Steve Cropper, Legendary Stax Guitarist and Songwriter, Dies at 84

Steve Cropper, the influential guitarist and songwriter whose work defined the sound of Memphis soul, has died. He was 84. Cropper was a key member of Booker T. & the M.G.'s, the house band for Stax Records. The group created the instrumental backbone for countless hits by artists like Otis Redding and Wilson Pickett. As a songwriter, Cropper co-wrote soul classics including "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" and "In the Midnight Hour." His sharp, melodic guitar playing became a signature of the Stax sound. His contributions helped shape American music, blending rhythm and blues with rock and gospel. Cropper's legacy endures in the timeless records he helped create.