Eric Patrick Clapton CBE was born 30 March 1945, He is a Grammy Award winning singer, songwriter and composer. Regarded by many as one of the most successful musicians of the 20th and 21st century, he lays claim to an unprecedented three inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Recognised by many as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Clapton was born in Ripley, Surrey, England the son of 16-year-old Patricia Molly Clapton and Edward Walter Fryer, a 24-year-old soldier from Montreal. Fryer returned to Canada after the war and subsequently Clapton grew up with his grandmother, Rose, and her second husband Jack, believing they were his parents and that his mother was his older sister. When Clapton was 9 years old he discovered this family secret when his mother and 6 year old half-brother returned to England for a visit. The knowledge had a negative effect on his family relations and academic work. Clapton grew up quiet, shy, lonely and in his words a “nasty kid”. Four years later, Clapton received an acoustic Spanish Hoya guitar, for his birthday, but he found learning the instruments very difficult. After leaving school Clapton completed a one-year foundation art course in 1962 at the Kingston College of Art but he did not study at degree level. He opted to busk in Richmond and the West End of London.
The identity of his father remained a mystery for many years. Clapton knew that his father’s name was Edward Fryer, but few other details were known. Clapton’s father was Edward Walter Fryer, born 21 March 1920, in Montreal and died 15 May 1985 in Newmarket, Ontario. Fryer was a musician and lifelong drifter, who was married several times, had several children. He never knew that he was the father of Eric Clapton.
Slowhands career is huge and covers many varied phases. From being a member of the first super group Cream to working with many of the worlds great artists from Lennon to Zappa and B.B. King. His contribution to the blues is perhaps what he will be forever recognised for. Often appearing as guest on many other artists work his career continues to be just as active and important today as ever.
