Noted guitarist and producer who worked with Stax Records, playing with iconic soul and R&B artists like Al Green and Isaac Hayes. Known for his smooth, soulful sound and behind-the-scenes contributions to legendary recordings.
Bobby Manuel is a renowned American guitarist, engineer, and producer, best known for his work with iconic figures of the Memphis soul scene, including Albert King, Rufus Thomas, Luther Ingram, and Isaac Hayes. With a career spanning over five decades, Manuel has left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning him a reputation as one of the most dependable and oft-used session players of his time.
In the early 1960s, Manuel was the lead guitarist for the local band, The Memphis Blazers. His talent and skills soon caught the attention of Stax Records, who hired him as an engineer in the late 1960s. Manuel quickly began doing studio work as a guitarist, becoming an integral part of the Stax team.
Manuel's credits include playing with some of the genres most iconic figures, including Albert King, Rufus Thomas, Luther Ingram, and Isaac Hayes. He also cowrote songs, produced artists such as Stefan, Ben Atkins, and Annette Thomas, and released a one-off novelty country record under the pseudonym Dale Yard.
In 1973, Manuel subbed for Steve Cropper as a member of The MGs, alongside Carson Whitsett and Stax stalwarts Al Jackson, Jr. and Duck Dunn. This opportunity further solidified his position as a leading figure in the Memphis soul scene.
In 1976, Manuel produced the number one hit "Disco Duck" by Memphis deejay Rick Dees and His Cast of Idiots. This success marked a significant milestone in his career, demonstrating his versatility as a producer and musician.
After the demise of Stax Records, Manuel and Stax founder Jim Stewart operated Daily Planet, a studio and production company in Memphis, TN. He later ran his own label, HighStacks, named to recall the glory of former Memphis RB labels, Hi Records and Stax.
In 2004, Manuel organized and led a group of Memphis All-Stars to celebrate the opening of the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, backing legends such as Isaac Hayes, Mavis Staples, Eddie Floyd, William Bell, Solomon Burke, and Al Green who performed in honor of the label.
Manuel's contributions to the music industry have been recognized with several awards and honors, including his induction into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame.
Born on November 13, 1945, Manuel has lived a life dedicated to music, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians and music enthusiasts alike.
Through his work, Manuel has shown a deep commitment to preserving the soul and essence of Memphis music, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of the city is passed down to future generations.
Manuel's influence can be seen in the many musicians and producers who have followed in his footsteps, drawing inspiration from his work and contribution to the Memphis soul scene.
Bobby Manuel's remarkable career is a testament to his dedication, passion, and talent. As an unsung hero of the Memphis soul scene, he continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day.
84 Years Old
A legendary guitarist, songwriter, and producer who helped shape the sound of soul and R&B music, penning iconic hits like "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay" and "Green Onions".
91 Years Old
A renowned drummer, songwriter, and producer who played a crucial role in shaping the sound of Stax Records and worked with legendary artists like Al Green and Otis Redding. He's behind some of soul music's most iconic hits.
81 Years Old
A legendary musician who pioneered soul and R&B music with his iconic Hammond organ sound and hit songs like "Green Onions" and "Time Is Tight". He's a Grammy-winning artist and inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
83 Years Old
A legendary soul and R&B musician, known for his smooth, deep voice and iconic theme song for the movie "Shaft".
84 Years Old
Soulful voice and heartfelt songwriting defined the iconic sound of a legendary musician, whose tragic death at 26 cemented his legacy as a rock and roll pioneer.
90 Years Old
Legendary soul singer-songwriter behind iconic hits like "Soul Man" and "Hold On, I'm Comin'", known for his powerful, soulful voice and classic duets with Dave Prater.
85 Years Old
A soulful voice behind classic hits like "In the Midnight Hour" and "Land of 1000 Dances", this legendary singer-songwriter brought energetic and passionate performances to the forefront of 1960s soul and R&B music.
84 Years Old
The "Queen of Soul" was a legendary vocalist, songwriter, and pianist who revolutionized music with her powerful, soulful voice and classic hits like "Respect" and "Think".
