Steve Cropper

As the guitarist in the Stax Records house band and a member of Booker T. & the M.G.'s, Steve Cropper made an enormous contribution to the sound and history of 1960s soul, backing Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and countless soul and R&B giants. He also composed the MG's biggest hit, "Green Onions." Cropper also co-wrote Redding's "Dock of the Bay," Eddie Floyd's "Knock on Wood," and Wilson Pickett's "In the Midnight Hour," ensuring his membership in 20th century pop music history (he was later inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992). After a long absence from recording, he released Midnight Flyer in 2010, and Fire It Up on the occasion of his 80th birthday in 2021. In 2024, Cropper released Friendlytown with a stellar band and top-shelf guest list, passing away the following year at age 85.