Eric Clapton – The Story Behind “Holy Mother”

Eric Clapton – Holy Mother – Live, Budokan, Japan, 2003.

Clapton began writing this song while touring with Roger Waters on the “Pros and Cons of Hitchhiking” in 1984.

Clapton was struggling with alcohol at the time and began the song as a cry for help.

The number was recorded during the sessions for “August” in March and April of 1986.

In a much better place at the time the LP was released, he dedicated the number to Richard Manuel of The Band who had taken his own life in January of 1986 –

The number must still hold meaning for him as he has periodically returned to it in the decades since it was written –

I think it is the vocal on this version that makes it stand out for me – from Budokan, Japan 2003.

Lyrics:
Holy Mother, where are you?
Tonight I feel broken in two.
I’ve seen the stars fall from the sky.
Holy mother, can’t keep from crying.

Oh I need your help this time,
Get me through this lonely night.
Tell me please which way to turn
To find myself again.

Holy mother, hear my prayer,
Somehow I know you’re still there.
Send me please some peace of mind;
Take away this pain.

I can’t wait, I can’t wait, I can’t wait any longer.
I can’t wait, I can’t wait, I can’t wait for you.

Holy mother, hear my cry,
I’ve cursed your name a thousand times.
I’ve felt the anger running through my soul;
All I need is a hand to hold.

Oh I feel the end has come,
No longer my legs will run.
You know I would rather be
In your arms tonight.

When my hands no longer play,
My voice is still, I fade away.
Holy mother, then I’ll be
Lying in, safe within your arms.

Songwriters: Eric Clapton / Stephen Bishop

Holy Mother lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Warner Chappell Music, Inc