Cream was one of the most influential rock bands of the 1960s, featuring the powerhouse trio of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker. Their unique sound, combining blues, psychedelic rock, and jazz, revolutionized the music scene and paved the way for the heavy rock genre that would emerge in the 1970s. Their music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians today.
In this list of the 10 Best Cream Songs of All Time, we will explore some of the band’s most iconic and memorable tracks, showcasing the unparalleled musicianship and creativity that defined their legacy. From their electrifying riffs and grooves to their soulful ballads and bluesy improvisations, Cream remains a true classic of rock music history.
1. White Room
“White Room” is a song by British rock band Cream, released in 1968. The song features a distinctive opening guitar riff and a psychedelic, dream-like atmosphere. The lyrics, written by poet Pete Brown, are surreal and enigmatic, depicting a mysterious white room and a woman with a silver spade. The song’s structure includes several distinct sections, including an extended instrumental bridge featuring a wah-wah guitar solo by Eric Clapton.
2. Sunshine of Your Love
“Sunshine of Your Love” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with music fans today. Released in 1967, the song features a groovy, bluesy guitar riff that’s instantly recognizable, and a driving rhythm section that propels the track forward. Eric Clapton’s guitar work is particularly impressive, with his searing solos and inventive phrasing adding a level of virtuosity to the song. Jack Bruce’s soulful vocals also contribute to the song’s appeal, with his emotive delivery perfectly capturing the song’s lyrics about love and longing.
3. Crossroads
“Crosroads” is a classic rock song by Cream that was originally recorded by Robert Johnson in 1936. Cream’s version is a fiery, guitar-driven performance that features the blistering solos of Eric Clapton. The song’s riff is instantly recognizable and has been widely covered by other artists over the years. The lyrics tell the story of a man at a crossroads, facing a decision between two paths in life. The song is known for its high-energy performance and has become a staple of classic rock radio.
4. I Feel Free
“I Feel Free” is a song by the British rock band Cream, written by Pete Brown and Jack Bruce. It was released in 1966 as the group’s second single and appears on their debut album “Fresh Cream”. The song is known for its catchy chorus, psychedelic guitar riffs, and prominent bassline. Eric Clapton’s blues-inspired guitar solos add a distinctive sound to the track, while Ginger Baker’s energetic drumming provides a driving rhythm. “I Feel Free” is considered a pioneering song in the psychedelic rock genre, with its use of distorted guitar tones and experimental production techniques.
5. Badge
Badge” is a song by the British rock band Cream, written by Eric Clapton and George Harrison. The song features a distinct guitar riff, melodic bassline, and memorable lyrics that are delivered with a soulful and bluesy vocal performance by Clapton. The song’s title was inspired by a cryptic note left by Harrison for Clapton that read “Bridge Over Troubled Water, badge.” The track was released on Cream’s final studio album, “Goodbye,” and became a major hit in both the UK and the US.
6. Strange Brew
“Strange Brew” is a classic song by the British rock band Cream, released in 1967. It features a unique combination of blues rock, psychedelic rock, and pop elements that were popular during the time. The song begins with a haunting guitar riff and a driving bassline that set the tone for the rest of the track. Eric Clapton’s powerful guitar solo adds to the intensity of the song. The lyrics, written by Clapton and producer Felix Pappalardi, are mysterious and psychedelic, making use of surreal imagery to create a dreamlike atmosphere.
7. Tales of Brave Ulysses
“Tales of Brave Ulysses” is a psychedelic rock song by Cream that was released in 1967. The song is known for its distinctive wah-wah guitar riff played by Eric Clapton and the surreal lyrics written by Martin Sharp. The song takes inspiration from Greek mythology, specifically the story of the hero Ulysses and his journey through various obstacles on his way home from the Trojan War. The track features Jack Bruce on vocals and bass guitar and Ginger Baker on drums.
8. Spoonful
“Spoonful” is a blues classic that was originally recorded by Willie Dixon, but the Cream’s cover of the song is one of the most famous versions. The song is characterized by its steady bassline and driving rhythm, which provide the perfect backdrop for Eric Clapton’s searing guitar solos. The lyrics, which describe a man’s insatiable appetite for love and the way it affects him physically, are delivered with raw intensity by lead singer Jack Bruce.
9. Born Under a Bad Sign
“Born Under a Bad Sign” is a blues song that was originally performed by Albert King in 1967, but Cream covered it in their 1968 album “Wheels of Fire.” The song features Eric Clapton’s masterful guitar work, and his solos are some of the most iconic in rock history. The lyrics describe a man who has always been unlucky in life and has suffered from misfortune since his birth.
10. Politician
“Politician” is a song by Cream from their 1968 album, “Wheels of Fire.” It features a hard-driving blues-rock sound with Eric Clapton’s fiery guitar licks and Jack Bruce’s dynamic bass lines. The lyrics, written by Pete Brown, are a biting commentary on politicians who will say or do anything to get elected. They are delivered with a sneer by Bruce, who also sings the lead vocals. The song’s chorus features the lines “Hey now, baby, get into my big black car / Hey now, baby, get into my big black car / I wanna just show you what my politics are.”
Simon Robinson 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.
