When contemplating the new name of my blog, I drew inspiration from my all-time favorite classic rock album by Eric Clapton, Derek and The Dominos’ Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs.

In late August 1970, Eric Clapton formed a new band, Derek and The Dominos. Together with Carl Radle (bass), Jim Gordon (drums), and Bobby Whitlock (keyboards and vocals) they set out to build upon the success of Clapton’s first solo album, the self-titled Eric Clapton that had just been released. They began recording at the famous Criteria Studios in Miami, Florida, and in what can only be described as a stroke of musical good fortune, Clapton was presented with the opportunity to meet Duane Allman, lead guitarist of The Allman Brothers Band. They shared a warm mutual respect, and Clapton wasted no time inviting Allman to join in on the recording session. This was a once-in-a-lifetime pairing of two guitar masters.

Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs was released on November 9, 1970. What came from these recording sessions was like capturing lightning in a bottle. A double-album of 14 songs, filled with emotional intensity, and a fusion of creative energy produced such standouts as Bell Bottom Blues, Keep On Growing, Nobody Knows When You’re Down and Out, Anyday, Key To The Highway, Tell the Truth, Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad?, Have You Ever Loved a Woman, Little Wing, and Layla.

The album features a mix of original songs penned by Clapton, some of which were co-written with Whitlock and Gordon, along with a selection of blues standards. At the heart of the album was Clapton’s unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, the wife of his friend George Harrison. This love story screams through every note and takes us along on an intense emotional journey. The stars aligned when Derek and The Dominos recorded this musical masterpiece.

The album’s “assorted” blend of telling life stories (rock, blues, and ballads) inspired me to select the name. It offers a fresh starting point to break new ground for my writing.

Stay tuned. TJ