Bobby Whitlock, co-founder of Derek and the Dominos and a celebrated blues-rock figure, passed away at age 77 after a brief illness. Read on for his story, legacy, and heartfelt tributes.
Derek and the Dominos: Bobby Whitlock Dies at 77, A Gentle Farewell to a Blues-Rock Legend
It’s never easy to lose a music legend. Today, we remember Bobby Whitlock, the soulful keyboardist, singer, and songwriter who co-founded the timeless band Derek & the Dominos. He passed away on August 10, 2025, at the age of 77, after a short battle with cancer, at his home in Texas surrounded by family.
A Life Steeped in Soul and Melody
Born on March 18, 1948, in Memphis, Tennessee, Whitlock first made his mark in the vibrant soul scene—playing with legends like Sam & Dave and Booker T. & the M.G.’s before branching into rock.
In 1968, his journey led him to join Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, where he met Eric Clapton. That spark ignited the formation of Derek & the Dominos in 1970, alongside Clapton, Carl Radle, and Jim Gordon. Together, they created the iconic album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, with Whitlock co-writing beloved tracks like “Bell Bottom Blues” and Why Does Love Get to Be So Sad?
Beyond the Dominos, Whitlock’s touch graced George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass, Eric Clapton’s solo work, and even offerings from Dr. John and The Rolling Stones.
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A Quiet Goodbye, A Lasting Legacy
After years away from the spotlight, Whitlock came back in the late 1990s and continued to make music—often collaborating with his wife, CoCo Carmel, whose love and musical partnership brought comfort and creativity into his later years.
Local honours followed too—he was immortalised on Memphis’ Beale Street Walk of Fame in 2024, a fitting tribute for the first white artist ever signed to Stax Records.
On August 10, 2025, Bobby Whitlock passed away peacefully. His wife, family, and music community shared heartfelt tributes—celebrating his humble nature, soulful artistry, and graceful spirit.
His Legacy: Why His Music Still In Our Hearts?
Heartfelt songwriting: Songs like Bell Bottom Blues speak deeply to love, regret, and resilience.
Classic collaboration: His work with Clapton and on George Harrison’s album helped shape the sound of an era.
Memphis roots: As part of the soul scene, he carried the rich tradition of Stax Records into rock contexts.
FAQs: Derek and the dominos
Q1: Who exactly was Bobby Whitlock?
He was a soulful keyboardist and singer-songwriter, born in Memphis in 1948, who co-founded Derek & the Dominos.
Q2: What was his most famous work?
His band’s album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, featuring timeless songs like Bell Bottom Blues.
Q3: When and how did he pass away?
On August 10, 2025, at age 77, after a brief battle with cancer, at his Texas home.
Q4: Did he work with other big artists?
Yes—he contributed to albums by George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Dr. John, and The Rolling Stones.
Q5: Was he honoured before his passing?
Yes—he made the Beale Street Walk of Fame in Memphis in 2024.
Final Words: Derek and the dominos
Bobby Whitlock may have left us, but his music still plays on—in every guitar riff, in soulful lyrics, and in the hearts of blues-rock lovers everywhere. No flashy headlines, just a quiet thanks for the years of melody he gave us. Rest in peace, Bobby Whitlock—you’ll always be in the keys, the chords, and the silence between notes.
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