Steve Cropper, legendary Blues Brothers and Booker T & the MGs guitarist, dies aged 84

Steve Cropper had huge success as a writer as well. He co-wrote Booker T. & the MG’s super hit Green Onions, considered one of the most popular soul songs in history, as well as Otis Redding’s hit (Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay. Other co-writing credits include Wilson Pickett’s In the Midnight Hour and Don Covay’s Seesaw. He also worked as a backing guitarist for the likes of John Fogerty, Neil Young, and Bob Dylan.

In 1996, British music magazine Mojo named Cropper the second-greatest guitarist in history behind Jimi Hendrix.

“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,” it read.

Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones once called him “Perfect,” while guitar star Joe Bonamassa said,  “If you haven’t heard the name Steve Cropper, you’ve heard him in song.”

Cropper was inducted into the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame in 1992. He is survived by his wife, Angel, and four children.

Rest in peace, Steve Cropper.