Ken Hensley began his musical training at age 12 using a Bert Weedon manual, eventually becoming a prolific composer, keyboardist, and guitarist who defined the sound of Uriah Heep throughout the 1970s. Over his five-decade career, he transitioned from local Stevenage gigging to global success, leaving behind an extensive catalog of studio albums and collaborative recordings.
Early Career and The Gods
Born in Plumstead in 1945, Hensley relocated to Stevenage as an infant. His professional path started in 1960 at a pen factory gig. By 1965, he formed The Gods alongside Mick Taylor. This group served as a training ground for future industry talent, including Greg Lake and Lee Kerslake. The band eventually signed with Columbia Records, releasing two LPs. During this period, Hensley also contributed to the Head Machine project, an early experiment in the heavier sound that would later influence his trajectory.
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In late 1969, Paul Newton recruited Hensley to join Spice, which was rebranded as Uriah Heep in January 1970. Between 1970 and 1980, he participated in the production of 13 studio albums. During this decade, he also launched a solo career with albums including Proud Words on a Dusty Shelf and Eager To Please.
Later Projects and Collaborations
Following his departure from Uriah Heep in 1980, Hensley joined the Florida-based band Blackfoot, recording two albums before returning to solo work and various studio projects. He later established The Upper Room Studios, focusing on new recordings and band initiatives like Visible Faith. In 2000, he reunited with former Heep vocalist John Lawton for the Hensley/Lawton Band, touring Europe and performing orchestral arrangements of classic material before resuming his independent career.
Fast facts
- Born: 1945, Plumstead
- Died: 2020, Agost
- Primary Instrument: Hammond B3 organ
- First professional band: The Gods
- Uriah Heep tenure: 1970–1980
- Notable songs written: Lady in Black, Easy Livin'
- Solo debut: Proud Words on a Dusty Shelf, 1973
Questions readers ask
Which bands was Ken Hensley a member of?
He was a member of Uriah Heep, The Gods, Visible Faith, Weed, Ken Hensley & Live Fire, and The Hensley / Lawton Band.
When did Ken Hensley die?
He died in 2020 in Agost.
Achievements
- Instruments: guitar and organ
- Genres: hard rock, progressive rock and soft rock
