Eric Clapton brought his Madrid concert to an abrupt end after an object was thrown at his chest. The 81-year-old rock and blues musician was performing at the Movistar Arena as part of his European tour. He had just finished his song "Cocaine" and was preparing for an encore when a vinyl record, still in its packaging, struck him.
Concert Cut Short
Footage circulating on social media captured the moment Clapton was hit. He had been smiling and waving to the audience, making his way backstage in what appeared to be a classic pre-encore exit. However, the smile faded as the vinyl hit him, and he left the stage without returning.
Fan Reactions
Fans took to social media to express their disappointment and anger. One attendee, @doron_ros, called the show "by far the worst" they had ever seen, urging others to "save their money." Another user, @HertzFrancisco, shared a clip of the incident, writing: "There was a good reason for no encore." @cromotocaster expressed deep shame as a Madrilenian and Clapton fan, while @AxLorente raged that the person responsible "f***ed up an ending that was gonna be gorgeous." Others criticized the thrower, with @CarlosMore74 calling them a "shameless jerk."
Unclear Motive
The identity of the thrower remains unknown, and it is unclear if they were reprimanded. Some social media users speculated that the person was a band member trying to promote their own music. Spanish publication El País reported that the fan had attached a "note of affection" to the vinyl and did not intend to harm Clapton. Nevertheless, the singer reportedly became angry and decided to cancel the encore.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Clapton has not yet commented on the incident. He is scheduled to perform next on May 10 in Barcelona at the Palau Sant Jordi, followed by shows in Germany. His only UK date is on August 23 at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, where he will be joined by Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood. Later this year, he will tour North America and headline the Crossroads Music Festival in Austin, Texas.
History of Concert Incidents
This incident is not the first time an artist has been hit by a thrown object. In 2023, several performers faced similar situations. Kelsea Ballerini rushed off stage after being hit in the eye by a bracelet, Bebe Rexha needed stitches after a phone was thrown at her, and Ava Max was slapped by a stage invader. Artists have also been handed unusual objects, such as Pink receiving a cheese wheel and a fan's mother's ashes.
Representatives for Eric Clapton have been contacted for comment.
