What Makes This Song Great? "Don’t Fear The Reaper" Blue Oyster Cult

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2 жыл бұрын

In this episode I discuss the song behind Music's Greatest Meme from the "More Cowbell' comedy sketch featuring Christopher Walken and Will Ferrell.
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Пікірлер: 4 100

@shaunscm 2 жыл бұрын

Classic rock artists need to watch this carefully and understand that Rick is the most important person carrying the torch of their music to the next generations, and if they don't stop this copyright madness, they will be left behind. Thank you Dharma and Rick!

@edf9577 2 жыл бұрын

This comment above is so accurate, I can't like it hard enough.

@magicbrownie1357 2 жыл бұрын

Mixed feelings. I can't blame a professional musician for wanted to get paid for their work. That's how they make their living. Would you work for free?

@JTLaser1 2 жыл бұрын

@@magicbrownie1357 they don’t get paid unless people buy their music, how do you know to buy something you haven’t been exposed to?

@misterflibble6601 2 жыл бұрын

Commenters need to read this carefully and understand that there are many people just as important as Rick carrying the the torch of this music to the next generation and if they don't stop this continued use of cliche ridden, overblown hyperbole they will be laughed of of KZfaq

@blabla9845 2 жыл бұрын

Well said!

@sjdanthem 8 ай бұрын

It's ironic that NBC does a skit about a song and then decades later won't allow three seconds of the skit to be shown in a video interview with the actual writer of the song. Too many damn lawyers.

@ShiroiTengu 20 күн бұрын

NBC is NOTORIOUS for going after any uploads from SNL musical appearances. Really pisses me off cause the Cars appearance on Halloween was incredible and it's always immediately getting pulled

@richardlamb1642 Жыл бұрын

Blue Ouster Cult is the most diverse band I've ever heard. Why they've been completely snubbed by the music industry is beyond comprehension.

@stevenwilkinson1265 Жыл бұрын

100% true, just too good to comprehend for many it seems.

@iliketowatch. Жыл бұрын

The fact that they haven't been recognized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is just one more reason that the RnRHoF is completely bogus. (Another reason? Iron Maiden! WTF?)

@flexiblestrategist9922 10 ай бұрын

I've tried to tell this to other classic rock fans but it goes in one ear and out the other. Listen to Mirrors then listen to Secret Treaties. Like two different bands.

@RetroRooNE001 9 ай бұрын

Because they're weird.

@SonofSethoitae 9 ай бұрын

@@RetroRooNE001It's a shame that the weirdness screens so many people out, because as far as I'm concerned it's one of their best qualities. Which BÖC are we gonna get today? Existential musing on the nature of death? A love song about a vampire? A hype song for their favourite monster movie? Nobody knows!

@skooby_doobie_doonkann3334 2 жыл бұрын

Buck is such a great guitarist. Criminally underrated. He is one of the great innovators

@larbueno 2 жыл бұрын

Have thought that since their 1st album, then seeing them live in '72.

@dennyelrod513 2 жыл бұрын

And emulators, Skoob. He's the master of variation!

@hatbpto5180 2 жыл бұрын

Saw them live and yes, he's incredible 👍

@ethanyoder9953 2 жыл бұрын

Such a great guitarist. His solo on the live version of Veteran of the Psychic Wars is incredible.

@ytusersumone 2 жыл бұрын

I just heard his solo improv on Oct 26th 1979 live rendition of "Astronomy" and was blown away 🤯

@thaneknight 2 жыл бұрын

When I was recovering from major open heart surgery and a severe stroke. My daughter and I sang it in the hospital ward, while she hit a book with a pencil intimating Will Ferrell. Sometimes you just gotta laugh at death.I'd rather hit the end of the trail with a smile on my face and laughter, than slouched over with self pity. thank you gentlemen.It's amazing what music and laughter can do for the human soul.

@tommymcweedface229 2 жыл бұрын

Dude, glad you're still here!

@Geezer-yf8hv 2 жыл бұрын

Great story, and a great attitude!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

@michaellefort6128 2 жыл бұрын

I know exactly what you mean about laughing at death. When I woke up from quintuple bypass, my Boss, who actually Did care about his employees. Visited me still groggy from anesthesia, "How are you doing?" He asked. "I can kick every ass on this floor., ' I said. 'He's still doped up, ' my wife said.

@jdenino6022 2 жыл бұрын

@@michaellefort6128 damn, my husband got a stent in February and I was scared he was going to die, God bless you and hope you enjoy many years of health with your wife.♥️🙏

@michaellefort6128 2 жыл бұрын

@@jdenino6022 nothing to fear, I have four stents. It's the kidney failure that might kill you.

@tzampini 2 жыл бұрын

This song is pure genius. Just the opening riff would have made it an iconic song. But there are a dozen more parts of this song that are equally iconic. I honestly don't know how any mortal human being can create such a masterpiece. Buck, if you're reading this, you've brought joy to people the world over with this song. Thank you.

@cozmicpfunk 2 жыл бұрын

Totally! and "Burning for You" is also one the greats. Music Lightning in a Bottle. The songs are total works of art and genius writing/arrangements. What makes them so good is all the tasteful guitar licks (and as RB mentioned a middle eastern sound). As a young guitar player growing up in the 70"s, you had to have these tunes in your R&R repertoire and learning the solos made you a better player! I agree with RB- Reaper has to be one of the best Classic R&R hits, the song is just perfect :)

@michaeldean7220 2 жыл бұрын

The opening riff is just stunning in its almost eerie persistence.

@TomMarkel-gplus 2 жыл бұрын

And like many big hits, they were surprised at its popularity. Great song which has many great parts from the main riff to the blistering screeching solo! I never get sick of hearing this song and have it in my workout playlists (great energy for working out).

@petrilampela 2 жыл бұрын

This is my favorite rock song ever recorded. But I don't hear dozens of different parts in this song, it basically only has two (plus the solo section) and that's one of the reasons why I love it so much.

@jimc6687 2 жыл бұрын

Cities aflame with Rock & Roll........off their first album was pretty awesome as well!! Jim C.

@zadokthepriet 2 жыл бұрын

The solo after the key change is like a struggle or a fight with the reaper. Crying out in pain as Buck goes through a heart attack. Then calm again as his life is returned to normal and the bell keeps beating with the high hat tremors of a heart murmur. Beautiful to know the story behind the song. Than you Rick.

@rkb2092 2 жыл бұрын

It really is one of the greatest songs ever. I remember hearing it the first time in a friend's car on party night. We were all blown away. Same thing happened when Heart's Magic Man came on. They gave us hope in the disco era.

@lynncampbell962 2 жыл бұрын

The solo in this song is one of the creepiest and most interesting leads I've ever heard. Every time I hear it I wonder how they came up with it. Also NBC sucks for making you take a 3 second GIF out.

@cozmicpfunk 2 жыл бұрын

I agree- I would say "Haunting" because the song's theme, mood and emotion is carried along so well with all of the guitar playing. I am glad there are these classic 70's hits like Reaper and that Ric Beato can share them with us with the theory and interviews! I don't hear any modern music that is a emotional and clever. BOC built the Mold then Broke it. Fantastic music all the way around :)

@larrybethune3909 2 жыл бұрын

The pre-solo intro riff does NOT help at all. (min to diminished minor?)

@kendouble9705 2 жыл бұрын

Buck Dharma must be the most exquisitely melodic guitarist I can think of. His vocal and lead style are so far removed from the posturing norm of 70s rawk yet he can really rip. And he's written some great songs.

@noworries3117 2 жыл бұрын

True, along with the pre-solo riff. I had this song on a 45 pretty soon after it came out. Whenever that solo section started my sister got upset because she thought it was satanic. She said she could actually feel the evil spirits in the house.

@jdolew 2 жыл бұрын

@@cozmicpfunk Yes ... I like the word "haunting" or even "mournful". The solo fits the theme of the lyrics so well. The whole song is sorrowful while also somehow life-affirming and just bloody majestic. Hits me smack in the heart every time I hear it.

@bobdeary5255 2 жыл бұрын

I love Buck’s solos because he builds them, weaving different phrases together, changing tempo at times, creating solos that you rarely hear. His solos take you on a journey

@chriscaudle2792 2 жыл бұрын

That Fm solo reminds me of something from mid-70's Yes. I've looked through other comments and seen others who were reminded of different guitarists, so maybe there was just something about the mid-70's that encouraged a little more out there guitar solos.

@ericelander9936 2 жыл бұрын

Totally agree on the journey aspect. His Veteran of the Psychic Wars solo on Extraterrestrial Live makes one feel as if one is standing outside of space and time. David Gilmour is the only one who outshines him in that regard.

@deweybrightside2276 2 жыл бұрын

What a legend.

@danielweeks3723 2 жыл бұрын

My solos take you on a journey as well. Usually to the bathroom. I do what I can.

@steverogers2603 2 жыл бұрын

Agreed. My favorite is on Nosforatu, but as far as taking you on a journey type, that would be Veteran of the Psychic Wars or Last Days of May live.

@WARRENBUFETT 2 жыл бұрын

The genius of the man is unreal. How could he put together such sophistication at such a young age? Wow!

@MrAlan8r 2 жыл бұрын

People should listen to the album they put out in 2020, The Symbol Remains. One of the best albums they've made and easily my favorite new album over the last few years.

@jjvladimir6070 2 жыл бұрын

I agree. The Symbol Remains is irrefutable proof that an older band can still produce masterpieces.

@elfman5176 Жыл бұрын

It’s one of the their best

@jrock2264 Жыл бұрын

Totally. It's awesome. Crazy awesome.

@tonyalterman1336 Жыл бұрын

Absolutely brilliant. More and better Buck Dharma guitar work than anything since Agents of Fortune, and great songwriting.

@michaeljones9316 Жыл бұрын

TSR is as good as "new" music gets in my book. Brilliant release, and so happy they're still out there AND putting out new music...Nightmare Epiphany, Florida Man, and the mighty Alchemist all 10/10s!

@chuckhutton5087 2 жыл бұрын

Don “Buck Dharma” Roeser is one of the most underrated guitarists ever.

@Fr_Mitch 2 жыл бұрын

100% agree. What a thrill to see the lead guitarist of my favorite band on my favorite KZfaq music channel!

@smeyer4105 2 жыл бұрын

Agreed!

@stevegordonson720 2 жыл бұрын

So true ! One of my favorite bands during my HS days. I saw them play in 73 in NYC on New Years eve and I was hooked ( kiss and iggy pop played too)

@johnwinnard5589 2 жыл бұрын

Buck Dharma is god.

@chuckhutton5087 2 жыл бұрын

@WisdomJX No, either have I . To clarify, most folks have no idea who Don Roeser or his on-stage persona Buck Dharma are unless they are BOC fans; and that’s unfortunate. The guy can flat-out play with the best of ‘em. L.I. has Joe Satch, Steve Vai, Don Roeser, I’m sure many more great guitarists.

@stevenbergom3415 2 жыл бұрын

"There should be a compilation record of cowbell songs." Couldn't agree more.

@kewillia 2 жыл бұрын

Mountain- Mississippi Queen

@rileyjackfansmithandjones8238 2 жыл бұрын

Leonid and Friends......Cover of "My Old School"/ Steely Dan

@stevewindisch7400 2 жыл бұрын

Grand Funk's "American Band" literally starts with them; SNL could have made the skit about that one since it was more noticeable, but i suspect DFTR was more popular and they preferred to use it for that reason.

@caprise-music6722 2 жыл бұрын

Brilliant idea by Buck

@digitaljanus 2 жыл бұрын

Nazareth's "Hair of the Dog" and War's "Low Rider" should be at or near the top of the list.

@jdy5556 2 жыл бұрын

I remember when my daughter was in her mid-teens when she wanted nothing to do with me or anything I liked, especially music. We were in the car together and this song came on the radio. I could literally see it grab her attention as she heard the lyrics and the music for the first time. It was a great example of the amazing power of music to bridge gaps between people. We could agree on at least one thing...'This is a REALLY good song!'

@64TMS Жыл бұрын

That's an amazing story. 👏 Thank you 👍 😊

@randomguyontheinternet7940 Жыл бұрын

You've gotta try showing her some of their other songs.

@eddvalhar Жыл бұрын

I didn’t know Mike Ditka played guitar on that song!

@teddwayne Жыл бұрын

I was blessed to see BOC last night 12/4/22 in Honolulu, at a smaller venue. AMAZING! Thank you Rick for the wonderful videos 🙏

@groovinhooves 2 жыл бұрын

The cowbell is thematically fitting as a stand-in for the ticking away of time to the inevitable meeting with the Reaper. Hear the ticking? It means you're still alive in the now. And maybe it's also a symptom of a very minor or tongue in cheek demo-itis - hommage au métronome?

@williamzoom9200 2 жыл бұрын

Genius level comment - I’ll always hear it this way now!

@58BURST 2 жыл бұрын

Brilliant take on it.

@sjdanthem 2 жыл бұрын

That's effing brilliant. I feel like I've known that semi-subconsciously when listening to the song but just never verbalized it.

@richardshort2001 2 жыл бұрын

I have always thought this. It also explains why it ever so slightly gets louder as the song goes on. He's getting closer.

@operationstayalive 2 жыл бұрын

i visualize a metronome going back and forth when i hear it now. i think that's it.

@BryanWLepore 2 жыл бұрын

Buck's story is a deep, enlightening insight to this well-known song - again, well done.... and he has a good sense of humor about the skit- what a relief! Whew!

@endcensorship874 2 жыл бұрын

He lives in the immortal realm now, his song and that skit have transcended mere rock and roll music.

@llehmorfzzaj 2 жыл бұрын

Agreed. I'm wondering about the contribution of the producer tho -- it's THE Bruce Dickinson, after all!

@PhildoBaggins 2 жыл бұрын

Read this in Homestars voice

@BryanWLepore 2 жыл бұрын

I used his excited giddy voice - well done.

@avlanche7777 2 жыл бұрын

I know I always wondered about that.

@markosaarela3537 2 жыл бұрын

Aw man, this was one of the best video made by Rick. I mean this is so awesome, that he can get these great great musicans to tell they’re story and open up the songs.. i mean Rick will definately will be remembered as a teacher who always went one step further and deeper than others. Hope youngsters will find this content and some day grow enough to appreciate these stories 😃

@paulwhite7972 2 жыл бұрын

I saw them twice in 78 at Newcastle City Hall (UK) and was blown away. In fact part of the live album Some Enchanted Evening was recorded on one of those nights. Buck is a highly underrated player. His live solo in Last Days Of May is still incredible. Saw them again in 2002 and he was still on fire!

@georgegeranios2918 2 жыл бұрын

I was B.O.C.'s sound man for the first 12 years of their endless touring journey and, indeed, Buck's Reaper demo features a cardboard box accompaniment. He does play drums, by the way. I have a KZfaq channel where I post many of the exclusive tracks I collected back in the day from our rehearsal process and tours.

@ekayaniperforms 2 жыл бұрын

Post the link for your channel ???

@georgegeranios2918 2 жыл бұрын

@@ekayaniperforms Just search for my name on KZfaq. There IS a channel from Greece (yes, another George Geranios..one of many it seems) but he has modified his name.

@paulfeuerstein6143 2 жыл бұрын

Hey George - I opened for them many years as the soft white underbelly at Suny Stony Brook (I was Cummin' Tyde). I worked with Sandy Perlman and Howie Klein on school concerts at Stony Brook....

@georgegeranios2918 2 жыл бұрын

@@paulfeuerstein6143 That was how I met Sandy Pearman and his crew. Long long time ago my friend!

@amjrpain919 2 жыл бұрын

I always liked "Cities on flame" & "Godzilla" just as much...just say'n 👋🤓🤙

@johnanderson3475 2 жыл бұрын

one of the greatest somgs of all time. the vocals kill too. he didnt try to over do it or try to hard. gives it a dreamy kind of haze. cuts deep. this is what its all about.

@sandyallen2392 2 жыл бұрын

I love how happy guitar players look when playing. Like they are delighted by the magic flowing through their hands. So fun to watch.

@foreheadlstudios2936 Жыл бұрын

Just when I thought this video couldn't get any better, then comes Buck's live playing at the end. What a treat! Thank you both.

@mr5811 2 жыл бұрын

Buck's feel when he plays that solo still whips ass.

@RobertTempleton64 2 жыл бұрын

74 years young!

@kylesnyder9452 2 жыл бұрын

Random thought but Don seems like a dude you’d see at a local breakfast cafe and not even realize your sitting next to a legend. Also love how he played his parts for the interview you can tell he loves to play guitar ❤️ 🎸

@steverogers2603 2 жыл бұрын

He’s very low key. They still tour because they love to play, not to pay of debt.

@karaamundson3964 2 жыл бұрын

100

@ytusersumone 2 жыл бұрын

He's like everybody's uncle. With his heart condition and all makes him even more mellow and loveable.

@sngwrter49 Жыл бұрын

We just saw BOC live (7/31/22). Before the show I looked to our right and there was a familiar figure walking down the aisle toward the stage. I told my wife, "You better look quick, that's Buck Dharma Roeser right there." While she was saying "no way", a young family walked quickly past us toward him as he stopped when he saw them. The little girl in the family said, "It's Donald!" as they ran up to him. He must have spent close to 20 minutes talking with them before he slipped out of the theater. It appeared most people didn't realize who he was. One of the coolest moments I've ever seen of someone I consider to be a rock legend just being one of us. This capped off a special month where we were walking into a convenience store in Tampa where a familiar face was standing in line. I told my wife, "Look, that's Iggy Pop right there." She confirmed it on her phone. (Have some faith, please.) Another legend just being like one of us except for the fact his chauffeur drove him away.

@joeblough261 Ай бұрын

@@sngwrter49Iggy Pop, only one dude looks like him for sure, aside for the average dead man, haha.

@RobBanks81 2 жыл бұрын

So glad Buck played an extended DFTR end solo for your viewers! Priceless. Buck has been my hero since I first saw BOC in 1975.

@jaymueller2418 2 жыл бұрын

The guitar lines throughout the song are so melodic and lyrical. Really a pleasure to hear them isolated. Great work, Rick.

@eddyjuillerat835 2 жыл бұрын

Rick forgot to say at the end: "Don't forget to ring the cow bell" Blue Öyster Club got a really unique way of composing and plaing rock songs.

@La_sagne 2 жыл бұрын

club? 😄

@buckd8 2 жыл бұрын

@@La_sagne Police academy

@donmorgan3498 2 жыл бұрын

When they hit that section with the "seasons don't fear the reaper" lyric, I always thought it sounded like a Ventures song. Then when you ask him about his favorite guitarists, he mentions the Ventures. So cool. Great video, Rick.

@1sttvbn 2 жыл бұрын

So true…I always liked how after the bridge guitar solo, Buck let’s the guitar just feedback for a long time…Then ends it with an upward bend. They were genius.

@reuireuiop0 2 жыл бұрын

Interesting too he mentions Robbie Krieger as an influence. Robbie doesn't often come up as a source.. But here we are !

@rickvolman2633 2 ай бұрын

That part uses an A G F E progression using a root 6 barre chord. The Ventures used the same progression in Walk Don't Run. The timing of the changes is a little different - much to the disappointment of copyright lawyers everywhere.

@MerkinMuffly 2 жыл бұрын

This is the only outside song that appears in Halloween, when I saw it as a 7 year old kid in 78 I noticed it right away because my brother had the album. Funny how nobody really makes reference to it when talking about the movie.

@genxray951 2 жыл бұрын

Also the First song in the Steven King movie The Stand, well chosen too.

@williamcampbell7387 2 жыл бұрын

Also turns up at the beginning of the TV mini-series "The Stand."

@argusfleibeit1165 2 жыл бұрын

No discussion of the vampire aspect of the story? I find this song overwhelming in its beauty and terror. I have to turn off the radio if it comes on while I'm driving. I almost had an accident while it was on, I got so caught up in it. Not like I'm superstitious, or anything, yeah.....

@edwardabrams9497 2 жыл бұрын

Total masterpiece. Every nuance of every part is just so well done.

@RickTransit 2 жыл бұрын

Something you didn't mention is just how lovely Don's voice is. No, it's not a great or classic rock vocal but its beautiful softness draws you into the mood of the song in a way that a stronger voice just wouldn't do.

@MarioMidi2545 2 жыл бұрын

You made a very good point...

@MatejaRistic 2 жыл бұрын

Him and David Gilmour have that same thing going. And they both happen to be insanely good guitarists.

@tomcat8662 3 ай бұрын

I kinda got Moody Blues vibes from it

@just.some.dud3 2 жыл бұрын

Super cool to see Buck and how well he’s still playing and singing. We should all be so lucky. :)

@robertakerman3570 2 жыл бұрын

Who knew Mike Ditka could shred guitar? Seriously; yes "super cool' & I'm fortunate 2 see this.

@steveh46 2 жыл бұрын

I saw Buck play at a charity gig about 3 years ago and he's terrific.

@stephenadamsmusicalinterpr4203 2 жыл бұрын

@@robertakerman3570 he DOES looks like Ditka! Great observation.

@michaelklopchin5469 2 жыл бұрын

I got to see them this past October’21 in a packed theater in Rutland, VT. They killed it! High energy, amazing BOC show! They’ve still got it for sure

@jimh3267 2 жыл бұрын

Saw them last year (for the first time) and they still put on a good show. Sorry it took me so long to see them, but glad I got to check it off the box.

@clivehamilton193 2 жыл бұрын

I always loved Buck's solo on "Last Days of May" on "On your Feet.....". Understated brilliance.

@johnbryant6610 2 жыл бұрын

I'm going to have an "OK Boomer" moment, but I have to say that Reaper is the essence of what I love about classic rock. It's multidimensional! A lot of what I hear today is ear candy by comparison. Songs like Reaper take the listener on a JOURNEY!

@fixedgear37 Жыл бұрын

And there were no ear candy songs in top 40 radio in the 70s? Most of the radio hits were ear candy crap in the 70s. Look back at billboard for the decade. It wasn’t all “great classic rock” like you all seem to remember

@johnbryant6610 Жыл бұрын

@@fixedgear37 True. But even the "ear candy" of that time period was far more sophisticated musically than today's pop music. I must add that there's a ton of great artists out there now, but they're not getting the attention that they deserve due to how the music industry is structured now. There's exceptions of course, but homogenized music is what gets pushed for the most part.

@NerdySabbath Жыл бұрын

@@fixedgear37 While I agree there was plenty of crap in the 60s & 70s, & theres good tunes today if you dig enough. But those two decades did have the most consistent over saturation yet quality I've ever seen. 68 to 72 in particular churned out a roller coaster of rock&roll

@akrocuba 8 ай бұрын

BOC FOREVER!!!!👍👍👍👍👍👍🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸

@drumloverable 7 ай бұрын

There are still a lot of transcendental songs being made, to suggest a few: Kevin Penkin - Hanezeve Caradina & Tozo Hanoline Casey Edwards - Bury The Light Suckers - A Mind i Knew

@Bodytribechip 2 жыл бұрын

That sustain out of the guitar solo (from the Fm to G7 section) almost through the entire next verse that cultivates into that slide upwards... that's one of my favorite moments in rock and roll.

@agriff4795 2 жыл бұрын

Yeah, that feedback note made me start playing Really loud, because back in 1976 the only way to get feedback was to play at high volume!!

@richardjohnson2762 2 жыл бұрын

Right! That rise and then fade into nowhere.

@DrBonely 2 жыл бұрын

Here's my personal connection...I played bass in a grunge band in the 90's that did a mix of covers and original music. BOC did a show at a nearby casino and needed a local band to open up for them. The radio station putting the event on reached out to us and we got to do the show. Was a highlight for us for sure!

@melodygrim471 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome! That's a GREAT memory to be able to carry around. Some people want to be famous themselves (I think we all have that dream), but as I've gotten older, I've realized that what is REALLY cool and exciting is when you're invited to share the stage with someone you admire. Or sometimes, you come to admire them as you watch them. Sure, there ARE the ones you might have admired BEFORE hearing their snarky comments - that they will NEVER share the stage with you again - but with egos that big, you ALWAYS run into jealousy! Then you see someone like Dharma, and his humility is inspiring! Thank you for sharing your memory!

@DrBonely 2 жыл бұрын

@@melodygrim471 Yes, you hit the nail on the head. I didn't make a career of music, but I will always play it and enjoy it. I'm often actually thankful to have led a normal life, only occasionally stepping into the bubble of people that "made it" in the business. It was exciting whenever it happened, but it would have wrecked music to make it my living.

@markcarson1844 2 жыл бұрын

Grats on that gig, thats a no brainer to do that man! From one bass player to another.

@peachmelba1000 2 жыл бұрын

A friend of mine's band opened for Ozzy in front of 20K ppl about 20 years ago. They edged my band out in a contest put on by the local FM station. We were bummed but they deserved it, and we got the full back stage experience as the consolation prize. Another group I knew back then opened for QOTSA at a big concert hall. They said it was pretty surreal, drinking with their heroes. Said they were nice dudes. Ozzy's team and group were very very nice.

@DrBonely 2 жыл бұрын

@@peachmelba1000 That would have been absolutely mind bending to open for Ozzy! So cool that you got to hang backstage for that show and meet the band. Glad you shared those stories. It's the stuff to remember for a lifetime.

@stevebird9510 2 жыл бұрын

When Rick highlights an artist or band, sales will most likely go up. That's how they make money. If no one talks about them , people forget. Copyright Cowards are fools , plain and simple.

@I_Don_t_want_a_handle 2 жыл бұрын

It's all a question of effort. It is much easier to blanket ban everyone than to pick out, every day, the one or two instances where the music/images are being used positively. They would need to hire someone /many people, maybe full-time, to check each flagged usage to weed out people like Rick and then judge if it was a genuine usage and not a parasite ripping off a living from others work. It would cost too much to do this for each copy writed piece and it is far too much effort .

@stevebird9510 2 жыл бұрын

@@I_Don_t_want_a_handle it's really not that difficult. The problem comes when the actual artist let's someone else do their thinking for them.

@I_Don_t_want_a_handle 2 жыл бұрын

@@stevebird9510 You assume that the artists have the time, inclination and/or ability to think. Many, perhaps most, have little control over their copy writes. They are often held large businesses who are driven by cost. Even the Beatles had no control over their music, IIRC Michael Jackson bought them. It is far simpler and cheaper to carpet bomb than it is to use a guided missile ...

@stevebird9510 2 жыл бұрын

@@I_Don_t_want_a_handle Very True about today's musicians. Most have no idea what's going on behind the scenes. Badginger is an excellent example of a band that ended up broke because of poor management. The Beatles however took control over their music with the release of Rubber Soul and even created Apple Records. I guess the moral of the story is , if you want it done right , do it yourself or live with your poor choices.

@crustylust3490 Жыл бұрын

I met Buck Dharma in a hotel elevator before their show. Coolest and most down to earth musician you could imagine!

@RiffLair 2 жыл бұрын

I just love how "self made rockstars" like Mr Buck Dharma are so down to earth guys. Thank you for providing these interviews!

@rabbitinnh 2 жыл бұрын

The greatest single guitar note in rock history is that feedback note that's held forever and then bent up at the very end. I could just listen to that note . ..

@Plisken65 3 ай бұрын

Also the end of "Limelight" solo!

@alanfishell1438 2 жыл бұрын

Don't Fear the Reaper has been my favorite song since 1976 when I was 15. I saw Blue Oyster Cult in Cleveland in the late 90s and stood in front of Buck so I could figure out his leads and was probably creeping him out when he just ripped some leads that blew my mind! He knew it when he saw my face and smiled.

@thorne1239 2 жыл бұрын

I think there is this door in all of us that is programmed to react to certain musical keys or chord progressions; and "Don't Fear The Reaper" is one of those. There is just something about that riff that makes the hairs on my arms stand up. It's warm and inviting, but almost resigned to its fate. The story about Don's heart condition makes a lot of sense. And the guitar work on this song is seriously underrated.

@JoeSzilagy 2 жыл бұрын

I used to teach that to many guitar students. Between the music in general, the harmonies, the great riffs and solos, arrangement, and on and on, I began to think of it as one of the most perfect rock songs in musical history.

@scarab944 2 жыл бұрын

One of the greatest guitar solos of all time, imo. Gives me goosebumps every time. It's a perfect example of using a key change for artistic impact and not just technical wankery or songwriting laziness.

@foto21 2 жыл бұрын

It is in the top ten breaks of all time, I have to agree. It's not just an average bridge either, It's a complete reworking of the tempo and time sig.

@tantrispicks2440 2 жыл бұрын

Agreed!

@BriBeast8566 2 жыл бұрын

As a kid the vocal harmony was what reached out to me and the idea that death is inevitable. Having recently lost a young, close family member when this song came out.

@LarneFC2 2 жыл бұрын

Buck has to be THE most underrated guitarist ever. He looks absolutely fantastic too.

@nbt3663 2 жыл бұрын

One of the hooks of this song (and there are many) is echoing of the words "Romeo and Juliette" is just mesmerizing.

@boomerdell 2 жыл бұрын

Agreed.

@boomerdell 2 жыл бұрын

And the haunting, "we can be like they are..."

@wlewisiii 2 жыл бұрын

Blue Oyster Cult remains one of the greatest bands of all time and yet so little known. Thank you, Rick.

@darrendonahue2797 2 жыл бұрын

This is a masterpiece and always came off to me as, and especially the guitar solo, as very Boleroesque!👍🏻

@mitchweiner 2 жыл бұрын

Buck is 75 years old and still plays great! Will Ferrell is a genius for going overboard with cowbell in the SNL skit!

@Echelon-xi8xv 2 жыл бұрын

The key change guitar solo has always blown my mind. All of it a true masterpiece that captures the essence of the lyrics. Similar to Renaissance word painting or something. I love how far-removed that solo sounds from the rest of the song but yet it still manages to tie together seamlessly.

@geob3963 2 жыл бұрын

One of my favorite guitarists. He rips and rocks, but he’s also so tasteful, haunting and unexpected. And not just in this song.

@marks.3934 2 жыл бұрын

A masterclass in in elegant, melodic, yet adventurous guitar playing. Enhances the mood of the song in every way.

@christiancazabonne Жыл бұрын

His solo in the live version of 7 Screaming Dizbuster on the album On Your Feet or on Your Knees is one of the bests of rock history!

@dougmphilly Жыл бұрын

that whole album is buck at his best.

@christiancazabonne Жыл бұрын

@doug marcus Is totally sick 🫨🫨

@BitcoinWillFixEverything 2 жыл бұрын

I must have heard the song over a thousand times in my lifetime. It's up there with the best of Zeppelin, Floyd, etc. Such a masterful tune.

@wickedlester5320 2 жыл бұрын

That sustain note after the second to last solo gives me chills every time. Great song.

@danielgonzaleztejedor9486 2 жыл бұрын

To me beauty comes when that feedback blends with the riff, it feels like flying.

@johnposega5319 6 ай бұрын

Cities on flame with rock and roll has one of the greatest riffs of all time

@MerkinMuffly 2 жыл бұрын

Reaper gets all the attention but for me it was their first three albums that remain bullet proof. You can hear just about every type of music imaginable on those. Favorites of mine like Cities on Flame with Rock n Roll, Stairway to the Stars, Last Days of May, Teen Archer and Mistress Of The Salmon Salt.

@andrewglazier8940 2 жыл бұрын

Hell Yes! I'd have to add Baby Ice Dog to that list.

@TheJTinHB 2 жыл бұрын

Cities on Flame! Going to listen to that next.

@patrickbalkany7989 2 жыл бұрын

cities on flame with rocknroll's guitar solo combined with the bass line is one of the stankiest thing ive ever heard.

@marcsullivan7987 2 жыл бұрын

Dominance and Submission

@NH2112 2 жыл бұрын

Astronomy, Flaming Telepaths.

@melancholyhussar 2 жыл бұрын

The greatest musical meme ever is Nigel Tufnel's "These go to eleven." scene. 🤣🤣🤣🤣 But this is a close second. Great video!

@greatnortherntroll6841 2 жыл бұрын

I remember distinctly, the first time I heard "Don't Fear the Reaper"... I was parked on an overlook on Skyline Blvd in Oakland California, and my buddy and I were listening to the radio via my own custom built, remote speaker, car audio system. Two notes into the song, and I was cranking up the volume to just shy of Self-Destruct! As soon as the song was over, we packed up the speakers, and beat feet over to Tower Records in Berkeley to snag a couple of copies of Agents of Fortune! Good times!

@bluecollartradesman715 2 жыл бұрын

I was on a boat fishing on a lake with my uncle when I first heard don't fear the reaper. My uncle had a CD player in the boat and had a mix CD of all 70's and 80's music. He only had one CD so it was on repeat. Everytime don't fear the reaper played we seemed to slay the fish. Everytime I hear this song I think of the fishing trip.

@milesian1 2 жыл бұрын

Man, I was just on Skyline this afternoon!

@sisyphuscranerigging7792 2 жыл бұрын

I had to get AoF back then because of DFtR and loved loved loved the whole album. Patti Smith on Revenge of Vera Gemini, E.T.I., Debbie Denise, all those songs, I still put it on and dig every note. Don't Fear the Reaper is just driven, so beautifully arranged and really crackles with layered guitar artistry, no wonder it's such a classic!

@jcdevine99 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome memory

@michaelrouthier8491 2 жыл бұрын

Have always loved this song! I suspect the SNL skit wasn’t written as a send-up on the actually song, but used more as a platform to get Christopher Walken to say absolutely ridiculous lines like “I have a fever and the only prescription is more cowbell!” And of course to watch Farrell gyrate around the studio. Hilarious stuff! I wish Rick had asked Buck about his vocals on this track, as they are almost whispered to get that haunting affect.

@stevehoran5595 2 жыл бұрын

I've always loved Buck Dharma's impassive, cool vocals in this song.

@rogerstone3068 2 жыл бұрын

I love to hear this 'birth of the song' stuff about the really huge iconic tracks. At what point does the writer know "this is something special" ? How can you hear some of these and NOT know right away it's an immortal track?

@Veni_Vidi_Vortice 2 жыл бұрын

Always wanted an authentic sounding cowbell for my percussion instrument collection but those cows can run surprisingly fast when they need to.

@Weloz92 2 жыл бұрын

Did you try asking them to borrow one first?

@bearpitt 2 жыл бұрын

An ear of corn works.

@smalltown4855 2 жыл бұрын

for me the solo in don't fear the reaper is one of the all time greats, so unusual, powerful and moving. most solos don't do that.

@icalrox Жыл бұрын

One of my favorite songs ever.❤

@scottlampkin180 Жыл бұрын

My favorite band of all time, thank you for showing their musical genius with this song.

@void0094 2 жыл бұрын

Blue Öyster Cult are very underrated. I really love their music.

@therosses5 2 жыл бұрын

As a stupid kid, I got sent an 8 track from I think the Columbia record group. I sent it back because I didn't know who they were....so dumb..lol

@caprise-music6722 2 жыл бұрын

They are amazing

@renlessard 2 жыл бұрын

Veteran of a Thousand Psychic Wars is the coolest song ever created and I will die on that hill

@makattak88 2 жыл бұрын

They’re incredibly musical, technical and heartfelt. They rock!

@SaltyBob355 2 жыл бұрын

They went to #10 on Billboard, sold out stadiums, and are still being talked about 50 yrs later. How is that underrated?

@alanmatthew5713 2 жыл бұрын

"Buck Dharma" is one of my favorite hard rock guitarists ever, very underrated. My favorite B.O.C. song is "Veteran Of The Psychic Wars."

@speaker1115 2 жыл бұрын

The way the song was incorporated into the Heavy Metal movie was great! One of my favorites too.

@jeffs6485 2 жыл бұрын

Veteran was always my favorite BOC song. I saw them in 1987 or 88 at the Bayou in Washington DC. And then I just saw them this year in Jim Thorpe Pennsylvania. I always considered myself a casual fan until seeing them again and now I’m listening them to them constantly. There is a long live version of Astronomy that is excellent several awesome versions of Then Came the Last Days of May, Joan Crawford and Flaming Telepaths get multiple plays

@stephenjones7520 2 жыл бұрын

ETL Live Best Guitar Solo

@alanmatthew5713 2 жыл бұрын

@@stephenjones7520 seen him play it twice.

@can2mar 2 жыл бұрын

I remember them saying Elric of Melniboné by Michael Moorcock was an inspiration for this song.

@jamesdunn2214 2 жыл бұрын

"Dust in the Wind" by Kansas was released around the same time and with a similar theme. It is another great song! Also, Aerosmith's "Dream On" had a shuffle off this mortal coil vibe. All first class tunes! I loved ' em then and enjoy them still.

@Godskingdomwithin 2 жыл бұрын

Gary Wright’s “Dream Weaver” also comes to mind.(1975)

@phreshone1 2 жыл бұрын

Leftoverture came out exactly 5 months later... Two of the three albums that pushed rock to new musical highs that year (Boston was released in between)

@marcg1686 2 жыл бұрын

@@phreshone1 Carry on wayward son, my favorite song of that year.

@netowl3922 2 жыл бұрын

I was in fifth grade and all those songs definitely describe a moment in my life.

@johnbryant6610 2 жыл бұрын

Agreed! The attention paid to composition and song structure during that time period was phenomenal.

@iliketowatch. Жыл бұрын

I had the good fortune to see BÖC several times in the late seventies, including at a small club gig where they were billed as "Soft White Underbelly" (it pays to know your rock trivia!). Unforgettable. Love these guys more than ever. Great video, Rick!

@wandcfirst 2 жыл бұрын

Great stuff. Buck is one of the best, criminally underrated.

@TrueEarth2112 2 жыл бұрын

Still holds up today. There are songs I never tire of and this one is at the top. Hauntingly beautiful. This and Carry On Wayward Son are the two best classic rock songs from bands that did not have huge commercial success.

@kobayashiMaroo 2 жыл бұрын

Buck is also funny as HELL and must not take himself too seriously as he parodies what many BOC fans must have thought of him when he joins Blotto on the song "Metal Head". I have always gotten a vibe from BOC they were rather making fun of the whole rock and roll scene (particularly the Heavy Metal scene) while still making some of the greatest rock and roll songs. Genius.

@albertschepis 2 жыл бұрын

Really interesting technical / musical breakdown, and loved seeing Don in on it who gave us a masterful performance - still brilliant. Very special. Yes, greatest rock song in all history is not over stating it.

@evansarzin6516 2 жыл бұрын

I was so excited to see that Rick was breaking down this song and Buck was participating in it. Reaper is a tremendous song, and it’s great to know what inspired it. The shift and the explosive guitar solo entry always sends a jolt and thrill through me.

@dragonpundit.6443 2 жыл бұрын

Damn right, like a warning blast from an alien planet.

@karaamundson3964 2 жыл бұрын

One of my LONG, long time faves! Since I first heard it

@stevevonwald5857 2 жыл бұрын

Big big big buck drama fan. A major guitar influence for me. His leads, his live shows in boc's premier days are something unique and mesmerizing. There is not really anyone like him, he was and is on his own path.

@curtisprice9806 2 жыл бұрын

Wow! Totally awesome getting Buck on this episode! I love so many of the songs and guitar solo's he did with BOC!!!! A living legend of classic hard rock!!!!

@markbarry9945 Жыл бұрын

I've got a picture of me hanging out with boc back in the early 80s, I was a DJ in Corpus Christi and we got to hang out with them backstage after the concert, they were super chill

@fartsimpson8610 2 жыл бұрын

It amazes me how DFTR propels itself forward with so much energy. It's like a page-turning novel that just keeps rolling forward. Full props to the rhythm section!

@doktaviousdavious9622 2 жыл бұрын

"More Cowbell!" Great stuff. I saw Blue Oyster Cult at the Boston Garden right after I got out of the Army in 1977. They were in top form and the searing guitar solo in Don't Fear the Reaper has always been one of my favorites since then. What a fantastic night! What an honor it is to see the master himself playing these guitar solos on this video. Well done sir! 👏 👏👏

@karaamundson3964 2 жыл бұрын

I just got chills reading this. Wow.

@Trance786 Жыл бұрын

This is one song that to me is one of the greatest songs ever made. So many emotions in this song from start till end.

@adambrown5172 2 жыл бұрын

I’ve seen Eddie Van Halen, Yngwie Malmsteen , Steve Vai and also Buck Dharma in concert. Buck Dharma is one of the most underrated guitarists, he can shred or play soft melodies. He always knows what’s good for the song. I remember his backup guitarist who was younger would shred an awesome piece then Buck Dharma would reply with a tasteful melodic bit

@dwc1964 2 жыл бұрын

not mentioned is how the vocals harmonize together and then split apart into call-and-response for the chorus, which I've always found fascinating

@stephenwalker2924 2 жыл бұрын

Don seems like a real chill, quiet and humble guy. And a good sport too. I must admit, the cowbell is louder in my inner ear and mind than it is on the record.

@rycarse 2 жыл бұрын

My God!! That extended end solo!!! Absolute genius. Loved this since it came out when I was in high school.

@theroseguy7 2 жыл бұрын

You're such an awesome musician, music analyst, commentator, interviewer, and personality. Love the history and back story of all rock music. Great channel.

@bodhisattva3774 2 жыл бұрын

I've got a fever and the only cure is more Beato videos. Lol

@nbt3663 2 жыл бұрын

Hope yoy feel better👍

@RockHudrock 2 жыл бұрын

😆

@carlosgaspar8447 2 жыл бұрын

one of beato's best in a some time.

@rileyjackfansmithandjones8238 2 жыл бұрын

Beato Fever....CATCH IT on KZfaq Everyday!

@Mazer607 2 жыл бұрын

Living in Monterey, CA during the early 1980's, BOC would play every year or so at "The Club" for 4-500 hundred fans and usually bill themselves as Soft White Underbelly, a not so secret show that sold out in an hour or so. As they vacationed there as well, you could count on an autograph or two. Buck Dharma was always super gracious to the fans. They were Huge in our guitar community. Almost every band had a couple of Blue Oyster Cult covers they played. My first song ever learned in total. Great job Mr. Beato!

@jaredmickel5636 2 жыл бұрын

I saw one of those shows in ‘84.

@adamlawrence9107 2 жыл бұрын

Saw BOC as well in or around 84 in LA at some small club as Soft White Underbelly. Great show, I still remember well. Had front of terrace seats. Great job, Rick.

@Tangento 2 жыл бұрын

@@adamlawrence9107 I was there with you bro.... I believe it was at Perkins Palace.

@Mazer607 2 жыл бұрын

So good, still playing together almost 40 years later...

@DanKuches 2 жыл бұрын

Wow! That ending solo by Don was incredible and haunting.

@jimmeltonbradley1497 Жыл бұрын

As an avid cow-bell player myself (along with other percussion of course), this song has a special place in my music collection. The opening to Honky Tonk Women was my introduction to the cow-bell back in the `60s.

@jonathanbyrdmusic 2 жыл бұрын

Love the way he takes a moment to get the vibe before he plays the solo. The importance of feel.

@andrewglazier8940 2 жыл бұрын

Blue Oyster Cult is one of my favorite bands of all time! I've been a huge fan since I was a kid in the early 80s. Buck is one of the elite classic rock guitar players, and these guys have albums full of great songs. I've been waiting for this episode for a long time. Tyranny and Mutation and Spectres are my personal two favorite BOC albums, but I love them all!

@TheFairestMaiden 2 жыл бұрын

Spectres is my favorite, too

@davidmohler247 Жыл бұрын

So many great memories of this song and seeing these guys as BOC or Soft White Underbelly back in the 70's and 80's

@mattadams2689 2 жыл бұрын

Sharing the joy about a song with others who feel that joy - made my morning. I also love how the sound and tone of the song so perfectly reflect the lyrics.

@backslash68 2 жыл бұрын

I love Buck Dharma's solos. Excellent choice of notes - you will rarely hear him noodling on the pentatonic box. Also a good singer, not as high range as Eric Bloom but very nice timbre and delivery.

@The.Last.Guitar.Hero. 2 жыл бұрын

when you hear the isolated guitar playing the solos as you say it is a wonderful tone which modern production no longer gets. Watching Buck Dharma play that solo on a Steinberger was really awesome

@fiddleandfart 2 жыл бұрын

Love Rick's musical analyses of so much popular music - and his sheer engaging enthusiasm for the pieces he's dissecting! And as a musical dabbler for over sixty years - yes, through The Beatle era, and ever since, I find this seriously interesting and enjoyable. Love it! Rick's great..! Such a likeable and talented guy!