Eric
Patrick ClaptonCBE (born 30 March 1945), nicknamed "Slowhand",
is a Grammy Award winning English guitarist, singer and composer, who is
one of the most successful musicians of the 20th century, garnering an unprecedented three inductions into the
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Often viewed as one of the greatest guitarists
of all time among critics and fans alike, Eric Claptonwas ranked 4th in Rolling
Stone’s list of The Greatest Guitarists of All Time and #53 on their
list of the The Immortals: 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.
Although
Clapton's musical style has varied throughout his career, it has always
remained rooted in the blues. Clapton is credited as an innovator in
several phases of his career, which have included blues-rock (with John
Mayall & the Bluesbreakers and The Yardbirds) and psychedelic rock
(with Cream). Clapton has also achieved great chart success in genres
ranging from Delta blues (Me and Mr. Johnson) to pop ("Change
the World") and reggae ("I Shot the Sheriff").
He cited
Freddie King, B.B. King, Albert King, Buddy Guy, Hubert Sumlin and
primarily Robert Johnson as major influences on his guitar playing.