What Caused Chris Rea's Death? Here's What We Know About The Rock And Blues Singer's Death At 74

Popular British rock and blues singer-songwriter, Chris Rea, who delivered timeless hits such as Driving Home for Christmas, On the Beach, and The Road to Hell, has passed away at the age of 74. His sudden demise has left everyone in the music world and his fans in shock. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by a spokesperson from Chris Rea's family, marking the end of his five-decade career. Chris' deep voice, emotive storytelling, and genre-blending style eventually made him Britain's most enduring and influential music figure. So, needless to say, his demise ahead of Christmas has left fans emotional as they recall the brilliant legacy he has left behind. 

What caused Chris Rea's death at 74? 

According to an official statement shared with multiple outlets such as BBC and The Guardian, Chris Rea had died peacefully in hospital after suffering from a short illness. But they did not disclose the further details behind the nature of his illness. Yet, they as a family requested privacy to deal with grief. The mention of a short illness suggests that his health might have declined in recent days. However, Chris also had long-term health struggles for the past two decades. 

Several fans of the Rock and Blues singer-songwriters shared their tributes for him on social media. Especially ahead of Christmas, many fans recalled how Driving Home for Christmas has become one of the most popular seasonal songs. Meanwhile, some other netizens recalled the emotional impact of his songs, such as Josephine and The Road to Hell. At the same time, many fans discussed how the singer continued to make history despite dealing with serious health battles in the last years of his life.

All about Chris Rea's wife and personal life 

Chris Rea's life was deeply rooted in his family life. He was born in Middlesbrough in 1950 to an Italian father and Irish mother. According to The Guardian, he used to recall growing up as an 'outsider'. He tied the knot to his childhood friend, Joan, whom he began dating at the age of 17, and they had built a quiet family together. Chris is survived by his wife, Joan, and their daughters, Josephine and Julia, who are named after his songs. 

Chris Rea faced major health challenges in the later years of his life. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2001 and underwent a major surgery. According to the BBC, doctors removed his pancreas and parts of his stomach and intestine during the procedure. At the same time, it left him diabetic, further altering his health. Later, in 2016, he survived a stroke, and in 2017, he collapsed on stage during a concert in Oxford. But these setbacks could not stop him from writing songs, recording them, and eventually performing them in front of the audiences who admired him. 

Chris Rea's professional front 

Chris Rea had a rather unconventional yet inspiring journey in the music world. He rose to fame with the song, Fool if You Think It's Over, earning a Grammy nomination and topping the US charts. But his real success came in the late 1980s, when he delivered albums like Dancing With Strangers and The Road To Hell, earning six consecutive UK top 10 albums. Later in 1988, his song, Driving Home for Christmas made him a household name and he went ahead to became one of the most beloved festive songs in history.

Rest in peace, Chris Rea. 

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