Newcastle singer Lorraine Crosby has paid an emotional tribute to her close friend Bonnie Tyler, who has died at the age of 75. In a heartfelt social media post, Crosby said her 'heart is broken' and expressed certainty that Tyler's voice, spirit, and music would 'live on forever.'
Bonnie Tyler's Death Announced
Bonnie Tyler's passing was announced on Thursday morning via a statement on her website and Facebook page. The statement read: 'Bonnie’s family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for. We will issue a further statement shortly but for now ask for privacy to deal with this tragedy.'
Tyler's death came months after she was placed into an induced coma following emergency intestinal surgery in Portugal. In June, her spokesperson said that while she was out of the coma, she remained 'very unwell and in intensive care.'
Tributes Pour In for the Global Superstar
Tributes quickly poured in for Bonnie Tyler, known worldwide for hits such as 'Holding Out for a Hero' and 'Total Eclipse of the Heart.' Sharing a photo of herself with Tyler, Lorraine Crosby—whose vocals famously appear on Meat Loaf's 1990s number one 'I'd Do Anything for Love'—wrote: 'Today my heart is broken. I haven't just lost an incredible artist... I've lost one of my dearest friends.'
Crosby continued: 'Bonnie was everything you hoped she'd be and so much more. Fiercely talented, wonderfully funny, loyal, kind, and someone who could light up any room simply by walking into it. The world knew her as a legend with one of the most recognisable voices in music. I was lucky enough to know the beautiful soul behind that voice.'
Memories Shared and a Lasting Legacy
Reflecting on their shared memories, Crosby—a regular performer at the Sunday for Sammy charity concerts—said: 'We've shared so many years, so many laughs, so many conversations and memories that I'll treasure forever. I can't imagine a world without you in it. Thank you for your friendship, your generosity, your strength, and for always believing in the people around you. You inspired millions through your music, but those of us who knew you personally were inspired by the person you were. I'll miss our chats, your infectious laugh, and the huge hugs that always made everything feel alright.'
Crosby concluded her tribute: 'Sleep peacefully, my beautiful friend. You have left a space that can never be filled, but your voice, your spirit and your music will live on forever.'
A Life in Music
Bonnie Tyler, born Gaynor Hopkins in Neath, Wales, rose to international fame in the 1970s and 1980s with her distinctive raspy voice. Her 1983 single 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' became a global number one, and she continued to perform and record for decades. She was 75 at the time of her death.
