The Essential Michael Henderson Vol. 1

Album Review

Definitive Michael Henderson courtesy of Britain's Sequel Records. Henderson's career leapt from playing in road bands for artists like Stevie Wonder, session work, and as a featured vocalist on Norman Connors' albums, to stardom as a soloist. Unfortunately, his career descended even faster; surprising, since he had the ability to write and produce himself. Henderson duets with Phyllis Hyman and Jean Carn on some of these tunes, with the most spectacular being his titles cut under Norman Connors' name. The lilting, futuristic "You Are My Starship," "Valentine Love," and "Take Me I'm Yours," have adult themes and top-notch productions. His most enduring song, "Be My Girl," became a big hit for the Dramatics, but you might like Henderson's stark, sparse version better. As a solo act he went for a more commercial sound and the results had less appeal. "You Haven't Made It to the Top," "Wide Receiver," "Make Me Feel Better," and "(We Are Here To) Geek You Up," were formulaic attempts to reach the booming disco market. Remakes of "To Be Loved" and "Reach Out for Me," show a flair for the past, but are only adequate. But you won't find a more absolute compilation of Michael Henderson's recordings anywhere.