Songs that Changed Music: Peter Gabriel - Sledgehammer

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  • čas přidán 10. 11. 2020
  • ➡️➡️Learn more about Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel: producelikeapro.com/blog/stop...
    ➡️➡️ Watch Artists That Changed Music: Peter Gabriel: • Peter Gabriel: Artists...
    Certainly, the next decade became a time of discovery for Gabriel - personal and musical. On the musical side, he began releasing a series of four self-titled albums , which his fans have since provided with their own nicknames (“Car” (1977), “Scratch” (1977), “Melt” (1979) and “Security” (1982)). While several of the solo albums include charting singles, it was Gabriel’s fifth album, So (1986), that gave him his first and only number one hit - “Sledgehammer.” With an irresistible groove, a horn part straight from Stax, and brilliant production, “Sledgehammer” transformed Gabriel from an edgy seventies rocker into a eighties pop superstar.
    Although “Sledgehammer” would turn out to be a massive success, appealing to a large and diverse audience, Gabriel did not have such grand intentions with the track when he began.. Gabriel reflected on the song’s success in 2012 explaining:
    “With “Sledgehammer,” everyone thinks, “Oh, he must have created that to get a hit.” And it wasn’t done that way. In fact, Tony Levin reminded me that he was packing his bags to go home, and I called him back into the studio, saying “I’ve got this one idea that maybe we can fool around with for the next record - but I like the feel.” That was “Sledgehammer.” It was late in the day and we just fell into the groove, landed a beautiful drum track on it, a great bass line and it all came together.”
    The song certainly does come together, bringing innovative sounds and diverse influences into one incredible track. It opens with a synthesized Japanese shakuhachi flute sample, played on Gabriel’s Fairlight CMI. Pulling from his progressive rock roots, the free flowing flute sound draws the listener quietly in before the horn section dramatically announces the onset of the song’s magnetic groove. Drummer Manu Katche captures a funk influence with an eighties pop of the gated reverb snare. Tony Levin’s bass line is exciting and catchy, while also sounding impossibly smooth. The classic fretless tone is paired with the attack of a pic, giving it that bright and rhythmic edge. He runs this through an octave pedal, giving it that modern sound. The guitars provide the funky yet stable core that allow the active bassline to take center stage.
    Undeniably critical to this entire mix is the soul influence and energy of the horn section. Expressing his excitement about having Wayne Jackson - who had played in the house band at Stax records and toured with Otis Redding - play trumpet for the track, Gabriel told WMMR Radio in 1986:
    “as a teenager, soul music was one of the things that made me want to be a musician. It was really passionate and exciting… Wayne Jackson, who plays on that track, was also with Otis Redding and was touring with him when I saw them in London. So that was a thrill for me, just to get a whole lot of fan stories. But I think the song was more influenced by many of those Stax and Atlantic tracks rather than Otis particularly.”
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Komentáře • 1,6K

  • @Producelikeapro
    @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +86

    What songs would you like us to cover in this series?

    • @joevendors243
      @joevendors243 Před 3 lety +27

      My Sharona- the Knack

    • @rb-kd4ry
      @rb-kd4ry Před 3 lety +14

      Jimi Hendrix.... Song--Bold as love!!!!

    • @Boobypoppop
      @Boobypoppop Před 3 lety +4

      TTD-Holding on to You. A rare diamond and, seemingly a different recording method to rest of the album. Maybe it was recorded separately in another studio? However, it's a stand out track (in production terms ) on a great, great album. I would love to hear your take on it . Keep up the good work!
      From a big fan in Leicester England.

    • @rborawski
      @rborawski Před 3 lety +14

      If you haven't done a Beatles tune yet, might I suggest Sgt. Peppers? 4 tracks of wonderfulness!

    • @SvexTheDragon
      @SvexTheDragon Před 3 lety +40

      Enjoy The Silence by Depeche Mode

  • @schlaackmusic
    @schlaackmusic Před 3 lety +134

    Tony Levin playing a fretless with a pick like an absolute S A V A G E.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +9

      Yes! Incredible

    • @liamb8624
      @liamb8624 Před 3 lety +10

      I became obsessed with trying to emulate the tight percussive ghost notes sitting in amongst the main riff. Phenomenal bass playing and production from an incredible album.

    • @iamfantastic.iamgreat3649
      @iamfantastic.iamgreat3649 Před 3 lety +1

      @@Producelikeapro When was that.?

    • @thechristianbernal1108
      @thechristianbernal1108 Před 3 lety +1

      It’s not a bass- it’s a stick

    • @schlaackmusic
      @schlaackmusic Před 3 lety +1

      @@thechristianbernal1108 Oh really? For whatever reason I thought he only played the stick live. That's cool to know!

  • @mrnelsonius5631
    @mrnelsonius5631 Před 3 lety +79

    When I was a little kid, pre-school, I was obsessed with Sledgehammer. First song I ever LOVED. Flash-forward to age 12-13, I wanted a bass. I hadn’t listened to Gabriel in years (listening to 90s grunge) but the first thing that came out of me with that bass, that I had to figure out, was this song. It was a part of my DNA. I’ve been playing bass for a living since :)

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +8

      Thanks ever so much for sharing! Amazing story! Tony Levin is truly inspirational

  • @barcellos61
    @barcellos61 Před 3 lety +82

    Saw Peter Gabriel in Rio de Janeiro, 1993. Tony Levin on bass, David Rhodes on guitar, Manu Katché on drums and David Sancious on keyboards. Just picture that. What a band! What a show!

    • @jluther1755
      @jluther1755 Před rokem +2

      Saw that same show at The LA Coliseum. Shankar on Violin and Paula Cole singing 🔥

    • @garymcdonnell5791
      @garymcdonnell5791 Před 2 měsíci

      Wow man' fair play!! Ya lucky sod haha😊 so cool is right man.. All my best mate from Gary Liverpool UK...

  • @SlowhandGreg
    @SlowhandGreg Před 3 lety +166

    "Don't give up" makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up every time, the whole album is a masterpiece building on his previous work

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +12

      Agreed 100%!!

    • @rickanderson1683
      @rickanderson1683 Před 3 lety +15

      As much as I love the studio version, and Kate Bush in general (owning several of her cds), the live version with Paula Cole is one of most amazing things I've ever heard. She was a star of that tour.

    • @alaricgoldkuhl155
      @alaricgoldkuhl155 Před 3 lety +7

      I can't hear it without crying like a girlyman. I wish Kate and Peter got married and had hundreds of song-children together.

    • @javascript6948
      @javascript6948 Před 3 lety +2

      Such a great song even Willie Nelson covered it.!!!!

    • @DavidLazarus
      @DavidLazarus Před 3 lety +1

      Yes, love that song too! I sang it earlier today; albeit in my car with the windows rolled down in an empty part of a shopping center parking lot. :^D

  • @jalabi99
    @jalabi99 Před 3 lety +90

    Thanks to Rick Beato and the CZcams algorithm for making me aware of this channel. Subscribed!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +4

      Thanks ever so much! I really appreciate it

    • @allenmontrasio8962
      @allenmontrasio8962 Před 2 lety +2

      me too

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 2 lety +1

      @@allenmontrasio8962 thanks ever so much

    • @cwalters7399
      @cwalters7399 Před rokem

      The professor of Rock following brought me here. Brilliant channel

    • @adriendecroy7254
      @adriendecroy7254 Před měsícem

      Warren is next level compared to Rick Beato. Legit stuff which can come only from years in the industry (not that Rick doesn't have that, but I find Rick less profound).

  • @budgreenwood9359
    @budgreenwood9359 Před 3 lety +104

    I had the incredible honour of meeting the man himself at Real World Studios in 1992 when we were mixing some of our album there, he was an absolute gentleman !
    I also got to play all his keyboards !

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +5

      Wow! Amazing! Thanks ever so much!

    • @keykrazy
      @keykrazy Před 3 lety +4

      What all did you see there? Care to share manufacture & model #'s you remember seeing there? Any notable modules spotted in the racks?

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      @@keykrazy yes, enquiring minds want to know! Haha

    • @TelecasterLPGTop
      @TelecasterLPGTop Před 3 lety

      Cool, he's one of my musical heroes. Must have been a real buzz to meet him.

    • @robmanueb.
      @robmanueb. Před 3 lety +10

      I worked with an Iranian refugee who told me he was his biggest fan, he showed me a picture of him and Peter together. I asked him how he got the picture, he told me he kept asking people where he lived until someone gave him his address, went and knocked on his door. Peter came out and was happy to be photographed with his no 1 fan. Pretty cool and humble.

  • @wmsd45
    @wmsd45 Před hodinou

    This song didn't change music. Peter Gabriel and his genius changed music. And he's still doing it.

  • @Noone-of-your-Business
    @Noone-of-your-Business Před 3 lety +100

    Woah! 40% of the entire video's length dedicated to the fretless bass!
    I *approve!!* 👍😁

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +6

      Hahahaha Thanks ever so much!

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Před 3 lety +3

      Makes sense, though: It's the song's most important ingredient, next to Peter's vocals, and also its foundation. And yeah, being also a bassist I loved that, too :-))

    • @MrJpbmusic2005
      @MrJpbmusic2005 Před 2 lety

      "Fretless Bass +Otave pedal =Marriage made in heaven ..the Fretless Bass never got the respect it truly deserved despite being common among 80s British pop music..

  • @toomanyjstoomanyrs1705
    @toomanyjstoomanyrs1705 Před 6 měsíci +3

    Peter Gabriel not only has my all time favorite video with "Sledgehammer" but my all time favorite romantic song in "in your eyes."

  • @SingaporeSkaterSam
    @SingaporeSkaterSam Před 3 lety +48

    Don’t forget Games Without Frontiers, that did quite well too, 1980 - a magical time to be growing up music wise.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      It’s not forgotten my friend! Masterpiece

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +4

      Just one of many videos to come! Thanks ever so much for watching

    • @pungarehu
      @pungarehu Před 3 lety +1

      79 to 81 was THE golden age

    • @kobayashiMaroo
      @kobayashiMaroo Před 3 lety

      and "Family Snapshot" . . . no song gets the hairs on my neck sparking like "and I let the bullet flyyyyyyyyyyy......"

  • @georgesgauthier
    @georgesgauthier Před 3 lety +55

    This is not meant as a slight, but having watched Rick Beato "What makes this song so great" videos for years and always feeling him fall short of what I wanted in a video essay, is is such a pleasure to have discovered your "Songs that Changed music" series. This focus on production, arrangement and influences as well as context is so much more illuminating than simply breaking down chord progression. What an absolute delight! Thank you and keep up the good work.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +15

      You’re very kind, I like to feature songs that were really important and do the best I can to cover all aspects of the writing, recording and production! Rick does great work and I’m honoured to be included in a discussion with him.

    • @MetteC5
      @MetteC5 Před 9 měsíci +1

      Thanks George, I've been wanting to write a similar comment but thought that I was alone in noting Rick falling short in numerous ways. So, as you, I'm absolutely delighted to have discovered this series!

    • @Unbiasedlistener
      @Unbiasedlistener Před 8 měsíci +1

      I am in complete agreement.

    • @williamthomas2278
      @williamthomas2278 Před 7 měsíci +2

      Please note that Rick Beato is teaching about music as a writer and composition more than as a cultural influence. I love both shows for different reasons

    • @MetteC5
      @MetteC5 Před 7 měsíci +1

      @@williamthomas2278 That's a fair point and I see what you mean, but the problem with Rick is that he's teaching _through_ a very American cultural prism, which often leads to toe-curling inaccuracies as regards music outside of the US. Those of us that have a broader horizon are weary of his US-centric misrepresentations and have stopped watching his videos.

  • @thelasthourgetready
    @thelasthourgetready Před 3 lety +15

    I always knew Peter Gabriel was special as a child Solbury Hill always moved me in a way I cant explain but I never realised how much detail went into sledgehammer amazing.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +1

      Agreed! Gabriel is one of the greats! Only a couple left!

  • @paniccleo
    @paniccleo Před 3 lety +52

    That bass sound is so iconic. So intensely deep and liquid.

  • @silviopuertas
    @silviopuertas Před 3 lety +47

    This song was a huge hit here in Brazil in the late 80s, because it was the theme song of the TV series Sledge Hammer, which was broadcasted by Rede Globo, the largest Brazilian TV network.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +5

      Hi Silvio!! Thanks ever so much!

    • @TogonzoMedia
      @TogonzoMedia Před 3 lety +2

      Interesting irony: when ABC promoted the show here in the states, all the adverts featured Peter Gabriel's "Sledgehammer". But when the show actually premiered, we get this iconic Danny Elfman, over-the-top, 007/Untouchables sounding theme with a horn section and a operatic bridge!

    • @sophieschollsreinkarnation5078
      @sophieschollsreinkarnation5078 Před 2 lety

      @@TogonzoMedia Yeah, it confused me a lot as a kid ... I was a big fan of the series and thought the song was about it. They came out in the same year also.

    • @pu5epx
      @pu5epx Před 2 lety

      I saw the clip at 'Fantástico', is one of the strongest memories I have from childhood, so good it was

  • @russellbutterfield1419
    @russellbutterfield1419 Před 3 lety +68

    So.......One of the best albums ever produced.

  • @budgetguitaristcom
    @budgetguitaristcom Před 3 lety +28

    I've seen Peter Gabriel twice. He was AMAZING. What an artist.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +1

      Agreed 100%! Thanks ever so much!

    • @DavidLazarus
      @DavidLazarus Před 3 lety

      I only saw Peter on the US tour. Great show though! Darn sure wish I had been old enough to see him with Genesis!

    • @realdocloco
      @realdocloco Před rokem

      Same, saw him twice in the early to mid eighties - incredible showman and music quality that still impress me today. Some of the best concerts in my life.

  • @mattcambrian1215
    @mattcambrian1215 Před 3 lety +15

    When the horns come rising in on verse two, this song becomes something special. Probably the best pop song ever.

  • @johantibbelin417
    @johantibbelin417 Před 3 lety +40

    The amazing horns is what really does this song for me. But then I'm a saxophone player.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      Love the horns! Thanks ever so much!

    • @TheOnlineBusker
      @TheOnlineBusker Před 3 lety +1

      Sax is one of the coolest instruments, and I'd bet it's one of those that so many people say they would "love to learn" but never even think about it! Off to check out your channel dude to see if there's any cool sax there!!

    • @TheOnlineBusker
      @TheOnlineBusker Před 3 lety

      Ha! it's about coding! Didn't expect that! Cool too!

  • @stereoroid
    @stereoroid Před 3 lety +36

    Another vote for Owner Of A Lonely Heart by Yes. The whole dynamic with producer Trevor Horn - whose stint in the band just a few years earlier led him to switch to production - is fascinating. The story I heard is that he literally got on his knees to beg the band to finish it, that's how big he (correctly) thought it would be.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      Marvellous idea Dirk!!

    • @stereoroid
      @stereoroid Před 3 lety +1

      @@Producelikeapro Not to mention that bizarre music video, and the presence of most of the Art Of Noise on there.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +1

      @@stereoroid yes, wonderful!

    • @joefry22
      @joefry22 Před 2 lety +2

      Yeah, I remember “Owner of a Lonely Heart” sounded so distinctive when it came out. It just jumped out of the speakers. Cool, melodic songwriting combined with Trevor Horn's crisp, modern production.

    • @cowboixxxl
      @cowboixxxl Před 2 lety

      Hell Yes to Yes

  • @lisajohnson521
    @lisajohnson521 Před 3 lety +29

    I LOVE me some PG. He has one of the best voices ever.

  • @lynette599
    @lynette599 Před 2 lety +16

    As a non-producer and non-musician, I have just subscribed...LOL..the musicality of these musicians is just mind-blowing.. Greetings from South Africa.

  • @timcent7199
    @timcent7199 Před 3 lety +47

    I'm blown away by the technical details presented, and how clearly you speak. Too bad I don't understand a single word of it. I just watched because I love this song. I'm tempted to watch another one now. Thanks!

  • @davidzachmeyer1957
    @davidzachmeyer1957 Před 3 lety +10

    The album was beautifully engineered, with a wonderful clean, crisp sound. The opening high hats on "Red Rain" set the tone for the rest of the album.

  • @brandoncrow3741
    @brandoncrow3741 Před 3 lety +7

    This entire album, So, is a MASTERPIECE. Peter Gabriel is a musical genius. 🔥

  • @iengineer_247
    @iengineer_247 Před 3 lety +25

    This is a crazy song but I lovvvvvvveeeee the production. I thought the bass was a synth bass at first!!!! I love the horns and the drums my goooddddnnneeessssssss!!!!!

  • @Tibbon
    @Tibbon Před 3 lety +7

    I had the opportunity to do some sessions with Tony Levin about 15 years ago, and it was so fun to spend time with him and learn how he works.

  • @jeffbridges6110
    @jeffbridges6110 Před 3 lety +10

    I was 8 when this came out. But i'll never forget it. It's one of the songs that got me into drums. Such a great song.

  • @youraccount7003
    @youraccount7003 Před 3 lety +9

    Peter must have had the overall sounds in his mind and worked on creating them in reality. What musical genius.

  • @GrexKhusan
    @GrexKhusan Před 3 lety +19

    When you got Levin&Katché, you can be pretty sure that the rhythm section is nothing less than brilliant.

  • @lastdaysguitar
    @lastdaysguitar Před 3 lety +12

    So cool to see Tony Franklin on this, hes one of my very favorite rock bassists!

  • @hobbyknight546
    @hobbyknight546 Před 3 lety +33

    I remember when this song came out. OH CRAP I must be old now

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +4

      Haha me too! I hear you!

    • @toonertik
      @toonertik Před 3 lety +2

      @@Producelikeapro Yeah... but some of us were in our LONG pants by then>> :P

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      @degrande707 haha indeed!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +3

      @@toonertik haha very true!

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Před 3 lety +1

      Not as old as the artist himself, though ;-) I was 16 then, turning 51 next month. Still have great memories of '86 :-)

  • @humphreygobo6576
    @humphreygobo6576 Před 3 lety +2

    Great song! Especially as a gateway to more Peter Gabriel.

  • @chriscuthbertson
    @chriscuthbertson Před 3 lety +10

    One of the best basslines ever.

    • @DavidLazarus
      @DavidLazarus Před 3 lety

      Nah. Great, but far from best. Both Tony and others have played better.

    • @janbures5203
      @janbures5203 Před 3 lety

      Best bassline imho is Normans Watts Roy’s Hit me with your rhytm stick.

    • @DavidLazarus
      @DavidLazarus Před 3 lety

      @@janbures5203 - There's really no such thing as "best". There will always be others who have done it better. Besides, this is largely subjective anyway.

    • @janbures5203
      @janbures5203 Před 3 lety +1

      @@DavidLazarus I know its very subjective, thats why I said IMHO ;)

  • @teslatravels4197
    @teslatravels4197 Před 3 lety +11

    One of my favorites. Still have the record I bought back in the day. I always feel 20% happier after I listen to it. Actually, it's more like 23%.

  • @TheMichaelBeck
    @TheMichaelBeck Před rokem +1

    I graduated HS in '86. What an amazing experience growing up listening to such great musicians. We were spoiled.

  • @fernandoferrero699
    @fernandoferrero699 Před 3 lety +1

    I got to meet Ian Cooper at metropoly long time ago ,,incredible experience,, the nicest and so much knoledge.

  • @bluefen
    @bluefen Před 3 lety +3

    Surely the 'icing on the cake' is Peter's incredible vocal...

  • @delphinbringsby6768
    @delphinbringsby6768 Před 3 lety +18

    I never realized how much the Seinfeld bass theme was inspired by this tune.

    • @GarethGras
      @GarethGras Před 3 lety +1

      That "bass" theme is played on a synth so maybe even more than you think

  • @Ricketik65
    @Ricketik65 Před 3 lety +2

    I still recall the very first time I heard this song on the radio, back in 1986. It immediately sounded as if it had always been there and it would always be there. An instant classic!

  • @Adam-hs1ft
    @Adam-hs1ft Před 3 lety +57

    0:59 Haha, Genesis Exodus

  • @trevornokesmusicltd5357
    @trevornokesmusicltd5357 Před 3 lety +18

    The Album 'So' is Fantastic, when i got Married our first Dance song was 'In Your Eyes' Stunning Song in all ways.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      Thanks ever so much Trevor!

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Před 3 lety

      I remember reading an interview with Osbourne's Ozzy in the mid 90's in which he was talking about his then brandnew album 'Ozzmosis': He said he was blown away when hearing Peter Gabriel's 'So', that it was an absolute masterpiece, and that it also was his inspiration to create his own masterpiece with his latest album; And he reckoned he'd gotten pretty close, too :-) I then bought that album out of sheer curiosity, and I actually did like it a lot! :-))

  • @lorenzoguarn
    @lorenzoguarn Před 3 lety +24

    Having just bought a Boss Octaver I was playing this bass line all day... One of my all time favourite, I’m going to watch the video and I hope to hear more about the bass sound! Love the series Warren!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +3

      Thanks ever so much Lorenzo! Yes, it was combination of the Boss Octaver and chorusing!

    • @tonygonzales6961
      @tonygonzales6961 Před 3 lety

      @@Producelikeapro
      ./hh"it

  • @Texicus_Reddicus
    @Texicus_Reddicus Před 3 lety +6

    Seinfeld bass + fresh prince drums + peter gabriel = sledghammer

  • @J-DUB-F1
    @J-DUB-F1 Před 3 lety +1

    SO I broke my Walkman Pro listening to that song!!......had it in sitting on my lap while I air drum'd along, and the walkman sliped, hit the floor, the end!.....bollocks Gabrial !! :-(
    Definitely one of my favorites of the era. Just out of high school, every party cover band was playing it. The perfect blend of shiny eighties'ness and funky soul groove. The video was a huge step forward, and raised the creative bar for every other band ;:-)

  • @kickbiker7920
    @kickbiker7920 Před 3 lety +8

    I really love this series. The fact that its coming from a producer/musician's perspective really adds to it. It bounces along with your links and isolated tracks. It's clear you LOVE what you're doing. Music history at its finest! These are good enough to be seen by a wider audience BBC etc ...

  • @gavindont
    @gavindont Před 2 lety +4

    Man, between you, Rick Beato and David Bennett my head is exploding with all this music theory and studio know how and I'm all the richer for it. So thank you, it's so very much appreciated!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 2 lety +2

      You’re very kind! Thanks ever so much! Humbled to be included with such greats!

  • @ArcadeMusicTribute
    @ArcadeMusicTribute Před 3 lety +1

    One of my alltime favorite songs EVER!

  • @OracleFP
    @OracleFP Před 3 lety +2

    One of my all-time favourite artists, I was fortunate to see him live at Newcastle City Hall UK on the Melt tour. I will never for get his entrance in total darkness to the drum beat of Intruder, he appeared through a side door in the upper gallery with a massive search light and made his way through the audience, down the stairs and up to the front of the stage, amazing memories and an amazing musician!

  • @peterldelong
    @peterldelong Před 3 lety +4

    Peter and Paula Cole on Secret World Live. You’ll never hear a better vocal duet, the gold standard.

  • @mikemorecroft3220
    @mikemorecroft3220 Před 3 lety +23

    I am not a great social media commentator but I have to say your youtube channel is epic. Educational for me as a home based songwriter/producer but also fascinating and of general interest when you do episodes like this which cover both bases for me. Brilliant stuff.

  • @NightBazaar
    @NightBazaar Před 3 lety +1

    No two ways about it. Sledgehammer is a foot stomping classic.

  • @paulstinebiser2459
    @paulstinebiser2459 Před 3 lety +1

    I’m not that musical. I never “heard” the baseline of this song before until this video. Thanks for opening my eyes...er...ears.

  • @IvanLendl87
    @IvanLendl87 Před 3 lety +6

    Thanks so much for this video, Warren! You break songs down so beautifully and this one is no exception. Peter Gabriel along with great players such as Tony Levin, Manu Katche, David Rhodes, Wayne Jackson, and Daniel Lanois' masterful production resulted in a brilliant track. I have never tired of listening to this classic song (or anything off of SO for that matter).

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Před 3 lety +1

      @Ivan Lendl - I also used to watch tennis on the TV a lot back then, with you and your mates Becker, Agassi, McEnroe, Graf, Navratilova... ;-))

  • @HiVoltish
    @HiVoltish Před 3 lety +22

    I LOVE these, good onya mate!
    Gated reverb, I froze my butt off in an unheated garage driving my self crazy trying to get that snare sound in the early 80's.

  • @jurgenschuler8389
    @jurgenschuler8389 Před 3 lety +3

    I remember buying the record and playing it until it was virtually scratched to death. Then I bought the CD... And I was just a teenager with no money to fool around.
    And, please, let me repeat my comment above: "Word Up!" Perhaps including the cover versions.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +3

      Thanks ever so much Jürgen!

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Před 3 lety

      Cameo's 'Word Up!' had popped into my mind also, when watching one of the previous episodes! I still 'see' the red undies over skin-tight black pants on the singer, in the original video clip x-)) From '86 too, like 'Sledgehammer' :-)

  • @mxcrec
    @mxcrec Před 3 lety +2

    This is one of the main melodies in my life. Perfect, powerful, enchanting.

  • @randallfrank5682
    @randallfrank5682 Před 3 lety +6

    Yes "So" was a great album, however my favorite song on it is "Big Time." The play on words is what really grabbed me. "I've been stretching my mouth to let those big words come right out".

  • @rockostiffredi4276
    @rockostiffredi4276 Před 3 lety +3

    I'll never forget Tony Levin playing this song live at the Roskilde Music Festival in the mid 90's, with Peter and the band. Also quite impressed with his percussive bass playing style using 'drum' type sticks as an extension to the fingers of his right hand. Really different approach to the bass.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      Amazing!! Roskilde is such an incredible festival!! That would have been wonderful to see him there!

  • @rebellucy6200
    @rebellucy6200 Před 2 měsíci

    That bass is stuck in my head. Unreal soul, funk and pop all combined into perfection on this track!

  • @briancoyne6700
    @briancoyne6700 Před 2 lety +1

    I remember listening the So album on my walkman when I was 10 years old in 1986. I was hypnotized by those songs. I played that tape over and over again. It's amazing to hear the isolated tracks 35 years later. Still sounds amazing! Thank you, Warren!!

  • @abelincoln95
    @abelincoln95 Před 3 lety +20

    Another "slam dunk" Warren! A song on the City Of Angels soundtrack that gets under the radar "I Grieve" is one that really sticks in my brain.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks ever so much Abe!

    • @mrufino1
      @mrufino1 Před 3 lety +1

      I grieve is amazing. The Up tour was one of the best shows I’ve ever seen, and he ended with that if I remember correctly.I didn’t realize that was on the city of angels soundtrack.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +1

      @@mrufino1 fantastic! Thanks for sharing

  • @terminalbliss
    @terminalbliss Před 3 lety +6

    The Up album by Peter Gabriel is so under rated... the production on it is insane. Of his earlier work, I love the song intruder from "melt".

    • @MKPiatkowski
      @MKPiatkowski Před 7 měsíci

      I love it more than So. That album is a true masterpiece.

  • @Theconsciousoutkast
    @Theconsciousoutkast Před rokem +1

    I love that video this is how I found your channel I still listen to sledgehammer and watch the video in 2022...one of my best memories being a baby in the 80's

  • @davidherbert9601
    @davidherbert9601 Před 3 lety +2

    It’s simply one of the best sounding songs I’ve ever listen to. Every time I hear it it just picks me up. Such a brilliant groove element to it. That bass is just so amazing.

  • @1MBStudios
    @1MBStudios Před 3 lety +19

    Anyone else get shown this song by their parents because the "weird music video" made such an impression they had to show their kids?

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +5

      Haha no, however that’s cool to hear! It’s wonderful to see just how successful it is (it’s Peter Gabriel’s second biggest song) however only those old enough even remember the video! Just goes to show how amazing the song is!

  • @MarcBecker_Music
    @MarcBecker_Music Před 3 lety +4

    Awesome, thank you, Warren.. I love this song and the music video blew me away when it come out back in 1986 ... when I was 16 years old! Time flies.

  • @ryKirwan1
    @ryKirwan1 Před 3 lety +1

    Best reference mix EVER! Great did Warren 🎼🎹🎸🎤👍🏻

  • @nickcarter4006
    @nickcarter4006 Před 3 lety +1

    I’m a simple man... I see someone praising this classic banger, I ring the bell

  • @nicolasjoan6515
    @nicolasjoan6515 Před 3 lety +3

    1986 the year I was born 🤣👍 Still Peter became such a big influence on me later on. There is just something about that voice and his songwriting/arrangements that almost always grab your attention right away. And don't get me started about all the amazing theatrical stuff he does live, it's so overwhelming ❤🤩 Maybe growing up or skyblue next?

  • @30Irwin
    @30Irwin Před 3 lety +6

    Gabriel has said that his gorgeous Real World studios was paid for from the success of this song and album.

  • @Bring_MeSunshine
    @Bring_MeSunshine Před 3 lety

    Another classic tune. I'd been a fan of Peter Gabriel since he left Genesis. While this broke him into a mainstream audience - and rightly SO, it comes from a superlative album all round - in the intervening years between 'car' and 'security', he released some of the most original and powerful music of any performer, ever. But, my tastes always had an ear for the 'left field' and the arty, and 'Melt' and 'Security' really took risks and broke boundaries. When this came out - especially with that wonderful Aardman video to accompany it, it was a wonderful validation of a great artist, at his peak. So many wonderful tracks on one LP; Don't Give Up, Red Rain, In Your Eyes, Mercy Street, Big Time and, of course this. You wanted to be Gabriel at this point, because he hadn't put a foot wrong, and had a legacy of great art, to boot

  • @Guitargate
    @Guitargate Před 3 lety +107

    Yes! Now you’re talking!!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +6

      Thanks Michael!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      @Cashew Gesundheit yes! Amazing

    • @hopetea7670
      @hopetea7670 Před 3 lety +4

      @Cashew Gesundheit Its a fantastic vocal. Across all his work I love how PG also has more than one type of voice but all disinctly PG.

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      @@hopetea7670 agreed 100%!

    • @lazstan
      @lazstan Před 3 lety +2

      I politely just don’t get how this guy has a career. I hate everything of his. To me it all sucks. To each their own.

  • @marksiebenaler3250
    @marksiebenaler3250 Před 3 lety +55

    You just pick bangers every single time. These videos are the highlight of every day they are released. Could I request you do XTC's "Making Plans for Nigel"?

  • @_McFly_
    @_McFly_ Před 3 lety +4

    Just heard it yesterday because I felt the need for a perfectly produced song! Headphones on and enjoy! Love it!

  • @federicovicente8116
    @federicovicente8116 Před rokem

    I just love this series of "Songs that Changed Music". One of the best things you can find on CZcams about stainless classics.

  • @bobfrode
    @bobfrode Před 3 lety +1

    I was 15 when it came out and it was one of my favorite albums (including david bowie)
    The Tony Franklin part was awesome...what a guy :)
    i remember the dancing chicken...i heard once that those chickens smelled so bad in the end when making the music video

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Před 3 lety

      Eww, yeah I can imagine! x-)) One of *my* favourite bits in that video clip was the model train going around his head during the first line "You could have a steam train if you'd just lay down your tracks" :-)

  • @tonyrapa-tonyrapa
    @tonyrapa-tonyrapa Před 3 lety +38

    Tony Levin - 'nuf sed!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +1

      Yes, incredible player! Thanks ever so much!

    • @augmentedkeys5971
      @augmentedkeys5971 Před 3 lety +2

      That's 'enough said.'

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      @@augmentedkeys5971 hahaha I think we know what they meant haha

    • @augmentedkeys5971
      @augmentedkeys5971 Před 3 lety +1

      @@Producelikeapro A slight. My son now wants to learn how to make "Beats". NO! "They're called drum patterns!" Kids these days... I've been waiting for this day and this scary day that my son (12) would say that he wants to make Rap beats. No!!! I tell him - no, you only get to listen to the Beatles. Those types of Beats. I said. Okay, if you want to hear some cool "rap" stuff. Then listen to M A S S I V E A T T A C K. Done. :)

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Před 3 lety +1

      @@augmentedkeys5971 - I was briefly playing in a covers band here in NZ last year called 'Nuff Zed' x-))

  • @mcclure1977
    @mcclure1977 Před 3 lety +7

    These are fascinating videos. It's amazing to hear how disparate influences - motown in this case, chant, reggae, etc, in the Message in a Bottle videos - are all combined to make something that comes to sound absolutely new, and eventually, totally familiar. Hope you keep making these!

  • @Cimbarius
    @Cimbarius Před rokem +1

    this is a fantastic film document - every Peter Gabriel should watch this, million thanks - very interesting.

  • @vanman757
    @vanman757 Před 2 lety

    Peter Gabriel, Ian Brown & Paul Weller 3 of my most favourite singers/musicians/artists of all time... I had So when it was out in 86 & still listen & love it now... Absolute timeless classic....

  • @jeremyholcombe3202
    @jeremyholcombe3202 Před 3 lety +3

    I've always loved this song. And it's not my usual fare. Just now I found out why. Daniel Lanois!!! He is THE man when it comes to record production vision as far as I can tell...everything from Dylan, to Willie and Emmylou. And his own albums are amongst my favourites of all time. Never knew he did Sledgehammer. Cheers Warren. Made my day!

  • @JoakimKanon
    @JoakimKanon Před 3 lety +4

    Favorite verse, all time.

  • @arcanics1971
    @arcanics1971 Před 3 lety +1

    I loved Sledgehammer so I went to buy a Peter Gabriel album. There were three and I was in a rush and didn't know which had Sledge on it so I grabbed all 3 and spent my pocket money right there. None of them had it on, and they were a million miles from Sledgehammer- and I loved them. If that song hadn't come along, I would never have discovered this amazing cache of brilliance!

  • @TopherHolland
    @TopherHolland Před 3 lety +1

    One of my all time musical hero’s 🙏

  • @IrnBruNYC
    @IrnBruNYC Před 3 lety +3

    I am really enjoying this series. So far every song you have chosen is a 10/10 stunner.

  • @TMS5100
    @TMS5100 Před 3 lety +4

    On the topic of great songwriters, i'm amazed how often Jeff Lynne is overlooked! Very distinctive vocals and every song of his is an insidious earworm.

  • @Sabotage_Labs
    @Sabotage_Labs Před 4 měsíci

    One of the best live shows I've seen was Peter Gabriel in 1991! Amazing show!

  • @mrufino1
    @mrufino1 Před 3 lety +1

    I love Tony Franklin, Blue Murder is one of my favorite albums, but today is the first day I ever realized he is Benny Hill with long hair. I wish I was!

  • @AlexeySolovievMusic
    @AlexeySolovievMusic Před 3 lety +11

    Really awesome series! Thank you so much Warren for making this series 😀👍

  • @buddyalbert5808
    @buddyalbert5808 Před 3 lety +5

    I just watched his Secret World Tour Concert. Brilliant. I can’t find the right adjectives to describe his voice. Warren, you are bringing a smile to my face with these videos.
    Thank you
    PS Tony Franklin! Wow
    Also I worked with Wayne Jackson in Memphis Tn in the 90s.

    • @guitboxgeek
      @guitboxgeek Před 3 lety +2

      Must be nice to ring up oh, let's say Tony Freakin' Franklin to talk about one of the coolest fretless bass lines by one of the best fretless bass players!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      @@guitboxgeek haha yes, truly blessed!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks Buddy! So glad you enjoy them!

  • @dreamingpanthers1847
    @dreamingpanthers1847 Před 3 lety +1

    Fantastic record. Thank you for breaking it down. At one time I kept Peter Gabriel's D.I.Y. album cover up on my wall where I would see it every day before I left for work. While I can't possibly compare, his ethos and singular approach to song construction was something I really aspired to. I still try to get a little closer to that every day. Good to see the Tony Franklin demonstration, another great influence along with Tony Levin. Both monsters. I've got a 62 precision with 70's dimarzio P/J configuration which I made fretless around 1983. When Fender released the Tony Franklin signature, I looked at his, looked at mine and did the classic Monty Python/Holy Grail line "No thanks, we've already got one!" GREAT series Warren, keep em coming!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +2

      Wow!! Thanks ever so much my friend!! I really appreciate the support and sharing your experiences

  • @sixahem
    @sixahem Před 3 lety

    That video is forever etched in my mind.
    I remembered where I was,even what chair I was sitting in the house I grew up in.
    The adverts had it on heavy rotation too.
    The song that defined 1986 and a decade Iam so glad to have grown up in.😎🙌🏿

  • @jennw6809
    @jennw6809 Před 3 lety +6

    I remember so well hearing Shock the Monkey on the radio in high school and obsessing over So in college. Great analysis. I think the whole album is actually timeless music!

  • @tunemxr480
    @tunemxr480 Před 3 lety +5

    Wow Warren! PG has probably been my single favorite artist since "The Lamb...", and "So" is without a doubt within my top5 favorite albums of all time. Thanks for demystifying the track! Killen's mic'ing technique was a revelation. As always, YOU ROCK BRUH!!!

  • @David-Field.Stuff01
    @David-Field.Stuff01 Před 3 lety +1

    A fantastic song by a real innovator and inventor.

  • @dzezikus
    @dzezikus Před 3 lety +1

    I just listen to it one hour ago. And then I found Your video. Nice. Tomorrow I will listen again in my living room with much bigger loudspeakers. I missed the power of the bass. Now it is to late to listen loud enough.

  • @SonicTrinityStudios
    @SonicTrinityStudios Před 3 lety +3

    I remember when this song was first released and the first time I saw the video on MTV. I remember the animation for the video was cutting edge at the time not to mention a kick-ass song! This had so many awesome elements in it and you said it correctly, it was "Gabrielized"! Great video Warren! I look forward to these videos as it's so nostalgic for me - these were songs from my teenage years! A suggestion for a future video: Deep Purple - "Hush", "Highway Star", "Perfect Strangers" or the ever popular "Smoke on the Water" - we all learned to play that riff on guitar at one time or another!

  • @naturalrestingface4909
    @naturalrestingface4909 Před 3 lety +19

    What a great song and album. Loved Kate's voice on Don't Give Up. I think Tony Levin was on tour with Pink Floyd at some point near this period? Didn't the MTV video to this get awards? What a great vocal Peter had. Takes me back to being 15 years old and trying to convince pretty girls to like this and not WHAM!

    • @Producelikeapro
      @Producelikeapro  Před 3 lety +4

      Such an unbelievable album and yes, Kate Bush, so incredible

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Před 3 lety +1

      Tony Levin did play bass and Chapman Stick on their '87 album 'Momentary Lapse Of Reason', so it's definitely possible he'd been on tour with Pink Floyd prior to that, and he'd already left Kink Rimson by that time, too :-)

    • @peteytwofinger
      @peteytwofinger Před 3 lety +1

      @@mightyV444 tony played on the album but guy prat was the touring bassist for davig gilmours "pnk fld"

    • @mightyV444
      @mightyV444 Před 3 lety

      @@peteytwofinger - Let's go with that then. Thank you for the info! :-)

  • @therealtblstudio
    @therealtblstudio Před 3 lety +1

    At 45 yo I remember blasting this song one of my favorites. Peter Gabriel is a legend.