Jamiroquai bassist Derek McIntyre dies in car crash aged 66 as family pay tribute to ‘inspirational and encouraging’ musician

Jamiroquai bassist Derek McIntyre has died in a car accident at the age of 66, his family announced in a statement on Friday.

The musician, who rose to fame as part of the funk and acid jazz band with vocalist Jay Kay, died following a five-car collision in Bushey, Hertfordshire on February 2.

His family told Hertfordshire Police: ‘Our father, Derrick McIntyre, was a proud father, husband, brother, son, uncle, grandfather and friend.

‘He had a passion for music, playing bass guitar for most of his life and blessing tracks with his groovy bass line for the likes of Jamiroquai, Roy Ayers, Beverley Knight and many more.

‘Dad was a great man who influenced many who came in contact with him and inspired and encouraged every chance he could.’

They concluded: ‘No amount of words can sum up how special our dad was to all of us – not just within our individual bonds, but as a whole. We will forever miss his love, humor and presence and will continue to spread his light. Until we meet again.’

His bandmate Jay added: ‘It is with great sadness that I hear the sad news of Derrick McIntyre’s passing. He was a pleasure to work with and a superbly talented musician.

‘My thoughts go out to his family, friends and other musicians who worked with him. Thinking of you for the big concert in heaven Derrick. J.’

Hertfordshire Police confirmed his death and said they are looking for more information: ‘The family of an ‘inspirational’ man who sadly died in a collision in #Bushey have paid tribute.

‘Derrick McIntyre, aged 66, who lived in #Watford, was involved in the collision on the morning of 2nd February and sadly died at the scene.’

Officers were called around 7.38am on February 2 to a collision on the A41 North Western Avenue involving five vehicles.

Detective Constable Craig Wheeler, of the Road Policing Unit, added: ‘Our thoughts remain with Derrick’s family and friends at this sad time.

‘Our officers are continuing to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and we are still appealing for information. If you were driving in the area and saw what happened, or have dashcam footage that could help our investigation, please contact us.’

Derrick joined the band in 1994 and began work on their second album The Return of the Space Cowboy which peaked at number 2