The British music world is in mourning following the announcement that revered singer-songwriter Chris Rea has died at the age of 74. A spokesperson for his family confirmed the news, stating he passed away peacefully in hospital after a short illness.
From Middlesbrough to Global Stardom
Chris Rea was born in 1951 in Middlesbrough to an Italian father and an Irish mother, growing up with six siblings. He often reflected on feeling like an outsider in his youth, a perspective that later infused his songwriting. Before finding fame, he worked labouring jobs, including in his father's ice-cream factory, and even considered a career in journalism.
His musical journey began in earnest when he joined the band Magdalene at 22, followed by a stint with the Beautiful Losers. He soon embarked on a solo career after securing a record deal, releasing his debut single So Much Love in 1974.
A Career Defined by Hits and Resilience
Rea's blend of blues, pop, soul, and soft rock resonated across a remarkable 25 studio albums. His first major success came in the United States in 1978 with Fool (If You Think It's Over), which reached No. 12 and earned him a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist.
Despite a period of struggle in the early 80s, his fortunes turned with the 1985 album Water Sign. The late 1980s marked his commercial peak in the UK, with a run of six Top 10 albums including two chart-toppers: 1989's 'The Road to Hell' and 1991's 'Auberge'.
His most enduring hit, 'Driving Home for Christmas', was written during a difficult period when he was without a manager or record contract. Originally recorded in 1986, the song gained little traction initially but has since become a perennial festive favourite, reaching No. 10 in the charts as recently as 2021. Rea sold more than 30 million albums globally throughout his career.
Life Beyond Music: Racing and Politics
A passionate motor racing enthusiast, Rea's love for cars and roads often featured in his music. He raced Ferraris and Lotuses, participated in the 1993 British Touring Car Championship, and served as a pit mechanic for the Jordan Formula One team in 1995.
Politically, he was a Labour supporter and in 2017 penned an unreleased song praising then-leader Jeremy Corbyn.
Health Battles and Personal Life
Chris Rea faced significant health challenges in later life. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and underwent major surgery in 2001, which resulted in him becoming diabetic. He suffered a stroke in 2016 and collapsed on stage during a concert in Oxford in 2017.
He is survived by his wife Joan, whom he began dating when he was 17, and their two daughters, Josephine and Julia, both of whom have hit songs named after them.
The legacy of Chris Rea, the quintessential British rock and blues storyteller, is firmly cemented in his timeless music, which continues to soundtrack journeys and Christmases for millions around the world.
