Chris Rea, the beloved singer-songwriter behind the iconic festive classic Driving Home For Christmas, has passed away at the age of 74 following a short illness.
His family, including his wife Joan and daughters Josie and Julia, paid tribute to the star, describing him as “immensely beloved” and celebrating the joy he brought to fans around the world.
The Story Behind a Christmas Classic
In a touching final interview, Rea revealed that he wrote Driving Home For Christmas during a low point in his life.
At the time, he was on the dole, had lost his manager, and had even been banned from driving.
“My now wife Joan had to drive down to London and pick me up in the Mini and take me home, and that’s when I wrote it,” he told Bob Mortimer.
The song, which initially appeared as a B-side in 1986, has since become a holiday staple, reappearing on the UK Singles Chart every year since 2007, even hitting Number 10 in 2021.
Rea shared a clip of this story on his official Instagram account just days before his death, accompanied by a snowy car scene and the caption: “Top to toe in tailbacks.
If it’s a white Christmas, let’s hope the journey’s a smooth one.”
A Career Built on Perseverance
Born in Middlesbrough, Rea didn’t start making music until his twenties.
After learning guitar and performing in local bands, he signed with Magnet Records and released his first album, Whatever Happened to Benny Santini?, in 1978.
He found early US success with Fool (If You Think It’s Over), earning a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist.
Though his major UK hits came later, albums like Dancing with Strangers (1987) and The Road to Hell (1989) cemented his reputation as a rock and blues icon.
Despite his reluctance to record a Christmas track, his label encouraged the release, ultimately giving the world the festive anthem that would define him.
Triumph Over Health Challenges
Rea’s life was marked by extraordinary resilience.
He battled pancreatic cancer at 33, undergoing surgery to remove part of his pancreas, gall bladder, and liver.
Over the years, he endured multiple health issues, including peritonitis, diabetes, kidney problems, retroperitoneal fibrosis, and a stroke in 2016.
Despite these challenges, he continued to release albums such as Road Songs For Lovers (2017) and One Fine Day (2019).
“I’ve had nine major operations in ten years.
A lot of it is to do with something called retroperitoneal fibrosis… No one knew it existed 20 years ago, and it’s completely unpredictable,” he reflected.
A Life and Legacy Celebrated
Fans and fellow musicians flooded social media with tributes, remembering both his music and his love for cars.
Many highlighted the poignant irony of his passing so close to Christmas, the season his music has long symbolized.
“Genuinely gutted to hear this. A proper Teesside legend… Safe drive home Chris,” wrote one fan on Twitter.
Rea’s passion for motoring was well known, with his beloved Caterham 7, named ‘Blue 7’, often accompanying him on tracks and in interviews.
He remained a true enthusiast until the end, blending his love for music and cars into a life that inspired generations.
A Lasting Musical Impact
From his humble beginnings in Middlesbrough to international recognition, Chris Rea’s music has left an indelible mark.
Driving Home For Christmas will continue to ring out every festive season, a testament to the enduring spirit and talent of a man who overcame personal struggles to bring joy to millions.
Chris Rea’s family described his passing as peaceful, surrounded by loved ones.
Though he is gone, his melodies, stories, and iconic winter roads will continue to keep his memory alive in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn