Ian Rae’s story is one of the most unique I’ve ever come across in the world of music. Here’s a man who, at the age of 77, has done what many dream of in their early years—building a dedicated fanbase across multiple platforms, creating a legacy not only through his music but through his profound connection with people worldwide. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, but residing in London for nearly five decades, Ian Rae’s musical journey is a tapestry of memories and milestones. He started playing piano 67 years ago, an endeavor that eventually led him to write his first song at 14 when he was in a band called the Bluestars. Little did he know then that he would become an inspiration to many, not only as a musician but as a person who represents resilience and creativity, regardless of age.
In 2021, Rae’s daughter Fiona made a simple suggestion that would change his life forever. She encouraged him to create videos on TikTok, and what started as a small experiment quickly grew into something monumental. Ian Rae, whose musical influences range from Gershwin and The Beatles to Yiruma and James Newton Howard, began playing live sessions on TikTok, Instagram, and Twitch. His ability to merge covers with his original compositions struck a chord with audiences, so much so that fans started requesting him to upload his work on Spotify. From there, his first album “Beyond the Clouds” gained traction, amassing over 625,000 streams with its title track reaching 350,000 streams alone. His raw authenticity and undeniable talent have made him an internet sensation, even though he’s never played a single live gig in a traditional venue.
But it’s not just about the numbers for Ian Rae. His journey is one of giving back. He’s raised over £25,000 from his earnings to support various charities, a testament to his character. Rae’s approach to merchandising is another reflection of his altruistic nature—he gives away sheet music for free, encouraging people of all ages to take up or revisit the piano. His influence is seen in how many people, young and old, have picked up their instruments again, inspired by his passion. Over the years, Ian has written musicals performed at notable venues like the Fairfield Halls in Croydon and the Minack Theatre in Cornwall. His compositions have been featured in library music for Sony/EMI, used in both radio and television.
Enter “Goodbye Little Friend”, Ian Rae’s latest album, was released on September 21st, 2024. His beloved dog Tallulah passed away earlier this year, and this body of work is a loving dedication to Tallulah. It’s more than just an album. Rae’s pet Tallulah was more than just that—she was a constant in both his life and his social media accounts, where his fans adored her on Instagram and TikTok. Rae’s versatility is demonstrated by the album’s thirteen tracks, which range from jazz to neoclassical. The album’s lead song, “Goodbye Little Friend,” is a contemplative piano piece that conveys bittersweet feelings of hopelessness. This melancholic yet peaceful soundscape, which blends delicate piano melodies with ethereal flute-like sounds, perfectly captures the sadness and melancholy of saying farewell to someone dear.
One standout track on the album is “Rainbow Bridge”, which features Ellie-Lou Baillie, one of Ian Rae’s close friends. The song, a tender tribute to Tallulah, opens with a harmonious blend of piano and soft percussion, setting a peaceful and reflective tone. Baillie’s angelic vocals elevate the track to another level, her voice carrying the weight of loss but also the joy of remembrance. It’s a neo-classical piece, yet it feels modern in its emotional depth and sonic layering. As Baillie’s voice melds with Rae’s piano, there’s a sense of transcendence that makes “Rainbow Bridge” more than just a song—it becomes a shared experience of grief, love, and healing.
Though “Goodbye Little Friend” focuses on Ian Rae’s personal loss, the other tracks offer a variety of moods. For instance, the piano-driven melodies of “By the Lake” transport the listener to a tranquil natural setting while conjuring the tranquil atmosphere of being close to a body of water. It’s a song that easily puts you in a relaxing mood, demonstrating Rae’s talent for giving his songs a balance between raw beauty and emotional impact.
Going back to Ian Rae’s tale, he has released an incredible amount of records in the past three years, including seven singles and eleven albums, all while continuing to play live three times a day on Twitch, Instagram, and TikTok. He now has 500K followers on TikTok, 180K on Instagram, and 16K on Spotify thanks to his presence on these sites. These aren’t just vanity metrics; they reflect a community that Rae’s music has touched, people from 130 countries who come every day to watch him perform live, even though he frequently performs with his blindfold on—a wacky decision that has produced some hilarious moments when he can’t read the comments.
What makes Ian Rae truly remarkable isn’t just his music but his approach to life. Here’s a man who, in his later years, has managed to harness the power of social media and streaming platforms to create a meaningful and impactful career. He didn’t follow a traditional path—he never toured, never sought the limelight in the way many musicians do. Instead, he found his audience by being authentically himself, playing from the heart, and connecting with people on a deeply personal level. His streaming schedule is rigorous—he goes live three times a day, at 8:30 AM, 5:00 PM, and 10:00 PM UK time—on TikTok, Instagram, and Twitch. These performances are more than just a showcase of his talent; they are a space for shared joy, sorrow, and everything in between.
The story of Ian Rae is evidently still developing as “Goodbye Little Friend” continues to touch souls. His life, which was full of happy, sad, creative, and compassionate experiences, is reflected in his music. Furthermore, Rae’s music serves as a reminder of the strength of connection in a world when it is easy to feel alone. This connection can be made by a mutual love of music, a cherished pet, or even just the simple act of playing a soul-stirring melody on the piano. Ian, who is 77 years old, keeps demonstrating that age is not a limit to creativity, significance, or impact. Global audiences find solace in his music, which serves as a constant reminder of the potency of artistic connection.
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