The music world has lost a true legend. Steve Cropper, the iconic guitarist behind Booker T. & the MG's and a cornerstone of Stax Records, has passed away at 84. His son, Cameron, confirmed the news to Variety on Wednesday, leaving fans and fellow musicians mourning the loss of a man whose riffs and rhythms shaped the sound of Memphis soul.
While many recognize Cropper as the driving force behind Booker T. & the MG's infectious instrumentals like 'Green Onions' and 'Soul-Limbo,' his influence extends far beyond those hits. His economical yet powerful guitar work graced countless tracks by soul giants like Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and Sam & Dave, often as both a musician and producer. Think of Redding's haunting '(Sittin' on) The Dock of the Bay' or Pickett's electrifying 'In the Midnight Hour' – Cropper's fingerprints are all over them.
But here's where it gets controversial: While Cropper's talent was undeniable, his role at Stax wasn't without its complexities. As the label's A&R director, he played a pivotal role in shaping its sound, but his departure in 1970 amidst front-office conflicts raises questions about the dynamics within the Stax family. Was it purely creative differences, or were there deeper issues at play?
Beyond Stax, Cropper's legacy is undeniable. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the MG's in 1992, and his work with The Blues Brothers cemented his place in pop culture history. From the double-platinum 'Briefcase Full of Blues' to the iconic film appearances, Cropper's guitar licks became synonymous with the Blues Brothers' high-energy, tongue-in-cheek brand of blues.
Born in Missouri in 1941, Cropper's journey to Memphis soul began at 14 when he picked up the guitar. Influenced by R&B greats like Lowman Pauling and Billy Butler, he formed the Royal Spades in high school, a band that would eventually morph into Booker T. & the MG's. And this is the part most people miss: It was a failed recording session with rockabilly artist Billy Lee Riley that led to the creation of 'Green Onions,' the instrumental that launched Stax into the national spotlight.
Cropper's later years saw him continue to collaborate with diverse artists like John Prine, Jeff Beck, and Ringo Starr, proving his versatility and enduring relevance. His solo albums, including the '5' Royales tribute 'Dedicated,' showcased his deep respect for the roots of soul music.
Steve Cropper's passing leaves a void in the music world, but his legacy lives on in every soulful riff, every groovy rhythm, and every song he touched. Did Cropper's departure from Stax mark the beginning of the label's decline, or was it simply a natural evolution in the music industry? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
