"Monsters" by James Blunt - Emotional Reaction and Vocal Analysis

You know the drill... grab your tissues. This was a tough one, but it's a beautiful song that I'm happy to have finally heard. Today we're watching the official music video for James Blunt's song "Monsters."
Watch the original video uninterrupted: • James Blunt - Monsters...
Website: bethanyhickman...
Join the A-Lyst: / thevocalyst
#jamesblunt #reaction #vocalcoach

[@austinseven4720]

According to James, there were a lot of tears shed at the recording, except for his father! Who apparently said something along the lines of "why is everyone crying? I'm not dead yet!"

[@rimskykorsakov2892]

@BIGURSU No he's British that's what we do

[@pierreschlagenhaft7952]

Thats just british Humor.

[@RedcoatT]

His dad was a colonel in the British Army, stiff upper lips are mandatory

[@MLaak86]

The response of a British soldier. "There'll be plenty of time to mourn after I'm gone."

[@jameswiththegermanshepherd6628]

My dad passed away 17 years ago at the young age of 68. I’m now 66 and a paramedic so I already knew what his outcome would be with lung cancer. The night he passed in the hospital I did get to tell him I loved him then he replied “I love you too son”. I think that’s the only time we ever said those words to each other, I’m so glad we did. He was a very good man and I miss him every day.

[@dougel4709]

Thank you for sharing your story. My dad was 69 when lung cancer got him. Towards the end he really couldn't speak without getting out of breath. But he never complained through the whole sickness. As long as he had a Reds baseball game on he was still as happy as could be. I got to watch a last game with him the day before he died.

[@EricWatkins7]

I lost my dad a year ago next week. There are so many songs that express this common and devastating experience most of us will suffer. My heart goes out to all who are experiencing this. For those who haven't yet, I'll just repeat what all others have said. Get the words out now. Don't leave any guesswork for later. Make your love and appreciations known now. Peace.

[@beagletje75]

@EricWatkins7 iam very for your lost❤🙏🍀

[@brycez.4879]

I am so sorry for your loss and just know any proper person knows he was a great man.

[@JoshuaFritz]

Wow, this song nailed me. I didn't know what this song was, and it hit hard. My dad passed away on April 11th, he had been battling dementia and Parkinson's for the past 8 years. Such a powerful song. He had a delusion, walked over to the area without getting help to walk, tripped and broke his hip, required surgery and before surgery I got to talk to him for about 30 minutes and it was the first time in many years it was him, it was the dad I remembered, we said we loved each other and said goodbye and he passed away a few days later after not waking up from surgery. I'm glad I got that 30 minutes of actually him, not the man trapped in mental prison. Thanks for sharing this song.

[@scopeofjustice]

There's a song called "Mr. Forgettable" by David Kushner that deals with the topic of dementia. Very good song and music video.

[@sauce2000]

Thanks for sharing that beautiful story man. Now make your dad proud.

[@alxhades6231]

Self reminder..... Don't listen this song in public.

[@martinrayner6466]

So much more powerful, when you know his father (next to him) was really dying at the time... (There is a good ending, because of this song). _He was not acting in this one take master peace!_ And this beautiful truthful moment applies to all of us with living parents.

[@astonvillaization]

I listen to it on a drive from london to Glasgow, it came on the radio as I was driving through the Lake District in sideways sleet, I turned it up really loud to drown out the noise of the weather outside, then started blubbering and had to pull off the road because I couldn’t see with the years, grief can hit you at anytime if you’ve held it in for a long time. This song reminds you that you have to tell and show people that you love them while they’re still here. ❤ Great reaction ❤❤❤

[@andyhorner1446]

Or a beach, a swimming pool or while eating..

[@kazumajay]

I first heard this song in a public bus. Worst decision I made in music.

[@andyhorner1446]

@@kazumajay 3 times not to want to cry.. On a Beach, On a Bus or while eating.. 🤣🤣

[@RyanNotBrianGarcia]

Yikes!!! This is a ROUGH one!! 🥺 The tears I couldn’t cry at my father’s funeral start flowing almost every time see this.

[@dennisn5308]

Yep, I feel you. This song came out not long after my dad passed away suddenly. I kept my shit together for my mum and younger brother, but holy shit, every time I hear this I just lose it.

[@Jvl81387]

It kinda feels less lonely to know that there’s others who’ve had similar experiences. I’m the oldest of three and my dad passed away suddenly at the age of 43, literally one day after I had started college (which I had to drop out from) and I never got to mourn him because my mom and I had to put food in the table.

[@dennisn5308]

@@Jvl81387 you're definitely not alone. Much love to you and your family

[@Jvl81387]

@@dennisn5308 same brother! Blessings to you and your loved ones

[@sixslinger9951]

I lost both my parents in a span of one month. 6 years later, the pain and loneliness without them is still there. Never take parents for granted.

[@Barbyriska]

❤

[@kazumajay]

My condolences

[@hatibudak3511]

I hope you are ok wherever you are brother/sister. Take care.

[@debbie6566]

Me too sixslinger.mine have been gone forever years but never forgotten. I like to think we were lucky to have them so long. Not everyone is so blessed. Big hugs ❤

[@kathyrhode6252]

Thank you for letting the song play through. It is so difficult because that was written while his dad was very sick and he didn’t know if his dad was going to make it. I love that his dad was sitting there with him. I love your analysis

[@McM-u2u]

If someone hasn't said it in the comments already, his dad got a transplant he needed, and as far as I know he's still here on earth.👍🍀

[@mgrogan4126]

You managed to at once be professional and personal. Nice job. Thank you.

[@ronnaalthoff9175]

A grown man calling his dad daddy…..just BEAUTIFUL!! ❤️ Our dads are more than dads….they are our daddies and ALWAYS will be!!

[@miamcknight9138]

Another James Blunt tear-jerker "The Girl That Never Was". Go on, react to it!!! And I'll watch your reaction with my box of tissues

[@YoreHistory]

The song hits me in a different way as I did not have a father I was close to. He wasn't there for me for most of my life and when he was he wasn't truly present. He passed away a couple of years ago and man it would have been nice to have had what James has...that is where my sadness comes from...admiring what these "two grown men" have.

[@traveller9292]

I wont go into my experience but I totally get your pain of what we didnt have but this video still brings a different pain and tears of what should have been

[@antlersnelson2955]

Part of the pain is losing something you wish you had. I lost my dad at 11 so I never got to have a relationship with him when I was an adult. The song hits but for a different reason.

[@tivaudi6079]

Dido!

[@jaimepradenas4762]

Tu consideración viene de un corazón lleno de amor desde donde no hubo, eres una gran persona, y se que eres o serás un exelente padre, Y sabiendo esta verdad, mi consejo con respeto, perdona en tu corazón, hazlo por ti, porque te lo mereces y porque por la grandeza que expresas, eres merecedor de vivir con felicidad, no permitas q las faltas de otros Arruinen, tu percepción de lo q es un padre, Con respeto ❤

[@jackwhitbread4583]

For me it was my choice to completely disown my father, mainly for the abuse he inflicted on my mother. I haven't had contact for well over 20 years and not even this song could change my mind. This song still wrecks me every time though, some people vomit when they see another doing it and I'm the same with crying. I dont like to see the pain of others, you could practically torture me and I wouldn't cry for myself but show me a video of another human suffering and I'm just gone immediately.

[@roseybut]

As a cavalry officer who led his men into battle. He shows us as men it's ok if/when our fathers/heroes are terminally ill/die our emotions are OK

[@yvonnevanwaegeningh-tiggel4577]

It's so powerful and so fragile at the same time... I think we might say that this very special sound is a trademark of James. And when he sings it feels so very heartfelt, that's what music is about for me. Don't be ashamed of any emotions, they are what makes us human... (But I know it can be hard to talk when crying). It's a powerful reminder for all of us to be grateful for what we have. And I'm so glad that a donor was found and his dad is still here.

[@derekmoore779]

My father passed away over 20 years ago, every day I miss him, I'm 65, he was my world and my inspiration. The words in this song have finally expressed what I have always felt about the most wonderful man that I have ever known. Long live E. D. M. My loving Father and greatest man ever, in my life. Thank you for your wonderful review of a song that will bring many to tears. You are a tower of strength. THANK YOU!!!!!! D.B.M.

[@serkansonmez6021]

I lost my father about 3 months ago. I didn't know this song existed, thanks to you I learned about it. The song really shook me and I still haven't recovered. Most of the lyrics in the song were spontaneously sung by me to my father.. I'm still in shock, how could this happen... You are a very kind hearted, very precious person... I'm glad you're here. Love to you

[@dennisn5308]

I understand how you feel. This song came out shortly after my dad passed away, suddenly. I break down every time I hear it, and reading this comment section does not help. I feel for you and my love and strength goes to you and your family.

[@Atroll_man]

James wanted this video done in one take for authenticity because he knew it would be emotional for him and wanted it kept that way.

[@johns20901]

such a great reaction Bethany. Thank You

[@patriciahetherington3380]

This song started as a poem written by James Blunt’s sister and James put it to music. It tells goodbye to their father who was diagnosed with kidney disease and was dying he needed a kidney transplant. This video was filmed in one go. James told the crew we are doing it in one go, as emotionally he couldn’t do multiple takes. Spoiler alert he got a kidney and is still alive. This song will always be a reminder of how close he got to loosing his dad. You should see Iam Tongi version of this song on American Idol, both Iam Tongi and James blunt got to perform this song together on Idol. **WARNING** Tissues are required for both versions!!! ❤

[@thomasmacdiarmid8251]

The failure of one kidney does not ordinarily require a transplant or even dialysis. But Charles Blount had already given a kidney to another person in need, so his failing kidney was the only one he had.

[@MakoyUnggoy]

My father was diagnosed with asbestos poisoning and within 6 weeks he had passed, This song came along not that long after and I didn't know anything about it...I think It could floor even the hardest hearted person

[@clarisaexplainsitall79]

This song kills me. Every single time.

[@j-fb3158]

Kills me every time a little more

[@davidmueller9342]

Thanks Claire

[@jeffstevens4262]

What a beautiful vocal analysis. You hit so many nails on the head, thank you so much. 🙋‍♂

[@AviatorLuber]

I wasn’t ready for that. This one hit close to home. I have never heard of James Blunt or this song before. His vocals and lyrics were amazing and hit such an emotional spot, about such a difficult time in life. I have dealt with the passing of both my parents and recently my only sister. I felt every word of that song. The emotion he sang with added so much to it as well. The song made me think about the last times I had with each of my family members, both when I didn’t know they would be the last time we would speak and also at the end. It never seems to play out the way you expected. Thank you for doing this song. I think you did a great job getting through it and analyzing his vocals and the song as a whole, and as always helped in appreciating it even more. I think I need to go get something out of my eye…

[@aicarnie]

James Blunt is a strange one. His words and music creep up on you when you least expect it. Much of his work is deep, and speaks to aspects of our lives that we don’t often want to take out and examine. I can only suggest that you start with his first album and work through his catalog. Even if you don’t think you are a fan of his type of music. You’ll be surprised how much of it resonates.

[@dagmar.6954]

James dad was actually dying from kidney disease & this was his tribute & farewell to his dad. Thankfully his dad received a donor kidney & is doing okay now. If this song doesn't get to you emotionally, there is something wrong with you. This song resonates with me as I was my dad's caregiver for 5 years until he passed away a few years ago.

[@rb10465]

MONSTERS BY JAMES BLUNT: THE SONG THAT MADE THE WORLD CRY!! 😢😞😭

[@tcat6133]

James is a really fantastic songwriter and you just can’t help but be drawn into a story that most people can relate to. Have been touched each time and I’ve watched this many, many times. Awesome reaction!

[@oslo456]

My dad died of cancer back in '85, when I was in college. Thanks, Bethany, for sharing this.

[@546Scott]

Beautiful reaction by you young lady. I really love your channel!

[@douglasmays3597]

Your raw reaction is what we look for. Thank you 🙏🏻 you did outstanding considering the content.

[@BassMatt1972]

It became too late for me, on Sunday, 28th of March, 20 years ago.. I lost my Father to suicide.. I now dont remember the sound of his voice.. Love everyone, as much as you can.. Im glad I got to share this with you.. it was beautiful..

[@stephanietip]

It was one take.The producers wanted him do do it a second time but he refused because he wanted the cracks in his voice in the song.He wanted it raw, real and emotional which is exactly what he felt Making this tribute to his terminally ill father

[@paulhester2588]

A beautiful song. A beautiful reaction, Bethany!

[@GazGaryGazza]

Verry emotional and the passage that hits the hardest for me is when he says "So Daddy won't you just close your eyes" Whilst the tables are turned and it's now his time to look after his elderly father, to reassure him, to love him and be there for him "Daddy" shows he's still the child but trying to do his best

[@astonvillaization]

I also love the movement of his father to the music ❤

[@joannem8405]

A beautiful analysis of a beautiful song. Thank you.

[@jasonsmith7402]

There is nothing more pure than a woman honest in her vulnerability, and this goddess is absolutely gorgeous...

[@23marian]

This song...I can't. It's beautiful but it hits so hard in my case. Thanks for reacting to it ❤

[@allengray5748]

DANG! Seen this many times and still the BLUNT Force Trauma hits! If you also listen to THE GIRL THAT NEVER WAS,,,, same effect, Beautifully Done. We cry as a witness. Can't imagine the living of AND the crafting process!! Nice Work Bethany! Peace 🕊️☮️♾️😎

[@peikathryn]

I agree, that one, especially the official video rips my heart out every time.

[@allengray5748]

@@peikathryn Ya. Not a album I would jamm to.

[@bretsmilyk7808]

I really wish someone would go down this rabbit hole. James Blunt, more than any other singer I have experienced, brings such personal emotion and expression to his music. He has an incredible background serving in the military which has influenced a lot of his early music. His live performances are whirlwind of emotions. Even if you can’t react to it I hope you take the time to watch “Goodbye My Lover” live at Oxford Union (2016) as another incredible example of painting emotions into his musical performances. Keep up the amazing reactions. So glad I subscribed and have been along for the ride.

[@bradmoyer9737]

There is a truly an overwhelming number music reaction channels on KZbin. Yours and a small handful of others are comprised of true music professionals, who have lived most sides of the music industry. I’m a lay person who only knows what I enjoy in all genres of music. You are able to explain music in terms that allow me to understand how all that beauty is created. To see your humanity and empathy when listening to this and others like Amazing Grace, reminds me that first and foremost you’re a good human being. Thank you.

[@SeanCleverly]

One of the most emotional and most beautiful reactions I have witnessed. This song is incredibly touching and at the same time most gut-wrenching.

[@lyngleslogic1180]

Every time I watch someone react to this song it’s so interesting to see how much introspection they go through.

[@MarkoMakela-kk7qf]

When this song came out and I was aware of the real condition of James Blunts father at the time, the sincerity and emotion is so present that it almost feels like you are the person who is going trough this hard time in your life and you can both hear and see, that James is singing here from his heart and means every word as he almost struggles to sing and keep himself together. Very beautiful and honest reaction from you Bethany!

[@chrishodges8246]

I absolutely love your heartfelt reaction. I'm an emotional person to begin with and so many different things can bring tears to my eyes. I should have known better to watch this video while I'm trying to eat dinner 🙂. I always enjoy your videos and the knowledge you share with us. Thank you so much for just being you. ❤❤😘😘

[@Jennifer-fy3jq]

So 😢sad but beautiful ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@itsthewayyouwalkthroughfire]

I love James Blunt….every single line, evert single time. ❤

[@k17reactions]

James Blunt delivered this performance intentionally raw, in one take, refused to let them autotune it & it was also the first time his dad heard the song.

[@davidmueller9342]

His vocal chords are studied by autotune

[@MLaak86]

I'm stunned his father kept himself together as much as he did, just patting James' arm, clearly hearing that he meant *everything* to his son.

[@k17reactions]

@@MLaak86 What I heard James Blunt say in an interview is that when the song was finished, everyone in the room was crying except his dad. His dad said something to the effect of, “Why are you crying, I’m the one dying.” Or something in that vein.

[@wxdave5448]

Bethany, thanks for the being a setinmental human. Further, thank you for leaving in your reactions. It’s meaningful. A song like this is so emotionally charged, it’s very hard to evaluate objectively….and perhaps it shouldn’t be.

[@benwalker8918]

This song hit home so hard! I was at my dad's bedside when he passed in 2017 and listening to this song, the tears came flowing! Thanks for the review, and thanks to James Blunt for the song in and of itself!

[@dennisn5308]

This song came out shortly after my dad passed away suddenly from a massive heart attack. It breaks me every time I hear it.

[@huberthicks9080]

Wow! Great song, great performance and such a real, incredibly raw reaction. You are a treasure. Thank you for another enjoyable video.

[@robinmoore8347]

A beautiful reaction to such a powerful song. A big thank you! 🫶

[@jasonstehlick452]

Last year my father passed away in Feb and I randomly stumbled upon this song shortly after and it broke me. I haven't had the courage to listen to it since, but I couldn't skip your analysis of it. Felt freeing to give it another listen, and as a very analytical person, I appreciate your deep dive on the musical components of it. You gave me a chance to attempt to finally take in the composition of the song as I could not do that at first listen. Appreciate your content and thank you specifically for this one.

[@sibertiger1970]

This breaks me every time. Another one that breaks me is Dean Lewis "How Do I Say Goodbye". Dean Lewis is a great Australian artist.

[@bobblebardsley]

I think those last few lines "I will be the last one, so I'll leave a light on, let there be no darkness in your heart" are really astonishing the more I think about them. Coming right off of "you can feel my hand on your arm" it really is the final moments (maybe that's obvious but it took me a few listens to fully appreciate it) and the power and significance of being the last person to hold somebody's arm, or to leave a light on for them as they leave this place, that all really resonates with me.

[@ilikeito]

Loved your reaction and analysis, had me tearing up. Couple of things I found out about this song: He adapted this song from his sisters poem. It was done in one take with no rehersals.That's why it was so emothional and everyone cried besides his dad. It was all real. And the lyrics "I'm not your son, you're not my father. We're just two grown men saying goodbye" was what his dad said to him when he went off to the army. And at the very end of the video, which I find a lot of reactors seem to miss is when his dad puts his hand back on his sons arm again. But overall fantastic video.

[@pjstartv6798]

Most of the time I've heard songs before watching someone react to them but this one I had not heard and it caught me by surprise. Such a powerful song.

[@KennethSavage-nn2vv]

The emotion of sadness + music = Physical Tears… This song gets me every time. Nice reaction and review 👊🏻

[@luckycoady]

Such a beautiful masterpiece of a song.

[@davemcsorley]

Always a heartfelt reaction - thanks for listening to this powerful piece. If you've any tissues left, you should look at "Goodbye My Lover" and "The Girl That Never was".

[@mickmiah7605]

Flipping heck. I had not heard this song before. I must be one of those "sympathetic criers" cause this was difficult to get through. James Blunt is one of those amazing musicians who uses music to explore wider emotions. This song feels rather apt to me at the moment. TY for vocal analysis, and your tears-they made mine burn a little calmer.

[@dustinrios5885]

Thank you for this reaction.

[@tonyhunt9980]

Great reaction from a beautiful lady. Greetings from the UK.

[@Swesent]

Such a heartfelt and lovely reaction, not to mention professional and insightful analysis! Now I can't wait for Blunt's "The girl that never was"! Would be a true treasure to hear you analyze that one as well.

[@Antti79]

Oh this one is a killer. James Blunt's music is a rabbit hole I'd look to see you go down. You're Beautiful, Goodbye My Lover, and Bonfire Heart are great songs to check out.

[@traveller9292]

I've watched this video a few times and for me I get the most sentiment watching you and your reaction to this video, yours is a from a place of real feelings and from the same perspective we get from watching James's performance and apparent but possible real tears

[@Painjusu]

I lost my father 3 years ago to suicide. I can't man, he really kills me with this song

[@jackroman2761]

HIS FATHER WAS IN STAGE 4 KIDNEY FAILURE HE NEEDED A KIDNEY TRANSPLANT AND AT CLOSE TO THE END A DISTANT COUSIN STEP FURTHER AND GAVE HIM THE KIDNEY HE'S ALIVE AND HEALTHY NOW

[@judegraham463]

profound point you made about how the singer may well have sung that line 'don't be afraid', even if it was subconsciously, to ease his own fear about death.

[@nicholasreyher8376]

I lost my father 3½ years ago and never got to say goodbye to him before he was cremated. I regret not doing so today and tears me up everyday. I workout 5 days a week intensely to hide the pain.

[@metracy42]

I love how you share your knowledge with us. You don’t act “above” us, if that makes sense? I feel like we’re just having a cool conversation. I love that you cry with us or similarly “headbang” on metal songs with us. I have learned a lot from you about singing, not that I can sing at all. But at least I know why it’s so difficult haha. At 57 it’s too late for me (due to personal illnesses). Both my daughter & son, in their 30’s have been singing since they were very young. It came so easy to them. Sorry I’ll be quiet now haha. Great reaction as always. This song gets me every time. You did a great job explaining through the tears.

[@roonkolos]

I was adopted my a single mom, never had a dad growing up. My uncle who is basically my grandfather is still around in relatively good health but hes up there in age But my aunt, whos pretty much my grandma... i lost her recently and losing her was beyond devastating. She gave me my first bath here in america when i was an infant... this song pretty much put into words what i wanted to say to her more or less. How i hope to make her proud and so on The last thing she ever told me: "im already so proud of you." This song doesnt just come from the soul. It is the soul

[@jaxompol224]

Such a sad song but fortunately his father got a last minute doner from a cousin which saved his life. This song helped my father say goodbye to his dad and then helped me say goodbye to mine.

[@jaxompol224]

Also the line I'm not your son your not my father was something they said to each other as they both served in the military.

[@jamestenorio7324]

You are beautiful and I love how you break down rawness of his words thank you

[@ryanjeffries2885]

You should do a reaction to James Blunt's "The Girl That Never Was" which is an equally amazing, yet heartbreaking song

[@MrHws5mp]

When you lose your last parent, there's an additional, very specific and peculiar feeling that's quite distinct from the normal feelings of grief at the loss of a loved one. That feeling is something like, "damn: it's all on me now". There's no older, wiser, more experienced people in the family left to turn to for help, advice or comfort. That's you now: you're the Older Generation, you have to be there and do that for everyone else, ready or not (and you never are). You're now in the shoes of the people you've been reacting to, and against, all your life. So yeah, when you said his "don't be afraid" was as much for the singer as the subject, I think you were spot on. You should definitely do James Blunt's song "The Girl That Never Was" (also based on events in his life). Might want to leave it few weeks though. And get another box of tissues...❤

[@brianwhitney9181]

It is good to see you cry because it shows your human.❤

[@traveller9292]

I missed these special moments, my stepmother that didn't like me never informed me of his sudden approaching death or funeral, later telling me his friends that she had poisoned against my sister and I wouldn't have wanted us there, 22 yrs later I am still suffering that I couldn't be there to say goodbye to my father

[@CoolCoyote]

His best song imo is 'Same Mistake' He made this song after his experience in the army, it is one of the best written songs ever. Saw the world turning in my sheets And once again I cannot sleep. Walk out the door and up the street, look at the stars beneath my feet. Remember rights that I did wrong, so here I go. Hello, hello. There is no place I cannot go. My mind is muddy but my heart is heavy. Does it show? I lose the track that loses me, so here I go. Ughoooh Ughoooh Ughoooh And so I sent some men to fight, and one came back at dead of night. Said he'd seen my enemy. Said he looked just like me, So I set out to cut myself and here I go. Uuhoooh Uuhoooh Uuhoooh I'm not calling for a second chance, I'm screaming at the top of my voice. Give me a reason but don't give me choice. 'Cause I'll just make the same mistake again. Uuhoooh And maybe someday we will meet, and maybe talk and not just speak. Don't buy the promises 'cause, there are no promises I keep. And my reflection troubles me, so here I go. Ughoooh Ughoooh Ughoooh I'm not calling for a second chance, I'm screaming at the top of my voice. Give me a reason but don't give me choice. 'Cause I'll just make the same mistake. I'm not calling for a second chance, I'm screaming at the top of my voice. Give me a reason but don't give me choice. 'Cause I'll just make the same mistake, again. Ughoooh Ughoooh Ughoooh (Ughoooh)Saw the world turning in my sheets (Ughoooh) and once again I cannot sleep. (Ughoooh) Walk out the door and up the street(Ughoooh) look at the stars. (Ughoooh) Look at the stars fall down.(Ughoooh) And wonder where (Ughoooh) did I go wrong.

[@bernadinelett2192]

This song always,make me cry.

[@paulinestraker8656]

You did so well to get through this track. It's a killer.

[@EsoxLucius21]

truly emotional as my dad approaches 80 and my mom a few years younger. 4 years ago my mom was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and had 6 months to live. She had half a lung removed, and is still fighting, but these types of songs crush me with what is to come, and for many what is to be. Thanks for your candor on this.

[@gottabeemee]

This song is raw, and exposes emotions we cannot fight...in a way it's good to have a good cry...but you did a great and admirable effort at containing your tears....Thank you for your reaction...PEACE!

[@craigloves-metallica5843]

Raw and beautiful

[@BallisticAero]

The strength of a young man's heart is far in a way one of the most powerful forces on this earth.

[@Chechenzko]

Thank God I still have my father around, but this song makes me value even more what he means to me and my siblings lives. Now that I’m a father sometimes I can relate to episodes from my childhood where family struggles were just a round after round in my father’s life trying to keep up and overcome the upcoming rounds! Now I realize how difficult it can get to be in an emotional hurricane and at the same time have no idea about it!

[@rcm944]

I found my own father on Thanksgiving day 2019 who had passed. We were very close and became friends as we both got older. He knew I loved him, but man I wish I had been there for him 😪I miss him so much

[@Prsboy78]

At the time of this one take performance his father was on a waitlist for life saving transplant and they were preparing for it to not come. Fortunately he received the transplant and is now well. The words and the moment were beautifully caught. Great reaction

[@davidsugawara2274]

Very emotional reaction. Very well conveyed emotionally and technically. You should rewatch the video to the very end and you will see James' father give him a reassuring pat on his arm which conveys a parents way of comforting their child.

[@ChristopherChamberlain-fw2iy]

She handled better than anyone ive seen so far

[@henrikmodin4235]

You missed the end. James father gives him a pat on his arm. I love it.

[@HankD13]

His dad was diagnosed with stage 4 chronic kidney disease, no suitable donner had been found. His dad had been an Army Colonel, and as a young officer James went off to war in Bosnia - it was his dad who said "we are just too grown men saying goodbye" as his parting words. Deliberate raw, emotional single take - no acting, no performance, this is from the soul. It did the job - because this song found a suitable donner. Magical.

[@ShaneH42]

It took a while for me to get to this because I need to be in the right place to hear it. I think you did amazingly well considering the emotions

[@iansaunders7090]

Before James turned to singing professionally he was a tank commander in the British Army and he saw action in Bosnia I believe , his father was ex army too !

[@CarlD70]

Truth. The lyric, "Your not my Father, I'm not your Son, we're just 2 grown men saying good bye" from what I have heard is what they would say to each other when being deployed during their time in the Army.

[@E-jit]

I’m sorry for your loss. I just somehow felt that needed to be said.

[@rb10465]

I lost my oldest Brother Jerry in 2003 to a Heart attack, and My Dad in 2012 to stomach Cancer; and My Tears start to Flow every time I hear this Song, cause I miss both of them so much! From one veteran to another; Thank You Captain James; the World needed this Song!!😳🥹😢😞😭🙏🇵🇷

[@andrewmoss1753]

I cry overtime when I hear this.

[@andrewmoss1753]

Overtime ! Thanks autocorrect your great

[@TheNotedHero]

His songs "No Bravery" and "Carry You Home" are great as well (he's at his best writing about his lived experiences), but I love his music video for "The Greatest". It hit so hard during the covid pandemic, a fantastic nod to all the healthcare workers.

[@jenniem930]

his dad was living with kidney failure at this point, after being a live donor in years before. his dad got a transplant at the last minute

[@tatatonio]

Not only are you extremely talented vocally in your analysis, but this reaction conveys your emotional sentiment to your viewers. To be moved emotionally by a singer, song, or words in general says much about your connection with humanity! You are beautiful young lady, and your human emotional connection is incredibly appreciated I'm sure by your viewers. Be Well! Be Blessed!