Tapping into the deep roots of British folk and blues, Modfather Paul Weller has just released a stirring new single—“Clive’s Song”—from his upcoming covers album Find El Dorado. The real headline? None other than Robert Plant, the legendary voice behind Led Zeppelin, directly joins the mix, breathing new, soulful life into a song rich with history.
Originally penned by Clive Palmer—founder of the Incredible String Band—for Hamish Imlach’s 1971 album Old Rarity, this rebirth is both reverent and electrifying. Weller’s version is raw and stripped-back, with Plant’s voice gliding alongside his in warm harmony. The Led Zeppelin legend also contributes a harmonica solo that ripples through the track like a blues wind through a grain field.
Iconic audio platforms are already buzzing. BBC Radio 6 Music debuted the track, and various outlets—from Ultimate Classic Rock and NME to Badlands Classic Rock—are applauding Plant’s first recording appearance since his 2021 project with Alison Krauss.
Here’s what makes this single a headline moment:
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Folk–blues fusion: Weller delves into his long-standing love for 1960s–70s folk and blues, reinventing archival gems with authentic modern flair.
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Electric collaboration: Plant and Weller trade verses in a seamless vocal interplay, layered with harmonica and slide guitar laid down by Steve Brookes. Produced in Weller’s Black Barn Studio, the organic vibe of the track is unmistakable.
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Historic resonance: Far from a novelty feature, this marks Plant’s return to recording since Raise the Roof (2021), sparking excitement for what comes next.
What’s next?
– Find El Dorado lands July 25 via Parlophone, featuring a curated collection of 15 covers—from Bee Gees to Kinks—each personally selected by Weller as sonic tributes.
– With “I Started a Joke” and “Lawdy Rolla/Pinball” already teasing the album, Clive’s Song adds a potent blues-rock layer to the project .
– Fans of Weller, Plant, and classic British folk–blues now have a fresh bridge between eras—one that’s heartfelt, intimate, and musically rich.
Quick recap:
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Release | “Clive’s Song” single out now |
| Collaboration | Paul Weller ft. Robert Plant |
| Origin | Cover of 1971 folk tune by Clive Palmer |
| Album | Find El Dorado drops July 25 |
| Vibe | Bluesy, acoustic, harmonica-driven |
If you’re hungry for genuine musicianship that bridges generations, Clive’s Song delivers. Keep your ears peeled—Find El Dorado is shaping up to be Weller’s most heartfelt project yet, and with Plant involved, it’s one bluesy journey worth taking.
