Christy Dignam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Christy Dignam
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Dignam onstage circa 2004
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Christopher Dignam |
| Born | 23 May 1960 Finglas, Dublin, Ireland |
| Died | 13 June 2023 (aged 63) |
| Genres | Rock |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, songwriter |
| Instruments | Vocalist |
| Years active | 1980–2023 |
| Labels | EMI |
| Associated acts | Aslan, Dignam & Goff |
Christopher Dignam (born May 23, 1960 – died June 13, 2023) was a famous Irish singer. He was best known as the lead singer of the popular Irish rock band Aslan. He had a long career of over 40 years. During this time, he achieved many successes on the Irish music charts.
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Early Life and Training
Christopher Dignam was born in Dublin, Ireland, on May 23, 1960. He grew up in a place called Finglas in north Dublin. Christy learned a special way of singing called bel canto. This is a classical art form that focuses on beautiful and smooth singing. He studied it with a teacher named Frank Merriman in Dublin.
Music Career Highlights
Christy Dignam started a band called Meelah XVIII before Aslan. A music magazine called Hot Press praised his singing. Meelah XVIII even recorded songs for a radio show in 1980. Some of these early songs were later released on an Aslan album.
Aslan's Rise to Fame
Aslan became very popular with songs like "This Is" and "Please Don't Stop." Their album Feel No Shame also did very well. For a short time, Christy left the band. The other members continued playing music. Christy then formed a new group called Dignam & Goff with guitarist Conor Goff.
Aslan Reforms and Continues Success
However, in 1993, Aslan got back together for a special concert. This led to the band reuniting for good. Aslan became one of Ireland's most successful bands. They released many studio albums, including Goodbye Charlie Moonhead and Here Comes Lucy Jones. They also released "best of" albums and live albums. These live albums sometimes featured other famous musicians.
Solo Work
In October 2021, Christy Dignam released his first solo album. It was called The Man Who Stayed Alive. This album was very popular and reached number 7 on the Irish Albums Chart.
Personal Life
Christy Dignam was married to his wife, Kathryn, for over 37 years. They had a daughter named Kiera Dignam, who is also a singer. Christy was also a grandfather to Cian, Jake, and Ava. He wrote a book about his life called My Crazy World, which was published in 2019.
Health Journey
In March 2013, Christy Dignam was diagnosed with two serious health conditions. These conditions affected his body's cells. He received special treatments for his illness. Despite his health challenges, Christy continued to perform and appear in public as much as he could.
In January 2023, his family shared that Christy was receiving special care at home. This care helped him to be comfortable. Christy Dignam passed away at his home on June 13, 2023, at the age of 63.
