Paul Carrack might be best known as that voice—the one that melted hearts on “Tempted,” gave us goosebumps on “The Living Years,” and asked “How Long” in a way that somehow never gets old. But beneath the radio hits and legendary band stints lies a staggering body of work that reads like a backstage pass through music history. The Man with the Golden Voice didn’t just lend his vocals to chart-toppers—he quietly shaped records from nearly every genre, often just a few notes away from the spotlight.
Here are 20 collaborations you might not know about—unless you’re a liner notes junkie or have Carrack on speed dial.
1. Roxy Music – “Manifesto” (1979)
Before Bryan Ferry’s tux took over the ‘80s, Carrack added keyboards to Roxy’s sleek comeback album.
2. Frankie Miller – “Darlin’” (1978)
That sweet organ sound under Miller’s whisky rasp? Carrack. All heart, no spotlight.
3. The Smiths – The Smiths (1984)
Yes, that Smiths. Carrack played keyboards on their debut. Johnny Marr fans, take a moment.
4. Elton John – “Something About the Way You Look Tonight” (1997)
The best-selling single of all time. Carrack’s on organ. Casual.
5. The Pretenders – “Thin Line Between Love and Hate” (1984)
He backed Chrissie Hynde on piano and vocals—smooth as silk, tough as leather.
6. Roger Waters – Radio K.A.O.S. (1987)
Carrack wasn’t just a sideman—he was the emotional core of this post-Floyd concept beast.
7. Nick Lowe and His Cowboy Outfit – “Half a Boy and Half a Man” (1984)
A pub rock classic featuring Carrack’s barroom swagger on the keys.
8. John Hiatt – Riding with the King (1983)
Before Clapton covered the title track, Carrack was laying down keys for the original.
9. B.B. King – Deuces Wild (1997)
If you needed more proof Carrack’s voice is royalty-approved, this album’s got it.
10. Carlene Carter – Blue Nun (1981)
Carrack’s band Noise to Go backed Carter, fusing country sass with British finesse.
11. Paul Young – “Don’t Dream It’s Over” (1991)
Carrack lent his voice to this Crowded House cover, tucked away on a hits collection.
12. Spin 1ne 2wo – Spin 1ne 2wo (1993)
Rock royalty jam session with Tony Levin, Steve Ferrone, and covers of Hendrix, Steely Dan, and more.
13. Timothy B. Schmit – “Love Will Keep Us Alive” (1995)
Co-written by Carrack, it became an Eagles hit and the most-played song on US radio in ’95.
14. Ezio – Higher (2000)
Carrack laid down Hammond organ on four tracks for this cult acoustic duo. Subtle, soulful.
15. United Artists Remember – “We Will Remember Them” (2009)
Carrack joined Paul Rodgers, Robin Gibb, and others on this charity anthem.
16. Clapton’s Pilgrim Sessions (1998)
Carrack’s organ work slides perfectly into Clapton’s moody mid-life masterpiece.
17. Eric Clapton – Live in Concert 2019
Carrack joined Clapton’s world tour, delivering vocals and keys to rapturous crowds.
18. The Strat Pack – 50 Years of the Fender Strat (2004)
Wembley stage. Dylan, Beatles, Genesis covers. Carrack owned the mic.
19. Brendan Croskerry Tour (2009)
Carrack mentored and supported a rising Canadian star. Pure class.
20. BBC Four’s Remaking a Classic (2013)
Carrack covered “Misery” for a Beatles tribute, showing he still had it—range, respect, and reverence.
Whether he was adding just the right organ line, layering a background vocal, or stepping in as a lead singer for a mega-act, Paul Carrack has always made the music better. His fingerprints are everywhere.
So next time you hear a track that hits a little deeper than expected, check the credits. Odds are, the Man with the Golden Voice had a hand in it.
