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Joe Bonamassa — Stones In My Passway
Album: Driving Towards The Daylight
Avg rating:
6.8

Your rating:
Total ratings: 1448









Released: 2012
Length: 3:53
Plays (last 30 days): 0
I got stones in my passway,
And my road seem dark as night
I got stones in my passway,
And my road seem dark as night
I have pains in my heart,
They have taken my appetite

I have a bird to whistle,
And I have a bird to sing
I have a bird to whistle,
And I have a bird to sing
I got a woman that I'm lovin', boy,
But she don't mean a thing

My enemies have betrayed me,
Have overtaken poor Bob at last
My enemies have betrayed me,
Have overtaken poor Bob at last
And there's one thing certainly,
They have stones all in my pass

Now you tryin' to take my life,
And all my lovin' too
You laid a passway for me,
Now what are you trying to do?
I'm cryin' please,
Please let us be friends

And when you hear me howlin' in my passway, rider,
Please open your door and let me in
I got three lane's to truck home,
Boys, please don't block my road
I got three lane's to truck home,
Boys, please don't block my road
I've been feelin' ashamed 'bout my rider, babe,
I'm booked and I got to go.
Comments (107)add comment
Saw Bonamassa for the first time about 15 years ago. Had never heard of him.  I'm still trying to put my jaw back in proper.
Definitively, I prefer the original track from Carlos Santana 'Soul sacrifice' from january 1991.
When I was 12 I was building Lego spaceships. Joe Bonamassa was opening for B. B. King.
GOOD TUNE!!  My Grandma had stones in her passway!  It took major surgery to get them out!!
Walsh and Bonamassa, my favorite Joes.

If you don't like this guy the only thing I have to say is, using my best nasally voice, "Go listen to Morrissey"
Bad ass to a fault.  Effortless excellence.  His work with Beth Hart is off the charts, a duo for the ages.
Solid guitar jam! I like how he slips into that sacred ancient classic blues bit that makes me want to sing, Nuhnuhnuhnuhnuh, Nobody's fault but mine...
Sounds a little like LZ except for the vocals.
Great guitarist!! His tunes are hit or miss for me. This tune is a HIT!
 alexandersmcmillan wrote:

Joe Bonamassa is the musical equivalent of a collage. Unfortunately in his case the sum isn't greater than the parts.  



Yes, a guitarist impressionist, if you will... ist 
 Proclivities wrote:

This song is not about kidney stones. 
"A passway is a path frequented by an intended hoodoo victim, such as the path to the person’s doorstep...Laying stones down in the passway in a certain configuration is another way to jinx someone. These methods of jinxing someone are called foot track magic.
  Robert Johnson was referring to one traditional method of working foot track magic in his famous song “Stones in My Passway.” This involves laying stones on the ground in a cross pattern, sometimes with a button from the person’s clothing in the center of the cross. The stones need to be placed in a passway because the person has to walk over the cross in order to be cursed. This is called 'crossing the line.'”




An equivalent result may be achieved by carelessly leaving Lego scattered on a carpet.
 NoisyMiner wrote:

The bird that whistles thing is also in LZ's You Shook Me, old blues stuff I guess?



Yep! It is!
I knew this was dad rock. Dude singin bout his gallstones
Drink some cranberry juice.
The bird that whistles thing is also in LZ's You Shook Me, old blues stuff I guess?
 Proclivities wrote:

This song is not about kidney stones. 
"A passway is a path frequented by an intended hoodoo victim, such as the path to the person’s doorstep...Laying stones down in the passway in a certain configuration is another way to jinx someone. These methods of jinxing someone are called foot track magic.
  Robert Johnson was referring to one traditional method of working foot track magic in his famous song “Stones in My Passway.” This involves laying stones on the ground in a cross pattern, sometimes with a button from the person’s clothing in the center of the cross. The stones need to be placed in a passway because the person has to walk over the cross in order to be cursed. This is called 'crossing the line.'”

 
That's pretty interesting .  Particularly the common phrase "cross the line".
Joe Bonamassa is the musical equivalent of a collage. Unfortunately in his case the sum isn't greater than the parts.  
Stones in your passway? Sounds unpleasant!


Cosmo Kramer Seinfeld GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
 ppopp wrote:
Fine guitarist. If he joined a good band with a good singer and a good songwriter, things could begin to get really good. Instead, it just sounds like old formulas designed to bore us. Much like Clapton since he went solo.
 
"us"?
 ppopp wrote:
Fine guitarist. If he joined a good band with a good singer and a good songwriter, things could begin to get really good. Instead, it just sounds like old formulas designed to bore us. Much like Clapton since he went solo.
 
Yes. It seems to me that Joe B is too attached to his dream of being a rock and roll "God" to realistically allow, and compensate, for his own weaknesses.
Much like many of us!

I can't take Joe the-most-original-guitarist-of-all-time Bonamassa seriously after he shit on guitarists who use effects pedals to shape their tone. It's about making interesting textures, Joe. An artist needs more than one color to paint with, after all. Next please.
weak vocals??  Oh I disagree.  Love everything about Joe, including his voice.  
John Mellencamp's version is amazing. This version is a nice gesture, but falls a bit short, in my opinion.
Great guitarist. Weak vocals. .....More "blues poofters"! .....I gave it a 7, anyway.
JB is a hell of a guitarist.  Vanilla vocals though.
 Proclivities wrote:

This song is not about kidney stones. 
"A passway is a path frequented by an intended hoodoo victim, such as the path to the person’s doorstep...Laying stones down in the passway in a certain configuration is another way to jinx someone. These methods of jinxing someone are called foot track magic.
  Robert Johnson was referring to one traditional method of working foot track magic in his famous song “Stones in My Passway.” This involves laying stones on the ground in a cross pattern, sometimes with a button from the person’s clothing in the center of the cross. The stones need to be placed in a passway because the person has to walk over the cross in order to be cursed. This is called 'crossing the line.'”

 

Exactly, in case you were wondering what it means to 'cross the line'. 
Formulaic crap. PSD.
 mmartinwhite1938 wrote:
great sound, but the lyrics? WTF is a "passway"
 
Seriously? I'll bet you get really confused when Brits speak.
Fine guitarist. If he joined a good band with a good singer and a good songwriter, things could begin to get really good. Instead, it just sounds like old formulas designed to bore us. Much like Clapton since he went solo.
 MassivRuss wrote:
Greatest kidney stone song, EVER.
 

No joke.
Academic. Skilled player but like too many modern blues guys he doesn't seem to bring anything new to the game. The genre needs a shot in its @ss.
Greatest kidney stone song, EVER.
 mmartinwhite1938 wrote:
great sound, but the lyrics? WTF is a "passway"
 
This song is not about kidney stones. 
"A passway is a path frequented by an intended hoodoo victim, such as the path to the person’s doorstep...Laying stones down in the passway in a certain configuration is another way to jinx someone. These methods of jinxing someone are called foot track magic.
  Robert Johnson was referring to one traditional method of working foot track magic in his famous song “Stones in My Passway.” This involves laying stones on the ground in a cross pattern, sometimes with a button from the person’s clothing in the center of the cross. The stones need to be placed in a passway because the person has to walk over the cross in order to be cursed. This is called 'crossing the line.'”

Keep hearing Zep
Just Came Back - Colin James. That explains why the intro sounded like an old blues recording.
great sound, but the lyrics? WTF is a "passway"
did Little Feat do this song?
 
Outstanding!!!
Sudden hackering for whisky... Satisfied.{#Cheers}
a generous 2.  Please stop playing this
A generous 3.
My uncle has stones in his passway. He says that they hurt a lot. this is a good song, nonetheless.

NeilBlanchard wrote:

I prefer the version by John Mellencamp; also played here on RP.  I am familiar with the Robert Johnson original, and it is one of his recordings that is not impressive.  He was a better songwriter than performer, based on the recordings, anyway.

 
I heard Mellencamp's version here as well and liked it. I really like Bonamassa for the most part although I think he runs the risk of over-selling the lyrics when he sings. 
 kcar wrote:
I know Joe Bonamassa isn't everyone's cuppa but I'm not sure I'd prefer Robert Johnson's ancient recording over this version.  

 
I prefer the version by John Mellencamp; also played here on RP.  I am familiar with the Robert Johnson original, and it is one of his recordings that is not impressive.  He was a better songwriter than performer, based on the recordings, anyway.
 That_SOB wrote:
Now if only he can stay out of flying machines....
 
Duane was a motorcycle... but I hear ya.  The curse of the great guitarist.
Now if only he can stay out of flying machines....
 black321 wrote:
Is Mr. Johnson complaining about kidney stones in this one?

 
The noise over my last kidney stone sure didn't sound this......errrrr......harmonic (picture me screaming - heh).

Highlow
American Net'Zen
Is Mr. Johnson complaining about kidney stones in this one?
Cool!
Yeah. This is cool, I think (quite). Dig it loud.
Very nice, song, voice, arrangement, everthing nice!
 coloradojohn wrote:
I like how it hearkens back to some Savoy Brown-type singing, with some righteously raucous guitar jamming in there...sounds great and gets things moving on a chilly morning!

 
Although I have heard this before and it's not really the sort of music I most appreciate, I thought this was Savoy Brown. For its genre, this is very well done and seeing this played in the right bar would be pretty amazing.
Great talent.  The acoustic concert at the Vienna Opera House from last year is the absolute best to showcase that talent!  Highly recommend it.
I like this guy's style. I will be investigating more of his stuff through Grooveshark.com
Just downloaded some Joe...awesome talent!
After watching Joe play over the weekend I am convinced he can play ANYTHING.

He was brilliant!

I LOVE JOE!!!  I've seen him 6 times and met him 4. So appreciative of his fans and he can really play..  {#Bananajam}


Classic Led Zep...
This song is BA.
Classic fuzzy guitar; the definitive way to play this type of whiplash blues.
I love the Blues!
Fantastic creative "outlet", thank you.
 kingart wrote:
The tune is about KIDNEY STONES? 
I had one. At 18, after being laid up in bed for months after a major leg operation. I turned green and almost fainted when I did indeed pass it. Next time, just shoot me.
 
 
My great-great grandfather had a run of them. It got to the point that he couldn't take the pain any longer and did indeed put a bullet in his head. 

But I suspect that the tune ain't about kidney stones, kingart.  

I know Joe Bonamassa isn't everyone's cuppa but I'm not sure I'd prefer Robert Johnson's ancient recording over this version.  
 Dave_K wrote:
Maybe we can get some Gov't Mule Bill?  I'd put Warren up with JB wouldn't you?
 
Would be nice to see Warren and JB standing in with DB and what's left of the ABB.

I might be willing to cut off some body parts to see that.
this is getting too much airplay lately.
Superb segue, Bill !  (Led Zepp —> Bonamassa)
 
 ScottFromWyoming wrote:
I hate to be that guy but I'd rather hear Robert Johnson.
 
You're not alone- 2 RJ covers in a row, and it doesn't matter how good they are.
Maybe we can get some Gov't Mule Bill?  I'd put Warren up with JB wouldn't you?
I hate to be that guy but I'd rather hear Robert Johnson.
 jhorton wrote:
Loud in'it?

Is there a garage band anywhere that doesn't sound like this?

 
 
yes Joe's good but it's nothing we have not heard before
Love this sound, Great performer live.
 joempie wrote:
How can this not be The Cult. I could have sworn...
 
on second listen: ok, his voice is a tiny bit less raw, but it comes pretty close...
How can this not be The Cult. I could have sworn...
Loud in'it?

Is there a garage band anywhere that doesn't sound like this?

 
 richlister wrote:
"Sounds painful. Instead of singing about your ailment, perhaps you could see a doctor?"
 
Here's what happens .. you go to the doc, he has you sit up and he uses a knuckle to push your back over a kidney.  You scream and then faint.  He prescribes drugs and lots of water and gives you a sieve to catch what comes out.  You go home, pee a lot and eventually the stones go away; then you wait, upon every single twinge from your back, asking yourself "Oh God Help me, it's another Stone".  You spend the rest of the your life saying "Oooooo when you hear me hollering .. please let it passssssss!".

He sounds like a mountainman in comparison to the fine music of

"DOWN LIKE SILVER" (for example)


I really dig what that drummer does.
 nagsheadlocal wrote:

You know, the Mellencamp version is a really good take, I've always liked it as well. I do believe I first heard it here on RP.
 
not just a little better. Mellencamp's is great, this one is pretentious.
I like how it hearkens back to some Savoy Brown-type singing, with some righteously raucous guitar jamming in there...sounds great and gets things moving on a chilly morning!
Man, some of you are so jaded.
Have you seen the Joe Bonamassa's Royal Albert Hall concert on Palladia?
He's a fucking badass. 
The tune is about KIDNEY STONES? 
I had one. At 18, after being laid up in bed for months after a major leg operation. I turned green and almost fainted when I did indeed pass it. Next time, just shoot me.
 
Has Bad Company and other 70s-80s bands all over it. 
Sounds like something that should be in heavy rotation for the coming RNC convention.
had to kick it from a 7 ——> 8.  kick ass...rockin' blues
Taking the title and the strain in his voice I'm thinking "Stones in my Passway" is code for renal calculus.

Wait this really is about kidney stones?!? Awesome!
buona massa per fare pizza!

massa per la pizza
Much too much....
Anyone who has had kidney stones will understand why this is a blues song.
Nothing like a little 'Joe' in the morning to get you going. 8 for me.
"Sounds painful. Instead of singing about your ailment, perhaps you could see a doctor?"
 ScottN wrote:
I like Mellencamp's cover a bit better.  Like JB in general, but RP can chose another, imo.
 
You know, the Mellencamp version is a really good take, I've always liked it as well. I do believe I first heard it here on RP.
One of Robert Johnson's 29 known songs.
I like Mellencamp's cover a bit better.  Like JB in general, but RP can chose another, imo.
When played following LZ this does have a Jimmy sound to the guitar. 
 WayUpNorth wrote:
The first thing I thought of was — Robin Trower.  Really enjoyed hearing that!{#Dancingbanana_2}
 
Same here, had to raise that volume...yeah good Bad Co. kinda sound from terrific Joe B
reminds me of the first masters of reality album.
good track.
The first thing I thought of was — Robin Trower.  Really enjoyed hearing that!{#Dancingbanana_2}
Wow! This some serious sh*t kicking music! RP just cost me more money. Hooray!
It's got a bit of a "Bad Company" sound to it. Sorry Joe, I mean no disrespect.
Anyone who has suffered from kidney stones knows what he means.
 
 Jelani wrote:
This is  a bit reminiscent of a Led Zep tune...can't think of the title at the moment.

(edit) Custard Pie?
 
Yep. And a little of In My Time of Dying.  By the way, Jimmy Page called, he wants his guitar back.
 Jelani wrote:
This is  a bit reminiscent of a Led Zep tune...can't think of the title at the moment.

(edit) Custard Pie?
 
That's it Jelani. You nailed it.
This is a pretty cool jam.
Someone was listening to Physical Grafitti before they picked up their guitar..
 Jelani wrote:
This is  a bit reminiscent of a Led Zep tune...can't think of the title at the moment.

(edit) Custard Pie?
 

i think that'd be all of them!
This is  a bit reminiscent of a Led Zep tune...can't think of the title at the moment.

(edit) Custard Pie?
wow. LOVE this.
Joe B. is a very good guitarist.  Saw him live not too long ago.  Intensity.