Ronnie Baker (musician)

Ronnie Baker (1947 – 1990) was an American soul and funk bassist, songwriter, and record producer. He is best known as a member of the Philadelphia International Records (PIR) house band MFSB (Mother Father Sister Brother), and for his collaborations with Norman Harris and Earl Young as the Baker-Harris-Young production team.

Baker's basslines were a defining characteristic of the "Sound of Philadelphia," a lush and sophisticated style of soul music that dominated the charts in the 1970s. He played on countless hit records for artists such as The O'Jays, The Spinners, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, and Lou Rawls.

His distinctive bass playing, often characterized by its melodic and rhythmic complexity, contributed significantly to the development of funk music. He co-wrote and produced numerous songs, further solidifying his influence on the genre.

Baker's career was cut short by a heart attack in 1990 at the age of 42. Despite his relatively short life, his contributions to soul and funk music remain highly influential and widely respected. He is remembered as one of the most innovative and talented bass players of his generation.