Hugh Hopper was an English musician and composer, best known as the bassist for the progressive rock band Soft Machine. Born on April 29, 1945, in Canterbury, England, he played a significant role in the development of the band's unique sound, which blended jazz, rock, and experimental music. In addition to his work with Soft Machine, Hopper was involved in various other musical projects throughout his career, including collaborations with artists like Robert Wyatt and Daevid Allen. He was known for his innovative use of the bass guitar and contributed to the evolution of the Canterbury scene in the 1960s and 1970s.