These videos are by far the most comprehensive and valuable body of work documenting a major artist from the golden age of rock music ever published. They will be refered to and studied by many researchers of music and culture for years to come.
Bobby, as a 65 yrs old man who owned and loved your first 2 solo albums and, of course, the Dominoes, I am just now learning that you are still alive and kicking and music making. I've got a lot of catching up to do with you. Congrats on still being around! As a kid, I especially loved Thorn Tree. Such a great song. Such a great voice.
Bobby already had the blues growing up poor in the south. I always like getting a glimpse of your white cat. Reminds me of a family pet from decades ago. He was solid white and named Johnny Winter.
So many songs were written about smack and so many players ie charlie Parker the stones glorified drugs the culture went that way bayer company you could buy it over the counter . Overseas soldiers were going to opium dens . People are looking for answers I’m so glad you you touched this subject . You helped me months ago and I’m doing fine . May God bless peace
I did every drug under the sun back in the day but I remember snorting heroin maybe 5 to 10 times. I then called up a guy (from my office, no less) who I couldn't STAND to see if he had any--luckily he didn't. But I hung up the phone and I thought to myself, "Do you see what you just did??!" I knew right then that the addiction monster was on my trail and I never did heroin again. Close call. So glad you and Eric made it through. "There but for fortune..."
A man of wisdom gained through experience. And CoCo - a brilliant interviewer and partner who brings out the best in Bobby. Thank you. May God bless you both.
Oh yeah, I got carried away with that crap. Too many years. Now I yam 64 and have spent half my life off drugs and liquor. Now I get to hang out with my Jack Russell and enjoy life.
When I studied painting in college there was this really cool teacher who taught fabrics & fibers (Rose Wognam). She was American Indian. Long story short, she talked about this one tribe of Indians that every so often burned down their houses -with all their belongings. And, in doing so, they were kind of like reborn, and had to start anew. That is a beautiful thing to consider. Bless
You can get clean…I was a club musician for years…everything was right in the environment for me…I’m 67 now…The thing is “you” have to want to get clean……it’s work hard work but…even few relapses….I got completely substance free…20 years now…..I’m afraid to take a pain killer…even if dr prescribes…u know the trigger….interesting hard core topic…thanks Coco/Bobby…
I've been clean from heroin, other opiates, and whatnot for going on 8yrs now. I was on that opiate for colic, too, as a baby. Then later I had a controlled descent into drugs, with a similar thought process to EC in that regard. All my heroes were junkies. I wanted that knowledge in my artistic bag, or I thought I did. I had to get my "PhD in Applied Narcotics", as Stanley J. Krammerhead III, Jr. would say. Hell, even now, I may be clean, but my ears will always have a drug problem!! Lol!!! Never was a drinker though, thankfully, I don't think I could handle that much temptation in my face daily. It's still a struggle some days, but boy oh boy, is it worth it. Now I have a wonderful partner and our beloved cats. It's a life I never thought I'd have after all my wild adventures from San Francisco to South Carolina, and I'm grateful everyday. I love these heartfelt videos from y'all, they really give me a dose of serotonin that I need.
I'm glad you made it through all that crap Bobby. I quit everything 32 years ago, no program, no nothing, just quit, just like you. All of us survived it and are now so much better for it. Good on ya.
We don't know if Eric watches Bobby's channel, but it would be hard to believe that, if he did watch one of Bobby's videos (like this one), that he wouldn't feel compelled to just pick up the phone and want to have a good chat. At least that's what I would think.
There was only one remark that might be viewed as contentious, but frankly, that period of Clapton’s life is no secret. Besides which, people that go through all that reconcile themselves to the fact that they behaved in ways which were completely uncharacteristic and almost entirely as a result of that lifestyle. It’s old history, for all of them. (M. Clements)
It’s almost hard to believe he wouldn’t at least know about it. Look up his videos on UA-cam and nearly every one has comments about Bobby & CoCo’s channel.
@@katrinawallis-king1540 Getting talked about publicly by strangers or the media is one thing. Getting talked about by a former associate publicly is another. Conversely, although I had heard that Clapton’s descent into heroin addiction was deliberate and contrived in order to more-or-less self-mythologize himself in the way that his heroes had been mythologized, hearing this explicitly spelled out from a direct witness is different. It’s quite remarkable that someone would do that.
It's a semi rarified subset of us who became survivors. I've been free of all the harder stuff since Aug 25, 1988. Something about a GF who you love telling you "If I ever catch you doing coke again, I'll leave you!" . Well she didn't catch me; I was trying to introduce her to it but that's another matter. No one had ever talked like that to me before; it made such an impact that I promised her I'd never touch the stuff. The fact we broke up 18 months later didn't change my mind. I made her a promise and I keep my word. Nothing more than 1 beer after work for me. Glad you two made it through all that craziness. I've been to too many funerals of fallen friends.
Thanks for the videos, always great to hear your stories.I m 67,dont take anything, stopped drinking ,smoking 25 years ago. Grew up like Bobby, bible belt boy.I did try a lot of drugs though, would smoke a doobie and listen to layla album
Bobby and Coco, thanks for another little informative session. In the 60s the drugs were cheap and good quality and addiction was only for heroin and those kind of drugs. I became involved in the cocaine business, which became my undoing. I had it all, cars, money, chicks. When I eventually was captured I heaved a sigh of relief and the thing is I was an alcoholic during this time and I quit that too, can't get booze in jail. Once I was done with jail I never looked back. I had ZERO and I mean nothing. A lifetime of of goods and chattels gone. I am still here at 69 years old, chilling with my little dog in my retirement apartment enjoying watching the madness go on around me. I write these days and some days I think that all the written words have been done, I don't need to add to that. Talk to Olivia Harrison, she knows something about that we all need to know. I discovered it too and I know some of her friends from before she met George who are part of this too. In fact George recorded an album of theirs on his Dark Horse label, the band was Jiva. Not Krishna either!
Bobby is wise man, the message he gives and lives by, listen to your own body and mind, not your peers or some doctors. Clean and sober is real living.
I believe your Conversations are having a huge impact on everyone who watches them. “What an amazing life and musical career. I think there has been more attention to Bobby, his career, and his involvement in the ATMP album by them not initially asking him for his input! There are videos by others bringing Bobby’s involvement in ATMP and his career to light. We are also learning more about Coco’s talents as well, “what a gem”. Remember everything happens for a reason!!
I love how Bobby gets in the moment, and tells a story about truth in his life. Amazing videos. Thank you for sharing my friend. And Coco is amazing at getting him tell his history. His love for her is undeniably. Great stuff.
This channel is unreal!!! I've been crying out for more BW interviews i could listen to him all day, now I see regular videos being posted on this channel, warms my soul. Bobby get back with Eric for an album, the performance of Southern Gentleman on Jools Holland about 20 yrs ago proves the chemistry ye got is unreal. Love from Ireland 🇮🇪
one of the few good things about getting older is getting wiser, i still can't believe the stuff me and my friends did back in the day, gives me the shivers, now, me and the wife enjoy a good bottle of wine on friday night and that's about it.
Your story is so compelling because it is unvarnished. I am so thankful that it came full circle for you. It is sad that so many other talented people did not make it. I thought your statement “the best thing to happen to me was YOU” to Coco was a particularly beautiful thing. I really appreciate your sharing!
When one answers the question "How are you?" and replies "good, thank you", what they are really saying is, there is no tragedy at this time. Life is difficult. This world is and will never be "paradise" so we often look to escape the pain. Unfortunately, drugs will get you to "paradise" for a brief moment, but then you fall right back into this broken world. You do more and more until, like a sweet sugar, it starts destroying your body. We are curious creatures who are always in need of something to stimulate our minds; it could be art, music, books, our work, raising children. We all need a purpose and when life is purposeless a void needs to be filled. Bobby, you found a purpose without the drugs and you are in that right place now with Coco. Life will always be a challenge, yet you have found a purpose in sharing your story with so many. You have touched lives you will never know about.......
Mr. BW, you lived it and could tell more than just stories; you left it all for us to learn from. You are a true Southern gentleman. I can't wait to hear you playing keys on the other side.
Bobby, at 16:10 you say "lay my head" -- the way you say it -- that needs to be a song! Please credit me Whitlock-Ceisler haha :-) .. I love watching these videos Bobby and CoCo. Thank you so much.
I certainly followed a similar path. my father the Major was not an easy man at all . When I got free of that, I worked hard and played hard for years. I think you are right I never went too overboard but I have done some crazy stuff, especially in the 20 years I lived in Daytona. I too am glad both Eric and Bobby made it through. As usual and cogent and straight-up vid, thank you.
Not to be flippant...but your new teeth are very nice... 😉 A story I read once was that Eric said his coke dealer would only sell him coke if he bought smack as well, and the bags of heroin piled up in a drawer, and one day he decided to try it...the "pink cotton wool" feeling was mentioned in that same article. Drugs and alcohol are NO GOOD...you are so right. Love what you say about CoCo, being the best thing that ever happened to you, I feel the same way about my wife. ❤️❤️
Thank you Bobby and Coco for another amazing video! Coco you are a wonderful interviewer and thank you for your transparency Bobby! Drug addiction is real and effects just about every person in one way or another in this country. It was so great to hear Bobby say that the best thing that ever happened to him was you, Coco! You are both so blessed to have each other! Congratulations on your sobriety Bobby! Sending you both much love and positivity!❤️🕊🙏🏻
opium use has been with us for many centuries, they found opium poppy heads in terracotta jars in the great Pyramids, it is ancient! Prior to WWII you could buy opium/heroin cough mixture from the general store, musicians have always liked opium products because it is soothing and dreamy, inspires the imagination. Human beings love drugs.
Wow, what an episode! So many memories here. I'm 73 also. I always thought I was a guinea pig growing up. LOLOL... I've had it all too and no good ever comes from too much drugs and alcohol. Thankfully my mom tried to steer me right and it finally took hold and I got turned around. My wonderful wife has kept me straight all these years. Thanks Bobby and Coco. Everyone should watch this episode.
Hey Bobby and Coco, love these video’s and especially talking of Bobby & Eric but always wonder why Eric and yourself haven’t reconvened for at least a couple concerts, of course I have seen them on Hools Holland show but I could only dream of seeing them both on stage again, there was and is no better compliment to all those songs than Bobby and Eric, he has tried so many backup and none come close to BW
Thank you for all the vids you’ve made. I remember hearing Delaney and Bonnie as a real little kid in 1972(I’d have been 5). My brother absolutely loved them. My sister used to play the Layla record at the same time so pretty much I got turned on to Clapton and you and the fellas at a super young age. Thank you by the way for the “Anyday” vid. It’s probably my fave tune on the Layla record
As one in recovery from various things myself, who did not have the strength to "walk away," but had to get professional help, your story truly inspiring.
Thanks for sharing real stories and feelings Bobby. This sort of stuff is important for kids to hear. I'm 54 and I wish I had heard stories about what it could be like...lucky for me I had the same realization really early about hitting booze and hard drugs too hard....got away from hard drugs and booze really quick and I'm glad I did.
I too know way too many people that died alone with a needle in their arm when they were found. Neil Young seemed to get the issue by doing "Needle and the Damage Done." sad...
When I was a kid in the late fifties, early sixties, in the deep East Texas piney woods, the Depression Era generation was around and one of the old timers gave me these words of wisdom... "If you don't have it, it don't have you." I've never forgotten that. The other thing they used to say with a chuckle when people talked about accumulating material things was, "No thank you, I'm travelin' light."
I gave up the partying year,s ago myself, I get high now on helping people,and being good, in Jesus name. He,s coming back soon. People need to prepare! God bless you and Coco!! Clayton, from Gulfport,MS!!
“I paid in other ways I’m sure.” The hard won wisdom and candor are eye opening. I wasn’t aware that Eric’s descent was so deliberate. I got the sense that after all the joy of making great music for others was done, a performer may hope for the same transcendence they have given others. It reminds me of Jerry Garcia who retreated into hard drugs as I’m assuming as an escape and for some release. One would think the joy one brings others would shine back on oneself, but it seems to lead to the question, what about me? This is a hard truth to understand, even the musical greats want more than just the love of fans, the “trappings”; and sometimes it’s maddening to realize hard drugs are a sort of implosive vacation from the pressures, expectations, and the grind of touring and maintaining a “career”.
“Rainy Day Man”, I recall Bobby said he never met James Taylor while JT was working at Apple records. James was so young and raw and gifted it would’ve been a blissful trip to hear Bobby jam with James.
What a fantastic, insightful and beautifully honest conversation. The revelation about the best thing to happen to him being you has moved me deeply, quite poetic from a man who has truly experienced life. Thank you.
Great that Bobby made it through this hard Times. Ím sober for 8 years and i have tried every drug i could put my hands on. I love the stories you speak about. Ím looking foreward to listen to your new Songs! You two are a fantastic pair.
Just saw a video with you both.. George Klein and you sang keep on growing .. wow it was awesome! Interview was good as well! You never stopped growing yet, Bobby and CoCo! ❤️😊👍
Wow....and dang it. I'd forgot about that parogoric stuff,until you mentioned it. Made me shiver just thinking about dosing a baby,even tho I recall both my grandma's always had a bottle at hand. Cheers,thanks for sharing👍
What a marvelous thing it is to be able to listen to someone who has lived be open and honest about how they came into the world and how they got through it. Thanks for sharing this conversation.
They just showed A Life in 12 Bard on tv over here in uk I have the dvd but still can’t resist watching it again. After that they played a selection of Eric Clapton tv appearances including Bobby and Eric doing Bell Bottom Blues on Jools Holland it was so good …. and yes Bobby your hair was outrageously curly.
Coco, Bobby, such a tough discussion to talk through, THANK YOU! Bobby must be so grounded to be able to talk thru this. You two are still reeling from all the 50th Must Pass Hoopla! Soooo resilient! No wonder u 2 are so tight! Much Luv! Boston....
Hey Bobby & Coco; I woke up with Thorn Tree in the Garden in my head today. Cried as I always have since the 1st time I ever heard it as a kid when it was brand new. I've subscribed & saved a channel just for you guys. This is about the 10th vid I've watched today, Sunday, 10-24-21. You're 8-9 years older than me, so I was "The Youngster" in the crowd while you were hanging with Duane & Eric & Delaney & Bonnie etc. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE everything. We've (U both & I & My gal & friends) ALL "ended up at the same conclusions" about Karma & Life, "Be Here Now" (Baba Ram Dass) Love, Creativity, Music, etc. Peace, Love, Joy, Happiness, Health & Lots more great LONG life to Y'all. "Peace & Love"😍✌♥ (I Really mean it, not just a "saying" to us..... Right?) Mike & family. :)
In my opinion Mr Whitlock , the late ,great Robbie Robertson summed it up best when he was talking about being on the road as a 70's "Rock Star " and everything that accompanied the lifestyle ? " It's a goddamned impossible way of life " he said ! A lot of musicians did not make it through that time period to tell their tales ,as you know sir ! I can't even begin to imagine what life for a touring musician was like back then ? Thank the Lord you are here to tell your story . Another great , insightful video . I hope both of you folks are well ...
A pair of socks. A pair of shoes. A paregoric. When my mom passed a couple of years ago, I found a 2 ounce bottle at the house, filled in 1956 at a pharmacy in Jekyll Island GA for me because I had colic as a baby down there on vacation. She was a depression era kid and lived her life as her parents. Those types never threw ANYTHING away. They never knew when they'd need it again, and if they kept it, they wouldn't have to spend money for more. I 'm also reminded, from this episode, of the old southern question, "Do you know how to tell the difference between a Baptist and a Methodist?" "The Methodist will say hello to you in the liquor store." 😁
I've gotten hooked on your (Bobby and CoCo's) videos. Like Bobby said, I got them for free, now they're habit forming. It's very interesting to hear those stories surrounding all that great, great music which was made by people who, it turns out, were all as human as regular people. With the same flaws and insecurities as everyone else. Not the mythic, super people most imagine. It's amazing to see how Bobby drifts back into the middle of all that, and pauses a bit to take it all in. Like he's experiencing a quick glimpse of a past life he can still feel, and was lucky to have made it through. Thank you both.
My 1960s and 70s Southern Baptist upbringing had me convinced I was hell bound. They used to hand out those tracts about it at Sunday school. Literally scared the hell out of me. Thankfully I had paragoric to take the edge off lol.
I was given Peregoric when I was sick as a kid and Coedine too. fabulous effective medicines when you needed relief. I've had no lasting effects. Chet Baker's Biography gives a horrific portrayal of drug addiction. He probably took more than most any 60's rock people for a longer time even than Keith.
I'm reading a biography of Eric Clapton called, Slowhand by Philip Norman - a well known British author. It was through P.N.s thorough research for the book, that i first heard of Bobby Whitlock. There's a picture of him and Eric together in E.s house in Surrey. I had never expected to have interest in Clapton's life but I find the book fascinating and detailed and as his children echos mine, I enjoyed looking back at those times after the war. Many memories about the adult Eric are taken from Pattie Boyd during interviews with the author. To help me digest the Slowhand in depth ,I researched YTs with Bonnie and Dalanie, Bobby and others, that support the book's fine research. It's a pleasure to look back into the lives of people who were there in my life, although only through their music, all those years ago. - Thank you Bobby for the great YT talks. I do enjoy them so much. Now i must try and finish the book, Slowhand. - BTW, Phillip Norman wrote a huge biography on Paul Macca and John Lennon. I have read both, although both together are hard going due to the huge page count. There's another bio. about Mick J. but I won't be reading that! Back to Bobby, you speak a lot of truth here. I never took drugs - but did rely on sleeping pills. Thank God they were mild and i never took more than one per night. They did me no harm - and being the same age as you, I am fit as a fiddle. Drugs are bad when abused and used for the wrong reasons, just as others' have said here in the comments. thanks.
“I’m not free with all that.” If you had that wisdom when you were younger and realized it, it might be why you’re still alive, happy, with most of your parts intact, the pendulum swinging your way, and a lovely partner who thinks you’re all that. Bless y’all. You deserve it. P.S. “Epitome” got me too. And “misled”. I thought it was “missiled”.
My mother was addicted to paregoric in the 1960"s. She used to have me go to the Local Rexall drug store to get it for her when I turned 18. The guitarist that Bobby once mentioned carrying on the Dominoes with is still playing dates in Dallas.
"Rich man has problem keepin' his stuff. That's his blues. Poor man blues ain't got no stuff. Wouldn't wanna keep it anyway. I'm not free with all that." I learn so much from Bobby. ...that being said, I'm a car guy, so would love to hear more about the cars he owned in the past.
"Best thing that ever happened to me was you" how lovely is that.. all the fame (ups and downs) he's had and he says something like that.what a man .
I love Bobby’s laugh. I could listen to his stories for hours.
I’m sure glad that Bobby and Eric came out the other side. There were too many that didn’t.
I woked in a drgstore in the late60s early 70s and anytime babies were teething the druggist would give Paragoric to rub on the babies gums!
These videos are by far the most comprehensive and valuable body of work documenting a major artist from the golden age of rock music ever published. They will be refered to and studied by many researchers of music and culture for years to come.
Thank you so much
couldn't have said it better myself
Straight up Real people here.... Thank you guy's
Bobby, as a 65 yrs old man who owned and loved your first 2 solo albums and, of course, the Dominoes, I am just now learning that you are still alive and kicking and music making. I've got a lot of catching up to do with you. Congrats on still being around! As a kid, I especially loved Thorn Tree. Such a great song. Such a great voice.
Bobby already had the blues growing up poor in the south.
I always like getting a glimpse of your white cat. Reminds me of a family pet from decades ago. He was solid white and named Johnny Winter.
So many songs were written about smack and so many players ie charlie Parker the stones glorified drugs the culture went that way bayer company you could buy it over the counter . Overseas soldiers were going to opium dens . People are looking for answers I’m so glad you you touched this subject . You helped me months ago and I’m doing fine . May God bless peace
I did every drug under the sun back in the day but I remember snorting heroin maybe 5 to 10 times. I then called up a guy (from my office, no less) who I couldn't STAND to see if he had any--luckily he didn't. But I hung up the phone and I thought to myself, "Do you see what you just did??!" I knew right then that the addiction monster was on my trail and I never did heroin again. Close call. So glad you and Eric made it through. "There but for fortune..."
Scary! Thank heavens you had that inner voice!
Put your foot in the stirrup and hold on well .. for i am the WHITE HORSE that will take you to HELL ....
The world is a better place with Bobby and Coco in it. Bless you both.
A man of wisdom gained through experience. And CoCo - a brilliant interviewer and partner who brings out the best in Bobby. Thank you.
May God bless you both.
Oh yeah, I got carried away with that crap. Too many years. Now I yam 64 and have spent half my life off drugs and liquor. Now I get to hang out with my Jack Russell and enjoy life.
When I studied painting in college there was this really cool teacher who taught fabrics & fibers (Rose Wognam). She was American Indian. Long story short, she talked about this one tribe of Indians that every so often burned down their houses -with all their belongings. And, in doing so, they were kind of like reborn, and had to start anew. That is a beautiful thing to consider. Bless
Tell the truth! That's what you're doing, Bobby. Coco, too. Thanks for the wise words, both of you.
Absolutely brilliant channel thank you both
You can get clean…I was a club musician for years…everything was right in the environment for me…I’m 67 now…The thing is “you” have to want to get clean……it’s work hard work but…even few relapses….I got completely substance free…20 years now…..I’m afraid to take a pain killer…even if dr prescribes…u know the trigger….interesting hard core topic…thanks Coco/Bobby…
Man,I love this site! The dogs,cats the fire and some great recollections of my favorite time for great music.
WOW Bobby WOW! u walked away!
That's a great way to see life....the things we "own" own us back. There's no freedom in hoarding a bunch of stuff. God bless you 🙏
I've been clean from heroin, other opiates, and whatnot for going on 8yrs now. I was on that opiate for colic, too, as a baby. Then later I had a controlled descent into drugs, with a similar thought process to EC in that regard. All my heroes were junkies. I wanted that knowledge in my artistic bag, or I thought I did. I had to get my "PhD in Applied Narcotics", as Stanley J. Krammerhead III, Jr. would say. Hell, even now, I may be clean, but my ears will always have a drug problem!! Lol!!! Never was a drinker though, thankfully, I don't think I could handle that much temptation in my face daily. It's still a struggle some days, but boy oh boy, is it worth it. Now I have a wonderful partner and our beloved cats. It's a life I never thought I'd have after all my wild adventures from San Francisco to South Carolina, and I'm grateful everyday.
I love these heartfelt videos from y'all, they really give me a dose of serotonin that I need.
I'm glad you made it through all that crap Bobby. I quit everything 32 years ago, no program, no nothing, just quit, just like you. All of us survived it and are now so much better for it. Good on ya.
We don't know if Eric watches Bobby's channel, but it would be hard to believe that, if he did watch one of Bobby's videos (like this one), that he wouldn't feel compelled to just pick up the phone and want to have a good chat. At least that's what I would think.
There was only one remark that might be viewed as contentious, but frankly, that period of Clapton’s life is no secret. Besides which, people that go through all that reconcile themselves to the fact that they behaved in ways which were completely uncharacteristic and almost entirely as a result of that lifestyle. It’s old history, for all of them. (M. Clements)
It’s almost hard to believe he wouldn’t at least know about it. Look up his videos on UA-cam and nearly every one has comments about Bobby & CoCo’s channel.
@@katrinawallis-king1540 Getting talked about publicly by strangers or the media is one thing. Getting talked about by a former associate publicly is another. Conversely, although I had heard that Clapton’s descent into heroin addiction was deliberate and contrived in order to more-or-less self-mythologize himself in the way that his heroes had been mythologized, hearing this explicitly spelled out from a direct witness is different. It’s quite remarkable that someone would do that.
It's a semi rarified subset of us who became survivors. I've been free of all the harder stuff since Aug 25, 1988. Something about a GF who you love telling you "If I ever catch you doing coke again, I'll leave you!" . Well she didn't catch me; I was trying to introduce her to it but that's another matter. No one had ever talked like that to me before; it made such an impact that I promised her I'd never touch the stuff. The fact we broke up 18 months later didn't change my mind. I made her a promise and I keep my word. Nothing more than 1 beer after work for me.
Glad you two made it through all that craziness. I've been to too many funerals of fallen friends.
There's that smile! So glad you stepped away and got healthy! Much love to you and CoCo!
Thanks for the videos, always great to hear your stories.I m 67,dont take anything, stopped drinking ,smoking 25 years ago. Grew up like Bobby, bible belt boy.I did try a lot of drugs though, would smoke a doobie and listen to layla album
Bobby speaks from his heart. One of the best interviews Coco.
Bobby and Coco, thanks for another little informative session. In the 60s the drugs were cheap and good quality and addiction was only for heroin and those kind of drugs. I became involved in the cocaine business, which became my undoing. I had it all, cars, money, chicks. When I eventually was captured I heaved a sigh of relief and the thing is I was an alcoholic during this time and I quit that too, can't get booze in jail. Once I was done with jail I never looked back. I had ZERO and I mean nothing. A lifetime of of goods and chattels gone. I am still here at 69 years old, chilling with my little dog in my retirement apartment enjoying watching the madness go on around me. I write these days and some days I think that all the written words have been done, I don't need to add to that. Talk to Olivia Harrison, she knows something about that we all need to know. I discovered it too and I know some of her friends from before she met George who are part of this too. In fact George recorded an album of theirs on his Dark Horse label, the band was Jiva. Not Krishna either!
Bobby is wise man, the message he gives and lives by, listen to your own body and mind, not your peers or some doctors. Clean and sober is real living.
“Make you sweep like a Hoover” LOL 😂
So thankful for your moment of clarity BW. Because having you here NOW is so sweet...
I believe your Conversations are having a huge impact on everyone who watches them. “What an amazing life and musical career. I think there has been more attention to Bobby, his career, and his involvement in the ATMP album by them not initially asking him for his input! There are videos by others bringing Bobby’s involvement in ATMP and his career to light. We are also learning more about Coco’s talents as well, “what a gem”.
Remember everything happens for a reason!!
so agree these talk are precious.. i am no blues or r and r fan but i love them! - do love George H. though..
I love how Bobby gets in the moment, and tells a story about truth in his life. Amazing videos. Thank you for sharing my friend. And Coco is amazing at getting him tell his history. His love for her is undeniably. Great stuff.
I love whatever that cheetah head thingy is over near the wall.😆👍
This channel is unreal!!! I've been crying out for more BW interviews i could listen to him all day, now I see regular videos being posted on this channel, warms my soul. Bobby get back with Eric for an album, the performance of Southern Gentleman on Jools Holland about 20 yrs ago proves the chemistry ye got is unreal.
Love from Ireland 🇮🇪
Bobby, you are inspiring in SO many ways......not the least of which is your taste in shirts! You always look great buddy!
Thank you for the wisdom Bobby and Coco! Yall still rock!
"GREAT Testamony BOBBY"!
YOU HAD ALL THE TRAPPINGS"
one of the few good things about getting older is getting wiser, i still can't believe the stuff me and my friends did back in the day, gives me the shivers, now, me and the wife enjoy a good bottle of wine on friday night and that's about it.
We tend to settle down with age, content to be alive and still kicking!
Some of us were meant to survive and tell the story…. Preach!!!
Your story is so compelling because it is unvarnished. I am so thankful that it came full circle for you. It is sad that so many other talented people did not make it. I thought your statement “the best thing to happen to me was YOU” to Coco was a particularly beautiful thing. I really appreciate your sharing!
Always so interesting listening to Bobby, love you guys.
When one answers the question "How are you?" and replies "good, thank you", what they are really saying is, there is no tragedy at this time. Life is difficult. This world is and will never be "paradise" so we often look to escape the pain. Unfortunately, drugs will get you to "paradise" for a brief moment, but then you fall right back into this broken world. You do more and more until, like a sweet sugar, it starts destroying your body. We are curious creatures who are always in need of something to stimulate our minds; it could be art, music, books, our work, raising children. We all need a purpose and when life is purposeless a void needs to be filled. Bobby, you found a purpose without the drugs and you are in that right place now with Coco. Life will always be a challenge, yet you have found a purpose in sharing your story with so many. You have touched lives you will never know about.......
YOU TWO ARE WINNERS!!! In my book-heads held high & tellin' no lies.....
Drugs and alcohol fuck up good bands, never fails! First there is unreliability then comes chaos and ultimately crash!
Mr. BW, you lived it and could tell more than just stories; you left it all for us to learn from. You are a true Southern gentleman. I can't wait to hear you playing keys on the other side.
Bobby, at 16:10 you say "lay my head" -- the way you say it -- that needs to be a song! Please credit me Whitlock-Ceisler haha :-) .. I love watching these videos Bobby and CoCo. Thank you so much.
I certainly followed a similar path. my father the Major was not an easy man at all . When I got free of that, I worked hard and played hard for years. I think you are right I never went too overboard but I have done some crazy stuff, especially in the 20 years I lived in Daytona. I too am glad both Eric and Bobby made it through. As usual and cogent and straight-up vid, thank you.
Not to be flippant...but your new teeth are very nice... 😉 A story I read once was that Eric said his coke dealer would only sell him coke if he bought smack as well, and the bags of heroin piled up in a drawer, and one day he decided to try it...the "pink cotton wool" feeling was mentioned in that same article. Drugs and alcohol are NO GOOD...you are so right. Love what you say about CoCo, being the best thing that ever happened to you, I feel the same way about my wife. ❤️❤️
That's true.. but Eric did want to do it.
@@BW-CC gotcha, I remember that from the article too, think it was Rolling Stone in 1974.
Thank you Bobby and Coco for another amazing video! Coco you are a wonderful interviewer and thank you for your transparency Bobby! Drug addiction is real and effects just about every person in one way or another in this country. It was so great to hear Bobby say that the best thing that ever happened to him was you, Coco! You are both so blessed to have each other! Congratulations on your sobriety Bobby! Sending you both much love and positivity!❤️🕊🙏🏻
opium use has been with us for many centuries, they found opium poppy heads in terracotta jars in the great Pyramids, it is ancient! Prior to WWII you could buy opium/heroin cough mixture from the general store, musicians have always liked opium products because it is soothing and dreamy, inspires the imagination. Human beings love drugs.
Wow, what an episode! So many memories here. I'm 73 also. I always thought I was a guinea pig growing up. LOLOL... I've had it all too and no good ever comes from too much drugs and alcohol. Thankfully my mom tried to steer me right and it finally took hold and I got turned around. My wonderful wife has kept me straight all these years. Thanks Bobby and Coco. Everyone should watch this episode.
Hey Bobby and Coco, love these video’s and especially talking of Bobby & Eric but always wonder why Eric and yourself haven’t reconvened for at least a couple concerts, of course I have seen them on Hools Holland show but I could only dream of seeing them both on stage again, there was and is no better compliment to all those songs than Bobby and Eric, he has tried so many backup and none come close to BW
It's not for a lack of trying on Bobby's part.
It's all up to EC.
Thanks BW and Coco love me some Tulsa Sound and been sober since 8/21/12. Derek and the Dominos!
Thank you for all the vids you’ve made. I remember hearing Delaney and Bonnie as a real little kid in 1972(I’d have been 5). My brother absolutely loved them. My sister used to play the Layla record at the same time so pretty much I got turned on to Clapton and you and the fellas at a super young age.
Thank you by the way for the “Anyday” vid. It’s probably my fave tune on the Layla record
Thank you
As one in recovery from various things myself, who did not have the strength to "walk away," but had to get professional help, your story truly inspiring.
Thanks for sharing real stories and feelings Bobby. This sort of stuff is important for kids to hear. I'm 54 and I wish I had heard stories about what it could be like...lucky for me I had the same realization really early about hitting booze and hard drugs too hard....got away from hard drugs and booze really quick and I'm glad I did.
I too know way too many people that died alone with a needle in their arm when they were found. Neil Young seemed to get the issue by doing "Needle and the Damage Done." sad...
Love these interviews, very humbling and earnest ! Bobby is a legend & his wife is a good Woman. Great couple ..
When I was a kid in the late fifties, early sixties, in the deep East Texas piney woods, the Depression Era generation was around and one of the old timers gave me these words of wisdom... "If you don't have it, it don't have you." I've never forgotten that. The other thing they used to say with a chuckle when people talked about accumulating material things was, "No thank you, I'm travelin' light."
I love your stories,told with a bit of humor!
Did you ever party, with Keith Richard,s, or Keith Moon?
I gave up the partying year,s ago myself, I get high now on helping people,and being good, in Jesus name. He,s coming back soon. People need to prepare! God bless you and Coco!! Clayton, from Gulfport,MS!!
I've always wondered why Eric didn't put his name on the Layla album.Surely that would have made a big difference to sales if he had.
I managed to kick opiates, but good lord, kicking alcohol was a hundred times worse!
Much obliged. You can beat anything if your soul is intact. I may not have a pot to piss in when my final reward appears, but I will have my soul.
Your voice, positive outlook and candor are all very refreshing. Love if I could meet you some day and talk the blues. Thanks Bobby and god bless.
“I paid in other ways I’m sure.” The hard won wisdom and candor are eye opening. I wasn’t aware that Eric’s descent was so deliberate. I got the sense that after all the joy of making great music for others was done, a performer may hope for the same transcendence they have given others. It reminds me of Jerry Garcia who retreated into hard drugs as I’m assuming as an escape and for some release. One would think the joy one brings others would shine back on oneself, but it seems to lead to the question, what about me? This is a hard truth to understand, even the musical greats want more than just the love of fans, the “trappings”; and sometimes it’s maddening to realize hard drugs are a sort of implosive vacation from the pressures, expectations, and the grind of touring and maintaining a “career”.
“Rainy Day Man”, I recall Bobby said he never met James Taylor while JT was working at Apple records. James was so young and raw and gifted it would’ve been a blissful trip to hear Bobby jam with James.
What a fantastic, insightful and beautifully honest conversation. The revelation about the best thing to happen to him being you has moved me deeply, quite poetic from a man who has truly experienced life. Thank you.
CoCo - thank you so much for asking the questions here. And thank you Bobby for answering them.
Thanks for your honest video....glad you came out of it relatively unscathed....that is a blessing!
Thank you BW and CoCo
Great that Bobby made it through this hard Times. Ím sober for 8 years and i have tried every drug i could put my hands on. I love the stories you speak about. Ím looking foreward to listen to your new Songs! You two are a fantastic pair.
Great interview! Prayers from Wales!
What a beautiful smile!
Fascinating background. We are the sum of our experiences.
Bobby. "My Preacher dad. "Cant do this cant do that"
Cat: Rowww!!!
Just saw a video with you both.. George Klein and you sang keep on growing .. wow it was awesome! Interview was good as well! You never stopped growing yet, Bobby and CoCo! ❤️😊👍
Wow....and dang it. I'd forgot about that parogoric stuff,until you mentioned it. Made me shiver just thinking about dosing a baby,even tho I recall both my grandma's always had a bottle at hand. Cheers,thanks for sharing👍
What a marvelous thing it is to be able to listen to someone who has lived be open and honest about how they came into the world and how they got through it. Thanks for sharing this conversation.
They just showed A Life in 12 Bard on tv over here in uk I have the dvd but still can’t resist watching it again. After that they played a selection of Eric Clapton tv appearances including Bobby and Eric doing Bell Bottom Blues on Jools Holland it was so good …. and yes Bobby your hair was outrageously curly.
Coco, Bobby, such a tough discussion to talk through, THANK YOU! Bobby must be so grounded to be able to talk thru this. You two are still reeling from all the 50th Must Pass Hoopla! Soooo resilient! No wonder u 2 are so tight! Much Luv! Boston....
You're a real beauty Bobby.
Thanks for the reminiscing. Great stuff.
Hey Bobby & Coco; I woke up with Thorn Tree in the Garden in my head today. Cried as I always have since the 1st time I ever heard it as a kid when it was brand new. I've subscribed & saved a channel just for you guys. This is about the 10th vid I've watched today, Sunday, 10-24-21. You're 8-9 years older than me, so I was "The Youngster" in the crowd while you were hanging with Duane & Eric & Delaney & Bonnie etc. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE everything. We've (U both & I & My gal & friends) ALL "ended up at the same conclusions" about Karma & Life, "Be Here Now" (Baba Ram Dass) Love, Creativity, Music, etc. Peace, Love, Joy, Happiness, Health & Lots more great LONG life to Y'all. "Peace & Love"😍✌♥ (I Really mean it, not just a "saying" to us..... Right?) Mike & family. :)
Thanks Bobby and Coco. Your videos continue to be a treasure.
In my opinion Mr Whitlock , the late ,great Robbie Robertson summed it up best when he was talking about being on the road as a 70's "Rock Star " and everything that accompanied the lifestyle ? " It's a goddamned impossible way of life " he said ! A lot of musicians did not make it through that time period to tell their tales ,as you know sir ! I can't even begin to imagine what life for a touring musician was like back then ? Thank the Lord you are here to tell your story . Another great , insightful video . I hope both of you folks are well ...
A pair of socks.
A pair of shoes.
A paregoric.
When my mom passed a couple of years ago, I found a 2 ounce bottle at the house, filled in 1956 at a pharmacy in Jekyll Island GA for me because I had colic as a baby down there on vacation. She was a depression era kid and lived her life as her parents. Those types never threw ANYTHING away. They never knew when they'd need it again, and if they kept it, they wouldn't have to spend money for more.
I 'm also reminded, from this episode, of the old southern question, "Do you know how to tell the difference between a Baptist and a Methodist?"
"The Methodist will say hello to you in the liquor store." 😁
I've gotten hooked on your (Bobby and CoCo's) videos. Like Bobby said, I got them for free, now they're habit forming. It's very interesting to hear those stories surrounding all that great, great music which was made by people who, it turns out, were all as human as regular people. With the same flaws and insecurities as everyone else. Not the mythic, super people most imagine.
It's amazing to see how Bobby drifts back into the middle of all that, and pauses a bit to take it all in. Like he's experiencing a quick glimpse of a past life he can still feel, and was lucky to have made it through. Thank you both.
Amazing! Thank you for sharing.
Love you guys… never change a winning formula… keep the stories coming please
My 1960s and 70s Southern Baptist upbringing had me convinced I was hell bound. They used to hand out those tracts about it at Sunday school. Literally scared the hell out of me. Thankfully I had paragoric to take the edge off lol.
I was given Peregoric when I was sick as a kid and Coedine too. fabulous effective medicines when you needed relief. I've had no lasting effects. Chet Baker's Biography gives a horrific portrayal of drug addiction. He probably took more than most any 60's rock people for a longer time even than Keith.
Good morning ladies and gentlemen 10 a.m. eastern standard time thank you much for the chat have a great day peace
I'm reading a biography of Eric Clapton called, Slowhand by Philip Norman - a well known British author. It was through P.N.s thorough research for the book, that i first heard of Bobby Whitlock. There's a picture of him and Eric together in E.s house in Surrey. I had never expected to have interest in Clapton's life but I find the book fascinating and detailed and as his children echos mine, I enjoyed looking back at those times after the war. Many memories about the adult Eric are taken from Pattie Boyd during interviews with the author. To help me digest the Slowhand in depth ,I researched YTs with Bonnie and Dalanie, Bobby and others, that support the book's fine research. It's a pleasure to look back into the lives of people who were there in my life, although only through their music, all those years ago. - Thank you Bobby for the great YT talks. I do enjoy them so much. Now i must try and finish the book, Slowhand. - BTW, Phillip Norman wrote a huge biography on Paul Macca and John Lennon. I have read both, although both together are hard going due to the huge page count. There's another bio. about Mick J. but I won't be reading that! Back to Bobby, you speak a lot of truth here. I never took drugs - but did rely on sleeping pills. Thank God they were mild and i never took more than one per night. They did me no harm - and being the same age as you, I am fit as a fiddle. Drugs are bad when abused and used for the wrong reasons, just as others' have said here in the comments. thanks.
I’m sharing with all my friends. Bless you both. Sweet inspiration
GREAT 👍 TALK THANK YOU FOR POSTING ✌ AND 💘 💘 💘
“I’m not free with all that.” If you had that wisdom when you were younger and realized it, it might be why you’re still alive, happy, with most of your parts intact, the pendulum swinging your way, and a lovely partner who thinks you’re all that. Bless y’all. You deserve it. P.S. “Epitome” got me too. And “misled”. I thought it was “missiled”.
Delaney & Bonnie & Friends: Copenhagen December 10, 1969 watch on youtube and look for Bobby
What a fantastic video,thank you for sharing your story Bobby.Take care buddy 👍
Good word, brother. Thank you!
Great video today! Thank you!
My mother was addicted to paregoric in the 1960"s. She used to have me go to the Local Rexall drug store to get it for her when I turned 18. The guitarist that Bobby once mentioned carrying on the Dominoes with is still playing dates in Dallas.
"Rich man has problem keepin' his stuff. That's his blues. Poor man blues ain't got no stuff. Wouldn't wanna keep it anyway. I'm not free with all that." I learn so much from Bobby. ...that being said, I'm a car guy, so would love to hear more about the cars he owned in the past.