Derek McIntyre, a renowned bassist who played on Jamiroquai’s hit album Dynamite, has died in a car crash at the age of 66. The musician was involved in a five-vehicle collision in Bushey, Hertfordshire, on February 2 and was pronounced dead at the scene.
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McIntyre had a long and successful career in the music industry, working with major artists such as Emeli Sandé, Will Young, Beverley Knight, Roy Ayers, Mica Paris and Cliff Richard. He was best known for his work on Jamiroquai’s sixth studio album, Dynamite, which was released in 2005 and peaked at number three in the UK charts.
The bassist’s family paid tribute to him in a statement, saying: “Our dad, Derek McIntyre, was a proud dad, husband, brother, son, uncle, grandfather and friend. He had a passion for music, playing the bass guitar for most of his life and blessing tracks with his groovy bassline for folks such as Jamiroquai, Roy Ayers, Beverley Knight and many more.”
They added: “Dad was a great man who influenced many that came into contact with him, inspiring and encouraging every chance he could. No amount of words can sum up just how special our dad was to us all - not only within our individual bonds, but as a whole. We will forever miss his love, humour and presence and will continue to spread his light. Until we meet again.”
Tributes also poured in from McIntyre’s fellow musicians and fans on social media, who described him as a “phenomenal”, “inspiring” and “legendary” bass player.
Hertfordshire police are investigating the circumstances of the crash and are appealing for witnesses and information. Two other people were taken to hospital for further treatment following the incident.
Jamiroquai, fronted by singer Jay Kay, are one of the most successful British bands of the past three decades, selling more than 35 million albums worldwide and winning a Grammy Award in 1997. The band headlined the Victorious Festival in Portsmouth last year and are due to perform at the Isle of Wight Festival in June.
