Cream was a rock supergroup that emerged in the 1960s, consisting of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker. The trio was known for their electrifying and experimental blues-infused rock music that pushed the boundaries of what was then considered traditional rock and roll. With their exceptional musicianship and Clapton’s distinctive guitar playing, Cream became one of the most influential and innovative rock bands of their time, inspiring countless other musicians in the years to come. This article will explore the top 10 best Cream songs of all time, showcasing the band’s musical genius and enduring legacy. From the iconic guitar riffs in “Sunshine of Your Love” to the psychedelic soundscapes of “White Room,” the songs on this list are a testament to the band’s unparalleled talent and influence in the rock genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Cream, this list is sure to inspire a renewed appreciation for the band’s contributions to the world of music. So get ready to take a trip down memory lane and experience the magic of Cream’s music all over again.
1. ‘Sunshine of Your Love’
“Sunshine of Your Love” is one of Cream’s most iconic songs, and one of the defining tracks of the late 1960s psychedelic rock scene. Featuring Eric Clapton’s unforgettable riff and Jack Bruce’s soulful vocals, the song combines elements of blues, rock, and pop to create a truly unique sound. The song’s lyrics are somewhat ambiguous, but they are believed to be about the intense feelings of infatuation and desire that can arise in a new romantic relationship. “Sunshine of Your Love” was a massive commercial success for Cream, and it remains a beloved classic rock staple to this day.
2. ‘White Room’
“White Room” is a classic rock song by Cream, released in 1968. It features a haunting guitar riff, a driving drum beat, and a soaring vocal performance by Eric Clapton. The song has a psychedelic feel to it and is known for its atmospheric sound and poetic lyrics. It’s been covered by numerous artists and has become a staple of classic rock radio. The song’s chorus, “In the white room with black curtains near the station,” has become one of the most recognizable in rock history.
3. ‘Badge’
“Badge” is a classic rock song that was written by Eric Clapton and George Harrison, and performed by the band Cream. The song was released in 1969 as a single and later appeared on the album “Goodbye”. The track is known for its catchy guitar riffs and powerful vocals, as well as its unique lyrics, which were reportedly inspired by a conversation Harrison had with Ringo Starr about the phrase “Badge” being a pun on the word “badge” sounding like “catchphrase”. The song has since become a staple of classic rock radio and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Clapton’s guitar work in the song has been praised by critics as some of his best, and his solo towards the end of the track is particularly memorable. Overall, “Badge” is a timeless rock classic that continues to resonate with fans of all ages.
4. ‘Crossroads’
“Crossroads” is a legendary blues-rock song that was originally written and recorded by Robert Johnson in 1936. The song gained renewed popularity when it was covered by Eric Clapton and his band Cream in 1968. Clapton’s version of the song is a high-energy, guitar-driven track that showcases his exceptional skill as a guitarist. The song features driving rhythms and searing guitar solos that have become iconic in the world of rock music. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a man who is trying to find his way in life and is searching for the “crossroads” where he can make a new start. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years and remains a beloved classic in the blues-rock canon. With its raw energy and powerful guitar work, “Crossroads” is a true masterpiece of rock music that continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
5. ‘I Feel Free’
“I Feel Free” is a psychedelic rock song that was written by Jack Bruce and Pete Brown and performed by the band Cream. The song was released in 1966 as the band’s debut single and quickly became a hit. The track features a driving rhythm and soaring vocals, with lyrics that convey a sense of freedom and liberation. The song’s trippy guitar riffs and otherworldly sound effects reflect the psychedelic era in which it was written, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre. The song’s simple yet infectious melody and catchy chorus make it a favorite among fans of classic rock. With its optimistic lyrics and upbeat sound, “I Feel Free” continues to inspire listeners to let go of their worries and embrace the freedom and joy of life.
6. ‘Strange Brew’
“Strange Brew” is a blues rock song that was written by Eric Clapton, Felix Pappalardi, and Gail Collins and performed by the band Cream. The song was released in 1967 as a single and later appeared on the band’s album “Disraeli Gears”. The track features a driving rhythm and haunting vocals, with lyrics that hint at a mysterious and alluring love interest. The song’s signature guitar riff and organ solo have become iconic in the world of rock music, and its psychedelic sound and trippy lyrics reflect the era in which it was written. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a favorite among fans of classic rock. With its haunting melody and enigmatic lyrics, “Strange Brew” continues to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of rock musicians.
7. ‘Tales of Brave Ulysses’
“Tales of Brave Ulysses” is a psychedelic rock song that was written by Eric Clapton and Martin Sharp and performed by the band Cream. The song was released in 1967 as a single and later appeared on the album “Disraeli Gears”. The track features a driving rhythm and ethereal vocals, with lyrics that recount the adventures of the mythical Greek hero Ulysses. The song’s signature wah-wah guitar riff and trippy sound effects make it a standout track of the psychedelic era, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre. The song’s evocative lyrics and otherworldly sound continue to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of rock musicians. With its haunting melody and imaginative lyrics, “Tales of Brave Ulysses” is a true masterpiece of rock music.
8. ‘I’m So Glad’
“I’m So Glad” is a blues rock song that was originally written by Skip James and later performed by the band Cream. The song was released in 1966 as a B-side to the band’s debut single “Wrapping Paper”. The track features a driving rhythm and powerful vocals, with lyrics that express joy and gratitude for a newfound love. The song’s signature guitar riff and extended solos showcase Eric Clapton’s exceptional skill as a guitarist, while Jack Bruce’s bass and Ginger Baker’s drums provide a solid foundation for the track. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a favorite among fans of classic rock. With its infectious energy and upbeat lyrics, “I’m So Glad” is a testament to the power of love and the joy it can bring into our lives.
9. ‘Spoonful’
“Spoonful” is a blues song that was originally written by Willie Dixon and later performed by the band Cream. The song was released in 1966 as a B-side to the band’s single “Wrapping Paper”. The track features a slow and steady rhythm, with powerful vocals and a hypnotic guitar riff. The song’s lyrics describe the addictive nature of love, comparing it to a “spoonful” that the singer can’t resist. The song’s extended guitar solos and dynamic drumming showcase the virtuosity of Eric Clapton and Ginger Baker, while Jack Bruce’s bass provides a solid foundation for the track. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a classic of the blues genre. With its powerful lyrics and mesmerizing sound, “Spoonful” continues to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of blues and rock musicians.
10. ‘Born Under a Bad Sign’
“Born Under a Bad Sign” is a blues song that was written by Booker T. Jones and William Bell and popularized by Albert King. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including the band Cream. The Cream version was released in 1968 as a track on their album “Wheels of Fire”. The song features a slow and sultry rhythm, with lyrics that describe the singer’s bad luck and misfortune. The song’s signature guitar riff and emotive vocals capture the essence of the blues, while the band’s instrumental prowess is on full display in the extended solos. With its haunting melody and powerful lyrics, “Born Under a Bad Sign” remains a favorite among blues and rock fans alike. The song’s timeless appeal and enduring popularity speak to its status as a true classic of the blues genre.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
