Nazareth is an iconic Scottish hard rock band that was never just another rock pop group. They etched their distinct name in the annals of rock music history through an array of chart-topping songs and albums, well esteemed for their original sound that combined hard, heavy rock with folk and classic pop influences.
Formed in 1968 in the city of Dunfermline, Scotland, Nazareth initially consisted of Dan McCafferty (vocals), Manny Charlton (guitar), Pete Agnew (bass) and Darrell Sweet (drums). This quartet soon began to earn a reputation for blistering performances and crafted a sound that was a distinct blend of melodic hooks, powerful guitar riffs, and lyrical storytelling.
Nazareth's big break came in 1971 with the release of their eponymous debut album. Despite not charting, the album displayed their raw energy and crafted sound that paved the way for a rise in popularity. However, it was their third album ‘Razamanaz’ in 1973 which set their career on an upward trajectory. The album was a commercial success and spawned classic hits like "Broken Down Angel" and the title track "Razamanaz".
Their fame skyrocketed even further with their breakthrough 1975 album "Hair of the Dog". The title track became a hard rock classic, and their ballad "Love Hurts", a cover version of a song by The Everly Brothers, peaked at number one in Canada and number eight in the United States, cementing their place among the pantheon of rock music elites.
Through the late 70s and 80s, Nazareth continued to churn out successful albums and singles, showcasing their versatility and resilience to adapt to changing musical trends. Even in the face of lineup changes, such as the departure of Charlton in 1990 and the death of Sweet in 1999, Nazareth continued to tour and produce new music proving their indomitable spirit and deep-rooted passion for rock music.
The band’s most recent line-up includes Pete Agnew, his son Lee Agnew (who replaced Sweet on drums), Carl Sentence (who stepped in for McCafferty in 2013), and Jimmy Murrison, the longest-serving guitarist in Nazareth’s history.
Throughout their career spanning five decades, Nazareth has sold over 20 million albums worldwide. Even today, they captivate audiences with their charismatic performances, staying true to the sounds and style that saw them rise to international acclaim. Their legacy is one of consistently powerful music that has inspired countless other rock artists.
Nazareth's unique style, incorporating hard rock sounds and signature lyrical power ballads, encapsulates a glorious era of rock music. Their contribution to the genre has left an indelible mark on the landscape of classic rock, establishing them as stand-out rock pop icons of their time.