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The guitar riff that we are going to learn how to play for this post (and/or video) is the 2 guitar parts. The ones that are dominant in the record.

On the left right side of this page is the tablature of the intro for Layla. The first 8 bars is the first guitar and it continues until the verses.

But for the illustration, starting at bar 9 till the end is the second guitar which is an octave higher riff and plays some other cool guitar parts.

How to Play Layla Guitar Intro Riff

Layla is a popular composition by Eric Clapton. He wrote the song when he was associated with his two favorite bands, the Derek and the Dominoes. The two different versions available for the song include an acoustic version which is mellifluous and a rock genre electric version.

Clapton was heavily inspired by his lady love who happened to be his friend’s wife when writing this song. Layla didn’t witness success at its first stint but later became a critical success. The song was honored with a Grammy award in 1993 for its acoustic version.

Pay attention to the hammer-ons  and the slide-down.

The ‘Layla’ who the song is based on is a woman named Patti Boyd. Boyd was married to Beatles’ guitarist George Harrison until 1977 when they divorced.

Thereafter she married Cream/Derek and the Domino’s guitarist Eric Clapton in 1979.

The Chords to Play Layla

The step by step instructions of the song will make it easy to learn the complete number in full. Main chords that form the song are C5, C#m7 Root5, D5(power), Dm open, E7 , E , F#/Gbm variation2, A open, A#/Bb Root5, A#/Bb Root5 (power).

Here are some great reason why you should learn this song:

• Layla is one of the most classical compositions of Eric Clapton.
• A mellow feel lingers throughout the song which is soothing and its easy to sing along.
• The acoustic version of Layla is the best choice for guitarists to show their talent.

Why Layla By Eric Clapton Is Great To Play?

Layla is a popular number composed by Eric Clapton which has a strong mellow feel to it. The song is emotionally moving and has a laid back effect with some memorable lyrics. This romantic song is best suited for beginner and intermediate guitarists to advanced levels. The acoustic solo combined with swing rhythms are good to listen to. It is termed as Hard for its high level of guitar skills required to play.

About Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton, an English guitarist and songwriter is honored with a fourth rank in top 100 greatest guitarists of all time by Rolling Stone magazine. He began his career by playing guitar in pubs before joining some popular bands. During his sting, Clapton played with Dominoes, Derek, Yardbirds and Cream. He has performed as a solo artist as well.

The Album Layla Came From

Layla belongs to the album Layla and other assorted love songs by Eric Clapton. The album featured his song in the lead even though, it was a group venture by the bands Dominoes and Derek. The first version wasn’t so popular until the acoustic version was re-released in 1992 that went to win the Grammys. Since 1972, it was released multiple times and with the History of Eric Clapton album as well.

Layla Guitar Chords

If you prefer to play Layla via chords, that is, by strumming below is the guitar chords for the song:


Dm Bb C Dm (3 times)

Dm Bb C A C

C#m7 G#7
What will you do when you get lonely?
C#m7 D E E7
With no one waiting by your side
F#m B E A
You’ve been running and hiding much too long
F#m B E A
You know it’s just your foolish pride Layla

(Chorus)

Dm Bb C Dm
You got me on my knees Layla
Dm Bb C Dm
I’m begging darlin’ please, Layla
Dm Bb C Dm
Darlin’ won’t you ease my worried mind
Dm Bb C A C

C#m7 G#7
Tried to give you consolation,
C#m7 D E E7
Your old man had let you down
F#m B E A
Like a fool, I fell in love with you,
F#m B E A
You turned the whole world upside down Layla

Dm Bb C Dm
You got me on my knees Layla
Dm Bb C Dm
I’m begging darlin’ please, Layla
Dm Bb C Dm
Darlin’ won’t you ease my worried mind
Dm Bb C A C

C#m7 G#7
Let’s make the best of the situation
C#m D E E7
Before I fin’lly go insane
F#m B E A
Please don’t say we’ll never find a way
F#m B E A
And tell me all my loves in vain Layla

Dm Bb C Dm
You got me on my knees Layla
Dm Bb C Dm
I’m begging darlin’ please, Layla
Dm Bb C Dm
Darlin’ won’t you ease my worried mind
Dm Bb C A C

(Solo)

Dm Bb C Dm
You got me on my knees Layla
Dm Bb C Dm
I’m begging darlin’ please, Layla
Dm Bb C Dm
Darlin’ won’t you ease my worried mind
Dm Bb C A C

 

Song Facts and Trivia about Layla

Being a huge fan of the Beatles, I cannot end this post without mentioning some of the stories behind this wonderful song.

Did you know that this song is actually composed by Eric Clapton for George Harrison’s wife – Patty Boyde?

If you’re a fan of the Beatles too, you of course know that Eric Claptop married George’s wife but what you probably did not know is that Layla (and Wonderful Tonight) is written for her.