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“We ask that you honour our family’s need for privacy during this immensely painful period. Let us all hold him in our hearts and cherish the remarkable life of a talented singer, great story teller and amazing person.
“We thank you so much for your love and support shown to us.”
Since his passing earlier today, tributes have been coming in from fans and famous faces, many recalling their happy memories with the singer and the cherished times they spent with him.
President Michael D. Higgins has led the tributes, writing in a statement: "People across Ireland and beyond will have heard with great sadness of the death of Christy Dignam." https://twitter.com/PresidentIRL/status/1668657451808305161 "For the last 40 years, Christy and his bandmates in Aslan have made an enormous contribution to the cultural life of our nation. In addition to their well-loved albums and hit singles such as ‘This Is’ and ‘Crazy World’, Aslan will be remembered in particular for their live shows and their remarkable connection with their audience", he continued.“Christy was central to that connection, with his passionate performances ensuring a memorable night every time Aslan played – and there were many nights, with Christy and the band showing an endless dedication to touring throughout the country. As a result, people in nearly every town in Ireland will have their own memories of seeing them play and will feel like they had a personal connection with Christy.
“Over recent years, all of us have been struck by the dignity with which Christy lived with his illness and admired his dedication in continuing to both perform and record, including his 2021 solo album, despite the challenges which he faced. It is hard to believe that he has left us.”
Aslan also posted a heartbreaking tribute to remember their frontman, writing: "We are beyond devastated to have lost not just our band member, but our friend, Christy, that we have had so many many years of sharing our lives with. The band and Christy's family ask for you to respect their privacy at this time." https://twitter.com/OfficialAslan/status/1668664869447512076 Following the tragic loss of their own bandmate Mark Sheehan earlier this year, The Script members Danny O'Donoghue and Glen Power described Christy as their "hero". https://twitter.com/thescript/status/1668657837231226880 They said: "We’re devastated to hear the news about our friend and hero, Christy Dignam. We were blessed to share the stage with @OfficialAslan Christy in Dublin. We’ve lost a Legend, one of a kind, our thoughts and prayers are with his family RIP Christy. Danny & Glen." Bohemian FC also made a statement, adding: "All at Bohemians would like to offer our condolences to the family and many friends of the great Christy Dignam. RIP Christy." https://twitter.com/bfcdublin/status/1668660864172294144 Tanaiste Micheal Martin wrote that the "brave" Christy was an inspiration to many. https://twitter.com/MichealMartinTD/status/1668663288933101569 He said: "Deeply saddened at the passing of Christy Dignam. A true legend of Irish music, Christy has left a rich legacy. His great talent brought much joy to the Irish people. His brave and dignified battle with cancer inspired many. My sympathies to his family and Aslan bandmates."
