Herbie Flowers Death – Renowned Bass Guitarist Herbie Flowers has sadly passed away. He died leaving family and friends heartbroken. He was confirmed dead through a Facebook post that reads:
“Farewell to Mr Herbie Flowers, bass player supreme, electric bass, double bass and tuba, who has passed away at the age of 86.” The cause of his death has not been released.
Born in Isleworth, Middlesex, England, Flowers’ journey from a military bandsman to a renowned session musician and band member is a captivating narrative of musical evolution and versatility.
His career reflects a deep commitment to his craft, marked by significant contributions to various genres and notable collaborations with iconic producers and bands.
Flowers’ musical journey began in 1956 when he was conscripted into the Royal Air Force. Choosing to serve as a bandsman, he started his training on the tuba. His service in the RAF was more than just a patriotic duty; it was a formative period that shaped his musical skills and provided him with a foundation for his future career.
To secure his “junior technician” stripe, Flowers took up the double bass as a second instrument, a choice that would later influence his transition to electric bass.
The early 1960s were a transformative period for Flowers. After completing his military service, he immersed himself in the vibrant Dixieland jazz scene. However, it wasn’t until he encountered modern jazz that he began to redefine his musical path.
A pivotal moment in his career came in 1965 when he was engaged as a bandsman on the Queen Elizabeth ocean liner. During this time, Flowers was introduced to the electric bass in a New York nightclub, an experience that sparked his passion for the instrument.
Purchasing a Lake Placid Blue 1960 Fender Jazz Bass from Manny’s Music in New York City for $79, Flowers began to explore the possibilities of electric bass. This solid-body electric bass became a key element of his sound and contributed to his growing reputation as a versatile session musician.
Flowers’ talent and innovation soon caught the attention of prominent record producers. In the late 1960s, he established himself as a sought-after session player, collaborating with notable figures such as Shel Talmy, Mickie Most, Steve Rowland, Richard Perry, Gus Dudgeon, and Tony Visconti. His ability to adapt to different musical styles and contribute to diverse projects underscored his skill and versatility as a bassist.
In 1969, Flowers became a founding member of the group Blue Mink. The band’s song “Melting Pot” achieved significant success, reaching No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart. This success highlighted Flowers’ ability to blend genres and create music that resonated with a wide audience.
Flowers also played a crucial role in the early heavy rock band Rumplestiltskin, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to explore new musical territories. His contributions extended to CCS, a band known for its fusion of rock and jazz, and the final lineup of T. Rex, where he performed alongside Dino Dines. These roles further cemented his status as a prominent figure in the music industry.