"One Bourbon, One Scotch, One...

Settle in for George Thorogood's definitive 1977 take on "One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer." This blues masterpiece, anchored by Thorogood's raw guitar and storytelling, spins a classic tale of hard luck and hard drinking. A staple of blues rock, it's a must-hear track.

Released in 1977 on his self-titled debut album, George Thorogood's rendition of "One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer" is a powerful blues statement. His version is famously a medley incorporating elements of John Lee Hooker's "House Rent Boogie," creating a narrative that explains the character's plight before he turns to the bottle. Thorogood's raw, stripped-down guitar sound and gritty vocals perfectly capture the song's desperate tone.

Thorogood's performance on this track is a masterclass in modern electric blues. The extended runtime allows for instrumental breaks showcasing his slide guitar prowess, while his spoken-word delivery during the "House Rent Boogie" section draws the listener into the story. This track quickly became a cornerstone of his live shows and a defining recording of his career, popularizing the song for a new generation.

SONG MEANING: The song, as performed by George Thorogood, tells the story of a man down on his luck, specifically facing eviction because he cannot pay his rent. After pleading unsuccessfully with his landlady and a friend, he finds himself at a bar at closing time, requesting one bourbon, one scotch, and one beer to drown his sorrows and escape his troubles.