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Donald Dunn Obituary
Dunn was in Tokyo for a series of shows. News of his death was posted on the Facebook site of his friend and fellow musician Steve Cropper, who was on the same tour. Cropper said Dunn died in his sleep.
Miho Harasawa, a spokeswoman for Tokyo Blue Note, the last venue Dunn played, confirmed he died alone early Sunday. She had no further details.
Dunn, who was born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1941, performed on recordings with Eric Clapton, Neil Young and many others, and specialized in blues, gospel and soul. He played himself in the 1980 hit movie "The Blues Brothers."
He received a lifetime achievement Grammy award in 2007 for his work with Booker T. and the MGs.
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
212 Entries
DJ Replay
July 9, 2020
The establishment of Rhythm and Blues music owes so very, very much to Brother Donald. If you danced and partied in the 60's, good chance Donald Duck Dunn was holding down the groove. That incredible show band in Heaven isn't complete yet, but the bass section is all set. Eternally greatful for the talent, the beauty and the example of Donald Duck Dunn.
Harry Simpson
May 13, 2018
Godspeed Donald, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Nazarene Mckinney
April 10, 2017
Thanks for all of the great music. This music is timeless transcending all generations! You willl always be young!
How you can show support
John henry Lawrimore
December 27, 2015
I grew up in Memphis and have fond memories of Duck coming to our lake place at Sardis to fish with my dad.
Duck was about 16 years older than me. I knew he was a legend in memphis... But I had no idea at the time that he would become a legend known the world over.
Duck's dad (Jim) spent many weekends with us fishing and hanging out. You never knew what other famous musicians Might Show up with Duck to go fishing.
Duck bought his sister Pat a white two door cougar (circa 1969? Maybe) as a gift. Duck's dad picked it up and we both drove it to the lake for a "test drive." Duck was a Generous guy who loved his family.
When I turned 15, Ducks dad drove me to Oxford Ms so I could take my drivers test because my dad was too sick to do it. Jim Dunn was like a second father to me.
RIP... I Hope you've both with my dad and you guys have all found all the best places to fish.
May 13, 2014
As the song goes, If there's a rock and roll Heaven, then you know they've got a hell of a band. Now they gain one hell of a bass.
September 6, 2012
Being from Memphis, and growing up in the same era, I had the pleasure to hear BT and the MGs play, and also Duck with Steve as the Mar Keys....He turned out to be a great bassist and I have followed somewhat over the years. Very sorry to hear of his passing and my prayers go to his family and friends.
mbayne
Denise Liberty
August 31, 2012
I really enjoyed his music. It seems that as time goes by, God picks the flowers from His garden. He picked one of the best!
Larry Jones Jr
August 5, 2012
As I watch the Stax 50th Anniversary and seeing you play along with the MG's that red Fender Jazz bass I am reminded that you are gone. That sweet, unique bottom that you produced for years is silenced forever but, your legacy lives
on. From a musician that can appreciate
what you did for the art. LJ
Mike Barlow
July 21, 2012
In 1962 or '63 (I was thirteen at the time)I was already blown away by music from people like Bessie Smith, Little Walter and so on (there's just so many to list). I had a friend who's father had a huge appreciation and a huge collection of what was referred to as race music in those days. I knew who Cropper and Dunn were at a very early age. For a white kid in the suburbs of Minneapolis that was considered very odd and by some as wrong (go figure).
Around my house it was all about Sinatra, Martino, Como, Doris Day etc. etc. Couldn't stand it.
Of course along came Stax, Motown, Atlantic and soooo many more.
All the sudden it wasn't just Muddy and so on, I had all that plus all these new artists and variations on the many genres' that came before them.
I felt lucky and ahead of my time or behind the time's depending on how one looked at it. Cropper and Dunn were huge influences on me musically and appreciation there of. I still to this day can't express how much these people influenced my life. Without this music life to me just seemed meaningless. Music was and forever will be the single most important thing in my life.
Growing up in the insanity that was my family, music I believed saved my life or at least my sanity.
You'll be missed Donald Dunn, especially by people like me that discovered you at such a young age. From my heart, thanks for all you gave. Although we never met you were a big influence on the direction my musical tastes evolved.
butch Lisko
June 19, 2012
rest in peace "Duck" there is a rock and roll heaven and now they have a great bass player, my friend is up there with you, his name is lee rynilson he plays bass and smokes a pipe you cant miss him.
keep on rockin"
Thomas Shaw
June 15, 2012
So many will miss the soulful playing of the duck, I am a bass player that have copied his dtyle for eight years and I must truly say his inspiration to many bass players encluding me is truly appreciated. He just had a natrual talent for that instrrument that sill many are trying to copy.
God bless you Duck Dunn and rest in peace.
Justin Boncore
June 9, 2012
Thank You Mr. Dunn , you will always live in our Low notes with high levels .
Steve Cawthon
June 7, 2012
June @ Jeff I was shocked to hear about my buddy. I moved to The Villages Fl & tried to get in touch with ya'll. I called all the numbers I had with no luck. I think you live somewhere around Tampa and I am about an hour north of there. I wish I could of been sucessful in reaching ya'll. I see where Jeff named his son after Michael. I will keep trying to get in touch but in the meantime Cindy & I are keeping you & Jeff in our prayers.
Stanley Grant
June 4, 2012
To the family of Donald "Duck" Dunn, I wish to express my condolences to a great musician and also my musical idol. I grew up listening to Stax during the 1960s and he truly left his mark in soul music and he will be missed.
Keith Boyle
May 31, 2012
There are rock and roll legends...and there are rock and roll legends. Few artists have a resume to match Duck Dunn's. Rock and Roll Heaven now has the ultimate bass player. One hell of a band!
Jorgette Brooks
May 30, 2012
To June and family, I wanted to express my deepest sympathy on your loss. I know it has been a long time since I have seen you, but I always held fond memories of you, my cousin, and certainly admired Duck's tremendous talent. I was out of town when the memorial service was held, or I would have come.
TP Indiana
May 27, 2012
My condolences to Duck Dunn's family. Duck Dunn, his fellow Stax musicians and their music have been a pleasant part of my life and the source of innumerable good memories for 50 years. Thanks for sharing your music and soul with us.
Holly Shelton
May 26, 2012
Duck will be missed and loved forever as a part of the great Memphis classic sound he helped create. Our thoughts and love to June and his family, Cropper and the M.G.'S ,friends and fans all over the world.
Holly Shelton
former & always a Memphian @ heart
www.HollyShelton.com
James Key
May 24, 2012
I'm not sure how to say this properly - but I think "Duck" Dunn would get "it" surely - Booker T and the MG's were my "new" favorite band, and have been for the last 90 days or so - I scored about 6 records while here in Hollywood on the strength of Ackroyd's rap on the Blues Brothers' "Made In America" album - and, what can I tell you, man, it was sorta like finding The Beatles under a rock... they're so cool it's kind of hard to explain it... anyway, my condolences to friends and family, and thanks for the rest of MY lifetime - I really enjoy this man's tunes, and I'm looking forward to completing my collection of same, God willing - those mugs are big fun! Thanks, Mr. Dunn... God Be With.
Kim
May 24, 2012
I first heard his music less than 20 years ago. Booker T. & the MG's, Otis Redding, who I listened to over and over, and Muddy Waters. Duck was there, and Steve Cropper, thank you both for the music. Later our boys watched the Blues Brothers and loved the music. Now we watch again and listen to songs again. Thanks to a dj named Calvin in Charlotte who left us a few years ago, I heard Muddy Waters "Long Distance Call" years ago and I guess that was the first time I heard Duck.
Prayers for his family and all who knew him. Peace be with you.
Norbert Mueller-Laser (Saxophonist, The Soul Set)
May 24, 2012
He was not only a great and creative musician, but also a friendly and unpretentious person. He will be missed all over the world. My condolences go to his family and friends.
May 23, 2012
He was a Memphis legend and will be missed...RIP. Laurie M.
STEVE POTTS
May 23, 2012
JUNE, JEFF, mere words cannot express how we feel on the passing of "DUCK". He was and still is one of the greatest men we have known. Be encouraged and stay prayerful. DUCK was the kindest soul anyone could ever want to meet. Keep his memories alive in your hearts forever. Know that we are here for you and might you need us we are just a phone call away. We love you guys and continue to pray for you...."LOVE " THE POTTS FAMILY HE WILL BE TRULY MISSED..............
Mike Crone
May 23, 2012
Charlie, Chuck, and all the Dunn family, may the peace of God be with you. The bass was always the bossest when Duck was onstage. I treasure each and every one of the many times I heard him play.
Basil Crone
May 23, 2012
Charlie and Chuck,my sincere condolences to you for your brothers. Didn't know the them personaly, but by reputation Will keep you in my prayers.
May 23, 2012
I saw your stage on 10th of May. thank you very very much for your great music!!!! R.I.P. .. Jun from Tokyo Japan
Kenji
May 23, 2012
I hope the music in heaven is even better than the wonderful music you made on earth. I will take care of my precious memory of your last show in Tokyo. Rest in Peace, Mr. Dunn...
Lorraine O'Daniel Scott
May 22, 2012
I will miss your presence here but know you are with family, friends and that Heavenly band! I knew Duck since I was a kid. He was always kind and funny. A gentle man. Hope Cecil finds you and you can play together again. Love to June and the family. Lorraine O'Daniel Scott
May 22, 2012
June, precious memories I will always hold close to my heart. Simply The Best! I will never forget. Loving you, Linda Snow
Greg Pylant
May 21, 2012
Thanks for all the great music, Donald. You will be missed.
Dick Dale
May 21, 2012
My. My. Nothing to say but Rest in Peace, and will pray for those who loved him. Booker T and the MG's, formed and fashioned my musical tastes and talents, from the first time I heard them on WLS Chicago, late one night on my transisitor radio, which I snuck to bed.
God bless
Dick
T B
May 21, 2012
Thanks for the awesome music.
May 21, 2012
I am a life long fan of Booker T. & the MGs.
Their music has touched and continues to touch the world.
Duck Dunn was the epitome of professionalism,musicianship and showmanship.
He will be sorely missed
My condolences to the Dunn family on the passing of Duck Dunn.
Marvin Sudduth-Collierville,Tn
R Smith
May 20, 2012
As a kid growing up in Memphis in the 60's, I loved the AM gospel stations, even though usually heard through a single dashboard speaker. Nonetheless, there was a groove. In 71, my cousin got a Ford Gran Torino Sport and we'd ride around, now 8 Track high tech, listening to Booker, Otis, Sam & Dave, etc. There was that groove again, but this time, it was Duck Dunn at the helm! Duck indirectly taught me more how not to play the bass than anything. He was truly one of a kind and I would like to express my gratitude for the gift he has given the world. Timeless, classic music that brings people from all walks of life together as one. I pray that your family is well, and for all of those who you made music with and were like a brother to. I pray that the Lord will watch over and guide them, and bring them comfort now. Remember: Emmanuel, God Is With Us!
Angus Wynne
May 20, 2012
I loved your work and your indomitable spirit, Duck--that bass line goes on and on and on...condolences to your family and to generations of admirers worldwide.
Richard Luckett
May 20, 2012
Duck: you were a living legend. Now you are simply a legend. The music you left behind will be a legacy that will always shine and will never dim. With lots of love from a town you left a BIG impression on...
May 20, 2012
May God Strengthen the family of Donald Dunn during this most difficult time. Thank you Mr. Dunn for sharing your precious gift with the world. You are greatly loved and will be greatly missed. Linda Wilson, South Plainfield, NJ
Jody the Roadie Hurt
May 20, 2012
R.I.P. Ducky. You will be greatly missed. Jam on, brother
Bill Brod
May 19, 2012
I had the pleasure to met Mr.Dunn at BB Kings in West Palm Beach a short time ago, when he performed at the club. He had a style like no other and will be missed by everyone. My prayers and condolences go out to his family and particularly his son Jeff who is a friend and the sound man at the club.
Eileen Callahan
May 18, 2012
Damn. You were great. Knew an ablum with you on it worth the price of admission. Thank you
A Alli
May 18, 2012
Mr. Dunn, thank you.
Robby MerkinRobbyM
May 18, 2012
A seminal figure, molding an entire genre of music, with incredible dignity and self-effacing taste. So many master musicians are identified by their virtuosity; Donald understood the much more difficult application of perfect simplicity.
May 17, 2012
I didn't know Duck, but I knew his music very well, and tried my best to copy his style. I can't help but think right now in the Heavenly Blues Band, he's giving Jamerson a fit for first chair. . .
Respectfully,
Harold Meads
Lincolnton, GA
Heather Murphy
May 17, 2012
You will be missed, may God bless your family.
Willem van Rossum
May 17, 2012
Donald you where one of the great bass players.
You´re vibe is in my heart !
BassRoss (Netherlands)
m sakurai
May 16, 2012
I love your bass.
Hajime Fujii
May 16, 2012
Thank you for giving me the great music. That you will not forget.
George Naha
May 16, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to Duck and June. I worked with Duck a couple of times - what a great guy, and what a fine bassist. He leaves behind such a legacy of recorded work - classic bass lines that have inspired many and will continue to do so for many years to come. Rest in peace, Duck.
M S
May 16, 2012
Thanks for the music.
Toshi Niwa
May 16, 2012
I've got "soul" from you,thank you so much.
LS Coker
May 16, 2012
Donald was an inspiration to me and a joy to watch and listen to perform. He will be sadly missed. R.I.P. and condolences to the family.
Masaharu Yoshioka
May 16, 2012
Thank you for great music more than 40 years. I was at first set of the last show. I still couldn't believe this.
May 16, 2012
In loving memory of a great bassman. We will love you and miss you always.
Jun Futami
May 16, 2012
Thank you for the great music.
Connie Dickerson
May 16, 2012
My condolences to Pat and the Dunn family
ISAAC TIGRETT
May 16, 2012
FROM ISAAC TIGRETT- DUCK WAS A CLOSE FRIEND OF MY WIFE MAUREEN SINCE THE BEATLE DAYS HE OPENED ALL THE HOUSE OF BLUES AND SEVERAL HARD ROCK CAFES I WAS ALWAYS IN THE FRONT ROW IN TOTAL AWE..HE WAS THE GREATEST BASS PLAYERS THE WORLD PRODUCED, ALWAYS A GENTLE SOUL AND GENTLEMAN HE NEVER SAID AN UNKIND WORD ABOUT ANYONE..HE IS A GREAT LOSS TO MEMPHIS WHERE HIS CAREER BEGAN AND THE WORLD OF MUSIC THAT EMBRACED HIM HE NOW LIVES IMMORTAL THROUGH AN AWESOME 55 YEAR CAREER "GOT DAMN DUCK" SAY HELLO FOR MO FOR ME..IF NOT ALREADY THERE HE DESERVES A BLUE NOTE ON BEALE STREET IN THE RIVER CITY..HIS LOVING WIFE AND PARTNER JUNE WAS ALWAYS BY HIS SIDE. THE WORLD MOURNS FOR THE MUSIC OF DONALD DUCK DUNN NOW AND FOREVER, NOT LOST..BUT GONE BEFORE..KEEP SMOKIN THAT PIPE FOR ALL OF DUCK , WITH LOVE AND RESPECT FOR HIS FAMILY,ENDLESS FRIENDS,AND THE MULTITUDE OF HIS FANS AROUND THE WORLD, GREEN ONIONS FOR EVERYBODY, ISAAC
May 16, 2012
May the "God of all comfort" be with your family at this time of your great loss.
Sincerely,
hiroshi fujita
May 16, 2012
Thank you for his great groove.
I hope, he don't hate japan.
Soichiro HONDA
May 16, 2012
Thank you!
Tonda Ayala
May 16, 2012
Just wanted to express my deep condolence to the family for your lost. We can only turn to the God of all comfort at times such as these. The God of tender mercy see and know our pain and there to comfort us. May these few thoughts comfort the family as well the fond memories of Donald.
Elvira Jefferson Clegg
May 16, 2012
Booker T and the MGs band was great...still playing their CDs
Miwako Saito
May 16, 2012
I am really sorry for to hear about Donald "Duck" Dunn. I am a fan of Blues Brothers' film and music. R.I.P
May 16, 2012
My sincere condolences to the Dunn family, friends and fans. It is hard to lose someone close to us.
But please know that God does not forget our loved ones or us as we have to cope with this loss. We are encouraged to throw all our anxieties upon him because he cares for you".
1 Pet 5:7)
Akira Memphis Kyoudai
May 16, 2012
Donald "Duck" Dunn !! Nice Sound !! Thank you,thank you,thank you ! ! !
Tsuyoshi Miyagi
May 15, 2012
I like his sound very much.
Yumiko Watanabe
May 15, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear the news. I want to send my deepest sadness to his family. Please rest in peace.
Tadd Igarashi
May 15, 2012
I'd like to send my deepest condolences to his family. I was at one of his last gigs in Tokyo. Thank you for the great music through years. Rest in peace, Mr. Dunn.
Patrick Barnett
May 15, 2012
So sorry for your loss June. I really enjoyed getting to meet you and Duck, his music and memory will last lifetimes. I'm sorry i never got the opportunity to fish with him.
Patrick Barnett
Hilda Forister-Taylor
May 15, 2012
June & Jeff, I am so sorry for your loss. Many times here at work I've told people of being around you & Duck at the horseshows way back in the 70's. I remember bringing Sheila Jernigan over to your house to babysit one night & how one of the boys used to flirt with all of us. Good memories. I wish you well...I know this is a hard time. Take care, I think of ya'll often.
May 15, 2012
June, so sorry to hear about Duck, I was so excioted about seeing you in Memphis the end of this month. Maybe later we can all get together, Love Kitty Fredrick
GARY W. KELLY
May 15, 2012
Although not being regularly familiar with his looks, I do recognize him with the MG's and the Blues Brothers Band.
I felt more warmth and excitement with the Blues Brothers movie than with the Bee Gees movie that everybody were so overwhelmed with.
"Soul Limbo" and "Hang Em High" are my favorites.
May 15, 2012
rip duck dunn. i was a young soldier far away in mannheim, ger when they repeatedly played green onions in their nightclubs, later i found out booker t and the mgs was you, steve cropper and others. you and steve are the 2 most famous messick panthers of all time.
Celia W
May 15, 2012
Thanks Duck for contributing your beautiful bass lines to some of the best music ever recorded
Barbara M
May 15, 2012
My deepest condolences to the family. May the God of comfort be with you all during this very stressful time.
Bobbie Smith
May 15, 2012
May the God of comfort and peace be with your family as you reflect on the good and fine memories.
PJ Jackson
May 15, 2012
Duck, I stand with bass players all over the universe today and thank you for all that you gave us. You are my model, my inspiration and your are the music. Rock on eternally, friend.
David Strait
May 15, 2012
Very sorry to learn of the departure of this fine and honorable man. There was joy and delight in his music. Deepest sympathies to Duck's family and friends.
Rudy
May 15, 2012
Thanks, for all the great musical memories !
Linda Dunn
May 15, 2012
He was my uncle, my brother, my father, my friend. I went with him to countless number of recordings at Stax and at 13 I was watching history being made. Otis, Issac, Sam and Dave. I was a lucky kid! June was my best friend and without her he was lost. Me too. Still am. I will never stop missing you Duck. I thought you were a forever man. The shock is too much. At least you are with Michael now.
Joel Barman
May 14, 2012
"Jake ain't lyin' we had a band powerful enough to turn goat..... into gasoline."
RIP Duck
May 14, 2012
love you donald before you were famous.messick high school. shirley allen coburn
Danny Minnix
May 14, 2012
May you Rest In Peace Mr. Dunn.
Music has lost another of her talented son's.
ronnie browning
May 14, 2012
he was a cool he will be missed bu now he with jesus now
May 14, 2012
Donald and June were best couple at our wedding. He will be missed. What a nice man and great musician. John Leikensohn
C M
May 14, 2012
May the God of all comfort, bring comfort to the family and friends of Mr Dunn. We look forward to the time when sickness and death will be a thing of the past.
My thoughts are with you during this most difficult time.
May 14, 2012
It was so much fun being on the road with "Duck".
Jerry Pittman
Conztance Fraley Young
May 14, 2012
GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
May 14, 2012
Zip
May 14, 2012
Zip
May 14, 2012
May 14, 2012
May 14, 2012
Zip
May 14, 2012
Sarah
May 14, 2012
Mr Duck. Thankyou for sharing your talents before going back home.
Annette
May 14, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Christine Dodd
May 14, 2012
Rest In Peace Mr. Dunn, you will surely be missed by all of your fans!!
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