Barbara Dickson and Rab Noakes met one lunchtime in Sandy Bell’s pub in Edinburgh. They were both 17 and learned quickly, over a drink, that their lives had overlapped somewhat. At the heart of their love of songs they were both avid Everly Brothers fans, living about 30 miles apart, oblivious of each other until then. That was to change forever.

Subsequently, they’ve performed live, sang on each other’s records, made media appearances, and have remained friends for over 50 years. Both inhabit diverse careers and have won awards and praise for their solo work in many fields.

In recent years they have toured as a duo on a number of occasions. Their last show in that format was in November 2019.

COVID restrictions have meant there’ve been no shows at all. That makes this appearance at Beyond Borders all the more valuable, and eagerly anticipated by Barbara and Rab. There’ll be old songs, new songs, happy songs and blue songs.

All performed with the rich resonance that reflects their lasting connection.

Events participated in:

Lunchtime Music: Barbara Dickson and Rab Noakes perform a selection of enchanting Songs of Separation. (2021)