About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Old Love" stands as a poignant testament to Eric Clapton's mastery of the blues genre, encapsulating themes of love, loss, and yearning in its rich musical tapestry. Released in 1989 as part of his album "Journeyman," the song showcases Clapton's virtuosity as both a guitarist and a vocalist, while also delving into the depths of human emotion with raw sincerity.
At its core, "Old Love" is a song that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of love and its aftermath. Clapton, a master storyteller through music, weaves a narrative of heartbreak and longing, drawing listeners into a world of bittersweet memories and emotional turmoil.
From the opening notes of the song, Clapton's guitar sets the tone, instantly captivating the listener with its soulful melody. His playing is imbued with a sense of longing and melancholy, as if each note carries the weight of past regrets and unfulfilled desires. The guitar serves as both a narrator and a companion, guiding the listener through the emotional landscape of the song with its plaintive refrain.
As Clapton begins to sing, his voice resonates with a raw vulnerability that is both captivating and haunting. He delivers the lyrics with a sense of intimacy, as if he is sharing his deepest secrets with the listener. Through his emotive performance, Clapton brings the lyrics to life, infusing them with a depth of feeling that is impossible to ignore.
Thematically, "Old Love" explores the aftermath of a failed relationship, as the protagonist grapples with the memories of a love that has long since faded. The lyrics are infused with a sense of longing and regret, as the protagonist reflects on the time spent with their former lover and the pain of letting go. Lines such as "I can feel your body / When I'm lying in bed" and "I'm too young to be old / Too old to be young" capture the conflicting emotions of nostalgia and resignation that accompany the end of a romance.
One of the most striking aspects of "Old Love" is its ability to evoke a sense of universality in its portrayal of love and loss. While the song may be rooted in Clapton's own personal experiences, its themes are relatable to anyone who has ever loved and lost. Whether it's the ache of unrequited love or the sting of betrayal, "Old Love" speaks to the inherent vulnerability of the human heart and the enduring power of memory.
Musically, "Old Love" is a tour de force, showcasing Clapton's unparalleled talent as a guitarist. His playing is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, with each note ringing out with clarity and precision. The song features a memorable guitar solo that serves as the emotional climax, with Clapton's playing reaching new heights of intensity and passion.
In addition to Clapton's guitar work, "Old Love" also features a soulful rhythm section that provides the perfect backdrop for his emotive vocals. The bassline rumbles beneath the surface, adding depth and texture to the song's sound, while the drums provide a steady pulse that drives the music forward. Together, these elements create a rich musical tapestry that perfectly complements Clapton's heartfelt performance.
"Old Love" is not just a song; it's a journey through the depths of the human soul, a meditation on love, loss, and the passage of time. With its evocative lyrics, soulful melody, and virtuosic instrumentation, it stands as a testament to Clapton's enduring legacy as one of the greatest blues musicians of all time. As the final notes fade away, the listener is left with a sense of catharsis, having experienced a musical journey that is as profound as it is unforgettable.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
I can feel your body
When I'm lying in bed
There's too much confusion
Going around through my head
And it makes me so angry
To know that the flame still burns
Why can't I get over?
When will I ever learn?
Old love, leave me alone
Old love, go on home
I can see your face
But I know that it's not real
It's just an illusion
Caused by how I used to feel
And it makes me so angry
To know that the flame will always burn
I'll never get over
I know now that I'll never learn
Old love, leave me alone
Old love, go on home