Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day.  And if this helps anyone else, even better.

For many fans of the blues, the trifecta of that genre belongs to the three Kings: Albert King, B.B. King & Freddie King. Not related by blood but by soul. And the heart of my soul, Eric Clapton, worshiped all three guitarists. He had the chance to play with all of them during his varied career and he has probably played every classic blues song ever written, including today’s Christmas track.

Freddie King’s rendition is spectacular and should not be missed, either. But since Clapton holds my heart and does a rousing version of today’s song, his is my favorite. It can be found on his 2018 album, “A Clapton Christmas”. But today’s pick is from his 1998 appearance at “A Very Special Christmas from Washington D.C.” because the only thing better than a Clapton record is a Clapton performance.

“I need you darling
To kiss and hold me tight
I need you darling
On a lonely Christmas night“.

Eric Clapton performing today’s song in 1998. (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Eric Clapton: “Christmas Tears” (Live performance for “A Very Special Christmas from Washington D.C.”, 1998. Written by Sonny Thompson and Robert Charles (R.C.) Wilson circa 1961).

I do not own the rights to anything. I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.