About The Song
(watch the video below)
"Motherless Child" is a haunting and deeply emotional blues track by Eric Clapton, featured on his 1992 album "Unplugged." This traditional spiritual song dates back to the 19th century and has been covered by numerous artists, but Clapton's rendition stands out for its raw emotion and soulful delivery.
Clapton's version of "Motherless Child" is stripped-down and intimate, showcasing his soulful vocals and masterful guitar playing. The song's sparse arrangement allows Clapton's emotive performance to take center stage, creating a powerful and deeply moving listening experience.
Lyrically, "Motherless Child" speaks to themes of loneliness, longing, and the search for belonging. Clapton's heartfelt delivery brings the lyrics to life, conveying a sense of vulnerability and pain that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
Musically, the song is characterized by its plaintive melody and soulful guitar accompaniment. Clapton's soul-stirring vocals soar over the melancholic backdrop, capturing the raw emotion of the song and leaving a lasting impact on the listener.
Overall, "Motherless Child" is a standout track in Clapton's discography, showcasing his talent as both a vocalist and a guitarist. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics make it a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
If I mistreat you girl, I sure don't mean no harm.
If I mistreat you girl, I sure don't mean no harm.
Well, I'm a motherless child; I don't know right from wrong.
Please tell me pretty mama, honey where'd you stay last night?
Please tell me pretty mama, honey where'd you stay last night?
Well, you didn't come home till the sun was shining bright.
I had to go so far girl to get my ham bones boiled.
Had to go so far girl to get my ham bones boiled.
Well, he's had a lot of women, gonna let my ham bones burn.
Well, I did more for you, girl, than your daddy ever done.
Well, I did more for you, girl, than your daddy ever done.
Well, I give you my jelly, he ain't give you none.
And when you see two women, always running hand in hand.
When you see two women, always running hand in hand.
You can bet your bottom dollar, one got the other one's man.
Lord, I'm going to the river, get me a tangled rocking chair.
I'm going to the river, get me a tangled rocking chair.
And if the blues overtake me, gonna rock away from here.