Legendary Bassist Dies On Japanese Tour

Donald “Duck” Dunn, session bassist best known for his work with Booker T & The M.G.'s has died at the age of 70.

M.G.s guitarist Steve Cropper confirmed the news on his Facebook page at around 3pm this afternoon (Sunday) AEST.

“Today I lost my best friend, the World has lost the best guy and bass player to ever live,” Cropper said. “Duck Dunn died in his sleep Sunday morning May 13 in Tokyo Japan after finishing 2 shows at the Blue Note Night Club.”

Dunn's staggering discography (not updated since 2005) is proof of the regard he was held in, with the likes of Muddy Waters, Albert King, Neil Young, Jerry Lee Lewis, Eric Clapton, Tom Petty, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Wilson Pickett, Sam & Dave, Rod Stewart, The Staples Singers, Bob Dylan and Arthur Conley just a few of the names who have used his services.

As well as being one of the most highly regarded bassists in modern music, Dunn was a songwriter and record producer and even made an appearance on the silver screen in 1980 when he appeared as himself in The Blues Brothers.

Listen to 30 of Donald "Duck" Dunn's finest appearances below: