About the song
“Spoonful” by Cream is a compelling and influential track that stands out as a significant piece in the rock and blues genre. Released on August 10, 1967, this song is a standout track from their seminal album, “Disraeli Gears.” Written by blues legend Willie Dixon, “Spoonful” showcases Cream’s ability to merge traditional blues with their unique psychedelic rock sound, creating a distinctive and enduring musical experience.
“Spoonful” is a classic example of how Cream transformed blues into something new and exciting for the 1960s rock audience. The song’s lyrics, originally penned by Dixon, are a metaphorical exploration of desire and longing. The repeated reference to a “spoonful” serves as a metaphor for a powerful and irresistible force, often interpreted as a craving for love or a deeper connection. Dixon’s original blues composition captures the essence of emotional and physical yearning, and Cream’s rendition amplifies these themes with their signature energetic style.
The release of “Spoonful” on “Disraeli Gears” was pivotal in cementing Cream’s status as one of the leading bands of their time. The album, produced by Felix Pappalardi and Ginger Baker, is often cited as one of the greatest rock albums of the 1960s. “Spoonful” itself is notable for its intricate musicianship and dynamic performance, highlighting the virtuosity of Eric Clapton on guitar, Jack Bruce on bass, and Ginger Baker on drums. The song’s extended instrumental passages and Clapton’s powerful guitar solos contribute to its status as a seminal track in the blues-rock genre.
In terms of social impact, “Spoonful” represents a fusion of blues traditions with the emerging psychedelic rock movement. During the late 1960s, there was a growing interest in blending different musical styles, and Cream’s interpretation of this classic blues song was part of that trend. The track not only introduced blues enthusiasts to a new, more experimental sound but also helped bring blues influences to a broader rock audience. It stands as a testament to how traditional forms of music can be revitalized through innovative interpretations.
Musically, “Spoonful” features an extended instrumental section that showcases Cream’s improvisational skills and their ability to push the boundaries of traditional blues. The song’s driving rhythm, coupled with Clapton’s searing guitar work and Bruce’s melodic bass lines, creates a powerful and immersive listening experience. The production, with its layered guitar effects and energetic drum patterns, reflects the psychedelic rock ethos of the era while paying homage to the blues roots of the song.
In summary, “Spoonful” by Cream is a landmark track that highlights the band’s innovative approach to blues and rock music. Released in 1967 as part of “Disraeli Gears,” the song’s blend of blues roots and psychedelic rock elements exemplifies Cream’s unique sound and their impact on the music of the time. With its metaphorical lyrics and dynamic musical performance, “Spoonful” remains a powerful example of how classic blues can be reimagined for a new generation.
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Lyrics
Could fill spoons full of diamonds,Could fill spoons full of gold.Just a little spoon of your precious loveWill satisfy my soul.Men lies about it.Some of them cries about it.Some of them dies about it.Everything’s a-fightin’ about the spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.Could fill spoons full of coffee,Could fill spoons full of tea.Just a little spoon of your precious love;Is that enough for me?Men lies about it.Some of them cries about it.Some of them dies about it.Everything’s a-fightin’ about the spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.Could fill spoons full of water,Save them from the desert sands.But a little spoon of your forty-fiveSaved you from another man.Men lies about it.Some of them cries about it.Some of them dies about it.Everything’s a-fightin’ about the spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful.