I've been a fan of Eric Clapton since I first heard him play. There are a select number of musicians whose passion for the music and their instrument are evident beyond all else. Clapton's storied career came at a price however and he himself introduces us to his personal demon's and openly discusses how they affected him and how he treated them.In reading this book, I felt an attachment not to the legendary and brilliant musician, but to the human being that is Eric Clapton. I fell like I was confided in by someone who has reached a point where honesty and connections to the people take precedence over the fame.
So yes, we hear the stories about drugs, we hear the stories about womanizing, we hear the stories about alcohol and suicidal tendencies. What made this book different for me was the connection that he so clearly wishes, and succeeds to make with the reader and quite frankly, the sheer beauty of his recovery into sobriety and a beautiful family life. Somehow, I sense that when I go back to listen to his glorious body of work, this time, I'll be ready to hear it for the first time.
4 comments:
Glad to have found your blog.
I, too, was very fond of the Clapton autobio.
I highly recommend listening to the Layla session recordings, where Clapton jams with Duane Allman and others in the ABB. Truly revealing, after reading the bio.
Just came across your blog. Very impressive. I am a big fan of clapton and I was intrigued about the book after reading the review.
Mystic Wing - I think I can speak for my fellow blog mates that we all enjoy keeping up this blog and we are all grateful that you found us and hoe that you stop by often.
Raj - The book is a good read. Please come back.
Great review! I too was touched by his candor and was shocked by his life of excess. I agree he really does connect with the audience in this book. I wanted him to kick the junk so badly that I was practically yelling at the book. Thankfully he finally does, and then his life turns around significantly.
If you haven't checked it out yet, I'd recommend Ronnie, by Ron Wood of the Stones. Another rock and roll tale of passion and addiction. His story turns out pretty good in the end too, but it's less obvious.
I wrote a review of "Clapton" at http://isorski.blogspot.com/. Check it out!
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