Freddie King turned a lot of heads when he recorded “Hide Away.” As he tells the story, it’s a song influenced by a bunch of other song pieces; and like everything in the music industry… the best songs are stolen from the best songs before them. Regardless of how the song came to be, Freddie’s recording of “Hide Away” has been rerecorded and covered by countless blues musicians for years. I want to pay homage to the classic tune by sharing a few different live performances from the likes of Freddie King, Eric Clapton, John Mayall and the Blues Breakers, and the great Stevie Ray Vaughan. Every one of these stellar guitarists put their own stamp on the great tune… see if you can hear all the little differences. Enjoy!
Freddie King originally recorded “Hide Away” in the early 1960s and the tune has been covered by countless blues musicians, making it a blues classic. Check out the original in action (and dig the closeups on Freddie’s right hand):
John Mayall and the Blues Breakers took a stab at the tune with Eric Clapton taking the lead. Enjoy their version:
Lastly, SRV took the reins and produced his stellar rendition of the song. Check out this live performance (with Rude Mood as a bonus!)
There are a lot of blues songs that are considered classics today. Fortunately, we have access to all of them so we can borrow and steal from the greats 🙂
189 replies to "Classic Blues Songs: “Hide Away”"
Freddie Kings was and is the best, Clapton’s not so much but as his playing style improved he became a god . In the early 60s didn’t know this was blues But our little band played it and loved it
FIRST GO, GO GAL WITH FREDDIE.. DANG, THIS BRINGS BACK MEMORIES OF THE 60.S.
KIngs version is classic and just looks so natural and easy for him to play and perform…really in the groove in this video, fantastic.
SRV.. just nails it as usual hard to follow
Clapton’s version is too clinical for me but back in the day when Beano first came out I thought it the best but I’ve learnt better since..
FREDDY IS THE KING ON HERE!
Excellent analysis Ray. 👍🏼
Up early and watched the News. Needed this to enjoy the 3 day weekend. No more News!!! Just the Blues and some Solid Rock?Blues with some Griff and Gary Moore, and a few Cocktails. This stuff is sooo Great! Thank the Good Lord for this kind of talent. I’ll keep the Blues in my head, even after I go back to work on Monday!!
Freddies the man. Mayalls sounds too sterile. Guess its because its not live. Freddies got it hands down in my book.
Love ’em all but gotta go with Clapton’s version as the best. If I’m not mistaken, SRV got booed off the stage after his set in which this song was shown. . . . .Montreaux 1983 I think. Unbelievable if you think about it. 🙁
I can Recall 1966. The BLUES BREAKERS WERE ONE OF MY FAVORITE BANDS. WEIRD TO ERIC WITH A LES PAUL.
I think My sweaty Freddie is the best. Always called him that. He could sweat out a tune with so much feeling.
Like them all. SRV, should have quit smoking., I never like it , when he would play with a cig in his mouth.
He did dye from cancer. RIP STEVE.
SRV died sober in a helicopter crash.
That was excellent! I liked Eric Clapton’s version but the way Freddie King played it with so many different movement’s or variations of the tune it was kick ass, and after the bass solo he kicks it in another version which I thought was so cool. Then SRV’s version I just loved because he fitted in “rude mood” then went back into the song.. All of it was so cool thanks!
Alexander
I’m partial to Clapton’s version on the Bluesbreakers Beano album. It’s one I come back to time and again to brush up on licks, because all of them are in there. ;>) Peace, out.
All great versions. GREAT! But… Freddie’s joy can not be superseded.
I have to say I loved them all , great song .
Hey Griff,
Great refresher and I think that the version by SRV absolutely nails it even in Bb, also the change in beats are amazing and I like also SRV concentration that makes it. It is way above my level but inspiring.
Michael-Sydney-Australia 26 Nov 2018.
Jerry Miller also does Hide away, & just kills it. It’s one of his regular songs for years.
An interesting thought: Freddie King plays the song in E. Stevie Ray Vaughn plays it in Eb, since he always(?) tuned his guitar down 1/2 step. Clapton ALSO plays it in Eb. Does that mean Clapton prefers Stevie Ray’s version, over Freddie King’s version? (Re-tuning an entire band is no small feat.)
I saw Freddie play Hideaway ’71. The dude was a stone cold killer. I remember playing Clapton’s version from the John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers “Beano” album to my son many years ago. I told him “this song has just about every riff you’ll ever need. Learn it and you’ll be set.” 😉
Thankyou Griff.
So many riffs in one tune!
Saw John Mayall with Eric play this at the Marquee in London in 1966.
On another great night John Mayall and Peter Green played another Freddie tune,The Stumble.
It’s on their Bluesbreakers album.
Also check out the first Bluesbreakers album for Ray Charles What I say. Eric does a great Beatles nod to the Daytripper riff.
Happy days and happy memories!,
Regards,
Chris.
I love Clapton’s tone. I love SRV’s energy. But, as silly as this may sound, I love how Freddy seems so happy as he plays. Maybe it’s because I struggle not to scowl when I’m playing at church because I’m trying so hard to not mess up. 🙂
Thank you for sourcing such great blues for us to watch. I do not wish to take away from the other giants that have played I it but Freddie, for me did it best.
ALWAYS LOVED FREEDIE KING. I EVEN HAVE THE VIYNAL COPY OF THE BLUES BREAKERS DOING THIS SONG. MAN I’M GETTING OLD GRIFF.
I loved all the videos. I watch these guys and study 📖 your lessons, so someday I could at least come a ‘lil close to playing like my idols. Thanks for these ‘lil lessons. I look forward to your lessons every day.
Thank you I like all of them.
One of the best versions I ever heard was by Jeff Healey the most unbelievable blind Blues guitar player I ever heard.
Hi Dennis
Jeff Healey was a treasure to be sure. An unbelievable blues player, sighted or otherwise. His club in Toronto was good times.
Jeff Healey also did one of the best Beatle covers I have ever heard. Yer Blues. He stuck pretty close to the original arrangement and in some respects it was better for the fact that JH was immersed in the blues more than the Beatles who despite the fact it is a very well crafted song sorta came out of left field. As Helter Skelter was an excise in putting their songwriting chops against the harder rock movement of the timé, Her Blues was born out of the same mindset but towards the blues rock movement of the time. Both of these movements overlapped in many ways in that era.
Agreed…Jeff Healey’s version is the best I’ve ever heard. It just has way more feel and energy than any of these.
I may be a little prejudicial but I prefer Eric’s version due to the fact that the band I was in in the 60’s opened up for Derrick and the Dominoes at Leeds University in England / Great stuff Griff, brings back a lot of memories
That’s pretty awesome! I’ve always loves Eric Clapton’s music. I can’t imagine opening for him.
Not surprisingly, just as I expected at the outset, I like SRV’s version the most. Next up is Freddie’s version and poor ol’ Eric flunks the “awesome” test although his was great too.
Clapton is my favorite guitarist, but the SRV version has that special “something”. Try to find the Clapton version from the album. Surprisingly, it’s much better than this “live” version.
The “Beano” album version by EC with Mayall is superior to all of these, IMHO.
I second the notion that Clapton’s version on his album with John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers was the best.
There is a complete set of 9 lessons on youtube for the Clapton version … not to take anything away from Griff
Freddie is my #1. SRV is my #2. I liked how he seems to break into “Killing Floor” partway through. Clapton/Mayall is an enjoyable #3 for having a very clean rendition.
Freddie King is the one for me. SRV second as I think unusually Clapton’s version is a bit slim
Hi Griff,
By far my preference is SRV version… the change of tempos makes it and especially the absolute concentration of SRV even with the Fag is outstanding…
Thanks for sharing these with us…
Michael-Sydney-Australia Nov 2016.
SRV
The best and the sound quality isn’t even that good.As they say – IT DOESN’T GET ANY BETTER THAN THAT!
Which version do you think is easier to learn from a beginner/intermediate point of view ?
No offense meant but do you think there is a suitable “beginner” version of that? That song is meant to be full throttle. I know I am disappointed with any of my attempts so far. It is fun to do a rhythm ride along though.
Claptons by far
Eric Clapton’s version is my favorite. Its the first solo I ever learned on guitar. The tone he gets is amazing.
Griff, we would like to hear your version!
Great stuff Griff!! I loved all three versions but I must say I prefer the Freddie King version for energy and joy exhibited by the musicians. Besides I have a special feeling for the performers of the original work.
Griff,
What a way to start the day!
Thanks…Old School & Still Rockin’
I’m in the UK and I can play all three versions, but I agree with many others that the ‘Clapton’ one is NOT the one I have on my copy of the Beano Album which is way better than this one. I don’t think you can compare a very dry studio take (Beano) with live performances as these are often more spirited. To be honest, I don’t really like any of them – Stevie in particular uses it mostly as a jumping off point much as Clapton did Steppin’ Out from the second live album. Now THAT was a real tour de force!
Hi Griff,I must say that you showed “the wrong” Clapton version.His early playing of Hide Away shows more of the raw and feeling side of his playing instead of just shooting one off the shoulder for an exhibition of the number.Keep On Keeping On.
I have been a fan of Freddie King since the “Go Surfing” album in the late sixties. However, Clapton’s Hideaway version on the BluesBreakers album with Mayall and McVie was the very best in my opinion. Clapton’s phrasing combined with the “woman” tone and a Les Paul is outstanding. I learned this off the record, it took me a good year before I could play it all the way through.
I was coming of age in the late 60s and the “Beano” album by Mayall with EC was a revelation. That version of Hideaway is my benchmark. That said, the video of Freddie King was another revelation.
I have to say that Jeff Healey’s version is the best arrangement. His too like the original played with awesome feel
Nice to see a nod to the great Jeff Healey. SRV was a fan of Healey’s which says a lot!
Hi Griff, great vids. Three legends and three very different styles.
Also id like to thank you for your instructiinal package that i enjoy working through.
I am an advanced proffessiinal musician and i get a lot out of going back through your lessons for some grounding revision work and ideas etc.
Griff i was wondering if you would do a vid breakdown if Robben Fords version of Duke Ellingtons “Aint Got Nothing But The Blues”. Its a great piece and i wonder if it would be a good framework to explore ruthym and extended chords.
Regards
Jon
Three very distinctive styles and sounds and all three fantastic.
Definitely liked Freddie’s version better. It was filled with heart and soul which SRV’s version sadly uncharacteristically lacked. As for Clapton-WTF?
Of course, all three are dynamite, but I would have to agree with other commentators, that SRV is my preferred choice ( don’t know about the Mayall/Clapton version it said it was an illegal video for the U.S.A.) mostly because he makes it look so simple and easy and it’s cleaned up a bit, compared to Freddie’s, but one high note for Freddie and a lower note for SRV would be that Freddie’s was a bit more “spirited” and lively, where as SRV was a little lackluster in that area. I would attribute that livelier sound to the inclusion of the piano and organ with Freddie’s. Both Greats!!!
Found this very good don’t know a lot about the two otherkings(freddie,albert )you have opened a whole new world for me thanks
Very well said,but I thaught freddy’s was a bit long!
Freddie King set it up and I know Clapton’s version was great (although I couldn’t see it)…but SRV (IMHO) polished it off. He is always so “clean” while making it look easy (which it’s not). Love ’em all, but SRV stands out to me. Thanks
Interesting to see peoples’ different preferences.
To me all 3 artists have their own individual “charms” but I agree with Ron M re. SRV being “clean” and easy. At the same time he “blows your socks off”.
Loved the Freddie King version, Stevie Ray got cut short, and Eric Clapton’s version is not available in this country (USA). What the heck?
To see one of the last pictures of Curtis Fisher google “Curtish Fisher Texarkana Texas”
The man who inspired the song Hide Away.
I couldn’t see the Clapton version and don’t know how to hide my IP…but the others were fabulous. SRV is second to none, but I love Freddie and will always remember him by this song…it’s the one that turned me on to him. I almost got to see him with Grand Funk, but had an emergency and couldn’t make it…
Thank you Griff for what you do for us…May God bless you
Rich
those where my days. i saw freddiy with the blues breakers, back in the 6’s. eric, who i know, does a great job on the lead STRV! never saw him in concert, but never could figure out how he played with a cig in his mouth. all great guitarist. freddy is the king!
Hi: my name is George Covert and I live in Texarkana, arkansas.
The origen of Hide Away is a good friend of mine Curtis Fisher who was Freddie King’s bass player. ( See you tube Freddie King Sweden , the guy playing bass is Curtis)
Curtis was on the road with Freddie King for 8 years.
One day Curtis was playing a little ditty that he had made up on his guitar while traveling and Freddie heard it and asked Curtis if he could use it in a song. The result was Hide Away.
I had Curtis play HideAway on stage with me about six years ago at Little River County Court House stair steps. I told the crowd that this was the man who cowrote one of the most important ssongs ever written that represents the pivotal song that led the blue to rock and roll.
The last time I saw Curtis before he died I took him to Don Henley’s Road manager’s Music City Texas and they had a radio announcer there talking to people that was being broadcast. Curtis got to say a few words in his very friendly and reserved fashion. He was a great guy and he taught me guitar for a while.
I’m very proud to say he was my friend.
And keeping the record straight it’s important for us all to remember that he was the major influence in the writing of Hide Away
George Covert
903-277-5056
Gkc19-3@aol.com
Rest In Peace Curtis and thank you so much for your friendship!
Great story george,thanks for sharing.
Very cool George he must have been a good frind to you
@Rich Hughes, you need to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) in order to get around the ridiculous, and unnecessary, Copyright restrictions that force hosting sites like Youtube, and others, from making the video available in all countries.
Mullvad is a good paid for one, SoftEther is a really good free one (it’s licensed under the GNU GPL, so it’s not only free as in cost it’s also free as in freedom) Both have clients for Linux, Mac and Windows, as well as various mobile devices.
As I write this my Linux computer appears to be in the US, while I’m a long way from that country.
Thanks that was intensity Griff . Greatly appreciate you sharing the great guitar playing,those guys are cool and I could listing for hours. I’m still to start learning to play, you email and pointer are great and I can’t wait to start. Cheers and have a great weekend.
Great story!memories are forever!thank you sir for sharing.
Great post!! Is that Billy Preston on the B3 with Albert King?
Clapton clip (although I could not watch it) is from John Mayall’s 70th Birthday/Retirement tour and DVD set (I think that’s how it was billed) because in the still picture you can see the great Buddy Whittington on the right of the photo. In that Mayall tour, he had all the past Blues Breaker guitarists come back and join him and Buddy I believe was the one who replaced Clapton when he left the Blues Breakers. Check out some of Buddie’s videos or better yet, catch him live if you ever had a chance; amazing guitarist and quite the jokester as well; very entertaining gentleman.
Hide your IP and you can few the Clapton version.
Also couldn’t see the Clapton version, although the stand-in picture looks recent instead of from his time in the Bluesbreakers (mid-60’s). Never saw Freddie play but was blown away. He really tore it up (er.. down?). The version of the Bluesbreakers album was the first I ever heard and tried to learn to play. It’a very accessible tune to learn and you really feel like you’re playing something cool once you get it down.
SRV and his band do a great version but it really seemed like this might have been the “cooldown” number in the set. Chris Layton the drummer looks a little bored 🙂 Btw, you can still catch Chris tearing it up with Kenny Wayne Shepherd (a bonafide SRV protege) and sometimes with Joe Bonamassa and the Experience Hendrix tour. Still got it in spades.
For those interested there’s good easy to learn and play version of Hideaway on Songster.
Griff, Alll said Thanks it made my weekend!!!
I enjoyed the Freddy King version, seems like he had been playing that song for a while and mixed it up alot. Stevies version was slower and easier to follow, if I can learn this song, it would be a great benefit in understanding this style of blues—-blues rock, i’d guess or chicago maybe.
Freddy had been playing this quite a while , and mixed it up alot, great concert/party tune. Stevie plays it slower and its easier to follow and I was pretty excited , if I can learn this song, it should improve my knowledge of blues playing much, thanks Griff.
Key in Hideaway (1966) by John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers featuring Eric Clapton. It may not be the version our friend Griff wants us to experience, but you can get the idea!
Old School & Still Rockin’
I like the part where they don’t sing.
I much prefer instrumentals.
I believe blues should be part of every well balanced musicians repertoire, but it is going to become a smaller part of mine.
Loved watching the drummer. He’s tearing it up! (Freddy Kings video)
Always loved Freddie’s playing. That’s his brother Benny Turner playing with him on bass. Benny is still playing. Check him out if you get a chance.
Freddie’s. Hands down. So rhythmic! It’s all about the rhythm, baby.
Also agree with comments above about Jeff Healey’s version – first Hideaway I heard. Keep on pickin’, friends.
Odd! The Clapton version screen tells me it is not available in my country!(US)
Here’s a YOutube Link to HIDEAWAY (1966) by John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers- featuring Eric Clapton
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9N8Qi6zLSU
That was great Griff .thank you very much for sharing that great guitar playing,those guys are great and I could listing to them for hours. Cheers and have a great weekend griff.
Johns and Freddie’s would not play, but SRV tore it up
the John Mayall /Clapton would not play.Said it contained Eagle Rock material and could be played in my country.. is that Texas or the USA?
The John Mayall Eric Clapton video would not play it display a message that it contain material from “Eagle Rock” an could be played inmy country the USA!
All three are great in their own way but, for me the ultimate has to be Clapton’s version on the Beano album. Listening to Eric nowadays people often say that they can’t see what all the fuss was about. I point them in the direction of the Beano album and remind them that this was the mid 60’s. I also refer them to his solo on “Have You Heard” on the same album. At that time no one was playing like this so it was a “What The F@## was That???” moment when you first heard it. Since then many have picked up the mantle and even pushed it further along. But, at the time/……..
Hideaway is one of my favorites. It helped get me into the Three Kings and how different each was from the other. It’s also one of my first true blues songs. I taught it mostly to myself. It was about 12 years ago. I was working with a teacher. He was a great guitar player ( Berklee School)and when he heard and saw me, I told him this was great. There’s lots of pull offs to open strings – two notes for the price of one !!! Lol. He said he thought I played pretty well but the part later in the song with the odd shaped 9th chords need work and they did.
He said Clapton and SRV never played it like Freddie. Freddie played it the easy way. I was insulted. I thought I did well. E major pentatonic up towards the ffirst four positions. We then listened to Clapton on the Beano album and then SRV. We then pulled out a later video of Clapton and he played it much like Freddie. Pull offs all over the place.
This is a fun song with some tricky parts. Everyone should listen to the three great verdins. The biggest differences to me are the way the rhythm parts ( the boogies) are handled. Once you figure out the first parts- bam! You feel like a blues man! And played it the way the guy who helped write did/ Freddie King. Plenty of time to get fancy later on. Enjoy. This one is a blast.
WOW thanks for that, real mind blowing. Made my day. :-))
I couldn’t watch the Clapton version because it was not available in my country, despite the fact I’m in KY. Anyhow that is what the message on the screen said,
This was a an ear opener. I played along with it. Not to good but I really enjoyed it. Thanks and keep them coming…The Best!
I’m working on both electric and acoustic but, I’ve “hit a wall” and trying to work though it. I’m 70 years old and playing for 4 years. At my age it truly is a journey. Anyway, I thought SRV’s version was contrary to one of your tenets, that is, he seemed to be walking all over his bass player…lots of 5 and 6 string licks…(who am I to criticize SRV)
Love your lessons.
I particularly prefer Mr. Winters version but when it comes to that Texas Blues groove, I want to see and hear it all. They ALL Shine in their own way!
Freddie’s definitely has more passion and fire, has more of the “live” feel,to me anyway. Paste this link and check out the fingerpickin’ version by Toby Walker, it’s one of my favorites, it builds right to the end.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=NbppOkPHn2s
all 3 versions were great but for my taste “I’m old school” I like Freddie’s version the best. I did however notice that S.T.V. shaved 5 minutes, and Clapton shaved off 3 minutes of Freddie’s version. After listening to Freddie’s, it seems like about the time you are getting into the jam that I’m charging up, they are winding down. Thank you for sharing all 3 with us. Preacher!!
Freddie King takes this song from blues, to jazz, to funk, to fusion! He expresses himself in so many ways as he unleashes his creativity in this tune. I guess the best way I can describe the musical storyline that goes into this jam is the blues version of Led Zeppelin’s “The Song Remains The Same.”
This isn’t a simple song but a blues ballad that takes you on a roller coaster of feeling and emotion! Though Clapton and SAM’S rendition of the song are nice, they don’t begin to touch the masterful artwork that Freddie King is putting out in this epic novel that is his music! Excellent performance!!!
hey that was nice, I really like all of them.
Is it ok to shorten your name to “Riff Hamlin” or can I say,
Good Grief!
Griffs Great!
Thanks for what you do,
It’s very pleasing.
Regards
From Edinburgh.
I agree with you Bob Brusca
Clapton gets my vote on this one. As a smoker, that fag in SRV’s mouth throughout the tune made me want to chuck up! Ray (UK)
A highly competent performance from Eric Clapton & John Mayall; lots of “feel”/passion from SRV but Freddie King really knocked me out. Never heard that one before – fantastic.
I hope I’m not going to be controversial but, IMHO the definitive version has got to be Clapton’s but as played on John Mayall’s Beano album, not the video. Full credit to Freddie for writing it in the first place but Clapton was on fire on that album. Just him, his Les Paul and Marshall amp. Definitely his best period for me. If anyone hasn’t heard this album I recommend them to check it out and if you want to hear emotion though a guitar solo check our Eric’s playing on “Have You Heard” on the same album it’ll blow you away!!
Another awesome version that gets over looked is Jeff Healy’s.
Check it out on Youtube.
Couldn’t agree more
Like freddie kings version the best, a true natural,great video griff thanks.
my heart is full and empty at the same time.
I watch these masters at their ‘work’ – their joy.
No-one is grinning – self conscious for a camera. No – they’re intent upon the ‘being in the moment’in which they show the awesome power of music to change – if not lives – the moment itself.
I thank you Griff for the ongoing humility with which all true teachers teach.
Thank you again for introducing me to the amazing Bob Murnahan – you are a kind and generous teacher to ‘share the wealth’ as you do.
David,
How true, how true, in every aspect!
Old School & Still Rockin’
The ‘Texas Cannonball’ a favorite of mine too. I was fortunate enough to see him perform in Pensacola in’73 before his untimely passing just a few years later. Leon Russell was his piano player.A true bluesman, the real deal. Woman across the river and Reconsider baby also classics.
what performances, that was great to listen too.I liked SRV’s version best,if only I could ever play as good as those three guys. Great stuff Griff. thanks for always thinking of us rookies.
pure classic no matter who plays it… thanks for making all these versions available.
Stevie finished before his cigarette! This a great example of “heart” of music, which is the emotion, finesse and solid back ups. Freddie’s drummer worked the hardest. Eric’s performance was the easiest to follow. Thanx Griff!
Loved it all , sorry haven’t had time to listen to some of the previous ones but hopefully they are in the Files . I truly loved watching them play the chords and bending the strings. I am almost 70 and I love music .Practice my keyboard and guitar every day , keeps me young. Thanks.
The original recording by the blues breakers was done in the late 60’s. Eric played a Les Paul or an SG. He smoked it. That’s why they called him “fast hands”.
Chris
They called him “Slowhand” – I was around at the time and heard him play in the Bluesbreakers and Cream
well,if freddie set the bar on this tune,i would have to say that stevie and eric at least met that standard. eric’s version was very crisp,clean and clear(the harmonica part didnt hurt a thing either 🙂 ) while stevie’s seemed to be in his typical texas shuffle style. hate to have to pick only one of these three versons as the best,,thanks griff
Thanks a lot Griff that was great.I can sit all night and listen to those guys play.
Inspirational! Thanks again.
Pretty hard to beat Freddie’s original version of it.
What a great treat Griff to provide all three versions together. Thanks
all three are great….My choice,,Clapton,Freddy King and SRV>>>>>
Thanks Griff. All alike but different……Great Blues..
HEY GRIFF. OUT OF ALL 3 I THINK ERIC SOUNDED THE CLEANEST. FREDDIE KING WAS THE MAN. HE SOUNDED ALOT MORE DELTA , OR BLACK STYLE MUSIC. STRV? HIS SIGNATURE CIGERRETTE HANGING FROM HIS MOUTH. THATS WHAT KILLED HIM. HE SEEMED TO PLAY IT CLOSE THE THEY WAY CLAPTON DID. ALL 3 ARE GREAT MY OLE FRIEND FROM THE 70’S ERIC, IS STILL GOING STRONG.
As in all things ART, it’s completely personal. We see different things in paintings, appreciate different aspects of them, same with film, and certainly music. Folks are here because we all love the blues. The fact that these three versions of Hideaway can generate such a large number of diverse responses, makes my case. Three of the greatest ever, each putting his own spin on a classic. So it’s eyes of the beholder, or in this case, ears. Everybody’s right! For the record, SRV died in a chopper crash in East Troy, Wisconsin after a concert with Clapton. Stevie was 35. He survived a near fatal addiction to cocaine and booze only to die tragically and leave us at such a young age. When Clapton first heard SRV on the radio, he was completely mind blown. He talked about it in his 2017 documentary, “Eric Clapton: Life in 12 Bars”.
The first time I heard this tune was Jeff Healy awesome version then I started to ferret out different styles and covers such an amazing tune and covered so often it is really a treasure
Noticed Buddy Whittington (the big guy in back) in the Clapton version. Buddy has been playing a lot in the DFW area the last few years. I try to see him play in Ft. Worth whenever I get a chance, he is one of the best guitarist I have ever seen. Thanks for the clip.
interesting that buddy and clapton both played with john mahall
Yeeaahhh Man, nothing like rockin the Blues, the wave theory goes straight to the heart,,,,,,,,,Thanks Griff
freddies is certainly the best. can’t believe some posts said they didn’t know Freddie. thank you for turning them on to him. Clapton, handrix johnny winter, srv and so many uthers play this song and other instrumentals (my favorite ) by Freddie. when I used to hear so much about Clapton I always ask- have you you ever heard johnny winter. reply- no- not to trash eric because he is good but listen to johnny before you rant on about Clapton. a very underrated guy from the 60s is Lonnie mack. check him out. griff lets hear your version of hideaway rock on all of you
Great direction to stare your students by showing the true blues talent that is out there. We all need a reminder of what can be achieved if we take one step at a time with your learning programs that are available. Happy Birthday Griff and thank you for the extra mile you show in your videos.
Art
Great versions of 12 bar blues. I like SRV the best
These guys want to make me burn my guitars.
Cool tune – sounds like a three-in-one (rhythms)! Great example(s) of basic 12 bar blues!
Sorry Griff, I forgot to respond to your comment at the end. All three are great versions. You are right – Clapton’s version is much different. Hate to say it but I like the other two better and I wouldn’t normally say that about Clapton. His version is definitely his style. Not saying that is bad, I just think for the feel of that particular song the other two take were it lives. Thanks for the opportunity to chime in. TW
How about the blind Canadian’s version? Jeff Healey does a great cover of this Freddie classic. Check it out!
Oh Yeah! He left us way too soon. I think every blues guy worth his salt has done their version and I haven’t heard a bad one yet. Even if someone completely hacked it up – so what – they did it. Everyone should do this one eventually. Another good call Slim!
Thanks Tom. You are so correct; another great talent taken way too soon. I did get to see him a couple times in T.O. over 20 yrs ago. My little bro (a drummer) got himself backstage one of those times and came out with the JHB’s drummer Tom’s sticks!
Lot’s to learn from all the versions. Clapton’s version was the most straight forward.
I’m ashamed to say I wasn’t familiar with Buddy Whittington – good call! I went on to his version of Crosscut Saw while I was at it. He definitely has the blues. Thanks for the introduction, that’s what makes sites like this one so valid. Thanks to Griff for providing the forum.
Too bad the SRV clip stopped before the best part of that performance. Still a good example of the best though. Crosscut Saw would be another good classic to analyze. Thanks Griff
Fantastic videos – thanks for sharing. I never realized how great Freddie King was.
Very cool! Good tricks and techniques could be learned from all 3. How about a lesson giving the basics and then some of how each artist put their own ‘stamp’ on it? I’m a rocker at heart, but thanks to you am learning so much from the blues and appreciating it more and more.
P.S. I originally read “Blues Breakers” as “Blues Brothers” 🙂
I loved all all three versions of the song. I am a big Clapton and SRV but you can’t beat the originals!!! BC
If you like hard drivin’ blues none of them would disappoint. The original is probably the best but you won’t see anyone play with more of their soul than Stevie. He doesn’t put anything artificial out there.
I am always impressed with the mastery of the instruments that these celebrated guitarists demonstrate, and I personally am trying to attain those skills.
The acoustic blues corse that I bought is in fact teaching me what I wanted it to and your teaching methods mesh well with my abilities to learn.
BUT, I do not like to hear or want to play that type of music played in the videos. I guess I am just not a late nite blues guy. From my point of view it is to nervous, and loud.
To each his own – this stuff belongs in any blues set.
I agree with Howard, but the videos show me that I’m on the right track, even though I have a LONG way to go. Maybe, as I advance in technique, I will learn to better appreciate the style.
Thanks Griff. Two of my favs Freddie King and Jeff Beck do not use picks. As a finger picking style player for 40 years I am glad to see that some great players do it the way I do. I’m learning to use a pick but am most comfortable using my thumb and one or two fingers along with my thumb. Thanks again and please keep doing what you do !
Thank you, Griff, for three comparisons of “Hide Away”. It would be nice to hear you play it as well!
I agree.
I like Freddie’s version best. I like the fatter tone he has, the free rambling fluidity of his playing and the general vibe he’s got going with a smoking band
I bought a truefire course by Tim Sparks where he does this as a fingerstyle arrangement – took a few weeks but i finally got it.
Thanks Griff. Very enjoyable comparison. Interesting change of rhythm or meter or something before and after the harmonica in Bluesbreaker/Clapton version. Can’t put my finger on exactly what happens there but I like the sound.
Wow, confessions of a slow learner, IT IS STARTING TO COME INTO FOCUS!
Loved all of them. So much to be learned from these masters. Stuff like this is inspiring.
Great talents with their own twists to the same song. Always believed with the help of teachers like you and the info
you provide, anyone interested, with time and practice can play as good, at least in their own mind and thats all that counts.
thanks Griff
I enjoyed all 3, Freddie’s the most. If I can get to half as good as any of these people, I would be content for quite awhile…lol…Thanks for sharing these Griff
Thanks griff keeps em coming
Griff, thanks for sending these clips. It helps a lot to hear different versions of the same song . I especially like the rhythm change on Clapton’s. Feel better , and thanks again. Mike Z.
Thanks griff , I started with BGU, I think I should have started with the begins course .I’ll keep practicing. Please keep me in the loop, cheers
Really great collection. Thanks Griff
Griff why didn’t you post your band doing this song to?
Griff, thanks for the links. I’ve been particularly fond of Hide Away for many years. If you’ll search Ernie Hawkins, you may be able to find his acoustic version. He arranged it more in the style of Lightning Hopkins which is great for acoustic.I’ve been attempting to learn Ernie’s version for several years and although only part way through it, I find it great fun to play.
Just 2 comments – 1- Interesting to note that Freddie had his strap on his right shoulder and 2- now I have to burn my guitars.
Freddie’s drummer was the best in these 3 clips. He was more into it than the others, so was Freddie.
Griff, fantastic selection. I’ve always considered this Freddy King song and the version by Clapton with John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers a masterpiece of blues phrasing. When my son was learning guitar I told him “here, learn this (the Bluesbreakers version) . It’s all you need to know.” He’s now a great guitar player who loves the blues. Rock on.
Great seeing the video of SRV, but the audio doesn’t match the video. Watch the drummer – you hear a snare when he’s only hitting the cymbal and there are a bunch of misses between Stevie and the audio track as well. Not sure where the audio was from, but it wasn’t that performance…
Indeed so Dan. I agree – listen to the audio but don’t watch the visuals as it’s quite disconcerting…
Thanks! I’m so unfamiliar with this. Enjoyed.
Great post! Thanks!
Hi Griff.
Glad to hear you had a good birthday. At a mere 66 years of age, I agree with Chris and Mike’s comments. Thanks for sending these versions, which are excellent. Pity the Eric Clapton/John Mayall version is no longer there. I have it on the “Beano” LP in vinyl and it is also superb – saved up my pennies for it when I was very young. Take plenty of rest and fluids for that cold.
Every good wish, Andy
I agree with Mike Walsh.At 69 I can only dream of being as god as any of these great players but that wont stop me keep on trying Mike.All the best Griff.
Thanks Griff. Always appreciated. A pity Eric is not there. I used to watch Him play that at the marquee in the sixties,still the best I feel. Peter Greens The Stumble written by Freddie is another classic. Regards,Chris.
Great to see Freddie in action. Glad you had a nice birthday. At 68 I can only dream of playing like that. Thanks for the opportunity.
Griff……THANKS…..excellent stuff.
I wasn’t familiar with Freddie King before this email. He’s great; thanks so much for the introduction to (new to me) excellent blues music!! Glad you had a good “B” day! Thanks for the lessons & for bringing formerly unknown music to me, to my attention. Great job as always!!!
Thanks Griff!!!
OMG! I REMMEBER THAT CONCERT. HE’S NOT MUCH OF SHREADER. HIS PLAYING IS SO CLEAN AND HE JUMPS RIGHT IN THERE TOO. NICE TO HERE YOU HAD A GOOD B-DAY.SORRY TO HEAR YOU HAVE A COLD. BE CAREFULL. PLAYING CLUBS THAT HAVE CONTAMINATED AIR CONDITIONING WILL MAKE YOU SICKER, OR GIVE YOU ANOTHER BUG. I ALWAYS TELL PEOPLE NEVER TO FLY WITH A LOW EMUINE SYSTEM. WHEN I WAS A AIRCRAFT TECH, WE WOULD HAVE FIGHTS OVER WHOS GOING TO CHANGE OUT THE FILTERS IN THE ENVIROMENTAL SYSTEMS. MIGHT BE ALERGIES, UNLESS YOU HAVE CHILLS. TAKE CARE GRIFF. PAUL. D.
FEEL BETTER!
Wow!
Hi Griff,
I totally enjoyed the two players, Freddie and Stevie Ray playing Hideaway.
I’ll work on what I see them doing. Sounds great! Thanks for pointing out the
tune.
Greg L.
Griff, the Mayall/Clapton versionhas apparently been taken down. Thanks for all others though. Good food for thought.
As if the lessons you make available isn’t enough, there are all these extras… in themselves, especially this one, worth the $$ alone.
Thanks, Griff…….
Great stuff Griff. I really like hearing different people playing the same song. It’s a great way to get ideas.
Don’t forget Johnny Winter:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5AuJ-V__Mc
thanks for the link. Love Johhny’s playing. Hes always been my fav
The ultimate cover might be this one http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8357JfNU_N4
Sorry Stoker – somehow my response to your contribution went to the top.
Don’t know about the “ultimate” but he sure does rank right up there. Thanks for the intro and where to find him.