About The Song
(watch the video below)
"Little Queen of Spades" is a mesmerizing blues masterpiece by the legendary guitarist and singer-songwriter Eric Clapton . Originally written and recorded by blues icon Robert Johnson in 1937, Clapton's rendition of the song showcases his extraordinary talent as a guitarist and his deep connection to the blues tradition.
Released in 2004 as part of Clapton's album "Me and Mr. Johnson," this song pays homage to one of Clapton's greatest influences, Robert Johnson. Known for his haunting vocals and virtuosic guitar playing, Johnson was a pivotal figure in the development of the blues genre, and his impact on Clapton's music cannot be overstated.
From the moment the first notes of "Little Queen of Spades" ring out, listeners are transported to a smoky juke joint in the Mississippi Delta, where the blues reign supreme. Clapton's soulful vocals, coupled with his searing guitar solos, create a sense of raw emotion and authenticity that is characteristic of the blues.
Lyrically, "Little Queen of Spades" tells the story of a card game gone awry, with the protagonist lamenting his losses and the deceit of the titular character. Johnson's lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and allegory, painting a picture of the struggles and hardships faced by African Americans in the Jim Crow South.
Clapton's rendition of the song stays true to Johnson's original vision while adding his own unique flair and interpretation. His emotive vocals and impeccable guitar playing breathe new life into the song, capturing the essence of the blues with a modern sensibility.
What sets Clapton's version of "Little Queen of Spades" apart is his masterful guitar work, which takes center stage during the song's electrifying solos. His playing is characterized by its precision, fluidity, and emotional depth, with each note ringing out with clarity and resonance.
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 effortless grace. His legendary solo, characterized by its soulful phrasing and impeccable technique, is a testament to his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Beyond its musical brilliance, "Little Queen of Spades" also serves as a reminder of the enduring power of the blues as a storytelling medium. Johnson's lyrics, with their themes of love, loss, and redemption, resonate with listeners on a visceral level, capturing the universal human experience in all its complexity.
In conclusion, "Little Queen of Spades" stands as a timeless testament to the enduring legacy of the blues and the remarkable talent of Eric Clapton. 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 blues songs of all time.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
She is a little queen of spades
And the men will not let her be
Said she is a little queen of spades
And the men will not let her be
Everytime she make a spread
Oh fair brown, cold chills run all over me
Gonna get me a gambling woman
If it's the last thing that I do
Gonna get me a gambling woman
If it's the last thing that I do
A man don't need a woman
Oh fair brown, that he got to give all of his money to
Everybody said you got a mojo
'Cause baby, you've been using that stuff
Everybody said you got a mojo
Baby, you've been using that stuff
Got a way trimming down
Oh fair brown, and I mean it's most too tough
Little girl, since I am the king
Baby, and you is the queen
Little girl, since I am the king
Baby, and you is the queen
Let us put our heads together
Ooh, fair brown, and we can make our money green
