Serendipity brought Runrig and Bruce together. But it wasn’t just that simple. For this gamble to work required not only a huge leap of faith by both parties, but for many other ingredients to coalesce. It took a little time but from tentative beginnings, we saw a chemistry develop within the band, a truly authentic rapport, a deep and mutual respect, much banter and joy onstage. This band was not just surviving, it was thriving. Who could have thought after 1997 we would see a rebirth and have them for almost as long again? Bruce was the catalyst for this. It took courage to face that sea of Riggie faces, and a huge level of commitment to sing with a band based 2500 miles away across the Atlantic Ocean. With a warmth and good humour, a willingness to embrace the Gaelic culture while remaining staunchly loyal to his Cape Breton roots, a twinkle in the eye, and without ever taking himself too seriously, Bruce reeled us all in. We forgave him the jokes, sometimes saucy, often corny. We shared in his favourite cultural reference points – Northwest Passage, The Parting Glass, The Water is Wide. We thrilled at the stripped-down humanity he brought to songs like This is not a Love Song, Day of Days, Big Songs of Hope and Cheer, Life Is, as he somehow managed to produce both uncut diamonds and polished gems at the same time. To Bruce’s wife and family - all fans of Runrig who have enjoyed their music and shows over the past 25 years owe a huge debt of gratitude to you. Without your patience and willingness to accept disruptions to family life, it would never have worked. I hope there has been pleasure and happiness for you in having Bruce to yourselves since the band signed off at Stirling a few years ago, although clearly recent times have been immensely difficult. This message comes to say thank you for all that you supported Bruce to do with Runrig, you should be incredibly proud of every moment of it. I wish you peace at this most painful time. To the band members, I also send wishes of peace and hopefulness. Good happiness we shared.
