Chris Rea, the British singer-songwriter famed for the holiday classic Driving Home for Christmas, has died at the age of 74.
The musician passed away on Monday after a short illness, surrounded by his family.
Born in Middlesbrough, England, Rea became one of Britain’s most successful rock and blues artist, selling over 30 million albums worldwide.
His distinctive gravelly voice, slide-guitar style, and storytelling captured audiences across decades, with hits including The Road to Hell, On the Beach, Josephine, and Stainsby Girls.
READ ALSO:Â Legendary Singer Roberta Flack Passes Away at 88
Driving Home for Christmas, written in the mid-1980s and later released commercially, became a seasonal staple, charting annually in the UK and earning a permanent place in holiday music traditions.
Despite battling serious health challenges later in life, including pancreatic illness that required major surgery, Rea continued to record and perform, earning admiration for his resilience and dedication to music.
Tributes from fans and fellow musicians have flooded in, celebrating his talent, authenticity, and lasting impact on British music.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.