Gerry Rafferty dies

Gerry Rafferty has died.

The Scottish musician, best known for his hits 'Baker Street' and 'Stuck In The Middle With You' passed away this morning (04.01.11) after a long illness, aged 63.

He had been admitted to the Royal Bournemouth Hospital last November after a suspected liver failure but never recovered.

Gerry had started out as a singer busking on the London underground in the late 60s before joining a band with future comedian Billy Connolly. He later found success with the soft rock outfit Steeler's Wheel in the early 70s, before branching out to a full-time solo career.

In 1978 he released the album 'City To City', which contained the track 'Baker Street' - most recognisable for its driving saxophone riff and guitar solo.

Fans paid tribute to the star on twitter, with Nufunk writing: "RIP Gerry Rafferty :( Stuck in the Middle With You is one of my favorites (sic)."

Another fan, TheGeddyLee, simply wrote: "Gerry Rafferty. Rest in Peace. He was good at writing songs. Real good."

Yet another tribute came from formerjackman, who said: "RIP Gerry Rafferty. Baker Street means so much to me."

Gerry had also endured a long battle with alcohol, which had led to the end of his long marriage to wife Carla in 1990. He is also survived by daughter Martha, granddaughter Celia, and his brother Jim.

Speaking about his drinking after their split, Carla said: "There was no hope. I would never have left him if there'd been a glimmer of a chance of him recovering."

Gerry's last album, 'Another World', was released in 2000.