The British music world is in mourning following the announcement that singer-songwriter and guitarist Chris Rea has died at the age of 74. The beloved musician, whose gravelly voice soundtracked countless Christmases with his hit Driving Home For Christmas, passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today, surrounded by his family.
A Peaceful Passing After Short Illness
A statement released on behalf of his wife and two children confirmed the sad news. "It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris," it read. "He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family." The Middlesbrough-born artist had faced significant health challenges over the years, including a battle with pancreatic cancer in 2001 which led to the removal of his pancreas, and a stroke in 2016.
A Career Defined by Gritty Hits and Blues Roots
Chris Rea found fame in the late 1970s and 1980s with a string of successful records. His debut album, Whatever Happened To Benny Santini?, was released in 1978. The album's track, Fool (If You Think It's Over), earned him a Grammy nomination. While his success in the US was sporadic, he became a major star across the UK and Europe.
His career reached its commercial peak with the 1989 album The Road To Hell, which topped the UK charts, as did its 1991 follow-up, Auberge. Known for his distinctive slide guitar playing and raspy vocal style, Rea sold millions of records and was nominated for several Brit Awards.
The Enduring Legacy of a Festive Anthem
Perhaps his most enduring work is the festive classic Driving Home For Christmas, first released in 1986. The song has become a staple of the holiday season and even features in this year's M&S Food Christmas advertisement, with comedian Dawn French singing along. Rea once revealed the song's humble origins, telling comedian Bob Mortimer in 2020 that he wrote it while on the dole, after being banned from driving.
Following his health struggles, Rea returned to his first musical love: the blues. He stated in an interview that facing his mortality made him determined to leave a blues record for his daughters, saying, "That's what he was about." The music world has lost a unique and cherished voice, but his songs, from the rocking The Road To Hell to the heartfelt festive journey home, will ensure his legacy plays on for generations.
