Gerry Rafferty's Night Owl: A Masterclass in Songwriting

Released in 1979, Gerry Rafferty's third studio album, Night Owl, was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in the charts. The album is a masterclass in songwriting, production, and musicianship, featuring some of Rafferty's most beloved tracks.

The album opens with 'Right Down the Line,' an understated love song that has become a viral hit in recent years. It's followed by 'Night Owl,' a soaring melodic track that showcases Rafferty's incredible vocal range. The album also features the iconic saxophone riff from 'Baker Street,' arguably one of the most famous riffs of all time.

Lyrically, Night Owl is a deeply personal and introspective work, with Rafferty exploring themes of success, spirituality, and disillusionment. The music provides a perfect counterpoint to these lyrics, with intricate instrumentation and harmonies that add depth and texture to the songs.

Night Owl was released just a year after Rafferty's Platinum-selling album City to City, and while it didn't quite match the commercial success of its predecessor, it still achieved platinum status in Canada, gold in the UK, and gold in the US. The album's complexity and emotional range have made it a fan favorite over the years, and it continues to be celebrated as one of Rafferty's best works.

Overall, Night Owl is an essential listen for fans of Gerry Rafferty and anyone who loves classic rock and pop music. With its masterful songwriting, production, and musicianship, it's an album that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Gerry rafferty night owl album