The name "Alan Gorrie" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈælən ɡɔːri/. The first two letters, "Al," are pronounced with a short "a" sound, followed by a schwa sound. The next two letters, "an," are pronounced as the "a" sound in "cat." The last name, "Gorrie," is pronounced with a silent "e" at the end and the "o" sounds like the "aw" sound in "law." The final "ie" is pronounced as "ee."
Alan Gorrie is a Scottish musician and songwriter, best known for being a co-founder and member of the funk and R&B band Average White Band (AWB). Born on July 19, 1946, in Perth, Scotland, his full name is Alan Edward Gorrie.
Gorrie's musical career began in the 1960s when he played bass guitar and provided vocals for various local bands. In 1971, he formed Average White Band alongside fellow Scottish musicians, and the band gained international recognition for their smooth blend of funk, soul, and disco. As a key member of the group, Gorrie played bass guitar, sang lead and backing vocals, and contributed to songwriting.
Known for his soulful and versatile voice, Gorrie's singing style often brought a distinctive edge to AWB's music. His bass playing skills complemented the band's tight rhythm section, creating a solid foundation for their grooves. Gorrie's contributions to the band included notable hits like "Pick Up the Pieces," "Cut the Cake," and "Let’s Go 'Round Again," among others.
Alan Gorrie's musical talent and songwriting abilities have earned him the reputation of being one of the key figures in the funk and R&B genre. His dedicated work with Average White Band helped establish them as one of the most influential bands of their time. Even today, he remains an integral part of the band's continued success and legacy in the music industry.