Eric Clapton releases stunning Jeff Beck cover of 'Moon River' recorded before his death

17 May 2023, 14:42 | Updated: 16 November 2023, 14:51

The music video for the track has been released ahead of the Clapton's two Jeff Beck tribute concert's taking place at the Royal Albert Hall London on Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd May.
The music video for the track has been released ahead of the Clapton's two Jeff Beck tribute concert's taking place at the Royal Albert Hall London on Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd May. Picture: Alamy/Eric Clapton

By Giorgina Hamilton

Eric Clapton has released a poignant collaboration of the 1961 classic with the late Jeff Beck.

A stunning version of 'Moon River' by Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck has landed.

The music video for the track has been released ahead of Clapton's two Jeff Beck tribute concerts taking place at the Royal Albert Hall London on Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd May.

The track is accompanied by a new music video featuring animations of the two guitar legends, with Jeff Beck on guitar and Eric Clapton's showcasing his unmistakable vocals.

The track is accompanied by a new music video featuring animations of the two guitar legends, with Jeff Beck on guitar and Eric Clapton's showcasing his unmistakable vocals.
The track is accompanied by a new music video featuring animations of the two guitar legends, with Jeff Beck on guitar and Eric Clapton's showcasing his unmistakable vocals. Picture: Getty

Eric Clapton collaborator Simon Climie said: "In January 2022, Eric and I recorded a version which was more of a ballad – and naturally the guitar and vocals were brilliant.

"When we were happy with the track, Eric asked me to send it over to Jeff. Jeff loved it.

"And soon after that in the spring of 2022, Jeff added his unmistakable guitar part. It knocked us off our feet," he added.

Watch the Jeff Beck and Eric Clapton music video for 'Moon River' below:

Eric Clapton / Jeff Beck - Moon River (Official Music Video)

The track will be released on 7" vinyl on July 14, 2023, and will also feature a new track by Eric Clapton ‘How Could We Know’.

Yardbirds guitarist Jeff Beck died suddenly in January 2023 aged 78, after contracting bacterial meningitis.

His guitar playing redefined the instrument in the 1960s, and he inspired genres across heavy metal, jazz and punk.

"On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck's passing," a statement said on his official social channels.

"After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday. His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss."

A Tribute To Jeff Beck at the Royal Albert Hall will take place on May 22-23 and will feature performances from Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, Aerosmith's Joe Perry, Johnny Depp, Eric Clapton, ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons and guitar virtuoso Gary Clark Jr.

Limited tickets to the London show are still available here.

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