Passing of Steve Cropper, Iconic Stax Records Guitarist

Renowned guitarist and songwriter Steve Cropper, known for his pivotal role at Stax Records as a member of Booker T. and the M.G.'s, has passed at the age of 84.

Informed by the family of Cropper, Pat Mitchell Worley, leader of the Soulsville Foundation that oversees the Stax Museum, confirmed his passing in Nashville. The exact cause of death is yet undisclosed, though his collaborator Eddie Gore recalled Cropper's recent stay in Nashville's rehabilitation center following a fall.

Cropper was celebrated not only for his songwriting but also for his distinctive contributions to the sound of Memphis soul. Known to collaborate seamlessly across racial boundaries during an era often defined by racial tensions in music, his approach was characterized by understated yet memorable guitar riffs.

Cult Status in 'Soul Man'

Steve Cropper left a lasting legacy with a memorable mention in the 1967 hit 'Soul Man' by Sam & Dave, where Sam Moore famously prompts him to 'Play it, Steve.' His innovative playing style included a unique slide sound created with a Zippo lighter.

Cropper's artistry featured in the late 1970s as part of The Blues Brothers band with John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, notably on their rendition of 'Soul Man.' Speaking to The Associated Press in 2020, Cropper highlighted his technique of enhancing music through harmonic licks and counterpoints.

Guitar icons like Keith Richards lauded Cropper as exceptionally skilled while Joe Bonamassa noted his pervasive influence in the guitar world.

Early Life and Rise to Fame

Born in Missouri, Cropper relocated to Memphis during his childhood, obtaining his first guitar at 14. His initial inspirations were legends like Chuck Berry and Chet Atkins. As a nascent artist, Cropper became engaged with Stax Records, then Satellite Records, aligning with the Mar-Keys and later helping to form the influential group Booker T. and the M.G.'s.

Booker T. and the M.G.'s, known for instrumentals like 'Green Onions' and 'Time Is Tight,' became key session musicians, backing stars like Otis Redding and Sam & Dave. Remarkably diverse in its makeup for that era, the band collaborated with artists beyond the Stax label, illustrating the universality of their appeal.

Describing the collaborative ethos at Stax, Cropper once expressed that the studio transcended racial barriers in pursuit of musical success.

A Spellbinding Partnership with Gospel Influence

An impactful collaboration was with Wilson Pickett, facilitated by Atlantic's Jerry Wexler. Cropper famously drew inspiration from Pickett's gospel roots to co-write the secular anthem 'In the Midnight Hour.'

His esteemed career is crowned with numerous accolades including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame, underscoring his influence in rock and soul music.

The partnership with Otis Redding is particularly poignant. Before Redding's tragic plane crash, the pair crafted '(Sittin' on) the Dock of the Bay,' a milestone that reflected their search for broader musical resonance.

Legacy and Honors

In film, Cropper portrayed 'The Colonel' in The Blues Brothers movies, mirroring his real-world tour activities with the ensemble. Beyond his Rock Hall honors, Cropper's lifetime achievements include a Grammy and the Tennessee Governor's Arts Award in 2024.

Steve Cropper’s contributions remain an indelible part of music history, continuing to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.