Stax Records, based in Memphis, Tennessee, was one of the most influential soul music labels of the 1960s and 1970s. The label's house band, Booker T. & the MG's, played a crucial role in crafting the distinctive sound that defined Stax Records. Known for their tight rhythm section and smooth grooves, the band was integral to the success of many Stax artists. Although they often worked behind the scenes, their contributions were instrumental in creating some of the era's most memorable music.
Booker T. & the MG's Career Highlights
1962 Formation and Early Success
Booker T. & the MG's formed in 1962 as the Stax house band. The original lineup included Booker T. Jones (keyboards), Steve Cropper (guitar), Lewie Steinberg (bass), and Al Jackson Jr. (drums).
They scored an early hit with "Green Onions," an instrumental track that became a classic.
1965-1968 Rise to Prominence
The band backed numerous Stax artists, including Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and Sam & Dave.
Hits like "In the Midnight Hour" by Wilson Pickett and "Soul Man" by Sam & Dave showcased the band's exceptional musicianship.
1968 Lineup Change
Donald "Duck" Dunn replaced Lewie Steinberg on bass, solidifying the classic lineup of Booker T. & the MG's.
The band continued to produce hits and support Stax artists, contributing to songs like "Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding.
1971 Success as Solo Artists
Booker T. & the MG's released successful albums under their name, including "Melting Pot" (1971), which featured the hit title track.
1975-1977 Disbandment and Reunion
The band disbanded in 1975 but reunited briefly in 1977 for a tour and the album "Universal Language."
1990s Resurgence and Recognition
The band reunited again in the 1990s, receiving accolades and continuing to perform.
They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.
Booker T. & the MG's Members
Booker T. Jones (Keyboards)
The band's leader, known for his masterful organ playing.
Steve Cropper (Guitar)
Renowned for his sharp, rhythmic guitar work and songwriting skills.
Lewie Steinberg (Bass)
The original bassist, known for his smooth playing on early hits.
Donald "Duck" Dunn (Bass)
Replaced Steinberg in 1965 and remained a core member until his passing in 2012.
Al Jackson Jr. (Drums)
The driving force behind the band's tight rhythm section until his untimely death in 1975.
Booker T. & the MG's Grammy Awards
Booker T. & the MG's, as a band, won a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. While individual members received various honors, the band's work contributed to several Grammy-winning recordings.
The three Most Famous Booker T. & the MG's Songs
1. "Green Onions"
- The 1962 instrumental hit that became a defining track for the band and a staple in their live performances.
2. "Soul Limbo"
- A 1968 hit that further showcased the band's signature sound and instrumental prowess.
3. "Time Is Tight"
- A 1969 track that became another instrumental classic, demonstrating the band's ability to create timeless music.
Booker T. & the MG's Quotes
Booker T. Jones
The music we made at Stax was from the heart. We put everything we had into those records
Steve Cropper
Playing with Booker T. & the MG's was like being in a family. We had a special chemistry that you can't manufacture
Booker T. & the MG's Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Uncredited Work: Similar to many session musicians of the era, Booker T. & the MG's were often not credited on the records they played on, despite their significant contributions.
- Tragic Loss: The band faced a significant loss with the murder of drummer Al Jackson Jr. in 1975, which deeply affected the group's dynamics.
- Cultural Impact: The band's music was not only influential in the music industry but also became a part of popular culture, with their tracks being used in films, TV shows, and commercials.
Booker T and the MGs ratings
