Bobby Whitlock, Derek And The Dominos Keyboardist, Passes Away at 77

The legendary keyboardist Bobby Whitlock, known for his work with Derek And The Dominos, has died at 77, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.

When you think of the soulful keys behind Eric Clapton’s iconic Derek And The Dominos, Bobby Whitlock’s name instantly strikes a chord. It’s with a heavy heart that we share the news of Whitlock’s passing at the age of 77. His family announced his peaceful departure early on August 10, surrounded by loved ones in his Texas home, following a brief illness.

Bobby Whitlock, the soulful keyboardist of Derek And The Dominos, passed away at 77.

A Founding Force Behind Derek And The Dominos

Bobby Whitlock wasn't just a keyboardist; he was a founding pillar of Derek And The Dominos, formed in 1970 alongside Eric Clapton, Carl Radle, and Jim Gordon. This tight-knit quartet created magic, notably on their debut album Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs. Whitlock’s co-credits on seven tracks, including heart-wrenching tunes like Bell Bottom Blues and Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad?, reveal his soulful imprint on the band’s sound.

If you close your eyes and listen to Bell Bottom Blues, you can almost feel Whitlock’s touch in every note:

Roots in Memphis and Stax Records

Before the rise of Derek And The Dominos, Whitlock’s journey began in Memphis, the heartbeat of American soul. Starting out at the legendary Stax Records, he broke barriers as the first white artist signed to the label. Imagine the significance of that during the ‘60s — a time when music was a powerful force for unity and change.

At Stax, Whitlock lent his talents to the grooves of Booker T & The M.G.s and the fiery soul of Sam & Dave. This foundation set the stage for his later collaborations and helped shape his bluesy, gospel-infused playing style that became his signature.

Delaney & Bonnie And Friends: The Spark that Ignited the Dominos

As fate would have it, Whitlock joined Delaney & Bonnie And Friends in the late ’60s. This group was a melting pot of musical talent, where Whitlock first jammed regularly with Clapton, Radle, and Gordon — the future Dominos lineup. This period was a crucible for their chemistry, which blossomed into the legendary sound we know today.

Beyond the Dominos: Collaborations with Legends

Even though Derek & The Dominos split during their second album’s production in 1971, Whitlock’s artistry continued to shine. He contributed keyboard magic to George Harrison’s seminal solo debut All Things Must Pass, playing organ and piano on timeless tracks like My Sweet Lord and What Is Life.

Adding another feather to his cap, Whitlock was an uncredited but essential contributor to The Rolling Stones’ iconic Exile On Main St. in 1972. Throughout the ’70s, he released a series of solo albums, showcasing his own voice beyond the band dynamic.

A Late-Career Revival and Lasting Legacy

After stepping back from music at the decade’s end, Whitlock resurfaced in 1999 with the solo album It’s About Time. His creative partnership with wife CoCo Carmel bloomed, culminating in their 2012 joint record Esoteric, marking his final studio effort.

Last year, Memphis honored Whitlock’s impact by inducting him into the Beale Street Walk Of Fame — a touching tribute to a hometown hero.

He leaves behind more than just music: his loving wife Carmel and three children, Ashley Brown, Beau Whitlock, and Tim Whitlock Kelly.

Whitlock’s musical journey is a tapestry woven with soulful melodies, legendary collaborations, and heartfelt songwriting. His keys will forever echo in the halls of rock and blues history.

“With profound sadness, the family of Bobby Whitlock announced his passing at 1:20am on Aug. 10 after a brief illness. He passed in his home in Texas, surrounded by family.”

— Carol Kaye, Manager

FAQs About Bobby Whitlock and Derek And The Dominos

• What role did Bobby Whitlock play in Derek And The Dominos?
  He was the keyboardist and a founding member, contributing to songwriting and the band’s distinctive sound.
• Which famous album did Bobby Whitlock co-write songs for?
  Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs, the classic debut album by Derek And The Dominos.
• Did Bobby Whitlock collaborate with other major artists?
  Yes, he played on George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass and contributed to The Rolling Stones’ Exile On Main St.
• When did Bobby Whitlock return to music after his initial retirement?
  Whitlock returned in 1999 with the solo album It’s About Time and later recorded with his wife CoCo Carmel.
• What honors did Bobby Whitlock receive toward the end of his life?
  He was inducted into the Beale Street Walk Of Fame in Memphis, celebrating his musical legacy.

For those who cherish the magic of Derek And The Dominos and Bobby Whitlock’s soulful keys, why not bring that spirit home? Shop your favorite album cover poster at Architeg Prints and keep the music alive on your walls.