Eric Clapton and Phil Collins Rock Live Aid With Their Spirited Rendition Of “Layla”

Clapton Rocks Live Aid

If there was ever any doubt about Eric Clapton’s musical ability and stage presence, this is the performance that will change your mind! In 1985, Eric took the stage at Live Aid with Phil Collins for a spirited rendition of Clapton’s ‘Layla’.

It was already a crowd favorite, but when Eric tore through it onstage that day in front of 72,000 people as effortlessly as breathing, his performance solidified his position as one of the most highly respected musicians and performers in his industry.

Pattie Boyd: The Real Life Layla

‘Layla’ is about George Harrison’s wife, Pattie and based on a 14th century story called Layla and Majnun, a tale of a young man in love with a woman he can’t have and driven to the point of insanity.

I can’t think of another Live Aid performance that rivals Eric Clapton’s – really! The combination of Eric’s guitar prowess and Phil Collins leading the charge from behind his kit made for a winning performance that left everyone both wanting more and wondering how this quiet Englishman could put on such a phenomenal show!

+ Layla lyrics +

What’ll you do when you get lonely
And nobody’s waiting by your side?
You’ve been running and hiding much too long.
You know it’s just your foolish pride.

Layla, you’ve got me on my knees.
Layla, I’m begging, darling please.
Layla, darling won’t you ease my worried mind.

I tried to give you consolation
When your old man had let you down.
Like a fool, I fell in love with you,
Turned my whole world upside down.

Layla, you’ve got me on my knees.
Layla, I’m begging, darling please.
Layla, darling won’t you ease my worried mind.

Let’s make the best of the situation
Before I finally go insane.
Please don’t say I’ll never find a way
And tell me all my love’s in vain.

Layla, you’ve got me on my knees.
Layla, I’m begging, darling please.
Layla, darling won’t you ease my worried mind.

Layla, you’ve got me on my knees.
Layla, I’m begging, darling please.
Layla, darling won’t you ease my worried mind.