James Prime, Deacon Blue’s keyboardist, passed away at age 64 after a battle with cancer.
A founding member of the Glasgow-based band, formed in 1985 by singer Ricky Ross, Prime hailed from Kilmarnock.
The band shared a heartfelt Instagram statement: “Our brother, James Prime, passed away after a short struggle with cancer.”
They expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support: “Thank you so much for the messages of support that you shared over the last two weeks, they meant so much to Jim, his family and us.”
Last week, the band announced Prime, also a University of the West of Scotland music lecturer, was critically ill in intensive care.
Despite his illness, he gave his blessing for their upcoming tour to proceed.
Deacon Blue, one of Scotland’s most celebrated bands, boasts 12 UK top 40 singles—including the anthems “Dignity” and the number one hit “Real Gone Kid”—and two UK number one albums.
The band also includes Lorraine McIntosh (vocals), Dougie Vipond (drums), Gregor Philp (guitar), and Lewis Gordon (bass).
Ricky Ross shared his grief on X, stating: “We are broken-hearted. Can’t reply to messages but we passed on the love so many of you shared.”
In other news, Lord Mount Charles, renowned for hosting iconic rock concerts at Slane Castle, passed away at 74, his family confirmed.
This follows the Grade II listed castle’s reopening after a five-year closure.
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