I’ve been learning and transcribing an enormous amount of Cream Era Clapton over the last several months for a new course…
And one of the reasons I chose these licks for the course is for what I call, “The Big Bend.”
At the end of the day, it’s about getting variety in your rhythm, but “The Big Bend,” is an awesome way to give some pause and let your listeners absorb what you’ve been laying down.
And with a big amp and a fair amount of overdrive, you might get some nice, natural feedback going on 🙂
Anyway, dig on this video and see how it sounds for you:
13 replies to "The Big Bend With Clapton"
At 76years old I have seen and heard all the famous guitarists of the mid sixties through the mid 2000s.. what made them great was not the guitar they played but that they played with their heart not just their hands. Great lessons Griff,who knows you might have been one of greatest given the right breaks?
Eric Clapton…the best of the best! Right up there with Griff Hamlin. 🙂
I saw Cream at the Marquee Club shortly after formation. Clapton was playing a 335/355 at the time and appeared on a TV show demonstrating how the controls worked (for non-guitarists) on the same guitar.
I remember Clapton using an SG thoughout the Creme years and changed guitars to a strat at the beginning of the Derick and the Dominos tour in ’69.
Clapton played an SG nicknamed “The Fool” back in the day. It was just auctioned off a couple of months ago by Christie’s if I am not mistaken.
Great lesson!
Cool, VERY cool!
Thanks Griff. Clapton always said don’t forget to give some notes their due diligence. Hit them and make everyone feel the guitar speaking.
I think you need 11 s on the strings to do this much and not break them LOL
Really enjoyed this video…Love Clapton and Cream
I’m curious why you chose the PRS over your gold top Les Paul for this demo. I thought Eric played the LP with Cream.
He played a Gibson SG in the Cream days.
HE PLAYED AN LP. I NEVER SEEN HIM USE AN SG. HE SIGNED MY 1969 STRAT.
Great lesson! I love the way you teach the intricacies of the licks and phrasing. I am always impressed with your knowledge and skill. We should call you “Master Griff.”
Have a great day and may this new year bring you direction, prosperity, and encouragement.