Eric Clapton retirement: Guitarist plans to quit 'unbearable' touring after 50 years on the road

Clapton might continue studio work but does not want to 'embarrass' himself

Eric Clapton sees touring as 'unapproachable' ahead of turning 70 next year (Getty Images)

Eric Clapton has announced his plans to quit “unbearable touring” after fifty years on the road.

The acclaimed British singer-songwriter turns 70 next year and has warned that some “odd ailments” mean he may be forced to stop playing his famous guitar.

Instead of live performances, Clapton intends to focus his attentions on the studio but he is by no means convinced of that either.

“There are a ton of things I’d like to do, but I’m looking at retirement too,” he told Uncut.

“What I’ll allow myself to do, within reason, is carry on recording in the studio. I don’t want to go off the boil to the point where I’m embarrassing myself.”

Clapton shared his thoughts on the “unapproachable” nature of touring and complained about how long it takes to get anywhere.

“It’s hostile – everywhere: getting in and out of airports, travelling on planes and in cars,” he said, mentioning his sadness at how most countries now resemble “a different version of America”.

Earlier this week, Clapton stormed off stage in Glasgow after technical problems disrupted his set.

Annoyed fans took to social media to voice their irritation and disappointment, with one Twitter user branding the guitarist’s actions “embarrassing and insulting”.

Following the gig, a statement appeared on Clapton’s official website saying “sorry for the break in the concert”.