Reaction to Billy Don't Be a Hero - Paper Lace vs Bo Donaldson & the Heywoods Song Battle!

[@jessieball6195]

First time I have actually listened to both bands do this song one after the other-Bo Donaldson and Heywood's version WAY better, in fact, it isn't even close. The added bass, the additional instruments, the slightly faster pace, make their version superior in every aspect.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Jessie!

[@cjjones258]

My first introduction to this song was actually a cover by John C. Reilly for the deluxe edition of the Walk Hard; Dewey Cox Story Soundtrack. When I looked it up later on KZbin I heard the Paper Lace's version and liked it. However after hearing Bo Donaldson & the Heywood's for the first time was a treat and that's my pick.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Cj!

[@JoeScottish]

Paper Lace might have got their song stolen in the US by Bo Donaldson, but their follow up single 'The Night Chicago Died' went to number one in the US

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks SJ!

[@chuaahhian5481]

Didnt know until today that there is another successful band playing thus song. Thank you for the song. Keep it up.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for watching!

[@fishhookism]

Loved this song when I was a kid. I have to go Paper Lace for nostalgic reasons.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks John!

[@finallythere100]

Paper Lace - The Night Chicago Died - A MUST See..

[@CA5124]

Paper lace version has more melancholic vibes which matched the storytelling of the song whereas the US version by Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods was more upbeat uptempo... so too jolly ! As it is a sad song as Billy doesn't return home and is another "Hero" lost at war ! I read that Paper lace was going to release it in the US but these guys beat them to it !I'm guessing Paper lace may have been a bit annoyed possibly ? 🤔 😅

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha probably. Thanks Christine!

[@shauncupit1968]

Paper lace huge hit in uk, before they made cover in usa

[@floridiantom]

Definitely Bo Donaldson and the Haywards,,,,I was a young teenager when that song was released on the U.S. Top Billboard charts and the blew PaperLace away!

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for watching Tom!

[@kevinburch2191]

Bo Donaldson & The Heywoods version for me!

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@cfg908]

I only knew of the Paper Lace version, and I still prefer their version.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks!

[@janetstanard3436]

I was a hugh Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods fan. I love their version of course. I saw them numerous times in concert and they were great every time.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

I bet they were! Thanks for watching Janet!

[@rickyconner6782]

My best friend was named Billy when this came out.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Bet he loved this song!

[@margyb7469]

My dogs named Billy, does that count

[@kcdude719]

People will often choose the version that they are most familiar w/ or they'll give an opinion on a song the very FIRST time they hear it. I encourage people to withhold their opinions until they've heard a song at least 10 times. The reason for this is that so much of music appreciation is one's familiarity w/ a song. Often the anticipation of certain parts of songs bring enjoyment even before it gets to that part. Some of my favorite songs didn't do much for me the first time I heard them. I grew up w/ the Bo Donaldson version here in SoCal - it was HUGE in 1974, but sadly has almost become a 'forgotten oldie'. I've only heard the Paper Lace version a few times because of KZbin. I was only 14 when it was all over the radio. It sounded a bit like a Civil War song at the time. I got the part that his fiancée was heartbroken, but in my naiveté, I didn't get that it could also be construed as an 'anti-war' song until many years later. It's about patriotism at the same time.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

You make some good points but for the purpose of these vids we don't have the luxury to listen 10 times before we do them. We film 50-60 vids a month, not disagreeing with you at all though, your point is valid. Thanks Kc!

[@mr.salvatorejpluchino8467]

WELL GET READY FOR THAT WAR IN 2022 lol 😂 great video 👍🏻

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha thanks!

[@mr.salvatorejpluchino8467]

@@ReactionsToTheClassics 👍🏻👍🏻💪🏻💪🏻😂😂🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 CHARGE !! Lol 😂

[@DerekDominoes]

Definitely prefer the Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods' version. Of course, it was one of the first 45s I ever bought with my own money and I played it to death on my cheap turntable. And yeah, it was a HUGE hit at the time.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Great memories!

[@Bjowolf2]

But they got it all wrong 🙄

[@Jirodyne]

I've heard both versions many times, and still got to say I find the Bo Donaldson version much better done. Paper Lace sounded more chaotic, voices changes, alot more long pauses, and I don't like the "Keep your "Pretty" head low", sounds like a mouthful compared to Bo Donaldson's Version where they took Pretty out and just kept it "Keep your head low" And going back and relistening to both lead ups to it, it also sounds like Paper Lace had the lyrics "And as 'Billy' started to go", where as it sounds like Bo's version had "And as 'He' Started to go". Both times, it sounds like Bo Donaldson's version cut out and shorted the Chorus, keeping the Syllables for each verse simple and short. Yeah, giving each version more listening, Paper Lace just doesn't flow as nicely, a bit too chaotic, and Bo Donaldson's version just flows very smoothly right from beginning to end very consistently. Got to say, I love the Bo Donaldson version of this song much better, and love listening to it.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Really appreciate your breakdown especially with your history with the song!

[@beatlesarebest]

Heywoods hands down.

[@beatlesarebest]

Paper Lace sang the Night Chicago died.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Mike!

[@TheMeercat1]

Nothing beats the original, performed by a British band as always.

[@glammafabulous5600]

I like the paper and lace version better but I was always a paper and lace fan. The night Chicago died by them is still one of my favorites

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@gigantor62]

The Paperlace version blows the other version away had you played the studio version. I don't know where you got this version from but there's no Joanne Stone on backup vocals here. But hey, I'm still a fan of Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods because of songs like "Who Do You Think You Are."

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

As I have stated repeatedly on these comments it was the version on Spotify. Had zero idea it "wasn't" the correct version, however, it happens from time to time. We have over 2500 vids up not going to be 100%

[@jenniferhoffpauir1048]

The 2nd one is waaaaayyyy better. I remember listening to this one growing up.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Jennifer!

[@MarySteffen-f7c]

I love both versions

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Tough to choose for sure!

[@perkinsmariaeleana3809]

I grew up with the Heywoods version, but I am diggin' the a Paper Lace version!

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Both are so good! Thanks for watching!

[@shermanlin5554]

Good reaction video to a song I remember from my youth. It played over and over on the radio the Bo Donaldson version. I prefer it as his vocals were stronger in my opinion. Anyway thank you for this video

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Sherman!

[@davidloken6616]

Just by listening to two versions, Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods nailed better.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks David!

[@dianewhitehurst9161]

Yes

[@RLucas3000]

@@ReactionsToTheClassicsWhy would you spoil the huge twist ending of her throwing the letter away before listening?? Please don’t do that with other songs as many from this era had final twists!

[@tahesarockwood9168]

I just wonder how two different bands across the ocean from each other came out with the same song almost identical. Apart from that I had never heard the Heywoods version befor today and I happen to be almost sixty years old.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Totally normal back then. People would cover the original artists songs before their recordings even came out - ex Dylan and The Byrds. This practice kind of went away in the mid-70's. Thanks Tahesa!

[@debbiedavis6990]

That’s because Paper Lace recorded it, and released it first. I’m from America, and very ashamed someone from my Country stole Paper Laces number one Song. I’ve loved this Song, since I was a little girl, but of course, I had no idea what it meant way back then. I still love it, I was listening to old music, and Paper Lace sang it, and it brought back happy memories of my childhood. I have many friends from the UK, and they were done wrong, by an American!!! So sad!!!! People needs to find their own Songs, and leave the Original ones alone, because it went straight to the top of the charts for Paper Lace, in the UK, but of course, Americans, always has to screw up a great thing. I’ll always love this Song. The way I found this, I had posted Paper Lace on Facebook, and happen to see this afterwards. Paper Lace will always be my favorite version of this Song, because it was their Song first!!! Still is In my opinion!!! Omg that whistling by Paper Lace, cannot be beat by anyone.

[@ericnordstrom4335]

I think the next song you should compare is One Tin Soldier which was first done by The Association in 1969 and then in 1974 by Coven for the movie Billy Jack (which was a good movie for it's time).

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Actually have already done it ironically enough.

[@margyb7469]

Coven any day.

[@jessieball6195]

Not The Association, the group that originally performed it was called The Original Caste. The Association was known for hits like "Never My Love", "Cherish", and "Windy", among others.

[@ericnordstrom4335]

@@jessieball6195 yes you are right sorry about that I didn't realize it was the other group but I do remember when I was only 5 years old hearing it on the radio

[@pytube777]

Coven is the hit song.

[@Bjowolf2]

Paper Lace any day - there is really no contest there 😉

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for watching!

[@suejones5373]

Never heard of Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods, until now

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@richardw4336]

Very much remember the earworm that was the Paper Lace version in my youth. Being from the UK I've never heard the Bo Donaldson one. I'm not overly fond of the song written by two Brits but it was unavoidable at the time. I'm not sure the version you listened to was the original Paper Lace version. I hadn't heard it in a while but I can't say I liked either of them.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha thanks Richard!

[@kevinsealschott1090]

I’m biased because they are from Cincinnati but I’ll go w the Heywoods In fact I didn’t even know Paper Lace recorded it too until I read about it in a book. The Night Chicago Died is a better Paper Lace Song. Who Do You Think You Are is also a good Heywoods song that was also a cover of Another British Band called Candlewick Green

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Will check those out. Thanks Seals always appreciate what you bring!

[@philipcone357]

Mitch merry didn’t he write How do you do what you do to me?

[@catserver8577]

This came out when I was 5, and most music like this was called bubblegum music. So you can see why our generation is so messed up, even our "lite rock" was nightmare inducing. This one used to make me cry, but I loved it.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

lol great point!

[@irishchick39]

I've never heard the uk version but i love the American one but probably because that's what i grew up listing to

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Shelly!

[@poetgb]

Shawn and Trey, Wow, I haven't heard this song in so many years. My brother and I were in junior high in 1974 when this song was released. We heard this song many times on radio back then. A big hit in it's day. I always thought this song is a reference to the Civil War in the lyrics and the music and percussion. The lyrics contain a sad story.. The first version you played is a nice version . You guys are right, it is like soft Rock and Pop. The second version you played is the version I remember. It is more upbeat. i Agree Shawn, a different arrangement. I agree Trey, good keyboards. I see it is a split decision. I'll have to agree with Shawn and choose the Bo Donaldson version as the winner of this song battle. Both are good versions, Classic song Seals.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Figured you would know this one! Thanks Poet always love hearing your thoughts and reflections!

[@poetgb]

@@ReactionsToTheClassics Thank you Shawn for enjoying my thoughts and reflections. I always enjoy listening to what you guys have to say. btw, you figured right. Lol I did know this song from way back in the '70's.

[@antoniosumusculosidad]

Definitivamente la voz de Donalson es increíble juvenil el ritmo también es más moderno , no por algo ocupo las listas de popularidad

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Agreed on Donaldson, thanks for watching!

[@rosarioespinozaticeran7322]

Original: Paper Lace ( U.K. ) - Billy don't be a hero # 1 british ranking ( 1974 ). Covers: Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods # 1 Billboard ( 1974 ). Jorge Duarte ( México ) - Billy no seas un héroe ( 1974 ).

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Yep.

[@Bjowolf2]

Alf ( the space alien ) to his host "dad" Willie Tanner, as he is about to let some FBI agents inside the house. They are looking for a missing FBI agent, who Alf has captured thinking he was a burglar: "Wlllie, don't be a hero - don't be a fool with your life!" 😂

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha love the tie in!

[@michaelbutterly8307]

I enjoyed Paper Lace the Night Chicago died came out just prior so people knew them. It was better to dance too At the time everyone thought about Vietnam

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@jojowhite9296]

I was in Jr. High in 1974 when the Bo Donaldson version came out in the states. I never knew Paper Lace did it. I like the U.S. version because it was the American Civil war. Paper Lace did "The Night Chicago Died" in the summer of '74 but it was not very factually based since Al Capone was captured in a Movie Theatre and not killed in some gangland fight. I don't know if you ever reacted to "It's My Life" With Talk Talk doing the original in the mid 80's (live version is great) and No Doubt with Gwen Stafani did it it about 15 years later.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Will check that out JoJo. Thanks!

[@TheCkent100]

I think you're confusing Cappone with John Dillinger. Dillinger was the one that frequented theaters and was shot by three federal agents in an alley after leaving the Biograph Theater in Chicago. Cappone was repeatedly arrested and imprisoned, and released after short sentences on minor charges. When the Feds charged him with tax evasion, he was imprisoned in the Atlanta U.S. Penitentiary in May 1932. He was released in 1939 due to his failing health due to late stage syphillis. It affected his brain and greatly reduced his mental capabilities. By his death in 1947, he had the cognitive abilities of a 12 year old child.

[@jojowhite9296]

@@TheCkent100 You are right about Capone being arrested several times. The one that I was referring to be his arrest in the lobby of the Stanley Theatre (Philadelphia, 5/15/29) I think he was released after one year gun charges) but soon returned until his health deteriorated like you stated, in 1939. I just thought that Paper Lace's "The Night Chicago Died" did not give an accurate version of what happened. There was never any all-out assault on any given night in Chicago.

[@brittwoodhouse2339]

This was the first 45 I bought!

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

A great one! Thanks Britt!

[@normabreazile5500]

Yes, you have to hear the American version.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Will do. Thanks for watching Norma!

[@davidloken6616]

There are two other groups who sang the same kind of song, Dreaming. OMD vs Blondie

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Will check it out. Thanks

[@vonniedemers5683]

Thx for doing this bc I was beginning to think I was nuts... I grew up with this but I swore it was Bo Donaldson.... But all I saw here was the Paper Lace version. You should do Paper Lace "The Night Chicago Died". It's a great song too. I prefer Bo Donaldsons Billy better, I used to be able to whistle all the way through it when I was 9.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha totally understand how that happens! Thanks for watching we appreciate it!

[@orionspero560]

I'm going with paper lace also my sense is paper lace is Prestonpans wear as the other version is talking about Gettysburg.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@davidwoolbright3675]

Prestonpans would be boys in red…so probably not about that.

[@orionspero560]

@@davidwoolbright3675 There's a lyric difference. The color reference in the American version is specific to the US Civil War. And is not in paper lace

[@davidwoolbright3675]

No. Paper lace sings The soldier blues fell in behind.

[@davidwoolbright3675]

Listen again. Paper Lace sings Soldier Blues twice. And dresses in union uniforms.

[@silverdye7424]

I like Bo Donaldsons version

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@EarlJohn61]

The pair of you might enjoy the song *"Hurt"* Originally by _Nine Inch Nails:_ kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqqQk3-am511qdk And covered by _John Cash:_ kzbin.info/www/bejne/bnKrdJmQibd6n6s (I think it's best to do them in this order...)

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

We love that one. I ran Cash's American Series and obviously his version is so so powerful. Thanks!

[@juliemnm8273]

I prefer the Bo Donaldson & Heywoods version....

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for watching Julie!

[@philipcone357]

Billy Yank versus Johnny Reb in the American Civil War…

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha yes Philip!

[@dianewhitehurst9161]

Bo Donaldson & the Heywoods are the best.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@shortbeardeddude]

I like the bo donaldson version better because of the bass and the faster tempo. But I liked the female voice in the paper lace version saying "Come back and make me your wife" I like that touch. Both songs bring back memories. It is ironic that the British band would dress like the American civil war.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha I thought the same thing! thanks for watching!

[@pjimmbojimmbo1990]

I remember hearing the Paper Lace version, all summer long, here in Canada. I never of heard of Bo Donaldson, or his version until about 15 yrs later. Paper Lace's version is better. However, I don't know what Paper Lace cut you played, as it doesn't sound like the one that was released in 74.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@Bjowolf2]

The Paper Lace version you are playing sounds speeded up, and the voices and drums sound differently - maybe it'a later remix from the 90s?

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

It is others have mentioned it, obviously we didn't realize it at the time, it was what Spotify had. Thanks

[@Y2TABOO4U]

Sounds the same to me... Sorry was there copy issues is what I want to know.?! Btw I was Billy as a kid and girls used to sing this to me early 70s!!!

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

No copyright issues, covers were done all the time back then. Songwriters loved the royalties!

[@jessieball6195]

The song lyrics are definitely referring to the U.S. Civil War.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Yep

[@jamiefarrell8646]

The Paper Lace song you played was a re-recording. The Original recording was the best....

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

ok

[@debbiedavis6990]

I cannot believe you two had never heard that song. It was always one of my favorite songs, still is, and I’m from America. Maybe you two, are to young to remember this great Song. It reminds me so much of my childhood. Paper Lace recorded it first, so to me they deserved all of the credit. I hate someone from America stole their song. That wasn’t right, no one could ever sing that song like Paper Lace could. I don’t care for people stealing peoples songs, especially when it went straight to number one for Paper Lace. I am an American, and hate that was done to Paper Lace. My favorite will always be Paper Lace!!!!! There is no comparison at all to me!!!!

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Debbie. And yes Trey was born in 1995 and I was born in 1971 so before either of our times, great tune though!

[@debbiedavis6990]

@@ReactionsToTheClassics it really was such a great song. I was to young to understand what it meant, but I always loved it. I still do, it reminds me so much of my childhood with my 2 older sisters, I have now lost, it will always remind me of them laying in the sun, with that boombox blasting. I was the baby girl. It’s a fantastic classic for sure. My daughter was born on November 3,1995. She’s 27.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Wow Trey was born on November 5, 1995! So close and sorry for your loss but the power of music is so strongs, instantly can transport us to those memories!

[@Pony-Corral]

I still love this song. I knew Paper Lace recorded it but didn't realize Bo Donaldson & the Heywood's version was what I grew up with. I like their version better. I have to agree with Dad on this one.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Greg!

[@billmisencik5234]

I grew up listening to the Bo Donaldson version in the States. I prefer the arrangement and the vocals of that version more. However, The Night Chicago Died was pure gold for Paper Lace a little bit later. Interesting that a couple of Brits wrote Billy and it definitely is Civil War referenced with the soldier blue comment.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Bill!

[@ralphbenites1819]

Bo Donaldson did better with more feel to it.a lot happening with the music it sounded full then paper lace.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@honestone490]

"Pretty boy keep your head low." LOL Never would those lyrics be on a US version in 1974 that's for sure.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for watching

[@pytube777]

Bo Donaldson is my pick.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@jamesstrickland517]

If you really listen that was not whistles by the Heywoods it is a recorder.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks!

[@joseannepace1716]

Paper lace by far

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks!

[@rogermcginnis2765]

Paper Lace is by far better.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Roger!

[@zar4ox]

That Paper lace version, is re-recorded. It's not the original version

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Yep it was the version on Spotify, many have let us know but not much can be done about it now

[@07braves48]

donaldson

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for watching 07braves!

[@JayLamont-co2oe]

You missed the verse difference. Paper lace says keep your pretty head low not in the Donaldson version keep your head low I prefer Bo s version

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Lol ok

[@truckerkevthepaidtourist]

Pure radio schlock...my opinion 35 yrs ago and still🤣

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha there is substance to the lyrics for sure

[@truckerkevthepaidtourist]

@@ReactionsToTheClassics lol pop-culture.fandom.com/wiki/Billy_Don%27t_Be_a_Hero

[@chrismulwee4911]

I want to tell you, yes Paper Lace is indeed the original.However, the version you listened to is not their original 1974 recording; it's a much later rerecording. Here is the bona-fide '74 original kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIPZeGiYf9ioa7M

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

ok

[@JoeScottish]

The Original Version 1 The US Rip off 0

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha thanks SJ!

[@denisemay6807]

Bo Donaldson’s was WAY better

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks Denise!

[@neilperry2241]

Paper lace far superior

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for watching Neil!

[@brettstare2327]

While I like both versions of the song, I much prefer the Paper Lace hit version. Unfortunately the P.L. version you included here is a re-recording and loses some of the finer points and emotion of the song.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching and that is the version on Spotify so all we had to go off of.

[@djbryanladd]

Rerecording of paper lace

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

yep been stated in the comments numerous times, when you are using Spotify and dont know the song it happens from time to time

[@barbarassistermj8684]

Just don't like paper laces " keep your pretty head low"

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for Watching!

[@davidwoolbright3675]

Bo Donaldson was better. Billy keep your head low Paper Lace keep your pretty head low.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for watching!

[@JosephLockhart-k5v]

Bo better

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for watching!

[@robertvavra414]

Your Paper Lace track is not the "official" version that got played on a.m. radio. It had a female voice singing the words that quoted the fiance'; e.g. "Come back and make me your wife". It had other guitars, background vocals, and a better mix. It can be found elsewhere on youtube. I never liked the song, part of the anti-military vibe at the time. Vietnam vets were getting spit on. Both groups had bigger and better hits.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

yes it has commented on numerous time it is not the "official" version. It is the version Spotify had and never hearing it obviously didnt realize it wasnt the official version. It happens

[@robertvavra414]

No problem at all. I look forward to watching more of your videos.

[@yossarian6799]

The Paper Lace version got some airplay in the Northeast. Their version sucked ass. Some of the worst vocals ever in a pop song. The drums and whistling hark to the Civil War and "Billy" is clearly "Billy Yank", the Union counterpart to Confederate "Johnny Reb". However.... Candlewick Green's "Who Do You Think You Are" was better than Bo Donaldson's and Jigsaw's versions.

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

haha ok

[@MarySteffen-f7c]

I love both versions

[@ReactionsToTheClassics]

Thanks for checking it out!