Beloved Middlesbrough-born singer Chris Rea has died aged 74. He was known by many for his iconic Christmas song Driving Home For Christmas, finding fame in the late 70s and 80s with hits such as Fool (If You Think It’s Over), Let’s Dance, and The Road To Hell.
A statement from his family to the Press Association said: “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.”
The musician was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had his pancreas removed in 2001, and in 2016 suffered a stroke, Kent Online reports.
Born March 4th, 1951, in Middlesbrough, England, Rea is one of Britain’s most distinctive singer-songwriters, celebrated for his deep, gravelly voice, evocative guitar work, and songs that blend blues, rock, and soul with vivid storytelling.
His debut album, titled Whatever Happened To Benny Santini?, a reference to a stage name the record label wanted for him, was released in 1978 with the track ‘Fool (If You Think It’s Over)’ nominated for a Grammy. In the 1990s, Rea reached a commercial peak with albums like The Road to Hell (1989) and Auberge (1991), both of which topped UK charts.
One of Rea’s most famous songs, ‘Driving Home for Christmas,’ released in 1988, has become a perennial holiday classic. Its understated warmth and reflective tone exemplify his ability to find emotional depth in everyday experiences.
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