Analyzing Rage Against The Machine's "Bulls On Parade" and learning how awesome Tom Morello is!

I was stunned by Zack de la Rocha's vocal stylization and Tom Morello's guitar work when I heard Rage Against The Machine for the first time with "Killing In The Name". From your response on our community page, I decided to jump down the rabbit hole and see what else RATM has to offer. Apparently, quite a bit!
Join professional opera singer Elizabeth Zharoff, as she listens to Rage Against The Machine performing "Bulls On Parade" for the first time.
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Written and Performed by Rage Against The Machine
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I definitely recommend watching the original video without interruptions. Here's the link: • Rage Against The Machi...
Show RATM some love: / @rageagainstthemachine...
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WE HAVE MERCH! Check-out the full line-up here: thecharismaticmerch.com
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🎧 Elizabeth’s favorite headphones 🎧 : imp.i114863.net/zayoEM
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WANT MY CHAIR? I don’t blame you…and here’s a link to make it even sweeter:
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Elizabeth Zharoff is an international opera singer and voice coach, with 3 degrees in voice, opera, and music production. She's performed in 18 languages throughout major venues in Europe, America, and Asia. Currently based somewhere between Los Angeles and Tucson, Arizona, Elizabeth spends her days researching voice, singing, teaching, writing music, and recording TONS. She also plays Diablo and Dungeons & Dragons.
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We have a sister channel: THE SINGING HOLE. Join us there to examine how ordinary creatures create extraordinary sounds. / @thesinginghole
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Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Non-profit, educational, or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.
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#rageagainstthemachine #Reaction #TheCharismaticVoice
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[@NorbDoe]

The most astounding think about RATM is that their lyrics are still relevant. The most devastating think about RATM is that their lyrics are still relevant.

[@Genesisrequiem]

T H I S

[@draewilly]

Some of the best poetry ever written imo. Bombtrack came out in 1992 (live at least) with these lyrics "But I learned to burn that bridge and delete Those who compete at a level that's obsolete Instead, I warm my hands upon the flames of the flag To recall the downfall and the businesses that burnt us all"

[@draewilly]

Guerilla Radio I lick shots at the brutal charade As the polls close like a casket On truth devoured A Silent play in the shadow of power A spectacle monopolized The camera's eyes on choice disguised Was it cast for the mass who burn and toil? Or for the vultures who thirst for blood and oil? This whole song should be the main exhibit in a museum really

[@chrishaugen8648]

Artists are always the first to put the pieces together and see the future

[@Genesisrequiem]

@@chrishaugen8648 they're the most observant

[@uncommonman]

Being opposed to Fascists is NEVER wrong.

[@maxwelledison03]

True story.

[@jamesfarina5764]

True, except you don't understand what that means or who they are

[@seelenwinter6662]

if you are a fan from mao, kim jong, lenin, stalin, putin, xi jinping, castro or all that other bstrds, then go to this countries...

[@riz3310]

@@jamesfarina5764it’s the cops.

[@Loafusbreadmyre]

@@jamesfarina5764 Here ya go: "a political philosophy, movement, or regime (such as that of the Fascisti) that exalts nation and often race above the individual and that stands for a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition", literally the first result after googling "define fascism." I'm pretty comfortable with hating everything Fascism is. A government is not meant to and should not get to harm, subjugate, or threaten its citizens, instead it should be a concentrated body of effort directed towards assisting, protecting, aiding, and ensuring the full list of rights of their citizens in an unbiased, unprejudiced fashion. Unfortunately, at the time of this song's writing up to now, and well before the song's writing, the United States government has done the opposite, being incredibly cruel to its citizens, especially on the basis of race/ethnicity as well as social and economic class. The US Government is currently moving towards a Fascist Theocracy, and if that isn't something to oppose with great force and vigor, I don't know what is.

[@myBquest]

Zack was barely 24 when this album was produced, and 21 in the first one. He was the youngest member and if you think about this while listening to the first two albums, it becomes even a greater experience knowing these young men wrote such amazing political speeches. I'm glad they were discovered.

[@rbb9753]

The first time I heard RATM was at a music festival. When Tom Morello played, all of us guitar nerds thought ”What?!?!”

[@hazi5961]

The most under-appreaciated part of RATM (and Audioslave) is Tim Commerford's bass playing. His bass adds a ton of layering and depth to the music.

[@ashtonturner2862]

Agreed

[@TheSpliffMaster]

You need a strong rhythm section in a band as it allows the lead guitarist to do their thing.

[@JBjopa8]

Agreed, I love his bass sound so much

[@luna7557]

Indeed

[@Jamesnpk]

I always loved how the bass was another instrument in rage songs and not just to keep time. Reminds me very much of how much flea's bass work pushes the Chillis

[@abrooks2403]

"All sounds made by guitar, bass, drums and vocals" was printed on their first album cover because who could ever believe a person could make those sounds with a guitar. Tom Morello is an all time great.

[@SabreNation1]

The sheer number of people who immediately assume there's a DJ scratching somewhere when a Morello solo starts will never cease to amuse me.

[@dew6874]

I don't know this band apart from what the radio plays ( of their music). I agree that Tom is a incredible musician. I think it was a interview on Howard Stern,he didn't start playing guitar till he was in college? He's certainly playing things in a new and intovative way like Hendrix and EVH did.

[@RickReasonnz]

@@SabreNation1 Honestly, I thought it was turntables until I saw Audioslave live. Dude is super creative with his instrument.

[@dgthe3]

Tom isn't necessarily the best guitarist of all time. But his sound is probably the most recognizable.

[@Dug6666666]

Premier Guitar's series of "Rig Rundowns" is a great resource for having guitarist demonstrate their gear and explain the choices they make. Here is an episode with Tom at the time stamp where he gets to showing his pedal board. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jaG8ZXx_rpuVb5o

[@umad8ro]

This song is so fucking iconic. How many years later and this song still gets me so pumped.

[@Andy-nl8uq]

His lyricism is still astounding (and relevant) now. The start of the second verse will always be some of my favourite lines of his "weapons, not food, not hopes, not shoes, not me, just feed the war... Walk the corner to the rubble that used to be a library, line up to the mind cemetery now" 🔥

[@randomations11]

I think it's actually "not *need*, just feed the war cannibal animal, I..." Tool may have some great lyrics, but Zack is just on another level of putting into words the broken world that we share here

[@raidonbay]

From the source- "Weapons not food, not homes, not shoes Not need, just feed the war cannibal animal I walk the corner to the rubble that used to be a library Line up to the mind cemetery now"

[@HotDog-BongWater]

​@@randomations11funny you mention Tool; idk if you know, but Maynard contributed vocals on their song Know Your Enemy! I'd like to think the two groups influenced each other as they grew

[@ivyrose779]

This is relevant in Gaza right now.

[@Andy-nl8uq]

@@ivyrose779 Undoubtedly. But the next part "they don't gotta burn the books they just remove 'em" is so applicable to the US. Not only with book bans, but also the TikTok legislation. They haven't got to destroy the app, they just have to remove everyone's access to it so the US population doesn't get to see what's happening across the world...

[@loadedcouchpotato6567]

As a librarian, "They don't gotta burn the books they just remove'm" hits deep these days.

[@neilpatrickhairless]

Conservative Christofascist Fundamentalism never changes

[@divitu]

While arms warehouses fill as fast as the cells.

[@nellerue446]

Glad I retired after 30 years as a school librarian before the madness began!

[@benboothroyd1523]

@@neilpatrickhairlessRight … conservatives trying to ban obscene literature is not equivalent to leftists trying to ban Shakespeare

[@Mr.PeabodyTheSkeptic]

Sad

[@destinationsanonymous2617]

Rage might not be the best for analyzing a singers voice, but definitely deserve a deep dive into the lyrics of EVERY song

[@threeofeight197]

Yup. ❤

[@krs4976]

I remember seeing RATM and Senser at festival in the mid 90s Pumped The non conformity movement of the 90s is something we will never see in the mainstream again they were good times. Senser are a UK rap metal dance crossover group way ahead of the time that never made it to the US , they have the same sort of message as RATM. you should check out their tunes State of mind, Age of Panic, Eject, No Comply and Switch.

[@dposcuro]

@@krs4976 One Minute Silence....

[@dposcuro]

The problem being, is trying to maintain a "politically neutral" channel? How can you analyze such a politically charged group's lyrics?

[@BakingBadOBX]

zack may not be a big singer, be he most definitely has a powerful voice. very distinctive too

[@intertuin]

Bulls on Parade, from 1996, in my opinion the most important musical indictment against the Military-Industrial Complex ever made, is now extremely topical. "Weapons, not food, not homes, not shoes, not need, just feed the war cannibal-animal" is pure 2024. Thank you for your in-depth analysis of this fantastic protest song. Really impressive.

[@thisguy980]

I could spend days just watching her analyze RATM songs. This is one of the best things I’ve ever seen. Just awesome!

[@davidriddick82]

Tom Morello is actually moving his entire hand up and down the fret board as he’s using the Killswitch, it’s basically like he’s scratching the guitar fret board as a DJ would be scratching a record on a turntable… JUST AMAZING SKILLS

[@australdog]

Exactly, what it does is emulate the scratch sound of a Rap DJ, anyone can do it by scratching the strings even of an acoustic guitar, although not with as much grace as Tom

[@Music-Is-Real-Love]

Thank you for this explanation. It is much appreciated.

[@DjTripmasta]

He's using an Allen wrench to do the scratching

[@billmcdonough3950]

The other thing she might not be realizing is that unlike some orchestral strings, 3-4 of the strings on the guitar (depending on the weight he's using, I imagine he's using 9s) are wound with nickel, so there's a texture there that Tom can use there (and which is responsible for the pick slides that have confused her on other pieces).

[@Living_Dead_Girrl]

It’s a combo: he’s not just using pedal board (and he’s not “scratching” fret) - his hand on the fret is also *palm muting* chords. For the record scratching sounds, he’s sliding his finger on open, highly distorted guitar strings, and looks like he’s hugging the guitar because he swaps to palm muting with his hand/forearm that’s otherwise on the fretboard. This technique of palm muting for staccato and/or distorted guitar chords originates in Punk & Grunge. Morello primarily incorporates Punk, Funk, and Acid Rock elements. The Hip Hop influence in Rage (besides the infrequent incorporation of the “record scratching” guitar sound) is primarily in the drums & incorporation of sampling, just like Nü Metal.

[@rylian21]

"It's important that music be a voice in current events..." This song is nearly 30 years old and maybe even more relevant today than when it was released.

[@pdgoblue2518]

It's too bad members of the band are mouth pieces for that same "machine" that was so terrible to Tom while he was at Harvard I love their music, I loved it when I was a kid, I love it now, but they are hypocritical frauds

[@leomahmet7555]

Those ticket prices at their "reunion" were a crime bigger than their hypocrisy, but the words should be preached from rooftops, can't let crimes go unspoken... Freedom dies in silence.

[@redstarmn9308]

I hope one one day they will not be relevant anymore, but unlikely will be in moo l my lifetime.

[@spartanRko2001]

@@pdgoblue2518 Sorry I don't know that much about RATM. Can you explain me why are there "mouth pieces"?

[@fastm3980]

​@@pdgoblue2518Bingo!!!!! everyone feeds off the machine you would be blind and ignorant to not see that....I listen to RATM to do the same as they have 😂😂😂

[@chrisfinamore6364]

Rage was definitely ahead of their time. Zach and the whole band are amazing. Still sounds fresh and electrifying today!

[@bw1889]

For the verses, Tom engages the wah wah peddle in a top-side (toes end of the peddle) down manner which gives the gritty/trebbly sound. So when you point out that “sound in the background” around 18:25, Tom is taking his foot back on the wah so he can shut it off which is a button at the top-side. So he’s quickly turning it to the neutral position so he can engage the button, cleaner. That motion is the sound. A wah sound. The chorus is straight distortion channel so he wouldn’t want the wah wah engaged.

[@jmarx3943]

I talked to a kid once who picked up a guitar because of Tom Morello. He loved the fact that he incorporated turntables into the music. I delivered the news as gently as i could.

[@brysons8934]

Which is fun cause I remember Morello saying he started playing because of the Sex Pistols.

[@Emersonion]

😂

[@sanches_lanches]

When the lyrics start the bass line is so powerful, Tim Commerford is an underrated master

[@brasschuckles3138]

I came here to say the same thing. Tom get a lot of the light, but that bass is hard AF and those drums. One of the greatest bands, so tight and groovy. Every single person in this band is crazy talented.

[@hua..]

Love them but I don't believe anyone from RATM can be considered "underrated" these days lol

[@xxxtkvxxx]

Zack’s vocal training happened in the hardcore scene. His vocals on Inside Out’s only ep are still powerful to this day.

[@DJMarcO138]

Thank god someone else knows his background. I saw Inside Out many many years ago and they blew my mind. Very soon after RATM's first LP dropped and another buddy of mine from the hardcore scene was like "check out Zack's new band". Blew my mind.

[@xxxtkvxxx]

@@DJMarcO138 That rules, Im jealous. Saw RATM but never IO. But their ig page has been pretty active lately so maybe we’re getting a reunion

[@TheBigThoughts]

Everyone joked, but Rage was right.

[@getbendt2970]

Right about protesting the machine which is currently the Democrat party.

[@timbrown6629]

How were they right? They made tons of money while claiming to be Socialists.

[@Mechanic618]

Check out "Freedom" for a real range of Zach's vocals, from whisper to maximum screaming rage. The album cut, naturally.

[@genghisgalahad8465]

Yes! The first second!

[@jenniferking7264]

I third this!

[@matthewgoodA1206]

My favorite Rage Against The Machine song. Total power.

[@TheMagicnnc]

The live version is so amazing too

[@IHATEBO3]

Yes please do this one !

[@Martin-re8ei]

One of the most iconic drum intro ever. That snare hit is outstanding

[@blitera7261]

Its so fucking good

[@Buy_Me_A_Nightmare]

I was just thinking how iconic that is!

[@LesSimsJr]

Tom makes his guitar Wacka Wacka Wacka, like vocal folds!

[@sebastianpinto659]

Thirty years loving this powerful music and you discover it right now...

[@anuncolonizedmind6296]

Me too! My top 5 band

[@ExUSSailor]

The aggressiveness of Zack's vocals come from pure righteous indignation.

[@notimportant3686]

*misplaced righteous indignation

[@jonm7888]

​@@notimportant3686Nope

[@jessm2560]

​@@notimportant3686?

[@jackburton7062]

And now he rages with the machine.

[@davidpesci6605]

Yes, yes. The outraged mega millionaire.

[@MerelyAdequate]

Tom Morello has said he views himself in this band as both the guitarist and the DJ. This is the best example of his DJ hip hop record scratching on the guitar.

[@BlindRiott]

You sincerely get this sister…thank you for aiming your very particular set of skills to this piece, your insight is refreshingly nuanced! Be well, triple non secular blessings to you. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I’ve seen this band 4 times across two countries, they literally changed the trajectory of my life, I’m a classically trained bassist by degree which of course translates in modern parlance to being a Systems Engineer for a Global Financial Institution. Active Listening is an art…but you already know that, please forgive me this blush, but I just giggle with glee & appreciation for the craft! Thank you

[@cyrusatkinson3307]

Have to say, after watching dozens of your videos is your genuine excitement for music! All different types, styles, you find the real of it and revel in it. Beautiful!

[@mattp6953]

As amazing as Zach and Tom are.. the rhythm section of Commoford on Bass, and Will on drums really punch these songs. Commoford is very very underrated.

[@danharvey8464]

Bass players nearly always get done dirty

[@divine_2768]

They're so tight together it almost seems fake. They play like they're 1 instrument.

[@JackMarchetti29]

Rage covers often don't land because the vocalists forget one major component of Zack De La Rocha's delivery: Seething anger. (this too is why Denzel Curry's cover is the best cover of this song)

[@wumbojet]

I also loved the way he incorporated his own verse from the taboo album, it fit the tone of the song excellently

[@Rogn80]

Yeah the seething anger is what draws me to their earlier stuff soo much more. Same way for Tool... Opiate just hits different u know?

[@dheijnemans]

This is what makes the covers by Richard Cheese so effective 😂

[@MetalManiac1911]

I always thought it was more of a nasally bitching then seething anger.

[@Bam31415]

There are better, more technical singers and rappers with better flow and more complex lyricism. Yet noone can match Zack when it comes to the shere conviction. When it comes down to that true belief and rightous anger his delivery is unmatched.

[@JC6one7]

“They don’t gotta burn the books they just remove em.” Big fan! Love your vids!

[@gs2162]

Goose bumps. Rage informed my worldview and politics for the rest of my life. My love and respect for hip-hop extended to Zack's poetry and deep lyrical content. There was NOTHING like this sound in 1996. And it had me literally GOING TO THE LIBRARY to get the books in the CD liiner pictures.

[@joshsmith3598]

Nothing like it in white music but let's be clear there was plenty of it in Hip Hop throughout its history and in this time. PE, Nas, Kris 1, EPMD, Mobb Deep just to name a few. Prior to that plenty more. RATM merit respect but let's be honest here, if they were a Black rap band singing lyrics like this? They would get nowhere near the wealth and fame and? Whats make Morello and Zach et all "alright" is they know this and recognize it.

[@gs2162]

@@joshsmith3598 respectfully, I reject your argument out of hand. There was no combination of vocals, lyrics, and sound, like Rage; black white brown or purple. And if it was four black guys making that music, they would have found a huge audience.

[@Genesisrequiem]

​@@joshsmith3598yeah the RATM members are so white. True Caucasian names like Tom Morello and Zak De La Rocha. Oof

[@anuncolonizedmind6296]

​@@joshsmith3598 Lol that's not white music, I'm 45 years old & black. I have been listening to RATM since I was about 14 or 15. Music doesn't have a color, the ppl playing it do.. but not the music. It's a personal preference, I hate how someone's skin color is always a factor.

[@anuncolonizedmind6296]

​@@gs2162I agree 💯

[@silverfischdotnet]

The look on her face when the guitar "solo" starts is absolutely priceless.

[@JPindanga]

pretty much everyones face when first listened to this bald guy doing scratchers simulating a turn table on a guitar!

[@blackerthanafrica445]

I always look for people's reactions to that solo

[@seancaceres619]

And Tim Commerford, the bass player needs to be acknowledged as much as Tim Morello. The whole band was just ahead of its time, lyrically, musically and are still relevant. This band has been in a league of its own since the first album. Renegades of Funk🤔🤦 Nevermind, there's no point I saying WHICH should come next. R A T M are just phenomenal.

[@NavelOrangeGazer]

Tim and Brad are simply one of the greatest rhythm sections in rock ever.

[@gh41996]

Tim is such an underrated bass player. His bass grooves are so good!

[@genghisgalahad8465]

Yes!! Notable in Freedom!

[@josefu_velen]

"and are still relevant." I came across a quote somewhere, I can't recall where, that said, "I wish to live in a time when RATM lyrics are no longer relevant."

[@Jamesnpk]

​@@josefu_velenthat's a bloody powerful statement!

[@SupremeChimp]

Watching people react to RATM for the first time is one of my favorite things. My favorite band of all time, by far. Love seeing people discover them and have that same feeling I did all those years ago.

[@raeee204]

Your analyses of all these songs (I especially love the SOAD ones tbh) is just amazing- I love all these songs and it’s so amazing to hear and see your reactions to them because for one, it allows me to understand why I love these songs and what it is technically about them that make them so amazing, and two, your genuine awe and amazement that you show for music you weren’t originally trained for or even very aware of- your open-mindedness is inspiring and I really do think that your videos help me to “fall more in love with music every day”

[@icarustransportation1054]

Almost 30 years early, we're seeing this played out in America almost lyric by lyric. "They don't gotta burn the books they just remove 'em While arms warehouses fill as quick as the cells"

[@autohmae]

Sadly they applied then and still apply or in some cases even worse: apply again.

[@randomname3109]

*STILL*

[@dropbarracuda]

They weren't early, the issues have been pervasive. In fact... if you really study their lyrics they sing about things that have been happening for a long time, *even back then*

[@Zero_Ninety]

It's like politicians listened to RATM and thought 'that's a good idea, lets do that'.

[@lasagnasux4934]

Like how Amazon removed When Harry Became Sally for being too correct.

[@the_real_ick]

Tom Morello is a mad scientist genius when it comes to getting weird sounds out of a guitar with fewer effects than people realize.

[@BNezzy]

too bad he is an establishment sellout. They call themselves Rage Against the Machine but when government came out with tyrannical policies and mandates for a jab they we all for it and pushing it on their fans. surprised you didnt see this.

[@xxwookey]

effects. ('fewer affects' would be something different - English is tricky as all of effect (noun), affect (noun), effect(verb) and affect (verb) are real words, although only 3 of them are commonly used). And yes his guitar-inventiveness is quite something to behold. He's up there with Buckethead.

[@PrelectXBL]

He is not up there with Buckethead. Ryan actually has immense talent and can shred. Tom relies on effects and a kill switch to do what he does.

[@xxwookey]

@@PrelectXBL Fair comment. I just meant that they were both inventive guitarists and proponents of the killswitch. This notable solo reminded me of some of Buckethead's work.

[@jeffvail9335]

The RATM cover of Bob Dylan's "Maggie's Farm" is another monster track. It's interesting on a couple of levels. First, it's snother example Morello's experimental guitar techniques, and second, the fact that Dylan recorded it in '65 and it refers to events decades earlier in addition to current events at that time shows how little progress has been made on many of these issues.

[@jarehelt]

You're reactions are priceless 😂Like a new born baby discovering the world for the first time "So squeaky!"

[@mattiefee]

RATM - KNOW YOUR ENEMY Has Maynard of Tool on it

[@Mechanic618]

Hoping for "Freedom"

[@ItsAllGood_]

This is the Maynard from Tool song in case CV was wondering what song it was. (Know Your Enemy not Freedom)

[@jjj_027]

lol if y’all ain’t paying she ain’t playing

[@Mechanic618]

@@ItsAllGood_ what did Maynard have to do with KYE? I'm not aware and love to learn music trivia :)

[@kylekybot2130]

@@Mechanic618he does a guest vocal on it. Tool and RATM came up around the same time in the LA music scene.

[@geoff3610]

Major props to Zack for achieving a serious sense of flow, as the rap masters strive for. It's tough to meld aggression and flow.

[@jasonlaviolette2964]

Just recently discovered your channel, and have been spending way too much time watching your videos 😁 I just can't get enough of your faces and giggles when you hear something really cool and interesting. A lot of this is the music I grew up with that helped shape my formative years, and its pretty awesome seeing someone experience it for the first time. Even more so because you have the technical knowledge. Makes watching your videos fascinating. The gorgeous hair doesn't hurt, either.

[@nukachronic6211]

You're such a great appreciator of music. I love your videos, and your reactions make me smile. Thanks for the great content.

[@everyonelovesmajima]

Tom Morello is a rabbit hole unto himself.

[@jgee9272]

High school honours student, Bachelor of political science, stripper, and one of the most creative and underrated guitarists to ever grace the scene

[@DestructionGlitter]

The entire Night watchman project and all the collabs with the most unexpected artists, you could write a book about Tom Morello

[@chaptermasterpedrokantor1623]

He's said that he used to practice 8 hours a day playing guitar at the height of the 80's shred guitar era. Competition was fierce. One day he was going to play a gig and noticed that every other guitar player was shredding like crazy and he felt that he wasn't going to stand out that way. And on these few songs where he does play normal lead I get it as its nothing special. But realizing this he began to study DJ's and trying to emulate their sounds. Discovering the Whammy pedal, which was then brand new, didn't hurt either. He has also said that he stopped chasing tone when he realized he could never find the tone he wanted, so he was going to use what he had from that time on. I guess that made him explore his effects pedals and amp a lot more thorough then most. He's mostly still using the same rig and pedals.

[@AbeVicious]

​@@jgee9272former political aide who was mistreated and said fuck politicians

[@HarryDirtay]

​@@chaptermasterpedrokantor1623Hr made an honest pedal out of that digital wah.

[@catalinvasile9081]

The bass on this track is amazing. It’s like a constant growl.

[@divitu]

Yeah Tim's tone on this one is nuts.

[@BRUNHILDofficial]

His bass tone is so meaty. Everyone gives Tom the credit he deserves, but Tim is a savage on this beat - Frank -

[@Quezonol]

Love it! Awesome! Your analysis of the song just gave it so many more dimensions. Thank you.

[@quotethenovanevermore9565]

No idea how this channel was recommended to me by youtube but I'm so glad it was! Watching her react to great music and analyzing it is amazing. Currently binge watching Years of videos! Thank you for what you do

[@YourScaryMother]

I've been listening to these guys since the very early days, and it is just sad to me how eerily relevant the message remains 30 years later. Some people (usually younger people) say they were ahead of their time when the sorts of things they sing about have actually been issues for decades if not centuries.

[@thejpalbano]

Yup. That’s because there’s nothing new under the sun. It’s amazing to go back and read a newspaper from 100 years ago, and you’ll see the headlines are the same exact nonsense we have today.

[@tejjy25]

Yeah and now they have completely done a 180. Now they should be called “rage in behalf of the machine”

[@kratos3949]

keep telling yourself that @@tejjy25

[@Saulesme]

​@@tejjy25how so? im not up to speed on what has happened with them. could you explain?

[@dontanton7775]

@@tejjy25 Yeah, enlighten us plz.

[@LiquidThunder12]

"All sounds made by guitar, bass, drums and vocals" - the now famous line they added to their album cover, because Tom's guitar style was so innovative and unique to him!

[@AnotherFacelessDigitalNoOne]

Omfg!!! You got here. To them!! Love youre reactions! Its amazing to have you across it!! ❤❤

[@fourplayee]

Elizabeth’s face on Tom’s solo 🤯😳

[@tylerbuckner3750]

From a guitarist’s pov, there’s a lot to take in with Tom’s playing. Sometimes, instead of using the Wah, which filters the tone in a legato fashion, he does pick-up switching which makes it more staccato. Basically, each pick-up in his guitar can be independently set to a different eq, then he uses the toggle switch next to his volume/tone knobs to rapidly switch back and forth between those different frequencies with a certain rhythm. He’s an absolute masted at utilizing every function of the guitar.

[@EnigmaticCanadian]

That wah might be a bass wah pedal. I have a bass and guitar wah and heard the difference in frequencies and it sounds close to Tom's wah tone.

[@Shadow0fd3ath24]

Actually no....there is an old Guitar World video where he shows that the bridge pickup is used EXCLUSIVELY on this particular song INCLUDING during the solo and on almost every other RATM song ever. Tom always has 1 tone knob set all the way down, and the other set to all the way up, and so the pickup switch acts as a killswitch, and his wah and whammy together create a high pitch to the scraping, then add in the rhythm of cutting it off at the right time and boom there ya go.

[@tylerbuckner3750]

@@Shadow0fd3ath24 Bud...I said there's a lot to take in with "Tom's playing." That's an all-inclusive statement about his style. No where did I specify that I'm only referring to this song. I'm well aware of what he's doing here. Just trying to highlight an aspect of his technique for laymen if they ever come across it.

[@Shadow0fd3ath24]

@@tylerbuckner3750 "Bud" no you didnt, Tom ONLY ever uses his bridge pickup pretty much, especially when switching and i only used this song as an example of that, reread what i said...you LITERALLY and i QUOTE said "Basically, each pick-up in his guitar can be independently set to a different eq, then he uses the toggle switch next to his volume/tone knobs to rapidly switch back and forth between those different frequencies with a certain rhythm." This is something he specifically states that he doesnt do because it complicates things. Even in Audioslave he only does this to go from a humbucker to a single coil in 3 songs as of that recording

[@tylerbuckner3750]

@@Shadow0fd3ath24 You used "only" and "pretty much" in the same sentence, so which is it? Never mind, you're the pro. Who am I to question your omniscience? You're right, and also a very big, very handsome boy. Who am I to even dare comment...

[@Goofyboy2006]

I saw RATM live last year and Zack's power/presence is just insane. He was sitting down for all of it, because of his injury early in the tour, and he still gave one of the most impresive performance I've ever seen. They didn't lose a beat, even 25+ years later.

[@rockutron9000]

Saw it too. Couldn't believe it. Zack sitting down is better than 85% of frontmen out there.

[@nk1974]

Rage and Metallica still give their fullest effort at every performance. Top level at 50s and 60s is unreal.

[@alpur214]

I sure hope they get the chance to tour again. They’ve clearly still got it.

[@klw11jlw00]

The leg of the tour I had tickets for was cancelled😭😭😭 I wish they'd reschedule but my hope is pretty much run out

[@michaellorne5326]

I too saw them at Ottawa Bluesfest last summer and Zach was on point even though he was sitting down. However (and keep in mind that I have been a Rage fan since their first album, saw them in 1994 at Varsity Arena in Toronto) I thought they struggled to keep the rhythm in parts. Tim Commerford is a great bassist, and I think I chalk it up to being rusty after all these years and then the stress of Zach's injury probably didn't help. I was shocked when the beat started to drop and the rhythm got out of sync. And then I was amazed at how Tom Morrello pulled them right back together. That man is amazing not only as a solo guitarist but as a band member. It was impressive and an amazing concert.

[@droppedboez4270]

I just came across your channel i never knew all the intricate parts of singing, but i can listen to you and RATM all day!

[@AK-ContentCreatIon]

HI! Thanks for Your insight! The most beautiful thing I find, watching Your (reaction) videos, is Your heartwarming, pure and loving way of You, listening to music and always finding the best within it., Your enthusiasm and empathy, all the feelings you share, often give me goosebumps and tears of emotion. I'm touched. THANKS for all this joy and feelings

[@vaughnnewman8903]

A perfect blend of Rap, Rock and Funk. There are no weak links in this chain- everyone is talented. RATM was ahead of their time; provocative, motivational and always real.

[@annon.9557]

Sadly, still painfully relevant.

[@vater513]

Zacks lyrics will have you going to google to reference the backstory he’s talking about then completely blow your mind to what you have been woken up to. The man is a true poet

[@1968spikey]

You could write a four thousand word thesis on ANY RATM song. EVERY freakin' line is a rabbit hole of social, historical and political injustice. Discovered them late 90's and to this day, their music gives me goosebumps.

[@maxwelledison03]

Well said all.

[@kriskeen6739]

For my personal money, this is the definitive RATM track. So aggressive, but so damn catchy at the same time. Perfect for pumping your fist along with headbanging.

[@jaimesmithtv]

Always on the workout playlist

[@joshsmith3598]

@@jaimesmithtv Ok but do either of you know what the song is about? You should, it is raging against war.

[@motleyrocker4938]

I will never clean a window the same way again. Love this!

[@HohnerCornell]

Killing in the name, Bulls on parade, Calm like a bomb, Sleep now in the fire, Wake up, Know your enemy, Testify,... what a discography. ALL of their songs have at least a couple of absolute gold phrases in its lyrics. Their power is absolutely unbeatable.

[@CasualSharts]

Take the power back is one of my favorites as well

[@shipwreckedonapopulatedisland]

Down Rodeo

[@1norwood1]

'Settle for Nothing' from the first album is one of their really underrated tracks in my opinion "Caught between my culture and the system, Genocide..."

[@mr.newmanium127]

People of the Sun is another of their epics

[@gNOme_5]

💣 Calm Like A Bomb-one of my absolute favs-typically evoking a sense of freedom to express any and all pent-up anger and frustration. RAGE is always guaranteed to stir up something buried deep within-if this music doesn't cause you to feel any emotion whatsoever, well, then might I suggest you check your pulse? 📈💀

[@kimethkopecky4877]

Rage is +/- 30 years old, and their songs are timeless and still relevant today. Unless changes are made, I don’t think their tracks will ever not be relevant, even in another 30 years.

[@Jamer767]

RAGE will always be relevant. The battle just isn’t always Los Angeles

[@caseycooper4225]

I first stumbled onto RATM as an angry, broody teenager in the mid 90’s. I couldn’t describe what it was, but something about de la Rocha’s vocals popped with how I viewed the world at the time. Another thing that makes RATM unique is how well thought-out the lyrics are in reflecting their message. You do such a good job about explaining the vocal and sonic theory behind the emotional energy of anger and rage in his sound. I can see why you enjoy teaching because you are excellent at it!

[@mattturner1975]

I like your critical listening of tracks. You pick out things i didn't even hear or thought about. It's cool

[@StabStabStabStabby]

RATM are so timeless to me. It's a shame their 2023 tour had to be cancelled due to injury.

[@torunamok]

Just crying shame it's partly so timeless because all the things they were singing about 30 years ago are still effed up :(

[@Afasia420]

​@@torunamoknow they are commonly acce reality... Go figure.

[@iamasicksickman]

I had the unfortunate abilility to see zach fuck up his achilles. got carried off stage. But that hard ass mf still finished the show. showed me what ive known about them for the past 30 years.

[@dialecticalmonist3405]

​​@@iamasicksickman It's called "karma". That's what you get for selling out. Everything adds up in the end.

[@vitorfrota940]

The most fascinating thing to me is that Zack De la Rocha and Chris Cornell put so different spins on their songs that even though RATM and Auidoslave are the exact same band, they sound very different from one another.

[@steveparris1806]

I struggled with Audioslave because I couldn't find the funk that was present in RATM. I guess Zach brought the funk out of the group.

[@vitorfrota940]

@@steveparris1806 I remember when Audioslave came into scene I was already an RATM fan, and when they told me it was the same band but with Chris Cornell on the vocals I thought they were just messing with me. As you say, there's something about Zack's vocals that brings out this funk feeling or rapcore that RATM has, kinda like the Beastie Boys, while Audioslave sounds more grunge to me in an Alice in Chains kinda vibe

[@Alpemanden]

Tom Morello uses a funny mixture of a Whammy pedal for the high pitch sounds and sometimes a wah-wah (which makes the exact sound of the name). But Tom also said that he was very inspired by hip hop and DJ scatch music. Which is why many of the sounds he makes is actually him scratching (like a DJ) on a guitar while manipulating the sound with a whammy pedal. It's super fascinating and is also many of the reasons of why his tone is so freaking different. If you look up Cochise with Audioslave the intro is him slapping the guitar with a pick. His creativity is insane.

[@jacobseal]

I saw an interview with him a few years ago. He said while other guys were sitting in their room trying to learn Van Halen or whatever shred stuff, he was trying to figure out how to make his guitar sound like a helicopter. (Paraphrased). But he is also a very good "traditional" guitarist.

[@michaeldoukas4444]

When I first heard Rage I was blown away. They even has a liner note that said all sounds were made by the guitar. Glad you are getting into them. I hope you go back to the first album and do Know your enemy and Take the power back. And even Wake up. That entire first album is fire.

[@donnamcmanus7360]

I'm 57 and my heart beat still escalates every time I hear this band. Tom's solo sounds like his version of a verse. Nothing is better to me than the concentrated intensity of RATM.

[@hurfhimself1426]

Freedom is probably zacks most guteral and emotionally raw performance so I'd love to see it on the channel!

[@shanejones578]

The excitement that overcomes you is so beautiful to watch happen in real time and excites us for you.

[@skarsgamingcentral]

Of all the reactioners, you are simply the best. Nobody does it like you to. You totally decapitate a song, from A to Z. Near 30 minutes reaction for a 3 minutes video. I like it ❤

[@johnnyfiveo]

4:01 THIS is just one of the reasons why elizabeth's reactions are so unique. always great to see your smiling face, your wisdom and insight. you've gotta remember there was NOTHING, repeat NOTHING that sounded like this when it came out. not the beastie boys, not RHCP. this redefined anger and angst.

[@ruthylopez]

Redefined anger and angst? Nah.....maybe for "rock" or even "metal", but the best OG rappers (like Chuck D) had that same indignation, and (I strongly suspect) HEAVILY influenced Zach

[@johnnyfiveo]

@@ruthylopez no one sounded like this at all. truly unique

[@leomahmet7555]

​@@ruthylopezyeah, agreed there and probably some underground artists at the time as it always goes with alternative artists since the 60s But, now white boy rapped this angrily at you back then, that and telling exactly how the government fucks the average blue and white collar sheep combined something that has never existed at that point, a lot of influences but none quite like this

[@roems6396]

@@ruthylopez Chuck D was talking about the same things, but something about Rage combines those thoughts with the music to make you feel the same thing. The entire thing is melodic anger against inequality, the military industrial complex, and national lies.

[@shawntripp4591]

Chuck D was doing this before Rage. Love Rage, but i have a live recording where Chuck joins them for Black Steel and Zack refers to him as a father of revolutionary music.

[@flogg8635]

Your vocal impression of Tom on the guitar was amazing !

[@maverickofkain]

I wish i could hear this again for the first time like you are now. The rabbit hole of their talent is amazing and all their albums are remarkable. Also the most incredible group i have ever seen live.

[@dannh6706]

Keep up the great work! Love this channel!

[@wille769]

Elizabeth, the "squeaking" sound that you hear from Tom in that guitar solo is emulating the sound of a DJ "scratching" a record on a turntable, which is basically old school rap. Tom's incredible and distinctive, as is RATM in general, one of a kind!

[@alfonsogalan4935]

no turntables or syncetizers were used in this recording its all guitar sounds , It is printed on the record

[@wille769]

@@alfonsogalan4935 hence the word "emulating."

[@Genesisrequiem]

On their debut album they actually mention all sounds on this record are vocals, guitar, bass, and drums

[@wille769]

@@Genesisrequiem em·u·late /ˈemyəˌlāt/  verb gerund or present participle: emulating match or surpass (a person or achievement), typically by imitation. "lesser men trying to emulate his greatness" Similar: imitate copy reproduce mimic mirror echo follow model oneself on take as a model take as an example match equal parallel be the equal of be on a par with be in the same league as come near to come close to approximate compete with contend with rival vie with surpass imitate. "hers is not a hairstyle I wish to emulate" COMPUTING reproduce the function or action of (a different computer, software system, etc.). "the adaptor is factory set to emulate a Hercules graphics board"

[@Genesisrequiem]

@@wille769 I've never known someone so proud they own a dictionary and/or thesaurus. Well done, would you like a gold star?

[@matthewgoodA1206]

1 of Rage’s most pivotal tracks. Also one of their most well-known songs. And the tune where Zack’s flow earns the respect of major rap and hip-hop fans. This guitar solo might be Morello’s most famous lead ever. It even fools some people that there’s a DJ scratching records on this track. But the guy is just so wildly inventive it’s unreal. And on a very serious note, a lyric from 1996 has proven to be ominously prophetic in 2023: “They don’t gotta burn the books, they just remove ‘em.” To me that is less about politics than freedom of thought vs. oppression. Rage already knew that dangerous scenario was possible.

[@divitu]

That's still politics, unfortunately.

[@gollumandeowyn]

I wouldn't say prophetic because that suggests he foresaw something that hadn't happened yet. He was commenting on something that's been a problem since the printing press was invented... People in power have ALWAYS tried to control what others can read.

[@matthewgoodA1206]

I would say that’s primarily because the issue has been politicized by the recent actions and policies of politicians; they’ve made it a political point. In the same way that science has been tainted. It still boils down to a struggle much bigger than politics.

[@matthewgoodA1206]

Fair enough. Unintentionally prophetic, then. As well as very unfortunately and even eerily.

[@dooper173]

The way you say Wah Wah is the cutest thing I've heard all day LOL

[@johnnynapier5073]

been watching you for just two days and i've been binging your videos and this is hands down a new favorite channel for me! also bet your music playlist is amazing after all of these new finds for you lmao

[@bstanfi1]

I really love Zach's contrast in the chorus. He goes from fast-paced & high energy, to a slower-paced calmer sound, and back each line. Each one accentuating the other.

[@robertbatmanvaldez7606]

OMG Elizabeth!! Your re-creation of Tom Morello's guitar with your voice is a time capsule moment if I ever saw one!! That was such a precious gesture. This is one of the reasons that you are the #1 vocal analyst of Gotham City!!

[@Shiroar]

Okay, but it’s too cute how giggly you get over the guitar sounds 😂 Love the joy!

[@johnrathbun2943]

I'm glad that you finally came across Rage. They came out of left field with a sound that had never been done. And their aggressiveness was off the hook!

[@Jovinian]

Appreciate you covering something outside of your comfort zone. Tom Morello's guitar work, to me at least, sounds like "scratching"--the early hip-hip technique of using moving the stylus back and forth rapidly on vinyl records. Morello turned this urban dance sound into an aggressive call for revolution.

[@stephenm8725]

yes, you're onto something, in fact, that's the desired effect. Tom himself considers himself the DJ in the band. it really gave him a unique style and approach to his instrument

[@Shadow0fd3ath24]

yep he was hired to be the bands Dj and turntableist originally

[@Tinkerbell9332]

I lost a brother a couple years ago who gave me his mp3 player and this was on there and this song makes me think of my brother! I will definitely watch this !

[@The_Yodelstein]

RIP to your brother, he had excellent taste. 🙏

[@Tinkerbell9332]

@@The_Yodelstein thank you for that! He actually really did have good taste in music! Nirvana and the beetles were also his favorites!

[@theovernight1915]

"And then suddenly, *BAM!* A bunch of sound in my face - and I liked it." You have just perfectly summed up Rage Against The Machine.

[@mariamcdonald345]

Recovering opera singer here- I wish you were around when I was in high school in college- my thinking about singing was so rigid it really held me back. I don't sing any more because of a vocal injury, but I am trying to get back into making music. You are a huge inspiration.

[@shizymynizy]

Tom's speech at the rock and roll hall of fame inauguration was epic.

[@djbeema]

Love that you can analyze the vocals and song structure on something no matter the genre or style. Sometimes I'm pretty sure the best thing to ever come out of KZbin is more people discovering RATM

[@krystalm4590]

I love how excited you get

[@petepedersen6138]

Oh my God, your reaction during the solo was the best thing i have seen. You are the best.😂

[@alanhilton7336caradventure]

I was a teen when I found these guy's to this day my favourite band Zack's words make even more sense today with the way our world is.

[@pierrehenri2297]

That groove is infectious!! First few bars and the head starts to rock🤘🏻

[@jeanm1383]

Love your videos , and super cool to watch you analyze this one. And can’t wait for your November Rain next ❤

[@joserobertossa]

Thank u for this video!! Made me cry of joy as I remember how much RATM influenced my music preference. 👊🏾

[@crawlingcrabs8306]

I love seeing you enjoy Rage. Hopefully your nest Rage song is "Sleep now in the fire". Looking forward to it!

[@cjonesufc]

I just realized that Elizabeth should do a track by Morphine. Guitars do influence voices. Mark Sandman sang like a saxophone and his bass and they were so unique. I’d love to see “I Know You - Part 3” or “Wishing Well”

[@MrChilliconqueezo]

Yes!! This! Especially, Top floor bottom buzzer

[@DavidHanks90]

Tom Morello is such a cool guitarist and has such a unique playing style and sound. You should definitely check out this video that goes over his pedalboard setup. Super cool to see how he accomplishes everything.

[@Tharrilicious]

Love your Content since years