"Five Long Years" is a blues song originally written and recorded by Eddie Boyd in 1952, but it gained significant popularity when Eric Clapton covered it for his 1994 album, "From the Cradle." The song tells the story of a man who has been mistreated by a woman he worked and devoted five long years to. The lyrics emphasize the speaker's frustration and disappointment after putting in so much effort and time, only to be rejected and abandoned by the woman he loved. The first verse highlights the mistreatment the man has endured, suggesting that the listener can relate to his pain if they have ever experienced a similar situation. He worked tirelessly for this woman, but she still had the audacity to put him out, betraying his loyalty. In the second verse, the man finds solace in his job at a steel mill, where he labors hard, but even then, he still brings all his earnings back home to his woman, only to face rejection. This further highlights the emotional and financial mistreatment he has experienced. As the song progresses, the man realizes his mistake in allowing himself to be mistreated for so long. In the third verse, he acknowledges finally learning his lesson and vows that his future partner will work and contribute financially to the relationship. This revelation showcases his determination to avoid being mistreated again and to seek a more equal and fair relationship. Overall, "Five Long Years" is a blues lament that recounts the pain, frustration, and eventual self-awareness of a man who has been mistreated by a woman he dedicated his time and effort to. Clapton's passionate rendition of the song captures the raw emotions of the lyrics, making it resonate with listeners who may have experienced similar mistreatment in their own lives.
