A BASSIST who played with the likes of Sir Elton John, David Bowie and Paul McCartney has died aged 86.

Herbie Flower’s death was confirmed on Facebook by close family members.

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The iconic bass player collaborated with major pop stars, who have taken to social media to pay tribute.

In a post on Twitter, Burgess said: “Farewell Herbie Flowers, he made the greats sound greater.”

Bowie’s estate also paid tribute to the star’s former collaborator, saying: “We are very sad to learn of the passing of Herbie Flowers in the last couple of days.

“His work with Bowie and associates over the years is too long to list here.

“Aside from his incredible musicianship over many decades, he was a beautiful soul and a very funny man. He will be sorely missed.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Flowers, who was born and raised in Isleworth in 1938, started his career in the 60s as a session musician playing for renowned producers such as Shel Talmyt and Tony Visconti.

He later became a founding member of Blue Mink in 1969 and featured on their UK number three single, “Melting Pot”.

Following the group’s success, the bassist, whose real name is Brian Keith Flowers, began collaborating with the most influential artist of that decade.

In 1972, he featured on Reed’s innovative Transformer album and played a major role in the success of the single “Walk On The Wild Side” with his signature twinned bassline.