British Singer Chris Rea of “Driving Home for Christmas” Passes Away at 74
Chris Rea, the British singer renowned for his classic “Driving Home for Christmas,” has passed away at 74. His family shared the news on Monday, stating he died peacefully in a hospital after a brief illness, surrounded by loved ones.
Life and Career of Chris Rea
Born Christopher Anton Rea in 1951 in Middlesbrough, England, he grew up in a culturally rich household with an Italian father and an Irish mother. As one of seven children, he developed a passion for music, picking up the guitar at the age of 21.
Musical Beginnings
Rea began his career playing in various bands before launching a solo career. His breakthrough came in the 1980s, featuring hits like:
- “Fool (If You Think It’s Over)”
- “Let’s Dance”
In 1979, his song “Fool (If You Think It’s Over)” earned a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Iconic Albums and Songs
Over his lifetime, Chris Rea released 25 solo albums. Two of his standout albums include:
- “The Road to Hell” (1989)
- “Auberge” (1991)
Both albums reached No. 1 in the UK charts. Rea’s festive track, “Driving Home for Christmas,” released in 1986, has become a staple holiday song in the UK and was featured in a recent advertisement for a prominent retail chain.
Legacy and Tributes
As news of his passing spread, Chris Cooke, the mayor of Middlesbrough, paid tribute to Rea, highlighting his pride in his hometown. Cooke stated, “Chris Rea was deeply proud of his Middlesbrough roots, and he leaves behind a brilliant legacy.”
Rea struggled with health issues throughout the years, including a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and a stroke he suffered in 2016. Despite these challenges, he continued to create music, shifting his focus towards blues in his later works.
Chris Rea is survived by his wife and two daughters, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
