Eric Clapton is one of the most influential guitarists of all time. He is known for his bluesy, soulful style and his ability to blend various genres of music, including rock, blues, and pop. Over the years, Clapton has used a variety of different guitars and equipment to achieve his signature sound. In this article, we will take a closer look at Eric Clapton’s musical career and the equipment he has used to create his music.
Early Years and Influence
Eric Clapton was born on March 30, 1945, in Ripley, Surrey, England. He was raised by his grandparents and grew up listening to music from artists such as Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, and Chuck Berry. Clapton’s passion for music led him to pick up the guitar at the age of 13, and he quickly became obsessed with the instrument.
In his early years, Clapton was heavily influenced by the blues. He would spend hours listening to blues records and practicing his guitar playing. He became particularly enamored with the sound of blues legend B.B. King, who would later become a mentor and friend to Clapton.
Formation of Bands and Career
Clapton’s early bands included The Roosters and The Yardbirds. However, it wasn’t until he joined the band John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers that he gained widespread recognition. Clapton’s guitar playing on the album “Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton” became legendary, and the album has since been considered one of the greatest blues albums of all time.
After leaving The Bluesbreakers, Clapton formed the band Cream with Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker. Cream became one of the most influential rock bands of the 1960s, with Clapton’s guitar playing at the forefront of their sound. Songs like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “Crossroads” showcased Clapton’s incredible talent and his ability to fuse rock and blues together.
Clapton continued his musical career with various bands and as a solo artist. He had numerous hits throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including “Layla,” “Tears in Heaven,” and “Wonderful Tonight.” His music has continued to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Equipment
Eric Clapton has used a variety of different guitars and equipment over the course of his career. Here are some of the most notable pieces of equipment he has used:
Fender Stratocaster: Clapton has long been associated with the Fender Stratocaster, and it has become his signature guitar. He has used a variety of different Stratocasters over the years, including a 1956 “Blackie” Strat that he pieced together from various guitars. He has also used a custom-built Stratocaster that was made specifically for him by the Fender Custom Shop.
Gibson ES-335: Clapton has also used Gibson guitars throughout his career. The ES-335 is a semi-hollow body guitar that Clapton has used on numerous recordings, including the famous solo on “Crossroads.” He has also used a Gibson SG and a Gibson Firebird.
Martin Acoustic Guitar: Clapton has used a Martin acoustic guitar on many of his recordings. The Martin 000-28EC is a signature model that was designed specifically for Clapton.
Amplifiers: Clapton has used a variety of different amplifiers over the years. He has used Fender amps, including a Fender Twin Reverb and a Fender Vibroverb. He has also used Marshall amps, including a Marshall JTM45 and a Marshall Bluesbreaker.
Effects Pedals: Clapton is known for his minimalist approach to effects pedals, but he has used a few over the years. One of his most famous effects pedals is the Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face, which he used on the solo for “Sunshine of Your Love.” He has also used a Wah-Wah pedal, a Uni-Vibe, and a Tube Screamer.
Strings: Clapton has used a variety of different strings over the years, but he is particularly associated with using Fender Super Bullets. These strings are known for their bright, clear sound, and they are often used by guitarists who play with a lot of distortion.
Picks: Clapton has used a variety of different picks over the years, but he is particularly associated with using a plastic pick made by Dunlop. He also uses his fingers to play fingerstyle guitar.
Eric Clapton is one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and his music continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike. His bluesy, soulful style and his ability to blend different genres of music have made him a true icon in the world of music. Over the course of his career, Clapton has used a variety of different guitars and equipment to achieve his signature sound, and his influence can still be heard in the music of countless guitarists today.