Guitarist Steve Cropper, who left an indelible impression on Memphis soul music as an instrumentalist, producer and songwriter at Stax Records, has died, his son Cameron confirmed to Variety on Wednesday. He was 84.
Cropper was best known to the public for his distinctive, economical lead/rhythm work in the hit-making interracial instrumental combo Booker T. & the MG’s, but his playing also fired dozens of tracks – some of which he produced or engineered — cut at Stax Records’ studio by such soul greats as Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Sam & Dave, Rufus and Carla Thomas and Eddie Floyd. more.
h/t Brad.
Ah. Green Onions, a great instrumental from 1962.
Who remembers this?
https://youtu.be/50xx1_CbJTI?list=RD50xx1_CbJTI
Dude was once voted second best guitarist ever behind Jimmy. Eddie might have something to say about that these days. I heard Mr. Pinko played keyboard for Booker T. LOL.
Green Onions by Booker T and the MG’s. As sharp, clean, and crisp just like biting into a fresh green onion. To me, it even evokes the sight & smell of green onions.
Great driving beat, outstanding bass & lead guitar, beautiful organ rhythm sound…hard to beat this instrumental classic.
https://youtu.be/0oox9bJaGJ8
It’s on my playlist.
The story behind Green Onions:
https://youtu.be/o1emR12qb_Y
.
Did someone say Wilson Pickett?
Dang.
https://youtu.be/FGVGFfj7POA
@Jethro
Interesting to listen to that interview…it’s amazing to me that the name was a random thing named after the recording was done. The sharp sounds of the guitar are Mr. Cropper’s riffs, apparently. I thought the sharp guitar riffs had something to do with the name of the work. Whatever, the name Green Onions is perfect.