I Shot The Sheriff

Eric Clapton · Complete Clapton [2007]

I shot the sheriff,

But I did not shoot the deputy.

I shot the sheriff,

But I didn't shoot the deputy.



All around my home town

They're trying to track me down.

They say they want to bring me in guilty

For the killing of the deputy;

For the life of a deputy.



I said..

I shot the sheriff,

But I swear it was in self defence.

I shot the sheriff

And they say it was a capitol offence.



Sheriff John Brown always hated me.

For what? I don't know,

But every time that I plant a seed,

He said, "Kill it before it grows."

He said, "Kill it before it grows."



I said..

I shot the sheriff,

But I swear it was in self defense.

I shot the sheriff,

But I swear it was in self defense.



Freedom came my way one day

And I started out of town.

All of a sudden I see Sheriff John Brown

Aimin' to shoot me down.

So I shot, I shot him down.



I said..

I shot the sheriff,

But I did not shoot the deputy.

I shot the sheriff,

But I didn't shoot the deputy.



Reflexes got the better of me

And what is to be must be.

Every day the bucket falls to the world.

One day the bottom will drop out.

Yes, one day the bottom will drop out.



I said..

I shot the sheriff,

But I didn't shoot the deputy.

Oh, no, oh, no.

I shot the sheriff,

But I did not shoot no deputy.

Oh, no.

About I Shot The Sheriff

Eric Clapton's "I Shot The Sheriff" stands as a definitive rock and roll anthem, originally recorded by The Rolling Stones but famously covered by Clapton on his 1972 album *461 Ocean Boulevard*. This track exemplifies Clapton's mastery of blues-infused rock, blending his signature slide guitar work with a driving rhythm section that captures the gritty energy of the era. The song's narrative, depicting a tragic encounter between a police officer and a man with a gun, resonates deeply with audiences due to its raw emotional delivery and Clapton's virtuosic guitar solo. It remains a cornerstone of his discography, showcasing his ability to reinterpret American blues standards within a British rock framework while maintaining the song's original tension and power.