Eric Clapton – Grans Casino Arena – St. Paul MN – September 15th 2026

Live Nation and Grand Casino Arena present Eric Clapton with special guest Jimmy Vaughan

Review by Kyle Hansen

Eric Clapton’s September 15 performance at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul was a remarkable evening of music that reminded everyone why his guitar playing has endured for generations.

Opening the night was Jimmie Vaughan & The Tilt-A-Whirl Band, whose blues-driven set established the perfect atmosphere for what followed.

When Clapton and his band took the stage, they opened with the Cream classic “Badge,” immediately drawing the audience into the music.

The concert moved effortlessly between electric blues, rock and intimate acoustic performances. Early highlights included “Key to the Highway,” “I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man” and “Pretending,” showcasing Clapton’s unmistakable guitar style without relying on elaborate production or unnecessary spectacle.

The acoustic portion of the evening was especially beautiful. “Kind Hearted Woman Blues,” “Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out,” “Running on Faith” and “Can’t Find My Way Home” created a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. “Layla” received a particularly lovely acoustic treatment, while “Tears in Heaven” provided one of the most emotional moments of the night.

The energy rose again when the electric guitars returned. “Tearing Us Apart,” “Old Love,” “Cross Road Blues” and “Little Queen of Spades” gave Clapton and his outstanding band plenty of room to stretch out. The musicianship throughout the evening was exceptional, with Doyle Bramhall II, Nathan East, Chris Stainton, Tim Carmon, Sonny Emory, Katie Kissoon and Sharon White contributing significantly to the overall sound.

“Cocaine” was another major crowd favorite, eliciting an enthusiastic response from the packed arena. Rather than turning the evening into a spectacle, Clapton let the songs and musicianship speak for themselves.

At 81, Clapton’s performance carried the perspective of a musician with more than six decades of experience. His voice was seasoned and understated, while his guitar playing remained the central attraction. The result was an elegant, blues-focused concert that felt less like a nostalgia trip and more like an experienced artist continuing to do what he does best.

For the St. Paul audience, it was a special night: great songs, extraordinary musicians, soulful blues and plenty of guitar magic. Eric Clapton didn’t need flash or theatrics. He simply stepped onto the stage, picked up his guitar and let the music do the talking.