On 5th December 2015 an array of musical talent, music associates, friends and family gathered at Metropolis Studios, London, to celebrate Rupert’s 50th year in the music business.
On 5th December 1965, the UK No.1 song was "I Feel Fine" by the Beatles, in the USA it was "Turn, Turn, Turn" by the the Byrds and Rupert Hine - as one half of Rupert & David (MacIver) - was recording his first single, Paul Simon’s “Sound of Silence”. The rest, as they say, is history.
Rupert's was a journey of many accomplishments setting him apart from so many others in the crazy and unpredictable world that is the business of music; a continuance to discover, support, encourage and develop others, something that spoke volumes about his character and genuine love of creativity. Always inspiring, always encouraging. Throughout his illustrious career, Rupert was supported by "The Curious Kind" - a staunch group of RH supporters who listened, nudged, and commented for many years…and who continue to support his legacy.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rupert has been supported by "The Curious Kind" - a staunch group of RH supporters who have listened, nudged, and commented for many years...
The Tributes
Those who could not join the celebration sent video tributes that were played on the night - read on for a selection of tributes that Rupert received from special friends around the world.
Singer-songwriter, political activist
"Boy does your life bear looking back upon…you’re still knee deep in the industry..how did you encompass the entire age of British Rock and Roll from its very inception to its end…that’s the arc of a life, an extraordinary life…one entirely dedicated to music and creativity and not just your own…every fibre of your being throbs to some sort of secret musical note that only you have…what a kind man, what a lovely man, what a nice man, what a career, what an artist, what a songwriter, what a profound musician…what an extraordinary musical thing you are…”
Singer-songwriter, musician, music video director
"Boy does your life bear looking back upon…you’re still knee deep in the industry..how did you encompass the entire age of British Rock and Roll from its very inception to its end…that’s the arc of a life, an extraordinary life…one entirely dedicated to music and creativity and not just your own…every fibre of your being throbs to some sort of secret musical note that only you have…what a kind man, what a lovely man, what a nice man, what a career, what an artist, what a songwriter, what a profound musician…what an extraordinary musical thing you are…”
Singer-songwriter, musician, music video director
"Had he not had the tenacity, talent wit and imagination to put it together I don’t think the project would have come together…It’s one of the most important things I’ve ever done…”
Singer-songwriter, musician, human rights activist
"You’ve done some extraordinary work, been a help to us…and great for us to be able to help you, too…”
Singer-songwriter, musician, human rights activist
"You’ve done some extraordinary work, been a help to us…and great for us to be able to help you, too…”
Artist and business manager, music producer
“We have had some great times making music with Tina…a pleasure working with you and Tina on Break Every Rule which was a very important track for us…”
Actor, broadcaster, comedian, director, writer
“You are one of the most extraordinary figures in British music - there’s barely a sentient or talented act on whom you haven't sprinkled your fairy dust …that’s why we haven’t worked together - because I have Van Gogh’s ear for music…”
Actor, broadcaster, comedian, director, writer
“You are one of the most extraordinary figures in British music - there’s barely a sentient or talented act on whom you haven't sprinkled your fairy dust …that’s why we haven’t worked together - because I have Van Gogh’s ear for music…”
Singer, musician, songwriter, composer
“We all love you not just because of your fantastic contribution to music over 50 years…but because you’re such a lovely bloke…”
Actress, singer, former model
“…You are such a wonderful person, I feel so honoured to have worked with you, know you and count you as a friend…”
Actress, singer, former model
“…You are such a wonderful person, I feel so honoured to have worked with you, know you and count you as a friend…”
Singer-songwriter, lead vocalist the FIXX
“…You gave us such clarity, the essence of what our message was, and greatly improved it…it’s an example I’ve taken with me for everything I do in my life: "How would Rupert have approached it?"”
Blues artist, painter, olive grower
“…You are an absolute legend, inspiration, great friend….”
Blues artist, painter, olive grower
“…You are an absolute legend, inspiration, great friend….”
Singer-songwriter, musician
“I can’t tell you how many times that I’m in a conversation with someone about art, or music, or life, and I find myself bringing up something that you taught me…”
Musician, bassist
“Love You Roop”
Musician, bassist
“Love You Roop”
Singer-songwriter, composer, human rights activist & Gil Dor - guitarist
“We appreciate so much everything you've done for us, and with us. You’re a great person and wonderful musician and great inspiration…”
Founder & CEO Human Health Project
“…Here’s to your many accomplishments, great kindness and generosity to me…”
Founder & CEO Human Health Project
“…Here’s to your many accomplishments, great kindness and generosity to me…”
Music Executive
“…thank you so much for being a friend, sounding board, and advisor…”
Songwriting Charity
“…through the art and craft of songwriting and musical creativity, the very things that mean so much to you as a professional. Thank you for being our patron…”
Songwriting Charity
“…through the art and craft of songwriting and musical creativity, the very things that mean so much to you as a professional. Thank you for being our patron…”
Recording and mixing engineer
“…You are one of the most Inventive and innovative producers I know…”
Drummer (Saga), songwriter
…I did a lot of work with Rupert at Farmyard … I look back fondly on our days in the studio…”
Drummer (Saga), songwriter
…I did a lot of work with Rupert at Farmyard … I look back fondly on our days in the studio…”
AVP, Film & TV Music / Visual Media, ASCAP
“…Your work has touched so many millions of lives across several generations and you continue to do so…”
Lead vocalist, bassist, keyboardist
“…Congratulations from Alex, Neil, and myself…sorry we couldn’t be there to celebrate with you”
Lead vocalist, bassist, keyboardist
“…Congratulations from Alex, Neil, and myself…sorry we couldn’t be there to celebrate with you”
(1946-2017) Music executive, founder Ensign Records
“…I’ve know you 35 years maybe longer…keep up the good work”
Songwriter, composer, producer
“…You’re awesome and I love you”
Songwriter, composer, producer
“…You’re awesome and I love you”
Musician, composer (original lead guitar Genesis)
“I’ve yet to work with a more affable, patient, funny and bloody good producer…”
The illustration below is from an original design by artist Shaun Keefe commemorating this significant milestone in Rupert's career. A limited amount are currently available via Burning Shed(link), with proceeds going to the Songwriting Charity* of which Rupert was a Patron. Your support is much appreciated. *supporting, empowering and encouraging children and young people through the art of songwriting and music.