Today’s Blimp Time Hop: A Sold-Out Show With EC at CCCC

After going through an intense battle with alcoholism and checking into rehab early in 1982, Eric Clapton returned to the Civic Center for a second time. His first appearance was on the Backless tour on May 26, 1979 with Muddy Waters.

On June 17, 1982, Blimpsters sold-out Portland’s biggest venue once again for the guitar giant. He also an incredible second guitarist that night. Albert Lee teamed up with him, a legend in his own right.  The Fabulous Thunderbirds were the opening act, fours years before their top 10 smash Tuff Enuff.

Here's what Clapton wowed us with! Not bad for a Thursday night, eh?

According to our official concert history book from the CCCC, Eric Clapton played Portland three times. The last show here was in May of 1985.

Watch this crazy-great 1982 fun footage from the British TV show, Chas and Dave. What a party! Everybody in the studio audience is dancing like nobody’s watching at home!