Chris Rainbow

Christopher James Harley, known by his stage name Chris Rainbow (18 November 1946 – 22 February 2015), was a Scottish pop rock singer-songwriter and musician, known for his solo work and his significant contributions to The Alan Parsons Project from 1979, as well as his work as a backing and occasional lead vocalist for Camel in the 1980s. Rainbow also composed jingles for Radio One and Capital Radio.

Rainbow's solo songs such as "Give Me What I Cry For" and "Solid State Brain" received positive critical reception upon release, and were played by British radio DJs Kenny Everett and Tony Blackburn in the early 1970s. Due to exposure on TikTok, Rainbow's 1979 song "Be Like a Woman" made its chart debut in February 2026 on the UK Independent Singles Breakers Chart, peaking at No. 15. It also reached No. 16 on the Billboard Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart, No. 92 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 75 on the Canada Hot 100, and amassed over 140 million streams on Spotify.

Through his career, Rainbow contributed to many other projects by various artists both as musician and producer; his long-time collaborator Alan Parsons stated he was a "One Man Beach Boys" in a posthumous tribute.

Early life and name He was born the son of James Harley and Pamela Clapham. He adopted the stage name "Rainbow" to avoid confusion with Steve Harley, saying:

Before music, Rainbow worked through a variety of occupations including doing promotional work for Dream Police, contributing cartoons to Glasgow underground paper The Word, and studying at the Society for Psychic Research. Rainbow had a stutter which wasn't apparent when he sang.

Career In 1972 and 1973, Rainbow was involved in a band called Hopestreet – along with Scottish pianist and composer Callum Kenmuir – recording two singles, Iron Sky / Never Mind and Wait Until Tomorrow / Ladies (At The Bottom Of A Garden). Following this, he recorded the singles Give Me What I Cry For and Solid State Brain in 1974, and Mr. Man and Gimme Just A Little Beat Of Your Heart in 1975 (as Christopher Rainbow).

Slightly shortening his name to Chris Rainbow, he later released three solo albums; Home of the Brave in 1975, Looking Over My Shoulder in 1978, and White Trails in 1979. Tracks from these albums are collected on The Best Of Chris Rainbow released in 1994, The Best of Chris Rainbow, 1972–1980, released in 2000, and The Chris Rainbow Anthology 1974-1981 released in 2001, which also includes radio spots and other rare material. Rainbow also did music for EMI's project Body Music, which included three of his songs along with Brian Aris's photography.

Rainbow would tour with Jon Anderson in 1980 and do vocal work on Song of Seven in 1980 and Animation in 1983.

Death Chris Rainbow died on 22 February 2015 of Parkinson's disease at his home on the Isle of Skye. He was surrounded by his wife and son.

Alan Parsons published on his official website, "It was with great sadness that I read today of the passing of Chris Rainbow. He was an amazing talent and an integral part of The Project sound. Eric and I used to call him the "One Man Beach Boys". I will always remember his funny stories, his mimicking ability, and his hilarious catch phrases. Sessions with him were always filled with laughter. I will miss him greatly."

On hearing of Rainbow's death, Brian Wilson posted on his official website, "I felt really bad to hear about Chris Rainbow passing away, he was too young. I remember in the late 1970s, a friend played 'Dear Brian' for me and I was touched and honored by it. It was a beautiful track. I wish the best for Chris's family and friends. Love & Mercy, Brian."

Discography

Home of the Brave (1975) Looking Over My Shoulder (1978) White Trails (1979)