How Jacob Collier NEVER Plays A Wrong Note

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[@CharlesCornellStudios]

Every once in a while, we have to geek out over the INSANE music Jacob consistently keeps putting out. This one was a beautifully subtle example of that. Hey, ALSO- New free sneak peek at course material drops TODAY, so if you want to check that out, go here- cornellmusicacademy.com/blackfriday If you don't catch today's email don't worry because I'll be sending out summaries and everything so you'll be sure to get access to all the free stuff prior to this coming Friday.

[@pugsleyobx]

Let’s go

[@Marikonie]

More Jacob!!

[@moy19vh]

Is this the song from dream works? I mean the melody.

[@noahrezentes]

I think there’s a cheeky flat or something in the bass on “dark” in “don’t be an afraid of the dark” at 4:14. I don’t know how to describe it technically but I can certainly hear it.

[@thecountofgoldmoor1332]

Thank you for spelling "peek" correctly! There's not enough of that nowadays.

[@PiercingSight]

Jacob has talked about this in interviews before. He loves moving clockwise around the circle of fifths, which is exactly what he does here. Starting in Eb, then moving to the C family, moving to the A family, moving to the Gb/F# family, and finally returning to Eb. And notice that every time he changes key families, the first chord he plays is the 4 chord, which always wants to move one step clockwise to the tonic of the family. So he's not only moving clockwise, but creating the expectation that we should keep moving that direction until we "find our way home".

[@MichaelJohnson-composer]

It’s called negative harmony and he has a great video on it.

[@djsjdh-hoahdi]

Daniel Caesar/his producers like to do this too

[@Dayanto]

​@@MichaelJohnson-composer​ Isn't that the other way around? I thought negative harmony was about moving counter-clockwise down the circle of fifths?

[@charlesdtall1954]

@@Dayantonope, negative/plagal harmony is clockwise (eg F - C - G), the standard/authentic harmonies move counter-clockwise (eg G - C - F, or any ii-V-I)

[@charlesdtall1954]

Worth noting that all of those key centers belong to the same fully diminished seventh chord, which leads them all to having very similar resolutions from the same chord (eg. G7 resolves to each of these pretty nicely, but this applies to all the “negative harmony” resolutions too) and allows for some very slick modulations. Setting up some cadence to one of them could end up leading to any of the others. It’s reminiscent to Barry Harris’s chord families, and he’s been talking about the power of diminished chords the last couple of years in streams and stuff so the structure does seem to be based on exploring this vast diminished-world through this clockwise motion around the circle.

[@StuartQuinn]

Charles, you should totally do a full solo piano performance of this song. I'd listen to it on repeat.

[@darrellaveril4699]

Couldn't agree more

[@Chris-px2gf]

I was waiting for him to react to the transition into phrygian at the end of the song, which is absolutely beautiful

[@RodVeldt]

I've been wanting him to do something like this for so long

[@sambulodlamini2102]

I need this

[@TheIrenepiekarski]

Please please please.

[@leogrand6673]

I think first Jacob is a theory archive of knowledge and second he is a song writer, as jacob builds and experiments, i think his songwriting abilities will continue to shine even more than they already do.

[@ornj1]

I read “first Jacob” and thought you were insinuating that there are many Jacobs that are numbered and assigned to different tasks, which honestly would make just as much sense.

[@rome8180]

This post seems condescending to his incredible songwriting talents. It seems founded on the false idea that you can't be cerebral and creative...or that good songwriting needs to be accessible. I wish we'd get away from this notion. Also, no offense but I highly doubt you've written anything 1/10th as good as Jacob's earliest works. That's not a judgment of you. It's just a statement of fact: most of us haven't. So this position of "man, he's really progressing as a songwriter" seems pretty smug and unfounded.

[@CourtWatchAu]

@@rome8180 I think @legrand6673 original comment was valid. Jacob is great piano player, great with theory, great with pitch, technically good at singing although his tone and emotional content/conveyance(when singing) is less than great singers. His bass playing is fine, his guita playing is ok, but his songwriting is only average. So his singing tone/style and his songwriting are his biggest weaknesses, thast why he does so many covers and most of his grammys are for his arrangement of covers. He is a personality, communicator,eductor,pianist with goo dpitch, but his singing and songwriting is not elite level, Most ppl would rather hear other ppls songs and other ppl's singing

[@tylercherrington1152]

@@rome8180 don’t be cringe. OP was just saying that Jacob should try to find a balance between maximalizing creative expression through music theory and working on actual songwriting (which I think he’s doing a better job as of recent). Jacob’s complex style doesn’t make him better or worse than any other musician

[@ryan_raus]

@@rome8180I thought the original comment was rather positive, I don’t think it’s a secret that he isn’t hailed as a songwriter, and it’s not like we’re saying he’s a bad songwriter. He’s pretty dang great. But as he keeps going he’ll only improve

[@tom_4615]

Yeah I saw Jacob in Oxford last year and was a part of the audience choir… transcendental is definitely the word… you can feel the whole room vibrate and it genuinely moves your whole soul and body it’s just so beautiful. It makes you feel so human but like you’re a part of so much more than that, it’s truly incredible… I encourage every single person that reads this to never miss the opportunity to see him live

[@baptistebouchard9435]

Saw him in Montreal and the audience choir was surreal, felt like nothing I ever experienced

[@lolathesinger8192]

I saw him live in Zurich last year, it really was incredible. Such an inspiring, true and beautiful experience. I‘ve never felt the connecting and moving power of music like that night.

[@daniellamcgee4251]

Easier said than done, unfortunately for some. 😢

[@karzkin3049]

Saw him in Melbourne, totally agree

[@chrisSkordPiano]

saw him in sydney last year and i will agree

[@stewiegriffin993]

I know there have been hundreds of comments like this, but I gotta repeat this every single time - it's not *just* about his technical chops, he as a person just exudes empathy in anything and everything he does, and that's including his musical projects. Pardon the pun, but he truly resonates with his audience. Not to mention he's just a wonderful and compassionate musical teacher if you watch his interviews and lessons

[@jibi9275]

He's a music teacher... Not quite... He's more of a teaching genius... In an interview with Herbie Hancock They talk together about Harmonic progressions without naming them. In musical theory they make appogiaturas in the video. A music teacher would know how to explain it, he doesn't.

[@stewiegriffin993]

@@jibi9275 not the best example IMO, that was by no means a teaching moment, I see it as two geniuses vibing, nothing more. Watch his actual lectures to audiences, there are many on KZbin, you'll find he's amazing at explaining the most complex of theoretical concepts in a way that's both intuitive and easy to understand

[@jibi9275]

@@stewiegriffin993 I mean he's a great popularizer, he has a lot of teaching skills, but knowing how to name things is a teacher's thing, and he's not a teacher.

[@e.d.1642]

I don't feel empathy coming from him, he seems to be very much in his own world without really caring for people around him. I wish I felt resonance with his music and his performances but I don't.

[@sarahricefox9042]

​@e.d.1642 😢 I guess that's why there's chocolate and vanilla, so people can have preferences. Jacob and his musical expression inspire and comfort me.

[@alexdundas-taylor3420]

I was at his concert in Brisbane, Australia, which was one of the three cities where he recorded audience vocals for this song. What we sang didn't sound much like the finished song, but he got what he needed in the course of a seemingly free-flowing exploration. I'll never hear any of myself in the single, but I'm honoured to be in there somewhere.

[@CourtWatchAu]

so do you think he pitch shifted the audionece afterwards ? or in what ways was it altered form what was sung at the event you were at ?

[@alexdundas-taylor3420]

@@CourtWatchAu I doubt he had to pitch shift anything when he could get any pitches he wanted out of us directly, as long as he signaled each part up or down one step at a time. I think we sang each required chord at least once, and if they weren’t in sequence then he pasted them together afterwards. Check out the Lisbon performance Collier has posted in full. The audience stuff is very similar to my experience.

[@CourtWatchAu]

@@alexdundas-taylor3420 Ok thankyou so he used the recorsdisng adn rearranged the order of chords etc ? Thast fair . Thanks Ill check out the Lisbon concert

[@smorpd]

i was there too and it was one one of the most magical experiences of my life, i'll never forget it

[@puffinAU]

Tivoli? I was also there. I feel used though -- he made us all sing and make beautiful sounds (it was fantastic) and he probably profited from that. Such a wanker.

[@maxwellmitchell3575]

Do you think you could bring back putting the names of the chords on screen when you play them? I think it would really help with particular complex progressions such as this. Love your videos!

[@Retrokid007]

What's more, since Charles is many times analyzing the harmony, I would love to see the roman numerals of the chord to easier understand the function.

[@emilyrln]

@@Retrokid007yes, Roman numerals would be super helpful when we're in an established key!!

[@ChrisEvideo]

Seconded, thirded, fourthed, whatevered!!

[@SirMarksAllot]

Especially for us who live/work with in the Nashville number system.

[@coragon42]

There might also be programs for that that make it easier to edit

[@leak94_]

This was such a gospel chord progression throughout the whole song. Lovely

[@kjdude8765]

You see that he's doing a straight Gospel song right now?

[@Gospelplaya1000]

Yes it’s with Kirk Franklin

[@bobpremecz5429]

You nailed it when you described Jacob Collier's ability to 'move around harmonic spaces without overwhelming the listener.' It's a wonderful way to articulate his unique and creative process of manipulating emotions through unexpected sound choices.

[@matthewmccann4511]

What I love about Jacob. There is a lot of technical wizardry and virtuosic moments in his songs. However, he doesn't include these moments to be flash or show-off, he includes them because they sound great and the don't feel at all out of place.

[@Aefax]

a lot of them do actually sound like trash to me but hey its all subjective!

[@niklasnunner3607]

THIS👌🏼

[@DanielBarberMusic]

Yeah, he doesn't do it to be "impressive." He does it because he loves to make sounds and to create sound that evoke feelings. In him and in us, the listeners. I hear his music as an expression of generosity of spirit, joy, and appreciation of the miracle of sound.

[@jeffbird5082]

The “Mahogany” performance of this song is so beautiful and inspiring! If you haven’t heard it check it out! It is only a guitar, his voice, and a choir. It is simply sublime!

[@hvanmegen]

one of his friends and great fan (and one of me and my wife's other favorite singer) is in that clip too, dodie :)

[@pauloismaellima]

@@hvanmegen that girl from here comes the sun

[@jesseaguilar74]

As phenomenal as the original is, I loved his mahogany session version of this song. I felt it was even more powerful and the last few minutes is pure bliss!

[@SpencerTwiddy]

I do disagree, but only because I’ve listened to the original 50 times (it’s my #4 on Apple Music Replay 2023)

[@tycole5546]

I agree, it’s something about the rawness of the guitar along with the reverb of the building making it more impactful, but the original is great

[@jonnywebster9245]

Agreed. The mahogany session strips it back to something beautiful, full of emotion and resonance. And those people in the choir know they're in the middle of something extraordinary, you can see it in their faces. Just outstanding...

[@elizabethhunley4020]

As much as I love that version, my love of Brandi Carlisle keep the original in #1 for me

[@michellemonet4358]

​@@jonnywebster9245i agree The mahogany version is my fav!

[@Loganbressman]

So glad to see another video of Jacob on this channel! Feels like it’s been a while. So much more to come with DJESSE Vol. 4 hopefully! Thanks Charles!

[@darrellaveril4699]

The fact that you have the AMAZING ability to analyze and explain this song perfectly YET STILL being mind blown by the skill of Jacob Collier skill is just proving how good Jacob is!

[@jie-han2028]

Something that blows my mind is something super interesting that happens rhythmically in the song: There’s a bass kick that sounds one sixteenth note late that sets up a rhythmic shift to a new rhythmic centre halfway through the song, then it shifts again. I know there’s that set up that happens really subtly, at first it feels off then it gets into a groove then woahhh it’s shifted. But the actual “HOW IS THIS HAPPENING” is totally blowing my mind. Like if the phrase “little blue” is divided into 1-e-&-a, halfway through the song, the rhythmic centre magically shifts to e-&-a-1 and then magically shifts back to the previous pulse of 1-e-&-a. I’m used to like throwing a 3/4 bar in or a 2/4 bar in to mix things up but what the heck is happening to shift things by a semiquaver?? BLOWS MY MINDD

[@Somnambulist3130]

I feel the Jacob is our Mozart. He's supremely talented, somewhat out of the norm, and it honing his talents to what the audience wants vs. what is in his head. It's special to watch. Moon River is the greatest vocal arrangement I've ever heard.

[@ophello]

Jacob is far beyond Mozart.

[@ArthurPrince03]

Am I wrong? Ppl like Bach and Mozart are basically almost overrated today. But we always put them as like the BEST or smth because of their accomplishment that was considered revolutionary during their times. They’re def geniuses but you can’t convince me ppl of the same level of talent have not been around for a long time now, if not even better

[@wanderingtravellerAB99]

@@ArthurPrince03Bach will never be overrated. In any experts' poll he is the most likely to be named GOAT. Mozart and co were all their own sort of genius, but Bach is a singular talent unlikely to be superceded, and as talented as JC is, he won’t be the one to do it.

[@SILAS-cb9xl]

ppl like beethoven, bach and mozart would still today be great musicians and composers for movie probably too. they were all genius and pushed the limits on instruments. they would do the same today.

[@gonzoengineering4894]

​@@ArthurPrince03 Mozart you have a point, but I wouldn't go so far as to say overrated. Bach, on the other hand I simply don't think you've listened closely enough. I'm certain equivalent minds have existed, but I don't believe there has been another soul in recorded history who was willing and able to dedicate that mind to music.

[@jeffpearson3866]

Hey Charles, amazing video!!! Just wanted to comment to say that the chord you are talking about at around 10:00 is the Tristan chord! (From Wagner’s famous prelude to Tristan und Isolde) It’s the exact same key and everything. Jacob is definitely aware of the chord’s infamy as his mom is a classical musician and professor and I’m sure that’s what he is referencing because the chord is famous for being used as a pseudo dominant that can resolve any number of ways depending on how you interpret it. Anyway, love all your videos you do such a great job at breaking this song down!

[@DaveJMorten]

Well spotted 👍

[@RC-qf3mp]

Everybody knows that chord. Seriously, stop gushing over Jacob. It’s just pretension. His lyrics are horrible, like something from a 13 year old. Nobody actually likes his music, it’s about pretending to be a theory snob.

[@russellsnodgrass9374]

No, not everybody knows that chord. And obviously "nobody actually likes his music" is complete BS, since both Quincy Jones and Herbie Hancock are enamored with his music. I understand your feeling though. It can be pretty devastating to our ego when we encounter someone so far over us that even in our fantasies we can't spin it to our favor. It's like dreaming of playing in the majors and then having to come to terms that that was never going to happen. And simply because we never were or will be go enough to be called up from the minors. So, possibly the person who should get over himself is the person who brought it up. 😊

[@RC-qf3mp]

@@russellsnodgrass9374 his ‘music’ isn’t devastating to my ego, it’s annoying to my ears. No thanks. He’s a self-indulgent one-trick pony with his negative harmony schtick which doesn’t even sound good. Ever him play The Beatles or Simon & Garfunkel? Never even close to the original. In 100 years, nobody will be listening to anything by Collier; but everybody will still the original Beatles and S&G.

[@russellsnodgrass9374]

@@RC-qf3mp I'm sure your not alone in your feelings about this kid's music. However the others simply moved on to what they like listening to. You've hung around, though, still listening. If you sincerely find it so distasteful, why are you still here making comments to a group that clearly feels otherwise? You couldn't possibly be under the illusion that we'll awake from our delusions to realize your right? No, your tone of language says that your either still a teenager(either actually or emotionally)and the attention this young man has gotten has stirred up a pettiness in your soul. An increasingly common character shortcoming these days. Face it dude, I might be the most attention you're getting in your life right now. And I don't overrate myself, so you're not doing so great just getting me for feedback. Just one more thing: there is always at least two ways of seeing, or hearing, anything. So maybe the problem isn't Collier's music but your ears.

[@rome8180]

He also collaborates with a ton of great musicians. The second singer on this song is Brandi Carlile. He's collaborated with Lizzy McAlpine recently too. This is a really smart way to bring in other fanbases who may be receptive to his music.

[@Bounc3101]

He also collaborated with Lawrence! I recently discovered their music and now have firmly planted themselves in every playlist I have. They’re not really a big ‘mainstream band’ but Jacob appreciates good music, regardless of the popularity of the artists.

[@zaymax_7]

Prettysure jacob doesnt collaborate to gain more potential fans. He genuinely really loves their music too. Lizzy, brandi, lawrence, etc they dont have huge fanbases yet, but a lot of the fans kinda intersect because of how we all appreciate the complexities and character of each of their music

[@Punthoofd22]

I genuinely don't think that's what motivates Jacob to colab with other musicians - he's just a kid that loves to play with other fun kids that are into the same game as he is? the extra fanbase is just a plus. He's the kind of guy that is eager to learn from others. His motivation is never to please the audience. Just the fun he gets out of music.

[@Bassproshop1]

No matter what, you’re an amazing pianist bro. The way you play makes me wish you’d make an actual album of covers man.

[@mikaoleander]

we just started singing little blue at my university choir, and even with our mostly pretty inexperienced choir, it already sounds magical after just one rehearsal. there's just something special about how jacob collier uses harmony

[@larseikind666]

A chef here. Music is very much like food. You need those small spices, those hints of something else, small surprises maybe, to make you want to have the dish again. When you know what the ingredients are then you might be surprised, but when you taste the finished product you will be absolute sure that the dish would not have been as pleasurable without every single one of them. Collier is a master chef of music.

[@utha2665]

Your analogy between music and fine dining resonates deeply. Much like a connoisseur seeks the subtleties and layers within a dish, musicians with refined palettes gravitate toward the intricate harmonies, unexpected nuances, and innovative combinations in music. Just as a master chef artfully blends flavors to create a memorable dish, musicians like Jacob skillfully weave musical elements, creating compositions that delight the senses and leave a lasting impression. It's this pursuit of intricacy and the appreciation of the smallest nuances that elevate both the culinary and musical experiences, offering a deeper connection and a richer enjoyment for those with a refined palate.

[@SingSkateScream]

What profound use of harmony. Chills almost everytime! What a fantastic world we live in music-wise!

[@Luis12Oliveira]

Jacob is so refreshing every single time. What a genius!

[@Jack-ik9vy]

Seriously, look up 'In the Real Early Morning' by Jacob Collier. That song is enough to make a fully grown man cry, just like myself. Some gorgeous emotion provoking harmonies and musicality in that song. One of my all time favorites by Jacob.

[@2small4theMall]

I totally agree. That song means so much to me

[@sunrise1201]

Never fails to make me cry either

[@justinnduong]

At 7:17 I think the chord is probably an Eb7#9 rather than a Dmaj7 because it fits into the ii-V-I motif that Jacob uses throughout the song, just with an extra spin at that bit! Cool analysis through and through!

[@Micro.]

I feel it as an A9(#11)

[@lupash]

Yeah definitely Eb7#9 works better theorically and by ear. The other user suggesting passing A chord is almost as right as the Eb7#9(#5) voicing is the same of an A9#11/13, but I don't really hear the bass line descending like that to Ab. Still I'm intrigued about Charles hearing a D chord, even though I'm not sure that's correct. It's probably because of that passage being played on some sort of vocoder and Jacob often goes microtonal and such, so I wouldn't be surprised if that bass note is actually some hz in between D and Eb.

[@gregm2167]

yep I don't here any D neither To me, it looks more like tritone substitution of secondary dominant chord, maybe Eb7#9/A or something like that

[@goofygoober3776]

Yep sounds kinda like an A lydian structure over Eb, so basically altered Eb. Thanks for noticing, I thought I was going crazy ^^

[@DJDeivis]

bass note is deffo an Eb and it sounds like Eb7#9b13

[@figy1288]

Thank you for sharing. I don't know why but seeing your genuine enthusiasm throughout this breakdown and hearing jacob with the audience choir is sparking an overwhelming joy and inspiration for music and everyone involved.

[@CP-mb7ly]

Seriously moved to tears by the music and Charles's passionate analysis

[@matthewrayner571]

Little Blue really turned me back on to Jacob. It's just such a tender and beautiful piece. His (at the moment) latest one of Witness Me is also just fantastic. I feel like his music is keeping the insane musical intelligence, but adding in so much more depth of emotion - and I couldn't be happier.

[@guiAstorDunc]

Thank you so much for this top down view when you start improvising/recreating things on the piano. For so long I’ve had to pause your videos a million times over to figure out what you’re doing to make everything you play sound so “full” for the lack of a better word, and having that top down view of where exactly your hands are, and where they’re going helps so much in making it a little more understandable.

[@flecks_piano]

I've been so obsessed with the cover of this song he recorded with fans in a church for Mahagony sessions. Loved that you covered this.

[@necrogon22]

I've always wanted jacob to approach his stuff more subtlely. I felt like in every song he'd just go "its jacob collier time" and would proceed to jacob collier all over the harmony which took me out of it.

[@snoozieboi]

I'm definitely following the guy but, yeah, it keeps feeling like a cake you get tired of after two bites because it's too sweet. Just like how I love prog music, but to an extent, there needs to be a recognizable theme in there. It seems like he's now doing a more balanced approach and like a pixar movie it's sprinkled with details adults and kids can enjoy on multiple levels like Chuck in this video Would I give a kidney to have his talent? maybe, but I'd also ease back on the harmony voice effect. This song weirdly at times invokes some Sting vibes and he is definitely a master of the trade, I would never have known about different time signatures without my older brother pointing it out, but still Sting makes songs you can hum the main melody to, and so can we to little blue. Yet a collaboration I'd love to see in the future. I already picture Sting with a kind of suppressed smile as you see he realizes the insane competence/talent of the guy.

[@arandomchannel4769]

A lot of times his music just sounds like how literal motion sickness feels, including the bit at 8:00 here. I don't understand how it's enjoyable.

[@MadJack122]

​@@arandomchannel4769just calm down and listen, it's exciting a opens up the music to new emotions before returning back to standard harmonies. He does a 4 second unorthadox section and you guys are freaking out, pretty sad. Also this is super tame compared a lot of prog so i highly doubt you actually listen to anything but basic music. Yet you feel the need to spout garbage opinions for no reason other than arrogance.

[@DanielBarberMusic]

I here and detect very little ego in Jacob's music or in his communications with people. He strikes me as a genuinely joyous person who does things that make him feel good and that he loves to share so that many other people can share the good feeling. If anyone perceives his creativity as some sort of ego trip, then I suppose that could interfere with the joy of the music. That'd be too bad. I just love that it's possible for humans to create, share, and listen to the music Jacob is bringing to the world.

[@pudicio]

I think it will come when he is older

[@DanHegelund]

I would love if you did like a weekly Jacob Collier playlist where you analyze his music in “layman” terms (like you did in this video).

[@The_Gingerjam]

I could listen to just Jacob's chords for an eternity

[@candicehuggins]

Hi, Charles! Music nerd couple here! 👋🏻 My husband is *insisting* that the chord at 5:27 is a Cbmaj7 so that the Bb (coming from the Eb melody line as it does) can be called that instead of changing to an A# all of the sudden. 🙂 We really enjoyed the analysis!

[@AdamSpiers]

Great comment. I think technically you're correct although as I'm sure you probably already know, many musicians (especially in a jazz context) tend to use enharmonic equivalence in order to sacrifice a bit of correctness and make sightreading notation easier to digest and analysis easier to follow.

[@candicehuggins]

@@AdamSpiers I actually didn’t know that, but it makes more sense this way to me! My husband was classically trained, has taught music at the collegiate level, and is a stickler for theory. I on the other hand play more by ear and am totally open to explaining things like this with enharmonic notes - for the sake of readability and understanding, even if it means it’s not *technically* written correctly. We are church musicians, so although we do improv for most of our playing, jazz is outside of our wheelhouse. 😅

[@btam32]

Would love to watch you do an extended interview with jacob and talk about chord changes and harmony the entire time!

[@mrwakacorp]

I'm a 37-year-old jazz fanatic, so it's not my usual cup of tea-not by a long shot. However, I've been listening to 'Little Blue' on repeat for weeks now. And before anyone points it out, I too hate these types of comments, but it's just true. The harmonies in this just sound otherworldly! It's such a masterpiece. Edit: I left this comment before even watching your video, and while I watched it, another thing popped into my mind: the lyrics. The lyrics are so powerful in this one. Really complement the flow of the music.

[@SpencerTwiddy]

100% agree. Songs like this, Blind by SZA and Come To Your Senses from Tick Tick Boom have my type of lyrics.

[@ScottyTownsend91]

⁠@@SpencerTwiddywhat’s interesting about the blind song by sza is that it was made by leon Thomas who is criminally underrated. Very talented as well.

[@hvanmegen]

Little Blue made me happy-sob so hard.. the song really soothed my inner child.. it felt almost indescribable

[@michellemonet4358]

❤❤🎉🎉❤❤ yes great song for Inner Child healing

[@wesleylachance1555]

it truly is a trancendental experience. so glad i got to see him live

[@ScottyTownsend91]

Growing up in church this song definitely gives a church vibe and black churches like when we sing are known for being very expressive in how we play other instruments as well. Jacob a genius in his unique way of how he can break it down and make it something that sounds common into something so complex yet simple. It’s the perfect balance.

[@thielspiel3671]

when charles cornell analyzes jacob collier its just amazing: two geniuses at work

[@Fultron84]

This song captured me when I first heard it. This is Jacob at his classiest. I had this song on repeat for about a week straight and it is still one of my favorite songs of his. On his KZbin he has an acoustic version with a live choir that is other worldly. One of the most beautiful pieces of pop music I’ve ver heard.

[@rpvermeulen]

Thanks again Charles. Your enthousiasm and your cunning analytic ears brought me even further in appreciating Jacob’s wonderful music. Please continue!

[@15DJONYX]

Great analysis and skills. You're amazing yourself. I wish I could play like that. So free.

[@pcwilliams.]

I loved the way you unpacked this. What a talent as you say, to carry that incredible harmonic movement beneath accessible melodies. I saw Jacob live last year and it was an unforgettable moment. The band are also awesome. Thanks for this!

[@isaac2260]

It’s just ridiculous the amount of emotion his music gives to the audience

[@theguyfromfortnite312]

My favorite songs from jacob are Hideaway and Little Blue, I‘ve learned so much from these songs (also generally from jacobs songs) and it helps me out A LOT with my own compositions

[@mystrdat]

Jacob Collier is a living legend, just an incredible honor to live in a time where you can follow his musical progression.

[@Rachelebanham]

This is so brilliant. Love how enthusiastic you are Charles. Keep up the great work

[@Foodgeek]

Being in the audience of his concert in VEGA in Copenhagen and be played as an instrument was an absolutely amazing experience

[@LydianMelody]

The live version in the church had be sobbing like a baby it’s so astoundingly beautiful

[@stewiegriffin993]

Yeah, me too. I love him to death but there's something about his live performances that will always crush whatever he does in the studio. His musical...?empathy? is just out of this world, it's like he has direct access to how he wants you to feel

[@trinacogitating4532]

I've enjoyed his earlier work. This is really showing a musical maturity that I love.

[@maxrodriguez2557]

This harmony changes fill my soul 😮

[@marshwetland3808]

1:12 I love how the grass in the background echoes your hair.

[@booniversegaming]

There are a few thoughts I had about thus song. A. It's beautiful. B. It feels a bit like he's creating more accessible music for exactly that reason, to make it more accessible which leads me to C. As a touring artist, I think he always intended to have audience choirs. Writing a harmonically simple chorus made it much easier to have audiences sing along. I think it's a neat trick and doesn't detract from his musical genius, but I'd personally like to see him go MORE sideways into Jazz territory. There still plenty of time for that though. 😊

[@ktntwireless]

I just went to see this tour and Jacob is an incredibly generous musician. The concert itself was just so beautiful and fun. Love seeing your breakdowns of his stuff!

[@AFNacapella]

beginning is a bit like an uplifting "and so it goes"

[@michellemonet4358]

It DOES sound like And So it Goes

[@MikeKobb]

I got to see his show in San Francisco a couple of months ago. Singing in one of his audience choirs is such a beautiful and moving experience. Not to be missed.

[@phillipsmith7660]

I was fortunate enough to experience Jacob Live for his D’Jesse Vol. 4 tour. There’s nothing on earth like him!

[@MateuszAdamowski-k8b]

"That’s not a wrong note, you just lack confidence."

[@stephenweigel]

I RECOGNIZED LITTLE BLUE FROM THE THUMBNAIL YEAHHHHHHH!!!!! Charles, you are so right about that faux modulation section being the musician’s favorite! This video might be the closest anyone besides me has gotten to articulating why this chord progression builds on itself so well. The chord progression in the new key uses whole step chunks like the old one and purposely spells as C sharp instead of D flat - it sets up a contrast between darkening/brightening feelings on the same note. There’s some chords I hear slightly differently than you. I hear the intermediate D chord in between Bbm7 and AbM7 as a B7/A. (Edit: re-listened in the car and I hear that lower note, seems like Eb). I don’t hear the Cb in the “F half diminished 7th chord” you mentioned; I hear that as a Db chord. (My interpretation also allows for the C melody note). If any of you nerds are interested in microtonality I played a 26-tone equal tempered electric piano cover of that song on my channel (don’t listen on phone), and there’s a theory explanation after.

[@simont390]

This song has major And So It Goes vibes, especially the opening lines

[@pauldrieux]

I think this song shows how Jacob matured

[@elisio2114]

The first I heard "Little Blue", I just cried. I don't know why, but I guess I really felt it

[@GreuvenHarmony]

Count me among those who can't get enough Jacob craziness, but I agree that his "saner", more subdued songs are similarly mind-blowing, if a bit more subtle. Definitely go see him in person! As great as he is recorded, his live performances are somehow even better. And Charles, your analyses are fantastic...you and I clearly process music the same way. 2 minor quibbles: I wouldn't call the chord Cm7+5, but rather Abmaj9/C. The raised 5th implies that there's no G in the scale or chord, whereas calling it Abmaj7 makes it clear what the scale is (Ab Lydian). But yes, possibly my favorite chord too! And second, I don't think he goes to D in the bass at 6:44, but rather A7b5 (the sub-V of Ab), with the bass maybe also playing Eb briefly. It's a very Take 6 sounding progression, but the D sounds too far out to match what I'm hearing.

[@derrik-bosse]

I can't even listen to more than 5 seconds of a song, but I appreciate what he's doing for music lately. I'd love to hear him play bass in a group.

[@servantofthelamb7880]

Why is this true to so many people? Why is he so bad at making a song with the ability to sing along apart from a select few

[@RuiCBGLima]

I would like to understand my dislike of Jacob Collier. His music does nothing to me. It's like whenever I hear him play, sing, or explain music I feel very unmusical, uninspired, tired, without energy, supressed, suffocated. But I still find him fascinating, because he's basically a library in a way.

[@Hellion6325]

His music is too fancy for me. I love Little Blue though, because of how simple it is, except for all the weird key things happening, which keeps it spicy lol

[@MadJack122]

You don't have to understand it - its fine to not enjoy something, but dont waste energy and space explaining your hate as if you're justified to hate on it - thats where you become ignorant. Just don't watch the video.

[@RuiCBGLima]

I'd be more ignorant if I didn´t watch the video. It's important to understand why we don´t like certain things, it's self-reflexion, it's trying to see our shadows. In a way listening what we don´t like is also useful. It's not justifying hate, because you can hate whatever, you have that right, as well the opposite. But understanding is good. The weird cunundrum is that for me his music is very "brainy". Is like if understanding is all there is. So, fun fact, I'd have to go listen him trying to look out for emotion, or what the emotional is trying to tell.

[@31416]

​@@MadJack122Dislike is not hatred.

[@HenryACR]

I understand, but if you go to his show you will love it... I started listening to him, and it wasn't my favorite then I went to one of his shows and it was a whole experience

[@shantalamusic]

As someone who has been entranced by Jacob Collier’s music from the first time I heard it, I REALLY appreciate the way you break down the genius unfolding in “Little Blue.” Thanks so much, brother!! 🙏🏼🎶💖

[@djblair104]

What I wouldn't give to hear a collab between Jacob Collier and Bill Wurtz. God only knows what those two would create together.

[@Linneyya]

I RECENTLY DISCOVERED THIS SONG AND I LOOOOVE IT SO MUCH! I'm so happy you made a video about this! You are amazing!!

[@RayfieldA]

I had the pleasure of experiancing this wonderful song at the Hollywood Bowl on my birthday this past Sept. I've been following Jacob since he bagan on YT some 14 years ago. And you are right about none musicians not understanding his genius because I went with my girlfriend and a few other non musicians. The show was Incredible and the people I went with really didn't care for it. That was actually a bit frustrating. Ah well.

[@brandonloucks5702]

I flew out to see that show at the Hollywood Bowl as well. Such a great night. Little Blue was very memorable. I know this because I don't remember the name of the other songs.

[@AussieMacroPhotos]

You actually introduced me to Jacob years ago and for that I'm forever grateful!!! Your videos on Jacob stand out above many other Jacob analysis due to your immense understanding of music! Thanks Charles :) oh i use to watch your funny videos on Cardi B and all those too... very funny!

[@JerryFlowersIII]

6:24 As you play the song on Piano it almost sounds like it could be a christmas song.

[@simpletask1]

The more I see of Jacob’s videos with a live audience choir, the more I feel the need to go to one of his concerts. The harmonics lifts my spirit and brings tears to my eyes because the harmony just flows so well and so smooth. Can you say goosebumps…? ❤️🙏🫶😊

[@clemixeur]

Finally, the two genius meeting (edit:my bad it already happened before)

[@diplomatic.d5447]

Actually, he has done 3 or 4 Videos now about Jacob

[@clemixeur]

@@diplomatic.d5447 thanks for the info, I will check

[@HexagonMusic]

You are so invested in this. Its almost like your happyness about this music radiates from the screen as you play these chords.

[@Pmf95k]

Jacob may be the most talented and skilled musician ever but I still don’t like his music.

[@michaelbeard3393]

I get you, I'm struggling to find a single song of his that makes me pull involuntary faces.

[@jooei2810]

I know it is so predictable.

[@invertbrid]

Agree, I just don't like his style of song

[@turbostar101]

De gustibus non est disputatem

[@isotera_]

I have a music theory nerd friend that told me once: "If you ever meet anyone that says Jacob Collier is their favorite artist, run."

[@felixfredrico]

this guy explains this so well. and also makes some funny videos where timmy enjoys his birthday. keep it up, i need this musical education

[@jeromes5183]

I love this song. I am a musician, and I can get out on some of the stuff that he does that isn’t quite so accessible, but first and foremost, I like music to listen to it. The same reason that Chopin is my favorite composer. I feel like Jacob has reached that point where he is now focused on the song. This is great for all of us to live in both worlds!

[@davidmjacobson]

Love the Jacob content. And little blue feels like being hugged by a song. Thanks!

[@SpeakersAsylum]

THIS title, THAT is how you drag people in. GREAT stuff man, love all your content. Just needed to reflect that this title dragged me in immediately.

[@Romess1]

I'm so glad you addressed those chords at 6:41. I couldn't sleep over how wonderful these are as I wanted to transcribe it to the guitar badly. I love this song and everything he put out up to this point especially from Djesse vol.4 but my favourite has been Never Gonna Be Alone. It's been a theme for me getting over my ex and then getting back with her and in love with eachother and has such a deep place in my heart.

[@joymhlanga506]

You probably won’t be able to play it on your guitar because his guitar is a 5 string and it’s tuned in 5ths

[@philiphopper4885]

Having musicians like Jacob Collier alive in the world today must feel like what it felt like when Mozart was alive.

[@morbidmanmusic]

Doubtful. And Mozart didn't use autotune..

[@formerastronaut]

Sounds like mid 1990s Muzak to me.

[@philiphopper4885]

@@morbidmanmusic no music on your profile, not surprised. Keyboard warrior wishes he had 5 Grammys before he was 30.

[@hypotheticalpineapple]

@@philiphopper4885it’s just an opinion

[@philiphopper4885]

@@hypotheticalpineapple a bad one

[@petrilacosmin7743]

I wish I would have something in my life to be as enthusiastic as Charles about melodies and chord progressions. I`m not big on music theory but it`s a pure pleasure to watch and listen to you Charles, brings me a lot of joy!

[@prodnfx]

as someone who listens to this song religiously every single day, I really appreciate you making this video. I've always wanted an in-depth analysis of this song specifically, and this honestly is a dream come true! thank you Charles!

[@CraigGood]

I was in one of his audience choirs, and it was one of the most moving musical experiences of my life.

[@daniellateal7839]

This is evolution from young Jacob using super-extended chords on every 8th note to sound clever, to choosing tasteful moments to inflect a diatonic song.

[@Dexter26958]

Jacob is probably the most musical human to ever live - whatever that means I don't know, but I think it describes him the best.

[@morbidmanmusic]

What a Möbius strip comment.

[@formerastronaut]

in a world where Mozart, Prokofiev, Zappa, Coltrane and Luddy Van Beets all existed, that's quite a statement.

[@imag1n342]

the amount of joy this brings you gives me joy

[@AGuyThatMakesStuff]

Im a musician and I understand music theory and stuff, and I appreciate how cool Jacob’s music is. But it still sounds super weird to me, I just wouldn’t listen to it.

[@samarsa.]

same. not exactly weird to me - just real boring. no soul or groove - just harmonies anbd cheesy lyrics

[@ogfdnbvjkfdn]

yep same. it's definitely not a new or original opinion, but Jacob Collier is probably the most talented musician that i will never willingly listen to for more than a couple minutes. respect for his brain is off the charts though.

[@BrightsonDavid]

Right? I'm not even a quarter as talented as he is and I don't hate him either. It just feels like he inserts complex chord progressions into melodies, not because they sound good but just because they sound complex.

[@bryanleggo3489]

LOL! Of course they sound good to anyone with at least a little sophistication, especially with jazz progressions. Most standard chords are pretty boring. @@BrightsonDavid

[@bryanleggo3489]

@@samarsa.LOL! No soul or groove! LOL! FFS, you must know very little of his music. Although that's not the point of thi song at all which is about heart.

[@geertbosch2778]

The mahogany sessions version of this is even more special. So simple. Jacob, some blue fans, and a guitar in a beautiful acoustic environment. He made a true masterpiece out of some basic ingredients.

[@pugsleyobx]

Nice video Jacob is a genius

[@tjadventures]

I love how this song transports you to a far away place so fast but you don't feel upset of how fast you got there and the motions kinda comforts you. I don't know if what I said makes sense but it's what it made me feel😅

[@1bepresent]

The first time I heard Little Blue, I wept… like for days! The chords he plays literally penetrate all blocks, fears, insecurities and connect you to your inner light! Just Magical!!

[@Xx_Eric_was_Here_xX]

he never plays a right one either

[@doctorf7501]

Check out Guthrie Govan on playing outside. There are no wrong notes, only wrong places

[@hecdavid11]

It's not just that he's a musical genius, it's that he pours his heart into the music. I'm not a highly sensitive person, but no artist has got me crying as many times as Collier has. His music connects with my soul in ways I sometimes can't fully articulate. Mind you, I'm a musician, and I find myself often analyzing the music I listen to, theory and arrangement-wise instead of just enjoying the ride. But his songs just click with my emotions and I start enjoying music like a kid again. God bless his soul ❤

[@nuberiffic]

I just really don't understand his appeal. You're playing these chords and it all just sounds so humdrum. And JC just always sounds like he's yawning. I just find all his music so incredibly bland.

[@palitojeremy]

I watched his solo piano concert last week. He told us to whistle like birds, then proceeded to play Blackbird on the piano, accompanied by the birds (us). It was the experience of a lifetime.

[@arnoudh6203]

Now he just needs to write lyrics that aren't love is good, home is nice and eyes are sunsine and then I might actually listen to him

[@Malak1man]

man i really really love your jacob collier videos. please more.

[@kokosibg1683]

Ok, I will say it. I do not like how Jacob Collier sing. I don't understand how you guys listent to him. Yes, i get it, there is intresting harmony in his songs but his singing is so awful. Take for example this song. Don't you think that when the female singer joins it sounds 1000 times better. Maybe I don't understand because I am not a professional musician but I will gladly listen to a less complex piece of music with good vocals than what Jacob is doing.