Etta James and Dr. John’s performance of “I’d Rather Go Blind” in 1987 is an intense and powerful expression of the blues. Etta’s voice cuts through with emotion, every note filled with deep feeling. She sings the lyrics with such honesty, you can feel the weight of her words. Dr. John adds his own flavor with his bluesy piano, creating a solid foundation that complements Etta’s vocal performance.
Etta James and Dr. John – I’d Rather Go Blind – Live, 1987.
As the song unfolds, you can hear the pain and struggle in Etta’s delivery. Her voice carries the emotional weight of the song, with Dr. John’s piano adding rich tones that deepen the atmosphere. Their interaction on stage feels natural, as both artists contribute to a shared experience that holds the audience’s attention from beginning to end.
The live setting at the Orpheum Theater amplifies the connection between the artists and the crowd. Etta James and Dr. John bring their full energy to the performance, showing their mastery of the blues and making this rendition of “I’d Rather Go Blind” their own. It’s a song that stays with you, long after the performance is over..
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
