Ellon singer-songwriter who helped write Rod Stewart’s hit song ‘Sailing’ dies

The singer-songwriter who helped compose Sir Rod Stewart’s famous hit song Sailing has died.

Iain Sutherland from Ellon in Aberdeenshire, and his younger brother Gavin, from Peterhead, created two of the most memorable songs in pop history in the 1970s.

The pair recorded Sailing in 1972 before it became a worldwide hit for Sir Rod Stewart in 1975.

A social media post confirmed Iain died on Monday aged 71 following an illness.

It read: “It is with immense sadness that we share the news of the passing of Iain on Monday 25th November 2019, peacefully at home with family around him.

“A much-loved husband, father and grandfather, and a friend to so many, Iain was a talented singer, songwriter and musician who touched the lives of many through his music over the years.

“He continued to write throughout his illness and we will ensure that his legacy lives on. He will be deeply missed.”

Iain first performed Sailing with his brother Gavin as part of the Sutherland Brothers and Quiver. They also had a Top 10 hit with Arms of Mary.

The Sutherland Brothers had initially released Sailing, but it did not break into the Top 40.

Iain later released a brace of solo albums and had a successful writing career with his songs covered by the likes of Paul Young, Merle Haggard, John Travolta, Joan Baez, Keith Urban and Boyzone.