Bobby Whitlock, the celebrated keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and co-founder of the legendary blues-rock group Derek and the Dominos, has died at the age of 77.
The musician passed away early Sunday morning, August 10, at 1:20 a.m., following a short battle with cancer, his manager Carol Kaye confirmed to Variety. Whitlock died peacefully at his Texas home, surrounded by his family.
His wife, CoCo Carmel Whitlock, paid tribute to his remarkable life in a heartfelt statement to TMZ:
“How do you express in just a few words the greatness of a man who came from abject poverty in the South to heights he could never have imagined? My love Bobby viewed life as an adventure, taking me by the hand and leading me through a world of wonder—from music to poetry and painting. I still feel his warm, expressive hands on my face and back whenever I close my eyes. He is always with me.”
From Memphis Roots to Musical Legend
Born on March 18, 1948, in Memphis, Tennessee, Whitlock broke barriers as the first white artist signed to Stax Records while still in his teens. During his time there, he worked alongside soul legends such as Booker T. & the MG’s and Sam & Dave.
By 1968, he had joined Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, performing with musicians who would later form Derek and the Dominos, including Eric Clapton, Carl Radle, and Jim Gordon. Around this time, Whitlock also played a key role on Clapton’s 1970 self-titled debut album and contributed organ and piano to George Harrison’s acclaimed All Things Must Pass.
Later that year, Whitlock, Clapton, Radle, and Gordon officially formed Derek and the Dominos. Whitlock co-wrote half the tracks on their only studio album, Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, penning classics like “Bell Bottom Blues” and “Tell the Truth.” The band toured the U.S. with Elton John as their opening act.
In his autobiography, Elton John recalled being captivated by Whitlock:
“It was their keyboard player Bobby Whitlock that I watched like a hawk. He came from Memphis, learned his craft around Stax Studios, and played with that deep, soulful, Southern gospel feel.”
Solo Career and Collaborations
Tensions and heavy drug use led to Derek and the Dominos’ breakup in 1971 during sessions for a second album. Whitlock then launched a solo career, beginning with his self-titled debut that featured all members of Derek and the Dominos as well as George Harrison. That same year, he released Raw Velvet.
As a session musician, Whitlock contributed to iconic albums like the Rolling Stones’ Exile on Main St., Dr. John’s The Sun, Moon & Herbs, and Stephen Stills & Manassas’ Down the Road. He continued recording into the 1970s and returned in the 1990s, often working alongside his future wife, CoCo Carmel, whom he married in December 2005.
A Lasting Legacy
Whitlock is survived by his wife CoCo Carmel, and his children Ashley Faye Brown, Beau Elijah Whitlock, and Tim Whitlock Kelly. His music—whether behind the keys, the mic, or the pen—remains an enduring part of rock history, ensuring that the legacy of Bobby Whitlock, Co-Founder of Derek and the Dominos, Passes Away at 77, will be remembered for generations.
