Bobby Whitlock, the influential keyboardist, singer, and songwriter best known for his work as a founding member of the blues-rock band Derek and the Dominos, has died at the age of 77. His passing was confirmed by his manager, who stated he died on Sunday morning in Texas after a brief illness, surrounded by his family. The cause of death was cancer.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1948, Whitlock’s career began early, with him playing on sessions at the legendary Stax Records as a teenager. His musical journey led him to join Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, a band that also featured Eric Clapton and George Harrison as guest musicians. It was during this time that Whitlock and Clapton formed a deep musical bond, leading to the creation of Derek and the Dominos.
As a core member of Derek and the Dominos, Whitlock was a crucial contributor to their seminal 1970 album, “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs.” He co-wrote seven of the album’s 14 tracks, including the classics “Bell Bottom Blues” and “Tell the Truth,” and provided his distinctive soulful vocals and keyboard work. Following the band’s dissolution, Whitlock embarked on a solo career, releasing his self-titled debut in 1972 and a follow-up, “Raw Velvet,” the same year. He also contributed as a session musician on notable albums such as The Rolling Stones’ “Exile on Main St.”
Whitlock, who was inducted into Memphis’ Beale Street Walk of Fame in 2024, continued to release music throughout his life, often collaborating with his wife and musical partner, CoCo Carmel. He is survived by his wife and three children.