Derek and the Dominos

Released: November 9, 1970

Songwriter: Bobby Whitlock

Producer: Derek and the Dominos Tom Dowd

There's a thorn tree in the garden
If you know just what I mean
And I hate to hurt your feelings
But it's not the way it seems, 'cause I miss her

She's the only girl I've cared for
The only one I've known
And no one ever shared more love
Than we've known and I miss her

But it all seems so strange you see
'Cause she'd never turn her back on me
And leave without a last goodbye
And if she winds up walking the streets
Loving every other man she meets
Who'll be the one to answer why?
Lord, I hope it's not me, oh it's not me

And if I never see her face again
I never hold her hand
And if she's in somebody's arms
I know I'll understand but I'll miss that girl
Lord I still miss that girl

Maybe someday soon, some way

Derek and the Dominos were a blues rock jam band formed in the spring of 1970 by guitarist and singer Eric Clapton, keyboardist and singer Bobby Whitlock, bassist Carl Radle and drummer Jim Gordon. They had previously played together in Delaney & Bonnie and Friends. Dave Mason supplied additional lead guitar on early studio sessions and played at their first live gig.

The band released only one studio album, Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs. The album went on to receive critical acclaim, but initially faltered in sales and in radio airplay. Although released in 1970 it was not until March 1972 that the album’s single “Layla” (a tale of unrequited love inspired by Clapton’s relationship with his friend George Harrison’s wife, Pattie Boyd) made the top ten in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The album, which has received praise from critics and fans alike, is often considered to be the defining achievement of Clapton’s career.

more tracks from the album

Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs

From the album

Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs (1970)

Derek and the Dominos popular songs

Thorn Tree in the GardenDerek and the Dominos

Derek and the Dominos

Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs