Eric Clapton is an iconic figure in modern music history and one of the greatest guitarists to have ever lived. He’s won 18 Grammy awards and sold over 100 million records worldwide.
But what fans may not know is the rather unusual nickname given to him: Slowhand. He’s an incredibly talented musician and arguably one of the fastest guitar players in modern music, yet he was dubbed ‘Slowhand’. So why is Eric Clapton called Slowhand?
Read on to discover the fascinating story behind it.
Why is Eric Clapton Called Slowhand?
Since the early 1960s, Eric Clapton has been a heavy player in the world of rock and blues. Over the years Clapton has earned many nicknames, one of which is “Slowhand”.There are many reasons why Clapton is called “Slowhand” and his influence in the world of music has made him one of the most influential guitarists of all-time.
The Origin of the Nickname
Clapton earned his nickname “Slowhand” during a live performance at the Hammersmith Odeon, London in 197At the concert, Clapton received a standing ovation from the audience as he had broken a guitar string. Rather than stop the show, as most performers would, he continue to play, opting for a slower pace. As he continued to play, the audience kept time by clapping in unison and chanting “slowhand!
” Hence, the name “Slowhand” was born and has stuck with him ever since.
Guitar Power
Despite the origins of the nickname, Clapton is far from a slow guitarist.He is known for his remarkable technical ability and skill with the instrument. He has been called a “guitar god” thanks to his masterful solos and stunning lead riffs, many of which draw on music from the 1920s to 1960s, a time known for its “pre-modern” style of play.
He is also credited for his technical prowess, as evidenced by his collection of classic guitars and ability to play in various musical styles.
Influence on Rock and Blues Music
Clapton is a major influence in the world of rock and blues music. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times and has literally sold millions of albums around the world.Clapton has played with some of the greatest bands throughout history, such as Cream, Derek and the Dominos and the Yardbirds. He also has written some of the most influential music, such as “Layla,” “Tears in Heaven” and “Crossroads”. Clapton’s innovation and experimentation with musical style has made him an icon in the industry and a classic example of the power of rock and blues.