Eric Clapton is a legendary British musician, songwriter, and guitarist who has had a profound influence on the rock and blues music scene for over five decades. Born in 1945 in Surrey, England, Clapton first gained fame as a member of the Yardbirds and John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers in the mid-1960s.
Clapton’s virtuosic guitar playing and soulful vocals quickly made him a standout performer, and he went on to achieve massive success as a solo artist. Some of his most famous songs include “Layla,” “Tears in Heaven,” “Wonderful Tonight,” and “Crossroads.”
Throughout his career, Clapton has collaborated with numerous other iconic musicians, including Cream, Derek and the Dominos, and The Beatles. He has also used his platform to champion causes close to his heart, such as addiction recovery and anti-racism activism.
Clapton’s influence on the music world has been immense, with countless musicians citing him as a major influence. He has won numerous awards for his contributions to the music world, including 18 Grammy Awards, and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times. Today, Eric Clapton remains a beloved figure in the music world and a true guitar hero.
1. ‘Cocaine’
Eric Clapton's classic 'Cocaine' is a must-listen for every music enthusiast. It features a distinctive guitar riff and catchy lyrics that have aged gracefully. Known for its addictive tune, this song showcases Clapton's versatility as an artist and his guitar skills.
The song was written in 1976 by J.J. Cale and was later covered by Clapton in his album Slowhand. Its upbeat tone and classic rock feel make it one of the best tracks to dance to at parties or to listen to while driving.
In addition to its infectious melody, 'Cocaine' also highlights Clapton's signature bluesy style with which he has been known since his days with The Yardbirds and Cream. The song gradually builds up from a simple riff to an all-out jam session, highlighting Clapton's prowess as a guitarist and collaborating musician. Its popularity among fans is evident even after four decades, making it a timeless classic.
The song has also inspired many other artists to create cover versions of it, including Guns N' Roses, who frequently play it during their live performances. Another notable cover of this song was by Dope, who added an additional dose of industrial rock to the original tune.
Overall, 'Cocaine' is an essential track in Eric Clapton's discography and holds great significance in shaping the sound of classic rock music. It is a testament to both his musical talent and creativity as well as the enduring legacy of J.J. Cale's songwriting abilities that inspired him.
Eric Clapton may have shot the sheriff, but with this classic hit, he definitely didn't shoot the music scene in the foot.
2. ‘I Shot the Sheriff’
This Eric Clapton classic marked a revolutionary shift in his career, as reggae became a newfound source of inspiration. ‘I Shot the Sheriff’ is a top-notch choice from the ace guitarist's illustrious discography. Its blend of intricate vocals and high energy, up-tempo guitars resonates deeply with fans worldwide. His rendition of this Bob Marley original solidified his status as an icon and remains one of his most significant contributions to music history.
Clapton’s seamless mastery of the electric guitar gives this song a fresh sound that allows it to stand the test of time. With its catchy chorus, it's often used in movie soundtracks and commercials and frequently featured on the radio. Clapton delivered not only on its musical brilliance but also demonstrated his ability to bring different genres together effortlessly.
Clapton’s ear for good music resonates through ‘I Shot the Sheriff.’ This track is characterized by well-punctuated rhythms, Caribbean twists, and bluesy verses that lead into an infectious main hook. It embodies the unwavering spirit that defines. He created instantly recognizable riffs that stick with you long after you've heard them.
Rumour has it that Clapton found inspiration for 'I Shot The Sheriff' after hearing Elvis Presley sing during his wedding ceremony in Vegas. However, he did not start work on it until almost two years later when he heard Bob Marley was releasing it as a single. Regardless of where he got his motivation from, we're glad he did because this timeless masterpiece continues to reign supreme among Eric Clapton enthusiasts globally.
Don't worry, Eric Clapton's got plenty of kids to inherit his musical legacy…even if they're motherless.
3. ‘Motherless Children’
The soulful and bluesy "Children without Mothers" stands as one of Eric Clapton's greatest pieces. His artistry brings depth to the song, with lyrics that evoke emotion and a melody that takes listeners on a journey. The track showcases Clapton's ability to blend genres seamlessly, taking cues from both his blues roots and funk elements. It is a powerful tune whose resonance lasts long after the music ends.
The song's structure creates contrast between verses and choruses, with Clapton utilizing varying textures in his guitar playing to great effect. 'Motherless Children' exhibits powerful wordplay through lyrics like "Sometimes I feel like screaming / Lord what can it be." Collaborating with other legendary artists, such as Stephen Stills and Richie Furay (both founding members of Buffalo Springfield), produced its unique sound.
Interestingly, 'Motherless Children' was originally a traditional gospel song sung in African-American churches during the 20th century. By incorporating it into his own repertoire, Clapton brought renewed attention to this classic tune while still putting his mark on it. Overall, 'Motherless Children' is not just another addition to Eric Clapton's endless list of hits but its timeless nature makes it one of the most exceptional tracks of all time.
Eric Clapton's 'Tears in Heaven' is like a box of tissues – you always need it when you're feeling emotional.
4. ‘Tears In Heaven’
Eric Clapton’s masterpiece, a soulful and heart wrenching ballad, is a timeless classic. The song, which he wrote for his late son who tragically died in a fall from a high-rise building at the age of four, is ‘Tears In Heaven’. The song's emotional resonance can be felt through his tender vocals and guitar strums. It served as an outlet for his grief and has since become one of his most popular songs.
Clapton’s beautiful lyrics speak to anyone who has ever lost someone dear to them. His ability to convey immense emotions with simple lyrics is impressive. He manages to capture the pain of losing someone so young perfectly with the line “Would you hold my hand if I saw you in heaven?”
Fun fact– ‘Tears In Heaven’ was written by Eric Clapton along with Will Jennings, an American songwriter who had also co-written several other popular ballads.
Listening to ‘Tears In Heaven’ will leave you feeling incredibly moved and touched by its beauty. Its soulfulness is sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced loss in their life and understands what it means to truly mourn someone. Don't miss out on this masterpiece from Clapton's repertoire.
Listening to ‘It Hurts Me Too’ is like getting a hug from Eric Clapton, except the hug also hurts a little.
5. ‘It Hurts Me Too’
This entry in the list showcases one of Eric Clapton's bluesier tracks, showcasing his impressive guitar skills and emotional delivery. The song 'It Hurts Me Too' was first recorded by Tampa Red in 1940, but Clapton puts his own spin on it with sweeping solos and a gritty vocal performance. The lyrics detail heartbreak and loss, making it a relatable and poignant addition to Clapton's discography.
Listening to 'My Father's Eyes' is like taking a sad trip down memory lane, but at least Eric Clapton is driving.
6. ‘My Father’s Eyes’
This Eric Clapton classic, symbolic of lost paternal love, features elegant acoustic guitar work coupled with poignant lyrics. ‘My Father’s Eyes’ showcases Clapton’s songwriting prowess while bringing an emotive chord progression to life. It marked a significant period in the musician's personal life and stands as a tender ode for his feather.
In this timeless piece, Eric evokes the memories of his father by comparing the eyes of his son to those of his dad. The intricate details and honesty with which he describes his emotions reflect the pain and longing that he feels towards this significant absence in his life. The mellow notes, soft vocals, and intricate picking style make this an endearing tune that resonates deeply with fans.
Of note is how Clapton touches on universal themes of family relationships and mourning lost loved ones. In a broader sense, it adds an understated depth to an already impressive discography.
This track speaks volumes about resilience amidst grief, making it both incredibly powerful and extremely relatable at the same time. It expresses how music can heal a wounded heart through poetic vibrations that touch souls far deeper than mere words could ever approximate.
When it comes to making your significant other feel wonderful, Eric Clapton's got you covered with this timeless love ballad.
7. ‘Wonderful Tonight’
This Eric Clapton classic, hailed for its romantic lyrics and serene sound, ranks seventh among his best songs. With heartfelt vocals and soothing chords, the track remains an eternal expression of love. The song's simplicity works in its favor, with Clapton’s guitar work effortlessly complimenting Pattie Boyd’s soft harmonies.
‘Wonderful Tonight’ is a timeless classic that showcases Clapton at his melodic best. Its understated yet evocative style has resonated with listeners across generations.
Captivating audiences with its poignant tune for over four decades, ‘Wonderful Tonight’ represents a perfect illustration of the English rocker's capacity to craft unforgettable ballads. It's no wonder it's been used to accompany countless weddings and romantic scenes in television and cinema alike.
As per the lore surrounding this 1977 release, Clapton wrote ‘Wonderful Tonight’ about Pattie Boyd after she took longer than planned getting ready for a party they were attending together. The song perfectly encapsulates their courtship as well as the love that might have endured had their union prospered beyond its early years.
Clapton's slide guitar skills in 'Come On In My Kitchen' will make you want to trade your air guitar for a real one.
8. ‘Come On In My Kitchen’
This song, originally written by Robert Johnson, is a classic blues tune covered beautifully by Eric Clapton. In ‘Come On In My Kitchen,’ Clapton recreates the soulful and raw essence of the original version while managing to infuse it with his unique style. The way he sings and plays this song conveys an incredible sense of emotion that resonates deeply with listeners.
Clapton's rendition features his signature acoustic guitar work paired with his raspy yet smooth vocals. This soulful creation captures the essence of blues music, and it's easy to lose oneself in its soothing melody. The original lyrics are touching and evoke feelings of longing and warmth that Clapton beautifully interprets in his own way.
One thing that sets Clapton's version apart from the rest is its simple arrangement, which draws attention to Johnson's fantastic songwriting abilities. 'Come On In My Kitchen' goes beyond being a mere cover as it serves as a tribute to one of the greatest bluesmen in history.
If you haven't had the pleasure of experiencing Eric Clapton’s take on 'Come On In My Kitchen,' then you're missing out on one of the most impressive performances by a living legend. Listening to it feels like being transported back in time when blues music was pure, emotional, and deeply rooted in tradition.
It's no surprise Eric Clapton doesn't want to stand for it, with guitar skills like that he's meant to sit and play.
9. ‘Ain’t Gonna Stand For It’
This Eric Clapton classic, 'Ain't Gonna Stand For It', is an upbeat and energetic song that showcases his bluesy guitar work and soulful vocals. The lyrics express a strong sense of determination and defiance against those who try to control or manipulate him. With its catchy melody and powerful message, this track has become one of the most beloved songs in Clapton's vast catalogue.
The song features a driving rhythm section that propels the music forward, while Clapton's guitar playing provides a dynamic counterpoint to the vocals. His solos are full of emotion and passion, displaying his mastery of the instrument and his ability to communicate through it.
In addition to its musical qualities, 'Ain't Gonna Stand For It' also has a political dimension, with lyrics that speak to themes of freedom and resistance. This gives the song added depth and resonance, making it a powerful anthem for anyone fighting against injustice or oppression.
Overall, 'Ain't Gonna Stand For It' is a prime example of Eric Clapton's genius as both a musician and a songwriter. Its combination of catchy melodies, electrifying solos, and meaningful lyrics make it one of his best-loved songs and a must-listen for any fan of classic rock or blues music.
If this song doesn't tear you apart, you might want to check your pulse – or your eardrums.
10. ‘Tearing Us Apart’
This entry on the list talks about a Clapton classic, exploring the nuanced emotions behind the lyrics. The song depicts the turmoil of a relationship on the verge of collapse, with Clapton and his collaborator Tina Turner trading off verses in an evocative back-and-forth. With its driving rhythm guitars and soulful chorus, it's a standout example of Clapton's ability to mix rock and blues. Its impact endures to this day, making it a must-listen for fans of both artists and genre-blending music alike.
"Behind Closed Doors" is another great example of Clapton's penchant for emotional storytelling through earnest lyrics and powerful instrumentation. The track's slow burn creates an intimate atmosphere that highlights Clapton's vocal performance alongside memorable piano parts – all while maintaining a sense of poetic tension throughout the song. Listeners who appreciate heart-wrenching ballads with blues influence should definitely check out "Behind Closed Doors".
It's worth noting that aside from being an accomplished guitarist, Clapton also possesses impressive singing skills as demonstrated in "Layla". This Eric Clapton signature song not only contains one of rock's most recognizable riffs but also showcases his soaring vocals that complement perfectly with the melody. The songwriting itself is complex but relatable, telling a story about unrequited love that many listeners can identify with.
Don't miss out on other notable efforts like "Let It Rain" or "Forever Man", which showcase different facets of Clapton's ever-evolving style across different eras. Such varied repertoire ultimately accounts for why Eric Clapton remains such an enduring legend in popular music even now decades after his initial rise to fame.
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.
