Bob “Slim” Dunlap, a renowned solo artist and guitarist for the alternative rock band The Replacements from Minneapolis, Minnesota, passed away on December 18, 2024, at his residence in Minneapolis. He was 73 years old.
His family confirmed his demise to the Minnesota Star Tribune with a statement that read, “Bob passed at home today at 12:48 p.m. surrounded by family. We played him his ‘Live at the Turf Club (‘Thank You Dancers!)’ CD, and he left us shortly after listening to his version of ‘Hillbilly Heaven’ — quite poetic.”
The cause of death was complications related to a stroke he experienced in 2012. His wife, Chrissie, revealed in a 2023 interview that Dunlap was paralyzed and only capable of moving his head, and he would never play again. She also mentioned that he had been admitted to the hospital more than 100 times.
Dunlap, born in 1951 in Plainview, Minnesota, started playing guitar at the age of 10. In the early 70s, he and musician Curtiss A established the band Thumbs Up, which played rhythm and blues mixed with pop music. Dunlap later became a member of Curtiss A’s punk-rock band, Spooks.
Prior to joining The Replacements, Dunlap had made a name for himself as a versatile and dependable musician in the Minneapolis music scene. His collaboration with Curtiss A attracted the attention of Paul Westerberg, who was on the hunt for a new guitarist.
After the dismissal of founding member Bob Stinson, Dunlap officially became a member of The Replacements in 1987. Initially reluctant, he accepted the offer due to his admiration for Paul Westerberg’s songwriting. He contributed to the band’s last two studio albums, “Don’t Tell a Soul” (1989) and “All Shook Down” (1990).
Dunlap’s recruitment was key to The Replacements continuing after Stinson’s exit. During his time with the band, Dunlap also participated in their tour, supporting their album “Pleased to Meet Me.”
Dunlap was known for his mellow guitar playing style, using a unique thumb-pick method that added depth and a thoughtful introspection to the band’s music.
After The Replacements disbanded in 1991, Dunlap released two solo albums: “The Old New Me” (1993) and “Times Like This” (1996). Bruce Springsteen praised his work and referred to the albums as “deeply touching and emotional.”
In the wake of Dunlap’s stroke in 2012, fellow musicians came together to support him. The Replacements regrouped in 2013 and released a benefit EP titled “Songs for Slim” to raise funds for his medical expenses. Although Dunlap was unable to take part in The Replacements’ 2014 reunion tour due to his stroke, Paul Westerberg confirmed that Dunlap had given his blessing for the band to proceed. In 2020, Steve Earle, among other notable musicians, released a live album that captured a 2002 performance, praising Dunlap’s solo work.
In a 2023 interview, Dunlap reflected on his tenure with The Replacements, noting that stepping into Bob Stinson’s shoes was a task beyond anyone’s capabilities. He learned Stinson’s parts but brought his unique style to the role. He described the experience as both exhilarating and emotionally challenging, comparing it to a roller coaster. Despite the highs and lows, it allowed him to fulfill many of his dreams and opened new doors. He expressed profound gratitude to Paul Westerberg, Tommy Stinson, and Chris Mars for the opportunity.
Bob Dunlap is survived by his wife Chrissie, three children including musician daughter Emily Boigenzahn, six grandchildren, and three sisters.
