Kate Bush & Stranger Things Just Made the Impossible Happen

Summary

In this insightful video, the speaker discusses Kate Bush's song 'Running Up That Hill,' which has recently surged in popularity due to its feature in *Stranger Things*. The analysis delves into the song's musical structure, including its lush synth intro, unique chord progression, and striking interval jumps. The speaker also highlights Bush's visionary approach to music, emphasizing her pioneering role in music production and songwriting. The video celebrates Bush's brilliance as an artist and encourages viewers to explore her entire catalog, particularly *Hounds of Love*. The emotional depth and relevance of the song are also explored.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kate Bush's song 'Running Up That Hill' gained renewed popularity after being featured in *Stranger Things*, with people discussing its impact and significance.
• 😀 Rick has been a fan of Kate Bush since her debut in 1978, and he highlights her career and unique approach to music, notably her independent production style.
• 😀 The song 'Running Up That Hill' became a chart-topping hit, with Kate Bush becoming the oldest artist (at 63) to achieve a #1 song in the UK.
• 😀 The intro of the song features a lush, airy synth pad, which sets the mood for the rest of the track.
• 😀 The chord progression in the song moves from A-flat major to B-flat sus4, then to C minor, creating a distinctive sound.
• 😀 A key musical element of the song is the large descending minor seventh interval, which gives the song its unique hook.
• 😀 Kate Bush’s vocal delivery in the song fluctuates between rhythmic, offbeat phrases and ethereal, dreamlike moments, contributing to its emotional depth.
• 😀 The chorus of the song includes dissonant intervals, especially when Kate Bush sings 'make a deal with God', which creates a sense of longing and emotional tension.
• 😀 The song's lyrics, revolving around making a deal with God to switch places and gain perspective, are poetic and thought-provoking.
• 😀 The song's use in *Stranger Things* enhances its emotional resonance within the final scenes, aligning with the show's mood and visuals.
• 😀 Rick encourages listeners to explore Kate Bush’s entire catalog, especially the album *Hounds of Love*, as she is a visionary artist who defined her own path in music.

Q & A

What is the significance of the Kate Bush song 'Running Up That Hill' in the context of the video?

The song plays a central role in the final scene of *Stranger Things*, and the speaker reflects on its resurgence in popularity, particularly after being featured on the show. The speaker also discusses the emotional and musical impact of the song.

How long has the speaker been a fan of Kate Bush?

The speaker has been a fan of Kate Bush since 1978, when her first album was released.

What is the connection between Kate Bush and David Gilmour mentioned in the script?

David Gilmour, of Pink Floyd, discovered Kate Bush and is credited with helping her early career. One notable collaboration is a live version of 'Running Up That Hill' from 1987.

What is the musical structure of 'Running Up That Hill' described in the video?

The song features a lush and airy pad in the intro, a busy drum section, and a chord progression involving A-flat major, B-flat sus4, and C minor. The song’s main hook includes a descending minor seventh interval between B-flat and C.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of the B-flat chord in the song?

The B-flat chord is described as crucial because of its sus2 and sus4 qualities, which contribute to the song's mood and its unique sound, particularly in the chorus.

What makes the chorus of 'Running Up That Hill' stand out musically?

The chorus is marked by dissonance and longing, particularly with the line 'make a deal with God.' The note 'G' in the line 'could' adds emotional tension, and the movement between the chords creates a sense of yearning.

What role does the vocal delivery play in the song?

Kate Bush’s vocal delivery alternates between fast-moving, rhythmic singing and ethereal, atmospheric moments. This contrast enhances the emotional impact of the song and its shifting moods.

How does the speaker relate the song's themes to the visuals in *Stranger Things*?

The speaker notes that the song's themes of longing and transformation complement the visuals in *Stranger Things*, especially in the final episode, where the emotional weight of the song aligns with the scenes.

What does the speaker think of Kate Bush's approach to her career?

The speaker praises Kate Bush for being a visionary artist, producing her own music and creating great songs without the traditional routes to fame. This approach is seen as a valuable lesson in the music industry.

What is the speaker's recommendation regarding Kate Bush's music?

The speaker recommends checking out Kate Bush’s full catalog, especially her album *Hounds of Love*, which is described as an essential listen for anyone unfamiliar with her work.