Scots singer-songwriter Jim Diamond dies, aged 64

GLASGOW-BORN singer-songwriter Jim Diamond has passed away, aged 64.
Jim Diamond
 performing. Picture: Geoffrey SwaineJim Diamond
 performing. Picture: Geoffrey Swaine
Jim Diamond performing. Picture: Geoffrey Swaine

Family and friends said they were “deeply shocked by his sudden death” at his London home.

Diamond first came to prominence in 1982 when his song I Won’t Let You Down - recorded with his band Ph.D - entered the UK singles chart.

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He is best known internationally for his I Should Have Known Better as well as Hi-Ho Silver, the theme tune for ITV series Boon.

Diamond was born in Glasgow’s East End in 1953. Throughout his childhood. he was influenced by the likes of Otis Redding and joined his first band at the age of 14. He would go on to work with influencial industry movers and shakers, including Eddie Kramer, the legendary producer of Jimmi Hendrix.

A family spokesman added: “He was a devoted family man who loved his wife Chrissy and his children Sara and Lawrence, and the music that he continued to make.

“He dedicated a lot of time over recent years to the Cash for Kids charity appeal in Scotland with his friend Sir Tom Hunter and was still active and well respected on the music scene.

“He’ll be much missed by all who knew him and everyone who loved his music and his unique voice and style.”

The Scotsman critics at the Edinburgh Festival in 1993 described Diamond as “Scotland’s answer to Ray Charles”.