Frankie Miller(I)

Frankie Miller has been described by Rod Stewart as "the best white soul singer in the world." Born in Bridgeton, Glasgow, he grew up in a tough neighbourhood with a remarkable gift for soul singing. He went through bands in his early career at an alarming rate, and although cherished on the soul circuit and in his native Glasgow, found little recognition elsewhere. That changed a little in 1978 when he released a cover of Oscar Blandheim's Darlin', which proved to be a hit. Frankie himself hated the track, and it is hardly representative of his career. In 1979 his moody appearance and tough manner were harnessed by director John Mackenzie, who cast him as the lead in the BBC play _Just a Boy's Game (1979)_. This first foray into acting was an astounding achievement, as Frankie sunk effortlessly into the role of hard man Jake McQuillen with the relaxed menace of Robert De Niro. The instinctual performance led to a string of other offers but music was his love and has continued with his career, becoming highly regarded as a writer of songs for others. In 1991 he scored his biggest success with his cover of Caledonia, used in a lager commercial, but tragically, in 1993 he suffered a brain haemorrhage. Despite the pessimism of doctors, his girlfriend Annette has nursed him throughout, and now, thanks to the Drake Music Project, Frankie is back writing music. A benefit album and concert are taking place this September (2002).