How did Michael Henderson Die? Legendary Jazz Fusion Bassist and Singer Passes Away at 71

Michael Henderson, the Jazz fusion bassist and R&B singer, died at the age of 71 years. He was popularly known for his work with Miles Davis in the 1970s. He played on his early fusion albums such as Jack Johnson (1971), Live-Evil (1971), and Agharta (1975). Learn how did Michael Henderson die here.

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The news of Michael Henderson’s death was announced by his Facebook page, which he used to stay connected to his fans. He used to regularly share life updates through the 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…” the post stated.

“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”, the post added.

Henderson was reportedly suffering from an unannounced illness and was undergoing treatment in a hospital.


What was the cause of Michael Henderson’s Death?


Michael Henderson passed away on July 19, 2022, at his home in Atlanta, Georgia. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones at the time of his death. The exact cause of death isn’t made public yet. However, it is believed Henderson died a natural death due to old age.

Two weeks ago, Henderson was admitted to the Emory University Hospital in Atlanta. This happened just following his 71st birthday and was announced through his Facebook page requesting prayers and love for the renowned singer.

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However, his health continued to deteriorate and he, unfortunately, passed away this Tuesday. The singer’s old age might’ve played a role in his illness as he didn’t recover from the condition. Some Twitter users are speculating Cancer as his cause of death. Although there’s no solid source to support that theory.


Did Michael Henderson have Cancer?


Social media users are remembering Michael Henderson after his demise on Tuesday. Some of them are speculating that Henderson had Cancer of some sort and that played a role in his departure from this world.


However, neither Henderson nor someone else from his family ever revealed if the late singer had any kind of Cancer. The family and close ones haven’t even released the cause of death either.

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The fan theory that Henderson passed away due to cancer is based on his participation in the “Childhood Cancer Awareness Program” month in 2018. Some of his fans believe he participated in that to spread awareness about the disease that he had been suffering from.

However, it could also be the case of genuine awareness where he was just being a good guy. Henderson was known to be humble and hard-working.


Michael Henderson Early Life and Career in Music

Michael Henderson was born on July 7, 1951, in Yazoo City, Mississippi. He moved to Detroit in the early ‘60s to play as a session musician. Throughout his career in music, he played with Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, the Dramatics, and many others.

His most notable work came with his collaboration with Miles Davis in the early 1970s. He produced a series of his own R&B/soul hits and many other chart-toppers featuring him on vocals. The Norman Connors-produced “You Are My Starship” (1976) is a prime example.

Stevie Wonder met him in Chicago and got captivated by the deep sound of his bass guitar. He hired Henderson to tour with him and the exposure helped the bassist do wonders. He later became famous as a soul crooner who topped charts on his own.

He also worked as a duet partner with Phyllis Hyman and Jean Carn and as a guest vocalist with Norman Connors. His final solo album “Bedtime Stories” came in 1986.


Fans and Celebs Paying Tributes to Henderson

Henderson’s demise came as a shock to many as the late singer was loved by many. Bassist and singer Bootsy Collin expressed his grief on Henderson’s passing via Twitter.

“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!” he wrote.

Questlove also did the same. He 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!” wrote a Twitter user.

“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.

“Michael Henderson has passed away y’all know he was my favorite,” tweeted a user.

We’d like to join them to express our grief and sorrow on the passing of the great Michael Henderson. May God let the departed soul rest in peace and give strength to his family and friends.