Cream – Steppin’ Out

About the song

Cream – “Steppin’ Out” is one of the standout tracks from the band’s iconic 1966 album, Fresh Cream. As the opening track of this debut studio album, it introduces listeners to the raw energy and dynamic musicianship that Cream would become famous for. The song is a brilliant blend of blues, rock, and jazz influences, showcasing the incredible talents of Eric Clapton on guitar, Jack Bruce on bass, and Ginger Baker on drums.

Released in 1966, Fresh Cream was the beginning of a transformative musical journey for the trio, marking the rise of one of the most influential supergroups in rock history. “Steppin’ Out” exemplifies the group’s signature style, fusing improvisational blues with an explosive, energetic rhythm that was unique to their sound. The track itself is an interpretation of a classic blues song, originally recorded by Sonny Boy Williamson, a key figure in the Chicago blues scene.

“Steppin’ Out” stands out as one of the earliest examples of Cream’s ability to merge traditional blues forms with innovative, modern techniques. The song’s infectious riff, tight rhythms, and Clapton’s soulful guitar playing make it a cornerstone of the band’s early work. While the track retains much of its blues roots, the improvisational solos and layered instrumentation speak to the creative freedom that Cream would continue to explore in their later works. This song would eventually become a live favorite, with the band often extending it into long, fiery jams during their performances.

The song’s lyrics, though simple, convey a sense of confidence and empowerment, echoing the feeling of being ready to take on the world. This sentiment would resonate deeply with listeners, particularly as the 1960s progressed, a time of social change, personal liberation, and rebellion. The track speaks to the youthful spirit of the era, and it encapsulates the rise of a new generation seeking freedom, change, and self-expression.

On a cultural level, “Steppin’ Out” captures the essence of the late 1960s music scene, when the boundaries between different musical genres began to blur, and artists like Cream were leading the charge. The song’s high-energy style and impeccable musicianship would go on to influence countless rock bands that followed, cementing Cream’s place as pioneers of the rock genre.

Moreover, “Steppin’ Out” helped set the stage for Cream’s future success, including their breakout album Disraeli Gears in 1967. While not necessarily a commercial hit in the way some of their later tracks would become, it remains a beloved and influential song among fans and musicians alike. Today, it is seen as an essential piece in the story of Cream, a perfect example of the creative force that shaped rock music in the late ’60s.

In sum, “Steppin’ Out” by Cream is a foundational track in rock history. With its fiery performance and fusion of blues and rock, it helped define the sound of a generation while showcasing the immense talents of the band. Its release in 1966, as part of Fresh Cream, marked the beginning of a legacy that continues to influence music to this day. The song remains a testament to the band’s groundbreaking musical vision and an enduring favorite among fans of classic rock.

Video

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Well, I’m steppin’ out
Out on the town tonight
Well, I’m steppin’ out
Out on the town tonight
Well, I’m steppin’ out
Out on the town tonight, yeah
I’m gonna find my baby,
Gonna make everything alright

[Verse 2]
Well, I’m steppin’ out
Out on the town tonight
Well, I’m steppin’ out
Out on the town tonight
Well, I’m steppin’ out
Out on the town tonight, yeah
I’m gonna find my baby,
Gonna make everything alright

[Instrumental Break]

[Verse 3]
Well, I’m steppin’ out
Out on the town tonight
Well, I’m steppin’ out
Out on the town tonight
Well, I’m steppin’ out
Out on the town tonight, yeah
I’m gonna find my baby,
Gonna make everything alright