Integrity plays a huge part. Not really sure what EC switching to a more pared down version of his music has to do with integrity, but whatever.

He has spent the last couple of decades doing more for Alcoholics and people with substance abuse problems, than just about any other celebritiy. Selling his most treasured guitars for millions and donating that to his various charities, his festivals, and all his efforts have a big part of that in Claptons life.

Clapton is one of those interesting people in that he acheived so much so fast and became this entire entitiy that took on a life of his own. In the 60's and 70's seeing the words "CLAPTON IS GOD" on walls, billboards, etc forced him to live up to expectations that no one could. This, invaribly led to drug addition, alcholoism and Phoning things in" over the years. Watch Harrison's "CONCERT FOR BANGLADESH" movie and you can see a lot of that. Of course, on Eric's bad days, he was leagues above almost anyone else.

I like, someone above became a pretty big EC fan, partically because of BELL BOTTOM BLUES. I came to it late, around 1974, as I actually started to play music.
The first actual concert I ever drove to was an outdoor show during the 461 Ocean Blvd. tour, with opening acts of BUDDY MILES, BILLY PRESTON, THE RASBERRYS, and THREE DOG NIGHT. Was an amazing first concert. I sat down, some African American handed me a joint and it was pretty memorable. Quite an opening for a 16 year old .Lots of firsts.

I followed him off and on over the years and have read and watched a lot of biographies on him. He has had nearly as many resurgances in a career as anyone. 70's, 80's, 90's, plugged, unplugged, bands, duos, guest starring, etc.Always finding his center. In the 2000's he began a return to the blues and that is pretty much where he is now. One of my favorites of this is "RIDING WITH THE KING" a duet with BB King. The guy is quite amazing.

But I really understand his attempt to get "back to his roots" with acoustic edge on his music. To me, it makes a lot of sense, and integrity is one of them. And as far as the "cash cow" end, Eric is one of those guys that could play as crappy as anyone, tour for a few months and still make a fortune. Not only his fans, .but the people who have never gotten to see him, would all pay to see him. Cant say that with a lot of people.

So yes, I think Integrity is part of it. There is not one reason for what he does. But in the end I think he is guided by the purest of reasons. A desire to explore himself and his art. The fact that it makes money, is a bonus.

MAB