Iconic Irish Band Aslan to Continue Without late Frontman Following Death at 63
Iconic Irish band Aslan has announced that it will carry on without its late frontman, Christy Dignam. Dignam, the legendary singer known for Aslan’s hit track Crazy World, passed away in June at the age of 63. He had been receiving palliative care since January, following a diagnosis of the rare disease amyloidosis in 2013.
Despite battling illness, Dignam continued to perform with the rock group. Aslan had been scheduled to tour across Ireland this year before his untimely death. Now, the surviving members, Joe Jewell, Billy McGuinness, and Alan Downey, have confirmed that they will honor their commitment to the band’s loyal fans by touring and performing under the Aslan name.
In a statement shared on social media, Jewell, McGuinness, and Downey expressed their gratitude to fans and their support during the difficult months following Dignam’s passing. They acknowledged that they have been grieving the loss of their dear friend and bandmate, trying to find their own ways of coping with the immense loss.
After careful consideration, the trio made the decision to continue with Aslan and play their music for their devoted fans. They emphasized that the new singer joining the band is not a replacement for Dignam, as there can never be another Christy Dignam. The surviving members want to get back to what they love most and continue connecting with their loyal supporters.
Aslan will make their return in 2024, and the band believes that Dignam would be proud of what is to come. Jewell, Downey, and McGuinness are eagerly looking forward to reconnecting with their loyal fans, even though it will undoubtedly be an emotional journey. They expressed immense gratitude for their devoted fanbase, which will offer them support and make their next chapter easier to embark upon.
Formed in 1982 in Dublin’s northside, Aslan achieved early success with their debut single, This Is, which became hugely popular in Ireland. Despite Dignam’s departure in the early days due to addiction issues, the band reunited in 1993 and went on to produce their most successful single, Crazy World.
Dignam’s diagnosis of amyloidosis in 2013 led to numerous charity concerts held to support his ongoing care. Prominent artists such as U2 participated in these concerts, including a recording of Aslan’s first single, This Is.
Dignam continued performing and touring with Aslan until his health deteriorated last year. In June, his daughter Kiera announced his passing, describing his death as the result of a courageously long-fought battle. She urged everyone to cherish the remarkable life of her talented father and pay tribute to his accomplishments as a singer, storyteller, and extraordinary person.
Christy Dignam is survived by his wife Kathryn, daughter Kiera, and his grandchildren.
For any media inquiries or information, please contact our entertainment team by emailing celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145, or visiting our Submit Stuff page. We look forward to hearing from you.
