The weather forecast is iffy – scattered thunderstorms – but a lot of people would like to see Donald Trump’s tacky UFC Brawn on the Lawn extravaganza tonight suffer the indignity of a dousing.
Though “Let It Rain” was never a hit – it topped out at No. 48 – it’s always included on Eric Clapton’s greatest hits albums, because it’s one of his earliest and best compositions. He included it on his eponymous solo LP in 1970, but it wasn’t released as a single until 1972, when his former record company was cashing in on his back catalog.
Clapton acknowledged the tune owed a lot to Stephen Stills’ song “Questions.” The two guitarists became friends when Cream played Los Angeles in 1968 and over the next couple of years contributed to each other’s solo albums. Stills contributed some bass overdubs to “Let It Rain,” along with backup vocals and the guitar solo on the bridge.
If you’re familiar with “Questions” through the Crosby, Still & Nash cover, listen to the Buffalo Springfield original to hear what Clapton liked so much.
A fixture on the jukebox in the back room of the Deer Park in the early 70s, along with Sugar Mountain and Truckin’. Not an eclectic mix. But Clapton’s solo on the outro still rules.
Always loved that Buffalo Springfield album cover. Four of ’em looking in one direction, Neil looking the other way.