C'est le meme chose

Scotscare, the charity for Scots in London, has been running a vote to find Scotland's best loved song. The 'shock' news is that 'Flower of Scotland' has been eliminated, leaving a quintet of 'Dignity' by Deacon Blue; 'Caledonia' by Dougie McLean [see above post] ; 'Fields of Fire' by Big Country; Runrig's version of Loch Lomond and '500 Miles' by the Proclaimers.

Doubtless the list reflects the tastes of the 30-40 somethings who will have mostly been the ones taking part. Nonetheless, I thought it might be fun to compile a list of five of my favoured tracks, which have at least some connection to Scotland:


Whole Lotta Rosie - AC/DC

Aussies might complain, but since the Young brothers were born in Glasgow, and original singer Bon Scott was born in Kirriemuir, I think we can still lay claim. Possibly the most rumbustious track in their back catalogue – get those air guitars at the ready :-)



Maggie May – Rod Stewart

For any child of the 80's who remembers the spandex and the endless greatest hits albums, it's easy to overlook just how good Rod Stewart's material was. I've been known to murder this at karaoke, but at least I'm not as bad as Richard the cat sitter...



Auf Achse – Franz Ferdinand

Maybe not one of their bigger crowd pleasers. Tales of unrequited love are the staple of music, but there's something I love about the way this one builds, particularly the way the drums and bass can go from their methodic pulse into building a sense of agitation at key points. You've also got to love the Kiss tribute in the guitar solo in this live version.



Sunshine on Leith – The Proclaimers

For years, I'd never had any particularly strong feelings about this song. However, a half-time at Easter Road, with 15,000 Hibbies in full cry and scarves aloft, changed all that. It brought a lump to the throat of even a hardened Aberdeen supporter like me. Just magnificent – I wish we had a song like that.

[Apologies to any Kilmarnock fans, who may find some of the following scenes disturbing!]



Vienna – Ultravox

Atmospheric electro-pop, but so, so much more. The soaring vocals and percussive piano put a shiver sown my spine every time.



No tags for this one, but feel free to take part in any way you see fit. Performers, songwriting credits, whatever you like - no connection can be too tenuous :-)