raphael

saxophonist Raphael Ravenscroft ("Baker Street"), RIP

Raphael

Raphael Ravenscroft, the man behind the saxophone on Gerry Rafferty‘s “Baker Street,” died earlier this week, of an apparent heart attack. He was 60. Arguably the most famous saxophone riff in pop (you know it even if you think you don’t), “Baker Street” was a #2 hit in 1978 and Ravenscroft was reportedly only paid £27 for it (and the check bounced). Ravenscroft has also played on records by Pink Floyd, Daft Punk, America, Kim Carnes, Mike Oldfield, Robert Plant, and others.

Rest in peace, Raphael. You “Baker Street” solo lives on. Stream it below…

Gerry Rafferty – Baker Street