You've got me on my knees.

My iPod is a wild mix of music, most of it put there by friends. So it was interesting to hear the original Layla by Derek and the Dominos followed immediately by Layla unplugged also by Eric Clapton.

The original is blood red visceral and the guitar riff sounds like it came from his guts, ripped through his heart and Layla is the electricity that runs through his veins. When Layla has him on his knees I picture him desperately in love, enchanted, electric and collapsing to his knees in humility for the power her love. He's addicted to Layla, she has affected him so much. It's exhilarating.

Then hearing Layla unplugged directly afterward was remarkable. It sounded like the song was out of gas. Sounds like he could take her or leave her, whichever. And when Layla has Unplugged Eric on his knees it sounds like his collapse was too tired to stand up because playing that riff so slowly was exhausting. And he just wants to nap.

Layla, you've got me on my knees.

Layla, I'm begging, darling please.
Layla, darling won't you ease my worried mind.

I tried to give you consolation
When your old man had let you down.
Like a fool, I fell in love with you,
Turned my whole world upside down.

Chorus

Let's make the best of the situation
Before I finally go insane.
Please don't say we'll never find a way
And tell me all my love's in vain.