Herbie Flowers, legendary bassist, dies at 86, tributes pour in

Herbie Flowers, a renowned session bassist, passed away at the age of 86, as confirmed by his family on Facebook. He was celebrated for his iconic bassline on Lou Reed's 'Walk on the Wild Side,' which is regarded as one of the greatest in pop music history. Throughout his career, Flowers collaborated with numerous legendary artists, including David Bowie, Elton John, and Paul McCartney, and was a founding member of the band Blue Mink, known for hits like 'Melting Pot.' Flowers' contributions to music extended beyond his famous basslines; he recorded over 20,000 sessions and co-wrote the novelty hit 'Grandad.' His work with T Rex and the instrumental band Sky further showcased his versatility and talent. Despite his significant impact on the music industry, Flowers remained modest about his achievements, often downplaying his role in the creation of iconic tracks. Tributes from fellow musicians and fans have poured in, highlighting the profound influence Flowers had on the music scene. Tim Burgess of the Charlatans and Mat Osman of Suede expressed their admiration for his work, emphasizing the lasting legacy he leaves behind. The estate of David Bowie acknowledged the extensive nature of Flowers' contributions, noting that his work was too vast to fully enumerate. As the music world mourns the loss of this legendary bassist, Flowers' family and friends remember him not only for his musical genius but also as a beloved uncle. His passing marks the end of an era, but his music will continue to resonate with generations to come.