14 Years Ago Today, Tom Petty Lost One of His Greatest Idols, a Memphis-Born Rock Legend Nicknamed After Donald Duck
The passing of Donald "Duck" Dunn on May 13, 2012, marked a profound loss for the music industry. Dunn, a legendary session bassist and member of Stax Records, left an indelible mark on the world of soul and rock music. His contributions to iconic recordings with artists like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and Albert King are well-documented, but his impact on Tom Petty's career and legacy is particularly noteworthy.
The Memphis Soul Sound
Born in Memphis in 1941, Dunn's nickname "Duck" came from a shared love of Donald Duck cartoons with his father. This early connection to the world of animation perhaps foreshadowed his influence on the vibrant Memphis soul scene. Dunn's musical journey began with a ukulele at age 10, and by 16, he was playing bass. His partnership with childhood friend Steve Cropper led to the formation of The Royal Spades, which later evolved into the Mar-Keys, signing with Stax Records in 1961.
The Mar-Keys' first hit, "Last Night," set the stage for their collaboration with Booker T. Jones and Al Jackson Jr., collectively known as Booker T. & the M.G.'s. This group became synonymous with the distinctive Memphis soul sound of the 1960s and 1970s, featuring on tracks like Otis Redding's "Respect" and "I Can't Turn You Loose," Sam & Dave's "Hold On, I'm Comin'", and Albert King's "Born Under a Bad Sign."
A Versatile Collaborator
Dunn's influence extended far beyond the confines of Memphis. He continued to work with Cropper after Jones left Stax Records, and his distinctive bass style found its way into a myriad of recordings. From Elvis Presley to Muddy Waters, Jerry Lee Lewis to Eric Clapton, and even Rod Stewart, Dunn's bass lines provided the foundation for countless hits. His collaboration with Stevie Nicks on the Tom Petty-penned "Stop Draggin' My Heart Around" showcases his versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles.
Tom Petty's Idol
Tom Petty's admiration for Dunn was evident in his public statements. Petty referred to Dunn as one of his "great idols" and praised him as one of the best musicians he had ever met. This sentiment reflects the profound impact Dunn had on Petty's own musical journey. Dunn's presence in the 1980 film "Blues Brothers" and its 1998 sequel further solidified his iconic status in popular culture.
A Lasting Legacy
Donald "Duck" Dunn's death in 2012 at the age of 70 was a significant loss for the music community. His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 as a member of Booker T. & the M.G.'s is a testament to his enduring impact. Dunn's contributions to the Memphis soul sound, his versatility as a session musician, and his influence on artists like Tom Petty have left an indelible mark on the history of rock and roll. His legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians, ensuring that his music and his memory will forever be cherished.
