GOT US SPEECHLESS!| FIRST TIME HEARING Midnight Oil - Beds Are Burning REACTION

[@73mooch]

As a proud indigenous Australian man this song means so much so thank you

[@williamh4172]

It may mean a lot, but words alone don't much. As long as the same psychopath bloodlines are running the show, the bloodshed and suffering continues.

[@pastorofmuppets22]

Well Robert...As an American...I stumbled upon a band you probably know about by chance....X ray specks. That lead me to the Drunk Mums and Amyl and the sniffers. I couldn't be more thrilled about it! Amy Taylor is a bona fide Icon ! People here in the states just don't know about her yet.

[@MsDesiree39]

@@williamh4172 what era are you stuck in? pretty sure the soing refers to shit that happened a long time ago

[@arexyouxepicxenough]

@@MsDesiree39 song refers to nuclear testing that happened to people who are currently still alive you fucking psycho

[@MsDesiree39]

@@arexyouxepicxenough u r da psycho

[@aussiepie4865]

You’ve made all your Australian subscribers very happy with this reaction. Midnight oil are one of our finest bands. The lead singer is Peter Garret, they were very political with their music but extremely entertaining and popular. You need to do more of them.

[@bernardsalvatore1929]

Great band, MATE!!!

[@onionhead5780]

Made some American subscribers very happy with this song reaction also my friend. ✌️

[@csn10]

Blue Sky MIne should be next, also very political. Garret went on to serve in the House of Representatives. Other great Australian bands: THE CHURCH: aura (same topic as Beds are Burning), and DEAD CAN DANCE: desert song...

[@simontemplar3359]

Midnight Oil are so amazing and powerful. To this day, I think Blue Sky Mining is one of the greatest albums that was ever recorded. The line "pack your bags full of guns and ammunition, bills fall due for the industrial revolution, scorch the earth til the earth surrenders" is bleak but so beautifully constructed. And of course the song Forgotten Years hits me in the guts every time.

[@johnchrysostomon6284]

Not all. It's a highly contentious issue that we are not one sovereign nation, but there's another - native one

[@AndyJa83]

Not just an Aussie classic. This song is legendary world-wide.

[@EvelineUK]

I grew up in Holland where it was a massive hit at the time.

[@AndyJa83]

@@EvelineUK That's so cool. 🤘👍

[@wibjorn]

Same here in Sweden

[@diakojim1977]

@@wibjorn And in Greece too

[@ursusbavaricus4761]

In Germany as well.

[@clareeeeee1]

As an Australian this song means a lot to me. Means even more to our indigenous community . The lead singer is also a prominent politician here

[@pastorofmuppets22]

We here in the states have always accepted Australian bands with open arms. We have a lot in common. We both have nations that are vast. We both kicked the riff raff out of our respective countries (English). We're both a bombastic,bold,brash, people. Nobody tells either of us what to do. Don't let the news fool you...we share a common sense of optimism and zest for life that no other people in the world have. Ever since Acca Dacca,the transition has been pretty seamless for your bands touring here. We're digging your new scene as well. The Drunk Mums,Amyl and the sniffers, Coffin,ect...

[@Travlla]

@@pastorofmuppets22 Mate we didn't kick the British out at all, there was no revolutionary war in Australia, not even a threat of revolution, it was all done with ink , paper, words and votes, The idea was raised in 1889 and 6 colonies became a nation in 1901, Britian did not object, But your war of independence is the main reason the Brits started a penal colony here in 1788,

[@pastorofmuppets22]

@@Travlla I realize there was no war,but the end result was similar.

[@heatherrowles9930]

@@pastorofmuppets22 not even close to being similar. The, now, king is still our head of state, our king as much as he is the British king........there was no war or even argument when it came to Australia becoming an independent nation, we had already proved to be FAR too difficult for the Brits to effectively rule from so far away......Aussies do, and pretty much always have, done things our own way.

[@garyrumsby3330]

Thank @uck we we left the rif raf in America I don’t see how you could be so proud of being a cockhead

[@DadalorianCreates]

as a north american first nation person , this song has always meant a lot to me. -- I mean it is not like my ancestors wanted to live in Oklahoma, but hell the 'invaders' wanted our land took it and never gave it back. When I first heard this track i investigated the meaning the history and the plight of others... thank you for truly listening to this song and feeling it.

[@ireallyreallyhategoogle]

It's the same everywhere. Colonialism and imperialism has reached all corners of the world, and indigenous people are STILL being killed and expropriated by people that want the land and natural resources.

[@ashh1657]

If you like this song you should listen to dead heart by midnight oil the lyrics cut even deeper.

[@martinconnors5195]

I'm a native of Essex in the UK; and even though I was born here, my Ancestors left the Republic of Ireland (Famine) and Scandinavia. The soil in my home country is sacred to me, so whenever I come home from another country (I have to cuddle it)

[@DadalorianCreates]

@@ashh1657 i have, i have the album on wax ... i am a bit of an audiofile, and spent my teens in the eughtues so started hounding out sounds then and never stopped. I always liked Midnight Oil's sound stance and convictions..

[@markv1274]

@@DadalorianCreates Sadly, they threw those convictions into the garbage.

[@robertshields7192]

🇦🇺 Australian Classic 🥁🎸🔥 The lead singer use too be our Environmental Officer in Parliament !

[@scottsotan9951]

Did not know that - that is just awewome! In music and deed he was true to his ideals then.

[@macman1469]

Minister for the Environment . Former Federal member of parliament, first for the GREENS and then as a minister in the ALP ( Australian Labor Party ).

[@nzlemming]

Sadly, no he was not. He tried for it, and made a lot of noise about it, but Rudd refused to allow him to be that, instead giving that responsibility to Treasurer Wayne Swan. Even though Garret was made Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts, the climate change responsibility was hived off to Penny Wong. Rudd did not like people who were more popular than him. Rudd was a cunt. Better than Abbott but that's a damn low bar.

[@aliciarenon]

American here-I read that a while ago and had even more respect for him. Peter Garrett is so cool. The whole band is, imo.

[@j0hnn13K]

pretty sure he was/is a lawyer as well

[@SimonMinall-Burdett]

This track is legit epic. It has not aged badly at all, it’s so good!

[@willasacco9898]

Word, brother👍

[@surlechapeau]

Jay & Amber, you'll love their "Blue Sky Mine", "Power and the Passion" and "Forgotten Years"!!

[@mkmstillstackin]

Great recommendations. Love both those songs!

[@surlechapeau]

@@mkmstillstackin thank you! added one, sorry

[@trenchy1990]

Power and the Passion is very relevant today.

[@goldboy150]

Blue sky mine is an absolute banger

[@jeffpawlinski3210]

"Forgotten Years" in phenomenal!

[@christinaholliday9886]

Years ago I recorded this from a satellite, I'm native American Indian and this touched my heart and made me cry ! Thank you for playing a friend borrowed said tape and never gave back !

[@mishigirl72]

Christina, as a first nations Australian I’d be more than happy to send you a copy of this album.

[@missq3989]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iIHQdX-IlLJoZq8 If you like this Christina I will gladly send you an album or tape . Whatever you wish

[@markv1274]

Does anyone else see the humour in a Native American loaning something to a friend, particularly a record based on indigenous land rights, and not having it returned?

[@seanoreilly1832]

Well done son.. well done

[@sarahthompson8702]

This is for all the first nation peoples. This song fires up us Australians and others from around the world for equality and peace and to make things right for past generations mistakes. Awesome reaction and the fact you got the meaning straight away is amazing.

[@adrenalinmyride5634]

No it's not It's a specific protest song about the Uranium Mine in Kakadu It wasn't stolen by the government It was conquered by the British before Australia was even a nation The government were the ones who have it back under the conditions that the land be preserved as national Park and visitors allowed to explore Also, this song was specifically about the uranium mine in Kakadu The Pininjara own Kakadu on conservation conditions (which is a traditional part of their culture anyway) But the mine is still there and for good reason It is, among other things the source of all Australian ability to run MRIs and X-Rays and radiation treatment for cancer saving lives each year

[@glenchapman3899]

@@adrenalinmyride5634 You probably need to take that up with Peter Garret. He does not seem to agree with your pronouncement

[@happyolddude]

What a laugh to say First Nations. The aboriginals were never a first nation as they were continually at war with each other and could not understand a word each tribe said. There is only one First Nation and they are in Canada. Please learn your history. My mate in Victoria says he is a blackfella!

[@glenchapman3899]

@@happyolddude So by this bizarre logic most of the nations of Europe are not nations because they fought each other and dont all speak the same language.

[@mattrennie6876]

@@glenchapman3899 Yes, and the US isn't a nation either, it's blue vs red.

[@jonathanlocke6404]

Always thought of them as Australia's R.E.M.: Socially conscious, politically active, charismatic lead vocalist, original music...

[@dannford-premiersothebysin9057]

Wow, didn't think about that! I can see it. LOVE REM, one of my top favorite bands!!

[@Retroearthling]

An American tells you I agree. Fantastic.

[@maxcat06]

Perfect comparison!

[@whatdaro]

more like R.E.M is like the Oils

[@screwyootube1]

Very astute comparison!

[@kathyastrom1315]

Songs like this made this 80s college kid first aware of aboriginal rights. Another song that made me really think about another country’s fight for freedom is Johnny Clegg and Savuka’s “One Man, One Vote.”

[@Bluesbabesrv]

Oh I would love to hear a reaction to the late, great Johnny Clegg. I was lucky to have seen him perform a couple of times.

[@nzlemming]

OMG yes! Clegg/Savuka were huge. Scatterlings of Africa was my first introduction.

[@kathyastrom1315]

@@nzlemming Mine was Cool Crazy Beautiful World-Warsaw 1943 is one of the few songs guaranteed to make me sob every time I hear it.

[@xJRx77]

Exactly right

[@bjdefilippo447]

Fell in love with Johnny Clegg and Savuka. One of the few albums I hated getting "borrowed".

[@MrEvenStranger]

For us Americans, 45 degrees (celsius) is 113 degrees Fahrenheit. Excellent tune, I'm so glad you've reacted to it.

[@jacebronson2305]

Except it means 45 degrees latitude, not temperature.

[@CombinatorialImplosi]

@@jacebronson2305 Except that Australia doesn't get "down" to 45 degrees South Latitude, about 40 is as far south as it goes, and the desert part is more like in the 20s to 30s, closer to the equator. Check it out yourself with Google Earth (as I did) or with a globe. Which makes it quite clear they were talking temperature, not latitude.

[@thabudmaster]

@@jacebronson2305 errr nope sorry

[@robertbrenneman5367]

He means 45 degrees latitude. Geographically speaking

[@Tassiefarmlife]

I am in Tasmania the most southern state in Australia. 45 deg is in the Great Southern Ocean. Peter Garret is talking 45C temp in the desert. That temperature is a real thing and often in am Australian summer.

[@lxlthr4058]

I was 20 when this album was released in the US. Had a 6'8" lanky best friend who shaved his head and did his best to be Peter Garett. He is currently active in indigenous rights in the US and it all goes back to this song.

[@brookemcgilvray3781]

That's really cool! 😎

[@Nessevan]

Such a great anecdote! Thanks for sharing

[@QueuePea]

This song resonated for a lot of us in Canada too. That album was huge worldwide, in fact, and brought the Oils music to a larger audience than they had before. I've been an Oils fan since I first heard them in 1982, and I was fortunate in that I was able to see them on their last 2 tours, most recently in June 2022. Happy I got to see them one last time before they retired from touring.

[@dvdknight1]

This was such a special song from 1987. It has such an important message for Australia and the world. So happy you guys got it right away, love you guys!

[@wandameadows5736]

The message is Leftist contradiction where they apply different rules for Europeans who migrated to Australia. The irony is Aboriginal's didn't recognize "Land Ownership" like Europeans. So its comparing apples to oranges with outrageous hypocrisy & contradiction's to boot. If "Honesty" something people value they'd not take the message serious.

[@epoh8698]

I got the tape around 1992 :)

[@phildodson6141]

1987...but I remember 1988 it was all over mtv

[@jasondonati5523]

Definitely 1987. Midnight Oil were great, Australia had a few great bands that had very political messages. Not to mention lots of great bands in general with some awesome songs.

[@cinedelasestrellas]

@@jasondonati5523...And when it comes to 80s bands from Australia, who can forget Men at Work?

[@kathyastrom1315]

The entire album this song is on is fantastic.

[@laurabryannan]

Totally agree. Dreamworld is my fav on this album.

[@davidwoolbright3675]

Diesel and Dust

[@falchoon]

Dead Heart is the best track on that album, Sometimes is a banger too.

[@kellypedersen6590]

"Diesel And Dust" was one of 1987's absolute high points.

[@richardsteiner8992]

@@falchoon Nice to see I'm not the only person who loves Dead Heart.

[@mellowyellowvision]

OMG, forgot how amazing that song is! Made me cry. The lead singer, Peter Garrett, " served as President of the Australian Conservation Foundation for ten years before being elected for the Labor Party as the Member of the House of Representatives for the seat of Kingsford Smith in the 2004 election. " Thanks for reacting to this!

[@guymartin6514]

As our recent "Voice Referendum" showed the divide is still very wide and we Australians have a long way to go. Treaty yea! ❤

[@brehojojordan7259]

I didn’t appreciate this song in my youth. Too young to get it. It’s such an absolutely beautiful and powerful song.

[@razzo086]

Yeah I remember blasting on rage just enjoying it but at 5-6 years old, you really don’t understand anything in the world let alone this song lol

[@jeffpawlinski3210]

The band 10,000 Maniacs, from that same late 80's early 90s era, also put out some incredible songs with deeply meaningful lyrics. ("What's The Matter Here?" or "Happy Puppet" are two excellent song choices) Perfect for Female Friday!

[@deanarjones9114]

I love 10,000 Maniacs. Natalie Merchant is a treasure. Her song writing is beautiful. Her voice is underrated

[@jeffpawlinski3210]

@@deanarjones9114 We need to start a Rob Squad Reactions petition to ask Jay and Amber to finally react to 10,000 Maniacs and/or Natalie Merchant for the first time EVER! Both 10,000 Maniacs and Natalie's solo material deserve a listen. I'm convinced we'd open the flood gates and create lifelong fans of the band and Natalie for Jay and Amber!

[@willfromyadkinville]

yes sir! 10'000 Maniacs are incredible!

[@3DJapan]

@@jeffpawlinski3210 I've brought them up in the comments several times.

[@stephenulmer3781]

Love them ☺

[@eddunn4121]

I love this song so much, but it makes me tear up that when I listened to it as a 14-15 year old in 1987, I thought we were moving towards a better place, the reconciliation and honesty that they were singing about, in a short time. We’re still not there. We all need to keep on struggling on.

[@susanconstable2113]

I feel ya! We really thought the world would be a better place back then. We had hopes and dreams of that.

[@joumasepoes88]

As a white South African we did our part, but peace and reconciliation was not the plan of the tribes. Still in 2023 we hear the singing of kill the Boere (whites) one bullet one farmer. There is no place safe for us here now.

[@garyneilson3075]

An end to this failed system is on the way with far far better times ahead. see God's personal promise at Revelation 21 :1& check out Matthew 24 :3,14, in the Bible and expect good things from God

[@hbg99x]

Same; water is rolling down me face now...

[@2210courtney]

Such an underrated band, they are from Australia, the album “Blue Sky Mine” is a deep album full of bangers. The singer was even a member of Parliament for a period if time.

[@michaelparsons5299]

That's right. He oversaw the pink bats debacle that killed young people. What a talent! 😬

[@nzlemming]

Diesel and Dust, also.

[@katkonces5651]

LOVE Blue Sky Mine!

[@patverum9051]

@@michaelparsons5299 The deaths had nothing to do with the Pink Batts, but workers who stapled trough live wire when installing them. The practise of laying cable unprotected on ceiling framing just clipped in place here and there was the reason for the electrocutions. BTW they use the same "system"in NZ and they had accidents too.

[@Mark-xx3gh]

Yes! I was trying to remember one of the other songs of theirs. Love that one too.

[@cosmicnomad8319]

The lead singer, Peter Garrett, was a lawyer in Australia who became a politician. He retired from politics in 2013. What a full life! I absolutely loved this band when I first heard them in college.

[@danieldunlavey6901]

Midnight Oil and Public Enemy are the 2 bands that politicised me when I was a kid, Midnight Oil have always been one of my all time favourite groups, just such an incredible body of work under their belts. Fabulous

[@matthewmarcinko9157]

You know, between these guys, and AC/DC, and Little River Band and of course Men At Work, Australia has been a veritable GOLD MINE for some of the best music ever made!

[@peterandjunko]

Hello?…. (INXS raising their hand in the back)

[@Shellgrit]

@@peterandjunko And also John Farnham, Jimmy Barnes

[@SLOPPEWALL]

The Models, The DiVinyles, The Angels ( Angel City in North America) raises hand as well.

[@trevorbozzer4562]

How about Hunters and Collectors or maybe a band you might have also heard of…Crowded House. And this is from a Canadian 😂

[@Shellgrit]

And of course Crowded House/Split Enz and Dragon (we'll take them as,Aussies 😁

[@hitekrednek66]

Being a Native American....born and bred Okie....it does have some deeper lyrics than even I realized when I was a kid jamming this tune! Thanks for breaking it down and showing great respect and helping me find it as well!!

[@andreadeamon6419]

Same. Cherokee and blackfoot here

[@TwoBitWriter]

My mother's heritage is Chickasaw. I'm also an Okie. Wishing you well, friend!

[@macmcgee5116]

As an American... With possibly a tiny bit of Crow blood... depending on which relative you ask. I didn't realize that this group was Australian and always assumed this song was about the plight of Native Americans. I mean the sentiments would be the same so I guess I am not that far off.

[@sarahpagett9191]

But let's be honest we are all immigrants even native Americans came from somewhere else first and I heard they was people in America before the natives came

[@Glaaki13]

@@macmcgee5116 Sadly yes and they face a lot of the same.

[@jackieknows9129]

Love Amber's kindness when she said the voice "was very different"....

[@cathierockey5123]

I feel she said it that way for the same reason I would have and have said it that way. When you first look at the lead singer, he looks like one of the actors in the movie The Hills Have Eyes. To most people you expect more of a thrash/death metal voice. He does not sound like that at all.

[@sungal1956]

Love y’all! ❤

[@saiyamanGXT]

The best version of this song was performed live by Midnight Oil at the 2000 Summer Olympics closing ceremonies in Sydney.

[@christabell-zc9rn]

Touche

[@IN2BEATS1]

Welcome to the world of Midnight Oil. IMHO the best musical export from all of Australia. Want more songs. "King of the Mountain", "Sometimes", "Forgotten Years", "Blue Sky Mine". Absolutely one of the best bands, ever. Shame their songs of truth, fairness and peace aren't more recognized and celebrated. Thanks for exposing a new generation to the Oils.

[@kevindonachie1593]

Another one of their great songs is The Dead Heart

[@91bigrick11]

As a first time commenter and long time subscriber from Australia, I am so impressed that you understood the meaning the song from the very first reaction. This band have so many hard hitting songs, The Dead Heart, US Forces, Blue Sky Mine, and even recent songs like First Nation and Rising Seas. There live performances are truly epic.

[@91bigrick11]

Given your a fan of rap, check out indigenous rap group A B Original, some of their lyrics are very deep, with a sick beat. January 26, is a deep but incredible song.

[@ballyastrocade5672]

It's funny -- I remember some Aussie acquaintances of mine being surprised that we'd even *heard* of Midnight Oil up here in the States, much less that they were actually popular for a time in the 80s... We "get it" because, even though Oil's songs are explicitly about the issues between the Aussie government and the Aborigines down where you are, there *are* more than a few historical parallels between that and our own unfortunate histories between our own government and the Native American (a.k.a "Indian") tribes that the themes still resonate, even if the specific situations and players are different.

[@markv1274]

Do you *really* believe this was a genuine "first listen"? You don't say "the lyrics stick with you" less than a minute after hearing a song for the first time. Big giveaway that these videos aren't genuine. At the very least, they screen and research these songs before recording the episode. These are the same people who would have you believe that they never heard 'California Girls' by The Beach Boys until just a few months ago.

[@lokisan100]

Absolutely!​@@ballyastrocade5672

[@neilsgross]

Fantastic Australian Band with a message that still resonates today, maybe even more. Try Power and the Passion

[@ForbiddTV]

The drum solo is killer unlike any other on that song.

[@John-nr6gg]

@@ForbiddTV Yes, Power and the Passion really moves along and has a GREAT message.

[@alexandervasel6845]

This song was fire back in the day (⁠◍⁠•⁠ᴗ⁠•⁠◍⁠)⁠❤

[@geetee4459]

and still is!

[@mariafantasia1191]

So great that you got it! You got it! From an Aussie who loves Midnight Oil and their strong statements about our First Nation People = thank you! 💕

[@kevinmiller1121]

This song put Midnight Oil on the map in the US, and I for one bought every record they ever made and fell in love. Politically outspoken, musically brilliant, they are one-of-a-kind. I'm glad Rob pointed out the backing vocals as I have long felt this band has some of the best BGVs I have ever heard. Check out Sleep, Power and the Passion, Dreamworld, and River Runs Red. I was so happy to finally get to see them live a few years ago.

[@caseymoe816]

So many people loved this song at the time bc it was such a catchy tune. Many of them had no idea what the song was really saying or what it was about. So glad you two recognized it immediately and heard what the rest of us already knew. Great job! Great reaction! 🔥🤙

[@rocketward]

Absolutely…I’ve watched so many reactions to this where the reactors don’t get it..shows how smart this young couple are 👍

[@IWantToSmashLiberalsWithHammer]

@@rocketward With all due respect ,Jay thought it was about native Americans which he pointed out by saying it and telling us about the Indian feathers hanging on the wall.. Maybe he didn't know that the band is Australian and singing about the Aborigines natives over there...

[@stevensansone7502]

I saw them in concert in 1990, and it is STILL the best concert I've ever seen. There wasn't a dip in energy the whole time. A 6'4" bald man dancing, singing, and flailing around the stage with the band playing full-power for nearly 3 hours. It was, and still is, incredible.

[@carlmarks8170]

They always were a phenomenal live band. I wish more people knew about their earlier material: Head Injuries... Bird Noises [EP]... Place Without a Postcard... 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1.... Red Sails in the Sunset... Species Deceases [EP] All great and worth a listen, but "10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1" was their undisputed masterpiece.

[@donnam5891]

Oh, I'm jealous. Wish I'd seen them live. I love Peter's voice.

[@GlitterGlamGal]

Pete’s dance moves were iconic! 🇦🇺

[@tdearsan]

they're great live!

[@jamesguidry6669]

"The Dead Heart" by Midnight Oil is my favorite by them! It is the flip side of "Beds" and it became a single for them as well as a video! Y'all are the best! ❤️

[@Zonday88]

As with all songs from 'The Oils', their songs are politically charged with racial connotations regarding Australian Aboriginal rights and mistreatment. Its always been said that this song is the most enduring as it deals with Aboriginal Landrights and The Australian Government and mining companies profiteering off resources and giving nothing back. At the end of the day though, as a band and musical collective, they belt out absolute bangers. I promise you, you walk into local pub in Australia, find a juke box and put on Beds Are Burning..... the split second singer Peter Garrett opens the song with "Out Where The River Broke....The Bloodwood and The Desert Oak". The pub will break out in chorus

[@hanyandme]

So glad you loved it. Yes, Peter Garrett is a character that's for sure. A politician no less. To this day, this song moves me deeply, that base rhythm, the vocals and my go those lyrics. They have an awesome drummer too who features more in other songs. Thanks for listening.

[@dionysus1016]

Midnight Oil's 'Short Memory' one of the darkest most powerful statement songs ever made, universal not limited to Australia. The live version is great!

[@robclark8889]

There are only four words for Midnight Oil. Such an underrated band.

[@InTheOuter]

Underrated outside of Australia, not within

[@seanlowe4785]

When have they been underrated?

[@happyolddude]

Actually I think they are very overrated. Just one decent song.

[@seanlowe4785]

@@happyolddude surely kidding.

[@Kuesel68]

A very big song also here in Switzerland - we are still singing it today, it's a classic. Even though most of the people worldwide never got the message. It's about giving the Natives in Australia back their land and honour. A problem that still occurs. And it is soooo fantastic, that you got that within 2 minutes into the song!

[@tgranny3547]

Natives everywhere are treated poorly still

[@Hftr_232dhs]

TRUEE!🇨🇭

[@rigelmoon9030]

I'm so happy you chose this official version. Just love watching all the dancing throughout the entire video. Thanks, folks.

[@danno1974ify]

Went to a Oils concert in 1991 for $10 in Perth, Blue Sky Mining tour, they were incredible live.

[@howardhales6325]

Love this band. Love this song. I couldn't believe it when they played it at the opening ceremonies for the Olympics when they were held in Australia. Can you even imagine such an angry protest song being played at an American Olympics? Please play "Blue Sky Mine" next.

[@dedebones1967]

I 💯% agree

[@Objectified]

I was wondering which anti-American bigot would derp something about the U.S. in response to this song about Australia. And they didn't play it at the opening ceremonies, they played it at the closing ceremony. Never mind that protest and sociopolitical activism music is wildly popular in the U.S., or the number of U.S. athletes that have protested during the games and their own medal ceremonies against injustices in the U.S. and other countries and received overwhelming support from the American media and public for doing so. Nope, just "herpa derpa America bad!"

[@nzlemming]

@@Objectified And when have the Olympics been an American deal? Isn't the point that it's an international event??

[@DrStephanieMillerWilliams]

Yes honey! My song! I was in the military when I first heard this and I cried like a baby when I heard it I ran out and bought it! 😢 This is a political song about giving native Australian lands back to the Pintupi, who were among the very last people to come in from the desert. These "last contact" people began moving from the Gibson Desert to settlements and missions in the 1930s. More were forcibly moved during the 1950s and 1960s to the Papunya settlement. In 1981 they left to return to their own country and established the Kintore community which is nestled in the picturesque Kintore Ranges, surrounded by Mulga and Spinifex country. It is now a thriving little community with a population of about 400. It can go for the Native Indians too! Lyrics: Verse 1] Out where the river broke The bloodwood and the desert oak Holden wrecks and boilin' diesels Steam in forty-five degrees [Pre-Chorus] The time has come to say fair's fair To pay the rent, to pay our share The time has come, a fact's a fact It belongs to them, let's give it back Chorus] How can we dance when our earth is turnin'? How do we sleep while our beds are burnin'? How can we dance when our earth is turnin'? How do we sleep while our beds are burnin'? [Post-Chorus] The time has come to say fair's fair To pay the rent now, to pay our share [Verse 2] Four wheels scare the cockatoos From Kintore, east to Yuendemu The Western Desert lives and breathes In forty-five degrees [Pre-Chorus] The time has come to say fair's fair To pay the rent, to pay our share The time has come, a fact's a fact It belongs to them, let's give it back [Chorus] How can we dance when our earth is turnin'? How do we sleep while our beds are burnin'? How can we dance when our earth is turnin'? How do we sleep while our beds are burnin'? Pre-Chorus] The time has come to say fair's fair To pay the rent now, to pay our share The time has come, a fact's a fact It belongs to them, we're gonna give it back [Outro] How can we dance when our earth is turnin'? How do we sleep while our beds are burnin'? That’s right??? ❤

[@sherrihimes7357]

My ❤goes out to y’all we’re all in deep 🙏

[@hedgewitchherbarium]

OMG!! You guys have me so excited! So glad you discovered one of my fave bands (especially since they're Aussies like me!) As has been mentioned, the whole album is awesome (Diesel and Dust) - check out "Bullroarer" and "The Dead Heart." Also other songs like "Blue Sky Mining" (great harmonica), "Power and the Passion" and "Back on the Borderline". I'm Indigenous (Koorie) and grew up with Midnight Oil. So thrilled to see you guys like it - even if his voice can throw you off! The songwriting with this band is awesome and the music is amazing. Lotsa luv!

[@kazheadrest3626]

Beautiful comment.

[@Sisallaboutthelove]

"The Dead Heart" is a banger!

[@pastorofmuppets22]

As an Aussie...you probably know Amyl and the sniffers,the Drunk Mums, Coffin and X ray specks....As an American, I stumbled upon these bands by chance,and couldn't be more thrilled! People don't have to listen to the same songs over and over if they're fans of the classic sound. Outside of X ray specks who are an older band... there's a great music scene happening in Australia now,and people need to be made aware of it! I do my best to put the word out to my fellow Americans,they deserve the praise,but I'm only one person. Amy Taylor from Amyl and the sniffers is a huge star....she was born one. But people just don't know it yet

[@deltapunk]

A very deep song, and you can dance to it ! All time classic This song will live forever

[@johnwillie6961]

A song about our Aboriginal brothers' and sisters' plight in Australia. ❤❤❤ I remember this particular song resonated with a lot of Indigenous American youth back in the day, it still does!

[@timdyer5903]

Midnight Oil were and are an awesome band. 'Dreamworld' 'the dead heart' 'read about it' and 'truganini' must be reacted to. The 'diesel and dust' album is one of Australia's best ever. They weren't afraid to shout about subjects others ignored.

[@arthurplane9682]

Truganini.... my absolute fav!

[@hosehead58]

diesel and dust one of THE best ever, anywhere..

[@merlynthecat]

Ditto on everything you said especially "Truganini". Such a powerful song!

[@P.Galore]

One of the greatest social advocate bands of all time with a genius drummer, Robert Hirst

[@mattmid7012]

and a genius songwriter in Jim Mogine too.

[@carltonbakerii8274]

Next should be "Power And The Passion". This group is amazing. So much great music comes out of Australia!

[@flatandsplat]

My fave midnight oil song. The horns!!!

[@adamkreymborg3464]

"Power and the passion " THE VIDEO HAS SO MUCH IN IT. YOU WILL NEED TO WATCH IT 10 TIMES TO GET IT ALL

[@jurgentreue1200]

Rob Hurst, Midnight Oil's drummer, is a phenomenal song writer. Beds Are Burning is one of his best.

[@ArchDragon888]

The singer guy became a politician in Australia. Last I heard nobody liked him for reasons I don't quite recall. But that was something I learned a few Administrations ago so...

[@ArchDragon888]

Something to look up if you feel like.

[@RisingTidesAC]

To Jay and Amber, I just want you to know that I love watching your reaction videos not only because I love the songs that you react to but mostly because you are such good people and when I am alone and a bit lonely, you make me feel like I am listening to music with dear friends. God Bless you and your family from Atlantic City, NJ.

[@kimmycook2698]

Such a great album...and a worthy message. Loved it back then...love it now

[@melprophet1936]

For those who like Midnight Oil, there is a recording of them doing MTV unplugged which is fantastic. It was released a long time ago on DVD but it's very hard to find. Once in a while the video shows up on You Tube, but it gets taken down pretty quickly. Worth looking into if you haven't seen it and like the band.

[@JEREMY99218]

Here it is: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6DWnWOXZ7udf6M

[@melprophet1936]

@@JEREMY99218 Thanks!!

[@nzlemming]

Thank you, and the person that gave the link. Just listened for the first time. Sooo good.

[@mattmid7012]

@JEREMY99218 Ah it's back on here, thanks for that!

[@TheJackBaker]

I had this album for years. Loved the MTV unplugged, It got stolen. I still hear them in my memory.

[@arturorobles4900]

In the 90's in LA they had a festival .LA Street Scene and Midnight Oil was playing on a stage at the same time James Brown was going to perform on another stage,,I chose to see Midnight Oil as I knew a huge crowd would be seeing James Brown..Yep soo many people crowded the stage soo James Brown sang for like 10 mins and police closed it down..meanwhile I got like 45 mins of Midnight Oil..great times.

[@bodybalanceU2]

you must listen to "dead heart" from midnight oil i think that song will also leave you speechless especially from your native american point of view

[@LMmccallL57]

They're an Australian band, and if you research some history of the Indigenous people of Australia, it may touch you even deeper. Once again, I suggest the true story movie, "Rabbit Proof Fence", about three Aboriginal girls about the age of yours, who walked thousands of miles in Australia to find their family. Heartbreaking and inspiring.

[@markgulbranson7518]

Musically, it's great. Lyrically, it's deep. Together, it's memorable.

[@magepaster65]

Fantastically well written song with a powerful message. It been a minute since I last heard it. Thanks for reacting to it.

[@kenlawton1531]

"The Oils " have rocked Aussies for generations. Now they're gonna rock you!

[@elainelee7250]

This song applies to the USA too. Look how our government treats the native Indians. They lost all there homelands.

[@shicrapt]

First off, if you really want to respect them, stop calling them Indians. They're Native Americans. People from India are Indians, not East Indians.

[@rienkhoek4169]

​@@shicrapt They call themselves Indians.

[@FAITHandLOGIC]

Too fucking bad. You don't defend your territory, you lose it.

[@Amrabj1]

Yes, there are many similarities.

[@Nifty-at-50]

I loved this song and I didn’t even realize it was about the indigenous people- that’s another reason I love you guys, you get to the true meaning behind the music❤️🥰

[@elainekiskis2001]

I've listened to this song hundreds of times since the 80's and I didn't realize it either Celeste.

[@thabudmaster]

you never listened to the lyrics?

[@susanconstable2113]

Omg there is just something about this song! I’m mostly an 80s metalhead but this song will forever be in my playlist!

[@sean_b_drummer]

Such an iconic Australian song! 🤩😍🔥 Yup, Aboriginal Reparations. 👍🏽

[@garyarnett1220]

At least OZ starting making Reparations. Like to see that in the US.

[@justpassingthrough3657]

@@garyarnett1220 . Reparations have been made. Read up on the US and Liberia under President Monroe

[@sparkyth67]

@@garyarnett1220 To who? For what?

[@danieljohnson2005]

Yeah, right. Hypocrites like you would be screaming to the heavens if it actually happened and you saw your taxes multiplied by 500%. Who do you think is going to pay for it, knucklehead?

[@btgiv6009]

@@garyarnett1220 Give me a break. Sure, let's pay reparations... as soon as the Cheyenne pay the Crow, the Comanche pay the Apache, the Ojibwa pay the Lakota, etc., etc., etc. And while we're at it, let's make sure the French and Scandinavians pay the British (for their successive invasions), the Arabs pay the Berbers and Byzantines... gosh, sounds like pretty much everyone should pay everyone reparations. Or, you know, maybe we could just accept that fact that every square inch of inhabitable land on the planet has been conquered many times and move on.

[@gphunkera8731]

As a First Nations person in Canada, these guys are legendary and always get play on the reserve!

[@vk88864]

Love that you do. From a sister from another nation from another tribe in a country they call Australia 🖤💛♥️

[@TeamBlockstars]

Amazing Band - Midnight Oil is one of the greatest human right's influential bands of all time. Exceptional music - strong lyrics & messaging. Their song "THE DEAD HEART," is an absolute must listen.

[@johnmaynardable]

This is a great song from a great band. Yes they are Australian, but the message is true all over the world.

[@jedicid]

I love this song, amazing lyrics.

[@RandyforRoyals]

Your next Midnight Oil song should be "Blue Sky Mine." Great Australian group.

[@tlcndc]

Wonderful response indeed! And yes, definitely about righting the prejudices on the indigenous population!

[@DUKECITYCREW]

Another Long awaited Request I’ve been waiting on for well over a year Thank You

[@motorcoachtech7615]

‘Blue Ski Mine’ is my favourite song from this band. Lead singer Peter Garrett, went into politics, and was elected to Government in the ‘2000’s

[@sachaput]

I don't believe I've ever heard this song or this group. Thanks for introducing us to them. A wonderful message of how those who were on the land first, really should be its caretakers.

[@ashleighlister3248]

​@@d.a.w.975 go away racist.

[@heatherrowles9930]

@@d.a.w.975 please show me where anyone has suggested they could or would........ That isnt what this song is about and never has been.

[@alexlanning712]

They will always be the stewards and custodians of this great land

[@waltw4537]

Another tune that doesn't get played enough anymore. Thanks.

[@darrenwilson8042]

Peter Garrett is an activist and has been for years - this song is so powerful in its message

[@Harpo.jr70]

A great song about the Native people of Australia and how they got screwed like our Native American tribes. Cool 6' 8 " singer.

[@lesquon4152]

Great reaction, I'm an American living in Australia which this song is a product from. Such an amazing one of a kind sound. I recommend Solid Rock from Goanna, it also tells the story of the British invading a new land they found and took over similar to how the British landed and took over North America. Another recommendation that's more upbeat We can get together by Icehouse, a great 80's vibe. Peace be with you.

[@jussinamortl6832]

I just suggested blue sky mine yesterday. I was contemplating between that song and this one. I’m so happy you two got a chance to listen to this one and were able to perceive the message of fixing a wrong. Blue sky mine is another great song with a very deep story behind it. Smiling big and letting it spread. Big hug robsquad family 😊❤

[@robbpeden5489]

Still love this tune! Great band and song!

[@TheFleahost]

Midnight Oil were ardent supporters of the Aboriginal people. Just another reason to live this band.

[@keithelliott3771]

The oils were our conscience although its a pity we all haven't got the message yet, spose that's a case of human greed. Glad you eventually got the message which is more than many Aussie ppl I walk past every day.

[@TheRealSubourbonMermaid]

I remember the first time I heard this song. I was listening very carefully to the lyrics and suddenly looked up at my aunt and asked, "Why did they set their beds on fire?" 😆She laughed so hard and tried to explain to my little 8 yr old brain the difference between literal and figurative.

[@zennenn]

I think it's literal. British settlers burned the homes of the indigenous and forced them off their land.

[@dionwilliams6874]

Good one guys, you definitely got the message 👍 it's in reference to Australian first nations people but can be used to refer to any indigenous peoples....

[@ZelbeQahi]

Midnight Oil has a Oklahoma indigenous connection via touring with the late Kiowa guitarist and post Beatles sideman, Jesse Ed Davis from Norman. The “Oils” toured with The Graffiti Man Band with late poet and activist John Trudell. It’s one of the last major tours Davis achieved before leaving so young. Midnight Oil sang about the environment, war and corruption long before anyone else internationally. One of my favorite bands.

[@detroitlady7201]

Ever hear of Pink Floyd?! Way before Midnight Oil.

[@ZelbeQahi]

@@detroitlady7201 and before Pink Floyd there was The Yardbirds, what’s your point? Or is it Troll time?

[@jamesmackay8034]

Another Great Classic icon song with Great Meaning to it. Well Done Midnight Oil

[@jlevogiani2012]

Lead singer Peter Garret became an elected Representative in Australia's parliament, in 2004 and held a couple of different cabinet posts from 2007 when the Labour Party formed the government. He retired from politics in 2013, and has received several distinctions for his environmental work. Now that's a celebrity putting real work into making his ideals a reality!

[@andrewawakened628]

Great song - and it was a big hit back in the day. As you figured out it's about their desire to see the indigenous people of Australia treated fairly. The lead singer became active in politics and served in the Australian parliament for a number of years.

[@user-or1ye3iz6d]

I saw them performing this song live on the street in New York City when I was in high school. It was being recorded for a video and I was in it.😂

[@matthewrandom4523]

How much I loved this band's music back in the 1980ies! "The dead heart" is an iconic song👍

[@charlesmorin8090]

Their lead singer is a guy named Peter Garrett. Cool point is that he is not only a performer, he is also known as an environmentalist, and a champion of native Australian (aboriginal) peoples. Her is also a former member of Australian House of Representatives. Pretty rounded and accomplished guy.

[@Lex-Hawthorn]

You forgot he is a Barrister as well. Met him in the Eora center with my brother, Peter and Mandawuy Yunupingu came to my mothers home with my brother, of course she had no idea who they were at the time.

[@nicolelubelski2760]

Midnight Oil & especially Peter Garret was a massive land right advocate for our indigenous ppl, most the $ earned went back to supporting our First Nation, After the band Peter became heavily involved in politics for this reason

[@waltcassidy2940]

I love watching Amber's expression when the song's click for her, Jay's digging the bass is always great. You guys are both such awesome people.

[@debbee0867]

Yes!!! you've found Midnight Oil! One of my favourite groups, saw them in concert back in the day here in the UK, stood at the front, a Brit surrounded by Aussies 😁 they were fantastic. I love this track, it is so good, you need to do more, Blue Sky Mine and Forgotten Years are a couple of others.

[@lizmarch4000]

midnight oil- one of the best things to come out of the 80s. Smart and sophisticated

[@warrenbridges1891]

liz march track was from '87 but first albums in the late '70s.

[@lizmarch4000]

@@warrenbridges1891 wow thanks. didn't realize how early they hit the scene!

[@warrenbridges1891]

@@lizmarch4000 Yeah, "Midnight Oil" and "Head Injuries". I first heard them on Aus radio about '78'79 I think. They were a surf music instrumental band before Peter Garrett joined. They have one instrumental called "Wedding Cake Island" which is a cluster of rocks off Coogee Beach in Sydney. Sounds like something from 1963.

[@venturefar2851]

Great band from down under. I think the singer eventually became a Governor or something in Australia. Good day mate !

[@jonrichardson8461]

Became Minister for the Environment in 2007.

[@DavidMohr-d7z]

I am a bass player and man is this a fun song to play. I love the message I love the lead singer dancing to their music its just an awesome song and an anthem to Australia and to us in Canada.