William "Billy Bass" Nelson Jr.

William "Billy Bass" Nelson, the foundational bassist and a co-founder of the iconic Funk band Funkadelic, has passed away at the age of 74. Nelson died on January 26, 2026, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential bass players in the history of funk music.

Born in Plainfield, New Jersey, Nelson's musical journey began in his teenage years, working at George Clinton's barbershop. It was there that he became involved with Clinton's doo-wop group, The Parliaments. Nelson's pivotal role in the formation of Funkadelic cannot be overstated; he is credited with coining the band's name, a fusion of "funk" and "psychedelic," perfectly encapsulating their groundbreaking sound.

Nelson's distinctive basslines were a cornerstone of Funkadelic's early, seminal albums, including "Funkadelic" (1970), "Free Your Mind...and your Ass Will Follow" (1970), and "Maggot Brain" (1971). His playing style, deeply influenced by Motown's James Jamerson but infused with a raw, urban edge, provided the essential rhythmic and harmonic foundation for the band's experimental explorations.

Beyond his work with Funkadelic, Nelson's musical talents extended to collaborations with numerous other artists, including The Temptations, The Commodores, and Smokey Robinson. His contributions were recognized with his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 as part of Parliament-Funkadelic, a testament to his enduring impact on music. Nelson's innovative approach to the bass guitar not only defined the "P-Funk" sound, but also inspired generations of musicians across various genres.