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Eric Clapton Among First Stars On Royal Albert Hall’s Walk of Fame

4 Sep 18

Eric Clapton was honored with one of the first stars on the Royal Albert Hall’s Walk of Fame in a star-studded ceremony on Tuesday, September 4. Since December 1964, he has played at the London venue more than 200 times.

The Royal Albert Hall’s Walk of Fame pays tribute to persons and institutions who have played an important role in the building’s history, from its opening in 1871 to the present day. The project is part of the venue’s 150th anniversary celebration. Eleven stars were unveiled today. More will be added in coming years.

The first star was fittingly dedicated to Queen Victoria, who laid the foundation stone in 1867. She famously announced that the building was to be called the Royal Albert Hall of Arts and Sciences, in memory of her beloved ‘Bertie’, deviating from its planned name, The Central Hall of Arts and Sciences.

The Who’s Roger Daltrey received a star for hosting a series of concerts at the venue in support of the Teenage Cancer Trust since 2000. Also honored from the music world were Dame Shirley Bassey who has given 45 performances on it’s stage and Adele, who won a Grammy for “Set Fire To The Rain,” recorded in concert at the hall.

Walk of Fame Stars also recognize the Suffragettes (25 meetings at the hall 1908-1918), the BBC Proms, the Chelsea Arts Club Balls (held on New Years’ Eve 1910-1958), Sir Winston Churchill (16 speeches 1911-1959), Albert Einstein (a 1933 address about his fears for Europe ahead of Hitler’s election in 1933), and boxing champion Muhammad Ali (3 fights 1971-1979)

Craig Hassall, Chief Executive of the Royal Albert Hall, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to unveil the first 11 Royal Albert Hall Stars, recognizing the unrivalled place that the venue holds in Britain’s social and cultural life – and the people and groups who have made it that way.”

“From political activists to groundbreaking artists, Churchill to charity shows, Ali to Adele, this project recognises the unparalleled diversity of the Hall’s history, and many of the unforgettable characters and events who have helped to shape this British institution.”

Click for more details about Eric Clapton’s association with the Royal Albert Hall.