This killed me. Overkilled me. Men At Work Vocal ANALYSIS!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Hello lovelies! I know there was a recent FTC settlement with BetterHelp in regards to patients' data being used for advertising purposes between 2017 and 2020. I have had discussions with the BetterHelp teams, and it’s been relayed that at no time have any members’ names or clinical data from therapy sessions ever been shared with any advertisers, publishers, social media platforms or any other similar third parties. You can read this in more detail in their Privacy Policy here: www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/ Additionally, since the settlement they have been certified by HITRUST, which is an industry-recognized gold standard for providing the highest level of information protection. It is one of the most recognized data security certification programs in the health industry. I would never promote a product I didn’t deeply believe in, and BetterHelp is a service that helps some of us find the therapists we may need to help us through those dark times, or prevent dark times. If you’d like to know more, let’s engage here in this comment thread!

[@richardsanders3987]

It's a mistake by men at work is one of the best anti war songs ever

[@richardsanders3987]

Also there's a remake of this song by a group called lazlo bane, they slow the tempo and make it a harder rock. The video is awesome too and features Colin Haye

[@valdemarbndinghansen3109]

Still seems a little dystopian for content creators to recomend therapy services, but maybe thats just me. Also I believe betterhelp have had other scandals besides the data leak stuff (which is bad enough by itself imo), but I don’t have any sources on that. I just remember something about therapists not being properly certified or something. In any case I really do enjoy your content, but would really appreciate it if you maybe could choose less contentious sponsors

[@fatcoyote2]

I think you should have listened to Colin's acoustic, solo version rather than the original, because it feels more wistful than this one. The song is the same, but it feels more powerful. But, then again, you can just listen on your own without making a video on it and decide on your own.

[@feralnonbinaryautistic]

Appreciate that you've done some digging but the BetterHelp controversy goes much further than data security. Numerous channels including Mack Attack, Ashley Viola and Soggy Cereal have reported a range of concerns raised recently by both therapists and clients. These include poor screening of therapist qualifications, demanding that therapists be constantly available, suddenly switching a client's therapist, matching clients with hostile therapists, therapists blatantly ignoring clients during sessions - and on and on. Of course experiences and expectations of any service will vary but BetterHelp is still a controversial sponsorship and some reassurance about data security doesn't change that.

[@MichaelG5500]

Colin Hay did an acoustic version of "Overkill" on the TV show "Scrubs" in the episode titled "My Overkill" Season 2 Episode 1. They let him play the song with little interruption by dialogue. It was amazing!

[@nickhumphreys3160]

That episode inspired me to buy a guitar and learn how to play that song. That was 15 years ago

[@epochsgaming]

@thecharismaticvoice you need to react to the scrubs version. It's so much better

[@bretthampton2050]

That is my favorite version. I can listen to it over and over.

[@johnjapuntich3306]

Absolutely loved this...Was just him and his guitar...in a tree! LOL

[@thesouthernwake]

This updated acoustic version is SO good and though he's aged some, his vocal styling is so gripping....

[@user-scott-pearce]

Elizabeth is covering all the classic Men at Work songs, next one has to be “Who can it be now”

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Ooo I don't know that one either! Yay!!!

[@Paldasan]

It’s my favourite one of theirs.

[@RonNg1]

@@TheCharismaticVoice I believe "Who Can It Be Now" was released in the US first ... that was our introduction to Men at Work. "Down Under" actually came a little after that.

[@HiFiListener]

I just digitized the original 7" vinyl of this. Even it's now in a digital format, it has a different sound and the single runs about 1% slower than already existing digital formats. (And my turntable isn't the reason)

[@sirkat344]

@@TheCharismaticVoice It's prolly their best known song. A real sing along type. You'll love it!

[@Doom1491]

The episode of Scrubs where Colin Hays plays this song is so good

[@shaunflinn1002]

Yes! I was wondering if anyone else would mention this. I would love to see her reaction to that one.

[@fredfirth3834]

@@shaunflinn1002 It would be nice to see her listen to some of his solo work like Beautiful World or Waiting for My Real Life to Begin

[@williamthelast1]

You remember too !!?? Huge Scrubs !! Huge Colin Hay !!!❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@McM-u2u]

I was going to say the same thing! 👍 That is when I really appreciated what good vocalist he was, watching him walking around following JD and singing just with an acoustic guitar. It was great.

[@nickhumphreys3160]

There is a video out there of him doing that full acoustic version for a small crowd in some club. It's so good.

[@markwiddersheim1968]

I’m glad you like it. Been my favorite song for 41 years. 1983 was quite the time for music. And it’s a soprano saxophone. Greg Ham, RIP.

[@garywatts8543]

Yes, soprano sax. Elizabeth, take a look at Kenny G, who plays the soprano sax as well.

[@5roundsrapid263]

Anywhere from about 1978-1984 was amazing for power pop like this.

[@lrjh750f1]

One of mine too. Such a beautifully crafted song, the harmonies, the sax, the spot on guitar solo, and Colin's fabulous voice and range.

[@annedejarnette2316]

1983 was a great year for music!

[@kat021171]

Came here to see if anyone mentioned it was a soprano sax before I jumped in with that. It really sets the mood for the song, in my opinion.

[@michaeljimenez6074]

"At least there's pretty lights" The way he sings that, always gives me chills. I'm glad you responded to that part too.

[@DadgeCity]

The way he sings that line reminded me of Andy Leek.

[@JeffSeale]

As a child of the Cold War (hey GenX!), Men At Work's It's a Mistake was their most meaningful song to me as a teen. One of their best.

[@Johnny_Socko]

I always thought of this song as being paired with "It's a Mistake". While that song was overtly about nuclear war, I think this one could be a more subtle take on the same subject. We all had a taste of existential dread in the 80s thanks to nuclear proliferation, and we were told that the USA, USSR, and China had enough nuclear weapons to destroy the world three times over. Literal overkill. That is the sort of thing that could keep a person up at night. (Although of course I agree with Elizabeth's assessment that this song can also be about personal mental health struggles.)

[@moi01887]

@@Johnny_Socko I wonder how many people today know that the ability to kill everyone on Earth more than once with nuclear weapons is the _origin_ of the word "overkill"?

[@Suleclo]

@@JeffSeale I'm in the generation before Gen X and I grew up with the Cold War, probably more than my Gen X sister. Civil Defense drills in kindergarten through third grade scared the crap out of me. I still hate the siren sound that they use for storm alerts

[@mrbody1629]

Considering wearing the brink of a nuclear war all over again, it might be a good time to do that song. 👍

[@Renagade5150]

Love that song!

[@mostlyharmless1918]

Greg Ham (RIP) is playing a soprano sax in Overkill. He was the flute player in "Down Under." He used woodwinds like paintbrushes in Men At Work songs.

[@MobiusBandwidth]

also played keyboards. didn't know he'd passed. :(

[@dougingram4519]

@@MobiusBandwidth The article is paywalled, so I won't post a link, but here are some points from the article about Greg Ham’s passing, Sydney Morning Herald, April 20, 2012. "He'll be playing with me tonight," an emotional Men At Work frontman Colin Hay said of his friend and colleague Greg Ham, who was found dead in a house in Melbourne’s inner-north yesterday. He described the flautist as a "man with a golden heart" and said it would be difficult performing at the Baltimore Soundstage knowing his friend of 40 years had died. "He was dearly loved. He was a man with a golden heart. One of the great ones." But he was also deeply affected by the court decision that determined a distinctive flute riff in the hit single Down Under had been copied from Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree. The flute riff was only added during the recording of the song and happened "innocuously and unconsciously", Hay said. "It had a big impact on him. It was mixed feelings as well. He was angry about it. He was embarrassed about it," Hay said. "(He) wrongly, I think, thought that’s what people would remember about him most. But I don’t think that's the case." Hay said that although Ham was not directly involved in the court case - EMI, Hay and another writer were sued - he felt responsible for the saga and incredibly frustrated. ‘‘The way that litigation took place was appalling," Hay said. More recently, he became a music teacher admired by his students. "A little girl wrote to me and she said 'Dear Mr Hay I have a teacher Mr Ham and somebody told me he played the saxophone and flute in Men at Work with you. I just wanted to say he was the best teacher I ever had'," he said.He was also a man troubled by addiction. "We all have our demons that we have tried to exorcise over the years and Greg was like all of us. It struck me in a slightly different way from him," Hay said. "The last time I saw him was a few months ago. It’s a long-term thing, it’s a long-term thing for all of us, the issue of addiction." ‘‘We can now confirm that the death is not being treated as suspicious,’’ a police spokeswoman said.

[@MrAshfrench]

Nicely written & explained, yes very dark totally unnecessary event in oz music history sad sad sad

[@dougingram4519]

@@MrAshfrench Yeah, EMI saying "We'll take these bastards for all we can get. That will make up for all the times that school kids, cubs, and brownies sang our song without paying a cent!"

[@BigTroyT]

@@dougingram4519 In this case, EMI was one of the defendants, not the one suing. They were essentially being sued by a copyright troll who bought the rights to "Kookaburra" for the express purpose of suing for financial gain, and EMI was the band's label - one of the defendants.

[@davej5800]

Colin has both his original Scottish accent, and his Aussie accent, and I think he uses a mixture of both when singing this. One of my most favorite songs of all time. Thank you. ❤

[@Rmick7634]

This is definitely why Elizabeth needs to check out Jimmy Barnes!

[@cathymoss6400]

Lord knows what his accent sounds like now after living in the US for decades, lol

[@suzannejane1035]

​@@cathymoss6400It sounds really Scottish, strangely enough.

[@jmcc2275]

He originally came from my home town.

[@jimbailey5681]

I’ve met him. His speaking voice has reverted to Scottish. He cultivated an Australian accent as a teen to avoid fights

[@michaelginever732]

Colin tells the story of an audience member requesting this song. The only thing is that what they asked was, "could you play te song about the goats?" Colin was of course perplexed. "I don't do any song about goats". "Yeah yeah" the guy say, and starts singing, "Goats appear and fade away." The thing is Colin relates, that fella was perfectly happy with that misheard lyric for over 20 years.

[@annew8888]

My family has called Overkill “The Goat Song" ever since we heard that story years ago 😁

[@Hanzey1966]

Alone between the Sheeps. . . It only brings Exasperation 😂😂😂

[@davidstone4937]

Elizabeth, I don't know how you do it. Every time you take us on a journey of discovering a new band, I am in tears as I realise just how much this music shaped and affected me as I was growing up. Colin has one of those instantly recognisable vocal tones. Talented singer/writer. I love music and have done since 2 years old, sitting with my grandmother as she played her piano. I am now 57 and I have inherited her piano. I sing and play multiple instruments, my wife sings and plays flute. All four of our children play something, sing, or both. I used to use music as my escape, but now it is the magic I use to connect. Thank you for sharing your heart with us. Please keep reaching out, there are more people watching you than the stats report.

[@Oh_you_devil]

Colin Hay has a beautiful grief filled song called “I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You” that showcases such remorse and regret and longing. It’s a true masterpiece of emotions translated into song and voice. You will most likely cry 😭

[@nauticski]

I guess you know that this song is abbout Hay's relationship with alcohol.

[@daviddowdeswell-allaway8241]

The Live On eTown preformance is my favourite of all time. The production, the vocal and gorgeous guitar, is perfect, and the song lyrics, of course, are so beautiful. For Elisabeth, the filming is a vocal analyst's delight.

[@metheus108]

The second half of "Maggie" absolutely destroys me

[@bluelizardtail]

I found this song on the movie soundtrack for "Garden State". Awesome and sad song.

[@VonDutch68]

I put Colins song writing up there with Gordon Lightfoot.

[@wyrdhunter]

“Overkill” and “Who Can It Be Now” are two of the clearest instances of Colin Hay using his music to touch on his struggles with anxiety and depression.

[@Hudson316]

I think “Waiting for my real life to begin” qualifies too, at least on the depression. So much of it is about a feeling of stasis where nothing is happening but you’re unable to make the proactive change to improve your situation despite others trying to pull you out of it

[@jeremysmetana8583]

Both reflect existential crises, but whereas Who Can It Be Now describes a personal state of paranoia or psychic break with reality, Overkill is actually a protest song reflecting existential fear of nuclear weapons.

[@wyrdhunter]

@@jeremysmetana8583Hmm. Good to know. It always echoed my natural tendencies towards insomnia from anxiety and depression if I don’t take meds to shut my brain down. Back then I never really had much control over anything to do with nuclear war, being a teenager, so I just adopted nihilism, accepted that it was an eventual certainty, and didn’t worry about it. So I never thought the song could be about that. “It’s A Mistake” was always their stand out anti-war protest song to me.

[@RainbowFlutterbies]

I literally came into the comments to say these very 2 songs....my favorites

[@ronin4713]

This band and Type O Negative are always there for me to get through those rough patches. Another Men At work song that I highly recommend, which is on 'Cargo', the same album as "Overkill", Is called "No Sign of Yesterday". Honestly one of the best anxiety and depression songs I can think of. When I get that "what is even the point, every day is exactly the same, just like in Groundhog Day?!" feeling, this song really helps me just wallow in it for a bit, really _feel_ it, and then simply push through it. I really loved this album as a kid, but obviously as a 9 year old, the meaning was lost on me. But as an adult, this album became transformative for me, particularily these two songs. Really helped me realize that I wasn't struggling alone, and Collin was right there with me. Sorry for the rant.

[@D0csavage1]

Colin Hay's home town of Saltcoats, Ayrshire, Scotland has recognized his musical talent by having a street named after him. He is over the moon and has been to see the street named in his honor. His parents owned a music shop in the town before emigrating to Australia.

[@simono7716]

Colin was born in Scotland, emigrating to Australia when he was fourteen. There were a raft of Scottish (and British-born), largely Australian-raised, singers and musicians, who dominated the rock and pop charts here in Australia, in the 1980's and onwards. The Scottish singers tended to be big on personality, boldness and presence, and possessed large belting voices, ranging from artists like Jimmy Barnes, to John Paul Young, and people like ACDC's enigmatic front man Bon Scott .That's where you get that accent signature. Those guys really helped grow our music scene here, adding to our culture and self-identity here in Australia and adding a sense of showmanship, wildness and fun to their performances :)

[@MarvelousMatt]

The acoustic version of this and "Waiting for my real life to begin" are a couple of the most beautiful performances ever

[@matthbva]

I practically wore out my tape player listening to Cargo. I am a metalhead going back decades, but it warms my heart to see Elizabeth branching out to some great 80s pop.

[@Jcruzer70]

Same here. Metalhead who loved New Wave and Punk.

[@DumbGoneGirl]

Cargo was the first album I ever purchased and I still have the original cassette from 1983 ☺️

[@Roddrummer]

Same, Aussie metalhead who ADORES 80s pop. Must be a thing....

[@kandkmotorsports]

YES! Loved cargo more than business as usual

[@inspectre27]

I once went to a 7th grade barn party, and the provided music was Cargo. Just Cargo played over and over for about 4 hours.

[@peterschultz3070]

Isn't his voice just like another saxophone? Very smooth, bluesy and subtle. Always loved this song. Great analysis!

[@Cadinho93]

Love this song. It always comes down to either this song or "It's A Mistake" for my favorite. Also, if you want a real treat, check out the Colin Hay acoustic version of this song. It's absolutely incredible.

[@clintlandrum9498]

Cadinho93, great comment. I think "overkill" is their best song. Its the guitar and the tone, the sax and Its the way CH sings the song. Hes so emotive. Theres such a feeling to all of it.

[@inspectre27]

22:27 This is a masterful guitar solo. For the most part, it stays far away from the "notice me" notes near the guitar's body. And it concludes with a wonderful ascent with what sounds like two delay efects at the same time (don't quote me on that, I'm a singer, not a guitarist) or maybe a delay and a metric crapload of foggy reverb?

[@dbf1dware]

I'm so glad someone called out this amazing solo. I also absolutely love how Colin's vocal "come back another day-ee-ay-ay" drops right into it. So amazing.

[@robm3569]

Many years ago I noticed an ad for a Colin Hay show at a local club in L.A., so I grabbed some friends and off we went. It wound up being in this tiny little room that held around 60 people, every seat taken. We're talkin' small. I could've reached out and strummed his guitar he sat so close. It was just him, a couple of acoustic guitars, a small amp and a microphone, It was an amazing show. He also happens to be a wonderful and humorous story teller. He told us that just a few days earlier he played a show in Brazil at an arena with 100,000 people. In any event, he played Men At Work tunes and some of his solo work as well. I've always thought his voice was one of my favorites from that era. Great musician, interesting guy, wonderful talent. And still playing too. Cheers.

[@russellvt]

The acoustic version of this song is absolutely amazing! I've had the pleasure of seeing him do it live, as well, in a very small venue.

[@RAF286]

Agreed. I saw him in Brisbane and his humour and stories were probably better than his fantastic music

[@robertwhittle6350]

Great actor as well. Had roles in quite a few TV shows and movies.

[@sigersonic]

A friend took me to see himn here in Melbourne, in fact in a venue that is right where the video was shot. He was amazingly good....then I discovered he is Scottish

[@tinkertailor7385]

"At least there's pretty lights". He voice's his dejected sarcasm as the lights do their best to cheer him up. But of course they are only lights and his mood is his own affair. ;)

[@christophertaylor9100]

And they prevent the night from becoming overwhelming -- overkill

[@panamafloyd1469]

Yeah, that one last blast of 'trying to be cheerful' before you go back to where you were. I was having some pretty dark times when the record came out. Knowing I wasn't alone with feelings/actions like that helped a lot. IMO, this is the best damn song he ever wrote.

[@anthtan]

The lyrics and the way they are sung are genius

[@OgreLXXV]

You have no idea how excited this makes me. Not for this reaction specifically, but in the hope that it leads to a deeper dive into Colin’s solo work. He is an absolute treasure that must be shared with as many people as possible.

[@drenkin]

And if you ever have the chance to see him in concert--his connection with an audience is vivid and something special.

[@OgreLXXV]

@@drenkin Absolutely agree! I've seen him several times. Elizabeth mentions in this video how he is such a great storyteller, and my initial thought was "You have no idea!" Goats appear? Hahahaha!

[@alanpilibosian1979]

AMEN!!!

[@james_tiberius_kirk73]

One of the earliest songs about the struggles with Depression and Mental Health issues. Men at Work actually sang quite a few serious songs dealing with challenging subjects. I was one of those Aussie 80's kids who managed to see Men at Work in pubs (Along with INXS) before they hit the bigtime. This particular video was filmed at St. Kilda Pier, a famous spot in Melbourne, Australia. If you could review “Down By the Sea” which is actually a B-side of Men at Work you’ll really hear his vocal acuity. One of my favorite Men at Work songs.

[@david2869]

In fact, the whole album `Business As Usual` is definitely worth a listen!

[@stevetarrant3898]

Australian here. In the early 80s, I was a late teen, just discovering music, drugs, the usual vices. Men at Work was one of those bands that really resonated with me. 40 years later, I'm still listening to it, and it takes me back down memory lane to a young lad exploring life.

[@themabozza]

Colin was born not far from where I was born and grew up in Scotland, but he'd long gone to Australia by then, at about 11 years old, I think. Even though he adopted an Australian accent to fit in and avoid getting beaten up, his Scottish accent is still strong in this song. He lost the Aussie accent later on and you can hear it any interviews, changing diction in songs too. I prefer the later version with him solo and on guitar, stripped bare. It's the way the song is meant to be sung in all of its pain and torment. Simply beautiful. Please listen to 'Waiting for my real life to begin', as this to me is the most beautiful song, but one of hitting rock bottom while still retaining hope. Helped me through a tough mental crisis, the pain and anguish, followed by the hope really helped me. And Colin's delivery is exceptional, along with his guitar accompaniment. Well worth a listen.

[@stephenanthony6508]

He never adopted an Australian accent, no reason to. When I met him he had a strong accent, same as Alex Burns. Alex would get excited talking to the audience and they couldn't understand most of the things he was saying.

[@themancuniancandidate2744]

@@stephenanthony6508 I promise you that he did. I remember listening to him and Greg Ham doing a radio interview in the 80s (it was also on the B side of the 12 inch version of Dr Hekyll) and he sounded more Aussie than Mick Dundee wrestling a croc on Sydney Harbour Bridge whilst drinking VB

[@NiqScott]

Colin Hay is one of the all time great songwriters, the equal of Elvis Costello, Paul Weller, PJ Harvey etc. "Waiting For My Real Life To Begin" is an absolute masterpiece. And seeing as I've already mentioned him, "Shipbuilding" by Elvis Costello is worthy of a breakdown.

[@stevenporter8740]

Robert Wyatt singing Shipbuilding sends a shiver down my spine! His OGWT appearance for that song was spellbinding.

[@diogenesagogo]

Still waiting for P J Harvey. I keep plugging away ........

[@AlerieHightower]

YES! Paul Weller love! A truly underappreciated genius.

[@jeffmcclure4047]

Waiting for My Real Life to Begin is one of my favorites

[@jascott9]

I battled alcohol addiction and major depressive disorder to the bitter end, a week or two from dying due to end-stage liver failure. While soberly waiting for a transplant I played "Waiting for My Real Life to Begin" over and over. I fell in love with that song. That was in 2013, I've been sober ever since and today I am a chemical dependency counselor, soon to be a master clinical social worker so I can work with even more people. My life did begin, I still love that song, and I adore Elizabeth for underscoring how important mental health is.

[@petrichor3947]

Good reaction, this song has dogged me for the last 40 years or so, this was released just before my father committed suicide. This year I will finally live longer than he did. It’s been very important to get past his age of death with out being stupid. It is one way to insure there is less of a chance my offspring will suffer from our mental health problems. As a teenager this was a haunting song when I heard it late at night when I couldn’t sleep funny how it comes up at these odd times. 😟

[@TeresaMosby-sm4js]

So sorry for your struggle and the loss of your father. It seems in my life, I get to work through things that happened to me when my daughter turns the age that I was when it happened. Sounds like you're on top of this turning 40 thing. I don't think you'll be stupid.💜

[@ChrisinOSMS]

Keep on keeping on. Good luck.

[@CameronL-l5k]

you absolutely should watch the "Choir Choir Choir" version of this with a much older Colin - still vocally killing it. As someone that learned this song, over and over, there are parts which are quite hard for me to hit (as a baritone). Its a great song, and not an easy one to sing actually. When he jumps up the octave I always feel my throat tighten up trying to hit this (which is probably why I cant hit it...) Its a really high note (is it an F?) Also Colin is the kind of guy who would totally do an interview with you if you reached out to him.

[@virtualal]

Spot on !

[@DumbGoneGirl]

I recommended the Choir! Choir! Choir! version as well! Great minds! ☺️

[@adamkelm1043]

THIS. this is an important study.

[@VonDutch68]

Agree ! My fave version of Overkill !

[@Diamond_Skies]

That version made me cry! Elizabeth should def listen to it. ❤

[@PetaL72]

Colin is Scottish, hence the way he sings certain words. He has lived here in Australia for many, many years, however he has never lost his Scottish accent. This is such a classic song. It was quite big here in Australia back in 1983.

[@MissingMars]

thanks for this Liz -this tune has such a emotional feel to it -especially the line "ghosts appear & fade away". The melody of those notes just choke me up every time!

[@toddeppley]

Elizabeth, you should also look for the acoustic version that Colin did several years ago. If this one hits you, the acoustic version will rip out your heart and stomp on it. He is such a great vocalist and I can listen to him all day.

[@TobieSwart16]

There's one he does with Choir Choir Choir, too. It's just a great song.

[@panamafloyd1469]

@@TobieSwart16 , came here to say this - delighted to see someone beat me to it!

[@samtheman1957]

Elizabeth nails it again, I never realized that four-count horn stab was the theme of the song/melody, and Hay does, indeed, echo it in the vocal. Back in the day, I literally thought radio was not only playing "Overkill" and "Down Under" WAY too much (Literally OVERKILL), but in hindsight, I see how deeply moving and emotive the lyrics and melody are and why this album and these songs grabbed the public consciousness and dominated.

[@THEmonghole]

sometimes the meaning is lost in a catchy rhythm.

[@jeffmcclure4047]

@@THEmonghole That's why the acoustic is better IMO.

[@viciousoptimist3542]

One of the amazing things is that, even after listening to this song for 41 years, I am hearing so many new things as Elizabeth discovers classics. However, even better is that she is bringing these back to the forefront for the next generation. Much thanks! "It's a Mistake" is another good one.

[@Reluctant_J]

Being a 51 year old Aussie, we have produced, in the 80/90 era, so many incredible artists Thank you for bringing them back 🙂

[@ichiban308]

His solo stuff is amazing. "I just dont think I'll ever get over you" and "waiting for my real life to begin" in particular

[@HiFiListener]

Oh, I forgot to mention "IT'S A MISTAKE" in my comments before. Another successful title by men@work.

[@thecatsmeowfromny]

That's a great song too!

[@alastairmcintyre4752]

I think if I was going to compare Colin Hay's voice ( unique as it is ) to anyone it would perhaps be Sting - IMHO it has the same effortless soulfulness about it .

[@davidcox30004]

I agree 100%

[@jamesbittle9789]

Exactly

[@Jamiesgolfanddroneadventures]

Agreed 👍

[@brettbaker5069]

Someone else touched on this, but "overkill" was an actual cold war term for the ability of the nuclear armed nations to destroy all life on the planet eight times over. Most eighties kids would know Colin is singing about an overkill of anxious thoughts about the U.S. and U.S.S.R.'s overkill in their nuclear arsenals. BTW, you could see "Its a Mistake" as a sequel to "Overkill" in which we go to war, and the underrated "Underground" as a grand finale in which the anxiety-ridden singer of "Overkill" looks desperately for a shelter as the missiles are about to fly, only to discover that all the bunkers are already filled with the wealthy and connected. The subject matter sounds depressing, but Colin Hay makes it all wryly funny and moving with his combination of protest, satire, and emotional honesty. For another take on cold war anxiety, check out "Russians" from Sting's first solo album. It's a beautiful song with one of Sting's best vocals, and it sadly becoming relevant again!

[@wojopf88a]

Elizabeth, I agree with this comment, sting without the police on Russians love their children too!

[@BlackIceOldGuy]

The really cool part about this song is that it can't just be construed as worry over global situations of the time. It can also be applied to a simple romance, or anything in between. It fits every problem someone may lose sleep worrying about. It's truly a brilliant work.

[@brettbaker5069]

​@@BlackIceOldGuyThis song is about all the above, all at the same time, so concentrate on whatever layer of meaning matters the most to you. I just didn't want the cold war references to go unnoticed.

[@wojopf88a]

@@brettbaker5069 Elizabeth, I don't expect you to read this, I think Sting's song actually made Gorbachev back off a little! I agree with this person that suggested it!

[@Mytro8533]

It's a mistake, excellent song!

[@jessemorris8820]

"No Sign of Yesterday." There is NO BETTER COLIN SONG than that one. I would normally go live, but the studio version has such ear candy that just makes it fly, including Colin singing almost OUT of his range! It shows every member of the band without going overboard, and you hear the magic of what made them great. So good to hear you hearing this!

[@ronin4713]

I've been scouring these comments, and so far, you and I are the only two people to mention this song! 🤘Cheers!

[@gertjanmeijerink3638]

No sign of yesterday is an incredible song!!!

[@acidhand]

I love watching the video clip of this. I'm from Melbourne where this was filmed and the opening sequence from Queens bridge to StKilda Pier and the old style tram just brings back so many good memories. Thanks for playing this.

[@chrisr6402]

I love the sax lines in this, especially the spots where it echos the 'day-after-day' vocal line

[@ed-straker]

RIP Greg Ham, the saxophone player.

[@cirriustech]

I’m a sucker for the Sax!

[@kelleychilton2524]

"It's A Mistake" is worth a look. 👍

[@Torhque]

Yes! I'm giving thumbs up to any comments that are mentiong It's A Mistake lol

[@ChristopherVarney27]

It's a mistake that she has not done "It's a Mistake" yet!!!

[@RAF286]

Men at Works best

[@vorpled]

As an Australian, I've heard Men at Work my entire life. But I've never actually listened. I had no idea these songs were about mental health. Like not at all. But so many of them are "Be Good Johnny", "Who can it be now?" "Overkill" ... Who knew? Thank you for helping me see these songs with fresh eyes.

[@5roundsrapid263]

The Beach Boys and ABBA have a lot of songs like this, too. The songs sound so pretty, but pay attention to the lyrics. They’re pretty deep sometimes.

[@stevep8062]

yeh , love it , every x gen aussie is remembering back to the fun pub days of their youth when men @ work comes on , just came across your show , really like the way you break down the songs with easy to understand observations , love the way you break down his voice , as an untrained person i tend to hear the music & voice as one , the next time i hear this song & reach for the volume , i will be able to get even more out of it , thank you for helping make one of my favourite songs even more enjoyable , wishing you all the best from down under xx

[@srmpenedo]

I listen to this music weekly since the 80's, and your analysis made me cry for the 1st time while listening... geez

[@jeffreyjtrust]

Think you would appreciate Colin Hey's "waiting for my real life to begin". He's singing 40 years after overkill and has improved imo

[@90LPPlayer]

I mentioned this as well. His explanation before the song to a live audience is brilliant.

[@RichMeyer-x8f]

Brilliant song.

[@DonByronDukeoftheArctic]

It is refreshing to see you appreciate the layers and depth of C.H. and MaW. So many thought them a band of goofs back in the day. I always loved his "story-telling" and the elasticity of his vocal range. Their style was needed in the 80s. It was a cohesive that connected the heart to the brain. There are so many more great MaW tunes for you to discover! I thoroughly enjoy your show! "Dr Heckle and Mr Jive" is a great twist on a classic tale.

[@lucky7-1-1]

My favorite men at work song . This song is timeless and touches my heart in many ways . It defines an era for me . A decade when life was good and there was hope for future . Hope you like the song as much as I do. Rock and roll forever girl .🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️

[@fuxion22]

It's so weird that I have not heard The Cars name come up when channels talk about 80s music. When I think of 80s, I think of The Cars. They have great songs. I hope you react to some of their hits. Drive, Magic, Shake It Up, and You Might Think are just a few songs to react to.

[@scottiiiejames]

Such a perfect and relevant song for so many people. Thank you Men at Work and TCV!

[@johngingras]

I've seen Colin Hay perform live a couple times. He is incredible. This was before his big resurgence, so it was just him on stage in a small venue. His guitar and songs and vocals were just enveloping and all-encompassing. It was amazing. But beyond the music, he told fascinating stories from his life. At least half of the show was storytelling. It was very special.

[@kenmack2956]

For a beautiful, atmospheric Men at Work change of pace, try “Down by the Sea” which closed their first album.

[@stevied3006]

Yes that's a good one. Very nice atmospheric track.

[@RyniselRaveonyn]

Suggestions for more Men at Work songs: "Who Can It Be Now", "It's a Mistake", "Everything I Need", "Dr. Jeckyll & Mr. Jive", "Be Good Johnny", "Down By The Sea" and "No Sign Of Yesterday". Also react to Colin Hay's "Into My Life". R.I.P. Greg Ham. Australian bands to analyze: Cold Chisel, Icehouse, Midnight Oil, Crowded House and Silverchair.

[@tlcrf80mins73]

This is one of THE great contemporary vocal performances. It's a great song with a fantastic melody.

[@Ronster64]

Hi Elizabeth great reaction! As a long time depression sufferer I can definitely sympathize with your daily struggles. I'm glad I don't have panic attacks anymore like I did years ago, but some days I get a wave of despair and I just roll myself out of it. Peace to you hun!

[@amyhon2000]

This song is in my "anxiety" playlist and is one of the ones that gets me to see that I am worrying over "situations I know will be alright". Colin Hay definitely knows what anxiety feels like.

[@janelmarie7571]

I have an anxiety playlist too and this is the 3rd song ❤❤

[@amyhon2000]

@@janelmarie7571 It's number 6 on mine. :)

[@maceofbass9295]

"Down By The Sea" is my favorite Men At Work tune, from the same album as "Down Under". It's such a mellow, melancholy, beautiful piece of music. Underrated as far as MaW tracks go, but definitely a highlight in their repertoire.

[@Broadierevs]

I keep listening to Business As Usual just to get to that song.

[@johnpbh]

I am COMPLETELY in agreement... Beautiful lyrics, beautiful music, beautiful mood. And the scenes he paints with his words take me there everytime.

[@SamHocking]

Down By The Sea is mine too. I think the most timeless of all their releases.

[@david2869]

I like `Underground` and `Helpless Automaton` as unreleased songs from Business As Usual.

[@chrisggoodwin777]

I discovered this song because of Scrubs. I then went on a rabbit hole of listening to different versions

[@UKSportsFan]

Back when MTV actually played music videos you could discover a ton of songs without having to rely on TV shows to sprinkle one in every once in a while. R.I.P., MTV.

[@chrisggoodwin777]

@@UKSportsFan I didn't have access to MTV in those days, unfortunately. The rare times I was at a friend's house who had it, we enjoyed checking out music. RIP, indeed

[@danw3735]

Thank you for analysing one of my all time favourite songs. Every day they play this on Australian Radio for the last 40 years :D

[@warriorpitbull1170]

OMG! I can't believe it! This is one of my all time favorite songs. MAW was my favorite band when I was a young teen in the early '80s. Thank you so much for giving them some time in the light. I never see anyone doing reactions to their music. Highly underrated in my book.

[@williamthelast1]

This kind of melancholic songs they help me to support my life !! When I listen to them, I know why I'am always sad, so sad. Thank you all my favorite singers who knew how to speak of my troubles....❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@donnakubiski5572]

Very excited for this one. I read in your description that you were expecting another hilarious video. I'll bet you were totally surprised since this song has a completely different vibe.

[@Pavaroso]

Now what would be cool, is if she watched/reacted to the S02E01 episode of "Scrubs", named "My Overkill", which features this song and Colin Hay integrated into the episode.

[@davidpianosi4512]

Wow, just wonderful watching your facial expressions as you break this beautiful song down. I've always loved this song but now..... even more! Thankyou from Canada!

[@Meenie66]

Fantastic song to do. So good to see some great Aussie music, there is so much damn great music from this era over here in Aus you would just bloody love!

[@Carnduffmc15]

That is a saprano Sax in the video. Greg Ham Used 3 different Saxes when I saw them in the early 80's in Calgary.

[@ed-straker]

RIP Greg.

[@darrenl3289]

the acoustic version of just guitar and Colin singing is haunting in the simple directness. It has a slower tempo that lends itself to accentuating the sadness in the vocals.

[@JeffTiberend]

​​Are you doing the original or one of Colin Hay's more recent acoustic versions? I can't wait to see this. You should also look up Choir!Choir!Choir! and Colin Hay doing Overkill. It gets you in the feels.

[@user-scott-pearce]

You can always go into the Description of all Elizabeth's analysis and she gives a link to the video she is covering

[@JeffTiberend]

@@user-scott-pearce Well, I do hope that she reacts to the Choir!Choir!Choir! version or the episode of Scrubs where he was singing his songs in different scenes.

[@albrand3201]

Just posted something similar. Note to self: go thru the comments fully before posting next time 🙄

[@deepowls]

​@@JeffTiberend, the Choir!Choir!Choir! version is great and goosebumpy. I prefer some of his solo with a guitar versions of it, though. This video felt weird since it had been well over a decade since I heard the album version. I've heard varying acoustic versions dozens of times in the interim. There aren't many songs I prefer pared down, but this is one. The other I can think of is Nick Cave singing "The Ship Song" alone with a piano, which is much better than the album version with The Bad Seeds.

[@JeffTiberend]

@@albrand3201 I do the same thing at times. LOL

[@_emh]

Elizabeth! Thank you for continuing your exploration and appreciation of Colin Hay and Men at Work. Colin would be my nominee for a tea-time interview. He’s an amazing live performer to this day and his solo work also merits attention, particularly two songs: “Waiting For My Real Life to Begin” and “I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You.”

[@jam4him]

Thank you for this, my favorite Men At Work songs, and thank you for sharing a bit of your personal struggles. I think Overkill is an awesome expression of what life can be like for a person who struggles with mental or emotional issues, and your analysis was spot on as always! 👍

[@dust4magnet]

The next reaction has to be "Who Can it Be Now?" That's the song I think of when I hear the band's name. It's punchy and addictive, and as usual, Colin's vocals are a treat. I saw them on their first tour of Canada, and they were delightful live. Another band you'll like is Split Enz from New Zealand.

[@scottmcley5111]

Deja Voodoo!

[@darrenbolger1521]

“See Ya ‘Round” Split Enz album still holds up today. Nothing else like it, that I’ve come across. “Message to my girl” and “I walk away from you”.

[@pichaloca20231]

After 4 decades I still love this as much as back then .The video is filmed in St Kilda which is ten minutes from Melbourne CBD

[@CaptainTedStryker]

Yay I helped getting a song analyzed! The next from them should be Who Can It Be Now IMO.

[@travisbunce7334]

The Vision of old St Kilda always makes me smile, so many great memories from Shows at The Palais,The Espy & Prince of Wales. Ya done well Melbourne, still the Live Concert Capital of Australia! Oh, and other have mentioned, Acoustic Version of Overkill is Magnificent. Colin lives in the US these days, you should try and get a Tea Time Interview with him @TheCharismaticVoice

[@stevep8062]

how good was the Palais , so many great bands

[@ahrenhecker9906]

Never commented on this channel, and I can only assume there are MANY other comments saying the same thing, but when it comes to Colin Hay, “I just don’t think l’ll ever get over you” is for SURE one that should be analyzed here 🎉 epic, emotional song!

[@foxbat1766]

For those that don't know the lyrics: I can't get to sleep I think about the implication Of diving in too deep And possibly the complications Especially at night I worry over situations I know will be alright Perhaps it's just imagination Day after day it reappears Night after night my heartbeat shows the fear Ghosts appear and fade away Alone between the sheets Only brings exasperation It's time to walk the streets Smell the desperation At least there's pretty lights And though there's little variatios It nullifies the night From overkill Day after day it reappears Night after night my heartbeat, shows the fear Ghosts appear and fade away Come back another day I can't get to sleep I think about the implications Of diving in too deep And possibly the complications Especially at night I worry over situations that I know will be alright It's just overkill Day after day it reappears Night after night my heartbeat shows the fear Ghosts appear and fade away Ghosts appear and fade away Ghosts appear and fade away

[@mikecrockett3669]

Down By The Sea is another Men at Work masterpiece, though it never went mainstream. Gorgeous composition.

[@BlackGuardXIII]

👍 Home by the sea

[@stuartrumbel5222]

Came here to make the same suggestion -- my favourite MAW song.

[@jasonsellars8550]

FYI Colin Hay is currently touring in the USA, AS Men At Work. So a full MaW set list (presumably with a few of his solo songs thrown in). Pretty much the opposite of when he tours as Colin Hay. Got my tickets!

[@steveh8658]

So glad you covered this song and Colin Hay's wonderful voice!

[@secretsongrecords]

Thanks for reacting to this song. It's one of my all time favorites. Mostly because it describes my experience of anxiety induced insomnia. Especially when I was a teen. I would sneak out and just walk around at night. But the sound also invokes the feeling. The drums are at the pace you walk on a chilly Northern Michigan night. And the decrescendo on the word fade away. And the passion of the vocal tells you Colin Hay knew this and lived this. Watching you hear it reminded me of the first time I heard it. He now does it as a solo acoustic song. I'd be really interested in your analysis of his voice on it now.

[@kevinL5425]

Hearing you talk about breath control for some reason made me think of the “Mother of MP3”, Suzanne Vega, singing her a cappella song “Tom’s Diner”. When the developers of the MP3 music format had trouble getting it to compress vocals correctly they used “Tom’s Diner” to test their compression algorithm (because they read an article about how speaker manufacturers used it to test speakers). That’s why she is the mother of MP3. The diner in the song was based on the real “Tom’s Restaurant” in New York City. Most people reading this have already seen it. It was used for the exterior shots for the diner in the tv sitcom “Seinfeld”. Another great song with a story is the original solo performance of “Fast Car” at Wembley in 1988 during the televised Nelson Mandela concert that launched Tracy Chapman’s career. She walked on stage an unknown 24 year old filler act while they set up for the next band behind her. She walked off the stage a superstar. Both of those songs have an excellent background story, and would be great for you to review.

[@tejoe13]

Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car" and "Give Me Just One Reason" are both worthy of an analysis.

[@Reuben.Aotearoa]

This era in Australian music… so good. Right up there with early 90s Seattle, 60s London and other such “scenes”. Mi-Sex, Icehouse, Cold Chisel, Aussie Crawl, The Angels, Midnight Oil, Redgum… the list goes on. All utterly outstanding bands. I know you’ve touched on Divinyls already but I’d definitely point you towards their earlier stuff. There’s a live video of “Elsie” which is really haunting, really shows off Christie’s voice and showswomanship. Another song which I’d like to see tackled is “My Island Home” by the Warumpi band. So much emotion in that one.

[@UKSportsFan]

Probably the biggest from that era, at least in terms of music that became popular in the American mainstream, was INXS.... unless you want to include AC/DC, which came before and was an international success.

[@ChrisAnderson42]

It was the best era of music in Australia, we got all the big hits from The US and Britain and we had some great Aussie and Kiwi music too. They would have had it as good as we did with The Chisels, The Oils, The Angels, The Mentals...

[@glennarnold3970]

ah my friend you need to mention v spy v spy and richard clapton

[@nickhodgkins7318]

So true mate. Such a flourish of talented and diverse artists in our 80s music scene….my teenage years 👌❤️

[@bluedogok]

Icehouse is a favorite of mine. That was from MTV because they wouldn't have been played on Oklahoma City radio without the MTV influence.

[@cholomite]

His vibrato and sometimes his timbre reminds me of Bryan Ferry, who is a singer you should definitely check out. Especially the early Roxy Music albums.

[@mckinnonkatz24]

Interesting, never thought of Ferry and Hay being similar in that way! Will have to play them one after the other to really appreciate that POV. Dying to hear some vocal analysis of Roxy Music!!!

[@Musicman3832]

Thanks so much for making this Elizabeth. I love Men At Work and the harmonies on that song are haunting. Play this on guitar and sing this all the time!

[@krishorrocks639]

So excited to see you covering Colin and Men at Work! Pretty much wore out my Cargo and Business as Usual tapes.

[@Hummingbirder1]

Some of my fave Men at Work songs from "Business as usual": Underground, Touching the Untouchables and Down by the Sea. From "Cargo": Dr Heckyll & Mr Jive, No sign of Yesterday and It's a mistake.

[@ronin4713]

"No Sign of Yesterday" is my all time fav by these guys

[@briannelson8373]

We need to have a reaction to the band Overkill! Bobby Blitz is the man!

[@flyingardilla143]

How about Skullkrusher from them?

[@flyingardilla143]

@@richardc3326 Ooh yeah, good choice too.

[@ronin4713]

@@flyingardilla143 "Overkill II: The Nightmare Continues", though I think "Soulitude" would carry more appeal for Elizabeth

[@laurieemme1534]

Requesting another song from the 80's - INXS - "New Sensation" (Official Music Video) 🎺🎷

[@paulrodsted3905]

Soul mistake....

[@amandajane5743]

INXS- Don't Change

[@RoswellJazzFestival]

Your comment about your early morning runs brings me back to the early morning bicycling I did in my 40's. I live in Roswell, New Mexico, where it's also important to get your exercise completed before it gets too hot. I'd wake up at 4:00 so I could get out on the road by 4:30. Watching the sunrise from a bike seat was incredible.

[@shawnthompson6145]

I also have struggled through depression myself. I know how difficult it is. Keep up the good fight! Oh!.And I adore your reviews!

[@jjames6990]

Please listen to Colin's "I Just Don't Think I'll Ever Get Over You", specifically the live version he did several years back. Not sure if you will be able to do a full vid as the song brings everyone to complete tears. I have never cried as much to a song as that one.

[@OzGrunt]

Midnight Oil - Beds Are Burning.... Plllllleeeeeaaaasssseeee

[@ricfabulous]

I’m keen to see her react to midnight oil as well, but there are so many better options than Beds are Burning. Armistice Day, US forces and power and the passion are three better options

[@garylagstrom3864]

My uncle met Colin Hay twice! Australia on the Business as Usual tour-Summer 82 in Melbourne. In Summer of 84 in Adelaide Australia on the Cargo tour. He was a carpenter here in Santa Monica California but love to spend vacations in Australia 🇦🇺 and New Zealand 🇳🇿

[@sneakerset]

"Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport" was a big hit in Santa Monica back in 1963. haha

[@garylagstrom3864]

@@sneakersetHow About: Happy Hanukkah From Santa Monica!

[@sneakerset]

@@garylagstrom3864 We used to make the tour between the Mucky Duck and oldies night at the Oarhouse. Welton Becket may have designed the SM Civic auditorium, but Armet Davis (SM) designed our beloved Penguin / Mel's, Norm's, and even those Bob Big Boy's !

[@yourshadowself]

I love this song and I am grateful for the depth and analysis of your observation.

[@theorrminator]

The Lazlo Bane version of this where Colin does a guest turn is AMAZING!!!!

[@anguspollock7529]

His solo acoustic version of this is amazing.

[@g.johnson5137]

Absolutely.

[@lMarcusl]

Video 117 of requesting a return to Ne Obliviscaris. Song suggestions for potential poll, if we get to that point: Painters of the Tempest (Pt. II) Misericorde (Pt. I & II) Equus Pyrrhic Eyrie

[@camannwordsmith]

You requested something 117 TIMES? My God, leave her alone. She KNOWS. She'll do it or she won't, but this is not a normal or acceptable way to act. Why would you think this is OK? Give it a rest and don't harass creators.

[@lMarcusl]

@@camannwordsmith Not sure how much clearer I can make it than I did the first time you responded like this, but let me give it a try: Elizabeth herself said that I should keep going and suggesting them and that she is rooting for me. So no, I'm not harassing her, she supports me in doing this. So it's not just normal or acceptable, it's ENDORSED.

[@Robert-hz7ef]

I think you'd like "Be Good Johnny" from Men At Work too.

[@babavura2662]

You gave people wonderful unnoticed clues about this song and the singer. It's a beautifuf and melancholic song. Thank you