Eric Clapton, also known as "Slowhand," is one of the most influential guitarists in music history. With a career spanning decades and genres from blues to rock, Clapton has used a vast collection of guitars to create his unique sound. Here's a look at the guitars he made famous.
1. Fender Stratocaster – "Blackie"
"Blackie" is probably Eric Clapton's most iconic guitar and is often considered one of the most famous guitars of all time.
- Origin: Clapton built Blackie himself by combining parts from three 1950s Fender Stratocasters.
- Features: The Strat has a lightweight body, a slim neck and a characteristic bright and cutting sound.
- Used in: Classic songs like "Layla" (unplugged), "Cocaine" , and "Wonderful Tonight."
- Farewell: Clapton stopped playing Blackie in 1985. In 2004, the guitar was auctioned off for over $950,000 to raise funds for his Crossroads Centre.
2. Fender Stratocaster – Signature Series
Following the success of Blackie, Fender developed the Eric Clapton Signature Stratocaster , one of the first signature guitars ever.
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Features:
- Active mid-boost and treble-cut circuits.
- Noiseless pickups for a clear, defined sound.
- Comfortable neck and body, perfect for Clapton's playing style.
- Used in: His later performances and albums, such as "Tears in Heaven" and "Change the World."
3. Gibson Les Paul
Clapton played a Gibson Les Paul extensively in his early career and helped popularize the model in the 1960s.
- Model: A 1960 Gibson Les Paul Standard.
- Features: The Les Paul offered a warm, full tone with plenty of sustain, ideal for blues and rock.
- Used in: His time with John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers and early Cream recordings, such as "All Your Love."
4. Gibson SG – "The Fool"
The psychedelic Gibson SG nicknamed “The Fool” is another legendary guitar from Clapton.
- Features: This guitar featured a striking painted design created by the Dutch artist group The Fool.
- Used in: Cream's songs like "Sunshine of Your Love" and "White Room."
5. Gibson ES-335
The Gibson ES-335 was one of Clapton's favorite guitars, especially during his time with Cream.
- Model: A cherry-red Gibson ES-335 from 1964.
- Features: The semi-hollow body gave the guitar a warm, resonant tone that was perfect for blues rock.
- Used in: Classics like "Crossroads."
6. Martin Acoustic Guitars
For his acoustic work, Clapton played extensively on Martin guitars, including custom models.
- Model: Martin 000-28EC, a signature model based on his favorite acoustic guitar.
- Features: A small body, warm sound, and ideal for fingerpicking.
- Used in: Unplugged albums and performances, including "Tears in Heaven" and "Layla" (Unplugged).
7. Fender Telecaster
Although less prominent, Clapton also used Fender Telecasters in his early years.
- Features: Clear and crisp tones, ideal for his time with The Yardbirds.
- Used in: Primarily in his early recordings and live performances.
8. Other guitars
Besides the guitars mentioned above, Clapton also played several other models:
- Gibson Firebird: Used in Cream and Blind Faith.
- Gretsch Chet Atkins: For experimental songs.
- Dobro resonator guitar: For slide playing in blues numbers.
Clapton's amplifiers and accessories
Besides his guitars, Clapton's choice of amplifiers and effects plays an important role in his sound:
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Amplifiers:
- Marshall Bluesbreaker combo, which defined his sound in the 1960s.
- Fender Twin and Tweed amplifiers, used in later years.
- Picks: He uses thin picks, which provide a soft attack.
- Effects: Clapton is minimalist when it comes to effects, but occasionally uses a wah pedal and delay.
Conclusion
Eric Clapton's guitar collection is as diverse as his music. From the iconic Fender Stratocaster to the warm Gibson Les Paul, each instrument reflects a phase in his career. Clapton's ability to translate the emotion of a song into his playing makes him a lasting inspiration for guitarists worldwide.
Want to get close to Clapton's sound? Consider a Fender Stratocaster with a mid-boost circuit and practice your bending and vibrato techniques—that's where Slowhand really shines!
