About The Song
(watch the video below)
"Double Trouble" by Eric Clapton is a blues rock masterpiece that showcases the legendary guitarist's virtuosity, emotional depth, and soulful vocal delivery. Originally written and recorded by Otis Rush in 1958, Clapton's rendition of "Double Trouble" on his 1989 album "Journeyman" is a powerful and poignant interpretation that highlights his deep connection to the blues tradition and his ability to infuse the genre with his own unique style and sensibility.
The song's lyrics tell the story of a man who is facing a series of challenges and setbacks in his life, from financial troubles to relationship woes. The narrator reflects on his struggles and hardships, lamenting the difficulties he faces and the sense of despair that threatens to overwhelm him. The refrain of "I'm having double trouble, Lord, I'm down on my luck" captures the essence of the song's theme, conveying a sense of resignation, vulnerability, and raw emotion that resonates with listeners on a visceral level.
Clapton's vocal performance on "Double Trouble" is a tour de force of soulful expression and emotional intensity, as he channels the pain and longing of the song's lyrics with a raw and unvarnished delivery. His gravelly voice conveys a sense of world-weariness and vulnerability that adds depth and authenticity to the song, drawing the listener in and inviting them to share in the narrator's pain and struggle. Clapton's ability to convey complex emotions with his voice is a testament to his skill as a vocalist and his deep understanding of the blues as a genre that is rooted in the human experience.
Musically, "Double Trouble" is a showcase for Clapton's exceptional guitar playing, as he delivers a series of searing and soulful solos that are filled with emotion, nuance, and technical precision. His expressive phrasing, fluid bends, and soulful vibrato bring the song to life, adding layers of depth and complexity to the music that complement the lyrics and enhance the overall emotional impact of the song. Clapton's guitar work on "Double Trouble" is a masterclass in blues rock improvisation, as he weaves intricate melodies and soulful licks throughout the song, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both powerful and evocative.
The arrangement of "Double Trouble" is another standout feature of the song, with its dynamic shifts in tempo, mood, and intensity that mirror the emotional journey of the narrator. From the sparse and haunting intro to the explosive guitar solos and impassioned vocals, the song builds in intensity and drama, drawing the listener in and keeping them engaged from start to finish. The interplay between Clapton's guitar and the backing band is seamless and intuitive, creating a sense of unity and cohesion that elevates the song to new heights of musical expression.
One of the key strengths of "Double Trouble" is its timeless and universal appeal, as the song's themes of struggle, resilience, and redemption resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The raw and honest emotion of the lyrics, combined with Clapton's soulful vocal delivery and expressive guitar playing, create a powerful and moving listening experience that transcends genre and era. "Double Trouble" is a testament to the enduring power of the blues as a genre that speaks to the universal human experience, capturing the joys and sorrows of life with honesty and authenticity.
In conclusion, "Double Trouble" by Eric Clapton is a blues rock classic that showcases the legendary guitarist's virtuosity, emotional depth, and soulful vocal delivery. With its poignant lyrics, soulful vocals, and searing guitar solos, the song captures the essence of the blues tradition while also showcasing Clapton's unique style and sensibility. "Double Trouble" is a powerful and moving testament to the enduring power of music to convey complex emotions, tell compelling stories, and connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level. Through his masterful interpretation of the song, Clapton demonstrates his deep connection to the blues tradition and his ability to infuse the genre with his own unique voice and vision, creating a timeless and enduring masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences around the world
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Lay awake at night,
Oh so low, just so troubled.
Can't get a job,
Laid off and I'm having double trouble.
Hey hey, to make you've got to try.
Baby, that's no lie.
Some of this generation is millionaires;
I can't even keep decent clothes to wear.
Laugh at me walking,
And I have no place to go.
Bad luck and trouble has taken me;
I have no money to show.
Chorus
