Eric Clapton
When you think of influential musicians who do you think of? Jimi Hendrix maybe, or the Beatles, the Rolling stones is also another possibility well Eric Clapton is sometimes looked over. Ok not really, that is a big fat lie Eric Clapton is one of the most influential musicians of all time. He is the ONLY musician to receive not one, not two, but three inductions into the Rock n’ Roll hall of fame. He was named the second best guitarist ever only after Jimi Hendrix by Rolling Stone Magazine. He has been the inspiration to so many guitarists and other musicians alike. He has played with the best and has been known as the best. Which is why in the early 60s late 70s there was a phrase that spread like wildfire all throughout England. “Clapton is God”.
Clapton helped to start many bands including but not limiting to the Yarbirds, Cream, Derek and the Dominoes, and his own solo project. When Clapton left the Yarbirds he referred the band to another guitar legend in Jeff Beck, who then referred Jimmy Page to be part of the lineup. From the Yarbirds sprouted those three who are three of the most influential guitarists.
Clapton went on to play with Cream a three piece super band. This band did so much for Clapton in so many ways. It helped humble him in many ways because he was classified as “God”. While in Cream Clapton was able to find himself as a guitar player, constantly being pushed by the jazz players that were his band mates. During this time Clapton was also introduced to Jimi Hendrix whom would have an astounding influence on Clapton. Seeing Hendrix play when he jammed with them really proved to Clapton that one he wasn’t as good as he thought as well as found his musical soul mate. Sadly Hendrix would die a soon time later. During this time also Rolling Stone magazine had an interview that ended up being a massive blow to Clapton’s ego because the article talked about how Clapton was conceded and wasn’t all he thought he was. Due to these events Clapton began taking a good look at himself to figure out what it was he wanted in himself.
Cream broke up and Clapton began working on the project of Derek and the Dominoes, Derek being a nickname for Clapton. This was done so that the spotlight wasn’t always on Clapton and he could explore his abilities as a song writer and rhythm guitarist. At this time Clapton also began writing about his personal life and struggles. The title track being written about Pattie Boyd the wife of his dear friend George Harrison. Clapton and Boyd would eventually be married after the divorce of Harrison and Boyd.
Clapton would go through many more bands before he would eventually decide to just play as a solo artist. Clapton has written about many life experienced and events that have been important to him. The song cocaine was written about his drug and alcohol addictions. The song tears in heaven were written about his son who died falling out of a window. Clapton to this day is still playing and touring. He has been one of the greatest influences to music. His style and innovations have inspired many guitarists.
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Loving your blog Dallan. But I am sure that is no surprise! 🙂