September 8th 2024.
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Herbie Flowers' passing at the age of 86. Herbie was a legendary bassist, known for his impeccable skills and his collaborations with some of the greatest names in music history. His family announced his passing on Thursday, September 5th, and the world mourns the loss of this incredible musician.
Kevin J Conklin, the husband of Herbie's niece Lorraine Bassett, took to Facebook to pay tribute to their beloved "uncle Herbie." He expressed how blessed he and his wife were to have known such a talented and kind soul. Herbie's impressive 50-year career saw him play bass for bands such as T. Rex, Rumpelstiltskin, Sky, and founding Blue Mink in 1969. He even wrote Clive Dunn's hit song "Grandad."
The official announcement of his passing read: "Lorraine's beloved uncle, Herbie Flowers, passed away yesterday. While we knew and loved him as Uncle Herbie, his musical contributions have likely touched your lives as well. He played bass on many of the songs from the golden age of rock." Herbie's talent and contribution to music were undeniable, and he had the pleasure of working with the likes of Elton John, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, and many other popular musicians.
One of Herbie's most notable musical contributions was the iconic bass line on Lou Reed's "Walk on the Wild Side." He also played with a whole host of rock legends and was a member of the band T-Rex, Blue Mink, and Sky. His talent did not go unnoticed, as he even had his own Wikipedia entry. Later in life, Herbie worked to involve children in music, showcasing his passion and dedication to his craft.
For Herbie's niece Lorraine, he played an even more significant role in her life as a substitute father. He even walked her down the aisle at her wedding. She adored him dearly, and her husband Kevin considers himself blessed to have known him. The world will truly miss this incredible musician, and his legacy will continue to live on through his music.
Born on May 19th, 1938 in Isleworth, Middlesex, Herbie's music career began when he was conscripted into the Royal Air Force at the age of 18. He started as a bandsman playing the tuba before finding his home in the electric bass. In an interview with Guitar World last year, Herbie recalled how his time in the RAF influenced his iconic bassline on David Bowie's "Space Oddity." He wanted the strings to sound like a double bass, and although they didn't know what they were doing at the time, the result was extraordinary.
After his military service, Herbie worked as a bandsman on the Queen Elizabeth ocean liner before becoming a session musician. He worked with renowned producers such as Shel Talmy, Mickie Most, Steve Rowland, Richard Perry, Gus Dudgeon, and Tony Visconti. In 1969, Herbie co-founded the band Black Mink, and their debut track "Melting Pot" reached number 3 on the UK singles chart. By the end of the 1970s, Herbie had played bass on over 500 hit recordings.
One of his most recognizable basslines was on Lou Reed's "Walk on the Wild Side," and it remains a timeless classic to this day. Fans and the music community have taken to social media to express their sadness and pay their respects. Herbie's talent and contribution to pop culture will never be forgotten. As @NeilDrysdale wrote, "You may not know the name, but Herbie Flowers played on many of the greatest pop records ever made. He did the bass line on Lou Reed's 'Take a Walk on the Wild Side' and worked with Bowie, Bolan, McCartney... the list goes on!"
Another user, @SirFestusBurke, shared, "Herbie Flowers played on tons of things that defined pop culture. That's his bass on 'Walk on the Wild Side' and 'Rock On,' and he co-wrote 'Grandad' for Clive Dunn. In the late 70s, I loved him in the band Sky. Another giant gone to the great recording studio in the afterlife."
The world has lost a true musical icon, and we will forever be grateful for the incredible legacy Herbie Flowers leaves behind. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Herbie. Your music will live on forever.
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