Ken Hensley was a British rock musician, keyboardist, guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer, best known as a member of Uriah Heep. He was born on August 24, 1945, in London, England, and passed away on November 4, 2020, in Agost, Alicante, Spain.
Personal and Family Life
Ken Hensley grew up in a strict Victorian household as the son of a naval officer. He moved with his family to Stevenage when he was ten years old, where he began learning the guitar at the age of twelve. He had three brothers and a sister, and they all shared a close-knit family environment.
Musical Career
Hensley kickstarted his music career with his first concert in September 1960 and was part of several local bands, including The Blue Notes and The Jimmy Brown Sound. In 1969, he joined Spice, which later became Uriah Heep, where his songwriting and performing talents flourished. Despite early criticism, he gained international recognition for his contributions to the band, particularly during the production of the ‘Demons & Wizards’ album.
Death and Legacy
Ken Hensley passed away on November 4, 2020, leaving behind a legacy as a talented musician and songwriter. His work, particularly with Uriah Heep, has influenced many artists and continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide. Hensley’s contributions to rock music are regarded with respect, as his skills and creativity were acknowledged over time.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Roger Dean: Views | 2001-09-15 | |
| Uriah Heep & David Byron: Collection 1973-1977 | Self – Keyboards, Guitars, Vocals | |
| ZDF-Fernsehgarten | 1986-06-29 | Self |