Bill Henderson

Bill Henderson delivered blues, ballads, and swing numbers in the manner of Joe Williams and Ernie Andrews while projecting a singular identity. Professional singing began for him in 1952. Chicago engagements with Ramsey Lewis preceded his move to New York and the launch of his recording career as a leader in 1958. “Señor Blues,” cut with Horace Silver, became a hit, and Jimmy Smith’s trio supported him on one session. Vee-Jay sessions from 1959 to 1961 placed him alongside sidemen such as Ramsey Lewis, Booker Little, Yusef Lateef, and Eddie Harris. A 1963 MGM album featured him throughout with the Oscar Peterson Trio. One additional Verve date appeared in 1965, followed by a 1965–1966 stint with Count Basie, yet the recognition his skills merited remained limited. He established residence in Los Angeles, pursued acting work, and from time to time directed a unit that included pianist Dave MacKay and pianist/vocalist Joyce Collins. Discovery released several of his albums in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He continued to appear regularly throughout the Los Angeles area and sustained peak condition into the 21st century. Henderson died in April 2016 at the age of 90.