Classic Clapton

The band was formed in 1985 in Newcastle upon Tyne long before the term “tribute band” was invented, and named themselves ''After Midnight'' after Eric Clapton’s first solo hit.

In the past 24 years they have become the world's leading Eric Clapton tribute band. Their ability to re-create Clapton’s electrifying stage performances really caught the audience’s imagination. In guitar/vocalist Mike Hall, the band possesses a front man who not only looks like Eric, he sings and plays guitar like him too! Mike has met Slowhand twice, and even received a message of encouragement from the guitar maestro (written on a Concorde menu). TYNE TEES TELEVISION made a programme about them, called 'COVER THEIR TRACKS'. They filmed the band's concert at Newcastle Tyne Theatre, in front of 600 ecstatic fans. It was shown in August 2000 leading to national recognition. In 2001 they embarked on an extensive tour of UK Theatres. They called the tribute show "CLASSIC CLAPTON". Since then, they have continued to perform throughout the UK including concerts at The Royal Festival Hall, London and a triumphant appearance at Glastonbury Festival in 2002. The band has toured Ireland, Scotland and Wales numerous times. In the past few years they have performed numerous concerts in Europe, including Spain, Estonia & Holland. 

 They have released three albums. Firstly “THE MUSIC OF ERIC CLAPTON” contains brilliant cover-versions of 17 Clapton Classics. Their second album is a double CD ''CLASSIC CLAPTON Unplugged'' recorded at Belfast Waterfront Hall. In 2005 they released their third album “CLASSIC CREAM” – featuring 20 covers of songs by the sixties supergroup. After Midnight comprises 4 excellent musicians:- Mike Hall (guitar/lead vocals) plus bass, keyboards and drums. Eric Clapton’s recent tours unfortunately have visited only a limited number of large arenas. If fans want to hear all of his hits performed in more intimate surroundings, they really should attend a CLASSIC CLAPTON concert. They will be performing authentic versions of all the popular Clapton Classics including Wonderful Tonight, Tears in Heaven, Crossroads, Lay Down Sally, I Shot The Sheriff, Sunshine of Your Love, Cocaine and of course Layla! The whole of Clapton’s illustrious career will be covered including The Bluesbreakers, Cream, The Yardbirds, Derek & The Dominos and the solo years. There will even be an “UNPLUGGED” segment. NEARLY 2 HOURS OF CLASSIC CLAPTON