About The Song
(watch the video below)
"Wee Wee Hours" is a classic blues track that brings together the talents of three legendary musicians: Eric Clapton, Chuck Berry, and Keith Richards. Originally written and recorded by Chuck Berry in 1955, the song gained renewed attention when Clapton, Berry, and Richards collaborated on a live performance of it during the "Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll" concert in 1987.
The song is a slow blues number that captures the essence of traditional blues themes, focusing on the late-night hours and the emotions that often accompany them. The lyrics, penned by Chuck Berry, speak of heartache, loneliness, and the blues that can set in during the wee hours of the morning. The narrative is delivered with a sense of raw authenticity, a characteristic feature of classic blues storytelling.
The live performance featuring Eric Clapton, Chuck Berry, and Keith Richards took place as part of the "Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll" concert, which was organized to celebrate Chuck Berry's 60th birthday. The collaboration brought together some of the most influential figures in rock and blues music, making it a historic and memorable event.
The rendition of "Wee Wee Hours" during this concert showcased the distinctive styles of each musician. Chuck Berry, often hailed as a pioneer of rock and roll, provided his trademark guitar licks and vocals that defined the original recording. Eric Clapton, revered for his blues prowess, added his own touch with soulful guitar solos and impeccable phrasing. Keith Richards, known for his role in The Rolling Stones, contributed to the performance with his rhythmic guitar playing and stage presence.
The live version of "Wee Wee Hours" begins with a slow and deliberate pace, creating an intimate and bluesy atmosphere. Chuck Berry's vocals convey a sense of melancholy, capturing the essence of the song's theme. The guitar interplay between Berry, Clapton, and Richards adds depth to the performance, creating a dynamic and engaging musical conversation.
One of the highlights of the performance is the interplay between Eric Clapton and Chuck Berry on guitars. Clapton's blues-infused style complements Berry's rock and roll energy, creating a synergy that pays homage to the roots of both genres. The guitar solos and exchanges between the two maestros showcase a mutual respect and admiration for each other's craft.
The addition of Keith Richards to the lineup adds a layer of authenticity to the performance. Richards, who has long been influenced by blues music, contributes his distinctive rhythm guitar playing, further enhancing the song's bluesy vibe. The camaraderie between the three guitarists on stage reflects the shared love for the blues and rock and roll that unites generations of musicians.
The "Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll" concert was not only a celebration of Chuck Berry's contributions to music but also a testament to the enduring impact of blues and rock and roll on the world of popular music. The collaboration between Clapton, Berry, and Richards on "Wee Wee Hours" exemplifies the intergenerational dialogue that occurs within the music community, where artists pay tribute to their influences and celebrate the shared heritage of blues and rock.
The legacy of "Wee Wee Hours" extends beyond this specific performance, as the song continues to be recognized as a classic in the blues genre. Chuck Berry's original recording and subsequent live interpretations by other artists showcase the timeless appeal of the song's themes and musicality. The rendition by Clapton, Berry, and Richards stands as a testament to the enduring power of live performances that bring together iconic musicians to create moments of magic on stage.
In conclusion, "Wee Wee Hours" is a blues masterpiece that has stood the test of time, and the live collaboration featuring Eric Clapton, Chuck Berry, and Keith Richards is a remarkable chapter in its storied history. The performance not only pays homage to the roots of blues and rock and roll but also highlights the cross-generational connections that define the evolution of music. As these legendary musicians come together on stage, they not only perform a classic blues song but also contribute to the ongoing narrative of the blues, keeping the genre alive and vibrant for generations to come.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
That's on the other side of Maybelline
Yes, in the wee, wee hours
That's when I think of you
In the wee, wee hours
That's when I think of you
You say, but yet I wonder
If your love was ever true
In a wee, wee little room
I lay there and yearn for you
In a wee little room
I lay there and yearn for you
Wondering if you still remember
All the far out things we planned to do
