Sylvester Clarence "Duke" Henderson, born on April 5, 1925, in Liberty, Missouri, was an influential American blues shouter and jazz singer known for his work in the West Coast blues and jump blues styles. He moved to Los Angeles in the 1940s, where he began his recording career. In 1945, Henderson made his debut recordings with the Apollo label, recommended by saxophonist Jack McVea. Despite recording 19 masters in a week, his work with Apollo was not commercially successful, and he soon lost his contract.

Henderson's career saw him recording for various labels, including Globe, Down Beat, Swing Time, Specialty, Modern, and Imperial. His 1953 release "Hey Mr. Kinsey" on Flair Records, under the name Big Duke, showcased his engagement with contemporary themes. Despite a prolific recording career, he was known for moving between labels frequently, often without long-term contracts.

In the late 1940s, Henderson underwent a significant transformation, renouncing his past as a blues singer to become a minister and gospel music disc jockey. He began broadcasting as Brother Henderson on XERB and later on KPOP in Los Angeles. His ministerial career led him to become a preacher at Bethany Apostle Community Church.

In 1959, Henderson co-founded Proverb Records, which later launched the Gospel Corner label in 1964. Despite his contributions to music, Henderson's career was marked by sporadic live performances and a lack of consistent commercial success. He passed away on April 9, 1973, in Pacoima, Los Angeles, California. In 1994, Delmark Records released a compilation CD titled "Get Your Kicks," featuring 20 tracks from his Apollo recordings, highlighting his enduring influence on the blues and jazz genres.