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Deacon Blue
Deacon Blue is a Scottish pop rock band formed in Glasgow in 1985. The group was founded by vocalist and songwriter Ricky Ross, who had previously worked as a schoolteacher. The band's original lineup included Ross, vocalist Lorraine McIntosh, keyboardist James Prime, drummer Dougie Vipond, guitarist Graeme Kelling, and bassist Ewen Vernal. Deacon Blue gained prominence in the late 1980s with the release of their debut album *Raintown* in 1987. The album, named after their home city of Glasgow, was praised for its heartfelt lyrics and melodic sound, featuring tracks like *Dignity* and *Chocolate Girl*. Their second album, *When the World Knows Your Name* (1989), brought them greater commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and spawning a number of hit singles including *Real Gone Kid*. The band's music blends pop, rock, soul, and blues influences, often characterized by emotionally resonant storytelling and a strong sense of place. Rich instrumentation and the dual vocals of Ross and McIntosh became a signature part of their sound. Deacon Blue continued releasing albums into the early 1990s, but after their 1994 album *Whatever You Say, Say Nothing*, the band took a hiatus. They reunited in 1999 and released *Walking Back Home*, followed by *Homesick* in 2001. Since then, the band has continued to tour and record, releasing several albums in the 2010s and 2020s, such as *The Hipsters*, *A New House*, and *City of Love*. Despite changes over the years, including the death of guitarist Graeme Kelling in 2004, Deacon Blue has retained a loyal fanbase and remains an enduring presence in the UK music scene. Their music, marked by thoughtful lyrics and a sense of optimism, continues to resonate with audiences both old and new.
