Inducted:
2000
Category:
Performer
Inducted By:
Robbie Robertson (The Band)
Three inductions, three words: “Clapton is God.” The only artist inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame three times, Eric Clapton transformed rock guitar, inspiring countless musicians to investigate American roots music. His masterful, blues-drenched playing catapulted the Yardbirds, Cream, Blind Faith and Derek and the Dominos to fame, while his solo hits like “Lay Down Sally” and “Tears in Heaven” showcased his virtuosity, vulnerability and resilience.
Induction
Impact
Signature Sound
Blues-rooted Guitar Legend Shaped Rock History
Eric Clapton’s fiery, blues-driven guitar work propelled iconic ‘60s bands like the Yardbirds and Cream, evolving into radio-friendly ‘70s rock and ‘80s rock as a solo artist. In the ’90s and ‘00s, he embraced acoustic introspection, and returned full circle to traditional blues, blending technical mastery with emotional depth, solidifying his legacy as a versatile, expressive guitar icon.
Co-written with Bonnie Bramlett, and featuring a rock star who’s-who as his backing band, this signalled a guitar god’s hitmaking ability.
From the Museum
Guitar God’sFender Strat
Perhaps one of the world’s most famous guitars Is Clapton’s original “Blackie” Stratocaster, which he crafted himself from parts of three vintage Strats he found in a Nashville shop. Using the original Blackie’s neck as a template, Fender designed the Eric Clapton Signature Model Stratocaster line.
Clapton played this particular one during his Journeyman tour in 1990-‘91, calling it “more robust, with more power in the pickups” than his beloved original.
Eric Clapton is the only guitar player who influenced me. There was simplicity to his style, vibe and sound. His solos were melodic and memorable. I could hum them to you.
Eddie Van Halen
Van Halen
2000 Hall of Fame Essay
"Committed to making music that probes the vulnerability and tenderness of the human spirit, Eric Clapton is one of rock’s most unapologetically sincere artists."
– Robert Santelli
Check It OutInfluence
Influences
Eric Clapton
sealed with a signature
This is the signature that appears on the inductee’s plaque at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to officially commemorate their induction.
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