Eric Clapton’s Old Sock ~ an Album Befitting the Artist’s Golden Anniversary
By Jane Croft
After 50 amazing years of incredible guitar work and vocals that bring the smiles as easily as they bring the tears, it’s time for music lovers everywhere to celebrate Eric Clapton’s golden anniversary of being a professional musician. But don’t worry ~ he’s not ready to put the guitar down just yet. In fact, this year Clapton will be touring the world once again…and that’s not all.
Clapton recently announced the release of his 21st studio album, his first since 2010. The album, Old Sock, produced by Eric Clapton, Doyle Bramhall II, Justin Stanley and Simon Climie, features two new original songs: “Every Little Thing” and “Gotta Get Over.” This must-have album is set to be released March 12 on Clapton’s Bushbranch label, distributed through a new collaboration with Surfdog Records in the USA and Canada, and released by Polydor Records in the rest of the world. And this labor of love with the quirky, comfortable name is positioned to please the masses.
The album is a heart-warming, groove-inspiring collection of some of Clapton’s favorite songs ~ spanning from his childhood to present day ~ that highlights his vast appreciation and knowledge of music. Clapton’s fans and peers know that this musical wizard has always had a remarkable ability to recognize great songs and a talent for uniquely interpreting them, and his gifts do not disappoint on Old Sock. The album explores romantic standards of the 30s, reggae, soul, and rock, and includes a stand-out playful collaboration with Sir Paul McCartney; all these elements come together seamlessly to create an experience that is quintessential Clapton.
Joining him on Old Sock are some of music’s greats who were more than happy to lend a hand ~ or a vocal cord. The band Clapton assembled for the recordings consisting of longtime collaborators Steve Gadd (drums), Willie Weeks (bass) and Chris Stainton (keyboards), along with some surprise guest additions: JJ Cale joins the song “Angel” for backing vocals and guitar, Chaka Khan adds backing vocals to “Get On Over,” Steve Winwood contributes his skills on the Hammond B3 Organ on “Still Got The Blues,” Paul McCartney joins his old friend on bass/vocals on “All of Me,” and Jim Keltner holds things down on drums for “Our Love is Here To Stay.”
Grab this album for yourself, for a Clapton fan, or for anyone who appreciates excellent music and exceptional talent. Clapton is timeless, and any album he graces us with should be considered a piece of musical history.
For more information, including a list of
Clapton’s upcoming tour dates,
visit www.ericclapton.com.