Eric Clapton is a British rock and blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter who has been active since the 1960s. He was born on March 30, 1945, in Surrey, England, and began playing guitar at a young age.

Clapton rose to fame in the mid-1960s as a member of the Yardbirds, a British blues rock band. He later joined the band Cream, which achieved worldwide success and is considered one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

Throughout his career, Clapton has also released numerous successful solo albums, including "Slowhand" and "Unplugged," which includes his hit song "Tears in Heaven." Clapton has won 18 Grammy Awards and is the only three-time inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, as a solo artist, a member of the Yardbirds, and a member of Cream.

Clapton has been praised for his distinctive guitar playing style, which incorporates elements of blues, rock, and jazz. He is also known for his soulful and emotive singing, and has collaborated with many other musicians over the years, including Bob Dylan, George Harrison, and B.B. King.

In addition to his music, Clapton has been open about his struggles with addiction and personal tragedies, including the death of his young son. He has used his platform to raise awareness about addiction and has been involved in numerous charitable causes, including the Crossroads Centre, a treatment facility he founded for those struggling with addiction.

Born Eric Clapp on March 30, 1945, in Ripley, England. -GSH

• Eric Clapton - guitar
• Tom McGuinness - later of Manfred Mann and McGuinness-Flint.