Etta James and Dr. John – I’d Rather Go Blind | 1987 Live Performance
Ladies and Gentlemen, you just saw lightning caught in a bottle! This is just the perfect example of a duet. Etta James and Dr. John are vibing and getting so into the material that they lose themselves in the performance. No one is doing it quite like Miss Etta. Raw emotion and talent! She is powerful yet subdued, he is meek yet leads her. Dr. John carries her through the middle of the song, supporting her, although we all know that such a force of the universe needs nothing but space to shine.
In 1987, blues fans were treated to a live performance that still resonates as one of the most powerful renditions of I’d Rather Go Blind. Etta James, the indomitable queen of blues and soul, brought her unmistakable voice to the stage, while the legendary Dr. John added his unique musical touch to the performance. The result was a deeply emotional and unforgettable rendition that blended two of the greatest names in blues.
A Powerful Moment
The song I’d Rather Go Blind, originally written by Ellington Jordan and brought to life by James, is a moving ballad about heartache and loss. When James took the stage with Dr. John, the result was a pairing that could not be ignored. Dr. John’s playing and James’ voice were a perfect match, creating a performance that stayed with the audience long after the song ended.
Their work together on stage wasn’t just a performance, it was an exploration of emotions. With no flashy elements, their performance relied solely on the connection between the two artists and the depth they brought to the song. Dr. John’s steady, soulful accompaniment on the piano paired seamlessly with Etta James’ powerful vocal delivery.
Watch the Performance:
Etta James and Dr. John – I’d Rather Go Blind – Live, 1987.
Why This Performance Matters
Raw Emotion
What stands out most about this performance is the raw emotion both artists put into their parts. Etta James’ voice is not just about power but about truth. Dr. John’s touch on the piano sets the stage for James to pour her soul into the song. It’s a performance where both artists convey more than just the words they express a deep feeling that stays with listeners.
A Song That Speaks
While many have performed I’d Rather Go Blind, Etta James’ version remains one of the most genuine. The way she sings this song, with Dr. John backing her, makes it clear that this isn’t just a cover, it’s a fresh telling of a well-known song. Together, they give the song a new life, reminding us why it’s still relevant in the blues world.
A Moment in Time
This performance from 1987 reminds us of the power of simplicity in music. There are no distractions, just two artists sharing a moment of truth. It’s a performance that holds its place in the hearts of fans and continues to reach new listeners, decades after it was first played.
The live performance of I’d Rather Go Blind is more than just another concert moment. It’s an illustration of how music can capture truth, connect artists with their audience, and create something that stays in the mind long after the performance. For both long-time fans and newcomers, this moment remains a key part of blues history.
Lyrics:
Something told me it was over
When I saw you and her talkin’
Something deep down in my soul said, ‘Cry, girl’
When I saw you and that girl walkin’ around
Whoo, I would rather, I would rather go blind, boy
Then to see you walk away from me, child, no
Whoo, so you see, I love you so much
That I don’t wanna watch you leave me, baby
Most of all, I just don’t, I just don’t wanna be free, no
Whoo, whoo, I was just, I was just, I was just
Sittin here thinkin’, of your kiss and your warm embrace, yeah
When the reflection in the glass that I held to my lips now, baby
Revealed the tears that was on my face, yeah
Whoo and baby, baby, I’d rather, I’d rather be blind, boy
Then to see you walk away, see you walk away from me, yeah
Whoo, baby, baby, baby, I’d rather be blind…
Songwriters: Ellington Jordan / Billy Foster
