Russ Henderson's Memorial Concert Featuring Mick Hutton & Mark Cherrie

Tonight’s gig is a special Salute to one of the most characterful musicians ever to work at the Club, the wonderful pianist Russ Henderson. A friend and performer at the Club for more than 35 years, Russ received an MBE several years ago in recognition of his outstanding and exceptional contributions to the UK music scene since his arrival to the UK from Trinidad over 60 years ago. An accomplished steel pan player as well as pianist and one of the founders of the Notting Hill Carnival, Russ was one of the most respected musicians in the jazz world as well as beyond its borders. Sadly Russ passed away late last year at the grand age of 91, but this date in January was always reserved for his Birthday party and we felt it would be fitting to continue that party tradition in his honour. The gig tonight will feature Russ's friends and fellow musicians from his trio and pan bands, Mick Hutton on bass, Mark Cherrie on piano and steel pan, Dominic Grant on guitar and Derek Gayle on drums. Mick Hutton, a long time member of Russ’s trio and the primary organiser of tonight’s event, has been one of Europe’s finest and most respected jazz bassists for more than 20 years. A first call player for numerous high profile bands he includes work with the likes of Bill Bruford and Humphrey Lyttelton on a stellar cv. Piano/steel pan virtuoso Mark Cherrie is renowned as one of the best musicians around, having performed around the world with artists as diverse as Edwin Starr, Jimmy Ruffin and Odyssey. As well as an excellent performer Mark is also a well established composer, having written for hundreds of TV shows including Friends, ER and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. A number of musicians have promised to come down to help celebrate in style, so expect a real party atmosphere as musicians and friends pay their respects to Russ, an exceptional talent and leading light of the UK music community. We hope you’ll join us for what promises to be a great night in memory of a great man. Although he may no longer be with us in person we are certain he will surely be with us in spirit.

“Russ Henderson....a primary force in jazz, calypso and steel band in England for over half a century” Calypsoworld;
“Mick Hutton...driving yet intricate bass” Scotsman