- 2025-12-23
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MUSIC
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Chris Rea Dies Aged 74
British singer-songwriter and guitarist Chris Rea died at the age of 74 on December 22, 2025.
A statement on behalf of his wife and two children read: “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.”
Chris Rea released 25 studio albums, including topped the UK Albums Chart, “The Road to Hell” (1989) and “Auberge” (1991).
Also, he is best known for the seasonal favourite “Driving Home for Christmas”, which reached No. 10 on the UK Singles Chart.
He wrote the song in 1978, during a difficult period when he was on the dole, had just parted ways with his manager, and was banned from driving. Unable to afford the rail fare, he was driven home by his girlfriend (now wife) from London to Middlesbrough. That experience inspired the song.- Chris Rea had suffered from health issues throughout his life. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and underwent surgery in 2001, during which his pancreas, along with parts of his stomach and small intestine, was removed. As a result of the procedure, he became diabetic, and he later suffered a stroke in 2016.
Following the 2002 album “Dancing Down the Stony Road”, he turned away from pop music and returned to the Delta blues that had originally inspired him.
He is survived by his two daughters, Josephine and Julia, both of whom he named hit songs after: “Josephine” (1985) and “Julia” (1993). - source : BBC
