The world of music was shaken with the news of Joe Egan’s passing on July 6. Egan, along with Gerry Rafferty, co-founded the iconic band Stealers Wheel. One of their most enduring hits, “Stuck in the Middle with You,” showcased their incredible songwriting and vocal talents. The duo met as teenagers in Paisley, Scotland, and their musical partnership would leave a lasting impact on the music industry.
“Stuck in the Middle with You” wasn’t just another pop song – it became a rock and pop standard that soared to the top of the charts in both the U.S. and the UK. Selling over 2 million copies, the song solidified Stealers Wheel’s place in music history. Its inclusion in Quentin Tarantino’s film, Reservoir Dogs, brought a resurgence of popularity, and the catchy tune found its way into countless other movies and TV shows over the years.
After Stealers Wheel disbanded, Joe Egan continued to pursue his musical career with two solo albums, “Out of Nowhere” and “Map.” Despite not achieving the same level of success as his time with Stealers Wheel, Egan’s solo work showcased his talents as a songwriter and performer. Gerry Rafferty also ventured into a solo career, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry before his own passing in 2011.
The music of Stealers Wheel and Joe Egan continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Their unique sound and unforgettable hits have solidified their places in music history. While the passing of Joe Egan marks the end of an era, his contributions to the music industry will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and fans alike. Rest in peace, Joe Egan, your music will live on forever.