Singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Ken Hensley – known for his work with English rock legends Uriah Heep during the ’70s – has unexpectedly died at the age of 75, confirmed Uriah Heep guitarist/backing vocalist Mick Box this morning via the below posted message on social media.
5th November 2020:
I received devastating news this morning from Ken’s manager Steve Weltman that Ken Hensley has passed away.
I had just finished watching his video of the unboxing of the 50th Anniversary Box Set last night, where he seemed absolutely fine and justifiably proud of his time in Uriah Heep, which has just added to the shock.
We may not have always been the best of friends, but there were some wonderful times we shared too, which are the ones I will always remember.
Ken wrote some amazing songs in his tenure with the band, and they will remain a musical legacy that will be in people’s hearts forever.
His communication through lyrics and melody have stood the test of time, and with the power and chemistry of the band bringing those songs to life, we achieved success we could only have dreamed of.
My sincere condolences go to his family and wife Monica and may he rest in peace.
Mick
URIAH HEEP
As Hensley’s Wikipedia notes:
He wrote or co-wrote the majority of Uriah Heep’s songs during [the 1970s], including the hit singles “Lady in Black” (on which he sang lead vocals), “Easy Livin'” and “Stealin'”, as well as “Look at Yourself”, on which he also sang lead vocals, and “Free Me”.
Hensley also performed with The Gods, Head Machine, Toe Fat, Weed, Blackfoot, John Lawton, John Wetton, and his own Ken Hensley & Live Fire during his time on earth.
RIP
Artist photo via Facebook
