Home Featured Former URIAH HEEP Keyboardist KEN HENSLEY Dead At 75

Former URIAH HEEP Keyboardist KEN HENSLEY Dead At 75

ken hansley uriah heep, Former URIAH HEEP Keyboardist KEN HENSLEY Dead At 75

Former URIAH HEEP keyboardist, writer and vocalist Ken Hensley died peacefully on Novemeber 4 following a very short illness. He was 75 years old.

Hensley was one of the most important musicians of the past half a century. His work with URIAH HEEP in the 1970s helped to make the band hugely influential. He also collaborated with bands such as BLACKFOOT, W.A.S.P. and CINDERELLA, as well as building a very successful solo career. As a writer, he was responsible for such classics as “Lady In Black”, “Easy Livin'”, “July Morning” and “Look At Yourself”.

A very spiritual person, Hensley became an inspiration to many and known for encouraging talented artists.

URIAH HEEP guitarist Mick Box said: “I am in deep shock at the news Ken Hensley has passed away, and my sincere condolences go to his family and wife Monica.

“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. RIP Ken.”

Ken had recently finished work on a new project, “My Book Of Answers”, which is due for release end of February 2021.

He leaves behind a wife, Monica, and two brothers Trevor, Mark and sister Dawn, and his close friend and manager Steve Weltman.

Trevor Hensley said in a statement: “I am writing this with a heavy heart to let you know that my brother Ken Hensley passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening. His beautiful wife Monica was at his side and comforted Ken in his last few minutes with us.

“We are all devastated by this tragic and incredibly unexpected loss and ask that you please give us some space and time to come to terms with it.

“Ken will be cremated in a private ceremony in Spain so please don’t ask for information about a funeral.

“Ken has gone but he will never be forgotten and will always be in our hearts.

“Stay safe out there.”

Photo credit: Andre Sakarov