FIRST TIME REACTING TO | Blues Traveler "HOOK"

[@againes.1]

John Popper is one of a kind. His vocal inflections so resemble the harmonica that it blends seamlessly. Also - let's talk about BREATH CONTROL! The breath required for the harmonica alone is enormous, but to immediately go into the next verse after that wild harmonica solo is impressive. He's got to be circular breathing or something.

[@euphoniousmonk]

Harmonica plays different notes on inhale and exhale - he structures his solo so that it ends with him inhaling so he's coming out with full lungs to sing with.

[@FriedPi-mc5yt]

I play harmonica. No where near as good as John Popper. But the trick is to use a harmonica in a key that will land your solo end note on an inhale. That way your lungs are ready to use for your first line of lyrics.

[@elbruces]

I love the fact that the lyrics of the song are about the song itself.

[@profanepersonality]

Blues Traveler was Howard's favorite band at the time, that is why they played his birthday show...

[@MarlinDart]

The song follows the same chord progression as Pachelbel’s notorious “Canon In D”. This chord progression is used in many radio hits. He is basically telling you that through the whole song.

[@HugsXO]

Wow...I didn't know that. Thanks.

[@kobayashi.official]

Yeah I totally didn't catch this! Even the fast part at the end I can hear the tune now! Dang!

[@mikemonroe6871]

There is a breakdown video of how this is THE MOST POPPY song of all time. They used Canon in D purposefully. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3XbZa2fp82JY9k However, he is just talking his shit. Nothing he says matters because the hook brings you back.

[@chadroeder]

Notorious?

[@robertczikalla4467]

Yes, but it's in A major so it has even more hit to it.

[@fl6stringer]

Knowing the lyrics changes everything.

[@youtubuzr]

It really does. The OG music video is actually pretty good at getting the lyrics across. It's a great tune.

[@versatilejams]

He’s a white Stevie Wonder. Very talented singer/songwriter/instrumentalist. Underrated as hell and one of the absolute best.

[@TampaCEO]

This song is meant to be a TROLL on pop music. He's saying that the lyrics often completely don't matter, just as long as he sings with inflection. It's brilliant.

[@robertczikalla4467]

The whole song is an amazing piece on how formula driven pop music was at that time even down to the token rap verse in the 3rd, immediately after what should be a guitar solo. The best line in there though is "And when I'm feeling stuck and need a buck I don't rely on luck because..." Great song. It's nearly 100% true though that people don't listen to lyrics.

[@dekulruno]

@@robertczikalla4467Also that the chord progression is Pachelbel’s Canon which is ripped off in so many pop songs it’s like a cheat code for success

[@ryan23791]

"No matter how much Peter loved her, what made the Pan refuse to grow was that the hook brings you back". Love that line

[@jimgray8485]

Listen to the song again, that line is supposed to make you laugh because although it sounds pretty, it is utterly meaningless.

[@gsquat]

​@jimgray8485 But prefaced by the line, "To confuse the issue I'll refer to familiar heroes from long ago."

[@matthewcox9993]

One of the best lines ever

[@elicarlson7682]

@@jimgray8485nope, it is a reference to Peter Pan, Yknow, Captain Hook?

[@thade7062]

@@jimgray8485 Its a reference to peter pan , not being able to leave neverland to be with Wendy which is what he really wanted because his obsession with Hook always drew him back to neverland. You are obviously an uncultured troglodyte so maybe you will learn to not speak where you have no idea what's being discussed. its a double meaning to the "Hook" also because the song is telling you its not important what they say but you're too hooked in to care. That one line says enough to write an entire dissertation.

[@coreyrees840]

Was a song mocking all those runs singers go on tbh. First verse literally him telling you he can say/sing whatever nonsense he wants, but as long as he sings with inflection no one will pay any mind. As long as it’s a catching HOOK that’ll bring you back you’re good. Ended up being their biggest hit ironically

[@philmonhollen1396]

HE's definitely playing it up here for a live performance. The recording are more reserved and with more tasteful runs. Here, he's just having fun and showing out.

[@seasickviking]

I got to see these guys live and it was a trip. That's indeed a vest, each with several harmonicas, because he goes through harmonicas like crazy. He wears out several harmonicas per concert, and often throws the damaged ones into the crowd for the audience to keep as souvenirs. Both my father & I still have them from various concerts.

[@Voidgirlinc]

7:01 “he’s like rapping the harmonica” I have been telling people this for years!!

[@chriswinkler8554]

One of the most underrated bands!! Thank you for reacting to them! John Popper in so talented ... the band had a few hits then faded out but they are still touring and sound amazing ... but despite only having a few hits their albums are filled with great music ... Run Around, But Anyway, Crash Burn, The Mountains Win Again, Carolina Blues, and Most Precarious are a few I'd suggest ... they are definitely worth checking out further

[@DanJohnson-fw2qx1975]

That’s a lyrical masterpiece by Popper( best harmonica player of all time).

[@michaelpeters2308]

You got to watch the video…it might be from the 90s but it’s so creative that it’s scarily relevant today!

[@jrshelton3398]

He’s the SRV of the harmonica

[@nateekis3982]

This song is a commentary on popular music. He sings that it doesn’t matter what he says, the hook brings you back. -it became a hit single in the 90s and it was poking fun at the entire industry. TRUE GENIUS!!!

[@MH_unknown-yt8fv]

His voice has taken the resemblance of an extension of his world-class harmonica play. Very impressive vocals!

[@jacksonian8]

If there is someone in the world better on the harmonica than John Popper I wouldn't know who that would be. He is an incredibly talented performer in every aspect.

[@TheCashu]

John Popper is amazing on the harmonica. Fast, articulate, lyrical. But check out Howard Levy (of Bela Fleck and the Flecktones fame). IMO, he's equally amazing.

[@BAM5636]

@jacksonian8 Flecktones are amazing but no one has anything on John Popper's harmonica playing.

[@americanmutt9089]

My favorite from these guys is The Mountains Win Again.

[@SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman]

YES & Carolina Blues

[@justinv4638]

Great Song! One of my old faves is Optimistic Thought off Travelers & Thieves album

[@elizabethwood9409]

Mine too!! 😀

[@mindigd]

Yes, mine too. Crystal Flame is up there for me too.

[@honeydo.1697]

The song mentions that the reason Peter pan refused to grow was because the "HOOK" (captain hook ) brings him back.

[@seanmahoney7895]

Made even better by the fact that he prefaces that with "here's some nonsense about a familiar hero"

[@MichFedorchak]

Howard Stern loved The Blues Travelers, this was Howard's birthday show and invited them because he loved them so much, and considered them one of the best live bands. Popper is the best.

[@roger3141]

Blues Traveler is pure audio enjoyment. One of the most unique sounds around.

[@wvman2374]

The common harmonica is set to a single key, like the key of C or A or F#. Unlike say a sax or piano or guitar that can be played in every key, the harmonica is only for one key. So he'll have a set of harmonicas, one for each key hes going to play in. (Its a little more involved than that, as the player can 'bend' notes to both get a more bluesy sound and to play in a different key; this is called playing cross-harp and most harmonica players do this. Depending on which notes are being played one harmonica can be used for a few different keys. But usually the player wants a particular 'feel' or sound for the song they are playing, and that usually requires the harmonica be in a specific key. And there are harmonicas that can be used to play multiple keys the same ways, but those aren't nearly as common in popular music.)

[@jamiemacdonald436]

If you listen closely to John's vocal inflections and style, and then to his harmonica parts/solos you'll probably notice how similar the two of them are. It's pretty cool, I hadn't noticed it before until it was pointed out recently in another reaction to this performance.

[@declaneric]

The best thing about Blues Traveler is that they sound better live than in the studio. John Popper's vocals and world class harmonica play just sound better on stage. BT's one of the very few groups you can say that about. And in this case, you get a special treat of the harmonica solo being even more prodigious than the OMV for the song. There is no margin or bar for his level of talent. I can't think of anyone who's THAT talented who's ALSO better live. Popper's looking down on the rest of us from the clouds, that how far above everyone else he is. | Part of the back story on the song is that he owed the studio one more song for an album that wasn't quite done. He got into an argument about it with a studio rep during a meeting, and instead of yelling at them about it, he walked out of the meeting and, while stewing in his frustration, wrote a song about selling out. He even use Pachelbel's Canon in D chord structure, often dubbed the "lazy chords," because of their overuse in hit pop music. And so he wrote a hit song mocking hit songs and the selling out of artists who just phone in a hit song while saying nothing. And it was a self-fulfilling prophecy, as he told everyone they wouldn't be able to stop listening to it - while he mocks them in what they're listening to. The genius of it all is legendary in the music world.

[@waterforlife1968]

I had the good fortune to go to school with these guys before they were famous.

[@sorensmith9873]

The official music video puts the lyrics in perspective in a clever way but in any case these guys were huge in the early/mid 90s, saw them live not long after Popper was in a very serious motorcycle accident and he had to do the tour in a wheelchair. Was still an excellent show

[@tommack9395]

John Popper sings like he plays the harmonica and play's the harmonica like he sings. He's got to be among the best front-men with control of his air... I'd seen them at festivals before hey were famous and after and they always delivered with charisma and shear character let alone talent. The studio version places the irony of the song in perspective. Another great song by them is "Run-Around" well popular song anyway, they always had well written songs.

[@ocelot2121]

Shepherds rods were commonly called "hooks" that they'd usually usually bring strays back into the fold. The hook brings you back into the group....

[@eastcoastoverseer]

It's impossible to hear this song and not have a good time. Absolutely love it.

[@cmzeman]

Bear in mind, this is a live performance in a radio studio. You need to hear more of Mr. Popper singing. He does NOT sound like a sheep.

[@thia26]

The comedian Adam Carolla is a huge John Popper /Blues T fan and he always says it’s a good thing John couldn’t make time with the ladies when he was a teenager and just sat in his room singing and practicing the harmonica. John never disagrees. His loss was music’s gain. 😂

[@anthonyhaylock6655]

Love your reactions to Blues Traveler, they are one of my all time favourite bands , John Popper on harmonica is a true genius, on that instrument, nobody can hold a candle to him on harmonica:)

[@lashutterbug]

I was lucky enough to see Blues Traveler when they were supporting their first album. It was in a small venue in Cambridge, MA called the Paradise, and I managed to make my way to the front (standing room only). With my elbows perched on the band's monitors, I watched John Popper work his mouth harp magic. He had an entire bandolier of harmonicas, like in this video. I remember thinking, "these guys are gonna be the next Grateful Dead", as that was the vibe they were putting out at the time. Great night.

[@XViTNg]

I love how his vocal runs are very similar to his harmonica runs. His voice almost sounds like a harmonica.

[@JosiahMayfield_1]

He definitely enjoyed it. That's why he booked them on his birthday show. Sometimes you say silly stuff!

[@212x3]

The lyrics are hilarious.

[@charlesvickers8717]

You might be interested to know that the tune is based on a classical piece from the late 1600's called "Pachelbel's Canon in D" which is considered as one of the most played pieces of Music in history.

[@brosciencegutfeelings7058]

Howard loves John popper and Blues Traveler. Had him on the show a lot!

[@the_SolLoser]

"Im at a loss for words" Keeps talking 😂❤ "I cannot talk today" Powers through anyway 😂❤ Most songs are written hook first. And it is important; that's why its called the hook. Harmonicas, when played by a master, are absolutely amazing instruments.

[@marleybob3157]

John Popper and Blues Traveler were a frequent guest on the Stern Show and even appeared in Howard's movie "Private Parts."

[@williamsmith9026]

And turns out Stern is a turncoat sellout embarrassment to humanity.

[@jenniferworley7115]

If you like harmonica you really need to react to Run-Around by the Blues Travelers. IMO, the absolute best harmonica solo ever. Thanks for sharing your reaction and time. Peace and Blessings. ✌🤗🙏

[@honeydo.1697]

Blues Traveler HOOK Awesome. Back to my highschool years. Cause the "Hook brings you back. " 😉

[@SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman]

brings me back to my 30s

[@mikefetterman6782]

When I showed up to Woodstock 94 (25th anniversary) the first thing I saw was John Popper (harmonica) and this band, doing the star spangled banner,.......Jimi Hendrix style but with a heavily distorted harmonica instead of guitar. It was amazing and a great way to start off 3 days of music.

[@mikefetterman6782]

These were the days of Mariah, Boys to Men, and other famous "runners" with their voices. John threw a great blues grit in it too to make it a little more rock and roll.

[@gritz-blitz5364]

The great John Popper a legend

[@flipppy83]

2:05 yes, each harmonica is tuned to a different music key

[@ReleaseTheQuackers]

Not only is John Popper one of the greatest harmonica players and vocalists, he is one of the NICEST guys in music! He is backed by one heck of a band too!

[@KalonReeves]

FYI. The music is Johann Pachelbel's "Pachelbel's Canon" sped up and rocked out.

[@justinv4638]

You absolutely have to check out Blues Traveler with Ziggy Marley doing No Woman, No Cry!!! Phenomenal!!

[@brendajean77359]

This is one of my favorite songs of all time.

[@codemissing]

Blues Traveler is one of the most talented bands of my time. Hook is one of my favorite songs from them!

[@judgildea]

Saw them do the National Anthem with the harmonica live like Jimmy Hendrix. Absolutely amazing!!

[@quinjesuis9187]

Harmonica is absolutely beyond awesome ❤️‍🔥

[@JeremySweet-w4l]

The Blues Traveler certainly opened some eyes..Crazy harmonica skills.. you ought to check their song Run around. Another awesome tune.

[@Wholksdaskppy]

He sings like he plays harmonica. Those weird goat runs you referred to are him basically doing harmonica runs but vocally. Hes got alot of talent when it comes to doing both.

[@deplorableokie]

John Popper is the greatest harmonica player to ever do it and it’s not even close

[@ohTHATaaronbrown]

john popper - lead harmonica never fails to amaze :)

[@dannykent6190]

One of my favorite bands. John goes a little ham for live performances. His recordings tend to be a bit more subdued and "commercial." Up to the listener if that's good or not, but his vocal control is incredible either way. Howard (famously) absolutely loves Blues Traveler too. He wasn't faking his enjoyment here. I can't speak for Robin.

[@elraz1234]

A couple of PTX members are also from Texas, near where she grew up. Also, Sheila E. plays on “that’s right” from Kelly’s Chemistry album. Love your reactions. ❤❤

[@Gedden]

Better than average reaction video. And you are so right about this being much better then current tracks!

[@WolvenHeart1]

He is amazing he was even featured in the movie Blues Brothers 2000. He sang "Maybe I'm Wrong" which is amazing.

[@cmiles97x38]

Also they weren't on a stage with great sound acoustics yet sounded amazing. That was just pure talent in a place a wedding reception would be held.

[@brittreacts]

Couldn't agree more!

[@Ashwgun]

The lyrics to this song, one of the best written, and he is such a talent

[@dbsagacious]

Howard is a legit fan, he really was enjoying it. As for Robin, who the hell knows. Shes an odd lady lol

[@repeatmetic2444]

I had the CD Blues Traveler -Four, and it was one of my favorite driving CDS

[@kevinmarshall854]

These guys were HUGE in when they came out. Out

[@WoncoTheSane]

I wish you reacted to a better version of this song, but I love you, love your work, and hope your channel grows and grows. Thank you for all you do. You rock!

[@mithroch]

God I miss the 90s. I know that Blues Traveler is still around... but they were never the same after Bobby Sheehan's death.

[@Rattled76]

Go back and listen to studio version

[@stevenewcomer8837]

The video is also a must see.

[@danhelphrey6260]

Yes, the pockets on the vest hold harmonicas in every key.

[@jungleking7835]

Big fan of your channel. Love your reactions, your personality, your voice when you decide to sing. Can you change your filter on the video so we can see more. I have been watching reactors for 10 years and some just put letters across the video that say " Due To Copyright" and we can see the video clearly behind. It will grow your channel. We want to see what you are seeing even if we have seen the video before. Thank you.

[@scottNNJ]

Would love to see you react to Jason Mraz (he was referenced in a recent reaction of yours) and John Popper (the singer/harmonica player here) sing “Curbside Prophet”, life at Eagle Ballroom. It’s fantastic.

[@jdwoods2008]

One of many songs musically based on Pachelbel's Canon. Talking about the importance of the hook is related as well.

[@jdwoods2008]

also, I'm sure someone said this below, but as much as you seemed to enjoy this, you really should watch the official video. It played on the theme of the song lyrics, his voice, in a most pleasing and entertaining way.

[@richardvincelette9741]

Genius

[@_3clipse_]

You will never hear another like John Popper on harp... there isn't anyone... nice reaction I think you will grow into BT... they have so much to offer and are so different.

[@jaybo2023]

Back in the day he was called the Jimi Hendrix of the harmonica...thanks again for another great reaction

[@brittreacts]

No problem!

[@JohnRegan-fi7rt]

My favorite band ❤️. I caught a harmonica years ago still one of my cherished possessions ❤

[@brittreacts]

That's awesome!

[@ChristopherNorris_CopyGhosting]

Lol. Love the sheep analogy. The SHAUN THE SHEEP Aardman Animations came to mind if you'd like a good laugh in a family-friendly way 😂

[@vincentvancraig]

Robin & howard are waiting for the atomic-harmonica-bomb to drop, thats why they look that way....everyone in the 90's knew what was coming when they were listening to blues traveler...we just played it cool & slightly swayed , waiting for the real eargasm that was inevitable & unavoidable...

[@williamsmith9026]

I didn't really appreciate these guys or pay much attention to them when they were peaking but, they definitely are skilled

[@bryanstoudenmire]

I love Blues Traveler run around is another one of my favorite songs from them

[@matthewdooley7855]

Fun vocals, amazing harmonica work. So right about the value of a good hook. I think that's one of the great things about The Police. Lyrical and instrumental hooks galore!

[@brittreacts]

Thank you kindly!

[@robertmiller2633]

John Popper not only a Beast on harmonica, but a God !!!!!!! Best ever.

[@lenaburns]

Love Blues Traveler!

[@this.is.a.username]

If you get a chance, see them live. They are amazing.

[@barbaranoel6118]

Britt you need to react to St. Paul and the Broken Bones Grass is Greener you will love them.

[@griffygut7683]

You never expect to hear a voice like that. Ever.

[@brittreacts]

Nope!

[@phantomimages7673]

It’s a song making fun of how easy it is to write pop songs, and fun of people who like them…..all the while knowing this you still can’t help but bop along and sing along because the hook indeed does bring you back.

[@timcarder2170]

If you haven't already done so, I'd suggest another Canadian treasure for your entertainment perusal.... *"Sass Jordon"* With her unique, and powerful voice. And rock/blues stylings. (Think of a cross of, Tina Turner, and Janis Joplin) You'll have a brand new favourite female singer.

[@carlosvaladez2186]

Another 🔥 reaction

[@captainkangaroo4301]

If you love the harmonica I suggest listening to Charlie Musselwhite.

[@easyox77]

Watch the movie Kingpin. They play their best version of this in the ending credits dressed as Amish musicians

[@flipppy83]

Britt you should check out John Popper and Ziggy Marley do "No Woman No Cry", the harmonica solo is insane

[@firemn4u]

I think you just like typical voices, his voice is fantastic! And it is something different the the drap vocals that have no character.

[@shaunellis3060]

Please check out their song "Just Wait", it will sooth your soul.

[@SkewedPerspective]

Someone else already said it but The Mountains Win Again . . . you gotta check that out

[@lontollison6771]

Harmonic as can b tuned to different keys

[@CaseyPulpan-ow9ch]

Knowing your love for theatrical performances and the 70's, I would love to see your reaction to the end scene of the ROLLER DISCO-POP movie starring Olivia Newton John and Gene Kelly....Xanadu. It would be so entertaining to watch you react to it. Please do so, I think you will definitely enjoy it......I suggest "Xanadu | Olivia Newton-John & Gene Kelly's '80s/'40s Hybrid E.L.O. Roller Disco"