First Listen - "Dont Look Back" by Boston (Hip Hop Fan Reacts)

[@petercocolla2759]

Boston Has The Best Debut Album of all time period. Not a bad song on it.

[@davidburkett4005]

Great review. You get it. I saw them live back in 77. Listen to the whole first album. Best selling first album ever 20 million copies. And remember you had to go to the store and buy it for 5 or 7 dollars vs 99 cents for a single. 5 dollars was a lot of money for anyone under 18.

[@dylan42207]

Up until the late nineties, each new generation would buy this album and play it in its entirety over and over. It was also the ultimate driving album. When youth stopped knowing Boston I knew music was in trouble. I hope the generations to come pick up the ritual again because music like this won’t be duplicated ever again. Brad Delp’s voice is unsurpassable and Tom Sholts, a mechanically engineer, INVENTED the unique guitar sound of Boston in his basement!!

[@davidstevenson1933]

Can confirm. Friends and I would drive around after school in 1998-1999 with this album in the cd player.

[@nickspurlock6949]

Born 97' and I can say there are a few of us still loving the classics because of our Dad's. Rock on.

[@lseuss]

And went to MIT too.

[@umpdaddy1]

"Foreplay/Long Time" is brilliant and would be the song I'd recommend as a first listen to this great band. Which, by the way, wasn't a band as the first album was recorded. Well worth a bit of research into the genesis of this band. Tom Sholz is a genius.

[@CuriousGeorge1111]

Already done, my brother. Do look back! haha

[@stevedahlberg8680]

Man you really should check out their debut album, which is considered one of the greatest debut albums in Rock and Roll history. And the sequencing on it is really good.

[@lizmarch4000]

I'm always so glad you look at the lyrics while you're listening. They're such an important piece of a song and I feel other reactors miss a lot by not doing this.

[@TheRealGigatess]

@liz march Absolutely!

[@CuriousGeorge1111]

Good call. I often think the same thing. If I were a reactor (ha) I would read through the lyrics first, so I know what the song is about, and know the context.

[@LadyIarConnacht]

This song literally got me out of bed every day during my last year of high school when it just didn't seem worth going anymore. I was devastated to learn, years later, that the most cheerful singer in the world had killed himself.

[@danroth3514]

This is such a fantastic song, so glad to see you react to it. ❤

[@suzanneprock7286]

Boston has always just been impecable, there was nothing like them when they came on the scene in the 70's, a new awesome and different sound that caught on like wildfire.

[@mattshaw6180]

I'm thrilled you've found Boston's music, Syed; they were amazing on stage and they owned rock radio in the late 70s. Their huge hits, such as the two you've heard, are the tip of the iceberg and I hope you look at some of their brilliant deeper tracks like "Hitch a Ride" or the power ballad "A Man I'll Never Be."

[@CuriousGeorge1111]

I vote for Smokin', and the one that's like "Story of a rock and roll band"

[@gordonuyehara3562]

I remember how good this album sounded on the car stereo.

[@keithdf2001]

I always thought Tom Scholz made Boston albums for car play.

[@leslie8743]

My 1st concert in 1978. Was amazing. Didnt sleep that night at WSU. Everyone was hyped and deaf afterwards. ❤

[@JLwalkabout]

This whole album was my road trip starting music. Every time I left my folks place in the 80s to go back to college, an 8 hour drive, it mirrored my excitement to get on the road again.

[@cynthiamartinez9669]

Loved this reaction. Boston was a turning point band that ushered in a new sound. :)

[@LordEagle]

Great band. Wait until you hear Foreplay/Longtime,,,,,it'll blow you away,, ,💥💥💥👍😎

[@CuriousGeorge1111]

Already done, my brother. DO look back, haha

[@amitychief3061]

I always make this comment when people react to Boston. In the 70s we got Star Wars and it was like nothing we had ever seen before and then Boston was like nothing we had ever heard before. The first Boston album was a masterpiece. Every track on the album is great. It sounds like the 70s now looking back, but this was incredibly innovative at the time, and yes, a lot of later artists took cues from this because it was so good.

[@EchoesDaBear]

Great reaction to an amazing track!! Brilliant observations my man. Spot on with the critique on today's music (much of). To me, what's missing is 'dynamics' - the louds & quiets, hard & soft - different moods in one song - makes such a difference. Much of what's released on the radio (or pick your source) now is like a sonic barrage for 3 1/2 minutes! The train of thought is I HAVE to get your attention, and keep it, for the duration or I won't be noticed! What they don't seem to understand is that the barrage is exhausting - it's audio overload, so my brain checks out - it actually has the reverse effect! Correct in that they kinds of set the mold for song structure for what was to come. Cheers to a great analysis.

[@Antman-cy8ch]

The vocals are all done by Brad Delp.

[@therocknrollmillennial535]

Hey, Syed! Glad you came back to Boston. This track, along with “More Than a Feeling,” and “Foreplay (Long Time),” were staples of my childhood, as my dad and aunt were big fans of this band. You and I are of similar ages, so it’s great to see “this generation” getting into music that I have known since birth, basically. I’d like to ask you: I’m new to the hip hop scene and am trying to branch out and broaden my musical horizons. Where would you suggest I start? (I figure that’s only fair since you found one of my youth’s theme songs. Hope you’re well, friend!)

[@markk.4941]

You must listen to "Foreplay/Long Time" from their first album. It's up there as one of the best songs like "More than a Feeling". "Hitch a Ride" has an awesome multi guitar outro solo.

[@m.a.sperry3424]

What a fantastic track! I can't believe I've never heard it before( my era). Boston was ahead of their time. I think you'd really like "Foreplay/Long Time. Enjoy your analysis of the music you listen to.

[@yactabay]

This album is not just good, it’s almost as good as the first album: not a bad song on it. No, ALL THE SONGS ARE GOID OR GREAT!

[@fredrickm4436]

All of this, every note, song verse, everything was created boy the lead guitarist, Tom Schultz. He created it in his basement over 6 years and got a record deal before he put together a band.

[@jeffcather8185]

On to the second album, the song that struck close to home and haunts me is a man i'll never be.

[@marcbenjamin9436]

Go through each track on the first album with “More than a feeling,” which is widely regarded as the best first album by any band.

[@Hartlor_Tayley]

Classic Melodic guitar rock.

[@michele-33]

Yes. Boston was always on constant rotation on classic rock radio. They 're great musicians but weren't unusual or original enough to excite me.

[@Hartlor_Tayley]

@@michele-33 poppy radio rock but their sound was innovative. And like you said they were really really good.

[@russallert]

A lot of bands definitely took their cues from Boston, with varying results. Even an old warhorse like Jefferson Starship remade themselves into a Boston/Journey type band. The second Boston album was not quite on the same level as the first album, but that's the problem when you re-invent the wheel on your first try. Tom Scholz and Brad Delp (with a bit of help from others) took eight years to make the first album on their own. It took two years for the Boston band as a whole (with Scholz at the helm) to make the second album, and it shows. Still, any self-respecting band would be proud to have made that 2nd album - it's not great, but it is good.

[@yenlard6683]

Hitch a Ride is an amazing song with an epic guitar solo. Definitely check it out! 🔥

[@lizmarch4000]

agree

[@MarioCrosby]

I agree with the agree.

[@cherylwoodward]

Beautiful song!

[@michaelj.pavlinch3975]

I once heard that one of the band members was an MIT, electrical engineer graduate don’t know if that’s true or not but it sounds good.

[@markk.4941]

Yes, lead guitarist Tom Scholtz is an MIT grad. He started the band by himself. Not being able to get the sound he wanted from other recording studios, he built his own recording studio in his basement. He designed his own sound effect pedals which became the "Rockman" series of effect pedals sold in the 80s. He recorded the first album by himself except for the drums and vocals, then had to find other musicians to make up the band for touring.

[@erniejohnson4364]

I appreciate your technical approach compared to some of the other reaction videos. I'm a musician, so that's interesting to me, thanks.

[@cazgerald9471]

Their first album is one of the greatest debut albums in rock history. "Don't Look Back" is their 2nd album.

[@Tracy-rf7ri]

This song changed some people's lives.

[@dylanpahman]

I love Boston. My favorite by far is "Something About You." Highly recommend you check it out sometime.

[@Widdermaker]

Great reaction! But, man, you’ve just scratched the surface with this band. They were like a meteor in the late 70’s, coming out of nowhere with 2 of the best selling rock albums of all time. Then, BAM!, they disappeared for 7 long years till 1985 when “Third Stage” finally came out. That first album of theirs is like a rock-n-roll holy shrine, even the cover art. Brad Delp’s vocals are among the best that ANY music genre has ever produced (RIP). You have a lot to look forward to.

[@cherylwoodward]

Hitch a Ride from the debut is stunning. But you need to do Foreplay/Long Time probably first. It’s the introductory song we all heard from Boston. Imagine that!

[@famat161]

My vote is "Hitch a Ride". The guitar solo is....hmmm. I can not describe it.

[@LivingWatersUtube]

Brad Delp is singing it all on the first albums. THAT tells you something about him!

[@ericalhalaby7671]

What you experienced from the two Boston tracks you reviewed is, what has sadly gone missing since the start of the 21st century, a great sense of melody, this pure hot caramel to the ears and soul. I would suggest you go back to their first album to experience, what I feel, are their next best two melodic gems: "Peace of mind" and "Foreplay/Long Time". Have fun!

[@tonydagostino6158]

I have to agree with all the other comments. That banner advert for your Beatle video was far too large and onscreen for far too long. Not good

[@mikearmitage2388]

Missed the whole bridge reaction

[@andmicbro1]

Foreplay/Long Time is another great one. But Peace of Mind might be my favorite Boston song. That ending night be my favorite rock song ending ever.

[@toddalderson7050]

If you like Boston you must listen to Foreplay/Longtime. Will not disappoint.

[@fullmoonprepping4024]

You gotta keep listening! Tom Scholz played everything but the drums and innvented tech to get the sound right. No computers or synthesizers. Many bands of the 80s used his gear, but noone souonds like his music. He takes a very long time creating the music. Don't Look Back being the exception with 2 years and that's because the Label pushed him then took the tracks he had laid down but weren't finished to his liking. Third Stage came out nearly 8 years later, mostly because of litigation around contract demands. Scholz's lawsuit changed the industry for the better for other artists. Just keep listening, the entire first album is singular. Try Foreplay/Longtime.

[@pamelawertz498]

Peace of Mind. Foreplay/Long Time. Also Rock n Roll Band. Those are all great.

[@olibertosoto5470]

There's no choice but to go forward 👍🏼 Unfortunately music had already become so commercialised back in my day that freedom of creativity was suffering. Just hope we're not willing to give our music away to AI in the future!

[@JoeWilger]

@4:57 until 9:23. I'm curious why the next video banner was covering Syed's face and half the lyrics. Is this a YT thing?

[@sailinbob11]

I don't know for sure but saw Boston late 70s (?) and I read/heard they all have Master Degrees in music so we shouldn't be surprised. I know I enjoy it.

[@KipArmadillo]

Naughty By Nature might be a good hip hop comp. Shorter run at the upper echelon but with big early hits that everybody knows. Boston's first 3 albums are outstanding. Brad was one of the best classic rock vocalists and Scholz was a maestro.

[@jamessweet5341]

IIRC Boston was in a dispute with their record company and it kept them from releasing anything for a couple years after their smash debut album. Many worried they'd never come back.....but this blew it all away. A stunning return in great form. BTW ditch the banner.

[@ziggymarlowe5654]

Just wait until you hear Foreplay/Longplay, it's fire 🔥🔥🔥

[@TheRealGigatess]

@Ziggy Marlowe THIS THIS THIS 💥👆💥

[@ziggymarlowe5654]

Oops, that should read ForeplayLong Time,

[@alansmith7626]

they or he just layered this so well...is like a lasagna, just layers and layers of Good! 😊

[@robertjohnson5796]

I am raising my hand for "Hitch a Ride".

[@Lexwell_Lavers]

I always thought Boston sounded like a pop version of the Eagles. Very similar sounding in many ways imo. Guns N Roses is actually similar to The Rolling Stones during the period of Beggar's Banquet through It's Only Rock N Roll albums.

[@basementproductionz]

The whole album is good

[@seanroy6866]

Syed, digging the channel bruh. Please listen again carefully. The lyrics are some of the greatest lyrics ever written. Have you ever faced a struggle or had to overcome? The song is about overcoming your situation, rebirth, renewal, and recommitment to being the best version of you. It finally builds into a crescendo that sounds like victory!!! Listen again, and tell me if you agree. Then listen to foreplay Long Time.

[@roberormonde]

If you look back you'll turn this Stone

[@robmaeder330]

I'm sure others said it, but this is by far the best track on album 2. But all of album 1 is top notch. Perhaps the best initial Rick album of all time.

[@gregoryhartung5646]

Who else saw a giant banner covering his face starting 4:58?

[@neilandfi]

Good tune, and as per, a good ,intelligent reaction. Personally though, this would not have been my 2nd choice from Boston. That would be Foreplay/Long Time (really they're one track). I think you'd like it.

[@benhinds2971]

Nobody thinks the other one was one of the best. Something you may not have considered: When this album came out it was huge. There is no debate on it being one the biggest selling debut albums in history. It had a huge impact on that generation who are now nostalgic for the simpler 70s. In my high school days the biggest debuts were GnRoses and a little later Nirvana (that album wasnt their debut, but nobody remembers Bleach. I loved it.)

[@johncarpenter3751]

I love TOOL and I love Boston

[@raeann63]

why is there a HUGE banner smack dab in the middle of your video advertising another video of yours? kinda ruined this boston reaction for me.

[@lauraschwartz1077]

Agree, was gonna post the same thing. Otherwise great reaction!

[@realitybytez]

can't even see his face. kind of defeats the point of a "reaction" video.

[@mikepeterman8441]

Enjoyed watching your forehead.

[@roccaclassico9028]

The two "Boston" songs you've heard are great, but neither features the exquisite keyboards (Hammond organ) played by Tom Scholz. You need to react to "Foreplay / Long Time", "Smokin'", and "Hitch a Ride" to fully appreciate this band.

[@philf4086]

What is with the weird banner across the screen for the majority of the video?

[@TheCornishCockney]

Overdone it with the massive banner this time mate.

[@tomcurtis8431]

I had to stop watching because the banner blocked everything but his forehead.

[@jackr2323]

Can’t give you a “thumbs up” for a “reaction” when you can’t even SEE your reaction for that STUPID banner.

[@roberormonde]

Dont look back you will turn to stone

[@chriseasterling5506]

This is definitely “second tier” Boston. Great song from their l second album, but a step below their debut album which was a masterpiece. That entire debut album definitely deserves your deep analysis. The song Foreplay/Longtime is a magical ride!

[@montemurdoch5032]

Try Theocracy then if you want more to bite on. And Kansas songs!

[@tonys2899]

Foreplay/Longtime next

[@howardgott4946]

If you could only buy ONE ‘70s rock album ..what would you buy?

[@Lexwell_Lavers]

Zuma from Neil Young

[@howardgott4946]

Good choice..I’ve no idea what I’d buy, such a wide range to choose from, 70s was definitely the best era

[@ronparsons8786]

Do Hitch a Ride...

[@MarioCrosby]

No doubt.

[@ThePittsburghToddy]

Boston kinda like OutKast? Maybe…🖖🏼

[@matthewglidden4860]

I hesitate to say they pioneered the 'pick slide' sound, but they certainly made use of it in almost every song and I believe that any band after them got the idea from Boston.

[@jackr2323]

WHAT IS THIS FUCKED UP BANNER across the screen half way through the damn video???!!

[@420catson]

syed, youve been doing this for so long and havent listen to the grateful dead yet! if you love uplifting songs, theyre where you need to look. grateful dead is known as a jam band, their lead guitarist jerry garcia is one of the best improvisers to ever do it!

[@jeffreyraines2572]

Brad is also the back singers. they looped his vocals over it.

[@roberormonde]

No Boston differnt there positive

[@sjcamcam8189]

Great review but i think it has nothing to do with the style of Guns & Roses,good video though.

[@ajentgen7943]

Dude...what's up with the plug for up coming videos blocking everything

[@izzonj]

Boston was so overplayed on the radio when they came out I really grew to hate them. Then the dreary days of disco came and maybe 8 years later I heard some Boston and actually felt nostalgic for them. Now, when I listen, I don't like them. All their songs are pretty similar - loud walls of guitars, screeching vocals, weird spacey tricks - but with no space in the music. Nothing very interesting to me. I know I'm probably in the minority of R&R fans.

[@Lexwell_Lavers]

This jocks in the parking lot drinking beer music. I was the pot smoking at a friend's house or ranch property type of music. Cowboys and stoners were of the same ilk were I went to highschool in the 70s.

[@alansmith7626]

why "modern music" is one note, one vibe....easier to appeal to the indoctrinated...think, Another brick in the wall....just sayin...

[@jenniferandrews1917]

I couldn’t even see your face because of your Beatles ad. I’m not a fan of that. I read your face for the reaction.

[@grelch]

Don't Look Back is a decent song, but.. slow down now. You skipped a whole bunch of much, much better songs from the debut album. All the top tier Boston songs are on the first album.

[@IZZY_EDIBLE]

That centerscreen banner sucks! You covered up your own face AND the lyrics, thus removing the entire purpose for a reaction video at all. Just to advertise your other reaction videos. The irony is brutal!

[@sueharviel6510]

The large banner that covered your face for much of the video was super annoying. Just an FYI

[@ghfantexas6848]

What is the point of having lyrics up if you’re going to put up advertisements across the screen about the Beatles and John Lennon? So freakin disappointed dude. Why did you do that? I am trying to watch something right now and you’re screwing it up. Stop it!

[@lipby]

I've always hated Boston. Overproduced corporate rock. As a lyric guy, I'd think you'd want to concentrate more on pure songwriters like Joni Mitchell, early Randy Newman, Leonard Cohen (especially his stuff from the 90s), Warren Zevon, Neil Young, etc.

[@UpChuckn]

Was really enjoying this until BAM! Why is there a big old ad in the middle of the screen. It doesn't go away after a few seconds. That is AWFUL. Almost makes it unwatchable. Stop doing that please

[@roberormonde]

So you mean this modern music?They have no talent you're right

[@michele-33]

I was never a huge Boston fan. I like the same things about them that you do. They're great musicians but not original enough. They certainly received alot of airplay on classic rock radio. Myself..I prefer Guns -n- Roses.

[@rudedogmat]

Love you're reactions but I won't be able to to watch anymore with that gigantic banner covering most of your screen. Bye.