A world record attempt to have 2000 saxophone players performing the Gerry Rafferty hit Baker Street at the same time in Paisley is being planned.
The incredible feat is part of a landmark festival celebrating the life of singer-songwriter Gerry Rafferty – the town’s best-known musical icon – around what would have been his 80th birthday, on April 16, 2027.
The award-winning music charity Loud ‘n’ Proud is behind the week-long festival of concerts and community events, called GR80 – Celebrating a Hometown Hero.
Tommy McGrory and Gary Kerr, from Loud ‘n’ Proud have already started working to organise the schedule of performances from professional and local musicians.
The saxophone solo on the song Baker Street is instantly recognisable and Tommy says: “Without a doubt the standout moment of this celebration of Gerry Rafferty and his music would be the world-record attempt for a mass performance of saxophone players performing his greatest hit, Baker Street.
“The current world-record for the number of sax players performing at the one time was set in China, in May 2015 when 1875 saxophonists played simultaneously.
“We plan to attract 2000 sax players to Paisley for the world record bid in Abbey Close between the Town Hall and the Abbey. We’ve already been in touch with saxophone groups throughout the UK and the reaction has been fantastic. They all want to take part.”
He adds: “The GR80 festival with the world record attempt will bring thousands of visitors to Paisley who wouldn’t normally be coming to the town. And if we can create the record for the most sax players, it will promote Paisley around the world.”
A special website has been created – www.gr80.org – for sax players who want to take part in the world record attempt to register their interest.
As part of the festival, Loud ‘n’ Proud is also organising a major concert and also several community-based live music and performance events celebrating the life of Gerry Rafferty who sadly died in 2011.
Headline photo: Gary Kerr, left and Tommy McGrory, right, with saxophone player, Fiona Burns, at Paisley ‘s Gerry Rafferty mural
Gary Kerr said: “The GR80 is more than a festival – it’s a defining cultural moment for Paisley.
‘It’s a celebration of music, heritage and community. The idea and the shape of this project have been developed through a partnership of local musicians, businesses, politicians and community groups.
“Everyone involved believes it is the right thing to do – to celebrate the life and music of Gerry Rafferty, who has had the greatest impact on Paisley’s music scene and remains its most successful artist.”
Chair of Paisley First Business Improvement District, Elaine Templeton, said: “Gerry Rafferty remains one of Paisley’s most treasured sons and we can’t wait for the town to come together to celebrate what would have been his 80th Birthday.
“Our local businesses are proud to help shine a light on Gerry’s enduring legacy and the deep connection he held with the town.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming people from around the country and beyond to mark this special milestone and celebrate a true musical legend.”
Any group, organisation, individual or business who would like to be involved in the GR80 festival, whether through sponsorship or by taking part, can contact Gary or Tommy through the www.gr80.org website.