ERIC CLAPTON Collaborates With Ex On New Solo Album.

Guitarist Eric Clapton is set to release his first solo album in five years – with a little help from ex-girlfriend Sheryl Crow.

The Wonderful Tonight singer hasn’t worked on a solo project since 2005’s Back Home, and will release his 19th disc, Clapton, next month. The album features guest appearances from his ex-lover Crow (who he dated in 1996) among others.

In a statement, Clapton says:

“It’s an eclectic collection of songs that weren’t really on the map – and I like it so much because if it’s a surprise to the fans, that’s only because it’s a surprise to me, as well.”

His last project, 2006’s The Road to Escondido, was a collaboration with singer/songwriter JJ Cale.