Bobby Whitlock, co-founder of Derek & the Dominos & one of rock’s most influential musicians, passed away on Sunday at age 77. His “heartbroken” manager, Carole Kaye, confirmed to TMZ that he died at home in Texas at 1:20 a.m. after a brief illness, surrounded by loved ones.
Wife Remembers His Extraordinary Life
In a moving tribute, Whitlock’s wife, Coco Carmel Whitlock, reflected on his journey from “abject poverty in the south to heights unimagined in such a short time.”
She described their life together as an adventure filled with music, poetry & art, adding, “I feel his hands that were so intensely expressive and warm on my face and the small of my back whenever I close my eyes, he is there.”
She shared his personal mantra: “Life is what you make it, so take it and make it beautiful.”
A Career That Shaped Rock History
Whitlock rose to fame in 1970 when he co-founded the blues-rock band Derek & the Dominos with Eric Clapton, contributing heavily to the iconic album “Layla & Other Assorted Love Songs.”
Before that, he made history as the first white artist signed to Stax Records & worked with some of music’s most legendary names, including George Harrison on “All Things Must Pass” and uncredited contributions to the Rolling Stones’ “Exile on Main Street.”
Musician, Songwriter & Artist Until the End
In addition to writing songs recorded by stars like Lady Gaga, Cher & Sheryl Crow, Whitlock embraced painting later in life, completing over 1,800 pieces since 2018. His official website describes his work as deeply emotional, noting, “If anyone could paint how they feel, it is Bobby.”
Bobby Whitlock’s Journey From Southern Roots to Rock & Art Legacy
Bobby Whitlock’s path to rock legend status was nothing short of extraordinary. Growing up in poverty in the American South, he found refuge in music, sharpening his skills as a teenager at Memphis’ iconic Stax Studios, where he made history as the first white artist signed to the famed soul label.
In 1970, Whitlock co-founded Derek & the Dominos with Eric Clapton, co-writing and performing on the band’s groundbreaking album “Layla & Other Assorted Love Songs” — now regarded as one of rock’s most iconic records.
His rich, soulful voice, masterful songwriting, and keyboard talent brought him into collaboration with music giants like George Harrison and the Rolling Stones. In his later years, Whitlock turned his creative energy toward painting, producing over 1,800 pieces that captured raw emotion and artistic depth. Until the very end, he remained a source of inspiration, living by his belief in making life as beautiful as possible.
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Legendary Rock Icon Passes Away at 77 — He Will Be Missed