Chris Rea, the voice behind the festive classic Driving Home for Christmas, passed away yesterday, a mere three days before Christmas. Sadly, he’s not the first renowned singer of a popular Christmas hit to die during what is often referred to as the most wonderful time of the year.
Chris, whose 1986 hit reappears on the UK Singles Chart annually, was 74-years-old and died in hospital following a brief illness.
His family released a statement to the Press Association, stating: “Singer/songwriter and guitarist, Chris Rea, passed away earlier today in hospital following a short illness. A statement on behalf of his wife and two children was released to the media this afternoon.
“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.”
This news follows a poignant final TV appearance where he discussed his iconic Christmas song.
The devastating loss of Chris is just the latest instance of the so-called ‘Christmas curse’ affecting singers, as we delve into below.
