Bobby Whitlock, the Memphis-born singer, songwriter, and keyboardist who co-founded Derek and the Dominos with Eric Clapton and later enjoyed a successful solo career while contributing to sessions for George Harrison, has died at 77. Clapton confirmed Whitlock’s passing on Sunday, sharing a tribute to his longtime friend. Whitlock’s manager, Carol Kaye, said he died at 1:20 a.m. after a brief battle with cancer.
Born March 18, 1948, in Memphis—the heartland of blues and soul—Whitlock made history early as the first white musician signed to Stax Records, home to legends like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. & the MG’s. He came of age in a city where, as he once recalled, great music was everywhere and Stax artists were a constant presence.
Whitlock’s career took a decisive turn in 1969 when he joined Delaney & Bonnie’s touring band, where he connected with Clapton. From that lineup, Whitlock, Clapton, bassist Carl Radle, and drummer Jim Gordon formed Derek and the Dominos. Though the band was short-lived, it left an indelible mark with the 1970 classic Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs. Whitlock sang, played keyboards, and co-wrote standout tracks with Clapton, including Anyday, Bell Bottom Blues, Why Does Love Got to Be So Sad?, and Tell the Truth. The album’s signature single, Layla, originated with the Dominos and became one of rock’s defining love songs.
Beyond the Dominos, Whitlock’s work spanned acclaimed collaborations and a solo career that showcased the soulful, rootsy intensity he absorbed in Memphis. His blend of gospel-tinged keys, raw vocal power, and songcraft helped bridge Southern soul and British rock at a pivotal moment in music history.
Additional comments:
– Whitlock’s path—from Stax’s integrated, hard-working studio culture to the high-wire creativity of Derek and the Dominos—underscores how cross-pollination between American soul and British rock shaped an entire era.
– His co-writes remain staples not only for their emotional punch but for how they fuse grit with melody—an enduring blueprint for blues-rock.
– Listeners revisiting Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs will hear Whitlock’s fingerprints throughout: the churchy keys, harmony vocals, and songwriting turns that deepen the album’s heartache and catharsis.
Summary:
– Bobby Whitlock has died at 77 after a brief battle with cancer.
– Clapton confirmed his passing; his manager provided the time and cause.
– First white artist signed to Stax Records; early career rooted in Memphis soul.
– Co-founded Derek and the Dominos with Clapton; sang, played keys, and co-wrote several of the band’s signature songs.
– Also contributed to sessions for George Harrison and built a respected solo career.
A hopeful note:
Whitlock’s life traced a line through some of modern music’s most fertile ground, and the songs he helped craft continue to resonate. While his passing is a profound loss, his work—especially the Dominos’ enduring recordings—ensures his voice and vision will keep inspiring musicians and fans for generations.
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