RIP, you will be missed.
The sad news of Christy Dignam’s passing broke yesterday after he lost his battle with cancer at the age of 63.
The Aslan frontman was first diagnosed with amyloidosis, a rare blood disorder cancer, in 2013 and was told he would have ten years. In his last ever interview with Ryan Tubridy, Christy heartbreakingly revealed his only wish was to have another ten years.
His daughter Keira revealed the devastating news earlier today on social media, writing: “On behalf of my family, it is with a broken heart that we convey the news of my father’s passing, Christy Dignam. Dad peacefully left us where he wanted to, at home today 4pm Tuesday, June 13th 2023, after a courageously long-fought battle, surrounded by his family.
“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.”
The Finglas native studied classical music before opting to form the band Aslan in 1982.
The band saw some major hits, including Crazy World, Too Late for Hallelujah and This Is. In 2021, Christy released his first solo album, The Man Who Stayed Alive, which saw him write music about the hardships of living with a terminal illness.
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.”
Statement by President Higgins on the death of Christy Dignam https://t.co/H7VHqUKzzl pic.twitter.com/CabHWErESe
— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) June 13, 2023
“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.”
— Aslan (@OfficialAslan) June 13, 2023
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”.
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.…
— the script (@thescript) June 13, 2023
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.”
All at Bohemians would like to offer our condolences to the family and many friends of the great Christy Dignam.
RIP Christy ❤️ pic.twitter.com/dcqRFs7Htj
— Bohemian Football Club (@bfcdublin) June 13, 2023
Tanaiste Micheal Martin wrote that the “brave” Christy was an inspiration to many.
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.
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) June 13, 2023
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.”
