James Prime, keyboard player for Deacon Blue, is in hospital for an undisclosed illness and so will no longer be part of the band’s upcoming UK tour, including gigs in Liverpool and Birmingham
Deacon Blue co-founder James Prime is seriously ill in hospital, the band has revealed.
James, 64, won’t be part of the group’s upcoming UK and Ireland tour as a result of the undisclosed illness. The pop rock band, known for Real Gone Kid, Dignity and other hits, shared the news on X, which was called Twitter, confirming James – or Jim as he’s affectionately known – will undergo treatment in hospital.
Part of the message reads: “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.”
But the keyboard player, who was with Deacon Blue when they formed in 1985, has encouraged the group to continue with their UK and Ireland tour, which includes dates at large venues in Liverpool, Birmingham and Cardiff.
READ MORE: Oasis star WILL join Gallaghers for the reunion as manager discusses group’s future
The full message reads: “Dear friends, We wanted to share some news with you about our brother, Jim. 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.
“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 irreplacablt 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.”
READ MORE: Ozzy Osbourne ‘may be sitting down’ for his final performance amid health battles
As Liverpool Echo reports, fans have shared messages of hope. One fan said: “Sorry to hear this. My very best wishes to Jim.” A second said: “Sending love and best wishes xxxx”
A third added: “Gutted to hear this, praying Jim pulls through. One of my keys heroes and such a huge talent. Thoughts are with the band and Jim’s family.”
A fourth wrote: “All the best Jim. Thinking of your family and friends at this difficult time. Thanks to all the staff involved in Jim’s care, you are very much appreciated.”
Deacon Blue split in 1994 after nearly ten years of success. However, they held a reunion gig in 1999, which led to the release of a new album. Tragedy struck when original guitarist Graeme Kelling died of pancreatic cancer in 2004, which led to another period of absence until the release of The Hipsters in 2012. This album was widely praised, described as “a legitimate love for what they do” by a pundit for the BBC.