Why is Eric Clapton referred to as Slowhand?

According to Yardbirds rhythm guitarist Chris Dreja, whenever Clapton broke a guitar string during a concert, he would remain on stage and replace it. While English audiences waited, they would begin a slow handclap, which is called “to be given the slowhand.”

Who earned the nickname Slowhand?

Although famously referred to as God by at least one British graffiti artist, Eric Clapton’s more often used nickname is Slowhand. Clapton earned the moniker in the early Sixties while playing with the Yardbirds.

What does the term Slowhand mean?

February 9, 2012 Daven Hiskey. The nickname “Slowhand” was not, as is commonly thought, given to Clapton due to playing the guitar slowly. Rather, it was given to him because of audiences giving him a slow hand clap when he would replace guitar strings on stage.