Bassist Michael Henderson dies, aged 71
One of the most influential jazz and soul bassists has passed away at his him in Atlanta
Last updated 20th Jul 2022
American bassist and vocalist Michael Henderson has passed away, at his home in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 71.
The musician was lauded in the bass world and recognised for his work with Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin, and even Stevie Wonder.
It is reported that he had been admitted to a hospital, in Atlanta, several weeks ago for an “undisclosed illness”.
The news was confirmed through his social media, which read Michael Henderson “peacefully made his transition surrounded by family and loved ones today at his home…He touched the lives of many and returned that love through his many live concerts, music recordings, social media, interviews and incessant touring which he loved”.
Who was Michael Henderson?
Born in Yazoo City, Mississippi, in 1951, Michael Henderson became a session musician after he moved to Detroit in the 1960s.
Following his move to Detroit, Henderson went on to work with top-tier soul artists including Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, The Dramatics, as well as Stevie Wonder.
It is believed that Henderson met Miles Davis whilst he was on tour with Stevie Wonder in early 1970. Henderson performed and worked with Davis during his “Electronic Period”, appearing on a series of records, including A Tribute to Jack Johnson (1971), Live-Evil (1971), and On the Corner (1972).
After his spell with Miles Davis, Henderson then focussed on a selection of R&B solo albums over a period of 10 years with Buddha Records and EMI. His first record Gold was released in 1976, whilst his final solo record being Bedtime Stories (1986) - leading to hits including ‘Take Me I’m Yours’, ‘Wide Receiver’ and ‘In The Night-Time’. He also worked with Norman Connors, singing on the hits ‘You Are My Starship’ and ‘Valentine Love’.
He is considered to be of the most influential bassists in the soul and jazz world of the 20th century.