TDC - Chris Rea

[alantig]

Quote

Chris Rea, the British rock singer behind the festive classic “Driving Home for Christmas”, has died aged 74.

The news was shared by his family, who said he died on Monday 22 December in hospital following a short illness.

A statement on behalf of his wife and two children said: “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.”

Rea suffered a number of health issues over the years. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had his pancreas removed in 2001, and suffered a stroke in 2016.

Born in Middlesbrough, Rea found fame in the late Seventies and Eighties with hits such as “Fool (If You Think It's Over)”, which was nominated for a Grammy, “Let's Dance” and “The Road To Hell”.

His debut album, titled Whatever Happened To Benny Santini?, was released in 1978 and was named in reference to the stage name his record label wanted him to adopt.

RIP, sir.

[Willie G. Moseley]

"Fool" was a good song that sounded like it fit his type of vocalization just fine.  He sounded soulful without over-emoting, FWMOW

Then was the Willie and the Poor Boys project, as organized by Bill Wyman. Yes, it was a temporary oldies-performed-by-all-stars thing but the selections of classic tunes they performed was terrific. Watching Charlie Watts hamming it up was fun, too. I was particularly imbued with Rea's vocals on "Baby Please Don't Go"

[hamerhead]

I was just YouTubeing some of his stuff and remember 'Road to Hell' from years ago, but never really followed him. What a great voice. Damn.

R.I.P., Mr. Rea.

[Kookaburra]

On 12/23/2025 at 6:47 PM, Willie G. Moseley said:

"Fool" was a good song that sounded like it fit his type of vocalization just fine.  He sounded soulful without over-emoting, FWMOW

Then was the Willie and the Poor Boys project, as organized by Bill Wyman. Yes, it was a temporary oldies-performed-by-all-stars thing but the selections of classic tunes they performed was terrific. Watching Charlie Watts hamming it up was fun, too. I was particularly imbued with Rea's vocals on "Baby Please Don't Go"

I need to check that out!