About the song
“Layla,” performed by the legendary Eric Clapton, is a timeless classic that has captivated listeners since its release. The song originally appeared on the 1970 album “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs” by Derek and the Dominos, a band that Clapton formed with several other talented musicians. This iconic track is widely recognized for its powerful, emotive guitar riff and poignant lyrics, both of which have contributed to its enduring popularity.
The song was co-written by Eric Clapton and Jim Gordon, the drummer for Derek and the Dominos. “Layla” is inspired by Clapton’s unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, who was married to his close friend and fellow musician, George Harrison of The Beatles, at the time. The song’s title and lyrical content were influenced by the Persian classical poem “Layla and Majnun” by Nizami Ganjavi, which tells the tale of a man driven to madness by his love for a woman he cannot have.
Upon its release, “Layla” received critical acclaim and has since been hailed as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. Although it did not achieve major commercial success initially, the song gradually gained popularity, especially after its re-release as a single in 1972. “Layla” reached number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and has been a staple of classic rock radio ever since.
The song’s enduring legacy is reflected in its numerous accolades. “Layla” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2000, and Rolling Stone magazine ranked it number 27 on its list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” Eric Clapton’s heartfelt performance and the song’s intricate, soulful arrangement continue to resonate with audiences, making “Layla” a beloved and unforgettable piece of music history.
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Lyrics
What’ll you do when you get lonely
And nobody’s waiting by your side?
You’ve been running and hiding much too long
You know it’s just your foolish pride
you’ve got me on my knees
(Layla) I’m begging, darling, please
(Layla) darling, won’t you ease my worried mind?
I tried to give you consolation
When your old man had let you down
Like a fool, I fell in love with you
You turned my whole world upside down
you’ve got me on my knees
(Layla) I’m begging, darling, please
(Layla) darling, won’t you ease my worried mind?
Let’s make the best of the situation
Before I finally go insane
Please, don’t say we’ll never find a way
And tell me all my love’s in vain
you’ve got me on my knees
(Layla) I’m begging, darling, please
(Layla) darling, won’t you ease my worried mind?
Layla (Layla) you’ve got me on my knees
(Layla) I’m begging, darling, please
(Layla) darling, won’t you ease my worried mind?