Music Legend Steve Cropper, Architect of Soul Guitar, Dies at 84

Steve Cropper, the influential guitarist and songwriter who helped shape the sound of American soul music, has died at the age of 84. As a key member of the house band at Stax Records, Cropper’s crisp, melodic guitar playing was the backbone for countless hits. He performed on recordings for Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and Sam & Dave. Cropper also co-wrote several enduring classics. His credits include Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” the instrumental “Green Onions” with his group Booker T. & the M.G.’s, and Wilson Pickett’s “In the Midnight Hour.” His precise, economical style made him one of the most respected and widely heard guitarists in popular music history.