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Scottish singer-songwriter, Gerry Rafferty, died today from liver failure, after a long battle with alcoholism. He was 63-years-old.

Rafferty was born in Paisley, Scotland on April 16 1947. He began making music as a teenager with a school band called the Mavericks, before joining Billy Connolly’s folk group the Humblebums. After the Humblebums disbanded, Rafferty recorded a solo album in 1971 titled “Can I Have My Money Back” and then founded Stealers Wheel in 1972. It was with Stealers Wheel that Rafferty first tasted real success, including the million-selling “Stuck in the Middle” which featured on the group’s debut album “Stealers Wheel.”

Stealers Wheel broke up in 1975 and Rafferty became a solo artist. In 1978, he released the single “Baker Street”, which hit number two in the US and number three in the UK, and would become Rafferty’s signature tune. “Baker Street” has also been recognised as one of the most played songs on radio worldwide, receiving an amazing five million spins. In this period, Rafferty also recorded his most successful albums, namely “City to City” (which included “Baker Street”) and “Night Owl.”

Gerry Rafferty – “Baker Street”

Rafferty’s daughter, Martha, has said that he died peacefully at home surrounded by family.