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Hail The Sun Announces 2025 Tour Dates with Ice Nine Kills and Headline Shows Across the US and UK

Eric Alper
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Hail The Sun Announces 2025 Tour Dates with Ice Nine Kills and Headline Shows Across the US and UK

Hail The Sun are excited to announce its upcoming spring and summer amphitheater tour supporting Ice Nine Kills in select U.S. markets. Currently touring with The Amity Affliction, Many Eyes and Unwell through March 26, the Ice Nine Kills run will kick off on April 29 at The National in Richmond, VA and feature support and headlining appearances through June 12.

Helmed by notable producer Kris Crummett, Divine Inner Tension, Hail The Sun’s acclaimed latest album, finds the veteran rock band questioning everything about what it means to be here and to be alive, on both a micro level – where the importance of our existence is profound and paramount – and on a macro one – where our time on this planet is nothing but irrelevant and insignificant.

Across its 12 stirring and intense songs, the album, which was praised by the likes of Guitar World, Alternative Press, Brooklyn Vegan, The Alternative and many more, embarks on a journey that takes the listener back and forth between those two extremes as it tries to reconcile that paradox of living intentionally but relinquishing control by taking your hands off the wheel and letting the universe guide you. Stream Divine Inner Tension in full on all platforms HERE.

Hail The Sun will be making the following appearances in 2025. Dates below with more to be announced soon.

MARCH
21 – Boise, ID – Knitting Factory #
22 – Spokane, WA – Knitting Factory #
23 – Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom #
25 – Reno, NV – Virginia St. Brewhouse #
26 – Chico, CA – Senator Theatre #

APRIL
29 – Richmond, VA – The National *

MAY
01 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz *
07 – Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theater *
09 – Indianapolis, IN – The Vogue ^
10 – Milwaukee, WI – The Rave * (SOLD OUT)
11 – Iowa City, IA – Wildwood ^
13 – Fargo, ND – The Aquarium ^
14 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore *
19 – Chicago, IL – Riviera Theatre *
20 – Lansing, MI – Grewal Hall ^
21 – Grand Rapids, MI – GLC Live at 20 Monroe *
23 – Millersville, PA – Phantom Power ^
24 – Rochester, NY – Montage Music Hall ^
25 – Montclair, NJ – The Wellmont Theater *
27 – St. Louis, MO – The Pageant *
30 – San Antonio, TX – Aztec Theatre *
31 – Corpus Christi, TX – House of Rock ^

JUNE
01 – Austin, TX – Come and Take It Live ^
02 – Houston, TX – House of Blues Houston *
05 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle *
06 – Nashville, TN – The Basement East ^
07 – Memphis, TN – Growlers ^
09 – New Orleans, LA – Fillmore New Orleans *
11 – Jacksonville, FL – Underbelly ^
12 – Myrtle Beach, SC – House of Blues Myrtle Beach *

JULY
08 – Manchester, UK – Rebellion ^
09 – London, UK – Oslo Hackney ^
11 – Cheltenham, UK – 2000trees Festival
13 – Glasgow, UK – The Garage ^

# – w/ The Amity Affliction, Many Eyes, Unwell
* – supporting Ice Nine Kills
^ – headline show

NXNE Announces First Wave of Artists and Billboard Live Stage for 30th Anniversary Celebration

Eric Alper
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NXNE Announces First Wave of Artists and Billboard Live Stage for 30th Anniversary Celebration

Canada’s iconic music discovery festival, North by Northeast (NXNE), in collaboration with Billboard Canada’s parent company ArtsHouse Media Group (AMG), is proud to reveal the first wave of emerging Canadian and international artists performing at the 30th annual event, taking over Toronto’s premiere live music venues from June 11th – 15th. See below for the full list of confirmed artists for the 2025 season.

In addition to unveiling the first selection of performing acts, NXNE is thrilled to announce its return to Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas Square) for what promises to be an unforgettable 30th Birthday Party musical celebration on The Billboard Live Stage.

Scheduled for Thursday, June 12th from 4-9 pm ET, this exciting event will showcase an array of chart-topping talent, culminating in a highly anticipated headline performance by a global music icon.

“We were honoured to present the first ever concert in the Square when Gord Downie played NXNE in 2003 and we had the biggest crowd ever for Iggy and the Stooges in 2010. With Flaming Lips, St. Vincent, Raekwon and so many great shows, we have a great history at Yonge and Dundas, and we are thrilled to return on our 30th anniversary to the freshly named Sankofa Square to again bring incredible, free live music to the city and the world,” says NXNE president and CEO Michael Hollett.

Adds Amanda Dorenberg, CEO of ArtsHouse Media Group and Billboard Canada; “For 30 years, NXNE has been a defining force in Canada’s music landscape, championing talent and shaping the future of live performance. As Billboard Canada and ArtsHouse Media Group continue to support music’s evolution, we’re proud to celebrate NXNE’s 30th anniversary with the Billboard Live Stage at Sankofa Square, further extending its legacy by giving artists a platform to reach new audiences and make a global impact.”

Stay tuned, as more details about this extraordinary stage and celebration will be revealed in the months ahead.

Known for being integral in identifying new talent and opening doors for artists on the brink of their big break, NXNE is where rising stars shine in intimate venues before taking their place on the world stage just like festival alumni’s Feist, Lizzo, and The Lumineers. For three decades, the dedicated NXNE team has curated a dynamic and diverse lineup of the most promising musical talent from Canada and around the world, driven by a commitment to provide an immersive, boundary-pushing, exceptional music experience.

The first wave of confirmed showcasing acts for the 2025 festival features talent from Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, Aruba, and Ireland. Notable highlights include Vancouver-based comedian and trained opera singer Toddy, Montreal-based singer-songwriter Avery Jane, Welland, Ontario rock’n’roller Andy Colonico, Newfoundland experimental hardcore band The Order of the Precious Blood, and award-winning producer and soul-hop artist B1GJuice.

This year, the festival is expanding its footprint in the city by adding nine new participating venues to its roster for a total of 23, including NXNE’s official headquarters for 2025, The Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St. W.). Lee’s Dance Cave, Lee’s Palace, Death & Taxes, Duffy’s Tavern, Infinity Room, Rivoli, The Pilot and the Redwood Theatre will also be joining the 14 established locations from previous years. This growth broadens the festival’s reach, offering attendees diverse spaces to discover new music and turning the event into a true citywide celebration.

For the 2025 festival season, NXNE offers three ticket options to make great music accessible and inclusive. Priced the same as the festival’s debut in 1995, the NXNE Festival Pass ($29) grants access to all Clubland shows and Artist Development Day panels. The NXNE VIP Pass ($149) includes additional events like VIP access to the 30th birthday party, exclusive networking opportunities, swag bags, and front-of-the-line access to Clubland shows. For the ultimate experience, the NXNE Executive Pass ($499) offers everything in the VIP pass, plus access to the VIP Lounge, exclusive receptions and dinners, and more, along with front-of-the-line access to Clubland shows.

Die Spitz Sign to Third Man Records and Announce 2025 World Tour

Eric Alper
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Die Spitz Sign to Third Man Records and Announce 2025 World Tour

Third Man Records is proud to announce mayhem-inciting Austin, TX-based rock quartet Die Spitz as the latest signings to its legendary roster. The announcement follows the band’s riotous headline performance earlier this month at Third Man Records & CREEM’s blowout “Two-Day Rock ‘N’ Roll Party” unofficial SXSW showcase at Austin’s 13th Floor.

“We are so grateful to Third Man for this opportunity. We’re having a grand ole time recording and can’t wait for yall to hear!” say Die Spitz.

Hailed for their frenzied and electrifying live shows, Die Spitz will celebrate with a wide-ranging world tour that includes headline dates and festival appearances across North America, the UK, and Europe. Dates begin May 28 at George’s Music in Fayetteville, AR and then continue into the summer.

Highlights include eagerly awaited performances at Detroit, MI’s Third Man Records Cass Corridor (June 1), Toronto, ON’s The Garrison (June 3), New York City’s The Governors Ball (June 7), Manchester, TN’s Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival (June 12), Wichita, KS’s Somewhere Fest & Conference (June 14), Belfort, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France’s Les Eurockéennes (July 4), Cheltenham, UK’s 2000trees (July 11), Atlanta, GA’s Shaky Knees Music Festival (September 20), and more.

Founded in 2022, Die Spitz – Ava Schrobilgen, Chloe De St. Aubin, Ellie Livingston, and Kate Halter – has become known for their unruly stage presence, bombarding their crowds with a wall of sound which led Austin Monthly to rave, “Youthful moxie has never sounded so good.” Having quickly become a staple of the Austin music scene, the childhood friends-turned-musicians have extended their reach beyond the state of Texas supporting national tours for such like-minded artists as Amyl and the Sniffers, Sleater-Kinney, and OFF!. After self-releasing several singles (including 2024’s “i hate when GIRLS die,” “My Hot Piss,” and “Little Flame”) and 2023’s Teeth EP, Die Spitz is currently hard at work recording their hugely anticipated Third Man Records debut LP, due later this year.

DIE SPITZ – TOUR 2025
MAY
28 – Fayetteville, AR – George’s Music
29 – Kansas City, MO – MiniBar
30 – St. Louis, MO – The Sinkhole
31 – Chicago, IL – Schubas Tavern
JUNE
1 – Detroit, MI – Third Man Records Cass Corridor
3 – Toronto, ON – The Garrison
5 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge
7 – New York, NY – The Governors Ball *
8 – Philadelphia. PA – PhilaMOCA
9 – Washington, DC – DC9
10 – Durham, NC – Pinhook
12 – Manchester, TN – Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival *
14 – Wichita, KS – Somewhere Fest & Conference *
JULY
4 – Belfort, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, FR – Les Eurockéennes *
6 – Hünxe, DE – Ruhrpott Rodeo Festival *
8 – Paris, FR – Supersonic
10 – London, UK – The Shackwell Arms
11 – Cheltenham, UK – 2000trees *
12 – Milton Keynes, UK – The Craufurd Arms
13 – Sjock, BE – Sjock Festival *
15 – Berlin, DE – Cassiopeia
16 – Hamburg, DE – Molotow Music Club
17 – Cologne, DE – Blue Shell
18 – Amsterdam, NL – TBA
19 – Cuxhaven, DE – Deichbrand Festival *
SEPTEMBER
20 – Atlanta, GA – Shaky Knees Music Festival *
OCTOBER
24 – Austin, TX – Stubb’s
* FESTIVAL APPEARANCE

Kate Mossman Explores Her Fascination with Ageing Rock Stars in “Men of a Certain Age” Book

Eric Alper
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Kate Mossman Explores Her Fascination with Ageing Rock Stars in “Men of a Certain Age” Book

From Jeff Beck to Ray Davies, Jon Bon Jovi to Kevin Ayers, Kate Mossman has long fostered an interest in male musicians of a certain age.

Why is it that when I meet them, I feel something ignite inside me? What is this strange connection – to feel so excited, yet so at ease? And how is it that in the presence of a wrinkly rock star twice my age, I sometimes feel like I’m meeting . . . me?

Featuring nineteen long-form profiles lovingly constructed for The Word magazine and the New Statesman, Men of a Certain Age chronicles the lives of some of the biggest rock stars of our time, including Brian May, Gene Simmons, Terence Trent D’Arby, Johnny Rotten and Nick Cave.

The book is a meditation on the powerful archetype of the ageing rock star, but it is also a personal story – of music and obsession, and of the deep unconscious projections at play in our relationships with the famous people who most capture our hearts. As Kate travels 5,000 miles to try and find Glen Campbell, and to the depths of the Cornish countryside for a rendezvous with Roger Taylor, will she finally unravel the roots of her obsession with the elder statesmen of rock?

Gary Holt Tells His Wild Story In “A Fabulous Disaster: From the Garage to Madison Square Garden, the Hard Way”

Eric Alper
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Gary Holt Tells His Wild Story In “A Fabulous Disaster: From the Garage to Madison Square Garden, the Hard Way”

From prolific metal guitarist and songwriter for Exodus (and formerly Slayer) Gary Holt comes a deeply personal memoir of his “destruction-laden” life, along with a firsthand account of the genesis of the Thrash Metal scene, from its origins in the Bay Area to its world domination.

As the guitarist and primary songwriter of Exodus and one of the originators of heavy metal, Gary Holt watched as his peers—Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax—soared to superstardom. As his fellow artists amassed millions of fans and record sales, Exodus’ albums received critical recognition and inspired generations of listeners—but struggled to reach the same heights of success, as the band was plagued by years of bad management, bad luck, and bad decisions.

 A Fabulous Disaster follows our narrator through the highest of highs and lowest of lows as he and his bandmates juggle major label contracts, MTV-sponsored tours and festivals, growing addictions to alcohol and meth, and the loss of key founding members. Ultimately, after the tragic death of one of his closest friends and former bandmates—Holt decides to save himself. Newly sober and determined to resurrect his career, he commits himself to Exodus, pushing the band to new heights.

An “unadulterated odyssey through decades of insanity,” punctuated by Holt’s unique insight and knack for storytelling, A Fabulous Disaster is a thrill ride from start to finish. His story proves that redemption—even from the pits of rock ‘n’ roll excess—is always possible.

Take Me Out to the Playlist: 10 Great Songs About Baseball

Eric Alper
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Take Me Out to the Playlist: 10 Great Songs About Baseball

Baseball and music go together like peanuts and Cracker Jack. Whether it’s a tribute to a legendary player or a metaphor for life’s curveballs, these songs hit home for fans of the game and lovers of great storytelling. Here are ten standout tracks that bring the spirit of baseball to life through song.

“Centerfield” – John Fogerty
The ultimate anthem for eager players waiting for their moment to shine. Fogerty’s handclaps, guitar riffs, and “Put me in, Coach!” line are iconic. It’s the musical equivalent of spring training optimism.

“Glory Days” – Bruce Springsteen
The Boss reminisces about a high school baseball star whose best moments are behind him. It’s nostalgic, bittersweet, and catchy as hell—just like a long summer evening at the ballpark.

“A Dying Cub Fan’s Last Request” – Steve Goodman
This humorous, heartfelt tune captures the agony and devotion of a lifelong Chicago Cubs supporter. Goodman’s wit and warmth make it a cult classic for any baseball romantic.

“Joe DiMaggio Done It Again” – Billy Bragg and Wilco
Originally penned by Woody Guthrie, this tune gets a fresh Americana twist. It’s a simple, joyous celebration of DiMaggio’s magic on the field, with Bragg and Wilco’s charm sealing the deal.

“Talkin’ Baseball (Willie, Mickey, and The Duke)” – Terry Cashman
This soft, singalong tribute to the golden era of baseball name-drops legends like it’s second nature. It’s part history lesson, part lullaby, and entirely lovable.

“Night Game” – Paul Simon
One of Simon’s more haunting tracks, this ballad tells the eerie tale of a pitcher who dies mid-game. Quiet and poetic, it’s a curveball compared to the usual rah-rah sports songs.

“The Greatest” – Kenny Rogers
A kid swings and misses three times—then declares himself the best pitcher in the world. It’s a heartwarming twist that reminds us baseball is as much about attitude as ability.

“Catfish” – Bob Dylan
Dylan’s tribute to pitcher Catfish Hunter is slinky, bluesy, and full of reverence. You don’t need to know stats to feel the admiration in every line.

“Say Hey (The Willie Mays Song)” – The Treniers
This 1950s bop, featuring Mays himself, is a joyful celebration of one of the greatest to ever play the game. With its big band swagger, it’s impossible not to smile.

“Did You See Jackie Robinson Hit That Ball?” – Count Basie
A swinging salute to Jackie Robinson’s trailblazing talent. This jazz tune celebrates the crack of the bat and the breaking of barriers in true Basie style.

Baseball has inspired generations of artists to swing for the fences with their songwriting. Whether you’re in the bleachers, behind home plate, or just driving with the windows down, these tracks are a grand slam for your playlist.

20 of the Best Disco Songs Ever That Prove the Genre Never Lost Its Groove

Eric Alper
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20 of the Best Disco Songs Ever That Prove the Genre Never Lost Its Groove

Disco isn’t dead. In fact, it never really left. It just slid onto the backbeat of pop, funk, house, and dance, waiting for its next invitation to the party. Born in the clubs but made for the world, disco gave us permission to feel fabulous, express ourselves, and stay on the floor a little longer. Whether it’s a pulsing bassline or a glittery string section, there’s something about disco that grabs your soul and spins it.

Here are 20 disco songs that still turn every room into a dance floor—and a few surprises from artists you wouldn’t expect to see under the mirrorball.

“I Feel Love” by Donna Summer
This is the song that launched a thousand synths. Donna Summer’s voice floats above Giorgio Moroder’s groundbreaking electronic production like a spaceship in platform boots. Still one of the coolest, most hypnotic grooves ever put on vinyl.

“Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees
Three falsettos, one undeniable beat. The Bee Gees gave disco its swagger and its strut. This song is Saturday night, and it still makes any sidewalk feel like a runway.

“Don’t Leave Me This Way” by Thelma Houston
A heartbreak anthem disguised as a dance floor banger. Thelma belts for her life over swirling strings and tight percussion. By the chorus, you’re sweating, crying, and staying another round.

“Got to Be Real” by Cheryl Lynn
Funky, fierce, and flawlessly fun. Cheryl Lynn doesn’t just sing the truth—she declares it with power. The breakdown alone should be in a museum.

“You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” by Sylvester
Sylvester’s high-octane voice is pure liberation. This disco classic is more than a song—it’s a statement. And it still sets off fireworks in your chest.

“Rock With You” by Michael Jackson
Before Thriller moonwalked onto the scene, MJ slipped into a silkier groove. Smooth, sultry, and perfect for that slow dance with a disco ball spinning overhead.

“I’m Coming Out” by Diana Ross
Diana doesn’t ask for attention—she commands it. With Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of Chic on production, this is a joyful anthem that became a cultural landmark. Still coming out, still shining.

“Love Come Down” by Evelyn “Champagne” King
Disco glows a little brighter with this silky, synth-laced groove. Evelyn’s voice glides over that sparkling bassline like it was born to do so. It’s late-night energy in a four-minute bottle.

“Dancing Queen” by ABBA
Pop? Disco? Who cares—it’s perfection. From that first piano glimmer to the soaring chorus, this is the soundtrack to your best life. Still impossible not to sing along.

“Supernature” by Cerrone
Disco goes sci-fi in this epic, dramatic, electro-funk freakout. It’s like Giorgio Moroder met a B-movie soundtrack and made it fabulous. Weird and wonderful.

“Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson
Yes, another MJ entry, because this one’s simply undeniable. Those opening chimes, that falsetto, the unstoppable rhythm—it’s joy, bottled and shaken over ice.

“Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire
When the horns hit, the floor erupts. Funk and disco meet in glorious harmony, and no one does it like Earth, Wind & Fire. Just try to stay seated—we dare you.

“Born to Be Alive” by Patrick Hernandez
Disco’s answer to motivational speaking. This one bursts out of the gate with a galloping beat and doesn’t stop. You weren’t just born—you were born to dance.

“Good Times” by Chic
If disco had a spine, it would be this bassline. Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards didn’t just build a hit—they built the foundation of hip-hop, house, and pop. It’s disco history on a loop.

“Boogie Wonderland” by Earth, Wind & Fire with The Emotions
The horns. The harmonies. The title. This song is a disco utopia, and you’re already dancing just thinking about it.

“Funkytown” by Lipps Inc.
Quirky and irresistible, this synth-heavy bop took us all to Funkytown in 1980—and no one wanted to leave. Still sounds like the future in platform shoes.

“Hot Stuff” by Donna Summer
Donna does it again, blending disco with a hint of rock edge. It’s sultry, bold, and full of fire. Proof that disco doesn’t just sparkle—it sizzles.

“Last Dance” by Donna Summer
Let’s be honest—there’s no disco list without Donna Summer. This one starts slow, then kicks into high gear like every great night out. The perfect closer, every time.

“Miss You” by The Rolling Stones
Wait, The Rolling Stones? Yes—and it’s glorious. Mick Jagger grooves like he was born in Studio 54, and the band leans into the beat with zero apologies. Disco gets a rock makeover, and somehow it works.

“Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen
You might think rock when you hear Queen, but this is pure, bass-driven disco-funk. John Deacon brought the groove, Freddie brought the flair, and the result? Dance-floor domination.

5 Surprising Facts About Supertramp’s ‘Breakfast in America’

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Supertramp’s ‘Breakfast in America’

Imagine it’s 1979. You’re in Los Angeles. The air smells like coffee, cassette tape, and distant saxophone solos. Somewhere inside The Village Recorder studio, Supertramp is crafting an album that will go quadruple platinum, top the charts around the world, and leave millions of us humming “Take the Long Way Home” on the way to therapy. Welcome to Breakfast in America—a record that’s fun, philosophical, and full of things you probably didn’t know. Until now.

1. It Was Almost Called Hello Stranger
Forget bacon and eggs—this album was nearly named after an existential ping-pong match between Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson. Hello Stranger was going to be a back-and-forth concept record reflecting their conflicting worldviews. Picture “The Logical Song,” but with a reply track called “The Rational Response.” Eventually, they ditched the heavy themes and opted for fun. Good call. “Breakfast in America” just sounds tastier.

2. “Gone Hollywood” Was Too Dark at First
The album opens with a tale of fame-seeking disillusionment—but it was originally much darker. Rick Davies had written it as a bleak critique of the dream factory before the band said, “Mate, let’s not bum everyone out before track two.” He rewrote the ending so the narrator actually makes it. Still cynical, but now with a Hollywood ending. Literally.

3. The Cover Art Deserves Its Own Grammy—Oh Wait, It Got One
Designed by Mike Doud and Mick Haggerty, the iconic cover shows Manhattan made of breakfast items and waitress Kate Murtagh as the Statue of Liberty holding OJ instead of a torch. Look closely: those are pancake syrup bottles for skyscrapers and a cornflake box for a building. It won the Grammy for Best Album Package and probably made you crave diner food. Art you can almost eat.

4. “The Logical Song” Features a Toy Football Game
Among the keyboards and castanets, there’s a futuristic sound tucked into “The Logical Song” that isn’t a synth—it’s the bleep-bloop from Mattel’s handheld football game. Yes, Supertramp sampled your childhood before sampling was cool. Who knew existential dread could sound like fourth and long?

5. Hodgson and Davies Barely Spoke During Recording
You’d never guess it from how tight the music sounds, but Supertramp’s two frontmen were living in different emotional galaxies. According to engineer Peter Henderson, things were “fantastically friendly.” According to Roger Hodgson, not so much. According to Melody Maker, they barely spoke. So how did they record such a cohesive album? Easy. Passive-aggressive brilliance and a really good mixing board.

Breakfast in America was Supertramp’s biggest album—and it was a melodic Trojan horse smuggling in themes of identity, disillusionment, and the American dream. It had hits, heart, and more Wurlitzer than most bands use in a lifetime. All these years later, it still sounds as sharp as ever. And now you’ve got five new facts to drop next time “The Logical Song” comes on at brunch.

Lay Down Sally, Pick Up These Classics: 20 of the Best Eric Clapton Collaborations

Eric Alper
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Lay Down Sally, Pick Up These Classics: 20 of the Best Eric Clapton Collaborations

Eric Clapton has spent over half a century collaborating with some of the biggest names in music, because of course he has. When you’re one of the greatest guitarists of all time, people tend to want you in the room. And when you are Eric Clapton, you say yes—then casually lay down a solo that becomes the most memorable part of the song. These 20 collaborations are historical documents of what happens when musical legends collide.

Here are 20 of the best Eric Clapton collaborations that prove one thing: when Clapton shows up, the song levels up.

1. “I Had a Dream” – B.B. King and Eric Clapton
Two blues giants in one studio sounds like a fantasy, but this track from Riding with the King makes it real. Clapton holds back just enough to let B.B. King shine, then sneaks in with solos that feel like conversations. It’s blues with royalty written all over it.

2. “Runaway Train” – Elton John featuring Eric Clapton
Elton John brought the melodies, Eric Clapton brought the firepower. This early-’90s anthem proves that pop and blues can go full speed ahead on the same track. The result? A radio-ready ride with serious chops under the hood.

3. “It’s Probably Me” – Sting featuring Eric Clapton
On this sultry soundtrack standout, Sting’s smoky delivery dances perfectly around Clapton’s silky guitar lines. It’s cool, understated, and endlessly replayable. The kind of collaboration where no one’s showing off—and it still sounds flawless.

4. “Good to Me as I Am to You” – Aretha Franklin featuring Eric Clapton
If the Queen of Soul invites you in, you don’t just play—you serve. Clapton drops into Aretha’s world of gospel-blues brilliance with total grace, adding subtle licks that lift the song without ever stepping on the vocals. Soul music with six-string class.

5. “Give Me Strength” – Eric Clapton and Yvonne Elliman
Yvonne Elliman’s harmonies add warmth and light to this slow-burning Clapton tune. The two voices blend like whiskey and honey, and the result is both heartbreaking and healing. A gem from his 461 Ocean Boulevard era that still cuts deep.

6. “Before You Accuse Me” – Eric Clapton and Robert Cray
Eric Clapton teams up with fellow blues master Robert Cray for a studio version that drips with style. It’s old-school in all the right ways—tight, tasteful, and irresistibly groovy. When bluesmen talk, we listen.

7. “My Father’s Eyes” – Eric Clapton and Babyface
Yes, Babyface. And yes, it works. The smoothest R&B producer in the game helped shape one of Clapton’s most emotional songs into a crossover classic. When soul meets blues, everybody wins.

8. “All Our Past Times” – Eric Clapton and Rick Danko
The Band’s Rick Danko brought the heart, and Clapton brought the heartbreak. Together, they created a tender, underrated duet that feels like a campfire confession. Quietly devastating and absolutely gorgeous.

9. “Badge” – Cream (co-written with George Harrison)
What do you get when a Beatle writes lyrics and Clapton writes riffs? A psych-rock classic with a bridge that still knocks you sideways. “Badge” is a song where even the silence sounds musical.

10. “Born Under a Bad Sign” – Eric Clapton and Albert King
Clapton knew better than to try to outplay Albert King—so he matched him in vibe and groove instead. Their version of this blues staple is electric in the way only two masters trading licks can be. A masterclass in restraint and respect.

11. “Holy Mother” – Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood
These two reunited old friends for a track that’s as spiritual as it is sonically rich. Winwood’s keys and Clapton’s guitar create something between prayer and power ballad. It’s the sound of healing, through and through.

12. “Tearing Us Apart” – Eric Clapton and Tina Turner
Tina brings the fire, Clapton brings the grit, and the combination is explosive. This ’80s stormer is a breakup song turned battlefield anthem. Nobody gets out clean—and that’s the point.

13. “Old Love” – Eric Clapton and Robert Cray
When heartbreak meets maturity, you get “Old Love.” Cray’s smooth guitar tone pairs beautifully with Clapton’s smoky sadness. It’s not just a song—it’s a sigh.

14. “Riding with the King” – B.B. King and Eric Clapton
Back to the blues with this album title track, where the duo sounds like they’ve been trading stories for centuries. Clapton lets B.B. take the wheel—and still manages to steer the whole thing straight into greatness.

15. “I’ve Got a Rock ‘n’ Roll Heart” – Eric Clapton and Ry Cooder
Ry Cooder’s slide guitar slips in alongside Clapton’s easy swagger, giving this tune extra soul. It’s laid-back rock ‘n’ roll that doesn’t need to shout to prove its point. Just cool vibes and cool hands.

16. “Little Wing” – Derek and the Dominos (tribute to Jimi Hendrix)
Clapton doesn’t just cover Hendrix—he paints in his spirit. This studio version with Duane Allman feels like both a salute and a reinvention. One of the best guitar homages ever put to tape.

17. “Beautiful Thing” – Eric Clapton and Simon Climie
Pop meets blues in this mid-’90s standout, with Clapton crafting silky solos under Climie’s clean vocals. It’s soft, sweet, and sneakily emotional. Proof that less can still be more.

18. “Bad Love” – Eric Clapton and Phil Collins
When Eric Clapton needed a drummer who could also deliver big, bold production, he turned to Phil Collins. The result? A Grammy-winning rocker with a riff that hits like a freight train and a chorus built to echo through arenas. Clapton shreds, Collins pounds, and “Bad Love” delivers exactly what it promises.

19. “Circus” – Eric Clapton and Simon Climie
Another Climie co-write, this deeply personal ballad finds Clapton at his most vulnerable. The delicate production gives the song room to breathe. It’s sad, stunning, and unforgettable.

20. “Let It Grow” – Eric Clapton and Yvonne Elliman
This soft-rock spiritual feels like the sunrise after a long night. Elliman’s harmonies give it lightness, while Clapton’s guitar grows quietly beneath. A reminder that even rock gods need to reflect.

Bonus Entry – “Layla” – Derek and the Dominos
When heartbreak hits hard, you form a band with Duane Allman and pour your soul into a six-minute masterpiece. “Layla” is Clapton at his most raw—obsessed, unfiltered, and unforgettable. That piano coda? Still breaking hearts, decades later.

Why Roger Moore Was A Class Act

Eric Alper
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Why Roger Moore Was A Class Act
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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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