Eric Clapton is considered one of the most influential guitarists of all time. His career began in 1963 when he joined the band The Yardbirds. In 1966, he would join the band Cream, along with Ginger Baker and Jack Bruce. Clapton would also be in the bands Blind Faith and Derek and the Dominoes before beginning a successful solo career in the 1970s. His genre is considered blues rock, and he has claimed that B.B. King was one of his biggest influences. Clapton is often referred to as “God,” and to play and sing like Clapton, you’ll have to be an excellent guitarist. Eric Clapton is the only guitarist in history to have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with the Yardbirds, Cream, and as a solo artist.
 
Clapton is a baritone, and has a slightly limited range, but a recognizable voice and style. He can sing blues rock, such as Layla, but also can sing quietly for songs like Tears in Heaven. Most baritones with a mid-range would be able to replicate his vocal style.

Eric’s rig and gear has changed a lot over the years, but his main guitar in recent years is a Fender Eric Clapton Signature Stratocaster named Blackie. Clapton does not use an overdrive pedal, however, he does get overdrive from the 25 dB boost in Blackie. Other effects that Clapton uses are a Digitech Eric Clapton CrossRoads Signature pedal, a Boss Chorus CE-3, a glass slide, and a DBX 160 compressor. For amplification, Clapton uses Fender EC Clapton guitar amps, Marshall cabinets and heads, and Soldano SLO-100 heads.
 
To sound like Eric Clapton, an extensive knowledge of lead guitar playing, scales, and blues is a must. While his sound has changed throughout the years, his sound is always rooted in the blues. It is not impossible to sound like Clapton, but it will take a lot of hard work and effort!
 
Keep Rockin’!!!
Eric Clapton by badgreed RECORDS taken on December 2, 2011
Eric Clapton Live by ultomatt taken on August 15, 1975