Bob “Slim” Dunlap, a guitarist and songwriter known for playing in the famous rock band the Replacements, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 73. His family shared that he died from health problems caused by a stroke he had in 2012.
Dunlap joined the Replacements in the late 1980s after one of their original members, Bob Stinson, left the band. To avoid confusion with the first Bob, Dunlap became known as “Slim.” His style of playing guitar brought a mix of stability and energy to the group during their final years.
Dunlap played on the Replacements’ last two albums, Don’t Tell a Soul (1989) and All Shook Down (1991). The song “I’ll Be Me” from Don’t Tell a Soul became a hit on rock radio, and his work helped the band maintain their bold and loud sound.
Bob Dunlap was born in Minnesota in 1951. His father was a state senator, but Dunlap followed a different path, falling in love with music. He admired guitar legends like Chuck Berry and Buddy Holly. Before joining the Replacements, he played in local Minnesota bands, where he impressed frontman Paul Westerberg.
Even though Dunlap was hesitant to join the Replacements due to the demands of touring and having three children at home, his wife and Westerberg encouraged him. Looking back on his time with the band, Dunlap said, “It was both exhilarating and depressing— a roller coaster ride. It fulfilled a lot of my dreams.”
Besides playing guitar, Dunlap proved himself as a talented solo artist. In the 1990s, he released two albums, The Old New Me and Times Like These. These albums received praise, with rock star Bruce Springsteen calling them “beautiful rock ‘n’ roll records” that were deeply emotional and touching.
Dunlap’s career ended after a severe stroke in 2012 left him paralyzed and unable to play guitar. Even though this was a difficult time, he stayed positive, thanks to his family’s love and support.
In 2013, many musicians joined together to create a project called Songs for Slim. Artists like Paul Westerberg, Jeff Tweedy, and Lucinda Williams recorded his songs to raise money for his medical needs. These tributes also reminded fans of his incredible talent and legacy.
Dunlap passed away at home, surrounded by his family. During his final moments, his loved ones played one of his live albums. He passed away shortly after they played his version of “Hillbilly Heaven.”
Dunlap is survived by his wife, Chrissie; their three children, Emily, Delia, and Louie; and six grandchildren. His music continues to inspire fans and musicians, and he will always be remembered as an important part of the Replacements and a gifted solo artist.
