Bobby Whitlock, a key figure in rock and roll history as co-founder of Derek and the Dominos and a collaborator with George Harrison and Eric Clapton, has died at the age of 77, per metro.co.uk. His manager, Carol Kaye, announced the passing, stating Whitlock died at his Texas home on August 10 after a brief illness, surrounded by his family.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Whitlock’s career began early, becoming the first white artist signed to the legendary Stax Records as a teenager. His journey led him to join Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, a soul-revue band where he met Clapton. This connection proved pivotal, leading to their work on George Harrison’s iconic 1970 triple album, All Things Must Pass.
In 1970, Whitlock and Clapton co-founded Derek and the Dominos, releasing their seminal debut and only album, Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs. Despite initial commercial struggles, the album is now hailed as one of the greatest rock albums of all time, showcasing Whitlock’s powerful keyboard and vocal contributions. The band, however, was short-lived, dissolving after just a year amid personal conflicts and drug use.
Following the band’s breakup, Whitlock launched a solo career, releasing several albums before withdrawing from the music industry in the mid-1970s. He later returned to music in the late 1990s, collaborating with his wife, CoCo Carmel, and releasing new material. Whitlock is survived by his wife and three children.
•Featured image: Songwriter and guitarist Bobby Whitlock/Michael Ochs Archives/ Getty Images
