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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Daniel Bird

Songwriter behind Merry Christmas Everyone dies as Shakin' Stevens pays tribute

Shakin' Stevens has paid tribute after Bob Heatlie died.

The famous musician took to social media to confirm the heartbreaking news, explaining that he and his partner Sue were sending love to Bob's family.

Bob tragically died on April 8 with his friends and family later sharing their condolences on social media.

The Scottish star was most known for working with Shakin' on their doing, Merry Christmas Everyone, which was released in November 1985 before landing the prestigious Christmas Number One song in the same year.

Elsewhere, he was known for working alongside the likes of Ann Turner and Sir Cliff Richard, as well as having a string of television songwriting credits.

Taking to Twitter, Shakin' Stevens whose real name is Michael Barratt said: "Last weekend we heard the sad news that our dear friend, Bob Heatlie, had passed away. Bob was not only exceptionally talented, but also a great human being. A light has gone out, and we will sorely miss our friend. All our love to Bob’s family at this sad time. Shaky & Sue."

Fans have now paid tribute, with one writing: "Our Condolences go you and Sue from us Both Stuart and Gaynor With the Loss of your Dear Friend."

"Sad news. Such a talented songwriter, especially love Cry Just A Little Bit, Breaking Up My Heart, Woman and of course, Merry Christmas Everyone," said a second.

Before a third went on to write: "Bob was a great guy and friend. He gave up his time for free to help produce my son's first CD as he saw his talent."

A fourth penned: "Aw so sad, RIP Bob, thinking of his family and friends."

Previously, Bob spoke candidly about the money he made from the mega-hit and explained it helped him financially each year after its release.

Speaking to BBC Scotland, he said: "It is a nice little pension, I always thought it would be nice to create a Christmas hit that would become an evergreen.

"I didn't think it would happen, but it did."

It's believed that Bob raked in most of the £130,000 the song made on an annual basis, while Shakin' Stevens made around £5,000 to £10,000 per year as his vocals were on the song.

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