About The Song
(watch the video below)
"Stones In My Passway" is a blues classic that has been covered by many artists over the years, including Eric Clapton. The song was originally written and recorded by blues legend Robert Johnson in 1937 and has since become a staple of the blues repertoire, known for its haunting lyrics, eerie melody, and soulful delivery. Clapton's rendition of "Stones In My Passway" on his 1992 album "Unplugged" is a powerful and evocative interpretation that showcases his deep connection to the blues tradition and his ability to bring new life to a timeless classic.
The lyrics of "Stones In My Passway" tell the story of a man who is facing a series of challenges and obstacles in his life, symbolized by the metaphor of stones blocking his path. The narrator reflects on the hardships he has endured and the struggles he continues to face, lamenting the burdens that weigh him down and the sense of despair that threatens to overwhelm him. The refrain of "I got stones in my passway, and my road seems dark as night" captures the essence of the song's theme, conveying a sense of isolation, loneliness, and existential angst that resonates with listeners on a deep and visceral level.
Clapton's vocal performance on "Stones In My Passway" is a masterclass in emotional expression and soulful delivery, as he channels the pain and longing of the song's lyrics with a raw and heartfelt performance. 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, "Stones In My Passway" is a showcase for Clapton's exceptional guitar playing, as he delivers a series of soulful and emotive solos that are filled with nuance, emotion, 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 "Stones In My Passway" is a testament to his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, as he effortlessly weaves intricate melodies and soulful licks throughout the song, creating a rich and evocative tapestry of sound that is both powerful and moving.
The arrangement of "Stones In My Passway" is another standout feature of the song, with its sparse and haunting instrumentation that sets the mood and tone for the narrative. The stripped-down arrangement allows Clapton's vocals and guitar playing to take center stage, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that draws the listener in and keeps them engaged from start to finish. The haunting melody and understated accompaniment create a sense of atmosphere and mood that is both evocative and compelling, adding depth and complexity to the song's emotional impact.
One of the key strengths of "Stones In My Passway" is its timeless and universal appeal, as the song's themes of struggle, perseverance, 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. "Stones In My Passway" 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, "Stones In My Passway" by Eric Clapton is a blues classic that showcases the legendary guitarist's virtuosity, emotional depth, and soulful delivery. With its haunting lyrics, soulful vocals, and emotive guitar solos, the song captures the essence of the blues tradition while also showcasing Clapton's unique style and sensibility. "Stones In My Passway" is a powerful and evocative 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 bring new life to a timeless classic, creating a timeless and enduring masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I got stones in my passway
And my road seem dark as night
I got stones in my passway
And my road seem dark as night
I got pain in my heart
That have taken my appetite
I have a bird to whistle
And I have a bird to sing
I have a bird to whistle
And I have a bird to sing
I got a woman that I'm loving
Boy, but she don't mean a thing
My enemies have betrayed me
Have overtaken poor Bob at last
Enemies have betrayed me
Have overtaken poor Bob at last
And then one thing, certainly
They have stones all in my path
Trying to take my life
And all my loving too
You laid a pathway for me
Now what are you trying to do?
And I'm crying please
Please let us be friends
Hear me, hear me howling in my pathway, rider
Please, don't you don't let me in
I got feelings to truck on
Boys, please don't block my road
I got feeling to truck on
Boys, please don't block my road
Feelin' shamed by my rider
Lord, I'm book a train and got to go