Queen Bohemian Rhapsody - Music Teacher/ Bass Player Reacts

[@debramoore7513]

Awwww - Here’s some masterpieces to check out!! MARCH OF THE BLACK QUEEN, THE PROPHETS SONG, MY FAIRY KING, INNUENDO … Add to the list the live versions of LIAR, FATHER TO SON, WHITE QUEEN, NOW I’M HERE. Queen is an amazing band with brilliant musicians!! Each member of Queen have been inducted into the Song Writer’s Hall of Fame on their own merits. Queen is in the Rock n Roll Hall Of Fame & considered one of the best selling artists of all time.

[@JelaniStokes]

I absolutely agree!! 😁😁😁

[@worldtraveler3773]

Queen White queen live at the Odeon 75 it's a mind blowing. Freddie's solo Exercises in free love - you'll be in shock when you hear his voice, and Barcelona with Montserrat Caballe.

[@JelaniStokes]

I can tell you I've already been enjoying it and I can't wait to share my thoughts in video form soon. Thank you for the suggestion!!

[@barrysiewert7386]

Great reaction!!! Would love to hear you breakdown of White Queen at Odeon Hammersmith’75.

[@RichardLaurence]

Yes! I was at the concert, sitting in the balcony. An amazing evening!

[@marciebulsaraorcutt]

@@RichardLaurence At the Hammersmith in 1975?!?!?😵 You're so LUCKY!

[@gracielahonig]

Thanks for your reaction, loved! I think you'll like: Somebody to love official video (or alive in the bowl), You take my breath away, Who wants to live forever (Wembley 86) and more... Much more... (lol) 👑❤️

[@JelaniStokes]

Added to the future list! I am excited to share my thoughts about White Queen at Odeon Hammersmith '75. Thanks!!

[@JelaniStokes]

Added to the lists. Great songs especially Somebody To Love. The emotion is that song is quite remarkable! Thank you for the suggestions!!

[@marciebulsaraorcutt]

As @Barry Siewart recommended, it w/b AWESOME if you did a reaction to "White Queen" live at Odeon Hammersmith in 1975. (FYI, There's also a 1974 performance at the Rainbow... but 1975 is THE. BEST!) OTHER REQUESTS: "You Take My Breath Away" live at Hyde Park in 1976 "It's A Hard Life" live at Rock In Rio in 1985 "Who Wants To Live Forever" live at Wembley in 1986

[@JelaniStokes]

Thank you for those awesome requests! I've added them to my future video list. I look forward to sharing them in the near future! Thanks again!

[@debramoore7513]

YESSSS - Great song list

[@marciebulsaraorcutt]

@@debramoore7513 💕💕💕😘

[@cybertaiga9534]

Very good, respectful and analytical reaction. I liked it. Besides, Freddie's out-of-the-world singing and showmanship, the most overlooked areas are his amazingly unusual songwriting and piano skills. He never used to rate himself highly as a pianist but seriously there is nobody who plays piano like him. He has a certain style to start with and it is very rhythmic in nature too, it completely locks in with Roger Taylor's drumming (even Roger has mentioned about this in an interview).

[@JelaniStokes]

I absolutely agree. Just take this song for example. To compose a complex song like Bohemian Rhapsody and have the public at large love it, is just a small example of the songwriting talent of Freddie Mercury.

[@bettybaby63]

“From the brain of Fred” Queen was renowned for using several different sections weaved together. Using vocals, piano, drums, bass & the Red Special. Freddie would often intro a song saying “a composition by …” The name bohemian rhapsody was/is perfect for this piece. Bohemian; the practice of an unconventional lifestyle, often in the company of like-minded people and with few permanent ties. It involves musical, artistic, literary, or spiritual pursuits. Rhapsody; (Music, other) a composition free in structure and highly emotional in character.

[@JelaniStokes]

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS explanation. Thank you soo much for your insight! This gives me a brand new perspective to think about at when I listen to this song again in the future.

[@stevenlovett643]

Queen - masters of live concerts.

[@JelaniStokes]

💯💯🎸🎸

[@ZENOBlAmusic]

Great analysis! It is fantastic to see someone who actually understands the complexity of this composition. Freddie Mercury is very underrated as a composer. Some more suggestions of some unique Queen songs, The Great King Rat live at the Rainbow 1974 (audio only) and The Fairy Feller Masters-Stroke, Liar live at the Rainbow 1974 (the 8 minute version). The Millionaire Waltz is also an composition of many changes and it features an amazing bass line! Another Queen song with a great bass line is Bring Back That Leroy Brown, the was a tribute to Jim Croce. Since you play bass you might enjoy those. From Freddie Mercury's solo album, The Golden Boy - Freddie Mercury & Montserrat Caballe, this is a great composition it is a mixture of gospel and opera.

[@JelaniStokes]

I would agree that Freddie is underrated as a composer. To me what sets him apart is that he was always willing to take risks and take the music to places others would be afraid to go or they would deem it too weird or uncommercial. He allowed the music to expand and breath vs. confine it for commercial purposes. Stevie Wonder (another of my all-time favorites) was another who was known for this during is five album classic period.

[@LMTino]

Queen's INUENDO com bines sections much as you described and the video is mesmerizing. There is also another Queen song I have heard touted in Queen fan circle's as Brian May's equivalent of BoRap - THE PROPHET'S SONG. It tops the run time. There was something about Queen that drove them to explore, especially early in. Some would say that was Freddie. But lucky for them, the combined talents led to a distinct Queen sound.

[@JelaniStokes]

INUENDO is AMAZING and I hope to discuss it in the near future. I agree that Freddie was the driving force but when you add the monster guitar licks of Brian May, the awesome drumming of Roger Taylor, and the steady grooves of John Deacon, you truly have an AMAZING musical force of nature at work named Queen.

[@andreakormosnekacso4804]

@@JelaniStokes It was a god given moment that the 4 of them found eachother.

[@JelaniStokes]

@@andreakormosnekacso4804 Yes it is. Divine Intervention I would call it!

[@carolcjh8938]

@@JelaniStokes Love John Deacon. He is my favorite member of the Band. So underrated. He once said, "I bought the whole bass, I'm going to play the whole bass."

[@JelaniStokes]

@@carolcjh8938 absolutely love it 💯💯💯

[@molokoko786]

More songs composed like Bo Rap as symphonies? Well, Queen did several! Innuendo March of the Black Queen Was It All Worth It The Prophet Song Father and Son It’s Late Millionaires Waltz And they are all great!

[@JelaniStokes]

Wow... This just made my day! I've already saved each song to one of my music playlists. Thank you for these songs!!

[@molokoko786]

@@JelaniStokes my pleasure! I hope we get to see you react to one or two of them! :)

[@JelaniStokes]

@@molokoko786 I am pretty sure you will as I have added several of those listed to my future video list. Thanks again!!

[@debramoore7513]

Great song list

[@marciebulsaraorcutt]

@@JelaniStokes ESPECIALLY THE "INNUENDO" MUSIC VIDEO, PLEASE!

[@marydc26]

I think that Innuendo is the 90s version of Bohemian Rhapsody. It's an incredible masterpiece and one of my favorite Queen songs.

[@JelaniStokes]

I would absolutely agree! And considering everything that was going on during that time, makes it all the more special.

[@janetschulman7649]

The definition of rhapsody. Songs stitched together. A rhapsody is a free form piece that takes different tunes and strings them together.

[@JelaniStokes]

💯💯💯 Couldn't have said it better myself!

[@lena-mariag.louis-charles3579]

Freddie "Four Octaves" Mercury was an incredibly talented man, on so many levels - and he was a Front Man like no other. In addition, QUEEN's other band members were/are nothing to sneeze at, either - their instrumental and vocal abilities incredible, as well. Experiencing them live was beyond spectacular - Freddie's command of the stage (and audience...) was absolutely amazing.

[@JelaniStokes]

YES! 💯💯YES!

[@lena-mariag.louis-charles3579]

@@JelaniStokes 👍💕 ENJOY Your weekend, my friend!

[@DeadnWoon]

Jethro Tull's multi-part composition "Baker Street Muse" follows the same formula, for good example.

[@JelaniStokes]

I will check it out!! Thanks!!

[@janetschulman7649]

Good choice of live performance. Don’t you love when Freddie plays the piano? More of that please. More Queen.

[@JelaniStokes]

Yes I actually do! He's a very underrated pianist.

[@andr0x733]

Since u r a bass player, u can react to under pressure live at Wembley '86, in that performance u can hear clear the bass

[@JelaniStokes]

Now that's something I gotta hear! I never turn a chance to hear prominent basses! 🎸🎸

[@andr0x733]

@@JelaniStokes u won't regret it😏🔥

[@melinakristinmercury9586]

This is absolutley the best BohRhap I have ever see and hear.......all from Montreal was the best 👑🌟👑🌟👑🌟👑🌟👑🌟

[@JelaniStokes]

💯💯🎸😎

[@pinkey943]

The official video is awesome.This is a master piece all in Freddies mind

[@kelleyspangler7426]

Another song I Feel has the same song structure would be Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin. Another queen song with that same structure I would have to say is White Queen at Hammersmith Odeon

[@JelaniStokes]

OMG! I can't believe I forgot that one! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THAT SONG! Now I have to go listen it to it! THANK YOU!!

[@susanengland3919]

You should watch the "official" studio version also. They do some interesting special effects to make an amazing song even more so. You need to wear headphones to get the full effect.

[@JelaniStokes]

I love that version! I wanted to post my thoughts on it but it kept getting blocked by KZbin. So I thought I would share an awesome live version!

[@carabas5523]

Nice one Jelani - Can't offer anything current but what's lovely about the reaction culture is that people are digging deeper into albums - and here I am talking of Queen - and discovering tunes that would be a single for any other band. Sounds like you know them well but would be intrigued as to your take on The Prophet's Song on the same album... Keep up the good work :)

[@JelaniStokes]

That's actually a great idea. I would love to discuss albums as a whole because some of the best songs come from the non-singles. I just may do a video series on that in the future! Thank you for the awesome idea!!! Much appreciated!!! 😁😁😁

[@andreakormosnekacso4804]

Thanks for the great reaction. What do you think about the Innuendo which one is titled as the Bohemian Rhapsody of the 90s?

[@JelaniStokes]

To me, I think Innuendo (the album) is one of Freddie's finest performances when you consider that this was his last album released during his lifetime. My favorite track is "The Show Must Go On" because his vocal performance is so powerful and inspirational.

[@312jayc]

Love the detailed review! This is a classic

[@JelaniStokes]

Thanks you!!

[@jamishops]

Billy Joel’s “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant “ uses a similar form.

[@JelaniStokes]

I will be checking it out!

[@tishtashyates2632]

No other pop/rock song like it to this day.

[@Darjeelingla]

A true Rock Opera.

[@JelaniStokes]

💯💯💯

[@EvilRubberBiscuit]

Pink Floyd has a piece that utilizes different compositional sections (somewhat theme and variation). “Shine on you crazy diamond” was written about the mental decline of former band member Syd Barret. This piece is definitely a one example of what (imho) puts them onto the same level of based on its complexity and genius as Queen had with Bohemian Rhapsody.

[@JelaniStokes]

My man! Now I will actually listen to some Pink Floyd! Who knows....Might just do a video on them soon......😝

[@bjwaugh4294]

Hi. Really enjoyed ur reactios to Queen. U mite enjoy Innuendo r March of the Black Queen. Looking forward to ur next reaction. Stay safe. Enjoy!!!

[@JelaniStokes]

Just finished my recording today. I'll have it ready for the world next week for everyone to enjoy! Thanks for the awesome suggestion!!

[@annaricci4686]

Freddie ❤

[@ellesee7079]

There will be quite a few from the old prog rock days. Led Zeppelin had Stairway to Heaven and Kashmir to name but 2, but I agree, The Prophets song, written by Brian May is epic! Would love to hear your thoughts on that one 😊

[@JelaniStokes]

It's funny because as soon as I finshed my video, I wanted to kick myself for leaving out those Led Zeppelin classics. I'll definitely get it a listen and share my thoughts! Thanks for the suggestion!!😁😁

[@pinkey943]

Ok im in the Queen army we know alot about Queen and beloved Freddie there is a very long list of songs/videos to watch and listen to so enjoy

[@JelaniStokes]

Yes.....you are right about having A LOT of videos to go through. And that's a good program to have!!

[@horstschafer1839]

The song "music" by john miles comes close to what you were talking about...

[@JelaniStokes]

I will check it out! Thanks for the suggestion!!

[@ZinnyXO]

Queen's Innuendo is mentioned as similar. I'd love to hear your reaction.

[@JelaniStokes]

Just finished recording today and I will have it ready for public consumption next week! Thanks!

[@daedala70]

You should react to Dragon attack from this concert. You’ll love the bass there. Even a little bass solo going on as well 😀

[@JelaniStokes]

OH YEAH!! I'M THERE!!

[@LMTino]

"They" say everyone has their own voice. CASE. IN. POINT. You know it when you hear it, no matter the incarnation...and there are plenty.

[@JelaniStokes]

ABSOLUTELY! Sometimes having a unique recognizable sound can be more valuable that having more talent. Anytime you hear Freddie's voice, you never have to struggle to figure out who that could be. Truly one of a kind.

[@debramoore7513]

Btw, loved your analysis!! Just subbed 👍

[@JelaniStokes]

Thank you soo much for your support!! 😎😁😎😁

[@irinichotou470]

Me too 💥

[@JelaniStokes]

@@irinichotou470 Thank you! I truly appreciate those kind words!!😎

[@irinichotou470]

@@JelaniStokes You're welcome. I really loved to listen to you! Great analysis! Greetings from Greece

[@JelaniStokes]

@@irinichotou470 I greatly appreciate it! I hope to get your input on some of my future videos! Thanks again!!

[@juliananelson475]

Try Innuendo by Queen! Also has several sections-

[@JelaniStokes]

Yeah I've been listening to it and yeah Queen did themselves proud!

[@radouanezid425]

Listen to innuendo

[@JelaniStokes]

Already have it on my Playlist working on sharing my thoughts!! 😁😁Thanks!!

[@Scottyo74]

i feel Raiohead's paranoid android has a similar composition.

[@JelaniStokes]

Wow. I'll have to check that song out! Thanks!

[@tishtashyates2632]

He had a really sore throat that day too!

[@natashyahendrix2]

Jelani, have you thought about doing this song on your acapella videos?

[@JelaniStokes]

I actually have! It's something I have in the planning stages and I have some really cool ideas for it!

[@natashyahendrix2]

@@JelaniStokes awesome. I know it will be great. I'm looking out for it.

[@AlmosttheGoodlife]

PAYL McCARTNEY & WINGS - “Band On The Run” might fall into this category?

[@JelaniStokes]

I forgot about Sir Paul McCartney!! Thank you soo much for the save!!

[@jimreedy1960]

Jelani, I am a new subscriber and really like your commentaries, but where are your headphones? They make a huge difference in the sound quality. Virtually every other reactor uses them.

[@JelaniStokes]

Thanks for subbing! I appreciate the support! Its ironic that you mention headphones because If you watch some of my recent videos, that's exactly what I started to do! Thanks again!!

[@adamdodgshon638]

Lots of prog rock songs take you on a journey. Genesis songs such as Firth Of Fifth, Cinema Show, Supper’s Ready and Musical Box. A modern band who have taken up the baton are Muse. Try Butterflies And Hurricanes or Exogenysis Symphony (all 3 parts) or The Globalist.

[@JelaniStokes]

Thank you for those suggestions!! I am adding those to my new music personal playlist as I am typing this. 😎

[@adamdodgshon638]

@@JelaniStokes it will be a journey for sure! Prog rock in particular is probably an acquired taste. It’s not just that the lyrics are usually a bit “old timey” but the songs just have so much going on and seem to change at will! Of course you may fall in love with them straight away. But yeah, for bringing it up to date, I think Muse are as close to a modern day Queen as we get. The songs can be a little over the top but in a good way, the leas singer also plays piano (and guitar) and has an incredible vocal range, the songs have a lot of power, some are more funky and all are played with amazing skill. Their live performances are insane. Genesis went on to have a very long career. Original lead singer Peter Gabriel, as well as the drummer and singer who replaced him, Phil Collins, had long solo careers too. 80s Genesis still sounded great (to me) and have a few songs you may be familiar with. They still made some longer tracks but they weren’t really “prog rock” and tended to me smoother flowing rather than changing so suddenly. But even with those 4 songs I mentioned I’ve given you well over 30 minutes of listening time lol. Hope you enjoy them.

[@nielsinelange765]

React more Queen -> Innuendo

[@JelaniStokes]

I am already on the job! I can't wait to share my thoughts on it! Thanks!

[@caythorgrimson]

freddie what instrument do you play ?????? the audience darling the audience damn i mis the bloke

[@RoverWaters]

2:24 Brian May wrote the solo

[@JelaniStokes]

Thank you! This goes to show that every member of Queen was a MONSTER! but when you put them together.......you end up with music that will stand the test of time!

[@1031irishqueen]

You had asked for Roger Taylor songs..."My Fairy King"...now, he doesn't sing lead, but his falsetto voice will BLOW YOUR MIND! 😉

[@davidroberts1384]

Welcome to British music part1🇬🇧

[@normalasamsudin1891]

yey. I studied in the UK 1984 - 1990. and yes, I love British music. Greetings from Malaysia.

[@JelaniStokes]

Thank you! I am looking forward to diving deeper into British music!

[@Darjeelingla]

Suggestion: Little Feat. Extraordinary rock band. Probably musicianship of each, unsurpassed.

[@JelaniStokes]

Thank you!! I WILL be checking it out!!

[@EvilRubberBiscuit]

Great review. If you’re looking for music that uses similar forms, I’d suggest reviewing some Pink Floyd (pleeease! 😁)

[@JelaniStokes]

Thank you! I never had the opportunity to really listen to Pink Floyd. Do you have any suggestions on the best way to get started?

[@EvilRubberBiscuit]

@@JelaniStokes Ooh, that’s a good question!? I’d suggest starting with the 1973 album “The Dark Side of the Moon”. Probably too much for one video, but the “A” side is comprised of one major theme in and of itself (birth, life, death, and…?). Actually, if you want to do just one song: “The Great Gig In the Sky” has no lyrics per se, but it speaks volumes with its commentary / interview and Clare Torry’s amazing vocals.

[@JelaniStokes]

I'm there!! Thank you for those great suggestions!!

[@pinkey943]

Iive aid

[@tishtashyates2632]

Such a sad song.