About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"I'd Rather Go Blind" is a soul-stirring blues ballad that gained widespread recognition through the rendition by Rod Stewart and Carlos Santana. Originally written by Ellington Jordan and co-credited to Etta James, the song has become a classic in the blues and soul genres. Stewart and Santana collaborated on their version, infusing the track with a unique blend of Stewart's emotive vocals and Santana's signature guitar artistry.
The song explores the deep and poignant theme of heartbreak, with the narrator expressing the overwhelming pain of witnessing a loved one with someone else. Stewart's interpretation of "I'd Rather Go Blind" is a masterclass in vocal delivery, as he skillfully conveys the raw emotions of love lost. His gravelly and soulful voice lends an authenticity to the lyrics, making the listener feel the intensity of the narrator's despair.
Carlos Santana's contribution to the rendition is equally significant. His distinctive guitar playing adds a layer of expressiveness to the track, creating a musical dialogue with Stewart's vocals. Santana's ability to infuse soulful, melodic phrases and searing solos enhances the emotional impact of the song, elevating it beyond a standard blues ballad.
The collaboration between Rod Stewart and Carlos Santana is a testament to their musical chemistry and mutual respect for each other's talents. Santana's guitar work complements Stewart's vocals seamlessly, creating a synergy that brings out the best in both artists. Their rendition of "I'd Rather Go Blind" becomes a powerful conversation between voice and instrument, with each element enhancing the emotional resonance of the other.
The arrangement of the song is both soulful and bluesy, capturing the essence of the original while incorporating Santana's Latin-infused guitar stylings. The backing instrumentation, featuring a combination of piano, drums, and bass, provides a rich and textured backdrop for Stewart and Santana to weave their musical magic. The dynamics in the arrangement mirror the ebb and flow of the emotions expressed in the lyrics, creating a compelling listening experience.
One of the notable aspects of the Stewart-Santana rendition is its ability to pay homage to the original while bringing a fresh perspective. The respect for the source material is evident, yet the collaboration allows for artistic interpretation and innovation. This version of "I'd Rather Go Blind" stands as a testament to the timeless nature of the blues, as it is embraced and reinterpreted by artists across generations.
The emotional weight of "I'd Rather Go Blind" has made it a staple in both Stewart's and Santana's live performances. The song's universal theme of heartache resonates with audiences, creating a connection that transcends time and cultural boundaries. Whether heard in a studio recording or experienced in a live setting, the Stewart-Santana rendition captures the essence of the blues—a genre known for its ability to convey the depth of human emotions.
In conclusion, Rod Stewart and Carlos Santana's rendition of "I'd Rather Go Blind" is a powerful collaboration that brings together two iconic artists to reinterpret a classic blues ballad. Stewart's soulful vocals and Santana's expressive guitar work create a musical synergy that elevates the emotional impact of the song. Their rendition pays homage to the roots of the blues while infusing it with a contemporary energy, making it a standout in both artists' expansive discographies.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
Something told me it was over
when I saw you and him talking
Something deep down in my soul said "Cry boy"
when I saw you and him out walking
I would rather, I would rather go blind girl
than to see you walk away from me child
So you see I love you so much
I don't want to see you leave me baby
most of all I just don't, I just don't want to be free
I was just, I was just sitting here thinking
of your kiss and your warm embrace child
When the reflection in the glass
that I been held to my lips now baby
revealed the tears I had on my face
I would rather, I would rather be blind child
than to see you walk away from me
Baby, baby, baby I would rather go blind
than to see you walk away from me