Eric Clapton is a true artist who puts heart and soul in any song he touches. As talented at playing guitar as he is at writing music, many of his songs are true to life, with a story to be told. The strong blues influencing his music makes it unique, with just a enough of that rebel aspect to make it outstanding, and just enough heartbreak to make it real. Sometimes it’s like jammin’ in the basement of a good band bar, sometimes it’s like makin’ love, and sometimes it’s just plain singin’ the blues. Other times, it’s just good classic rock, and then, sometimes it’s more. Any way it is, it’s always good music.
Although he has had many hits, here is a top ten list of some of his more pronounced artistry:
Layla
Inspired by a man in love with another man’s wife, pouring heart and soul into a song (as the story goes, it happened to be Clapton in love with friend George Harrison’s then wife. Eventually she did marry Clapton, though it ended unhappily in divorce). The original rock version has the depth of feeling and fierce power that portrays this sense of inner turmoil and heartfelt emotion. The remade acoustic version has a lighter, much mellower touch to it.
Bad Love
I’ve had enough plays a powerful message in this song. Yet it didn’t lack talent in its making. It is still a unique rendition of hardship in music form.
After midnight
Bouncy and full of high energy, yet still instilled with a relaxing tone. A rock song with humorous intonations integrating several other music styles, it is one with long-standing appeal. It seems to have its very own story.
When You Got a Good Friend
Based in legendary blues, this song still has its own unique Clapton style. From the album Me and Mr. Johnson, this song and others on it were done as a tribute to blues legend Robert Johnson.
Cocaine
Written by J. J. Cale, the same man who wrote After Midnight, this is another of Clapton’s classic songs that nearly any bar band must know, if they want to be seen as a rock band. Packed with extremely talented guitar playing, Clapton assures that this song is an anti-drug song, as stated in Fox News.
I can’t stand it
Another song relating to a real life issue, exuding the emotions of a distraught and angry man. Talent-ridden, it still rocks the house.
Runnin on Faith
A song that will live on, with an inspirational message that may have some hidden meaning, if not about being in love. Smooth and easy to listen to, it will soothe the soul.
Tears in Heaven
Written after the tragic death of his five year old son, this song still has a spiritual message for all. With its clearly heartfelt impression, it is another of Clapton’s songs with an immortal tale.
Before You Accuse Me
Swingin’ and bluesy, Clapton’s artistic vocals sing a tale of indifference as to who’s doing what. Still, it’s a classic tale, that won’t be denied. In music form, it’s another work of art.
Come On In My Kitchen
A song that will still make you want to rock out and sing the blues, this is another from the Me and Mr. Johnson album. Still, it most definitely has that classic Clapton touch.
He will pick you up, but he won’t let you down.
