Herbie Flowers, a highly respected bassist known for his work with iconic artists such as David Bowie, Lou Reed, and Paul McCartney, has passed away at the age of 86. Flowers' death was confirmed by his family on September 5, 2024, through a post on Facebook.
Born in Isleworth in 1938, Flowers began his musical journey after serving in the RAF, a period he described as instrumental in shaping his career. He became a well-regarded session musician, collaborating with notable producers like Shel Talmy and Mickie Most, and was involved in recording sessions for over 500 albums by the late 1970s.
Throughout his expansive career, Flowers contributed to classic tracks including Bowie's "Space Oddity" and Reed's "Walk On The Wild Side." He was also part of the band T.Rex, playing on the song "Dandy In The Underworld." His session work was characterized by a fast-paced recording process; he often lumbered through multiple sessions a day that spanned a variety of artists and venues, juggling commitments between sessions for Eartha Kitt and appearances on shows like Top Of The Pops.
Flowers had a talent for connecting with major artists across genres, playing on numerous high-profile albums including Bryan Ferry's "The Bride Stripped Bare" and Elton John's "Tumbleweed Connection." He was also a member of the group Blue Mink, and later formed the band Sky with guitarist John Williams.
Reflecting on his career, Flowers noted the privileges of being part of a vibrant musical era, recounting experiences that ranged from performing at Madison Square Garden to unexpected encounters with stars such as Doris Day at a Sly Stone wedding. His unique perspective on the industry, with its fast-paced and sometimes chaotic nature, made him an endearing figure in the music world.
Herbie Flowers' legacy as a prolific contributor to rock and pop music remains undeniable, and he will be remembered for his talent and dedication to the craft. His full impact on the music industry can be further explored on his Uncut Magazine profile.