Eric Clapton's journey to becoming a blues icon is a fascinating tale of musical evolution, with a surprising twist. While his legendary status in the blues world is well-established, a lesser-known chapter of his story reveals a pop music influence that shaped his iconic band, Cream. This revelation comes from Clapton himself, who admits that the Beach Boys' 'Pet Sounds' had a profound impact on the band's songwriting, even though it was a far cry from the traditional blues he initially envisioned.
In a 1998 interview, Clapton reminisced about the time he and his future Cream bandmates were captivated by the Beach Boys' groundbreaking album. Released in 1966, 'Pet Sounds' was a departure from the British blues scene, characterized by layered harmonies and intricate pop arrangements. Clapton's fascination with the album was so intense that he and his bandmates listened to it non-stop, despite their struggles to fully grasp its complexity.
This pop influence on Cream's music is particularly intriguing, given the band's initial image as a blues powerhouse. Clapton's early career was marked by a turbulent period, including an unhappy stint with the Yardbirds and a brief consideration of quitting music. However, his encounter with the Beach Boys' music during a gig with John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers was a turning point. The infectious energy of 'I Get Around' nearly made him leave Mayall, highlighting the power of music to inspire and drive change.
Cream's formation in 1966 was a natural progression, with Clapton, bassist Jack Bruce, and drummer Ginger Baker coming together to create a new kind of band. The trio's signature style was explosive blues improvisation, but their musical ambitions went beyond the confines of traditional blues. According to Bruce, Clapton initially envisioned a blues trio, but the band's broader direction led to a more experimental sound, pushing the boundaries of what was expected from a blues outfit.
The influence of 'Pet Sounds' on Cream's songwriting is evident in the band's kaleidoscopic sound, which later influenced progressive rock pioneers like Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson. Clapton's admission that the Beach Boys' album became the prime influence for their songwriting is a testament to the power of pop music to inspire and innovate within the blues genre. This unexpected connection between pop and blues showcases the fluidity and interconnectedness of the music industry, where influences can transcend genres and create unique, groundbreaking sounds.
In conclusion, Eric Clapton's journey from blues guitarist to the formation of Cream is a captivating narrative of musical evolution. The influence of 'Pet Sounds' on the band's songwriting is a fascinating twist, demonstrating how pop music can inspire and shape even the most iconic blues acts. This story serves as a reminder that musical influences can come from unexpected places, and that creativity knows no genre boundaries.
