Clapton blocks out extensive European tour for 2001

LONDON--Rock veteran Eric Clapton has announced an extensive European tour that will begin in February, the first leg of what is expected to be a world tour that runs for much of 2001. The European outing will see Clapton perform at least six dates at London's Royal Albert Hall.

Details of the North American tour have not been released, but the tour is expected to reach the U.S. by June. A South American leg is also anticipated.

"Riding With the King," Clapton's album with B.B. King, went to No. 1 on Billboard's Blues Chart and sold over 1.3 million copies in the U.S. It features King originals and covers of classic blues tracks.

Clapton's last solo album was 1998's "Pilgrim."

SoundSpike Senior Writer Rob Evans contributed to this report