Live in San Diego cover

Released 10 years ago

Live in San Diego

Eric Clapton · 2016

107 min · 16 tracks · blues

A vibrant showcase of blues-infused rock, blending heartfelt guitar solos with Clapton's soulful vocals in an intimate live setting.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Tell the Truth Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Cocaine — This track showcases Clapton's signature guitar style and rhythmic groove, capturing the energy of his live performance while addressing complex themes through its lyrics.
  • →
    Layla — The extended rendition highlights Clapton’s virtuosic guitar work and emotional depth, making it a centerpiece that resonates deeply with fans.
  • →
    Little Wing — Clapton's interpretation of this Jimi Hendrix classic reflects both reverence and innovation, showcasing his ability to bring new life to beloved songs.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

Clapton's live performance shines through in extended solos and dynamic arrangements, making it a solid showcase of his artistry.

What we noticed

  • Tracks are arranged to build momentum, with the first half focusing on upbeat songs before transitioning to more reflective pieces.
  • Several songs include call-and-response sections between Clapton's vocals and the backing band, enhancing the live atmosphere.
  • The final track, 'Crossroads', serves as a climactic conclusion, featuring a high-energy performance that encapsulates the concert's spirit.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic live performance energy
  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • soulful guitar solos throughout
  • late-night reflective listening
  • emotionally charged sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer short, concise tracks
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Fan Favorite — Captures live performances of fan favorites, resonating with dedicated listeners.
Themes
San Diego nights· blues improvisation mastery· live concert energy
Career context
Released in 2016, 'Live in San Diego' captures Eric Clapton during a prolific phase of his career, following the critically acclaimed album 'I Still Do' from 2016. This album serves as a testament to his enduring legacy as a live performer, presenting new interpretations of classic tracks while still resonating with audiences familiar with his extensive catalog.
Stylistic neighbors
Gary Moore· Joe Bonamassa· John Mayer

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Tell the Truth Start here 6:23
  • 2 Key to the Highway 4:12
  • 3 Got to Get Better in a Little While 9:34
  • 4 Little Wing 6:58
  • 5 Anyday 6:05
  • 6 Anyway the Wind Blows 5:31
  • 7 After Midnight 5:43
  • 8 Who Am I Telling You? 4:52
  • 9 Don’t Cry Sister 3:32

Disc 2

  • 1 Cocaine 5:31
  • 2 Motherless Children 5:23
  • 3 Little Queen of Spades 17:21
  • 4 Further On up the Road 6:49
  • 5 Wonderful Tonight 4:30
  • 6 Layla 8:24
  • 7 Crossroads 6:55

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata