“Pretending” is a song by British musician Eric Clapton, released in November 1989 as the lead single from his eleventh studio album Journeyman. Written by Jerry Lynn Williams, the song is one of Clapton’s notable tracks from the late 1980s, showcasing his return to form after a period of personal struggles and musical experimentation.
“Pretending” is a blend of rock and blues, featuring Clapton’s signature guitar work. The song opens with a powerful piano intro before transitioning into a driving rock rhythm with prominent guitar riffs. Clapton’s vocals are soulful and energetic, and the track also features strong backing instrumentation, including keyboards and a lively horn section. The song’s dynamic arrangement combines elements of blues rock with mainstream rock, making it a standout track on Journeyman.
The lyrics of “Pretending” revolve around themes of emotional turmoil and hiding one’s true feelings. The narrator speaks about the difficulties of pretending that everything is fine in a troubled relationship, expressing a sense of frustration and longing for authenticity. The song touches on the emotional conflicts that arise when appearances don’t match inner realities, making it both relatable and introspective.
“Pretending” was a commercial success for Eric Clapton, topping the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart for five weeks. In the UK, the song also performed well, peaking at No. 50 on the UK Singles Chart.
The song remains a popular track in Clapton’s discography, often included in his live performances. It showcases his guitar prowess and his ability to convey deep emotion through both his playing and singing. “Pretending” continues to be appreciated by fans as a strong example of Clapton’s work during this period of his career.