Tributes paid to Rab Noakes after singer-songwriter dies suddenly
Rab Noakes #RabNoakes
Tributes have flooded in after the death of Scottish singer-songwriter Rab Noakes at the age of 75.
Noakes, who is said to have died suddenly in hospital, enjoyed a career spanning more than half a century.
He played with Gerry Rafferty, Lindisarne and Stealers, but was renowned as a solo artist, releasing more than 20 albums since his debut in 1970.
Born in St Andrews and brought up in Cupar, Noakes had been performing professionally in 1967.
He also played a key role in the Scottish music industry thanks to a career with the BBC, where he became senior producer of music at Radio Scotland, and also had a long-time involvement in the Musicians’ Union.
Noakes played a pivotal role in tribute concerts to Michael Marra and Gerry Raffety at the Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow, where he was a regular performer.
The news of his death was revealed on social media by his close friend and fellow singer-songwriter Barbara Dickson.
She said: “My dear and old friend Rab Noakes has died suddenly in hospital today. I am shocked. We had so much in common – The Everly Brothers, the Flying Burrito Brothers and an enduring love of songs, particularly traditional music. Sleep well, Rab. May you rest in peace. Bx”
Author and fellow Fife Val McDermid said: “In tears at the news of Rab Noakes’ death. Known and loved this generous, talented, open-hearted man since I was 14, never known a kinder soul. Or a better guitarist.
“We messaged each other only a couple of days ago and he was his usual upbeat self. We were planning to record some tracks together in the New Year. Known and loved him since I was 14.”
Award-winning Scots singer Iona Fyfe said: “Heartbroken to hear of the passing of Rab Noakes. He was always so encouraging, generous with his time and unbelievably kind, welcoming and supportive.”
Broadcaster Bryan Burnett said: “Such sad news about our own Rab Noakes. A huge loss.
“He hired me at Radio Scotland and as a producer he taught me so much about the country-pop music we both loved.”