Bobby Whitlock passes away at 77: A look back at his life and career
Born on March 18, 1948, in Memphis, Tennessee, Bobby Whitlock grew up steeped in the city's vibrant soul and blues scene. As a teenager, he became the first white artist signed to Stax Records, a label synonymous with soul music. At Stax, Whitlock honed his craft, playing organ and contributing handclaps to Sam & Dave's 1967 hit 'I Thank You.' His early exposure to legends like Steve Cropper and Booker T. Jones shaped his distinctive, gospel-infused style. Whitlock's raw talent and Southern roots—his family background included 'River Rats, Moonshiners, Whores, and a Southern Baptist preacher' father—gave him a unique musical authenticity. Joining Delaney & Bonnie and Meeting Clapton
In 1968, Whitlock joined Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, a soul-revue band where he played keyboards and sang. His dynamic performances caught the eye of Eric Clapton, who joined the band as a guest guitarist. Clapton later praised Whitlock's energy, noting he was 'the most energetic sideman I had ever seen.' This collaboration led to Whitlock's involvement in sessions for Doris Troy's 1970 Apple Records album and a performance at John Lennon's 'Peace for Christmas' concert. These experiences connected him with George Harrison, setting the stage for his most iconic contributions. Derek and the Dominos: A Rock Masterpiece
In 1970, Whitlock co-founded Derek and the Dominos with Eric Clapton, bassist Carl Radle, and drummer Jim Gordon. Their only studio album, Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs (1970), is a rock classic. Whitlock co-wrote seven tracks, including 'Bell Bottom Blues' and 'Why Does Love Got to Be So Sad?' His soulful vocals, often duetting with Clapton, and his Hammond organ work added depth to the album's blues-rock sound. The album, driven by Clapton's unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, was a critical success but initially a commercial disappointment. Tragically, drug use and personal conflicts led to the band's breakup in 1971. Whitlock later recalled, 'We scored an enormous amount of drugs… that was the beginning of the end.' Iconic Collaborations: Harrison and The Rolling Stones
Whitlock's talents extended beyond Derek and the Dominos. He played keyboards, piano, and tubular bells on George Harrison's 1970 triple album All Things Must Pass , contributing to tracks like 'Beware of Darkness.' He described these sessions as 'spectacular.' In 1972, he added uncredited keyboard work to The Rolling Stones' Exile on Main Street , further showcasing his versatility. Whitlock also collaborated with artists like Dr. John and Manassas, solidifying his reputation as a sought-after session musician. Solo Work and Artistic Evolution
Whitlock released solo albums in the 1970s, including Bobby Whitlock and Raw Velvet (both 1972), featuring Clapton and Rick Vito. After a quieter period in the 1980s and 1990s, he returned with It's About Time (1999) and later collaborated with his wife, CoCo Carmel, on albums like Other Assorted Love Songs, Live from Whitney Chapel (2003). In his later years, Whitlock embraced painting, creating over 1,800 pieces since 2018, reflecting his emotional depth. In 2024, he was inducted into Memphis' Beale Street Walk of Fame, honoring his musical legacy.
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Aman Shukla is a post-graduate in mass communication . A media enthusiast who has a strong hold on communication ,content writing and copy writing. Aman is currently working as journalist at BusinessUpturn.com
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