'Fool (If You Think It’s Over)' singer Chris Rea dies at 74

Monday, December 22, 2025 at 12:35 PM

Chris Rea, English singer-songwriter and guitarist, portrait, in his studio in 2005. (Photo by Richard Ecclestone/Redferns)

British singer/songwriter Chris Rea, who had a hit in the '70s with “Fool (If You Think it’s Over),” has passed away at the age of 74. His death was confirmed in a statement posted on his Facebook page.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Chris, who died peacefully earlier today following a short illness,” read the statement. “Chris’s music has created the soundtrack to many lives, and his legacy will live on through the songs he leaves behind.”

“Fool (If You Think It’s Over)” peaked at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100, and went to #1 on the Adult Contemporary charts. The track was such a hit it earned Rea a best new artist Grammy nomination in 1978.

Rea’s other hits include 1989's “Working on It,” which went to #1 on the Mainstream Rock charts, and 1988's “Driving Home for Christmas,” which went to #1 in the U.K.