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<h1>Steve Cropper, Legendary Guitarist, Passes Away at 84</h1>
<p>MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Renowned guitarist, songwriter, and producer Steve Cropper, whose contributions to the celebrated Memphis band Booker T. and the M.G.'s at Stax Records made him a music legend, has died at the age of 84. He co-wrote timeless tracks like "Green Onions," "(Sittin' on) the Dock of the Bay," and "In the Midnight Hour."</p>
<p>The Soulsville Foundation's president, Pat Mitchell Worley, confirmed that Cropper's family informed her of his passing on Wednesday in Nashville. The foundation oversees the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, located at the original Stax Records site where Cropper was a prominent presence for many years.</p>
<p>Although the cause of death hasn't been revealed yet, Cropper had been recuperating at a rehabilitation center in Nashville following a recent fall, according to his long-time friend Eddie Gore. Gore recounted that they were together just before Cropper passed, working on new music.</p>
<h2>The Sound of Memphis Soul Music</h2>
<p>Cropper was not recognized for extravagant performances, but his catchy riffs and steady rhythm became foundational to the genre of Memphis soul music. Unlike many white musicians of his era, Cropper was known for embracing collaboration with Black artists rather than overshadowing them.</p>
<h2>A Lasting Legacy</h2>
<p>His name was forever etched in music history with the 1967 hit "Soul Man," where the singer calls out "Play it, Steve!" as Cropper delivers a memorable guitar riff. This moment was later brought to life in the hit film "The Blues Brothers," where Cropper was featured alongside the band.</p>
<h2>Early Life and Career</h2>
<p>Born near Dora, Missouri, Cropper moved to Memphis at the age of 9 and received his first guitar at 14. Influenced by artists like Chuck Berry and Chet Atkins, he joined Stax Records before it adopted its famous name. He initially made waves with the instrumental group Mar-Keys, best known for the hit "Last Night."</p>
<h2>Collaboration and Recognition</h2>
<p>As part of Booker T. and the M.G.'s, Cropper contributed to various classics while also supporting artists like Otis Redding and Sam & Dave. Known for breaking racial barriers, the band’s integrated lineup was groundbreaking for its time. Cropper was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 and secured a prestigious Grammy for lifetime achievement in 2007.</p>
<h2>Final Years and Honors</h2>
<p>Continuing to make music well into his later years, Cropper's recent works included the Grammy-nominated "Friendlytown." Earlier this year, he was honored with the Tennessee Governor's Arts Award, marking a fitting recognition for his extensive contributions to the world of music.</p>
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