Ken Hensley

Date of Birth: August 24, 1945

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: November 4, 2020

Biography

Kenneth William David Hensley, known as Ken Hensley, was a renowned English musician, songwriter, and producer. Born on August 24, 1945, in Plumstead, London, Hensley was best known for his work with the rock band Uriah Heep, where he was the primary keyboardist and one of the main songwriters. His career began in the 1960s with The Gods, a band that also included future notable musicians such as Mick Taylor of The Rolling Stones and Greg Lake of Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Ken Hensley’s tenure with Uriah Heep from 1969 to 1980 was marked by his significant contributions to their most successful albums, including “Demons and Wizards” and “The Magician’s Birthday.” He wrote many of the band’s most famous songs, such as “Lady in Black,” “Easy Livin’,” and “July Morning.” His work with Uriah Heep helped establish the band as a staple in the rock and progressive rock genres. After leaving Uriah Heep, Hensley pursued a solo career and worked with other bands, including Blackfoot. He continued to make music and tour well into his later years, releasing numerous solo albums that showcased his talents as a multi-instrumentalist and a sophisticated lyricist.

5 Interesting Facts about Ken Hensley

1. Ken Hensley was also proficient in playing the guitar and contributed guitar parts to some Uriah Heep songs.

2. He wrote and performed the majority of Uriah Heep’s early hit songs, solidifying the band’s success.

3. Hensley was influenced by American blues and rock and roll, which shaped his musical style.

4. His song “Lady in Black” became a significant hit in Germany, where it was covered by numerous artists.

5. After moving to Spain in the mid-1990s, Hensley continued to record and produce music, remaining active in the industry until his passing.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ken Hensley

1. “Music has always been a passion for me, a way to express what words can’t.”

2. “I never saw myself as a star; I just wanted to make music that people would enjoy.”

3. “The beauty of music is that it transcends all barriers and brings people together.”

4. “Playing live is the ultimate experience; it’s where the magic truly happens.”

5. “I’ve always believed that every song has a story to tell, and that’s what makes songwriting so special.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his career, Ken Hensley achieved a net worth estimated to be around $5 million, primarily through his work with Uriah Heep, his solo projects, and various collaborations.

Children

Ken Hensley had two children, a son named Justin and a daughter named Kristina. Despite his demanding career, Hensley maintained a close relationship with his family.