Mike Oldfield — Tubular Bells - Part 1
Album: Tubular BellsAvg rating:
Your rating:
Total ratings: 2895
Length: 25:51
Plays (last 30 days): 1
share
tweet
(instrumental)
Comments (486)add comment
I swear I heard this song less than two hours ago on this same channel
Great track, I love the album as well as this masterpiece! Thank you for that flashback!
RP, Grazie per questo! Thank for that!
This Christmas, treat your friends to some tubular bells, the gift that keeps on giving.
Very, very cool. Makes me wish I could take a few metaphorical steps back and see (hear) it as a whole. I lack the skills and knowledge to do that but I'd love to.
Thanks for playing it!
LLRP!
Very, very cool. Makes me wish I could take a few metaphorical steps back and see (hear) it as a whole. I lack the skills and knowledge to do that but I'd love to.
Thanks for playing it!
LLRP!
I haven't been on RP for a while, turned on this morning and this beautiful track was starting, it is of course completely unique and I wholly agree with the comments made by Nix 6 years ago.
Also, the audio quality, played in FLAC is amazing, so alive and detailed, the bass is stupendous and viscerally better than Tidal or my own library played through Roon or Audirvana, how do you do it, there's some magic involved.
Also, the audio quality, played in FLAC is amazing, so alive and detailed, the bass is stupendous and viscerally better than Tidal or my own library played through Roon or Audirvana, how do you do it, there's some magic involved.
Bassie & Adriaan!
paicanuck1 wrote:
This comment needed a repeat! Best comment ever. Thanks!
Thank you for reposting.
This comment needed a repeat! Best comment ever. Thanks!
Thank you for reposting.
SpinyNorma wrote:
This comment needed a repeat! Best comment ever. Thanks!
Bill - thank you, thank you, thank you for playing this! 
Folks - don't forget that Mike was just 19 when this album was released. At 15 he was playing bass in the London production of 'Hair'!
Mike is my all-time favourite musical artist. I was introduced to his work when I was 12 (nearly 43 years ago now, ouch!). Our creaky old chain-smoking music teacher sat us down in our classroom as usual, but this time he closed the curtains, told us to not just listen but HEAR the music he was about to play, turned out the lights, and put Tubular Bells on. It turned my world around and I was hooked. Bought the LP on tape and played it over and over, listening to every instrument individually. Unfortunately, I never managed to master an instrument as I would rather be outside, riding my horses (named one of them 'Ommadawn', after Mike's third album, and my all-time favourite album by anyone). Still, it made me a true lover of music, which has kept me going throught the ups and downs of life. When Mike took the stage as a surprise guest at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games, I felt as if I'd fallen through the floor and was flying skywards at the same time!
I urge anyone to seek out Mike's other works if you're not familiar with them; look beyond Tubular Bells and find a musical chameleon, with each new album different to the last. Aside from the aforementioned 'Ommadawn', I recommend 'The Songs of Distant Earth', 'Light and Shade' and 'Guitar' for starters. (Bill, please play something from the latter - it will suit RP's playlist nicely!)
Saving for a holiday in Nassau. Some of you will know why
Light, love, peace and buttercups from Portland, UK xxx
Folks - don't forget that Mike was just 19 when this album was released. At 15 he was playing bass in the London production of 'Hair'!
Mike is my all-time favourite musical artist. I was introduced to his work when I was 12 (nearly 43 years ago now, ouch!). Our creaky old chain-smoking music teacher sat us down in our classroom as usual, but this time he closed the curtains, told us to not just listen but HEAR the music he was about to play, turned out the lights, and put Tubular Bells on. It turned my world around and I was hooked. Bought the LP on tape and played it over and over, listening to every instrument individually. Unfortunately, I never managed to master an instrument as I would rather be outside, riding my horses (named one of them 'Ommadawn', after Mike's third album, and my all-time favourite album by anyone). Still, it made me a true lover of music, which has kept me going throught the ups and downs of life. When Mike took the stage as a surprise guest at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games, I felt as if I'd fallen through the floor and was flying skywards at the same time!
I urge anyone to seek out Mike's other works if you're not familiar with them; look beyond Tubular Bells and find a musical chameleon, with each new album different to the last. Aside from the aforementioned 'Ommadawn', I recommend 'The Songs of Distant Earth', 'Light and Shade' and 'Guitar' for starters. (Bill, please play something from the latter - it will suit RP's playlist nicely!)
Saving for a holiday in Nassau. Some of you will know why
Light, love, peace and buttercups from Portland, UK xxx
This comment needed a repeat! Best comment ever. Thanks!
This should be followed by Part 2
Gods but I love this. Not just the music, not just the technology of the time, but the time... I was young and optimistic and f*ck this is all about it.
And, you know, if I'd pulled this off my network server (it's there) and played it, it would have been good, great even. But having it come out of the blue, at the behest of RP, it really yanked me back to that first ever listen.
And that's why Radio Paradise rocks me so. It's not my choosing of tracks, but someone else every now and then digging into my mind and pushing that button.
And, you know, if I'd pulled this off my network server (it's there) and played it, it would have been good, great even. But having it come out of the blue, at the behest of RP, it really yanked me back to that first ever listen.
And that's why Radio Paradise rocks me so. It's not my choosing of tracks, but someone else every now and then digging into my mind and pushing that button.
MonkeySock wrote:
Pure Moods opened up my Eclectic Tastes in the 90’s. But as a hippy from BC, Tubular Bells was an old favorite.
I first listened to a excerpt from this song on a new age CD compilation called Pure Moods in 1994. At the time i had no idea of it's ties to the movie or that it was only a sample of the full version. Now listening to the full version 30yrs (2024) later for the first time. Maybe in 30 more years I'll listen to Part 2 
Pure Moods opened up my Eclectic Tastes in the 90’s. But as a hippy from BC, Tubular Bells was an old favorite.
love my RP. ❤️
I first listened to a excerpt from this song on a new age CD compilation called Pure Moods in 1994. At the time i had no idea of it's ties to the movie or that it was only a sample of the full version. Now listening to the full version 30yrs (2024) later for the first time. Maybe in 30 more years I'll listen to Part 2
Hearing this tune still scares the hell out of me.
A terrific piece of music. Certainly his best contribution.
25:53 - Absolutely max'ing out the LP side. Anyone ever go longer?
Absolutely loved this as a 9 year old kid when it came out. Still love it to this day. The term "timeless classic" seems appropriate, at least in my opinion.
This must be the ideal song for "DJ needs to visit down the hall"
Thank you for this extended play of an old classic, Bill. A nice wander.
"Glockenspiel"
:thumbsup:
:thumbsup:
Nice to hear this great work by Oldfield every so often. Makes up for Alice's Restaurant. Mostly.
SpinyNorma wrote:
Wow, I never expected a comment @ RP to make me tear up.
Bill - thank you, thank you, thank you for playing this!
Folks - don't forget that Mike was just 19 when this album was released. At 15 he was playing bass in the London production of 'Hair'!
Mike is my all-time favourite musical artist. I was introduced to his work when I was 12 (nearly 43 years ago now, ouch!). Our creaky old chain-smoking music teacher sat us down in our classroom as usual, but this time he closed the curtains, told us to not just listen but HEAR the music he was about to play, turned out the lights, and put Tubular Bells on. It turned my world around and I was hooked. Bought the LP on tape and played it over and over, listening to every instrument individually. Unfortunately, I never managed to master an instrument as I would rather be outside, riding my horses (named one of them 'Ommadawn', after Mike's third album, and my all-time favourite album by anyone). Still, it made me a true lover of music, which has kept me going throught the ups and downs of life. When Mike took the stage as a surprise guest at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games, I felt as if I'd fallen through the floor and was flying skywards at the same time!
I urge anyone to seek out Mike's other works if you're not familiar with them; look beyond Tubular Bells and find a musical chameleon, with each new album different to the last. Aside from the aforementioned 'Ommadawn', I recommend 'The Songs of Distant Earth', 'Light and Shade' and 'Guitar' for starters. (Bill, please play something from the latter - it will suit RP's playlist nicely!)
Saving for a holiday in Nassau. Some of you will know why
Light, love, peace and buttercups from Portland, UK xxx
Folks - don't forget that Mike was just 19 when this album was released. At 15 he was playing bass in the London production of 'Hair'!
Mike is my all-time favourite musical artist. I was introduced to his work when I was 12 (nearly 43 years ago now, ouch!). Our creaky old chain-smoking music teacher sat us down in our classroom as usual, but this time he closed the curtains, told us to not just listen but HEAR the music he was about to play, turned out the lights, and put Tubular Bells on. It turned my world around and I was hooked. Bought the LP on tape and played it over and over, listening to every instrument individually. Unfortunately, I never managed to master an instrument as I would rather be outside, riding my horses (named one of them 'Ommadawn', after Mike's third album, and my all-time favourite album by anyone). Still, it made me a true lover of music, which has kept me going throught the ups and downs of life. When Mike took the stage as a surprise guest at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games, I felt as if I'd fallen through the floor and was flying skywards at the same time!
I urge anyone to seek out Mike's other works if you're not familiar with them; look beyond Tubular Bells and find a musical chameleon, with each new album different to the last. Aside from the aforementioned 'Ommadawn', I recommend 'The Songs of Distant Earth', 'Light and Shade' and 'Guitar' for starters. (Bill, please play something from the latter - it will suit RP's playlist nicely!)
Saving for a holiday in Nassau. Some of you will know why
Light, love, peace and buttercups from Portland, UK xxx
Wow, I never expected a comment @ RP to make me tear up.
camworld wrote:
This is 25:53 -- see info underneath the album artwork. It's this long, because that's all the time you could get on one side of a vinyl disc LP. For those unfamiliar with this album, the other side is Tubular Bells Part Two (number spelled out in text).
How long is this track? Longer than Philip Glass?
This is 25:53 -- see info underneath the album artwork. It's this long, because that's all the time you could get on one side of a vinyl disc LP. For those unfamiliar with this album, the other side is Tubular Bells Part Two (number spelled out in text).
Nice of Mike to share his guitar practice with us.
I can see many fans out there but for me the best part of this is the next track facility on RP.
Keep up the good work though RP, I love the eclectic choice of music.
Keep up the good work though RP, I love the eclectic choice of music.
I don't want to sound like an curmudgeon but I do long for the times when music like this was mainstream. Not to everyone's taste but that was actually the point. Just bumped it to a 10.
Wow.
This is still freaky after 50 years.
This is still freaky after 50 years.
As a musician myself who "plays" all his own instruments on my compositions (thank you so much, whoever invented MIDI, quantising, DAWs and VST instruments) I regard this album as an unrivalled masterpiece and a testament to one man's vision and determination.
This brings back memories. When I was a kid, my dad had this 8 track tape. He played it in our Sears living room stereo. I remember you could control which speaker the sound came from with a joystick attached to a long cable. We would spin the stick around and around to make the music go from one corner of the room to the other. Pretty high tech stuff for the early 70's. We were easily amused back then.
Still one of the scariest soundtracks (the Exorcist) ever made. Just listen to it, watching that movie, in a dark room.
And then peer off to the corner of the dark room. What was that? Beelzebub?
And then peer off to the corner of the dark room. What was that? Beelzebub?
A lot of noodling before it takes off. Worth the wait!
Genuinely one of the best songs I've ever listened too
Majorly love the Tubular Bell hit at 22:50. Angellic
Majorly love the Tubular Bell hit at 22:50. Angellic
Love this song! Still creeps me out a bit thinking about the movie The Exorcist..
Oh man I think it's been DECADES since I heard this!! It's so wonderful to hear it again! And who else but Radio Paradise would play a track that's 25 minutes long? Thank you!!!
Maybe I should’ve taken a bigger hit
There were a few albums in college that we'd get hight to, turn down the lights, crank the volume, and go on a journey, together and alone. This one got regular play. Another in this ilk was As Falls Wichita, so Falls Wichita Falls by Pat Metheny. Epic voyages each.
And this is only Part 1!
goodenough wrote:
William just mentioned that he played it on the radio when it first came out and got a tremendous response. I remember listening to it in the late '70s and being impressed.
It doesn't really do it for me anymore, unfortunately. Time marches on and I noted I'd rated it a 5 here. That's about right today. But it's cool that William had the freedom as a DJ to play it in full back in the day, and it's even better that he can spin it today.
For people like me, the skip ahead button solves the issue. Thanks, Willliam!
Back in 1973 when this was released I was working on a Radio/TV & Record department in a department store. You have no idea how gobsmacked we were at first hearing this. Later that year I went to a Hi-Fi exhibition in the nearest city and this was being used to demonstrate some equipment. This was absolutely mind-blowing stuff! Thank you so much for taking me back to a wonderful era of innocence and aspiration. I've just been wondering why it sounds 'different' from my vinyl version, I've checked and I am listening to the FLAC version. There is so much more here than I have ever heard before. Wow.🐨
William just mentioned that he played it on the radio when it first came out and got a tremendous response. I remember listening to it in the late '70s and being impressed.
It doesn't really do it for me anymore, unfortunately. Time marches on and I noted I'd rated it a 5 here. That's about right today. But it's cool that William had the freedom as a DJ to play it in full back in the day, and it's even better that he can spin it today.
For people like me, the skip ahead button solves the issue. Thanks, Willliam!
It seemed so powerful and subversive back then. Sorta twee now.
Edweirdo wrote:
You are. The introduction was done by Viv Stanshall.
Of Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah band fame. aka Bonzo Dog Band.
You are. The introduction was done by Viv Stanshall.
Of Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah band fame. aka Bonzo Dog Band.
love this every time
50 years since this was released. Unbelievable.
I've lost track of how many times I've listened to this album ...
I've lost track of how many times I've listened to this album ...
Interesting article in Louder Sound on the creation of the original and remix of this album, with Mike Oldfield.
https://www.loudersound.com/fe...
https://www.loudersound.com/fe...
I feel washed, rinsed, and laid out in the sun to dry. Thanks! Bill & Allana!
jgriffin56 wrote:
Timeless and worthy.
I used to love this, but I guess I have heard it so many times now that I just find it tedious, especially the tail end where he calls out the different instruments.
Still, a somewhat unique instrumental piece.
Timeless and worthy.
Groundbreaking masterpiece. First heard by my ears on WBCN in Boston during late night sessions when 9+ minute tracks could be fully embraced.
Released when analogue recording was still king but being gradually encroached upon by digital development.
Digital hit its stride when Ry Cooder’s “Bop ‘Til You Drop” was released in 1979.
The battle remains ongoing between analogue purists and cutting edge digital advocates.
Pro Tools 2020 is rather good IMHO. A more affordable and user friendly alternative is PreSonus Studio One 4.
Released when analogue recording was still king but being gradually encroached upon by digital development.
Digital hit its stride when Ry Cooder’s “Bop ‘Til You Drop” was released in 1979.
The battle remains ongoing between analogue purists and cutting edge digital advocates.
Pro Tools 2020 is rather good IMHO. A more affordable and user friendly alternative is PreSonus Studio One 4.
I used to love this, but I guess I have heard it so many times now that I just find it tedious, especially the tail end where he calls out the different instruments.
Still, a somewhat unique instrumental piece.
Still, a somewhat unique instrumental piece.
Thank you so much for playing this William !
Crimeny...theme music for the movie, The Exorcist.
Scariest movie ever made.
Scariest movie ever made.
There is a great doc about Oldfield, his musical brilliance, signing to Virgin and creation of this album. "Mike Oldfield Story " BBC Documentary, available via YouTube....search it out, well worth a watch if you appreciate Oldfield.
SpinyNorma wrote:
SpinyNorma, thank you for this story, had to cry about your inspired music teacher. Now we have Bill and Rebecca, thank you!
Bill - thank you, thank you, thank you for playing this!
Folks - don't forget that Mike was just 19 when this album was released. At 15 he was playing bass in the London production of 'Hair'!
Mike is my all-time favourite musical artist. I was introduced to his work when I was 12 (nearly 43 years ago now, ouch!). Our creaky old chain-smoking music teacher sat us down in our classroom as usual, but this time he closed the curtains, told us to not just listen but HEAR the music he was about to play, turned out the lights, and put Tubular Bells on. It turned my world around and I was hooked. Bought the LP on tape and played it over and over, listening to every instrument individually. Unfortunately, I never managed to master an instrument as I would rather be outside, riding my horses (named one of them 'Ommadawn', after Mike's third album, and my all-time favourite album by anyone). Still, it made me a true lover of music, which has kept me going throught the ups and downs of life. When Mike took the stage as a surprise guest at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games, I felt as if I'd fallen through the floor and was flying skywards at the same time!
I urge anyone to seek out Mike's other works if you're not familiar with them; look beyond Tubular Bells and find a musical chameleon, with each new album different to the last. Aside from the aforementioned 'Ommadawn', I recommend 'The Songs of Distant Earth', 'Light and Shade' and 'Guitar' for starters. (Bill, please play something from the latter - it will suit RP's playlist nicely!)
Saving for a holiday in Nassau. Some of you will know why
Light, love, peace and buttercups from Portland, UK xxx
Folks - don't forget that Mike was just 19 when this album was released. At 15 he was playing bass in the London production of 'Hair'!
Mike is my all-time favourite musical artist. I was introduced to his work when I was 12 (nearly 43 years ago now, ouch!). Our creaky old chain-smoking music teacher sat us down in our classroom as usual, but this time he closed the curtains, told us to not just listen but HEAR the music he was about to play, turned out the lights, and put Tubular Bells on. It turned my world around and I was hooked. Bought the LP on tape and played it over and over, listening to every instrument individually. Unfortunately, I never managed to master an instrument as I would rather be outside, riding my horses (named one of them 'Ommadawn', after Mike's third album, and my all-time favourite album by anyone). Still, it made me a true lover of music, which has kept me going throught the ups and downs of life. When Mike took the stage as a surprise guest at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games, I felt as if I'd fallen through the floor and was flying skywards at the same time!
I urge anyone to seek out Mike's other works if you're not familiar with them; look beyond Tubular Bells and find a musical chameleon, with each new album different to the last. Aside from the aforementioned 'Ommadawn', I recommend 'The Songs of Distant Earth', 'Light and Shade' and 'Guitar' for starters. (Bill, please play something from the latter - it will suit RP's playlist nicely!)
Saving for a holiday in Nassau. Some of you will know why
Light, love, peace and buttercups from Portland, UK xxx
SpinyNorma, thank you for this story, had to cry about your inspired music teacher. Now we have Bill and Rebecca, thank you!
Well, that was a blast from the past! Took me back to elementary school days and listen to this with Daddy. Thank you for a sweet memory, Bill!
Somewhere in a box, I have the original vinyl. I need to find it and play it a concert hall volume!
SomersetBob wrote:
I remember him playing Wish You Were Here similarly pre-release (after advising listeners to set their levels in advance
).
I first heard this on Nicky Horne's rock show on Capital Radio (London) when it was newly released - the only other time I've heard Part 1 played in its entirety on the radio. Great to hear it in full again! Thanks RP! This is why I love you and will stick with you through thick and thin!
I remember him playing Wish You Were Here similarly pre-release (after advising listeners to set their levels in advance
).Is this a remaster, or am I just too used to listening to this being played from a vinyl record on a set of 1970's LEAK loudspeakers with styrofoam woofer cones?
Edit: well, after scrolling through the comments, I have learnt this must be some recent re-issue, and I don't like it. Many instruments sound muted, especially the bells.
Edit: well, after scrolling through the comments, I have learnt this must be some recent re-issue, and I don't like it. Many instruments sound muted, especially the bells.
One of the must have records in everyone's collection at the time. Others of that ilk are Dark Side Of The Moon and Rumours (albeit later). Other contenders at the time were Thick As A Brick, Fragile, Selling England By The Pound and Led Zep 4.
Is this one of the later remixes? It sounds different to what I have burnt into my neurones.
Is this one of the later remixes? It sounds different to what I have burnt into my neurones.
when I hear this song, I always get flashbacks to the 80's kids TV series 'Bassie en Adriaan" which was very popular in the Netherlands.. This song was used for the TV tune.
I'm sure many other listeners from the Netherlands will have the same experience.
https://youtu.be/qbDH9cwBnTs
I'm sure many other listeners from the Netherlands will have the same experience.
https://youtu.be/qbDH9cwBnTs
Jelani wrote:
You are. The introduction was done by Viv Stanshall.
As far as I've known, the introduction to the instruments was Richard Branson. Am I mistaken?
You are. The introduction was done by Viv Stanshall.
bluotis wrote:
Thanks for the reminder - just chipped in $10...
This is Paradise man, truth in lending wouldn't you say. Bill plays the best and we lend him our ears and our $$ to keep it going. Thanks for all the years quality music. This track is especially beautiful!
Thanks for the reminder - just chipped in $10...
justin4kick wrote:
No Casio there, but acoustic guitar, bass guitar, electric guitar, Farfisa, Hammond B3, and Lowrey organs, flageolet, fuzz guitars, glockenspiel, "honky tonk" piano, mandolin, piano, percussion, "taped motor drive amplifier organ chord", timpani, vocals, tubular bells!
The "lyrics" : "Grand piano; reed and pipe
organ; glockenspiel; bass guitar; double speed guitar; two slightly
distorted guitars; mandolin! Spanish guitar, and introducing acoustic
guitar, plus… tubular bells"
No Casio there, but acoustic guitar, bass guitar, electric guitar, Farfisa, Hammond B3, and Lowrey organs, flageolet, fuzz guitars, glockenspiel, "honky tonk" piano, mandolin, piano, percussion, "taped motor drive amplifier organ chord", timpani, vocals, tubular bells!
The "lyrics" : "Grand piano; reed and pipe
organ; glockenspiel; bass guitar; double speed guitar; two slightly
distorted guitars; mandolin! Spanish guitar, and introducing acoustic
guitar, plus… tubular bells"
Unique and excellent.
Jelani wrote:
As far as I've known, the introduction to the instruments was Richard Branson. Am I mistaken?
Yes mate.
The link with Branson is that Oldfield was Virgin Music's first signing. He went to great lengths to sign him, almost breaking the company.
As far as I've known, the introduction to the instruments was Richard Branson. Am I mistaken?
Yes mate.
The link with Branson is that Oldfield was Virgin Music's first signing. He went to great lengths to sign him, almost breaking the company.
PSD triggers overly long & admonishing recording ...
It's 1:30am here in the UK and this is a great way to end the day 😀
I had to come here and thank you. I forgot how good the full Part 1 version is. Very ahead of its time. Reminds me a sunny 70s summer day in the mountains in another life... (a good one :)). And of course, The Exorcist, which was a HUGE film at the time, which I refused to see, due to my friends getting very freaked out, so all good memories of this cut!
carrigman wrote:
As far as I've known, the introduction to the instruments was Richard Branson. Am I mistaken?
Great to hear it again. Viv Stanshall's introduction of the instruments has always been my favorite part.
As far as I've known, the introduction to the instruments was Richard Branson. Am I mistaken?
zo3nomad wrote:
Software? This was made with hardware!
the song was released on 1973, I wonder what software to create the album cover
Software? This was made with hardware!
damn. Just had to bump this up from 9 to 10. Neen some time since this has taken residence in my brain. May have to dig out my cd player and headphones, blow the dust off the cases, and revisiy Mike Oldfield's catalog
Proclivities wrote:
Probably just a hand-retouched photo of the "bell" superimposed over a photo of the sky. Photo-retouching paints, an airbrush, Rubylith, and X-Acto knives were likely the only tools used.
Indeed.
I once mentioned to a young co-worker at the Apple store that I'd been a graphic designer for ten years before the Mac was introduced. He was dumbfounded. "How could you possibly do graphic design without a computer?"
Well, you could and we did!
Probably just a hand-retouched photo of the "bell" superimposed over a photo of the sky. Photo-retouching paints, an airbrush, Rubylith, and X-Acto knives were likely the only tools used.
Indeed.
I once mentioned to a young co-worker at the Apple store that I'd been a graphic designer for ten years before the Mac was introduced. He was dumbfounded. "How could you possibly do graphic design without a computer?"
Well, you could and we did!
I'm sure Bill only plays this so that he can go and take a shower. Didn't enjoy it then, don't enjoy it now, but hey, it's an eclectic music station, so we have to take the rough with the smooth.
Outstanding piece, takes me back to my youth.
zo3nomad wrote:
Probably just a hand-retouched photo of the "bell" superimposed over a photo of the sky. Photo-retouching paints, an airbrush, Rubylith, and X-Acto knives were likely the only tools used.
the song was released on 1973, I wonder what software to create the album cover
Probably just a hand-retouched photo of the "bell" superimposed over a photo of the sky. Photo-retouching paints, an airbrush, Rubylith, and X-Acto knives were likely the only tools used.
I remember in the 1980s TV commercials would use the beginning of this song for all kinds of oddball things like addiction centers, psychic readings, and accident injury lawyers.
In college radio days (CHSR Fredericton!) This is the track to get listeners to call in and yell 'Change the music, already!' Heathens., and #ClothEaredNincompoops
Michael Oldfield was 19 years old when he recorded the original album version of Tubular Bells for Virgin Record's first-ever record released. He arranged and played every instrument himself on the album. Some may not like this style of experimental music, but nobody can deny the genius of Oldfield.
Madness1954 wrote:
Wow! Big time wow!
I was 19 years old and started working at Virgin Records a month before the company released Tubular Bells. A wonderful record, a fantastic place to work, and a very special time for me.
Wow! Big time wow!
please don’t play this album ever again thank God punk came and washed it all away
I was 19 years old and started working at Virgin Records a month before the company released Tubular Bells. A wonderful record, a fantastic place to work, and a very special time for me.
carrigman wrote:
Put on the
for that part.
Where's the cowbells?
Great to hear it again. Viv Stanshall's introduction of the instruments has always been my favorite part.
Put on the
for that part. Where's the cowbells?
I watch a BBC video performance of this a couple times a year. Fascinating to watch all the musicians gathered to do this, essentially live. A show called 2nd House. Look it up.
I didn't realize how long this song actually was until I looked at the notes, and can't say that I'd ever heard Tubular Bells in its entirety until now.
It is fantastic, and fortunately long enough for me to upgrade it from a 9 to 10!
It is fantastic, and fortunately long enough for me to upgrade it from a 9 to 10!
Nix wrote:
Me, too. I remember the last few minutes used as the "single." I can't say I've heard this here before, took me a moment to realize it was playing. I moved in between the L166s to relive my late teens, when the album came into my possession. This prompted me pull out that LP for side two.
If you like this, I suggest you find the album, side two is very good and kind of an extension of the theme.
Thank you BillG for doing what you do to make this world a better place sonically.
A song from the time when I was young and we all had hope. Yes, it is experimental and that was OK for that time and era. I still love it, because it reminds me of what we all were like.
Keep up the the good work, Bill. We enjoy these gems from the past. And many others you bring to us.
Me, too. I remember the last few minutes used as the "single." I can't say I've heard this here before, took me a moment to realize it was playing. I moved in between the L166s to relive my late teens, when the album came into my possession. This prompted me pull out that LP for side two.
If you like this, I suggest you find the album, side two is very good and kind of an extension of the theme.
Thank you BillG for doing what you do to make this world a better place sonically.
Play Side 2 now!
For DJ's of alternative radio in the 70's this was....
-Hit the head
-Go outside and smoke a joint
-Come back in grab a soda
-Chat with the girls in the lobby
-Get back in the booth in time to put on the next song.....
-Hit the head
-Go outside and smoke a joint
-Come back in grab a soda
-Chat with the girls in the lobby
-Get back in the booth in time to put on the next song.....
medoras wrote:
and he was like 21 years old at the time. crazy genius.
For those who are unfamiliar with Tubular Bells, Oldfield played the majority of the instruments on the album with over 274 overdubs — which was an uncommon recording technique at the time.
It really is a masterpiece.
and he was like 21 years old at the time. crazy genius.
scoots_mcgoo wrote:
Random notes... O.O Bwahahahaha... you're killing me smalls
I find it unlistenable. And laughable. It's just random notes.
Random notes... O.O Bwahahahaha... you're killing me smalls
I believe this was the album that put Virgin Records on the map and legit in the industry.
Jakethemuss wrote:
LMAO...totally understand!
You can't play this just as I'm about to switch off at 5pm on a Friday. I'm committed to another 25 minutes of work now.
LMAO...totally understand!
For those who are unfamiliar with Tubular Bells, Oldfield played the majority of the instruments on the album with over 274 overdubs — which was an uncommon recording technique at the time.
It really is a masterpiece.
It really is a masterpiece.
Truly Godlike... IMO...A masterpiece! I have spent many a nights watching this video on youtube, the live version, with my headphones turned to a nice level. Truly mesmerizing can easily get lost in it, which is a good thing. Thanks Bill and Rebecca! 
You can't play this just as I'm about to switch off at 5pm on a Friday. I'm committed to another 25 minutes of work now.
I find it unlistenable. And laughable. It's just random notes.
Pretty brave putting it out at the time considering how long it is. A condensed version was played on radio and a lot of people bought the album (probably played it once all the way through and it gathered dust on the shelf after that).
whats an ipod?
You have a 10 minute song on your iPod? -That's cute!The album that made Richard Branson!!
The whole of Tubular Bells part 1. Respect!
goodenough wrote:
There have been 3 or 4 remasters and tweaks since the original release. People go off on which is better or worse all the time in places where the conversations are had. The consensus is the original is actually the best and the Quad version is great, too. I've been hunting a replacement copy for a years and figuring out which is which has slowed me down. Low on my list of wants, but I still do love this album. Ripped it to 8 Track. Figuring out where to stop recording for the track switch so it wasn't rude was interesting It was great on road trips. Put many miles on the Pa Turnpike listening to it.
Back in 1973 when this was released I was working on a Radio/TV & Record department in a department store. You have no idea how gobsmacked we were at first hearing this. Later that year I went to a Hi-Fi exhibition in the nearest city and this was being used to demonstrate some equipment. This was absolutely mind-blowing stuff! Thank you so much for taking me back to a wonderful era of innocence and aspiration.
I've just been wondering why it sounds 'different' from my vinyl version, I've checked and I am listening to the FLAC version. There is so much more here than I have ever heard before. Wow.🐨
I've just been wondering why it sounds 'different' from my vinyl version, I've checked and I am listening to the FLAC version. There is so much more here than I have ever heard before. Wow.🐨
There have been 3 or 4 remasters and tweaks since the original release. People go off on which is better or worse all the time in places where the conversations are had. The consensus is the original is actually the best and the Quad version is great, too. I've been hunting a replacement copy for a years and figuring out which is which has slowed me down. Low on my list of wants, but I still do love this album. Ripped it to 8 Track. Figuring out where to stop recording for the track switch so it wasn't rude was interesting It was great on road trips. Put many miles on the Pa Turnpike listening to it.
Stetsonman wrote:
nope
Yep
nope
Yep
What a masterpiece ✌️
Not my cup of tea, but it's really interesting and different.
Just wonderful 😁👍
the song was released on 1973, I wonder what software to create the album cover
This was fine at a time. Now it is simply too long and when played again and again it becomes longer.
Needs more cowbell...
justin4kick wrote:
No Casio there, but acoustic guitar, bass guitar, electric guitar, Farfisa, Hammond B3, and Lowrey organs, flageolet, fuzz guitars, glockenspiel, "honky tonk" piano, mandolin, piano, percussion, "taped motor drive amplifier organ chord", timpani, vocals, tubular bells!
I believe it is spelt "man-do-LIN!" 😀
No Casio there, but acoustic guitar, bass guitar, electric guitar, Farfisa, Hammond B3, and Lowrey organs, flageolet, fuzz guitars, glockenspiel, "honky tonk" piano, mandolin, piano, percussion, "taped motor drive amplifier organ chord", timpani, vocals, tubular bells!
I believe it is spelt "man-do-LIN!" 😀
fucking hell 25minutes?
has the DJ gone for an extra long shit?
has the DJ gone for an extra long shit?
WeezaJane wrote:
all those instrument created musical vomit
all those instrument created musical vomit
susapusa wrote:
nope
Masterpiece, literally... After so many years
nope
I have to admit this is the first time I've heard this all the way thru and what a load of shit.
Written when he 19? It shows, its craven, has no direction and lets face it it says nothing.
And it helped that cunt branson to be a millionaire so that sucks worse
Written when he 19? It shows, its craven, has no direction and lets face it it says nothing.
And it helped that cunt branson to be a millionaire so that sucks worse
He began production and recording Tubular Bells at age 18, completed and released when he was 20. Not bad.
Thank you Bill!
Thank you Bill!
I forgot how hypnotic this song is.
It is indeed a masterpiece.
It is indeed a masterpiece.
ralf-peter.hayen538 wrote:
That's actually Viv Stanshall of the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...
Yes, so long ago! I loved the song when it was released and it's still great -- even after nearly 50 years. Lovely when Mike Oldfield at the end introduces the different instruments which are part of the song....
That's actually Viv Stanshall of the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...
Masterpiece, literally... After so many years
justin4kick wrote:
No Casio there, but acoustic guitar, bass guitar, electric guitar, Farfisa, Hammond B3, and Lowrey organs, flageolet, fuzz guitars, glockenspiel, "honky tonk" piano, mandolin, piano, percussion, "taped motor drive amplifier organ chord", timpani, vocals, tubular bells!
Check it
Tubular Bells by the Brooklyn Organ Synth Orchestra
No Casio there, but acoustic guitar, bass guitar, electric guitar, Farfisa, Hammond B3, and Lowrey organs, flageolet, fuzz guitars, glockenspiel, "honky tonk" piano, mandolin, piano, percussion, "taped motor drive amplifier organ chord", timpani, vocals, tubular bells!
Check it
Tubular Bells by the Brooklyn Organ Synth Orchestra
Yes, so long ago! I loved the song when it was released and it's still great -- even after nearly 50 years. Lovely when Mike Oldfield at the end introduces the different instruments which are part of the song....
Sheesh, This is longer and more painful to listen to than ‘Thick as a Brick’
Nice treat to hear this...thanks.
Thank you Bill love this. First time I heard it on BBC TV plenty of musicians helping out
Gosh, had forgotten this wonderful period meditative piece. Wore that vinyl out. Thank you for the memories & all RP does.