Eric Clapton

Synopsis

Eric Clapton is far more than a rock star.

Like Dylan and McCartney, he is an icon and a living legend. He has sold tens of millions of records, played sell-out concerts all over the world and been central to the significant musical developments of his era. His guitar playing has seen him hailed as 'God'. Now for the first time, Eric tells the story of his personal and professional journeys in this pungent, witty and painfully honest autobiography.

These are the memoirs of a survivor, someone who has reached the pinnacle of success, who has had it all, but whose demons have never left him. Eric tells his story as it is, hiding nothing, with a directness and searing honesty that will make this book one of the most compelling memoirs of our time.

Summary

Chapter 1: Early Years

Eric Clapton was born in Ripley, Surrey, England in 1945. His mother, Patricia Molly Clapton, was a 16-year-old factory worker, and his father, Edward Walter Fryer, was a soldier who left the family before Eric was born. Clapton was raised by his grandparents, Rose and Jack Clapp.

Real-life example: Clapton's early childhood was marked by poverty and instability. He was often sick and spent time in hospital. Despite these challenges, he showed an early talent for music.

Chapter 2: The Yardbirds

In 1963, Clapton joined the Yardbirds, a British blues rock band. He quickly became one of the band's lead guitarists, and his distinctive playing style helped to define the group's sound. Clapton left the Yardbirds in 1965 due to creative differences.

Real-life example: Clapton's time with the Yardbirds was a period of significant growth and development for his musicianship. He learned from some of the best blues guitarists of the era, and he developed a unique approach to playing the instrument.

Chapter 3: Cream

In 1966, Clapton formed Cream with bassist Jack Bruce and drummer Ginger Baker. Cream quickly became one of the most successful bands in the world, releasing four albums in just three years. Clapton's guitar playing on Cream's albums is widely regarded as some of the best ever recorded.

Real-life example: Cream's song "Sunshine of Your Love" showcases Clapton's distinctive guitar sound. The song features a wah-wah pedal and a solo that is considered one of the greatest guitar solos of all time.

Chapter 4: Solo Career

After Cream disbanded in 1968, Clapton began a successful solo career. He released a number of hit albums, including "461 Ocean Boulevard" (1974) and "Slowhand" (1977). Clapton has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including B.B. King, John Mayall, and George Harrison.

Real-life example: Clapton's cover of Bob Marley's song "I Shot the Sheriff" is an example of his ability to adapt and interpret other artists' songs. The song became one of Clapton's biggest hits.

Chapter 5: Later Career

In the 1980s and 1990s, Clapton continued to release successful albums and tour extensively. He also became involved in various charitable causes, including the Crossroads Centre, which provides treatment for addiction. In 2006, Clapton was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Real-life example: Clapton's 1992 album "Unplugged" is a live acoustic album that won three Grammy Awards. The album features stripped-down versions of Clapton's classic songs, as well as covers of other artists' songs.