Tributes have been paid to the late Aslan frontman Christy Dignam, who passed away aged 63.
The Irish singer who was diagnosed with a rare blood condition Amyloidosis in 2013, was placed under palliative care back in January. He has spent the last few months in the care of his family at his home in Finglas.
His death was confirmed by his family, who released this statement yesterday.
“On behalf of my family, it is with a broken heart that we convey the news of my father’s passing, Christy Dignam”, his daughter Keira wrote.
“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”, she added. “Kathryn, Kiera, Darren, Cian, Ava, Jake and our extended family x“.
Dignam is survived by his wife Kathryn, daughter Keira and their grandchildren.
“a true legend”
Following confirmation of Dignam’s death, copious amounts of tributes were paid to the late Aslan frontman from the music world and beyond.
In a statement, U2 frontman Bono hailed Dignam as the greatest singing voice that he had ever heard. “A pure signal in a world of noise. One of the greatest voices I ever heard”, Bono wrote.
Irish band the Script also penned their own tribute to Dignam.
“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”, they added.
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
Singer Brian Kennedy also added, “Ah goodness me how sad….and yet how glad that the cruel cancer journey is finally at an end. What a joy it was to spend any time with you Christy. Sleep the long sleep & rest in the deepest peace. Love to your loved ones. BK x”.
Dignam’s band Aslan also penned this tribute.
— Aslan (@OfficialAslan) June 13, 2023
Singer Finbarr Furey added that his “heart is broke” at losing such a “great friend”.
“strength, character and talent”
Irish government ministers also paid homage to Dignam, including Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Tánaiste Michéal Martin and Minister for Arts Catherine Martin.
“My thoughts are with Christy Dignam’s family, bandmates, friends, and fans on this sad day. His strength, character, and talent will always be remembered every time we hear his iconic singing voice. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam”, wrote Catherine Martin.
Meanwhile, the Tánaiste tweeted that he was “Deeply saddened at the passing of Christy Dignam”.
Adding, “A true legend of Irish music, Christy has left a rich legacy. His great talent brought much joy to the Irish people”.
Taoiseach Varadkar called Dignam an Irish music legend, a great Dubliner, who will be sorely missed in his home town of Finglas, as well as the wider community.
