James emerged from their native Manchester in the mid-'80s playing a brand … Read Full Bio ↴James emerged from their native Manchester in the mid-'80s playing a brand of urgent, ringing guitar pop distinguished by Tim Booth's keening, insistent vocals. Booth's dramatic stylings and James' dedication to textured guitars earned the group the designation of "the next Smiths," a connection strengthened by Morrissey's endorsement of the band. By the dawn of the '90s, James shook off these comparisons by embracing acid house, the first of many adventurous left turns the band took over the decades. "Sit Down," an old open-hearted tune re-recorded for the age of "baggy," proved to be their breakthrough, reaching number two in the U.K. in 1991 and becoming an alternative rock hit in the U.S. With its singles "Sound" and "Born of Frustration," Seven consolidated that success in 1992, but it was 1993's Laid that established the group's mature sound. Working with Brian Eno, the group took aural risks that paid off artistically and commercially: the title track became their biggest American hit. From there, James had a flurry of activity in the late 1990s before entering a hiatus in 2001. The band regrouped in 2007, releasing Hey Ma the following year and then settling into a groove where they alternated tours with ambitious album projects such as 2010's two-part The Night Before and The Morning After, as well as 2021's pandemic journal All the Colours of You.

James formed in Manchester in 1982, when Paul Gilbertson (guitar), Jim Glennie (bass), and Gavan Whelan (drums) met Tim Booth (vocals) at Manchester University and asked him to join their fledgling band. During the next year, James became regulars on the local club circuit, and by 1983 they had signed to Factory, releasing their debut EP, Jimone, later that year. Two years later, their second EP, James 2, was released, and Morrissey, the lead singer of the Smiths, publicly endorsed the group, asking them to open for his band. By the summer of 1985, Larry Gott had replaced Gilbertson, and the group signed to Sire Records. Working with producer Lenny Kaye, the group recorded its debut, Stutter, that year, releasing it in early 1986 to generally positive reviews.

Over the next two years, James toured constantly, building up a solid fan base. They released their second album, the folky Strip-Mine, in 1988. The record failed to capitalize on their live following, and the band departed Sire the following year, signing with the independent Rough Trade. On their new label, James released the moderately successful "Sit Down" and the live album One Man Clapping, which climbed to number one on the indie charts. In 1990, Whelan was replaced by David Baynton-Power, and James expanded to a septet with the addition of keyboardist Mark Hunter, violinist Saul Davies, and trumpeter Andy Diagram. The new lineup signed to Fontana Records and released Gold Mother in the fall. Following a handful of minor hit singles, Gold Mother finally became a breakthrough success in the spring of 1991, when a re-recorded version of "Sit Down" -- now boasting a contemporary baggy beat -- climbed to number two on the U.K. charts and became a staple on U.S. modern rock radio. Although the success of "Sit Down" was a blessing, it also was a curse, as the single became all James were known for. The band began to rebel in concert, playing almost nothing but new material, and its next album, 1992's Seven, was perceived as a misguided stab at big arena rock.

For the follow-up to Seven, James stripped away Diagram and worked with producer Brian Eno. The resulting record, Laid, was a quieter, more ambitious album, and it received some of the band's best reviews. While the album was ignored in the U.K., it was an alternative rock hit in the U.S. on the strength of the title track, which became a crossover hit. During the Laid sessions, James recorded another album's worth of experimental music with Eno that was released in the fall of 1994 as Wah Wah. The album received mixed reviews and the group took an extended break throughout 1995, partly due to guitarist Gott's departure. In 1996, Tim Booth recorded a collaboration with composer Angelo Badalamenti (Twin Peaks, Blue Velvet) entitled Booth and the Bad Angel, which received generally positive reviews.

With guitarist Adrian Oxaal in tow, James returned in early 1997 with Whiplash, a more straightforward record that was greeted with mixed reviews. Released in 1999, Millionaires, recorded with new guitarist Michael Kulas, was initially released only in the U.K. Their spectacular follow-up, 2001's Pleased to Meet You, was also available only in the U.K. A few months later, frontman Tim Booth announced his departure from the band he founded nearly 20 years before, and James called it quits following a winter tour of the U.K. in December 2001. The break was short-lived, however, as the band re-formed in 2007 and embarked on a tour in support of the double-disc compilation Fresh as a Daisy: The Singles. The following year saw the release of Hey Ma, James' tenth studio album.

The band returned in 2010 with a pair of "mini-albums" called The Night Before and The Morning After, respectively, before late 2011 brought a short, but novel, U.K. tour (the Orchestra of the Swan and the Manchester Consort Choir were their backup bands). In 2012, the lavish and long-awaited box set The Gathering Sound was issued, and included previously unreleased audio material alongside long-unavailable video concert footage. Details of the Max Dingel-produced La Petite Mort emerged in February 2014, and this first post-Mercury studio album was released four months later in June. Dingel then returned to produce their 2016 record, Girl at the End of the World. Written in Scotland and recorded in London, the album was described by the band as "big but personal, abrasive but warming" and "ultimately uplifting." Two years later, James teamed with producers Charlie Andrew and Beni Giles for Living in Extraordinary Times.

During the 2020 pandemic, Tim Booth teamed up with his Topanga Canyon neighbor Jacknife Lee to construct the basic tracks the rest of James completed while in quarantine. The resulting All the Colours of You was released in June 2021.

Biography by Stephen Thomas Erlewine

There are other artists using the same name:

2) James is the vocalist of popular Bangladeshi band Nagar Baul. He was a member of the band Feelings and later formed the band Nagar Baul. James was raised in Chittagong and later moved to Dhaka for his singing career. Stylishly longhaired James--overwhelmingly known as the Nagar Baul (the City Bard), was the pioneer of psychedelic rock in Bangladesh. Originally a lead singer and guitarist, he has always been respected for his solo projects. He became affectionately called Guru by his fans. His tunes were bright and his singing a divergence from the archetypal tunes preferred by the commercial-type directors. His songs expressed love, rage, discontent, frustration, and happiness.

3) A Dutch rapper connected to the Fakkelteitgroep.

4) James Lee - known as James - was a former member of Royal Pirates, a South Korean band. On 2015, he got into an accident that caused him unable to play bass any longer. Hence, he decided to left the band.
James moved back to Los Angeles and decided to release music written post accident in a project called ’the Light EP’ consisted of 5 tracks. (http://jamesleeofficial.com/)

Moving On
James Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

I did it all by myself, I ain't need nobody help
In the mirror who I tell my secrets
Now I chase a bag, like a mouse and cat
I need all of that cuz I'm greedy and I'm fat
When it comes to getting
Racks
Racks
Racks

Racks
Racks
Mama said I hope it works out, cuz there ain't no moving
Back
Back
Back
Back
Back
I said that's without a doubt you'll be proud
I did it all by myself, I ain't need nobody help
In the mirror who I tell my secrets
Now I chase a bag, like a mouse and cat
I need all of that cuz I'm greedy and I'm fat
When it comes to getting
Racks
Racks
Racks
Racks
Racks
Mama said I hope it works out, cuz there ain't no moving
Back
Back
Back
Back
Back
I said that's without a doubt you'll be proud
I'm a G that move in silence like I'm spelling design
I appreciate the love but please stop hitting my line
See I'm at that part of my career where I don't have time
I just wanna buss this nut then go get back on my grind
Somebody tell De'janae that I really like her face
Even though she playing games, she my ace
Someone tell Makayla when she wear that platinum blonde
Lookin stupid fine, I lose my mind, just be mine
Now I'm in a place where I can say how I feel, when I feel
If it's real, let it spill
Ion give a fuck bout no consequence
I been in yo head rent free so long ion even know what time it is
But I, wassup
I need you like you need me
But I'm too busy chasing dreams
How you gonna get it but you still asleep
This shit do not read this ain't Junie B
I did it all by myself, I ain't need nobody help
In the mirror who I tell my secrets
Now I chase a bag, like a mouse and cat
I need all of that cuz I'm greedy and I'm fat
When it comes to getting
Racks
Racks
Racks
Racks
Racks
Mama said I hope it works out, cuz there ain't no moving
Back
Back
Back
Back
Back
I said that's without a doubt you'll be proud
I did it all by myself, I ain't need nobody help
In the mirror who I tell my secrets
Now I chase a bag, like a mouse and cat
I need all of that cuz I'm greedy and I'm fat
When it comes to getting
Racks
Racks
Racks
Racks
Racks
Mama said I hope it works out, cuz there ain't no moving
Back
Back
Back
Back
Back
I said that's without a doubt you'll be proud
Got a problem with it you can catch me outside
No Bhad Bhabie you can catch me outside

If I'm with the homies then we prolly gone slide
If a problem arise then they prolly gone ride

Overall Meaning

The lyrics in James's song, Moving On, is ultimately about his journey to success and how he did it all by himself, declaring his independence and self-sufficiency. He appears to be proud of his achievement and it is evident in the tone and confidence of his lyrics. The phrase "I did it all by myself, I ain't need nobody help" reinforces his message of independence and the fact that he reached his goal with no external support. James goes on to talk about his desire for wealth and how he needs all of it because he's greedy, which may be a nod to the materialism of the hip-hop culture, where the accumulation of wealth is often glorified.

The chorus highlights the importance of achieving and not looking back. To James, there's no going back, and it's evident in his mother's words, "cuz there ain't no moving back," but he's confident he'll make her proud. He also talks about his relationships, where he appears to be dealing with women who don't want the same things he does. There is also a reference to the famous children's book character, Junie B, in the line "This shit do not read this ain't Junie B," which may suggest a break from youthful affairs or immaturity.

Overall, James's "Moving On" is a message of accomplishment, self-sufficiency, and unwillingness to look back. The lyrics display James's confidence in his ability to overcome his struggles without the help of anyone, with the ultimate goal of achieving wealth.

Line by Line Meaning

I did it all by myself, I ain't need nobody help
I accomplished my goals on my own, without the assistance of others

In the mirror who I tell my secrets
I confide in myself and reflect on my thoughts

Now I chase a bag, like a mouse and cat
I am actively pursuing financial success with determination

I need all of that cuz I'm greedy and I'm fat
I have an insatiable desire for wealth and material possessions

When it comes to getting Racks
When it comes to earning money

Mama said I hope it works out, cuz there ain't no moving Back
My mother wishes for my success and determination in achieving my goals

I said that's without a doubt you'll be proud
I am confident that I will succeed and make my mother proud

I'm a G that move in silence like I'm spelling design
I am a tough individual who operates discreetly like the spelling of the word "design"

I appreciate the love but please stop hitting my line
I appreciate the support, but please stop contacting me

See I'm at that part of my career where I don't have time
I am at a busy stage in my career where my time is valuable

I just wanna buss this nut then go get back on my grind
I want to take a quick break for pleasure, then get back to work

Somebody tell De'janae that I really like her face
I am attracted to De'janae and find her physically appealing

Even though she playing games, she my ace
Even though De'janae is playing hard to get, she is important to me

Someone tell Makayla when she wear that platinum blonde
When Makayla wears her hair blonde

Lookin stupid fine, I lose my mind, just be mine
Makayla looks extremely attractive and I become infatuated, wanting her to be with me

Now I'm in a place where I can say how I feel, when I feel
I am now in a position where I can express my emotions openly

If it's real, let it spill
If the emotions are genuine, express them freely

Ion give a fuck bout no consequence
I do not care about the potential repercussions of my actions

I been in yo head rent free so long ion even know what time it is
I have occupied someone's thoughts without effort for a lengthy period of time

But I, wassup
But I ask, what is happening

I need you like you need me
I require you in my life as much as you require me in yours

But I'm too busy chasing dreams
I am currently preoccupied with working towards my ambitions

How you gonna get it but you still asleep
How will you achieve your goals if you are still unaware of your potential?

This shit do not read this ain't Junie B
This is not a children's book and should not be treated as such

Got a problem with it you can catch me outside
If someone has an issue with me or my actions, they can confront me in person

No Bhad Bhabie you can catch me outside
A reference to rapper Bhad Bhabie's catchphrase 'Cash me ousside, how bout dat?'

If I'm with the homies then we prolly gone slide
If I am with my friends, we will most likely take action

If a problem arise then they prolly gone ride
If a conflict arises, my friends will most likely support and defend me

Lyrics © O/B/O DistroKid
Written by: James Davis

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

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Most interesting comments from YouTube:

@ChronisRedFog

8y↑176

"Moving On"

Please don't get me started
Looking backwards to move on.
Strong yet open-hearted,
Accept leaving when leaving's come.

God didn't see it coming,
Never said I love you, hope you knew.
Now my bags are packed and my sails are tacked
And my course is marked by stars,

[2x]
I'm on my way,
Soon be moving on my way,
Leave a little light on,
Leave a little light on,

Time always unwinding,
All these dead lines in my mind.
Seeds and dreams we planted
Took for granted, didn't prove.

Walking down this road
When my pulse beats slow,
Hope to have you close at hand.
When this cycle ends,
Will it start again?
Will we recognize old friends?

I'm on my way,
Soon be moving on my way,
Leave a little light on,
Leave a little light on.

I'm on my way,
On my way, on my way, on my way,
Leave a light on,
Leave a little light on.

I'm on my way,
Soon be moving on my way,
Leave a little light on,
Leave a little light on.

I'm on my way,
On my way, on my way, on my way.
Leave a light on,
Leave a little light on,
Leave a little light on.

@alibi

4y↑21

There's just so much to take in here.

The person unravelling wilst the loved one tries to keep them together.

The person accepting their fate.

The person holding the last piece of thread to their cheek before letting go.

The yarn going on to form a new life. We have our time then move on, the light and time on earth is passes on to those who follow.

It's absolutely breathtaking and still moves me to tears every time I watch.

All comments from YouTube:

@jennymachin5895

47w↑242

My daughter chose to have this song and video played at her funeral 6 years ago. She was 19 when she died…cancer. Our last moments together were exactly this. Even more weirdly our family business was working with wool so we really felt that this video was made for us. I miss her so badly x

@tonyconway7284

39w↑9

Heartbreaking

@wayneairey2482

38w↑8

She will always be with you like my son is with me they never leave us❤❤❤❤❤

@Bazza-hr8qn

37w↑1

❤

@tonycrofts7628

37w↑4

A beautiful song, great band. I can't watch the video without getting emotional.

@TheFunklin

37w↑4

Thank you for being able to share this story. My heart is touched by simply knowing someone had the courage to be able to face such a thing and be able to look in the direction of music for strength. I've never heard this song before today but every time I hear it from now on I will remember how much it meant to somebody's child and what it means to them now, and how every song out there has a potential story just like yours associated with it

16 More Replies...

@clairefarmer1

2y↑409

I've actually chosen this song for my funeral. Having stage 4 cancer, I get time to choose! And this video just sums it up for me.
On a positive note ..I'm off to see them in Leeds tonight! Can't wait and I'm sooo excited. Can't wait to see you all and thank you for the music X

@BoxerfanUK

2y↑15

I really hope you enjoyed Leeds Claire. I saw them in Brum on Friday and going to Wembley on Saturday. Take care my love. Xxx

@clairefarmer1

2y↑16

@@BoxerfanUK Thank you. We were having a great time! But a large drunken group attacked us and others, so we are feeling sore and upset.
So gutted that my family send off ended up this way.
It's time we can't get back.

Have a fab time in Wembley and take care! Xcx

@BoxerfanUK

2y↑11

@@clairefarmer1 oh Claire I’m so sorry a lovely time was spoiled for you in that way. Life and people can be so shit sometimes ☹️🥲 best wishes. Xx

@marktaylor7025

2y↑7

Claire farmer, loved ones await your arrival,I will say a little prayer for you,so Brave,I am now alone in this world,but my heart hurts for you.

@Daimo83

2y↑8

I hope you are pain free, one way or the other.

39 More Replies...

@iCEL55

9y↑95

I cry every time I watch this beautiful video, it reminds me of my mom's beautiful mind slowly unraveling over the last 8 years, there's almost nothing left but her warm smile and a glimmer of her old self in her beautiful blue eyes... I miss you mom!

@vishepu

5y↑1

Sorry for your mum...

@BAMF115

9y↑527

I've never cried over yarn before.

@g21g28

8y↑8

+Mallory H Don't cry over spilled yarn. sobs

@mccat2082

7y↑6

Mallory H Same wtf xD

@horizonsamuari

6y↑2

Mallory H lol

@georkost

6y↑9

As a knitter, I have 😁😁😁

@scorchedearthdj

5y↑6

That makes the two of us. 'Leave a little light on' makes me cry every time.

8 More Replies...

@bradleyjamieson7718

9y↑772

This song still tears me up no matter how much time has passed; my mother died of small cell carcinoma. Watching the person you love more than anything else in the world, die, is probably the most heart wrenching thing you can ever go through. The video epitomises everything perfectly, the anger, denial, not wanting to let go and then finally accepting it, not because you want to but because you must.

Thank you, James, for helping me get through it.

@tazdevil24

9y↑29

mate ...when our mums pass away life is so strange.. empty..mum is our kin pin...bless your mum and may she RIP..
I know my mum would've liked this tune ....bye mum
regards

@poko247

9y↑11

Cheers Bradley! Our Mothers wield power over us that we can never defeat and that is the way we like it. I propose a toast to my Mom Karen and Mrs Jamieson. Thanks for all you ladies have done. for us We never forget and never stop loving our memories. Cheers and I promise I will clean my room tomorrow morning Mom. ;O)

@H8RED75

9y↑9

may she rest in peace bro..

@CesarForeroNevermind

9y↑14

You got a tear out of my eyes, sir.

@giannisrodanakis7017

9y↑8

Hope the best to u Bradley. Lost my father also.. time was ticking backwards! All the best

21 More Replies...

@marcblur9055

3y↑130

Has anyone else noticed, if they've wept seeing it, that the tears it brings aren't terribly sad tears, but tears of release? It hits as hard as a sudden gut punch, but not in a terrible way.

@tobysmith8032

3y↑1

Omg, you are so right, I know exactly what you mean! 👍xx

@tonyconway7284

39w

100%

@allanfarran364

23w

Such an amazing moving video

@notgadot

23w

@@MrSCAVENGER1000 🛏🚤🔛☁

@ChronisRedFog

8y↑176

@1220b

5y↑30

My son is being born today, while others in the same hospital move on. Thank you James for a song and video which speaks more truth than a million holy books ever could.

@Itsnotanymore-ku7dz

5y↑1

Right on. Screw the bible.

@klararosengren5314

5y↑345

My teacher showed this in class as inspiration, when it ended she just kept talking about our art project like nothing happened. I mean all the students just sat there gaping like we had just travelled to sob land and were given NO TIME to unpack.

@lindasmith6316

5y↑9

I keep watching it over and over! :'(

@deborahjohnstone7930

4y↑11

Probably only touches the sensitive!

@thewhispersoftheforest

4y↑16

Oh my god same. I had an art teacher show this to my class over 3 years ago and I still come back occasionally to watch it again (and it still makes me cry as much every time)

@harrypotterclub5870

4y↑8

You have sob land to??? I thought I was alone

@steadyed

4y↑2

Check out Gary Daly "in the cloudy domain" on vimeo He is in China Crisis

4 More Replies...

@beargazer

33w↑8

My husband just died of cancer a little over a month ago. I've been drawn to this song ever since. It's helping me process my grief. Seeing all these other posts similar to my own tells me I'm in the right place. It sucks!! Losing someone. James is a special band like no other, reminding us to take care of each other. And that's beautiful. Love and light

@Hollywiththeflowers

10w↑1

I’m sorry to read about the loss of your husband. That’s so heartbreaking, i can’t imagine the pain you must be going through. Life is a beautiful but painful journey. You must be shattered.
I agree , James is an incredibly special band. I came to watch this video and remember my loved one. To read the comments and see so many of us here , United in our profound grief . And also gratitude to James for being able to express these feelings in song. It’s quite breathtaking to read how much this song has touched us all.
Sending you peace and love.

@beargazer

10w

Thank you! And thank you for sharing. Love and light.

@BracerJack

9y↑275

The Music Video is a work of Art.

@pl2948

6y↑3

Bracer Jack I agree

@rickyiii20000408

6y↑5

Bracer Jack one life ends another one starts the same way you loved them

@MarkLLynch

10y↑63

I'm a hairy arsed bloke that has just been brought to tears. Excellent video and a classic from James!
Brilliant!

@MichelleCarbotte-jm5dy

10y↑2

Very well done

@quagmire4469

Thanks for that touching sentiment, Mark fella

@realcorrosive2673

2y↑1

Good lad

@kaiserped

5y↑155

My mom just passed away yesterday so this song is very relatable to me.

God didn't see it coming,
Never said I love you, hope you knew.

@rayfk4

4y↑12

Mom's always know.

@benjones5914

3y↑1

How you feeling??

@alienawake1817

3y↑2

My condolence to you, your mom is now free

@funkychicken4509

3y↑2

You can say I love you with more than words

@hankybees790

3y↑4

My mom passed a few years ago. I didn’t get to say I love u either. She knows u love her though. I promise as time goes on it will get easier.

5 More Replies...

@kencrockett3063

2y↑4

As I travel down Cancer Road I see things like this that strike such a resonant chord in my soul. I probably have six to eight months left in my as my cancer has metastasized into my liver and lungs. i have time as I lay in my hospital bed to see such beautiful creations and imagination explaining the unexplainable that touches the heart. Thank you for making my foreseeable passing a little more tolerable, and in the end, a passing of the living thread to my grandchildren.

@mcnasty4207

1y↑4

"Please, don't get me started!" might be the best first line of any song ever

@azayles

10y↑362

Possibly the most moving and poignant music video I've seen to date. Outstanding.

@azayles

8y↑6

+Azayles A year later, and this still gets me <3

@frankcousins6479

4y↑7

So true... could not have said it any better...

@stuartharvey2201

23w↑1

I first saw it in the aftermath of my mum dying, and I was in bits after watching it. I like to think I've moved on, but even now, almost 3 years later, it's a difficult but necessary watch

@CatherineHernandez-dr5yl

3y↑20

6 years later and I’m
Still crying to this video

@lillyjx9534

4y↑103

I’m not crying.

I’m having a breakdown.

@philhewitt73

Hang on in there. Life's is so hard so grab ANY happiness when you can ✌✌✌

@maddieujcich4813

5y↑169

2019 anyone? Still makes me cry everytime

@CarlosVargasMedia

4y↑1

me too

@firewoodanimated3773

4y↑1

Really sad video(

@deborahjohnstone7930

4y↑3

2020!

@rbo5524

3y↑2

Nah, 2020. Lol I watched this when I was maybe around 5 or 6 years old. and it just came into my recommendations again.

@giannah3829

3y↑5

2021!

6 More Replies...

@nutty77

1y↑23

this ALWAYS makes me cry. It reminds me of being in the hospital when they switched off my sister's life support machine... she never made it. The bit that gets me are the flowers, because she was in ICU, flowers weren't allowed. So I made a bunch of paper flowers for her, made a vase and took them in. She loved them.

@nutty77

1y↑3

I did exactly the same thing with the flowers. My sister was on life support and no flowers were allowed. I made her paper flowers and each family member wrote a message to her on a triangle of paper, and we made bunting to go round her cubicle. A week later, I was dashing across London to East Sussex to get there before they switched of the machine. 10 years and I still cry over missing her

@theworldsbonkers

4y↑57

Today I lost my dad after years of being bed ridden with Parkinson’s disease, I’ve been pulling the string back for a long time sadly, the last strand of string slipped through my fingers today.
RIP dad x

@flowerpower8418

Sending you ❤️ x

@theworldsbonkers

@@flowerpower8418 Thank you x

@bee_bundle6610

Sorry for your loss.

@theworldsbonkers

@@bee_bundle6610 Thank you for your kind words

@truffles365

3y↑19

It doesn't matter how old this song becomes I bawl every time I watch the video 😭 such a beautiful song and message. Everyone, hold your loved ones a little closer. We never know when we won't see them again 💙

@alibi

4y↑21

@jaynicho2007

1y↑2

It’s the hand reaching out when they’re trying to put them back together that hits me hard and the shake of the head ❤️

@tobysmith8032

3y↑27

Tears are rolling down my face, I've never been so moved by a song and video before...... Absolutely beautiful x

@judagerplays9498

3y↑10

It is 2021...

You still cry just by rewatching this video

@irambaig0786

2y↑4

It's 2022...still watching this masterpiece.

@siouxtodd

2y↑32

Knowing this song was written about Tim’s mom’s death, this video is brilliantly done. What a beautiful, powerful, visual something as simple as string can be. ❤ Kudos to all. xx

@whataheapofpish

42w↑8

I don't think a more beautiful song/video combination will ever be created
I'm 40 years old and this makes me bawl
I see my parents in the bed
I see my two young boys in the strings
I hear every awful and wonderful thing about life and death in every swell of the song
Utterly, profoundly wonderful

Thank you James/Ainslie

@miaredington8948

10y↑29

I'm not going to deny that I cry every time that I watch this

@TatiArt2023

9y↑123

Incredible story about life and death... wonderful music that touches your soul...

@TatiArt2023

9y↑3

Naomi Taniguchi absolutely! couldn't stop to watch!

@shadowcynder4eva

10y↑102

HE FELT THE PLUCK ON HIS STRING I AM CRYING THIS IS INCREDIBLE

@karen4083

6y↑9

Exactly!!!! I was already getting emotional then the tug.

@trishmays4598

10y↑139

I was literally just crying over my Daddy passing last year.. October 2013... And was listening to one of our favorite songs.. Finger Eleven's One Thing... And this video popped up... My Daddy's name was James...

@oyyboyRoy

10y↑4

I'm sorry for your loss

@keyligomez2399

10y↑4

I'm sorry for your loss too. Lots of Love.❤️

@dvdmsch

10y↑9

Lost my dad 2 months ago. Leave a little light on.x

@trishmays4598

10y↑4

Thank you all.

@askshahawy

10y↑7

Really sorry for your loss.

5 More Replies...

@artsilorio1994

1y↑2

It's been 6 years since I Watched this..and I'm still crying

@dave_tikicia_toys

9y↑92

My wife lost a child before having the ones we have now, and this video also makes me cry and remember that event. Also, helps me to going through and accept the fact. Ecellent animation and a not so bad song.
My daughter loves it, but never understands why daddy cry a little

@themaggattack

4y↑7

I remember that feeling of being a young child and being fascinated by my parent's and grandparent's subtle emotions at watching certain movies and listening to certain songs. Your daughter will fully understand one day, and she will cherish this video even more. 💗

@raygonzalez9629

2y↑1

Not so bad? It's more than awesome!

@kristenwilson4843

2y↑1

Please believe me.. LIGHTNING CRASHES by the band LIVE .. Then respond to me

@b.bailey8244

3y↑13

i'm crying; James does it again. such perfect depiction of unravelry and letting go of a loved one who's dying - in both song and imagery - creative genius at its best. feeling the feels with this song. kudos to ainslee henderson for this artistic vision.

@ryantalbot_art

9y↑254

Music videos are really a dying art nowadays... So often we see videos that rely on big budgets and sex appeal to draw in its viewers, but it's when the visuals and music work together to create a compelling story that you get something truly special. We need more music videos that are as thoughtful as this. Ainslie Henderson is one of my favorite filmmakers, and this is why.

@rhianpowell5462

9y↑1

I couldnt have said it better myself

@zmanwithfire

you hit the nail on the head with this

@MrBam79

2y↑1

Totally agree with this. I think most of the time, music videos are an afterthought; just a load of formulaic lowest-common-denominator nonsense done to tick a marketing box. But this is exactly what a music video should be. It's simple but highly engaging and, as you say, it works together with the song to create a new level of detail. I love it! :-)

@askshahawy

8y↑188

And this's exactly what happened with us. My little sister dies after 5 years of fighting cancer, the same week that my other sister gave birth. Sobhan Allah. God is merciful.

@araceliramirezortega7242

8y↑18

I'm sorry for your loss, but your right. God is soo merciful and everything is a blessing too.
A cycle ends and another begins. And all praises are for Allah.

@flamo3961

5y↑5

I'm sorry for your loss. I hope that things go well for you

@virtualchatbot915

4y↑4

Im so sorry for your loss

@misschibianime9183

4y↑7

Same! My best friend died a few years ago, and the moment the nurse told me she was gone, my mom called me, (She didn’t know she died) And said “Honey! I took a test! I’m pregnant!”

@wanderalmeida9584

3y↑1

"Deus misericordioso" is like we say down here on Brazil. God bless you.

@davidbuck5916

10y↑15

Watching my father and mother fade away, it is inspiring to think of the joy in someone else's life as a new life begins. Thank you to the filmmakers, and to James for the soundtrack. You make my life better on a daily basis.

@sonicmoremusic1

46w↑3

It's been 2 years this month since my beautiful Mom passed on... I still think about her every day, and my son, who is only 14, misses her like crazy.

@elizabethrutherford8927

2y↑10

This video is so emotional. I totally connect with it. 16 years ago I lost my mother. I was 6 months pregnant with her first grandchild and my first and only child. Losing my mother and then becoming a mother has totally broken me.

@andys1333

49w↑2

I hope you are feeling more mended these days. I too lost my Mum 4 years back, and whilst it was the saddest day of my life, I knew she would want me out there living life as best I can and I don't want to let her down.

@Chrisamusic1

4y↑3

oh my god. If you have ever had anyone slowly slip away from you, this will leave you in absolute floods. It's incredible.

@homerisian

3y↑4

I shared this video today to someone who hadn't seen it but has lost a friend this week.
It helped with the grief.

This is an absolute masterpiece of a video to match a beautiful song, and everyone in the world should watch it at least once.
Thank you James and Ainslie Henderson for creating this.

@neildinwoodie9831

3y↑11

10 years on and still got an aching heart

@abdochaabivevo

10y↑26

that's something new
i've never seen such creativity in a video
the director must be so proud

@mushroompoet

9y↑17

I cry LITERALLY every time, it just makes me think of all the people I've lost.

@mikethompson5549

8y↑4

me too. written for Tim's mum. Helps me get over my loss too. Thankyou James for helping me to leave a little light on in my heart... tears still come.. but at least i can laugh again...

@muscledskier

9y↑27

Once again, Tim and the boys bring us something spectacular... WOW... This made me well up in a huge way... ok.. I cried.. LOL. Just shared this with me Mum... she is 75 and LOVES James. and loved this... my Partner and I even brought her to Denver to see James during the 'Hey Ma' tour... I think some folks do not get what the song is about... it's about Tim losing his Mum... I think many do not take away the idea that the song is about losing someone, but also about rebirth, reincarnation... I guess it's perception, and about one's spiritual base, what one believes.... I think Tim Booth's beliefs are made clear here in the vid. I believe as he does. JAMES.... Thank you for yet another great song... You once again make Manchester PROUD! Damn, I hope you tour this summer in the US.... PLEASE come to the Festival at Sandpoint!!!! (Idaho) CHEERS MATES!!!

@flamo3961

I personally believe in the resurrection-that when we die, it's like sleep. But one day, we'll be woken up, we'll be with our loved ones again. No matter what, I feel that our beliefs are comforting, knowing that our loved ones aren't gone forever. I honestly don't know how I'd get through life if i thought that this was all there is.

@carlitosybr125

9y↑44

made me cry..

@user-zj3os7xn2r

9y↑6

My too

@issst

9y↑23

If you don't shed a tear at 2:12 then you have a heart of stone. Absolutely beautiful video.

@stuartharvey2201

23w

Definitely. That's the bit that stopped me in my tracks.

@ThorusCZ

10y↑60

I must say the music video is absolutely brilliant.

@greagandev

10y↑27

Wow. What an unexpected tearjerker.

@cutezombiekitteh

5y↑5

As I do not know many James songs, I thought I would watch this. Now it is over and I am in floods of tears. I will listen to more James, after I recover from this one.

@themaggattack

Listen to "Low low low" and "Laid". The themes may still be a bit disillusioned by the human condition... but at least they are up beat & funny/fun songs. Other songs on the Laid LP will make you cry, though. They make you laugh, they make you cry. Or maybe more accurately: the LET you laugh and LET you cry. James are so brilliant.

@azizaabdumuminova3135

9y↑25

I love this song.
This is the one of the most favorite songs that I have ever heard.

@fikar5378

9y↑1

Yeah i,m too😀😀😀 i cry😢😢😢

@giannisrodanakis7017

9y↑37

the best animated video clip ever..

@DMaz-tl5tx

4y↑9

I lost my mother to cancer in 2018. Everytime I see this video I end up remembering the last 7 months of the time I spent with her. This video still brings tears to my eyes...

@chlojo1968

11w

my dad died almost 3 years ago. he showed us this music video a few years before he passed. we all thought it was amazing and such a beautiful message. a year after my dad went to be with the Lord, my niece was born. looking back on this song i can't help but feel a wave of emotions for the depth of the video. i pray anyone who struggles with grief finds peace knowing there will always be new life brought into this world.

@nothintoreadhere6168

4y↑16

This hits a soft spot, I just woke up to my grandma dead, she was fighting cancer for nearly all her life, I saw her turn into a completely different person, I just hope she's somewhere better.

@Enigma-yw6po

1y↑2

Having held my Mum as she passed makes this video so hard to watch but I must. The match of music & video is unique. I always cry like a baby but the good memories that are brought back are worth every tear.

@anthgraham3698

8y↑3

Very rare to find a song with this much passion

@RukkaChick

10y↑23

What a wonderfully distinct and precious depiction of life and death. I rarely see talent and meaning this raw, needless to say, it made me cry every time I watched.

@jamesw7553

3y↑2

This song and video still get me so much

@molly7644

10y↑3

Oh my god I'm crying my eyes out over a ball of string!

@lenasmirnova5241

10y↑3

Divine and humanistic video.
I've showed this video to my mother (she's 66 yo) - she was crying. Then I've showed this video to my daugther (she's 3yo) - she was smiling. When I've watch this video (I'm 35 yo) - I was crying and smiling... We all just the one endless thread. Everithing is connected. Thanks, JAMES, my favourite band ever and, of course, great thanks to Ainslie Henderson.

LOVE and PEACE to all of James-fans in the whole world;)x

@bigstu9406

1y↑2

The video reminds me of the day I had to say goodbye to my mum 😭 and how my life unraveled when she left me. Love you mum 💗 see you soon xxxx

@shonda469

9y↑6

Saw James on the CBS morning show. Spiritual music and y'all have a new fan. Totally beautiful music touched my soul. This song made me cry. Be blessed!

@cymbalic86

Wow, have fun discovering about 20 years 15 albums of amazing music! James are amazing musicians! Check out Tim Booth's (vocalist and songwriter) three solo projects. You won't be disappointed!

@groovyjuice6282

8y↑31

this reminds me of when my grandmother past away my world fell apart that night

@groovyjuice6282

8y↑2

*passed

@groovyjuice6282

Ever MonsterHigh thanks

@gesinakorner4491

@@groovyjuice6282 d

@scottbradbury1919

3y↑1

A Song for his Old dear passing and Has made me appreciate my mum's still here for me n my boys Love u mum xx

@demonnodles4836

2y↑4

Literally just saw this now, and I’ve never connected with a song more than this one, I lost my dad a few years back and I remember sitting with him in the hospital- this is really hard for me to watch sometimes but- it’s such a good song

@Rh1no1

10y↑10

I first saw/heard this video in Vimeo. It brought me here to download to my favorites. I love James and think they're underrated. The video is creative. Kudos to Henderson!

@alisonhiscock8263

29w↑1

I've just lost someone, and although I didn't know him for very long, I still miss him.
He played this song continuously in the days before he passed. His mother texted the day he passed and asked everyone who knew him to listen to this song.

@barryphilp7459

8y↑4

song of the decade and possibly the best james song ever. it gets better every time i hear it

@davehilton3588

2y↑1

I always come back to this and it always makes me cry, watch the end of the living room sessions one - Tim's mouth quivering at the end...he felt that

@mbazbarratt

6y↑4

This is the video I come to when I want to think about my dad. Thank you James

@ProfessorChomsky

1y↑1

Resisted watching this for a long time til now, beautiful and am in tears again. Outstanding xx

@artouini7474

49w↑4

When I was in 3rd grade, (I’m going into junior of high school year now) me and my best friend would watch this on repeat and cry. She moved away a few years ago and we’ve since grown apart. Yet I still come back to this video and cry. I cry thinking about the good times we had. I haven’t since been able to make a friend that really was as close as we were, and coming back to this video makes me miss her a lot.

@allute

2y↑1

Still can't watch this without crying.

@ericcrawford9827

4y↑5

It's not a sad song, it's a song of hope. Reality scares people, lose the fear.

@purpleplatypus2931

3y↑3

Still makes me cry till this day

@jackierankin6502

5y↑6

I've always loved this track but watched it today not long after losing my dad and the video really made me cry, I hope your video is true. I'd love for my dad to be reborn

@udeychowdhury2529

5y↑2

Oh what a beautiful piece of art, music and video

Thank you James, you still have it

@fn144

3y↑4

Beautiful song and video. Wish this group was more known in the USA. They don't know what their missing.

@mushymagazineonlocation7328

1y↑2

Rest in peace my mum x love you xxx

@sanro.a.9845

1y↑1

Everytime a family member, a friend or someone I really admire in life pass away... I come to listen this song and let myself loose in It.

@gw492

Just discovered this song and video... thinking of my father who passed on in 2017.. such a touching song thank you for sharing.

@johnforkan1492

Know how you feel.

@drummerboyrocks

7y↑2

I went through this with my mother….this video has just floored me. A masterpiece….and it's helped unlock some grieving too

@zimman56

10y↑47

I miss you Dad...

@gtabestjulios

7y↑1

It's probably hard you know? Living without the person you spent time since a child, I can't imagine nearly how it feels

@darksteel4life

I miss my old man too, know what you’ve been through

@jcrossan1351

I miss mine as well honestly it was the most painful experience I’ve ever had

@kawaiimochis3469

Don’t worry he is still with you

@justingower192

8y↑6

Touching : James utter class.

@cherrypickingdiaries

3y↑1

As my dear cousin lies in ICU fighting Covid. This song resonates with the struggle his family and the medical staff are having, keeping him with us. Come on Chris. Beat this. Xx Stay safe everyone.

@robertmartin1116

9y↑15

No amount of words can describe how epic this track (and video) is.

@JoeAyres

10y

This is just bizarre. I am sat here weeping. My beloved Grandfather is in rapid decline from terminal illness and I am about to move out of my family home for the first time ever. I can relate in both ways to 'I'm on my way, I'm on my way, leave a little light on, leave a little light on!'.

And what's even weirder is the fact that three times now in the last five minutes, the birds outside have been singing the 'leave a little light on' verse.

What an incredibly powerful piece of musical poetry. Thank you so much James.

@paulchipperfield492

6y↑5

beautiful video and super song . Play this when my time ends.

@lonlanham3157

10y↑10

Great video! One of my all-time favorite bands! Never thought yellow yarn would bring a tear to my eye...

@peggykarra2434

10y

Me too...it's an amazing video clip.I haven't seen something like this.

@gillymac9363

3y↑3

Had a high risk pregnancy, a premature baby boy & he's been in hospital for months. Tough tough time. This is powerful. Thanks. - A James fan who only found this song yesterday.

@ericcarlson6822

20w

Hope you have a healthy toddler at this time!

@jimjamjones29

43w↑1

This is one of James's best songs...

@TruthPink

10y↑2

I don't know why I don't feel tired of listening this song over and over again! Great song, great musicians and an excellent video!

@nigeljones2658

7y↑1

I agree with Bradley's comments. The song emphasises how precious life's journey is. A comfort to know in the darkest of hours there are many experiencing the same journey...

@gabrieldelacruz3863

3y↑2

A rare example of turning something so bleak and sad into something not only incredibly beautiful, but inspiring.

@TAG-DOMINATOR

2y↑1

Impossible to watch this without crying.

@stephwang3377

10y↑3

seen this 3 times and it still gets me in uncontrolable tears

@user-kf6nc5jv3l

This fantastic song was played at the funeral of a good friend of our family, while pictures of her whole life were shown. She died when she was only 40. She left two little kids and her husband behind. Despite this extremely tragic loss, her husband organized the most wonderful funeral one could think of. It wasn't about sadness, the message that was delivered to all of us was that we have to appreciate every moment with our loved ones, as everything can be gone so quickly. It was the most mind and soul cleansing moment in my lifetime. I am grateful for having been allowed to take part in this final stage of her life. Du wirst immer in unseren Herzen bleiben, genau so wie du es willst!

@Tom-lc1mu

18w

This song means so much to me, first going through the passing of my mother who died in my hometown 5 days after my first daughter was born. the epitome of letting go and starting new. then 8 years later sitting by my father's bed side after diabetes took his legs and saying goodbye to him. leave a little light on mom and dad...

@unluckyiris5600

3y↑4

This video reminds me of the time my grandma pasts away , i was only 6 y/o but i know everything about life and death even back then . I miss you grandma , hope you will wait for me on the other side

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