Surfdog RecordsEric Clapton is gearing up to launch a new U.S. tour to promote his forthcoming album, Old Sock, but the guitar master says he likely won't be mounting many more extended road trips.  In a new interview with Rolling Stone, the 67-year-old rock legend reveals, "When I'm 70, I'll stop.  I won't stop playing or doing one-offs, but I'll stop touring, I think."

Clapton says that while he still enjoys the performing aspect of touring, he's getting weary of the traveling.  "If I could [just perform] around my neighborhood, that would be great," he admits.  "You have guys in Texas that play their circuit, and it keeps them alive."

Clapton adds that the only way doing a lengthy tour is bearable for him these days "is by throwing so much money at it that you make a loss."

He also points out that he's fed up with such inconveniences as dealing with airport security.  "I never get it right," he declares.  "I forget to take off my belt, or I have change in my pocket.  Next thing I know, 'Can you come over here please?'  I just don't want to do that anymore."

Clapton's U.S. tour gets under way with a March 14 concert in Phoenix and culminates with a new edition of his Crossroads Guitar Festival that's scheduled for April 12-13 at New York City's Madison Square Garden.  A European leg will follow.  Old Sock hits stores on March 12.

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