First Time Analyzing Pat Benatar! Vocal ANALYSIS of "Love Is A Battlefield"

It's possible I've heard Pat Benatar sometime in my life, but I couldn't tell you what song it was, or where I might have heard it. Enough of you have mentioned diving into her catalogue, and you know I just can't say no to you all! So now, next time we chat in a live chat I'll know Pat Benatar's sound!
Join professional opera singer Elizabeth Zharoff, as she listens to Pat Benatar for the first time, performing "Love Is A Battlefield”.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Performed by Pat Benatar - Words and Music by Holly Knight, Mike Chapman
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I definitely recommend watching the original video without interruptions. Here's the link: • Pat Benatar - Love Is ...
Show Pat Benatar some love: / @benatargiraldo
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WE HAVE MERCH! Check-out the full line-up here: thecharismaticmerch.com
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
🎧 Elizabeth’s favorite headphones 🎧 : imp.i114863.net/zayoEM
Music Gear Questions? 🎤 See my list of recommendations: imp.i114863.net/yRyGoV
WANT MY CHAIR? I don’t blame you…and here’s a link to make it even sweeter:
secretlab.co/?rfsn=4692958.b2...
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
🎙️Podcast: thecharismaticvoice.com/podcast/
🌐Website: thecharismaticvoice.com
📸Instagram: / thecharismaticvoice
🧑‍🤝‍🧑Patreon: / thecharismaticvoice
📺Twitch: / thecharismaticvoice
📰Our FREE Newsletter: eepurl.com/gz7Z_z
-------------------------------------COURSES------------------------------------------
🎵MUSIC APPRECIATION COURSE🎵
Want to understand how to listen to and appreciate music more? My Music Appreciation course is now live. Take a look at thecharismaticvoice.com
🎶DEMYSTIFYING SINGING🎶
My intensive 7-week course on vocal foundations includes weekly group sessions and private lessons. Learn more at thecharismaticvoice.com.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Elizabeth Zharoff is an international opera singer and voice coach, with 3 degrees in voice, opera, and music production. She's performed in 18 languages throughout major venues in Europe, America, and Asia. Currently based somewhere between Los Angeles and Tucson, Arizona, Elizabeth spends her days researching voice, singing, teaching, writing music, and recording TONS. She also plays Diablo and Dungeons & Dragons.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We have a sister channel: THE SINGING HOLE. Join us there to examine how ordinary creatures create extraordinary sounds. / @thesinginghole
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Non-profit, educational, or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
#Dimash #Reaction #TheCharismaticVoice
-------------

[@josephewing80]

Pat is classically trained, originally towards opera and as a coloratura as a child. I am sure that helped her as she moved to pop music. An absolute powerhouse voice.

[@p8triot884]

Her voice is so strong. I was at a concert that lost power and she sang a cappella for almost half an hour and was easily heard even in the back. Most amazing performance I've ever witnessed.

[@MrPhillie]

I kept thinking Elizabeth would comment on the classical and operatic training, given she is trained in the like.

[@timkaldahl]

A lot of these 80s artists are still performing, and I believe it has a lot to do with the vocal discipline learned from there classical backgrounds.

[@Lightmane]

Pat Benatar is one of the greatest female rock vocalists, for sure. I already know you're going to fall in love with her voice. She's just a powerhouse.

[@buzzbomb67]

And she was trained in opera …!

[@bloodgout]

My favorite female vocalist of all time

[@kerryddepew674]

The greatest..,no autotune for her, and they had a really great band on all her early hits - a killer bottom end and her husband is a very creative gifted guitar player as well.

[@markhathaway9456]

@@buzzbomb67 Awesome. I didn't know that.

[@buzzbomb67]

@@markhathaway9456 I remember when she first came out, it was mentioned. Havent really heard it since, though, so it’s not surprising that many dont know that, about her.

[@stevemthompson]

Pat's mother had been an amateur opera singer in her younger days and strongly encouraged Pat's instinct for singing. While in high school, Pat aspired to become an opera star. She then received some formal training that honed her 5-octave vocal range. Later, she realized her true desire was to be a rock singer. We fans have benefited from her amazing talent ever since.

[@tbusch63]

Definitely MORE ROCK than POP!! She was the first concert I ever saw! Billy Squire opened on time. The second time J. Geils Band. She opened for Styx for the third time. Styx is another Awesome band

[@user-vn7my7dj6x]

@@tbusch63 First time I saw her she was opening for Eddie Money in 1979 or 1980. Then I saw her again in 1981 when Billy Squier opened for her at Red Rocks in Denver

[@treetopjones737]

She was inspired to become a solo artist after seeing a one-woman show. That artist was Liza Minelli.

[@baghdaddymike6669]

Perfectly said.

[@joeyholthusen6495]

Legend of Billie Jean. Awesome movie

[@DouglasScanlan]

“Hell is For Children” is her most unique and earth shattering vocals of her career. You’d be blown away and I’d love to hear your analysis. There is no official video for Hell Is For Children, but you could still find the song on KZbin

[@riverforest2997]

Thank God there is no video for that song. As wonderful as the song is such a video would be depressing.

[@DanielByers-qf9qi]

Yes. "Hell Is For Children" is an epic - and a voice for the abused children who have no voice. It is a masterpiece of music and meaning..

[@jerseymetalmike5111]

Agreed, "Love is a Battlefield" is not nearly as challenging as "Hell" or "Heartbreaker" vocal-wise

[@MsVettech82]

halestorm does a great cover too

[@TehZombish]

I love how everything in the 80's could be settled with an epic dance routine.

[@88wildcat]

Quick, someone call 911 there's going to be a dance off.

[@andreadeamon6419]

Wished we could that now - oh wait - most of us can barely move anymore. That won't work - we'll have to think of something else

[@Rarpz2024]

Conflict and beef in the 80s was only created for dance off purposes.

[@zippymacadoo6336]

Rock paper scissors?

[@andreadeamon6419]

@@zippymacadoo6336 never had luck with that! Lol

[@bradsullivan2495]

Pat Benetar was the definition female empowerment in rock in the 80s. "Treat Me Right" "You Better Run" "Hit Me with Your Best Shot" "Promises in the Dark" "Little Too Late" and "Sex as a Weapon" are all solid examples of that attitude. Her most important song is "Hell is for Children" which is about child abuse and is one she always does at her concerts to maintain awareness of the issue.

[@pappajudas9267]

Yes Hell Is For Children

[@snapdoc]

She no longer sings Hit Me With Your Best Shot in deference to the victims of gun violence in our society today and the number of mass shootings, though the song was created in a different time.

[@SmogFighter]

Her cover of Wuthering Heights is also phenomenal. A comparison between her version and Kate Bush’s would be great.

[@davidquinn6776]

She and her husband (who is a beast on the guitar) stand for so many good causes. I think Heartbreaker and You Better Run (a Young Rascals song) has all that wonderful bite of the late 70s early 80s pop (Knack, etc) without the later overproduced 80s stuff. Fantastic powerhouse voice.

[@garymaidman625]

There is an Australian singer from the 80s by the name of Chrissy Amphlett, lead singer in the band the Divinyls, who was the same way. Their two big hits are I Touch Myself, a song about female self-love in a time when it still wasn't really talked about and another song called Pleasure and Pain, a song about domestic abuse. In fact, Pleasure and Pain is written by Mike Chapman and Holly Knight, who also wrote Love Is A Battlefield.

[@johnrichardson353]

My wife saw her perform in the clubs around Richmond and Petersburg, Virginia while in college at VCU during the mid 1970s. She remembers Pat sitting at their table in a club around 1975 saying she was leaving for New York and she was going to make it big. She certainly did.

[@dragonreader3817]

As many have said “Promises in the Dark” is my favorite as well, showing off her vocal range. However she also did a cover of Kate Bush’s “Wuthering heights” on her first album. It might be a fun comparison set to do. It introduced me to Kate way back in the day.

[@EricRoberts-kw4zp]

I love that song. Her first album was my first cassette.

[@DannyDiess]

The Kate Bush cover was actually on Benatar's 2nd studio album "Crimes Of Passion" in 1980.

[@baghdaddymike6669]

Best. Song. Ever.

[@AzDesertFoxx]

I prefer her version of Wuthering Heights over the screeching of Kate Bush.

[@mirrordblack3307]

Wuthering heights one of my favorite deep cuts from any album

[@richardchocolas8800]

I saw her in concert earlier this year and Pat still sounds amazing and powerful. It's hard to believe that she is 70 and finally was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

[@Kim.Artman]

Same here. I saw her earlier this year and is phenomenal

[@nivekian]

She's talented as hell, she doesn't need to be "honored" by a tourist trap/ marketing award like the RRHoF induction.

[@ajruther67]

It took this long for her to get inducted because they wanted her years ago but she said she would let herself be inducted if Neil was inducted to because he was an integral part of the band. She is right and I admire her for that.

[@rigel2112]

Another reason the RRHOF is a joke and should be mocked. Artists that are not even rock and roll are in decades ago. They should be the Anything but rock and roll hall of fame.

[@Caseytify]

She's finally in? About time!

[@sportsmom165]

Classically trained in Opera. Her first hit was Heartbreaker and it rocks hard!!!

[@LadySlippers]

YES! So few people talk about how she is a classically trained vocalist -- and it shows.

[@meak84]

Came here to say the same thing

[@user-zq4rl9hs4f]

I heard her say that she was tired of singing Heartbreaker. Imagine how many times that she sang it.❤

[@gigakrait5648]

@@user-zq4rl9hs4f She now refuses to sing "Hit me with your best shot" because of the supposed connections it has to mass shooters. Totally ridiculous. A song from 1980 that predates pretty much all or most of this and had absolutely nothing to do with any of it but she caved into the idiotic woke idiocy and cancel culture and her feelings as if she is responsible.

[@sportsmom165]

@@gigakrait5648 that's so sad! It is a great song!! I've heard that she is also really nice.

[@DoomMomDot]

"heartache to heartache we stand" remains one of the best lines I have ever heard.

[@GregPirker]

Like Brad Delp, she sings almost all of the background vocals on the first two albums. Her vocal range let's her back herself up in many flavors. Unreal how much she can do.

[@aaradia]

I saw Pat and Neil in San Diego just a few days after the 9/11 attacks. Somewhere in the concert, she stopped to address it. She said they considered cancelling, but thought people might need a positive break from everything going on. She then went into an a capella version of the USA's National Anthem (The Star Spangled Banner). Then they resumed the concert. I remember it all these decades later. It was so powerful! So emotional! I can't even begin to express how perfect that moment was! I imagine everyone at that concert remembers it.

[@thetranya3589]

Promises in the Dark is her greatest vocal performance imo. One of very many, though. Her and Ann Wilson are the two greatest female rock vocalists of all time.

[@ab.collage]

Totally agree

[@donaldmoser212]

Promises is the song she needs to review. Very dynamic song from early in her career. Excellent energy. And she covers her full vocal range.

[@hinjurock70]

​@@donaldmoser212 Definitely. Her late 70's/early 80's hard rock material was the best.

[@peccatumDei]

I agree, and there's a live version official music video too!

[@whatsup9260]

so many others too like Grace Slick from Jefferson Airplane

[@celiavillagran7228]

You mentioned hearing this in a supermarket. I was at the store with my 20 year old son and this song came on. I started to shimmy my shoulders with that look on my face. My son said “Mom? Mom?” He then shrugged and danced with me. I have to give him credit for shadowing me so well. Great song!

[@skipbreakfast]

I love this anecdote!

[@mcclaindebra63]

And to think that this little 5' tall woman can belt out such a powerful voice, is amazing!! Always loved her music during the 80's and even now as I am an old 61 year old woman, myself. "We Belong" was/is always my favorite Pat Benatar song...

[@imacmanx8562]

No, the single doesn't have all the sirens, etc., but this one you're reacting to IS the official music video. Fabulous voice.....she trained as a coloratura with plans to attend the Juilliard School, but decided instead to pursue health education, and her song "Hell is For Children" is an amazing song, and actually brought child abuse to the forefront back when no one wanted to talk about it openly.

[@WastedTalent-]

Also, remember the evangelicals went after her for that song. As per usual, they didn't read the lyrics and just went by the title. They said Pat was saying that children belong in hell.

[@michaelvaughn64]

@@WastedTalent- I remember that.

[@raymo6795]

...also " Suffer the Children" from "Wide Awake in Dreamland (track 9)...Love Pat and Neal, they are a part of my youth

[@hinjurock70]

​@@WastedTalent- That's what my Jewish grandmother thought when she heard it pn the radio. She said "I turned on the radio and you jad the rock station on amd there was this horrible woman screaming about how children should all go to hell". Lol So I explained it to her. She said "Oh" and looked embarrassed.

[@maryeckel9682]

​@@WastedTalent-I was in that world back then, and I got so mad at how they were misinterpreting that song. Ironically, we now know more about how those beliefs can lead to child abuse in many ways.

[@glenzenaf]

This song is iconic for Pat, but "We Belong" is one that shows off more of her dynamic range from soft (heart) to edgy (gut). I'd recommend that one as you progress further with her. 😊

[@MattKrogmeier]

"We Belong" is my favorite...just a perfect pop ballad.

[@jmacd8817]

​@MattKrogmeier Same... love that song.

[@jamescurfman3284]

100% agreed here! :)

[@darbovision2672]

The "acoustic" version of this song is fantastic!

[@kristenturner4068]

Absolutely this!

[@mattboardman8837]

This is so great and so timely! My girlfriend just went to the Pink concert at SoFi last night and Pat was there as one of the opening acts. She said that Pat sounded incredible! Another great analysis, Elizabeth!

[@zombiiesque]

That would be a bucket list concert for me! P! nk AND Pat? Wow! 😍😍😍

[@Craigskitchen360]

This video WAS in the 80’s. Cool then! Now she is still slaying ! See her on Austin City Limits! Live. We are going to see her and Neil in Portland later this year. It’s going to be Epic!!

[@keith6485]

Pat is a real power house of rock. I saw her two months ago along with her Hall of Fame husband, Neil Giraldo. They are both still amazing. Pat was one of the first to publicly confront the issue of child abuse with her 1980 hit, "Hell is for Children". She has said that she will continue to sing that song until the terror stops. At the recent concert I attended, her performance of that song had the entire audience on their feet. She is simply amazing.

[@jeanproctor3663]

She's definitely one of my bucket-list artists to see! I've loved her music since my teens.

[@DavidLindes]

That song HITS. Hard. Pun, I guess, intended... 😕

[@brossjackson]

I'm going to recommend "We Belong" as a follow up because it's sort of a nice contrast. It's the happy, uplifting, joyous counterpart to the hurt and aggression in this song. I like seeing her get to express "happily in love" because she's in such a supportive, long-term relationship in real life. It's just cute married wholesomeness. And she sings the heck out of it.

[@fugithegreat]

I love that song!

[@okiejohn3925]

YES!

[@bradkrepps8901]

This!

[@bagdadbob3391]

Her story is absolutely beautiful.. Her husband Niel is a very underrated guitar legend. They are still together through it all. My most cherished gift is a cassette tape of them. Our sub was decommissioned in washing state. When I returned to Hawaii I went to the iconic music store in Waikiki and tried to order several copies for my friends. It turns out that I had the first pat Benetar tape in Hawaii lol. Yeah he wanted to buy it really bad. Of course that was a hard NO.

[@jdii5698]

100% agree Re: Neil Giraldo. 😎

[@RexHand]

Neil is an awesome guitarist!

[@red_five1542]

The 5 foot powerhouse of a voice. I saw Pat in 1998 at an 80's fest when she was 45 and she still had all the dynamics you can hear when she was 32 in 1985.

[@robertchalfant8242]

Pat is for my money the greatest female rocker ever. Opera blessed her with an awesome range and control!

[@hartwheeler4591]

I'd say Joan Jett was the greatest female rocker ever but her voice doesn't compare.

[@AxeGaijin]

My vote goes to Doro Pesch.

[@nickmcp7191]

Ann Wilson still takes some beating, and like Pat she's into her seventies.

[@zezezosezadafrak8210]

Dreamboat Annie Wilson, but Benatar's right there with her...

[@joelcaron8291]

Don't forget about Joan Jett Just sayin... They are both great by the way...

[@warpig4942]

This was one of her bigger hits but it is a very tame vocal performance. She has so much power and aggression that is not even touched here. Try something live from her early days, "Heartbreaker" is going to be the most popular. Her live voice is incredible.

[@kevinmclaughlin8975]

Agree. You should watch the Live in New Haven (1983) version. Also, We Live For Love from the same concert.

[@wordgiesworld5483]

Promises in the Dark

[@briandarazs6620]

Thats an excellent analysis. Those first two albums of hers, her voice, simply unbelievable. And I'm a true blue head banger, but Pat's voice is simply one of the greatest of all time, her range, power, and the way she can hold a note, almost unbelievable. I've always thought she's quite possibly the most underrated female vocalist of all time.

[@Blueeyedramblings]

Pat Benatar is an amazing vocalist. You should really check out her song Heartbreaker, definitely my favorite by her

[@johnguy2580]

Pat Benetar is one of the best female rock singers, especially from the 80s. She also has an amazing, empowering positive back story, one I'd recommend to my daughter to read if she'd ever been interested in a career in music, Pat found success, found an amazing husband, retained her publishing and built an amazing career completely on her terms and is still out there doing it today. Fun fact, Pat Benetar was the 2nd song to ever play on MTV, right after Video Killed The Radio Star.

[@drummamma5250]

I'm positive you're going to love her and want more! ❤ "Promises in the Dark" next, please!

[@georgewallerlll496]

"Promises in the dark", "Heartbreaker" or "Hell is for children" would really show her skills and Power as a singer!

[@AJRabies]

Don't forget Fire & Ice, and Precious Time.

[@bloodgout]

Wuthering Heights is the best demonstration of her range and power

[@donnakubiski5572]

I vote for "Promises In The Dark" because it really shows off her vocal range especially in the bridge of the song.

[@questionablehumor2800]

I would suggest "We Belong" as the ballad to explore

[@metalmark1214]

Pat Benetar, one of the great female rockers. Pat was very popular in the 80's. Other songs to do by her - Hit Me With Your Best Shot, Heartbreaker, Shadows of the Night, Hell is For Children, Promises in the Dark, You Better Run,Treat Me Right.

[@Justin_Dykes]

I vote or Hell Is For Children

[@nikolausherrmann6801]

Invincible!

[@Annonymous0283745]

@@Justin_Dykes one of the best.

[@Gnomaana]

I also vote for Hell is for Children. My favorite song of hers. I listened to it on repeat.

[@FunnyHaHa420]

@@Justin_Dykes I had the album with it on 8 track.

[@markyoung8163]

I always took this video like this: the guy in the bar is a pimp and she's challenging him. Their little dance-off is the "fight" and then she wins and gets the girls outta there and then they are "freed" Great react Elizabeth! Great song, and she has so many more powerhouse songs to check out! Can't wait

[@annehooks6940]

Pat Benatar is the BEST female vocalist EVER!!!! I saw her many times in concert !! Her voice is fantastic live !!!! Her husband Spider James Geraldo on guitar FANTASTIC!!! Love that you reviewed her!! Hope you will review more of her stuff in the future!! She also trained in opera!!! Thank you👍🏻👍🏻❤️

[@garymaidman625]

Saying the best ever is a big claim. Is she better than Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, Ella Fitzgerald, Grace Slick, Nina Simone, Whitney Houston, just to name a few? That's a big claim and one I personally don't subscribe to, even though she no doubt has a phenomenal voice.

[@drfuzz8773]

Pat and Ann Wilson, best female rock vocalists.

[@annehooks6940]

Absolutely agree👍🏻👍🏻😁!!!!

[@garymaidman625]

@@annehooks6940 you are replying to yourself, so you are saying you agree with yourself?

[@Trendingupwards]

I would put Linda Ronstadt into that conversation. I grew up in the 80's and Love is a Battlefield is one of my favorite songs.

[@robertkorn]

Awesome that you've finally been introduced to Pat Benatar, but please check out her earlier more rock oriented songs like "Heartbreaker". She really displayed her power and range and was at the top of her game at that time.

[@cpeak5000]

Pat is the greatest female rock vocalist - that's her singing backing tracks, and this is the song for the video, they added in a dance mix into the song that is not in the studio version. Love hearing Pat's voice dissected, listen to Fire and Ice, Promises in The Dark, HELL IS FOR CHILDREN and then WE belong! Such an amazing voice.

[@Kim-dm4yb]

Pat Benatar was trained classically and absolutely has a powerful voice. So many memories connected to her music. You may want to check out "Promises in the Dark" where you can really hear her hit so many notes...her voice is incredible! ❤💜

[@greendragonpublishing]

Pat Benatar was absolutely a Female Anthem Icon! She had all the power in her voice, and was amazing. This is her most popular, but there are so many others. We Belong, Heartbreaker, Hit Me With Your Best Shot, Shadows of the Night, Invincible, Promises in the Dark, You Better Run, Hell is for Children.

[@heatherwind]

The song released in 1983 -- and if I remember right it was the first (or one of the first) music vids to feature the lead singer doing a choreographed dance routine. Pat Benatar is an operatic-trained LEGEND. And yes, the vibe was absolutely she was a girl being kicked out of her family home, seeking independence, and writing home to her younger sibling to let him know she was okay. She found work in a club to get by but they were all being exploited, and fought back. I was 13 when this came out, and my older sister left home under similar circumstances, so this vid resonated hard for me at the time. If you're looking for another amazing example of Pat Benatar's vocal range, I highly recommend viewing "We Belong".

[@MR-backup]

A lot of songs in the 90's had almost nothing to do with the music video, the 80's not so much, this is one of them.

[@wordgiesworld5483]

We Belong is a great song.

[@Johnny_Socko]

According to MTV's promotions in 1983, this was the first music video that featured dialogue written & recorded specifically for the video.

[@MR-backup]

@@Johnny_Socko I'll believe it when Pat Benatar confirms it.

[@AlBarzUK]

Try early Kate Bush!

[@Cadinho93]

Fun Fact: Pat Benatar trained as a classical and as an opera singer. She truly can belt it out! Also, '80s videos were like mini films, with costumes, drama, dynamic and kick ass dance scenes. Real art, so original!

[@paulriddle7818]

and her warm up routine is singing a few arias.

[@dr.casebolt]

The story she tells is that when she decided to take up rock she just went out and screamed until she could get the sound -- maybe she had to kind of un-train her voice?

[@bojoku66]

80's videos is what made MTV the go-to place to record favorite songs on VHS tapes, back when MTV was MTV and had only music videos.

[@jayoh13]

From what I’ve read, she did have to learn how to sing rock(pop) music. She was also discovered by Harry Chapin in a rock opera he was producing

[@willsverges]

​@@jayoh13was that intended to be Harry Chapin?

[@jamesyeatts5706]

She won the Grammy for best female rock artist … 4 straight years! Beginning in 1980. And think about that a moment. This was a time when there were SO MANY truly great female artists. Stevie Nicks, Tina Turner, Linda Rondstat, Debbie Harry, Annie Lenox, on and on. Benatar is my favorite female rock singer ever … except the greatest of all Janis Joplin.

[@joekempton7319]

Even Janis doesn't hold a candle to Ann Wilson. She is the true G.O.A.T.

[@gigakrait5648]

Missing Joan Jett in there. Talk about a hard rocking voice.

[@garymaidman625]

Missing the queen of psychedelic rock, Grace Slick.

[@pennybunny]

Love this singer! Thanks for this, watching now ❤❤

[@darrylmitchell7619]

Finally, you’re getting to Pat! Huzzah!!!🎉 Not the optimal song choice to kickoff your analysis of her voice, but very glad you are underway. Pat is an operatic trained singer herself, so I’m really looking forward to this. I would heartily recommend considering Shadows of the Night, Hell is for Children, or Wuthering Heights for your next analysis. In particular, it would be cool to hear your thoughts on how Pat’s version of Wuthering Heights compares to Kate Bush’s version, which you’ve already analyzed.

[@Ed-ys1pz]

Wuthering Heights done better than the original

[@darrylmitchell7619]

@@Ed-ys1pz Agreed!

[@aaradia]

@@Ed-ys1pz I absolutely agree! I think Wuthering Heights is a song that hardcore fans of Pat and Neil all know and love. Even though it was never a big hit on the radio.

[@chrisoakley5830]

Shadows of the Night is my favorite song by Pat. Her vocals are stellar.

[@rayjones4616]

Definitely, the best of all of the Benatar catalogue. Epic song!

[@dougthornton151]

Written by D.L. Byron My good friend and rock guitarist John Barnard was friends with D.L Great songwriter and Pat did an awesome job with her rendition.

[@micheleparker3780]

My all-time favorite song of hers.I really love the high counter-melody in the background; so haunting, when you're just listening to the song late at night, beautiful!!

[@michaelmarino5025]

Thanks so much for doing what you do. I'm a guitarist and just really enjoy your exuberance and knowledge, not just of the vocals, but music in general. YOU'RE AMAZING!

[@SpreeTX]

She’s 70 and still has it too. Though her voice has obviously aged, it’s still got that power and control. Check some of the live performances of Love is a Battlefield from this year. 🙌

[@jasonbean2764]

It isn't just her voice, as amazing as she is. It's the positive message she brings, even to difficult topics.:)

[@tomyoung9049]

Definitely known as one of the queens of 80s rock. Many of her songs not only showcase her vocals but bring out an emotional reaction from the listener.

[@scottishguard]

One of my top five fav female vocalists of all time. She has incredible belting power, and just a beautiful, energetic voice. She was one of our icons in the 80s.

[@scottrule480]

Pat Benatar was such an icon of the early 80s. Not just her music. Her fashion style was also a mainstay of the era. In the beginning of the movie "Fast Times at Ridgemont High," they were pointing out that their school had 3 or 4 Pat Benatar wannabe's. No one in my school dressed entirely in her style, but many incorperated something in their style that was recognizably as Pat Benatar-esque.

[@MarkSwope]

Her song, "Shadows of the Night," was a complete 80's power ballad with all the power phrases and imagery.

[@rsmartin68]

Absolutely

[@IrishMetalArchive]

The 'Live in New Haven' version. The music video is pure cringe!

[@HoosierDaddy_]

It's too good to ignore! I hope she checks it out!

[@lunabear]

One of my favorite songs!

[@mooncritter721]

I saw her live and she was perfect in vocal performance! She is the real deal!!

[@rockywaters9592]

One of my favourite music videos of all time, the cinematography on the dance sequence in the club is amazing, and the loop on the guys face is priceless.

[@mrpzak]

I love this song. Gives me chills every time. The combination of the arrangement, the driving tempo, and the heart wrenching emotion in their voice. Gets me every time.

[@digibirder]

So glad you've reacted to Pat Benatar, Elizabeth! She really was a pioneer and she's still performing!. One of the most powerful vocal performances I've ever heard is in her song "Hell Is For Children".

[@Journeyman.71]

I graduated high school in 1990, and I grew up with pretty much all things "80s," so, I feel like a true "80s kid!" Pat Benatar, all her 80s hits, is one of several artists/bands that, to me, are just quintessential *80s* music! The nostalgia is palpable!

[@hopekevans]

To hear her higher register, I recommend We Live for Love. She’s fantastic live! Saw her last year in Akron. She’s been my favorite female artist since I was in 5th grade when Crimes of Passion LP came out.

[@Tam_Eiki]

Wuthering Heights did it for me from the same album. I got to see her live shortly after that album came out and she was amazing!

[@tom7471]

She is one of a kind! Pat Benatar is still singing, still strong at 70. Thanks for the reaction. 'We Belong', 'Heartbreaker', 'Hit Me With Your Best Shot' are a few of her many hits.

[@belladonna_scarlet]

She has an amazing voice and helped pave the way for the female rock vocalists who have come after her. She was given a lot of crap for being a woman in a predominantly male space, and if you've ever seen her in a candid interview, she gave it to them right back. She is still undervalued today for her contribution; she is one of the best female rock vocalists of all time.

[@zombiiesque]

I completely agree. I love Heart, but I think that Pat is just as talented and I really don't see her get enough credit for that voice.

[@treetopjones737]

Pave the way - *cough* Ronnie Spector. #History

[@derekhiemforth]

@@zombiiesque Agree. Ann is the bomb, but so is Pat. I think Pat used to get more cred than Ann did, but in recent years, it's definitely flipped, and Ann is usually seen as better now. Personally, I don't wanna pick. Either one could front for my band anytime. 👍🏻

[@steveanacorteswa3979]

Along with Ann Wilson from Heart

[@WhizzingFish12]

​@zombiiesque I am a huge Heart/Ann Wilson fan, but Benatar from a pure vocal talent perspective is much, much better. Better range, just as much power, clearer, better control... Ann is a powerful singer but Benatar just penetrates through the rest of the music in a way no one else can match.

[@BulldogElf1]

The dance at the end is the icing on the cake. This whole song and video combo is super powerful and her voice is just amazing

[@victorialove9104]

Love her! Saw her live in a small venue. Unforgettable performance.❤

[@TobyGuidry]

Pat was classically trained (as a coloratura) with an early background in musical theater and planned to attend Julliard, but her life took her another direction. Eventually she got back into singing, and the world learned of the power in her voice. Lots of classics. Two of the best that highlight a lot of colors of her voice are Hell Is For Children (CW: a song about abuse) and We Belong.

[@neilpatrickhairless]

I thought she attended Juilliard

[@TobyGuidry]

@@neilpatrickhairless She was accepted, but decided to gp to Stony Brook instead. She dropped out there to marry her high school boyfriend (Dennis Benetar) and moved to Virginia where he was stationed (Army).

[@nyxskids]

Hell is for Children would make my mom tear up every time she heard it. That song kept her going till she could escape the abuse she grew up in. Just knowing that people knew what it was like for kids like her, or at least enough that a rock star had a song about it. And yes, she called Pat Benatar a rock star, "because that's what [they] called them in the 80s."

[@cirenosnor5768]

The term “Rock Star” meant exactly that back then. Now everyone who excels at whatever or is considered a badass gets called a rock star 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@reliantncc1864]

​@@nyxskidsHell is for Children bothered me as a kid. I didn't want to hear about traumatized children and abuse. I know what she was doing now, but back then I found it very uncomfortable.

[@dhavaram8064]

I recommend "Promises In The Dark" as your next song by Pat Benetar to react to. That song shows off her power and strength really well, and it's my favorite song by her. As for this official music video: Its a family thing She's a runaway That is her brother First She's just living on the streets in the big city Then she falls in with a pimp (the dude in the white vest) and becomes a prostitute Then she stands up to him and leads a rebellion by all "his" girls At the end of the video, she says goodbye to the other girls as they all go their separate ways. And as the video ends, she's on a bus heading back home

[@drewmosko7194]

Promises in the Dark... 100%!!!

[@akshelby33]

That’s the song that came to my mind!

[@vbxtc625]

She's not a prostitute, she's what used to be called a "taxi dancer" (remember, this video is 40 years old). The men pay to dance with the young ladies. Dude is not a pimp, but he's pretty close. Guessing he owns the business.

[@blueridger28]

Yes!!

[@angietorok8389]

80's = DANCE. Couldn't get enough. I spent hours learning music video dance sequences. Pat is still a favorite. So glad you got around to analyzing her voice. She's incredible.

[@arinerm1331]

I wish I'd been introduced to your channel before now. I am a huge Pat Benatar fan, and I would love to have recommended a voice analysis of her remake of Kate Bush's _Wuthering Heights._ It has no music video, but Pat Benatar's voice is on full display in that song. I've listened to it literally thousands of times, and the line "You know it's me, Cathy" chills me every time I hear it.

[@a.ramosakadrumgrl6677]

You should listen to Shadows of the Night, multi layer harmonizing vocals, one of my all time favorites of hers! Watch the original version, but she’s still great live! I have only seen her live once and she blew me away of how beautiful her voice is live!

[@AJRabies]

Shadows of the Night has another great video.

[@baaz12]

Agreed, Shadows of the Night is one of my all time favourite songs and the music video is awesome.

[@GeneElder.R27]

Blink and youll miss the cameo of a very young Bill Paxton as one of the radio operators in the CIC.

[@joshdv4977]

Incredibly excited for Benatar! Excellent song choice. This and Hit Me With Your Best Shot, Heartbreaker might be her more iconic songs, but We Belong has a special place in my heart. So glad to be here for this ride. More bad-ass women please. Tina Turner when?

[@paulonius42]

We Belong is definitely special!

[@m1kalaps759]

Would love to hear your take on her songs, Promises in the dark, Invincible, or my favorite from her, All fired up.. She will always be a bad a$$ powerhouse rocker! Love Pat!

[@KenNakajima07]

She is my favorite singer!!! hands down, I saw her videos only after youtube was invented, spent almost all my life wondering how she looked like, I only heard her from my dad´s cassettes, I like a lot of songs, but this one has that 80´s trend of making a mini movie in the video it´s very cool, nice to see you react to her.

[@amymikesparks2699]

Give “Promises In The Dark”, the live version, a listen. It showcases her phenomenal range.

[@sempervigilo7961]

Hers and Martina McBrde's duet on CMT Crossroads is one of all-time favorite performances.

[@user-zo7qd7kx3i]

Yes! I wish Promises in the Dark live version was her first Pat analysis. This song is great, but Promises in the Dark live...no comparison. Good call! I agree!

[@drewmosko7194]

100%!!

[@bluetopguitar1104]

Pat and her husband Neil (guitar) are a great songwriting team and a great couple.

[@jon-paulfilkins7820]

Didn't they spend like 3 years trying not to date because he was in her backing band and those relationships always go sour (and they have been together officially over 40 years now!)

[@bluetopguitar1104]

@jon-paulfilkins7820 yes. It's great how it worked out.

[@jodicrawford1280]

I saw Pat and Neil in concert for the first time a couple months ago. As a fan since the beginning, it was long overdue. Her voice is still amazing!

[@grandrapids57]

I never understood how complicated the vocal was in this until now, despite knowing this song since the day it came out. THANK YOU!

[@alanbrown3963]

I AM THRILLED THAT YOU FINALLY reached into this library of music! I saw Pat Benatar live in 1981 and she is still a powerhouse voice. So many amazing songs over the last 40+ yrs. She stood rock on it's ear when she hit the scene and she just kept the power. evolution and creativity going and going and going. Her producer/husband/guitarist (in no particular order) is a genius in his own right. Part of her delay into the Hall of Fame was that she wouldn't accept the nomination without recognition of Neil Geraldo as well. So many examples out there of Pat's skill and mastery of her voice. "Fire and Ice", "I Need A Lover" (the live version), "Promises In The Dark", "Hell is For Children", "You Better Run" and so many more. I never get tired of her voice, presence or performance.

[@tylerprice4749]

You should do "promises in the dark" live. She really shows her full range. Wow not sure how they are not in the hall of fame yet.

[@Wishpool]

They were *finally* inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.

[@tiffanytosh1569]

She didn’t want to be inducted without her husband, who was with her the entire time.

[@chaosk1964]

Live version! "Promises... innnnnnnnn the..... ('1, 2, 3, 4') DARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRK"

[@butterflymama0838]

I've seen her in concert 3 times. She is classically trained in opera. Her husband is the lead guitarist and her writing partner. They're incredible together! A few more great songs that shows off her vocal range is "Hell Is For Children", "Shadows of the Night", "Invincible" "Promises In the Dark" & " We Belong"...just to name a few!

[@roscoepcoltrane23]

She is so good and her husband is a phenomenal guitar player. Fire and Ice is my one of favorites of hers. So much power.

[@Amaranthine1000]

Fire and Ice is one of my favourites as well

[@Wishpool]

Very popular Pat song, but please check out "Promises in the Dark," Lizzie. Then "Hell is for Children," "Fire and Ice," "Treat Me Right," and you'll love her cover of "Wuthering Heights"! 🎶🎤 Pat's mom was an opera singer and Pat was classically trained, as well. She's amazing and has a huge catalog of incredible songs!! Her longtime guitarist & husband, Neil Giraldo, is fantastic, too! 🎸

[@hinjurock70]

Well said.

[@Wishpool]

@@hinjurock70 Thanks so much!

[@hinjurock70]

@@Wishpool Anytime 😎

[@isotopia7681]

It blew me away, first time I heard it (and still does). Very emotional song

[@davidedmondson5633]

Wonderful reaction! Pat Benatar was one of the many groups I listened to growing up.

[@sarah-bethhogg]

Pat Benatar was one of the first singers to dance in her videos. Also, I believe she was classically trained and has a huge range. A few other songs that are awesome are "We Belong", "Hit me with Your Best Shot", "We Live for Love", "Promises in the Dark", "fire & Ice", All Fired Up'...and many many more. Love your channel. Love from Canada.

[@CFWhitman]

Yes, she was interested in musical theater while in school, but as she approached graduation she trained as a coloratura in preparation for trying to get into Juilliard School, but then changed her mind and went to school for health education instead. Then she ended up dropping out to get married, and only later seriously got into music again after attending a Liza Minnelli concert, and starting to sing in hotels and clubs.

[@sunflowers-ana6445]

"Fire and Ice", please!!! It's such a powerful song, and she rocks on vocals!! Love your videos, Elizabeth!!

[@feliciawebb6081]

I grew up listening to Pat! She’s always been a favorite of mine!

[@williecooper1116]

I love the 90's back no matter the genera because they had meanings, teachings as well as heart and soul to their voices. What especially enjoyed was how I reacted to you reacting to great music hearing the differences in styles. Keep up the great work!❤❤

[@BryanAlaspa]

Pat Benatar gets so unfairly overlooked sometimes, but she is such a powerhouse and such a Rock goddess. We Belong happens to be a personal favorite. But there was a time she dominated the radio.

[@brheinfeldt]

She also inspired 80's fashion... as was shown in the movie: FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH. Hard believe she's 70, but she has aged gracefully and still has her voice! 🎉❤

[@anitapadgett5529]

I wore the shit out of thin hairbands in the 80s!!!

[@mattclauss943]

LOL the whole clique of girls dressed like her in the lunch room!

[@CorpseBride64]

Plus her & hubby still together after all these years!!

[@Shingen036]

Pat Benatar was one of my celeb crushes growing up in late 70s, early 80s. Her vocal range is incredible,

[@anastasiagreene5967]

Oh, this takes me back to my youth! Love her!

[@jdbroders64]

She's a treasure and always reminds of Ann Wilson with her power and range. On another note, her husband Neil Giraldo is the guitar player, primary songwriter, producer etc. and is very talented in his own right.

[@mstroven]

Agreed! Neil is definitely under-rated as a guitartist - because his wife is such an amazing performer!

[@jimquinn2431]

Thanks for jumping in and giving female rock singers an audience. Pat Benetar is a legend. Would also like to see you review Linda Ronstadt.

[@WhizzingFish12]

You need to analyze "Promises in the Dark." Her voice and range are stunning.

[@pablojose4890]

I recall from 30+ years ago hearing that Pat Benatar was a trained opera singer.

[@tonylaudin3777]

You've done so many great analyses of female vocalists; I'm surprised you haven't done Linda Ronstadt yet. So, so many great songs, idioms, and performances to choose from. You could even go a little crazy and pick one of her numbers in 'Pirates of Penzance'!

[@DJHolte]

Oh yes, Linda is a must! I would suggest "Blue Bayou" live - there's a great version on the Rhino YT channel.

[@russrollins9978]

@@DJHolte Don't forget La Charreada!

[@ralpholson7616]

I would suggest Long, Long Time.

[@chachaj914]

You're No Good is also a must listen to.

[@tonylaudin3777]

Absolutely agree that a dive into Linda singing ranchera would be great. I would go with La Cigarra; there's a great live version from 1987 out there. @@russrollins9978

[@catdubh4787]

Saw her in Detroit, at Joe Louis Arena, during the '80s. She's such a tiny little thing, but the pipes on her...she has one hell of a voice, that's for sure.

[@kevinholguin6022]

She released an album of torch songs. It got great critical aclaim. It was a complete departure from her regular rock stuff but is by far my favorite album.

[@purplearmy9773]

Love Pat! What a voice.

[@Elkadetodd]

So many more to do. Promises in the Dark, Heartbreaker, Treat Me Right, You'd Better Run. Visit a few first, then come to Hell is for Children. And she has lots of amazing live versions. Even now at 70 she's still killing it on stage.

[@DocLobster94]

We belong to the night as well

[@Bodyknock]

I'm also a fan of her song Invincible, it's got some killer harmonies in the chorus at the end!

[@class5bodyworks]

From the Legend of Billie Jean soundtrack.😊

[@reliantncc1864]

I love it, it's so triumphant in the feel of it. Feels like going to war.

[@tonycampbell4982]

She’s one best sings in history

[@scottsnyder2726]

Love Pat and love this video

[@JamesMerrill-il5he]

The blues album she released really shows off her vocal power.

[@fredcookerly9385]

Agree! True Love is an amazing album and came after the heyday of her career. Highly recommended to everyone.

[@aaradia]

Totally underrated, but one of her best IMO1