Eric Clapton

Produced by Eric Clapton and Simon Climie, who together also wrote the album's debut single "Revolution," Back Home additionally spotlights an all- star backing band, many of whose members have worked extensively with Clapton over the years. Included are drummer Steve Gadd, bassist Nathan East, guitarists Andy Fairweather Low and Doyle Bramhall II, and keyboardists Billy Preston and Simon Climie. Among the special guests appearing on Back Home are Steve Winwood (synthesizer), John Mayer (guitar), Robert Randolph (dobro), Chris Stainton (Fender Rhodes), Stephen Marley (percussion), Abraham Laboriel, Jr. (drums), Pino Paladino (bass) and Toby Baker (keyboards). The album also highlights string arrangements by Nick Ingman and performances by the Kick Horns. "I wanted to make a studio album without quite knowing what it was going to be," remarks Clapton on the creative impetus behind Back Home. Working closely with Climie, Clapton began recording over a year ago, working around his touring schedule and family commitments. "We kind of resigned ourselves to the fact that it was going to take a long time," the multi Grammy(R) Award-winning artist continues, "but when we got stuck or if it wasn't moving fast enough we'd stop and do a Robert Johnson song. That would clear the air and we'd go back and carry on for the new album. As a result, we ended up with a complete Robert Johnson album first, which was released last year as Me And Mr Johnson."It was through the writing and recording process, Clapton explains, that the theme of Back Home emerged. "One of the earliest statements I made about myself," he reveals, "was back in the late '80's, with Journeyman. This album completes that cycle in terms of talking about my whole journey as an itinerant musician and where I find myself now, starting a new family. That's why I chose the title. It's about coming home and staying home. Even though," he adds with a laugh, "I'll be out on the road again next year, playing this music."