Clarity (John Mayer song)


"Clarity" is a song written and recorded by American singer-songwriter John Mayer, arranged with piano, with drums provided in part by The Roots drummer Questlove, and brass by two-time Grammy winner Roy Hargrove. It was the second single from Mayer's 2003 album Heavier Things.

Lyrics

The song's meaning is not immediately clear. Some interpretations have characterized the song as being about coming to terms with a relationship, while others have interpreted the song as being about a person's own self-perception. At his February 28, 2007, show at Madison Square Garden, John introduced "Clarity" as a song written about the first few seconds after waking up in the morning when you don't remember all of the problems and worries in your life. At the "Soundstage with Buddy Guy" concert, Mayer explained the song as one of the best he's done, in that it's the best in portraying his thoughts and feelings.

Music video

The music video for "Clarity" was directed by Director X. It was filmed on the Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Coast Highway.

Commercial performance

"Clarity" peaked at #13 on the Billboard Adult Top 40 chart and #25 on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles chart.

Charts

Cover version

This song was covered by saxophonist Najee for his album Rising Sun in 2007.

Personnel