Song Rig
Cocaine
Eric Clapton · Slowhand · 1977
Tone Overview
What Makes This Sound Unique
By Slowhand, Clapton had moved from the Cream-era SG/Marshall setup to a Fender Stratocaster into a Fender blackface amp — a cleaner, brighter platform. "Cocaine" sits at the tighter end of his 1977 tone: a Strat with the bridge pickup, moderate overdrive from a pushed Fender, and a cutting brightness that suits the riff's angular, staccato character. Originally a JJ Cale song; Clapton's version has more presence and edge.
Signal Chain
- 1Fender Stratocaster (bridge pickup)
- 2MXR Phase 45 (subtle, slightly detached feel)
- 3Fender Dual Showman (pushed)
Amp Settings
Brighter, more cutting setting than the 1960s Cream material — the Fender platform requires more treble to achieve clarity. The riff's staccato character benefits from a fairly bright tone that keeps the note attack distinct. Moderate overdrive from the amp rather than a fuzz pedal.
Technique
How to Play It
The riff's power comes from the staccato attack — notes are cut short deliberately, not held. Keep the right hand muting aggressively between each struck note. The E riff should feel like punches, not a legato melody.
Budget Alternative
Achievable With
Strat bridge pickup into a Blues Junior at 6–7 with treble at 8. A mild overdrive (Boss OD-3) adds sustain without losing the staccato character. The MXR Phase 45 at a slow, subtle rate adds the slight swirling quality of the original recording.
Your Gear
Adapt to My Amp
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