Frankie Miller(I)
- Composer
- Actor
- Music Department
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).