Chris & Donnie Munro

Message from Donnie about Chris' death

My Dear Friends

It is with the deepest sadness that we share the news of the death of our dearest friend, Chris Harley, who died at his home in Skye on Sunday 22nd of Feb, after suffering a long period of ill-health due to a progressive and degenerative illness which he bore with characteristic determination, courage and the irrepressible humour which was so much a part of his personality, even in these most challenging of circumstances.

Chris has been such a huge part of our lives both professionally, as a hugely talented Producer and Musician, and personally, as a wonderful friend and companion.

He played a huge role over many years in the development of Runrig’s career and was responsible for producing most of the bands major albums during what would undoubtedly be considered as the most successful period in the Band’s history. He brought a huge energy and musical sensibility to the work at that time, playing a key role in creating the defining Runrig sound. Working with Chris, in the studio or on stage was always great fun and his mischievous personality sparkled wherever he went no matter how pressurised the circumstances.

Chris, in his own right as a singer/songwriter, enjoyed considerable success, performing under the name of Chris Rainbow, where he enjoyed some early chart success and was recognised as one of the most unique talents in the music industry at that time, with his beautiful cascading layered vocal harmonies becoming the hallmark of his work. Quite apart from his own solo career, he also became one of the most sought after performers working with some of the country’s leading musicians and singers. His work remains utterly unique and a testimony to an exceptional talent.

I feel deeply privileged personally to have been able to work with Chris over so many years, both in my Runrig days, on my own solo recording projects and the many memorable live performances with the full band, of which Chris was such a key part and the irreplaceable catalyst that just made everything work. Chris enjoyed the enormous respect and love of all the musicians around him and he will be desperately missed by us all. On a personal level, Chris was a wonderful gentle friend, a great inspiration and mentor to me and like the many others who were privileged to have known him, I will miss him hugely.

All our thoughts are deeply with his wife Ibby and son Lewis at this difficult time.

Donnie.


Donnie Munro albums

On The Westside (1999)
Chris: organ & producer

Donnie Munro LIVE (2000)
Chris: backing vocals, percussion, producer

Across The City And The World (2002)
Chris: backing vocals & producer

Gaelic Heart (2002)
Chris: keyboard & producer

Fields Of The Young (2005)
Chris: backing vocals, percussion and producer.

Heart Of America/Accross The Great Divide (2006)
Chris: backing vocals