Kirsten Adamson's letter to her late dad - BBC Loop

Kirsten’s dad Stuart Adamson took his own life in 2001. She has written her dad a letter to thank him for his music.
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[@regaffairs]

A Dad to be proud of. A daughter to be proud of.

[@billybobbob3003]

Your dad was an amazing songwriter and unique individual the world misses him!

[@paulbennison6376]

Kirsten just letting you know Your Dad's voice can be often heard here blasting out of the speakers in a little place in New Zealand. Take care.

[@jamesmcarthur1229]

Such a beautiful comment...

[@richardjames5843]

And San Francisco ✌️

[@marceloonunes]

And even in Brazil. I have always loved Big Country.

[@nomadscouser4063]

Brilliant your father was a masterclass in music,and big country was one of my favourite bands, Kirsten you must be proud of your dad and good luck in your future take care xx

[@zloychechen5150]

cheers from russia not expecting to grow flowers in the desert, but living, and breathing, and seeing the sun in wintertime from time to time even.

[@regmunday8354]

Stuart Adamson, the Robert Burns of Scottish Rock music. His lyrics were astonishingly beautiful.

[@mikedo6]

Just turned 59 and your Dad's music still resonates with me. Someone quoted from East Of Eden here in the comments section.." Some days will stay a thousand years, some pass like the flash of a spark...who knows where all our days go? " Those words struck a chord with me in 1984 and still affect me to this day. Bless you and take care!

[@davidrose1847]

Big Country in Top 3 of My Favourite Bands EVER

[@tommymcclymontmusic245]

I met Stuart twice, the first briefly; the second time was when I interviewed him for a German newspaper. In conversation, Stuart was modest, friendly, down to earth and had a sense of humour. It has often been said that meeting one of your heroes can be a let-down. The very opposite was true when, as a big BC fan, I met one of mine.

[@MobiusBandwidth]

well I cried. I know he's a proud dad, and he was one of the most important musicians ever, a total genius. it's not that hard to write songs in a minor key, angry or sad, that sound good, but to write happy songs that don't sound sappy, trite, or derivative, is a real challenge, and he was a profoundly talented crafter of music of any mood he wished to convey. uplifting anthems, if I had my own country I'd've hired him to write us a national anthem.

[@johnross9773]

This a daft thing in a way but means so much to me...I literally bumped into your Dad at the petrol station that used to be beside MFI in Dunfermline. I paid my petrol bill at the till, turned to walk out and there he was, or should I say his chest! He was a big guy. I made my apologies as did he and I walked out into my car. " I just bumped into the Big Man" I thought. I felt blessed but not as much as I did when I heard of his passing. You're Dad was and still is a legend. I still blast his songs on my car audio at 52. He'll always be a legend. Well done on your vid hen :)

[@sst6358]

Aww love this , thank you for sharing 💫💚

[@affriman]

In 1989 I lost my son through divorce and almost took my life on the other side of the world from where my wee baby boy was .. I still remember that day everyday ... My saving grace was your Dad's voice and the band blasting into my ears .... The song Fields on fire and the words gave me the strength to carry on .. many years have passed and my life has not been easy but in tuff times I turn up the volume and listen and reflect ... sending condolences from and old Scottish Soldier.... God bless you

[@jaredgarrett-gerryironspear]

I miss your father every day. You look so much like him. Big Country's music has gotten me through some very difficult times. I simply can't understand why their music didn't catch absolute fire over here in the States. Thanks so much, Kirsten. Keep playing music.

[@michaellindsey2031]

I am crying my eyes out watching this. Stuart was certainly one of the most amazing and prolific songwriters ever. I reached a point of despair, where I almost left my daughters and son. I'm glad I did not succeed. Big country music has been an inspiring in stabilizing force in my life. I can never take for granted the strong bond between a father and his children. Thank you for posting this, and reminding me how vital that bond of love is.

[@heaart2145]

Most under rated artist in history!! Miss him dearly😔

[@maewestbatman]

Oh what a lovely lady. You do your father proud.

[@paulwilkinson8099]

Met your dad a couple of times after gigs , was always polite and giving to the autograph hunters . Your dad will be proud .

[@tx4yabass]

Brave girl!!!... Your dad would and will be so proud of you...

[@matsf8268]

Thanks Kirsten, you are not alone to miss your dad :)

[@tablet647]

I listened to your dad's music from " into the valley " right up to " Driving to Damascus " , and loved them all along the road of my life , it is only in my later years , with children of my own , that some of your dad's lyrics make sense " Some days will stay a thousand years , some pass like the flash of a spark , who knows where all our days go "

[@richardfrank9317]

Agreed, some song lyrics don't really hit until you are older

[@russkkay]

Heartbreaking and uplifting too! Had he heard these words in his time of crisis, he would still be with us today! Stuart is immensely proud of you both!

[@clyclayton]

As a father and a long time fan of Big Country I am deeply touched by this, Kirsten. Thank you for sharing.

[@davelister1]

So much emotion ! I wish we had Stuart back

[@roslyncoward3222]

I've loved Stuart and his music all my adult life. Kirsten's letter to him is beautiful.

[@smoggie2833]

Awesome. I listen to Big Country every single day. The best band ever.

[@ianatkins7098]

Stuart changed my life with his music and lyrics. I can’t believe it’s nearly 20 years since he left us. You should be immensely proud of your background!

[@patrickcannady2066]

Her dad's music helped me through dark times in my teens

[@paulwilkinson8099]

I almost cried hearing your letter to your dad . I met the band outside a gig in Leeds and your father was most accommodating to this slightly drunk fan . A lovely talented man .

[@noelmcgillian6865]

Got to see your dad play live twice, it was one of my biggest wishes.

[@sergiobasilioli384]

My friends and I were nuts about The Big Country songs and sound! Shame he left us too soon! Good luck with your career.(from Italian fans).

[@cwugrad396]

to this day i still listen to big country records often. such a great band

[@padraigsisk4057]

As a Dad of 2 cheeky daughters. Who I adore so much. I can't imagine leaving them any time soon. I hope. Kirsten ur dad was and still is a hero to us all.

[@westy1479]

Kirsten I would like to tell you I had the pleasure of seeing your Dad and Big Country live on 25 occasions. 1st till the last tour. I was lucky enuff to meet the band on numerous occasions. The band no-one has ever come close to in my eyes. Those live shows, electric. Stuart was a musical genius, a musical god, read what Eric Clapton has to say about him. The Edge comments also. Band individually sublime, collectively sound on another level. The big man will always be one of my biggest hero’s. His music and lyrics will live forever.

[@lesleyfollington9119]

Very emotional, such a brave thing to do, must have been tough. Stuart was such a musical hero to so many people, but such a troubled soul (and most of us had no idea...)…

[@GuitarSafari1]

Stuart would be proud of you such a lovely letter to him. I met your such talented Father several times. When I lived in Canada I would listen to Big Country and dream of living in the UK and visit Scotland when I came over. It eventually happened. I saw him walking down the street in Camden town in London one time. I was like did Stuart Adamson just walk by me? I ran back and asked was he Big Country singer he said Yeah. He said come to the show tonight and I did. I had actually just bought some of his music on cassettes that day the truth. At the gig he was so nice and friendly and I had a photo taken with him. He gave me the set list after the gig and guitar pick. I really looked up to him and couldn't believe I was hanging after the show with him. His music touched me in a way I will never forget, it is timeless emotional and full of soul. I met him a few other times in Ireland and the UK and he always remembered me. His music is so original and full of hope and dreams, this is what i brought to me.Big Country reminded me of what and where I wanted to be. Which was in the UK surrounded by countryside and being happy. The music was very deep to me and Im sure Stuart was also but he was very kind to people. Its so great to see you playing music. Big Country had a really positive influence on me. Its weird as I dreamed that I would meet your Father one day,It did come true all by Chance such a great song. I still listen to his music all the time as they will never be a band or musician like Stuart. RIP

[@gerardsandee1520]

One word springs to mind; beauty. A beautiful letter to a beautiful Dad by a beautiful Daughter. Love to both.

[@gerardsandee1520]

(Don't mind the typos, I'm rather moved...)

[@GuitarBeast-xp8dp]

Your dad's music has moved me so much. Given the loss I still feel over your dad's death, I can't imagine how you must feel. Nonetheless, he must be so very proud of you.

[@thud1015]

Beautiful. I too lost my Dad to alcohol but unlike you I did not have much in the way of good memories or much I could be proud of my father for. You are obviously very proud of your Dad and so you should be, he was very talented. I remember him in the skids and then Big Country and remember watching the performance on the Tube in the early 80's whilst doing my college homework. I was blown away by the energy and how much fun they appeared to be having. I too play guitar and always sight your Dad and john McGeoch as big influences. Two late great players who stood out from the crowd due to their unique and clever approach and sound. Nite Godbless Stuart RIP X

[@kirkmarlow4702]

Your dad was the greatest singer and song writer ! It ripped my heart out to ! What a wonderful letter to your father. Come UP SCREAMING , May the Father bless you, and be with you and your family and all of Mankind. I will not Consent. Feed the people, stay alive.

[@johnnymomascaro]

The most uplifting thrilling songs in rock. BIG COUNTRY! I just introduced the band to my own 5 children this week. Thank you Stuart and Kirsten

[@restlessnative7180]

Wonderful words Kirsten. You certainly know how to make simple words sound like music, just like your dad did. All the best to you.

[@ms8742]

Beautiful. Your Dad was an amazing man and greatly missed. I was a fan since day one. God bless you, Stuart and your family.

[@colingeddes2172]

Beautiful kirsten. Like father, like daughter. Stuart adamson legend.

[@padraigsisk4057]

We lost a great soul with Stuart but Kirsten with you that spirit lives on.

[@MarkWedgbury]

This was so moving. Big Country’s music and songs got me through a lot of hard times. Stuart’s guitar skills were great and first encountered them listening to The Skids. The Crossing album made me want to visit Scotland and encounter the emotions that exuded from it. I lived in Inverness and Stirling for a few years and walked many a mountain inspired by the music. Eiledon is one of my favourite songs off The Seer.

[@johnpirie3800]

Kirsten, my thoughts to you, your brother and your mother. We are only fans who loved and lived your dads music. Big Country was my band when I was a kid, but to be the daughter of this special, unique, humble man...... Your dad would be so proud of you and Calum with your career/interest in music. My love and best wishes to you and your family. When its my time, I will have on my headstone.. Some days will stay a thousand years Some pass like the flash of a spark Who know were all our days go!! Take care Kirsten and continued good health to you and your family. Stay alive!!!

[@marktegeder2455]

Beautiful and touching!

[@colourboy125]

Lovely words for a father from his daughter, RIP Stuart. Your music is timeless ....

[@merson812]

The band were absolutely brilliant. RIP Stuart.

[@711honved]

Stuart was undoubtedly one of the finest musicians of the 80's. He rocked our world!

[@angieo5513]

Oh my goodness. What a beautiful daughter. Your Dad was so very special. Fly high lovely lady.❤️❤️x

[@thedrumdoctor]

When an inspirational parent dies, their inspiration doesn't die with them and their final moments should not be what defines the life they lived. People still tell me how much my mum inspired them as their teacher and it is a really uplifting feeling when that happens. I hope Kirsten and Callum feel equally rewarded knowing their dad made a difference in people's lives via the art of words and song.

[@salihkasap3770]

Wonderful words from a daughter to her father in heaven, I loved his music since the first time I heard heart and soul many years ago And stil do and always will , God bless you

[@paulwright7194]

Your Dad's music was, and 36 years later, still is, beautiful enough to bring me to tears, as was your reading of your letter to him. Thank you.

[@Matt_10203]

I wasnt even born when Stuart was making music, but his music still gives a special feeling that very few others can even mimic. Stuart makes me proud to say im Scottish, thank you for everything.

[@solgato5186]

Tears. Thank you.

[@ianmarsden1130]

I loved your dad's singing and musicianship. He seemed a true poet to me. I'm sorry that he left you. That was unfair of him. Your forgiveness of him is uplifting. He was a great man and a complex man. So sad that he took his own life. I wish you every happiness and enough peace to enjoy it.

[@darrenmccarthy3704]

What an amazing tribute, you brought tears to my eyes. Your dad was a hero to me when I was young at school, he was my teenage idol. I will never forget him .

[@kenbization]

Heartbreaking. He was a good guy and Calum and Kirsten were his world.

[@adelaideautowashes]

When I was a young kid (in the 2000's, and very early 2010's) my dad often played Big Country songs, or watched live performance videos of them on TV (my dad is from Scotland after all.) Back then, I had no idea Stuart, the voice I was hearing in the songs, was no longer around. And here I am, a 17 year old, in 2021, finding that out. Stuart, you're an absolute legend. Rest easy, bud.

[@tommygunhunter]

An open letter that is a tale of heartbreak and loss but ultimately triumph. All those years later, the same year as the Twin Towers atrocity and yet it feels so recent. What I miss most about him is his perceptive turn of phrase. Even when he was young Stuart seemed to have the insight of a wizened old man. The Seer. Whatever the future holds it wont herald the fresh thrill of unwrapping another box of Stuart Adamson mellifluent similes, metaphors and witticisms but the past is replete with them and that ultimately is our triumph and yes his triumph. His songs will live till the end of time.

[@craigblood9917]

Beautiful Words, god bless you and your family, Craig Australia

[@barrycoomer8137]

Wow. That’s so moving. I’m sure he’d be proud.

[@davidsonny12]

your dad would be so proud of you the beautiful talented young lady you have become ! r.i.p to your dad he was a legend x

[@27freetime]

Words are not enought to describe the depth and beauty of this. From a father of two daughters and a son, thank you Kirsten. Your dad's words are a gift to the world and his music lives on forever.

[@markgittins6012]

beautiful words from a daughter of a legend

[@spansaver]

Wow, made my eyes water! Stuart wrote some of the most amazing songs that will live on forever as part of his legacy. It's just a shame he's not still with us, but at least a part of him can be found in his wonderful daughter!

[@johnvandommelen6998]

Tony Dillon....Yes sir...well said and just like Pete Ham and his lovely daughter.

[@stevenlund2803]

Kirsten it's so touching to see you put this out there.Your Father was and always will be my hero.Stay Alive!

[@theulsterscots]

One of the greatest things I ever saw was you sing on stage with your dad kirsten. "Fragile thing" was blown away by this performance and miss his drive enthusiasm talent and charisma . Big country just not the same no matter how hard they try with out "the front man" fond memories sleep easy Stuart you're daughter is a strong and grounded young woman you should be proud of her, I'm sure in life you were god bless Kirsten x .

[@James-78]

Kirsten, your father is sorely missed he was an amazing talent who at times didn't always get the credit he ever truly deserved. RIP Stuart 1958-2001

[@ianjones8573]

Fantastic letter to your dad

[@jacko4953]

Always been part of my life kirsten your Dad was my hero and always looked up to him everywhere i go when music comes into conversation i always tell people about Big Country and what an amazing band they were

[@gcable10]

Z

[@alanbunning613]

Your dad is inspirational, uplifting and a legend who will never ever be forgotten.

[@markbrown4955]

Your dad would have been proud of you, Big Country was the FIRST band I ever saw live, and it was a night I never forgot.

[@gareth630]

Kirsten if you had read all the words of Eiledon I would have cried all night. Sorry never got to see you with the Gillyflowers but as Callum said you were scared of crossing that roman wall. Followed you're dad from the skids to that Final fling at the Barras, so I wish you all the luck in the world and callum. Love Gareth xx

[@dixonite]

Amen to everything stated in this video. Stuart did leave the world with some brilliant, meaningful music and lyrics. I think it's rare to have that kind of combination of talent these days.

[@merin797]

Nice job Kirsten. Lovely letter. Your Dad hears you, of course. Bless you.🙏

[@rockingchef5475]

für uns Fans war Stuart der Kopf der Band, der Songwriter der meisten BC-Songs, der Sänger der sein Publikum in der Hand hatte, der sympathische Kerl aus Dunfermline. Die Band Live erleben zu dürfen, diese Energie, die Power - die hatte nur Big Country, die hatte nur Stuart. Das ist die Seite der Fans. Kirsten zeigt uns die Seite einer Tochter. Es bricht mir das Herz, den ich kenne ihren Schmerz, den auch mein Vater starb als ich Teenager war. Danke Kirsten Adamson - all the best

[@jsimmonsd]

This is beautiful kirsten. I was born and raised in the states and came of age in the 80's and the sound of big country was a big part of my early life. I still play it at 51. My grandmother was born and raised in Dalmuir and I feel that small part of scotch resonate in me, especially when I hear your father's music. For that I am most grateful. Best of luck with whatever you do.

[@ThePkeys]

I have no wise words, I'm sorry I just loved everything that Stuart Adamson did. I cried when he passed and his/Big Country's music will always move me and make me feel emotional. R.I.P. Stuart

[@birchward]

You ve brought tears to my eyes , as I think , of the legend , STUART ,he brought so much to every body he meet , and sharred time with him ! god bless you , your family and friends , we love you stuart !

[@lawrencedavis5459]

This had me in tears. I met Stuart and the band many years ago, a lovely man. R.i.p. Mr Adamson.

[@bigcountry3413]

Big fan of your dad ,and big country 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿,his music lives on,22 when I first heard in a big country,now ,59,still listen to it all,

[@simonwright9735]

God bless you sweetheart. Your Dad is and always will be a Legend.

[@josephdunn3757]

Your dad's music and lyrics travel with me wherever I go. Thought you'd care to know. All across America!!!

[@jacquesneizel2897]

Your Dad left an era that could never ever be fullfilled. He left memories in our hearts with his music... Be proud and let him live onwards through your music.

[@kennyjohnson907]

Love Stuart and BC..always will..love and peace❤

[@jaseman]

Damn. He touched so many lives. He will continue to do so through his music. I wish you success and happiness Kirsten.

[@richardpowell4643]

Wow. Seeing Kirsten and hearing her voice and talking about not just our Stuart but her dad was a mix of emotions. At first sadness and tears for myself but more for her and Stuart but then happiness knowing a part of a great man lives on in his beautiful daughter along with his amazing songs. I hope Kirsten truly is happy and has a great life. Im sure her father is watching and smiling through the tears. God bless you Kirsten and God keep you Stuart. We miss you more than you could ever know.

[@shaynejohnsonmedia]

Such a beautiful thing to have seen this morning. You are more than just a shadow of your father.

[@DoaJohn1970]

Good morning young lady. Today is your father's birthday. I was a young lad in the 80s when I started listening to your father, and found out years later your father and I shared a birthday. His music was inspiring and uplifting... And if there's a heaven, you can be safe in the knowledge his heart and soul flow around you Kirsten❤️

[@philgarrett2729]

Moving and touching well done Kirsten got a fly in my eye.

[@andreaa7114]

Kirsten, absolutely beautiful. I'm blessed to have come upon your very moving and personal video. I've loved your dad's music since Big Country and The Crossing. Their music, his music, has always been very spiritual for me. Thank you for sharing your video. It's so very touching. How proud he is of you, watching over you always :)

[@padraigsisk4057]

As a father of 2 girls. I followed Big country ever since 84 and to hear Kirsten say what her dad meant to her.. Daddys Girl.

[@waynebrandrick6797]

this is just beautiful...your dad was truly amazing such a gifted singer/song writer...I'm someone who has suffered for many years now from severe depression & anxiety/panic attacks...the music of Big Country still helps me pull through some of the bad times...so uplifting & such feel good tunes...it's great that you have followed in your dads footsteps & that you are doing well & you're happy....your dad would definitely be very proud of you...stay strong & happy tc sweet xxx :)

[@zombiesir]

your dads music helped me through some hard times . he was an amazing songwriter , i miss him dearly.

[@danfango1333]

We still love Stuart. A Superstar that could rouse a rabble. I hope you're ok. I will never forget being at Big Country gigs aged around 16. What a rush. Your Dad means a lot to many people x

[@deirdrestewart840]

❤️ Kirsten thank you for sharing this touching letter to your dad such inspiration 🌹your dad such a talented singer I have many memories getting my VHS tape many years ago of the best of big Countrys songs recently been playing a lot of your dad's music which I personally can relate to in many ways your dad lives on threw you and I'm sure smiling fondly down on you forever and always with you he will be more than proud 🌈💞🌈

[@reactionfan1448]

RIP Stuart you gave us such joy through you're music and Emotionally charged songs 😰😰😰😰

[@robtherealtor8007]

Kirsten - Greetings from LA. Love your Dad's music!

[@scottlakey1136]

Im sure your dads watching over you and he must be proud of you.i play big country albums everyday and i miss his music and i miss your dad.i never met him unfortunately.but his music will live forever .good luck with your music carreer

[@claimtofame373]

Your father was a great musician, with a special style of his own. It is such a blessing to listen to what he created, and gave life to, both in music, and you! We miss, and love you Stuart! Rest in peace!❤💯

[@sinord5288]

Your dad was amazing I still listen to the music in my car. I’m 56 and still listening. Xx

[@andyt5559]

I saw Big Country twice in the late 80s and at the second Stuart did his mingle with the fans, i shook his hand and he looked me in the eye an smiled that infectious cheeky smile! That 1 song in particular has always been my favorite EILEDON The e-bow on his Yamaha SG 2000 almost sounding like bagpipes! Those lyrics, he was a modern day poet! Sadly missed, but the music never dies! RESPECT TO KIRSTEN! X

[@harry.mfowlie9368]

His spirit lives on today,, kirsten such beautiful words,,,,, your father would be so proud of yourself and your brother,,,,,,,,,, I still remember all the concerts like it was yesterday,, I sat in tapietoories one day going to see the skids show at alhambra, and spoke to the barman in the bar,,, he said why did you sit at that side,,, not sure I said, he said that's where Stuart, sat at the window,,, It made me think, then the barman said he wrote alot of songs upstair,,,,,,,, I still watch and listen to restless natives,,,, totally talented work in the highest order,,,,,,,,,, keep up your good work, kirsten,,,,,,,,