Steve Cropper & Jimmy James

When I spoke with guitarist Jimmy James a few weeks ago for Caropop Ep. 143, he cited Steve Cropper of Booker T. and the M.G.’s. as a key inspiration. Listen to James’ work with the organ trio Parlor Greens and, before that, the Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio, and you hear how he, like Cropper, is a rhythmic guitarist who never overplays yet can make your head spin. I told James I’d love to hear him to interview Cropper, and he said that would be a dream come true. Turns out, the 82-year-old Cropper, my guest for Caropop Ep. 93 last summer, has a new album, Friendlytown, coming out Aug. 23. I pitched the idea of James talking with Cropper, guitarist to guitarist, generation to generation, and here it is—with fantastic stories and insights plus a few guitar licks. (Photo by Stacie Huckeba.)