Steve Cropper, Booker T. & the M.G.’s’ iconic guitarist has breathed his last
In a statement issued via social media, a representative for the Cropper family announced that the musician had passed away “peacefully” at the age of 84 but a cause of death wasn’t disclosed.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Stephen Lee Cropper, who died peacefully in Nashville today at the age of 84,” they began.
The sad announcement continued, “Steve was a beloved musician, songwriter, and producer whose extraordinary talent touched millions of lives around the world.”
“While we mourn the loss of a husband, father, and friend, we find comfort knowing that Steve will live forever through his music. Every note he played, every song he wrote, and every artist he inspired ensures that his spirit and artistry will continue to move people for generations,” it concluded.
Born in Missouri and raised in Memphis, Cropper started learning guitar at the age of 14 and became a founding member of the Stax Records house band, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, along with front man Booker T. Jones.
He played on numerous recordings, including 1967’s Soul Man by Sam & Dave and 1968’s (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay, which he co-wrote with soul singer Otis Redding.
In addition, Cropper co-wrote Knock on Wood with Eddie Floyd and In the Midnight Hour with Wilson Pickett.
After releasing his debut solo album, With a Little Help From My Friends, in 1969, the two-time Grammy Award winner left Stax to set up TMI Studios, where he worked with stars including John Prine, Rod Stewart, Ringo Starr, and John Lennon.
Steve Cropper was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 as a member of Booker T. & the M.G.’s and was honoured by the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005.
