I believe it was said that Synyster Gates wrote that song about his grandfather passing away, but when Rev died he changed the lyrics and made the song about him. Beautiful song and so different from what we’re used to from A7X. RIP Rev. 🤘
I wouldn't really say this is different from what we're used to from A7X when songs like Warmness On The Soul and Seize The Day exist. They've always had a penchant for slower, melodic/acoustic songs.
I was I think 18ish when he passed. I am a recovering addict, I have been to probably 100 funerals at 30, but when the rev passed away it hurt. This band made surviving my insecurities, pain, shame, and just the mess I was when younger. The Rev passed from my poisons. I often think about those still sick and suffering. There is no easy way out… it’s hard to explain how someone you’ve never known moving on can hurt so bad. I’ve literally been to friends’ funerals that didn’t hurt like when the Rev passed; probably because on reflection, it should have been a warning to me, but for years I ran… dope benzos and alcohol have been what has taken from me: the same cocktail that caused the rev to pass on. I can’t imagine how hurt the band was, they grew up together they wrote together they were the closest of friends and than BAM, way to young Jimmy passed away. RIP jimmy Sullivan; one day I’ll see you rock the drums in heaven. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
“You’re pain is gone, you’re hands untied” this always hits for me after losing a good friend a few years back. Was my first high school friend who has passed away and I still struggle talking about it. Those two lines at least help me feel a little better
The last part of the song, with the actual old photos and videos of The Rev and the guys is the most heartbreaking part imo, especially with how Matt delivers that verse. Also, I'd highly recommend checking out the acoustic rendition they did at the Grammy Museum.
What separates avenged sevenfold from other bands, they all grew up together, and they all had each other’s backs. They never betrayed each other. The stronger the bond, the stronger the relationship. 💙🖤💙
Been a huge fan of A7X for 15+ years, the ReV's death crushed my sould, it felt like losing a family member, this song makes me cry everytime, thank you for reacting so such a masterpiece
I'm using google translator because I'm Brazilian. I'm 30, A7x was part of my adolescence, listening and going through that time and all those feelings of loss when The Rev was gone. Today after a long time, I'm crying in front of the computer watching and remembering that time. But I'm happy with the size the band has reached, I still have their songs on the playlist, but I haven't felt something like that listening to their songs for a while. Thanks for the honest reaction. Signed: An adult who grew up with A7x and dpz for a long time, was able to appreciate music again.
As an old avenged fan, losing the Rev was absolutely gutwrenching. It was well known how close they were as a band, as friends, and most kf us truly didn't believe they'd continue. As far as i know, they were going to put out the album, then tour for it and be done... The fan response to the tour helped convince them to keep going.
I absolutely agree. It came out of nowhere, he was what, 28? I was in highschool, 18 ish, I’d get home from school throw on A7X and play guitar to the songs; back when it was an iPod plugged into speakers lol. But, when I heard he died, I felt this immense sadness. He just seemed like such a great person, blatantly one of the best drummers ever… I’d go on to go through years of my own addiction. Many funerals later, reflecting on Jimmy/The Rev, I realize that I should have seen such precious life leaving too early as a warning, but I’m clean now. One day we will all reunite in heaven/afterlife, whatever, and have a huge concert! Freddie Mercury, Beethoven, A7X, Elvis, etc
I watched an interview where they talked to Rev's family and they convinced them to move forward because that's what he would have wanted. Sometimes his family comes to concerts.
It's even more sad when you found out that Jimmy was the writer of the most iconic Avenged songs. Such as: A Little Peace of Heaven, Almost Easy, Fiction, Afterlife, and a long etc.
One thing that comes up a lot is that when Syn and Rev were both around 14, Syns dad asking Jimmy what he wanted to do when he was older. Jimmy responded, "I don't know the specifics, but I know two things. I'm going to be in a famous rocks band, and I'm going to die before I'm 30." Rest in Peace Jimmy
The whole album "Nightmare" its a tribute, a lot off the songs were written by Rev, its the last print off him in music. Its an amazing album that probably will make you cry when you hear Fiction.
Excellent reaction Rachel. I cant imagine how difficult this song was to write, or even to perform for the first time after his death. You can see in the delivery of this how much it hurt. This i have watched numerous times and every time I get overcome with emotion and goosebumps.....
I’m sure that video wasn’t even close to the first time performing that song. There must be dozens of takes of them breaking down and and having to restart.
I went through the same emotional roller coaster after I found these guys 7 years ago. How they dealt with the loss of the Rev is very inspiring. They still celebrate his life and include his voice when they play the older songs live. They are one of my favorite bands. It’s fun to see people find them for the first time, which is how I found your videos. Even my wife, who is definitely not a metal head, likes a number of their songs. Looking forward to the new album.
They still play this song at all their concerts in remembrance of the rev. This group was my first concert I went to and the tribute was extremely touching.
Ray..... thank you so very much for showing the ultimate respect to our fallen brother, love that you did your homework and enjoyed what's a beautiful yet tragic song
this is the one song that can make me cry. This band is dear to my heart and when you can relate to a song on a personal level, it truly connects with you
They play this song on every set they do. Whenever they play a song that the Rev has back up vocals in, they have his vocals play over the speakers instead of having someone else do it. Gotta love A7X
I have been a fan of A7X since I was 13 and I am now almost 30. This song always makes me cry. The ending will always get me " I love you, you were ready The pain is strong and urges rise But I'll see you, when He lets me Your pain is gone, your hands untied.."
That shot of him twirling the drumsticks at 7:59 in your video is at Download Festival in 2006. I'm in that crowd, I was only 15 at the time, and went to my first music festival, alone, just to see them play that set. I waited in the 35 degree sun for like 8 hours just to make sure I was near the front, and it was worth every penny I begged my parents for to get a ticket and all the sunburn I had for weeks after. I also had the photo at 8:57 printed out and stuck to my bedroom wall as a teenager, amongst a whole bunch of others of them. I'll never forget when I found out Rev had died, it breaks my heart as much now as it did them. Out of all of my tattoos, only 3 are music related, and one of them is the Deathbat, Sevenfolds skull with wings logo. Rev was a big part of why I got that tattoo with the music he helped make. I got my tattoo in 2008 and he died in 2009. RIP Rev, Sevenfold were never the same after you left.
Been a fan of this band for so many years and I still hardly ever can pull myself together enough to watch the video. Such a talent and such a good soul. RIP foREVer
I absolutely love how you can feel the sadness in Synyster Gates' solo in this song. I highly recommend checking out Victim by them as well. It's on the same album and imo it's one of their most underrated songs ever
Rev may be gone but will never be forgotten. I was unlucky to become a fan after his passing and never got to see him live but he will always be in my heart and mind whenever i hear there music. Hes a god drummer and a huge inspiration to others
I'm putting a point: Rev had a disease 'cardiomegaly' his heart was bigger than normal, in fact his was huge, it was squeezing his ribcage and making him feel a lot of pain at various times, and he used painkillers to "treat" it and be able to carry on without suffering, however due to his life/routine being very demanding, plus the drinks, binges along with the medication, he had an accidental overdose... A mix of substances at a high level constantly made his body collapse at one point, unfortunately... I just wanted to point this out because it's interesting.
You can tell in all the clips that they were more than band members, they were kinda like brothers. I love the Rev so much. I wish I had the opportunity to witness him live. But he’s influenced more than anyone ever could.
I could watch this video 100 times a day and still tear up every time. I saw them live a few years ago, and they played that song live. I teared up a little bit watching them play it live. I saw them again a couple weeks ago after my cousin committed suicide. I've known my cousin since he was about a month old. When I heard this song live again, I was a complete mess. I usually sing along even when thinking about The Rev, but I couldn't even hardly get a note out this time. I felt more broken than ever. Other members of the audience were giving me a pat on the back to let me know they understood. I love A7X and their community. Keep it metal. \m/ :,)
I’ve grown up with A7X. I was only 6 when the rev died, so I didn’t completely understand it, but I can remember how my dad reached when he found out. I didn’t see him cry much when I was younger, but that was one of those times. He showed me a lot more A7X and videos specifically of the rev drumming after that.
Theres another song off of the same album called "Fiction" which was the last song Rev ever wrote, I believe he completed it 3(?) days before his death from what I remember
When M Shadows screams the lyrics at the end…..🥺 I don’t think I’ve ever heard a more heart wrenching scream from him. The worst part is that the Revs death was so preventable.
Me i remember the exact moment i found out he died as i was watching live in the lbc. A7X is my favorite band. The news crushed me. This song still brings tears to my eyes. Seeing your reaction and how you felt it even tho you are just discovering them shows how much you enjoyed the little youve heard; and he in a few songs brought you joy and happiness.
I lost a dear friend last year, he was 27 and I've known him since he was 10 or 11 years old. He was the little brother of my friend (we're 5 years older than he is). I've watched him grow up, learn, laugh, love, hurt, and become a helluva guy, heart of gold, not a mean bone in his body. He was the little brother I never had. This song makes me think of him every time I hear it. Sure do miss you, Willie. Rest easy.
I'm about 40 seconds into this and the song hasn't even started yet and Rachel is ALREADY upset about the loss of The Rev. That just shows how special Jimmy was. Even just knowing a snippet of his work was enough to hook you and make you feel his music, and to realize that he's no longer in our world just HURTS. I know the band has moved on and made decent stuff since, but whenever I hear their new material, all I can think in my head is "Jimmy is missing from this." Maybe that's unfair to them, but I can't help it. Thank you Rachel, for sharing your feelings with us in this reaction. That montage at the end is an emotional gutpunch. I tear up every time I watch this video. However, I am glad that you felt such a huge connection to The Rev's work. His memory will live on within all of us who admired him. ...and thank you, Jimmy, for everything you shared with the world when you were here. - foREVer -
I always related this song to Detroit Rock City, where when I heard the song originally I thought it was clear the song is about X then you find out it’s about Y. And it made the song go front good to great.
First time I heard this song my buddy had committed suicide it played on the way to his house where all our friends met up to be there for his parents. It also woke me up the next day
powerful song and truly 100% emotional, its a top song from them for sure and they couldn't of done it any better as a tribute for the REV, cant believe its been over 10 years since Jimmy passed, a drummer like no other and a amazing human, RIP the Rev foREVer.
I've been listening to this song since it was released there in 2010, and I still get the same emotion today. The Rev was one of the most important people in my musical formation!❤🔥
Love this song. Always brings me tears. Been a long time fan of Sevenfold. Sucks for losing Jimmy. And it also hits me because the lyrics. After losing the love of my life. “How do I live without the ones I love?” “I have so much to say but you're so far away.”
This band has been imprinted onto my entire existence. Jimmys drum licks & patterns will transcend this lifetime. Thank you so much for noticing every little detail in these react videos. I balled my eyes out. Love from Toronto
Not just friends. They really LOVED each other. When you have this friendship since kids, it's not your friend is your brother. The brother who was with you for DECADES till you grow adult... That's what sad about his passing. ❤🩹
First time i know this band i really love their albums and then i love heavy metal, they are my first band and i'm fall in love with this band until now. When i listening So Far Away, idk who is Jimmy, then i'm searching and now i'm fall in love with him. I'm listening Fiction too. This song make me crying cuz this is his last song before he passed away. I really love watching his tribute videos and photos.
6:29 he also put on tattoo on his chest that written FOREVER. The vocalist put on the drummer's symbol as a tattoo on his right back hand. And so do the bassist and the rythm guy
The flashback is tough. Especially when you see the love they had for Rev. The picture at the end Rev with the other band member in a picture at the beach together. That just really hits hard for me.
This is probably my favourite reaction to this song that I've seen, and I've watched a lot. You really *got* the pain and meaning in it all, and communicated it perfectly. For me, the bits that still upset me after countless listens and watches are: 1. The flashback videos and pics towards the end, most of which don't feature Jimmy drumming, but being a friend and a clown. It hits home that they lost so much more than their drummer. 2. The military-style drumming that kicks in just before the above part. Reminds me of like an army funeral march or something, and always gets me. 3. The way Matt absolutely wails the ending. I can honestly say I've never felt a singer's raw emotion just through the way they sing quite like I do at the end of this song. Anyway, thanks again for the reaction, I know it was uploaded a while ago and you probably won't see this, but I really enjoyed it (as much as it's possible to "enjoy" something like this).
I have the lyrics, "Place and time always on my mind. I have so much to say, but you're so far away." With blue angel wings in memory of my brother. This song didn't come out till a few years after he died, but it makes me think of him.
foREVer 🖤 he was genuinely one of the nicest people I'd ever met. I didn't know him well, but it still hurts. It's really nice to see people still touched by his talent and his spirit.
If you notice all of them have a like a dog tag necklace with a capsule on it. These capsules all have a lug from his drum set in them. You can see it better on gates neck because it almost touches his guitar.
I literally did the same thing when I was turned on to Avenged years ago. Watched Live in LBC, fell in love with their music, was instantly drawn to the drummer, looked them up and found out he had passed away about 6 months earlier. It was so dumb, but I really felt like I had lost part of a band that I had listened to for years I was in disbelief even though I had just discovered them, it was a very odd feeling at the time and really it still is, because I never knew them when he was alive, crazy, that’s why we love music though, it touches us and does things, you don’t really know why or how, it’s different for each one of us. Great review, this brought me back I loved the raw emotion!
This was so real, I remeber buying Nightmare on pre-order when it came out because after watching Live in the LBC at my friends house and all listening to all the previous albums I was so invested in this group. The amount of respect that you showed to Jimmy is great and so was this entire album, wishing them nothing but the best as they keep going and preserving his memory.
Beautifully said brother. My heart was ripped out I started listening in high school when city of evil was released it totally blew my mind. Some day I’m gonna get a tribute tattoo covering my whole back dedicated to the REV.
I’ve been a fan since Waking The Fallen back in 03, I’ve been obsessed with A7X ever since. Finding out that that he passed away was one of the heaviest moments in my life. My heart goes out to his Family and friends, We had him for a short amount of time but he left us with his music and happy memories throughout his life. I miss you jimmy, you were a knife master. I hope you’re eating all the steak tacos and chasing stallion ducks. My favorite a7x videos were watching the guys make music with their little documentaries, you should definitely check them out. They use to do really funny videos before they would go on stage and for their encores.
I still remember when he passed, I was a teenager. At a buddies house playing World of Warcraft. It was like 4am when the first article broke the news. He was the first, “celebrity” I cried over. He’s still one of only 3. Great video. Edit: It’s also the 8th anniversary of my girlfriend’s passing. Ty for this nostalgia trip.
Met them once after a concert wehn they did smaller venues. The whole band was really nice and down to earth. We asked them if they wanted to go a bar and they checked with the tour manager if possible. Well, it wasn't. But we did get invited to the next show for free. all four of us. This was the nicest thing a famous band did. But still we bought tickets cause we wanted to support them. Really nice guys
The Rev opened up music to me in more than a listeners perspective. I grew up obsessed with the idea of Drums/ Vocals like he did. When he passed it was the first time in my life that I felt a true tragedy. So much talent in 1 group....
When I first listened to this band and this song in particular in 2014 when I was 12 years old, I didn't know of the story behind the song until I heard about it and even before I knew, it instantly became one of my favorite songs of theirs and still is now because of how raw and emotional it is due to them losing The Rev while making the album this song is on, Nightmare. What's worse about his death is he was only 28 when he passed and it was right between Christmas and New Year's, which is meant to be one of the most joyful times of the year but suddenly turned into a literal nightmare for all of them and I can't imagine the pain they had to go through to even make the decision to carry on with the band, let alone finish the album that he'd had such a huge part in writing and put everything he had left into as they weren't sure if they were gonna do either since they were so crestfallen.
Emotional stuff here. Reminds me of Bad Wolves cover of Zombie. They wanted to originally record their cover with the original singer (Dolores O'Riordan). The same day the recording was settled, Dolores was found dead in her hotel room. The cover has such a special tone with that story and as such can not be less than the best cover of that goddamn amazing song
i remember when rev was gone, me and my friends were teenagers, we simply just couldnt believed it....but we played as well, and i guess that same strenght that came to the rest of the band came to us all as friends, we just keep on playing, forming bands.... i still play to this day, and avenged has a new record on the oven! so maybe thats how we move on, keep doing the things that rev believed in keeping strong our passion for music and all the stuff that comes within much love from brasil, love your channel!
They were actually in the middle of writing the album that this song is on (Nightmare). When Jimmy passed, they put the album on hold with contemplations of breaking up. The Rev's parents convinced and gave blessings to the band to finish the album as "that's what Jimmy would have wanted".
The song has always been so beautiful too me as someone who also lost a close friend i could feel the emotions from the song and its always the solo that gets me
This song always hits home because they're not like most bands, these guys are childhood friends who became a big time rock band together and they lost the foundational member who was everyone's best friend in the group. Can't imagine losing one of my close friends so young like they did..
The pain is never easy and it never goes away when you lose a life long friend. You just remember the times with them good or bad they will always live in your memories.
Rachel, now you understand. Thank you for this. You should listen to Fiction as many others have mentioned. So Far Away is actually the band replying to what the Rev asks of them in his last song.
Your reaction was so real, it's possible to feel that you were really bad while was watching. Even tough all that sad feeling this video is amazing, loved your channel.
I remember feeling the same way when i learned the rev died, this band was basically my introduction to metal so when i learned he passed quite awhile ago i almost cried, i have a battle jacket and on the back it has a drawn picture of the rev drumming and the other side is the death bat
This song was focused on the loss of The Rev. You should listen to "St. James" as it is more of a remembrance of him. And remembering how full of life we was. Really good song, would love to see you react to it.
![Avenged Sevenfold - So Far Away [Official Music Video] | First Time Reaction](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/sjlcm6vdgY8/mqdefault.jpg)
I believe it was said that Synyster Gates wrote that song about his grandfather passing away, but when Rev died he changed the lyrics and made the song about him. Beautiful song and so different from what we’re used to from A7X. RIP Rev. 🤘
You're correct.
I wouldn't really say this is different from what we're used to from A7X when songs like Warmness On The Soul and Seize The Day exist. They've always had a penchant for slower, melodic/acoustic songs.
yes Brian wrote that song for his grandpa but it became a timed perfect with Jimmy's passing...
You're bloody good kid!!!!
Don't cry Don't cry
"Lay away a place for me,
'Cause as soon as I'm done I'll be on my way,
To live eternally"
Got me shedding me tears i dont know.
"I just fangirled all over his talent" is a new euphemism for me.
I will always be amazed on how The Rev's death affected us in so many ways, and still touching to everyone who listen to this song for the first time.
I was I think 18ish when he passed. I am a recovering addict, I have been to probably 100 funerals at 30, but when the rev passed away it hurt.
This band made surviving my insecurities, pain, shame, and just the mess I was when younger.
The Rev passed from my poisons. I often think about those still sick and suffering. There is no easy way out… it’s hard to explain how someone you’ve never known moving on can hurt so bad.
I’ve literally been to friends’ funerals that didn’t hurt like when the Rev passed; probably because on reflection, it should have been a warning to me, but for years I ran… dope benzos and alcohol have been what has taken from me: the same cocktail that caused the rev to pass on.
I can’t imagine how hurt the band was, they grew up together they wrote together they were the closest of friends and than BAM, way to young Jimmy passed away.
RIP jimmy Sullivan; one day I’ll see you rock the drums in heaven.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Pretty sure i cried for 10
minutes straight. I still cant do a it through of this video without crying. Fucking miss him so much.
“You’re pain is gone, you’re hands untied” this always hits for me after losing a good friend a few years back. Was my first high school friend who has passed away and I still struggle talking about it. Those two lines at least help me feel a little better
Listen to the pain in MShadows voice when he sings “The pain is strong” hear his voice on ‘strong’ the feelings are high
The last part of the song, with the actual old photos and videos of The Rev and the guys is the most heartbreaking part imo, especially with how Matt delivers that verse.
Also, I'd highly recommend checking out the acoustic rendition they did at the Grammy Museum.
dang...i think I've seen this exact comment 3 times now
Grammy museum hits so hard as well with Roman Sky and Hail To The King
"This is gonna be so bad"
that part makes me cry everytime... its really hard to try and play it on guitar while crying....
The 2 solos of this song, they are both insane.
What separates avenged sevenfold from other bands, they all grew up together, and they all had each other’s backs. They never betrayed each other. The stronger the bond, the stronger the relationship. 💙🖤💙
The guitar sings for Jimmy too. we love you Jimmy, we all do. Rest in Peace and Power.
guitar was crying too not just producing solos.
like the song from White Lion when the children cry/Your all I need Guitar solo
Been a huge fan of A7X for 15+ years, the ReV's death crushed my sould, it felt like losing a family member, this song makes me cry everytime, thank you for reacting so such a masterpiece
Me too, I remember where I was. I was in total disbelief
I'm using google translator because I'm Brazilian.
I'm 30, A7x was part of my adolescence, listening and going through that time and all those feelings of loss when The Rev was gone.
Today after a long time, I'm crying in front of the computer watching and remembering that time.
But I'm happy with the size the band has reached, I still have their songs on the playlist, but I haven't felt something like that listening to their songs for a while.
Thanks for the honest reaction.
Signed: An adult who grew up with A7x and dpz for a long time, was able to appreciate music again.
As a fan of this band for over 20 years, I love seeing people get into this band and understand the emotional weight of songs like this.
I've heard this song so many times but it still brings me tears and emotions. This is one of three songs that I want at my own funeral 🖤🤘
Yeah man, same. I cry like a beaver everytime I watch this video
Said everything bro
What second more ?
Ahh, I see a man of metal culture as well. :)
@@abg11158 me too man, everytime
They have a really emotional song called "Fiction" on this album and it's the only one with his vocals. Gave me chills listening way back then
100% should do a react to Fiction
Would you suggest the Lyric video or the live from 2013?
@@rayactionsboth, lyrics to see what jimmy is talking about and then the live to see their emotions performing it
@@rayactions I personally prefer studio version, live from Rio is okay, but the studio version always gets me more emotional
Fiction still a hard song to listening to because of its background (In Jimmy's original version the last part was on loop for a quite long time)
As an old avenged fan, losing the Rev was absolutely gutwrenching. It was well known how close they were as a band, as friends, and most kf us truly didn't believe they'd continue. As far as i know, they were going to put out the album, then tour for it and be done... The fan response to the tour helped convince them to keep going.
I absolutely agree. It came out of nowhere, he was what, 28? I was in highschool, 18 ish, I’d get home from school throw on A7X and play guitar to the songs; back when it was an iPod plugged into speakers lol.
But, when I heard he died, I felt this immense sadness. He just seemed like such a great person, blatantly one of the best drummers ever…
I’d go on to go through years of my own addiction. Many funerals later, reflecting on Jimmy/The Rev, I realize that I should have seen such precious life leaving too early as a warning, but I’m clean now.
One day we will all reunite in heaven/afterlife, whatever, and have a huge concert! Freddie Mercury, Beethoven, A7X, Elvis, etc
I watched an interview where they talked to Rev's family and they convinced them to move forward because that's what he would have wanted. Sometimes his family comes to concerts.
It's even more sad when you found out that Jimmy was the writer of the most iconic Avenged songs.
Such as: A Little Peace of Heaven, Almost Easy, Fiction, Afterlife, and a long etc.
One thing that comes up a lot is that when Syn and Rev were both around 14, Syns dad asking Jimmy what he wanted to do when he was older. Jimmy responded, "I don't know the specifics, but I know two things. I'm going to be in a famous rocks band, and I'm going to die before I'm 30."
Rest in Peace Jimmy
I simply can’t watch this video without a tear. Specially at the solo, I feel that syn really took it from his heart. It just breaks me to pieces…
The whole album "Nightmare" its a tribute, a lot off the songs were written by Rev, its the last print off him in music. Its an amazing album that probably will make you cry when you hear Fiction.
Excellent reaction Rachel. I cant imagine how difficult this song was to write, or even to perform for the first time after his death. You can see in the delivery of this how much it hurt. This i have watched numerous times and every time I get overcome with emotion and goosebumps.....
I’m sure that video wasn’t even close to the first time performing that song. There must be dozens of takes of them breaking down and and having to restart.
I was there at their first show after The Rev's passing, in Montreal. I still have goosebumps from this moment 13 years later. Very emotional moment.
Rev isn’t gone! He’s still living inside our hearts and through his music.
I went through the same emotional roller coaster after I found these guys 7 years ago. How they dealt with the loss of the Rev is very inspiring. They still celebrate his life and include his voice when they play the older songs live. They are one of my favorite bands. It’s fun to see people find them for the first time, which is how I found your videos. Even my wife, who is definitely not a metal head, likes a number of their songs. Looking forward to the new album.
They still play this song at all their concerts in remembrance of the rev. This group was my first concert I went to and the tribute was extremely touching.
Ray..... thank you so very much for showing the ultimate respect to our fallen brother, love that you did your homework and enjoyed what's a beautiful yet tragic song
It's impossible not to get emotional watching this music video. I've seen it a thousand times and i still get wet eyes every single time.
The guitar solo always gets me.. we buried my aunt while I had my headphones on and that part hit different.. the emotion for a note..
this is the one song that can make me cry. This band is dear to my heart and when you can relate to a song on a personal level, it truly connects with you
Hurt (both Cash or Trent) have got to be up there...
They play this song on every set they do. Whenever they play a song that the Rev has back up vocals in, they have his vocals play over the speakers instead of having someone else do it. Gotta love A7X
I can’t listen to this song without tearing up … I literally feel the loss in his voice!!
He's never gone as long as people like you keep finding him and introducing him to new people =)
RIP Rev. A real legend
I have been a fan of A7X since I was 13 and I am now almost 30. This song always makes me cry. The ending will always get me
" I love you, you were ready
The pain is strong and urges rise
But I'll see you, when He lets me
Your pain is gone, your hands untied.."
That shot of him twirling the drumsticks at 7:59 in your video is at Download Festival in 2006. I'm in that crowd, I was only 15 at the time, and went to my first music festival, alone, just to see them play that set. I waited in the 35 degree sun for like 8 hours just to make sure I was near the front, and it was worth every penny I begged my parents for to get a ticket and all the sunburn I had for weeks after.
I also had the photo at 8:57 printed out and stuck to my bedroom wall as a teenager, amongst a whole bunch of others of them.
I'll never forget when I found out Rev had died, it breaks my heart as much now as it did them. Out of all of my tattoos, only 3 are music related, and one of them is the Deathbat, Sevenfolds skull with wings logo. Rev was a big part of why I got that tattoo with the music he helped make. I got my tattoo in 2008 and he died in 2009.
RIP Rev, Sevenfold were never the same after you left.
🫂🫂🫂
Been a fan of this band for so many years and I still hardly ever can pull myself together enough to watch the video. Such a talent and such a good soul. RIP foREVer
I absolutely love how you can feel the sadness in Synyster Gates' solo in this song. I highly recommend checking out Victim by them as well. It's on the same album and imo it's one of their most underrated songs ever
Victim has Matt's best vocal performance of any song imo
@@WSlopeAggie it also has the best Gates solo IMO as well, the second solo especially is mesmerizing and heart wrenching at the same time
Rev may be gone but will never be forgotten. I was unlucky to become a fan after his passing and never got to see him live but he will always be in my heart and mind whenever i hear there music. Hes a god drummer and a huge inspiration to others
I'm putting a point: Rev had a disease 'cardiomegaly' his heart was bigger than normal, in fact his was huge, it was squeezing his ribcage and making him feel a lot of pain at various times, and he used painkillers to "treat" it and be able to carry on without suffering, however due to his life/routine being very demanding, plus the drinks, binges along with the medication, he had an accidental overdose... A mix of substances at a high level constantly made his body collapse at one point, unfortunately... I just wanted to point this out because it's interesting.
You can tell in all the clips that they were more than band members, they were kinda like brothers. I love the Rev so much. I wish I had the opportunity to witness him live. But he’s influenced more than anyone ever could.
I could watch this video 100 times a day and still tear up every time. I saw them live a few years ago, and they played that song live. I teared up a little bit watching them play it live. I saw them again a couple weeks ago after my cousin committed suicide. I've known my cousin since he was about a month old. When I heard this song live again, I was a complete mess. I usually sing along even when thinking about The Rev, but I couldn't even hardly get a note out this time. I felt more broken than ever. Other members of the audience were giving me a pat on the back to let me know they understood. I love A7X and their community. Keep it metal. \m/ :,)
The Rev was a musician genius and an amazing person as everyone says, its sad he is no longer with us but he will foREVer be in our minds
I’ve grown up with A7X. I was only 6 when the rev died, so I didn’t completely understand it, but I can remember how my dad reached when he found out. I didn’t see him cry much when I was younger, but that was one of those times. He showed me a lot more A7X and videos specifically of the rev drumming after that.
Theres another song off of the same album called "Fiction" which was the last song Rev ever wrote, I believe he completed it 3(?) days before his death from what I remember
When M Shadows screams the lyrics at the end…..🥺
I don’t think I’ve ever heard a more heart wrenching scream from him. The worst part is that the Revs death was so preventable.
I cry while I watch this video. Sorry my english, I don't speak english very well, I'm from Brazil but I love your videos and your reactions.
Me i remember the exact moment i found out he died as i was watching live in the lbc. A7X is my favorite band. The news crushed me. This song still brings tears to my eyes. Seeing your reaction and how you felt it even tho you are just discovering them shows how much you enjoyed the little youve heard; and he in a few songs brought you joy and happiness.
I lost a dear friend last year, he was 27 and I've known him since he was 10 or 11 years old. He was the little brother of my friend (we're 5 years older than he is). I've watched him grow up, learn, laugh, love, hurt, and become a helluva guy, heart of gold, not a mean bone in his body. He was the little brother I never had. This song makes me think of him every time I hear it.
Sure do miss you, Willie. Rest easy.
I'm about 40 seconds into this and the song hasn't even started yet and Rachel is ALREADY upset about the loss of The Rev.
That just shows how special Jimmy was. Even just knowing a snippet of his work was enough to hook you and make you feel his music, and to realize that he's no longer in our world just HURTS.
I know the band has moved on and made decent stuff since, but whenever I hear their new material, all I can think in my head is "Jimmy is missing from this." Maybe that's unfair to them, but I can't help it.
Thank you Rachel, for sharing your feelings with us in this reaction. That montage at the end is an emotional gutpunch. I tear up every time I watch this video. However, I am glad that you felt such a huge connection to The Rev's work. His memory will live on within all of us who admired him.
...and thank you, Jimmy, for everything you shared with the world when you were here.
- foREVer -
Beautiful and sincere words.
I always related this song to Detroit Rock City, where when I heard the song originally I thought it was clear the song is about X then you find out it’s about Y. And it made the song go front good to great.
This song has a special place in my heart. When my uncle passed away this song came on my spotify and i played it non stop
First time I heard this song my buddy had committed suicide it played on the way to his house where all our friends met up to be there for his parents. It also woke me up the next day
powerful song and truly 100% emotional, its a top song from them for sure and they couldn't of done it any better as a tribute for the REV, cant believe its been over 10 years since Jimmy passed, a drummer like no other and a amazing human, RIP the Rev foREVer.
My favorite song since my first listen, way back in 2013. We will never forget you Jimmy the Rev Sullivan❤
I live in Vegas and I walked into the Hard Rock and his kit was by the door, I had to stop walking and was choked up, wasn't ready for that...
I've been listening to this song since it was released there in 2010, and I still get the same emotion today.
The Rev was one of the most important people in my musical formation!❤🔥
Love this song. Always brings me tears. Been a long time fan of Sevenfold. Sucks for losing Jimmy.
And it also hits me because the lyrics. After losing the love of my life. “How do I live without the ones I love?” “I have so much to say but you're so far away.”
Imagine fangirling for someone then 2 days later finding out he's been dead for 13 years...
This band has been imprinted onto my entire existence. Jimmys drum licks & patterns will transcend this lifetime. Thank you so much for noticing every little detail in these react videos. I balled my eyes out. Love from Toronto
Not just friends. They really LOVED each other. When you have this friendship since kids, it's not your friend is your brother. The brother who was with you for DECADES till you grow adult...
That's what sad about his passing. ❤🩹
She understands now… thank you for this reaction plz more Avenged Sevenfold! Rip Jimmy A7XfoREVer 🤘
First time i know this band i really love their albums and then i love heavy metal, they are my first band and i'm fall in love with this band until now. When i listening So Far Away, idk who is Jimmy, then i'm searching and now i'm fall in love with him. I'm listening Fiction too. This song make me crying cuz this is his last song before he passed away. I really love watching his tribute videos and photos.
6:29 he also put on tattoo on his chest that written FOREVER. The vocalist put on the drummer's symbol as a tattoo on his right back hand. And so do the bassist and the rythm guy
The flashback is tough. Especially when you see the love they had for Rev. The picture at the end Rev with the other band member in a picture at the beach together. That just really hits hard for me.
This is probably my favourite reaction to this song that I've seen, and I've watched a lot. You really *got* the pain and meaning in it all, and communicated it perfectly.
For me, the bits that still upset me after countless listens and watches are:
1. The flashback videos and pics towards the end, most of which don't feature Jimmy drumming, but being a friend and a clown. It hits home that they lost so much more than their drummer.
2. The military-style drumming that kicks in just before the above part. Reminds me of like an army funeral march or something, and always gets me.
3. The way Matt absolutely wails the ending. I can honestly say I've never felt a singer's raw emotion just through the way they sing quite like I do at the end of this song.
Anyway, thanks again for the reaction, I know it was uploaded a while ago and you probably won't see this, but I really enjoyed it (as much as it's possible to "enjoy" something like this).
That was so heartfelt and real. Great passion. The Rev was incredible.
I have the lyrics, "Place and time always on my mind. I have so much to say, but you're so far away." With blue angel wings in memory of my brother. This song didn't come out till a few years after he died, but it makes me think of him.
foREVer 🖤 he was genuinely one of the nicest people I'd ever met. I didn't know him well, but it still hurts. It's really nice to see people still touched by his talent and his spirit.
He died at 28, which is the age i am now and i literally bawled when i remembered that. They were all DEVASTATED. He had so much life left to live.
If you notice all of them have a like a dog tag necklace with a capsule on it. These capsules all have a lug from his drum set in them. You can see it better on gates neck because it almost touches his guitar.
I literally did the same thing when I was turned on to Avenged years ago. Watched Live in LBC, fell in love with their music, was instantly drawn to the drummer, looked them up and found out he had passed away about 6 months earlier. It was so dumb, but I really felt like I had lost part of a band that I had listened to for years I was in disbelief even though I had just discovered them, it was a very odd feeling at the time and really it still is, because I never knew them when he was alive, crazy, that’s why we love music though, it touches us and does things, you don’t really know why or how, it’s different for each one of us. Great review, this brought me back I loved the raw emotion!
St. James is the light to so far away's dark. Also a killer song
This was so real, I remeber buying Nightmare on pre-order when it came out because after watching Live in the LBC at my friends house and all listening to all the previous albums I was so invested in this group. The amount of respect that you showed to Jimmy is great and so was this entire album, wishing them nothing but the best as they keep going and preserving his memory.
Beautifully said brother. My heart was ripped out I started listening in high school when city of evil was released it totally blew my mind. Some day I’m gonna get a tribute tattoo covering my whole back dedicated to the REV.
I can't not have tears when they hit that acoustic breakdown with the clips. It's just too much.
i can see the amount of emotion on your face, and i respect that you openly show how much music touches your heart.
I’ve been a fan since Waking The Fallen back in 03, I’ve been obsessed with A7X ever since. Finding out that that he passed away was one of the heaviest moments in my life. My heart goes out to his Family and friends, We had him for a short amount of time but he left us with his music and happy memories throughout his life. I miss you jimmy, you were a knife master. I hope you’re eating all the steak tacos and chasing stallion ducks.
My favorite a7x videos were watching the guys make music with their little documentaries, you should definitely check them out. They use to do really funny videos before they would go on stage and for their encores.
Jimmy chasing after geese and ducks while screaming in the documentaries is a core memory. To this day, foREVer.
I still remember when he passed, I was a teenager. At a buddies house playing World of Warcraft. It was like 4am when the first article broke the news. He was the first, “celebrity” I cried over. He’s still one of only 3. Great video.
Edit: It’s also the 8th anniversary of my girlfriend’s passing. Ty for this nostalgia trip.
Met them once after a concert wehn they did smaller venues. The whole band was really nice and down to earth. We asked them if they wanted to go a bar and they checked with the tour manager if possible. Well, it wasn't. But we did get invited to the next show for free. all four of us. This was the nicest thing a famous band did. But still we bought tickets cause we wanted to support them. Really nice guys
I love your reactions to avenged sevenfold, this song hit hard for a lot of people when they first reacted
É incrível como conseguiram colocar tanta carga dramática em uma música, está entre as minhas preferidas. A homenagem ao The Rev é emocionante.
The Rev opened up music to me in more than a listeners perspective. I grew up obsessed with the idea of Drums/ Vocals like he did. When he passed it was the first time in my life that I felt a true tragedy. So much talent in 1 group....
When I first listened to this band and this song in particular in 2014 when I was 12 years old, I didn't know of the story behind the song until I heard about it and even before I knew, it instantly became one of my favorite songs of theirs and still is now because of how raw and emotional it is due to them losing The Rev while making the album this song is on, Nightmare. What's worse about his death is he was only 28 when he passed and it was right between Christmas and New Year's, which is meant to be one of the most joyful times of the year but suddenly turned into a literal nightmare for all of them and I can't imagine the pain they had to go through to even make the decision to carry on with the band, let alone finish the album that he'd had such a huge part in writing and put everything he had left into as they weren't sure if they were gonna do either since they were so crestfallen.
Emotional stuff here. Reminds me of Bad Wolves cover of Zombie. They wanted to originally record their cover with the original singer (Dolores O'Riordan). The same day the recording was settled, Dolores was found dead in her hotel room. The cover has such a special tone with that story and as such can not be less than the best cover of that goddamn amazing song
very sincere and respectful reaction. liked and subbed
i remember when rev was gone, me and my friends were teenagers, we simply just couldnt believed it....but we played as well, and i guess that same strenght that came to the rest of the band came to us all as friends, we just keep on playing, forming bands.... i still play to this day, and avenged has a new record on the oven! so maybe thats how we move on, keep doing the things that rev believed in keeping strong our passion for music and all the stuff that comes within
much love from brasil, love your channel!
They were actually in the middle of writing the album that this song is on (Nightmare). When Jimmy passed, they put the album on hold with contemplations of breaking up. The Rev's parents convinced and gave blessings to the band to finish the album as "that's what Jimmy would have wanted".
The song has always been so beautiful too me as someone who also lost a close friend i could feel the emotions from the song and its always the solo that gets me
This song always hits home because they're not like most bands, these guys are childhood friends who became a big time rock band together and they lost the foundational member who was everyone's best friend in the group. Can't imagine losing one of my close friends so young like they did..
The Rev was such a talented drummer, definitely one of the greatest of modern metal🤘🏼🦇
WOAH! Of course you’re reacting to this song! 🔥
This song is a masterpiece
Exactly, Music is such a personal thing!
My heart still aches for the loss of Chester Bennington. RIP Legends!
The pain is never easy and it never goes away when you lose a life long friend. You just remember the times with them good or bad they will always live in your memories.
first ever concert i went to was a7x back in 07, what an amazing show they blew the pipes playing scream. so grateful i saw them when i did
After losing my brother back at the end of May, this is one of the songs that's helped me get through it
they played it tonight, we all cried, still sings it for Jimmy, fucking awesome
Rachel, now you understand. Thank you for this. You should listen to Fiction as many others have mentioned. So Far Away is actually the band replying to what the Rev asks of them in his last song.
Your reaction was so real, it's possible to feel that you were really bad while was watching. Even tough all that sad feeling this video is amazing, loved your channel.
Time passes by, stars fade away, new music gets released every single day, but this song still keeps hurting as the first time, every single time!
I like the fact that even though there are drums in the song, they don’t show a drummer in the music video.
One of the best to ever play drums, RIP Rev!! We love and miss you!
the loss for words at the en of the video represents the knot we all feel inside our chests whenever we listen to this song
I remember feeling the same way when i learned the rev died, this band was basically my introduction to metal so when i learned he passed quite awhile ago i almost cried, i have a battle jacket and on the back it has a drawn picture of the rev drumming and the other side is the death bat
This song was focused on the loss of The Rev. You should listen to "St. James" as it is more of a remembrance of him. And remembering how full of life we was. Really good song, would love to see you react to it.
Amen
Love that song. It's a celebration of Jimmy
This song is very touching, and very emotional, this song is so good,This is one of the best songs
foREVer
"Man is strong, But don't carry your weight alone" that's what the Messages