Ian Bairnson (1953-2023)

John ""Ian"" Bairnson, a renowned Scottish musician, was best known for his role in the Alan Parsons Project. A versatile multi-instrumentalist, he excelled in guitar playing and had a unique preference for a sixpence over a traditional plectrum. Born in Lerwick, Shetland, Bairnson began his musical journey at a young age, mastering the guitar by six. He gained fame as a session guitarist and became a member of the band Pilot. His collaboration with Alan Parsons led to the formation of the Alan Parsons Project, where he played a crucial role in all their albums. Bairnson's musical influence extended to Kate Bush's albums and other artists like Bucks Fizz. In 2018, his wife revealed his battle with a progressive neurological condition affecting his ability to communicate and perform in public. Bairnson passed away on April 7, 2023, after a prolonged battle with dementia, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry."