News
Bobby Whitlock – Derek and the Dominos Co-Founder and Collaborator with Eric Clapton & George Harrison – Dies at 77
Aug
A Rock Legend of the 1970s Passes Away
Bobby Whitlock, the celebrated keyboardist, vocalist, and co-founder of Derek and the Dominos with Eric Clapton, died early Sunday morning at 1:20 a.m. after a short battle with cancer. His manager, Carol Kaye, confirmed the news to Variety. He was 77.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Whitlock started his career young when he signed with Stax Records. He performed alongside music greats like Booker T. & the MG’s and Sam & Dave. Later, he joined Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, which led to his lasting creative partnership with Eric Clapton.
Career Highlights and Legendary Collaborations
Whitlock’s work shaped some of rock’s most iconic records:
- He played on George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass”, including piano on “Beware of Darkness,” recently featured in the hit horror movie Weapons.
- He co-founded Derek and the Dominos, releasing the landmark 1971 double album “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs”. Many critics call it one of the greatest rock albums ever. Whitlock co-wrote seven tracks, including “Bell Bottom Blues,” “Why Does Love Got to Be So Sad?” and “Tell the Truth.”
- He also contributed, sometimes without credit, to The Rolling Stones’ “Exile on Main Street” and projects by Dr. John, Doris Troy, Stephen Stills & Manassas, and Eric Clapton.
Candid Reflections and Behind-the-Scenes Stories
Whitlock often spoke openly about his career. He criticized the famous piano coda of “Layla,” claiming it came from a song by Rita Coolidge and went uncredited. He also said drug use, alcohol abuse, and clashing egos caused Derek and the Dominos to split.
Years earlier, he had sold his royalty rights. However, Clapton and his manager later helped him reclaim them. Whitlock once said his royalties from All Things Must Pass “have been paying my electricity my whole life.”
Life After the Spotlight
In the 1970s, Whitlock released several solo albums before stepping away from music. He returned in 1999 with It’s About Time. During the 2000s, he performed acoustic shows with his wife, CoCo Carmel Whitlock, releasing the live album Other Assorted Love Songs in 2003.
Later, Whitlock discovered a passion for painting. He displayed hundreds of his works in Texas galleries. In 2024, Memphis honored him with a place on the Beale Street Walk of Fame.
An Enduring Legacy
Over five decades, Bobby Whitlock shaped rock music with his voice, songwriting, and musicianship. His influence remains strong among fans and musicians alike.
He leaves behind his wife, CoCo Carmel, three children — Ashley Brown, Beau Whitlock, and Tim Whitlock Kelly — and his sister, Debbie Wade. His songs, stories, and artwork will keep his spirit alive for generations.
