Tributes paid to Skye musician and producer
Scottish musician, singer and producer Chris Harley, who founded Vital Spark Music Studio in Waterloo on Skye in 1988, died last month after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was 68.
Mr Harley (pictured with Donnie Munro during a European concert) adopted the stage name Chris Rainbow in the 1970s and enjoyed chart success with the singles “Give Me What I Cry For” and “Solid State Brain” and with prog-rock band “The Alan Parsons Project”. He moved to Skye in 1976 also toured with the band ‘Camel’ and wrote jingles for Captial Radio in the early 1980s.
Mr Harley (pictured with Donnie Munro during a European concert) adopted the stage name Chris Rainbow in the 1970s and enjoyed chart success with the singles “Give Me What I Cry For” and “Solid State Brain” and with prog-rock band “The Alan Parsons Project”. He moved to Skye in 1976 also toured with the band ‘Camel’ and wrote jingles for Captial Radio in the early 1980s.
On Alan Parsons’ website the following statement was published: “It was with great sadness that I read today of the passing of Chris Rainbow. He was an amazing talent and an integral part of The Project sound. Eric and I used to call him the “One Man Beach Boys”. I will always remember his funny stories, his mimicking ability, and his hilarious catch phrases. Sessions with him were always filled with laughter. I will miss him greatly.”
Scottish artists who have used the Vital Spark studio include Runrig, Donnie Munro, Blair Douglas, Wolfstone and The River Detectives.
Following Mr Harley’s death, Runrig — whose 1993 album “Elvis Has Left The Building” was issued by Vital Spark — published the following statement on their website: “We were all shocked and saddened to hear yesterday of the death of friend, colleague and former record producer Chris Harley. Chris was a major part of the Runrig story, producing the breakthrough albums through the eighties and early nineties. In his capacity as producer, he was instrumental in helping to create the sound of the band. Chris was held in deep affection by all associated with Runrig and his passing will be keenly felt. He passed away peacefully at his home on the Isle Of Skye, after a long debilitating illness. He is survived by his wife Ibby and son Lewis, and our thoughts and prayers go out to them at this difficult time.”
Mr Harley’s remains were cremated at a private service on 27th February.
Following Mr Harley’s death, Runrig — whose 1993 album “Elvis Has Left The Building” was issued by Vital Spark — published the following statement on their website: “We were all shocked and saddened to hear yesterday of the death of friend, colleague and former record producer Chris Harley. Chris was a major part of the Runrig story, producing the breakthrough albums through the eighties and early nineties. In his capacity as producer, he was instrumental in helping to create the sound of the band. Chris was held in deep affection by all associated with Runrig and his passing will be keenly felt. He passed away peacefully at his home on the Isle Of Skye, after a long debilitating illness. He is survived by his wife Ibby and son Lewis, and our thoughts and prayers go out to them at this difficult time.”
Mr Harley’s remains were cremated at a private service on 27th February.
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