The music world is in mourning following the announcement that singer and guitarist Chris Rea has died at the age of 74. The musician, best known for creating one of the most beloved Christmas anthems of all time, 'Driving Home For Christmas', passed away peacefully in hospital after a short illness, surrounded by his family.
A Love Story That Spanned Six Decades
At the heart of Chris Rea's life was his enduring marriage to his wife, Joan. The couple were together for 57 years, having first met when they were both just 16 years old. Joan was not only his lifelong partner but also a crucial supporter throughout his fluctuating career, even playing a direct role in the creation of his most famous work.
A family spokesperson confirmed the sad news, stating: "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."
The Desperate Journey That Inspired a Classic
The genesis of 'Driving Home For Christmas' is a tale of artistic inspiration born from hardship. In December 1978, Rea's career was at a low ebb. His recording contract had ended, his manager was about to drop him, and he was claiming benefits while also serving a driving ban.
With just £220 to their names, Joan agreed to drive her husband back from a London recording session to their home in Middlesbrough. The gruelling six-hour journey took a turn when they got stuck in snow near Nottingham. Peering out at other stranded, miserable drivers, Rea coined the iconic line "driving home for Christmas".
The couple finally arrived home at 3am, only to find a life-changing letter on the doormat. A US performing rights organisation had sent a cheque for £15,000 after his song 'Fool (If You Think It’s Over)' charted in America. The windfall allowed them to buy a house.
From B-Side to Festive Phenomenon
Although the lyrics were written that night, the melody for 'Driving Home For Christmas' came years later when Rea was experimenting with a new Roland keyboard. The song was initially relegated to a B-side on his 1986 single 'Hello Friend'. However, listener reaction to the festive track was so positive that Rea decided to re-record it, cementing its place in Christmas music history.
Chris Rea enjoyed a prolific career beyond this single hit, releasing 25 studio albums. Two of these, 'The Road to Hell' (1989) and 'Auberge' (1991), reached number one on the UK Albums Chart. His legacy, however, will be forever intertwined with that snowy drive home with Joan, a moment of struggle transformed into a song that has soundtracked the Christmas journeys of millions.
