Aslan and the President of Ireland Michael D Higgins has led tributes to legendary singer Christy Dignam who died today aged 63.
Christy died this afternoon surrounded by his loved ones after battling a rare blood disease over the last decade. His daughter Kiera confirmed his death on her social media pages.
Christy has now been remembered far and wide across Ireland for his talent as the lead singer of Aslan. He has also been remembered for his kind nature and contribution to the Irish entertainment scene.
Aslan posted a brief tribute to their frontman who had performed with the band for 40 years. They said: "We are beyond devastated to have lost not just our band member, but out 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."
Read more: Christy Dignam RIP: Leave your tributes for the Aslan legend who has died aged 63
President Higgins shared the "great sadness" of the nation at the announcement of Christy's death. He also praised Christy for the dignity he had shown over the last 10 years battling his illness.
He said: "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.
"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. Indeed, I will personally remember a typically memorable performance from Christy in Áras an Uachtaráin in 2016.
"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.
"May I express my deepest condolences to Christy’s wife Kathryn, to his daughter Kiera, to his bandmates in Aslan, and to his wide circle of family and friends."
The Script members Danny and Glen, who recently lost bandmate Mark Sheehan at 46-years-old, remembered their great times with "hero" Christy.
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 added: "All at Bohemians would like to offer our condolences to the family and many friends of the great Christy Dignam. RIP Christy."
Tanaiste Micheal Martin 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."
While radio presenter Gareth O'Callaghan shared a kind message: "I just heard that Christy Dignam has passed away this afternoon after a very long illness that he fought so bravely. There are no words, other than Love. At least now there will be no more pain, and Christy is out there on the carefree highway. Rest in peace. We will miss you."
Leave your tributes to Christy Dignam in the comments below and feel free to share some great moments with the Aslan frontman over the years.
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