Crossroads
Eric Clapton / Jeff Beck Lyrics

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I went down to the crossroads
Tried to flag a ride
I went down to the crossroads
Tried to flag a ride
Nobody seemed to know me
Everybody passed me by

I went down to the crossroads

Fell down on my knees
I went down to the crossroads
Fell down on my knees
Ask the Lord above for mercy
Save me if you please

I am going down to Rosedale
Taking my rider by my side
I am going down to Rosedale
Take my rider by my side
You can still barrelhouse, baby
They call us on the riverside

You can run, you can run
Go and tell my friend-boy Willie Brown
You can run, you can run
Go and tell my friend-boy Willie Brown

And I'm standing at the crossroads
I believe I'm sinking down

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck's song Crossroads describe a protagonist who has gone to a crossroad, trying to get a ride. Nobody seems to know who he is, and everyone ignores him. The persona falls on his knees and asks the Lord above for mercy, to save him. He then decides to go down to Rosedale, taking his rider with him. He is a bluesman, and they are still barrel-housing, even though they are by the riverside. Despite his efforts, he cannot outrun his problems, and he is sinking down as he stands at the crossroads.

The crossroads in this song likely refer to the intersection of Highways 61 and 49 in Clarksdale, Mississippi, which is considered by many to be the place where the blues was born. The crossroads became a legendary spot in the blues world because of the story of Robert Johnson, who was said to have sold his soul to the devil there in exchange for unsurpassed guitar skills. The lyrics of the song echo this legend and suggest that the singer is at a critical juncture in his life, seeking salvation or a way out of his problems.

Line by Line Meaning

I went down to the crossroads
I traveled to a place where paths diverge

Tried to flag a ride
I attempted to catch a ride from someone passing by

Nobody seemed to know me
No one recognized or acknowledged me

Everybody passed me by
Everyone ignored me and continued on their way

Fell down on my knees
I dropped to the ground on my knees

Ask the Lord above for mercy
I pleaded with God for forgiveness and compassion

Save me if you please
I begged to be rescued from my troubled situation

Taking my rider by my side
I am accompanied by my companion as we continue our journey

You can still barrelhouse, baby
We can still have a good time and play music together

They call us on the riverside
People refer to us and our music by the riverbank

Go and tell my friend-boy Willie Brown
Inform my friend, Willie Brown, of my circumstances

And I'm standing at the crossroads
I find myself still at the point of divergence

I believe I'm sinking down
I feel as though I am in a downward spiral

Lyrics © CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC
Written by: Robert Johnson

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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Comments from YouTube:

@davidusmar8363

5y↑5

Why do people get caught up in an argument about who is the best guitarist .. just enjoy the interplay and virtuosity of both and let the music speak instead of wrangling your brain over who is best .. aren't we so lucky to have both

@michaelreisser6986

4y↑2

You are so damned right, man! So lucky to have still both living! (So many "blues-stringers heaven done call back home"!)

@raymondvaughan6262

47w

Shame Jeff's gone now rip jeff one,off brilliant player one of the best

@necklix

11y↑13

Jeff is so polite with Eric, he could just be KICKING IT!! But He's letting Eric go.... Jeff Beck YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!! I LOVE YA!!

@markkircher4451

1y↑2

He did kick it. This duo ..doing song is some the best of the of the best.

@michaelbackstrom1011

31w↑2

Jeff Beck the best guitar player ever

@archiguitarchi

11y↑15

I'm 64 this year and fortunate to still be performing. My main influence in 1967 was Clapton (fresh Cream), then there was Beck, and soon Page. Hendrix was an influence too, but not much of him has stayed with me. For me it's still Clapton and Beck. I consider myself blessed.

@psfirthoffith

12y↑20

Beck and Clapton are still two of the greatest guitarists to ever play.

@Shelby427Web

1y↑6

RIP Jeff Beck ❤

@markeepg5681

9y↑14

My two guitar influences. I love how Clapton always plays modestly in the first solo, gives Beck the spotlight to flex his elite chops, then the two duke it out at the end.

@steveblackburn9124

1y↑6

Love them both but Beck could blow anyone off stage if he wanted. Rest in Peace, the greatest at his craft

@JohnHoulgate

12y↑19

It's a special treat to see these two guys on stage together.

@jamesbueker11

45w↑1

Beck is like a scientist with the guitar. It’s hard to believe Eric’s not in his class, but Mr. Jeff was in a class all by himself. An amazing genius. Like Les Paul.

@karenreardon5398

42w↑1

Their chemistry is incomparable.

@redhead5150

10y↑21

Jeff Beck is my guitar god but it's a matter of style & sound because both of them are legends.

@psykomystro

12y↑17

You kids are ridiculous! You can't compare this to what was done with Cream 40 years ago. There he was creating history. This is a celebration of that history he created 40 years ago. An established, accomplished legend enjoying what he did and doing some reminiscing with a friend and peer of his generation.

@markkircher4451

What superb summary. It’s difficult to write about the truth of history… you nailed perfect.

@J.A.Hansen

1y↑1

RiP Jeff Beck🎸Gone Too Soon😔God Bless You Eric🙏Psalm 121🙏

@guitarzzzz1

12y↑6

this is amazing two true guitar legends having fun!!!! rock on people

@iamkenman101

8y↑36

The Crossroads Guitar Festivals were founded by Eric Clapton to benefit the Crossroads Centre drug treatment center. Eric hand picks each artist to play at the fests and highlights their playing.
Clapton doesn't play the guitarists but he does compliment their playing. During most performances, you'll notice that he gives his guests the prime solo times, etc. I have a lot of respect for Eric Clapton for donating his time and money to put the Crossroads Guitar Festivals together.

@patagualian

11y↑6

I've been enjoying Clapton in his many guises for many many years...but I'm no expert.....just a "casual listener" I suppose...but I must say, for me at least, you've hit the nail on the head.... "Clapton in Cream was great, a real onslaught......." But it does not diminish his output since....he just became...well...."Clapton". Let's be grateful for that. Thanks for the input.

@spinozacelt

12y↑3

Jeff Beck-amazing.

@stuartcolman4459

11y↑1

Fuck Beck is just a monster...his pick hand is one giant callus with talons. My top living legend on the instrument. I want to be a shred-tacular wizard when I'm pushing 70, in a perfect world.

@rghillyard

11y↑4

Ya'll are over thinking this, it's good music and that's all that matters

@emrgndgn

3y↑4

Best concert song ever!

@abrwjg

11y↑2

As A professional guitarist of 30+ years all I have to say is this...I have absorbed everyones thing from Johhny"Guitar"Watson to Hendrix to The Wolf to Clapton, beck and who the hell knows how many others. That is the exact thing about music - Take it all in!

@MrTallguy66

7y↑2

Happy bday eric....your still a legend

@Nancyjean24

12y↑5

Loving the tempo on this one . Thanks for posting.

@copstolemywife

11y↑4

Ever notice how many of the very best guitarists weapon of choice is the Stratocaster?

@iamanovercomer3253

Yup ❗ but I haven't got mine yet to sound like that 🎵🎶😂

@kannomakoto9935

11y↑1

Eric and Jeff, thank you nice Guitar. I love you.

@charlesdjones1

11y↑1

To an extent, I agree. As much as people like to throw opinions around on the internet with no class you make some valid points. Been listening to Clapton since I was 15, I'm going to be 33 in a few months. Somehow, over this span of eternity I have never listened to Beck until last week. My dad used to mention him and I can see why he is so well regarded, but in the end, Clapton, as you said with Cream, really brought the house down as in Crossroads, just magical. Both have their place in time.

@MichaelPalinFan2008

11y↑1

I hope these guys tour together again. IREALLY WANNA SEE EM!!!!!!!!

@coquelicot323

1y↑1

Un vrai musicien. Accompagné de vrais musiciens. Total respect.

@sherriffofhongkong

12y

It's nice to see one of these guy's is still vital and inventive. just comparing them to themselves... I remember when they both started...

@Patcha-Mama

47w

Actif depuis le 19 avr. 2023 ?
et c'est BIEN ça qu'est LOCK'N LOLL

@yvon6217

10y↑1

GREAT!!!

@mrJimCharles

11y

Hardly the most exciting Clapton performance.

@dpg227

3y↑1

The backup singers really give it a bluesy vibe.

@GeorgeGrosman

11y

At a certain point, comparisons become tedious, I agree. But why is it wrong to point out facts? I love Eric Clapton as much as any man. I am turning 60 this weekend and have listened to him all my life, admired his dedication, his pioneering and championing of the blues and many of his records (and his excellent singing and songwriting!!!) But it's simply true that Beck is a better player - more skill, more inventiveness, more mastery. It's true but doesn't take away from EC's accomplishments

@jmflyer55

12y

Agreed.......Take Care.......John

@marcelosimoes274

11y

Nice...Eric and Jeff 2 old friends...!!!

@harryflocyberman

11y↑1

Ya know we all get older, and with that we change, we move and express what we are, Eric clapton and beck can not play what they can not feel, I don't pretend to know what that is, but what I do understand is, people change as they grow older and at this stage in their live this change is all they can express, even if it isn't to your satisfaction. I been playing guitar for 35 years I don't feel or think the way I did 20 years ago. Be who you are not what you think someone thinks you should be.

@EmmyNess234

12y↑2

Several thoughts: 1.) Beck actually replaced Clapton in the Yardbirds... Based on this performance, think about that. 2.) Three great blues/rock guitar triumvirates in the late '60's, and this is 2/3 of one of them. (Clapton was, in fact, a member of all three of them.) 3.) This performance shows off some of the best arranged, and best PERFORMED, live background vocals that I have ever heard or seen.

@Ex77Thruxton

12y

At about 4 minutes things turn insane!

@ericwaltermueggenburgh

ĢOD gives and Takes!jesus loves 🇺🇸 THANX TO CREATOR OF ALL CREATIONZ

@robertfuller5081

5y↑1

Steve Gadd on drums!!

@digiovd

12y

Its Steve Gadd, he is the man.

@nuendo2496

12y

JeFFFFFFF

@annakimborahpa

9y↑9

I perceive the three lead guitarists of the Yardbirds as reaching the zenith of their respective fields of expertise: (1) Clapton - successful solo artist; (2) Beck - comprehensive technical genius; (3) Page - premier group leader [Led Zeppelin].

@chetaillebernard2641

12y

merveilleux guitariste!

@ponnywarcat3478

That's one back country podunk tune if there ever was one

@metalfiend124

12y

@psykomystro Yeah, this song is historic because it connects Robert Johnson blues to the 60's. And Jeff is always bending music to make it state of the art, he was hugely important in the 1970's and 1980's. This is 2 legends playing a classic.

@zosoiv71

11y

I moved the video out of my sight and tried to figure out who was soloing....easy. Jeff Beck's playing is exciting, creative and loaded with tone...amazing! I know he's in his 60's now but he still has his ability to play as well or better than in his youth. I heard he will retire at age 70...glad that I saw him when he toured with Santana!

@denisemason3335

10y

Like some one said you are all over thinking on this. At our older age moving to the speed of this version is just fine with me. I am not amped like I used to be. LOL Take that last anyway you want to. Those were the times.

@johnzook7533

8y↑7

A couple Yardbirds acting up.

@stubhead

Wow, the two black girls at the side snapping their fingers and doing the "ooohs" is super way-retro 70's. You couldn't be a cool band without them. It does seem as though they've grown a bit?

@rmac06

11y↑1

Eric's performance w/the Stones was the only time in recent memory I've seen him step out. He did not want to do Cream, and it was obvious. He has never taken Jeff on since Jeff slit his throat on Further Down the Road" in 1982. He refused to play after Jeff at ARMS in 1983, opening instead. Nobody can build a melody like Eric. I wish he would play to his potential, he seems so reluctant Obviously Jeff is simply the finest living guitar player. I'm quoting Sting.

@kk07201996

12y

かっこいい！！！

@abrwjg

11y

And Johnny Cash, and Jonny Thunders, and on and on and on. From this I found my own style.

@brandonterzic

6y↑6

Beck makes the guitar sound like a lapsteel and a harmonica....such a badass

@opatopat443

Crossroads for the Stars

@davemooreblues

12y

The shell of a former great musician. The white BB King.

@cindybowe4897

11y

great musicians

@Bigcheeselabirynth

12y

Unlike me the world is full of talented people. A heavy-traffic super Hwy. Not a geographical place, or a physcological state you can get in some cross rd. pill. Another metaphor if you will. Said of the extrodinarily talented, that they must have made some deal with the immortal to be so gifted. But it's a metaphorical illusion. NONE of it is real. .......ok that gusting crack of thunder kinda shook the earth......Gotta go now!

@diegooland1261

Ah a time when Gods roamed the earth and rocked all who came to the alter of awesomeness.

@johnzook7533

+Diego O' Land Amen!

@coravisser727

11y

YesI am agree with you lawrence.

@nylonsteel

12y

Great backup singers

@jmflyer55

12y

Exactly....He's been playing the same pentatonic scale for 35yrs. and I think people are just tired of it. There are so many great guitarists out there, many that we never even hear of. Anyhow, yep, he's definately worn out the same pentatonic licks, that's for sure. jm

@allancerf9038

11y

while i only really like cream n' mayal era clapton my admiration for him has grown and i now feel he has more musical talent the beck whom i also rate highly

@tommy--k

12y↑5

no way clapton can keep up with beck

@walterantoniodossantos1135

12y

onten hoje sempre 100 nada igual

@makalavena

12y

Jeff held back

@iamanovercomer3253

Agree

@johnvoyce

Some people say Why compare them? The fact is that we inevitably do. Even though Clapton is brilliant, I find him slightly predictable. Jeff Beck, on the other hand, is never predictable - he always "blows my mind".

@blueguitar8479

4y↑1

I’ll take Clapton any day. He plays less notes but says more

@NgaiOlaudah

11y

No, sir, I beg to vehemently differ: Mr. ---er---DOCTOR Clapton has EARNED and deservedly so, the title of Black (White) brother blues man for the millennia...he may be technically brilliant but he CAN & DOES glide into the mountains and valleys - those wellsprings - of profoundly experienced emotion that a player of The Blues MUST have (& project) from his innermost self...further he does it all with great humility!!! like the great ones!!!!

@MOSKII58

12y

@loosinggrip67 yeah this is like he did it w/ cream as they were inducted into TRRHOF the 1968 version has balls to it and is probably one of the best live versions..

@fanofgreatguitarists

11y↑1

Simple: (a) play the most innovative, explosive guitar of any YB's guitarist, (b) spearhead the YB's most productive period (by far), and (c) help invent psychedelic rock.

@lawrencemintz4088

12y↑1

Well i thought Cream was a better band than the Jimi Hendrix Experience. And now when I listen to their music I still think Cream music richer and more original. .

@Sajtbaba

11y↑1

I can't believe people are saying things like "Batman can kick Spiderman's ass". We are not in the kindergarten, are we? :-)

@masami6042

10y

ジェフベツクも素晴らしい

@sherriffofhongkong

12y

I agree you can't compare this to 1969.... why is Jeff Beck still creative in 2012 and Eric Clapton is retreading or celabrating the past...

@bouwmr

12y

@FOOFOOKITTY look up the 2007 version on the crossroads guitar festival, it´ll blow your mind!

@WildflowerNJ1

Jeff >3

@virginia6311

11y

Likin it boys. Jeff Beck is alright with me. Could I write you some lyric's could ya message me, all right boys you sure sound good to me. I think I should write ya a song and we'll right all the wrong's and ya can play it when ya getta Tennessee

@TombstoneHeart

11y↑1

@TheBrandon425 Yep, Steve Gadd, one of my favourite drummers of all time, but when did he switch to the overhand grip? I've always seen him playing with the traditional or millitary grip on his left hand. Still one of the best in the business tho and his resume proves it. He's played with some of the greats over the years.

@alofislide

12y

@uo8am i would suggest you give it another listen.

@hypermecha223

11y

Very well put, I concur. I find Beck & Page much more exciting guitarists to watch & hear.

@nyg1954

I love them all

@TheTestingGrounds

12y

Am quite familiar with all of those. Watch Beck, he makes guitar playing look total second nature to him, totally effortless. Besides I totally dig how he always finger picks.

@bobjames1992

12y↑4

Every before I watched this I knew Beck would blow Clapton away. Always has, always will.

@FOOFOOKITTY

12y

Listened to Mayer and Clapton play this, very enjoyable - then went to hear Cream in 1968 and wow! at least twice the speed of this version. Just sounds sort of tired.

@Patcha-Mama

47w

je roule harley depuis plus de 30 ans et des comme toi, j'en ai croisé
plus que la nature humaine et la décence aurait aimer
que tu n'existerais PAS !

@omnibus3112

11y↑1

Jeff owes Eric any day of the week. i love Eric, but Jess is truly something else

@nyg1954

6y↑6

Does anyone else think Clapton has become a fine vocalist?

@pho2

I have always liked Claptons singing voice and phrasing but never heard him given any credit for it.

@lastdaysguitar

11y

Actually EC himself would tell you that EVH can (and did) play every song he's done, and does so PERFECTLY - Eddie has at last beaten the addictions and proved this last year he has no reason to have worries about staying relevent, "A Different Kind of Truth" was a stunning CD and the tour showed him playing better than ever - EVH is one of the greats too: even as he gets older and inevitably slows down, I would bet he'll still be able to play truly great stuff.

@Thunekarl

9y↑10

May I put a question? Why compare? I make a difference between professionality and quality. From a point of view of professionality playing the guitar may be that Jeff tops (or Jimi)....who ever may judge this with which kind of criteria.....
whereas Quality is a very individual thing - an event: Eric as well as Jeff gibe me goose skin.....Jimi never did....

@peterchoe

+Karl-Heinz Thunemann
Jimi never gave you goosebumps? Go listen to Machine Gun at Norman Oklahoma. You'll never go back after that.

@skraka98

there are many Guitar players that can play Gazillion notes per minutes but their music can't talk to your soul, Slow hand Clapton would have indept conversation with your sould when he plays.

@TheTestingGrounds

12y↑1

Safe to say that Jeff Beck is the best British guitarist ever

@OfficialAdamDeRocco

13y

Fantastic! Do you have anymore?

@AbbyNormal777

12y

And Stevie Winwood ain't too shabby either.

@davidlalremruata

Anybody has that vdo of these two doing the Other Policeman's Ball or something like that?
Link, if you did, please.

@1m2a3t4t5

12y

I don't understand why Beck is so good now, back then (60s) he had no out of the ordinary skill at playing.

@nyg1954

8y↑1

you don't think so? try listening to the yardbirds' "shapes of things". like nothing ever heard on the radio before.

@melodymakermark

3y↑1

Or Over Under Sideways Down, or For Your Love, or anything else he did in the Yardbirds. Those were monster tones and sounds for the time. By 1966, nobody knew what to do with him though. Mickey Most fumbled around and got him some attention, then Truth is regarded as a legendary rock album, but it wasn’t until he worked with George Martin that things really took off.

@314WESTERN

12y

come back jack, all is forgiven.

@fanofgreatguitarists

11y

nice comment, accurate

@fanofgreatguitarists

11y

good comment

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