ULTRAVOX star Chris Cross has died aged 71 – with his devastated bandmates sharing emotional tributes.
The legendary 80’s musician, whose real name is Chris Allen, died on March 25 but the tragic news was only announced last night.
In an emotional tribute, former bandmate Midge Ure described Chris, who played the bass, as “the glue that held the band together”.
He wrote: “We worked together, we played together, made music and directed videos together.
“We were instant friends as well as Ultravox comrades. Even after years apart we managed to pick up where we left off like the years in between never existed. You were the glue that held the band together.
“You were the logic in the madness and the madness in our lives. It was great to know and grow with you. You are loved and missed old friend.”
Born in London on July 14, 1952, Chris formed the Tiger Lily band, which later became the legendary 80’s band Ultravox, in 1974 alongside frontman Dennis Leigh and guitarist Stevie Shears.
Drummer Warren Cann and William Currie, aka Billy Currie, were welcomed in later.
They were inspired by the Rolling Stones, Beatles late era, and glam artists such as David Bowie and the New York Dolls.
The group shot to fame after their first breakthrough album Ultravox!, before reaching new highs with their fourth album Vienna, by which time Midge Ure had been inaugurated into the band.
In 2009 the band came together much to fans’ excitement for a reunion tour, and released their final album Brilliant.
In his early life, Chris’ love for music was sparked by bands such as the Small Faces, and artists including Desmond Dekker.
He began playing in groups around Tottenham and was later part of Stoned Rose, which also welcomed Pete Hughes and Mick Carroll – who went on to create Ritzi.
Chris also focused on his education, choosing to study psychology at college.
Devastated fans have also paid their respects to the music icon.
One posted: “The second single I bought for myself was Ultravox’s ‘All Stood Still’, and I’ve loved them ever since. RIP Chris Cross.”
Another shared: “Incredibly sad news of the passing of Chris Cross, bass player with Ultravox.
“The version with John Foxx in the 1970s was one of my favorite bands.”
“Such sad news about the passing of Chris Cross. He was integral part of both incarnations of Ultravox and a great musician who will be sadly missed,” added another fan.
“Chris Allen gone. That’s a hard one to take. Ultravox were a huge part of my youth. RIP Chris,” agreed a fourth.
One fan wrote: “Such sad news. My deepest condolences to Chris’ friends and family. Rest well, Chris.”
