Backtrackin' cover

Backtrackin'

Eric Clapton · 1984

106 min · 22 tracks · blues

A reflective collection of Clapton's blues-infused rock anthems, showcasing his signature guitar work and emotive songwriting.

Spotify Apple Music
Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I Shot the Sheriff Start here — This track epitomizes Clapton's ability to reinterpret classic reggae influences into rock, showcasing both his guitar prowess and vocal delivery.
  • →
    Wonderful Tonight — An enduring love ballad that highlights Clapton's lyrical sensitivity and melodic skill, it remains one of his signature songs.
  • →
    Layla — This iconic track features a compelling blend of rock and blues elements, with its unforgettable guitar riff solidifying its status as a classic.
  • →
    Cocaine — 'Cocaine' stands out for its upbeat tempo and clever lyrics addressing addiction, representing Clapton’s raw approach to songwriting.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • nostalgic journey through classics
  • dynamic peaks and valleys
  • heartfelt ballads for reflection
  • electrifying solos ignite energy
  • for evening gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking fast-paced excitement
  • prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A reflective compilation that revisits Clapton's notable songs without being a primary entry point.
Themes
romantic longing· rock lifestyle struggles
Career context
In 1984, Eric Clapton was in a phase of revisiting his extensive back catalog, releasing 'Backtrackin'' as a compilation album. This release followed his successful studio album 'Money and Cigarettes' from 1983 and served to highlight his evolution as an artist through the years. The album marked a moment where Clapton consolidated his legacy by revisiting seminal tracks from his career.
Stylistic neighbors
Gary Moore· Joe Bonamassa· John Mayer
New to Eric Clapton? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 I Shot the Sheriff Start here 4:26
  • 2 Knockin’ on Heavens Door 4:26
  • 3 Lay Down Sally 3:55
  • 4 Promises 3:05
  • 5 Swing Low Sweet Chariot 3:35
  • 6 Wonderful Tonight 3:45
  • 7 Sunshine of Your Love 4:14
  • 8 Tales of Brave Ulysses 2:50
  • 9 Badge 2:46
  • 10 Little Wing 5:38
  • 11 Layla 7:10

Disc 2

  • 1 Cocaine 3:40
  • 2 Strange Brew 2:48
  • 3 Spoonful 6:32
  • 4 Let It Rain 5:08
  • 5 Have You Ever Loved a Woman? 7:04
  • 6 Presence of the Lord 4:49
  • 7 Crossroads 4:17
  • 8 Roll It Over 6:39
  • 9 Can’t Find My Way Home 5:16
  • 10 Blues Power 7:26
  • 11 Further On Up the Road 7:08

What to play next

Behind the Sun
Listen next

Behind the Sun

1985

Continues the reflective themes with a mix of blues and rock, enhancing Clapton's emotive style.
Money and Cigarettes
Go back to

Money and Cigarettes

1983

Sets the stage with a similar blend of styles leading into the more introspective 'Backtrackin'.
Full Eric Clapton discography Where to start with Eric Clapton Artists like Eric Clapton
hard rock jazz fusion psychedelic rock

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Tattoo You

Tattoo You

The Rolling Stones

Shares a similar blend of nostalgia and rock lifestyle struggles with bluesy undertones.

Texas Flood

Texas Flood

Stevie Ray Vaughan

Captures heartfelt blues-infused rock with emotional guitar solos and themes of longing.

(Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd)

(Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd)

Lynyrd Skynyrd

Combines Southern rock ethos with personal storytelling and a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of Clapton's work.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata