Episode 64: Bobby Whitlock (Derek & the Dominos, George Harrison, The Rolling Stones, Stax Records)

In 2017 I was able to attend a homecoming show for Bobby Whitlock. 

A Memphis native, Whitlock's initial foray into fame included playing a pivotal role in a band popular among musicians, Delaney & Bonnie. Whitlock had played with several local Stax Recording artists including Sam & Dave, Albert King, The Staple Singers, and Booker T & the MGs. 

He joined Delaney and Bonnie in 1968. While a member of this highly touted band, Whitlock met and played with what would become Derek & the Dominos including Carl Radle, Jim Gordon, and Eric Clapton.  He also met and played with key musicians who would go on to significant roles including Bobby Keys (childhood neighbor of Buddy Holly and long-time sax player in the Rolling Stones) and Jim Price. 

In 1970 Whitlock recorded several tracks with George Harrison for his All Things Must Pass album. He also played with John Lennon, Apple Recording artist Doris Troy, and toured the album for Joe Cocker's Mad Dogs and Englishmen. 

Eventually, Whitlock, Gordon, Clapton, and Radle would form the band Derek and the Dominos (1970 - 1971) considered by many to be Clapton's finest 'band' ensemble. Working with Tom Dowd, Whitlock would get co-writing credits on nine tracks for the band's landmark album, Layla & Other Assorted Love Songs: Clapton's homage to then George Harrison's wife, Patti Boyd (whom Harrison met while filming A Hard Days Night with the Beatles). 

Interview with Bobby Whitlock (Derek & the Dominos feat Eric Clapton)

1. Derek & the Dominos / Layla
2. Derke & the Dominos / Keep on Growing
3. Derke & the Dominos / Bell Bottom Blues 
4. George Harrison / Let It Down 
5. George Harrison / My Sweet Lord
6. Rolling Stones / Just Wanna See His Face
7. Derek & the Dominos / Little Wing 
8. Derek & the Dominos / Tell the Truth/ Why Does Love Got to be So Sad?