Finally some Queen AND David Bowie! Vocal ANALYSIS of "Under Pressure" and the world is all better.

[@mezigue31]

At a job interview, - the recruiter : “can you perform under pressure?” - me: “No but I can try bohemian rhapsody”

[@thedarcbird]

did you get the job?

[@mezigue31]

@@thedarcbird yes sure recruiters love comedy

[@thedarcbird]

@@mezigue31 GOOD!

[@hansmolders1066]

😂

[@notyourjack]

Ok I love this one 😂

[@Cadinho93]

This song shows David Bowie's controlled intensity, which is the perfect balance for Freddie Mercury's operatic theatrics. This is a masterclass of song writing. RIP Freddie Mercury and David Bowie, the world is a little darker without them.

[@bernhardfbuttner5694]

Since Bowie and Cohen died in 2016, the world is MUCH darker.

[@aliwantizu]

@@bernhardfbuttner5694 Prince also passed in 2016. Terrible year for music lovers...and humanity.

[@rangerrecon]

Well stated. Their styles were sooo complimentary in this song, you just have to wish that they had done more together.

[@VirtualFTHC]

@@aliwantizu terrible few years, Chris Squire in 2015 ;-;

[@jon-paulfilkins7820]

@@bernhardfbuttner5694 yeah and started with Lemmy in December 2015 and just kept going. Someone must have been putting together one hell of a band up there.

[@bonoboboi]

There is a live version of this by Queen, David Bowie, and Annie Lennox (singing Freddie's part) at the Freddy Mercury tribute concert 1992. It's one of the most touching rock performances of all times.

[@CadePlaysGames]

You saved me from having to make that recommendation myself! That concert is full of superb performances. Everybody involved was absolutely ON IT that day. Lennox/Bowie singing this song is spine chilling. George Michael slaying "Somebody to Love" another highlight, but it's hard and unfair to spotlight any one performance from that show.

[@IR4TE]

Sorry but I personally think Lennox sucked at that part, it just didn't carry anything that moved me in any form. Not saying that Lenoox sucks in general, but this was just not her best performance.

[@jgaff66]

agreed

[@JoakimVike]

There is also a cool video from the rehearsals on the DVD with Bowie and Lennox, but the star of the show was George Michael!

[@geohambass]

This is really phenomenal. Not seen it for years, I’ll need to try and find it!

[@brianharmon9918]

Hi Elizabeth. I don't know if you actually read all these comments, but on the off chance you do, I felt compelled this time to tell you how much I appreciate you and your reactions. I have been a major fan of Queen for 40+ years. I know their music inside and out. I've heard this song at least a thousand times. But today, listening with you, listening with focus, and listening while watching you experience it, I was once again moved by this song in a way I haven't felt in a long time. I was moved to tears. The music and the vocals are so emotional, yet sometimes we allow ourselves to gloss over, and not really listen. Well, today I listened, and it brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for being the catalyst that brought that about. I expected to enjoy your reaction, but did not expect my own reaction, which brought me back to my teenage years, when I felt this song as deeply as I did again today. If only the world could take this song to heart. There is so much pain in this world. "Why can't we give Love that one more chance?". Thanks again, and may Love bless you.

[@michaelbrutvan2272]

Excellent use was made of this song in the recent syfy channel magicians television adaptation of the books by Lev Grossman. Best television musical episode I’ve ever seen at least for that one segment.

[@tubester4567]

Freddie had one of the strongest voices ever but David Bowie is my all time favorite male singer. Bowie probably doesnt have a technically great voice or range, but the emotion in his voice is very unique and instantly recognizable.

[@FirstIsa]

​@@michaelbrutvan2272 Penny's annoyed reluctance to join the group singing despite Arjun Gupta's obviously great voice was a nice touch to the show's cover.

[@kraegm]

This is exactly why I subscribe to Elizabeths channel and I suspect you do as well... she takes the songs we've been listening to for years and gives us more reasons to be impressed by them, or even an explanation of why they resonate with us so much. Her honest reactions are absolutely enthralling.

[@larrynelson4909]

But it's Queens worst song on their second worst album

[@BallStAlum96]

This is a master class of 2 great vocalists blending their voices . with no digital tricks, or even digital editing, or auto tune. Just 2 guys knowing what the hell they are doing.

[@kenthomas1845]

Yep. Those guys did know what they were doing.

[@taras3702]

​@@kenthomas1845Indeed, they knew what they were doing, it's clearly evident in how they were singing.

[@MarkWiseTechno]

It reminds you of "Ice Ice Baby" because Vanilla Ice was literally sued and lost for sampling "Under Pressure" without permission. There's even a famous video clip of him giving a hilarious justification about the insertion of a hi hat note being a significant enough change to make it completely different from "Under Pressure."

[@bennylloyd-willner9667]

And all should also check out Jim Carrey's parody in "In Living Color", it's brilliantly hilarious

[@ryansecakuku9312]

If you haven’t seen the movie “that’s my boy” he plays himself and make a a joke about every time the song gets played he owes money, he says queen sued him for 75% and Suge sued him for 50% so he owes when it gets played.

[@jeffburnham915]

Noooo. Vanilla ice goes ding ding ding dinga ding ding and queen goes ding ding ding dinga ding ding.

[@geoffreyedmundson9928]

@@jeffburnham915 Allegedly Vanilla Ice bought the publishing writes from Queen and David Bowie for $4,000000 so any time both songs are ever played Vanilla Ice gets the royalty payment

[@theguitarlegend]

​@@geoffreyedmundson9928Lol, is it serious that in 2024 people still believe this story invented by Vanilla Ice, to which he didn't even present any proof or evidence? Roger Taylor has already spoken about this several times and he claims that what Vanilla Ice says is unfounded, therefore, it is not true.

[@Petete003]

Next time you should try the duet between Freddy Mercury and Montserrat Caballe. It could be amazing to see your feelings about such a great opera singer. Thanks Eliiiiiiiii!!! 🤗🤗🤗

[@paulaboyd9743]

I can never listen to that without floods of tears ❤

[@roykliffen9674]

@@paulaboyd9743 Me neither; the pain is excruciating 🤣🤣🤣 OC I'm kidding a bit, but I really don't like that song.

[@miave6455]

YEAH!!!!!!❤

[@southilgurl2003]

+1 this. Absolutely this!

[@siouex]

She is an opera singer, I have sneaky suspicion that she knows that song by heart since it was sung

[@the_releaser]

You know what could be more awesome than this? A tea time chat of Elizabeth and Brian May.

[@Xiph1980]

You know, I'm gonna shout out to Becky Smethurst on her next video. Because that would be awesome indeed!

[@Ronaldomartinsapc]

I bet Sir Brian would go for it

[@bryangirod9173]

That wouldn't suck....

[@dominicg11]

@@Xiph1980 I am sure she would so go for it

[@Grungycat67]

YES!

[@emilythorkildson8514]

"Why can't we give ourselves one more chance? Why can't we give love one more chance? Why can't we give love?" "Cause love's such an old-fashioned word and love dares you to care for the people on the edge of the night and love dares you to change our way of caring about ourselves. This is our last dance. This is our last dance. This is ourselves under pressure." These are some of my favorite lyrics in any song ever. I rediscovered this song a few years ago and listened to that last section of the song about 15 times. I love how that last section just keeps going and going...you think the sentence is going to end but then they have more to say and it's genuinely brilliant. You should check out Queen's version of this song from their Montreal concert...it's a version of the song without Bowie, with Roger Taylor taking a lot of the higher harmonies and it's awesome.

[@felixhenson9926]

Where did that second quote from?

[@emilythorkildson8514]

@@felixhenson9926 it’s the lyrics from the song, right after all the “give loves”

[@ianchambers37]

Agreed. Also one of my favorite lyrics ever. So powerful and beautifully done.

[@Crazyperson-t9r]

These lyrics are so beautiful, I completely agree with you. Miss when lyrics were this good, and I wasn’t even born when this song came out

[@donaldcampbell3043]

I like the Freddie Mercury tribute version of the song with David Bowie and Annie Lennox... so much love and respect was shown for Freddie in that concert...

[@deltavee2]

Agreed. What made it more fun was Annie crushing so hard on David they practically had to pry her off him with a stick. The whole thing was fabulous. Te two of them on the same stage was amazing!

[@grimmner]

Agree i love that version and this might ofc be swearing in church but I actually love that version better then this with Freddie and before people hate on me let me explain. I love this version its a great song, but music is art anf art should make us feel and live music is way better to evoce a feeling and the live version with Annie and David is fillwd with more emotions in so many layers, first of the act of tribute to Freddie, their personal enotion and hearth in the moment and pairer with the energy of the crowd. I have listened to that song so many times and anytime i watch the video and hear the song i get goosebumps and basicly tears up and åut it on repeat. Sorry for the ranting

[@unfilthy]

More Bowie, please! You haven't even scratched the surface of his decades long body of work. His versatility and creativity are truly a wonder worth exploring. Anything from Ziggy, Young Americans, Fame, Changes, Heroes, Let's Dance, Ashes to Ashes, Lazarus... (and even these are just a sample of "hits")

[@Tampahop]

Yep. Bowie was the soundtrack of my life, starting with Space Oddity. My favorite is one that most people haven't heard of, All the Madmen from the album, The Man Who Sold the World.

[@paulrandig]

One special moment for me is "Tonight" live with Tina Turner. The charisma of those two voices in contrast is one in a million mements!

[@privateer236]

David understood he needed to reinvent himself periodically.

[@thing_under_the_stairs]

Vocally, I'll suggest Heroes, just to hear the rawer side of his voice. And also because it's one of my favourite songs.

[@grimmone09]

Hero’s for sure

[@Antichris.Superstar]

Some years ago, I was reading an interview with Brian May (guitarist of Queen) and he told the story of working on "Under Pressure". David Bowie said, 'Okay, let’s each of us go in the vocal booth and sing how we think the melody should go and we’ll compile a vocal out of that.'" Freddie's scat vocals and David's humming melody were left in the final mix from the original demo and the rest, as they say....☺

[@gedren_y8775]

Which is why this version isn't as smoothly produced as The Rah Mix, and its acapella opening makes it so that the song cannot be confused with Ice, Ice Baby.

[@Asheanae]

Yes, this is true! But also Freddie snuk around the corner and listened in on Bowies takes! Bowie was amazed that their vocals lined up so well! 😅

[@jeffcolumbia3151]

I believe Song Facts story says it was the opposite. That David Bowie snuck around the corner and listened to Freddie's vocals. Freddie wasn't happy about it and let Bowie know it.@@Asheanae

[@Asheanae]

@@jeffcolumbia3151 I don't know that source. The source I heard it from was Brian May.

[@yvrkid7070]

@@Asheanae Reinhold Mack said it was David that listened in to Freddie.

[@Asheanae]

I STRONGLY feel you haven't done enough Queen reactions!

[@althompson58]

Their entire set at Live Aid would be perfect for her to react to.

[@dulblades1]

I thought that the reason she never did any queen was that there were blockers. If not, WHY hasn’t she done the hand down best rock singer of all time. Freddy!

[@Asheanae]

@@dulblades1 Other people seem to react to their stuff just fine. Vrigin Rock, for example.

[@gregtadtman1759]

@@althompson58 With as many stoppages as she does, an analysis like that would take around 10 videos. 🤣

[@NecramoniumVideo]

@@dulblades1 I think because she is not well known with them, with this channel she only just got to appreciate metal and their vocals, she only started doing the reactions 2 years after the Queen movie was released, and the queen reactions were booming back than in 2018.

[@jonharper5919]

Thank you so much for letting David Bowie's full build at the end play through. That minute is one of the greatest minutes in the history of music

[@shemanic1]

Such a great tune. The Lyrics just blow me away. "Love dares you to care for the people on the edge of the night, & Love dares you to change our way of caring about OURSELVES." Such a great message.

[@kerrydwyer1879]

That is such a beautiful way of expressing what you feel.Thanks😊

[@johnobullingtonjr]

18 years ago I was driving my wife and eight months old son through a small, not well traveled canyon in New Mexico. On our way back to Austin. This song came on as they slept. It hit me in the gut as I drove through the red clay hills. Tears fell out, joy and relief. I’ll never forget those moments. This song is one of my favorites of all time.

[@emerald1805]

First heard this on KLBJ Austin radio when it was released in 1981. Went out and bought the 45 single picture sleeve copy the next day. I still have it!

[@felixhenson9926]

I feel that. I remember heading home on a London night bus feeling more than a little tipsy and hearing There is a Light That Never Goes Out by The Smiths and it just hit that perfect emotional sweet spot that made that absolute nothing of a moment super memorable in my mind's eye.

[@ThisCharmingMan1984]

⁠@@felixhenson9926 The Smiths did that to me, back in early 2000’s; a new college friend got me into them, & I remember lying in the bath one night, listening to ‘The Very Best of the Smiths’, & feeling an immediate deep connection to the songs, and it was as if I’d known them my whole life, & they were just there, waiting for me to rediscover them- if that makes any sense haha. It’s funny how some music can just hit you right like that. All the best.

[@davidstratton9918]

The ending is genius, because the snaps fading out is representing a clock ticking. The unresolved chord signifies not knowing how it ends for us. The entire song is maniacal genius tbh.

[@stoneysdead689]

Now that's what it means to you- in reality, you have no idea what the authors intentions were- if they had any. Not that there's anything wrong with that- that's precisely how music should be consumed imo- but you should always remember, what you think it means is not necessarily what the author intended nor what others might get from it.

[@MrUndersolo]

I think you nailed it. ⏰️

[@RockChick63174]

🥱​@@stoneysdead689

[@wbfaulk]

​@@stoneysdead689Why do you think the author's intent is relevant?

[@stoneysdead689]

@@wbfaulk I never said it was- I said you shouldn't attribute intention to them when in reality you don't know what their intentions were, or if they had any. That said, I do believe it's relevant- I write music myself and while I don't mind ppl getting out of it whatever they want- I still hope at least some ppl get what I was trying to say. It would be a real shame if every song I wrote was just interpreted completely independently of my own intentions- that would mean trying to express yourself with music is totally pointless.

[@brianowens4158]

For me, the part where Freddie is singing 'why can't we give love one more chance', is the most beautiful moment in all of pop music.

[@jackarmstrong1838]

When he repeated the Give Love phrase several times with the fade out, its just..........

[@betholabecker3219]

YES! This is such a moment in the song…….Freds warmth against Bowies voice…….

[@jacobbaldwin9707]

The crescendo leading up to the Give Love part and Bowie's part after that are absolutely the peak of pop music...

[@deltavee2]

David, ever the message man. Saw him live in Ottawa years ago with my daughter. Charming bugger had the audience in the palm of his hand from start to finish.

[@UncommonSense-wm5fd]

It's truly a shame David and Freddie never sang this together live. R.I.P Freddie Mercury 1991 and David Bowie 2016 , true music legends.

[@PedroM-jk5vv]

Freddie hated Bowie. They had to record this separately because they could not stand being together in the same room.

[@DK-vn7lr]

@PedroMorales-jk5vv That's really not true. They had a creative professional rivalry, but they certainly didn't hate each other. If they hated each other they wouldn't have done the song.🤦‍♂️

[@rastarn]

​@@PedroM-jk5vv That is a complete myth concerning the collaboration. Freddie and David got on fine. The track was a genuine, physical collaboration, at the band’s favourite recording location of Mountain Studios in Montreux, Switzerland. Bowie, who had a house nearby, dropped in one night when Queen were recording. “Under Pressure” grew out of a resulting jam session, based on a riff by bassist John Deacon, and they recorded the bulk of the track together, with Freddie Mercury's scatting and he and Bowie trading some impromptu vocal expression.

[@danwest9900]

The whole song is amazing, but when Bowie starts singing the outro with, " 'Cause love's such an old fashioned word..." I get emotional and choked up. 'Under Pressure' is just a beautiful and meaningful song!

[@Music-Is-Real-Love]

100%.

[@MattBorchert]

Bowie is a true artist who never allowed himself to get comfortable. Constantly changed and evolved throughout his career. His interview on MTV about how they were whitewashing music is also an all-time great. Intelligent, well-spoken. So good.

[@thedarcbird]

I'd like to add that Queen were the same. They changed and evolved, never letting themselves got tied down to any one genre.

[@JustTanya.]

His interview with the BBC back in 1999 is epic too. I mean, did he call it or what? They looked at him like he was crazy because the internet, for everyone, was barely out of its infancy and yet David Bowie said that the internet will help musicians to be closer to their audience. We'll be able to access music faster and often times eliminate the middleman aka the record label and executives of the industry. And that is exactly what has been happening. He was so far ahead of his time that people are still trying to catch up to him.

[@willfromyadkinville]

iconic!

[@X-Typewoes]

All the scat and falsetto is Fred. The last 'give love' is the end of Freddie's vocal until he's back with the last 'under pressure' lines. Roger Taylor sings the 'this is our last dance' harmony with Bowie.

[@JMADNICK]

Fred! Who’s Fred?

[@fredrikjelkefors9336]

Its Freddie and nothing else

[@jameslotter8317]

"Love dares you to care for the people on the edge of the light..." My favorite line from any song...ever.

[@deltavee2]

_Live on the edge of the herd, otherwise the view and the smell never change. Living on the edge gives you opportunities to explain love that you wouldn't otherwise find._ - Me I'm three score and eighteen and I've paid attention. It's true.

[@trolmountain475]

"Exercises in Free Love" is one of the finest Freddie's performances. Absolutely genius operatic piece that almost nobody knows about but it moves like no other.

[@johnhynes7784]

I am suggesting the same. One of the rare times these days I was truely speechless after hearing it. Coukd not believe it was Freddie. Amazing.

[@ejtringham]

Agree this. Personally, I prefer his take to the Caballé version, as superb as she was in her field.

[@johnhynes7784]

I am old enough not to be surprised by much any more, but what a jaw dropping surprise this was. I wish I could forget it so I could hear it for the first time again.

[@mike032531]

Reading some of the comments here and I couldn't agree more with MORE BOWIE please.

[@riclangford4228]

I think we have all been waiting for an analysis of Freddie. Thank you

[@johnkelman8278]

Definitely, id love to see her do just about any Freddie or Queen song. Do you have any idea why she can't call him Freddie? Other than just legal reasons, I'm so confused and obsessive. I'm going back and forth in the video and googling, I can't concentrate on the analysis. Gonna need to go back atbleast 5 mins. 😂

[@Tommy-he7dx]

I think its Fred now :)

[@Random-kq4pz]

Yes, its about time!

[@TAndreMotorsports]

Long overdue. Radio Gaga from Live aid!!!!!!!

[@TorsteinS]

@@Tommy-he7dx why?

[@MidnightAutoPainter]

'Dont Stop me Now' by Queen is one of the most happy songs ever :)

[@christerfurberg6538]

Especially if you watch David Armand's interpretive dance to it! :D

[@Arkryal]

The best part of that song was the mixing. A lot of spatial effects for something recorded in stereo. Worthy of a full analysis, but the studio version is a must for that one.

[@gsquat]

That's unfortunately how Freddie lived. Doing whatever his heart desired without regard for objective morality. It's no coincidence he died so early.

[@GroinStrain_]

I know it’s not a popular take, but I genuinely hate that song. It’s so extra and earnest, like a musical and I find it annoying

[@DerAusdauersportler]

@@gsquatWho are you to judge other people and what of earth is objective morality?

[@DennisWassoer]

everything about this song has been produced/created on such a high level, every moment seems to be composed and performed to its optimum. So incredible powerful in every note!

[@SandraT1107]

Definitely a classic by two outstanding performers 😊

[@sgtdevildogdavethesilentwars]

Great choice Elizabeth. David Bowie was amazing. An irony of Bowie that i applaud is how he lived with a fierce individualism. He was anti-establishment, non-trendy (i.e. songs like Fame, Fashion); yet he was so good he started or amplified trends every time he performed different music. He performed at the highest levels: Psychedelic Rock, Funk, Pop, Industrial w/Trent Reznor and many other genres. To move into Funk he went to Motown and hired one of the best funk bassists and guitarists in the world. Thank you for your effort.

[@GMendel72]

The Show Must Go On is a must, especially considering Freddie was barely able to walk at this point. Great powerful vocals on this one.

[@christopherwhite7347]

These are the days of our lives is such an emotional song, especially that knowing wink at the end. And considering he died shortly after the video was shot.

[@treetopjones737]

He wanted to create until he wasn't able to. He told the guys he did NOT want to hear sympathy or whatever from them, just "Let's get some recording done."

[@Out_of_My_Head]

Great song.

[@johnafirth]

I've long felt Innuendo was their best album. Same with Bowie and Blackstar. Legendary artists with their best work managing to come at the end.

[@Jarethsun]

This is by and far my favorite queen song. And there is a little more to the story. This was done in one take. It was the last thing Freddy Mercury ever did in a studio and he absolutely killed it, before it killed him.

[@Arkryal]

More Bowie Please. I love his style, how he compresses the last syllable of the phrase more abruptly, basically the opposite of what most singers do. He doesn't always do it, but when you hear it, it's very distinctly Bowie. Good tracks for vocal analysis: "Changes", "Hurt" (duet with Trent Reznor), "Rock 'n Roll with Me", "Heroes", "Lazarus".

[@korrainomad365]

This song always felt, to me, like the end of the world and the beginning of a new one. There's a grandiose, sweeping feeling as the song progresses, and it's a feeling that's everlasting; melancholic and bittersweet and rousing.

[@neilovens-smith3010]

If you want to experience this song a little more, one of my favourite performances of it is David Bowie and Annie Lennox performing it at the tribute concert after Freddie died. You can clearly see who performs what parts and it is so emotional for them to be performing this in honour of Freddie.

[@jungalistix]

One of the greatest moments in music

[@jangrabowski5918]

wanted to recomended this one also, whole concert is superb, but this song done by Annie Lennox and David Bowie, is just amazing.

[@fredrikjelkefors9336]

No way..best is Freddie and Roger duett at Wembley 86 magic tour

[@RodolfoAzcona]

It's perfectly normal to become obsessed with David Bowie. He was just the best

[@treetopjones737]

As well as Freddie.

[@shaunmoneil]

That part @10:20 where Bowie starts droning behind Freddie is a proper goosebump moment for me. There's a tone to his voice that's almost haunting there.

[@clintonsmith5163]

Angelic is the word that comes to my mind.

[@michaelmueller8772]

Roger Taylor's drumming is just immense on this. The big fills as Freddie climbs to the highest notes in the song's peak are monumental.

[@sarahjane5504]

I don’t think I’ve ever heard this song and not burst into tears. I just love this song so much. It is probably one of my favorite top 10 for sure. Thank you for your reaction. I really appreciate you breaking this down. Thank you!

[@logankerlee1988]

I've got to say that each time you do a Queen song on here my levels of joy increase by an incredible amount!! Queen is plain and simple my TOP favorite band that's ever performed. A lot of credit goes to Freddie but the other band members deserve credit as well, of course! :)

[@RobertLee-np9zo]

The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars is my favorite Bowie album. Just throw on the headphones, grab a cocktail, and go for a ride.

[@halphillips1775]

David Bowie and Bing Crosby, little drummer boy... maybe save that for Christmas

[@francisseidel8014]

My favorite version of Little Drummer Boy! Excellent suggestion!

[@RosiecheeksSnugglebums]

I grew up with that one on an LP...and I found it here on youtube some time ago. It's THE Christmas song for me

[@RockChick63174]

Yessssssss! So good!

[@nickwinsbrow7316]

Love Bowie's croon through that!

[@cynkal1203]

Yes

[@HeroofBergen]

Under Pressure is truly one of the greatest songs ever written.

[@DJHolte]

Under Pressure was also used for a very powerful scene in the TV series The Magicians -- where it wasn't about singing it perfectly, but embracing the emotion of the lyrics and the song.

[@doorofnight87]

I love this song, it is one of my all time favorite. It is so brilliantly composted, and the story of how Queen and David Bowie got together and put this together is fascinating! Loved your review and analysis.

[@rbb9753]

When Vanilla Ice performed on Saturday Night Live, Dennis Miller opened the News with the start of this song and said “I just love Queen and Bowie songs.” More proof that Weekend Update has always been the best part of the show.

[@nicholashylton6857]

😂 I never knew that!

[@markduffy5773]

I thought he said, "This song could be a hit today." Either way he totally trolled Vanilla Ice the musical guest that night.

[@baseballjustin5]

Didn't Vanilla Ice get in trouble for sampling Under Pressure without crediting them or something?

[@nicholashylton6857]

@@baseballjustin5 Yep. Mr. Van Winkle got hit by a big lawsuit. He had claimed it was a coincidence,.and later, he claimed that he might have heard its riff somewhere and unconsciously replicated it. In the end, a private settlement was reached and he now claims he has bought the rights to "Under Pressure." (In my opinion, I think that's total BS and he's just saving face.) As far as I know, the surviving members of Queen and David Bowie's estate have never verified selling the rights.

[@michaelminch5490]

@@nicholashylton6857 he also tried to claim, in a tv interview, that because there's an "extra beat," it's not the same riff.

[@Rjhs001]

I completely love how every emotion Elizabeth is feeling is written all over her face. Just magic.

[@TheJuanivitale]

Elizabeth: My life as a life-long Queen fan would be complete if you did an analysis of The March Of The Black Queen. Not the biggest of hits but I promise you're gonna have a field-day listening to the layers and layers of vocals in there... I'm pretty sure a lot of Queen fans out there would agree with me on this!

[@ZENOBlAmusic]

Yes!

[@littlemouse7066]

Under Pressure was recorded at the Mountain Studios in Switzerland David Bowie was friends with the Queen drummer Roger Taylor and since they were recording an album there and David was at that moment in his house not very distant from the studio Roger invited him in the studio and in that occasion they had the idea to involve him in the recording of Under Pressure. So it's basically a Queen song not very suitable for David even if he did sing it together with his friend Annie Lennox at the Freddy Mercury Tribute the concert organized to celebrate him after his death and he started singing it in concert in the 90s together with his bassist Gail Ann Dorsey. The falsetto was from Freddy and you can hear Bowie's deep voice singing the ohhh in the background. the "cry" you hear when they sing together was from Bowie he did that in some of his songs of that period and one of them was Heroes (the record version). By the way I don't know what Bowie songs or albums you already listened to but if you want to understand how a good singer he was you should listen to his albums from 1974 onwards meaning Diamond Dogs Young Americans (to a certain extent ) Station to Station the song Heroes other albums Lodger (1979) in my opinion the most difficult album he recorded vocally too Scary Monsters (where basically every song has a different vocal style) Bertolt Brecht Ball (a mini LP he published in 1981-82) and Outside (1995). From Baal you can find the video of The Drowned girl on this platform his singing is almost operatic sometimes in that song kzbin.info/www/bejne/sGHWnoybd5yNrsU

[@ScottSA-p7g]

Always had respect for David, his innovation, his abilities, his craft and skill. Recently I read an interview with a vocalist from Ontario, Canada. She toured with him in North America and described his consistent dedication to the audience, band and crew. It was wonderful to confirm his humanity, it was icing on an already wonderful layer cake -- his recognition, for example, the whole is greater than individual parts. I say this because many famous people are real, honest and even approachable. Others are, in some cases for good reason, not remotely so -- to the point of intolerable outside of the spotlight. I have had the opportunity, most often the pleasure, to observe this first hand with a handful of his peers. Unfortunately that did not include David, but the interview enlarged the window into how great he really was... and such a tragic loss. One of the many reasons this channel is so good is the projection of similar traits. This does not make you, it is one if the things you happen to do. Thank you, superb as always.

[@christinablackmore5222]

I have a handful of songs that I never, EVER, get tired of hearing. If one of those songs comes on the radio, plays faintly in the background at the supermarket, or emanates from the car sitting next to me at a stoplight, I immediately focus and pay attention. “Under Pressure” is one of those songs. I have been listening to this song since I first saw the video on MTV in the early eighties. The build, and the lyrics at the end, always gives me goosebumps. In spite of the countless listens, your analysis has given me a new perspective , and a whole other level of enjoyment of “Under Pressure.” Thank you.

[@nerigarcia7116]

This song is epic and operatic. Their voices are so lovely together. My favorite part is 19:10 where David Bowie comes in with the low under Freddie repeating "give love...." and starts that whole bridge "Cause love's such an old-fashioned word....". That whole part and how Bowie sings it has always been one of my all-time favorite parts of any song.

[@RZK1966]

The David Bowie and Annie Lennox version at the Freddy Mercury tribute is amazing.

[@audiblezero]

Watch their rehearsal vid. You can see George Michael singing along, in the background.

[@OddBallPerformance]

This song gave us a window into a collaboration album that we all wished would have happened. Freddie and David's voices are perfect for a proper duet.

[@kristianfischer9814]

I love that you love Queen. Freddie was one of, if not THE, greatest live music performer of the last century. And I mean performer, not just singer; he could play a crowd of tens of thousands like a puppet master!

[@aMulliganStew]

Seven hours and it hasn't yet been stuck down. Mrs. Elizabeth, You've no doubt shattered the previous record for this song -- rumored to have reached the milliseconds. Excellent jjob!

[@Broccoli_Highkicks]

David performed this with Annie Lennox at Freddie's memorial concert (which I begged my mother to be allowed to stay up for back in the day) . Which leads me to suggest to you that you really have to analyse Annie Lennox sometime soon. That lady has some serious pipes, and as far as I'm concerned, while I greatly appreciate and respect Madonna, Annie is the real queen of 1980s pop. You can't really go wrong with any Eurythmics hit. Or you could do the shatteringly beautiful Into The West from the LOTR: Return Of The King soundtrack, or Lovesong For A Vampire from the Bram Stoker's Dracula one.

[@treetopjones737]

Annie can still sing now. Tangent, her daughter began a singing career as well.

[@Happyheretic2308]

@@treetopjones737’Tangent’? Poor creature.

[@Broccoli_Highkicks]

​@@Happyheretic2308Annie's daughters are called Lola and Tali. I assume he meant mentioning her daughter was tangential to talking about Annie. Having said that, as Frank Zappa once replied when asked why he gave his kids such weird names: "Consider for a moment any beauty in the name Ralph".

[@harvey66616]

One of my favorite Lennox performances is when she sang "Dido's Lament" with the London City Voices. Granted, already a great piece of music. But Lennox's voice elevates just about anything she sings to breathtaking heights.

[@kevinmoore5053]

This Song is one of the total masterpieces of rock, and it is so underappreciated... It's such an incredible blend of vocal styles & and genres and emotion. It NEVER fails to draw me in... It's one of my all-time favorites... Thanks for analyzing this, Elizabeth...

[@sarahburns870]

Fred and David Bowie complement each other perfectly I never knew how complex this song actually is truly amazing songs ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@laneferrin8675]

Elizabeth, you have converted me to Bowie by your comments and analysis. I'm an average 60 something male vocalist, wannabe choir director, always on the verge of understanding music theory, son of a real musician. Thanks for your enthusiastic and very inspiring videos!!

[@frugalseverin2282]

I got to see Queen perform this at my 2nd ever concert way back in '82 and saw Bowie sing it with Gail Ann Dorsey in the early '90s. One of those rare songs that moves me.

[@musicartguy1]

Hot Space tour was my 4th concert. It blew me away.

[@eiephants]

I'm envious of you all. 😢

[@pvandelft1610]

I just typed a message like this. Gail Ann and Bowie are so amazing together.

[@kellycrook543]

Freddie didn't study opera. He never had voice lessons. He just had natural talent. Again, Freddie mercury never had voice lessons, never studied opera. NATURAL TALENT. BORN WITH IT!!!!

[@markemge4868]

You can say that again

[@combatwombat_25]

There is a difference between natural ability, taught and self taught. More like he was naturally gifted but worked to self develop.

[@TheLukanda]

Do you mean Fred? Fred of the Mercure???

[@thane9]

If you like Freddie's scat/vocalizations you should definitely look up his call and response he did with crowds, Live Aid comes to mind as one. It's amazing. I'm so glad you're exploring Bowie. He's at the very pinnacle for me and definitely qualifies as one who you should take time to explore his entire catalogue.

[@masto8525]

“For legal reasons” Farrokh’s voice is a master class of control in adverse conditions.

[@zeecassel325]

Trying to understand this comment in video actually. Why is naming Freddie Mercury in relation to this song a risk?

[@masto8525]

@@zeecassel325 the “algorithm” can pick up on things and mess with peoples earning potential. Especially when companies that “own” certain things want a “strike”

[@eauhomme]

@@masto8525 You see this in Rick Beato's musical analysis videos as well, where he will not mention certain artists, or only play the bass line of a song, or otherwise try to fool the algorithm because he gets copyright strikes otherwise.

[@bloodwillrunthestreets5205]

I know this sounds weird, but... please do a compilation of your facial expressions alone. You have the most enchanting expressions during your reactions and I would watch your videos for that element alone. It is sooo adorable!

[@bjorn6495]

There's an acapella mix of this that was used in the excellent film Aftersun last year. Just David's and Freddie's voices going at each other. So incredible.

[@martyschlindwein]

I think it’s the vocals isolated if it’s the one I’ve heard. Only because there are all the pauses

[@martyschlindwein]

Either way it’s very cool to hear

[@christophermckinney3924]

So legend has it this song was an unscheduled recording. Both Queen and Bowie were touring separately and found themselves in the same city and decided to record a song together at a famous stupdio while there. The session lasted through the night. They had the bass line from Queen's bass player and Freedie had written some lyrics but Bowie hadn't heard any of them. So they each went in separately and recorded against the parts that were completed and didn't listen to what the other came up with, although rumor has it Bowie cheated a bit and slipped in to listen to Freddie. When both had done their peices they came together, compared ideas and constructed the song. So both men and Queen contributed heavily to the work. At the end it was a masterpiece. I grew up in the 70s and I'm only just now truly beginning to understand and respect the impact these men had on the craft.

[@charleshein5991]

It was an absolutely amazing experience to have lived!

[@tmage23]

The music came first. It was part of a loose jam\unfinished song the band had been kicking around since 1977 or so called "Feel Like" which you can find on youtube.. They had the melody but the lyrics were only halfway there and Deacon's iconic bass line wasn't there.

[@jossbsure]

The first part is pure "legend". They weren't touring. Queen was recording in a Swiss studio Bowie went frequently, living in the vicinity. They socialized then opener up to work something out together. Then, maybe your specifics about the parts may be right (or not)...

[@scoobyblue5300]

The vast majority of this track was written by Bowie...with some input from Brian May. The rest of Queen were tired and had went to bed.

[@shelldust7143]

Amazing song by two legendary people. Makes me emotional everytime I hear this. It did the same to me when I first heard it a hundred years ago! I was late to work and this song came on the radio. Love it! Thank you!

[@kellyjones5404]

Just discovered your amazing channel, in which you analyze some of my favorite artists and songs. I cannot wait to share it with my daughter, who can now understand through your descriptions and evaluation how she is able to sing like almost anyone...and the control she has of her instrument, without much formal training. I grew up in and around music but have been unable to be with my daughter to ensure she had the instruction she deserved. Gifted artists find a way. She and everyone can learn from you, including how these voices, music, and (even) the videography impact the listener. I loved your analysis of Aurora's "Runaway," the Cranberries' "Zombie," (which taught me a lot and broke my heart,) and your reactions to Peter Gabriel' s and Kate Bush's "Don't Give Up." I'm going to have a hard time not binging all your videos. Wow to the teacher and processor of great voices, instruments, and music. If you ever want to do another Kate Bush analysis, she performed, "This Woman's Work," at the Champs Elysee, and her voice and lyrics really convey what it feels like to lose a child and not be able to be with them while having to keep it together and putting on a brave face to stay strong while your heart is collapsing inside. Thank you for your amazing, emotive, uplifting, informative, and often very fun channel. Love, your new fanmom. Yes, music is so inspiring and helps us be better people. Right on, TCV.

[@iain6882]

For me the best recorded song performance ever. The lyrics, writing, composition, story, raw emotion, build and climax with Bowie and Freddie kills me every time.

[@noahtomato3515]

Lovely "Fred" performance of course but it's the Bowie parts that really move me. He had a knack of expressing profound things in surprising ways. Thanks for the cool analysis!

[@aaronbenson2767]

This is why I love this channel so much. A brilliant and incredibly well presented analysis and reaction to what is the greatest rock duet anthem IMHO. And its power and relevance only has increased with time. In recent years, the last minute and a half of the song has taken a whole new meaning and never fails to bring me to tears.

[@treetopjones737]

#VoteBlueToSaveAmerica

[@williampayne8620]

Since the first time I heard this song I have loved it, and to this day is still my favorite duet of all time. The differences in their voices compliment each other so much, absolutely beautiful. Still brings tears to my eyes even after 40 years of listening to it. Glad you finally did this version. ❤❤❤❤

[@Dr.K.626]

Love when Bowie comes in with the lead vocals. Very cool that Queen gave Bowie the lead here! 💥🎉💥🎈💥🖐💥🖐💥

[@GraupeLie]

"Layers of genius" - yes! Two of my absolute favourites - Queen and Bowie - it really couldn't get any better than that!

[@F1jones]

I'd love to see Bowie's Golden Years reviewed. Highly underrated song and vocal. Heroes also, if it hasn't already been done.

[@corinnavaldez6057]

Golden Years is such an incredible song!

[@suntzu1550]

More Queen please!!!! This is one of my all time favourite songs.

[@davidbaron8330]

Two MASTERS at work. Bloody brilliant!

[@Aldark22405]

I didn't realize I needed you to breakdown Under Pressure. Great video! Two of the best ever.

[@GKW76]

The most recognized bass line in rock. 😂 Freddy and David-BOTH class acts with unmistakable voices.

[@cardboardgeek]

I would potentially argue "Another One Bites the Dust"

[@linnightl9277]

Bowie said to his bass player, Gail Ann Dorsey, "you are going to sing Under Pressure". Imagine that pressure... and she stepped up while playing bass

[@dominicg11]

The live version on the Reality Tour album is amazing - I prefer it to the Queen and DB version

[@MrMotorNerd]

Outstanding version , I agree

[@JustTanya.]

Yes, she always did too. That's why she was on his team for so long. They always had that great connection too. A lot of respect for each other. Reminded me of Tina Turner and Tim Cappello. 😎👍

[@aafpeptoe4209]

Awesome duet by legendary singers. Bowie & Mercury shine.

[@thebutterflybush1706]

Two of David Bowie’s finest vocal performances are Wild Is The Wind and Sweet Thing/Candidate/Sweet Thing (Reprise).

[@kenthomas1845]

Smiling, ear to ear, and deep inside, with tears in my eyes. Beautiful analysis of an amazing song by two brilliant artists. Thank You, Elizabeth.

[@andrebrazz8408]

I absolutely love this song , thank you Elizabeth for making me hear it with fresh ears with your analysis , as you often do. Crazy idea , probably too big an undertaking , but an analysis of the whole Queen Live Aid performance (maybe could be done in segments) it was not only an historic moment in music it was a moment in history. For 22 odd minutes Freddie Mercury held MILLIONS of people in the palm of his hands and the glory of his voice, I will never forget experiencing this moment.

[@PrivChurch]

"Oh, hey. Skull." New favourite TCV quote.

[@matthewgoodA1206]

A genuine masterpiece in my book. In many, many books. I think this shows what’s possible when different artists of phenomenal talent collaborate. You can get an unforgettable song out of it. In my opinion David sounds more like the baritone he was when his “Let me out” is right next to Freddy’s tenor notes. Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails referred to him as a “mentor” after he passed away. And the warm lines David comes in with after “Give love, give love, give love” are some of my favorite vocal melodies of all time; I’ve always wanted them to be sung on and on, almost endlessly. That section does have a very moving feel, and I could see it working by your facial expression. And that passage actually plays in the background of a John Cusack movie while he is holding a baby up, and seeing the miracle of life. Art. Yes. Art.

[@katbairwell]

The happy stimming at Freddie's big slide up made me smile! Gosh I love this song, I've listened to it countless times, and there is always something new that I notice, even now.

[@betholabecker3219]

Like, for a moment it sounds like church organ music!

[@feakhelek1]

@@betholabecker3219 Sounds like the THX sound.

[@andeewb]

I love how you take the songs I like, the soundtrack of my youth as it is, and dissect these songs, explaining exactly why I love them so much. Thanks!

[@jpcarroll100]

Great reaction, Elizabeth. In 1992, Queen did a Tribute Concert for Freddie where a phenomenal list of singers performed Freddie's parts on Queen songs. David Bowie performed Under Pressure with Annie Lennox. It was amazing. Also, speaking of Annie Lennox, I would really like to see you reaction to some of her songs. Either with Eurythmics, or her solo stuff. She is incredible.

[@alistairmccausland1580]

One of the best songs of the early eighties from David and Freddie...beautiful & unique.

[@maryvallas772]

Your instinct was correct. David Bowie did write the lyrics. This song has been a favorite for over 40 years now, and it sounds just as amazing to me now as it did when I was still a kid. ❤

[@photoscottsb]

Ironically, and tragically, Queen and Bowie never performed this song live together. It became a regular in Queen shows, including a classic Saturday Night Live appearance, but Bowie only performed it live after Freddie Mercury’s death - first with Annie Lennox at Mercury’s tribute concert, then regularly with his bassist Gail Ann Dorsey on vocals.

[@jessicajones657]

There was a big sample lawsuit with Ice Ice Baby and this song. I really wish you did the video with both performers taking different stages. I understand it was a mashup video, however, to see each of them command a presence is wonderful.

[@francisseidel8014]

My recollection is that Vanilla Ice now owns the rights to this song, because it was less expensive to buy the rights than pay the legal fines he would have to pay.

[@jessicajones657]

@francisseidel8014 you are correct, he did end up buying the rights. It is a very interesting music industry story.

[@treetopjones737]

Just NO. It's a bad attempt. Just show the performances as they actually were.

[@ateamfan42]

More more more more Queen please! If possible, get some live performance video. We all know Freddie was an exceptional singer, but his larger than life stage persona was unmatched.

[@MarkAnthony293]

Elizabeth, this is one of my favorite songs of All Time!! There is not enough space here to comment on Queen or David Bowie but the song itself is a Masterpiece!!

[@muratomar6502]

Finally, some Queen 👏‼️😂 For the opera Singer imo the best choice to react is March of the Black Queen 🤗

[@kawaninjafan]

Yes, the whole Queen II album is perfect

[@karengoodenough827]

That’s possibly my fav Queen song, hard to say because they have so much fantastic music, but March of the Black Queen absolutely ranks near or at the top of

[@MrCharliesay]

More Bowie please ! Moonage daydream, Life on mars, 5 years, Up a hill backwards etc etc

[@kristvoiles484]

"Starman" as well! Definitely more Bowie, please!

[@SteveM109r]

5 years. what an amazing tune. And what a way to start one of the greatest albums ever.

[@jr.resendes7373]

Elisabeth, I have been listening to you for years and this, imho is the best reaction video you have made to date. Thank you.

[@Bonn1770]

There was some competition between Bowie and Freddie in the studio, two huge singers with equally huge egos in the same room. It shows in how they both do their own thing vocally in the beginning, but they find common ground and are on the same page at the end. I also liked how Freddie has his instrument to compliment his voice, Brian May's guitar, and Bowie has that wonderful French horn backing his vocals, very similar to his vocal tone.

[@shadowings8765]

How did I miss this one?... Been waiting for some Queen! And would like some more! 🤪🥳👍