“He was the real Voice Of Rock. Warm, rich, sonorous, resonant, deeply soulful”: James Dewar was the greatest rock vocalist you’ve probably never heard of
The article argues that Scottish singer James “Jimmy” Dewar was an exceptional yet under-recognised rock vocalist. It says his warm, rich and soulful voice deserves greater recognition alongside more frequently celebrated singers, particularly because vocal ability is presented as a rare natural gift as well as a skill.
Dewar is best known for his work with guitarist Robin Trower, pictured alongside Trower and drummer Bill Lordan. The piece frames his relative absence from “greatest singers” lists as an oversight, citing the admiration of his musical peers and describing him as the “real Voice Of Rock”.
- James Dewar is portrayed as a neglected great of rock singing.
- His voice is described as rich, resonant and soulful.
- The article highlights his work with Robin Trower.
New here? Start with this
James Dewar was a Scottish singer and bass player best known for working with guitarist Robin Trower in the 1970s and 1980s. Before that, he performed with bands including the Stone the Crows, and he built a reputation among fellow musicians for a powerful, soulful singing voice.
Robin Trower had first become known as a guitarist with the English rock band Procol Harum. His later solo band combined blues, rock and soul influences, with Dewar often singing the lead vocals and playing bass, while drummers including Bill Lordan completed the group’s line-up.
Rock music is often shaped by distinctive singers as much as by guitarists or songwriters, but public recognition can vary widely between artists. Dewar’s supporters point to his recordings with Trower and the respect of other performers as reasons he is regarded by some listeners as an important, though less widely known, voice in rock.