Chris Rea, British singer-songwriter behind "Driving Home for Christmas", dies aged 74

Chris Rea, the British singer-songwriter famed for hits such as "Driving Home for Christmas" and "The Road to Hell", has died aged 74, his family has confirmed.

British musician Chris Rea has died at the age of 74, on 22 December 2025.

Photo: GEORGIOS KEFALAS/PAP/EPA

Rea’s career spanned several decades, during which he became known for his distinctive gravelly voice and blues-influenced rock sound.

The musician also achieved success with tracks such as I Can Hear Your Heartbeat and On the Beach.

"He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family," his representatives said in a statement, as reported by Sky News.

BREAKING: Singer-songwriter Chris Rea, best known for hits including Driving Home for Christmas, has died aged 74, his family says.https://t.co/Brokd59lfz

📺 Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/tSnVK26Jt1

— Sky News (@SkyNews) December 22, 2025

Over his lifetime, he sold tens of millions of albums worldwide and was nominated for a Grammy.

Rea made his first visit to Poland in 1978, performing to enthusiastic audiences.

The famous British singer #ChrisRea has died. He was 74 years old

Chris Rea is primarily known to the general public for his songs The Road to Hell, Driving Home for Christmas, and The Blue Cafe.

The artist suffered from a number of illnesses. In the early 2000s, he was… pic.twitter.com/84zJ6zAB1m

— The Jewish Voice (@TJVNEWS) December 22, 2025

(mp)

Source: IAR/X/@TJVNEWS/Sky News