The creator of the classic saxophone fill on Gerry Rafferty’s 1978 classic “Baker Street“, has sadly passed away at 60 years old, of a suspected heart attack. The music legend was best known for his work on “Baker Street”, but he also worked alongside many other huge artists such as Daft Punk, Pink Floyd, Abba, Marvin Gaye, Mike Oldfield, Chris Rea, Robert Plant and Bonnie Tyler to mention but a few.
It is reported that initially Ravenscroft was paid £27 for his work on “Baker Street” but the cheque bounced. The record went on to make Rafferty £80,000 every year since it’s release. Speaking about the legendary saxophone section, Ravenscroft said, “I’m irritated because it’s out of tune…. Yeah, it’s flat. By enough of a degree that irritates me at best“. Scarlett Raven, daughter of Ravenscroft, said it is incredible how many people were inspired by her father who, in her own words, was “an absolutely incredible man“.
In 1990, Ravenscroft wrote a highly successful instruction book on Saxophone The Complete Saxophone Player, and in 2011, recorded a tribute to commemorate Gerry Rafferty at his funeral titled “Forgiveness”. In the summer of this year, he organised a charity gala concert in memory of a local schoolgirl who died. Raphael Ravenscroft is a true musical icon and the world of music is that little bit empty now without his presence. His work will live on and he will never be forgotten. My thoughts go out to the family and friends of the legend.
Photo Credit: Chris Holmes Photography
#Peace.Love.RaphaelRavenscroft
