British blues-rock singer Chris Rea, best known for his timeless hits "Fool (If You Think It's Over)" and the beloved Christmas classic "Driving Home for Christmas", has died at the age of 74.
Rea passed away on Monday, December 22, following hospitalisation for a "short illness", according to a statement posted on his official social media accounts. No further details about his condition were disclosed.
"It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris," the statement read. "Chris' music has created the soundtrack to many lives, and his legacy will live on through the songs he leaves behind."
Throughout his career, Rea faced significant health challenges, including a pancreatic cancer diagnosis at age 33 and a stroke in 2016. Despite these setbacks, he continued creating music and performing for decades.
Born in Middlesbrough, England, to an Italian father and Irish mother, Rea initially dreamed of becoming a journalist and attended St Mary's College in his hometown. However, his path changed in his early 20s when he purchased his first guitar.
Rea's solo career took off with his 1978 debut album "Whatever Happened to Benny Santini?" which featured the hit single "Fool (If You Think It's Over)." The song reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned him a Grammy nomination for best new artist in 1979.
After several commercially underwhelming albums in the early 1980s, Rea's career rebounded with his 1989 album "The Road to Hell", which topped the UK albums chart. The title track peaked at No 11 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Airplay chart.
Perhaps his most enduring work came from an unexpected source. "Driving Home for Christmas," originally released as a B-side on his 1986 single "Hello Friend", became a perennial holiday favorite after being rereleased on his 1988 compilation album "New Light Through Old Windows." The feel-good track reached No 10 on the UK singles chart in 2022, more than three decades after its initial release.
Rea remained prolific throughout his career, releasing 13 albums between 1991 and 2008. His final album, "One Fine Day", came out in 2019.
Fans worldwide expressed their grief on social media following news of Rea's death. Many shared personal memories of how his music touched their lives, particularly "Driving Home for Christmas," which has become a seasonal staple for millions.
"I've never been this upset about a musician passing away. I'm absolutely devastated," one fan wrote on Instagram.
Another commented: "I remember your music and voice from my childhood. You are one of the best musicians who have influenced millions."
Chris Rea leaves behind a rich musical legacy spanning more than four decades, with songs that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
