The world of rock n’ roll music lost another great one. JJ Cale, a singer/songwriter mostly well known for his work with, Eric Clapton. JJ is Eric’s longtime friend, collaborator, songwriter, etc. Eric Clapton has covered JJ’s song, “Cocaine” for his solo album, “Slowhand”, which the song helped make that album become so famous and iconic. You can still hear Eric’s version of “Cocaine” on classic rock stations to this very day. JJ even collaborated on an album with Eric for, “The Road to Escondido” in 2006. JJ collaborated with Eric again for a song on Eric’s latest album, “Old Sock”. While JJ recorded a large number of his own solo albums… other bands & artists have covered his work too such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, Tom Petty, and others.

JJ Cale is an important figure in rock n’ roll music so I thought this one would be worth posting. He doesn’t get a lot of recognition when he should but without him Eric Clapton’s solo career wouldn’t have mattered. Eric must be devastated over his passing — I would think he would be.

Today, is a sad day for music. JJ was a talented guy and underrated. I personally find JJ’s version of “Cocaine” is better than Eric’s version. Eric’s version is good but JJ’s version is more intense, in my opinion. JJ’s version has more passion and meaning.

JJ Cale died of a heart attack… he was 74.

Kev