The Pop Corporation

There’s few better and more generous than the MGs, ably backing some of the finest, most iconic hits of any generation. Never hogging the limelight, but vital in its proximity, Steve Cropper and his guitar to make great records, legendary.

At the age of 84, he’s left the building.

“The Cropper family announces with profound sadness the passing of Stephen Lee Cropper, who died peacefully in Nashville today at the age of 84,” a family statement read. “Steve was a beloved musician, songwriter, and producer whose extraordinary talent touched millions of lives around the world.”

Cropper is perhaps best know for his time with Booker T & the MG’s, who had hits of their own on the mighty Stax label, but was instrumental in the Stax sound, playing on a raft of hits for other artists on the label. If you love Otis Redding, then you’ve been loving Cropper all this time too.

Add to the list, records by Wilson Pickett, Sam & Dave’s ‘Soul Man’, Carla Thomas, Rufus Thomas, Mar-Keys, William Bell, Eddie Floyd, Albert King, The Staple Singers, and latterly, John Lennon, The Blues Brothers, Michel Polnareff, Paul Simon, John Prine, Nilsson, Levon Helm and countless others.

Pat Mitchell Worley, president and CEO of the Soulsville Foundation that operates the Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis, commented: “Steve Cropper’s offerings to American music are significant but his contribution to soul and R&B music are immeasurable.”

“His songwriting and guitar work shaped the very language of soul music. 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.”