Clapton, Eric 
1945 - .
English blues and rock guitarist, 
singer, and songwriter. 

Originally a blues purist, then one of the pioneers of heavy rock with Cream 1966-68, he returned to the blues after making the landmark album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs 1970 by Derek and the Dominos. Solo albums include Journeyman 1989 and the acoustic Unplugged 1992, for which he received six Grammy awards 1993. Clapton, born in Surrey, was a member of the Yardbirds 1963-65 but left when the group turned from rhythm and blues to experimental rock. During his year with John Mayall's Bluesbreakers 1965-66, "Clapton is God" graffiti began to appear on British walls. After the groundbreaking rock of Cream, he formed the short-lived supergroup Blind Faith 1969. He sought a lower profile 1970-72, playing with US duo Delaney and Bonnie, and adopted a more laid-back style with his solo album 461 Ocean Boulevard 1974. Other albums include Money and Cigarettes 1983 and August 1986.