On Monday night, guitar god Eric Clapton returned to the stage at Madison Square Garden for the second straight night on his final tour. His live band includes keyboardists Walt Richmond and Chris Stainton, drummer Steve Gadd, bassist Nathan East and vocalists Sharon White and Michelle John, with Gary Clark Jr. and Jimmie Vaughan as special guests.
The setlist was almost identical, with the rearrangement of a few songs. Fans in New York were lucky to see the 71-year-old legend perform a special mix of originals and covers, from “Badge” by Cream, to “I Shot the Sheriff” by The Wailers to songs by Robert Johnson and J.J. Cale, switching between electric and acoustic guitars throughout the night. Iconic originals like “Tears in Heaven,” “Layla,” “Wonderful Tonight,” and “Sunshine of Your Love” all found there way to the spotlight, as Clapton delivered a career-spanning setlist on the first night of his final tour. Gary Clark Jr. joined at the encore for “Before You Accuse Me,” by Bo Diddley.
He will go on to play two nights at The Forum in Los Angeles this month, and then return to NYC and LA in September for another two nights in both venues due to popular demand. He will also play three shows at London’s Royal Albert Hall in May.
Enjoy these video highlights from Monday night’s rock concert below:
Gary Clark Jr., Bright Lights
Eric Clapton, I Shot The Sherriff
Eric Clapton, Cross Road Blues
Eric Clapton, Sunshine of Your Love
Before You Accuse Me w/ Gary Clark Jr.