GERRY RAFFERTY Stealin' Time

One of my favourite tracks from 'City to City' is this beautiful song 'Stealin' Time'.

Gerry Rafferty came across as a shy, introverted performer, who did little publicity and promotion for his music, preferring to place himself inside the recording studios, and letting the songs speak for themselves. The art work for the first few solo albums deprived fans of photos of our hero, although 'Night Owl' did feature some pics of Gerry in the studio on the LP's sleeve. I recall many a time, while listening to that exquisite album, looking at pics of the mysterious Mr Rafferty, as I had seen very little of him in music videos in 1979, and wanted to discover more about my favourite male singer. He was unlike any 'pop' artist i had seen. Rod Stewart, Elton John, Billy Joel and Paul McCartney were the big names of the time - singers whose images were front and centre of their music and fame.

For this clip, i decided to use primarily face pics of the great man, rather than the album's art work or other stock shots. The song is such a delicate and intimate track, that it felt like it required a look into the face of the guy that penned it and performed it. I have ended the clip with the album covers of his discography. For any folk who consider him a one album wonder - think again!

I was so profoundly moved by his death 2 years ago, and still am unearthing info and perspectives on this great artist. His music will be with me, until the end of my life. I treasure all the albums I have of his. The songs continue to reveal layers and texture, that create a complex portrait of Gerry Rafferty. One that is based on words and music, not myth or gossip.

Oh how I wish that Gerry had stolen some more time!