Rainy days and Eric Clapton

It has a been a while since I have sat at my desk and wrote about the blues. Perhaps it is due to the weather, maybe it is just that I have little to say. I have spent time listening to newer genres and enjoy more of the orchestral music than I have ever before. Although when I am in a peaceful mood and I can hear the rain hit my windows, I remember the sweet blues that I adore. I have not wrote of any well known artists since I began this column, although I am tempted to speak of a personal favorite on this bitter day. It is getting colder outside and I feel the holidays approaching, and can not help but to think of strong emotions, good times and the charismatic tunes of electric blues.

My most favorite artist is Eric Clapton. I first listened to him as he melodically soothed the soul in the 90’s well after his status was cemented into musical history. I was young and had no knowledge of his previous work, although I knew that his delicate acoustics were gold. It wasn’t until I began touring the bar scene that I noticed his development and intricate approach to the blues of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. I immediately fell in love with “Layla” and “Crossroads,” naming my first acoustic after the elusive, gorgeous Layla Clapton speaks of.

I believe that Clapton’s journey into the world he now happily resides in came with many troubles and hurdles that took him a lot of effort to overcome. Although the sounds we hear and the words we live by are living proof of his insurmountable talent and triumphs for which he has earned. From a troubled youth to a journey across the pond, Eric Clapton has captured us in awe by his technique and his lyrics. I truly enjoy, as thousands also do, the blues that capture our thoughts and emotions especially on these days of rain and wind, and blowing leaves. I will say one more thing before I close today, rock on Clapton!