Tributes paid to Runrig singer who has died aged 62
His former band-mate and current MP Pete Wishart says he was "taken far too soon"
Last updated 6th Sep 2023
Runrig's lead vocalist Bruce Guthro has died at the age of 62.
His former band-mate and current MP Pete Wishart confirmed the news earlier today.
The Canadian singer-songwriter joined the Scottish rock band in 1998, after Donnie Munro left the group.
Guthro remained with Runrig until their final performance at Stirling Castle in 2018.
Posting on social media, Mr Wishart said Guthro was an "exceptional singer" who was "taken far too soon."
He said: "So, so sad to hear of the untimely death of my friend and former band mate Bruce Guthro.
"He was just the nicest person you could ever hope to meet and a joy to perform with. An exceptional singer, musician and song writer taken far too soon.
"We are going to miss him. RIP."
"The worst news"
Many fans also took to social media to share their reaction.
One said: "His rendition of Hearts of Olden Glory at the farewell concert can’t be matched.
"Very sad to read this."
Another wrote: "Didn't think anyone could replace Donnie, but boy did he do it superbly.
"What a voice."
A third person commented: "Totally shocked to hear this news. RIP Bruce.
"No words can express how sad this is."
A fourth said: "The worst news.
"Sending love and condolences to the family he loved so much and to his many friends."
Mark Ruskell MSP, Scottish Greens spokesperson on culture, said: “For many, Runrig and Bruce Guthro were about more than music.
“His voice was a clarion call for Scots everywhere to think of home, the Gaelic culture, and the spirit that makes us so fiercely passionate about who we are.
“He may have been born in Cape Breton Island in Canada, but his legend was forged in the hearts of tens of thousands of music fans across the world. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and all those who will miss his extraordinary talent.”
Runrig formed on the Isle of Skye in the 1970s and many of their songs were performed in Gaelic.
In 2008, their track Loch Lomond was voted Scotland's greatest ever song and it became an anthem for the Tartan Army.
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