It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of legendary guitarist Steve Cropper at the age of 84. Cropper was a highly influential and talented musician who left a lasting impact on the world of music. His contributions to the music industry will always be remembered and cherished by fans and fellow musicians alike. We mourn the loss of this truly remarkable artist.
Music News: Legendary Guitarist Steve Cropper: Dead At 84
Legendary guitarist, songwriter and producer Steve Cropper, who helped shape the Stax Records sound, has passed away at 84.
A statement released by his family confirmed the news, saying Cropper died peacefully in Nashville on Wednesday (03.12.25).
It began: “Steve was a beloved musician, songwriter, and producer whose extraordinary talent touched millions of lives around the world,†the announcement read.
No cause of death has yet been revealed.
The family tribute continued: “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 to come.â€
Cropper was often touted by prestigious music publications, including Rolling Stone and Mojo, as one of the greatest guitar players of all time.
As well as being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Booker T and the MG’s, Cropper was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005.
He was later a member of the iconic Blues Brothers band.
The guitarist’s career also extended into film, where he teamed up with director John Carpenter on the score for the 1998 movie Vampires. Over the years, he collaborated with a host of music icons, among them Sir Elton John, Sir Ringo Starr, and Paul Simon.
In later decades, Booker T and the MG’s continued to make their mark on stage, most memorably when they performed as the backing band for Bob Dylan’s 30th Anniversary Concert at Madison Square Garden in New York in 1992.
Last year, under the band name Steve Cropper and the Midnight Hour, the musician released the album Friendlytown. Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top played lead guitar throughout, while Sir Brian May of Queen featured on the track Too Much Stress.
Image: Charlie Llewellin
Author: Brad LeBeau (promotionmusicnews.com)Cats: News,Quotes,Billy Gibbons,Booker T and the MG's,Brian May,Madison Square Garden,Otis Redding,Queen,Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,Rolling Stone,Stax Records,Steve Cropper,The Blues Brothers,Wilson Pickett,ZZ Top
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