Michael Baker, the former music director and drummer for Whitney Houston, died on July 9, 2023, after a long battle with Cancer. Please get to know about his obituary.
Michael Baker, born in Los Angeles, started his music career by playing drums in local bands.
In the early 1980s, he moved to New York City and began working as a session drummer. He became very popular and was asked to play with artists such as Aretha Franklin, Sting, and Whitney Houston.
Baker’s work with Whitney Houston was vital. He was her music director for 18 years and played drums on many of her most successful albums and tours. He was among the few people close to Houston during her final years.
Besides his collaboration with Houston, Baker played drums for other famous artists like Al Jarreau, The Zawinul Syndicate, Wayne Shorter, and Jimmy Smith. He was also a founding member of the jazz fusion band called Tribal Tech.
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Drummer Michael Baker Death And Obituary: How Did He Die?
Michael Baker, the former music director for Whitney Houston and an incredible drummer, has passed away.
He fought bravely against Cancer but sadly lost the battle on Sunday, July 9, 2023. His death was confirmed through a Facebook post that mentioned his contributions to music and stated that he had succumbed to Cancer.
Baker’s passing is a significant loss to the music community. He was not only a skilled drummer but also a talented musician.
He will be remembered for his outstanding work with Whitney Houston and his jazz and fusion music contributions.
Michael has been involved in various musical collaborations and performances throughout his career.
He has worked closely with producer David Gest, performing as a drummer in many shows and benefit events held at Madison Square Garden, including the Michael Jackson 30th Anniversary Special.
In 2012, he had the opportunity to perform alongside hip-hop singer Ashanti at the Grammy Awards.
Inside Michael Baker Career
Michael Baker started his career as a music director and drummer.
Over the years, Michael has worked with many great musicians. Similarly, he joined Sting for concerts at Carnegie Hall as part of the ‘Save the RainForest’ series, and he has shared the stage with Taylor Dayne, Simply Red, Celine Dion, and the late Aaliyah.
Additionally, he formed a power trio with ex-Police guitarist Andy Summers and bassist Jerry Watts.
One notable moment in Michael’s career was during the 2009 American Music Awards, where he served as the arranger and conductor for Whitney Houston’s performance of “Didn’t Know My Own Strength.”
This performance occurred as Whitney accepted her Lifetime Achievement award, recognizing her remarkable contributions to pop music.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Michael has been involved in various other creative projects. In 2007, he took on the roles of writer, producer, and artist for a TV commercial called “Real Lovers” by the Italian fashion company Dolce & Gabbana. This commercial sparked some controversy.
During the early 1980s, Michael worked as a writer and singer for the movie and soundtrack of Robert Townsend’s “Five Heartbeats” and Richard Pryor’s “Jo Jo Dancer.” He collaborated with musicians Jimmy Smith and Billy Ekstine during that time.
In late 2003, Michael relocated to Italy, where he embarked on significant production work. His first major collaboration was with the talented Italian vocalist Giorgia.
He worked on albums such as “Senza Ali” as a writer and producer, “Giorgia’s Greatest Hits” as a producer and co-writer, and “Ladra Di Ventro” as a producer.
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