James Dewar
Dewar in the 1970s
Dewar in the 1970s
Background information
Born(1942-10-12)12 October 1942
Glasgow, Scotland
Died16 May 2002(2002-05-16) (aged 59)
Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland
GenresHard rock, blues-rock, blue-eyed soul
Occupation(s)Musician, singer, songwriter
Instrument(s)Vocals, bass
Years activeEarly 1960s–1987

James Dewar (12 October 1942 – 16 May 2002) was a Scottish musician best known as the bassist and vocalist for Robin Trower and Stone the Crows,[1] the latter having its beginnings as the resident band at Burns Howff in Glasgow.

Biography

Dewar's career began with Lulu and the Luvvers in the early 1960s.[1] His career eventually reached its zenith with the Robin Trower[1] Band, a British rock power trio, after the 1974 release of the album Bridge of Sighs.

Dewar made his mark as an acclaimed blue-eyed soul singer, performing in front of sold-out stadiums and concert halls at the crest of the 1970s classic rock era. The Scot had a rich, powerful voice, with a soulful timbre, and has been regarded by critics as one of the most under-rated rock vocalists.[2] His vocal sound was deep, gritty, and resonating, his style shows the influence of Ray Charles and Otis Redding. Like Paul Rodgers and Frankie Miller, his voice evoked a bluesy, soul-inspired sound.

Dewar recorded his one solo album, Stumbledown Romancer, during the 1970s, at the height of his career, but it was not released until two decades later. He collaborated primarily with former Procol Harum organist Matthew Fisher on the album, with the title track relating a hard-luck story.

At Dykebar Hospital in Paisley, Scotland, Dewar died in May 2002[1] of a stroke after years of disability resulting from a rare medical condition, CADASIL, which caused a series of strokes. His funeral was held at Paisley's Woodside Crematorium.

Discography

With Stone the Crows

Dewar with Stone the Crows in 1970

on bass:

With Robin Trower Band

as lead singer and bassist (except where noted):

Solo

  • 1998: Stumbledown Romancer
  • 2015: Word for Word CD single

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 "James Dewar". The Herald. 30 May 2002. Retrieved 5 April 2019.
  2. ↑ Tucker, Dan. "Unsung Heroes: The 10 Most Underrated Classic Rock Singers". vh1.com. Archived from the original on 29 June 2022. Retrieved 24 March 2018.
  3. ↑ "Gold & Platinum - RIAA". RIAA. Retrieved 17 August 2017.
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