Eric Clapton

Eric Patrick Clapton was born on March 30, 1945, in Ripley, Surrey, England. He is the son of a 16-year-old unwed mother and was raised by his grandparents, believing they were his parents and his mother was his sister. Clapton would grow up to become one of the most influential guitarists in rock music history.

In October 1963, Eric Clapton joined The Yardbirds, a blues-influenced rock and roll band, as their lead guitarist. This was a significant moment in Clapton's career as it marked the beginning of his rise to fame. His work with The Yardbirds was characterized by his powerful blues guitar riffs and solos.

In March 1965, Clapton left The Yardbirds to join John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers. This move solidified his status as a top blues guitarist. His guitar work on the album 'Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton' (1966) earned him the nickname 'Slowhand' and a God-like status among blues enthusiasts.

In July 1966, Eric Clapton formed the rock band Cream with drummer Ginger Baker and bassist Jack Bruce. Cream was one of the first supergroups and one of the most influential bands of the late 1960s, with hits like 'Sunshine of Your Love' and 'White Room.' The trio's virtuosic playing and groundbreaking music left a lasting impact on rock music.

In August 1970, Clapton released 'Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs' with the band Derek and the Dominos. The album is considered one of the greatest rock records of all time, largely due to the title track 'Layla,' which was inspired by Clapton's unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, George Harrison's wife.

In July 1974, Clapton released '461 Ocean Boulevard,' marking his successful comeback after years of heroin addiction. The album featured a more laid-back style compared to his earlier, more aggressive work, and included the hit single 'I Shot the Sheriff,' which helped to popularize reggae music.

On March 20, 1991, Eric Clapton's four-year-old son Conor tragically died after falling from a 53rd-floor window in New York City. The loss profoundly affected Clapton and led to the creation of the poignant song 'Tears in Heaven,' which became one of his biggest hits and won several Grammy Awards.

In 1992, Clapton released the album 'Unplugged,' which featured acoustic versions of his songs, including the hit 'Tears in Heaven.' Recorded for the MTV Unplugged series, the album won six Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, and is one of the best-selling live albums of all time.

On June 29, 2000, Eric Clapton established the Crossroads Centre in Antigua, a treatment facility for drug and alcohol addiction. This initiative was a significant step in Clapton's efforts to support those struggling with addiction, drawing from his own experiences with substance abuse.

In June 2004, Eric Clapton published his autobiography, 'Clapton: The Autobiography.' The book provides an in-depth look at his life, from his early days and rise to fame, to his struggles with addiction and personal loss. It received critical acclaim for its honesty and introspective nature.

In 2005, Eric Clapton reunited with his former Cream bandmates, Ginger Baker and Jack Bruce, for a series of concerts at the Royal Albert Hall in London and Madison Square Garden in New York. These highly anticipated performances were a historic moment, marking the first time the band had played together in 37 years.

On March 12, 2013, Eric Clapton released 'Old Sock,' his 21st studio album. The album features a mix of covers and original songs, showcasing Clapton's influences and musical versatility. It includes collaborations with several artists, reflecting Clapton's wide-ranging musical connections and enduring talent.

On May 20, 2016, Clapton released the album 'I Still Do.' The album was notable for its collaboration with producer Glyn Johns, who had worked with Clapton on the iconic 'Slowhand' album. 'I Still Do' was well received, praised for its mix of blues covers and original material.

In October 2018, the documentary 'Eric Clapton: Life in 12 Bars' was released. Directed by Lili Fini Zanuck, the film provides a comprehensive look at Clapton's life and career, highlighting his musical achievements as well as his personal struggles with addiction and loss.