LITTLE WING (1970) by Derek and the Dominos live

Along with 1400 other people, I saw Derek and the Dominos live at the Lisner Auditorium in Washington DC on Wednesday 21 October 1970, when I lived in the USA for a few years with my parents. I saw lots of great concerts around that time, including Hendrix, Stones, Ten Years After etc, but this was the loudest of any of those concerts. One of the tracks which made an impression on me was Eric's version of 'Little Wing', only a month after Jimi had died. He introduced it by saying 'for one of our brothers may he rest in peace'.
This live version of Little Wing was recorded on 23 October 1970 in New York, two days after I saw them. It is a soundboard recording, with the two vocals in separate channels, rather than the official live at the Fillmore which has both vocals mixed in the centre of both channels.
Derek and the Dominos were a blues-rock band formed in the spring of 1970 by guitarist and singer Eric Clapton with keyboardist Bobby Whitlock, bassist Carl Radle and drummer Jim Gordon, who had all played with Clapton in Delaney, Bonnie & Friends.
The band released only one studio album, Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, which featured prominent contributions from guest guitarist Duane Allman from the Allman Brothers Band. The album went on to receive critical acclaim, but initially faltered in sales and in radio airplay. Although released in 1970 it was not until March 1972 that the album's single "Layla" (a tale of unrequited love inspired by Clapton's relationship with his friend George Harrison's then wife, Pattie Boyd Harrison) would make the top ten in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
Allman died in a motorbike accident on 29 October 1971. Radle died in 1980 of complications from a kidney infection associated with alcohol and drug use. Jim Gordon, who was an undiagnosed schizophrenic, killed his mother in 1983 during a psychotic episode. He was sentenced to jail in 1984, where he remained until he died in March 2023. (Much of the above was sourced from Wikipedia).
There is no film of this version of the song, nor much at all of the band. I have therefore tried to put together the best slideshow I can of the band doing this song. Comments are welcome. But please no 'my guitarist is better than your guitarist'.

[@wilsonmcphert]

Just heard that Jim Gordon, drummer, died in custody on Monday. Great drummer who sadly went downhill due to mental illness.

[@mibeatleman6767]

Rest In Peace, Jim Gordon, a victim of mental illness.

[@eightinches3671]

Didn't know that. Very sad what became of him. Certainly fighting a lot of demons. As we all know he did a lot of work with Eric Clapton and I would imagine none of his former friends went to visit him.

[@Leo-uc8zv]

Eric put him there this is a business

[@eightinches3671]

@@Leo-uc8zv Congratulations, dumbest remark I've ever seen on youtube.

[@Patriot-oi7mj]

​@@Leo-uc8zv How in the hell did Eric put him there? I supposed Eric also killed Jim's mother.

[@throckmortensnivel2850]

Many people comment on Hendrix's guitar playing, but we should always remember the beautiful songs he wrote. This is one of them.

[@Bongogod]

Bobby Whitlock was so underrated. He added so much soul to this band.

[@johnnyguit8168]

+Bongogod "4 show BG!! Whitlock wasn't just a great keys man but good guitarist and 1 of the Greatest Vocalist of the time! Built in SOUL man!!

[@tom.hoffmann6585]

Have you read his book ?

[@carlpantuso7718]

Dude, you hit the nail on the head. The trouble for Whitlock, et.al., is Clapton is so awesome you can't help but zero in on him.

[@drjmole63]

@@tom.hoffmann6585 I am reading it at this moment! It brought me to this video. I grew up with these D&D songs in my head all the time. I met Bobby W. at Saxon Pub here in Austin 6m ago. He plays with wife Coco regularly. Great guy, vocalist, performer. He shared stories about recording Layla album; it was awesome. The book is excellent reading! Recommended 👍.

[@gaylegardner8718]

Bobby Whitlock is genius and a great storyteller. Love to hear him play or talk about music, especially his time with this band. Missing Duane Allman's beautiful slide guitar on this one

[@ripsumrall8018]

One of the, if not the most beautiful songs ever. Thank Jimi.

[@marcyfan-tz4wj]

i'd have had a hard time leaving the house after jimi's death if i were eric but this of course is a great tribute. i always thought the studio version sounded so painful because jimi had died but it was before 9/18/70. whitlock's vocals do add plenty.

[@johnaldabbagh6870]

Yes

[@bobbynoe1]

In my younger years it was Eric's guitar playing, that got me, later his vocals. And the more I listen to EC's versions of "Little Wing" with the Dominos the more I have to appreciate Bobby Whitlock's contribution as second singer.

[@fortunatoofamontillado1059]

killer harmonies!

[@jfo3000]

The backing vocals in this song always crushed me, even as an 8 yr old in 1970, so much emotion. These guys were so good.

[@ozman5151]

This just goes to show you Clapton is god. He was my inspiration when I started playing and then found out we shared the same birthday different years of course .

[@wiltshirerealestate2227]

thorn tree in the garden has always been a favourite of mine....

[@Claytone-Records]

Listen to Bell Bottom Blues and hear Bobby Whitlock sing.

[@philbivins7133]

Of all the bands Clapton played with, Derek and the Dominos was by far the greatest.....

[@mben-david2064]

Nope. That would be Cream. They broke musical ground in the 60's. D & the D's rode on the highway Cream & Hendrix built.

[@markhunter8554]

Bobby Whitlock is one of rock's great unsung singers, along with Jim Dewar.

[@timhoovermusicman]

Love to watch him telling stories to his wife coco on his channel.

[@Rattlecanjeff]

Greatest harmony I’ve ever heard on a track. Maybe only Don Rich and Buck were close.

[@roxanneb6208]

@@timhoovermusicman I’ll have to check that channel out. I use to see him and his wife Coco Carmel every Sunday at the Saxon pub. One night I brought my Layla and All Things Must Pass vinyl covers for him to autograph. He was very laid back. There were so many people there asking me why I’d brought those album covers to be autographed. I told them they might want to Google the guy they came to hear/see.

[@timhoovermusicman]

@@roxanneb6208 he's got great stories🙂

[@roxanneb6208]

@@timhoovermusicman yes he does and he is such a down to earth man too.

[@buckfan1969]

Have been listening to Clapton forever, and I think he was at his very best with these guys.

[@karlkelton]

Agreed.

[@dponzi56]

yup, totally agree. This was his very best.

[@jaykay6387]

It's not even debatable. The Dominos were his peak and crowning achievement. He wasn't a good enough songwriter to sustain this greatness, and of course his addiction didn't exactly help matters. But somehow, he still managed to have an extremely successful solo career. There's a lot of people who are undoubtedly completely unaware of the existence of Derek & The Dominos, Blind Faith, or Cream and think he's the "I shot the sheriff" or "Forever Man" singer.

[@user-co4vy1ch7y]

I agree!

[@johnl636]

IMO, Layla, Little Wing and Bell Bottom Blues are my favorite Clapton songs. They have never gotten stale after all these years.

[@TheWalterram]

Even though it is a cover - his take on Crossroads is Epic.

[@elbinkogrande]

Please, let's not forget "Little Wing" is also a cover.

[@runreilly]

Good list, but I'd have to add Badge.

[@johnl636]

Added.

[@buddyollie180]

john L yeah Badge is epic. It's my favorite

[@rickporupsky8838]

DEREK AND THE DOMINOS WAS A FREAKING SUPER GROUP AND LETS NOT FORGET DUANE ALLMANS CONTRIBUTION TO LAYLA.

[@herkhaston1915]

Rick Porupsky Sky dog

[@scottym3]

If I'm not mistaken, Duane played on all but three songs from that album.

[@mjbachman3027]

@@scottym3 Correct, Duane isn't on "I Looked Away" ', "Bell Bottom Blues", and "Keep On Growing", the first three songs on the Layla album.

[@carolynrogers5762]

How could we

[@LJLucas-zv2mr]

@@scottym3 you're off by one! I don't think he played on 'Thorn Tree in the Garden' I would be OK with being proven wrong. I loathe that song! I love Bobby Whitlock's voice, though.

[@BarTGila]

Carl Radle on bass....boy does this bring back memories. The 70's had some damn fine music.

[@cayogator]

+BarT Gila yes !!!

[@bobcardenaz9034]

+BarT Gila RIP Carl and Jim Gordon.............god will forgive.

[@ericingham9925]

Carl keeps up with Eric and then some.

[@robertscoggin]

I was watching an Ed Sullivan show rerun from the mid 60s and Gary Lewis and the Playboys played. Gary introduced the band and Carl Radle was on bass!

[@TheJackflash85]

It was the greatest decade for all kinds of Pop music! - The '70s were the golden age!

[@dantasker5484]

One of the finest if not the best musician to ever come out of Britain.

[@darkmooncrone]

Rest in peace Jimi Hendrix ! Gone but sure as hell not forgotten !

[@TheJackflash85]

Always ~

[@claireburling8547]

Little Wing is the most beautiful composition I've ever heard. Fell in love with it when I first heard Jimi sing those words way back when. Fell again when Stevie Ray made it even more emotional and amazing, as he did with everything. This is a great compilation of all those classic voices and Eric's playing. Never heard this before. Thankx Wilson. RIP Jimi and Stevie. Never forgotten. 💙💙 to all

[@tonyhendrix8075]

🎸The Master🎸

[@urnsane2userealname683]

Best version of this tune ever. Hands down. Even now as an old man, this is still wonderful music.

[@sarnamacrimuere7708]

I love you

[@ronnierobinson5421]

Jimi's original is from another world/his mind

[@briankorbelik2873]

Better than Jimi's original version? Check out the album "Axis Bold as Love" again.

[@urnsane2userealname683]

@@briankorbelik2873 Yes. I saw Jimi, and was never really impressed. The thing I was impressed about Jimi was his master of playing a Rt Hand guitar. He is more legend than musician. I know lots of guys who can play like Hendrix. It is noise mostly, and not fluid like Clapton and Gilmor. This is hitting the notes right here.Ck out the Southern Rock riffs at the beginning by a Britkzbin.info/www/bejne/Zn7HnWRjlNWfb8k

[@urnsane2userealname683]

@@briankorbelik2873 This is actually one of the best cuts of this tune out there.kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmWQpImOeM-trbM

[@davidevans3175]

Bobby Whitlock is a force to be reckoned with.

[@lizzielorman2158]

Absolutely

[@markhunter8554]

The Edge?

[@tedfio1tedfio1]

Derek is the force that blows the roof of the Filmore lol...

[@vpking77]

Jim Gordon played on Dave Mason-Alone Together album, Traffic-Low Spark Of High Heeled Boys, Steely Dan-Pretzel Logic, Carly Simon-Your So Vain, Beach Boys-Pet Sounds. The list goes on and on. He co-wrote Layla. Just incredible. What a legacy. A genius who unfortunately murdered his mother. A sad ending to a man who suffered severe mental illness.

[@golds04]

Rita Coolidge did.

[@brianmorrison7542]

Very sad indeed...God rest him

[@michaelkabbeko7431]

why are there so many Clapton haters I don't get it . I think hes amazing!

[@connorburkhardt3410]

Exactly!!!!! So many people praise SRV, Hendrix, Page, Beck, and EVH who are all legendary guitarists on the same level as Clapton, but Eric gets nothing but hate. I hate to turn music into a competition, but Jimis time here was so short. It was truly impactful but it simply does not have enough evidence that gives him the right to be called infinitely better than everyone else because his body of work is so small (tragically). When you look at Claptons huge body of work, his talent is absolutely undeniable! I'm not saying anyone's better than anyone else, I just wish that music wasn't turned into this sport about who's THE BEST, rather than who do I prefer.

[@dougpadgett242]

sorry man Clapton is one of the greatest ever but Jimi was in a class all by himself. i play and the things he did w guitar and the electronic available at the time are simply UNMATCHED since... innovation at its best for wat was available. I play but can only dream of playing like Jimi did

[@wyatt2447]

+Connor Burkhardt , I tend to agree with you . Every player is unique , has a touch or style all their own albeit it may be copied from others to some degree . I once said to a friend who is a really good player " I wish I could play as well as You" . He replied that he wasn't better just different . He played in a jazz vein and I grew up playing folk and blues and so my influences were different . That is how it is with these guys . I won't take anything away from Jimi or Stevie Ray either . Their lives were tragically cut short but their genius lives on . And yes , Clapton gets little respect perhaps because he is a survivor . He beat his addictions and carried on at times reinventing himself and his music along the way . Now if someone wishes to compare their hero's to , try Django Reinhardt , the best three fingered guitar player around . He played licks and runs that scare me as well as jazz chords I can't play with all my fingers lol .

[@dougpadgett242]

Rory was a great guitar plyr one of the best

[@dougpadgett242]

As much as i like clapton ...there are many that rise above him ..my opinion...hendrx was just so special who since have been his equal? Jeff Beck was close and Jimmy Page

[@powderfinger6597]

Whitlock's voice adds another layer of greatness to a bad-ass song.

[@VenusDoomInOurBlood]

Powderfinger yes. Absolutely. Underrated

[@mixhaelamikovich]

yes he does he is amazing

[@Hapax007]

What a voice Bobby has. Wonder why we never heard very much from him after the Dominos ?

[@mickeysoltys6960]

His organ playing is sublime.

[@markhunter8554]

@@Hapax007 I believe he was addicted to heroin for awhile.

[@lancefraijo8585]

I highly Recommend Eric Clapton's Music to everyone. The Man's a genius.

[@peterwright5249]

😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@peterwright5249]

Lance Fraijo you are funny , genius 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@ericwobschall8410]

Do you also recommend breathing? Kidding, and well said.

[@matthewrotherham1]

@@peterwright5249 you can smell the envy in every one of your comments :-)

[@prathameshbhambure]

@@peterwright5249 How unfortunate a man could be. I guess not more than you are.

[@lawrenceappell2871]

I was there at the Fillmore that night. It was magic. The glow of the evening is with me to this day.

[@phaelon56]

Carl Radle and JIm Gordon were one of tyhe greatest rhythm sections of all time. Hendrix is my all time favorite artist, and this live vertsion of Little WQng is superb.

[@bakkels]

Yes! Jim Gordon and Eric at a certain point in this song just melt together. It's one of those very rare moments everyone should experience and remember. I know they don't do or want to. But this was them at their very best. This is the pinnacle of rock bands.

[@sarnamacrimuere7708]

Pity was pity Clapton love Jimi

[@minimee58]

IN 1971 in Melville, La northwest of Baton Rouge there was a 3 day celebration of life concert, i was 18 yrs old and my first time seeing a sea of people in a valley on the banks of the Atchafalia River, i would guesstamate at about 60 to 80 thousand, what a great show, there was the Chambers Brothers, Sly and the Family Stone Delany and Bonnie and Friends and there was this guy standing at the back of the stage just wailing on a black and white strat and he just had me mesmerized i couldnt get over how sweet his licks were and how i thought this guy should be at the front of the stage in the spot light, i still didnt know who this guy was, well in the meantime a woman gave birth to a child on the ground at this concert,candlels were passed around and happy birthday was sung to the proud mom, and then the band was introduced and thats when i heard the name Eric Clapton and ive been listening to him ever since, and its been 50 yrs and he still sells out his shows, keep on keepn on.

[@rayhutchison1272]

I was there. Delaney and Bonnie and Friends were not. Neither were Sly and the Family Stone.

[@TheCajunzx]

I worked in concessions for the concert , hot as hell . It was seriously a cluster f#*k. At least I got to say I worked a rock festival

[@ronaldknisley9792]

Cool story Rickie thanks for sharing Brother.

[@phillipward937]

I was at the Celebration of the Mosquito, other than it being something every Natchez boy should see at least once, it pretty much sucked. I ran into more music superstars at the Christifa Coffee House on highway 61 north Natchez (Morgantown) Mississippi in an average month than all of the acts that performed at the Celebration of Life. Frank Zappa really liked the Cheese burgers at the Coffee House, I guess word got out.

[@phillipward937]

@@rayhutchison1272 he might have been thinking about the Festival in Lewisville TX where Hendrix had to cancel and Eric sat in with the Chambers Brothers and saved the show.

[@danny4481]

Jim Gordon's drumming,just before the ending of Clapton's solo, knocks me out everytime. Including the studio track.

[@lizzielorman2158]

Great drummer. Tragic story about Jim. Just a shame

[@gailrobinson3168]

This song still gives me chills in 2023...the album though ❤🎸🎶

[@billwanke1681]

I ALWAYS THOUGHT WHITLOCKS VOCALS ON THIS ALBUM WERE SUPERB AND HELPED MAKE IT FANTASTIC IN ADDITION TO DUANE AND ERIC'S PLAYING

[@bradtrimble1728]

BW,Great minds tend to think alike

[@greglarry11]

Bobby Whitlock rules!

[@muzbuz1043]

Like having Joe Cocker as a backup singer. Whitlock was a smokin' singer.

[@adriandillulio2213]

no derek and the dominos without bobby

[@billwanke1681]

Great tune man

[@prathameshbhambure]

Those were magical times, weren't they? People who watched em live during that period must get all choked up if they come across this. Love!

[@jeanwatson9831]

Never get tired of hearing this song. Doesn’t matter who plays/sings it!❤️

[@alexyamach3635]

My favorite cover version of a Hendrix song. Has the emotion of the Hendrix original.

[@mikeroche3631]

Clapton at his best. Great energy. Great group of musicians. Always loved The blend of Eric and Bobby's voices.

[@wasfazed]

DITTO... I agree with every word!

[@mykicks]

I saw them in Dallas a month after you did. Cowboy was the opening band. The dominoes were incredible. We saw them in a nice auditorium about the same size crowd as your experience. After Cowboy, my wife and I, on a whim just to see if we could, took our Polaroid camera and walked up to the front and, acting just like we knew what we were doing, climbed down into the empty orchestra pit. We stayed there for the entire set, and not one person ever came and said anything to us. We felt pretty conspicuous being the only ones down there. We felt like any second someone would come and run us off. So we stood for the entire show. At one point we positioned ourselves right below Eric, at his feet which would have been just about even with our foreheads. He could have easily spit on us. As a matter of fact, HE DID! But not in a bad way. He never even looked at us. Not sure if he ever even knew we were there. I believe this was in the days of his heavy heroin use. Now I don't know if there's something about that, that would make him occasionally project small spittles on some words or letters...whatever. But yeah, as he sang, he lightly sprayed us a couple of times. We looked at each other and laughed. Like..."Hey, we got spit on by Eric Clapton!", like that would be silly. But that's my Derek story except for one other thing. I did take one Polaroid picture which, for a Polaroid is decent. Full body view. You can see his "domino" shoes on his feet that are on the cover of the Layla album. If posting images was allowed here I'd post it for ya.

[@michaelbackhouse6758]

Great story. Thanks.

[@andyjohns8324]

50 years I have been listening to Eric Clapton. Love this!!

[@ECwashr]

D and D Live at the Fillmore. One of the best live blues rock albums ever. My favorite..

[@jean-claudearsenault224]

Clapton, has just been so good for so long. Also one of the few central figures of Rock& Roll.

[@TrollsAreGonnaTroll]

Bobby had one of the best voices out there, this is awesome

[@jameshunter5485]

In my humble opinion what Clapton and Allman did together was pure magic. Arguably the greatest rock album ever produced. This is a very fine version of Hendrix’s gorgeous song, but it misses the two guitar greats pushing each other to the stratosphere.

[@kennethlatham3133]

That's what I'm missing here, that soaring, searing slide of Duane's, peaking right before the finish. Tears, man.

[@toddbentler141]

Duane is what makes this song and the whole album great

[@markhunter8554]

This Hunter agrees with you.

[@guyg.9393]

@@toddbentler141 Duane would be the first to disagree. In Duane's own words, “Eric is a real fine cat. I considered it a privilege and honor to play on his Derek and the Dominos album. He’s a true professional in the studio. It’s his style and his technique - is what really amazes me. He has a lot to say too, but the way he says it just knocks me out. He does so well. I was glad to have the opportunity to work with people of that magnitude - with that much brilliance and talent. Anybody that’s ever met him - he’s just a quiet dude - a real fine cat. It’s hard for me to talk about him because I admire him so much."

[@gailrobinson3168]

Amen ‼

[@marshallposey2063]

I loved being in my teens in the 70s ....... our rock and soul music was amazing.

[@pattyoneill6724]

Eric Clapton was 25 here and sounds so good ! Love his 👋 ❤ music !

[@jimdempsey8413]

This may have been Claptons finest band of all !!! What a supporting cast , think about it .

[@ninjavigilante5311]

The great bobby Carle and the man jim Gordon.

[@denniskinzler5890]

Just no suprise, in his book, Eric said those other three were the best rhythm musicians he played with

[@beezey01]

"Little Wing"-Jimi Hendrix (lyrics) Well, she's walking through the clouds, With a circus mind that's running wild, Butterflies and Zebras, And Moonbeams and fairy tales. That's all she ever thinks about. Riding with the wind. When I'm sad, she comes to me, With a thousand smiles she gives to me free. It's alright, she says it's alright, Take anything you want from me, Anything. Fly on little wing.

[@MrThomstark]

The second line is actually "With a circus mind that's runnin' round." (I actually sing "runnin' wild," but I often change the lyrics of songs I sing to make them more personal to me. I don't think Jimi would have minded, though ...)

[@pholzer5]

Carl Radle's bass lines are lyrical and perfect for the song. Tragic that we lost him at age 37 in 1980.

[@usmessenger3199]

THE MASTER OF HIS FORSIGHT ,TO PLAY WHAT HE FEELS,TRUE GENIUS OF HIS GUITAR PLAYING.🎸🔊🎶☮️😎 BOB.

[@mikelundquist4596]

This my favorite EC era. And Bobby Whitlock rocks.

[@shanelondon1907]

Haven't heard this beautiful song in very long time. The harmonization of low and high voices is simply amazing giving the song a lasting memory at least to me. Thanks for posting this masterpiece. SL

[@dunccoleman2136]

this soundboard recording and subsequent mix really adds to that experience.. brilliant!

[@mikelundquist4596]

So cool that the audience waited at the end for the last note to die out before applauding.

[@Betterthantelly]

Stunning heartfelt version of a brilliant song. I love the way he plays it his own way. The same way Jimi made songs his own.

[@asixstringnut1972]

This band was the best Eric was ever in! Still love all the songs!

[@greatwhite3676]

As I have gotten older the Dominoes have become my favorite Clapton stuff for sure. So i say you are right for sure. No disrespect to Cream or Blind Faith or the Bluesbreakers.

[@greatwhite3676]

@Mike The Bike did you read that on wikipedia? You forgot the John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers and the Roosters. The Dominoes is Clapton's best work for sure

[@asixstringnut1972]

@Mike The Bike Yes heard them all! There is just something about this album and songs that can relate to!

[@asixstringnut1972]

@@greatwhite3676 The Layla album is the best collection of love songs! Bellbottom blues, Layla, keep on growing, have you ever loved a woman! Great stuff!

[@asixstringnut1972]

@Mike The Bike I totally agree! D & D was not the same band without Duane! Duane and Clapton really brought out the best in each other!

[@SFCISME]

Without a doubt my favorite cut of this song. Amazing

[@jewellrogers8254]

One of their Best .Not Heard. Enough or not discovered.❤️

[@philhorne811]

Such a mass of pure talent on every instrument , how they all gelled together is amazing

[@francispaulmarottikal1839]

This is one those bands who were promising, interesting and talented and were not meant to last. After wards hardly the band members survived. Eric Clapton is a survivor and was meant to last. A legend.

[@wyatt2447]

My favorite cover of this tune . Magnificent soloing on this and the emotion of the vocal .

[@davidward3122]

how can anyone not love this. a huge part of musical history.

[@johnnyguit8168]

+David Ward ..and to "All Of You "Slowhand" fans" out there that really LOVE Great Guitarist's of the World!"! See what you've done to me "W McPhert & Greg Koch!!" I'm baaaack! Ditto times 1,000 for what you said David! I just don't get it when it comes to "Me or anybody not being able to find anything live by Derek and the Doms??" I always heard they weren't very good "live??" But HOW can those 4 Top level players not sound great even w/out Duane?? Eric's guitar work on "Have You Ever Lvd. a Woman" and others on their 1 and only "Layla" studio alb is some of his finest blues guitar work he's ever done in the studio...period! Eric's version of that song has EC's blues style stamp all over it! From beg. to end! That's the song I always play for people (Usually young) that haven't heard Eric play electric blues because "he was simply on fire that day + he really shows why all the music critics then and esp. now say that EC is 1 of the, if not the greatest "blues and R & B guitarist EVER", although you'll never hear me sayin that only because theirs so so many! Eric C. is my fav and always has been since 1967 ("Beano" album!!) but what about "Guitar Blues Gods" like Gary Moore, SRVaughn, Joe Bonamassa, Eric Johnson (plays some wicked blues!) and maybe 15 more in this Top catagory (But "Only in my opinion.") The day I first heard Gary Moore was in 1984 ("Victims of the Future" Live album!) when nobody ever even heard about him in the US and then 3 yrs later when he released the "Still Go the Blues" LP, it literally scared the pants off me it was so unbelievable! Only the great die young I guess! I've been a Prof. guit's for 45 + yrs so, everytime, which is rare, that I hear someone that is that unbelievably talented and very rare, it's a real treat believe you me!" "Someone new to learn from and listen to!" Also, "look up (Or anyone that see's this!!) a big "6 ft.-9-11 inch" guy from Milwaukee and Fender Guitars main rep that just tours the world and explains all Fenders new stuff w/ his band of course; his name: GREG KOCH!! He's like a combo of Robin Williams on stage mixed w/ a tad bit of Einstein's intelligence for guitar/guitars and has Mastered every style of guitar I can think of! Blues/Hendrix/Clapton are 2 of his fav blues guys, chickenpicken monster ala Brent Mason n Brad Paisley, can play literally ANY Classic rock song note for chord esp. Zeppelin and much better than Jimmy Page EVER was..but lots a bands too and in my opinion he's right up there w/ "The most versatile guitarist I or probably anyone that really knows guitar/guitarist's has ever witnessed and he has 1,000's of vid's online w/ Millions of CHOPS TOO!! (Please "SIR Greg Koch, I'f you read this, please let it go straight to yur fingers, not yur head, (Not that your ego'd out at all, it's just your "musical genius mixed w/ yur unique comedic brain" can cause people to go "MAD!!!" Haha, and strange things can happen so careful out there on the road k!" "I say this cause, well, I know if I or most guitarist's out there could play anything at all like you, or for that matter, if anyone could play all the many styles on your Unreal Level of "Mastery" or "Wizardry", we'd all definitely think very very high of ourselves only because we could go to 99.9% of anywhere on Earth and walk away w/ the that little guitar trophy to fill our 2nd garage full of em!!" But in all seriousness, "Mr Koch is the best thing that's EVER happened to guitarists worldwide that actually still like to learn and laugh simultaniously no matter what level!" And since I've been watching you for the 3rd to 4th yr now, thanks Greg for helping me grow as a plyr. and grow w/ my "My Henny Youngman w/ a touch of Rodney comedy impersonations as well as a "Comedic Physics Professor at MIT!!" "You are w/out a doubt a "One of a Kind Unique Unit", especially a 1 of a kind versatile as hell guitarist without question and I'm sure, a hellova lotta fun to hang with too!" Easily, in my eyes, the Most "Under-Recognized World Guitarist I've ever heard, seen play a couple hundred times minimum that has about 8 albums out and should be making equel pay w/ the Legendary guit's as well as should have with at least 12 Grammy's by now! "And besides being a guitar virtuoso, a funny SOB and extremely knowledgeable Music and Musical Instruments guy Greg's also got a great original voice for doin the talkin thang and the singin thang as well so, "Check him out and you won't be 1 bit dissapointed you did at all!" Even just on his website where all his FREE Music stuff is! Spotify has all his albums as well!! Now for that $10 bucks you promised me Greg?? Later to all! POLETE or johnnyguit PS: Really SORRY this is so long but inspired tonight so!

[@56davidwright]

I just love erics playing.. Kind of squelchy and bloomey at the same time.. Very rare ecspecialy these days

[@spiratustreviso9885]

How incredible is this live performance? I am just totally blown away. Too bad this band imploded so quickly without really developing and reaching the heights it was meant to. This is a glimpse of what it could have become. This is just mind boggling...

[@rufust.flywheel6060]

This is what I call ... good music. The rest is ... just music. God bless Jimi Hendrix!

[@gcfrommo]

A timeless, classic performance. I'd never heard this before. This just blows me away.

[@johnknottenbelt2502]

A small example of the genius that was Derek & the Dominos.

[@TAKILMAMA]

I was at this show. BEST CONCERT I have ever seen to this day. Whitlock's organ craps out halfway through the song, so Radle and Gordon had to play double time to fill in the gaps. Got home (Jersey) about 6 AM. Wishbone Ash and Humble Pie with Frampton opened. Amazing night!!

[@carolynchristy3632]

I STILL HAVE THEIR ALBUM!! Derick & the Dominoes-the best! Thanks for sharing ❣️

[@gerardoerak6142]

Derek

[@ireneruthfox]

The quality of this song is amazing. So sad this whole show was not recorded. Best Live Domino's I've ever heard.

[@jackd.ripper7613]

I'm glad the bass comes through on this mix. This was, of course, without Duane Allman. Carl Radle's bass comes through and you can hear why he was a sought-after talent for the studio and the road. Few can claim Carl Radle's career. An original "Oklahoma Cowboy" along with Leon Russell in "The Wrecking Crew" in the 1950's and 60's Hollywood music scene; bassist for countless records you've heard from musicians we all admire. Original bassist for Gary Lewis and the Playboys, The "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" tour with Joe Cocker and Leon; Delaney, Bonnie and Friends; The Concerts for Bangladesh; Derek and the Dominoes; Bassist for Eric Clapton into the mid-70's. The most under-rated bass player of ALL time. Rest in Peace, Carl Radle.

[@rmgj]

Jack D. Ripper Indeed, his bass always pushed the energy to the top, bouncy and on rhythm ic beat, always a labor of love

[@tomcooley3778]

Jack D. Ripper Was Carl the Bass Player in the Shin Dogs on The T V show

[@sheldonhubbard1561]

Wish I had knowledge like that... Working towards that end

[@ericwobschall8410]

What a tiny aperture that all of this talent was focused through, and how improbable was this convocation of incomprehensible talent from England and the southern US.

[@easy56wedge]

Klaus Voorman was the bassist for the Bangla Desh concert not Carl Radle. Voorman was also the bassist for Manfred Man and even earlier, he and Astrid Kirchher (sp?) were Hamburg-era friends of the Beatles and helped with giving them their style.

[@user-rc7wm7ib5e]

JEFF BECK, ERIC CLAPTON, AND THE MASTER OF ALL, JIMI HENDRIX . The THREE GREATEST IN ALL OF ROCK MUSIC AND BEYOND.

[@jefffournier9986]

Another one of my all time favorite songs and this version is also terrific.

[@tomcat9930]

Only 25 years old here..love his version of lil wing.His skill has improved so much since...His career has outlasted so many more,and hopefully for many more years.

[@donaldjosefczyk6418]

This is the best version of this song I have ever heard. Recorded in 1970, it so clean I can not believe my ear bones. Mucho Gracias

[@Bruce-1956]

There is also a great version on Eric's ''Live at the Rainbow ' "comeback" concert.

[@TheWalterram]

So many great ones.... Jimi, SRV, Clapton, The Allman Bros...

[@jonetsantos9018]

Like

[@courtneywofford2879]

Agreed. Absolutely stunning 😭

[@mfb5642]

I think Stevie did it even better

[@claffertymusic]

American and British blues come together! Brilliant

[@lindahoward4465]

such a beautiful soulful cover of the late great Jimi Hendrix R.I.P

[@milesfielding6584]

This is possibly my favourite track in the rock pantheon and there are many brilliant versions but this is certainly a great one....

[@azja6666]

Omg, i've never heard it before. This is so beautifull! Eric was so talented- not only godly good at guitar, but his voice was so... haunting! I love it! ❤

[@chevy2599]

Just love the backing harmony vocals on this live version, so spectacular. After all these years, this songs still does it to me.

[@Kashaslove]

Who is singing with him? thanks

[@wilsonmcphert]

Kashaslove Bobby Whitlock, keyboardist.

[@chevy2599]

Bobby Whitlock went back to America after 2 years of trying to get Eric Clapton to come out and play after their success with Derek and the Domino first and only studio album. Bobby stayed low with the music business for many, many years until the late 90's to raise his family on a farm in Mississippi. A+++ on his vocal capabilities, especially on the live recordings. The staggering vocals between Bobby and Eric's vocals, priceless!

[@chevy2599]

***** "thanks girl for being one." What does that exactly mean?

[@chevy2599]

Yes, I heard that particular version. Very fine vocal work on this also. They sure had one great album with great chemistry.

[@gailrobinson2688]

That whole album was filled with magic ❣️ Sad, sweet and soulful. Still gives me chills everytime I hear it ‼️

[@despinaluigini7991]

44 years have passed since Eric sang this song live, but for me Eric is always there. I would like to stop time and continue to see him on the stage and with his live. Eric has 70 years and decided to spend his time with his family. He gave us so much.

[@williamthurman9082]

Good cut !!! Hard to believe Its been 40.....50 years

[@Queen16333]

I’m 67 years old. Every time I see Eric from those daze (😎) I fall in love all over again. Peace out, we have no choice but to carry on. ☮️

[@billkeaveney1526]

Eric doing it his way, 50 years later he still plays it something like this. 👏

[@davidhirning]

As a serious Hendrix fan (and Seattle native) who worships Jimi, I have to admit that there's a special place in my heart for this band's cover of one his best songs. The version on the "Layla" album is magnificent and one of my favorite songs of all time. Thanks for posting this version, and may the legends of both Jimi and "Derek" live forever!

[@oppothumbs1]

Please listen to Stevie Ray Vaughn .. much better

[@klmullins65]

Don't forget Duane Allman's contributions to the Dominos' version...his solos added such an emotional element, especially given the timing of the recording. I'd always assumed they'd performed the song as a tribute after Jimi's death, but then I read that Eric was eager to play it for Jimi, but never got the chance because Hendrix died before they were able to do the final mix down.

[@dimitrisaivaliotis5616]

Speaking about,, little wing,, Take a look to that guy kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3KmaaWZatCketE

[@sarnamacrimuere7708]

Is for Jimmy

[@FramrodLiggins]

@@oppothumbs1 ...if you only check for guitar solos ...maybe. SRV didn't even bother getting the lyrics right ...if he sang them at all. Personally, I'd rather hear the words of the song then all that blues guitar playing, although I can appreciate his instrumental version. Jiminaced them all by just playing a beautiful melody and of course... Writing the song.

[@iKOiKOheynow]

The chemistry this band had was phenomenal putting Duane in was the cherry on the cake.

[@richardmaier28]

sat about 12 rows back looking right at Clapton on the aisle seat.Damn the Fillmore was my 2nd home.

[@johnnyguit8168]

+Richard Maier CREAM right? My 2 fav inspirational LP's all time were; "Live Cream Vol I and Vol II!" Both superior to anything ever rec. Live!

[@johnnyguit8168]

+Johnny Guit .."Oh and never forget "Crossroads" Live off Wheels of Fire album! I read where Fresh Cream and Disreali Gears by Cream enabled Clapton to pay cash for his "Hurtwood Edge Mansion w/ lake and lots of land which he loves so much he still owns it today in the very RITZY Surrey area S of London! Worth approx $25 Million today because it's been EC's home (2nd home now cuz he had that H. Edge estate since 1968 so going on the Big 50 yrs now!! Bought it @ 23 yrs old!

[@glennstclair8502]

I had 16th row=center that nite.

[@chiptmcc8656]

Richard Maier... Yer a lucky dog, ya know that :-)

[@BassMensch1]

10th row center late show

[@tedbissell7277]

I am proud that I was of a generation of talent that got to hear and see this!!!

[@stevinks55]

I know. Patti, wtf does she want? Lol

[@tedbissell7277]

I know your distress; keep trying to find the one who understands!

[@stevinks55]

+Ted Bissell distress beyond that! My 2 fav men! Not fair! Lol

[@markhorton3041]

Derek and the Dominos and Ten Years After are probably my two favorite bands ever. The day I bought Derek and the Dominos In Concert, it literally changed my life forever.

[@lawrencejhutchinson]

Thanks! Good version. Eric recorded this in the studio with Duane and the Dominos 9 days before Jimi died. Great band. Jim Gordon was amazing. The drum solo on the "In Concert" version of 'Let It Rain" never fails to leave me gobsmacked! Art Blakey and Elvin Jones would have been proud of a performance like this! I've seen Buddy Rich, John Bonham, and Phil Collins live - wish I'd seen Gordon!

[@susanweinstein93]

Thank you for the info about the band. I had no IDEA they did LITTLE WING... I am into SRVs version as well. I have found a tranquility in all versions... I love how each artist can take a beloved song of another highly beloved artist.

[@malcolmgregory9882]

I've never heard this version of a class tune. Hendrix will always be the master with it, definitive version, but still! A beautiful rendition from a masterly band.

[@gaylegardner5661]

my favorite version. listen listen to the studio version with Duane Allman on guitar

[@slumdogpreacher6964]

Superb heartfelt performance from a bygone era; I was blessed to grow up in the sixties and seventies, we all were!

[@williamorchard3890]

Amen to that, Brother

[@bodensick]

There really are no Clapton haters...God's can't be hated, they can only be worshiped.

[@philhorne811]

What a sweet piece of drumming , never heard better

[@kimh5566]

Indeed, Jim Gordon, one of the best ever. A sad story though. Currently still in jail after succumbing to mental illness and killing his mother. Many, many, great and famous recordings can be enjoyed though. Top drawer reputation and music catalog. Check it out.

[@scott022070]

Gordon was a great drummer

[@tommyclark4720]

Jim Gordon --- Awesome

[@JodyKenyon]

Thank you for this, Wilson. You were so lucky to have seen all those great musicians!

[@jperschino]

Excellent Post!!! Was a fan of Derek and the Dominoes first blush and nothing's changed. Thanks for the post!!!

[@SteveEcksteinDouglasDrive]

one of "Eric Claptons' best love songs for the ages. caught him/dominoes at albany state in 1970. blew the roof off, slayed the audience & stayed forever imprinted in my mind. what a "whah whah solo".

[@plantfeeder6677]

These guys In Concert album is the finest example of Rockin' Blues ever put on vinyl. Not for the weak of heart.

[@davejohnston5158]

Apart his great music Eric Clapton has a resilience over adversity that is truly inspiring. You've got to know the whole story to appreciate where the music comes from.

[@philipsiegrist9413]

One of my all time favorite versions and bands.

[@TheFishMiester]

The Vocals are just awesome, it's like they were reading each others minds ! And musically perfect !

[@eddythomas5771]

this is a classic of the Times.Eric is still a smooth slow hand and comfortable playing what he is great at.Jimi had the same groove of these times.is it not a wonder how much music he put out in his short visit on this 3rd rock from the sun.we can enjoy them all .those still here and those departed.never hate on music from these greats. we will never ever hear again.once they are gone.love it like it or do not listen.and listen to what speaks to you,mind and soul.

[@AccurateCrabLegs]

I just climbed up to the top of my apartment building with my laptop and now I'm blasting this song at top volume! Open your window and see if you can hear it!

[@drummer17562]

You'll never hear a better version of this song... the jam is super and hits into high gear. Reminds me of Cream and Allman Bros.

[@peterholzer1452]

Dear Wilson McPhert: Thanks for posting this great recording and slideshow! We lost Duane Allman and Carl Radle in their prime. Jim Gordon is still in prison, but a few years ago he started playing with prison rock bands and teaching other prisoners how to play drums. -Peter

[@1987Hodgens]

I was there too in DC, thank you for posting this, one of the best concerts I've ever heard or seen, I still talk (brag) about it to this day! I recognize the drummer from the early days of Steely Dan.

[@fauxbro]

Good call, Rick...Most people don't know Gordon played the drums on most of the KATY LIED lp by Steely Dan....amazing drummer

[@rexfelton4373]

I was in attendance too!

[@jeffthoele3539]

My sister took me to see Sting and his band back in the 80's. I wasn't a big fan, but I went and he had a really good backing him. He played this song. I was blown away, by far the best song of his show. Later I found out Jimi Hendrix wrote this song, then it all came back to me. I wore out the album Layla, so many good songs on it.