Cream, formed in 1966, was a British rock three-piece supergroup (if not the first supergroup) comprising Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker. Known for their powerful blend of blues, rock, and psychedelia, Cream produced some of rock's most enduring anthems, including "Sunshine of Your Love” "White Room” and "Crossroads”. Their innovative sound and musical prowess set them apart, despite internal conflicts and a brief career span. The band's legacy was cemented with their 1993 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006. Cream's reunion concerts in 2005 were a testament to their lasting impact on the music world. Despite personal struggles and a tumultuous relationship among members, Cream remains one of the most influential bands in rock history.
Cream Career Highlights
1966: Cream was formed in London, England by Eric Clapton (guitar), Jack Bruce (bass, vocals), and Ginger Baker (drums).
Debut Album: Released their debut album "Fresh Cream” featuring hits like "I Feel Free."
1967: Released the landmark album "Disraeli Gears” which included hits such as "Sunshine of Your Love" and "Strange Brew."
1968: Released the double album "Wheels of Fire” which became the first platinum-selling double album.
Farewell Tour: Announced their breakup and embarked on a farewell tour, ending with a final concert at the Royal Albert Hall.
1969: Released the album "Goodbye” which included live tracks and the hit "Badge."
1993: Cream was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2005: The band reunited for a series of concerts at the Royal Albert Hall in London and Madison Square Garden in New York.
Cream Members
Eric Clapton: Guitar, vocals
Jack Bruce: Bass, vocals (deceased 2014)
Ginger Baker: Drums (deceased 2019)
Cream Grammy Awards
1993: Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and performed at the ceremony.
2006: Received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
3 Most Famous Cream Songs
1. "Sunshine of Your Love" (1967)
- One of Cream's most famous and enduring hits, known for its distinctive riff and powerful vocals. Famously played by Jimi Hendrix when Cream split up
2. "White Room" (1968)
- A classic rock staple with a haunting intro and memorable lyrics.
3. "Crossroads" (1968)
- A live rendition of Robert Johnson's blues standard, showcasing Clapton's guitar prowess.
Cream Quotes
Eric Clapton:
Cream was a trailblazer in many ways. We were breaking new ground musically, and that was incredibly exciting.
Jack Bruce:
We were three people with very different personalities, but when we played together, something magical happened.
Cream Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Internal Conflicts: Cream was notorious for the internal conflicts among its members, particularly between Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker. These tensions ultimately contributed to the band's breakup.
- Short-Lived but Influential: Despite being together for only about two years, Cream's influence on rock and blues music is profound, with many considering them one of the first supergroups.
- Drug Use: The band's history is marred by heavy drug use, particularly heroin, which affected their music and personal lives.
- Innovative Sound: Cream was known for their innovative fusion of blues, rock, and psychedelia, setting the stage for many future bands.
- Royal Albert Hall Reunion: Their 2005 reunion concerts were a historic event, drawing fans from around the world and proving the enduring legacy of their music.
Why were Cream so Great?
- They were the first ‘supergroup’
- They pioneered improvisation – even 20-minute drum solos!
- They crossed over from rock into commercial success
- Their material was great and they didn’t repeat themselves – when they did they broke up, leaving us wanting more!
Cream ratings
Cream Albums
See also Cream Discography