Singer Chris Rea has died.
The musical icon, who was perhaps best known for his iconic festive song Driving Home For Christmas, has died at the age of 74. A spokesperson for his family confirmed the news.
A statement says: “It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris. He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family.”
Chris had previously been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had his pancreas removed back in 2001.
His other well-known songs include Fool (If You Think It’s Over), Let’s Dance and The Road To Hell. He skyrocketed to fame throughout the 70s and 80s thanks to his distinctive slide guitar playing and crooning voice.
(Image: PA)
Chris recorded a whopping 25 studio albums, two of which topped the UK Albums Chart upon their release. He also recorded a duet titled If You Were Here With Me with Elton John and was nominated for Brit Awards in 1988, 1989 and 1990.
The singer received a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist in 1978 for his single Fool, which reached an impressive No. 12 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and spent three weeks topping the Adult Contemporary Chart.
(Image: PA)
Chris’ fans were left devastated by the news and flocked to social media to share their tributes. One person tweeted: “Some songs stop being music and become memories. Driving Home for Christmas will now play forever just a little louder,” while another said: “This is heartbreaking. There’s a cruel irony in him leaving us just as everyone is literally driving home for Christmas to his voice. His music has been the soundtrack to so many holiday memories. A true legend who will be missed every December.”
“How sad. His Christmas song is always part of my breaking up for Christmas ritual. He has given so many so much pleasure over the years,” reminisced one fan while another said: “Oh no! RIP To those who don’t know his music I would recommend you go discover it.”
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