In the transformative era of the 1960s, the concept of the “guitar hero” emerged, with Eric Clapton at the forefront in England. He began his journey with The Yardbirds, where his deep passion for the blues fused with an electrifying intensity in their live performances. Clapton’s mastery of the guitar set him apart from contemporaries like George Harrison, displaying a wild yet artful approach to his instrument.
Clapton’s ambition led to the creation of Cream, a group where he explored and redefined rock music’s boundaries. Their groundbreaking work included hits like ‘Sunshine of Your Love’, blending genres from jazz to psychedelic rock. However, Clapton’s restlessness soon spurred him towards new ventures, including forming Blind Faith with Steve Winwood and Ginger Baker.
His musical journey took a turn when he encountered Duane Allman’s slide guitar work, renowned for its soulful depth in The Allman Brothers Band. Clapton’s admiration for Allman was profound, particularly struck by Allman’s performance on Wilson Pickett’s ‘Hey Jude’. This mutual respect led to their collaboration on ‘Layla’, a poignant ballad showcasing their remarkable synergy, marking a pivotal moment in rock history.
