Jimmy Somerville - Smalltown Boy Reprise 2014

[@mugatu2017]

no autotune, no electronic, just pure talent

[@esmeralda3185]

exactly..

[@SDM97]

No electronic doesn't mean no talent

[@wulliethedent]

Simply a magnificent voice

[@Mad_Martigen]

The original was an electronic tune. Both versions of this song are wonderful.

[@MissRainbowLover101]

Beautiful

[@mikeyirish1967]

I am a 56 year old man. This song saved my life in 1984. Literally. Thank you, Jimmy Somerville. I am alive today because of you.

[@MrRaptormatt]

Jeez the power of art. Thankfully u heard it when u needed too

[@The.Voyager.101]

@@MrRaptormatt Old man??? Ainxxx... is your soul old? (I am 53 years old and my soul is that of a kid.)

[@marklaroche7981]

God bless you x

[@marbleswalker630]

Thank you 🙏

[@frankk.2865]

Try Jesus Christ. Please.

[@sinord5288]

I'm a 56 year old hetrosexual bloke brought up in a rough part of Sheffield and back in the 80's we all knew what this song was about and I myself especially shyed away from it because it was associated with Gay men, even though I loved the song. Nowadays thankfully we have moved on greatly and I can still see this song for its beauty and how it touches on certain emotions whether you are gay or straight.

[@patrickkelly6590]

I actually never knew it had Gay conitasions until much later on.. Moved this song then love it now. It has s universal themes of lost youth and just being general lost as a teenager growing up where the world is a scary place and you have to find a path in it...

[@flybobbie1449]

No one bothered then or now about gay's except those that wish to stir it.

[@ИринаК-е2с]

Me is 52 , i am from Russia, i like Jimmy"s talant

[@Joao-iz5wo]

Thank you!

[@neildhan]

Another Sheffield resident here. I'm a transplant from the south really, but I've spent a quarter of my life in Sheffield and a third plus in Yorkshire. Now that places are open again, I'm well up for some great nights out at Yellow Arch, The Washington, etc! Sheffield is such a cool city, music wise.

[@sjn9195]

wee jimmy: huge voice. as i understand it most Scottish people will die to defend this wonderful guy

[@TheRealKaner]

Yes, We will...he is a legendary singing voice , and a f"king great guy.

[@Atombender]

His voice still sounds better than 95% of contemporary singers.

[@snakeandraven3]

It's not real... It's Autotune

[@micke_mango]

@@snakeandraven3 There may be some filtering/effects on the end tone, but not otherwise What kinda filtering do you think would be useful here? It's not transposed, he sang the original in this key 1984. And it's not autotuned in the literal sense, he both does vibratos and, more importantly, glides, which typically would give glitches in an autotune output

[@dubkaosmusic]

@@snakeandraven3 i don't think so.. a bit of reverb .. comp .. eq .. but not autotune for sure ..

[@k3rc4]

there is absolutely no autotune in this, lol.

[@paulseager1387]

@@snakeandraven3 is it fuck

[@MrSolidboss]

He literally sounds like he did in 1984. That is talent.

[@Jagosbullo]

better ;)

[@paxinviscis8245]

better better :P

[@samuan001]

Yeah, talent never gets old.

[@sonny1987100]

Beautiful, heart mending version..thank you.

[@CrashPilot1000]

And the microphone is from the 1950ties..

[@simonworkman6474]

As a straight man who grew up in the 80s,bullied all the way through my school years as I didn't quite fit in. This song always made me feel like I wasn't the only one being bullied and beaten. Still brought a tear to my eyes when I heard this version! Boy has he still got a fantastic voice, no auto tune for Jimmy, still has the voice of an angel! Never let a bully bring you down, no matter whether you are gay or straight, don't cry to them as it gives them power! Stay strong all.

[@hayleyjones9596]

❤️

[@ItaliaTrends.SolangeStanquini]

💙

[@garryiglesias4074]

I feel you man. Same for me. Same years, rubbish childhood. I know the song but as a French didn't know how deep it was. Now when I hear it, and watch the video (I didn't know as a kid), I can't help to cry.

[@finlaymackay9484]

❤❤❤❤

[@rafaelpolo1098]

All this aggressiveness and violence in this world has to end. People have to start learning to respect other people and their uniqueness and differences.

[@paulwakenell9758]

One of the best songs of the 80s

[@eoinoconnell185]

One of the best songs of all time

[@Jayfive276]

That's not a voice, that's a weapon.

[@treebles]

its also a tool that instills warmth + a beautiful message!

[@StormyJBlake]

Indeed!!

[@benjaminsidneykidd-bentley3966]

Yes and this gay man is grateful for that!

[@benjaminsidneykidd-bentley3966]

@@jupitereye4322 where you been for the last 330 odd years??. Sororl!! 2

[@poomarick3318]

To be used against all the hate in the world !!

[@robbiefest]

Who would have thought , 30 years later and Jimmy still sounds absolutely amazing. I got chills listening. Pure talent that can just do voice and piano and sound so great.

[@chrisChris6969]

30 ??? You might want to go back to Calculator Songs 40 years old this year 😱

[@frauwaltraud2214]

​@@chrisChris6969 Ja, der Song ist von 1984.

[@IngeborgMcKay]

myself included.

[@rankingacademy]

I was a teenager when this came out , loved it then and I still love it now. What a song, what a singer

[@wategoslife8371]

Same, came out when I was at school, about 15, 53 now.... wow

[@davemathewson9053]

@@wategoslife8371 in Glasgow

[@guylaineberteuil]

No coming out for me but i always fond of.. From France when I was young 😊

[@AtomicLT11]

Same here!!

[@neasacoyne2706]

Me too 😊

[@giammariarosa8923]

in my father's car, travelling in night, looking to the stars, dreaming to grow up fast. what a memories thank you very much

[@LaSangreNegra]

And still afterall, we now wish to not have grown up that fast. To have a little more of our young self. Not really complaining, just saying :)

[@Stingkevlar]

1984 in night clubs in the Midlands dating ....my Wife....now married for 35 years....Thank you Jimmy.... just awsome tune.

[@porodicamanja4704]

Why good music always has interesting or good stories

[@DanielS2001]

After all these years, he's still got it. :)

[@antonybooth3293]

Well, they haven't found a cure yet.

[@DanielS2001]

+Antony Booth No, I mean he's still got the voice. That's what I meant by "he's still got it."

[@antonybooth3293]

I knew what you meant.

[@DanielS2001]

Antony Booth I'm sorry if I came off as rude (I assure you, I wasn't intending to be). It's just that your comment confused me, and I thought maybe you were confused too due to the comment you made. My bad. I hope you have a nice day. :)

[@agsrd4496]

LOL that made me chuckle. Good one Ants!

[@neilhiggins3167]

Jimmy still has an outstanding voice even after all these years

[@fordism.01]

Sounds like a classic soul singer

[@mobilehomelife4028]

I think he has gotten even better!

[@frostyhighway9011]

@@fordism.01 Yes he's amazing singer and song writer too.

[@kenhillifly]

I think he even got better

[@ugob549]

Piccoli bimbi voi non potete e non potrete mai immaginare la potenza di queste persone...mai e poi mai potreste immaginare la loro semplicità....e quanto amore AMORE ..,...quello vero...AMORE...non è un gioco .....sono reali...e sono belli come li ascoltati...grazie...GRAZIE DAVVERO GRAZIE.......

[@immortalis1001]

If this isn't a masterpiece then they simply do not exist.

[@timmalloy34]

Listen to "for a friend"... pure genius

[@rogerwilliamson7161]

One of the best songs ever! Jimmy ist a legend. Greetings from Germany!

[@zoebidule3397]

Tis EXCELLENT, so as his voice !

[@The670533]

Voice and piano are loud, outrageously good, astoundingly the original anyhow, and just excellent overall.

[@joeryan3390]

@@The670533 LISTEN. Anyone who considers themselves a musician should not find any faults with this. If they do, then they bought themselves into the business. This is perfection.

[@annehernandez4547]

Jimmy’s voice is unparalleled and the accompanying piano carry such a high degree of authenticity that I cannot get enough of this version..

[@rwsales]

That keyboard lick is awesome. Even with Communards Don't Leave Me This Way has an awesome keyboard bridge that is hard to beat

[@cirosantarpia9231]

Super 👍

[@BillyIdolmusic]

Thanks for the great love and support you show me as a special fan of mine, I hope you won't stop listening to music, and thanks for your sincere Compliment and love towards my music❤️❤️may god bless you.

[@ВадимСтрижевский-г5я]

😅I

[@mikehudson8884]

Jimmy sounds EXACTLY the same as 30 yrs ago. FLAWLESS.

[@ronnieperez7650]

+Mike Hudson I would argue he sounds better. He had a wimpy-ish voice when he was young, but it's gritty now. He should put out more albums.

[@mikehudson8884]

Actually I concur with you, great to see him on You Tube.

[@Govanmauler]

The original is one of the greatest proto-dance tunes of all time but yeah I agree, I prefer his "old man " voice too.

[@giovannidibonaventura354]

I would Say his voice Is even more persuasive now

[@marceldeveer2570]

A song, a performance, a voice, words that shall accept our applause. Run awy, my friends!

[@websherpa]

This was my coming out song. I was 18 and this was happening to me in 1982. I connected with this song in such a deep way when I first hear it in the 80's that to this day I still tear up every time I hear it. Thank you Mr. Somerville for having the guts to sing to the world what my little soul was screaming. You are magnificent.

[@FletcherScarborough]

I didn't have your experience even tho we're the same age. Most of my friends had that experience as you did so I went thru it w/ them all...............and then the death came. Millions of our brothers and sisters died. Cry Boy Cry!!!

[@gallo5263]

What a great comment. I hope you have found a lifetime of happiness ❤

[@RichardQuadling]

I am who I am. I am as I am. This song made me cry and be angry. No one should have to suffer for how they have been made, how they feel. I hope you had all the support you needed. Whilst this song is about one aspect of our lives (but more specifically about some of our lives I guess), I've come back here to find songs that Ren has asked about. Songs we (as fans) would like for him to cover. Considering the lyrics for his song "Hi Ren" ... also about the difficulty in sometimes just being (different elements, sure, but the pain and suffering? ... it's sadly too often felt by us all at some time in our lives). Musically and lyrically ... the skills and the story ... they work here. They've worked for Ren in "Hi Ren".

[@mahumike7531]

sending all my love

[@NatalieCollinson-x6b]

It's not about you mate

[@swordnquilstarskgrem]

When I was in college in the 80's, I was closeted from my family, or so I thought. One day, a cassette (remember, this was the 80s) came in the mail. a mix tape from my brother, a HS DJ, and this song led it off. It was a message that he understood and that it was okay to 'come out' no matter what my folks did. It has been my favorite song ever since then.

[@CircleofShit]

+swordnquilstarskgrem Nice brother you had :)

[@CheshireMoonBand]

+swordnquilstarskgrem Ok, tears in this house. That is lovely.

[@Moosedog9]

+swordnquilstarskgrem whoa very cool brother, he.....but me thinks you are very cool as well..peace out

[@tjsurferboi8565]

swordnquilstarskgrem your brother rocks

[@powertrust1971]

Sweet days my freind

[@OneBentMonkey]

As if the original version didn’t make me cry hard enough. Seriously breathtaking. How one man can perform the same song, three decades later, lay bare its raw beauty, to transcend even it’s original presentation. . . is nearly sorcery

[@derhorst1398]

Smoke hard and you can... ;-)

[@matusjacek7055]

Thats true !!!!!

[@kassios]

So true! Jimmy gets me every time with this song. This performance is also unparalleled. Small town boy for life!

[@andresacontart]

Touched by the hand of God

[@abbynormal2401]

I thought it was just me......I remember when this song came out, it was amazing! His voice brought back precious memories, and a few tears.

[@JanHannes]

Thank You Thank You Thank You 🙏🙏🙏 Fell in love with this song in 84’ at the age of 7. A village little gay boy. Going through exactly the same struggle. Bullied by schoolmates. Laughed out by them. Slapped by them. Your song and it’s beautiful tunes help me go through all injustices. And exactly! I never cried to them, just to my soul. Moved to and lived in Prague, Vienna, Berlin, Cologne and in Prague again. Went through my life with head held high… 47 now Working, living, helping people love themselves, as a coach. Jimmy, THANK YOU! I Have Your song (and Tina Turner, Queen, George Michael) in my everyday playlist. But the Smalltown boy song is deep inside and also the pain from childhood. The injustice will never disappear. I wish You all the best! ❤❤❤❤

[@Tigeron1a]

Who is still listening to this and hanging on those lyrics in 2020? Edit: Glad so many still do. :)

[@nealmceneaney3771]

Mr. D!sk0 Booooi!!!! 3021...who’s here listening to this classic song that we’ve ALL LISTENED TO SINCE IT CAME OUT !!!!!!!!

[@User-ce9md]

September 2020 🙋‍♂️

[@franita65]

here I am

[@GiuseppeDC]

Me, October 2020

[@MrHarmca]

Meeeeeee... im still listening to this song after all these years..

[@richardnorth5821]

When I first heard Jimmy, I didn't think that voice could be bettered... but it's actually improved with the passing years, that little bit of gravel added a little bit of magic...

[@ThiefOfNavarre]

Aint it just!

[@CapeGambi]

I agree - it just gets better

[@tattskink9589]

Richard North he’s improved it and it hits you right in the ❤️

[@kjellagebertelsen2493]

I agree. This version vas better, I think

[@vondahe]

I prefer the original but he has an incredible range and I’m glad to see he’s still around.

[@ramseysounds2086]

This guy could sing his shopping list and sound wonderful. Such a haunting voice. I'm old enough to remember the original!

[@DanielWillen]

Tea and salt, Tea and salt, Rye!

[@syedjawadali9887]

So do I 😀

[@TheFotone]

I'm old enough too....espresso and salt, espresso and salt!

[@paladinepaladine]

I wasn't a fan when it first came out. It took years for me to realise just how good a song it is.

[@sylviekins]

Same-just amazing!

[@MrGentlebutfirm]

I am no near gay myself, but got my hands on the album, for the crazy beauty of the music only. "The age of consent" - What? So I sat there. Reading the lyrics and the list of "age of consent for homosexual acts". Felt the pain, wept a bit, clenched a fist and made a vow. Not much really - so far from an activist type. Just a solid lean on anyone's moral compass if it was off. We can all be here.

[@cece221091]

His voice makes my hairs on the back of my neck stand up. Pure talent that never seems to age

[@eleanorwalmsley635]

Just gets richer

[@simonwhite5492]

Sublime brilliance

[@metalfuegonegro]

I'm a metalhead and still love this song (and even more this beautiful version I've just discovered). You're simply Great Jimmy, far beyond genres and trends.

[@Neil219]

Agreed

[@pateris]

Being open-minded is a gift you have to nurture…

[@SchlumiBenLuschi]

Goes to show once more how the metal scene is about positivity and inclusion

[@miketurner5310]

Pure unadulterated talent what a voice absolutely perfection

[@bettinafalconer7563]

Me too but this is so beautiful and so great it's appreciated by all "music" lovers what u like listening too

[@lucasd1646]

Jimmy is living proof that the human voice is the greatest musical instrument, capable of invoking surprisingly strong emotions. Good to hear he still has it after all these years.

[@El-up1ri]

Jimmy and Tracy is the sound of our youth. He sounds even better than before.This is a hymn to freedom from a gentle soul.

[@mozz71]

His voice has improved with age, and I didn’t think that was possible.

[@ThiefOfNavarre]

Lost a little range. Gained a lot of depth!

[@suesutton9226]

Same - I cant believe how awesome he still sounds : )

[@paulnelson6277]

You're absolutely right. It's very rare for falsettos to last that long. Not the greatest example here, but Queen drummer Roger Taylor did all the falsetto parts on songs like Bohemian Rhapsody, '39, Somebody to Love etc. He said that in the early 80's when he was only 33, he lost his falsetto ability and never got it back. That means that Jimmy must be unique to constantly be able to sing like that for 3 or 4 decades. Amazing!

[@drogna3905]

That voice is still incredible.

[@fatihkan2601]

It actually got better. He aged good. He has taken care of himself obviously.

[@MrDeano3330]

Brings me chills every time I hear this version.

[@strandgirl1000]

Me, too! 😍

[@hoffwell]

And me

[@lynneedwards4538]

Stripped back until only Jimmy's voice and emotions remain. Awesome.

[@patallen5095]

Thank Christ he's still singing!!!!

[@sitdownandshutup3598]

Kudos to the pianist, he was the perfect accompaniment

[@LaughingStock_]

Yep, a very tough skill that of an accompanist. Way too many believe tht THEY are the star, not the vocalist. This is beautiful,

[@ThiefOfNavarre]

@@LaughingStock_ Just so. Perfectly measured performance!

[@uzpuz]

brilliant

[@Iffy]

Kudos to the sound engineer! The mic placements are on point, without which we wouldn't hear it as if we're actually there!

[@mastersupreme6126]

Nope you don't know about music he is not that good i am a musician for 50 years!

[@NIPPYTHEVOICE]

He belongs to those singers, whose voice is out of this world.

[@wanderer1955]

He sings like an old woman 🙄

[@tegamingother]

@@wanderer1955 bitch do you sound any better?!

[@JBLynch]

No autotune necessary...not then, not now. Not ever.

[@petervanherp6691]

Amen to that!!

[@hulmerist4297]

It's called talent.

[@JBLynch]

@@hulmerist4297 Something so many "musical artists" seem to be lacking these days.

[@aspirin4709]

@@JBLynch Agree to that brother.

[@petebeckham8562]

@@aspirin4709 Darn tootin'.

[@davemellor4697]

NOW TELL ME MUSIC OF TODAYS GENERATION WILL BE REMEMBERED LIKE THIS? 70/80/90S RULE

[@Resignationen]

Exactly!

[@lefterispanos9543]

oh my...that scream at the beginning gave me the chills . Imagine hearing that voice live. such a talent.

[@patnrtk]

Same here! Just amazing...

[@TheGodParticle]

Me too, incredible voice it's exactly the same 32 years later, hasn't aged a bit.

[@joeyconvery2055]

Lefteris Panos 👍

[@fireballfireball1067]

his voice is just so perfect... the "cry" at the begining is something magical

[@tinang5999]

Lefteris Panos I love them so much too

[@ceepee1879]

Most singers couldn't sing for their dinner, Jimmy is still nailing it more than 35 years later, amazing, and one up to real talent.

[@PrincipledUncertainty]

He's still got it. Bravo Jimmy

[@waynegoldpig2220]

Beautiful. Bravo indeed.

[@PrincipledUncertainty]

***** Saw him in Belfast years ago, blew the roof off the place. Ahem, modern popsters, where are our politically aware songs that still fill a dance floor? Being a tiny, Glaswegian, openly Gay and defiant man must have taken some balls. Also, he was never a one issue guy, remember when the left had a collective voice?

[@waynegoldpig2220]

Also, where have all the political satirists gone?

[@PrincipledUncertainty]

***** You know, I hadn't even realised that. We look to Americans now for satire. I think everyone is bloody despairing of the whole system these days. It is cool to be non-political and then people wonder why they work more, sleep less, and can't figure out why they can't change that. I swear this is true, I used to get a magazine called Cuba Internationale ( might be spelled wrong,long time ago ) delivered to my house. It was essentially a propaganda sheet but after Castro's disgusting behavior when the HIV epidemic broke I walked away from that regime. I was so left wing that I used to defend Stalin. Doh! Such a thing as too much.

[@waynegoldpig2220]

I remember on a late night talk show once Rory Bremner was saying that all the satirists packed in (bar him) once Tony Blair got in. They never came back.

[@kevinancell1510]

Fan bloody tastic!!! 🙌❤This reminds me of a friend of mine who passed away whilst I was at school and he hadn't told anyone that he was gay except me. I know he LOVED this song....

[@Maximillion666]

Holly shit Jimmy all these years later and you still got it.

[@Maximillion666]

2 Years later and listening to this I still get goosebumps. As someone who grew up in an abusive family this song means a lot too me.

[@helenlukacs8720]

Now this is real talent. Not like the garbage they call music nowadays

[@tattskink9589]

Wow 30+ yrs later and he still has it!

[@marcusphoenixish]

Tatts Kink I was going to put something very similar he still sounds outstanding 👌

[@tattskink9589]

mark smith it’s pretty impressive to be this good 30 years on

[@AshHanks-nl5bn]

Jesus! How does he do that? But his voice has matured & there's a rasp coming from somewhere that just makes this song sound even more amazing. Love it, I'd pay good money to listen to him live given half a chance.

[@JCL-n7y]

Awesome voice wee man you've still got it. It's 2024 and I'm a straight weegie I remember how they were treated back in the day strength to you Jimmy I'm 74 now.

[@kalmankando68]

A masterpiece. Still an emotional storm for me in 2022 like in 1984 when I was 16. Thanks Jimmy

[@christiano8088]

Same for me my friend. So emotional.

[@zorgfr1]

You're 100% right. A masterpiece. Even for me in 1984

[@bikeyspice]

This is more soulful than the recorded version. And the fact that it's live showcases his incredible voice. Whilst this is known as a gay anthem I feel that it's a soundtrack for anybody who needs to leave their world behind. Been there and got out the other side, others haven't been so lucky

[@bennylloyd-willner9667]

Agree! I always loved (and still do) the synth in the original, but hearing this is several levels up, so clear and passionate - love it!

[@ManxAndy]

September 2024…who’s still coming back to this epic vocal performance 👍👌🇮🇲🤘🎉

[@djsimonsen3815]

Me…This has to be one of the finest falsetto voices around..

[@nicolasblanchard1346]

At least once a month . This performance is just so clean and pure .

[@antoniop1968]

October 2024

[@MikeJones-xu3xw]

Thank you. Jimmy. This song and your video are my childhood. I cry everytime I hear this song. I am still healing from the trauma of my childhood! God bless.

[@elbarabello7436]

May God bless your heart, your body and soul... Sending good vibes from Brazil 🕊️🕊️🍃🌻🌻🍃🙌🏼🙌🏼🇧🇷🇧🇷❤️❤️🎉🎉

[@johnsomerville8510]

I left home at 16 to join the army ,I wasn't there for my kid brother,so jimmy and our kid sister became closer , but now as from last yeaf at Rewind Perth we are closer, closer than we have ever been, I am 1 proud big brother he still kin wow the crowds with his unique voice ......love you jimmy loads ....

[@williammurphyslaw]

Hi john, i grew up in Easterhouse and when this hit the charts it resonated with me. Im not gay but i did need to get out of he east end. This song strikes a chord with so many people challenged with there situation. I found Jimmy to be extremely brave and inspiring. It good to see one of your own making it, then again with talent like that and a set of balls he was always going too.

[@jarrowjonny]

John Somerville you must be very proud especially in the modern day because people exactly like your brother where in there own kind of army just like you there battle lasted longer than any conflict or battle and it still goes on today but with his music it eased a lot of worried minds and gave a lot of peace and love to many. Amen

[@jenniferduffer8973]

Still a fantastic voice. Angelic really. Here in 2019. Kudos to the pianist, he was the perfect accompaniment

[@ThiefOfNavarre]

Keep practising, keep the good voice or at least adapt it to suit your age. Props to him for staying at the top of his craft!

[@kurdistan6199]

did you just copy&paste 2 comments and made it into one? 😂😂😂😂

[@realPromotememedia]

really? feels like he's dragging it.

[@icarus6424]

This is so beautiful. I can't put words on it. I prefer to feel this.

[@davidrose508]

The 800+ who dislike this clearly don't know great music when they hear it. Its simply pure music at it's very very best.....

[@paulph12002]

I think this song speaks not just to those who are gay, but to anyone facing prejudice for being different.

[@dianamarie4351]

Very true

[@hafu1403]

+paulph12002 agreeed

[@koneth21]

+paulph12002 Nowdays being straight IS different and turns to become a minority opinion. In a few decades this will be the Anthem of Straight normal people.

[@koneth21]

+damn shame Do you really want to hurt me? pls stop the Crying game. Lol

[@Rxticle]

+paulph12002 And it's just a damn good song with a damn good singer.

[@nathancooper1]

This is pure talent. One of the best songs ever made.

[@gregspot]

Wow! That is the best vocal I've ever heard. Thank you. Thank you. So much for sharing that with us.

[@judyglover408]

I am so grateful to grow up in the 80s... music then was totally mesmerising... Jimmy Somerville is still just as good as he was and I know he always will be...

[@petertaylor589]

Ditto, an amazing talent

[@aaronhughes4724]

Its the best thing about being old. We were there in the 80s

[@daidavies6566]

Well said 👏

[@ricsrants3960]

Gay or straight, the beauty of this song is unparalleled. Every time I hear it it makes me emotional. The words and its delivery are incredible.

[@tbrasc0]

Hear, hear.

[@ThiefOfNavarre]

It's about being not accepted and abused. Alot of people can relate to that!

[@tellmeiamwrong]

Gay or Straight has got nothing to do with it.

[@markpointez8773]

Spinetingilling

[@emmabamgboye9373]

Absolutely. An absolute classic.

[@ehra7480]

Improving a killer song by 100% over 30 years later underlines the class and uniqueness of this guy. Just perfectly performed.

[@garethcrb]

The piano and his voice in format add even more emotion

[@weyomie]

Ich bin 58 Jahre alt. Diese Musik begleitet mich ein Leben lang ....Danke dafür ❤❤❤

[@Del-Canada]

Man, I still listen to the original to this day. I love this song.

[@benrogersdevon]

I do too. It is a song that really stood out for me. I am 30 and not gay but this song really sounds good.

[@LiWfilmmaker]

Ben Rogers You don't have to be Gay to enjoy it, yes it's about coming out etc, but it's still a classic song, and I expect at the time extremely controversial. :-)

[@benrogersdevon]

LiWfilmmaker You know he may seem slightly "raspy" this is weird as his vocal chords have been given the all clear he said in a recent interview and are very good still. His voice is still awesome though and I think it gets better as he ages. You are right, don't have to be gay to enjoy this song at all.

[@TheMarkanthony5]

LiWfilmmaker well it doesnt have to be about coming out to be gay it, could be applying ti any form of any comming out when you think about.,eg sorrry im leaving parents for a new life, sorrry im starting a new life, good bye friends etc we can alll relate to this song.Or good bye I need a new life and going abroad coming out can be about anything really change!!!

[@robmidsx]

LiWfilmmaker Yes, I was fortunate to remember this well, it was ground-breaking as there hadn't been many songs with these type of lyrics to hit the top 5 of the UK charts. Not quite as controversial as you might expect though, as it was 84 and there had been the New Romantics phase (Boy George/Marc Almond) in the previous 3 years which caused far more of a public reaction. Calling the album "The Age of Consent", a dig at inequality, was inspired, and the "Need a Man Blues" track really shows off Jimmy's amazing vocal range.

[@Alarma2Alarma2]

This song is pure soul, pure pain, still, it seems incredible to me, how some people are able, to express feelings, in such an intense way...bless you man.

[@GarrySkipPerkins]

This is so awesome. You can really tell when a song is a classic when a guy and a piano sound just as awesome.

[@rwsales]

I agree! The true test of strong vocals is "unplugged " and it's still AWESOME!

[@a.s4397]

Jimmy Somerville with his great voice. Thanks for coming back. ❤

[@cjf614]

Wow. This song just makes you feel emotions you didn’t even realise you had.

[@fireyflower6643]

me too

[@bennomedina-quinsella4763]

His voice rips your heart out and hands it back gently...amazing!!!

[@AmsterdamagedHQ]

A beautiful description Greg.

[@StormyJBlake]

Well said.

[@martinfiay8908]

it will keep doing that long time im gone in my grave ........

[@tnetroP]

I neve realised this is exactly what happens. I've been searching for the words and unable to express them. But you got it spot on. Yes. Thank you.

[@geoffreyjonathanwilson5826]

True

[@wouterhumme3051]

Fun Fact: Jimmy doesn't need a pop-filter for the sound.. It's there to prevent the mic from turning into solid gold when he sings

[@waves...4899]

When I want to feel the ground beneath my feet, when I long for quality, if I want to enjoy the moment, then I listen to this version.

[@marcodipasqua1740]

Der Mann kann singen, so viel Gefühl. Das ist ein Meisterwerk für die Ewigkeit.

[@frauwaltraud2214]

Ja, meine ich ebenso....

[@duckrogers007]

Piano and voice, no over effects, auto this that... just plain PERFECT. How many "famous" singers today can do this on this level. "analog perfect". Song takes me back to good times.

[@shanec2444]

Totally made me cry in the 80's and now again in 2015. Such a beautiful version. Well done Jimmy. Thank you for this version, thank you for helping us with our own struggles and thank you for being you.

[@maartenaalsmeer]

Well said.

[@shanec2444]

Thank you! 😊

[@fabbazipo7758]

a very nice comment Shane ! i have the same feeling as you hearing this new version , you can't imagine how much i've danced on it in the 80's , i was just 24 yo coming back from the army.

[@DaveVarley-Queenmagic]

wow incredible version .jimmy is one of the best live vocalists of our life time

[@misterg1157]

Oh my God, that’s better than the original. Most artists wane as they age - Jimmy’s got better.

[@k7archivo155]

Indeed!

[@Kefas226]

best

[@MrJankoNikolic]

Most artists wane, but he wines :D Like old good wine

[@Mrfuduh]

Amen brother!

[@anngranit4794]

I agree!

[@KloBeth]

this is just amazing. I feel so privileged to be brought up on his music! Thanks Mum!

[@BillyIdolmusic]

Thanks for the great love and support you show me as a special fan of mine, I hope you won't stop listening to music, and thanks for your sincere Compliment and love towards my music❤️❤️may god bless you.

[@edmondsullivan750]

Am I wrong, but are we missing such unique voices today compared to what we had decades ago? e.g. Freddy M., Peter Gabriel, Robert Plant, The Pet Shop Boys....etc...so many of today's singers sound very similar.

[@Paulo-og8rh]

Work of art Some of the best songs ever created Thank you for your talent Jimmy Fans here in Brazil You are very famous here in Brazil

[@Stingkevlar]

This tune is just timeless... I could listen to this tune all day...much like I did in the 80's...what a superb decade....Jimmy you are awsome.

[@frankedwardcurry]

His voice reminds me of happy times in the 80s -- He still sounds as good today.

[@harrymonk161]

well said frank

[@tmhgdh]

I'm a 50-something straight Aussie male, listening to this with tears in my eyes. Absolutely beautiful, what a voice, even better 30+ years later. What an amazing singer Jimmy Somerville is.

[@NickRose-ls1hg]

Speaks to everyone whose lives were a bit shit and wanted away to better things, it’s perfect and so are jimmys vocals

[@hs2874]

This song will never get old. It’s timeless and brilliant.

[@rolandbaldwin]

So beautiful. A timeless classic

[@corinthianolouco3892]

Roland Baldwin o cantor parace com vc amigo

[@MMatouch]

Ułamek tarcia

[@DU0ZA]

''timeless'' is the right word

[@Dont_stay_long_k077]

Totally agree

[@Marcos-lq6qy]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5K2XodpdreHm5I....

[@kellygutowski9758]

Wow...... 16 when I left home.this song sums up the pain . Much love

[@lilyaustin5716]

I am 32 and live for this, the decade has so much to answer for

[@brutus31200]

Jimmy is like good wine, the older is better... the voice is still here !!! bald & beard = great :)

[@jasonallan8009]

I literally sobbed when he held that high note. I can't believe I cried. Jesus. His voice is heaven.

[@stevenarmstrong8056]

What a voice brings back memories of the 80s better than today's shit

[@pleiades250]

Hey man, there’s lots of good music around nowadays! Just gotta dig a little. :)

[@eph4835]

@@pleiades250 that's because today's music isn't the 80's.

[@Soarific]

Totally agree and I'm only 26!

[@TTPDrums]

It's not just getting us older you know. Music is truly awful these days. My next door neighbours have teenagers and the shite that they play loud with their windows open. They all listen to this drill crap. White kids from somerset thinking they're some sort of inner city gangsters. It's depressing!! I used to be a professional drummer. Not much work around these days for actual musicians. There is still good music, but unfortunately, it seems to be lost on the majority. 80's was mainstream. It's what we all grew up listening to.

[@Soarific]

Tim TPDRUMS 100% agree

[@jennysmith1485]

Loved this in the 80's but man this stripped back version is amazing. This man gets better with age. Thank you sir for the memories this had just brought back x

[@BlindWoodTurner]

Love this song !! One of my all time favourites from the 80's.Jimmy is a gifted and very talented vocalist and it was great to hear him again. Thank you. !!

[@tazmaniandevil1503]

My mate Frankie is a ringer for wee Jimmy. You can imagine the stick he takes I'm sure :)

[@BlindWoodTurner]

Hi Tom !!....LOL !! Does he ever get asked for autographs ?

[@tazmaniandevil1503]

No, but he does get asked up at every karaoke. But never twice lol

[@BlindWoodTurner]

That has made me smile.....Thanks Tom !!

[@susanjones1775]

Tom Speirs If he ever visits the States, I'd love to meet him :)

[@tyreynolds4556]

Grew up listening to this song in the 80's, this version left me speechless in 2020.

[@rangerwhite7091]

That high falsetto is amazing. Still got it.

[@ste8851]

Amazing … what a voice, what song, instantly transported back to the 80s.. JS deserved the success that awaited him by writing this , such a taboo subject back then ..

[@woohooboy]

All these years later and this song still resonates deeply with me. The feeling of being bullied, shamed and shunned by those around you is something most LGBT people have faced in their own respective lives. This song speaks to those experiences and what we all had to endure in order to survive and continue on in a world that made us feel like outsiders when all we wanted was to be ourselves. Jimmy's voice is still amazing and this version is incredible. Thank you so much for this song. You were our voice to the world at a time when we were fighting to be heard and what's more accepted. And that struggle, still goes on.......

[@kerplunk9434]

Holy shit! He can still sing like an Angel.

[@PaulOkazii]

30 years later and dude's still killing it.

[@sabinemonnet319]

Paul Oprea 36 ans plus tard

[@DenMore1]

The message in this song was new in the '80s. But we did hear you Jimmy!