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PRESS RELEASE SOURCE: BMG
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William Daniel McCafferty, best known as the original lead vocalist of internationally successful rock band Nazareth, passed away on November 8 at the age of 76.
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Born in Dunfermline, Scotland, in 1946, McCafferty, with his gritty vocals, gained early singing experience as a member of mid-60s beat-group The Shadettes. In 1968, The Shadettes evolved into Nazareth, who went on to become one of the most successful hard rock bands in the world, having sold more than 20 million albums.
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Heavily influenced by Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, and Otis Redding, McCafferty’s distinctive vocal style was an integral part of the Nazareth sound. McCafferty co-wrote numerous Nazareth hits, such as ‘Broken Down Angel’, ‘Bad Bad Boy’, and appeared on every album up until 2014.
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McCafferty retired from touring with Nazareth in 2013 but would continue to perform solo in the years that followed as well as recording his third solo album, 2019’s Last Testament.
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Nazareth bassist Pete Agnew confirmed McCafferty’s passing in a statement: “This is the saddest announcement I ever had to make. Maryann and the family have lost a wonderful loving husband and father, I have lost my best friend and the world has lost one of the greatest singers who ever lived.”
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BMG mourns the passing of an incredibly talented musician, and we express our sincere condolences to Dan’s family, colleagues, and friends.
BMG is home to much of Nazareth’s recorded and publishing catalogue.
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