Was There Ever Any Suggestion or Rumor of Eric Clapton and George Harrison Forming a Band Together During the 70’s?

For fans of rock music, particularly those who hold a deep nostalgic reverence for the golden era of the 70’s, the question of whether legendary performers Eric Clapton and George Harrison considered teaming up to form a band looms large. However, as comprehensive research and firsthand accounts reveal, despite the intriguing allure of such a collaboration, there is no credible evidence to support any rumor of Eric Clapton and George Harrison forming a band together during the 1970s.

The Myth of Collaboration

During the 70s, the music industry was ripe with cross-pollination and mutual admiration between artists. It’s not surprising that there would be rumors and backchannel discussions about potential gigs, especially with the legendary talents of Eric Clapton and George Harrison. Their individual contributions to different bands and genres, combined with their mutual respect and occasional musical collaborations, make this a plausible but ultimately unsupported idea.

The History of Both Artists

Eric Clapton: The Blues Rock Messiah

Eric Clapton is widely recognized as one of the most influential guitarists in the history of rock music. Known for his exceptional skills on the electric guitar, Clapton played a crucial role in shaping the sound of blues rock, which helped define the genre. From his early days as a member of the Yardbirds to his iconic tenure with Cream, and through his solo career, Clapton's involvement in various bands and his solo work continue to be celebrated by music lovers worldwide. Despite his solitary success, there has never been concrete evidence to suggest that Clapton considered or seriously pursued a collaboration with George Harrison during the 70’s.

George Harrison: The Quiet Beatle

George Harrison, on the other hand, was the quiet Beatle yet an indispensable member of the band. After the release of the Beatles’ album Abbey Road in 1969, Harrison began to explore a more individualistic musical path. Influenced by Indian classical music and spirituality, Harrison started to garner a significant following with solo albums like Dark Horse and Living in the Material World. It’s important to note that when Harrison’s solo career took off, there was neither the need nor inclination for him to seek out Eric Clapton for a band collaboration.

Mythical Convo and Unfounded Rumors

Rumors about a possible band collaboration often surfaced during interviews and on social media, but they were quickly debunked by the artists themselves and their inner circle. Interviews with both Clapton and Harrison, as well as their remaining bandmates, all but dismiss these rumors. While it’s not out of the realm of possibility that discussions on forming a band may have taken place, there’s no concrete evidence or reliable sources to suggest that such a collaboration ever transpired.

Exploring the Back Channel Conversations

Despite the lack of official confirmation, it’s common for influential musicians to occasionally discuss their mutual admiration for each other and even entertain the idea of working together. In the 1970s, musicians often shared studio space, jammed together, and occasionally wrote music collaboratively. However, when it came to forming a permanent band, both Clapton and Harrison each pursued their individual creative paths. Clapton’s well-documented solo work and Harrison’s expansion into comparative spirituality and Indian music made a band a less likely venture.

Conclusion

While Eric Clapton and George Harrison’s imaginary collaboration might have made for a fantastic storyline or an intriguing fan discussion, the truth is far less romantic. Comprehensive research into the artists’ careers and the music of the 1970s reveals that despite the potential, there is no credible evidence to support the idea of them forming a band together during that period. Both musicians pursued their individual careers with ingenuity and creativity, contributing immensely to the world of music with their unique talents and styles.

As music lovers continue to explore the rich tapestry of 70s rock, it’s worth remembering that the most compelling narratives are often found in the stories of their individual journeys and the enduring impact of their music.