Nazareth, the Scottish hard rock band that rose to prominence in the 1970s, owes much of its signature sound to the powerful vocals of Dan McCafferty. Known for his raspy, blues-tinged voice, McCafferty was one of the key driving forces behind the band’s success and played a significant role in shaping its identity.

Dan McCafferty and Pete Agnew shared a lifelong friendship that began long before the formation of Nazareth. Both born and raised in Dunfermline, Scotland, they played together in local bands before founding Nazareth in 1968. Their deep bond and mutual respect were the foundation upon which the band was built, with McCafferty’s distinctive voice and Agnew’s steady bass driving Nazareth’s sound for decades. Together, they weathered the ups and downs of the music industry, from early struggles to international stardom with hits like “Love Hurts” and “Hair of the Dog.”

After the passing of drummer Darrell Sweet in 1999, Pete’s son Lee Agnew joined Nazareth as the new drummer. Lee, having grown up around the band, naturally integrated into the group, bringing fresh energy while honoring the legacy his father helped establish. Guitarist Jimmy Murrison, who joined in 1994, has since become Nazareth’s longest-serving guitarist. His powerful, riff-driven style has been key in keeping the band’s signature hard rock sound alive. Together, McCafferty, Pete Agnew, Lee Agnew, and Murrison formed a tight-knit unit that carried Nazareth through the 2000s and beyond, with McCafferty retiring in 2013 but leaving an enduring legacy alongside his lifelong friend Pete.

Early Days and Formation

Dan McCafferty, born William Daniel McCafferty on October 14, 1946, in Dunfermline, Scotland, co-founded Nazareth in 1968 alongside guitarist Manny Charlton, bassist Pete Agnew, and drummer Darrell Sweet. McCafferty’s distinctive vocal style was integral to Nazareth’s gritty yet melodic sound, which set them apart from many contemporaries. As the band’s popularity grew, they continued to develop their hard rock identity, with each new member adding their own flavor.

Breakthrough Success

Nazareth gained international recognition with their 1973 album Razamanaz, produced by Deep Purple’s Roger Glover. The record featured hard-hitting tracks like “Broken Down Angel” and “Bad Bad Boy,” with McCafferty’s voice taking center stage. His range and raw emotional delivery became synonymous with Nazareth’s biggest hits.

Their cover of “Love Hurts,” released in 1975, catapulted them to even greater fame. McCafferty’s aching, gravelly vocals gave the song a poignant edge, helping it become a worldwide hit. His voice conveyed a sense of longing and heartache that resonated with millions.

Billy Rankin: New Band Member in the 1980’s

Billy Rankin joined Nazareth in 1980, initially replacing Zal Cleminson as the band’s guitarist. He first played on the album The Fool Circle (1981), which marked a stylistic shift for the band as they experimented with more diverse sounds. Rankin’s addition to the group helped rejuvenate Nazareth during a time when the band was transitioning into the new decade and dealing with the changing musical landscape.

After a brief departure from the band, Rankin returned in 1982 and played a more central role on the 1983 album Sound Elixir. The album featured a more radio-friendly, melodic rock sound, which showcased Rankin’s versatility as a guitarist. Songs like “Where Are You Now” demonstrated his ability to blend rock riffs with a softer, more polished sound, bringing a new energy to the band.

Rankin’s work with Nazareth continued until 1984, when he left to pursue a solo career. During his time with the band, he made notable contributions that helped Nazareth remain relevant in a rapidly evolving rock scene.

McCafferty’s Unique Voice and Billy Rankin’s Impact

Dan McCafferty’s voice remained the focal point of Nazareth’s sound throughout the band’s various lineups. Often compared to Rod Stewart and Bon Scott of AC/DC, McCafferty’s vocal style was raw, emotional, and packed with grit. His performances on iconic tracks like “Hair of the Dog” and “This Flight Tonight” highlighted his powerful range and intensity.

Billy Rankin’s guitar work brought a fresh dynamic to the band during his tenure. His contributions helped Nazareth navigate the 1980s, a time when many classic rock bands struggled to stay relevant. Rankin’s influence on albums like Sound Elixir and The Fool Circle showed his ability to push the band in new directions, keeping their sound fresh while respecting their hard rock roots.

Challenges and McCafferty’s Retirement

After decades of touring and recording, McCafferty faced health challenges. In 2013, he announced his retirement from live performances due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Despite this, McCafferty remained a beloved figure in the rock world, and his contributions to the band continued to be celebrated. He officially stepped down as Nazareth’s lead vocalist after 45 years, marking the end of an era for the group.

Solo Work and Final Years

McCafferty also released solo material, including the albums Dan McCafferty (1975) and Into the Ring (1987), which showcased his versatility outside Nazareth. Meanwhile, Billy Rankin found success in his solo endeavors, with the hit single “Baby Come Back” from his 1989 album Growin’ Up Too Fast.

Even after stepping away from the stage, McCafferty remained active in the music scene and recorded Last Testament in 2019, a fitting end to a legendary career. Rankin, too, remains an admired figure in rock, known for his energetic guitar work and contribution to Nazareth’s evolving sound.

Dan McCafferty and Billy Rankin

Dan McCafferty passed away on November 8, 2022, but his influence on rock music and Nazareth’s success is undeniable. Billy Rankin’s time with the band added another layer to their rich history, helping them navigate new eras of rock music while maintaining their signature edge.

Together, McCafferty and Rankin played pivotal roles in shaping Nazareth’s identity. McCafferty’s unforgettable voice and Rankin’s fresh guitar riffs ensured the band’s place in rock history. Their legacy continues to resonate with fans, old and new, around the world.