Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson has identified Cream’s 1968 album *Wheels of Fire* as a record he played “a million times over” while learning his craft. The article presents the album as a formative influence on Lifeson’s musical development, particularly through Eric Clapton’s guitar work and the band’s blend of blues, rock and improvisation.

Released as a double album, *Wheels of Fire* combined studio recordings with live performances and included songs such as ‘White Room’ and ‘Crossroads’. Lifeson said he was especially drawn to Clapton’s playing, with Cream’s musicianship helping shape his early understanding of guitar-led rock before Rush emerged in the 1970s.