About The Song
(watch the video below)
"Reconsider Baby" by Eric Clapton is a blues classic that showcases the legendary guitarist's exceptional skill and passion for the genre. Originally written and recorded by Lowell Fulson in 1954, Clapton's rendition of the song is a powerful interpretation that pays homage to the roots of blues music while also showcasing his own unique style and artistry. Released on his iconic "From the Cradle" album in 1994, Clapton's version of "Reconsider Baby" has become a fan favorite and a staple of his live performances, solidifying its place as one of his most beloved songs.
At the core of "Reconsider Baby" are its raw and emotive lyrics, which speak to themes of heartbreak, regret, and longing. The song's narrator pleads with a former lover to reconsider their decision to leave, expressing a deep sense of pain and desperation. Lines like "So long, oh, I hate to see you go / You know I'm gonna miss you, I'm gonna miss you so" convey a sense of loss and yearning, as the narrator grapples with the consequences of a failed relationship and the prospect of being alone.
Clapton's vocal delivery on "Reconsider Baby" is soulful and gritty, perfectly capturing the emotional depth and intensity of the song's lyrics. His raspy voice conveys a sense of vulnerability and passion, drawing listeners into the narrative of the song and allowing them to empathize with the narrator's feelings of heartache and longing. Clapton's vocal performance is both powerful and intimate, creating a sense of connection and shared experience with the listener.
The true highlight of Clapton's rendition of "Reconsider Baby" is his masterful guitar work. Known for his virtuosic playing style and emotive solos, Clapton delivers a mesmerizing performance on the electric guitar that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. The song's slow blues tempo, soulful bends, and expressive phrasing showcase Clapton's unparalleled skill and musicality, elevating the song to a level of artistry that is truly breathtaking.
Clapton's guitar solos on "Reconsider Baby" are a testament to his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his playing. From the mournful, soulful licks that convey a sense of longing and despair to the fiery, impassioned solos that burst with energy and intensity, Clapton's guitar work on the song is a masterclass in musical expression. Each note is played with precision and feeling, creating a rich tapestry of sound that captivates the listener and draws them into the emotional journey of the song.
In addition to its lyrical and musical elements, Clapton's arrangement of "Reconsider Baby" is also notable for its production and instrumentation. The bluesy, atmospheric sound of the song creates a moody and evocative backdrop for Clapton's vocals and guitar playing, enhancing the emotional impact of the music. The sparse instrumentation and haunting harmonica accents add depth and texture to the song, creating a rich sonic landscape that immerses the listener in the world of the blues.
The overall mood of "Reconsider Baby" is one of melancholy and reflection, with a sense of resignation and longing permeating the song from start to finish. The slow tempo, minor key, and soulful melody create a somber and introspective atmosphere that invites the listener to delve into the depths of the narrator's emotions. Clapton's evocative lyrics and impassioned delivery combine with his masterful guitar work to create a musical experience that is both haunting and deeply moving.
In conclusion, "Reconsider Baby" by Eric Clapton is a blues classic that showcases the artist's exceptional talent and passion for the genre. Through its raw and emotive lyrics, soulful vocals, and masterful guitar work, the song captures the essence of heartbreak, regret, and longing in a way that is both timeless and deeply resonant. Clapton's ability to infuse the song with his own unique style and artistry is a testament to his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and his rendition of "Reconsider Baby" stands as a powerful testament to the enduring power of the blues.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
So long, oh, I hate to see you go
So long, oh, I hate to see you go
And the way that I will miss you
I guess you will never know
We've been together so long, to have to separate this way
We've been together so long, to have to separate this way
I'm going to let you go ahead on now, baby
Pray that you'll come back home someday
You said you once had loved me, but now I guess you've changed your mind
You said you once had loved me, but now I guess you've changed your mind
Why don't you reconsider, baby?
Give yourself just a little more time