Michael Henderson, the jazz fusion bassist and R&B singer known for his work with Miles Davis in the 1970s, has died. The news was confirmed on the musician’s Facebook page. Henderson was 71 years old.
“Singer, songwriter, bass innovator, music producer, father and son, Michael Henderson has peacefully made his transition surrounded by his family and loved ones today at his home in Atlanta, Georgia…”, reads- we in the message. “Bless his heart and soul…He touched the lives of many and returned that love through his many live concerts, music recordings, social media, interviews and relentless touring which he loved…Please stay tuned aware of details regarding The Michael Henderson ‘Celebration of Life’..”
Born in Yazoo City, Mississippi in 1951, Henderson moved to Detroit in the early 1960s, where he worked as a session musician. In the 70s he played on early jazz fusion albums such as Jack Johnson, Vive-Maland Agarta, becoming one of the most influential bassists of the fusion era. In addition to Davis, he continued to perform with Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and the Dramatics, among others. Prior to his retirement in 1986, he released his own songs and solo albums for Buddah Records, and performed as a vocalist on several Norman Connors recordings, including ‘You Are My Starship’ and ‘Valentine Love’.