Bobby Whitlock, Derek and the Dominos co-founder and rock legend, dies at 77

Musician Bobby Whitlock, co-founder of Derek and the Dominos and key session player for George Harrison, dies at 77.

Bobby Whitlock, the celebrated keyboardist, vocalist, and co-founder of Derek and the Dominos, died Sunday at age 77 following a brief battle with cancer, his manager Carol Kaye confirmed.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Whitlock began his career with Stax Records, performing alongside Booker T. and the MG’s and Sam & Dave. He rose to prominence in Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, where he connected with Eric Clapton. Their collaboration led to the formation of Derek and the Dominos, the short-lived but legendary band behind the 1971 double album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs. Whitlock co-wrote seven tracks, including “Bell Bottom Blues” and “Tell the Truth,” on what is considered one of rock’s greatest works.

Whitlock also contributed to George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass, playing piano on “Beware of Darkness,” and appeared—sometimes uncredited—on albums like the Rolling Stones’ Exile on Main Street. His extensive session credits include work with Dr. John, Doris Troy, Stephen Stills, and Manassas.

Following Derek and the Dominos’ breakup, Whitlock released solo albums and later toured with his wife, CoCo Carmel Whitlock, performing acoustic versions of Layla tracks. He also pursued painting, with works exhibited in galleries.

In 2024, Whitlock was inducted into Memphis’ Beale Street Walk of Fame. Reflecting on his career, he said, “I’ve been blessed in each and every way… everywhere I turn around, it’s just nothing but a blessing for me.”

Whitlock is survived by his wife, three children—Ashley Brown, Beau Whitlock, and Tim Whitlock Kelly—and his sister, Debbie Wade.