Donald “Duck” Dunn was the home bass player at Stax Records as a member of Booker T. and the MGs. He contributed to classic hits like Wilson Pickett’s In A Midnight Hour, Respect, and Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding, and Hang On I’m Coming by Sam and Dave. His talent wasn’t limited to these artists, as he also played with Neil Young, Eric Clapton, and Jerry Lee Lewis.
He was a key member of the Blues Brothers Band and thoroughly enjoyed making music with Booker T. and the MGs. Their cover version of the Beatles’ Abbey Road called McLemore Avenue showcased their immense talent and creativity.
Despite his success, Dunn remained humble, acknowledging the challenge of replicating the iconic basslines of Paul McCartney. His experience at Stax Records was a collaborative and family-orientated one, where everyone contributed creatively and worked together as a real team.
Dunn’s love for music began in high school when he formed a band and played a variety of music genres. He eventually joined Booker T. and the MGs, where they recorded a hit almost every day. One of his memorable sessions included backing Jerry Lee Lewis on his soul-influenced album, Southern Roots.
