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Guess There’s Nothing Left for Me to Explain

Legacy

I am continually amazed at how popular Eric Clapton has become. I am even more amazed at how many people know who he is and what he does for a living. The music has now affected three generations as grandparents, their children, and the grandchildren have now been exposed to and come to appreciate his music.

Looking back on the career of Eric Clapton, this was one of his most affecting performances. Author’s collection

Eric Clapton did not invent the guitar, or the electric blues, or the British blues for that matter. There have also been guitarists as creative as him. My first thought in that regard is that Jeff Beck was more creative as a member of the Yardbirds than Clapton. Clapton’s creative peak may have been his tenure with Cream.

What he has done is popularize the modern blues sound. He has helped take it from obscurity and bring it into the mainstream. He also showed that the blues and rock could be fused together with stunning results. It may be that his popularization of this musical form will be his lasting legacy.

Clapton will continue to tour and remain popular as long as his desire and health lasts. Author’s collection

He has also popularized the guitar as an instrument. His virtuosity for the past almost five decades has kept it in the forefront of the public consciousness. His obituary will no doubt focus on his guitar ability, and he remains one of the best living guitarists. The tone he is able to coax from his instruments is second to none. Other artists can play the same guitar but not come close to the sound he can produce.

He has never been the flashiest of guitarists. He is above all a stylist who astonishes with his precision and technique. He has the ability to make each note crystal clear.

Of all the musicians active today, his is one of the most secure reputations and legacies. His large body of work will continue selling long after he is gone.

The last legacy he will leave is his faithful service to his Crossroads Centre. While it may not be as well known as his music, it has directly affected the lives of hundreds and possibly thousands of persons in need. That is indeed a good legacy to leave behind.

How many evenings have people spent with Eric Clapton? Author’s collection