Rock keyboardist and songwriter Bobby Whitlock passed away early this morning at his residence in Texas, aged 77. The musician died at 1:20am following a cancer diagnosis, according to his longtime manager Carol Kaye.
Family members were present during his final hours at his home. The co-founder of the legendary blues rock group Derek and the Dominos had been suffering from the illness for a brief period before his death.
Whitlock’s passing marks the end of a remarkable musical journey that saw him rise from humble beginnings to become one of rock’s most respected session musicians and songwriters.
His contributions to some of the genre’s most celebrated recordings secured his place in music history.
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CoCo Carmel Whitlock paid tribute to her husband, stating: “How do you express in but a few words the grandness of one man who came from abject poverty in the south to heights unimagined in such a short time?”
She added: “My love Bobby looked at life as an adventure taking me by the hand leading me through a world of wonderment from music to poetry and painting.”
Whitlock achieved international recognition through his partnership with Eric Clapton in Derek and the Dominos, which they established in 1970 alongside bassist Carl Radle and drummer Jim Gordon.
The group produced just one studio album, yet it became one of rock’s most celebrated recordings.
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He contributed as co-writer to seven songs on Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, including Bell Bottom Blues and Tell the Truth. The album’s title track Layla remains one of rock music’s most iconic compositions.
Before the Dominos’ formation, Whitlock and his future bandmates served as session musicians for George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass album.
The group also contributed to The Rolling Stones’ Exile on Main Street, further cementing Whitlock’s reputation as a sought-after collaborator.
Born in Memphis on March 18, 1948, Whitlock endured a childhood marked by financial hardship in a challenging neighbourhood.
Music became his salvation during his teenage years when he immersed himself in gospel and soul traditions.
His natural talent led him to Memphis’s famed Stax Records, where he performed alongside soul luminaries including Booker T. & the MG’s and Sam & Dave.
His distinctive church-influenced playing style and authentic approach quickly distinguished him in the competitive music scene.
During the late 1960s, Whitlock joined the musical collective Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, which featured a revolving lineup of accomplished performers.
This crucial period introduced him to Clapton, Radle and Gordon, setting the stage for their future collaboration in Derek and the Dominos.
Sad to hear of the death of Bobby Whitlock, member of Derek and the Dominos, contributor to All Things Must Pass and fine solo artist. pic.twitter.com/6JtSlT8F3S
— Beatles Books Podcast (@BooksBeatles) August 10, 2025
Following the Dominos’ dissolution in 1971, Whitlock pursued a solo career, releasing Bobby Whitlock in 1972 and Raw Velvet subsequently.
He collaborated with notable musicians including Keith Moon and Dr. John before withdrawing from the public eye during the 1980s.
The late 1990s saw his return to performing, partnering with his wife, singer-producer CoCo Carmel.
The couple performed at intimate venues, recorded albums together and maintained strong connections to Austin’s music scene.