Rock music icon Bobby Whitlock has passed away at 77, as confirmed by his manager. Whitlock, a founding member of Derek & the Dominos, enjoyed a successful music career dating back to the early 1970s.
The sad news of Whitlock’s death was shared by his manager, Carole Kaye, who disclosed that he passed away at 1:20 am at his residence in Texas, USA, after battling cancer.
In addition to his own music endeavors, Whitlock was a renowned session musician who collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Notably, he played with Beatles legend George Harrison on the album All Things Must Pass.
Whitlock’s notable partnership with Eric Clapton in Derek and the Dominos stemmed from their shared musical experiences after Whitlock’s time with Delaney & Bonnie and Friends. Hailing from Memphis, Whitlock was signed to Stax Records and released his debut album in 1972, with his latest solo release being Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way: The ABC-Dunhill Recordings in 2013.
Following his passing, Whitlock’s wife, CoCo Carmel Whitlock, paid a touching tribute, expressing the depth of their relationship and the impact of his life’s journey. The couple had been married since 2005, exchanging vows in Nashville, Tennessee, on Christmas Eve.
Although Derek and the Dominos were considered ‘one-hit wonders’ due to releasing only one album, Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, the record is highly acclaimed and regarded as one of the greatest rock albums of all time. Bobby and CoCo collaborated on performing the band’s tracks live and recording new material.
Survived by his wife, three children, and sister, Whitlock’s musical legacy continues through his family and his enduring contributions to the music industry.