Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood

"Like a fool, I fell in love with you. You turned my whole world upside down"

On 27th May, I attended The Royal Albert Hall in London, and was privileged enough to be a member of the audience witnessing the phenomenal and dynamic performance from Eric Clapton, founder of the super-group Cream, alongside Steve Winwood, lead vocalist of Traffic. With high expectations and the hope of hearing a variety of classic and well-loved songs from both artists, I most definitely was not disappointed.

The two-hour-plus set opened with a captivating performance of the song Had to Cry Today originally from the band Blind Faith's self-titled album (1969), which consisted of both Clapton and Winwood, along with fellow band members Ginger Baker and Ric Grech, the track immediately displayed the strength, talent, and excitement which would continue from this opening number throughout the concert. This enticing performance was followed by songs Low Down, After Midnight, Presence of the Lord, Glad, and Well Alright.

Blind Faith

Intertwined within Clapton and Winwood's set were a couple of surprises and highlights; namely in the inclusion of the Muddy Waters classic Hoochie Coochie Man, and a cover of Jimi Hendrix's Voodoo Chile. Before this Hendrix classic was played the audience were already up on their feet from The Spencer Davis Group's song Gimme Some Lovin', and the buzz that filled the room continued from the opening riff of Voodoo Chile. In my opinion seeing and hearing Slow-hand, one of the best guitarists to grace the world, perform an anthem originally performed by another outstanding guitar-player was unbelievable; Clapton and Winwood both certainly did this song more than justice. Other personal highlights for me, were of the presentation of the songs Layla and Cocaine, the awesome guitaring and the catchy and fantastic lyrics sung so powerfully just emphasised how exceptional Clapton is as both a writer and a performer.

Other songs that were performed to the sold out Royal Albert Hall were: While You See a Chance, Key to the Highway, Midland Maniac, Crossroads, Georgia on My Mind, Driftin', That's No Way to Get Along, and Can't Find My Way Home. The incredible set finished with a performance of Dear Mr Fantasy, initially from Traffic, had the audience on their feet once again and the buzz vibrating throughout the Hall which displayed just how electrifying and satisfying the incredible duo performed for their masses of fans this night, and I am sure for the rest of their shared dates of the tour.

It is absolutely fitting that both Clapton and Winwood would grace the stage together at the would famous Royal Albert Hall; both the arena and artists as fantastic as the other.

"I went down to the crossroads, fell down on my knees".