This performance is from Eric Claptons famous 1992 Unplugged live concert, but is not found on any DVDs or CDs. It was shown on a documentary about the unplugged concert - I saw it on tv only once, many years ago, and was struck and deeply moved by the song.

The famous song Tears In Heaven is about Claptons son Conor, who died far too soon, at the age of four in 1991 - fell to his death from an open window.

This song, The Circus Left Town, is also about Conor, and is about the last day Clapton spent with his son, at a circus.

From an interview with Conors mother Lory:
Conor died in March 1991. The day before had been one of the happiest days in Eric and Lory's life. 'It was a special day. Conor and I had come to New York for Easter to spend time with Eric and he had taken Conor to the circus on Long Island. They had such a great time. When Eric got back he looked at me and said, "I now understand what it means to have a child and be a father." He was so happy. That day I saw a new future for us. It was the first time that Eric had ever had Conor on his own. Eric was so happy and said from then on when he had Conor he wanted to look after him without any help. I was delighted and said, "Are you sure?" He insisted that he would look after him, cook for him and wash him all by himself. He said, "I want him to come to London where I can take care of him." He had finally discovered what is meant to be a father, then fate broke this.'


This performance was the first public performance of the song The Circus Left Town. You can clearly see how emotionally affected Clapton is. And - I dare you to watch it without your eyes starting to well up. I know I can't. *wipes his eyes*


The Circus Left Town

Little man with his eyes on fire
and his smile so bright
In his hands are the toys you gave
to fill his heart with delight
And in the ring stands a circus clown
holding up a knife
What you see and what you will hear
will last you for the rest of your life

And it's sad, so sad,
there ain't no easy way 'round
And it's sad, so sad,
all you friends gather 'round
'Cause the circus left town

Little man with his heart so pure
and his love so fine
Stick with me and I'll ride with you
till the end of the line
Hold my hand and I'll walk with you
through the darkest night
When I smile I'll be thinkin' of you
and every little thing will be all right

But it's sad, so sad,
there ain't no easy way 'round
And it's sad, so sad
all you friends gather 'round
'Cause the circus left town

And it's sad, so sad,
there ain't no easy way 'round
And it's sad, so sad,
all you friends gather 'round
'Cause the circus left town