Slash Says It’s Not Fair To Put Jeff Beck Against Eric Clapton

In his recent interview with Jeff Garlin and Jimmy Vivino, Slash addressed the issue of people encouraging a rivalry between the holy trinity of guitar players, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, and Jimmy Page. He stated that it’s not fair to consider them rivals and put them up against each other.

Slash is one of the most famous guitarists of all time. He successfully reached fame through his talents as a guitarist. He was recently called a legend by his bandmate Richard Fortus for playing his instrument uniquely in each performance. Fortus also resembled his style to another iconic guitarist, Jimi Hendrix.

Every successful guitarist has been influenced by someone while developing their style throughout the years. However, names like Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, and Eric Clapton are widely considered the ‘cliche’ sources of inspiration. Their names are often mentioned by guitarists as the most influencing figures in the rock and roll world.

Some people tend to compare their talents and consider the icons as rivals because drama is always more appealing to the audience. In his recent interview, Slash admitted that it doesn’t make sense to compare these talented figures as even if they are from the same era, they all have different styles, and they don’t have rivalry amongst each other. He gave the example of Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck and stated that it’s not fair to put the two performers against each other.

As you know, Beck and Clapton played and performed together in The Yardbirds. They have a relationship that extends from professional to friendship, and they are both known for their iconic shows and their connection with each other. However, Clapton has never compared himself to his contemporaries, let alone his bandmate, even though he achieved mainstream success as a vocalist as well, while Beck didn’t.

Jimmy Vivino asked Slash to talk about the holy trinity by stating:

“Let’s talk about those three guys, Beck, Clapton and Paige. They’re just like holy trinity, it is amazing. When you think about it, it never goes away and people amend it.”

Here is what Slash replied:

“A lot of people try to put them up against each other. It’s just silly because they’re so different. I mean, they come from the same period, and they have a lot of relationships with each other, but they’re such different players that it’s not fair to put Jeff Beck against Eric Clapton.”

You can watch the full interview below.