The Proclaimers

The Proclaimers are a beloved Scottish rock duo made up of identical twin brothers Craig and Charlie Reid. Born on March 5, 1962, in Leith, Edinburgh, the duo grew up across Scotland and England, spending time in places like Cornwall and Fife. Their upbringing, combined with musical influences such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Merle Haggard, and Hank Williams, helped shape their distinctive sound—a blend of rock, folk, and heartfelt storytelling delivered with thick Scottish accents and unmatched sincerity.

The brothers burst onto the UK music scene in the late 1980s with their breakout single “Letter from America,” which climbed to No. 3 on the UK charts. But it was their 1988 anthem “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” that catapulted them to global fame, becoming a timeless classic recognized across generations and countries. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus continue to make it a staple in movies, TV shows, and sing-along playlists.

Over the years, The Proclaimers have released a string of acclaimed albums, including Sunshine on Leith, Hit the Highway, Restless Soul, and Let’s Hear It for the Dogs. Their music often touches on love, loss, working-class life, and Scottish identity, resonating deeply with fans worldwide. Their work even inspired a stage musical, Sunshine on Leith, which was later adapted into a feature film.

Offstage, the Reid brothers are outspoken about their political beliefs, particularly their support for Scottish independence. Passionate, consistent, and unapologetically themselves, The Proclaimers have earned their place as one of Scotland’s most iconic musical exports.