Perhaps his most recognisable song, "Layla" captures the height of Clapton's emotional intensity. The urgent, pleading guitar riff opens the door to one of rock's greatest love songs, inspired by his unrequited love for George Harrison's wife, Pattie Boyd. The contrasting piano coda, with Duane Allman's slide guitar weaving throughout, transforms the song into something transcendent.

Clapton's live version of Robert Johnson's blues standard showcases his virtuosity and ability to transform traditional blues into high-energy rock. His solo here is a masterclass in blues-rock improvisation – fluid, emotional, and technically brilliant. This performance cemented his reputation as a guitar god.

One of Clapton's most tender compositions, "Wonderful Tonight" shows his ability to convey deep emotion through restrained, melodic playing. Written for Pattie Boyd (who had by then become his wife), the simple yet perfect guitar lines prove that Clapton's genius lies not just in blazing solos but in knowing exactly what a song needs.

Born from unimaginable personal tragedy – the death of his four-year-old son Conor – this Grammy-winning song reveals Clapton's soul-baring songwriting. The delicate acoustic arrangement and honest lyrics created one of the most poignant songs about loss ever recorded, connecting with millions through its authenticity.

Co-written with George Harrison, "Badge" bridges Cream's psychedelic blues with Clapton's future melodic direction. Its distinctive guitar riff and chord progression showcase his innovative approach to composition, while the solo demonstrates his immaculate phrasing and tone.

Another song from the Layla album inspired by his feelings for Pattie Boyd, "Bell Bottom Blues" features one of Clapton's most soulful vocals. His guitar work builds from subtle accompaniment to an expressive solo that speaks as eloquently as the lyrics.

This psychedelic rock masterpiece showcases Clapton's ability to create atmospheric, textured guitar work. His wah-wah pedal-infused solo cuts through the song's dense production, demonstrating his willingness to experiment while maintaining his distinctive voice on the instrument.

Built around one of rock's most recognisable riffs, this song exemplifies Cream's heavy, blues-influenced sound. Clapton's tone here - achieved with his Gibson SG and Marshall amp - became the template for generations of rock guitarists. His solo, with its distinctive Indian-influenced phrasing, shows his ability to incorporate diverse musical elements.

Clapton's cover of Bob Marley's reggae classic became a bigger hit than the original and helped introduce Marley to a wider audience. It demonstrated Clapton's versatility and willingness to explore beyond blues and rock, while still maintaining his identifiable guitar style.