Deacon Blue have confirmed the sad news that James Prime has died following a short battle with cancer, just days after they announced he was in hospital

James Prime of Deacon Blue has died aged 64, the band have confirmed following a short battle with cancer. In recent weeks, keyboard player James, who had been with the band since the Eighties, had become unwell and was taken to the hospital, where he was receiving care, now known to be for his cancer.

In a statement on Thursday confirming the sad news of his death, the band said: “We announce with great sadness that our brother, James Prime, passed away this morning after a short struggle with cancer.

“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.” The heartbreaking news comes just days after James was receiving care in the hospital after falling seriously ill. The band shared last week: “Unfortunately, he is seriously ill and undergoing care in hospital. We would like you to join us in wishing him well and to share your love with him.”

The band – also comprising Ricky Ross, Lorraine McIntosh, Dougie Vipond, Gregor Philp, Lewis Gordon and Tom Gordon – insisted they were given their bandmate’s “full blessing” to go on tour without him.

Deacon Blue have confirmed that James Prime has sadly died aged 64

It continued: “We spoke to Jim yesterday about Deacon Blue’s plans for the rest of the year, and he encouraged us to continue with love in our hearts and with his full blessing that the shows go ahead, even if it means replacing the irreplaceable James Miller Prime for the time being.

“Together with Jim’s family, we want to thank all the nurses, doctors and ICU staff for their ongoing care, professionalism and compassion.”

Fans have since rushed to social media to offer their condolences, with one writing: “Absolutely heartbroken for you all. This is incredibly, incredibly sad. What a talent and an absolute gent of a man. Rest in eternal peace, Reverend Doctor James Miller Prime.”

The musician was receiving care in hospital
A second penned: “Sending love to all of you and the Prime family! So many memories, what a talented human being he was! The sounds he created will be remembered and enjoyed for an eternity.” Another typed: “This is such sad news and I’m so sorry to hear. Thank you James for your brilliance. Sending much love to all who loved him.”

Telly star Jenni Falconer said: “Oh no, this is so sad. Thinking of you all.” Meanwhile, musician Pete Wilkinson commented: “Oh no, I’m so sorry to hear this, my deepest condolences and love to his family, DB and all his friends. Heartbreaking. I learnt so much about what a piano and keyboards can do from his wonderful playing. Completely influenced my work. Thanks for the beautiful music James Prime and your everlasting smile and spirit. Your spirit lives on forever Sir RIP.”

James, who was born in Kilmarnock and also worked as a university lecturer, had been with Deacon Blue since its inception in the 1980s.

Fans have since paid tribute to James on social mediaThe band is known for their chart-topping hits such as Dignity, Chocolate Girl and Real Gone Kid. The band has undergone several line-up changes over the years, with past members including Graeme Kelling, Ewen Vernal, Mick Slaven, Scott Fraser, Taj Wyzgowski, Ged Grimes and Chris Henderson.

Deacon Blue’s 1987 debut album Raintown reached number 14 in the UK Albums Chart. Their 1989 follow-up When the World Knows Your Name hit number one, with its lead single Real Gone Kid nominated for British Single of the Year at the Brit Awards, ultimately losing to Perfect by Fairground Attraction.

After a hiatus in 1994, the band reunited in 1999 and have remained active ever since.