Tunes Du Jour Presents Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton stands as a towering figure in the realm of music, his guitar prowess and soulful vocals leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of rock and blues. From his early days with The Yardbirds and Cream to his solo career, Clapton has continually redefined the boundaries of guitar playing, weaving intricate melodies and emotive solos that resonate with audiences across generations.

At the heart of Clapton’s music lies a raw authenticity, a testament to his deep-rooted love for the blues. Songs like “Layla,” “Tears In Heaven,” and “Sunshine of Your Love” not only showcase his technical brilliance but also his ability to infuse each note with profound emotion. His music transcends mere entertainment, offering listeners a cathartic experience that speaks to the complexities of the human condition.

Beyond his musical contributions, Clapton has also been involved in various philanthropic endeavors. His most notable effort is perhaps the creation of the Crossroads Centre in Antigua, a rehabilitation facility dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction. Having battled addiction himself, Clapton’s commitment to supporting others on their journey to recovery underscores his compassion and empathy.

However, Clapton’s legacy is not without controversy. Accusations of xenophobia, racism, and anti-science sentiments have cast a shadow over his career. His inflammatory remarks in the past have sparked widespread criticism and prompted many to reevaluate their support for him. While his musical achievements are undeniable, it’s essential to acknowledge and address the problematic aspects of his persona.

As listeners engage with Clapton’s music, they are encouraged to appreciate the artistry while also confronting the complexities of the artist behind it. While his contributions to music are undeniable, it’s crucial to approach his legacy with nuance and critical reflection. Ultimately, Eric Clapton’s journey serves as a reminder that even the most revered figures are not immune to scrutiny, and that true appreciation requires an acknowledgment of both the brilliance and the flaws.

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Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 7-5-23

I just learned that Robbie Robertson, who was the lead guitarist and songwriter for The Band, is of Cayuga and Mohawk descent and has supported causes such as the American Indian Movement and the Native American Rights Fund. He has also spoken out against the misrepresentation and appropriation of Indigenous cultures by non-Native people.

Robbie Robertson turns 80 today. Some of his work is included on today’s playlist.

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An Eric Clapton Playlist

Today is Eric Clapton’s birthday. What should I write about? His perceived racism? As he told a concert audience in 1976, “Stop Britain from becoming a black colony. Get the foreigners out. Get the wogs out. Get the coons out. Keep Britain white.” In Clapton’s 2007 autobiography, cleverly entitled Clapton: The Autobiography, Clapton says of that outburst “Since then I have learned to keep my opinions to myself.” Okay, that’s one lesson. Any other lessons, blues guitarist whose first top ten hit under his name was a reggae cover?

Nah, I’m not going to write about Eric Clapton’s perceived racism. I’ll write about how much I hate the song “Wonderful Tonight.” “You look wonderful tonight.” Last night you looked like shit. And you’ll probably look like shit again tomorrow. I know I said I feel wonderful tonight, but truth is I have a headache, so drive me home, woman! He’s a catch.

You know what? I’m not going to talk about that, either. Instead I’ll tell you about the time I went to one of Eric Clapton’s homes in England. I met with his manager there in the early part of this century. In the room where we chatted were Eric’s Grammy Awards. Some were on a bookshelf, some were on the floor next to the couch. They weren’t arranged in any way. They lay there haphazardly, as if nobody had time to put them back in their proper place since the earthquake hit in 1990. I wish I had a photo taken of me holding his Grammys, but I didn’t. I acted in a professional manner. I hate that about myself. Beats being perceived as racist, though.

Here are thirty career highlights of Eric Clapton:

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The Story Of Eric Clapton And Layla

In the latter half of the 1960s, Eric Clapton and George Harrison developed a close friendship. Clapton also developed a crush on Harrison’s wife, Pattie Boyd. The two started having an affair, but Pattie didn’t want to leave her husband.

Clapton wrote a song about his feelings for Pattie. He called the song “Layla,” after a title character in the book The Story of Layla and Majnun. The book told of a man, Majnun, who was madly in love with a woman, Layla, but was forbidden to marry her. His longing for her drove him mad.

Clapton’s band Derek and the Dominos released “Layla” in 1971. Pattie and Eric started living together in 1974. They wed in 1979. George Harrison, along with Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, played at the wedding. Clapton left Pattie for another woman in 1985.

Today Eric Clapton turns 71. Here are twenty tracks that feature the musician.


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