Strike a chord: Axeman Eric Clapton to break cultural isolation of North Korea

Rock legend Eric Clapton has been invited to perform in North Korea - in the strongest sign yet that the reclusive communist state is seeking an end to its cultural isolation.

The invitation for the Layla star has boosted hopes that North Korea is growing more interested in building cultural bridges to the outside world, even as diplomatic negotiations over its nuclear programme stall.

Until recently, rock and pop were banned because of their strong western influences.

Clapton, who is regarded by many as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, has agreed "in principle" to performing a 2009 concert in Pyongyang, according to a North Korean official.