Essential Listening #21: Layla

My Comments

The double album, Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs by Derek and the Dominos, featuring Eric Clapton and Duane Allman is my favorite album of both guitarists. Their playing on Layla, featuring Duane on slide, is great. I encourage you to listen to the entire album.

Details

“Layla” is a song by Derek and the Dominos, a rock band formed by Eric Clapton, released on their 1970 album “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs.” The song is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. Here are the key details about the song:

Song Composition and Theme

• Writers: Eric Clapton and Jim Gordon.
• Genre: Rock, blues rock.
• Theme: The song is inspired by Clapton’s unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, who was married to his friend George Harrison at the time. The lyrics reflect the pain and longing of forbidden love, using the story of Layla from the classical Persian literature “Layla and Majnun” as a metaphor.

Musical Elements

• Structure: The song is divided into two distinct sections:
  • First Section: Features a recognizable guitar riff and passionate vocals by Clapton.
  • Second Section: A contrasting piano coda composed by Jim Gordon.
• Key Signature: The song modulates through various keys, primarily D minor for the main riff and C major for the piano coda.
• Guitar Work: The song is famous for its signature guitar riff played by Clapton and Duane Allman. Allman’s slide guitar work is also a highlight of the track.
• Piano Coda: The serene and melodic piano coda at the end of the song, played by Jim Gordon, adds a contrasting and memorable conclusion to the intense first part.

Reception and Impact

• Chart Performance: Initially, the song did not achieve significant commercial success, but it later gained recognition and reached higher chart positions in subsequent releases. It became a top 10 hit in the UK and US after its re-release in 1972.
• Critical Acclaim: “Layla” is considered a masterpiece and has received widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike. It is often included in lists of the greatest rock songs.
• Legacy: The song is a cornerstone of Clapton’s career and has become one of his signature songs. It is celebrated for its emotional depth, powerful guitar work, and innovative structure.

Album Details

• Album: “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs”
• Release Date: November 9, 1970
• Label: Atco Records, Polydor Records
• Producers: Tom Dowd

Interpretation and Analysis

The song’s lyrics express Clapton’s intense feelings of love and frustration. The metaphor of Layla, derived from a Persian love story, adds a layer of timeless romantic tragedy. The duality of the song’s structure, with the fiery rock segment followed by the gentle piano coda, reflects the emotional journey from turmoil to resolution.

Notable Lyrics

• Opening Lines: “What’ll you do when you get lonely / And nobody’s waiting by your side?”
• Chorus: “Layla, you got me on my knees / Layla, I’m begging, darling please / Layla, darling won’t you ease my worried mind”

Cultural Influence

“Layla” has had a significant impact on rock music and popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials. Its iconic riff and emotional depth continue to resonate with new generations of listeners.

Band Members Involved

• Eric Clapton: Lead guitar, vocals
• Duane Allman: Slide guitar
• Bobby Whitlock: Keyboards, vocals
• Carl Radle: Bass guitar
• Jim Gordon: Drums, piano coda

Live Performances

“Layla” has been a staple in Eric Clapton’s live performances. The song is often performed in various arrangements, sometimes with extended solos and improvisations. Clapton’s acoustic version of “Layla,” recorded for his “Unplugged” album in 1992, offered a new and widely acclaimed interpretation of the classic.

Cover Versions and Adaptations

The song has been covered by numerous artists across different genres. Clapton’s own acoustic version received significant attention and won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song in 1993. Other notable covers include performances by artists such as Jeff Healey and John Wetton.

Legacy and Honors

• Grammy Awards: The acoustic version won the Grammy for Best Rock Song in 1993.
• Rankings: “Layla” has been listed in various rankings of the greatest songs of all time, including Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”

“Layla” remains an enduring and powerful piece of music, showcasing Eric Clapton’s artistry and the collaborative brilliance of Derek and the Dominos. Its emotional intensity, iconic riff, and innovative structure ensure its place in the pantheon of rock music classics.