The Power Inside Ray LaMontagne's "Jolene"

[@Guitargate]

If this speaks to you, check out Scott's org: The Phoenix: thephoenix.org/

[@marketusbrown4903]

Such a beautiful man you are , I'm 24 and I got this song from Jumpers for Goalposts - Ed Sheeran . I think this ( song ) is the diary of a 24 yr old boy. It explains Mr. Sheeran to me , " I Don't Care " - Ed Sheeran , Justin Bieber use to be my favorite song ever to listen to. ... But there was one "bad" word in that song so I decided to switch it ... And to ? You guessed it , Jolene - Ray Lamontange . It's just the "Sum of it All" ! The second verse ( Every word before the pre-chorus ) is what introduced me to this song . I've come to the point where I write just about everything I think down , I have poster boards of " My Brain " on my wall in my room surrounded by a lot of those " Strong " people you spoke about in the video. About a month ago, I'd ride the bus to the gym . I don't understand women. Though when I'd want to make a woman feel " safe " I'd walk down from G to Em 😂 and just think 😢- 🎶 Jolene 🎶 to show that I'd do "anything" ( even fight and die ) for them so they'd know that I loved them ! I don't even listen to or practice this "masterpiece" how I should but still it remains " My Favorite Song Of All Time " . Powerful ! Ps. He had an affair with a married woman and got beat up by her husband . - Jolene ( that dated a few months back lol 😂😂 ) But yeah man shout-out to Scott , and I play and I dream of " Peak Performance " , could you please write me back ? Also great job of looking down the barrel and then saying " Keep going ! " 🪽 😇

[@pattyfree2970]

Ray Lamontagne needs more recognition. Thank you for sharing his music with others!

[@jd-ks5ct]

Ray LaMontagne is the most underrated artist of our generation.

[@jjfc37]

I love Ray Lamontagne, I used to listen him when I was 18 yr old and now 35

[@mountainhobbit1971]

geez it's about time Ray gets a little love. His first three albums took me to places music never has. I miss the days of him with the Pariah Dogs. Such a great band. Something about the emotion that comes through his lyrics and voice is the best I have ever heard or felt.

[@tiffanymajeski9637]

Yes!!!!!! Love him and the pariah dogs

[@brianfreeman8705]

I have 22 years of sobriety, and this song brings me right back to where I could be and where I’ve been. Jolene reminds me that I’m one drink/high from being in the “gutter”… this helps me celebrate that I am not there and pray for those who are, unfortunately, there.

[@kirkrobinson11]

Thanks for that! Needed to hear it today. 👊🏿

[@84jimmy19]

One of my all time fav songs - and “got a picture of you holding a picture of me in the pocket of my blue jeans” might be my fav lyric ever😌

[@KasperViggoJensen]

It’s fucking beautiful. The whole song is just a masterpiece. The way it’s all framed as a desperate situation by the opening lines, is nothing short of genius.

[@84jimmy19]

@@KasperViggoJensen Agreed. As much as I love Ray’s whole body of work, this song has had its hooks in me for 20 years

[@dock4444]

“a man needs something he can hold onto….a 9 pound hammer or a woman like you”

[@princetonnj1628]

Who takes a picture of themselves holding a picture of a loved one? Someone whose loved one is missing, or taken, or gone. Really ups the ante on that line.

[@Martvandelay]

Amazing line!

[@aaron4331]

This song is THE reason I first picked up the guitar. Thank you for celebrating this masterpiece and the man who made it.

[@johnandre5558]

I loved this man’s voice the second I first heard it. Been years, still love it. Just the right amount of grit.

[@maredichzinn8899]

Do you have a color in mind when thinking of his voice?

[@michaelbraunschweig6108]

One of your best episodes Michael. Great song, amazing artist, but what you do to bring greater meaning and perspective to a song we've listened to hundreds of times is a true gift. Thank you

[@silliestduffer]

Love the perspective on recovery. My struggle and my past self who is still a part of me was not substance abuse, but depression and suicidal ideation. In my mental health journey I've come to find joy and hope in knowing that recovery doesn't mean losing or fixing a part of me, but accepting and loving that part with the flaws. I'll never be "fixed", but I will be ok, and I'll love all of me no matter what. Sending love to all of us who've put out the immeasurable effort to care for ourselves, and love to all of us who are not there yet.

[@philipclifton3058]

If you need to be OK with anyone send me one. I'm a barrel of bollox & shite but I can hug

[@benharvey1403]

I’ve always loved this song and never really understood why. It might sound short sighted on my part, but your deep dive here really helped me understand the WHY behind my connection and love for this song. Thanks as always Michael

[@DenaElizabeth71]

Such a GREAT song! It’s been on my Everyday playlist since it came out. So good. Speaks to me. 💛🙌

[@DavidSmith-fz2xk]

Yes, another video. A little treat before the New Year. It's been hard...have a big hole missing. RIP Jason. I hope he's watching with me. Love you, Michael. You are the best of us. I have been struggling lately with some issues I won't get into. Just know I will always support your content.

[@DramaMustRemainOnTheStage]

❤ you matter. Believe me please. You are loved and it will be ok. Seems like simple words but I mean them from the heart ❤ Happy New Year. Always look forward but remember where you are going ❤

[@DavidSmith-fz2xk]

@DramaMustRemainOnTheStage Those are incredibly kind words. Thank you so much for taking the time to send me that comment. You have the absolute best New Years and know that you put a smile on my face. Cheers! 🙂

[@Gage-hu7fp]

Literally my favorite song ever, can’t believe you’re covering this

[@roberteberle2305]

Such a great song

[@jordanwoloch]

This is one of the best video essays I've ever seen on this platform, and it is entirely unscripted and unintentionally delivered as such, which makes it all the more special.

[@donforbes5685]

Powerful words Michael. That’s what keeps me coming back here. Have known to many’s of my friends children and my kids friends who have gone down this road. Some gone forever, some not strong enough to turn around. Give them peace.

[@keitherperkins1538]

Yo man, wow! Haven’t been super tuned in to your channel since covid days. This song is entirely the most profound one in my life and your break down of it brought me to tears. I feel what you’re saying man, I am you as you are me. Mind blowing summary and other worldly tune.

[@thecpt4618]

I've played this song on stage a couple times and it always is my best reaction. Ray is a man that has his finger on my heart strings. Can't wait to hear what you have to say about it! *unpauses video*

[@patking1225]

This is one of my all-time favorite songs And this version is my favorite version! I found myself mainly watching your reaction because you could tell from your eyes that it's full of love, heartache, and sorrow for you. Congratulations on becoming sober. Truly a remarkable feat. Keep on keepin' on!

[@jared37]

Michael, I am a new subscriber. It was the Lisa Hannigan / Damien Rice videos that hooked me. I have been a Ray fan from the early days. In the Uk, he was a little under the radar, but I caught a snippet of one of his songs somewhere and have bonded to him since that day. I was lucky enough to see him on his first tour over here, and it was almost a religious experience, Your words on this video and the song, and your commentary about your own battle, have been a revelation to me. "The romanticising of the dark dance" ... Thank you, brother, the journey starts now. x

[@ROLCY2024]

I reconnected with Ray LaMontagne from another KZbin video. It has been way too long since I listenedd to this fantastic artist. So glad to see others finding him.

[@greyarea30]

Amazing emotional narration. Gives me chills. Thank you for using your time on educating others..

[@Timoeltejano]

The first time I heard this song I felt my soul had been ripped out and exposed to the world. I didn't have substance abuse issues but loads of personal demons that I was trying to escape. 13 years later this song still triggers. I am self-destructive, like an addict, and have been homeless and desperate. Estranged at one point from my family (for a decade). I'm always waiting for me to f***everything up. I absolutely love how Ray writes simple lyrics in an amazing way that blows me away.

[@sarahderrico5449]

Love it so damn much. This song has carried me through so many days.

[@ish474]

I had to quit drinking this year too not necessarily because I drink too much, but because when alcohol mixes with the other parts of my life I wasn't going to be here anymore. If you're just barely able to keep the walls up you can't have moments of weakness brought on by alcohol. Everybody going through their own challenges has my love and support

[@JenniferVanalst]

My favorite singer/songwriter Seen him live 5 times

[@cdaddyh3135]

Love this song. It’s one of my favorite songs ever.

[@brothertimbob]

Love Ray... This song has been one of my favs to sing and play for a long while now. Glad to see you appreciate this song. Good stuff man.

[@professoryaffle]

I love Ray LaMontagne and have since I bought Trouble in 2004. Considering how many videos like this I watch, and have watched this is the first time I’ve ever seen anyone do anything by Ray. Thank you. More please.

[@christophersperry]

I remember listening to this album in 2004 when it came out. I was blown away by the emotion and still am 20 years later. Great breakdown Michael.

[@chrisnicolaisen1477]

Omg man how you worded it out. I'm all tears.

[@AlaskaB83]

Man this brings me back to circa 2004 when this album came out. His first four albums, for that matter, are filled with songs like this. Even though I havent liked his more recent albums as much, he will always be an all-time favorite singer songwriter for his unique, soulful voice and absolute poetry in his lyrics. So. Dang. Good.

[@14rays]

man, I don't ever comment on videos. but I have to comment here. I'm sorry you were uncomfortable with making this video, but I am grateful for your positive and kind words. such an amazing message on this video. thank you very much. keep rocking.

[@drsmainemusic]

One of the very first songs I learned to play and sing. So powerful. Been a fan of Ray since high school.

[@MeganStout-sr4oz]

Thanks!

[@Guitargate]

Thank you!!!

[@robredmond]

Amazing song by an amazing artist. "Winter Birds" is one of my all time favorites.

[@Denlucy]

I love how genuine you are. Started following you when you first got into The Dead. Spotify put Jolene in a mix last year, and the song took my breathe away, literally, transcends the powerful message his soul needs to share. I appreciate YOUR messages you shared in this video, thank you.

[@dulaneyandcompany2974]

One of my favorite songs to cover!

[@jonjpbm]

I desperately wish I could remember when I stumbled upon Ray Lamontagne. I was in my 20s still learning how to be me and learning my musical taste and, now looking back, I always had a song/artist/sound in my head that I could not put my finger on. It was Ray Lamontagne. It was like I heard him all my (although relatively short existence) life and I had never heard him before. To say I was ecstatic to see you do this song would be an understatement. As singers (I'm just a casual one) we learn from other artist that you start off with singing like the artist you like but have to find your own but Mr. Lamontagne is who I would have like to have been given the choice. Cheers Mr. Palmisano. Please do more of him and if I may humble suggest, Trouble by him. It truly is the sound in head. Blues, rock, folk, americana, bluegrass, country, story-telling all rolled into one. Keep up the good work.

[@janetrivers7332]

Awesome 🎉song & your honest heart felt run thru is so important to everyone out there- on either side of the dilemna of loving themselves or not and those watching and hoping…

[@laurie3085]

Thanks!! Always has been a favorite powerful song. I work with folks struggling and hear their stories and try to support them even if it’s a little way.

[@PaulPauliePabloPaolo]

This song is amazing!…. Thankyou for having a look at this….

[@farber2]

9 months sober here, had to count, that's a good sign. We want you to stick around and be happy.

[@codysuek7571]

So amped for this! An all-time favorite song (and artist of mine). His debut album Trouble came out when I was in high school and I listened to it on repeat (still do). P.S. This is one of your best videos. Fantastic stuff, Michael.

[@burly20261]

Thanks for bringing up the past love this guys voice so underrated

[@grahamvincent]

Jeez, I came here for music and found a really deep conversation. Such a beautiful song. Glorious light against shade, well - darkness more than shade.

[@daniellestewart5227]

After searching for a teacher for a while, I signed up for your lessons this week. This video just made me absolutely positive that this is the right place for me. Thank you for being real.

[@matthewmlynarczyk8917]

Another outstanding video. I always appreciate your reflections.

[@debrarose8079]

Thank you for your passion to help and guide others through music❤

[@AdamLevyGuitar]

Thanks for this, Michael. So powerful.

[@trevorprentice3021]

Came for my favorite musician being spoken about by my favorite teacher. Instead I had my eyes involuntarily drained. You nailed it man, thank you.

[@gingeralbert1490]

Amen!!! I am bawling right now

[@paulpridmore9836]

Goddamn. I can relate so much. And your thoughts at the end…beautiful. Thx man

[@tomi-jon8798]

Happy New Year Michael. Thank you for another yr of killer vids bro!!!

[@davyjones9917]

I'm struggling too, good to hear your thoughts. Be strong, love yourself

[@Kaoilia]

I have Ray LaMontagne's "We'll Make It Through" on my Favorite Songs playlist here on KZbin from 3 years ago. It was a song that popped into my feed during one of the hardest times in my life and it just resonated. I can feel that song in my bones.

[@randytrashcan]

Michael, I'm not sure if there's still a way for those of us who aren't subscribed to recommend a song, but I don't believe you've ever checked out Wilco. And you need to. There's a live cut from a sound check of "Ashes of American Flags" (from the Ashes of American Flags DVD) on KZbin that is just a masterclass on band dynamic, emotive guitar work, and thoughtful lyricism, all by a band that just clicks on stage and in studio every single time. I'm not sure I've ever heard a better band live. They're all meant for each other. That song from that sound check never fails to bring a tear to my eye. It's just so damn beautiful. You'd love it, and I know this community would too.

[@jasonckirby]

You’re a real one, Michael Palmisano. Keep on keeping on. We’ll be there with you. ❤

[@philipclifton3058]

Love to you bro! and again! and again! you have it and you know! ONE LOVE.

[@Jensenplayslive444]

Thanks for that beautiful breakdown of this amazing song sir.

[@jc090871]

Michael, love how you are so open and honest with us. First version i heard was zac brown's, awesome song. This one hits with more emotion. Wishing you and all who struggle with addiction and mental illness God's love and grace. Another song The High cost of Living ain't nothing like the cost of living high by Jamey Johnson. I know you are a fan of his. God Bless you and everyone else who is battling and fighting the good fight! Happy New Year Brother!

[@Filthy_Rich_556]

Can't believe it took so long for this song to make it to your channel. Lovely video....

[@Martvandelay]

Oh, you’re doing Prince and LaMontagne breakdowns. This channel is amazing!

[@Guitargate]

More to come!

[@theresalynn2544]

I felt a tremendous connection to his music back in 2004. Saw him play in Seattle with David Gray. He’s super gifted and so special! Love this song! Thanks for your review! ❤️

[@leehjones]

You ended 2023 on an extraordinary note. I've always known Ray Lamontagne to be a powerful singer, but my gosh, that was amazing. Thank you.

[@strathound]

I've been playing this song in my live sets now for a couple years. So powerful. One of my favorites.

[@chrisnicolaisen1477]

Oh it spoke to me. Thank you.

[@abeellis4470]

Thank you for this. I needed it

[@rooted_walked]

to hold you in my arms one Time ❤️ I believe that it can be changed so love this man his voice is breathtaking as you feel it move through your heart and body so beautiful, 🥰❣️🎼💯💡🌹⚡🌌🌠💞🌹🥰

[@JasonD0550]

When you know love is sacrificial and you can't sacrifice what you're ashamed of, you don't know love in a tangible way. This is a beautifully artistic lament.

[@Matthew-w1k]

My dad went through The Phoenix Program in 84. I remember everything that happened!!

[@tstranger405]

Man, you are so good at these reaction videos. You make me want to learn how to play guitar and listen to some Ray.

[@mattw36]

To add to the strength of an individual battling addiction is the empathy and understanding they/we have older others. When you put yourself in that ditch and live with the pain, regret, and shame of that you can see someone else going through something similar and see the potential that person has, the good in that persons heart. I won’t completely generalize but our ability to understand someone’s else’s pain secondary to addiction only goes so far when you haven’t been there yourself. People battling through addiction are some of the most empathetic loving and caring people I’ve ever met

[@MiMo-mollmo]

Best gig ever - seeing Ray and Pariah Dogs

[@Alcookeverybody]

“Empty” by ray is my song for recovery

[@Alcookeverybody]

“I’ve been to hell and back so many times. It kind of bores me”

[@garymcpherson899]

A beautifully erudite summary of one of my most favourite songs.

[@ff1047]

Thanks Michael. Amazing song that resinates with me regarding my brother. His demons eventually won the battle. Zack Brown does a wonderful version of Jolene as well. Safe and Happy New year all.

[@thatmountain]

10 years sober in may. This song is the marrow in my bones.

[@christinemmac]

Ray’s first 3 albums are soul crushing in the best worst way. I love all his music but those early records evoke such depths of emotion that hurts so good

[@mountainhobbit1971]

yep, and I really miss the days of the Pariah Dogs...what a great band. I couldn't tell you how many times I sat in my reclining chair, with headphones on, listening to the album 'Till the Sun Turns Black'. It took me to places music never has before.

[@christinemmac]

@@mountainhobbit1971 Yes! just thinking about that song does something to my soul. When Supernova first came out, my husband I low-key joked that while we were happy for Ray personally, we liked his music better when he was more depressed

[@mountainhobbit1971]

yeah, I just can't get into his new newer music either. Oh well. @@christinemmac

[@joeg1709]

Saw him at Ascend in Nashville a few years back, and it was one of my favorite shows I've been to. Something about his sound soothes my soul.

[@case12hdsybncjkd]

Rick Rubin has an excellent passage in his creativity manifesto about how folks who make music, face dysregulated emotions, and have addiction issues are the most sensitive of all humans. The creative act is an exorcism, the substance use a numbing, so they can have short lived peace even when they understand it's damaging.

[@charliebryce3783]

Even though Ray uses simple open chords, he packs so much variety and style making an amazingly complex strum pattern. For example, gripping the pick tightly to rake the strings on the first down strum, but other times holding the pick lightly for a soft sound.

[@roberteberle2305]

Yes you hit the nail right on the damn head. Beautiful song. The strumming pattern is truly unique adds so much to the song. What a great song- musically, lyrically. Amazing

[@vincethomas3074]

Came here for the song, stayed for the philosophy. Excellent as always!

[@Guitargate]

Love it!

[@dmbtour05]

This song weighs so heavy on me. Great, insightful review...music saves lives...I'm sure of it. Thank you Mike.

[@toddlightner7701]

I named my daughter for this song after I was introduced to it through the Zac Brown cover. The longing, and pain, and realization that he will never get straight, will never be enough to deserve her. Every time he cries her name it haunts me and I cannot hear this song without my world stopping. I still don't know what love means.

[@redbeardthebunny]

Thank you Michael.

[@thebigsmooth99]

“Empty” is another Ray tune that cuts deep

[@sameoldmphymel]

Hoped you do this one some day.

[@strathound]

When you start listening to more Ray LaMontagne, listen to his vocal melody and vocal rhythm. I don't believe there is anyone on earth who uses pauses in his delivery with more dramatic effect than Ray LaMontagne. He's the BB King of singing. Less is more. Greatness.

[@strathound]

Example: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqnMlGyapdWVZ9U

[@richspeel7576]

This one hits hard family

[@johnketterer8146]

it is a great opening stanza... I will still take "A heart on the run, keeps a hand on a gun, you can't trust anyone. I was so sure, what I needed was more, tried to shoot out the sun..."

[@thenewtowncryer]

Banger!!!

[@jaygallamore562]

There’s something going on here. I was skimming videos and stumbled upon the one of yours in which you made the announcement about wanting to get sober. Today I’m on day four of attempting dry January and am wondering if I will go the whole month not drinking. Maybe stumbling upon this video on this night is my spiritual awakening…

[@Stainlesspack83]

Man damn this video hit thanks for it

[@Callsigntitan]

The most powerful video on this channel for sure.

[@adamniswonger8015]

This one was an instant favorite back when I first heard it. Zac Brown Band’s covers of this one are always fantastic.

[@DH-xm3hc]

I quit drinking alcohol over 35 years ago. I quit counting at 35 🤷‍♀️ The old me has been gone for a long, long, time. I really was looking for Ray so good luck dude you will make it✌️❤️🌼

[@bigslice76]

Such a great song by such a great artist. Really loved your take on this song, Michael! Would love you see you do "Empty" by Ray sometime. The BBC Four Session is a pretty good version.

[@jottieman]

Well done MP