Funk legend’s groove defined a musical revolution

A pioneer whose bass changed the sound of funk

February 3, 2026: Billy Bass Nelson — born William Nelson Jr. — passed away on January 31, 2026, just days after celebrating his 75th birthday on January 28. As the original bassist for Parliament-Funkadelic, Nelson helped shape the psychedelic funk movement of the late 1960s and early 1970s, anchoring the band’s groundbreaking groove with his deep, melodic bass lines.
Funk heart.

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From barbershop beginnings to Funkadelic founder

Nelson’s musical journey began in Plainfield, New Jersey, where he worked in George Clinton’s barbershop before joining Clinton’s vocal group, the Parliaments. He later brought in guitarist Eddie Hazel and reportedly coined the name “Funkadelic,” marking the birth of one of the most influential funk outfits in history.
Roots of groove.

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Iconic albums and creative legacy

Nelson played bass on Funkadelic’s first three classic albums — Funkadelic (1970), Free Your Mind… and Your Ass Will Follow (1970), and Maggot Brain (1971) — as well as Parliament’s Osmium. His work also included songwriting and lead vocals on several tracks, and later collaborations with artists like The Temptations, Wilson Pickett, and Lionel Richie.
Deep impact.

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Honors and later years

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 alongside fellow Parliament-Funkadelic members, Nelson remained an enduring figure in music. Into the 1990s and beyond, he toured with P-Funk offshoots, released solo material under the name O.G. Funk, and saw his work sampled across genres, solidifying his legacy in funk and beyond.
Eternal funk.

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Final thoughts

Billy Bass Nelson wasn’t just a bassist — he was an architect of rhythm whose influence continues to reverberate through the music that followed.
Legend etched.

FAQs

Q1: How old was Billy Bass Nelson when he died?
He was 75 years old, passing away on January 31, 2026.

Q2: What band is he best known for?
He was the original bassist and a founding member of Parliament-Funkadelic.

Q3: What were some of his most famous works?
Nelson played on early Funkadelic albums including Funkadelic, Free Your Mind… and Your Ass Will Follow, and Maggot Brain.

Q4: Did he receive any honors?
Yes — he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 with the Parliament-Funkadelic collective.

Q5: Where was Nelson from?
He was born in Plainfield, New Jersey, and began his musical journey there.