but what it has been over the years for me was his lyrics. I am not kidding when I say you can listen to every studio john mayer song and appreciate it for the lyrics. The man is such an underrated writer. When this born and raised album came out (also amazing song "born and raised") walt grace was a song I instantly attached to. It is one of his amazing pieces of lyrical work but I encourage everyone to go listen to more john. He writes about everything from love (obviously lol), loss, his parents, getting older, passing your prime, being lonely, not being taken seriously and so much more. I was happy when he joined dead and co because I am a big fan of the dead and I knew this would be his transition for people to take him more seriously than just a pop chart guy from the 2000s. Michael you also help open peoples eyes the beautiful words and thoughts of johnny boi!
Thank you. I watch these videos and try to talk through them with you to double check my work. As a drummer, I ducking love theory. Talking through progressions, it all helps all of us be better musicians
I hit subscribe after I heard your interpretation. Not because of the interpretation but because someone loves music so much that they are ready to go a distance to explain what they feel about the music and share with the world.
Delightful.... thank you !! So glad ur helping me learn music again ....the acoustic sounds amazing...love learning with you and everyone. .and so it is 🇨🇦🌬🙏bless
John is an amazing song writer. This one paints a picture of all of our lives but so personal at the same time.Clever clever man. His intelligent creativity added to his thought articulation is his trademark. And add melody, voice and guitar skills and the man can do no wrong in my eyes
Great video, awesome song, even nicer lesson. Thanks for all you do Michael. Keep up the great work. Love what you do and the raw emotion as you break down these songs. Merry Christmas.
Thanks for sharing all this, Michael. I share your emotions and challenges, and this song has had a huge impact on my life. Check out the unofficial clip another youtuber has made to illustrate the song, it brings it all to yet another level. Breathtaking. Take care of you and your family, lots of good vibes from the Old Continent!
Dude. Thank you for what you do and this video. Amazing song and lesson. I started my practice 5 years ago on grit and prayer and it’s amazing what we can do when we work with our communities and serving others most importantly believing in ourselves! Still hope to jam with you when this crap is over (I’m a drummer in Bethesda) and maybe take some lessons to improve my skills on guitar too. Cheers brotha and thank you and have a great weekend. We love you too Brotha!
One the greatest guitar HEROES of our generation! A lot of people just mistake Mayer for a Pop guy, which he is but his Blues is on a level on its own! Thanks for this video! ❤️
I always found this an interesting song and a possible metaphor for johns own life and for me it’s highlighted by his line where the operator connected the call from Tokyo. John always had a special connection with japan and its culture as you see it in his tattoos and in some of his other songs (I.e. who says). That’s the biggest hint for me that this may be an allegory for his own life.
For years I couldn't decide if Walt Grace lives or dies - JM leaves it pretty open-ended. If anyone wants a "spoiler", Mayer confirms it in this performance ruclips.net/video/FKA97uhnBKg/видео.html Thanks for doing this tune!
Damn that was a good upload, Thanks Michael, I hope you have a great Christmas.. (we had technology in the 60's !!! LOL, man on the moon in 69, I'm old!!)
This is my favorite Mayer tune. One of the things I love about it is that I always assumed Walt died until I talked to others who assumed he'd made it. I think the ending is ambiguous which just makes it even better. Everyone can hear the story the way they want to.
I thought he died too. Like his wife got the call from the Tokyo police who found his submarine washed up on their shore and called to confirm that he was the man. And sure, he died, but he made it to Tokyo, and they named the bar after him because he died daring to live an adventure nobody thought was possible. I guess he could live too, and then return home and open a bar with bragging rights of having taken a homemade vessel across the Pacific:)
What I've noticed about Mayer's brilliance is that he takes basic chord progressions but alters the chords in such a unique way that it makes it totally his own sound. Like in the beginning of the pre-chorus, he plays that ii chord, but it's strange. He's actually playing (as far as I can hear) G#-B-A#-D# in an arpeggio and it's so odd and so haunting. Crazy brain that guy has.
Michael, most dont know what this song means to a 52 year old family man, whose instruments are gathering dust in those easy access points in the house. Thank you for sharing brother
Been waiting on anothjer John Vid. This is by far one of his most underrated songs. Took me years to figure out what this song was about when I was a teenager. Glad to see you cover it. Cheers.
I love this song, love your breakdown of it, love everything about this video, but fun fact: the rhythm of the verse is almost identical to the chorus of "Lovebug" by the Jonas Brothers. There's your random connection for the day.
I was so happy to see this appear! This is one of my favourite songs of all time! When I want to show someone what an amazing writer/poet John Mayer is, I bring up this song 👌 So the song actually does not reveal if Walt made it to Tokyo alive or not! "When you're done with this world, you know the next is up to you" "She accepted a call she never expected" "Now his friends bring him up when they're drinking.. at the bar, with his name on a sign" And John said that he likes people coming up with their own interpretation of what happened and what the song means, so he had never confirmed or denied anything before. I'm not going to spoil anything for anyone, but there is a live stream that you can find on YT of John saying if Walt made it or not! ;) Such a beautiful song! Good choice for your review 👌🤘
Really nice playing at the start. Your videos with John Mayer are an instant click for me to. This song is bloody brilliant. Really reflects what Mayer was up against as a singer songwriter at that stage in his life. And he is a master story teller and very subtle. The whole born and raised album, brings the listener to a different place and time. John also took a chance, because he went in a completely different direction with his music. His fans kind of wrote him off initially for it. But people are starting to realize how good his take on "Countryana" music really was. Can you review some Carlos Santana?
You should react to Dead and Company Sugar Magnolia live from Folsom Field, Boulder, CO. 7/14/18. I think it’s one of dead and company’s best sugar magnolias and Mayer is so good at sitting in the song.
We need more JM content man! I can’t wait for the 2022 Sob Rock tour. Maybe you will be able to break down some of his gnarly live performances soon to come :)
Great video Michael! Love that acoustic. I feel like John Mayer's music and perspective changed and matured, for the better in my humble opinion, after playing with Dead & Co.
ALSO - Don't forget the PRS Guitar & Amp giveaway on 12/22! Here's the info: bit.ly/34sS3eO
Born And Raised is a beautiful piece of art.
One of my favorite albums of his. And the cover art is gorgeous. I have zero tattoos, no interest in getting any really, but I want that album cover turned into a sleeve somehow lol
His best record imo.
it has so much emotion and depth
As is your mother
You + John Mayer = INSTANT CLICK
AND it’s Walt grace? Never clicked faster in my life
I have never heard this song before. I can not believe the impact that this song has instantly had on me. After two combat tours and 19 years in law enforcement I am down to only 23 months left before retirement. Lately I have been reflecting a lot on my life and how many close calls I have survived. My wife and I watched a documentary several weeks ago about climbing Mount Everest. I made the comment that I thought it would be cool to do that. Her reply back was "you've already, almost done it it". I was like what? She said "the day you retire you will have survived more and have seen more than most people alive. Enjoy the rest of your life in peace and know you did a good job." This to me drives that home. Now if you will excuses me I got something in my eye.
Go well buddy, go well.
Stay safe and draw that pension for a long time.
Thank you for your service, my friend!
Man, that's awesome. Hope you stay safe and have a happy retirement bud.
Kudos to you and your bride, enjoyed your story Mr. Elzey :)
Yes! This is probably JM's best sleeper hit next to Man on the Side.
add sucker to that list
Man on the Side is one of the best. Covered in Rain too
@@navy004 agreed on covered in rain. That solo on the any given Thursday album is amazing and I have listened to it a thousand times and it still makes my hair stand on end.
In Your Atmosphere is my pick for Mayer’s best sleeper.
LIFELINES.
Everybody talks about JM in the guitar player realm, but the reality is, he's an incredible song writer that also plays guitar.
no. he's an incredible guitar player that HAPPENS to be a phenomenal songwriter. all starts with the guitar
This song dragged me out of the darkest place I had ever been in my life. I remember crying in the shower listening to this song on Spotify for the first time. What a great tune. Much love 💕❤️
Wishing you all the best. Hope you found the light and are doing great!
Pretty sure the CA to Tokyo aspect of the song is a nod to John's trips to Japan when he was supposedly going through some things during the "Battle Studies" days. He also has more than a few Japanese tattoos from that phase when he was really into Japan and their culture.
Additionally this song is from his Born and Raised album (right after Battle Studies), which was largely shaped by the time he was holed up in his home in Montana escaping troubles in the limelight and recovering from a serious vocal/throat surgery (he wasn't supposed to speak/sing for ~6 months). Naturally, he was into Bob Dylan, Neil Young, CSN&Y, and etc. during that time and it's pretty apparent given the simple compositions and simple song-writing/story-telling on the album.
Great song. Great video, MP!
Love it!! Thanks for sharing brother!
Actually he bought the house in montana when born and raised was almost done it was mostly cut in electrical lady studios in manhattan (long hair days and whisky whiskey whiskey) these are the shadow days. paridise valley I think is more indicative of montana (he actually lives in paridise valley on the yosemite river near livingston)
Undoubtedly the biggest shift in jm music from battle studies to burn and raised and like you said what he listened to heavaly influenced his writing
he also wrote this in a period where he got slapped in the face by his own ego & words in the media & interviews. That period was his wake up call, and the shift from the douchebag-excessive talking Mayer to a more mature & zen Mayer began here in Montana, where he reflects on a lot of things. The Born And Raised album is very honest and reflective
I never hear people talk about this track not even Mayer. It is one of my favourite songs of his. And no one seems to know about it. Hopefully it gets some love now
One of my favourite Mayer songs too.
This tune / lesson / story resonates a lot, right now, as I finish the first track on my first EP, from my basement, at 38... Thanks, again, Mike.
Cheers to your project sir, best of luck! I admire you for taking the leap.
@@eharman641 thank you. It's some twenty-plus years in-the-making!
Cheers to you, man! Keep at it. There is genuinely no limit for creativity. :)
@@ChowdMusic hey let me know when your done making it and released it!!
@@Joshkindle it's gonna be a while, but I'll be posting updates on my YT and IG channels. Keep an eye out for those. Thanks for the support!
This is my favorite JMayer song, so underrated and “undercovered” :) - like that entire album.
What a treat seeing you covering harmony and songwriting skills of this particular song. Made my day.
Thanks brother!
This is one of my all time favorite songs - the lyrics get me every time I hear it.
Yes! not only are you doing John Mayer, but one of my personal favourite's too! I'm early for once, so I just wanted to say that finding your course has honestly been life changing. I'm a 19 year old self-taught guitarist of 6 years - I had about 5 lessons this year, but they didn't really cause any change like I was hoping them to do. I've been kind of stuck in the beginner-intermediate rut that everyone gets and I've tried so many different youtuber courses and videos to get out. Nothing has motivated, and excited me whilst at the same time filled in all of the gaps and showed me the next steps as effectively as yours. I am so glad I stumbled upon your react videos and it brought me to Guitar Gate. seriously, thanks a million for these videos and the course - I'm definitely a life long fan now
ISNT this one of the best JM songs??? So goooooooooood
@@codieplaysguitar5585 it truly is! The folksy picking and the story he tells, honestly makes me so emotional everytime! God so underrated! He created a full world in one song!
@@charleysmith5849 I remember the first time I heard this song I did a DEEP dive trying to find the inspiration for this and trying to solve the mystery I created in my brain. Underrated is the only way to describe it. I want it to be a movie or at least a short film
I would love to see Michael reacting to Johns cover of All along the watchtower by Jimi Hendrix. Please like if you want to support that.
Meh.. it’s ok. How about an actual Jimi performance?
@@thenoobassassin what about both :D
Which performance are you referring too?
Live in LA or like a dead and co performance? He has played it a lot of different ways
@@briandarragh4800 the Live in L.A Version
@@briandarragh4800 Did he play All Along The Watchtower in Live in LA !?
Michael, I love how you break down not only the musicality and the framework of a song but also the "feelicality" of the tone that the song is trying to set. If you haven't already done it I would love to see your take of "Stop this train" by Mayer Live in LA. That one really hit me in a different way this week than all the other times I've heard it before.
For years I've been a HUGE John Mayer fan. He's one of the few artists that make me pick up the guitar every single day. When I first heard that song on the Born and Raised album I literally started crying. The story, pictures, melody... still gives me a huge lump in my throat everytime. It's just perfect, as you said.
Hi Michael, this was the right push to pick up the guitar again. Got to buy a guitar and i'll give it 100% after 30 years of not playing. Thanxx
YES. Do it and just remember - keep it in your hands. Just keep picking it up.
You misquoted the third verse: it says, "Now his friends bring him up when they're drinking , at the bar with his name on the side." I'd always taken it to mean that Walt died in his adventure , and that John is describing a plaque in Walt's memory. He didn't make it, but they were giving him a cheers for having had the guts to try.
Love hearing different people’s interpretations on a song, I’d never even thought of it that way
See i have always thought of it as Walt had the guts to go on and live his dream and his friends are still living the same mundane lives and just speak on his accomplishments as a way to distract themselves from their boring day to day routines, but thats just my 2 cents 😄
@@grantshearman2630 same. and maybe walt faked his death
Walt Grace did make it, John speaks about this in a concert.
Nooooo, this is John describing his life. He made it.
One of Mr Mayer's most amazing songs.... he is truly one of the greats of our time. Thank you for the reaction! Superb
This video popped up on my suggestion page. I’m not a musician but I am a long time massive John Mayer fan. I’ve always adored this song. The story telling and what is means has always got me but watching this video makes me love this song even more. Thank you for this. I’m definitely going to watch more of your videos now.
You absolutely deserve all the good that's come your way Michael. Seriously, these videos are so captivating, it's rare to see someone so passionate about what they're doing as you. Congrats on 200k, and I'll see you at a million because we know you're going all the way
Michael,
Thank you for telling us your story through this John Mayer masterpiece.
This video made me reflect on my goals and how I want to be remembered by my dear ones.
Cheers, from Portugal
Always a much needed injection of positivity in my day, thank you.
That whole record is fantastic.
Great tune.
Respect for really focusing on the story versus the guitar part. You really nailed the point of this song. I look forward to playing and singing this song to my daughter.
This song is fantastic. If you haven't heard it yet, check out the album version. The instrumentation on it is absolutely beautiful, it opens with a mellow muted trumpet line and the background harmonies really elevate it in my opinion. You also mention how he succeeded but to me it seems like it's left rather ambiguous whether he actually made it alive or not, yet all the people who doubted him still admire him for trying it. "They smile when they can, as they speak of the man" has a melancholy tinge to it that makes me think that his friends are sad that he's gone but respect his dedication to something he believed in.
Thanks so much for doing this. Not many people understand how good of a songwriter JM is. And I appreciate how touching it is for you (and should be for anyone who can relate to it).
Modern day Walt Grace right here. Long time lurker recent subscriber I’m realizing the passion and dedication you commit to this channel is as inspiring as anything. Goes to show that anything one feels strongly enough about in this world is worth a full measured pursuit. Congrats on 200k and thank you for the content.
Another brilliant video! You perfectly described how beautifully John Mayer paints the life of a man and his dream and how it is relatable to anyone who has an individual goal to pursue. His lyrics are always small stories of life and this is one of his best!
This has always been one my favourite songs ever. I saw a video where John said it's one of his only songs that he wrote in the third person and it just shows how great he is at not only song writing but story telling. So articulate.
5:42 - Michael: "I'm trying to think if the word..." *youtube ad* : "Grammerly is the..."
Goosebumps every single time... one of my favorite tunes ever period
His appreciation for song writing changed my outlook and my ear for music for the better.
This has quickly become one of my favorite John Mayer songs; fantastic! And of course I love your analysis man!
One thing I love of this song is everyone’s interpretation of the story. Some say he died, some say he lived and came back and is running the bar. I personally believe he lived, and is living a new small life in Japan, and his friends made a mural on the bar in honor of him. Fantastic song in any way!
This one of my top 5 John Mayer songs. It speaks to me every time I hear it. Michael, thank you for your commentary tonight. Your words resonate perfectly with my life in the exact moment. Be well!
I just joined your online program! and its awesome to see you have the exact same acoustic as me. Love that guitar and became very attached to it. trying to save up for a PRS electric now to match for our gigs. Love your content. love mayer.
I knew Mayer was a great songwriter, as I’d listened to other hits like Vultures, Slow Dancing in a Burning Room, and all those, but this was the song that convinced me that he’s not just a great songwriter, but a transcendent one, at that. I’m sure you’ve already listened to Edge of Desire if you’re reading this, whoever it is, but if you haven’t, now’s the time
❤️
Love your interpretation and commentary not only on the guitar part, but also on how to learn by ear. Also like your interpretation of the lyrics! You really add a level of meaning to the song that is accurate (it feels like that’s what he’s saying in disguise) but maybe not explicit to an average listener like me. Well said!
Thanks for bringing this song to my world. It's amazing. And the way you talk about it made it all the better!
I think it is fantastic that you connected with this song, as I did. At 40 years old, I found myself in a place where I needed to get some air, get my own space, make my own way, and do something that made my life better. I heard this song and immediately connected with the idea of it. Brilliant. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on it.
Hey Michael, just wanted to take a minute to thank you for sharing your joy, passion and insights with these songs. I was watching this video asking myself why I watch them, and I realized it's because you take songs that I already love, and take them to new depths of appreciation that I likely never could on my own. I'm able to enjoy these songs in new and more developed way even after having listened to many of them hundreds of times over the years. And for that, I thank you. And more JM, please.
I love this song because it feels like an example of magical realism. But as a song rather than a short story or something. And the guitar really adds to that floaty, surreal feeling and ties the whole thing together.
Bro this is my fave song of his, brings me to tears all the time.
Man, you are so genuine and we appreciate that more than you could possibly imagine. What a great and uplifting video. I'm not crying, you're crying.
One of my favorite John Mayer songs, really plays to the strengths of his vocals and its a wonderful story to go along with it. Great video Michael :)
I am 23 and have been listening to John for years, way before dead and co. I am not a guitar player but I do have to say sonically I love his work, but what it has been over the years for me was his lyrics. I am not kidding when I say you can listen to every studio john mayer song and appreciate it for the lyrics. The man is such an underrated writer. When this born and raised album came out (also amazing song "born and raised") walt grace was a song I instantly attached to. It is one of his amazing pieces of lyrical work but I encourage everyone to go listen to more john. He writes about everything from love (obviously lol), loss, his parents, getting older, passing your prime, being lonely, not being taken seriously and so much more. I was happy when he joined dead and co because I am a big fan of the dead and I knew this would be his transition for people to take him more seriously than just a pop chart guy from the 2000s. Michael you also help open peoples eyes the beautiful words and thoughts of johnny boi!
Thank you. I watch these videos and try to talk through them with you to double check my work. As a drummer, I ducking love theory. Talking through progressions, it all helps all of us be better musicians
New Michael Palmisano Reacts Video uploaded. John Mayer in title"- Me: "Instantly Open to Watch"
Hey it's my suggestion!! Thanks for doing this one!!
I hit subscribe after I heard your interpretation. Not because of the interpretation but because someone loves music so much that they are ready to go a distance to explain what they feel about the music and share with the world.
Delightful.... thank you !! So glad ur helping me learn music again ....the acoustic sounds amazing...love learning with you and everyone.
.and so it is 🇨🇦🌬🙏bless
John is an amazing song writer. This one paints a picture of all of our lives but so personal at the same time.Clever clever man. His intelligent creativity added to his thought articulation is his trademark. And add melody, voice and guitar skills and the man can do no wrong in my eyes
This song helped push me to go back to school, to prove myself wrong and see how far I could go, just for the sport of it. I’m having so much fun!
Criminally underrated song! such a beautiful message and tear jerker thanks for covering this!!
Never subscribed to a guitar course before but, after watching your videos for a couple months, I'm stoked to learn how to connect the dots from you.
The guitar on this song is one thing. The lyrics and sentiment behind it is another level.
Great video, awesome song, even nicer lesson. Thanks for all you do Michael. Keep up the great work. Love what you do and the raw emotion as you break down these songs. Merry Christmas.
Absolutely love to see you pulling out the acoustic :) can never go wrong with Mayer either
Amazing song, amazing breakdown both lyrically and musically, amazing video!
I just realized that I'm not sure I've ever seen you with an acoustic in hand. That's a beauty.
And it’s still a prs this guys definitely got money
@@Nico-lq8ik its an SE (import) be it it is the higher end one its still not that out reach at around $1k.
You're missing out on some good videos then bud.
Man, I just enjoyed you enjoying the genius of John the way I enjoy it, great vid, you seem really genuine, just subscribed
I was fortunate enough to see him perform this song on his 2017 tour. This song transports you with Walt. It shows John’s ability and versatility.
one day there will be a Live Tracks with John Mayer
Thanks Mike, you done made me cry
Always good to see another video from you. Each time I see John Mayer pop up on your channel I hope for 'Something Like Olivia'.
Your channel is all about the emotion. Thank you for sharing and thank you for climbing into the submarine.
Yes Thanks!!!
Thanks for sharing all this, Michael. I share your emotions and challenges, and this song has had a huge impact on my life. Check out the unofficial clip another youtuber has made to illustrate the song, it brings it all to yet another level. Breathtaking. Take care of you and your family, lots of good vibes from the Old Continent!
HOW THE HELL DID I MISS THIS I LOVE THIS SONG AND I LOVE THIS CHANNEL THANK YOU MICHAEL!!!!!
Dude. Thank you for what you do and this video. Amazing song and lesson.
I started my practice 5 years ago on grit and prayer and it’s amazing what we can do when we work with our communities and serving others most importantly believing in ourselves!
Still hope to jam with you when this crap is over (I’m a drummer in Bethesda) and maybe take some lessons to improve my skills on guitar too.
Cheers brotha and thank you and have a great weekend. We love you too Brotha!
One the greatest guitar HEROES of our generation! A lot of people just mistake Mayer for a Pop guy, which he is but his Blues is on a level on its own! Thanks for this video! ❤️
Hey Michael thanks for this video. Glad to hear your submarine ride is going well!
Can't see too many mentions of it, but that little phrase you played, completely off the top of your head, at the opening of this video, is stunning.
I always found this an interesting song and a possible metaphor for johns own life and for me it’s highlighted by his line where the operator connected the call from Tokyo. John always had a special connection with japan and its culture as you see it in his tattoos and in some of his other songs (I.e. who says). That’s the biggest hint for me that this may be an allegory for his own life.
For years I couldn't decide if Walt Grace lives or dies - JM leaves it pretty open-ended. If anyone wants a "spoiler", Mayer confirms it in this performance ruclips.net/video/FKA97uhnBKg/видео.html Thanks for doing this tune!
Agreed! I love the open ended way it is up for interpretation.
Damn that was a good upload, Thanks Michael, I hope you have a great Christmas.. (we had technology in the 60's !!! LOL, man on the moon in 69, I'm old!!)
This is my favorite Mayer tune. One of the things I love about it is that I always assumed Walt died until I talked to others who assumed he'd made it. I think the ending is ambiguous which just makes it even better. Everyone can hear the story the way they want to.
He survived! John has mentioned it somewhere (don't ask me where lol)
I thought he died too. Like his wife got the call from the Tokyo police who found his submarine washed up on their shore and called to confirm that he was the man. And sure, he died, but he made it to Tokyo, and they named the bar after him because he died daring to live an adventure nobody thought was possible.
I guess he could live too, and then return home and open a bar with bragging rights of having taken a homemade vessel across the Pacific:)
That's a beaut, Clark! Love the tone on that PRS acoustic...
Haha!
Ive only seen a couple of videos through recommended but big fan of these and the way you play ! Subscribed :)
Amazingly described the whole thing, you are truly an amazing person. great to see this video, and see you what you doing..
What I've noticed about Mayer's brilliance is that he takes basic chord progressions but alters the chords in such a unique way that it makes it totally his own sound. Like in the beginning of the pre-chorus, he plays that ii chord, but it's strange. He's actually playing (as far as I can hear) G#-B-A#-D# in an arpeggio and it's so odd and so haunting. Crazy brain that guy has.
When you're that good you gotta blur the colors/shapes of everything thing to not get bored (inversions eeeeverywhere).
This video is so goooooood!!!!! I was already addicted to this song, but watching this exploded my heart!!
Michael, most dont know what this song means to a 52 year old family man, whose instruments are gathering dust in those easy access points in the house. Thank you for sharing brother
Right on Dean. Thank YOU
Been waiting on anothjer John Vid. This is by far one of his most underrated songs. Took me years to figure out what this song was about when I was a teenager.
Glad to see you cover it. Cheers.
Cool free course and free guitar can't beat that. Thanks for the chance to get this beautiful guitar 😀
I love this song, love your breakdown of it, love everything about this video, but fun fact: the rhythm of the verse is almost identical to the chorus of "Lovebug" by the Jonas Brothers. There's your random connection for the day.
This song always makes me cry when i hear the last verse.
You should definitely check out Covered in Rain by him. Probably his best solo ever imo.
I was so happy to see this appear! This is one of my favourite songs of all time! When I want to show someone what an amazing writer/poet John Mayer is, I bring up this song 👌
So the song actually does not reveal if Walt made it to Tokyo alive or not!
"When you're done with this world, you know the next is up to you"
"She accepted a call she never expected"
"Now his friends bring him up when they're drinking.. at the bar, with his name on a sign"
And John said that he likes people coming up with their own interpretation of what happened and what the song means, so he had never confirmed or denied anything before.
I'm not going to spoil anything for anyone, but there is a live stream that you can find on YT of John saying if Walt made it or not! ;)
Such a beautiful song! Good choice for your review 👌🤘
Man thank you for this. Beautiful song by my favorite artist. Cheers.
This was more of a life lesson than guitar lesson!
Really nice playing at the start. Your videos with John Mayer are an instant click for me to. This song is bloody brilliant. Really reflects what Mayer was up against as a singer songwriter at that stage in his life. And he is a master story teller and very subtle. The whole born and raised album, brings the listener to a different place and time. John also took a chance, because he went in a completely different direction with his music. His fans kind of wrote him off initially for it. But people are starting to realize how good his take on "Countryana" music really was.
Can you review some Carlos Santana?
Great job man! And a great song- thanks for picking this one!
You should react to Dead and Company Sugar Magnolia live from Folsom Field, Boulder, CO. 7/14/18. I think it’s one of dead and company’s best sugar magnolias and Mayer is so good at sitting in the song.
We need more JM content man! I can’t wait for the 2022 Sob Rock tour. Maybe you will be able to break down some of his gnarly live performances soon to come :)
Great video Michael! Love that acoustic. I feel like John Mayer's music and perspective changed and matured, for the better in my humble opinion, after playing with Dead & Co.
Please react to John Mayer's cover of A Rolling Stone by Bob Dylan.
First time that i've heard John play wrong notes.
Once again, AWESOME video Sir! Thank you :)
Damn, how have I never heard this song? Thanks for sharing. Just completely changed my outlook and it was needed.
I love it. You're both so talented
Apart from a great musician , teacher and listener, you are a really nice guy Michael. Keep it up!
Inspiring words, man...thank you!