Rab Noakes dead: Tributes as Stealers Wheel founder and singer-songwriter dies suddenly aged 75

STEALERS Wheel legend Rab Noakes has died at the age of 75.

The Scottish singer songwriter, who grew up in Cupar, Fife, is said to have died suddenly in hospital.

Musician Barbara Dickson announced his death on Friday.

She said: "My dear and old friend Rab Noakes has died suddenly in hospital today.

"I am shocked. We had so much in common - The Everly Brothers, the Flying Burrito Brothers and an enduring love of songs, particularly traditional music.

"Sleep well, Rab. May you rest in peace."

Noakes was a founding member of Stealers Wheel - best known for their hit single "Stuck in the Middle with You" - and also a solo artist.

He released more than 20 albums and performed at festivals such as Celtic Connections.

The star was also a senior music producer at the BBC before setting up his own production company.

Tributes have flooded in for the singer, who enjoyed a stellar music career spanning well over half a century.

BBC Radio Scotland broadcaster Bryan Burnett said: "Such sad news about our own Rab Noakes. A huge loss.

"He hired me at Radio Scotland and as a producer he taught me so much about the country-pop music we both loved."

Steve Carson, director of BBC Scotland added: "All of us are deeply saddened to hear the news about Rab Noakes.

"His contribution to music in Scotland cannot be overstated, alongside some remarkable programmes he made here at the BBC.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends, and with all his fans across the nation.”

Author and long-time pal Val McDermid said she was left "in tears" at the news of Noakes' death.

"Known and loved this generous, talented, open-hearted man since I was 14, never known a kinder soul. Or a better guitarist," she said.

"We messaged each other only a couple of days ago and he was his usual upbeat self.

"We were planning to record some tracks together in the New Year. Known and loved him since I was 14.”

His contribution to music in Scotland cannot be overstated, alongside some remarkable programmes he made here at the BBC

Steve CarsonDirector of BBC Scotland

Gaelic singer Julie Fowlis said: “An iconic and generous musician, and a gentleman. It was always a joy and an education to be in his company."

Scottish singer Iona Fyfe described Noakes as "unbelievably kind".

“Heartbroken to hear of the passing of Rab Noakes," she said.

"He was always so encouraging, generous with his time and unbelievably kind, welcoming and supportive."

Playwright David Greig added: “I'm so sad to hear of the death of the Rab Noakes; an exquisite songwriter, producer, singer, mentor, who deeply cared about music and the arts in Scotland.

"I was always in awe of his talents and inspired by his kindness."

Born in St Andrews, Noakes had been performing professionally since 1967.

He played a pivotal role in tribute concerts to Michael Marra and Gerry Rafferty at Glasgow’s Celtic Connections festival.

He was an early member of Stealers Wheel - although he left the band before they recorded their first album.

His solo career took off and one of Noakes's best-known recordings, "Branch", was released in the summer of 1974 from his album Red Pump Special.

In 2015, he released a double album - "I'm Walking Here" - with 26 songs, telling the story of his working life as a songwriter and performer.