[Slowhand] hendrix/clapton

[Apurva Parikh]

>>One cannot discuss Clapton's work, talents or his role as a influence on
the guitar world without mentioning Hendrix. <<

I believe that this is sheer poppycock. Yes, Hendrix probably influenced
Clapton, but as a star, and not so much as a guitarist. Clapton's skills
were, in the eyes of most who saw them both at the time, superior as a
guitarist. However, Hendrix was a total act, while Clapton was a shy and
reserved guitarist.

>>I don't think you understood what I was trying to say. Hendrix did 
>>influence Clapton in the Disraeli Gears period, from an aesthetic way to 
>>even at a subconscious level in his choice of guitar, playing and effects. 
>>While I totally agree, Hendrix was a "showman" first, and blues guitarist 
>>way way distant second, their two legacies were inexplicably linked 
>>together, from the time Hendrix guested with Cream, live upon his arrival 
>>to London. Clapton was a much established guitarist, that Hendrix seeked 
>>out upon his arrival to the UK, but upon seeing Hendrix live for the first 
>>time it's no lie that Townshend, Clapton, Beck, all were taken aback by 
>>Hendrix. Maybe he wasn't respected as the technician and blues guitarist 
>>Clapton was, but his influence on Clapton during that time (1967-1968/ish) 
>>is undeniable.


Now, Freddie King was probably Clapton's greatest single electric guitar
influence, along with Buddy Guy, Otis Rush, B.B. King and Albert King (in
more or less this order). And Robert Johnson was a great influence as well.
But let's recall something here: Hendrix went to England because he was
promised, by Chas Chandler, that he could meet Clapton. Clapton had never
heard of Hendrix until 1 October 1966, and by that time, was already an
accomplished, well-known, and recognized-around-the-world guitarist.


>>Yes, but so what. It was a mutual admiration society after that. Hendrix 
>>and Clapton, both totally different style of guitarists found some common 
>>ground and respect for one another, and Clapton influenced not only 
>>Hendrix but all electric guitarists of his generation and for the brief 
>>period they knew each other, Jimi did likewise to Eric.


                DeltaNick

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