Eric Clapton rerecorded classic song for 1987 beer commercial.

In 1987, Michelob tapped legendary rock guitarist Eric Clapton to feature in a beer commercial. Clapton, known for his iconic work, chose to re-record his classic hit song “After Midnight” for the commercial. This track had originally topped the charts in 1970 and was well-received by audiences. Despite the setback of Clapton’s public struggles with alcoholism, which led to him enrolling in rehab and cost him the endorsement deal with Michelob, the commercial continued to air and gained enduring popularity.

This rock anthem, “After Midnight,” underwent a transformation with Clapton’s 1987 remake. The new version was included in the artist’s collection “Crossroads” and released as a single in 1988. It quickly climbed to the fourth spot on Billboard’s mainstream rock chart, adding another milestone to the song’s storied history. “After Midnight” is not a stranger to reinterpretations and covers, boasting a rich legacy that extends back to many years prior to Clapton’s collaboration with Michelob.

Even before the Michelob commercial, Clapton’s rendition of “After Midnight” had already made waves. As part of his first solo album in 1970, this joyous and lively track was a standout. Clapton’s cover of J.J. Cale’s original recording, which reached number 18 on the Billboard Top 100 in 1970, showcased his musical prowess and brought the song to a wider audience. Following the success of Clapton’s version, Cale got the opportunity to release his album “Naturally” in 1971, featuring a reinvented “After Midnight” that gave listeners a slower, more intimate take on the hit.

In a surprising turn of events, Clapton revisited his own rendition of “After Midnight” in 1987 for the Michelob commercial. This time, the song received a bluesy and intense treatment, aligning with the ad’s darker setting in a bar. The connection between Clapton and Cale does not stop at “After Midnight.” Clapton also covered Cale’s “Cocaine” for his album “Slowhand,” underscoring the deep musical bond between the two artists.

The enduring appeal of “After Midnight” lies in its ability to transcend time and connect with listeners across generations. Its journey from an obscure single in 1966 to a mainstream hit in 1970 and a nostalgic commercial reimagining in 1987 showcases the song’s enduring legacy in the realm of rock music.