I don't know, I think Clapton did Cocaine better than Cale. IMHO, his take on the song is more visceral, while still capturing the original's essential spirit and intention. Cale's solo was a great, subtle, slow, bluesy slur - but IMHO Clapton's is much more dramatic and, for me, satisfying. I admit that you could certainly make a case for either, but I'll take EC on this one - even if it's not the fashionable choice.
Marty
Marty