Eric Clapton, born Eric Patrick Clapton on March 30, 1945, is an English guitarist, singer, and songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in the history of rock music. Known for his exceptional skill, soulful playing, and versatile musical style, Clapton has had a profound influence on the development of blues, rock, and popular music.
Clapton’s career spans over six decades, during which he has been a member of several influential bands and achieved success as a solo artist. He first gained recognition as a member of The Yardbirds and later joined John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers. It was with the supergroup Cream, formed in 1966, that Clapton truly rose to prominence. With Cream, he showcased his virtuosic guitar playing and contributed to classic songs like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “Crossroads.”
Following Cream’s breakup, Clapton went on to form the band Blind Faith before embarking on a successful solo career. His solo releases, including the iconic album “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs” (1970), established him as a formidable singer-songwriter. Hits like “Layla,” “Tears in Heaven,” and “Wonderful Tonight” showcased his ability to craft poignant, emotionally charged songs that resonated with listeners worldwide.
Clapton’s playing style draws heavily from blues and rock traditions, and he has paid homage to his musical heroes through collaborations and interpretations of their work. He is known for his soulful phrasing, expressive solos, and his ability to convey deep emotions through his guitar playing.
Beyond his remarkable guitar skills, Clapton’s personal life and struggles have also shaped his music. His poignant and introspective songs often reflect his personal experiences and emotional journey, including the loss of his son, which inspired the heartbreaking ballad “Tears in Heaven.”
Eric Clapton’s influence extends far beyond his own success. He has inspired countless guitarists with his technique and tone, and his contributions to blues and rock music have been recognized with numerous awards and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on three separate occasions.
With his legendary status, remarkable talent, and timeless music, Eric Clapton remains an iconic figure in the music industry. His enduring legacy as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter continues to captivate audiences and inspire generations of musicians.
1. ‘I Shot the Sheriff’
Eric Clapton's ‘I Shot the Sheriff’ is an iconic song that blends reggae, rock and blues in a unique way. The lyrics tell a story of a man who admits to shooting the sheriff in self-defense. Clapton's soulful voice and guitar skills add to the appeal of this masterpiece.
The song was written by Bob Marley and was first released in 1973 before being covered by Eric Clapton in 1974. This version topped charts across the world, including the US Billboard Hot 100.
What makes ‘I Shot the Sheriff’ special is its fusion of different genres, beautifully layered instruments and meaningful lyrics. It continues to be relevant even today with social issues on gun violence.
If you haven't listened to ‘I Shot the Sheriff’, you're missing out on one of Eric Clapton's best works that shaped modern music as we know it today. Give it a listen and experience history through sound.
‘Cocaine’: Because nothing says rock ‘n’ roll like a song about a highly addictive stimulant.
2. ‘Cocaine’
This track, which is often thought to be an ode to drug use, was actually written by J.J. Cale. Eric Clapton covered it and made it one of his biggest hits in 1980. It's a high-energy rock song that features distorted guitar riffs and a catchy chorus that helped propel it into radio rotation.
The lyrics suggest a dark side with lines like "When your day is done and you want to run… cocaine" but Clapton has been vocal about his own struggles with addiction and says the song serves as a warning against the dangers of substance abuse. The song has remained popular over time thanks to its infectious groove and Clapton's emotive delivery.
Interestingly, Clapton stopped playing "Cocaine" live for many years before reintroducing it into his setlist in the late 1990s. He has said this was because he realized he didn't feel comfortable singing about drug use anymore given the negative impact it had on his life.
Pro Tip: "Cocaine" is an excellent example of how even seemingly upbeat songs can carry important messages about social issues.
'Motherless Children' will make you want to dance and cry at the same time, like a toddler who just found their lost lollipop.
3. ‘Motherless Children’
This Eric Clapton song delves into the emotive sphere of motherless children. The track carries a hopelessness that starkly contrasts with its upbeat melody. With an impressive harmonica solo, the song is a testament to Clapton's musical prowess.
The lyrics talk about the loneliness and despair experienced by those who grew up without mothers. It tells us about how children who had mothers have someone to hold on to when they're in pain, someone to celebrate their achievements with, and someone to make difficult life decisions for them. It's a painful reminder of how much we rely on our parents' love and care.
It's interesting to note that this 1974 track was the opener of Clapton's classic album '461 Ocean Boulevard'. This LP gathered him mainstream success after years of experimentation and indulgence in drugs and alcohol. 'Motherless Children' couldn't be a better harbinger of his artistic transformation, signaling an evolution from bluesy London boy to introspective mastermind.
According to Songfacts, some consider this song as one of Clapton's personal favorites as it gave him an opportunity to pay tribute to his late grandmother, Rose.
If you're looking for a good cry, look no further than Eric Clapton's ‘Tears In Heaven’ – it'll have you weeping like a baby in no time.
4. ‘Tears In Heaven’
This acclaimed ballad showcases Clapton's emotive prowess as he croons about the loss of his young son. With gentle acoustics, strings and a poignant melody, 'Heaven's Tears' is a fragile masterpiece that still resonates with listeners today. The lyrics stir with grief and contemplation, as Clapton reflects on heaven and fatherhood. This emotional ballad won three Grammy awards in 1993 and left an indelible mark on popular culture.
Eric Clapton makes heartache feel like a symphony with 'It Hurts Me Too'.
5. ‘It Hurts Me Too’
This Eric Clapton classic, 'It Hurts Me Too', showcases his portentous lyrical abilities and mesmerizing guitar skills. This timeless sorrowful blues ballad captivates the audiences with its nostalgic charm and soulful melody. It is one of the greatest works in Clapton's discography as it highlights his ability to evoke strong emotions from his listeners through pure music.
The song starts with a simple yet powerful riff that sets the tone for what's to come. The opening guitar lick introduces the listener to Clapton's signature emotive playing style, which he amplifies masterfully throughout the song. The smooth and melancholic vocals accompanied by a breathtaking solo make this composition one of Clapton's best.
What makes 'It Hurts Me Too' unique is how it tells a story with each verse while maintaining its poetic beauty. Its lyrics perfectly capture feelings of heartbreak, grief, and longing, making it one of the most relatable songs in music history.
To truly appreciate this masterpiece, listen intently and focus on every note and emotion conveyed. One suggestion is to put on headphones or earbuds, close your eyes, relax your mind and let Eric Clapton take you on an emotional journey like no other. The song will leave you feeling nostalgic yet hopeful- a true testament to Clapton's unparalleled musical genius.
You'll need tissues for this one, but not because it's sad – it's just that Eric Clapton's guitar playing will bring tears to your eyes in 'My Father's Eyes'.
6. ‘My Father’s Eyes’
This classic Clapton song, about his longing for a relationship with his father, showcases the blues-rock legend's impressive guitar skills and heartfelt lyrics. 'My Father's Eyes' is recognized as one of Clapton's most emotional performances, earning it a spot on our list of the top 10 Eric Clapton songs of all time. The guitar riff and solo are some of Clapton's most iconic works, capturing both technical prowess and emotional depth in each note.
The song has an undeniable universal appeal since many people can relate to its theme of distant father figures. It was written at a time when Clapton was dealing with the loss of his son Conor and trying to develop a relationship with his own absent father. The lyrics express this struggle in poignant detail, demonstrating why it remains one of Clapton's most loved songs.
Interestingly, although the title references his father, the song also touches on themes surrounding mortality and spirituality which makes it even more profound. 'My Father's Eyes' is considered a timeless classic that showcases Clapton at his best; delivering an exceptional performance that has remained relevant over the years.
Legend has it that whenever the renowned blues musician Robert Johnson played "Cross Road Blues," he always opened or closed his set with "Ramblin' on My Mind." Similarly, 'My Father's Eyes' is often included in Eric Clapton concerts as one of his essential pieces. Its compelling melodies and raw emotion have made it a fan favorite around the world.
If you don't feel like 'Wonderful Tonight' should be on this list, then you clearly haven't experienced the power of slow dancing with a bottle of wine and some tissues.
7. ‘Wonderful Tonight’
This soulful ballad, considered one of Clapton's greatest hits, showcases his skillful guitar playing and heartfelt lyrics. 'Wonderful Tonight' captures the essence of love and romance through Clapton's soft vocals and gentle melody, making it a cherished classic among fans worldwide.
The song was written about Clapton's then-wife Patti Boyd, whom he famously pursued despite her being married to his friend George Harrison. The couple attended a party hosted by Paul McCartney, during which Boyd emerged from their bedroom in a stunning dress. Clapton was enamored by her beauty and wrote 'Wonderful Tonight' as an ode to her loveliness.
'Wonderful Tonight' continues to be a beloved anthem of love and devotion decades after its release. Its simple yet profound message has made it a favorite slow dance song at weddings around the world. Clapton's signature guitar solo remains unforgettable, cementing this song as one of his best works to date.
Eric Clapton's guitar skills are so good, he could make a kitchen utensil sound like a musical instrument in 'Come On In My Kitchen'.
8. ‘Come On In My Kitchen’
Experience the bluesy rhythm and soulful lyrics of Eric Clapton's 'Come On In My Kitchen', a tribute to legendary American blues musician Robert Johnson. This timeless classic showcases Clapton's exceptional guitar skills, enriched with Delta Blues influences. In this rendition, Clapton adds unique elements to the original version, creating a mesmerizing experience for listeners. The song can be categorized as a haunting blues melody that captures the essence of early American Blues music.
Metadata:
| Metadata | Details |
|---|---|
| Artist | Eric Clapton |
| Album | BBC Sessions (1991) |
| Released | April 5, 1991 |
Did you know? This modest piece was inspired by Robert Johnson's personal life and uses symbolism to allude to his hardships. It is widely believed that Johnson wrote it as an invitation for his lover to join him in his journey through challenging times.
With its emotive impact and deep-rooted history, 'Come On In My Kitchen' undoubtedly deserves its place on Eric Clapton's list of top songs. Even if Eric Clapton asked me to stand for it, I still wouldn't after listening to this song.
9. ‘Ain’t Gonna Stand For It’
This iconic song by Eric Clapton, known as "The Slowhand," is a poignant statement against social injustices. 'Ain't Gonna Stand For It' speaks about the struggles of people who have become victims of inequality and oppression. The song is an expression of frustration and anger towards the system that continues to treat them unfairly.
Clapton's soulful voice combined with his exceptional guitar skills make this song unforgettable. The lyrics are powerful, and the melody reflects the emotions expressed in it, making it a must-listen for all blues enthusiasts.
Apart from being a timeless classic, what sets 'Ain't Gonna Stand For It' apart from Clapton's other hits is its political commentary. As a renowned artist who has always spoken up for social causes, Clapton uses this song to convey his message against injustices in society.
Interestingly, Clapton drew inspiration for this song from Stevie Wonder's hit single 'Master Blaster (Jammin'), which also reflected on social injustices. This shows how music can be used as a tool to bring about change in society.
Eric Clapton's 'Tearing Us Apart' is perfect for those times when you're in a tumultuous relationship and you need a song to scream-sing your feelings to.
10. ‘Tearing Us Apart’
This entry among the 10 best Eric Clapton songs of all time is a powerful ballad that showcases Clapton's ability to infuse raw emotions into his music. The lyrics explore themes of heartbreak and loss, while the guitar riffs echo the pain felt by the protagonist. It's not hard to see why this song is still relevant decades after its release.
The beauty of ‘Tearing Us Apart’ lies in its simplicity. The melody is straightforward, yet poignant, and it perfectly complements the lyrics. Clapton's skillful guitar playing shines through in this song as he delivers piercing solos that leave listeners spellbound. Each note evokes strong feelings and sets the tone for a heart-wrenching musical journey.
Despite being an old classic, 'Tearing Us Apart' continues to attract new audiences with its timeless appeal. Even to this day, people relate to its message of love gone wrong and find comfort in its sad but beautiful tunes.
If you haven't listened to 'Tearing Us Apart,' you're missing out on one of Eric Clapton's best works. This song will tug at your heartstrings with its honest storytelling and captivating instrumentals. Don't let yourself be left out; give it a listen today!
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
