Steve Cropper, iconic guitarist of Booker T & the MG's and Otis Redding, passes away at 84

Steve Cropper, the renowned American guitarist and a key figure in Memphis soul music, has passed away at 84. His family confirmed his death yesterday, describing it as peaceful in Nashville.

We share with deep sorrow the passing of Stephen Lee Cropper, who left us today at the age of 84, the family stated. Steve was a cherished musician, songwriter, and producer whose remarkable talent impacted millions globally.

The cause of his death has not been disclosed.

Cropper was a founding member of the legendary soul group Booker T & the MGs, a band credited with shaping the signature Stax Records sound and regarded as one of the finest backing ensembles in soul music history. He co-wrote iconic songs such as Green Onions, (Sittin on) The Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding, In The Midnight Hour by Wilson Pickett, and contributed to Sam & Daves Soul Man, featuring the famous line Play it, Steve! as Cropper delivered a memorable guitar riff.

Throughout his career, Cropper collaborated with legendary artists including Bob Dylan, John Fogerty, Neil Young, and Levon Helm of the Band. He also served as lead guitarist for The Blues Brothers, the musical project led by John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, appearing on the 1978 album Briefcase Full of Blues and four subsequent albums, as well as in the films The Blues Brothers (1980) and Blues Brothers 2000 (1998).

In addition to his musical contributions, Cropper worked with filmmaker John Carpenter on the soundtrack for the 1998 horror film Vampires.

Pat Mitchell Worley, president and CEO of the Soulsville Foundation, which oversees the Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis, highlighted Croppers immense influence: Steve Croppers impact on American music is profound. His guitar playing and songwriting shaped the essence of soul and R&B. He helped create timeless music that continues to inspire generations worldwide, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the greatest guitarists in modern music.

Cropper earned two Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 as a member of Booker T & the MGs. In 1996, British magazine Mojo ranked him the second-greatest guitarist of all time, just behind Jimi Hendrix. Booker T & the MGs also received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.

He is survived by his wife Angel and their two children, as well as two children from a previous marriage.

Author: Maya Henderson