Steve Cropper, the revered guitarist who worked with some of the greatest names in the music business, has died at the age of 84, per Parade via Variety. According to the outlet, Cropper's influence on multiple genres cannot be underestimated. It was simply colossal and utterly sublime.
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He left his unforgettable mark in numerous ways. Cropper played for the Blues Brothers, worked on music recorded at Stax Records by giants like Wilson Pickett and Otis Redding, and co-penned classic smash songs such as "(Sittin' on) The Dock of the Bay." What a magnificent legacy!
Cropper was enshrined in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 33 years ago with Booker and the M.G.'s.
Cropper Was Lauded as "the Second Greatest Guitarist of All Time"
Only Jimi Hendrix was rated more highly than Steve Cropper, according to Variety via Mojo in 1996. The British monthly weighed in with this hefty praise for the late guitarist. "Cropper puts everything he's got, which is considerable, at the disposal of the artist and the song: metronome-crisp timing; deadly-accurate chops; earth-moving bottom-line riffs; sharp, nasty little licks and grace notes. His solos never outstay their welcome or leave you wanting less."
Cropper's Association With the Blues Brothers
The famed guitarist lent his musical talent to the comic pair of Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi. They were the Blues Brothers immortalized in films and records. Cropper performed on five Blues Brothers' LPs and two Blues Brothers movies in 1980 and 1998.
His Songwriting Prowess Was Remarkable
So many tracks that defined an era and are truly timeless came in part from Cropper. His exceptional co-writes include "Sookie Sookie" and "Seesaw" for Don Covay, and "Time is Tight" and "Green Onions" for the M.G.'s.
Fans Mourn His Loss
People took to Reddit to air their feelings about Cropper's passing. There is sincere appreciation for the impressive body of work he leaves behind.
"One of those guys you may not know him, but you certainly know his work."
"We just lost a blues brother. Sad times. RIP"
"Hall of Famer, love Green Onions"
"Sad news. A legendary influential guitarist, and a very nice guy. What a legacy to leave, eh ? Sleep easy Steve."
"Cropper wasn't just one of the best blues players of all time; he was also a remarkable producer...."
"He's sitting on the dock of the bay with Otis."
