Chris Rea, the voice behind the enduring Christmas favorite “Driving Home For Christmas,” has died at the age of 74. His family announced his peaceful passing in hospital, a loss felt deeply by those who knew his music and his warm spirit.
In a poignant final interview, given just days before his death, Rea spoke of eagerly anticipating Christmas. He reflected on the enduring appeal of his festive hit, noting its blend of hope, warmth, and a relatable frustration – the universal experience of holiday traffic.
Rea’s musical journey began in the late 1970s, blossoming into a successful career throughout the 80s with songs like “Fool (If You Think It’s Over)” and “Let’s Dance.” But it was “Driving Home For Christmas” that cemented his place in the hearts of millions, becoming a seasonal staple.
The story behind the song is almost as beloved as the tune itself. Originally penned for Van Morrison, Rea decided to record it himself, but it languished on a shelf for eight years. A serendipitous error by a DJ – accidentally playing the B-side instead of the A-side – launched it into the spotlight.
He often remarked on the song’s simple, yet powerful message: the longing to be with loved ones, even amidst the chaos of travel. Ironically, he’d recently been banned from driving when he wrote it, yet captured a feeling everyone could understand.
For years, Rea resisted performing the song live, finally relenting in 2014 at the insistence of his tour crew. The crowd’s reaction was overwhelming, complete with a blizzard of fake snow – a spectacle that earned him a hefty cleaning fine, but was worth it to share the Christmas spirit.
Tributes have poured in from fellow artists and fans alike. Comedian Bob Mortimer shared a cherished memory, referencing a bizarre story about Rea placing an egg in his bath, a tale they often revisited with laughter. Middlesbrough FC honored him as a “Teesside icon.”
Beyond the music, Rea cherished his family. He spoke with enduring affection for his wife, Joan, whom he met as a teenager, and their daughters, Josephine and Julia. He described a love that felt eternally youthful, a connection that spanned decades.
Chris Rea leaves behind a legacy of music that touched countless lives, and a story of love, laughter, and a Christmas song that will continue to resonate for generations to come.
