Eric Clapton

461 Ocean Boulevard

First released1974

461 Ocean Boulevard was recorded in August 1974 at Criteria Studios in Miami, Florida, during a period when Eric Clapton was focusing on a more stripped-down, blues-influenced sound. The album was produced by Tom Dowd, the legendary engineer and producer known for his work with Atlantic Records artists, who helped shape the album's clear, direct production style. The recording featured Clapton's core band including bassist Carl Radle and drummer Jamie Oldaker, with minimal overdubs to emphasize live performance quality. The album marked Clapton's commercial and critical comeback following his recovery from heroin addiction, with the hit single "I Shot the Sheriff" becoming a major chart success. The production approach reflected a return to roots-oriented rock and blues material, moving away from the more elaborate arrangements of some of his earlier work.