Christy Dignam, the legendary lead singer of Aslan, has died aged 63.
In a statement this evening, his daughter, said:
“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.
“Kathryn, Kiera, Darren, Cian, Ava, Jake and our extended family x.”
In 2013, Dignam was diagnosed with Amyloidosis, an incurable blood cancer. He has undergone extensive treatment, including chemotherapy, since then.
He had been receiving palliative care at home since December following six-months of treatment at Beaumont Hospital.
Dignam grew up in Finglas in north Dublin. In 1982, he formed the rock band Aslan alongside Alan Downey, Joe Jewell and Billy McGuinness.
Aslan became one of the most popular bands on the Irish music scene after they released their first album Feel No Shame in 1988.
The album – and in particular the track This Is – showcased the band’s unique sound and Dignam’s powerful vocals.
Dignam struggled with a heroin addiction in the 1980s, which caused conflicts within the band.
In 1988, he was kicked out of Aslan after his addiction became unmanageable for the rest of the band.
Aslan subsequently split up, before reforming for a benefit gig in Finglas in 1993. The band wrote some new material for the show, and the gig went so well that they got back together.
In 1994, Aslan’s most well-known album Goodbye Charlie Moonhead was released. Its standout single – Crazy World – went on to join This Is as one of the iconic tracks of Irish rock music.
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