About The Song
(watch the video below)
"Politician" is a blues-rock anthem by the iconic British supergroup Cream, featuring the legendary guitarist Eric Clapton. Released in 1968 as part of their album "Wheels of Fire," this song showcases Cream's raw energy and improvisational prowess, while also serving as a scathing commentary on the state of politics and power dynamics.
From the opening riff, "Politician" grabs the listener's attention with its infectious groove and dynamic instrumentation. Clapton's searing guitar work, coupled with Jack Bruce's driving bassline and Ginger Baker's explosive drumming, creates a powerful sonic landscape that is both captivating and intense.
Lyrically, "Politician" is a biting critique of political corruption and hypocrisy, with Clapton's vocals dripping with sarcasm and disdain. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a manipulative and deceitful politician, with lines like "Hey now, baby, get into my big black car / Hey now, baby, get into my big black car / I wanna just show you what my politics are" reflecting the cynicism and disillusionment of the era.
What sets "Politician" apart is its electrifying instrumental sections, which allow Cream to showcase their improvisational skills and musical chemistry. Clapton's fiery guitar solos are a highlight of the song, with his distinctive tone and emotive playing adding depth and intensity to the music. Bruce's intricate basslines provide a solid foundation for the song, while Baker's dynamic drumming drives the rhythm forward with precision and power.
As the song progresses, Cream's improvisational prowess takes center stage, with extended instrumental sections allowing each member to shine. Clapton's guitar solos are particularly electrifying, with his inventive phrasing and technical skill pushing the boundaries of blues-rock guitar playing.
"Politician" is also notable for its dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, with Cream effortlessly transitioning between bluesy grooves and hard-hitting rock passages. The song's structure is loose and free-flowing, allowing the band to explore different musical ideas and textures while maintaining a sense of cohesion and energy.
Beyond its musical brilliance, "Politician" also serves as a powerful social commentary, highlighting the corruption and greed that often pervades the world of politics. Clapton's scathing lyrics and fiery delivery capture the frustration and disillusionment of the era, resonating with listeners who were searching for authenticity and integrity in their leaders.
In conclusion, "Politician" stands as a timeless classic in the blues-rock canon, a testament to the enduring talent of Cream and the cultural significance of their music. With its electrifying instrumentation, biting lyrics, and powerful social commentary, this song continues to captivate audiences and inspire musicians around the world, solidifying its place as one of the greatest political anthems of all time.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Hey now, baby
Get into my big black car
Hey now, baby
Get into my big black car
I want to just show you
What my politics are
I'm a political man
And I practice what I preach
I'm a political man
And I practice what I preach
So don't deny me, baby
Not while you're in my reach
I support the left
Though I'm leaning, leaning to the right
I support the left
Though I'm leaning to the right
But I'm just not there
When it's coming to a fight
Hey now, baby
Get into my big black car
Hey now, baby
Get into my big black car
I want to just show you
What my politics are