Everytime I Roll The Dice

The song "Everytime I Roll The Dice" by Delbert McClinton, featured on his 1992 album Never Been Rocked Enough, is a vibrant blues-rock anthem that has captured the hearts of Zoo Freaks and beyond. Written by Nashville songwriters Troy Seals and Max D. Barnes, the track boasts an infectious AABAAB structure with a chorus that likens love to a lucky roll of the dice: "Her love has no strings, shackles or chains/But I’m holding on for dear life/She’s like rolling a seven, every time I roll the dice." The song’s universal appeal lies in its portrayal of a man who’s hit the romantic jackpot, a theme that resonates with listeners who feel they’ve lucked out in love. Notably, Melissa Etheridge provided backup vocals, adding a gritty edge that perfectly complements McClinton’s soulful delivery. The track has been covered by artists like Chris LeDoux, Albert Lee, and the Junkyard Preachers, and was performed live by The Voice contestant Michael Lee, showcasing its enduring popularity across genres.

In a 2020 American Songwriter feature, McClinton reflected on the collaborative nature of the music industry, saying, “This business is really all about exposing yourself to others, to different writers and ideas, that’s how you make things happen.” This philosophy likely influenced his decision to record "Everytime I Roll The Dice," a song he didn’t write but made his own with his signature harmonica wails and roadhouse swagger. Social media posts on X from users like @3PickupMusicMan in September 2024 describe the song as “very Stonesy,” highlighting its Rolling Stones-esque rock vibe that makes it a staple for DJs like the Zoo Crew. Another post on X from April 2025 by @QOTDCT notes its top-15 AOR chart performance, underscoring its commercial success. Fans on Reddit’s TheTikiHut have shared the track multiple times in 2024, with posts garnering votes for its infectious energy, proving it’s a favorite among music lovers curating for communities like the Zoo Freaks.

Delbert McClinton, born November 4, 1940, in Lubbock, Texas, and raised in Fort Worth, began his musical journey in the late 1950s as a harmonica prodigy. As a teenager, he discovered the blues and honed his skills playing in local clubs with the Straitjackets, the house band at a blues/R&B venue. This gig allowed him to back legends like Howlin’ Wolf, Jimmy Reed, and Sonny Boy Williamson II, shaping his raw, soulful style. In 1960, McClinton made history as the first white artist to have a record, a cover of Williamson’s "Wake Up Baby," played on Fort Worth’s KNOK blues station. His harmonica work gained wider recognition when he played the iconic riff on Bruce Channel’s 1962 number-one hit “Hey! Baby.” After moving to Los Angeles in 1972, he formed the duo Delbert & Glen with Glen Clark, releasing two country-rock albums before launching his solo career with 1975’s Victim of Life’s Circumstances. His breakthrough came in 1980 with the Top 10 hit “Giving It Up for Your Love,” cementing his status as a roots music icon.

McClinton’s career spans over six decades, marked by four Grammy Awards, including one in 1992 for his duet with Bonnie Raitt, “Good Man, Good Woman,” from Never Been Rocked Enough. His ability to blend blues, rock, country, and soul has earned him a devoted following, including Zoo Freaks who vibe with his authentic sound. Fans can connect with him on his official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where he shares tour updates and music news. The Delbert McClinton Fan Group on Facebook is a lively community where fans discuss his music, share concert experiences, and celebrate tracks like “Everytime I Roll The Dice.” Additionally, the Delbert McClinton Community website offers a hub for fans to access tour schedules, merchandise, and exclusive content, making it a go-to for Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper into his legacy.