On Wednesday, Eric Clapton shared an emotional video on social media following the passing of his mentor, John Mayall.
The legendary guitarist was visibly moved as he spoke, and his fans quickly offered their support. Mayall, who passed away at the age of 90, was a British blues icon and had been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame earlier this year. Clapton’s career took off when he joined Mayall’s band, the Bluesbreakers. In the heartfelt video posted to X (formerly known as Twitter), Clapton reflected on their relationship. “I want to say a few words about my friend John, who I learned passed last night or sometime yesterday,” Clapton began. “I want to say, ‘Thank you, chiefly, for rescuing me from oblivion and God knows what. When I was a young man, around 18 or 19, when I decided I was going to quit music, he found me, took me into his home, and asked me to join his band. I stayed with him and learned from him.
“And I learned all that I really have to draw on today in terms of technique and desire to play the kind of music I love to play,” he continued. “I did all my research in his home, through his record collection, which was filled with the Chicago blues that he was such an expert on. I played with his band for a couple of years with Huey and John, and it was a fantastic experience. He taught me that it was okay to just play the music you wanted to play without dressing up or making anyone else like it. He encouraged me to listen to myself, to my inner motivations. He was my mentor and a surrogate father.”
Clapton’s tribute was filled with deep admiration. “He taught me all I really know and gave me the courage and enthusiasm to express myself without fear or limits,” Clapton said. “All I gave him in return was how much fun it was to drink and womanize when he was already a family man, and I wish to make amends for that. I did so while he was alive, and I’ve since learned that’s not the best way to carry on. I shall miss him,” Clapton added. “I shall miss him, but I hope to see him on the other side. So, thank you, John. I love you, and I’ll see you soon, but not yet, not yet. As they say in the Gladiator movie. God bless you. Thank you.”
Fans quickly responded to Clapton’s touching message. “Very heartfelt, Eric,” one wrote. “Your pain is ours too!” Another shared, “My heart breaks for you, Eric. I’ll pray for John’s family and for you.” Many more offered their sincere condolences and encouragement for Clapton to stay strong.
According to Rolling Stone, Clapton recorded one album with Mayall’s band in 1966, Blues Breakers With Eric Clapton, before moving on to form Cream. Mayall’s passing was announced on his Instagram account on Tuesday.
“John Mayall passed away peacefully in his California home yesterday, July 22, 2024, surrounded by his loving family,” the post read. “Health issues that forced John to end his epic touring career have finally led to peace for one of this world’s greatest road warriors.”
