Blues Traveler - Hook (Official Music Video)

REMASTERED IN HD!!
Official Music Video for Hook performed by Blues Traveler.
Follow Blues Traveler:
Instagram: / bluestraveler
Twitter: / blues_traveler
Facebook: / bluestraveler
Website: bluestraveler.com/
#BluesTraveler #Hook #Remastered

[@dividingzeros8727]

The hook brought me back. 25 years later. He was right.

[@mastershake42019]

Listen to this song so many times. Had No clue that is what he says. Thought he said "the lord brings you pain". Which he sure does lol

[@justincook6056]

Damn right it did

[@ardoporkkropodra2474]

now I feel old :(

[@vintage99999]

Prophetic even.

[@arcon97]

He wasn't tellin' you no lie....

[@superblyrebird3697]

This song is like a magician telling you how he does his trick...and then still fooling you

[@abdullaahiahmed8924]

Spot on bro 😎

[@Jim-oq2ou]

Well said

[@chrishoyt278]

Nice one

[@JoeSmith-hv7oe]

It's like a song with the perfect...prestige.

[@rondosworld2746]

Yess

[@powerstation.international]

'No matter how much Peter loved her, what made the pan refuse to grow was that the hook brings you back.' Great line! How did I not catch this after all of these years?

[@williamillingworth6161]

Cuz no one cares about the words just the beat!

[@johnmcgraw3568]

It's awesome. I never cared for them in the 90's and would hear the happy little ditty of a tune around and about never paying attention. Now I realize this was one of the greatest trolls of all time.

[@annalisavajda252]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJvJdJ-Ca9OindEsi=AW7ALMhhZtUTkdxn

[@CullenRTerry]

Cause it doesn’t matter what he says, as long as he sings with inflection.

[@markpriore3151]

Dude I just came down to comment that is one of the slickest lines in any song

[@maxwellschmidt235]

These lyrics are genius level. The irony as he says he's saying nothing of importance is that he gets across how much of what we say is frivolous, and how much of what is said to us is even more frivolous. It also hits on the dangers of nostalgia and being taken in by the hooks of the way things have always been done. Blues Traveller always had good tunes, but these lyrics need a lot more thought pieces than they ever got.

[@adamkozakiewicz6766]

Because he's simply right. Music isn't that hard if all you're going for is getting the audience hooked. The formulas are well known (and this song uses them a lot). Meaning that if the music you hear doesn't pull you in, the author is either exploring in a direction incompatible with you (which is ok but might not support a career)... or is trying to pull you in, but is just not doing the job right. And if you follow the formula, you get the emotion you intended. You just have to sing. Go very "poetic" and fast, don't give them time to analyze the lyrics, then the audience will assume it's deep, not gibberish. Sing anything, follow the formula and current trends, you get a good result; with a bit of talent and a lot of professionalism (mostly of the producer) - a hit. It actually works. Or you can try to truly say something. With both words and music. But you have to be much better at both to pull that off! This song simply laughs at the idea that we often assume that catchy songs are great... some are, sure, but writing a catchy one is just a matter of professionalism. Writing a good one is harder. Writing a good one that gets you hooked... that's real talent (and what most real artists, including this band, are usually striving for).

[@indiegamelab3441]

I'm not sure its saying any of that. It's saying that he/they can write a song that is absolute gibberish, but if the song has a good hook, you will listen to it over and over. The lyrics say over and over the song is just him saying random stuff, but he knows that it is the song's hook that matters, not the lyrics. I will go on all day Hear what I say I have a prayer to pray That's really all this was And when I'm feeling stuck and need a buck I don't rely on luck Because the hook brings you back I ain't tellin' you no lie The hook On that you can rely

[@maxwellschmidt235]

@indiegamelab3441 I'd agree that the lyrics are written to refer only to themselves and the relationship between singer and listener, which on its own is a commentary on pop music and its comsumption. But here we have the additional context of the video. A man is watching TV late at night. He watches portions of a beauty pageant. Pageants are notable for the emphasis of style and physical conformity over the substance of anything that's said. The emphasis of style over substance leads him to the politician who is using vocal rhythm and empty promises to pull the viewer in even though he's said nothing. Then we get to the bridge which sounds more percussive and is difficult to follow after making two classic references. The video itself moves into chaotic channel flipping- through nostalgic stock footage. Like I say, the bridge sounds chaotic initially, but the lyrics are making clear and non-contradictory statements that the singer feels trapped by the formats of MTV (I take the price of MTV which is not for free to be conformity of musical product), and he won't write pure pop songs until he's dead (artistically rather than literally, I presume). In the end, both the song and video seem to suggest that we should resist letting the hook bring us back and take a more critical view of the world around us. At the end of the video, the viewer turns off the TV and picks up a book on the civil war, underscoring that we should take greater appreciation of how the world has come to be.

[@billhartman5120]

@@indiegamelab3441 The song starts off as you say but then goes down different avenues such as how politicians talk , social propaganda "MTV is not for free" its so PC, and I believe also referring to the media overall. They all use the HOOK to bring you in much like a song does. And most all of it is gibberish at best, lies at worst. They all try to hook your feelings and emotions.

[@penguin44ca]

So what you are saying is, the hook brings you back.

[@joeyteter9383]

Still one of the most underrated vocalists of our time. Dude can belt

[@ArcDevErik]

Nope, really popular.

[@joeyteter9383]

@@ArcDevErik ok well good then that legit makes me happy. I just never hear anyone talk about him

[@Coach_House_Sound]

@@ArcDevErik Never heard him brought up in conversation ever bud. And I’m a vocalist. He’s got decent range but his vibrato and stylistic riffs are what define him. And yes he can belt.

[@marleinasmom]

Yeah no one is talking about John Popper dude... definitely underappreciated.

[@joeyteter9383]

Yea that’s what I thought too. I never hear him brought up in any conversations, even though he’s more than deserving. One of my favorites of all time and definitely one of the best

[@kawasabi1]

Its not often you get to say that was a sick harmonica solo

[@tommyboy5377]

kawasabi1 😂😂😂😂😂

[@c.creature8884]

Right!? Lol unbelievable how this guy can shred on a harmonica.

[@Chris-from-AZ]

kawasabi1 Dude is jus sick on the harmonica period

[@udkline]

Google/KZbin Sonny Boy Williamson, Paul Butterfield, Jason Ricci. Harmonica virtuosi are out there 😉

[@bradwinkler2051]

Listen to Charly Musslewhite

[@susancampbell1480]

Still a bad ass song in 2023. Been listening to this song for for almost 30 years!!! You know why??? Because the hook brings you back!

[@hippiecolleen1352]

On that you can rely 😊

[@The_Lost_And_Forgotten2009]

i ain't telling you no lie 😊

[@beetsbyhometownbrew974]

There is something amiss.

[@The_Lost_And_Forgotten2009]

@@beetsbyhometownbrew974 well i'm being insincere.

[@lucascase3189]

In fact I don't mean any of this.

[@steezyfawkes4459]

Anyone here in 2024 listening to this?!

[@user-jo8vl5zv5i]

Yeah

[@melissam5491]

I mean He ain't lyin. I'm here too.

[@Famousapparatus]

Hell's yes

[@ThePriceisRightB]

Yeah buddy!!

[@ikust007]

Yup🎉

[@MrRyang2001]

The best part of this song is that for years I’ve just been enjoying how good it sounds. Once you pay attention to the lyrics it reaches a new level.

[@shillstradameus4164]

They got ya

[@andrewbrown5499]

Exactly, I remember the first time I actually read the lyrics instead of just singing along and my mind was blown. Made this one of my favorite songs, it's genius

[@VeenaMichelle]

I just looked up the lyrics- and you are so right!

[@Boblib1970]

Howard Stern made me realize this several years ago. I sang it for 20 years w/o knowing what it was about.

[@cmiles97x38]

They got me too. I went down a rabbit hole of young folks reacting to music I grew up with and saw the lyrics and started laughing. I had no idea how epic the troll of the lyrics was.

[@therikerp]

29 years later and the hook keeps bringing me back.

[@GabeBaddeley]

this song was playing in our lobby one night and I said" oh man I love this song" and proceeded to sing along every word

[@thadrt8718]

Yup

[@annettemay6197]

30 years? Try 300. This Pachelbel Canon in D major. That's what he's singing about. Listen to the original. You'll never unhear it.

[@somedudeRyan]

On that you can rely

[@creeg84]

I don’t always listen to this, but when I do, it’s ten times in a row.

[@geoffreyomordha630]

...a little louder each time, too....

[@UndrALuvSpl86]

Every time I turn on the Pandora station 90s this song comes on First and I'm not even mad about it

[@amandakelley1665]

It’s on my KZbin house cleaning playlist

[@dargo1183]

​@@amandakelley1665 and on "day trip" playlist

[@bwelaj]

Most meta lyrics ever. Saw them live in Texas after Lenny Kravitz left the stage due to "heat exhaustion" and yet John Popper still belted out the harmonica for 2 hours. Love them.

[@sky.the.infinite]

Damn, I'd *_LOVE_* to see them live! I'm about to move to Texas! Love this comment . John Popper's a BADA$$!!!

[@okcommut3r]

Rockfest

[@bwelaj]

@@okcommut3r It was actually the Horde Tour in 1996. Rusted Root, Lenny Kravitz, Dave Matthews, and Blues Traveler.

[@okcommut3r]

@@bwelaj Now I remember. Rockfest was a year later and it was Adam Duritz of counting crows who got a little too hot.

[@tlbrooks55]

He was AMAZING and when I seen him live in concert, 1- at the Granda theater in Dallas 1998 and then 2- The Taste of Addison in Addison TX 2003-04. His skill at switching from his bag of mulitple Harmonicas and his voice and lyrics. MESMERIZING, Truly. May you rest in peace ❤

[@dogelife7901]

who else is here just because this is a good song and absolutely no other reason.

[@kaylynnl9269]

Me!

[@nicholashagood177]

Me

[@preachergirl777]

🤜

[@cezahv2736]

Fa real

[@thatguy22441]

I was taking a trip down memory lane. I remember when this came out, to the day. Of all the people who were in the room that day, I'm the only one still alive.

[@tongy316]

Arguably one of the greatest musical jokes of all time 10/10

[@ecl357mm]

Indeed. I never bothered listening to the lyrics until a KZbin video explained to me that the songs reason for being is partly to make fun of you for listening to it.

[@earthworm7346]

No arguement. I call it the greatest Troll song of all time.

[@S.Carton_Esq.]

The fact that the melody is essentially Pachelbel's Cannon represents just one level of the subtle genius of this song: A masterpiece!

[@sublemonal2]

The Cannon chord progression gets used a lot in modern music. Maroon 5 Memories. Oasis Dont look back in anger.. etc etc. If they gave Grammys in posterity, Pachelbel would have a nice collection.

[@themapplesperiod]

The 'suck it in, suck it in' part especially is a specific piece of the canon melody. They were probably intentionally referencing it at that point.

[@slowhand44857]

Yep!! Had Cannon in D played at my wedding too.

[@ritualentertainment]

@@themapplesperiodof course. That’s the whole point of the song and lyrics!

[@satyapras7667]

the song itself is the example of what they meant in the lyrics

[@Vic2point0]

Ironically, this is probably the greatest song ever made.

[@RoninDays]

+Vic 2.0 SUCH A GREAT FUCKING HOOK...can't write this shit on purpose, lol...considering they never tried to write too many catchy hooks who knows how fucking good this group could have been tbh. Sometimes you wish they sold out a little more, haha.

[@ThePumpkinToad]

I feel like an idiot because I've heard this song so many times but never realized how profound the lyrics are until now

[@unidentifiedguy8253]

Yeah. A pure satire song that comes out of the gates with the first refrain saying "it doesn't matter what I say...as long as I sing with inflection" and most of us were clueless after listening to it 50+ times that it was mocking us.

[@yourdaddy6030]

Same! Super appropriate for all the crap going on right now.

[@nomanejane5766]

@@unidentifiedguy8253 to be fair, back in those days you couldn't just look up the lyrics to a song.

[@SCWChristianChurch]

@@nomanejane5766 - that's a fair point, although the internet was going in 1995 when this was a hit single - could've found the lyrics online even way back then

[@GuitarGuy057]

That, my man, is the point.

[@giovannitanzi4219]

Still leaps better then a majority of the garbage that's being churned out in 24. Thanks for the memories Blues Travelers!

[@Alidonius6721]

Like Beyonce's rendition of, "Jolene"? I heard that once and it made me want to puke.

[@bumfen9074]

This is the first time I'm ever listening to this song, after my dad passed away yesterday. I can tell why it was his favorite. It sounds just like him, who he was as a person.

[@djjukeboxhero6491]

The most self aware song ever...it straight tells you it's gonna hook you.

[@AnnaLVajda]

It's called hiding in plain sight.

[@michyagape]

authenticity resonates

[@lunarspunk]

@@AnnaLVajda more accurately, it could be called not hiding and telling everyone where you are, but yeah same diff

[@michaeldavid87]

I came here to make this exact comment. Good work soldier. Its a song about itself that most people dont even understand but still love.

[@djjukeboxhero6491]

Let me reiterate...John popper was calling you a sucker to your face and we all just eat it up.

[@mechanicman8687]

2-23-2020 1:am 55 years old. Can’t sleep The Hook keeps bringing me back for 30 years… A cool song for the ages

[@test-xo6vx]

28 - 2 - 2020 11:18 .. am

[@S.C.Dorfman]

3/4/2020 21:35 23 years old because I am 'hook'ed on Blues Traveller music.

[@BriarHood]

3-8-20 2:am 28.. 29? I don't really know. Not 30 though. Sleeping well. Confused while awake. Maybe the hook brings me back because I am the hook. Will report findings after I suck it in suck it in suck it in.

[@Leodeadacct12]

I remember being 15 when this came out, having to buy this cassette due to it. Became a lifelong fan of blues traveler that day. So much I'm sitting in the parking lot of my gym listening to this before I go in. The Hook does bring you in and back every time. John Popper, you're a genius.

[@seekeroftruth9900]

3-10-2020

[@Suchega_Uber]

Damn, he's right. The hook does in fact bring me back. I love that this is a self aware song that makes me feel smart for getting it, even though he's literally spelling it out. It's just really smart. Smarter than it appears to be on surface level. There's a lot of music theory in here. Some interpolations from classical music. Really fun song.

[@joederosier4990]

That harmonica solo is what brings me back no matter how bad a day that solo just melts it away

[@lauramalek3128]

Right? I love a great harmonica and Popper is SO one of the absolute best.

[@markmartin6365]

Man he can blow! Harmonica and vocals. It will melt away what ails ya.

[@jdcapps21]

No, the hook brings you back.

[@joederosier4990]

I'm back again lol

[@mattasticmattattack8546]

Anyone know what key harmonica he used?

[@patrickc9670]

As a young teen I didn't appreciate Blues Traveler enough during their 90's peak. Now 41 they're one of my faves, this song summarizes it all for me 😌

[@alexjohnson4759]

Dude me too exactly!

[@dustinslease8307]

You guys had shit taste in music. I knew instantly they were good!!!

[@brandons9138]

I liked it back in the day, but it got lost in time. I've come back to it thanks to You Tube.

[@tractorbasil5713]

Our parents would be proud we stole this cd

[@lizzavala2823]

Same

[@makimonster]

The lyrics are brilliantly layered entendres. The chord progression, the Canon in D and it's villanelle-like structure (first and the 6th being the same, creating this cyclical, haunting feeling), the lyrical hook, and the silliness of formulaic pop music. But entendres also on a deeper level, as the heroes of the past mentioned (Peter Pan, Rin Tin Tin or Anne Boleyn) are all characters that are involved in faced obstacles of love, or perhaps love brought them to demise, and they keep coming back too, historically retold, in movies or in stories, even after they died. And they were loved in reality, as well as used to achieve love or adoration, either as an evil villain, canine hero, or as a producer of an heir to the throne. They all died but were resurrected in some way because of the story of love. In that sense, we repetitively try to describe this feeling of love in song after song. We keep coming back. The hook, the agony and pursuit of love. We keep coming back, and it will always be popular, because it is a universal truth. Love is silly to describe in "hip three minute ditties" which make money ("MTV is not for free"). Love is much more significant than an expression that creates profit. No, love is all encompassing, it is more than infatuation, love includes the "rage and hate and pain and fear of self." Love can lead to life or death, thus love stories are unpredictable, but we know that love stories will always hook us back, emotionally, historically. On that we can rely. That's the hook.

[@mechanicman8687]

2-26-24 Convalescing from knee surgery…. Snagged by the Hook once again…. 59 years old now. Been listening to the Blues Travelers since the early 90s

[@SanctuaryReintegrate]

He really do be singin with inflection.

[@almcn8305]

He really do-be-do-be-do singing with inflection!

[@JackOfShades]

He really is*

[@SanctuaryReintegrate]

@@JackOfShades You really do be comin in here to flex that grammar, eh? And nothing else? Well, you do you.

[@cowspoopmagic]

@@SanctuaryReintegrate word

[@moenibus]

"do be singing" is that even english? What the heck that means? "Do be". Knob

[@hopeisintheether2888]

This song is simply, utterly, and obviously pure unadulterated linguistic genius.

[@veras1228]

Yes

[@toddburgess6792]

Are you saying John Popper is a cunning linguist?

[@TheMarshmelloKing]

On that you can rely.

[@Harv72b]

Instrumental genius, too. Note the use of Pachelbel's infamous "Canon in D" chord progression.

[@MiSambra]

@@Harv72b oh god, it was everywhere in the 90's

[@lalalooloo]

This is such a BRILLIANT song. So under appreciated. Loved it since 1997 ❤

[@PaxilRose]

This is the song that made me realize hearing any musical iteration of Pachabels 's Cannon will be an emotional place holder for the rest of your life. Incredibly brilliant songwriting decision. There's never been a chord progression with more of a hook , for hundreds of years.

[@rja9784]

The level of harmonica skill this guy had was unparalleled

[@deathsmistress4345]

"Has"

[@Milkman4279]

John Popper has said, "A lot of people have said I'm the best harmonica player in the world. I'm not the best harmonica player in the world......but I'm pretty damn good"

[@rja9784]

@@Milkman4279 that was his opinion and I offered my opinion

[@googoo-gjoob]

@@rja9784 , you said he was dead......or at the very least cant play any longer

[@k_force_one]

AMAZING HARMONICA!

[@bluephish1330]

This was my Grandpa’s favorite song. He sang it to me as a kid. The day after he died I woke thinking I would be seeing him, hoping it was a bad dream, it wasn’t. I went to my grandmas house and found a CD labeled “Sean” (my name), My first and favorite grandson. It had this song in it and I started crying. Rip Robert F. Seiler October 17th, 1956-January 16th, 2019 Gone, but not forgotten

[@vinnyjoey5456]

made me tear up just reading this and hearing the song at the same time

[@bluephish1330]

Vinny Joey He was a good man, there are many people like murderers, rapists etc. who deserve to go much more than he did, never did anything wrong in his life. At least his 63 years of life were full of happy memories with his wife, two children and five grandchildren. Thank you for commenting, it makes me feel good in this dark abyss I’m currently going through.

[@cphillips123]

Sean, I’m sorry for your loss. It’s a beautiful thing that your Grandpa shared with you. Keep that memory alive by sharing the great things about the man. As dark as it is right now, that really does help. All respect and condolences.

[@bluephish1330]

C Phillips thank you man, really means a lot

[@beboprichie]

Another commentator Sean I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m blessed to share the same bday as your grandpa (10/17/64) if God allows me to celebrate it this year I’ll be playing Hook for sure RIP 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@justforyou4146]

A true masterpiece.

[@sonjabug]

My Intro to Music professor used this song as part of his lecture. When he was discussing the concept of the "hook" he used this as an example. It blew my mind. I'd heard the song so many times but never paid any attention to the words. He was good teacher. I wish I'd taken more music classes but I was too busy in my major.

[@tgreetsy1201]

This was my dads favorite song. He used to listen to it on repeat in his lazy boy as he lost his ability to eat. He took so much joy in this song. RIP Dad ❤

[@suzycreamcheeze000]

I'm so sorry about yer dad!!!!!!! Hope you are ok.

[@tgreetsy1201]

@@suzycreamcheeze000 thanks! Comments like yours are what get me through this hard time in my lyfe. #stayhealthy #staybleswed

[@robcampbell3235]

You have my condolences amigo.

[@huebertagapay2869]

👼❤❤❤

[@lilafeldman8630]

Me, too. My dad introduced me to this song...by cassette tape! RIP Dad

[@jdcapps21]

2:01 “What made the Pan refuse to grow was that the Hook brings you back.” - superb line

[@darrylkeeney4040]

Daummm

[@bryank971]

Go back a little further.. it's even better than that. To confuse the issue I refer To familiar heroes from long ago No matter how much Peter loved her What made the Pan refuse to grow Was that hook brings you back

[@jcnz84]

​@bryank971 go back a bit further There is something amiss I am being insincere In fact I don't mean any of this Still my confession draws you near To confuse the issue I refer To familiar heroes from long ago He's warning you he's trolling with the Peter Pan line

[@Totas_funnynumber]

​@@jcnz84go back a lot further It doesn't matter what I say-

[@AnglandAlamehnaSwedish]

@@jcnz84 go back longer n Jon poppers parents first said hello to each other

[@makemywhitesnakemoan.pathe9846]

The vocals on this dude give me literal chills,still 20 years later...

[@MassimilianoCavalera]

He's really really good

[@russellbrown1068]

Pops gots Pipes!

[@rockyroad8442]

The level of musicianship on display here puts most of today’s “musicians” to shame.

[@brandonmcdowell61]

Popular musicians sure, but there's more great music out there than ever before you just have to look for it and not just listen to what's popular.

[@ashley3659]

The fact that he gave mad props to his other singer is what did it for me. The whole thing is GENIUS

[@mallbird1096]

well its playing on how all big hit songs are the same he plays a popular pop chord progression and sings with a lot of inflection. Its in the lyrics hes making fun if how dumb people are and as long as the song fits this certain composure everyone will listen to it and love it and its oroved by rhe fact that its his biggest hit.

[@naddeer1821]

@@mallbird1096 So true its 5 common chords played over and over with gusto. Its all in the feel. A thing sadly lacking in todays drum machine autotune world.

[@HeavyMetalOne64]

This song is a masterpiece on so many levels...absolutely genius what Popper did here...

[@Peanutdenver]

It's the story of Peter Pan chosing to stay a child despite loving Wendy, because Hook brought him back....and making fun of pop music too.

[@yomuthabyotch]

that's because the chord progression is based on pachelbel's canon in D--a very recognizable, much-ripped-off piece of classical music.

[@Me_AV]

@@yomuthabyotch BINGO.

[@yomuthabyotch]

@@Me_AVright? popper is not the genius; pachelbel is.

[@gc8972b]

@@yomuthabyotch according to your logic, Darwin wasn't a genius because he didn't create the species. Genius is also about connecting dots.

[@lexfacitregem]

I think that...hands down, this song has the most brilliantly intelligent and ingenious lyrics that I have ever heard. I first heard it when I started college back in the 90's but it wasn't until recently that I actually LISTENED to the lyrics and realised that he was trolling the typical pop fans (which perfectly exemplified me when I first heard this song). In the lyrics, he basically says it makes no difference what he's saying in the song, as long as it's sung pretty and it has a catchy hook to keep you coming back and listening again....and to prove the point even further...he uses the chord progression for Pachebel's Canon (as if to prove that he doesn't even have to be creative enough to create a new song...he can just recycle other's songs down our throats and we won't be none the wiser).... I don't know about you... but that is PURE GENIUS....just sorry it took me this long to come to this realisation!

[@mrnemo04]

+lexfacitregem Expressed Perfectly, it took me a few times, it's the inflection. As intellectually stimulating as it is musically stimulating. I agree no one's conveyed this observation better than John. Brilliant.

[@lexfacitregem]

I would even go a step further and say that no modern singer has really conveyed such insightful analysis of the typical pop-song audience, full stop. And believe me, as of late, I've been trying really hard to stop and listen to and analyse the lyrics of most pop songs as of late. Sad to say, that most are naught but a prosaic regurgitation of love, loss, or angst. Well, with one exception... The Village People's YMCA. That song totally revealed the mystery of life for me!!! :-)

[@gcombes420]

+lexfacitregem you seem to be right I always related it to my addiction

[@shiprek2011]

+lexfacitregem I'd suggest the lyrics to (It's bigger than) Hip Hop by Dead Prez. It's a indictment of airhead hip POP artists happily selling out with stereotype lyrics

[@BrendanBerndt156]

+lexfacitregem Not in any argument, but I do agree that we do not find insightful music. Have you listened to Twenty One Pilots? I tend to find their lyrics extremely insightful. No argument here- just recommending another band I believe you might like.

[@Son-Of-David1990]

I remember when this first came out i was blown away. Such genius lyrics that mean absolutely anything in particular

[@PauleyDucati]

Haven't listened to FM radio in probably 10 to 15 years now. I don't stumble upon gems like this too often but just heard it the other day, loooooooove this track!!!

[@zickykane5206]

Who else is here cause the hook brings you back?

[@fredbly6346]

Brought me back to.

[@Agent719]

It's actually that last verse that brings me back.

[@zickykane5206]

@@Agent719 That's as good a reason as any :)

[@moureenanastase69]

Always

[@josephcavallaro1433]

1996 hook brings me back 2

[@cmjcj2ktn]

I miss the 90s. They seem like such simpler times through the lens of today...

[@zacktoor1591]

+Christopher Johnson It just about had to be... I mean, here's a song that was really popular, and it was about how no one listens to the meanings in songs...

[@KaveeshDubey]

+Christopher Johnson Have you seen the movie midnight in paris? It has a pretty neat way of looking at the thought you had.

[@r6854]

80'S through the mid 90's. Glad I was there. Great music. Great movies. I was blissfully unaware any of it would ever end.

[@vijaysagar32]

So damn 90s ❤

[@evanbunn4191]

And again and again.... I swear Hook is about to be a hit again. Not only the 20 year cycle thing, but also hyper meta awareness is a hallmark of this current decade. Gen Z is about to have their minds blown. All it needs is even a marginally popular piece of media to feature it and it will chart again.

[@billyrigby4839]

This is very funny, because I’ve seen A LOT of videos and Tik Toks about this song lately. Idk, maybe it’s time for this album to have a resurgence. It has a lot of great songs on it. The Mountain Wins Again is my favorite. But Hook is a very close second and one of the greatest songs ever made. At least from the 90s. There is a video here on KZbin about a vocal coach hearing this song for the first time, it’s very recent and worth a gander, I’d reckon. 😊

[@FilosofiadeVencedores]

Es lo mejor que puede pasar en el ámbito de la música 🔥

[@billyjoel88]

It was quoted in the last episode of the show Poker Face - I'm hoping that brings in some new fans :)

[@user-xk6bf3vj2z]

"hyper meta awareness is a hallmark of this current decade"..........please stop. For the love of all things, please stop communicating with others.

[@dionysusNME]

Unironically one of the best songs ever written, one of the funniest, and also one of the most terrifying. Popper was a genius here.

[@devinmck1]

he is a genius

[@beckettmaupin]

Why describe the song as "terrifying?"

[@rileypatel1710]

@@beckettmaupin My guess is that he’s referring to the fact that superficiality can be so easily disguised and consumers will still love the product. It IS terrifying how shallow our culture is currently. Everything about this song is pure genius.

[@s4mpson]

@@beckettmaupin Society is on fire.

[@ketcherinthery5079]

@@s4mpson He burst all of our balloons and burnt all of our cities to the ground. He don't mess around!

[@Erocksoco]

This song is the most expert level of trolls, layers of trolling, the video is just icing on the cake. Goddamn the 90s were magical for music.

[@thedude0000]

Yeah, this song trolled an entire generation.......long before the world truly understood the word "Troll"

[@Tonbizzle]

It's even self-trolling, of course we don't care, his value is as entertainment. Art can transcend, but to expect it to is only setting yourself up for disappointment. All we can do is follow our hearts, even if no one understands the message or if we just enjoy respite from the world in a hook.

[@everythingbagel9185]

Ur absolutely right, ‘90s music was the peak of music IMO

[@SCWChristianChurch]

@@Tonbizzle - i think that's why i actually don't like this song - it's too cynical - they're positioning a hook as evil because it's assumed that most people don't care about legitimate art as long as the hook keeps you following them and buying their music, merchandise, tickets etc.

[@d112320]

Thank god 90’s were my generation golden era of mostly everything!!

[@suelous7411]

I will never ever get tired of listening to this! If only I could visit the 90's like old people visit Florida.

[@KRSSil]

Sarah Garcia Cell phone 21st and the 27th 2nd to to you you are not sex is a great time 200 to be

[@KRSSil]

Sarah Garcia 10th and I song is 10th to re7 and the first 2nd to to you to you you are not are not sex

[@KRSSil]

Cell phone is phone number bxbdir th 2

[@KRSSil]

@@travis5177 and song is song of ice ice cream cheese on top of the 291 and song is 10th 90 song is 15th 2nd the 27th to

[@derrickschaefer7425]

Dear Todd Gak: Grammar 💯

[@JamesAlee-no9tq]

I don't think Blues Traveler can ever do a song this good ever again!

[@cmiles97x38]

Wow the performance is top notch proving his point in the lyrics and I now really appreciate the message in the video as well. I can't believe I didn't pay close attention to the lyrics until recently. It makes the song more epic.

[@lincolnlane9235]

I miss the joy and optimism of the ‘90’s. Such a fun time to be alive and young. We didn’t know how good we had it.

[@michaelburnor7162]

Read the lyrics and you'll gain a new appreciation for this song 😉

[@ForbiddenMinute]

Everything was so special, innocent, and fun until that day fateful day in 2001

[@HeHeeHeeheHe]

Ok boomer

[@ForbiddenMinute]

@@HeHeeHeeheHe you say boomer like its a bad thing. My parents who have passed were boomers and taught me an awful lout. You were probably not alive during 9/11 so shut your mouth before u speak in stuff that matters deeply to everyone old enough to remember that day. By the way I'm a millenial. Have some respect for the people who died that day

[@typicalfurry2747]

@@ForbiddenMinute r/woooosh

[@Flow-.-]

Me and my dad used to sing along to this in the car r.i.p dad, music keeps you alive with me

[@turqoiseillinois9955]

@F low Im happy you have that memory. You arent alone.

[@superapple6186]

❤️❤️❤️

[@jeannesimmons9155]

So sorry for your loss! Music is an amazing way to stay connected with someone. God bless!

[@danieljagielski1126]

I lost my dad 2 years ago now and I felt this statement powerfully, the music does indeed keep him with me

[@elcaponeholyemperorofnj1169]

🥺

[@andrewandrew4970]

This song was recently added to the Playlist on the work PA. It's been something I've sang since I was a kid. Life is too precious sometimes.

[@carlyfries4081]

I feel so bad, I am a 90s kid who grew up on MTV and I totally took them for granted. They are such an amazing band and John’s voice is just 🤌🏼

[@reddragonflymm]

I did not realise until a recent play of this song, that it was built on one of the hookiest chord progressions in all of classical music and dare say all music. Most would probably know it by its other name, Pachebel's Canon or Canon in D. Great song still to this day, from a great singer- songwriter.

[@suzanneh975]

Omg i can't believe Ive never made that connection! Had to play Canon in D and come back just to continue my disbelief 😂 Thanks for the share!

[@roblucas6014]

Damn you, Pacelbel! That guy is everywhere.

[@Dionizy67]

And also Wild West Hero by Electric Light Orchestra (source Wiki)

[@rebeccarodgers3649]

Oh no wonder I love this song Canon in D is great

[@radamest2]

I love Pachebel's Canon and I never caught that! No wonder I love this song!

[@grantmoore8790]

30 years later, the hook is still bringing me back.

[@alvarofraga6421]

alimetando os egos deles

[@Ivegotnochoicesilencemyvoice]

@@alvarofraga6421 More like proving the point in there lyrics.

[@Sephiroth420]

Same

[@jcorkable]

Quit making me feel old, trying to vibe here…

[@MrLeeStories]

This song has a true Hook. Amazing piece of music right here. Aesthetically significant, and should be preserved. Great job blue traveler.

[@bigbassjonz]

One of the most brilliant songs every written.

[@jamesdavison8709]

ever written

[@bigbassjonz]

@@jamesdavison8709 yeah that too. Damn auto correct making shit up.

[@brandonbeard8638]

I second that Bro. I am a solid ass metal head but this is legendary. I can not deny

[@bigbassjonz]

@@jamesdavison8709 yeah that too. But I decided to leave it so I wouldn't have an "edited" marker on my comment.

[@bigbassjonz]

*ever - made a mistake y'all, and either typed "every" or it was autocorrected to ever. Just wanted to go ahead and take blame for screwing up so badly. Y'all knew what I meant. :)

[@johnnygunz2300]

I'm thinking 90's music was deeper than we thought

[@NoMoreBLUEISIS]

Some

[@donaldbennett6796]

We don’t hear what we are listening to, if we did most would wake up. We been warned just did not listen, well at lest me .

[@rios4291]

Im starting to feel the same

[@JDLAmi]

It depends on how stoned you were then, or how stoned you are now. Philosophy can be a bitch that way.

[@taylorfamily4685]

oh man you hit the nail on the head man. Statism has been a plague on humanity for 1000s of years and it has proven time and time again that a "need" for authority is the most dangerous supertition.

[@joskelton2157]

Blues Travler got me through a lot. Still have a mean crush on John 30 yrs later. Much love and respect! Keep Traveling!

[@Joseph-Alpha_Q_2]

You said skelton in comment and mom says I remind her of red skelton I laugh at my own jokes like he did but hook is an awesome song oxymoron," saw it through the eyes of a trusted friend who used to humor me and tell me lies yeah humor me and tell me lies " TRUST lies don't go together true lies movie best said everybody lies yeah I say to those I sleep every night and lie is the only thing I do before I can get a real night sleep

[@suzeb7005]

First time i heard this brilliant song was on Roseanne 1995, still such a great song ! Keep on Rockin "Blues Traveler"🎶🙏💕🇦🇺

[@bipedalhominid6815]

"It doesn't matter what I say as long as I sing with inflection"...the premise of the entire song..genius!

[@flumpyhumpy]

And sung the same way he plays the harmonica. The dude /is/ a harmonica.

[@alvingomes9476]

yes yes

[@whereTheDooDoo-is]

song also made the pan refuse to grow

[@xancypillosi9497]

Saying u need only a few chords and a hook

[@HonduDan]

That's so beautiful. The line "no matter how much Peter loved her, what made the Pan refuse to grow was that the Hook brings you back" is absolutely brilliant. I want to slam on the rewind button and go back to these days.

[@RelativelyBest]

That's my favorite part. They managed to make a completely random reference, which makes it relevant in context, while the metaphor still actually works, _and_ it's a fantastic pun.

[@MeghanaAnjali]

Am I missing something? I get the Peter Pan and captain hook joke but is there something else?

[@youtubehatesfreespeech2245]

@@MeghanaAnjali it has nothing to do with the song yet it fits on when he says the hook brings you back. It's suppose to confuse you that's exactly what the lyrics say "to confuse the issue I'll refer"

[@youtubehatesfreespeech2245]

@@MeghanaAnjali you should watch the lyric video a few times.

[@bekahdoug5572]

Me too....I think I was 12 when it came out. Great memories 💯💯

[@82NDmedic]

A true underrated song of the 90s. Exceptional!

[@deannikitas6393]

Awesome tune. RIP Ken Ober

[@PuddlesPityParty]

Dang! I’m so into this!!!

[@tylerhoward2911]

Haha 😂 same

[@mathewpowell327]

I'm so into this as well and have been since it's release...I'm also now VERY much into the idea of Puddles covering it!!! 🤣

[@Dhardy316]

Wait, itll bring you back. (Well we are all here because it brought us back)

[@guysumpthin2974]

Also worlds best harmonica!!!

[@kishascape]

Good song. Don't care for the style of any of their music videos though.

[@friends-for-friends]

FUN FACT! Did you know that John Popper wrote this song while sitting on the toilet! LOL. His brother always argued that he put TOO many lyrics in his music. He let his brother right the opening intro; then John told him "I am going to cram as many words in there that I possibly can." With the slight drip of the water from the sink, and the echo of acoustics in the bathroom, John Popper wrote "Hook" and made history. While simultaneously giving a middle finger to the music industry. GENIUS.

[@ScarcelyLucky]

Fun fact! I read this comment on the toilet!

[@TR00P]

Fun fact I read this comment from the toilet.

[@Aaron-zu3xn]

he went after more than the music industry with the video he went after politics as well and how they're all completely full of shite

[@benjaminqchau4329]

fun fact: after John wrote this song on the toilet, everyone started calling him John 'Pooper'

[@jamiepasquariello2652]

Impossible unless he spent 4 days on the toilet

[@celebrityrog]

A friend in radio once told me that the song was actually about the part of a song that keeps people listening to it like the chorus or bridge or something. The hook brings you back. The hook being the chorus. This was the better of the two songs they had out. Runaround was overplayed. Looooove this song.

[@JohnSmith-ie6yw]

The chorus is basically Pachelbel canon. Hold on, let me Wiki ... ---- The chord progression of "Hook" is very similar to the basic structure of Pachelbel's Canon in D,[3][4] (D-A-Bm-F#m-G-D-G-A, or I-V-vi-iii-IV-I-IV-V),[5] but transposed to the key of A major. This chord progression is very widely used in popular music, often as the hook, leading to other satirical takes on the use of this chord structure. The musically "lazy" chord structure viewed in combination with the meta-lyrics reveal the true extent of what a critic for The A.V. Club describes as song's "genius": "the commentary is a big joke about how listeners will like just about anything laid on top of the chords of the infinitely clichéd Pachelbel canon, even lyrics that openly mock them for liking it." ------ But hey, it's still a great song.

[@burrito_postman]

One best songs lyrically, Mr. Popper really blew it up this song 🎵 ❤❤ poetically masterpiece

[@nfullenwider]

Honestly, I think the only thing that dates this song is the fact that Paul Shaffer has hair. Timeless.

[@Milkman4279]

And Ken Ober

[@JoeCnNd]

Look up Chris elliot playing Paul Schaffer. Lol

[@odeez420]

@@Milkman4279 is the day you get y

[@SecksyMan]

The harmonica solo brings me back

[@grabba73]

best comment of all of them, epic beyone epic, forever the most killer powerful little solo i've ever heard. He is EPIC.

[@alanspangler5621]

John Evans John Popper is a beast

[@rawebonics9914]

One of the best in the world hands down . Made me start playing it when I was 6 and I’m 29 now

[@philb2052]

That is awesome!

[@caprise-music6722]

Insanely good harmonica solo

[@15zetaylor]

He wasn’t lying, the hook has brought me back for 20 years

[@Altavilla22Mike]

Music taste has changed so dramatically over the years, imagine this song not ever breaking into the top 20 billboards back in the day, it’s the definition of a song that went over people’s heads, it wasn’t until way down the road it started to be appreciated… Amazing it’s been nearly 30 years since this track was recorded.

[@ronmitchmusic4154]

I'm not going to bother to explain my response to this comment. I'm simply going to offer you 2 words; err one word & a letter, and either you get it or you don't, & hope that you will actually understand, and also realize that it's futile to actually make the case [because those who know, know & those who don't get to blissfully benefit from our efforts] Generation X

[@aarongittings5729]

What's the one word and a letter that you were going to offer up??

[@jcnz84]

Like a fine wine

[@DarthSpock1]

I credit the peculiar human nature of nostalgia for part of it. When I was young and this song was fresh, I remember I just didn't care much for the tune. In the last few years I find myself pining for old tunes I used to hear on the radio, even songs I actively disliked. What that says about me, or human nature I don't know, but I thought I'd share that observation. And of course the hook really IS good (now), and the lyrics are fantastic now that I've actually listened to them.

[@donavoncash7739]

This song is genius!

[@uuhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh]

Yep.

[@dairyb0y]

Absolutely agree, amazing.

[@stevenjones71]

Incredible song with incredible insight to US. He is trying to wake people up, beautiful.

[@craigbarnes7509]

Yes, it is and will stay that way for a long, long time to come.

[@ericprdu69]

It doesn't matter what I say So long as I sing with inflection That makes you feel I'll convey Some inner truth or vast reflection But I've said nothing so far And I can keep it up for as long as it takes And it don't matter who you are If I'm doing my job, it's your resolve that breaks Because the hook brings you back I ain't tellin' you no lie The hook brings you back On that you can rely There is something amiss I am being insincere In fact I don't mean any of this Still my confession draws you near To confuse the issue I refer To familiar heroes from long ago No matter how much Peter loved her What made the Pan refuse to grow Was that hook brings you back I ain't tellin' you no lie The hook brings you back On that you can rely Suck it in, suck it in, suck it in, if you're Rin Tin Tin or Anne Boleyn Make a desperate move or else you'll win and then begin to see What you're doing to me, this MTV is not for free It's so PC it's killing me, so desperately I sing to thee of love Sure, but also of rage and hate and pain and fear of self And I can't keep these feelings on the shelf I've tried, well, no, in fact I lied Could be financial suicide, but I've got too much pride inside To hide or slide, I'll do as I'll decide and let it ride until I've died And only then shall I abide this tide Of catchy little tunes of hip three minute diddys I wanna bust all your balloons I wanna burn all your cities to the ground I've found I will not mess around unless I play then hey I will go on all day, hear what I say I have a prayer to pray that's really all this was And when I'm feeling stuck and need a buck I don't rely on luck because The hook brings you back I ain't tellin' you no lie The hook On that you can rely

[@jaysuttles1866]

Genius 🤘

[@jfrost4178]

Bomb!!! 💣

[@davev.p.5378]

1996 was a hell of a year

[@Cyberpit2000]

I think right now all these dudes have made Emma Stone their personal god and saviour, the amount of free press she's given them is impressive

[@delta9railroad]

Seeing the passion with which she performed that song, it might just be the other way around, but I'm sure they don't mind.

[@Cyberpit2000]

delta9railroad Well I see it fella, the story reads "Emma Stone lipsynchs Blues Traveller song on Tonight Show", as I said I'm sure the band are loving the extra exposure they are getting because of it, would equal a lot of download sales

[@MikeB128]

Living in the 90's and listening to good music brought me here.

[@willowscaletta]

Mike B same here pal have good 1 keep rockin

[@ijustdontcareanymore1022]

Yep

[@georgeperez9702]

I miss the 90's

[@Jacob-fm6pu]

Mike B living in the 2000’s and listening to good music brought me here

[@gamecockmike175]

We had some great music in the 90's. High school days. Blues Travelers helped me tremendously with my first love break up. Especially hook. Barenaked Ladies also. Cravin Melon which you can hardly find anymore, Hootie who went to the University of South Carolina for a while. As u can see by my pic. Major Gamecock fan and many many more that I could name but i'd be here all night.

[@fortyfukinseven]

I always heard this as "the heart brings you back" anyone else?

[@paladro]

RIP Ken Ober( MTV's Remote Control)

[@whatever]

Crazy to think this came out over 20 years ago...

[@poketube4200]

Did not expect to see you here

[@SquareNoggin]

+whatever People with 3 million subscribers make comments that go completely unnoticed too?

[@805Goodland]

+Ginger Fitzgerald 2 likes only? Lmao

[@taylorjudge4506]

and the message still hits home

[@Evan-ir3hz]

+Hawkeye gamerguy and what would that be

[@vatesedgar]

Absolutely one of the most underrated bands from the 90's... And I'm only just now realizing this!

[@chrisbrant3120]

Even if the lyrical content was something completely different it'd still be a great song, but the fact that it's poking fun of how easy it is to write a catchy song that people remember while doing that very thing raises it to epic level, one of the greatest things in musical history

[@douglopez6438]

Thirty years later, the hook brought me back

[@nickh402]

I love the breakdown of the hook. I can’t believe that they actually made a song focused on the hook and how shitty the song can be while still bringing you back based on a good hook. Love these guys and while they haven’t seen the same ‘success’ that is the purpose of this album. Burn the cities to the ground - because the hook brings you back.

[@Mythirdeye85]

The best part in the video is during the breakdown, the guy on the couch is flipping through channels and sees flashes of blues travelers run around video and starts to get confused looks when he sees himself on tv.

[@matthewfluty3075]

@@Mythirdeye85 fire perspective

[@randysparks5413]

Yes. .its the hook...brilliant...

[@brayzgame8037]

Was 16 then and never expected it to stick the way it has...

[@Maniac_Matt]

@@brayzgame8037 Staight up..

[@jayb7775]

Quite possibly the most honest song ever written....literally

[@gurkagurkadurka6688]

The hook brought me back again today. Cheers everyone.

[@daluxury5220]

The Blues Traveler was my dad's favorite band and I didn't know why, I just pushed it along and thought nothing of it. Always turned it off. I started to realize how great this band was when I heard run-around and but anyway. This song takes the cake, not only for its great music and lyrics - but for how the song unites people. So many people get united through this song, it even let some people to be at peace with themselves. It is crazy how much just a song unites people.

[@badendings1733]

RIP Ken Ober! such a great song as well! love it! John is legendary!

[@Irishtravelvlog]

I have left KZbin so many times but the hook keeps bringing me back!

[@andypbj267]

I love this song so much. I quit watching MTV about 15 years before this song came out. blues travelers always been one of my favorite bands.

[@keeranimal8]

I've been to some amazing shows...my dad and uncle (both dedicated musicians)took me to see bands like Queen, Zeppelin, Sabbath, Eagles, etc when I was young. In the later 80s, it was bands as varied as the Beach Boys to Poison to Springsteen. Later, as a teen, I saw Chains, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Motger Love Bone, and many others in the 90s. Moving on, Godsmack, Linkin Park, Disturbed, Danzig, and peppering in a little Metallica and COC, Pantera, Down, too many to name. But my wife randomly got me tickets to Blues Traveller a couple years ago...I wasn't expecting much. A good show of 90s hits maybe, but nothing more. How wrong I was. This was by far one of the top three BEST shows I have ever been to!! The musicianship and interaction with the audiencs was stellar and second to none!! Can't wait to see em again!!

[@laureenalynn7511]

God I miss this music... so proud to enjoy the 90's as a kid.

[@dr.mohammed1502]

I miss It too !! It seems like yesterday I would hear this stuff on the radio and here I am now almost 30. Time goes by so fast it's really depressing to me 😔 but at least we still can listen to all the awesome music on KZbin and go back to the 90s

[@madelinebitts2766]

I mean, it still exists. Don't understand why you miss it.

[@michanxo7299]

Definitely Takes you back. Most underrated band and easily top five singers of the whole generation. And the meaning of the song especially touches a nerve today. So many cookie cutter commercial swill merchants in music right now.

[@mswhite3218]

Ls Vtec Ek civic wait till you're 56. Everyone eventually passes now. A lot of people now and I it's odd when younger people are clueless! David Bowie. Tom Petty. Time flies so enjoy it!

[@jentrevino3919]

Laureena Lynn I couldn't agree more. I sure miss the 90s. Best times.

[@sittinonthedockofthebay2331]

Oh damn, I forgot how amazing this song is. The lyrics, the singing, the harmonica. Just outstanding.

[@cheshirepat30]

When this was popular, I was driving with my best friend when this came on the radio. He asked me “do you know what this song is about?” I said no, and he said “I guess it’s right then”. That made me listen to the lyrics the next time I heard it, and once I found out that I had fallen into the “trap” I immediately bought the album.

[@veedle18]

Seriously took me until 2021 to realize what this song was about. In my defense I have a hard time hearing lyrics but played this at the gym today and hearing it through my headphones must have struck a chord because I stopped everything to finally look up the lyrics and I was blown away. What a masterful troll. Well played blues traveler. 💙

[@kahea2018]

Yes! That's exactly what happened to me! I filled it in with what I thought he was saying based on what I could hear over the radio. But then I listened to it on the headphones just today! 🤣

[@Barbro247]

Nah you read the comments here and then looked up the lyrics

[@dennismartin5821]

Good God! And now the world suppose to care, I guess?

[@facial210]

And now it helps when you pump up to bring the Hook back

[@SoCoSucks]

in your defense, he admits in the lyrics that he's screwing with all of us - the Peter Pan line specifically is called out just before its delivery as purposefully confusing

[@chrislambeth7367]

This takes me back to an entirely different time and world. Makes me feel 15 all over again. Man I miss the late 90s/early 2000s.

[@AnglandAlamehnaSwedish]

"The hook brings me back " to this song in 2024