Chris Rea, the beloved musician renowned for timeless hits such as “Driving Home for Christmas” and “The Road to Hell,” has sadly passed away following a short illness, as confirmed by a family spokesperson.
A heartfelt statement shared by his wife and two children expressed their sorrow, stating, “It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris. He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today, surrounded by his family.”
Born in Middlesbrough, Rea faced significant health challenges throughout his life, including a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in 2001 that led to the removal of his pancreas. Additionally, he suffered a stroke in 2016, yet his musical career thrived despite these obstacles.
Rea gained prominence in the late 1970s and 1980s with signature songs like “Fool (If You Think It’s Over),” “Let’s Dance,” and “The Road to Hell.” His debut album, “Whatever Happened to Benny Santini?” released in 1978, marked the beginning of his successful journey in music, with “Fool (If You Think It’s Over)” earning a Grammy nomination.
While he experienced a lull in mainstream success after his debut, Rea rebounded with his eighth album, “On the Beach,” solidifying his status as a major star in the UK and Europe by the late 1980s. His 1989 hit “Road to Hell” catapulted him to stardom, with two of his subsequent studio albums, “The Road to Hell” and “Auberge,” reaching number one in the UK charts.
As fans and fellow musicians reflect on his remarkable career and the music that touched the hearts of many, the legacy of Chris Rea will undoubtedly continue to resonate through his enduring songs.