Bobby Whitlock, the influential keyboard player and vocalist who co-founded Derek and the Dominos with Eric Clapton, has died at the age of 77. Whitlock passed away on Sunday morning after a brief bout with cancer.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Whitlock began his music career playing soul music in the city’s vibrant scene. He was signed to Stax Records at an early age and played with artists like Booker T. and the MGs and Sam & Dave before joining Delaney & Bonnie and Friends. It was during this period that he formed a close bond with Clapton, and they went on to collaborate on several projects.
Whitlock’s time with Derek and the Dominos produced one of the most iconic albums in rock history, ‘Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs.’ The album is widely regarded as a masterpiece, with Whitlock co-writing seven tracks, including “Bell Bottom Blues” and “Why Does Love Got to Be So Sad?” Whitlock attributed the band’s success to their chemistry and camaraderie.
After Derek and the Dominos disbanded, Whitlock released several solo albums and made guest appearances on other artists’ records. He also disputed a songwriting credit for the Rolling Stones’ “I Just Want to See His Face,” claiming he was cheated out of co-writing credit.
In recent years, Whitlock continued to perform and tour with his wife, CoCo Carmel Whitlock. The couple released a live album called “Other Assorted Love Songs” in 2003, featuring acoustic renditions of ‘Layla’ songs.
Whitlock’s legacy as a musician is undeniable, having worked alongside some of the most iconic figures in rock history. He was inducted into Memphis’ Beale Street Walk of Fame in 2024 and released an autobiography in 2010, with a foreword by Eric Clapton.
Whitlock is survived by his wife, three children, and sister Debbie Wade. His contributions to music will be remembered for generations to come.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/music/obituaries-people-news/bobby-whitlock-dead-derek-dominos-keyboards-harrison-clapton-1236486170