Henry Franklin

Henry Franklin, affectionately known as "The Skipper," is a legendary jazz bassist whose soulful, groove-driven playing has anchored countless sessions since the 1970s. Hailing from Los Angeles, Franklin cut his teeth working with icons like Hugh Masekela, Gene Harris, and Willie Bobo before stepping into the spotlight with his own projects. His 1972 debut solo album, *The Skipper*, became an underground jazz-funk classic, blending earthy basslines with spiritual jazz vibes. Over the decades, Franklin’s work—including releases like *Café Negro* and *Karibu*—has celebrated African rhythms, Latin jazz flavors, and a deep connection to the Black American musical tradition.

A versatile sideman and bandleader, Franklin’s recent output (like *Shanghai* and *The Happiness of Pursuit*) proves he’s still a vital force, collaborating with younger artists while staying true to his warm, lyrical bass style. Nicknamed for his steady, ship-guiding musicality, "The Skipper" remains a bridge between jazz’s golden era and modern improvisational exploration.

Genres

Free Jazz

Jazz

R&b

Soul

Funk

Latin Jazz

Fusion Music

Jazz Funk

Spiritual Jazz

Afro-jazz

Related Artists

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McCoy Tyner

Ron Carter

Gerald Clayton

Ambrose Akinmusire

Thundercat

Robert Glasper

Cannonball Adderley

Herbie Hancock

Esperanza Spalding

Terence Blanchard

Roy Ayers

Latest Release

Henry Franklin JID014

Henry Franklin•

Adrian Younge•

Ali Shaheed Muhammad

Album - 8 Tracks - Released September 16, 2022