About The Song
(watch the video below)
"White Room" is a seminal rock classic by the legendary British rock band Cream, featuring the incomparable Eric Clapton on guitar and vocals. Released in 1968 as part of their album "Wheels of Fire," this song has become an enduring staple of classic rock radio and a defining moment in Clapton's illustrious career.
From the moment the haunting opening chords ring out, "White Room" captivates listeners with its ethereal atmosphere and psychedelic vibe. The song's mesmerizing melody, coupled with Clapton's soulful vocals, creates a sense of otherworldly beauty that transports listeners to a place of introspection and wonder.
Lyrically, "White Room" is a surreal journey through the mind of the protagonist, who finds himself trapped in a state of isolation and longing. The lyrics, penned by poet Pete Brown, paint a vivid picture of emptiness and despair, with lines like "In the white room with black curtains near the station / Black-roof country, no gold pavements, tired starlings" evoking a sense of desolation and yearning.
What sets "White Room" apart is Clapton's masterful guitar work, which takes center stage during the song's electrifying solos. His innovative use of tone and technique adds depth and texture to the song, elevating it to new heights of musical brilliance. Clapton's fluid playing, coupled with his emotive phrasing, creates a sense of urgency and intensity that is impossible to ignore.
As the song builds to its climactic crescendo, Clapton's guitar soars to new heights, weaving in and out of the song's intricate melodies with precision and grace. His legendary solo, characterized by its melodic fluidity and emotive expression, remains one of the most iconic moments in rock guitar history.
"White Room" is also notable for its innovative production techniques, which were ahead of their time in 1968. The song features a unique blend of rock, blues, and psychedelic elements, with Clapton's guitar work augmented by Jack Bruce's driving bassline and Ginger Baker's dynamic drumming. The result is a sonic tapestry that is both complex and compelling, showcasing Cream's unparalleled musicianship and creativity.
Beyond its musical brilliance, "White Room" also serves as a cultural touchstone, reflecting the turbulent social and political climate of the late 1960s. The song's themes of alienation and disillusionment struck a chord with audiences of the time, resonating with the countercultural movement and capturing the spirit of a generation searching for meaning and purpose.
In conclusion, "White Room" stands as a timeless masterpiece of rock music, a testament to the enduring talent of Eric Clapton and the groundbreaking creativity of Cream. With its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and electrifying guitar work, this song continues to captivate audiences and inspire musicians around the world, solidifying its place as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
In the white room with black curtains near the station
Black roof country, no gold pavements, tired starlings
Silver horses ran down moonbeams in your dark eyes
Dawn light smiles on you leaving, my contentment
I'll wait in this place where the sun never shines
Wait in this place where the shadows run from themselves
You said no strings could secure you at the station
Platform ticket, restless diesels, goodbye windows
I walked into such a sad time at the station
As I walked out, felt my own need just beginning
I'll wait in the queue when the trains come back
Lie with you where the shadows run from themselves
At the party she was kindness in the hard crowd
Consolation for the old wound now forgotten
Yellow tigers crouched in jungles in her dark eyes
She's just dressing, goodbye windows, tired starlings
I'll sleep in this place with the lonely crowd
Lie in the dark where the shadows run from themselves