From his early days with the Yardbirds and John Mayall, through the supergroups Cream, Blind Faith and Derek and the Dominos, to his extensive solo career, Eric Clapton has been one of the most respected and recognizable artists in all of rock music. Surely Layla ranks up there with Stairway to Heaven and Freebird as the most played (some may say overplayed) rock anthems on radio today. Throughout the years, EC has steadfastly remained true to his blues roots, while experimenting with many other types of music, from acoustic ballads to more modern sounds. Still he remains an icon, an inspiration to thousands of guitarists, young and old, who strive to emulate the undeniable passion and flawless technique Eric Clapton brings to whatever he undertakes.

Tommy Hartley is one such guitarist. He cites Clapton as perhaps the major influence on his playing and songwriting. From his early teen garage band days all the way to the present, he has never lost sight of the shining example of Slowhand. “Clapton is God” was the graffiti seen all over London in the sixties and seventies. While this may seem blasphemous to some, it exemplifies the devotion EC’s fans have always shown him and his music. Over the years and through his many musical incarnations, people have often remarked on Tommy’s uncanny resemblance to Mr. Clapton and their similar playing styles. The beard, the black Stratocaster, the blues, all these have helped create the mystique that finally found fruition in Slowhand, a Tribute to Eric Clapton.

Tommy and his brother-in-arms, Ron Taylor assembled an impeccable lineup of fellow musicians. With Ron on drums, Jason Barker and later Edgar Lane on guitar, Jim Weaver on keys and Chris Carroll, Jack Campbell and finally Clint Rhodes on bass, all the elements came together to provide listeners with accurate and heartfelt performances of the music of Eric Clapton. With songs such as the aforementioned “Layla,” “Bad Love,” “Wonderful Tonight,” “Tears in Heaven,” “Badge,” “After Midnight” and many more, club and concert goers marveled at the visual and aural spectacle that was Slowhand, a Tribute to Eric Clapton.

Slowhand’s list of successful engagements includes Chapel Hill’s legendary Cat’s Cradle, Raleigh’s fabulous Lincoln Theatre, Blue Bayou in historic Hillsborough, Nags Head’s Port o’ Call, Ziggy’s in Winston-Salem and Charlotte’s venerable Double Door Inn. Recent corporate events include dates in Tucson, AZ, Acapulco, Mexico and the incredible House of Blues in Chicago, IL. Many thanks to all who had the opportunity to experience the power and passion of the music of Eric Clapton, as brought to you by Slowhand, a Tribute to Eric Clapton.

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