T-Bone Walker

This collection of 1960s sides finds the oh-so-classy Texas blues king delivering smoky bar downers in all his glory. "Natural Ball," "She's My Old Time Used to Be" and "Further on up the Road" are highlights, but anytime Walker steps out and takes one of his understated, economic solos, you'll want to be listening really closely. Much of Clapton's sound comes from here.