Steve Cropper, the revered guitarist for Booker T. & the M.G.’s, has died.
In a statement issued via social media on Wednesday, a representative for the Cropper family announced that the musician had passed away “peacefully” at the age of 84. 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. Steve was a beloved musician, songwriter, and producer whose extraordinary talent touched millions of lives around the world,” they commented. “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.”
Born in Missouri and raised in Memphis, Cropper started learning guitar at the age of 14.
After pursuing a music career, the artist became a founding member of the Stax Records house band, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, along with frontman 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.
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.
Following the sad news, Pat Mitchell Worley, president and chief executive of the Soulsville Foundation, described the musician’s contributions to the soul and R&B genres as “immeasurable”.
“His songwriting and guitar work shaped the very language of soul music,” she declared. “A gifted songwriter, producer, and musician, Cropper helped create timeless hits that continue to influence artists and people worldwide. His signature style helped define an era and cemented his legacy as one of the most important guitarists in modern music history.”
Cropper is survived by his wife, Angel Cropper, and four children.
