Donald "Duck" Dunn (November 24, 1941 – May 13, 2012) was a renowned American bass guitarist, session musician, record producer, and songwriter, celebrated for his pivotal role in shaping the sound of Memphis soul and R&B music. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Dunn's musical journey began in his youth, inspired by the vibrant musical environment of his hometown. He earned the nickname "Duck" from his father while watching Disney cartoons, a moniker that stayed with him throughout his career.

Dunn's early musical endeavors were closely tied to his high school friend Steve Cropper. Together, they formed The Royal Spades, which eventually evolved into the Mar-Keys, a band that achieved national success with the hit "Last Night" in 1961. Dunn's distinctive bass style, characterized by its spontaneity and creativity, set him apart as a musician. He became a key figure at Stax Records, where he played on countless recordings, providing the bass lines for iconic tracks by Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and Albert King, among others.

In 1965, Dunn joined Booker T. & the M.G.'s, replacing bassist Lewie Steinberg. The group became the house band for Stax Records, contributing to the label's signature sound and playing on numerous classic recordings. Dunn's work with Booker T. & the M.G.'s earned him an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.

Beyond his work with Stax, Dunn was a member of The Blues Brothers Band, handpicked by John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd for the cult film "The Blues Brothers." His contributions to the band helped keep the classic Stax sound alive.

Dunn's influence extended beyond his recordings, as he collaborated with artists like Neil Young, Eric Clapton, and Jerry Lee Lewis. Known for his ability to bring joy and spontaneity to live performances, Dunn's legacy as a bassist is celebrated for its enduring impact on popular music. His contributions were further recognized in 2017 when he was ranked 40th on Bass Player magazine's list of "The 100 Greatest Bass Players of All Time." Dunn passed away in Tokyo, Japan, in 2012, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire musicians worldwide.