Talented musician Joe Egan who rose to fame as one half of the folk rock/rock band Stealers Wheel and who co-wrote and performed the hit song Stuck in the Middle With You has sadly passed away at the age of 77.

Fans learnt of Egan’s death through a Facebook post shared on the official page of Gerry Rafferty, Egan’s former Stealers Wheel bandmate. Although Rafferty passed away in 2011, his page is now managed by his daughter, Martha.

“Very sad news that the other half of Stealers Wheel, Joe Egan, passed away peacefully yesterday afternoon with his nearest and dearest around him,” she wrote.

“I will always remember him as a sweet and gentle soul. May he rest in peace.”

Born on October 18, 1946, Egan began his musical journey in various smaller British bands such as The Sensors and The Maverix before rising to fame alongside Rafferty in Stealers Wheel.

Their hit song Stuck in the Middle With You soared into the Top Ten on both the UK Singles Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100.

Following this success, the band achieved further acclaim with Egan’s own composition, Star, before internal disagreements and declining album sales led to their breakup in 1975.

Egan ventured into a solo career, releasing his debut album, Out of Nowhere, in 1979, followed by Map in 1981. He eventually stepped away from the music industry in the 1990s.

As news of Egan’s passing broke, fans rushed to pay tribute to the “brilliant” singer/ songwriter while reflecting on his musical legacy.

“Two great talents,now gone but we have their work to remember them by. RIP Joe,now you’re home with Gerry,” one fan wrote.

“Loved Stealers Wheel , and also how they put their albums together which gave both artists the chance to show their individual talents and style , but also allowed us to enjoy their superb collaborations.”

“What brilliant singer songwriters they were…..Gerry and Joe….Harmonies where sublime as were the songs they produced….sad news ….their songs will live forever….condolences to Joe’s family,” commented another.

“So sad – Joe was a great songwriter, singer and musician. He contributed hugely to the success of Stealers Wheel’s three brilliant albums. His first solo album Out Of Nowhere is a fantastic album that never received the recognition that it deserved. Another Scottish music legend gone. Love and warm wishes to Joe’s family.”