In Memoriam: Michael Henderson

Michael Henderson

Photo credit: JPRoche

Another important figure in the bass world has left us with the passing of Michael Henderson. He was 71 years old. The news was shared on his official Facebook page.

“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,” the post stated. “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.’”

Born and raised in Mississippi, Henderson moved to Detroit in the early 60s, where he made his mark as a bassist with groups like The Detroit Emeralds, The Fantastic Four, and eventually the Funk Brothers. He joined Stevie Wonder’s band at just 16 years old, only to be poached by jazz icon Miles Davis. His work with Davis made him one of the most prominent early fusion bassists, and he would be featured on the albums A Tribute to Jack Johnson, Live-Evil, On the Corner, Get Up With It, and more.

During this time, Henderson was still recording numerous top ten singles including “You’re The Man” with Marvin Gaye, “Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get!” and “In The Rain” by The Dramatics, and more. After his time with Davis, he focused on his own songwriting and launched a solo career. He recorded eight albums before retiring in 1986.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Michael Henderson.

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Leave a Reply to Phillip Davis Cancel reply

  1. Ricardo Flot

    One of the baddest cats that ever held an electric Bass, he also had a 3 octave voice and his arrangements were definitely based in jazz and if course, are MORE than worthy of note! I and many others will MISS this ? brother, he profoundly made his POINT with the bass, he KNEW where it belonged!???

    • Marsha Hutchison Hutchison

      I loved his music. Also, are you related to Louisiana Flots? My gma was a Flot.

  2. Dormen D.Mack

    I kinda grew up on Michael Henderson in the disco 70s…biggest fan ever tunes like goin places got me in the mood for whatever. I am going to miss the bad bro about to play some of his tunes right now!

  3. Keith Kidd

    I grew up listening to Michael Henderson in the 70 ‘s . They don’t even make music like this. Michael will be missed for years to come, but your music will always remind us of you.

  4. Lacquer

    RIP Michael Henderson. You will be missed,, thank you for going places

  5. Phillip Davis

    At the top of my list as the greatest of about everything

    • Kenneth Wright Sr.

      Mr.Henderson ….mmmmuh was a Bad
      “M…..r F…er” !!!! Beautiful Voice ,And On Bass… Untouchable, His Pen Game ….Tremendous !
      All of His Duets with all The Top Female Vocalist,
      During his Era All of em, were and are Classics …
      One Hell Of Uh Man !!!
      God Bless Him
      R.I.P. Michael Henderson

  6. Zachary Andrews

    Mr. Henderson was part of many hits if you listen to The Dramatics, Norman Connors, Phyllis Hyman. Roberta Flack
    He was a collaborator and writer. A true UNSUNG LEGEND!!!! RIP Mr. Henderson.

  7. Khan

    I saw him in concert in 1977 Portland Oregon and wanted to see him again but the good lord ? loved him the most..RIPOWER PEACE PARADISE ? ?

  8. Khan

    I saw him in concert in 1977 Portland Oregon and wanted to see him again but the good lord ? loved him the most..RIPOWER PEACE PARADISE ? ?

  9. Debbie

    In the night time!!!!