Jethro Tull "Aqualung" REACTION & ANALYSIS by Vocal Coach / Opera Singer

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

We just released merchandise! Check out the full line-up here: thecharismaticmerch.com

[@melissakhalar1842]

I hope you don't mind me sending you this funny short video of Ian Anderson. You said his eyes are very expressive and so you might get a kick out of him answering a couple of questions during an appearance on German Television. This is just a small part of it. Also I hope you are able to see it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bImpdquMaa13npI

[@jiversteve]

It’s one of the best songs ever, you did well, I love your eyes!

[@kratzikatz1]

You should try fields of the nephilim- elizium(LP) . Manydifferent songs combined to one string. Lovely music for bedtime. The whole LP is like the waves of the sea coming ashore and break. I hope you can find a cd without cuts between the songs.

[@ricksouthernrebelatheart5138]

JJ Gray Lochloosa live you will love the soul he puts into his song

[@chaosh7040]

I know you like to watch live performances so you can see the singer singing but this is the 2nd song (Heaven & Hell w/Dio in Black Sabbath the other one) where the live performance just doesn't match the original album version..."throaty/grit/gutteral" &/or similar words are words you used to describe the performances & the originals don't have that...they're much cleaner & technical as opposed to "growling" for the audience effect (who already know the originals so can appreciate the difference better). As for Iron Maiden you don't need to go to the albums because Bruce nails the album sound perfectly...for 2 1/2 hours straight every night...yeah...(as you have already discovered) he is that good. I can't believe (living in Arizona & admitting to possibly hearing some songs on the radio before) that you've never heard Auqalung before...this is US radio & that is probably in the top 20 (40 for sure) of all time songs played on any classic rock station.

[@danmabee]

he's not nuts, he's just skating away on the thin ice of a new day

[@raz0rcarich99]

LOL

[@guidojansen6720]

That's one of my favorite songs of the Tull.

[@die2tri448]

“Meanwhile, back in the year one…”

[@tbirdsteve1]

Bravo Sir

[@allenjones5525]

I see what you have done there.. LOL .. Good one

[@nelsonleduc8833]

It's almost impossible to believe in today's world, but there was a brief window in time (in the late 60s-early 70s) when this type of music, with odd intervals, modulating tonalities, multiple contrasting textures, and extended development were common and well-loved in popular music. I'm so glad I got to be alive during this period of progressive rock.

[@alexandermeier9979]

i was not but its not a problem to appreciate it 30-50 years later. :) I really love this kind of music even i was born 83.

[@joseislanio8910]

I'm lucky I was born in a time I can get to experience it as much as I want, in a way that would've been verified difficult at the time

[@leonardoD81]

Could not agree more with your comment.

[@TheHighwinder]

There is one band left who does this, and at a level that nobody's even got close to in musical history - Dream Theater. But even they're getting older now, and nobody is seemingly capable of picking up where they left off. And even if anybody was interested, the industry wouldn't allow it at this point. The industry will only manufacture it's own auto-tuned, computerized, talent-less tripe from cherry-picked kids off of KZbin. Behold, Dream Theater: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHixaIqZncmMl5Y

[@pacervault3350]

Yes! Literally!

[@mikeselectricstuff]

Unusually no flute on this one - Ian is famous for vocalising while playing flute, often standing on one leg! Try "Locomotive Breath"

[@randyman1331]

Yep he is more famous because of the flute not his singing. Kinda like Blues Travelers singer and his harmonica.

[@M11969]

Yes! Id love to see her reaction to Locomotive Breath.

[@bravenewozzy]

I third this. Locomotive Breath please!

[@Benstein347]

Yes! You need to hear Locomotive Breath!

[@bit1979]

I was thinking exactly the same

[@rankedpsiguy1]

Ian Anderson is the very definition of a Renaissance Man. Again, I am GRATEFUL to have spent my adolescence and teen years in the 1970's.

[@johnmonch5242]

Jethro Tull has long been the day job that supports his farming habit.

[@georgesheffield1580]

The Brits had a bunch of leading edge musicians in the 60's and 70's . A few are still around and are still. very much leading edge standards .

[@juliansomers1236]

The first album I owned was Aqualung in the early 70s, still love it today.

[@cdsorvinyl]

​@@juliansomers1236- Absolutely

[@carlow6721]

I to was a teenager at that time and I love Tull. Takes me back over 50 years.

[@dsgp7835]

This whole album is a studio masterpiece. It must be listen to, headphones and uninterrupted.

[@paulipuhakka8788]

Absolutely agree with ya! Best part is, I still have the vinyl album! I live around Vancouver 🇨🇦 where Ian lived for alot of years. It was certainly an absolute treat to see him in a pub jamming with other musicians, or in one of many venues in Vancouver doing a concert. And yes, Aqualung was the song everyone "needed" to hear. Cheers and beers from British Columbia 🇨🇦

[@Kensdisguise]

Well said...! My first experience with real rock, just as I started 7th grade, and I have never looked back.

[@SilverbladeGR]

Seriously, one of the most important albums in the history of rock.

[@ronniewall492]

SO MANY GROUPS BACK THEN.

[@williamsorge2649]

@@ronniewall492 .

[@vinnyganzano1930]

I've seen Jethro Tull live about a dozen times and Ian Anderson is one of the best showmen I've ever seen.

[@chrismacrae6990]

First time really listening to the song. I would definitely see them live if I had the chance

[@gladeloy3341]

seen them 4X.

[@margotmason3129]

They are amazing in concert!

[@AnAmericanFan]

For my tastes every bit the equal of Freddie Mercury as a front man, not better, different.

[@DavidBrown-bp4iq]

​@@chrismacrae6990 My hope is you get the chance. I was 19 for the first one. Talent, ability like you would not believe, Chris. I mean it's really amazing. These people are serious!

[@SammySantiagoIrizarry]

Excellent Analysis!!!! Jethro Tull and Ian Anderson should be on the Hall Rock of Fame for their fantastic music!!!!

[@vayres7512]

Hall of Fame is just commercial crap.

[@stevendavid5370]

Yes - Jethro Tull and Ian Anderson should be in the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame. I actually wrote Ian and expressed those exact sentiments to him. He is very much apart of American music, and to not induct him is an insult to music.

[@lindae2524]

Yeah the HOF screwed over the Moody Blues even though they had hits spanning 3 decades. Let them in after the wonderful flutist, Ray Thomas died. But they inducted newer, less prolific bands. They broke attendance records constantly. HOF sux

[@positivelynegative9149]

​@@stevendavid5370 apart vs a part

[@elizabethconklin9011]

I did not know they weren't. They certainly deserve it for more reasons, than I could count.

[@michaelstamper5604]

I find the lyrics of this song very moving. According to the back story I was told as a young man, Ian became acquainted with a man who had been a diver during WW2. Hecwas involved in an accident underwater and ended up brain damaged, though not to the degree that he needed 24hr care. In later years, when Ian knew him, he had lost his home, family and livelihood, and been reduced to vagrancy. Because of his previous occupation, the man's nickname was Aqualung. So the song is a kind of "look what we do to our heroes. They shouldn't be left to suffer like this" thing. At least, thats the version I was told many years ago.

[@metalmamasue3680]

When I worked as a corrections RN, we had an older man inmate whose last name was Labuck. He was from a redneck town, not that far from where I lived, and was only in prison for unpaid fines having vehicles that didn't run on his property. Something really dumb. He was a sort of grumpy oId man type but not disrespectful ever, to the medical staff. We nurses actually had a friendly relationship with him. He had a smaII sore on his foot, he was diabetic. And of course it got much worse in iffy conditions of a prison cell and he often butted heads with the Corrections officers, some who needed an ego check. Fighting with an old man over words, they would deliberately set him off and then tase him and put him onto the floor. Ughh, not everyone had issues with him, just the egotistical jerks. Long story short, he ended up having an amputation on the leg and down the road, the other leg too. All because of being in prison for non running cars on his own property. 🙄🤦‍♀️ He would come up to our dept for dressing changes and his insulin. We got to know him well. He was a wild and wooly looking older man and one day, one of the nurses teasingly called him Aqualung and he loved it. I said it should be AquaLabuck since his surname was Labuck. So it stuck. 😂 Everytime I hear Jethro Tull I think of Mr AquaLabuck. They did release him after many months, but with no legs he had to go to a long term care facility. It was very sad, he owed $500. We nurses would have gladly chipped in and paid his fines, but we would've been fired for it. That was over 30 yrs ago, he's long gone. RlP AquaLabuck ❤🧙‍♂️😢

[@georgeottilige]

I heard the same story 50+ years ago, and supposedly Ian got him set up in a facility to be cared for, and picked up the tab for whole thing. A True philanthropist.

[@lilaccilla]

a sensitive man , Ian . ❤

[@stukorth9097]

Stop talking

[@distanceismyplastercast]

The more official story is his wife was doing a photography project on the homeless and Ian became acquainted with one of them who had pneumonia (old fashioned name aqualung, as your lungs fill with liquid drowning you). The song then is, electric part how the World saw this man as a dirty, sick pervert. Whereas, the acoustic part is how Ian knew him as a lonely old, sick man.

[@nicholascolameo4638]

Jethro Tull throughout the 70's were the embodiment of medieval bardic storytelling. And Ian played the part of the minstrel perfectly.

[@chrismeredith1169]

Well said

[@warnistt]

They just got better and better as a band . Was lucky enough to see them 7 or so times .Twice in the 70's . From 2000 to about 2007 0r so they came by often .Better and better ,even with Ian's failing voice they were stellar. .

[@davidmehaffey727]

Exactly. A minstrel.

[@jefferytillis8309]

If you want to hear it at it's top listen to the album Broadsword and the Beast.

[@darklightstudio]

I named my D&D Bard character after him

[@BethDonovan1]

Gosh, I am old, 68, but I will never forget seeing Jethro Tull in concert back in the 70s. The most entertaining band I ever had the joy to witness! Ian Anderson is remarkable.

[@gregster61]

I'm 60, and I saw them in a theater in Stockton, CA in the mid 80s, and indeed, the best show I ever attended.

[@drewrobertson3301]

Caird Hall, Dundee, Scotland back in 1990 was my favourite Tull show ever. A small intimate setting in an old style Victorian hall. Happy memories.

[@garyharris2940]

@@gregster61 I'm also 68 never seen them but I have known about them since the 70s still like em to this day

[@barryharkins9390]

😎

[@patandemy]

Awesome in concert I’m in my 60’s at well. I know this album, every word of it.

[@charlesberton2581]

I get tears in my eyes watching your reaction because I grew up with this music knowing all along how special it was, and to see a young person appreciating it in her very first listen, in the year 2021, feels like vindication.

[@schultzdotcom]

I also teared up & I also feel vindicated. One of my favorite groups & always the best shows.

[@BabaGaYa3]

Musique intemporelle.

[@charlesberton2581]

@@BabaGaYa3, thanks. I had to look that up."Timeless music." And you're right!

[@mikefranks417]

You expressed my feelings perfectly, Charles. How great to see the absolute joy of as n expert experiencing Tull for the first time. And what an outstanding show! I've never seen them live, and few bands from that era put on a show of this quality, musically or theatrically. WOW!

[@charlesberton2581]

@@mikefranks417, sorry you never got to see them live. I hear they are coming to the states, so you'll have your chance. Not to brag, but I've seen them several times from 1979 on.

[@wonkothesane8632]

Not nuts, not on drugs, Ian is just the quintessential Bard. A musically gifted teller of tales. Jethro Tull are one of the greatest bands in rock and roll.

[@mledger223]

Greatest concert ever

[@-Troll-]

Wat he sed !

[@MrJohnnyDistortion]

🎯

[@koslover]

Hell-Yeah !!

[@Randy-v9x]

Agreed

[@dsgp7835]

The heavy part of the song is the have complaining about the have not and having to see him on the streets and his unsympathetic thoughts about him. The acoustic part is the life through the eyes of the homeless and the hopelessness he lives each day. The tempo and lyrics describeing each view is nothing short of a masterpiece. Thanks Elizabeth!!!

[@justdave9610]

This song is about perception of the homeless via the aqualung character with the heavier part representing a negative viewpoint characterizing him as malicious and scummy and the more melodic accoustic section giving a more empathic view of him just trying to survive his difficult circumstances. It's an iconic song with such a powerful message. Loved your reaction Elizabeth

[@PMantle]

Most important comment here. I hope the video creator saw this and then listened again.

[@alanfan8941]

I wonder what her reaction would have been to the song Cross Eyed Mary which dovetails with Aqualung.

[@outtathyme5679]

Can we just take a moment to appreciate Martin’s guitar virtuoso

[@rodgerpalmer9872]

Yes yes yes have always thought of him as One of the most underrated guitarists ever And as you can hear there is acoustic and he's the one playing it!!!!

[@stevemd6488]

My favorite guitar solo of all time is his Aqualung one. He says he was playing it and Jimmy Page came into the control room and waved at him, something like that, recalling from an interview. Pretty sure he was the only constant member of JT besides Ian of course.

[@BobK5]

Elizabeth did recognise the guitar solo even to the point of considering taking guitar lessons. Martin doesn’t use any colouring of tone in his guitar work which leaves it one dimensional to me, ok for for what it is though as part of the song.

[@kolchak357]

Yes, Martin is awesome. Just love his sound and style. It’s a shame he is not on the upcoming 2022 Tull release. Was disappointed when I heard that.

[@davidcranch7890]

@@rodgerpalmer9872 Martin is indeed underrated and an amazing acoustic guitarist however he does not play acoustic on Aqualung, at least never in the 50 or so times I've seen Tull and/or Martin live.

[@marcianisenbaum7590]

So many of his songs, especially live…. It’s almost like a mini opera… telling a story… shifts in the mood and instrumentation.. and his stage presentation… excellent!

[@Qwalnuts]

“Musically, it’s extremely intricate and bold.” Welcome to the wonderful world of progressive rock!

[@trollumgorkus1624]

The genesis of Jethro Tull hasn't been addressed here, and it is central to any analysis. Their gestalt was (and is) a fusion of Renaissance-era music and rock. This is borne out by Ian's costume and style. He performs as a minstrel, or more properly, a jongleur, hence his dramatic posturing and exaggerated facial expressions. Jethro Tull inspired millions of fans to expand their musical horizons and experience ancient music, baroque, early opera and other forms which they would, in all likelihood, never have known otherwise. That said, they are dazzling on initial exposure. Aqualung is particularly... impacting... for a first-time listener. Well done, Charismatic Voice.

[@sharonandrus5009]

This is one of my favorites. Linda Perry singing " Spaceman" I heard some amazingly beautiful sounds on it. Her range is fantastic. Please, please do this song. PS O just found you by listening to Jethro Tull and I immediately subscribed You are amazing💜

[@johncocchia210]

She is young like we were when when Jethro Tull was in its heyday. It looks like she is learning as she goes. So give her some credit it's not from her generation. She could be doing rap then I would have never seen her. It's not my generation.

[@danvincent2600]

It’s interesting to know that had tony iommi stayed with j.t there probably would never have been black sabbath

[@rodger7029]

Excellent description

[@nicholasmatthias6862]

This is a great explanation! I agree 100% Ian is also Scottish, and really represents the Bard/storyteller Celtic culture, well, just used in a Prog Rock setting.

[@samanthamcintire9036]

I highly recommend sitting down and just really listening to the whole Aqualung album. Many of the songs work together to tell a story. Absolutely beautiful album, shifting from the rough grittiness to a folk sound with a lot of flute. Jethro Tull was amazing, and this album was absolutely amazing from beginning to end.

[@Kaotiqua]

Most of his albums progress that way- despite his insistence that he "Doesn't _do_ 'concept' albums". *lol* Yeah, we love you Ian, and we'll buy your lies, but we'll never believe them. ;)

[@spacelemur7955]

Yes. Complete albumns that held a common theme and/or story. Those were the days.

[@themisterchristie]

Yes, Cross-eyed Mary brings back Aqualung, interacting with Mary who is one of the little girls mentioned in the beginning.

[@almoemason]

Actually, Ian never meant for this to be a concept album, it just turned out that way.

[@Kaotiqua]

@@almoemason Uh huhn. And so did Minstrel in the Gallery, Songs From the Wood, Heavy Horses, Broadsword and the Beast, Stormwatch, Crest of a Knave... TOOOOOOOOTAL coincidence.

[@rickthreebears184]

Ian Anderson and Jethro Tull absolutely floored the audiences! I saw them live and UP FRONT and it took me two days to recover!

[@music2sooth]

"Aqualung my friend, don't you start away uneasy, you poor old sod you see, it's only...me" has always been the most touching, meaningful and expressive part of this song for me. Because it is a blending of a the listener trying to help him and the listener being him. How close are we all to being homeless, aqualung

[@cogs2937]

The Andersons were a great pair of lyricists. Just the line she mentioned, "sun streaking cold" doesn't actually make logical sense but it makes it's meaning absolutely clear. Other songs on the album are fun to listen to and have some great poetry but I'm not so sure they convey thier meaning as well. (Mother Goose I'm looking at you)

[@rickkaylor8554]

Martin Barre is a very underrated guitarist. A lot of the time his lead guitar solos send shivers down my spine. Big Jethro Tull fan since 1972.

[@TheJayrockerr]

I agree. He is very underrated. In my opinion. The opening riff to Aqualung, is right up there with Smoke on the Water, Breaking the Law, Crazy Train, etc.

[@judgegarry]

I concur...

[@gladeloy3341]

saw JT in my JHS gym in 71 ! CCR also. I had a gr8 childhood !

[@christophermollan1684]

happy birthday martin!!!!!!

[@judgegarry]

@@christophermollan1684 I share in his day! Happy birthday Martin...

[@robertcatesby8420]

Full disclosure: I'm a rabid Tull/Ian Anderson fan and have been for 53 years. Anderson, despite his wild appearance, was always very anti-drug, anti-hippie culture. The inspiration for the song came from his first wife who was a photographer. She showed him photos that she had taken in a seedy part of London of homeless men and "Aqualung" was born. You should listen to the original studio recording. The somewhat disturbing lyrics accompanying the unforgettable aggressive riff are how we tend to react to grungy homeless people. When it abruptly moves into the slower more quiet bridge, his voice initially is heard thru a filter making it sound distant and otherworldly; perhaps as an angel or even God views the character, with compassion, as those lyrics communicate. Anderson has always been a consummate performer, variously described as a whirling dervish or a demented bug-eyed Fagin. Though he loves performing, he deliberately undercuts the egotistical strutting of the typical Rock Star with manic humor; he's always rejected the 'Rock Star' tag insisting that he's a musician/performer. He plays an impressive number and variety of instruments though the flute has always been his primary, favorite and best known instrument. He has no musical or vocal training. Everything is self-taught. He's a natural baritone with such a wonderfully unique sound but has never liked his voice, wishing he was a tenor, and in the late 1980s his almost non-stop touring and attempting to sing out of his range resulted in partial vocal cords paralysis. He's had to struggle singing in live performances ever since. Another thing which makes his songs so unique is that he writes about things that no one else does. There are very few love songs in his canon. In 1987 he recorded a sort of coda to "Aqualung" called "Strange Avenues". I strongly urge you to listen to the song "Heavy Horses". It's musically and lyrically beautiful, moving and exciting. He's always been musically progressive and daring. Ironically, if you see/hear him in interviews he sounds like a University Professor. He's also looked like one for the past 20 odd years. You really should dive into all the Tull and solo recordings he's done. Happy listening!

[@FsdocVR]

Quite proper comment I would expect from a rabid Tull fan. Enjoyed as much as the video. Thanks!

[@anotherbadseed]

Well put; I'd add that there are about 30-40 beautifully lyrical jethro Tull songs ... (and nearly all the songs ON the album Heavy Horses!)

[@ZenEndurance]

Awesome comment!

[@stephenhill3875]

Thank you Robert for your intriguing and informed reveal about the man. I will endeavour to consume!

[@bryanm5233]

Of course we can’t forget Farm On The Freeway. Like Robert wrote, Ian’s topics are not written about very often.

[@scottbutcher9093]

His performance still gives me chills, he's so good.

[@shredders3881]

I've been a professional guitarist, and I made a living with my voice for decades. And I can tell you that these guys are top notch.

[@bluesky6985]

We know

[@malclee6246]

Ian Anderson is a legend in the rock music world, I don't know where he is living now but he once had a salmon farm in Scotland. He lived I think in a remote place because he values his privacy. At one time he used to get around on a moped!( Yes, a moped!!) And had a brilliant sound system. I was supposed to be seeing him in Blackburn recently and I couldn't go because of COVID, I was gutted. I have got a DVD from 1994 when countless former members of the band turned up for an anniversary drink. I have always wanted to meet him , he has just brought out another cd, the man is a total legend. If I was face to face with him I would be totally star struck but he is so down to earth he would make you feel comfortable 🤭😃🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🤩🎸😁🎼

[@iandruckman7779]

If you listen to the "chapters", you realize the first is how people walking by see him, the second is how a friend who knows him, and the third is how he sees himself. If you listen to the song with that in mind, it makes the message in the song much more powerful.

[@buckeyegr8]

Ian....So very well put! This song was a favorite of mine, at first, just because of the music. Then after listening to the lyrics, over and over, It all came together and made sense. These were the 3 distinct visions!! How he is seen by bystanders, how he is seen by his friends, and how he sees himself! Thank you.

[@GrowLLLTigeRRR]

Thanks Ian! I did not know that.

[@bartscanland9415]

From the liner notes: I(n) the beginning Man created God; and in the image of Man created he him. 2 And Man gave unto God a multitude of names, that he might be Lord over all the earth when it was suited to Man. 3 And on the seven millionth day Man rested and did lean heavily on his God and saw that it was good. 4 And Man formed Aqualung of the dust of the ground, and a host of others likened unto his kind. 5 And these lesser men Man did cast into the void. And some were burned; and some were put apart from their kind. 6 And Man became the God that he had created and with his miracles did rule over all the earth. 7 But as all these things did come to pass, the Spirit that did cause man to create his God lived on within all men: even with Aqualung. 8 And Man saw it not. 9 But for Christ's sake he'd better start looking.

[@germaneugenio]

Zappa said: In the beginning God made 'the light.' Shortly thereafter God made three big Mistakes. The first mistake was called MAN, the second mistake was called WO-MAN, and the third mistake was the invention of THE POODLE. Now the reason the poodle was such a big mistake is because God originally wanted to build a Schnauzer, but he fucked up. :D

[@objuan6]

I just love watching girls think!

[@MrJoeinz]

I have always loved Jethro Tull and especially Anderson's voice. To do this piece justice, you should also listen to the studio version of this song.

[@tonyvillalba1833]

exactly what I was thinking. I usually tell people to listen to the studio version of any song first.. sometimes, the live changes are not the best..

[@deanbean317]

@@tonyvillalba1833 except for "I Want You To Want Me" by Cheap Trick.

[@garrynorris4478]

I Agree

[@strawberryrbicks]

Yeah, his singing voice was gone by the late 70s. And no way does this song sound "modern"

[@heavnnnsent]

Yes absolutely

[@ProfessorMystic]

The studio version would give you a more full impression of what his voice can do.

[@DesertScorpionKSA]

I agree. The low end of his voice is missing here. His voice sounds high, weak, and nasal.

[@twotreasurehunters]

"He has such exspressive eyes!" Says the queen of expressing eyes. More Jethro with a flute this time pls.

[@ididthisonpulpous6526]

I was thinking the same thing!

[@DoctorQuackenbush]

She does have killer eyes. Sigh.

[@DevgamerGaming]

@@DoctorQuackenbush I've managed to go a long long time on youtube without totally fanboying over a female KZbinr and dangit she's got me with those expressions

[@lukasgarage956]

And he looks nuts......lol

[@tomrafal3655]

In England a "dog end" is a cigarette someone has thrown away. Many cities in England at the time had underground public toilets and the slang term is "bog". "Feeling alone, the army's up the road, salvation ale mode" refers to the Salvation Army and their homeless shelters where homeless people can get a bed for the night, food and a cup of tea.

[@dennismiller6990]

Thank you! The lyrics make much more sense now! Always wondered what a "Dogen" (that's the way I heard it) was. Now I know it's 'dog end."

[@FAT64]

Thank you ! :)

[@calanor4130]

Great info, thanks!

[@murraywestenskow2896]

That info filled in some gaps for me. That really explains salvation ala mode - where help is a daily need.

[@vadimzaytsev2660]

Bog is such a niche term. I was translating the song for fun, and I showed someone, and they said "Huh, my friend told me the hero was warming off in a bathroom, there's none of that here." I started googling, and sure enough. Never would have known otherwise (I was confused by the presence of a bog though!).

[@franciscoflg]

Ian Anderson is a living legend. You need to react to him singing and play flute.

[@maxwattage6631]

I shook his hand, literally I'm the hand that did it.And now I'm typing thank you.

[@XR650L_GUY]

This is the nature of rock. Different days. Jethro tull was a wild band.

[@ezeikiel23]

Martin Barre doesn’t get anywhere near the love he deserves as a guitarist,

[@BobK5]

He does from you which is what counts. 😎

[@nakedbusinessguy]

Brilliant, saw them live twice including this. Amazing

[@rickjason215]

He always changes the Aqualung guitar solo, which is great, the one on the record is one of my all time favorites.

[@willhersey3884]

So true he's doing a 50th anniversary aqualung tour I'm going and I'm hyped

[@radiobroog8091]

Agreed! One of the best of all time!

[@saschaschneider6355]

I've recently likened Ian Anderson's style of performing to "a wizard casting a binding spell" and I stand by that description.

[@rcrawford42]

Hah! I once had an RPG character who was a bard/mage who swung his flute as a weapon... I was on a Jethro Tull kick at the time.

[@Green-Lyon]

Nice :D

[@stever3145]

Joe Cocker with a Flute.

[@starlightveronica1873]

@@rcrawford42 I think it was rule back in the 80's that all D&D groups needed one Jethro Tull fan. Mine certainly all did.

[@liamfisher917]

Full Contact Gandalf

[@squiresam]

Martin Barre, one of the most underrated guitarists in music.

[@bobafettuccine666]

Absolutely, 100% underrated.

[@stevethomas1301]

Love Martin. Can't wait to see him again

[@blazeandcyrus]

this! so much!

[@nealsweeney7350]

@@bobafettuccine666 Not to those of us who appreciate the Alex Lifeson's, Elliot Eastons, of the world!!!

[@AlanCanon2222]

For real.

[@loneranger482002]

OMG!!! I watched this three times In a row, you had me smiling, thee entire time! I wanna "Thank You" for that! it always feels good too smile!

[@lewissmith4123]

Wow I can't believe that you are reacting to one of my favourite artists. I grew up in a house that always had Tull playing and I am now 52 and still listen to them now. Thanks!

[@Garion67]

Nearly the same here: Fan of Tull since 43 years now and "Locomotive breath" is on my playlist forever!

[@TankTheTech]

I'm 33 and grew up in a household always playing Tull, and still love it to this day. Ian Anderson was one of the 3 Ian musicians my Dad named me after. Super stoked for this.

[@danslattery1282]

Same man, 38 here though. My mum was always playing them and I still jam them. My best mate is called Ian Anderson too

[@gladheads]

Same here and same age, JT have a magic that appeals to children and adults alike, innovators and totally unique, extremely talented people, their songs bring you into another world- very interesting reaction : )

[@Xandrosi]

Ian Anderson is a musical genius and master entertainer. The Thick as a Brick album remains one of my favorites of all time. As a musician, you would enjoy it on multiple levels. Highly recommend!

[@NuOrder11]

Great album. My favorite is Too Old to Rock and Roll, Too Young to Die.....changed my world.

[@lakerman1422]

I have the Thick as a Brick album. Still has the full newspaper center with crossword and connect a dot that are not filled in. One of prized albums!

[@graywatkin8510]

Absolutely right... Saw them long long time ago. Visually and musically stunning, very tight band, legends.

[@houyhnhnm1411]

To my untrained ear, JT's "Passion Play," their other concept album, is more complex and drastically less repetitive than "Thick as a Brick."

[@18Crowie]

Crest of a Knave is probably more accessible to a rock fan who’s never heard them before. This was the album that stopped Metallica from getting a Grammy

[@tphobe]

Anderson is a fantasy bard. I love how Aqualung evolves from a discordant, hurdy-gurdyish pile of notes into a tight and poignant finish. I never drift away listening to this song.

[@loralyns]

"Fantasy Bard" is such a perfect way to describe Ian.

[@liviofazi4017]

Masterpiece

[@CorwinAlexander]

You'll be happy to listen to Minstrel in the Gallery then

[@tphobe]

@@CorwinAlexander Yes, I am!

[@michaeltelson9798]

He does have connections with the British folk music community especially Maddy Prior who guesses on one album, the Grand Dame of British Folk Music and lead singer of Steele Eye Span.

[@waltSperling]

The first album I ever bought. I was 13 and Mom wasn't happy. Saw them 4 years later. What a great show! Thank You, Ian!

[@c4ndyman_79]

Everyone who loves Jethro will praise "Thick as a Brick". I would aboslutely love to see your take on it :)

[@illusionclassicrock6742]

Thick as a Brick would definitely be a fun song to see her react to.

[@michaelcyr1620]

Agreed! A lot of people are suggesting Locomotive Breath, but I think Thick as a Brick is a better choice.

[@lassala]

I just came to the comments to say the same thing. I'm sure Elizabeth's analysis will increase my appreciation for Jethro Tull. :)

@@illusionclassicrock6742 Thick as a Brick would definitely be a LONG song to see her react to. lol

[@paranoidrodent]

The problem with Thick as a Brick for reactions is that you are only doing a reaction to a short edit or you are reviewing the entire album. It's a single 43 minute song after all.

[@michaelnettles2570]

He's a bard. He's acting, singing, playing etc.

[@toshikotanaka3249]

It's Medieval Sounding. It's like Rock Music at the time of Henry the VIII.

[@RalfEngelmann]

He's our Minstrel in the Gallery

[@EricHenning]

BINGO!

[@KatesFree]

Very good assessment: Ian's not a druggie, he's just a very gifted dramatic front man. One of the most tremendous bands of all time.

[@andrewhoran7088]

Seen Tull 2 times. Wish it was 200

[@anthonysims3116]

He's very dramatic on purpose. He was asked why he was that way, and he said it was so the people in the back rows could see him too

[@philhode5104]

He has always said he has never taken drugs

[@ihavefallenandicantreachmy2113]

I wish i could give "Charismatic etc" 299 Thumbs, Down, for "He's on Drugs." How the hell would she know and what the hell does it have to do with anything (besides nothing), anyway.

[@rezlivley]

So wonderful to see and hear your reactions as a first time listener with you background. I always loved what they did and how very different it was from the other things being recorded and preformed live at the time. I watched a flutist listen to his flute playing for the first time. His playing blew her away! He was always very into the performance and bringing some old folk and classical tones to his music and his lyrics were very poetic and creative. My first time finding this post and am now subscribed. Thanks... and I love the red panda on your shelf. I fell in love with them while in China once.

[@MrKen-mc4bu]

I saw Jethro Tull when I was 15 years old in late November 1969 at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Saw them again when Aqualung was released - at the Anaheim Convention Center in summer of 1971. I was there at the Forum in Inglewood, California in 1975 for their 'War Child' tour. The last time saw Tull was at the Universal Amptheater in Hollywood in the later 1970's. Ian Anderson was AWESOME every time I experienced Jethro Tull in concert. He was a real treat to watch live. Truly, they were a Great Band to see perform!

[@alanh.7668]

I tried to sneak out to see them at the Santa Monica Civic (years after you) but my parents found out from a loud mouth friend of mine and squashed it! Big regret.🙄

[@chknlyps2373]

He has such expressive eyes... says the lady on KZbin with the most expressive eyes!

[@edwardw851]

I totally agree 💯!

[@danchristopher7957]

Absolutely true.... she's adorable

[@jeffdodds6895]

I told her earlier that I would love to take her to a rock concert just to watch her face. I’m in love!

[@sabinebradley5345]

Ian was playing a character in Aqualung. In reality he is as sober as a box of ckeanex. He used his money to buy up most of Skye island and restore it back and throw out the developwers. He also builds instruments and runs fishfarms that gave the local jobs. You should listen to Thick as a Brick and Passion Play.

[@stephenhill3875]

ALRIGHT ALRIGHT dear Tullists I'm hooked now with all your character fact sharing.. I'm definitely devoting rest of the month to the Tull albums Thank you all😀

[@stuartmercer3096]

Two of my favs

[@roneichstaedt8853]

Especially in the early days, Anderson portrayed a minstrel of old, right down to tights, posing on one foot, and his trademark facial expressions. Those unfamiliar with his quirkiness mistook it for being on drugs at times.

[@MikkoRantalainen]

See here for an example: Jethro Tull - Thick As A Brick (live in London 1977) kzbin.info/www/bejne/nnLXYpVoZrhsbc0

[@cindyurban150]

When Ian sings this song, he becomes "Aqualung". The music suggests a sinister side to the character. I love your take on this great song.

[@jacksparrowbattlepirates2017]

Ian Anderson plays the flute in a way that is still hard to get my head around...It is brilliant.

[@robd3747]

An odd combo of classical and jazz flute with a flourish of the middle ages. Truly one of a kind.

[@waynewhisnand6157]

He's completely self taught, so he never had anyone tell him "you can't do that."

[@Gunderson105]

@@waynewhisnand6157 Later in life, Ian's daughter taught him the proper way to play the flute, and it's remarkably improved.

[@MrSman67]

There is a flute teacher who reacts to Ian playing flute.It is amazing.

[@robertkleinschmidt2862]

To get a better feel for Ian and Jethro Tull you should listen to "Locomotive Breath". Ian is the flutist.Probably not worth a new reaction, but it is the band in their 4th album released in 1971

[@seanchilds9547]

or thick as a brick live @ madison Sq Gardens

[@somedude6161]

"He looks a little bit nuts". Yup, that's Ian.

[@pietrayday9915]

And in spite of that, the guy was a complete professional and knew exactly what he and the rest of the band were doing - the crazy hair and wild, rolling eyes with his strange, growling voice are such a strange contrast with the ballet dancing and delicate medieval or classical flute solos, but the whole thing works together somehow! As mentioned in the video, Ian was pretty strict about drugs in the band - I don't think he was completely against them, but he definitely didn't want them interfering with the band's professionalism and creativity. (I take it that Tomi Iomi from Black Sabbath - which had pretty much the exact opposite relationship with drugs - very nearly joined Jethro Tull... I get the impression there was never a serious chance of that happening, but one can't help wondering how that partnership would have played out over the long run!)

[@calanor4130]

@@pietrayday9915 Yeah, Tony Iommi was with Tull for some two weeks. He did perform with the band during "The Rolling Stones Rock And Roll Circus", but then went back to the band Earth, which would later be known as Black Sabbath. Here's a clip of them performing "A Song for Jeffrey" together with Iommi, along with Anderson's comments on the circumstances surrounding this. With the exception of Anderson's vocals and flute, everything we hear is playback though: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bXTPhpmHo9CXe9E

[@michaeldarr225]

I got a great laugh at that....Thanks Elizabeth

[@philgallagher1]

@@pietrayday9915 Not only was it a possibility, but Tony Iommi DID join the band. He effectively had a choice of two bands, Sabbath or Tull. Sabbath were only just starting, bit Tull were more established so he went with them (leaving Sabbath in the lurch). However, as stated, it wasn't the right fit for either Ian or Tony, so he went back with his tail somewhat between his legs and the rest, as they say, is history! (Check out the "Gibson Icons" episode about Tony.... I think that's where he explains it in more detail).

[@HamelinSong]

Saw him in concert in 2019, and he def hasn't change ❤

[@timleach7500]

I saw Jethro Tull three times in the 70s. I am so glad that younger people are discovering what an incredible voice and musicians he and the rest of Jethro Tull are, they are unique and will never come again. Their unusual dress is a take-off from 15th, 16th-century minstrels.

[@johnwoolard4599]

He did everything as theater. I have seen him live a few times and interviewed him once and he was never the same character for each. He even took the interview "in character" it was lovely. I promise you every sound he makes has a purpose. He never did anything just to do it.

[@T-bone1950]

Thank you for being the first comment I have read that mentions the theatrical aspect of a Tull performance. Not to make any comparison, but Alice Cooper was another performer heavily in theater. I wish I could ask the teacher to critique "TOO OLD TO ROCK AND ROLL, TOO YOUNG TO DIE" and then, when the show is over, sugest she relax with the THIS WAS album.

[@byronwoodleymaund1439]

Wait till he gets his flute out, I'd love to see the look on your face 😅

[@ottofischer52]

I`m an old Jethro Tull fan…but never heard such charming comments by such a beutiful Lady!😘

[@jimbanner180]

she is quite lovely but unfortunately is younger than my daughter. I had better be quiet or be called Aqualung

[@QBAN2010]

She is lovely but I am thrilled she has an appreciation for my favorite group!!!

[@josetrinidadtinajerotorres4741]

And beautiful she is!!!!

[@tabhorian]

yes, it always delights me to watch new eyes light up like this.

[@clarisaexplainsitall79]

My dad is a huge Jethro Tull fan. I've heard Aqualung, and tons of other amazing music, my entire life. Thanks, dad!

[@gwynnlyell2539]

I had the great fortune of seeing Jethro Tull, back in the 70’s. They were, are fantastic.

[@geok8610]

Ian Anderson embodies the "musical bard" character.

[@gumballthechewy]

Ian Anderson is the inspiration for my chaotic good bard. Funnest character I've ever played.

[@rcrawford42]

Wanted to play a hard who used his flute as a weapon...

[@billdecat855]

Came here to say the same thing. Ian is the modern day bard.

[@henryt9731]

As an audiophile (I'm legit in the audio business), metalhead, photographer, and gamer. You're the only rector that I believe has a passion for music due to the gear choices. Just by looking at your choice of headphones, I know what I should expect. (I wonder what powers those Bayers?) Your quality of sound analysis does not disappoint and your open attitude to different genres of music is what I can learn from you.

[@threegoatpurse]

If you get a chance, you should check out Doug Helvering's channel. You might appreciate it.

[@henryt9731]

@@threegoatpurse Yes I do watch him, but I believe his style on reacts is different. He has more of a chill and not that serious with YT.

[@samuelecallegari6117]

The best reaction channel on the tube imho is Just JP, he is the one that goes deeper into the music and lyrics

[@GrandHighGamer]

DT 1990 PROs. Bet they sound great, but a little outside my price range.

[@jamesb120]

Even with good or great gear, it's still you tube and their janky compression.

[@keithhopkins9225]

Snot is running down his nose, so classic and mortifying, love it! My teen years were filled with Jethro Tull, still listening at 70!

[@jamesgee9738]

Ian uplifts my soul. Thanks Jethro Tull.

[@georgehollingsworth2428]

You have to understand that the audience is fully aware of the studio version of this song and is so familiar with it that they are enjoying the deviations from it with him.

[@johnwest7993]

Yep.

[@seanemery6019]

As a former live audience member, I can attest that this is 100% on the mark. We appreciated the subtle variations from the studio and found perfection in that performance.

[@RichardHansbury]

Some artists just repeat the same studio song. Others do better. Like here where Anderson just seems to be having so much fun with a responsive audience.

[@georgesonm1774]

Idk what year that was (doesn't look like the 70s to me), but it seems to me Ian had already blown his voice to a large extent by that time. So... we're witnessing him past his glory, and his inflections is him just straining his voice just to reach the notes. His voice was already different from around the Bursting Out era, but he still held these notes at that point

[@Back2SquareOne]

Agree, however, it is also a great reminder for those us who saw Tull live back in the day. The experience of 10s of thousands of fans, who all know all the lyrics, all feeding off the music and Ian’s performance was an extrordinary event that I will forever remember.

[@daraious-simulations1007]

Having been a Tull (well especially Ian) fan for almost 54 years now and 6 Tull concerts it is wonderful to see younger generations and specially trained musicians and vocalists break down the work of this genius. I am also glad that you commented on the guitar solo by Martin Lancelot Barre, which has been recognized as one of the great guitar solos of that era. As a teenager in the late 60s, I fell in love with this very different kind of music, a sort of confluence of progressive rock and the "minstrel", "baroque" era. Oh and as a young teen with our college band, I only sang Tull, and our bassist would always stop and yell, "You are getting bloody nasal again! You are not Ian - sing in your own voice!" :)

[@389293912]

I consider the Aqualung guitar solo to be the greatest (overall) of all time, followed a close second by Pink Floyd Time. Interesting that they both were produced within the same few years, perhaps the same year, I think around 1974.

[@adamcuttler9665]

Fu*king awesome

[@dragoneyeshatesg00gle76]

I didn't miss any of the tours if they came close I was there. easily 8-9 shows some were smaller venues later in the 80's-90's

[@jamesgunshefskijr7079]

I'm 35 and it's my favorite band I've seen 13 times in concert my dogs name is jethro and the song my dad used to play when I was a baby was world child and bungle in the jungle lol

[@stevescuba1978]

When I went to see Jethro Tull and Emerson, Lake, and Palmer (1999-2000?), the older guys I worked with laughed and told me that those bands were old when THEY were young. It is still one of the best concerts I've seen!

[@tailchain]

Ian Anderson is a genius. This was an anthem back in the day, I was there.

[@marvymarier8988]

Me too....

[@747Durango]

Yes. That is the right word. He is the embodiment of the words professional musician, composer and story teller. I'm grateful to have grown up with Tull's music and seen them once in the 70's (although I really don't remember it). I have a bootleg color photo of him standing one legged with the flute from that Seattle Center Coliseum show. I love his interviews too. Ian is a thoughtful and intelligent man.

[@Shellpink]

It still is…

[@pauly8620]

Love Tull so different always entertaining and great practitioners of their craft,thankyou Elizabeth. PS I watched some of your performances wow you have crazy talent, haunting, spellbinding, beautiful great costumes also. Respect to you.

[@ralphhathaway-coley5460]

At the time this was written I was living in Coventry and remember well the numbers of old tramps in Coventry, a lot earned a little money selling the Coventry evening telegraph in the centre of town and slept rough in the parks. I later learned that a lot of these were ex WW2 forces who were suffering from what we now know as Post Traumatic Stress. One, I knew of, was in the army throughout WW2 fighting for 6 years in the frontline without injury, but his entire family was killed in a bombing raid, after that he could not face going back to a normal life which now had no meaning for him. People are very quick to judge homeless people without knowing their backstory.

[@Vulcaneer900]

I Was There.! In 1971, "Aqualung", the album was released, and Jethro Tull came to Oklahoma City where I was a Hippie Teenager, still in high school. This was THE greatest concert I have ever seen.! Ian Anderson perform in his Pied Pirer persona, playing his flute and dancing on one leg throughout the whole concert. It was Mind Blowing.!!! Jethro Tull, THE GREATIST BAND OF ALL THIME. THEN he they topped that concert with their followup, "Thick as a Brick" Tour. ('72) UNf**king REAL.!!!

[@Adamjski71]

I was born in 71, I've only just discovered Jethro Tull, how did I miss this amazing band, better late then never I guess. You lucky sod.

[@wb1985]

My two best friends at the time were at that same OKC Aqualung concert. That was ALL I heard about from them for the next year. “Jethro Tull this, Jethro Tull that, you had to BE there to see it”. So - the next year we all went to the Thick as a Brick concert at the fairgrounds arena. Mind BLOWN! I was NOT expecting such a dynamic, kinetic show. I was never the same after that.

[@charleswatkins8558]

DUDE, RIGHT ON!!!!!!!

[@stormhorn1]

Ditto! Saw the band three times in concert in West Michigan. Outstanding. Jethro Tull had a huge shaping influence on me as a musician.

[@frogandspanner]

I saw them at Leeds University Refectory (location of the Who's Live at Leeds - I missed it, but at least saw the Rolling Stones there). Thick as a Brick - 18th March 1972. Magnificent.

[@SMenkveld]

Martin Barre is astounding. And underrated. And has the best name for a guitar player ever.

[@frigginjerk]

He plays a lot of Barre chords, doesn't he?

[@loni50otter]

Ich bin froh, Jethro Toll 9 x gesehen zu haben. Einfach wunderbar - ihre Musik und ihre Auftritte. Gut - dass ich die Siebziger als Teenager erlebt habe. Die beste Zeit mit den tollsten Bands.

[@jamiecashes]

The whole album tells a story. I'm amazed that you have never heard this song before! Aqualung has been in classic rock radio play since it was released.

[@NarfiRef]

Ian Anderson has said it’s not a concept album. He was so confused when reviewers kept insisting it was that they made “Thick as a Brick” in response to really give them one.

[@jamiecashes]

@@NarfiRef I have the original vinyl, all the songs flow into each other

[@levalpat]

actually this is one of the best rock albums of the past 60 years.

[@AqualungsBreath]

​@@jamiecashes OK, Aqualung and Crossed Mary are kind of combined. But the rest of side one has got nothing to do with the Story. Side 2 has two Songs (My God and Wind up) which are about Religion. And maybe the three Songs between have something to Do with Religion too . Maybe a half concept, but Ian always denied it being one.

[@jer2xjim]

You're amazing that she hadn't heard this before? It probably came out 20 years before she was born.

[@MrWackaloon]

"Locomotive Breath", "Cross Eyed Mary", and "Teacher" are must listen songs.

[@howlerbike]

Absolutely... And the entire Thick as a Brick album

[@dukescooper2162]

Songs from the Wood

[@OCDHIFiGuy]

All 3 totally better IMHO

[@franciscoferreira6316]

@@howlerbike You are completely right but my first tought was to Minstrel in the Gallery

[@ScottHz]

Love the Heavy Horses album!

[@abcantiques777]

You have become one of my favorite music analysts. I grew up with this and saw Jethro Tull live at the age of 20. He is such a demonstrative, descriptive artist. It was a pleasure watching you discover and enjoy music from my generation.

[@ilabelle1]

Jethro Tull are a fantastic band. They just make interesting albums. Even their worst albums still have something interesting to offer. The album Aqualung in particular I find very comforting. It’s kind of like a cool older brother talking with you. Although Ian’s voice is peculiar it sounds so cool. He blew out his voice years ago and adopted that Dire Straits style. He no longer has the range but has adapted his voice to suit the music he makes now. Love it. 🤘😳🤘

[@johnny5grimscythe]

The Charismatic Voice - "It feels more progressive" - You do realize you Jethro Tull are one of the godfathers of the progressive rock movement...You are now getting into the "Gods of Prog" with Jethro Tull & Pink Floyd. Enjoy!

[@machineryman7197]

ELO, ELP, Kansas, King Crimson, Deep Purple, Yes, Rush, Moody Blues...The list goes on and on

[@blackbirdxx928]

I have to wonder what kind of world someone would grow up in and have no exposure to some the greatest musicians that ever lived

[@123darkdeal]

Procol Harum is commonly credited with being one of the very first prog rock bands. I don't much like their music, but I like prog rock.

[@jeffzachritz8879]

Yes would like a word with you.

[@craigireland5629]

@@blackbirdxx928 quite astonishing when you even hear people, including reactors, saying "I have never heard a Beatles song". How is this possible?????? 🤔

[@egregious55]

"It's got a different structure overall." Welcome to Jethro Tull.

[@ahcoll]

She needs to review a concert where he sings and plays flute at the same time, what a lungs power!

[@biraoliverio]

My God solo is a good example.

[@kensmith6746]

Signs?

[@grav8e]

THICK AS A BRICK! (maybe not ALL 44 minutes of it, though)

[@ahcoll]

@@grav8e I only found one video of the complete album in concert but where he can't sing half of the song :c

[@bartstarr100]

His lungs now have COPD

[@paulclark4891]

Grew up in the 60s and 70s listening to Tull, went to see them in Cleveland!! Great Concert!!!

[@michaelt.4610]

"He looks a little bit nuts." And you haven't even seen him playing the flute.

[@JustanOldfart01]

I've never heard this rendition without the flute. Rather hear his flute playing

[@matthewhead1465]

Jethro Tull is an awesome live band with a huge energy. Watching Ian Anderson playing flute while standing on one leg, the other foot on his inner thigh and occasionally lunging into a massive high kick without missing a beat is amazing.

[@lfgone7014]

I saw "Tull" when "Thick as a brick" came out .they preformed the intire album flawlessly and then went on to do the Intire "Aqualung" lp. What a night. The 70s bands were awesome

[@marilyngore1840]

I saw the same show. Opening act was The Eagles, of all things. The theatricality of Thick as a Brick onstage was astonishing!

[@bstrunk57]

I saw them on the same tour. The show I saw was opened by Wild Turkey.

[@Freefallr60]

It's been really cool to hear and see someone from today recognize and appreciate the art of Ian Anderson/Jethro Tull I had an English teacher with long long hair below the butt. Hard to not have a crush on her. She said "Ian Anderson was the greatest performer she had ever seen". Her brother was a killer guitarist so she knew her stuff. I saw them once, right after, as a freshman in 74? and I knew what she meant. I saw them 5 times later. 1 night in Providence RI then 3 days later in Long Beach CA and the show was completely different. Different songs, different ocean type visuals. I felt that they were so good because the didn't get caught up in what they"should do" Rather than what they did. They had a huge following. They poured their hearts out at every show. Hopefully later, you got to see and hear his flute and theatrics. All real, all music. Thanks. I subscribed I'm interested in how you listen and hear other music. Who knows, maybe I'll be turned on to something new

[@ivanheffner2587]

“Aqualung” is a great song, but this lacks one of the signature sounds of Jethro Tull: Ian’s flute playing. Just about any other song by the band has this element. I’d suggest “Minstrel in the Gallery” for another take on the band.

[@steeleye2112]

Totally agree.

[@ladonnabrock8613]

I love that song.

[@charleswilson423]

Ian Anderson did an interview once and told a story about walking past his daughter's room and he heard her practicing the flute for school band. He tried to offer some advice and she told him he was doing it all wrong! In her defense he was self taught.

[@dukescooper2162]

Songs From the Wood also

[@jeremymason8058]

Yes definately !

[@markferguson5205]

"Crossed eyed Mary" and "Thick as a Brick" would be two tunes that show his showmanship and his mastery of the flute.

[@ericminch]

Nobody can call "Thick as a Brick" a "tune". Put up your dukes, let's work this out.

[@mikegray8776]

Vocally - from the early days - "We Used to Know" was amazingly good. Brilliant solo from Martin too.

[@La_sagne]

@@ericminch thick as a brick can only be called an Adventure

[@vincentpertoso3148]

The one thing about Ian Anderson is he is a self-taught flute-player and highly talented. I was in my late teens to mid 20s when the group Jethro Tull was at its pinnacle. I still listen to the group today driving around in my car.

[@VileVisionshaunt]

I never realized how intense this song really is until I listened to it for the first time since I was younger and my dad played it on road trips. I was maybe 19, enjoying some of the Devil’s lettuce and it came on the radio in the full car of friends. It was mind blowing. I think it’s one of the most intense songs to me but I’m sure that has to also do with that nostalgia moment.

[@donalddixon6541]

"He looks a little bit nuts" she says.....I was just taking a drink of coffee...she made me spit it out, laughing. Uh, no, this is his normal self.

[@rabbitandcrow]

Ian Anderson's character is very much the "mad elf".

[@stephaniefederowicz5923]

Indeed, it is Ian au naturel LOL, no chemical enhancements.

[@bhingolacson510]

The idea of his overall appearance is that he portrays a character which, to me, is another genius of Ian Anderson. Aside from his flute virtuoso, I also love the way he dresses and stands as a real jester in medieval times. It all goes with their songs. One of a kind band. Bravo to all the band members, especially Martin Barre.🤩💐🌹

[@alphaalpha5]

I'm not exactly sure what you mean by his "normal self". His on-stage character is quite different than off-stage. If you watch his interviews you'll see the dignified, composed persona stereotypical of the well bred Englishmen.

[@donalddixon6541]

@@alphaalpha5 No shit sherlock, when did you solve the mystery......somebodys always gotta comment on every little thing,...damm!

[@silkspikedolls]

I love your review of Aqualung. One thing to keep in mind is that during this era, there was no MTV, no nothing! You got the album and you listened and listened until you knew every word and every note. The really cool groups didn't plaster their faces on albums - you got ART - and 'head food' on those fantastic covers. Album sleeves were an event. It was ALL about the music, and if you got lucky, you got to see the concert (or perhaps briefly featured on a TV show). Only then would you get to see what the band really looked like... and frankly, it didn't really matter. You were there for the music and the words and how it all went straight through to your soul.

[@brucerosenblum3551]

Well Said! Try reading the liner notes and lyrics on a CD.

[@raymond7880]

Agree. I knew every word. Albums were a three course meal, not a piece of chewing gum.

[@silkspikedolls]

@@raymond7880 You are so right!

[@silkspikedolls]

@@brucerosenblum3551 if there's even room for all that. Our 'early music delivery system' was flawless.

[@Kimdino1]

Pink Floyd & Tangerine Dream. I remembr going for years without hearing or seeing anything about the guys behind the music. I just felt that mere humans could not be creating something this special. And they both shunned celebrity status, wanting all the focus on their art. So when the media made these guys become visible it was a letdown. Totally different from todays 'in-yer-face' music industry.

[@unfilthy]

This entire album is a masterpiece, and I think it's worth listening to the album version of this song (and all of them, really), if only to hear how the grit is expressed in a more controlled and precise environment. It really is gorgeously done.

[@memphismick7010]

The album version is the one to hear, but maybe wants to see the songs performed?

[@tropicsalt.]

I agree. I've really liked this song but had not seen it performed, that I can remember. It adds another dimension to it.

[@glenncurry3041]

I wondered about that. I had not heard this particular performance before. And while Tull is always incredible, the studio original I think gives a better representation. Though then the live performance aspects are gone and maybe that was more what she wanted to review? But I've seen it live twice and this was more showmanship for the camera I think than those.

[@treetopjones737]

@@memphismick7010 She has mentioned before, she can watch HOW they are singing, works better for what she does analyzing the singing.

[@erichaubner20]

The best commentary and analysis I’ve heard yet on any music reaction video, very well done. And you are quite beautiful

[@LoSconosciuto57179]

Excellent explanation of the music, vocals and lyrics of this wonderful song by my favorite band since my adolescence in the seventies. Brava! Greetings from Milan, Italy

[@RedZepp71]

I will always love this band so damn much. Long live Ian Anderson and Jethro Tull 👏🏼

[@zepmanlee8962]

The advantage of being a dinosaur: seeing Jethro Tull live performing Aqualung when that album was first released...and then again on their Thick As A Brick tour. One of the greatest bands of all-time!

[@johnjennings7628]

This is a wonderful look at such an iconic song. I gained so much more appreciation for it. Thank you!

[@kenkeep69]

Elizabeth's expressive eyes, while describing Ian Anderson's expressive eyes...awesome

[@jimclarke8260]

The eyes have it!

[@williamsporing1500]

Yup, that’s the first thing I thought. She’s such a beautiful young lady, with a great voice and an open mind for music. Love her channel.

[@jaybrown3953]

Ian is the most sober of any rock singer. A very nice voice with range. And one hell of a flute player

[@AqualungsBreath]

Dont forget His fantastic work on the accustic guitar

[@eddys.3524]

Elizabeth, Please try the following Tull songs : Locomotive breath, Mother Goose, Cross-Eyed Mary and from later work "Said she was a dancer"

[@xyildiz]

Love those beautiful vocal harmonies on Mother Goose.

[@garysteinert8040]

Budapest

[@flinx457]

Mother goose tells a story like so many Tull songs take you to dark and light all in same song

[@pietrayday9915]

"Locomotive Breath" is a fantastic follow-up to "Aqualung", and "Cross-Eyed Mary" is sort of a companion piece to "Aqualung" in its grotesque, satirical story of a schoolgirl with an unfortunate career (i believe Aqualung makes a cameo appearance in that song!) Iron Maiden does a decent enough cover of "Cross-Eyed Mary", and their vocalist Bruce Dickensen joined Ian Anderson on stage for a fantastic performance of a few 'Tull and 'Maiden songs a few years ago - great stuff! The "Locomotive Breath" performance from the same live performance that this video game from is also a great place to hear Ian Anderson playing the flute while singing - at the same time - which is a very unique sound, I don't think I've seen it being done anywhere else!

[@DavidHall-d8q]

I saw Jethro Tull in the late 70's and they were amazing . I was so lucky to be a child of the sixties and in high school in the 70's . Concerts were 6 , 7 and 8 dollars so for a 20 dollar bill we could see the concert , get the t-shirt and pig out at White Castle ! Life was so good ! PK

[@Buskieboy]

You MUST hear him play his flute while singing. "Locomotive Breath" or any other of his songs. Amazing!

[@JoriDiculous]

My God, live is amazing. Isle of Wight 1970 is pretty good.

[@747Durango]

Yeah, that would blow her way. Alternating between singing and playing like he does. Like no one does.

[@kirbys1370]

Hi Elizabeth, I remember hearing this song on the radio back in the late 70's. Lead vocalist/acoustic guitarist, Ian Anderson, has a voice that really stands out and his stage presence was incredible. I also enjoyed the rest of the band, especially the electric guitar solo. Thank you, Elizabeth!!! 💙

[@mrandsp]

And in the middle of it all, the magnificent Martin Barre peeling off pinched harmonics - perfect!