Beloved Replacements Guitarist Bob Slim Dunlap Passes Away at 73, Leaving a Legacy

Bob "Slim" Dunlap, the renowned guitarist for the iconic band the Replacements, has passed away at the age of 73. His family confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement to the Minnesota Star Tribune, revealing that Dunlap died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. The poignant moment was marked by the listening of his live album, "Live at the Turf Club ('Thank You Dancers!')", specifically his rendition of "Hillbilly Heaven," shortly before he took his final breath. Dunlap's health had been in decline for the past week, a deterioration attributed to complications from a stroke he suffered in 2012. This stroke had a profound impact on Dunlap's life, leaving him paralyzed and requiring extensive medical attention, with reports indicating he had been hospitalized around 40 times since the incident. Joining the Replacements in 1987, Dunlap played a significant role in stabilizing the band after the departure of founding guitarist Bob Stinson. His contributions were pivotal in the production of the band's last two studio albums, "Don't Tell a Soul" (1989) and "All Shook Down" (1990). These albums showcased his guitar skills and deepened his connection to the Minnesota music scene, where he became a cherished figure. After the Replacements disbanded in 1991, Dunlap continued to create music, releasing two solo albums: "The Old New Me" in 1993 and a live album, "Thank You Dancers!" in 2020. Dunlap's talent did not go unnoticed by his peers. In a 2014 interview, Bruce Springsteen described him as "fantastic" and praised his soulful rock records. Springsteen's admiration for Dunlap's artistry is reflective of the respect and affection many in the music industry held for the guitarist. Following Dunlap's stroke, the Replacements reunited in 2013 to record "Songs for Slim," a five-song EP aimed at raising funds for Dunlap's medical expenses. The project marked the band's first new material in over two decades and included two tracks written by Dunlap himself. In a revealing conversation, frontman Paul Westerberg shared Dunlap's encouragement for the band to continue playing during his recovery, highlighting the close bond they maintained despite the challenges. As tributes pour in from fans and fellow musicians alike, Slim Dunlap's legacy as a talented musician and integral part of rock history will undoubtedly resonate beyond his years. His contributions to the Replacements and the broader music landscape have left an indelible mark, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him and the countless fans who celebrated his work.