Eric Clapton

461 Ocean Boulevard

First released1974

461 Ocean Boulevard was recorded in 1974 at Criteria Studios in Miami, Florida, with producer Tom Dowd, who was instrumental in shaping the album's relaxed, blues-influenced sound. The recording sessions took place during a period of personal recovery for Clapton and featured a stellar band including keyboardist Carl Radle, drummer Jamie Oldaker, and saxophonist Bobby Keys, creating a cohesive live-band feel rather than a heavily layered studio production. Dowd's approach emphasized natural sound capture and minimal overdubbing, reflecting Clapton's desire to move away from the psychedelic experimentation of his recent past toward a more straightforward blues and rock foundation. The album's warm, organic sonic character was partly achieved through the technical expertise of Criteria Studios, which was one of the premier recording facilities of the era with state-of-the-art equipment. Released in August 1974, the album marked a significant commercial and critical turning point for Clapton, establishing him as a solo artist and spawning the hit single "I Shot the Sheriff."