"Who The F*ck Are You?!" - My Response.

[@EdenLippmann]

I wont lie: when I first came across this channel, I didn't know who you were either; I didn't recognise you or your name, though that's mainly because I never bother to learn the names of the members of bands, even when I listen to their music. I could tell you were from the industry but would've guessed you were an ex-roadie or perhaps session player. I was quite surprised when I looked you up - you always hear about certain celebraties being "down to earth"; you sir, are so genuinely down to earth we could build blocks of flats on your integrity. You are one of the nicest people on this site and every one of your videos is a joy.

[@hyenaqueen4469]

Oh my gosh, absolutely. I’m here because of Ghost, actually, though I love The Darkness. I didn’t see the original critique but when someone posted his latest one: YT auto play loaded the next after that and I was laughing so hard I cried. Then, my partner was like “You listen to his band all the fucking time!” And I guess I got to have a senior moment in that. It wasn’t really that I didn’t know who he was, it just didn’t connect because I suppose I hadn’t expected he would be such a chill person. 😂 (I’m also not really- Ah, well, um, you know, sometimes people become very passionate about the artists they enjoy and so, they know *everything* about them: I’ve just never quite done that, because I worked production & lighting- [read: roadie] sometimes it’s genuinely best to not delve. Lol)

[@hyenaqueen4469]

OH and @justinhawkinsridesagain from one luthier roadie person to another if you ever find yourself in St. Louis: there are tons of wonderful shops but none quite as amazing & interesting as Geoffrey J Seitz Violinmaker’s shop. I just suspect you might enjoy it.

[@andrewo6890]

‘“We could build blocks of flats on your integrity” is a great quote, bravo and much love ❤️😘

[@mattraino3274]

I also didn’t know the name when I first clicked - however as I watched it slowly dawned on me Justin was the “guy from that crazy video” I saw so long ago. Now I have Darkness albums on my play list.

[@Neut]

One comment to rule them all

[@williamknight7]

I love how the first commentor is asking "Who are you??", followed immediately by Justin talking about his involvment with the band members of f*%king QUEEN. Brilliant.

[@ignacioernesto]

man you instantly put me in a good mood, with your smile and your humor, cheers man you deserve the best!!!!

[@RByrne]

Same. How could anybody not be happy around this guy?

[@jerseypoo4973]

Justin has a smile that lights up the world! 😊

[@markandersen793]

I second that.

[@812tompark]

I’ll second that!

[@LarkKristensen]

I was literally just thinking that

[@imonahorse]

Has there ever been a time in your musical career where you’ve felt things were getting too serious and taking the fun out of what you do? If so, how did you address it? Thanks for the excellent content, your natural positivity is something we can all learn from.

[@w13rdguy]

Never be afraid to quit! This applies to any career, IMHO. Life is short.

[@mrbig1022]

@@w13rdguy lol what

[@imonahorse]

@@w13rdguy I did quit!! At the time it was a very easy decision, but I do reflect and wonder what could have been….. you’re totally right though :)

[@alessioscatto295]

Congratulations Justin, you are one of the last great rock frontmen. I wonder if you've ever thought about writing an autobiography and telling about your life, your rehab, your change. Thanks for your channel, your music and yuor voice!

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Alessio!

[@dbapto6994]

This is my new favorite channel.....thanks for realness and humility.

[@trevorw66]

Gotta say, the piano rendition of the opening theme is hauntingly beautiful.

[@JobForAMaxboy]

that accidental major chord sounded amazing too

[@frankshailes3205]

@@JobForAMaxboy Very dramatic!!

[@lindsaywebb1904]

I’ve become a little addicted to this channel…even though I managed to get to 56 years old without every hearing of The Darkness. Well done, keep it going if you can. Cheers

[@christophercowan1645]

loved the nod of approval when you finally nailed the jingle. Your sense of humor slays me! lolol

[@johns3292]

What did Justin Hawkins first ride, and where-to does he ride again? Love the channel, carry on sir. We'll keep watching.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks John!

[@TippyI]

New subscriber. Not previously a fan. At 58 I was just a bit old!. now reassessing that issue. Loving your chat n thoughts. Really entertaining.

[@markdevlin6442]

"I hate how anyone can talk about music" I fell off my chair laughing at that

[@chromerabbit]

Hi Justin! A thousand thanks for your videos and music. I have a question and hope you see this: Have you ever conspired with someone planning to propose to their beloved at a show? I ask because The Darkness are mine and my partner Kaylene's favorite band. We blast your music as we rollerblade through our city (Fremantle, West Australia) and on our many roadtrips (it feels like soaring!). I plan to propose to Kaylene at your upcoming Perth show. Would you please help make the magic moment all the more amazing by getting involved? We can conspire together! I know it's a longshot, but offer rollerblading tours of our town, an epic Freo dinner in comfort, everlasting gratitude - you name it! Hopefully, Christian

[@brownsworthy7323]

Shit didn't realise they were coming down here! Hopefully Justin can make this happen for you!

[@StrangeDevice]

I hope he sees this and considers doing it. Would be amazing to see.

[@wendygould4476]

Justin...you guys can serenade the happy couple. 🤔 which of your awesome catalogue would you choose? 💛😊

[@MJ-803]

I predict he will do this.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Cheers Christian!

[@Jiggs2u2]

Thanks! Your first letter and response had me rolling.. loved it!.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Jiggs!

[@ArchibaldwainwrightJr]

I'll never forget the time I got stuck in a lift ( elevator) in Austin with Justin and the gang, his cousin Shane was freeking out, banging on the door and screaming! Zac ( drums ) then said the emortal line " Shane, if you don't stop with that din I'll be forced to take ungentalmanly measures!" Justin and I then looked into each others eyes and laughed! Great times , great times

[@jc.1191]

😅 Cool story

[@RetailZoomer]

Thank you for the great videos. My Fiancé and I love your channel, I love you Annie!

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks again Kendric!!

[@hansbaierl7377]

Thanks for sharing your ideas and humor! Just a small contribution for the trouser pile.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Hans!

[@davidlittlewood2860]

You're so bloody jolly, it's brilliant.

[@MrRyanVanSlooten]

By far my favorite channel, Justin. Been a Darkness super fan since the beginning and love your wonderfully infectious spirit and insight. Cheers!

[@johngammon963]

Justin outclasses his detractors. I for one will never forget his performance on Jools Holland. Genius.

[@mynameisdave1302]

The Darkness and Queen together sounds an excellent idea. Always thought Brian should’ve asked you to join them for a tour…

[@patrickevans2041]

Videos from this channel soothe my very soul, like a warm bath after a long day.

[@maryfields1111]

I love your videos! I smile the entire time...I look forward to every upload!

[@MassiveCatLittleLegs]

Calvin McGuire sounds like a top, top guy!!!! I bet he'd be fantastic company on a night out, at a dinner party, or just to come round your house on a Sunday afternoon - a man full of interesting, informed opinions, good conversation and all kinds of humourous tidbits to keep things cheery.

[@eily_b]

😄And I love that by watching and commenting he made the algorithm notice that he watched Justin and push the video even more.

[@AB-fh9zh]

Yes, I think we are all curious about all the insight and reflection Calvin clearly has to offer.

[@devlinbyng9267]

The one thing about your vids I love is your totally impartial and you have changed my mind on a few things. I will say this when the Darkness first hit the rock world I wasn't a fan but I listened to your cd and tbh I was blown away. Keep doing what you do as rock music needs bands like the Darkness.

[@frankshailes3205]

I bought all the Darkness CDs to play in the car, really cheers up every journey, I always get out with a smile on my face. What a voice Justin has!!

[@MattRomania]

Hi Justin. Matt from Bacchus Marsh, Australia here. I've really been enjoying your analysis and personal reflections. My question for you please... Have you ever considered writing songs for children? As a fellow parent, injecting some rock, guitar solos, and powerful singing would no doubt help with the requests for track repeats! Could be educational too... "Anger is only a feeling..." Love your work (including The Darkness). Cheers

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Matt!

[@Neut]

Thanks!

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thank you!!

[@charliebluechaos4963]

Omg that first comment Lmao!! Oh I braced myself expecting a loud THUNK when you moved the bass lol. You seem so happy on this video, that's so awesome. So much love to you Mr. Hawkins

[@titep1329]

Good on you Justin, really enjoying the channel. 👍🏻

[@terry10tnj]

To be completely honest as a 27 year old In the Midwest United States I wasn’t familiar with the darkness outside of a thing called love but that was me and my buddies hanging out theme song for like two years straight as 13 and 14 year olds lol I have been LOVING these videos. You seem like a genuinely nice and talented guy.

[@boombunmi9061]

To the man who wrote the best lyric in rock and roll history, "My heart's in overdrive and your behind the steering wheel" it's wonderful to see you back.

[@stef2432]

I like the fact that there are people coming here without knowing you or the Darkness, it means they will from now and the word will be spread, consequently more people will finally benefit from your music and their life will change from one day to another 🙌

[@DurvalLacerda]

HOLY SHIT, you are the vocalist from the song "I Believe in a Thing Called Love"??! I used to love that song when I was a kid, it played a lot in a famous soap opera here in Brazil ("Da Cor do Pecado"). You just brought me back some many memories. I knew your face looked familiar. I'm happy knowing you are still doing music. Question: have you ever visited Brazil? How was it?

[@andyjones9484]

Hi Justin, loving the videos many thanks. As my wife will attest one of my triggers is lyrics that rhyme 'again' with 'pain' or 'train' etc.. but pronounce the 'again' as 'uh gen'. How do you feel about this? Have you been guilty of it? Is hanging to good for those that do it? :-) I ask because in your intro music your sing 'again' but then in your vocal introduction you say 'uh gen'.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Andy!

[@garfmaul3327]

Haters will Hate , if you have haters , you also have Lovers . You are stirring emotions . Job well done Sir !

[@julietrask7497]

Justin you’re the best and I love your grammar corrections of others.

[@waynebernitt2806]

Some great insightful question's. Good work team. Great answers too. Cheers from Australia.

[@loristewart800]

Hi Justin, you always brighten my day!

[@LadyO_333]

Hello my beautiful brother of Source -- sending you loving energy from Florida USA.

[@guitaroffthecuff-davids5528]

You are one of the most entertaining and charming dudes on youtube. You are a blast to watch. Subscribed!

[@stephendocherty6629]

You're f,'ing awesome pal, keep it going

[@WesleyWenhold]

I remember going to your concert in San Diego California you played with a band I think by the name wild hearts this was from your permission to land album so had to be in 2004 and that album was the reason I perused a music career and became a touring musician for many years. One of the best live performances I’ve ever seen hands down! Your music and live show holds up with the best of them! My 4 year old daughter is a huge fan of your music and we are glad you blessed our ears with beautiful tones of glory! Haha keep on rockin my friend!

[@littleswedishboy]

Hey Justin, a question for the next Comments Day! I love "Christmas Time (Don't Let the Bells End)" and it always has a spot in my holiday playlists. I wanted to ask -- what musical elements do you think it takes to write a good Christmas song? Thanks! I was one of the people who showed up in Buenos Aires to see you open for Lady Gaga!

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Jorge!

[@Cfolger]

I can't wait for a darkness documentary, I love your band

[@mirapiccolo6601]

Justin, you make my days better, you are very very charming and cool !!!

[@Redrocker316]

Dude, ur fuckin awesome. Love these vids. Always makes me chuckle lol. Keep rocking brother!

[@burtbackattack]

Didn't realise there was a Darkness documentary in the works. Can't wait for that!

[@MarkAS56]

I find it totally badass that you take vinyl into account for track listing. Super cool.

[@twistidfolk7629]

The Gibson Hercules GS303B would be a great stand for you. 👍I love your channel and hearing your musings and opinions. Also, In Another Life is a masterpiece! Thank you for being you and doing all you do creatively!

[@joanquerzoli2662]

Art is SUPPOSED to be dissected and wrestled with!!! THANK YOU Justin F@#ckin’ Hawkins! L❤️VE you and all that you do!

[@Peacefrogg]

As is science, life, the definition of existence, everything. It’s all about the question, never mind the 42.

[@Beautifulxrazyrebel]

I discovered your channel about a week ago (realized that you are the lead singer of the Darkness) and it piqued my interest! You're very insightful and I enjoy watching videos you make! Take care and you've got a new lifelong upstate NY fan here! :D

[@natalieh5933]

Wow wow I always love your videos but this intro really made me smile today, thanks for that. Cheers Justin!

[@TheSquidgal]

Since you are on the record for purchasing the guitar stand, here's something to put toward it.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thank you so very much!!

[@beefriendlypainter]

Great episode! Loved the Monty Pythonesque piano moments 😂 Thanks

[@sirstratalot6944]

To be Pythonesque, really he should be butt naked a la Terry Jones.

[@taraw2601]

I was just thinking this myself! Salad days! 😂

[@Peacefrogg]

@@taraw2601 oh crikey!

[@SuperSarahbop]

I love your intro I find myself singing along on the second again. Keep on doing the good work

[@drunvert]

As somebody said on a previous video, his intro song lives rent free in my head.

[@BryceinLimbo]

Justin, are your efforts being handsomely rewarded by KZbin? Do you find this to be more lucrative than Spotify? Do you need any more money, or are your laurels well rested with sufficient Darkness related royalties? I wouldn't usually ask someone to talk about it, but your honesty about not only the practice of making music but also the music industry leads me to ask. It tastes good with the money, Justin. Here, take this.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Bryce! That's really kind!

[@theedgeinshow]

Guys....I think I'm officially old. The first thing I noticed in this video was the hardwood floors and interesting lamp. Also, I've had a purple Squire Jazz bass for almost 10 years and it's the best bass I've ever heard. And Mr. Justin F. Hawkins, please continue to monologue about music. I enjoy it probably more than I should.

[@jaywalshmusicandsong1736]

I had the exact same bass for years. Worked beautifully.

[@JeffO_TV]

Hi Justin I am addicted to your channel I Look forward to watching every new episode !! By the way have you ever analysed some of the Japanese Rock Bands? Like Asian Kung Fu Generation for instance. Because to me the japanese Rock Musicians are amazing at every single instrument, this is just astonishing ! Keep On Rocking !! Love you man !

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Jeffoo!!

[@russharland2155]

I tune in just for the dramatic thousand-yard stare over the Em chord. The rest is just gravy. Thanks, Justin!

[@bhew7409]

This channel is such a great move!

[@MashetEisalive]

Never fail to bring a smile mate.

[@guiarusso]

The piano version of Justin Hawkins Rides Again theme is really something special 😍

[@johns9969]

Still smiling over Achilles and the Invincibility Juice.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Cheers John!!

[@libertyc4486]

Thank you for sharing and your kindness ❤💯✌️🤟👌💫

[@wesmatron]

I think I'm starting to feel a bromance for you. You're a bit of a fucking legend, mate.

[@THEItchybruddah]

You had me at “…carefully curated selection of your missives.”!

[@christophercowan1645]

could not agree more. That really rolled off the tongue well!

[@AresKiske]

Insta-liked for the cool piano room :) Great and super fun to watch video , as usual. Love you Justin!

[@lisahanes2269]

Just started watching! First off the slacks are gorgeous. Second, I am very much enjoying your content. I am able to hear things in songs I enjoy I have never noticed/heard before. You are an international treasure. Thank you!

[@ericayy9598]

I don't see how people can say such rude shit to you, you seem like a genuinelly nice guy, thanks for all you do!

[@artysanmobile]

Comments section looks a hell of a lot like a toilet to some.

[@TwoWrights]

Black Shuck IS the perfect example of coming out of the gate strong. I was a retro rock nightclub DJ in Sydney from 2005-2009 and would sometimes my set with it. Even those who didn't know it would have their hair blown back hearing it through giant club speakers. It would always get the floor revved up. Bareback is also a stunner to start a show, but you know that because I've seen The Darkness live 5 times and it always impresses right off the bat.

[@brianmunkeskov8749]

Best content on KZbin 🙌Thanks Justin!

[@footycheck]

Just found this channel, right up my alley. much love

[@shanepaul314]

Glad I found you Justin, keeping me sane, God bless you

[@BrianPremo]

Best channel on KZbin. Also, as far as guitar stands check out “Ultimate Support” guitar stands, they are awesome and should work great for the Gibson.

[@rockbottomvideo4958]

Greetings, Justin! I've been a long-time fan of your music and only now discovered this channel. I love everything I've watched so far! My wife and I just saw THE DARKNESS play this past spring in Detroit, and although it was our first time seeing you live, you guys put on one of the best shows I've ever witnessed. I mean, top 5 of all-time, and I've seen THE CURE! Don't let that go to your head, but most definitely don't stop rocking so hard! I look forward to the next time. Cheers. Brian

[@vincenzoa2929]

That opening theme on piano had me laughing with your humor and doing it again and again.

[@davekennedy6315]

I've just gotta say that I LOVE your track I Believe In A Thing Called Love! It became my girlfriend and my 'special' song. She later became my wife (our first song/dance was to it) and a very lovely relative made us a super cute framed fancily written copy of the lyrics along with a couple of peacock feathers my wife used as a wedding 'theme'. Today that beautiful, framed IBIATKL lyric sheet still looks as good as the day we received it. Alas, the same can't be said about my marriage as we separated a couple of years ago haha! But your beautifully written song will ALWAYS hold a special place in my heart. You truly rock Justin!

[@buddyguydudeman876]

Just glad you're back and healthy.

[@Shetlandshaun1]

Hey Justin, learning a lot from your channel just watching you figure chords out on the fly (need a “how to play video” on the opening riff, liked the new mix of adding some sort of Em/Bm* chord instead of the Em7 finisher: *im guessing the chords…poorly) I wonder if you listen or have thoughts on Simon Neil of Biffy Clyros guitar playing?

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Cheers Shaun!

[@waynestokes]

Love this channel!!!!

[@stevejacobs3418]

Nice intro/outro on the piano. Nice hearing it on a different instrument. Keep up the good work Jussy!

[@thebigb3ard]

Both Hercules stands GS412B and GS412B PLUS would suit your purposes I think. I'm not affiliated in anyway, just used them and find them useful for safely depositing of my geetar.

[@floorticket]

As many have said, I did not know who you were when the algorithm put you in front of me. Did my research and appreciate you and the band's journey. If nothing else I feel I should buy Permission To Land on CD. KUTGW man.

[@devil-vee9880]

Pft Jared Leto…you Justin, are far more pleasing to the eye in my personal opinion and you have a brilliant personality and bring smiles to many, many faces with your videos! ❤️ been a darkness fan since my teens and still going strong at 36.

[@ZygmanFroid]

this like became the channel i put on while i'm recovering from a hangover

[@petebrown3715]

Love the channel, love the Darkness, love you Justin. Keep up the stellar work mate. Enjoyed your gig in Temp,AZ a few months back. Hopefully one day you and Rick Beato will cross paths to do a "What makes this song great" episode.

[@bumble1057]

This is amazing, I love this channel and I love your new teeth.

[@ricblenk]

Hercules GS414B stand - you won’t look back, plus the Hercules stands won’t ruin the nitrocellulose finish on your Gibson! Seen you guys a bunch of times and it’s never not an outrageously fun time. Love the channel!

[@simonhodgetts6530]

The intro was utterly brilliant…….were you channelling the late, great Terry Jones?

[@BooksForever]

I thought so, as well... but fortunately with pants!

[@CRAZYCANUCKTV]

Hey Justin, fellow guitar player/musician from Ontario, Canada, love your content man, alot of humor and very knowledgeable!!

[@wm5311]

You are class Justin. 💗👍 He's getting confused with the Who line where Mr Daltrey sings indeed the line "who the phuk are you" , I seem to recall

[@Ajaxophi]

I'm curious if you have watched the Foo Fighter's horror film Studio 666 and whether you think your band mates and yourself could "act" your way through a feature length piece of fiction? Thanks, love the content!!!

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Michael!

[@lukechandra6233]

Justin H You're one of the most entertaining dudes on youtube. Love your channel!

[@dlvox5222]

Can you please look into “The Suffering” Coheed and Cambria? I believe it’s a brilliant piece. Would enjoy your take on the track. Thank you.

[@cricketbat09]

Another interesting video. The channel is most entertaining.

[@u812notme]

I knew of the darkness but never knew how deep the Catalogue is - so exciting to get into with Spotify

[@kotchstevens2321]

Justin has good diction, pitch & is an excellent exponent of the English language, could easily transition to doing musicals.. a rare talent

[@gohumberto]

Not exactly. He, like many English, doesn't pronounce "TH" correctly. Thank you = Fank you Three = Free The Darkness = Ve Darkness Bartholomew = Barfolomew It's very common, especially "down south" and he probably isn't aware he does it. I couldn't care less but you did make a claim about his good diction.

[@kotchstevens2321]

@@gohumberto Fair enough.. was probably more referring to his expressiveness via his colourful vocabulary & the way he words his sentences, bubbly personality & sense of humour.. anyway.. he's talented(at least I think so)

[@kevincostello3856]

Just found this, very talented Taylor is, obviously. Exceedingly well read and intelligent man, thank you.

[@VIDS2013]

Saw you guys in April in Dallas. So of course I knew who you were when you came up in my YT feed!

[@RichRobinson]

Intro was great, Justin! My man!

[@karleyyork9001]

Always a Joy.