Legendary Booker T. & the M.G.'s Guitarist Steve Cropper Dies at 84
Steve Cropper, influential guitarist for Booker T. and the M.G.'s and Stax Records, has died at 84. He co-wrote iconic soul hits and shaped Memphis music.
Overview
Steve Cropper, the influential guitarist for Booker T. and the M.G.'s and a key artist at Stax Records, has died at the age of 84.
His death was confirmed by his family, with Pat Mitchell Worley, President and CEO of the Soulsville Foundation, relaying the news.
Cropper co-wrote and performed on iconic soul hits such as '(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay,' 'Soul Man,' and 'Green Onions,' shaping the genre.
His distinctive guitar work was instrumental in defining the sound of Memphis soul music, and he also played with The Blues Brothers.
Cropper's influential career was recognized with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 and a Grammy for lifetime achievement in 2007.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame Steve Cropper as a uniquely humble and collaborative musical genius whose impact extended to fostering racial harmony in the music industry. They emphasize his role as a "rare White artist" who prioritized collaboration and helped define the sound of soul music within the racially integrated Booker T. & the M.G.'s, highlighting his exceptional character.
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FAQ
Steve Cropper was the guitarist for Booker T. & the M.G.'s, the house band at Stax Records, and played on nearly every record released by the label from 1961 to 1970. His distinctive guitar work helped define the Memphis soul sound, and he was also a prolific songwriter and producer, co-writing hits like '(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay' and 'Green Onions.'
Steve Cropper co-wrote and performed on several iconic soul hits, including '(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay,' 'Soul Man,' and 'Green Onions.'
Steve Cropper was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. He also won Grammy Awards for Best Rhythm and Blues Song and Best Pop Instrumental Performance.
After leaving Stax, Steve Cropper worked with artists such as John Prine, Jeff Beck, Rod Stewart, Ringo Starr, John Lennon, and Tower of Power. He also played with The Blues Brothers.
Steve Cropper began his career as a teenager, forming the Royal Spades, which later became the Mar-Keys. He became a founding member of Booker T. & the M.G.'s, the house band at Stax Records, after his early session work and involvement with the Mar-Keys.
History
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