News

Sacramento: Revised Eric Clapton Band Lineup Debuts

21 Mar 07

When Eric Clapton and his band hit the stage at Sacramento’s Arco Arena on 20 March 2007, it was with one less guitarist. Due to previous commitments, Derek Trucks was unable to finish out Eric’s tour. The set was dominated by material that Eric left untouched for many years: the catalog of songs made famous by Derek & The Dominos. No less than seven songs – including “Tell The Truth,” “Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad” and “Little Wing” are featured in the sixteen song set. Throughout the tour, fans have reported that they are thrilled Eric is again nurturing these songs in a live environment.

According to those in attendance, the band’s sound is similar to the 2004 tour with only Eric and Doyle Bramhall II on guitar. Backing vocalists Michelle John and Sharon White shine throughout, but especially on “Further On Up The Road.” Other highlights from band members are Willie Weeks’ bass solo in “Got To Get Better In A Little While” and Chris Stainton’s killer blues piano in “Little Queen of Spades.”

One audience member reported to Where’s Eric!, “I was also struck about the fact, that even though it was obvious that Eric controlled the show, he dedicated time to spotlight his very capable band of musicians. When he did that, the spotlight was literally off of him and on members, Chris Stainton (keyboards), Tim Carmon (keyboards), Willie Weeks (bass) and of course Bramhall. Hard to find a legend like Clapton now-a-days who will step out of the light and to the back and allow others to help drive the energy of the show. Clapton showed that he is a seasoned, classy musician.”

For the remainder of the U.S. Tour, which wraps 6 April in Columbus, Ohio, the band lineup will be:
Eric Clapton – guitar, vocals
Doyle Bramhall II – guitar
Chris Stainton – keyboards
Tim Carmon – keyboards
Willie Weeks – bass
Steve Jordan – drums
Michelle John – backing vocals
Sharon White – backing vocals