Happy birthday! Eric Clapton turns 81 today

  • By Lori Macatee
  • London
  • Last updated on

The iconic and legendary guitarist turns 81 on Monday, Mar. 30, 2026.
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Slowhand Eric Clapton is celebrating his 81st birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, he is one of the most acclaimed guitarists of his generation.

Popular guitarist-singer Eric Clapton (Tears in Heaven, Layla, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of himself hidden from view. At 81st birthday, he remains a man of many facets.

Clapton, a cultural icon

Born Eric Patrick Clapton in Ripley on March 30, 1945, his career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in British history. Clapton's not just a great guitarist, he's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business man. At this point in his career, there seems to be little Eric hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Eric Clapton as he promises more to come. After all, he's only 81.

Happy Birthday, Eric, you're the best!

Eric Clapton career in pictures

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