Eric Clapton Announces Six-City U.S. Tour for Fall 2026

Blues legend to hit the road with special guest Jimmie Vaughan

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:30pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of the aged, weathered wood and metal hardware of a vintage electric guitar, captured in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting to create a sense of luxurious, high-fashion glamour.The gritty, glamorous textures of Eric Clapton's iconic Fender Stratocaster guitar evoke the blues legend's enduring musical legacy.Chicago Today

Eric Clapton has unveiled plans for a six-date U.S. concert tour this fall, kicking off on September 6 at Little Caesars Arena. The blues rock icon will be joined by special guest Jimmie Vaughan for the run of shows, which will also make stops in cities like Chicago and Cincinnati.

Why it matters

Clapton's return to the stage is highly anticipated by his devoted fanbase, as the 81-year-old musician has scaled back his touring schedule in recent years. The upcoming concerts will give audiences a rare chance to see the legendary guitarist perform his catalog of hits and fan favorites.

The details

Clapton's touring band for the U.S. dates will feature a number of longtime collaborators, including guitarist Doyle Bramhall II, drummer Sonny Emory, keyboardist Chris Stainton, bassist Nathan East, and backing vocalists Katie Kissoon and Sharon White. The six-show stretch follows Clapton's previously announced 11-date European tour earlier in 2026, as well as a performance at the Sandringham Estate in the U.K. on August 23.

  • The U.S. tour will kick off on September 6, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena.
  • Clapton has also scheduled 11 European shows from April 24 to May 17, 2026.
  • He will perform at the Sandringham Estate in the U.K. on August 23, 2026.

The players

Eric Clapton

An English rock and blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter who is considered one of the most influential guitarists of all time.

Jimmie Vaughan

An American blues guitarist and the older brother of the late Stevie Ray Vaughan, who will join Clapton as a special guest on the upcoming tour.

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What they’re saying

“Eric Clapton's return to the stage is always an event that his fans eagerly anticipate. This upcoming tour is sure to be a highlight of the fall concert season.”

— Samantha Wilkins, Music Critic

What’s next

Tickets for Clapton's U.S. tour dates will go on sale to the general public on May 1, 2026 through his official website and select ticket retailers.

The takeaway

At 81 years old, Eric Clapton remains one of the most revered and influential guitarists in rock and blues history. His upcoming tour will give fans a rare opportunity to see the legendary musician perform his timeless catalog of hits alongside special guest Jimmie Vaughan.