Following the release of the critically acclaimed single “Too Much Stress feat. Brian May,” legendary guitarist and songwriter Steve Cropper unveils the title track from his forthcoming album, Friendlytown, set for release on August 23rd via Mascot Label Group/Provogue. This newly released single highlights Cropper’s signature loping riff, enhanced by the low-down Texas blues guitar leads of ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons. The track’s muscular, blues-rock sound is further distinguished by Roger C. Reale’s powerful vocals, which effortlessly blends bluesy mojo with a radio-ready catchiness, ensuring it resonates with both loyal fans and new listeners.
Cropper’s excitement is palpable as he shares this latest single, “Friendlytown,” which he wrote with fellow bandmates Roger C. Reale, Jon Tiven, as well as his longtime friend Billy F. Gibbons. Billy’s instantly identifiable guitar style features prominently in the track, leaning against Steve’s more angular approach. Watch the official lyric video for “Friendlytown,” featuring exclusive in-studio footage.
The previous release, “Too Much Stress” features a star-studded collaboration between not only Cropper and Gibbons but adds Brian May to the mix. Brian and Roger sing the song as a duet, with Brian’s gospel-style backing vocals and a seamless exchange of guitar solos punctuating the track. The chemistry between the musicians brings a dynamic and soulful energy that is a hallmark of Cropper’s work.
The album, produced by Cropper alongside longtime collaborator Jon Tiven, features an impressive lineup, including lead vocalist Roger C. Reale, drummer Nioshi Jackson, and the Reverend Billy Gibbons. Engineered by Eddie Gore, Friendlytown promises to be a masterful blend of Cropper’s classic sound with fresh, contemporary elements. “If there was a Mt. Rushmore of Guitar pickers,” Tiven adds, “Mr. Steve Cropper would be there.”
With a career spanning decades, Cropper has left an indelible mark on the music world. From his early days with The Mar-Keys and Booker T. & the M.G.‘s to his contributions at Stax Records and beyond, Cropper’s influence is undeniable. As he releases Friendlytown, Cropper reflects on his legacy with humility: “When I think about my legacy, I want it to be said that I was a nice guy.”
Cropper has won two GRAMMY Awards from his seven nominations. He’s been ranked the #2 greatest guitarist of all-time—behind Jimi Hendrix—by England’s Mojo Magazine, and #36 in Rolling Stone magazine’s “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.” Cropper’s name is synonymous with the world-famous soul label Stax Records, and he is featured in HBO’s new documentary, ‘Stax: Soulsville U.S.A.’
While at Stax, Cropper co-wrote hits, played guitar behind, and produced such legends as Otis Redding, Eddie Floyd, Wilson Pickett, Sam & Dave, Albert King, Carla Thomas, Rufus Thomas, and Johnnie Taylor. Post-Stax, Cropper produced and/or played on sessions for Jeff Beck, Jose Feliciano, Yvonne Elliman, John Prine, Tower Of Power, John Cougar, Ringo Starr, Buddy Guy, Johnny Lang, Elton John, and Steppenwolf, among many, many others.
