Eric Clapton is 81 years old as of October 2026. He was born on 30 March 1945.
Influential blues-rock guitarist and singer of Wonderful Tonight
Did you know?He is the only person to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on three separate occasions.
Quick facts
Date of birth30 March 1945
Age81
NationalityBritish
BirthplaceRipley, United Kingdom
Occupationguitarist, singer-songwriter, composer
Editor's Take:
Eric Clapton made the electric guitar solo a star in its own right. He was steeped in American blues. In Cream he played with a fire and volume that shaped rock. Addiction nearly destroyed him in the 1970s. He survived and later founded a treatment centre in Antigua. Tears in Heaven, written after his young son's death, showed a softer side. His more recent public views have divided some fans.
Key Milestones
1966: Forms Cream
1970: Records Layla
1992: Releases Tears in Heaven
1998: Founds the Crossroads Centre
Eric Patrick Clapton (born 30 March 1945) is an English rock and blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He is regarded as one of the most successful and influential guitarists in rock music.
