He cut a wide path through 1970s rock ‘n’ roll, influencing some of the most famous musicians at the time with songs that were laid-back and mellow, yet imbued with a driving groove.
Clapton, Neil Young, Mark Knopfler and Bryan Ferry are among his many fans in the music world.
Neil Young has been quoted as considering Cale, along with Jimi Hendrix, to be the best electric guitar players.
Clapton said in his autobiography: “It is my humble opinion, he is one of the most important artists in the history of rock, quietly representing the greatest asset his country has ever had.”
Cale played with Leon Russell and other local musicians in Tulsa clubs in the 1950s and 1960s and also performed with the Grand Ole Opry touring company before achieving success with his debut “Naturally” album in 1972, which featured “Call Me the Breeze” and “Crazy Mama,” a top 40 hit.
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