Official lyric video for Steve Cropper’s new single Friendlytown featuring Billy F. Gibbons from the new album Friendlytown which you can get here https://amzn.to/4ehMhOr.
The latest album by Steve Cropper & The Midnight Hour
“Friendlytown,” the latest album by Steve Cropper & The Midnight Hour, released in August 2024, showcases Cropper’s timeless skill as a legendary guitarist. Known for his work with Stax Records and Booker T. & The MGs, Cropper is joined by notable guest artists like Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top) and Brian May (Queen) on several tracks. The album blends blues, rock, and soul, with standout songs like “Too Much Stress,” “Let’s Get Started,” and “You Can’t Refuse.”
Critics have praised the album for its stellar musicianship and polished production. However, some felt the album’s clean sound lacked the rawness typically associated with blues. Despite this, Cropper’s ability to collaborate with such a powerhouse lineup demonstrates his enduring relevance in the music scene.
Steve Cropper: The Soul of Blues and a Pioneer in Music Production
Steve Cropper, often hailed as one of the most influential guitarists in the history of American music, has a legacy deeply intertwined with the blues. His distinct approach to the genre, along with his innovative work as a producer, has shaped the sound of countless records over several decades. Best known for his work with Stax Records and as a member of Booker T. & the M.G.’s, Cropper’s influence spans multiple genres, particularly blues, soul, and rhythm & blues.
Steve Cropper’s Relationship with the Blues
Blues has always been at the heart of Steve Cropper’s musical style. Born in 1941 in Missouri, Cropper was introduced to the blues at an early age, with influences like B.B. King and Muddy Waters shaping his musical sensibility. His guitar playing epitomizes a subtle, understated style that blends the raw emotion of blues with a more refined, groove-oriented sound. Unlike some blues guitarists known for flashy solos, Cropper’s genius lies in his rhythm work and the ability to create soulful, expressive riffs.
As a key member of Booker T. & the M.G.’s, the house band for Stax Records, Cropper contributed to some of the most iconic blues and soul records of the 1960s. The blues-influenced instrumental track “Green Onions,” one of the group’s biggest hits, showcases Cropper’s signature style. His tight, minimalistic riffs have an undeniable blues edge, but they also reflect the rhythmic complexity of soul music, making his work universally appealing across both genres.
Producer and Collaborator
Beyond his guitar work, Steve Cropper has had an illustrious career as a producer, shaping the sound of numerous artists across blues, soul, rock, and beyond. As part of the Stax Records team, Cropper worked with some of the most legendary musicians of the era, often co-writing, producing, or arranging for them.
- Otis Redding: Cropper co-wrote and played guitar on several of Redding’s hits, including the timeless “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.” He also helped produce many of Redding’s albums, cementing the singer’s reputation as one of the greatest soul musicians of all time.
- Wilson Pickett: Cropper played a key role in shaping Pickett’s biggest hits, including “In the Midnight Hour.” His work with Pickett reflected a perfect blend of blues intensity and the rhythmic punch of soul music, helping elevate Pickett’s sound to commercial success.
- Albert King: Cropper produced and played on several tracks for blues great Albert King, including the classic “Born Under a Bad Sign.” Cropper’s crisp and economical guitar playing perfectly complemented King’s expansive, emotional blues sound.
- Sam & Dave: Cropper co-wrote and played guitar on some of the duo’s most famous tracks, including “Soul Man.” His collaboration with Sam & Dave helped define the upbeat, energetic sound of Southern soul, which had deep roots in the blues.
In the 1970s and beyond, Cropper continued his production work, collaborating with a diverse range of artists, including Jeff Beck, John Lennon, Rod Stewart, and Neil Young. His versatility as a producer allowed him to seamlessly move between genres, but the soulfulness of the blues remained a constant thread through all his work.
Industry Awards and Recognition
Steve Cropper’s contributions to music have earned him numerous awards and accolades. His career achievements include:
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: In 1992, Steve Cropper was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Booker T. & the M.G.’s, a recognition of his profound impact on popular music.
- Songwriters Hall of Fame: Cropper’s songwriting talents have also been acknowledged with his induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005. His ability to craft memorable riffs and hooks, often grounded in the blues tradition, played a huge role in the success of many Stax Records hits.
- Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award: In 2007, Booker T. & the M.G.’s received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to their enduring influence on music. Cropper’s role as both guitarist and producer within the group was central to their success.
- MOBO Lifetime Achievement Award: Cropper’s contributions to soul and rhythm & blues were recognized with the MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his work across genres that are deeply rooted in the blues tradition.
- Blues Hall of Fame: Cropper was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, further solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the development of blues and related genres.
Conclusion
Steve Cropper’s career has left an indelible mark on blues, soul, and popular music. His relationship with the blues is defined not by flamboyant guitar solos but by the emotion and groove he brings to every note. As a producer and collaborator, Cropper has helped shape the sound of countless artists, always returning to the soul and spirit of the blues. His legacy, recognized through numerous industry awards, continues to inspire musicians across the world.
