Bobby Whitlock, pop and rock musician, dies

Bobby Whitlock, a rock musician known for his collaborations with legendary artists such as Eric Clapton, George Harrison, and the Rolling Stones, has left a lasting mark on the music industry. Whitlock’s defining work was with Clapton in their band Derek and the Dominos, where they produced the iconic album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs in 1970.

Whitlock’s journey with Clapton began when he was a member of Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, a band that opened for Clapton’s group Blind Faith on their tour in 1969. Impressed by Whitlock’s talent, Clapton invited him to join his solo projects, leading to their collaboration in the formation of Derek and the Dominos. The band, also comprised of Carl Radle and Jim Gordon, provided a platform for Whitlock to showcase his songwriting skills and musical talent alongside Clapton.

The Layla album, a pivotal release in Clapton’s career, showcased Whitlock’s contributions as he co-wrote six songs with Clapton and played a significant role in the recording process. Notably, the track “Layla,” inspired by Clapton’s feelings for Harrison’s wife, impacted Whitlock’s personal life as he dated Pattie Boyd’s sister, Paula, during this period. While Whitlock later faced challenges with his rights to royalties from Derek and the Dominos, Clapton and his team supported him in reclaiming them.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Whitlock’s musical roots stemmed from his upbringing in a Baptist preacher’s family, where he developed a passion for music and started playing the piano in his father’s church. His early career in Memphis included collaborations with local artists and bands, shaping his musical journey and paving the way for future endeavors.

After the Dominos disbanded in 1971, Whitlock continued his music career through solo projects and collaborations with various artists such as Dr. John and the Rolling Stones. Despite challenges with songwriting credits on certain tracks, Whitlock remained dedicated to his craft and released several solo albums throughout the 70s.

In the following decades, Whitlock took a step back from the music scene and found solace on a farm in Mississippi. However, his passion for music reignited in 1999 with the release of his album “It’s About Time.” In a turn of events, Whitlock found love and companionship with CoCo Carmel, a musician with whom he shared a deep connection and musical bond.

Bobby Whitlock’s musical legacy lives on through his timeless contributions to rock’n’roll history. His collaborations with iconic artists and his role in the creation of classic albums have solidified his place in the annals of music history. Whitlock’s enduring impact on the industry serves as a testament to his talent, creativity, and passion for music.