Michael Henderson Dies At 71: Jazz Musician And R&B Singer Mourned By Fans

Celebrated jazz fusion bassist and R&B singer Michael Henderson has passed away at the age of 71. The news of his death 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... 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," the post read.

The cause of his death wasn't revealed and details regarding the funeral are awaited. Henderson's passing comes a month after he was hospitalized at Georgia's Emory University Hospital for observation. He loved staying connected with his fans and had posted a photo of himself from the facility to share updates regarding the ordeal on June 6.

In another update from June 20, the revered musician had shared with his fans that he wasn't "out of the woods" yet and thanked everyone for reaching out to him.

Henderson's death has come as a shocker to his colleagues in the music industry and fans alike.

Bassist and singer Bootsy Collins shared, "Dangit, we lost one of the Real One's our Bass brother Mr. Michael Henderson (July 7, 1951-July 19,2022) was an American bass guitarist and vocalist. He was known for his work with Miles Davis, Dramatic's, Stevie Wonder & many others. Prayers going out to his family & friends!"

Questlove tweeted, "Michael Henderson. The God. Rest in melody brother."

"Wow Michael Henderson DIED....his song 'Let Me Love You' was a big part my life!! That sample was played in my house always! My moms would blast Queen Pen's 'The Setup' and my pops would play @TrayLee's 'Give It Up Baby!!' RIP Michael Henderson!" read another tweet.

"I hate when we lose talented legends. D*** IT, man! RIP to Michael Henderson," wrote another.

"RIP to the great Michael Henderson. he had a massive career as a solo artist, singer/songwriter, but for me his time on bass with Miles was some of my favorite bass playing of all time... what a legend. what a contribution. fly with the angels!" Mark de Clive-Lowe tweeted.

Henderson enjoyed an illustrious career that spanned five decades. Some of his biggest hits included "Take Me I'm Yours", "Wide Receiver", "You Are My Starship", and "Can't We Fall In Love Again".

Growing up, Henderson idolized the work of Sam Cooke, Jackie Wilson, Elvis Presley, and Frank Sinatra. A musician since the age of 13, his artistry helped him collaborate with the likes of Aretha Franklin, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, and Marvin Gaye at a young age.

Henderson received many accolades for his work, including multiple Grammy nominations, All About Jazz reported.

His music was rerecorded by LL Cool J, Nas, Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, and Beyonce. The National Rhythm and Blues Music Society recognized him along with other R&B legends in 2015 at their annual Black Tie Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony.