Question: Who replaced Eric Clapton in The Yardbirds when he left?
Show answer
Jeff Beck.
When Eric Clapton left The Yardbirds in 1965, he was replaced by Jeff Beck, one of the most innovative and influential guitarists of his time.
Eric Clapton’s Departure
Eric Clapton had been the lead guitarist of The Yardbirds since 1963, contributing to their early blues-based sound. However, he became frustrated when the band began shifting towards a more commercial, pop-oriented style. This transition was marked by their hit single “For Your Love,” which was released in 1965. Clapton, who was deeply devoted to pure blues music, disliked this change and decided to leave the band.
Jeff Beck Joins The Yardbirds
After Clapton’s departure, The Yardbirds sought a guitarist who could bring a fresh, more experimental sound. They found Jeff Beck, who was recommended by session guitarist Jimmy Page (later of Led Zeppelin). Beck joined the band in March 1965, and his arrival transformed their sound, incorporating elements of psychedelic rock, distortion, and feedback, which helped define the group’s later style.
During his time with The Yardbirds, Jeff Beck played on some of their most famous songs, including:
- “Heart Full of Soul” (1965)
- “Shapes of Things” (1966)
- “Over Under Sideways Down” (1966)
- “Happenings Ten Years Time Ago” (1966), which also featured Jimmy Page
Legacy and Impact
Beck’s time with The Yardbirds was short-lived – he was fired in 1966 due to his unpredictable behavior and health issues. However, his tenure was highly influential, pushing the band into new sonic territories that would inspire future rock and metal guitarists.
Interestingly, after Beck’s departure, Jimmy Page – who had originally recommended Beck – eventually took over as The Yardbirds’ lead guitarist, setting the stage for the band’s final transformation into Led Zeppelin.
