By Monk

Dan McCaffrey, former lead singer with Scottish rock legends Nazareth, has died at the age of 76.

Regarded as one of the most iconic singers of his generation, with a distinctive gravelly delivery, McCaffrey fronted the band for 45 years. He was forced to retire from touring in 2013, due a combination of worsening COPD and other health problems.

Nazareth co-founder (and sole remaining original member) Pete Agnew broke the news, saying:

“This is the saddest announcement I have ever had to make. Maryann and the family have lost a wonderful loving husband and father, I have lost my best friend and the world has lost one of the greatest singers who ever lived.”