Humblebums music legend Harvey dies
Tributes paid to Big Yin’s bandmate
MUSIC legend Tam Harvey, who formed The Humblebums folk band with Billy Connolly, has died.
Harvey’s daughter Georgina Mannion took to Twitter yesterday to reveal her dad had passed away.
She shared an image of the group’s first album, featuring both Harvey and Connolly on the cover.
She said: “My father died a few hours ago.
“Here he is in his heyday on the right, Tam Harvey. He started a band with Billy Connolly called The Humblebums.
“Taught him guitar. He was one of the best guitarists/stringed instruments players from the UK.”
The Humblebums were formed in 1965 and were soon well known in Glasgow’s pubs and clubs.
They were often seen at the Scotia Bar in the city centre, where the Big Yin would entertain audiences with his funny song introductions.
The band released their debut album, First
Collection of Merry Melodies, in 1969 under the Transatlantic Records label.
Late singer Gerry Rafferty joined the band when Harvey, who was an accomplished bluegrass guitarist, left the group.
But the band broke up in the early 70s, with Connolly going on to find worldwide fame as a comedian.
Fans paid tribute to Harvey last night in response to Georgina’s post.
Lynne MacFadyen said: “I saw the Humblebums perform in Glasgow. Absolutely fabulous. You must be very proud and very heartbroken tonight.”
Willie Eckerslike added: “Sorry to hear, Tam was part ofScotland’smusicDNA.”