Thursday, February 12, 2026

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Chris Rea dies aged 74

Chris Rea, the blues-rock musician behind the festive classic Driving Home for Christmas, has died aged 74 after a short illness, his family has confirmed.

Rea passed away peacefully in hospital on Monday surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Middlesbrough in 1951, he enjoyed a decades-long career with hits including The Road to Hell, Auberge, On the Beach and Fool (If You Think It’s Over), Let’s Dance, and became known for his distinctive guitar style and understated approach to fame.



Despite suffering serious health challenges, including pancreatic cancer and a stroke, Rea continued recording and performing, releasing a new Christmas album just weeks before his death.

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