Soul Music Legend Steve Cropper Dies at 84 in Nashville

Steve Cropper, the influential guitarist and songwriter, has died. He was 84 years old. His passing occurred in Nashville, Tennessee on December 4, 2025.

Cropper was a defining force in American soul music. His work shaped the iconic sound of Memphis’s Stax Records for decades.

The Architect of a Timeless Sound

Cropper was a founding member of the band Booker T. & the M.G.’s. The group served as the house band for Stax Records. They created the instrumental hit “Green Onions.”

His guitar playing was sparse and rhythmically perfect. It provided the backbone for countless soul classics. According to the Associated Press, Cropper said he listened to other musicians first.

He was involved in nearly every Stax record from 1961 to 1970. His songwriting credits include monumental tracks. He co-wrote “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” with Otis Redding.

A Legacy Forged in Collaboration

Cropper’s career was marked by groundbreaking collaboration. Booker T. & the M.G.’s was a racially integrated band. This was significant in the 1960s American South.

He helped craft hits for Wilson Pickett and Eddie Floyd. His playing was celebrated by peers across genres. The shout “Play it, Steve!” in “Soul Man” immortalized his role.

He later joined The Blues Brothers, appearing in films and touring. He continued to record and receive accolades into his 80s. His final album was Grammy-nominated in 2024.

Steve Cropper’s death marks the end of a foundational chapter in music history. His understated genius will continue to resonate through every note of the soul and rock music he helped define.

Info at your fingertips

How did Steve Cropper die?

Steve Cropper passed away in Nashville. The immediate cause of death was not publicly released. He was 84 years old at the time.

What was Steve Cropper most famous for?

He was most famous as the guitarist for Booker T. & the M.G.’s. He co-wrote classic soul songs like “Dock of the Bay.” His rhythmic style defined the Stax Records sound.

Was Steve Cropper in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Yes, he was inducted in 1992. He entered as a member of Booker T. & the M.G.’s. He was also inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

What was Steve Cropper’s biggest hit?

One of his biggest hits was “Green Onions” with Booker T. & the M.G.’s. Another major hit was “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” which he co-wrote and which reached number one.