Today has been a sad and embarrassing day for me. I have just discovered that one of my lifelong musical heroes, Scots musician Gerry Rafferty passed away in January 20011.
Rafferty began his career with fellow Scotsman Billy Connolly in a folk duo called “The Humblebums,” who reached moderate success within Scotland. Rafferty and Connolly parted ways amicably as Connolly began to forge what would be a world-conquering career as a comedian, actor and, later, documentary maker.
His biggest hit, however, was the haunting “Baker Street.” To my mind, as a musician, the song is nothing short of perfect. The lyrics, instrumentation and vocal delivery is timeless. The song is a great example of Rafffertys ability to create outstanding melodies which, in turn, lend themselves to great instrumentation.
In an interview with Billy Connolly shortly after Raffertys death, Connolly broke down and spoke of a meeting that he had with Rafferty some ten years earlier and was astounded that he downed 10-12 large brandies during the meeting. Knowing that one should only ask or tell a possible problem drinker about their concern only once, Connolly did so. Rafferty brushed of the remark so Connolly left the subject at that.
I believe that Rafferty had more music in him but the drink proved too strong.
He died peacefully at home with his daughter by his bedside.
