THE ERIC CLAPTON FIREBIRD I

History

In April 1968, during Cream's U.S. tour, Eric Clapton acquired a 1964 Gibson Firebird I, likely on April 13th in Philadelphia. This purchase is documented in Cream's tour ledger, which lists a "musical equipment" expense of $905.50 on that date. The Firebird I featured a distinctive reverse body design and a single mini-humbucker pickup, offering a unique tone that set it apart from Clapton’s previous guitars. Before adopting the Firebird, Clapton was most famously associated with his Gibson SG, known as "The Fool," which was painted in a psychedelic design. The Firebird I represented a shift in both sound and style, providing a cutting, powerful tone that complemented Cream’s heavier blues-rock direction.

Clapton used the Firebird I extensively during Cream's final U.S. tour in 1968, as well as on their farewell performances at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The guitar was also played during the brief existence of Blind Faith, where Clapton experimented with a different musical approach. The Firebird’s raw tone and sustain made it a standout instrument for live performances, and it became a key part of Clapton’s signature sound in this period. Unlike the Gibson SG, which had a more rounded and warm tone, the Firebird I delivered a sharper attack, which suited Cream’s powerful improvisations on stage.

Reflecting on the guitar, Clapton later said, "I remember one night in particular with the Firebird. It was a Cream show in Philadelphia, and it was one of the greatest gigs I ever played." His admiration for the Firebird I was evident in the way he integrated it into his performances, making it one of the defining instruments of his late-’60s era. The guitar's unique look and powerful sound contributed to some of the most memorable performances of his career, and it remains an iconic part of Clapton's history.

Gibson Firebird I 

Artist Proof Number “4” 

2000s Production 

1964 Specification 

Sunburst  Cellulose Finish 

Single Pickup 

Nickel Hardware 

Case  ( Pre Production , Prototype Style FB Case ) 

EC FB “ 4 “ Labelled 

Added / Spare Compensator Bridge 

Condition - Played , Used 

Production 

The above instrument was one of six Artist Proof Prototype Firebirds that were produced by the Gibson Artist Division and given to Eric Clapton for test inspection and playing purposes 

History 

Artist Proof “ Number 4 “ was personally gifted By Eric Clapton to fellow guitarist Alan Darby during the Crossroads Guitar Festival, picture attached 

Verification 

The instrument comes with a personalised letter from Alan Darby's guitar technician confirming said history.

Comments 

The above instrument is highly documented owned and used Gibson FB I from the world's most legendary guitarist that being Eric Clapton.