Deacon Blue's founding keyboardist, James Prime, dies after releasing his new album.

Deacon Blue , one of the most recognizable names in Scottish pop, has seen his hopes of releasing a new album dashed by the fatal outcome of the illness suffered by his keyboardist, James Prime. Founder of the band in 1985 with singer Ricky Ross, the Kilmarnock musician was transferred to intensive care a few days ago, but the reason for his hospitalization was unknown, and he finally died this Thursday of cancer at the age of 64.

In a statement on Instagram, his bandmates sadly said goodbye : “Our brother, James Prime, passed away after a short battle with cancer. Thank you so much for the messages of support you’ve shared over the past two weeks, they meant so much to Jim, his family and us.” In another message posted on X, Ricky Ross wrote: “Our hearts are broken. We’re unable to respond to messages, but we’ve passed on the love so many of you shared.”

Prime, who was also a music professor at the University of the West of Scotland , was "gravely ill" in intensive care and knew he didn't have much time left, but last week he gave his bandmates (Ross also includes Lorraine McIntosh on vocals, Dougie Vipond on drums, Gregor Philp on guitar and Lewis Gordon on bass) the all-clear to continue with the tour that was scheduled to start next September, which will mark 40 years since the band's formation.

The band stated at the time: "We spoke with 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 his full blessing for the shows to go ahead, even if it means replacing the irreplaceable James Miller Prime for the time being. Along with Jim's family, we want to thank all the nurses, doctors, and staff at the ICU for their continued care, professionalism, and compassion." These shows will serve as a launch event for Deacon Blue's new album, the last with their keyboardist, titled 'The Great Western Road' and released at the end of last March.

Deacon Blue is one of Scotland's most successful bands, with 12 UK top 40 singles—including the iconic anthem 'Dignity' and the number one hit 'Real Gone Kid,' which was nominated for British Single of the Year at the BRIT Awards—and two UK number 1 albums. The group's other international hits included 'Chocolate Girl' and 'Loaded.' Their debut album, 'Raintown,' released in 1987, reached number 14 in the UK Albums Chart. Its follow-up, 'When the World Knows Your Name,' reached number one in 1989. After a hiatus in 1994, the band reunited in 1999 and has remained active ever since.

Major names in Scottish music have expressed their grief over the loss, with Ged Grimes, Simple Minds bassist who played for a time in Deacon Blue, saying: "I'm devastated to hear of the passing of my friend Jim. Not only was he a superb musician, but his wit and outsized personality were legendary. We had many great times together when I was a member of Deacon Blue, and my heart goes out to Jim's family and all my friends in the band. Love you, Jim. RIP."

Former River City star Tom Urie wrote: “Such sad news. Jim was an incredible musician and a huge influence. I got to work with him once, for a week. He did a project with Horse and me at Concert Hall. I was blown away. He had a dry sense of humor that I loved, and his piano work with Deacon Blue was the soundtrack to the late 80s and beyond. Listen to the soaring piano bridge of ‘Dignity’ – it takes your breath away. Hugs to everyone who knew and loved him.”

Singer Beverly Knight shared this message: “I’m so sorry to hear this. Sending my love to you and the Deacon Blue family.” Echo & the Bunnymen bassist Pete Wilkinson also joined in the farewell: “Oh no, I’m so sorry to hear this, my deepest condolences and love to his family, DB, and all his friends. Heartbreaking. I learned so much from his wonderful piano and keyboard playing. He has greatly influenced my work. Thank you for the beautiful music, James Prime, and for your eternal smile and spirit. Your spirit lives on forever, RIP.”