Only You Know and I Know

The song "Only You Know and I Know" from Dave Mason's debut solo album Alone Together is a vibrant track that showcases his knack for blending rock with soulful grooves. One fascinating piece of trivia comes from the song’s recording: it features an uncredited Eric Clapton on lead guitar, adding a fiery edge to the track. In a 2020 interview with GRAMMY.com, Mason reflected on the sessions, noting how he assembled a stellar lineup of musicians, including Leon Russell and Jim Capaldi, to create a sound that felt like an extension of Joe Cocker’s Mad Dogs and Englishmen band. The song itself, released in 1970, became Mason’s first charting single, peaking at No. 42 on the Billboard charts, and its infectious rhythm later made it a signature tune for Delaney & Bonnie, who covered it in 1969 and hit the Top 20 in 1971.

Another tidbit about "Only You Know and I Know" ties to its cultural impact. The song’s raw energy and relatable lyrics about personal connection resonated with the era’s counterculture, making it a favorite for live performances. Mason has shared in fan chats on social media, like those hosted on his Facebook page, that he loves playing it live because it gets crowds moving. The track’s enduring appeal is evident in its covers by artists like Rita Coolidge and Kimm Hekker, with Coolidge using it as the B-side for her 1978 hit "You." The song’s place on Alone Together also ties to the album’s iconic packaging—about 30% of the original vinyls were pressed in a swirled marble design, and the tri-fold jacket with a die-cut image of Mason in a top hat became a collector’s item, often hung as a poster by fans.

Dave Mason’s journey to becoming a rock icon began in Worcester, England, where he was born on May 10, 1946. By age 15, he was already steeped in music, forming bands like The Deep Feeling and The Hellions. His big break came at 18 when he co-founded Traffic with Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood. At just 19, Mason penned the rock anthem "Feelin’ Alright," a song that Traffic recorded in 1968 and that later became a classic covered by Joe Cocker and others. His time with Traffic was turbulent—he left after their debut album Mr. Fantasy in 1967, rejoined briefly for their 1968 self-titled album, and left again, frustrated by creative differences, particularly with Winwood. Mason’s move to the U.S. in 1970 marked the start of his solo career, with Alone Together launching him into the spotlight. His collaborations with legends like Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, and Paul McCartney cemented his reputation as a versatile guitarist and songwriter.

Mason’s official website, www.davemasonmusic.com, is a hub for his tour dates, music, and merchandise, including his 2020 reimagining of Alone Together titled Alone Together Again. Fans can connect with him on social media via his Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where he shares updates and engages in monthly fan chats. For dedicated Zoo Freaks, there’s a vibrant community on the Dave Mason Fan Club on Facebook, where fans discuss his music, share concert memories, and celebrate his legacy. Another fan-driven site, Dave Mason Fever, offers discographies and rare photos, keeping the spirit of his music alive for new and longtime listeners.