Eric Clapton - Layla

This is a live performance by Eric Clapton playing the song "Layla" live. The song was originally done by Derek and the Dominos which Clapton was a part of. It has since become a staple in his live set as a solo artist.
The song was originally released by Derek and the Dominos in 1970 on the album "Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs". The song is known for its unique guitar figure played by Eric, and the piano instrumental part of the piece composed by Jim Gordon.
The song was written for Pattie Boyd and about Clapton's unrequited love to her. At this point she was the wife of fellow musician George Harrison. It didn't gain success on it's first release, but over time it has become one of the most recognizable and important songs in rock.
As mentioned Clapton has played the song regularly as part of his live set as a solo artist. He has also done a version where he plays it with Dr. John. (Embeded below)

That performance is from a VH1 series called Duets. It mostly features Clapton, but John can be seen in the back playing away on that piano. This version is vastly different from the first version. The opening chord progression is played more like a walking chord progression, it's played faster, it's funkier, and it doesn't feature the instrumental end of the song.
Clapton also had chart success with this song through his acoustic version of the song released in 1992 for the MTV Unplugged he played. (Embeded below)

This version also disposes the instrumental end of the song. It's played slower though, with the chord progression re-touched to fit the acoustic setting. This version reached #12 on the US pop charts and won the Grammy for Best Rock Song in 1992.
"Layla" is one of those shape defining songs of its genre, it's recognizable and truly one of the best rock songs ever written and composed. A great song in all it's versions!

Enjoy ; )

Eric Clapton - Wonderful Tonight

This is a live video by Eric Clapton performing his classic song "Wonderful Tonight". The performance is from the Wyclef Sean concert "Wyclef Jean's All Star Jam At Carnegie Hall" (click here for Amazon page).
The song "Wonderful Tonight" is from Clapton's 1977 album "Slowhand". It was released as a single the year after. The song is written about Pattie Boyd. She was George Harrison's wife, but Clapton crushed on her, and had an affair with her at one point.
I think this is a very good performance. The band backing up Eric is Wyclef's band, and it really sounds good. The calypso-isc rhythm section really adds to this song and fits in perfectly. It's a good performance, and a great group backing Clapton up.

Enjoy ; )