Tag: Mark Knopfler

Eric Clapton and Mark Knopfler are two of the greatest rock and roll music artists. Here played together the
song “Same Old Blues”.

Eric Clapton – Music For Montserrat

This recording is from the “Music For Montserrat” – the concert held on 15 September 1997 at the Royal Albert Hall. Musicians came together to raise funds for the Caribbean island of Montserrat after a major volcanic eruption by the Soufrière Hills volcano. Earlier that year volcano left the island, including its capital of Plymouth, devastated.

The concert starred musicians such as Phil Collins, Ray Cooper, Carl Perkins, Jimmy Buffett, Mark Knopfler, Sting, Elton John, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney, Midge Ure, Arrow and much more. All of whom had once recorded at the island’s famous AIR Studios.

A DVD was released with the most famous songs from the concert. Among others Your Song, Layla, Brothers In Arms, Blue Suede Shoes, Money For Nothing, Yesterday, Hey Jude, and Message In A Bottle.

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The concert was arranged and produced by George Martin. Proceeds from the show and DVD were used for immediate relief and also helped fund the building of a new cultural center in Montserrat. On its completion in 2006, George Martin gifted the center to the Islanders.

(source: wikipedia.org)

The Music for Montserrat concert was a significant event held on September 15, 1997, at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Organized by Sir George Martin, the legendary producer of The Beatles, the concert aimed to raise funds for the Caribbean island of Montserrat following a devastating volcanic eruption by the Soufrière Hills volcano earlier that year. Eric Clapton was one of the many iconic musicians who performed at the event, which also included stars like Phil Collins, Mark Knopfler, Sting, Elton John, and Paul McCartney, all of whom had previously recorded on the island. The concert was a testament to the solidarity of the music community and the proceeds from ticket sales and DVD copies went towards the restoration and support of the island, raising £1.5 million. This effort also contributed to the building of a new cultural center in Montserrat, which was completed in 2006 and gifted to the local community by George Martin.

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Eric Clapton and the “Music for Montserrat” Concert

Eric Clapton, often referred to as one of the most influential guitarists of all time, has been involved in numerous charitable and collaborative projects throughout his career. One of the most memorable events in his extensive legacy was the “Music for Montserrat” benefit concert, held on September 15, 1997, at the Royal Albert Hall in London. This remarkable concert was organized to aid the Caribbean island of Montserrat, which had been devastated by a series of volcanic eruptions.

Background of the Event

The island of Montserrat, known as the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean,” suffered a catastrophic natural disaster when the Soufrière Hills volcano erupted in 1995, displacing thousands of residents and leaving much of the island uninhabitable. Montserrat had also been a creative hub for musicians during the 1970s and 1980s, thanks to George Martin’s AIR Studios. Artists like The Rolling Stones, Elton John, and Paul McCartney recorded albums there, making the island’s plight particularly poignant to the music community.

George Martin, often referred to as the “fifth Beatle” for his pivotal role in shaping The Beatles’ sound, spearheaded the “Music for Montserrat” concert to raise funds for disaster relief. The event brought together an extraordinary lineup of musical legends, with Eric Clapton among the most prominent performers.

Eric Clapton’s Role

Clapton’s participation in “Music for Montserrat” showcased his enduring commitment to using music as a force for good. Known for his soulful guitar playing and heartfelt vocals, Clapton delivered a stirring performance that evening, including renditions of his iconic hits such as “Layla” and “Tears in Heaven.” His emotionally charged delivery resonated deeply with the audience, underlining the concert’s purpose of bringing hope and healing to those affected by the tragedy.

Clapton also joined other artists in collaborative performances, demonstrating his versatility and camaraderie. Sharing the stage with legends like Paul McCartney, Sting, Elton John, Mark Knopfler, and Phil Collins, Clapton helped create a night of unforgettable musical magic.

Highlights of the Concert

The “Music for Montserrat” concert was a star-studded event filled with unforgettable moments. Paul McCartney performed The Beatles’ classics like “Yesterday” and “Hey Jude,” while Elton John moved the audience with songs such as “Your Song” and “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” Sting brought his unique sound with hits like “Message in a Bottle,” and Mark Knopfler’s mesmerizing guitar work on “Sultans of Swing” added to the evening’s allure.

Eric Clapton’s performances stood out not only for their musical excellence but also for their emotional depth. His contributions highlighted his ability to connect with audiences on a profound level, a hallmark of his storied career. The collaborative rendition of “Hey Jude,” featuring all the artists, served as a powerful finale, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

Legacy of “Music for Montserrat”

The “Music for Montserrat” concert raised substantial funds for disaster relief and brought global attention to the plight of Montserrat’s residents. Beyond its financial success, the event symbolized the power of music to unite people and inspire action in the face of adversity.

For Eric Clapton, the concert was another milestone in a career marked by both artistic brilliance and humanitarian efforts. It reinforced his reputation as not only a legendary musician but also a compassionate individual committed to making a difference through his art.

Today, “Music for Montserrat” remains a shining example of the music industry’s ability to rally for a cause. It is remembered not just for its stellar performances but also for its heartfelt purpose—a testament to the enduring impact of artists like Eric Clapton and their willingness to give back to the world.