For Hawkins, performing this song is part of her "mental health mission," using the raw vulnerability of the blues to tell stories of resilience and healing.
The song is a standout track on her album Memories Of (2020), which was recorded as a legacy project to honor Etta James. Kaz Hawkins - Id Rather Go Blind
While often performed with her high-energy Quintet , she also delivers stripped-back, intimate versions accompanied only by piano (Franck Le Masle) in her "My Life And I" duo format. Background and Context For Hawkins, performing this song is part of
A fusion of soul blues and deep soul , maintaining the classic feel of the 1967 original while adding Hawkins' signature powerhouse energy. Background and Context A fusion of soul blues
Known for her vast vocal range, Hawkins "squeezes every drop of emotion" out of the track, often drawing comparisons to Etta James' own raspy and powerful tone.
The track was originally co-written by Ellington Jordan, Billy Foster, and Etta James. It is one of the most covered blues songs in history, famously exploring the pain of heartbreak and unrequited love through the metaphor of preferring blindness to seeing a lover leave.