Legendary British singer-songwriter Chris Rea's last Christmas album was released just weeks before the "Driving Home for Christmas" star died at the age of 74 on Monday, December 22. Mr Rea wrote the Christmas classic in 1978, which has consistently re-entered the charts over the years, reaching the UK Top 10 in 2022.

Chris Rea, an English singer-songwriter and guitarist best known for his festive hit "Driving Home For Christmas", has died aged 74 following a short illness, his family said on Monday. Hailing from Middlesbrough,

Chris Rea, the British blues-rock singer known for the holiday classic "Driving Home for Christmas," has died at age 74.

Chris Rea battled pancreatic cancer for decades after being diagnosed at just 33 and undergoing pancreas removal in 2001. Doctors warn that the disease often shows vague or no early symptoms, such as fatigue or fever.

Chris Rea, famed for 'Driving Home for Christmas,' died at 74 on Dec 22, 2025. Fans mourn his legacy, 40M albums sold, enduring blues sound, family devotion, and a career shaped by resilience.

Singer-songwriter Chris Rea found fame in the late 1970s and 80s with huge hits such as Driving Home For Christmas, Fool (If You Think It’s Over) and Let’s Dance.