The Proclaimers

The Proclaimers

The Proclaimers are a Scottish band formed in 1983, comprising identical twin brothers Charlie and Craig Reid, born March 5, 1962, in Leith, Scotland. They are renowned for their distinctive vocal harmonies and energetic live performances, often seen marching across stages in their trademark kilts.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Raised in Edinburgh, Cornwall, and Auchtermuchty, the Reid twins initially explored punk rock before establishing The Proclaimers. Their musical journey gained significant traction when a fan sent their demo to the British band The Housemartins. Impressed, The Housemartins invited The Proclaimers to join their 1986 UK tour, providing a crucial platform for the duo.

This exposure led to an appearance on the Channel 4 television program *The Tube* in January 1987. Their single "Letter from America" subsequently climbed to number 3 on the UK Singles Chart, and their debut album, *This is the Story*, achieved gold status. Their follow-up album, *Sunshine on Leith*, released in 1988, featured two of their most enduring hits: "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" and "I'm On My Way." The band also enjoyed success with the *King of the Road* EP, which reached number 9 in the UK in 1990.

Enduring Popularity and Notable Collaborations

The Proclaimers have maintained a prolific career, releasing eleven studio albums, two compilation albums, and a DVD. They continue to tour extensively across Europe and internationally. In March 2007, they re-recorded "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" with comedy characters Andy Pipkin and Brian Potter for the Comic Relief charity. This charitable version, featuring numerous celebrities in its music video, reached number 1 on the UK Singles Chart.

In November 2009, The Proclaimers toured Australia and New Zealand as supporting acts for The B-52s on their Funplex tour, alongside Mental as Anything.

Social and Political Engagement

The brothers are passionate supporters of Hibernian Football Club, and "Sunshine on Leith" has become the club's unofficial anthem, played during significant home matches. Charlie and Craig Reid have actively participated in campaigns supporting the club, notably the "Hands Off Hibs" campaign in 1990.

The Proclaimers are also well-known advocates for Scottish independence. While previously associated with the Scottish National Party, Charlie Reid announced in 2007 his switch to the Scottish Socialist Party, citing concerns over funding. Their political views are often reflected in their songwriting, with tracks like "Letter from America" and "Cap in Hand" addressing social and political themes.

Beyond their musical and political activism, The Proclaimers have supported various charitable causes. In 2006, they joined a campaign to free Kenny Richey from death row in Ohio. In 2010, they collaborated with Billy Bragg for a show benefiting Reprieve, an organization that campaigns against the death penalty. Their philanthropic efforts also extend to supporting The Lighthouse Foundation, Cancer Research UK, Drake Music Scotland, and the 500 Miles charity, which assists amputees and disabled individuals in Africa.