Holy crap!!! Those chord progressions and timings are off the chain!...and he throws a spanner in the whole thing by singing over the top of his playing...the man's a musician God!!!
A lot of people don't realize, that Nik Kershaw is a fantastic musician ! .... Bordering on Genius ! .... That guy can play chords, that other musicians can only dream about !
@@Cripsy85 Do you know what the chords are, tho? Do you know that is has two fours, for example? Not hard to play, but pretty difficult for most people to work out by ear, I think... not sure.
I played keyboards for Nik before he got his deal - this wasn't one of the demos but a God Almighty song - work of a genius - at least he gave me credit on the Human Racing Album. Great respect
aln3.albumlinernotes.com/Human_Racing.html "My love and special thanks to Mickey; Jean and the Kids; all at MCA Records; Dennis; Carole at Sarm; Rob Hazelton; all at Rondor Music; Dale, Gillian and family; Chantek; Mum, Dad and Sheri." This is so cool man. must have been such a blast working with Nik.
We saw these guys in the 80s with the big hair and synth background and perhaps drew a conclusion that they're not musicians, just showmen with makeup and hairspray? Scratch beneath the surface on the internet with many of these guys and you'll notice since the 80s they're still gigging, writing and playing wherever they can. And writing & playing damn well. Nik Kershaw is a perfect example.
Millie Maskell he's still a incredible artist, the wonderful thing about this is that nick still tours, it means that people like me can still see their idols from the past and enjoy the music as today it's pretty rare to find such talent.
Could listen to this song many times in a row. Today I showed this tune to my 10 and 8-years old kids. They never heard it before. They insisted then for a half of a day to repeat and repeat, all versions - original music video, live from 1985 Live Aid, and this one.
Still sounds so good. A lot of the stars from the 80's have lost their voice talent that they had when they were younger. This man seems to have kept his and it's richer than it was too.
Acapella songs have unique qualities. With a song of this calibre, I think listening to it 'in the raw', as such, is going to bring out its strengths even more?
@@annabizaro-doo-dah I guess you're right. That's probably a spot on psychological analysis. I'd never thought about it in these exact terms but it just makes sense and perfectly overlaps with the impression I get when listening to this kind of performances every now and then. Plus, it's that slightly sad, more relaxed vibe that makes old pop songs truly resonate with nostalgia, at least for me. Again, thanks for your reply and suggestions. Wish you a nice evening.
Having heard a music expert explain why that song is so unusual, hearing the difference in tone between chorus one and three you finally notice it. He's a genius!
One of the finest singer songwriters to come out of the 80's. Nik Kershaw is the master of melodies, and his chord arrangements are just out of this World. Total respect to a legend I salute you. 👏👏👏🙏
What a talent!!! In his younger days he was just perfect, no matter what style his hair was. Those bedroom eyes and oh so gorgeous mouth. Stop me before I go further!!! I can't get enough of Nik even though he is older now, he is beautiful to look at...then of course there is his guitar playing. Very sexy. Excuse me while I dive into a cold shower.......
It's always tempting to arrive at a pre-conceited opinion that these 80's "pop stars" were in it for a few quid. Watching Nik Kershaw here is wonderfully refreshing and moving. The bloke's a musician and an artist. He was then and he is now.
Too hear Rick Wakeman, one of the fathers of progressive rock (and my favorite keyboardist), say that your song is one of his favorites must be extremly flattering
Back when this first came out I had heard snippets on the radio, but had no idea of the name or artist. Leaving a shopping center I got in my car, started it, and this came on the radio. I waited to the song was over, got the details, then went straight back into the shopping center to buy it. It is the only song I did that for.
Hey Rik, I'm back again.. I just need to add you Rik Wakeman are looking a bit plump these days. But you Nik are truly magical, For me a father and son memory thing....thank you Nik
Although I sort of miss Nik’s famous “mullet,” there was definitely no questioning his abilities as a musician and lyricist. I still remember seeing Nik as the opening act for Paul Young in 1985. Back then in the States, we had our version of the UK’s magazine “Smash Hits” called “Star Hits”...this article compared the two musicians’ heights-Nik was 5’3” and Paul about 6’2”. I remember watching Nik and my friend said, “He looks tiny!” Well there was certainly nothing “tiny” when it came to Nik’s musicianship...to this day, I have much respect for his abilities.
Lyrics: I got two strong arms Blessings of Babylon Time to carry on And try for sins and false alarms So, to America, the brave Wise men save [Chorus] Near a tree by a river, there's a hole in the ground Where an old man of Aran goes around and around And his mind is a beacon in the veil of the night For a strange kind of fashion, there's a wrong and a right But he'll never, never fight over you I got plans for us Nights in the scullery And days instead of me I only know what to discuss Oh for anything, but light Wise men fighting over you It's not me you see Pieces of valentine And just a song of mine To keep from burning history Seasons of gasoline and gold Wise men fold [Chorus] Near a tree by a river, there's a hole in the ground Where an old man of Aran goes around and around And his mind is a beacon in the veil of the night For a strange kind of fashion, there's a wrong and a right But he'll never, never fight over you I got time to kill Sly looks in corridors Without a plan of yours A blackbird sings on bluebird hill Thanks to the calling of the wild Wise men's child Near a tree by a river, there's a hole in the ground Where an old man of Aran goes around and around And his mind is a beacon in the veil of the night For a strange kind of fashion, there's a wrong and a right But he'll never, never fight Near a tree by a river, there's a hole in the ground Where an old man of Aran goes around and around And his mind is a beacon in the veil of the night For a strange kind of fashion, there's a wrong and a right But he'll never, never fight over you No he'll never, never fight over you. Cheers!
Been a fan of Nik Kershaw for over 30 years. The Riddle is still one of my top 10 favorite songs of all time. Really wish Nik was still making records.
In a rush he created this amazing song. I was 14 years ago le when I first listened to this song. Later in life I learned English and discovered these amazing lyrics.
Even better than the original - great song! what a voice (God he looks good for his age - so jealous! I'm 7 years younger and i don't look that good ! lol)
Wow, saw this now for the first time. MAN what a beautifull version!!! I thought Lindsey Buckingham was outstanding good solo on guitar, but this is just that great! Wonderfull.
We all use to buy an album for hits generated by different radio top charts, but in many cases and so also in case of Kershaw many other songs are excellent in structural and harmonic sense. Rich in unespected chord progressions, they are far from usual songs of that time and reveal an artist so special in musical sensibility and creative thinking, who applied many modern musical means in his creative output. Arrangements are sparkling examples of synth era in hands of proper conosseurs showing much how to use them in a fresh and pregnant inventive manner, thus making a kind of wonder to us musicians.
Soooooo beautiful ! Thank you soooo much dear dear Nik ! This is one of my favourite songs in my life time, your voice is always in my ears, no matter how old we get, the feeling this song gives is still the same ;) thank you !
Hi full marks to both of these guys. Old father time catches up on all of us and these two are no different to you and me. Although we never had their talent. Top class upload. Talent never ever leaves you as these two will demonstrate. Top up load top guys. Love it !!!!!!
Long live NIK KERSHAW! how I wish you are more recognised around the world. I adore your talent and I will always tell people about your incredible music.
These acoustic versions are so different than the heavy keyboard/ synth laden arrangements from his albums. I thought he played Keyboards! I wonder how he wrote these tunes. Great stuff!
@@oliveroneill1388 A year later, it's time to put you in your place. "I wish I wrote it." would be correct, making your statement incorrect. However "I wish I'd written it." is 100% correct. In conclusion, you were so wrong it's not even funny.
Omg this so song is great and so is Nik Kershaw. Its a testimony to how fantastic this song is that even if you do it in acoustic or without synthesizers it sounds amazing. Can the same be said for the garbage and beats produced today?
僕は、中学生の頃に良く聞いた。「The Riddle」は、思い出の曲 A song of memories I heard well when I was junior high school student. . . I still love it. RepairFarm 金子日出樹(HIDEKI KANEKO)
Funny thing is that he again made it more complex than the og version with this acoustic xD. Probably one of the most underrated musicians ever. Imo, he's a true musical genius.
Holy crap!!! Those chord progressions and timings are off the chain!...and he throws a spanner in the whole thing by singing over the top of his playing...the man's a musician God!!!
Yeah, what a tasty solid guitarist... I hadn't realised.
A lot of people don't realize, that Nik Kershaw is a fantastic musician ! .... Bordering on Genius ! .... That guy can play chords, that other musicians can only dream about !
It's the melody that is truly impressive in this piece.
Yeah these chords are impossible to play.
Agreed he can play. And his songwriting is original. No clichés to be found in this song. But those chords aren't that hard.
He is cool that music era including Alphaville a ha and tears for fears
@@Cripsy85 Do you know what the chords are, tho?
Do you know that is has two fours, for example? Not hard to play, but pretty difficult for most people to work out by ear, I think... not sure.
His voice is not the same. Actually it is BETTER than before. What an amazing version.
Sa voix a mûrit
I played keyboards for Nik before he got his deal - this wasn't one of the demos but a God Almighty song - work of a genius - at least he gave me credit on the Human Racing Album. Great respect
aln3.albumlinernotes.com/Human_Racing.html
"My love and special thanks to Mickey; Jean and the Kids; all at MCA Records; Dennis; Carole at Sarm; Rob Hazelton; all at Rondor Music; Dale, Gillian and family; Chantek; Mum, Dad and Sheri."
This is so cool man. must have been such a blast working with Nik.
Rob Hazelton plz do you have the chords
Lucky you !
You are part of history bro. Congrats and God bless!
Do you have the chords? I like this song too much
We saw these guys in the 80s with the big hair and synth background and perhaps drew a conclusion that they're not musicians, just showmen with makeup and hairspray?
Scratch beneath the surface on the internet with many of these guys and you'll notice since the 80s they're still gigging, writing and playing wherever they can.
And writing & playing damn well.
Nik Kershaw is a perfect example.
Roddy Frame comes to mind (Aztec Camera)
that’s why you don’t listen with your eyes
Nik has a great voice. He's an underrated musical genius in my opinion.
his voice never ages,so strong.
Millie Maskell he's still a incredible artist, the wonderful thing about this is that nick still tours, it means that people like me can still see their idols from the past and enjoy the music as today it's pretty rare to find such talent.
Yeah. Absolutely right.
Agreed
I was always jealous of Niks good looks, back in the day. Some 30 years later- I still am. He's aged very well.
I was thinking the same thing, so handsome.
He is one hot daddy now.
His talent is what's most attractive about Nik.
It’s called being symmetrical.
There’s a Stevie Wonder element in Nik Kershaw which I never realized until lately … but it makes sense they are both geniuses ❤️
Nik Kershaw is SO underrated ! .... He is an unbelievable Guitarist and songwriter ! .... Someday people will realize what a talent he was ! xxxx
fuk yawn . wake up. aaaaa
Could listen to this song many times in a row. Today I showed this tune to my 10 and 8-years old kids. They never heard it before. They insisted then for a half of a day to repeat and repeat, all versions - original music video, live from 1985 Live Aid, and this one.
The same is for me....
Nik Kershaw has the Coolest hair styles in the 80s .
Most people looked that way.. but it fitted him, yes.
I rarely comment on a CZcams video but I had to say this. I literally gasped when he began to sing. Still as amazing now as he was then.
Never realised how good he is singing live, brilliant!
Still sounds so good. A lot of the stars from the 80's have lost their voice talent that they had when they were younger. This man seems to have kept his and it's richer than it was too.
Nik is beautiful and charismatic man. I love his songs, I love his voice.
I actually like this version better than the original. It's a pleasure to see how well this guy aged and how powerful his music can still be today.
Acapella songs have unique qualities. With a song of this calibre, I think listening to it 'in the raw', as such, is going to bring out its strengths even more?
@@annabizaro-doo-dah I guess you're right. That's probably a spot on psychological analysis. I'd never thought about it in these exact terms but it just makes sense and perfectly overlaps with the impression I get when listening to this kind of performances every now and then. Plus, it's that slightly sad, more relaxed vibe that makes old pop songs truly resonate with nostalgia, at least for me. Again, thanks for your reply and suggestions. Wish you a nice evening.
Nik continues in a young man's voice. His vocal quality remains unshakable.
Amazing acoustic version.
Having heard a music expert explain why that song is so unusual, hearing the difference in tone between chorus one and three you finally notice it. He's a genius!
One of the finest singer songwriters to come out of the 80's.
Nik Kershaw is the master of melodies, and his chord arrangements are just out of this World.
Total respect to a legend
I salute you. 👏👏👏🙏
What a talent!!! In his younger days he was just perfect, no matter what style his hair was. Those bedroom eyes and oh so gorgeous mouth. Stop me before I go further!!! I can't get enough of Nik even though he is older now, he is beautiful to look at...then of course there is his guitar playing. Very sexy. Excuse me while I dive into a cold shower.......
I met nik last night (and Go West) after the Icon of the 80's concert, he was so down to earth and lovely :D
People will still adore Nik and this song for as long as the human race is around and around.
2024 ...this is a genius and his music is pure gold!
i came to know about nik kershaw like 10 minutes ago....n m already a fan....such a musically rich performance....thnx fr uploading
Same!
Wow beautiful. How we took 80's music for granted.
It's always tempting to arrive at a pre-conceited opinion that these 80's "pop stars" were in it for a few quid.
Watching Nik Kershaw here is wonderfully refreshing and moving.
The bloke's a musician and an artist. He was then and he is now.
Compared to what we get nowadays, is laughable. Nik is way underrated is all i will say. This bloke is a musician, a proper musician who has it all.
His voice sounds like a 20yr old doing a cover in his bedroom. That’s a compliment.
Too hear Rick Wakeman, one of the fathers of progressive rock (and my favorite keyboardist), say that your song is one of his favorites must be extremly flattering
What a wonderfully satisfying voice - he gets as much out of it as Kate Bush does. Great stuff.
Back when this first came out I had heard snippets on the radio, but had no idea of the name or artist. Leaving a shopping center I got in my car, started it, and this came on the radio. I waited to the song was over, got the details, then went straight back into the shopping center to buy it. It is the only song I did that for.
Exemplary rendition, masterful guitar playing, a true gem, and for me a memory, emotional
Hey Rik, I'm back again.. I just need to add you Rik Wakeman are looking a bit plump these days. But you Nik are truly magical, For me a father and son memory thing....thank you Nik
FedUpLurker is not the best player ever
I didn't say he was, I said masterful playing of a gem, you Didrik Sel Saet need to learn how to read English.
I've always loved The Riddle. And Nik sounds better than ever... And age has been good to Nik too. So handsome 🎶💖
I have to wake up for work in a few hours but I'm enjoying this rendition so much that sleep will just have to escape me.
Although I sort of miss Nik’s famous “mullet,” there was definitely no questioning his abilities as a musician and lyricist. I still remember seeing Nik as the opening act for Paul Young in 1985. Back then in the States, we had our version of the UK’s magazine “Smash Hits” called “Star Hits”...this article compared the two musicians’ heights-Nik was 5’3” and Paul about 6’2”. I remember watching Nik and my friend said, “He looks tiny!” Well there was certainly nothing “tiny” when it came to Nik’s musicianship...to this day, I have much respect for his abilities.
The melody sounds simple but it's quite complicated.
Nick is a genius 👍
Lyrics:
I got two strong arms
Blessings of Babylon
Time to carry on
And try for sins and false alarms
So, to America, the brave
Wise men save
[Chorus]
Near a tree by a river, there's a hole in the ground
Where an old man of Aran goes around and around
And his mind is a beacon in the veil of the night
For a strange kind of fashion, there's a wrong and a right
But he'll never, never fight over you
I got plans for us
Nights in the scullery
And days instead of me
I only know what to discuss
Oh for anything, but light
Wise men fighting over you
It's not me you see
Pieces of valentine
And just a song of mine
To keep from burning history
Seasons of gasoline and gold
Wise men fold
[Chorus]
Near a tree by a river, there's a hole in the ground
Where an old man of Aran goes around and around
And his mind is a beacon in the veil of the night
For a strange kind of fashion, there's a wrong and a right
But he'll never, never fight over you
I got time to kill
Sly looks in corridors
Without a plan of yours
A blackbird sings on bluebird hill
Thanks to the calling of the wild
Wise men's child
Near a tree by a river, there's a hole in the ground
Where an old man of Aran goes around and around
And his mind is a beacon in the veil of the night
For a strange kind of fashion, there's a wrong and a right
But he'll never, never fight
Near a tree by a river, there's a hole in the ground
Where an old man of Aran goes around and around
And his mind is a beacon in the veil of the night
For a strange kind of fashion, there's a wrong and a right
But he'll never, never fight over you
No he'll never, never fight over you.
Cheers!
now imagine how talented you need to be to write such a perfect pop piece like this.
nick Kershaw is one of best in history to my opinion.
Been a fan of Nik Kershaw for over 30 years. The Riddle is still one of my top 10 favorite songs of all time. Really wish Nik was still making records.
what a good writer thank God for songwriter s like Nik Kershaw s
Still Nik. Intemporal voice. The best version by Kershaw of his best classic... Beautiful...
In a rush he created this amazing song. I was 14 years ago le when I first listened to this song. Later in life I learned English and discovered these amazing lyrics.
Rick is a genius, love Nick too especially for this one the ridlle version ❤️❤️❤️
Such a fantastic version of one of my favourite songs...
Wow. What a performance.
Truly underrated musician. Nik is pure talent, the music these days can only dream to create what he did back in the 80's. Love and respect for Nik.
I love this bloke. I saw him live a few years ago. He is brilliant!
Even better than the original - great song! what a voice (God he looks good for his age - so jealous! I'm 7 years younger and i don't look that good ! lol)
What a great live version of that beautiful song. His voice and playing is just perfect.
Wow, saw this now for the first time. MAN what a beautifull version!!! I thought Lindsey Buckingham was outstanding good solo on guitar, but this is just that great! Wonderfull.
I always loved this song and ever will
In vain he getting old, his beautiful voice has remained...real talent 👏🏻
We all use to buy an album for hits generated by different radio top charts, but in many cases and so also in case of Kershaw many other songs are excellent in structural and harmonic sense. Rich in unespected chord progressions, they are far from usual songs of that time and reveal an artist so special in musical sensibility and creative thinking, who applied many modern musical means in his creative output. Arrangements are sparkling examples of synth era in hands of proper conosseurs showing much how to use them in a fresh and pregnant inventive manner, thus making a kind of wonder to us musicians.
He looks great with age
he was yummy when i was 15 and still is now I'm 46!
Love this song ❤️❤️
His voice never changes. Love him since my school days.
Cette chanson a marquée mon enfance et raisonne toujours autant en moi aujourd'hui.
Magic, absolute magic
Soy alison desde uruguayo, montevideana, y eso es exquisito!, gracias! ¡!!!
Wow. This gave me goosebumps (the good kind!).
Killer acoustic version!
Ein sehr gelungenes Selbstcover und trotz der Schwierigkeiten sehr locker vorgetragen. Der Mann kann etwas.
Soooooo beautiful ! Thank you soooo much dear dear Nik ! This is one of my favourite songs in my life time, your voice is always in my ears, no matter how old we get, the feeling this song gives is still the same ;) thank you !
Hi full marks to both of these guys. Old father time catches up on all of us and these two are no different to you and me. Although we never had their talent. Top class upload. Talent never ever leaves you as these two will demonstrate. Top up load top guys. Love it !!!!!!
Long live NIK KERSHAW! how I wish you are more recognised around the world. I adore your talent and I will always tell people about your incredible music.
Wow...his singing still awesome and even better.
Love this song, many times, many years, ...
What a great version 🙏 Melbourne Australia listening 🙏🇦🇺👍
Temasos....congratulation...joseph from paraguay
These acoustic versions are so different than the heavy keyboard/ synth laden arrangements from his albums. I thought he played Keyboards! I wonder how he wrote these tunes. Great stuff!
Just a brilliant song. I wish I'd written it...
Wish i would have Wrote it, . Proper English .
@@oliveroneill1388 A year later, it's time to put you in your place. "I wish I wrote it." would be correct, making your statement incorrect. However "I wish I'd written it." is 100% correct. In conclusion, you were so wrong it's not even funny.
Nick is crazy talented. Beyond words.
Love the original but good job Nik voice is still there fab! Love the riddle video too!
Amazing voice and beautiful guitar playing. So underrated, more than just a pop star!
Absolutely Lisa, he is a true artist.
Rick’s spot on. Such a great song and one of the most brilliant chord progressions on this. Masterful
This man is pure talent.
What an amazing artist , please never stop writing music.
Wow its amazing.
Wow he sounds exactly as he did in the 80s , love this song so much even stripped down, my favorite song from him.
Omg this so song is great and so is Nik Kershaw. Its a testimony to how fantastic this song is that even if you do it in acoustic or without synthesizers it sounds amazing. Can the same be said for the garbage and beats produced today?
whow . a thick wank speaks
僕は、中学生の頃に良く聞いた。「The Riddle」は、思い出の曲
A song of memories I heard well when I was junior high school student. . . I still love it.
RepairFarm 金子日出樹(HIDEKI KANEKO)
I was a littel bit in love with thos wonderful green eys
What an amazing version! Nik is an amazing guitar player and his voice is WONDERFUL!!! WOW!!
Wow!!!!
Handsome and skilled back then, handsome and skilled today. That's Nik for ya.
The original song is great, and the acoustic is just as good. And you are my idol forever! I want to sing like you!
❤❤❤ I was a child when it came out. Listen to it everyday!
What a brilliant version
Nelle botti piccole c'e' il vino buono. Ti avevo perso Nick, ti ritrovo piu' in forma che mai ed e' un gran piacere.
❤❤a real songwriter,real artist!! Thanks Nich Kershaw❤
Brilliant and so very underrated
The BEST at work.
Im love this SONG
I was grew up with this lovely, classic hit during mid of 80's..A big fan of you Nik Kershaw.Love from Malaysia!
Your songs will forever hold the memories of my school disco's ☺️🙏🏽
Funny thing is that he again made it more complex than the og version with this acoustic xD. Probably one of the most underrated musicians ever. Imo, he's a true musical genius.
loved the riddle but didn't realise he wrote the songs and could play like that, total respect Nik
WHEN I WAS 15, I WUD LISTEN TO THIS SONS MAYBE 20 TIMES A DAY ON CASSETTE ( NOW 49 ) & STILL LOVING IT...
wow, chills all over, made me cry, for real...
My seven year old daughter loves Nik. Fantastic song I remember the first time around!