Eric Clapton’s Most Influential Guitar Riffs of the 1970s

Eric Clapton has established himself as one of the greatest English singer/songwriters in blues rock. That being said, we can’t forget about his absolutely killer guitar-playing skills. Let’s take a look at just four examples of Eric Clapton’s best guitar riffs from the 1970s alone!

1. “Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad?”

Eric Clapton was part of a few bands during his heyday, one of which was Derek And The Dominos in the 1970s. The album version of “Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad?” isn’t exactly a fan favorite, but the long-winded 15-minute version that was recorded at Fillmore East back in 1970 is otherworldly.

It’s fast-paced, energetic, funky, and a bit ahead of its time. Much of it was improvised, and Clapton proved that he knew how to make quick musical and instrumental choices in real time. There’s a reason why his particular brand of guitar-playing is such a joy to experience live.

2. “Have You Ever Loved A Woman”

Clapton’s version of “Have You Ever Loved A Woman” is a cover of a Billy Myles and Freddie King song. The whole of this cover is amazing, and only in part due to Clapton’s excellent balance of blues and modern guitar playing.

The slide solo by Duane Allman is excellent, and the backing is perfect for this particular performance. At the four-minute mark, though, Clapton kicks off an insane solo that’s particularly memorable.

3. “Further On Up The Road”

Out of all of Eric Clapton’s best guitar riffs from the 1970s, this one is probably the most iconic. If you’ve never seen the 1976 Martin Scorsese concert film The Last Waltz, it’s definitely essential viewing.

During this famous final The Band concert, Eric Clapton joined the boys on stage for their last performance with a rendition of “Further On Up The Road”. There is so much palpable energy in those guitar licks.

4. “Cocaine”

This J.J. Cale cover is one of Clapton’s best covers, period. He lays it on thick with meditative, sensual, and powerful riffs throughout the song. It’s quite a well-produced track with the right balance of lines and rhythm. Clapton doesn’t gravitate too far from the source material, but he doesn’t sound boring by any means.

Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

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