Slowhand breaks own COVID tour mandate

Eric Clapton has broken his vow not to play venues with COVID vaccine mandates by taking the stage at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.

The public-health skeptic told fans he would never perform at a venue that required proof of vaccination, but on Saturday he reversed that decision for his latest tour date.

Clapton said earlier this year: “I wish to say that I will not perform on any stage where there is a discriminated audience present. Unless there is provision made for all people to attend, I reserve the right to cancel the show.”

Clapton is vaccinated but made it clear he regretted that decision after suffering “disastrous” side effects.