Michael Henderson Obituary

Jazz fusion bassist and R&B singer Michael Henderson has died. Henderson was born on July 7, 1951 and died on July 19, 2022, aged 71.

The news was confirmed on the performer’s official Facebook page and read;

Singer, Songwriter, Bass Innovator, Music Producer, Father and Son Michael Henderson has peacefully made his transition surrounded by family and loved ones today at his home, Atlanta Georgia… 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 incessant touring which he loved… Please stay posted for details pertaining to The Michael Henderson “Celebration of Life.”

Henderson was born on July 7, 1951, in Yazoo City, Mississippi and was one of the first notable bass guitarists of the fusion era as well as being one of the most influential jazz and soul musicians of the past 40 years.

In addition to Davis, he played and recorded with Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, the Dramatics, among many others.

Before working with Davis, Henderson had been touring with Stevie Wonder, whom he met at the Regal Theater in Chicago while warming up for a gig.

Davis saw the young Henderson performing at the Copacabana in New York City in early 1970 and reportedly said to Wonder simply “I’m taking your fucking bassist.”

After working with Davis for close to seven years, Henderson focused on songwriting and singing in a solo career that produced many hit songs and albums for Buddah Records until his retirement in 1986.

Although known primarily for ballads, he was an influential funk player whose riffs and songs have been widely covered.