ROCK MOMENT – Eric Clapton ‘After Midnight’
Eric Clapton’s recording of ‘After Midnight‘ in 1970 became one of the first defining tracks of his solo career. The song, however, didn’t start with Clapton—it was written and first recorded by Oklahoma-born songwriter J.J. Cale in 1966. Cale’s original version had a raw, bluesy charm but went largely unnoticed. Producer Delaney Bramlett later introduced the track to Clapton, believing its easygoing groove fit the guitarist perfectly.
Clapton agreed, and the song found its place on his self-titled debut solo album. Released as a single, ‘After Midnight‘ was an instant success, showing Clapton could step out from the supergroups of the 1960s—Cream, Blind Faith, and Derek and the Dominos—and stand on his own. The recording had a relaxed, late-night feel, driven by a rolling rhythm section, a shuffle-like beat, and Clapton’s smooth guitar tone. Unlike the fiery solos of his Cream days, Clapton’s playing here was restrained, showcasing a subtler, rootsier style that would become his hallmark in the 1970s.
The success of ‘After Midnight‘ also revived J.J. Cale’s career, as the royalties and recognition from Clapton’s version encouraged him to continue writing and performing. Years later, Clapton said Cale’s music had a huge influence on his own approach, praising the simplicity and groove of his songs.
In 1988, Clapton revisited ‘After Midnight‘ with a slicker re-recording for a Michelob beer commercial, proving the song’s staying power. Today, it remains a staple in Clapton’s live sets and a bridge between two legendary artists whose styles blended seamlessly.
