First Time Hearing Monsters by James Blunt | Suicide Survivor Reacts

#jamesblunt #monsters #firsttimehearing #songreaction #mentalhealth
Right now I have a very special project in the works that I believe will change the mental health world. My Patreon pledges will be going toward that (and my ongoing projects) When you become a Patreon, you get priority song reactions, you get to participate in twice a month live streams, ask me questions, get personalized pictures and so much more. EVERY SINGLE DIME GOES TOWARD MY MENTAL HEALTH OUTREACH!!!!!
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Kickin' off the Halloween season with a themed titled (thanks to my lovely Patreon, K Duncan) - Monsters by James Blunt from the Once Upon A Mind album.
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Suggested Video: First Time Hearing A Reason to Fight by Disturbed (Special Guest, Jaime Bennington)
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[@MentalAmanda]

💖Keep the mental health conversation going by sharing your story here in the comments. No matter where you are in your journey, you have a safe place here to share your struggles and accomplishments without judgment. This is how we shatter the mental health stigma.💖 Follow/say hi on IG (@mentalamanda) and if you need some direction and would like me to be your Happiness teacher, you can sign up for my Happiness Boost course here: amandawebsterhealth.com/happiness-boost/

[@80s_kid.]

Hi You should do a reaction to Lewis Capaldi - Before You Go, and another one by him called Someone You Loved, Both Great and Emotional Songs, he did 2 versions to someone you loved but this one is the best kzbin.info/www/bejne/mHTYmaibhdGDbtE

[@bkbentley]

Amanda, I love your reactions so far. Keep up the good work. As a person who suffers from severe depression, your perspectives are beautiful. Thank you so much. There is an Artist named Jordan Smith who has a couple of songs that you should listen to. The Songs are "Only Love" & "Be Still & Know" I promise you that you will NOT be disappointed.

[@dillowman8]

Amanda, I love you and I just discovered you. I have dealt with anxiety and depression most of my life and I too am an open book about it. For that alone, I am sure your Dad is damn proud of you!

[@louisejohnson6057]

Profound loneliness. It's as much fun as it sounds. I moved, at age 57, to a completely new city, hundreds of kilometers from all my friends. The two female friends I did make here, tragically died, and I've made one male friend. With the pandemic It's been impossible to join any groups or clubs. I have mental health issues to begin with, and this situation is making it worse. This is my first time watching one of your videos, it won't be the last. Keep up the good work of helping to break down the stigma that surrounds mental illness❤from 🇨🇦

[@louisejohnson6057]

@@dillowman8 , I too am open about my mental health struggles. It's no more shameful that my mother was bipolar than it was that she got cancer. Why should it be treated differently, it's ridiculous to do so, in my opinion.

[@Dougmcjock]

I was 18, in the armed forces, when I came home for leave at Easter and my mum told me my dad had terminal bowel cancer but he didn't want us to know. She knew that he would probably pass before I got back home to see him again so she told me and let my dad know she told me. That goodbye when I left, knowing I wouldn't see him alive again, broke me and I cried my eyes out all the way in the taxi to the train station. He died 2 months later and was informed by a knock on the barrack door by MOD police. In my fifties now, thought I had gotten over that, but this songs has me crying like a baby every time I watch it (as i am now) but it feels therapeutic, so I keep putting myself through it. Stay safe everyone.

[@razmo21]

Thanks for that. I miss my dad too.

[@barbaramelville337]

I lost my dad when I was,5 year's old 😢 song 🙏 ers to everyone who lost there dadsyso so sorry for your loss 😢😢

[@Dougmcjock]

Thank You ❤@@barbaramelville337

[@patrickconlan3181]

Take comfort in the knowledge that your Dad saw you become a Man and was probably bursting with pride. From the tone of your post on here , the fact that you can express your emotions without fear speaks volumes ...in my prayers buddy ...and thank you for your service 🙏

[@colintownsend]

Typical sqaddie response

[@eileenbaran7040]

Its his dad. He's in last stage of kidney failure. James and immediate family wasn't a match. His father donated a kidney years before. So he only had one. A distant cousin saw the video was tested and a match. His father has survived

[@jennywren7822]

Spot on. James wrote this song for his father last year, he needed a kidney transplant his one kidney was failing. He was on the waiting list and his children weren't a match. Both James and his father were high ranking officers in the British army, James a captain and his father a colonel, thats a stiff upper lip situation feelings aren't shown. James left the army to have a career in the music industry, a flippant career when you're expected to follow in your fathers footsteps, in Britain anyway. After this song and video were released, a distant cousin was tested and was a match so he donated a kidney, a live donor, the transplant took place and his fathers still alive 😇. The wonderful thing is both had the same name Charles Blount. James changed his name as he thought the surname was a bit posh... So at the moment a happy ending. Always makes me cry, the first time I howled for a long time, I've lost both my parents. . Well done....

[@mikeandersonwa]

Fun story about James Blunt's real last name, when I saw him live on the All The Lost Souls tour I was talking to James' band and one of the guys was laughing saying they call him the "Blounty Hunter"

[@pjmoseley243]

pj moseley 0 seconds ago James Blunt at the Oxford union is a very good view, shows his humour, I can see he has that British Army humour, it was just that humour that reminded me of my British Army life in the 1960/70s

[@poodlegirl55]

@@mikeandersonwa His actual real last name was Blount, that's his Dad's name. Blunt was just his stage name.

[@lyncohn9505]

James was Born with the name JAMES

[@Louis19566]

Not only 1 kidney was failing: he only had 11% left (in both kidneys)

[@WickedDandelion]

The story of the music video is quite funny actually. By the end of the song, the whole (and I mean the entire) crew were in floods of tears. Everyone, particularly the Director knew there was no way they could ever go for a second take. But James' father looked around the room and asked "Why is everybody crying, I'm still here?"!!

[@MentalAmanda]

I imagined that happening as I read it and chuckled to myself.

[@peterchapman3740]

yep thats not true blunt said himself

[@darlenefragale6550]

But if you close up on his fathers face you will see his emotion. He probably said that to keep himself together

[@ThePoisonDwarf1]

@@peterchapman3740 there is a video from about 3 years ago of James literally saying this himself

[@louisewakelingsmith13]

At its core, this really is a healing song. A gift from James and his Dad ❤

[@topgazza]

This was real emotion from James. His father was dying. But luckily a kidney donor was found and he survived. That’s him in the video

[@anthonymccoll5]

When his dad reached over and puts his hand on his arm.....gets me every time. Despite this song being about the son chasing the monsters away it's still a father's instinct to comfort his son. ❤️ Love the reaction and subscribed

[@papitorp1986]

I get emotional every single time I hear this song. Thank you so much for sharing your story....

[@dillowman8]

Anthony, that part always gets me too

[@janellehasley8495]

That part always speaks volumes to me, even during such a difficult time for them both, he still was trying to be that comfort for james..

[@tsnide34]

I'm glad you let the video play out to catch the "pat" at the end! So touching.

[@kvoltti]

James Blunt says that in his comentary about the video

[@TheCapt222]

I'm glad you seen the Pat on his arm many stop before that part and it is like the perfect way to end the song..like saying good job son I'm proud of you

[@MrAndrewkheinrich]

Amanda, yours is the most concise and eloquent analysis of this song I have seen. Thank you my dear, we have both been there. Lost Dad two years ago tomorrow. Miss you old man.....

[@Thanat0s3166]

Not matter what you have done in the past, your late father will always love you and watching you and protect you and your family

[@WolvenHeart1]

It is so emotional because it is honest, not forced. The music the words are flowing and it pulls you in because we all have that type of relationship with someone , father, mother mentor, etc. Lost my dad 2 years ago, had many monsters in my life, but he stood beside me. I was able to help my mom when he had dementia before he passed . This song brings me back to him.

[@tr9092]

The pat on the arm from Dad is the hammer blow to the whole piece. Too many reaction videos stop and stop before it and miss the most emotional part…

[@Quicksilver51]

Give over! James prompts his Dad to put his hand on his arm. Look at the nod of his head. Great piece of money making marketing.

[@tr9092]

@ uh, that’s not the pat I’m taking about. But I’m glad you felt the need to tell everyone about your marketing prowess.

[@Amm1ttai]

I'm impressed at how well you held it together. I lost my father to cancer 13 years ago and the first time I saw this it ripped my heart out. The next ten times I ugly cried. I've probably seen it 50 times now and I still get choked up.

[@GeePeeSterRace]

same

[@MentalAmanda]

To be honest, the one thing that kept me together is I have been getting a LOT of weird signs that make me feel close to my dad lately.

[@californiadreaming567]

Me too

[@ORDEROFTHEKNIGHTSTEMPLAR13]

What dafuq does ugly cried mean???..Lols😂

[@ravenmasters2467]

Ive watched every reaction i can find to this song since it came out and yours was one of the better ones. beautiful thankyou. i lost my dad in 2018 and i wish i could have played him this song before he passed. ive gotten into many discussions in many comment sections about this video. one of the best was about how this song is therapy in a way (quite fitting since your channel is about mental health, apparently). listening to it gives you permission to cry and to grieve, but also to move on. thankyou again for this reaction.

[@happyexpat3744]

I very much appreciate that you are watching these with a point of view of someone who has had issues with menta; health. When I saw this video the first time, and I am an American living in Italy, where my grandparents were born....it immediately brought me back to my parent's deaths, which I was not there for. My dad, a few years ago had a stroke but when they brought a computer in and we face timed he couldn't speak and I forced him t o say hello to me, in Italian, and just say "ciao" which he did. I got the phone call 12 hours later that he had soon after, died. It left me wailing. My mom, 2 years ago, had vascular dementia and had been sinking for a year until my sister sent me the forms to put her in hospice care....no meds, no fluids, no food, just medication to make her comfortable. A nurse called me, here, one weekend, as this had been going on for 2 months and she was still alive and, I must believe, suffering. The nurse said she'd be going that day and I began to call every 15 minutes until the nurse asked if she could put the phone to my mom's ear (just because she could not speak does not mean she could not understand) and I told her, in English and in Italian, that it was OK and she could go and we would be ok then I named some people who were waiting for her. The nurse promised me that while my voice was on speaker, my mom was moving her eyes and eyebrows, so I would like to think she heard me because a few minutes later, she died.I have both their ashes, here. I suffer from PTSD, depression and anxiety...and that happened, though I always leaned toward drama and depression, because my partner and I were shot some years ago, in LA, and he died in my arms without half his head, yet, obviously, I survived. It was awful. Blood and brains and in the street with people trying to help and in that moment, I didn't even realize that I'd been shot in the face. It all came back slowly. After everything, I wanted to die. I felt guilt for surviving, sadness as he was my 1st real love and we'd been together for 4 years amongst so many other feelings. Once I was able, a month or so, to go out, I became very promiscuous and in the end, was infected with HIV.....now it is 30 years I have it without having, yet, become ill from it. I am on 1 medication for the HIV and about 5 for the anxiety. I was on an anti depressant when my mom died but was not told that one of the side effects was that I wouldn't be able to feel things as I should so I never cried for my mom and I yelled at the doctor and took myself off those meds. Better to feel badly than nothing at all. After the murder, I went back to NYC, where I am from, and never thought about ever meeting someone again, though I did, here, in Italy, which shocked me! 8 years now. I was rather exiled by my sister and her husband to our home, now my home, in Italy to get my parents, 13 years ago, into an adult living community. I also think my brother in law is an asshole and a homophobe and my sister didn't want to end up caring for me if and when I got sick. But I met Diego, here and he knew everything about my health and mental health issues, before marrying me, here. Still struggle though hard days, have few friends. Italy is a bit behind, sociologically, when it comes to Gay/AIDS...indeed when I told my husband he wept thinking I was about to drop dead but then I showed him statistics about how in half of gay couples, everywhere, one is positive. I believe this song is beautiful and is something I'd have loved to share with my parents...though I did with my mom in a way, giving her permission to move on. James Blunt is such an emotional singer and I appreciate him. I would like to believe that our loved ones move on, and not rot after they die and science backs me up. We are made of energy and even when the person dies, the energy does not and has to find another place to go, simplified. I believe in the Hindu belief in reincarnation. I've got to for so many reasons. Anyway, I think it is great you talk about your mental health, or lack of it, and it is needed. You are serving a community of people who are ignored and I applaud and respect you for it. I am sorry I wrote so much but when I start.....it never ends. I send you "abbracci" from Italy and hope you are always as positive and lovely as you were in this video! XOXO - Gary

[@MentalAmanda]

I am very proud of you for your survival mentality and I genuinely wish you the most powerful healing. It boggles my mind that so much of the world is still ignorant when it comes to gays and HIV. I wrote an article several years ago about AIDS in Subsaharan Africa and it broke my heart to see the mindsets that prevail there.

[@happyexpat3744]

@@MentalAmanda Thank you. I am well aware of how many Africans, in general, think about AIDS. In many places, one cannot even talk about it as it is completely tied to being gay, which is many places is a crime one can be executed for. Meds are scarce. This whole Covid experience has scared me to death and I have remained insulated, thanks to my husband, for most of it. I thank you for wishing me to heal but I don't think I can heal any further than what I have done thus far. It is now, one day at a time, living with it. Peace and thank you!

[@MentalAmanda]

@@happyexpat3744 There are a lot of layers to healing. I am so happy that you have your husband. There are also a lot of LGBT individuals and allies here in the community (myself included.) You are worthy, lovable and never ever alone.

[@happyexpat3744]

@@MentalAmanda Oh, that is very sweet and I appreciate it. My husband calls me a "pessimist" (in Italian) but I think I am a realist. I'm happy and shocked that I have a husband and the laws changed, here, a year after we met so we could marry. It was the first in the province so we kept it very lo key but it got a lot of attention, anyway. Diego does not see things as I do. He does not want to hear sad news or think about sad things. He is someone who denies to himself that there are evils out there. Both our moms died within 6 months of each other in 2020 and to this day, he will not speak about it. I have to pay attention to what I talk about as he will either turn me off or get angry and I hate getting angry. The gay community here is not like it is at home. Here, is is barely allowed to exist and when bad things happen to gay people, the police, carabinieri, deny it. When something bad happens here to a gay person, especially minors, there is no complaint signed against the aggressors because parents plead for their kids not so denounce, as it is called here, because 'everyone will know', 'your father could lose his job' (which is true), 'we will be outcasts'...also can be true depending on where you live. I have no friends, here. Lots of relatives and my husband's colleagues are very nice and we, when we can, dine together though I am a bit older. It's OK. I should be thanking the gods and goddesses that I am still alive given my history and it is difficult, when I find myself in a situation of being stuck in the past, to get out of it. However, I always do, eventually. Thank you for your kind words, again....and forward we go. Can't go back! Abbracci dall'Italia! - Gary

[@MentalAmanda]

I can absolutely respect and understand that your partner isn't ready (he may never be) to talk. Some people struggle with opening up. I also understand how hard that can be for you since you need to. Even if it is connecting with other LGBT individuals online through groups and communities, it's important that you have a safe place to freely speak and feel understood. And, of course, you can always message me or post here if you need to get it out.

[@jimk2099]

I have seen quite a number or reactions to this song. While there is something to be said for sharing in our common humanity with open crying, I do have to say that your response is the most insightful and mature of all the ones I have seen. Well done with a difficult subject.

[@MentalAmanda]

Thank you so much 💗

[@allankirk1128]

You got that pat, so many people miss it, with love.VOIDRAKER SAYS YES.

[@TommyJessen]

❤ I cry every time I watch this video, you really are so real and authentic to watch and listen to with your telling of your own story as well as the action in the video. thank you, Love is sent here ❤ from Denmark / Europe

[@andrewgilbert2321]

What a touching tribute, to your father also. A lovely interpretation of what the song meant. Your parents must be proud and look out for you in different ways. Keep your faith and believe in yourself .

[@jessdati1]

absolutely ...the best, most touching analysis of a great song i ever heard!!!!...subbed for sure!...i totally relate to your story...and James Blunt made us think about it...our most loved and most important people in our lives...it could be a mother, it could be a father (yeah our parents) but yes, for most of us...a good dad... we cant really do without, and he has a bigtime & profound effect on a child's life!!

[@markstone1619]

Whoa... I'm floored. This is my first time hearing this song and also my first time seeing your channel. I learned his father had Stage 4 kidney disease in the comments but did successfully get a donor transplant. I can't fathom anyone else on YT doing a better 'react' video than yours. Your story of your own father added so much & so glad you shared your story of that. Glad to see you built up the strength to cope with such losses, even tho it's so hard. I can relate heavily to both James & you, as my father had total kidney failure around 1972 and struggled/survived for 12 years after that on dialysis tho it weakened his other body systems over those years. He wanted to have a 'man-to-man' talk with me about his likely death during preparation for open heart surgery, but I (like you) also was in denial that it would result in his death (or him ever dying so young at age 58). I just kept telling him that he would "come out fine". He didn't, as he 'knew' inside that he wouldn't. I regret being in denial that it couldn't happen. Now I just learned that I'm at the edge of Stage 4 kidney failure myself and will have to handle that as best as I can, solo. I'm grateful that father was a great example/teacher of strength & overcoming what life throws at you.

[@nellime426]

I’m so sorry for your dad , but this song is just perfect for saying goodbye but it breaks my heart I lost my dad too and I know the feeling Love from Germany 🇩🇪

[@AMentorway4u]

You seem like a Beautiful soul, honest and true. God Bless you for sharing your story. Im sure that your dad is watching over you. True LOVE os all around us, we need wyes to see it and to allow our hearts to feel it. Bravo on this video

[@johnshea5967]

Suicide survivor,I watch and listen to many reaction videos,you young lady are by far the most astute reactor I have watched,you understood what James wad trying to purvey better than anyone else,and yes it is powerful,ps James's father fortunately did not pass as James expected,he did however receive a donated organ from a distant relative who was made aware of his situation through this song,James donated all profits from this song to charity,the power of music is limitless,ps Suicide survivor you are a beautiful human being,mankind needs people just like you!!!

[@davidlewis2555]

Well, that had me crying. I knew the song already, but wanted to see your reaction and breakdown of the lyrics. My dad died suddenly 2 months ago and if I'm honest I'm really, really struggling at the moment. He died peacefully in his sleep in his favourite chair. The absolute perfect way for him to go, but I feel I never had that moment to say goodbye as it was so sudden. I hope, I think he was proud of my and his grandkids. My son (now 19) was born with a lifelong bowel condition. and I also hope that I've been able to chase some of his monsters away when he's been in for all his surgeries. He's also had several surgeries for spinal issues and I know it's affected his mental health, Sometimes all I can do is hug him or pat him on the arm and tell him I'm there for him.......but it often feels too little and I feel helpless. My wife is struggling with her own health issues and now my daughter (16) has been diagnosed with the same spinal issues as my son. We go to the hospital today to hear if she will need the same surgery my son had (which ultimately failed). I'm supporting my mum who was in hospital for 8 weeks last year and caught Covid in hospital. She's still very weak and very down after the death of dad. Through it all I'm trying so hard to support my wife and 2 kids and sometime an arm on their shoulder feels so insignificant and just not enough.......so thank you for showing me that sometimes it is enough.

[@MentalAmanda]

If there is one thing I've learned, it's that we don't mourn their death. We mourn having to live without them. Just the fact that you are so concerned about whether your dad was proud or you scared your sons monsters away tells me that you have nothing to worry about. If you're being conscious of it, you are acting from your heart most the time 💗 You are doing amazing at being a protector and supporter. Just don't forget about yourself. You matter and you can't give if your own bucket is empty.

[@metalmark1214]

Certainly an emotional song, my mother fought cancer for 8 years, my dad a sudden heart attack. Both have been gone more than 20 years. They say time heals all wounds, but I'd say, as I think you and others here would agree, Time only lessens the wounds.

[@MentalAmanda]

Mine was reversed! My dad was terminal and my mom died of a sudden heart attack. For me, time might heal the wound, but there will always be a scar.

[@louisejohnson6057]

It's been 30 years since my dad passed, and 29 years since my mum passed away. Time has of course lessened the pain 💔, but it's always there, like a lump in my throat. There are times when my need for a hug from them is staggering. In fact, just writing the previous sentence made my eyes fill with tears.

[@MentalAmanda]

@@louisejohnson6057 I know I will never stop missing mine, I just try to shift the pain and use the grief for something positive and loving.

[@Vyselink]

There is a fantastic Emily Dickinson poem known as "They say that 'Time Assuages'" (I say known as because Dickinson didn't actually name her poems, so most of them are known by their first line): They say that "Time assuages"-- Time never did assuage-- An actual suffering strengthens As Sinews do, wih Age-- Time is a Test of Trouble-- But not a Remedy-- If such it prove, it prove too There was no Malady-

[@tomatolady11]

When he sings, "I'm not your son, your not my father..." it strikes me that he is attempting to take a breath of detachment from the emotional agony so he can continue with what he needs to say. I, too, was so full of fear and denial at the passing of my dear mother that I never allowed myself to give her a loving goodbye. Still have regrets 35 years later.

[@MentalAmanda]

My parents passed in 05 and 07 and I still have regrets too. It's normal. 💗

[@kvoltti]

Perhaps trying to say his father doesnt have to carry the burden of being of being his father. That it's his turn to carry the load but even at the end his father's first instinct is to comfort his son.

[@cherylluff5345]

I am not your son you are not my father was the way they said goodbye before being deployed. Both military men in the British army.

[@Jcvulpi]

I see this is older but thought I’d comment anyway. First, I’m so sorry on the loss of your dad. I lost both my parents ugh. I read the story about James & his dad: James followed his dad into the British military so stiff upper lip & no showing feelings. James left to peruse music, which caused a bit of a rift there. Then his dad had kidney failure and they were unable to find a match for a transplant. His father was dying. James wrote the song Monster for him. Then, miraculously a cousin came forward & was a match!! His dad had a live donor for kidney transplant & is still alive. So yes!! That’s him in the video with James. It’s a haunting & beautiful song between parent & child about when your parent is I’ll & dying & the child becomes the parent. Then, we have to chase the monsters away 💔

[@Jcvulpi]

I think it means that when our parents are ill & dying, the child becomes the parent & then WE have to chase THEIR monsters away!

[@petergraham6624]

The man in the Video is his real Father, James Blunt’s father is Colonel Charles Blount, a man with a distinguished military career that has seen him inhabit the ranks of the 13th/18th Royal Hussars as a cavalry officer before becoming a helicopter pilot and colonel of the Army Air Corps. Blount (which is where James’ Blunt stage name comes from) was clearly a huge inspiration to his son who followed his father into military service, a long-standing tradition in the Blount family which reportedly dates as far back as the 10th century

[@alunmorris7440]

apparently when james or his father were deployed they use use to say your not my son your not my father we’re just two grown men saying goodby

[@mohdnazri2058]

when they made this music video, all the crew cried, james's father said why are you all crying, I'm still here

[@KaotikMotorsports]

OMG Amanda this hits home in a VERY VERY hard way……. I feel EXACTLY the same way as he is saying in the song Again thank you Amanda

[@aaronzeiger216]

Death to me is scary and a release at the same time. I'm not suicidal because I won't put my family through the hell my sister did when she killed herself. But I'm not exactly hiding from the grim reaper either. I'm so sorry about your family. As far as impressing your dad, You impressed him by staying alive, having a lovely personality and being a beautiful person.

[@suzywhitfield1708]

Hello from Hertfordshire, UK. Thankyou for such an open and honest reaction to Monsters! It really gets you in the feels doesn’t it? It is his real dad and they really love each other. Keep strong and remember that you are fabulous on a good day but more than perfect when you get through a bad day x x

[@spartuz71]

Hi Amanda I am a new subscriber thank you for creating this channel where we can talk about our struggles. I've been dealing with anxiety and depression since the age of 14 now Im 50 and have a good days and bad days, lost my dad to cancer in 2001 and my mom in 2015, after I lost my mom my mind went to a really dark place but I decided to keep fight, You are a beautiful soul Amanda. Thank you Again, you are making a difference!

[@MentalAmanda]

Losing my mom sent me spiraling too. We aren't taught to deal with grief! I'm proud of you for continuing to fight. Remember, you can find ways to share her love with the world every single day.

[@jamesmulanax1424]

Everyone has some sort of trigger that gets to them. For me it was "chasing the monsters away". Dad wouldn't chase the monsters away, he was the monster, and I had to chase him away. Regardless, I appreciate seeing how much James loves his father and singing his tribute song thinking the end was near. Still makes me cry, though. Peace be with you all.

[@AurioDK]

I had plenty of fathers James, most of them drunks with a temper to match the Greek tragedy my life as a kid was. I still cried a Spring thawing river upon listening, I think some of us cry because we empathise with J. Blunt. Some of us might also cry because we can only imagine what such a relation with a father would be like, or perhaps a mix of both.

[@WillPage]

@@AurioDK I cry because because I can only imagine what it must be like to feel that way about your father. I lost my mum at 8yo and my father is every kind of bad. He was the moster. I think trauma victims are the often most empathetic too.

[@WillPage]

Great comment man. My father too, was the monster!

[@AurioDK]

@@WillPage In movies we are always the bad guys ... kind of sad really.

[@WillPage]

@@AurioDK true.

[@scifimonkey3]

The only song that consistently makes me break down. Takes me instantly back to my dads last days and even though.I know that James’ dad made it through with a transplant I cannot help but blub to this beautiful but haunting song. This song also flags up another important message, …………tell your loved ones that you love them and thank them for what they do for you on as regular basis as you can. Don’t wait to do it at their eulogy cos they can’t hear you.

[@yjwrangler7819]

All I can say is ...yes. There isn't much to add

[@jimtuell4076]

I first saw this video about one week after it was released, and I immediately was absolutely moved by it. I even found the chords and learned to sing it less than a month after it came out. I have watched probably 50 reactions to it, and your video is the absolute best. You figured out where it was going even before the chorus first came on, and your personal experiences make your response wonderful. Thank you.

[@hichambarrak2902]

A heart-wrenching song & I did appreciate your reaction & comments. Thanks Amanda. I'm sure guys will explain to you the story behind this song as it is a true story. As for James Blunt, he has a distinctive voice, very british accent.

[@MentalAmanda]

I have a soft spot for guys who show their emotions and british accents!

[@Jos_G.]

Woow, Amanda... How well spoken and understood, even before the chorus was started. In this video you make your apologies for being emotional talking about your mental health in other videos. I did not watch them but do know that it sometimes gives much relieve watching someone else cry about the same subject, people don't feel alone. I hope you are doing well now. Wishing you all the best.

[@MentalAmanda]

If I apologized, I take it back! We should never be sorry for being human!

[@deejayturtle]

I dont recall if I suggested this for a reaction or not. So happy you found this beautiful tribute to fathers. James wrote this for his dad. His dad was needing a kidney or something and couldn't find one. James wrote the song and played it for his father privately. That is his dad in the video. Someone saw the video and gave his dad a kidney, so happy ending. What a lovely song for everyone who is losing or has lost their father,

[@static4034]

Here in Canada during the covid lockdown my father has been living in a extended Care facility which also in lock down when he passed away. His health was continuously fading and I was not allowed in to see him for months. With the time of his passing drawing near and with him no longer being able to verbally communicate I had to say my goodbyes to him over a video call. During the call I played this song for him and I could see the tears starting to roll down his face. At that moment I knew he could still hear, and understand everything that was being said to him. And just how much I loved him and was proud to be his son. It was the hardest time I have ever faced in my life because I just wanted to be there to hold his hand before his time came. This song will forever remind me of that moment.

[@MentalAmanda]

What a beautiful moment despite crappy circumstances. He got to go knowing how much you loved him. That's beautiful.

[@static4034]

@@MentalAmanda Thank you for the kind words.🙂

[@gavinshaw6103]

Thanks for sharing this reaction Amanda. 20 years ago since I lost my dad and I still have moments where I just tear up. This song does it every time but I love listening to it. It is a great release.

[@husaisanchez2244]

This song really makes me reflect on how beautiful life is, and to be with the ones you love while they still live. Having experienced lots of losses in my life since finishing high school, this song sure speaks volumes. Especially now that I not that long ago went through losing someone close to me and my family, I can't help but cry. plus, I know that it's okay to cry. sometimes you just have to let it go. my message to those who react to your videos, as well as to you who makes them happen is simply, let's cry with those who cry, and laugh with those who laugh.

[@jasondamrau9943]

I doubt you will see this after the video has been up so long, but their is so much to know about this song and who James Blunt and his father are. To put it briefly, both James and his father are war hardened veterans and this was Jamess tribute to his father when he was diagnosed with stage 4 Kidney failure. He performed the emtire song in one take with his father sitting next to him because he thought it was important to show how much pain something like this brimgs and he really wanted the emotions to show. When the performance was over, James and every person dissolved were dissolved into tears, except for his father. His father laughed and asked, "Why is everyone crying? im not dead yet." All the proceeds of the song went to the Help for Heroes Foundation and the British Legion charities. This video became so viral and widespread that a distant cousin saw it and they tuned out to be a match for a kidney transplant for his father. The surgery was a sucess and he is living to this day

[@UranusMcVitieFish-yd7oq]

The bit that really gets me is towards the end where James looks his Dad in the eyes and sings "let there be no darkness in your heart" before quickly looking away. I'm autistic spectrum and looking someone in the eye, even a loved one, literally drains my energy and makes me feel over stimulated (there is too much going on because faces keep moving and changing) Basically the briefly looking directly at someone and then having to quickly break eye contact is something I'm aware I do all the time.

[@paulconway1176]

Wow - great analysis of I’m not your son line … it makes a lot of sense from you perspective. Like forget about the relationship for now… person to person saying goodbye. Like the time has come to pass the baton on.

[@jamescurfman3284]

Amanda, I had to pause your reaction in the middle of the video. I promise to come back to the video later but I can't finish it at this moment. I have massive issues (I still have problems with the memory of my Dad; he passed in 2006) and I have to calm down a little before I can finish your video. James is awesome but I didn't watch his music video before experiencing it with your reaction here. This hits WAY harder than I expected. I am a total stranger to you except for some times when I have left comments and you have responded (which is SO AWESOME of you!). We don't know each other past that but I HAVE to tell you, I am SO proud of you. You are AMAZING! I know that it must take a LOT of work for anybody to come back from an attempt. I am so glad that you are still with us and you are using your life, your time, your energy and your platform for one of THE BEST causes! BLESS YOU! Luv ya!

[@MentalAmanda]

I completely understand. Sometimes we have to take a breath. Songs can do that to me too. Or shows even. Luv you too!

[@d-docnemesis7925]

Please don't ever apologize for sharing your emotions with everyone. You are allowing us to feel it with you and that's an incredible gift.❤

[@poodlegirl55]

That was the first time his Dad heard the song. Everyone on the crew was crying. The record company wanted to fix the cracks in his voice when he got emotional but he wanted to keep it real.

[@Pantherking916]

Amanda, you are so beautiful in every way from your eyes to your heart & how much you care about people you don't even know. Thank you for the rawness of your emotion & thank you for sharing more of yourself. You are truly a light for the world.

[@robin2629]

Thanks you so much for your openness and honesty. It was very interesting to listen to you. Keep up the work and best greetings from Germany :)

[@dochubbell]

Amanda your reaction is heart felt and sweet. May any lingering grief turn into sweet memories. This song touches many many hearts of those who lost loved ones close to them. The message is let those who love others in family and friendships know that you love them. You never know when things will happen sooner than you expect. Love to you

[@kenwithrow9032]

Little sis my condolences on your parents! My mom is gone too and my dad is 85. And I do t know what I'm gonna do when he goes where I can't follow. My dad is my hero always has been and always will be! Keep up the good work and good music. It uplifts people and makes them feel better. God bless you and may he smile on you and your family.

[@matthewgoodA1206]

This song really coaxes the tears at every listen. Such a simple, stark and sad ballad. Even though James is miming his studio recording you can see he’s still brought to tears by his own song. Which is perfectly understandable. I haven’t had the best relationship with my parents, particularly when I was much younger and still very mixed-up. Now that I’m older- and they are as well- we’re all more at peace with each other. But unfortunately, this song now has an added layer to it for me, as my cousins just lost their father to cancer under a week ago. His diagnosis was years back, but then this year he went into hospice… and now he’s gone. It’s a heavy void. And this is a beautiful song.

[@mrd9161]

Pretty sure this wasn’t mimed it was a live take

[@matthewgoodA1206]

@@mrd9161 Well, if that’s the case, then this was used on the studio album, as all of the instrumentation, plus lead and backing vocal parts are exactly the same as this on the record. As well, the singing by the children’s choir was prerecorded, so I don’t see much chance that a live performance would feature a studio vocal track, unless it was dubbed in during post-production. Regardless, what you hear here is a total match to the version on his studio release, which I own a copy of.

[@abrahamlave8218]

I'm so sorry for your loss... My dad was the same as your dad..You seem like the sweetest person..Sending all the love your way!❤❤

[@davidgaps6589]

A message to all of Amanda's s supporters. Many of us have a lot to thank Amanda for with all her support. I would love to see some support shown back to her. KZbin looks at views and likes when it post videos for recommendations. Please make sure you like her videos. As well as try watching, and liking, her vlogs. I think you may even discover some advice or suggestions to help in your daily life. At least you may see that you are not alone in some of your issues and struggles. Let's help her, and also help her to help others as well as us. Thank you for the support, and thank you for making this community all the better with your presence.

[@scottbradly1990]

Yes, it's EXACTLY how we feel watching WITH you. And it's so fucking cathartic. ❤

[@dukeravenshadow5532]

My dad was dying of cancer, and when I saw him the weekend before he passed. I didn’t focus on what was wrong with him. I stayed in the moment and tried to keep things light hearted like he wasn’t sick. Making jokes to keep the atmosphere light and humorous. My hardest thing was shaking his hand and telling him goodbye…..knowing I’d never see him again. Tell your mom’s and dad’s you love them EVERY TIME you talk to them. Hug them every time you’re near them. You’ll never know how much you miss them…..until they’re gone. ♥️🥺

[@gerrynewport3894]

This is the best reaction to this video I’ve seen! You have a beautiful and intelligent mind and an enormous heart! Bless you!

[@jusdally]

What a beautiful soul you have❤ You completely understood the song and emotions. You found the beauty in this song, and it brightened my heart.

[@judgedino]

I haven't let my emotions out & cried my eyes out for a long long time! Every now and again it's good to let go! Thank you! So glad I found you! XX

[@damienosullivan193]

I like how he responds to people who give him bad tweets. He uses good humour when they troll him, a couple of examples, "a little bit of James Blunt never hurts anyone", and he goes, "depends where you put it". Another, "James Blunt has no talent, no this or that", and he just goes" and no mortgage". He has even written whole book of all sorts of tweets he has done. I have heard that when he responds to a troll, he would show one to his wife, and if she shakes her head in horror he took it as good enough to press send. Anyway all jokes aside, you say you don't think you gave your dad a lot to be proud of when he was alive. The way you describe him when he was alive, he was definitely proud of you. You described a pretty good father who thought the world of you, he really did I think. And your mother, the post you gave me on Instagram, she sounds like good fun how she bonded over the music you and I remember from school. I know my father was a good guy too. There are things I beat myself up over, I know I shouldn't. How I feel, can be well explained in the song, The living years" by Mike and the Mechanics. I think I have seen you come a long way in the short amount of time I have known you, you are definitely in a much better place than even a month ago, all the best 😊😊👍

[@oldjesus8978]

I've watched many reactions to this song and yours was, hands down, the best I've seen! Please stay exactly as you are !!

[@ShibuChoAdrian]

Amanda - keep fighting - we're all touched by poor mental health in our lives - conversations that we should have with those that we love can sometimes be the cause of our angst. Thank you for opening your heart on this one, your Dad would be proud of you and is. Take care of yourself, you're precious.

[@delevar5780]

This song wrecked me for a week. Seeing someone else go through all the emotional runs like you did affirms my own reaction when I saw it. Thank you dearly for sharing this part of yourself. I don't know you, but something tells me that your parents are proud of you.

[@CountryStrongGBR]

Yes his father was terminal. How he did this is beyond me. I to watched my father slowly pass away and as much as I love this song it's amazing hard to listen without crying. Great video 🙏🙏

[@carolbailey4849]

Never apologize for having emotions. I liked the way you explained a different view I had not thought of. Thank you

[@DavidMoore_Golden]

The absolute best reaction video I've ever seen. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@tilemonkee5510]

You are a TREASURE!!The effort and work you have put into Life itself, is nothing other than admirable! My dad was a guy who valued a good time more than he valued his wife,but he wasn't a monster,he was just weak. Keep up the good fight,my friend!!!

[@elizabethweaver9364]

You are so young, yet you’ve gone through so much. You are more intuitive of life and death and the importance of letting go of worldly problems and moving on! I think you would be an amazing friend to have!! They are very lucky!

[@MentalAmanda]

I always welcome new friends!

[@shadsullivan7817]

I watched my father die as well. He died at only 53 of brain cancer. To see someone so strong and your hero slip away like a storm in the summer takes a toll on you. I loved your reaction by the way, so thank you for being so kind in regards to this subject. God bless you in every way.

[@calvin4up]

It'd been 6 years since my dad died. Thought I'd made peace with it. Then heard this and damn closest I've come to crying in a long long time. Beautful , raw and pure. Love it

[@MentalAmanda]

There's a song by Mike Shinoda called Over Again. "Sometimes we don't say goodbye once, we say goodbye over and over and over again." My parents passed in 05 and 07 and there are still things that make me cry.

[@shadowfox2120]

Oh man. Nothing like starting the day ugly crying in the office. Lost my dad to cancer 10 years ago. I got to see him the night he passed and watched my mom sing him to sleep that night and he never woke up. Was lucky enough to meet someone else later that was like a second father to me to lose him unexpectedly to a blood clot. For both these men I had nothing but love. No regrets as I had told them how much they meant to me.

[@MentalAmanda]

I just about ugly cried reading about your mom singing him to sleep!

[@fernandosandoval9218]

I'm here to support everybody!

[@mom23mangos34]

Wow. You got this song from the very beginning and truly understood the lyrics and dynamics.

[@martingilchrist6577]

If you don't know it already a song that fits the tone of your channel is "Before You Go" by Lewis Capaldi, but be warned it might be pretty emotional.

[@stobbersteve]

Came across this by accident Amanda, when I saw the bunny ears I almost didn't watch but I'm glad I did, thank you for the very articulate, spiritual and sensitive way you spoke 🙏 , it is his farther in the video.x

[@CeeMoney1961]

Such a beautiful and heartfelt reaction! May your dad rest in peace, Amanda

[@kerrylynch449]

As painful as this song is it is so beautiful at the same time. I'm sad to hear you struggle with mental health. I lost my big brother to depression 25 years ago, my dad 4 months later, ( broken heart) and mum 10 months later from cancer. I am in my later years myself now but struggle with the Black Dog every day. Just know that you are a beautiful soul who has a lot to offer the world and we would all be the poorer for your absence. Stay strong and never feel bad about sharing your needs and feelings.

[@MentalAmanda]

I'm such a Harry Potter nerd that you said Black Dog and it took me a solid 15 seconds to realize you weren't referring to Sirius Black (Padfoot.) That is a LOT of loss to experience in a lifetime, let alone all at once. Of course that traumatized you! It would traumatize anyone. Just please know that it is never too late to find ways to share their love and wisdom with the world and find healing yourself. 💗 Here if you ever need to talk.

[@kvoltti]

The fact that he's staring down the barrel of the camera in such a tight closeup. You can't help but feel and be moved by every second of his emotions

[@larryC1070]

Thank you for such a thoughtful reaction to a song that is immensely powerful for so many of us. Don't we all wish we could have expressed these feelings while our parent/parents were still alive. Alas, I missed that opportunity. Hopefully this song will inspire others to not let the opportunity go by.

[@jenniferbooth9348]

I think everyone has lost a loved one or a very dear friend and this song is for everyone. When I heard the song the first time I didnt know the backstory but I’m happy that his father did receive the kidney. There are many who are not so lucky. A beautiful tribute. Your emotions are very raw. I’m sorry about your father but just know he’s watching over you snd your mom.

[@AxianTee]

You have such a kind soul. Thank you for sharing your story

[@darrenhunt9049]

James Blunt is also ex British Army and as a former Soldier myself sees the deep soul that he sings out. I lost my Dad in 1985 a month before my 15th birthday which was when I was growing into a Man but unfortunately didn't have that connection that he had with my absolute legend Grandpop. I hope that I have done alright in my 51 years of trying to find the right place. Love you heaps because you are REAL XX

[@MentalAmanda]

I think just the fact that you WANT to do good and it sound like you take action to do so is a pretty good indicator that you probably have done "alright." 💗

[@darrenhunt9049]

@@MentalAmandayou are the type of person that makes sense to me to stand up for to protect. Without a goal to focus on blokes like me can fall away in the cracks. Thank you for being you Amanda xxxx

[@mattpotter8725]

Amazing response and you are right this is real emotion that you can see and hear in his voice. He wrote this song when his dad was dying and needed a kidney transplant, neither of his children being matches. A distant cousin was found after this song was put out and his dad had the transplant and is still alive, but at the time James doesn't know this so I guess this was him saying goodbye to his dad. I've not lost my dad like you but I still find this song so emotional and hard not to cry when watching. You should react to some more of his songs, I'd suggest Carry Me Home, Goodbye My Lover, and Same Mistake, I feel that all these songs James puts his unique singing into, as well as a lot of his heart and soul as well. As other people have said James was a high ranking officer in the British Army, he served in the Balkan War in the 90s after the breakup of Yugoslavia where he famously disobeyed the order of the US NATO airfield that was being held by the Russians claiming he didn't want to start WWIII!!! It is amazing how someone like him can be so talented in songwriting as well. His wife is very lucky!!!

[@youngthing12]

James and his father were both military men. James was actually a tank commander in the first gulf war. When he was being deployed, his father would say: "You're not my son, I'm not your father, we're just two grown men saying goodbye...". This song breaks me every time I hear it. The video was shot in one take, because James wanted the emotion to be raw and genuine. ❤ What a beautiful reaction 👍🏻😁🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@sharonvincent4238]

Yours is the most insightful reaction to this song I have seen. I thought that this is how people who love each other should say goodbye. 💕

[@larryshair]

Beautiful reaction. I had a very similar story and reaction on my channel that goes live tomorrow (Recorded last week and goes live on 11/22). I actually broke out in tears on this song. Amazing song and tribute. Thanks for keeping it real.

[@briansgamesandanime]

This song hits home for me. I just lost my aunt 2 months ago to Covid. She had underlying conditions like COPD, Bronchitis, high blood pressure, and was on oxygen for a wreck she was in back in 2007. Because she had Covid and I was having to quarantine, I couldn't be there when she passed. I know she's finally pain free and at peace but it still hurts she died alone like that.🥺

[@b3r3tta95]

love love love this

[@TheJohmac]

This is one of those songs that fills you with emotion. I find it healing, even though I believe I have grieved my father sufficiently, this song reminds me of all the emotions that process entails, and is a way, in my mind to honor the memory of my father. My goodbye with my father wasn't nearly this dramatic or articulate, but it was good, it was mutual respect and admiration. Sometimes it is nice to be reminded of those painful memories and to spend a bit of time in that emotion.

[@gerryward9272]

New sub here Amanda, beautiful reaction, this is indeed James dad,at the time his dad had stage 4 kidney disease and doctors had told him the prognosis wasn't good, none of family were compatible, so James wrote this as a eulogy, record company wanted James to use auto tune but James refused,this was James showing his dad how he felt,emotion was real, breaks in his voice when he was struggling emotionally with the song,both James and his dad were military officers so showing emotion wasn't the norm, thankfully when this song was released a distant cousin came forward and donated one of his kidneys ,operation was successful

[@Darrell3163]

Just to clear one little thing up, i believe there was a relative who was a match and donated a kidney to give his father the chance of living on.

[@brrryan2908]

I'm glad you connected positively with this song. Not everyone gets to say goodbye. My dad was on the other end of the country when he suddenly lost consciousness from a traumatic brain injury. He died a month later on Valentines day. It has devastated my mom. Please consider reacting to REALIZE by THE FLAMING LIPS.

[@Onewayoflife75]

James grew up in a military family, which in the UK often means Men with the British trope of our stiff upper lip.. never showing emotional weakness 🙏

[@tcborg]

Amanda....i`m 2 years down the line...but still a sad reaction.. very tearful..... only made brighter cos you are beautiful..xxx

[@horstschafer1839]

I'm on your side.. My parents are both about 80... There comes the time they have to leave... You can't prepare to... Thanks for your reactions!!! We'll go this way together!!!

[@RebeccaMidyette]

This song always reduces me to tears very quickly. Thank you for your reaction.

[@stealthfrag9060]

I truly hope you are what you say, first time seeing your video. As a survivor I know it all, I didn't want to survive. but I think your reaction is genuine

[@patrickgoss1428]

I just recently discovered your content. I have enjoyed listening to your upbeat ideas and encouragement for those who may be struggling. I clicked on this video not ever hearing it before...... The last few months i have been living in the appartment in the basement of my fathers home. In that time i have been struggling with has been the hardest few months of my life to date. My father just turned 70 last month which is incredibly young to be deali g with dementia. When i arrived in the beginning of April my father at least recognized me. However now three months later he referes to me as that guy and our interactions have been reduced to him commenting and correcting whatever it is i may be doing. I have been here specifically because my "step-sisters" were trying to move him out of state which is not what he wants to do. They planned on moving him by tricking him onto a plane then put him in a memory care facility when they got there. They planned all of this behind my back after convincing me that i did not need to come up and assess the situation. My father and i have had a strained relationship for years. A product of the bitter custody battle between my parents more than 30 years ago. A process that has kept he and my brother from speaking to one and other for over 20 years now. Watching this video had me sobing and facing some truths that had yet to confront. And exposed some issues i wasn't aware i needed to confront. I found it comforting as i was balling my eyes out with face in my hands to hear you voice in the background. I suspect as is ofen the case for peopld like you who expose themselves, their emotions, their hearts, their failings and weaknesses that you do not get thanked enough for what you do. Thank you. Today you provided me with something i didn't know i needed.

[@MentalAmanda]

A loved one getting dementia is my worst nightmare. It's like they are there, but gone. I hope that, despite the hurdles, your family finds ways to make peace. And I hope you continue finding strength 💖

[@hilaryc3203]

Jame's father is still living. He was in the video, as a tribute, because his dad has been diagnosed with chronic stage-four kidney disease and is in need of a kidney transplant. The song was written sort of like a way to say goodbye, while he was still alive. The blunts are a military family (James served as well) and his father is a high ranking officer, so held in high esteem.

[@ollwynaspinall1991]

This song really gets to me everytime I hear it 😭💔 I lost my mum two years ago February 12th 2021 she was 82 and passed peacefully 😢❤️🙏🏻🌹🕊️🦋💐 and my brother who was killed on his motorbike in 2007 he was only 47 leaving three beautiful children 29th April 2007💔😭💙🙏🏻🌹🕊️🦋 so this song really hits home with me god only knows how much I miss them 😢💔 I'm so so sorry for you loss to hope you find peace in your heart that your dad is in a beautiful place and that we all will one day all be re united 🙏🏻 god bless you and your family ❤️sending love from across the pond in the UK 🇬🇧