"One of the hardest things I ever had to do was mix that song": A music professor breaks down Steve Cropper and Otis Redding's (Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay

Following Cropper's passing at the age of 84, we explore the songwriting genius behind one of his most beloved collaborations ...

Leon Thomas Explains How the ‘Elvis’ Biopic Paved the Way Towards His Breakout Hit ‘Mutt’

Leon Thomas reflects on how watching the 'Elvis' biopic inspired him to want to write his breakthrough hit 'Mutt.' ...

12 Essential Steve Cropper Songs

B.H. The famous intro to Pickett’s signature song came from Cropper noodling around on his guitar before a session in Memphis ...
American Songwriter

Born on This Day in 1940, the Hall of Fame Songwriter Behind Willie Nelson’s Biggest Mainstream Hit and the Song That Helped Revive Elvis Presley’s Career

On June 8, 2024, Mark James died at age 83 at his home in Nashville. ““Mark’s legacy and zest for life will live on in the ...
American Songwriter

4 ‘Basement Tapes’ Songs by Bob Dylan and The Band That Received Early Exposure via Cover Versions

Bob Dylan and The Band didn't officially release 'The Basement Tapes' until 1975. These four covers gave the wider world a ...

Steve Cropper dies at 84; legendary musician co-wrote ‘(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay’ and played with Booker T. and the M.G.’s

The guitar great’s name was immortalized in the 1967 smash “Soul Man,” and he appeared in the 1980 film “The Blues Brothers” ...

Opinion: My kind of holiday song

NPR's Scott Simon explains why The Pogues' "Fairytale of New York" is a holiday song for those who have troubles and ...