"To The Good Old Days" Official Music Video Ft. Dennis DeYoung (Formerly of Styx) & Julian Lennon 

Hey kids ! Thanks for joining me on the premiere. Glad you liked it !

If you did not get emotional from this, you have no soul.

Well I was fine and then A.D. 2020 played at the end and now I’m a 55 year old man blubbering in my car on his lunch break. That was beautiful! To the good old days....thank you for all the music you produced over the years Dennis!

So here's my Dennis DeYoung story. Stay with me on this. I used to work at Wolf Camera in Orland Park, Illinois before they went under in 2012. I made a hasty exit when I heard that Ritz Camera had bought the company. Several associates who worked with me that had come from Ritz had enlightened me as to how Ritz did things, so I bailed. But I digress. Anyways, Dennis's wife, Suzanne was a semi-regular Wolf customer back then before things went south. She was always pleasant to talk to, as well as a very nice person in general. The thing is, I did not know who she was. Just that she seemed like a mega-Styx fan as she was always picking up prints or making enlargements of these great band shots. So one day after she had come in and I helped her with an enlargement, I asked Gene, one of the other employees about her. "So what's the deal with that woman? She always has these great pics of the band. Suppidat?" "There's a reason for that." "Which is?" He said, "Seriously? You don't know who she is?" To which I replied, "Of course I do. I'm just trying to make a short conversation longer because it's a slow day." After giving me a dirty look, I added, "Dude, If I'm asking you, then, no, I do not know who she is." He exchanged the dirty look for an exasperated eye roll and said, "That's Dennis DeYoung's wife." I replied, "Of Styx fame? Seriously?" He said, "Yup. They live around here, someplace." To which I yelled, "Shut the front door!" Mainly because someone had left it open and it was cold out. But I digress. Again. Then he added, "It's only a matter of time before he comes in here, himself. So be ready and have your 8x10 glossy and a Sharpie ready to go." By this point, I'm picturing myself surrounded by the whole band, laughing it up as we tell lusty tales of our adventures on the road. Now of course, I have no such tales having been no farther from home than say, Bridgeview, but I figured I could wing it. Much to my chagrin, Dennis never did come in while I was employed there. If he did, it was on a day that I wasn't working. Damn. The closest I came to a celebrity encounter was when I sold a camera to Andy Avalos, the weather dude from Channel 5 News. Who, by the way, is a pretty cool guy. So, fast-forward to a few years later. We (the gang from Wolf) were having a rousing work-related evening at the Palermo's Pizza restaurant in Oak Lawn. Gene, myself, Dan, Jim, the other Jim, Kris (our manager) and a few other associates were having a tasty dinner when Gene, in between slices says, "Hey, check it out. It's Dennis DeYoung." I looked over by toward the front entrance and as sure as pizza is the best food ever, there, coming toward us is the man himself, sporting a big grin. At first I figured the grin was in response to him picking up some carry-out, but much to my ongoing surprise, he saddled right up to our table and, I shit you not, says, "Well hey, it's the gang from Wolf Camera! How's it going?" Not expecting to ever actually run into him or for that matter, anyone of any importance ever (Andy Avalos notwithstanding) I pulled myself together and managed to nod in the most nonchalant, I see celebrities all the time, way possible. So much so, that I'm pretty sure he didn't even notice me. Maybe he did. It didn't matter, though. There he was, a regular guy, super cool, picking up a pizza just like we all do. I was especially impressed (if that's the right word) that he chose Palermos. I've been enjoying their pizzas since I lived in the city, in West Englewood no less, back in the 60s. My family would buy them at their original location near 63rd and Western. But, with him being from Roseland, I guess I shouldn't be surprised. So after finishing with the "Whazzups?" and all of that, he said goodbye and went about his Dennis-related business. I then looked over at Gene who was in between slices and he said, "Told ya he'd turn up." How cool was that? So thanks Dennis for being a regular guy, likes great pizza, and also makes great music. Maybe we'll run into each other again someday. I'm still here, a stoner's throw from Orland Square. Next time I'll actually say hello. That is, if I'm not eating pizza. You understand. Now, what do I have to do to get an autographed copy of Back To The World?

And the Grammy goes to Dennis DeYoung and Julian Lennon. thanks for bringing Julian back into the Limelight well deserved

I am a grown adult and I am crying like a baby watching this. So well done. Dennis, just listened to you on Gil and Frank's podcast. Thank you for not being afraid to be vulnerable.. Brene Brown reminds us that vulnerability is the core and center of meaningful human experiences and you continue to give that to us. God Bless you, and you still sound like you did 50 years ago.

I'm watching this April 4, 2024.

Sometimes memories aren’t enough.. I want my mom back. 💔

Swing John was emotional but the end came when Dennis said goodbye by changing the lyrics to The Best of Times and playing his first instrument and I lost it

Not many major rock stars can look back at their lives, and honestly say their families were their number 1 priority. Congratulations Dennis.

It was so heartbreaking to see John :( I hope Chuck likes this song.

Formerly of STYX??! DeYoung is STYX!

Dennis, please do some more songs with Julian, we NEED this so much.

What a great video. So heartwarming to see the family and especially Chuck and John! Dennis probably would have loved to include Tommy and JY in the clips, but he probably thot they would sue. Too bad they can't bury the hatchet, already. I'm sure when Dennis passes, they'll both regret that they never made amends.

I and millions more, respectfully thank your Dad (RIP)for buying you that accordion!

I love your voice Dennis! Reminds me when I was in the 7th grade back in 1980 loved you then, love you now! God bless 😭

BEAUTIFUL DUET!!! It’s been so Long since we heard both Dennis DeYoung and Julian Lennon’s voice... such beautiful voice and superb song! Thank you!

There's something to be said for people who are humble, grounded, and rooted in their place. Even more so when it is of a person so God-gifted and talented. When you see a video such as this, it makes you realize how fraudulent other types of people can be. Life is short, so be yourself. That is what Dennis is.

Thanks for a glimpse into your past, and the beginning of the band...Was great to see Chuck and John...I think there was even a shot of J.C. Curulewski in there....Great song, great video...

I'm a 43 year old that doesn't get to emotional. But this song / video brings tears to my eyes. Reminds me of my great childhood memories. Such as the night my dad took me to see Styx on the kilroy tour, 1983 at the Rockford, IL metro center. They were the best of times for sure!

Fantastic Dennis! Brought tears to my eyes. Family is the one true gift in life that makes us who we are. In life some of us are lucky to have two families; our blood family and our band family. As a Chicago kid and musician like you the experiences we go thru with each other along the way is the gift. As you said, “time claims it’s prize” and no money, or fame can stop it. It’s the people we love that make the journey the reward. I have been a fan from the beginning and had the opportunity to work with JC and call him a friend. Yet, after all the years, never had a chance to meet you in person. I did see you driving in your car in the Orland / Palos-area a long time ago and we showed our support by screaming it from our car on the way to a gig. You smiled and gave us a hi-five. We were just kids and it made our day. Thank you for all the great music you have given us over the years. I truly hope and pray that you get an opportunity for one more tour with the guys (JY, TS & CP). Time is so precious and maybe they can put down all the bad-stuff they think they are carrying and do it one more for you guys as a band and one more time for the fans. My best, CD

Very nice to see John C in there a couple of times!

This is where Dennis truly belongs! With friends and family! Not with those other guys! I don’t blame him for leaving the bad blood out! Nice little tribute to John though! I can see you two had the best of times!

I have said this before, and will keep saying over and again, Styx win NEVER be Styx without Earl of Roseland, Dennis DeYoung!

Seeing the pix/video of John P., JC and Dawn F. brought tears to my eyes. Beautiful song.

This guy is an American treasure! My love of music began by listening to the Paradise Theater cassette I traded someone for at my Catholic school in the 9th grade. One of my classmate's family was from Chicago and was related to the Panazzos. Keep up the good fight Dennis! Styx is YOUR legacy despite how hard they've tried to erase you from that group. I've been a fan of yours ever since seeing you live in Topeka, Kansas and have boycotted the "faux" version of Styx due to their ignorance, arrogance and greed! YOU are the REAL Styx!

THEE one and ONLY voice of STYX.

I came up with my basic training platoon name after the STYX song Renegade. We were class 42-91 at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma. My code name from that day on was Renegade-91. Thank you Mr. DeYoung.

reminder set...To the Good Old Days!!🎸🕯🕯

You’re a good man, Dennis. A truly good, quality individual. Looks like you’ve had fantastic friends and family along the way as well. Thanks for all your wonderful music.

You are amazing.You still sound the same.Beautiful Absolutely Beautiful! Always a devoted fan! B.B.

Dennis and Julian sound amazing together. Dennis has obviously lived a full and blessed life, and he's sharing it with everyone in this song and video. Kudos Dennis !

This song is an instant classic. I am an event DJ and can tell you this song will be played at every wedding, anniversary, class reunion, retirement party et al from now unto eternity.

I'm not sure what made me cry more the song or the video. As an expat from Chicago, and now living 6,000 miles away. Dennis DeYoung is just a part of being a Chicagoan, whether it be sporting events or other occasions, he's always there. Dennis, your voice and Julian's mixed beautifully. Keep healthy, and keep the music coming!

Dennis made Styx in my humble opinion. He's the genius and drive behind it ALL. Even JY "on tape" stated, "Dennis believed in us, always, and told us we'd be a major success one day, even when the rest of us really didn't believe it". Dennis has an INCREDIBLE work-ethic, he works and works and works - it's his blue collar roots (and those of the Panozzo brother's who he clearly loves as shown by honoring them in this beautiful video. Dennis holds no grudge against Johnny and Chuck, it's crystal clear here). Dennis is smart folks- and I mean music biz SMART and school of hard knocks smart in one of the toughest businesses on this planet, the music biz. They signed with A&M, which for those who don't know is thee Herb Alpert of Tijuana Brass fame- he's the "A" in A&M records, later sold for about $500 million to Polygram. Herby Alpert NEVER would turn over production to almost any band- no matter how good they were. BUT, read the liners on a Styx A&M album and it says, "PRODUCED BY STYX". Translation, PRODUCED BY DENNIS folks. And Dennis rightfully gives credit that JY had a part with his engineering background to help in those control rooms. But for Herb Alpert of A&M to turn over PRODUCER ROLE to a band is rare (Richard Carpenter, of The Carpenters mega success, Richard a bonafide musical genius being one of the only other's I can think of) - but Herby handed the keys to the Ferrari over to Dennis (studio time back then, cost MEGA BUCKS w/ a mixing console alone costing $500K to $1 million, etc) and Herb Alpert let Dennis "make the album" says to me, ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW. I consider ABBA one of the greatest pop bands of all time- their record sales and world success prove it. "Their" musical genius is Benny Anderson of Sweden. Well, Benny is "on an interview" and he says, "Well, writing hit pop songs, it's PLAIN OLD HARD WORK. We, myself and Bjourn would work approx 8 hours a day and take 6 to 8 months to get the songs for each album we made (ABBA speaking). I feel, I think if I sit at this piano long enough with Bjourn here by me on guitar, I figure there's some good songs inside this old piano and if I bang away on it long enough, stick with it for hours a day, then every now and then a real good song and "maybe" a super hit good song will pop out of this piano, IF, IF I work at it hard enough, it's the only way I know how." (paraphrasing Benny Anderson). Well, WHO SAID NEAR WORD FOR WORD that genius statement? DENNIS DeYoung folks !! Dennis, half a world away from music pop song genius Benny Anderson in frozen Sweden, Dennis stated, "Well, I have this piano here, and I figure if I sit at it long enough, and I pound out chords and try ideas, once in a while a good song, a song that doesn't suck will pop out. BUT, I have to sit here and work, work hard at it, it's the only way I know how". NEAR WORD FOR WORD what Benny said = STUNNING and amazing to me folks. Geniuses think and speak alike :) Dennis stated, "In music/pop/rock music history- I know of probably 5, five song writers who can sit down and in 15 minutes write a hit tune and GOD BLESS THEM, because I can't do it. How they do it, I just don't know, but for me it's work, hard work, never giving up". I'd say Elton John, Lennon/McCartney, Barry Gibb and the Bee Gee brothers, Neil Diamond and a few others- could "give you a hit, in 15 minutes, or a day at the longest", but it's a rare, rare, rare thing. Dennis MADE STYX by sheer tenacity- hard work, constant learning and self improvement, a never give-up attitude, a great sense of humor and more. I almost fell off the computer when I heard Benny Anderson of ABBA, again, one of history's biggest selling acts of all time- state almost WORD FOR WORD what Dennis of frozen Chicago said half a planet away on "HOW DO YOU WRITE A HIT SONG", it told me all I needed to know- that Dennis has the right stuff, he's got it, and "made it" not by luck or a free ride, but a burning desire to give everything his best, to move from blue collar to working as hard as he could to achieve what he could with the talent's God gave him - and he now needs to prove himself to NO ONE. He's earned it, he's shown he has it, and he built the house called Styx and an enduring solo career. PUT DENNIS ON AN ALBUM, you pretty much get a HIT, GUARANTEED, he's not bragging, he's earned that right. How many of Styx' songs in the top 10 and their #1 were, and are "Dennis", you figure out the rest. Love ya Dennis, you teach us a LOT of life lessons- dealing w/ setbacks, "overcoming" and what HARD WORK will bring a person of integrity and honor. God speed to you- you're a good man Charley Brown, as my late father used to say :)

Wow- can't stop watching this. Brings a tear to my eye! Thanks!!

Wow!!! Hits home to my buddies that I have lost over the years. Here's to you - Paradise! I say this is worthy of a Grammy - Best duet.

Julian sounds just like his dad when he sings harmony.

Gorgeous. If you aren't moved, you have no heart. Thank you!!!

Thanks for sharing. The video really added personal meaning. Love the footage of Chuck and John. Would love to hear what chuck thinks of the video. You two should do a reunion episode talking about the the good old days.

Hi Dennis! In 1977 I was 16 years old and older my brother and I were on our way to see a movie. I was in my brother's truck and he was playing a band I had never heard before. I really liked the band so I asked him who it was. My brother told me Styx. The album was the Grand Illusion. I asked my brother if Styx was a new band and he said Styx had been around for a while. I thought this band Styx was great! My brother later played Styx Equinox and Styx Crystal Ball for me. I immediately went to the music store and bought all three. I didn't know about the earlier albums until much later because I didn't see them at the music store. I can't tell how much happiness and joy Styx brought to my life. Every time a new album came out, I just had to have it. I haven't wanted to buy any new Styx music in a long time. I knew I had to have your new CD though because you always put out great music. I will never understand why you are not still a member of Styx. Thanks for all the music Dennis!

That whole video is beautiful.

Jeeze, this stirs up soooo many feelings. Makes you think of your lost loved ones. After remembering the fallen, my brain inevitably starts thinking about mortality and that we will eventually be just a memory to someone and then that someone passes away and we truly just dissolve away into that unknown void.

Thank you for the decades of fantastic music Dennis! You're still up there, at the top of your game, despite reminding us all the time that you're 73 years old.. All Styx fans we are always eager to hear more new music from you!

That was fantastic! So good to see old movies with John and Chuck in them too. You have some great memories there DDY. I see JY and Tommy showed up to give their thumbs down. i mean who else would thumb down such a great video?!

BUY THE NEW ALBUM ITS FANTASTIC! Best work since Paradise Theater!

Its not were you are going in life ,but how you get there. Remove any piece from the puzzle and the picture changes. Thanks for sharing the MOST valuable items in your life.

Thank for all the music, Dennis--fan since the mid-70s when I listened to you guys on my 8 track tapes, and saw you perform in 1981 on the Paradise Theater tour. Great also to hear from Julian. You both sound terrific on this cut!

Thank you, Dennis. Thank you for sharing your life and your talent with us. We're so lucky your music and your beautiful voice is part of our lives ♥️🎶

Are you saying goodbye? You broke my heart!!! Your music is so inspiring... Especially in though moments like this! Thank you so much for your life and for your music! To you and to the Heavens!!! Amen.

This song is wonderful. Thank you Mr. DeYoung and Mr. Lennon.

Dennis, I absolutely love your work! I’m only 17, so I haven’t been able to see you live yet, but I’m hoping I can some day soon! Your stuff is a massive inspiration to me, and I’m glad you’re still kicking. Love this song, although it goes without saying at this point.

Beautiful. The love you have for your family shines through.

DDY, So glad your keeping all our past memories and joys, here in the present. So we can carry on, into the future. To the good old days!

Hi Dennis, Thank you for sharing all of those family videos! It's encouraging to see a musician who is stilled married to his first wife. Congratulations to you both and I'm sure it hasn't all been a bed of roses but you both persevered. I love the song and it's great to hear Julian, too.

Cant wait ti hear this love this you Julian and Dennis sound great together !

Lennon and deyoung perfect combination

Oh Man! does this song tug on some heart strings for me... Loved it! Memories to hold onto through the years.. Dennis thanks for this, been a huge fan for years..

I'm 19 years old and I'm a huge fan of you and Styx!! Please sing Come Sail Away or Don't Let It End!!

Absolutely an amazing video and song. I burst into tears when I saw John Pannazzo in the video! The same way I did when I first heard the band play dear John after he passed. Dennis as always your voice is timeless and you capture time like no one else. Thank you!!!!

I've watched this time and time again. I love the new album. It's some of your finest work as a solo artist. I think that it's a wonderful idea to sit and react with us and explain some of these videos with us. That would be really special. Thank you for the new original material. My dad was a touring musician. He decided to take me on his tours with him while mom stayed home to raise my little sister. My dad and I bonded over music and Styx was what inspired me to begin my path as a musician as well. As I got better as a guitarist, I began playing with dad and we jammed on many Styx tunes. Dad passed away in 2014. Last summer, I took my then 7 year old son to see you in Cincinnati. We got to meet you and to take a photo with you, Jimmy, and your bride. We got to watch the concert 10 feet away standing stage right. My eyes stayed wet as I bonded with my son as I did my with my dad. August and Jimmy came over to him and let him play their guitars and handed him picks. You truly made my dreams come true. God bless you and your album. You are a gem amongst coal. Thank you

Professor of Rock sent me here. It's beautiful and reminds me not only of my youth in the 80s but also of songs that were big during that stretch of time (including Europe's "Carrie" and Warrant's "Heaven"). I knew who Julian was before I knew where (and what) he came from. Always thought he was short changed for one reason or another. Though I haven't listened to his whole discography, it's always good to know both of you are still around.

This is really cool Dennis. Once again you, and Julian also, have tapped into our own lives and memories with your own. Beautiful song, and thanks for sharing your private memories, Mr. Styx. Bravo !!!

Hits home Guys. Greatness and Goodness before Social Media insanity came along. Miss those times. Thank you.

The laughs, the tears, the memories... and John P. ❤️ You boys did better than good. 😊 The Best Of Times, indeed.

Dennis and Julian great job.

Julian's voice has always sounded like John, but even more so here.

Great stuff 👍!!!!! Both voices are unbeatable. Thank you for sharing

Lost my wife 33 year's together, still can't cope, 7/6/21 at 420 PM I'll make it through with the Best Of Time's 🙏🏻

Dennis, listening to your new album right now. All I can say is AWESOME!

Dennis, you are certainly one of the best songwriters, & you & Julian sing marvelously together. This song brought back wonderful youthful memories!! I wanna thank you for a lifetime of bringing enjoyment to the world. 🌍Hope your wishes come true🙏🎶

Oh my God the ending gave me chills

Wow, how could two voices sound so fantastic together! Dennis, you are an INSPIRATION!

Thank you Dennis! You're music has gotten me through many tough times in my life. Now that I'm facing tough times again, I once again turn to your music. Thank you

Paradise. It was a theatre. It is America. It will be heaven. Thank you for providing the soundtrack of my life.

Mr. DeYoung, you are styx! I have seen you in concert a few times. I am 53, every time I watch this video it makes me get tears in my eyes. Always be awesome! Thank you!

Knocked it out of the park Dennis!

Wow, Dennis, thank you for sharing your memories with us. All of your life all of your personal memories. Thank you for opening your heart. I have met you through the years. I worked for a concert promoter in Buffalo. You and Suzanne and your family the epitome of class. I brought my baby to see you in Burlington, ON a couple years ago. My baby that finishes his college degree on Friday. I shouted from the audience “ Dennis, your wife looks great” you said “ you bet your sweet ass she does!” I grew up with your music and by then, I felt like I was part of a family, what an amazing experience. It was... PARADISE. Thank you, Dennis🥂( and family) 💐🇺🇸

Beautiful Dennis!

Thank you Dennis for the wonderful, timeless music

I just got my first Grandchild. I'm hoping the "good old days" starts tomorrow for her....

Seeing you and Chuck & John legit made me tear up. Please get back together for one more tour. Please.

Too the good old days Lots of reflection and what’s really important God bless

Very accomplished musician. A unique voice of our time.

Thank you, Dennis. Appreciate this masterpiece, particularly now. We are all feeling especially nostalgic, as things we were looking forward to are gone and instead we look back to remember better times. This song captures the zeitgeist like no other has. Best wishes, stay safe, and may we all find good new days ahead.

It's official, I am a Sentimental old fart, I like this a lot!

Dennis!! We need more singing please! You are a joy!! It brings a smile to all of us.

My brother passed at Christmas. I'd love to be a photo collage for my parents of him and this song!

Great tune....and both of your voices blend so well.

Absolutely incredible!!!!! So emotional.

Absolutely fantastic! Brought me to tears just like when Babe came out while I was in 7th grade

Dennis thank you again for another awesome song. As I get older and my kids have grown and gone and we now have grandchildren, I look back and reflect more and more. This song is spot on. Again I want to state you and Steve Perry are two of the best vocalists I have ever heard.

Wow.... if this is your last hurrah then it couldn’t be more perfect... that ending was absolutely incredible, brought a tear to my eye, thank you Dennis! Much love and appreciation from a 23 year old from across the pond :)

Great - first I watch Dennis' home video during the covid shutdown singing and playing The Best of Times and the waterworks in my eyes start. It's beautiful. Then I watch this video with Dennis and Julian Lennon and there the tears of joy go again. At this rate I'm gonna have to install rain gutters under my lids.

So nice to see John again.💜🙏

Thank you for your music Dennis. When I was a kid in 2009, in the fifth grade. I use to love hearing your songs over and over again 2 songs. Mr.Roboto and Come Sail Away. The second one I found very emotionally compelling and moving. The first song was always fun and dynamic for me to exaggerate as a kid with my younger brother.

Wow! This is fantastic to see your life story unfold. What a wonderful family man and such an inspirational singer & songwriter. Your voice is comforting in these lonely times and filled with the best memories of listening to you as I was attending Bishop McNamara High School Kankakee in the 70’s. You have helped me get through some very tough times....

Your voices sound so good together. I started crying halfway through the song bc you can hear still hear so much of John in Julian's voice.

Oh Dennis!!! That was so beautiful!! So much nostalgia! I remember seeing you on your 70th-you probably had August outdone on “happiest man around” that evening!!! Thank you for sharing your wonderful memories. You rock sir!!

What a beautiful song!!!; Dennis and Julian great job;