Ray Sawyer DR HOOK Tribute Daddy's Little Girl

 

Integral member of American supergroup Dr Hook, Ray Sawyer passed away this week aged 81. His distinctive look made him an important part of the band's image and success in a decade filled with novelty acts and disco recordings. Australia was always good to Dr Hook with perhaps it being the biggest market for the group; even bigger than their success in the United States. I first became aware of them with 1975's 'Only Sixteen' and 'A Little bit More'. They would have a steady stream of hits until the mid 80's. As soon as I discovered Ray had died, I recalled there being a solo album and single 'Daddy's Little girl' which I've used here to pay tribute to the musician. It appeared on an EMI records Various Artists Compilation: 'Devastator' which had 16 hits and misses - selections from their stable - including the mega selling Pussyfoot (The Way That You Do It) and Flash & The Pan (Hey St Peter). I recall seeing the Ray Sawyer track (among the 'misses') but not being aware of it. 'Daddy's Little Girl' was a near hit (#49) in January/February of 1977. I fossicked through my mp3 collection this morning and here it is - the beautifully and wholeheartedly performed song by the late Ray Sawyer. He looked like quite the character and I recall him touring and appearing on music programs and being quite the scallion. His spirit will live on through the music.